Our Mission: “MCCW reflects a visible presence of Christ in military communities by fostering and nourishing women in spirituality, leadership and service. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, MCCW serves as a vital enhancement of the religious support mission of military chapels.”
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My dear sisters In Christ,
A new year is upon us, a time to close out the old books and usher in a new beginning. How often do we wish that starting with a clean slate could really be as simple as hanging up a shiny new calendar on our kitchen wall?
Every New Year we make resolutions to help us become the people we want to be, perhaps shed 10 pounds, eat healthy, and make more time for our families. Good intentions that often fall to the wayside before the month of January has passed. We start to feel disappointed in ourselves for not living up to the goals we set before us. We wish we could go back and do it over again.
Amazingly, we sometimes seem to forget that God affords us that opportunity…a chance to start fresh, a do-over, a new beginning, whenever we need it…it’s called the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Confessing our faults, our sinfulness and asking for forgiveness is not always easy. It is a humbling experience to sit in the confessional and say…I did it wrong, (again), I failed you God, I failed myself and those I love…and I want to begin again with the help of your Grace. Reconciliation is not an easy out, a quick fix, or a get out of jail free card. It’s a chance to examine your hearts and souls, admit to our sinfulness ask for the forgiveness, strength and resolve to make things right in our lives.
Every January 1st, loved ones extend wishes for a joyful, healthy, happy, prosperous new year. And my wish for all of you is also the same. But I add this blessing, may we all strive to meet the resolutions and goals we set for ourselves. May we never forget that our God truly is an awesome God…and knows we are imperfect human beings living in an imperfect world, and try though we may, we will fall in the quagmire of sinfulness. May our souls never fear to cry out for a do’ over, and may God in his infinite mercy reach out for us, pick us up, wipe us off, and give us another chance to make it right
I ask our Lady of Good Counsel to pray for us and guide us on the path of togetherness as we journey together in Christ.
Peace and prayers.
Marcia
Marcia Stokes- President, MCCW-Worldwide, 2010-2012
