My very best wishes to all my readers for a very happy 2013!
Historically, the Church commemorated Jesus’s circumcision on this day.
Since the Renaissance (specifically, the papacy of Pius V), the Catholic Church has designated this day as the Solemnity of Mary the Mother of God.
It was usual for, if not mandated that, Christians attend church on New Year’s Day as a refusal to descend into the pagan revelry associated with the New Year. Penance and fasting were also part of the commemoration of this day in the early Church.
6 comments
December 31, 2012 at 10:14 pm
lleweton
There were a few years, in North London, when I cycled off to attend a Watchnight Service, as it was called. Haven’t go the go in me to do that now, but it’s good to start another year that way.
All greetings to you and yours CM.
January 1, 2013 at 2:25 am
churchmouse
Thank you, Llew!
January 1, 2013 at 12:15 am
peacefulpartings
I have been celebrating the solemnity of my own mother today as well… God bless moms.
January 1, 2013 at 2:27 am
churchmouse
Yes, may God bless all our mothers. They have done so much for us.
January 1, 2013 at 12:35 am
pennine rainbows
The Same to You Good Friend.Good Health,Good Fortune &Happiness in 2013. Thank You for all your great newsletters in 2012. Long may they continue. God Bless you from bethany-megan ( North-East England.UK)
January 1, 2013 at 2:28 am
churchmouse
You’re so welcome! Thanks for reading. Look forward to hearing from you in 2013!