January 5, 2025

For January, the Catholic dedication for the month exists to call us to a greater understanding of the Holy Name of Jesus. In a world that takes an apathetic approach to things sacred, we may find ourselves using the name of Jesus, instead of honoring that holy name. To name something is to have a degree of power over that subject. This is where the power of racial slurs and derogatory terms has its root – the subject is named without the subject’s consent. We know the name of God; we know that God has a human name because He walked among us and has Ascended with His human nature to an eternity with the Father. With this reality, we are given a degree of power over God because we have the freedom to honor that name or make use of it. Saint Paul describes the need to praise the name of Jesus when he says:   

God greatly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. ~ Philippians 2:9-11 

Honoring Jesus’ name, many make an effort to bow their heads, just as Scripture commands, when the name of Jesus is either said or heard. I try to keep this devotional practice – within Christian prudence, to keep from resembling a bobblehead going back and forth. Perhaps for this new year, we can try and keep the name of Jesus a bit more holy. 

In Gratitude to:  

· Everyone who made our celebrations of Christmas and Mary, Mother of God such joy-filled and prayerful experiences. From the decorating, music, liturgical ministers, and all of you who came out to pray and worship with us. Thank you for making these Holy Days everything they are supposed to be. 

· Everyone who contributed to this year’s Catholic Services Appeal. It fills my heart with gratitude to know that for two years in a row, both parishes have reached their goal before the new year. What an amazing sign of your dedication to work together for the good of God’s Church in the Archdiocese of Louisville. 

· Those who came to our recent prayer and formation experiences. The Soup’r Prayer, Angelus Potluck, Advent Day of Reflection, Vespers & Formation along with the Way to the Manger. I have felt so fulfilled in being your pastor over this past Advent season.

Requests for:  

· Your consideration for how we, as the parishes of Saints

Aloysius and Benedict, can collaborate more effectively for the good of one another and our primary mission – the salvation of souls in Shepherdsville and Lebanon Junction. 

Two Parishes, One Heart

Fr. Adam