Bishop David M. O’Connell has shared a New Year’s message with the faithful in the Diocese of Trenton:

Liturgically and theologically, we have celebrated Christ’s birth in Bethlehem and the prophecies leading up to it.  Now, we begin to celebrate again Christ’s whole life and its influence on our lives and the possibilities yet to be revealed.  Resolutions are appropriate and in order!

Instead of simply “losing a few pounds” – necessary and good as that may be for us (myself especially!) – perhaps we might also consider shedding the weight of some burdens that separate us from God and our neighbor.  In addition to just giving up smoking – necessary and good as that resolution may be for us – perhaps we might also resolve not to let our lives go up in smoke, ignoring or neglecting the demands that a deep faith and true Christian love place upon us.  Rather than merely drinking less alcohol or eating more healthy food – necessary and good as that may be for us – perhaps we might also seek to receive more often and with greater devotion Christ’s Body and Blood that is the food and drink for life eternal.