Fifty seven years ago a cartoon premiered two weeks before Christmas without much fanfare or confidence it would be viewed. A cast of children, a sarcastic dog, pitiful tree and a jazz soundtrack, the show became a beloved annual Christmas staple. Innocence, doubt, kindness, meanness, fragility, hope, and light, all mixed together as a display of our humanity approaching Christmas. All of such is a reflection of our journey of faith approaching or preparing for this holy season. Defining the appeal of this Christmas special—now watched faithfully by young and old alike each year—is the soft spoken voice of a shy ‘kid’ who steps forward to appraise us of what this holy season is all about: And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this [shall be] a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. “That’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.” In light of such faith—whatever our blessings or struggles—I extend my gratitude for your presence and faith shared within our parishes of Boone County this past year. Certainly our parishes have faced challenges and changes this past year causing hurt and anxiety, but our Eucharist remains constant, and the binding gift. Thank you for sharing your faith, your presence within our parish; and allowing our churches to welcome all who come through our doors seeking God’s presence and the re-assurance of Christ Jesus sharing our daily journey. Many have shared their time, abilities and talents within the ministries of music, lecturing, greeters, ushers, housekeeping, Altar Servers, seasonal upkeep and decoration of the sanctuary— as well as maintaining the flowers, bushes, plants surrounding our churches— Eucharistic Ministers at Mass and to the homebound, prayer groups, money counters, and office support. Thank you for your generous stewardship of time and abilities shared. And the many who tithe a portion of their blessings, in support of our dedicated staff, ministries, outreach, Sacraments shared and preparation for, and future projects and upkeep. Thank you for such generosity within your sacrifices and hope offered as gracious reminder of the many blessings God has bestowed upon each of us; especially that of our Catholic-Christian faith, our family and relationships shared. In a world seemingly so fragile and fragmented, our Catholic-Christian faith and the invitation of the Eucharist will provide us the hope reflected in Linus’ words: “Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” As the beloved poem reminds us: “And in despair I bowed my head; "There is no peace on earth," I said; "For hate is strong, And mocks the song Of peace on earth, good-will to men!" Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: "God is not dead, nor doth he sleep! The Wrong shall fail, the Right prevail, With peace on earth, good-will to men!” (Henry Wadsworth Longfellow) “May you be filled with the wonder of Mary, the obedience of Joseph, the joy of the angels, the eagerness of the shepherds, the determination of the magi, and the peace of the Christ child” this Christmas and holy season, Fr. Tim FYI: “I never eat December snowflakes. I always wait until January.” (Lucy ~ A Charlie Brown Christmas)