Dearly beloved in Christ,

We are fortunate to see a new year in our life.  Last year has become a part of history.  We cannot reclaim history; however we can live in the present and prepare ourselves for the future.  Each moment of our life is a gift of God, and keeping in mind that we are answerable to God for it.  Live each second for Christ in this world.  When we enter into a new year, as usual, we may take new resolutions.  We may not have the will power or we may not have the strength to fulfill those resolutions.  So make resolutions with God and rely on Him, he will give you the strength and power to fulfill them in your life.

Thank you everyone for your continued support and cooperation in the day-to-day activities of the Parish.  The last three months were the busiest months for our church.  The Thanksgiving and Christmas Carol programs were conducted very well.  I appreciate all of you for your support.  I especially want to thank all the Parish Office bearers and also the various organizations, who faithfully and sincerely served the church in the past year.  May the Almighty God reward your service.  

We are living in a very complex world.  This world is becoming more complex and ever changing day by day.  In a split second, the world around us transforms from moment to moment, hour by hour, day to day.  People’s faith in God is also fast changing.  People have materialistic and worldly possessions to trust and rely on.  The secular world is consciously refraining the public from the element of spirituality and the faith in God.  In the same way, people have also lost trust in each other.  People are self-absorbed.  At this point we need a great vision about our life.  According to A. P. J. Abdhul Kalam , the former President of India, “The dream is not what you see in sleep.  Dream is the thing which does not let you sleep.”  We should have such vision about our life and our country in this New Year.  Trials are common in everybody’s life.

Take a different approach to the trials in your life.  All the experiences in our life are virtuous.  Arthur Ashe one of the former Wimbledon player, was dying of AIDS.  He was infected with AIDS virus via a blood transfusion during a heart surgery.  Many asked why God has selected you for such a bad disease.  He replied, “When I was holding a Cup I never asked God, “Why Me?” and today in pain I should not be asking God why me?” 

Happiness keeps you Sweet,

Trial keeps you Strong,

Sorrow keeps you human,

Failure keeps you Humble,

Success keeps you Glowing,

But only God keeps you Going.

The Great Lent season is approaching us.  This is the time for renewal and reflection.  We should humble ourselves before the merciful God.  I encourage each and everyone to observe lent this year. 

Hope the New Year brings you the gifts of joy, merriment and all that is beautiful.

Have a blessed and memorable 2012!!!

May the Almighty God bless you!!!

Jose Achen and Family

Randolph, New Jersey