Christmas is fast approaching, and many of you are feeling overwhelmed by all the preparations of the season. If you are seeking a deeper encounter with Christ this Christmas, I encourage you to offer Jesus your prayers of thanksgiving. A perfect way to do this is to send me your Christmas petitions to be included in the Shrine’s Christmas Novena, December 16-24. Your intentions will be placed at our Lady’s Shrine for remembrance as we prepare for the coming of our Lord. You might also want to burn a Votive Light in thanksgiving for the blessings of the year. May our newborn Savior bless you this Christmas and may his Mother Mary watch over you and your loved ones.