Dear Parishioners,

Happy New Year to all!  The new year brings a new start, new hopes, and new challenges.  We hope for a world of peace.  We start our New Year's resolutions (which usually last a few weeks!).  We are aware of the challenges here in our own country and around the world.  Perhaps this new year will bring a discovery that will cure cancer.  Maybe this year will see fewer people in poverty.  It would be great if this new year brings us peace, reconciliation, and forgiveness of those who have hurt us.  What are your hopes and dreams for this new year?  I pray that it will be a year when you will draw closer to God; a time when you will continue to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and shelter the homeless.  May our loving God bless you with peace and happiness this coming year.

LeMoyne Scholarships...For many years, LeMoyne College and the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) have worked    together to offer eight $4,000 scholarships ($1,000 per year).  This CYO scholarship will be conferred again this year to eight deserving students in the Diocese of Syracuse.  These scholarships will be awarded to prospective LeMoyne students who have demonstrated leadership abilities and have performed outstanding service to their school, community, and parish.  If you are interested in applying, please contact Christine Williams at our church office (607-749-2542).

According to our liturgical calendar, New Year's Day, the Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary is not a holy day of obligation this year because it falls on a Monday.  Mass at St. Mary's will be Jan. 1, at 10 a.m.

JAZZHAPPENSBAND returns to St. Margaret's!!!  Mark your calendars for an enjoyable evening with our favorite Jazz/ Dixieland band, SATURDAY, JAN. 13th. Tickets will go on sale next weekend and will also be available at the door.   Offering:  $10.  Come and celebrate and chase the winter "blues" away!

Many thanks. God Bless You,  Fr. Paul J. Alciati