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Dear Friends in Christ,
The Christmas season continues with the Solemnity of the Epiphany this weekend, the revelation of Christ’s light to all nations. That light is offered to everyone everywhere through the lives of the people of God, the Body of Christ, the church. Our mission as Catholics takes on a special focus in 2025. Pope Francis officially launched the Vatican's 2025 Jubilee Year on Dec. 24, encouraging Christians to use the milestone occasion to dream of a "new world where peace and justice reign."
"The Jubilee calls us to spiritual renewal and commits us to the transformation of our world so that this year may truly become a time of jubilation," said Francis during his Christmas Eve Mass. During his homily, the pope repeatedly referenced this jubilee's theme, "Pilgrims of Hope." Christians, he said, are called "to bring hope to the interminable, dreary days of prisoners, to the cold and dismal lodgings of the poor, and to all those places desecrated by war and violence." "Hope," the pontiff continued, "is incompatible with the detachment of those who refuse to speak out against evil and the injustices perpetrated at the expense of the poor." Stay tuned for more information about how we, as a NE Seattle Catholic Community, can observe the Jubilee year.
Let me close by acknowledging the passing of Fr. Oliver Duggan on Dec. 26th at the age of 84. He served as a priest for over 50 years and the pastor of Assumption Parish for 23 years before retiring this past June. I had the pleasure of getting to know him through our collaboration supporting Assumption-St. Bridget School. He was a much-loved presence in the Assumption Community and will be deeply missed by many. Fr. Oliver’s Vigil and Funeral Mass will take place at Assumption on a date soon to be announced. Please join me in praying for his eternal rest and peace and thanking God for his ministry among us.
Blessings of peace and light in 2025!
Fr. William Heric, Pastor
