Rev. Fr. Jojappa Pasala

Dear Fathers and Brothers,

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, let's take a moment to reflect on the journey we've travelled together and the lessons we've learned. The pages of the past are filled with shared laughter, challenges overcome, and the warmth of friendship. As we step into the unknown of the coming year, let's carry with us the lessons learned and the love we've cultivated. In the coming year, let's embrace the opportunity for fresh starts and new beginnings. Life is a journey, and each day is a chance to take a step in the right direction. Let's be grateful for the past, mindful of the present, and hopeful for the future. May the challenges we face be opportunities for growth, and may the joys we experience be moments to treasure. Let's embrace the opportunities that come our way and face challenges with resilience and courage. Together, let's support and uplift one another, sharing the burdens and celebrating the victories. As we embark on this new chapter, let kindness be our guide, love be our strength, and faith be our anchor. May the New Year bring us closer to our dreams, closer to each other and closer to the best versions of ourselves. May this New Year bring us closer; deepen our bonds, and open doors to new adventures. Happy New Year, dear Fathers and Brothers. May this be a year of blessings, joy, and fulfilment.

 When Jesus says, "You are the salt of the earth," He emphasizes the transformative and preserving nature of believers. Salt not only adds flavour but also prevents decay. As followers of Christ, we are called to bring the richness of His teachings into the world, preserving goodness, morality, and compassion. However, just as salt can lose its saltiness, we must remain true to our principles and not dilute our convictions in the face of worldly pressures. Being the "light of the world" means being a beacon of truth, righteousness, and love. Light dispels darkness, and as believers, we are called to illuminate the path for others, guiding them towards God's grace. Hiding our light diminishes its impact; therefore, we are encouraged to let our faith shine boldly. Our good deeds, rooted in love and kindness, should be visible to others, prompting them to glorify God. These verses serve as a call to action for believers. It's not enough to passively hold faith; we are to actively engage with the world, making a positive impact. The metaphor of salt and light challenges us to examine the influence we have on our surroundings. Are we actively preserving goodness? Are we shining light in dark places? By doing so, we fulfil our purpose as disciples, glorifying God through our actions and reflecting His love to the world. Every one of us is a light for the world because we are enlightened by Jesus, the light of the world. The light within us is not our own, but is a reflection of his light, the light of God. Goodness shines through and cannot be hidden. The goodness of Jesus came through even in the darkness of the passion, and attracted good people to him. God's gifts to each person are to build up the community and thus glorify God. Anything done in love is done for the glory of God, for selfless love and the glory of God go together. So let us ask Jesus to touch our imagination to show us how our faith can bring colour and life to ourselves, the community we live in and to those around us.

There are many instances we have gone against the teachings of Christ, instead of being a light spreader, we might have been otherwise. Oftentimes we see in society, there are people who always block the light from reaching others. Maybe because they don't like the other person or simply due to one's own ego issues they act as hindrance for development and growth of an individual or society in general. It is really an apt time for us to pause and reflect, so as to not forget the fact that we are called to be the witnesses and the bearers of Christ the light of the world. We all know that one small seed can grow into a tree which in turn can provide plenty of fruit for years to come. So, we should not be afraid to start over. Make big plans but be willing to start small just like a seed. There will be a day when we can look back and be amazed at how far we have come and be thankful to God for that journey. To conclude, beginnings are always special and remembered by all. But making a beginning is not easy and should not be attempted without adequate prayer, planning and preparation. “The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide you're not going to stay where you are.” – J.P. Morgan. Once again wishing you all a grace filled New Year 2024. May Mary, mother of God and our mother assist and engulf us in the mantle of her maternal love.

Fr. Jojappa Pasala ALCP/OSS Provincial Superior‐India Province