The Feast of the Epiphany marks the shining forth of Christ as the light of the nations.  The story of the Magi describes how differently people respond to the coming of Christ into their lives.  Presumably many saw the star, but only a few realized its significance.  The Jewish people did not recognize the star, but the Gentile Magi left everything to follow it.  The scribes and chief priests knew where the Messiah was to be born, but were not interested enough to investigate the star.  At the same time, Herod saw in the star an omen of the Messiah and a threat to his kingship.  He planned a cunning and violent strategy to protect his crown.   

            Two thousand years later some people still don't know the Lord, others know about him but just don't care, some even react with violence against him and his Church.  The light of the Lord still shines, and wise ones will leave everything behind to follow him. 

CHRISTMAS THANKS!

            Thank You, God, for another truly wonderful Christmas at St. Hilary Parish!  It is an honor to celebrate reconciliation and the liturgies of the season here with you.  Thanks to the many people who prepared the liturgies, the environment for Advent and Christmas, and who cleaned and decorated the church.  Thanks to Carl Chadek and to our musicians, choir members, servers, parishioners and visitors, who helped make this a blessed and beautiful Christmas.  Many thanks to Fr. Arthur Olsen and Fr. Bob Darow, and to our deacons Don Wehling & Dan Welter, for leading us in prayer!  Thanks to all and God bless you!