December 27, 2023
Dear Friends,
St. Joseph Chapel & the Shrine of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (400 South Blvd. West, Pontiac, MI 48341) will re-open January 1 (see below).
In our verbal Closing Announcements at the December Masses before Christmas, it was announced that a Mass commemorating Fr. Hardon would be held at our shrine. That will not be the case. It will be held at St. John Fisher University Chapel (3665 E. Walton Rd., Auburn Hills, MI 48326) on Dec. 29 at 6:00 pm.
The Solemnity and Holy Day of Mary, Mother of God, falls on Monday, January 1. St. Joseph Chapel will operate at the normal hours: doors open & Exposition at 10:30 am, Confessions at 11:00 am Noon Mass followed by the praying the Joyful Mysteries of the Holy Rosary. Come usher in the new year with our Blessed Mother, light a candle at her shrine for your intentions. There is no better way to begin the new year than with the holy Mother of God. Why not consecrate your year to her? For your New Year Resolution(s), why not commit to praying the Rosary daily (if you do not), or reading quality books about Mary on Saturdays (her day) and/or committing to observe First Saturdays (with their Communion of Reparation) where you can? Why not commit to reading 2-3 pages of the Catechism every day and/or reading 5-10 minutes of the Holy Bible (make sure it is a Catholic edition) every day? These are some simple ways to advance the Kingdom of Jesus while growing in wisdom and sanctity as the Father intends for you.
Keep in mind that the three “First’s” all fall during the first week of January—First Wednesday (Jan. 3), First Friday (Jan. 5) and First Saturday (Jan. 6).
Have a happy but especially a holy start to your New Year—and may it begin more with prayer than partying!
To communicate with me, email me directly at [email protected] or call/text me at (313) 727-9784. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!
In Jesus, Mary & Joseph,
Fr. Alex Kratz, OFM
Spiritual Director of Terra Sancta Ministries