New Year’s Day falls on the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God, our Lady’s greatest title.
“Mary, the all-holy ever-virgin Mother of God, is the masterwork of the mission of the Son and the Spirit in the fullness of time. For the first time in the plan of salvation and because his Spirit had prepared her, the Father found the dwelling place where his Son and his Spirit could dwell among men. In this sense, the Church’s Tradition has often read the most beautiful texts on wisdom about Mary. Mary is acclaimed and represented in the liturgy as the “Seat of Wisdom.” —Catechism of the Catholic Church 721
Starting the New Year Off Right
A plenary indulgence may be gained by reciting the Veni Creator Spiritus (Come Holy Spirit) or singing the hymn on the first day of the year. This hymn is sung for the beginnings of things, calling on the Holy Spirit before starting something new.
The New Year is a time for reflection. There are 365 new days for 365 new chances. One of those is forgiveness in the New Year and bearing with each other, said Fr. Jerry Byrd in his most recent homily.
If we don’t forgive we only hurt ourselves, said Fr. Byrd. Forgiveness is one key to letting go of resentment of those who have hurt us the most.
St. Paul’s Way for the New Year
Another way is to heed the words of St. Paul in his letter Letter to Colossians 3:12. St. Paul asks us to have heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.
These can provide peace in our lives and families. It’s another way for us to begin this year on the right note.
