For those of you who don't already know, January 1st is the Feast of Mary, Mother of God. Now, most dioceses in the United States do not require Catholics to attend Mass on this date this year (as a Holy Day of Obligation) because it falls on a Saturday; but in many other countries (and in New York, I'm told), today is a Holy Day of Obligation.
Anyways, I would just like to let everyone know what a wonderful blessing it was for me to be able to celebrate the New Year with a holy hour before the Lord during Eucharistic Adoration, then Mass at midnight (fireworks were present outside the chapel!), and finally a small celebration afterwards (complete with pretzels, chips and cheesecake!). I found this to be a wonderful way to kick off what I think will be the best year of my life so far.
May Mary intercede for us as we begin this New Year, and may we remember to thank our blessed virgin Mother on this day for her acceptance of God's Son into her womb over two millenia ago!