St. Joseph the Worker

Dear Parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker:

Welcome to 2026!  Another year has begun.  It seems these years pass by quicker and quicker these days.  Seems like yesterday was Thanksgiving.

This weekend we celebrate the Epiphany of our Lord.  As we continue our journey through the Christmas season, we call to mind the visit of the Magi to the Holy Family.  The three visitors are from the East, and they come to worship Jesus, the newborn King, offering Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 

The Epiphany celebrates that Jesus will be Priest (Frankincense), Prophet (Myrrh), and King (Gold).  The three gifts tell us about the mission of Jesus.  He will be THE HIGH PRIEST sent from God to lead, teach, and offer sacrifice. He will be THE PROPHET sent from God to share the Good News and give His very life for us. He will be THE KING of the universe, not a royal, earthly king, but one who will serve the people He leads.

What about us, in light of that?  How do we lead others closer to the Lord?  How do we teach the love and compassion of Christ through our actions?  Is sacrifice a part of our daily life?

How do we give of ourselves for the good of others?  What message do we send when others observe us living our faith?  How much will we give back to the Lord for all He has done for us?

Finally, when and where do we sacrifice?  Is that even considered by us a way to show our love for Christ?  Or do we try to avoid any type of sacrifice at all costs?

Epiphany means manifestation.  So—do our lives manifest the presence of Christ?  Do we try to show the Lord more and more through our actions?  Is the Epiphany of our Lord a celebration we make our own by imitating it as much as we are able?

May this Epiphany week show to others the Babe born at Bethlehem.  Happy manifesting!

Your Pastor, Father Joe