The start of a new civil year gives us pause to reflect on the twelve months just past and to look forward to the next year of our lives. There is always darkness and light. Still, we are sustained by this great hope, taken paradoxically from the Book of Lamentations:

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.” (Lamentations 3:22–24)

Prayer

All time is in your hands and so we dedicate ourselves to you at the start of this year. May your grace be with us always and may we recognise your presence in all we meet and in all that happens. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Kieran O’Mahony, OSA