The Gospel for the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time presents the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. After the arrest of John the Baptist, Jesus withdraws to Galilee and settles in Capernaum, a place described by the prophet Isaiah as a land of darkness. It is precisely there, in an ordinary and often forgotten region, that the light of Christ begins to shine.
On January 9, 2026, the faithful of Jesus Nazareno Parish in Dansolihon came together with joy and deep devotion to celebrate the Feast of Señor Jesús Nazareno, one of the most cherished religious celebrations in the community. United in prayer, the devotees honored Jesus Christ, who lovingly carried the Cross for the salvation of all.
The Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord celebrates the great revelation of God’s love to all nations. The Gospel according to St. Matthew tells us of wise men from the East who followed a mysterious star until it led them to Bethlehem, where they found the newborn King of the Jews. In this humble Child, they recognized the divine light that illumines all humanity. Their journey represents the search of every heart longing for truth, goodness, and meaning — a journey that finds fulfillment only in Christ.
On this first day of the year, the Church invites us to begin anew under the loving gaze of Mary, the Holy Mother of God. The Gospel (Luke 2:16–21) tells us that the shepherds “went in haste” to Bethlehem, where they found Mary and Joseph, and the Infant lying in the manger. They were simple people, yet they were the first to witness the glory of God made visible in the child Jesus. And Mary, the Gospel says, “kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart.”
“See, I am making all things new.” (Revelation 21:5)
As we welcome the dawn of 2026, we bow before the Lord in gratitude for the year that has passed—its joys and struggles, its blessings and challenges. Every new year is a gift of grace, a renewed invitation from God to begin again with faith, hope, and love.
SCJ Philippines Region 