As 2016 begins, I have been thinking a lot about solidarity. It’s such a vital part of our Catholic identity. Jesus taught us by word and action what it means to stand with our brothers and sisters—especially those in need—who are not part of our inner circle. And our own U.S. Catholic Bishops call solidarity one of the seven basic foundations of Catholic social teaching. Yet there is so much division in our world and in our country—between countries and continents, between people of different races or religious beliefs, between political parties, between conservatives and liberals, even between neighbors and neighborhoods. It makes me wonder how often we as Church and as individuals practice solidarity. How are we teaching and modeling this virtue in our ministry?

It’s Advent, and as we are preparing for Christmas, we’re probably also thinking about our ministry in the coming year. What new things do we want to try? Where do we want to go deeper? What will really work in reaching youth today?

There's much excitement and anticipation for the upcoming Jubilee Year of Mercy.  The Holy Father will begin the Jubilee Year by opening the Holy Doors on December 8, 2015.  With lots happening around us, be sure to set some time aside to discern how we will personally live out this Year of Mercy.