Kathy Hannigan O’Connor’s and my somewhat delayed but joyous Christmas celebration last week with Mark and Valerie Passarella and Harriet.

Almighty God, who after the creation of the world rested from all your works and sanctified a day of rest for all your creatures: Grant that those whose busy leaves enable them to put away earthly anxieties today, and all your faithful people, may be duly prepared for the service of your sanctuary, and that our rest here upon earth may be a preparation for the eternal rest promised to your people in heaven; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

— Book of Common Prayer