My Dear Fathers, Sisters and Laity, A Blessed New Year 2026! As the clock strikes midnight on this New Year's Eve, we stand at the threshold of 2026, invited by God to embrace His light anew. On January 1, we celebrate the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, who tenderly cradled the Saviour and teaches us to ponder His mysteries in our hearts. Through her fiat - "Let it be done" - Mary shows us the path of humble surrender, birthing Christ in the world and in our souls. Just days later, on Epiphany, we rejoice in the Magi's journey, guided by a star to the King of Kings. This feast reveals Christ as the light for all nations, drawing seekers from every corner of the earth. In 2026, may these twin celebrations illuminate our year: Mary's motherhood calling us to nurture faith within our families and communities, and Epiphany urging us to carry Christ's light outward, crossing borders of culture, language and difference. Embrace Mary as Mother: Begin each day with a simple prayer to Mary, asking her to form Christ in you. In families, consecrate your home to her on January 1 - perhaps with a shared rosary - fostering peace amid life's busyness. Follow the Star of Epiphany: Identify one "migrant" act of outreach this year - visit a neighbor from another background, support refugees in your parish, or share your faith story online. Mary, Our Mother Who Leads and Intercedes Mary, the Mother of God, stands at the heart of our faith as a loving mother who leads God’s people to her Son and continually intercedes for them. From the moment of her yes at the Annunciation, Mary became a guide on the path of faith, teaching us trust, humility, and total surrender to God’s will. She leads us not by words alone, but by example. In silence and obedience, she listens to God, treasures His Word in her heart, and follows Him even through suffering. At Cana, she gently directs the servants - and all of us - toward Jesus with her enduring instruction: “Do whatever He tells you.” Thus, Mary always leads the Church closer to Christ. As a compassionate mother, Mary also intercedes for her children. She knows our struggles, fears, and needs. Standing at the foot of the Cross, she received us as her children, and from heaven she continues to pray for us with a mother’s love. Her intercession brings us comfort in trials, strength in weakness, and hope in moments of despair. As we honor Mary, Mother of God, let us walk under her guidance, trust in her intercession, and learn from her how to live as faithful disciples. Through Mary, may we be led ever closer to Jesus, the source of all grace and salvation. In this New Year, may Mary's intercession and Epiphany's star guide you to deeper communion with God and one another. Go forth as bearers of Christ's light - peace be with you! I wish you “A Happy New Year 2026” & “A blessed and joyous Epiphany” to you all!!! May God bless you!!! With my prayers and apostolic blessing, + Lawrence Pius, D.D., Bishop of Dharmapuri