As we begin our new Liturgical Year with the season of Advent we may look back on 2007 as a year of many mixed emotions. For some of us the year may have brought happiness and joy of new life, new jobs, the excitement of new undertakings. For others there may have been sadness and loss, disappointment and despair.

With Advent , we look forward to a fresh start . Let us reflect upon this beautiful icon of Mother of God Interceding, with her hands outstretched, waiting to hold her new born child. Her hands open and ready to hold us in our times of joy and sadness, interceding for us to God all our needs and hopes.

May the blessing of God be upon us and our families as we journey through Advent and Christmas knowing that Mary is always with us. To all our Marist family, Happy Christmas and may the New Year be filled with many blessings.

Luisa Severi