How to Use
WHAT: Use the short reflection and/or accompanying graphic to invite participation in 9 Days for Life as one way of following Our Lady's example in the New Year.
WHEN: Suggested for use the weekend of January 6-7, 2024 or the weekend of January 13-14, 2024.
WHERE: Use in the parish bulletin, newsletter, website, social media, or anywhere else you communicate.
HOW: Copy and paste the reflection text into your bulletin or other communications. Download the image, and use it with the text or on its own.
Reflection
Living out Christmas in the New Year
How do we live out the message of Christmas in the New Year, rather than pack it away with the ornaments?
Each year, the Octave Day of Christmas falls on the first day of the New Year, on which we also celebrate the Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God.
Her open heart and courageous “yes” to God show us how to live year-round—with hearts open to the Lord, following where He leads. We are called to place our trust in Him, to enter compassionately into the suffering of others, and to love one another as Christ loves us. Like Our Blessed Mother welcomed Jesus, we are called to cherish and protect the gift of human life, at every stage and in every circumstance.
One way to live out the message of Christmas and follow Our Lady's example is to join 9 Days for Life, a novena for the protection of human life, taking place Tuesday, January 16 - Wednesday, January 24. Each day's intention is accompanied by a short reflection and suggested actions to help build a culture of life.
Join today at 9daysforlife.com!
Copyright © 2023, U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, D.C. Used with permission. All rights reserved.