Pastoral Letter for the Beginning of the New Year – 2026
United American Orthodox Catholic Church

Beloved in Christ,

Last night we watched the long year of 2025 fade into the darkness. For many, it was a
year marked by struggle, illness, pain, war, and uncertainty. To be sure, there were also
blessings—baptisms, new births, growing ministries, moments of healing and grace. Yet
it is often easier, and very human, to focus on the darkness rather than the light.
As we stand at the threshold of a new year, I encourage you to strengthen your faith
and to do the good that needs to be done. Do not shy away from the words of the
Gospel. Do not fail to bring your prayers before the Holy Trinity, the Saints, and all the
holy ones of God. Let your devotion to the Lord be expressed through kindness toward
others.

Saint Paisios of Mount Athos reminds us:
“Good people do not keep evil in their hearts, but neither do they keep their kindness to
themselves.”

Our Lord Himself calls us to this same witness when He says:
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden… Let your light so
shine before others, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father
who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14–16)

May you truly “walk as children of the Light” (Ephesians 5:8), knowing that this light
within you is nothing less than the manifestation of Christ’s love made visible in the
world. When love is lived, mercy practiced, and faith embodied, the darkness cannot
overcome it.

These simple acts of faithfulness do more than transform our own lives—they help to
heal the world. As we celebrate the Circumcision of the Lord on this day, we remember
that Christ, submitting Himself to the Law, shed His blood for our redemption for the first
time. In this holy mystery, we are reminded that God works salvation through
obedience, humility, and faithfulness in what may appear to be small things.

As we begin again the road of 2026, take time—as Saint Benedict teaches us—to
“listen with the ear of your heart.” Follow where Christ leads you, trust in His providence,
and do not be afraid to let your light shine.

May this year be one of great blessing, renewal, and holy courage for us all.

In the peace and light of Christ,

+Nicholas