Today we gather together to say goodbye to 2016 and to welcome the new year, 2017.
    As we look back over last year all of us can enumerate the blessings as well as the challenges of those weeks and months.
   Most recently the blessings of our parish have been expressed in the ways we celebrate the Christmas Season. The wonderful response each year to the giving tree exemplifies the goodness and generosity of all of you. Dave and Jan Fournier and all their helpers  make this ministry so worthwhile. Thanks to all who have been involved once again this year. And a great big thank you to all who contributed to our beautiful Christmas celebrations.
   This passed week we reached our goal of $50,000 for the grand annual collection! I am so grateful for your continued support  throughout the year.
   We indeed have many blessings here at St. Michael’s
   Next Sunday, January 8 I will  be leaving for a three month absence to have my hip replaced. I have been doing all the usual doctor’s appointments and other preparations necessary for this kind of surgery. I hope to return in time for Holy Week.
   Fr. Ron St. Pierre will be taking my place for these weeks and I am sure you will extend your usual warm welcome to him. At least you can remember his first name!!
   He will be here next weekend to get a little orientation and to have an opportunity to meet all of you. I am very grateful to him for his help at this time