Greetings of Christ’s peace and love to the People of God in the Diocese of Salt Lake City!
On Jan. 1, we not only welcome a new year but also conclude the Christmas Octave, the eight joyful days following the birth of Christ. Each day after Christmas is marked by a special feast, culminating with the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God which is a Holy Day of Obligation.
This feast of our Blessed Mother highlights her unique role in the mystery of the Incarnation of Jesus Christ, our Savior. Conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit, the Virgin Mary freely embraced God’s divine plan and is exalted above all creatures. As the Second Vatican Council teaches in Lumen Gentium: “Redeemed by reason of the merits of her Son and united to Him by a close and indissoluble tie, she is endowed with the high office and dignity of being the Mother of the Son of God, by which account she is also the beloved daughter of the Father and the temple of the Holy Spirit. Because of this gift of sublime grace, she far surpasses all creatures, both in heaven and on earth.”
As Catholics, we honor Mary as the perfect disciple of Christ. Through her faith, trust and humble obedience, the love of God and the gift of peace entered the world. So, let us strive to follow her example and seek her intercession before God on our behalf.
New Year’s Day is also the World Day of Peace, a tradition established by Pope Saint Paul VI in 1967 during the Cold War. Each year, the Holy Father invites all people to work for peace. This year in his World Day of Peace message, Pope Leo XIV reminds us: “Peace is more than just a goal; it is a presence and a journey. 
Even when it is endangered within us and around us, like a small flame threatened by a storm, we must protect it.”
In a world burdened by confllct and uncertainty, I urge all God’s people to join our Holy Father Pope Leo XIV in praying for peace in the world and safeguarding it in our hearts and communities. Let us also turn to Mary, our Mother, asking her intercession for a year filled with 
hope, harmony, and prosperity.
May we begin this new year with hearts full of gratitude, acknowledging God’s gifts of love, joy, and peace.
Happy New Year to you and your loved ones!
The Most Rev. Oscar A. Solis, D.D.
Bishop of Salt Lake City