2013 is inching its way toward us--talk of falling off the fiscal cliff continues; we lived through the Mayan Calendar discussion (and the end of the Twinkie!).  Christmas day has come and gone, and Christmastide is well under way.  2013--a new beginning.  St. Benedict said, "Always we begin again."

Again this year, I invite you to choose a companion to travel with you in the New Year.  I have selected two--Julian of Norwich and Thomas Merton.  The life of a priest is often filled with busyness and doing; my soul longs for a more contemplative approach to my work.  I hope you, too, will choose companions to learn something about them, to learn something from them, to learn ...

In 2013 I continue my quest with the Anabaptist tradition, too.  Thinking of Plain dress--modesty--living more simply; living more deeply.  I am grateful for the many blessings in my life that come from such an eclectic mix of friendships.

May you 2013 be filled with exploration, peace, love and joy.  As we begin again...