Greetings of Peace.

Since Fr. Scott is away on vacation and Fr. Fabian returned to South Korea for the funeral for his grandfather, I am writing this weekend’s column. Let’s remember Fr. Fabian and his family in our prayers at this time. Both are due back to St. Mary and St. Patrick this week.

We conclude the Christmas Season this weekend with the celebration of the Baptism of the Lord in the Jordan River. Jesus, who is born among us, is revealed as God’s Son in his baptism. We become his daughters and sons in our own baptism. Yes, Christmas tells us that Jesus became like us. We should strive to become like him. In baptism, we are made his own!

As we take leave of the Christmas Season, we are given the opportunity to practice the message of this Feast – together we are all God’s children! Let’s strive to live that way.

I noticed that stores have been decked out for Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, and I have also seen some accouterments for Spring and Easter! Amazing.

The next “Season” in church is Lent, which begins on Ash Wednesday, February 18, 2026. That is just over one month away! Until we begin Lent, we are in the midst of “Ordinary Time” in our “Church Liturgical Year.”  We also know it “meteorologically” as the Season of Winter!

Back to Christmas… Your faith is quite evident in your presence at our Christmas and New Years masses and celebrations… and Epiphany. We are also very thankful for those that offered their time and talent in decorating the church for Advent & Christmas – and for the “un-decorating” as well. Our “Art & Environment” people are good and very generous with their time and talent. Let’s let them know what a good job they do and how much we appreciate their efforts.

And since I moved here in August, I witness your generosity to both St. Mary and St. Patrick in so many ways – this Christmas and the “end-of-year gifts” to the parish, our special requests for help like the Sharing Tree, and the ways you bring joy and help to to others – particularly those in need. Your response has been wonderful. 

Finally, the NFL Playoffs begin this weekend. Once again Cleveland is not represented. As a matter of fact, Cleveland has only been to the playoffs a few times in the past 30+ years and they have never been to the Super Bowl. Our mantra in the CLE is “There is always next year!” We shall see how that goes! And I just received word that the head coach of the Browns has been let go. This means more changes for the Browns. Wow. For these playoff games, I hope “your team” wins!

Have a great week. It is good to be here with you. You are in my heart and in my prayers.

Blessings and peace,

Fr. Gary J. Malin