Homily of Tuesday, 30th December 2025, Sixth Day within the Octave of Christmas.
Fr. Emmanuel Aghidi CSSp.
Texts:1 John 2:12–17, Psalm 96, Luke 2:36–40
Dear Friends in Christ, as we continue to bask in the light of Christmas within its sacred Octave, today the Church places before us a quiet but powerful figure: Anna the prophetess. She does not speak much, yet her life itself proclaims the Gospel.Today’s Gospel presents Anna the prophetess, a woman who teaches us the grace of faithful waiting.
Though advanced in age and marked by loss, Anna did not lose hope. She remained in the Temple, serving God with prayer and fasting. Her life reminds us that waiting is not wasted time when it is lived in faith.
Because her heart was free from worldly distractions, Anna recognized the Messiah in a poor child. God often comes quietly and simply. Only those who are attentive in prayer recognize Him.
Once Anna recognized the Child, she did not keep silent. She “spoke of the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem.”
A true encounter with Christ always leads to a mission.
Those who truly meet Jesus cannot keep Him to themselves.
As we continue the joy of Christmas, may we learn to wait faithfully, recognize Christ in simplicity, and proclaim Him with joy. Amen.
