Next weekend February 1st and 2nd is Name Tag Sunday. We do this quarterly, to provide an opportunity to step out of your pews and say hello to someone new. It’s always nice to put a name with a face, we often sit in the same area for Mass and recognize the faces but don’t know the name. Don’t be shy, just a smile and hello can go a long way to feeling like we are all part of the St. Clare family.

A favorite tradition we started a few years ago continues today on the Feast of the Epiphany. We take home chalk that has been blessed and mark our doors with this inscription: 20+C+M+B+20. The number of the New Year is split at the beginning and end. The initials C, M, and B represent Casper, Melchior and Balthasar and the three crosses stand for "saint." The letters also abbreviate the prayer: "Christus Mansionem Benedicat" which means May Christ Bless this House. So today after dinner, gather around the inside of your front door, and use the chalk to inscribe the numbers and letters on the frame or on the door while saying: "May Christ bless this house". Throughout the year those who come and go through that door will enjoy the blessing of Christ. Chalk is available by the Christmas manger at the front of the church. Be Bold!

I hope your New Year’s celebrations were fantastic, that you were able to take some time to relax and visit with family. I take this opportunity to thank all of you for the many kindnesses shown to me over this Christmas season. Your many cards, gifts, and verbal best wishes are most appreciated and gratefully accepted. The Parish Staff wishes to extend their thanks for your kindnesses.