This weekend’s certainly easier than last. Yes, a Sunday—the Feast of the Holy Family—and a holiday—New Year’s Eve and Day—come crashing together again. But, it’s easier because in the United States usually when a holy day of obligation falls on a Saturday or Monday, the obligation to participate in Mass is taken away. (For what I hope are obvious reasons, Christmas is one of the exceptions.)

But, let’s think about January 1. It carries levels and levels of meaning. The original feast in ancient Rome honored Mary as the Mother of God. Vatican II revived that emphasis. For many centuries, it was the feast of the Circumcision—the rite that made Jesus part of the Jewish people. In some Christians, it was the feast of the Holy Name—also reflecting the gospel of the day. And, of course, in modern times it becomes the beginning of the civil year—with all our best hopes and promises to do better this time. In even more modern times, Pope St Paul VI named it the World Day of Prayer for Peace.

What can we do with this multifaceted day this year? You don’t have to come to Mass; but what better way to begin afresh than with God’s sacramental grace and blessing? (And if you don’t, please don’t confess it—you can’t sin against a rule that just isn’t there!) Especially in the light of war, terrorism, and violence, shouldn’t we do something for peace? Offer a prayer? Read something about the struggles of folks in Israel or the Ukraine? Be informed about our world and its needs. Reconcile with someone we’re not on good terms with? Do something for the poor? Make resolutions that are deeper than personal fitness; resolutions that heal and forgive and bring at least peace to our lives.