January, 2026

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Greetings,

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January, the month of seeming darkness, although in reality it is the month of the light returning to the world. This is true not only in the natural world where beginning December 22 the days begin to get longer and the light lasts longer every day, but it is also true in our church calendar.

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We start January with Epiphany, the culmination of the 12 days of Christmas. Also the celebration of the coming of the light, the Christ child. In our scripture readings during January, if we follow the Lectionary readings, we begin to see Jesus as he starts his ministry. We begin to see what happens as the light begins to spread.

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But still for many people, January is a time of darkness. The weather is often cold. The holidays are over. Illness can be prevalent as flu and colds become more aggressive. We tend to stay home more often and so we are isolated more. All of which leads to feelings of darkness. 

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Yet, the funny thing about darkness is that there doesn't need to be much light to lighten the darkness. A small candle can light the darkest night. That is what we are reminded of in these days after celebrating the birth of Christ. Wisemen followed a star to find the Christ. John the Baptist recognizes Jesus and baptizes him as he starts his public ministry. Disciples begin to follow Jesus in small numbers. The light begins to shine in small ways. 

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The light shines and the darkness cannot ovecome it. That is our hope and our saving grace. 

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In Christ, 

Pastor Pat

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