The Eighth Day of Christmas (aka New Year's Day)

January 1:

Following an ancient tradition of celebrating the octave (eighth day) of a special event, we look again at the Lord's birth and His identity. While this feast is called "Mary, Mother of God," and our eyes seem focused on the Blessed Mother, our eyes are really seeing through her eyes that this baby is God incarnate: "The Word became flesh." "What child is this, who, laid to rest, on Mary's lap is sleeping? Whom angels greet with anthems sweet, while shepherds watch are keeping? This, this is Christ the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing." This babe in a manger is truly human and truly divine. As he is the Prince of Peace, we pray for world peace on this start of a new year. ~ Fr. Kevin Forsyth