Dear Parishioners of Saint Polycarp, This weekend, Holy Mother Church celebrates the solemnity of the Baptism of the Lord. According to the Church’s liturgy, this solemnity marks the end of the Christmas Season and begins the liturgical Season of Ordinary Time. The Gospel of Matthew for this solemnity recounts the encounter and the conversation of…

Dear Parishioners of Saint Polycarp, Happy New Year! This weekend of the Epiphany ushers us into the year 2026. Joining my brother priests, deacons, religious sisters, and parish staff, I wish you a joyful and blessed year. The celebration of the Feast of Epiphany focuses on the revelation of Jesus Christ to the three magi,…

Dear Parishioners of Saint Polycarp, Merry Christmas! Christmas is Jesus’ birthday: The name Jesus means “God saves, or God is Salvation.” Thus, Christmas is a celebration of the birthday of the Savior, who comes to save the universe from darkness of sins and corruption. Normally, when we talk about Jesus’ birth, we talk about His…

Dear Parishioners of Saint Polycarp, The third Sunday of Advent is called “Gaudete” Sunday, which means “rejoice” in Latin. Notably, you will see the third Advent Candle is “rose,” and the presider’s vestment may be either in “violet” or “rose” color. It is called “Gaudete” Sunday because the time to wait and to prepare for…