During Catholic Schools Week from Jan. 25 to 31, we have an opportunity to reflect on and express our gratitude for the blessings of our Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City.

As disciples of Jesus Christ, we may find ourselves somewhat conflicted at this time of year. We are in the final days of Advent and stand at the threshold of the Christmas season, which begins with the Solemnity of the Lord’s Nativity.

Even in new USCCB role, ‘I am committed to serving you loyally as your shepherd’

In October, I had the joy of leading our Catholic Foundation of Oklahoma pilgrimage to France and accompanying our 22 pilgrims. Pilgrimages are the occasion for a renewal of faith and a strengthening of hope. Hope is very much at the heart of this Jubilee year with is themed “Pilgrims of Hope.”

On Sunday, you may have noticed that the priest at your parish was not wearing green, the liturgical color prescribed for Ordinary Time. He was wearing white for the Feast of the Dedication of the Basilica of Saint John Lateran.

Pope Francis has invited the entire Church to celebrate a Year of Jubilee. For all of 2025 we have been promised a unique outpouring of God’s goodness and grace, a wealth of blessings.

The theme of Jubilee Year 2025 – “Pilgrims of Hope” – summons each of us and the whole Church to renew our commitment to Jesus Christ and to one another. We are pilgrims together.

People choose Catholic education for many reasons. Some families choose it for excellence in academic instruction. Some choose it for the tight-knit community. Some choose it so their children will be taught according to a moral compass with an emphasis on virtue.

One of the central mysteries of our faith is the Incarnation, which the Church celebrates most solemnly at Christmas.

In a few short weeks, 2024 will come to an end. Our well-planned Christmas celebrations will bleed into our anticipation of a new year, which offers a new beginning. But, 2025 won’t be just any new year. This new year is a Jubilee year!