December 31, 2005

This evening will be so many things for so many people. Many families will inject new life into yearly traditions, many kids will get to stay up past twelve and many alarm clocks will be turned off. We, in the friary, will bring in the New Year the same way we brought it in last year, and the year before that – in prayer. I remember when I was younger, after popping all the fireworks, our family (complete with 20+ aunts, uncles and cousins) would go inside and pray the rosary. I remember being edified by the men in the family taking the lead in what became a yearly tradition. Time is much like the wind – when it flies it can change things around.

Customs and traditions have a special place in the forming of a Christian conscience, especially in the context of a family. How we choose to spend this eve of the New Year will say much about the year that has passed, and the way we will live the one that is to come. As hard as it may be, perhaps a new tradition can start up with us all. As one year dies and another one is born let us put to death any grudges, resentment, anger, hostility or anything else we may be harboring toward our neighbor. In this year of the Eucharist let us settle our disputes with our brother before coming to the altar. With courage we can face those who have wronged us and those whom we have wronged, and no matter what their response, ask for or offer forgiveness. For what the Lord gives in droves we should not deny to anyone.

Br. Agostino Miguel Torres, CFR
St. Leopold Friary, Yonkers, NY
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