By Faith Kemmler
Director of Children's & Family Ministry

When the magi set out to find Jesus, they followed a star, embarking on a long journey to find the new king. We celebrate the end of their journey on Epiphany Sunday in early January.

I have always loved the juxtaposition of the newness of Advent with the end of the year. As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, we also spend time reflecting on the past year and dreaming for the year ahead. Beginnings and endings occur in tandem with each other.

The New Year’s Resolutions we dream up are often a reflection of how we perceived the past 12 months. Do we wish we had spent more time on our health? Been more generous? Spent more time with family? Of course. There is merit in striving for growth.

Inspired by the magi who followed the star, a new tradition for the new year has begun in church communities: Star Words. Star Words are guiding words, gifted to us to inspire our spiritual journey into the new year.

Rather than looking at a list of words and choosing one for yourself, Star Words are listed individually on papers and laid face down for us to receive. Without seeing the word first, we are able to practice the spiritual gift of receiving, trusting in God’s control over ours.

When you receive your word, put it somewhere you will see it each day. Maybe it hangs on your bathroom mirror or becomes your phone wallpaper. Words can be used to inspire new prayer practices. Take time to sit in silence and contemplation, focusing on your word. For a daily intention: Take time to consider where and how you have encountered God in you daily life.

In early January, look for an email with more information about how to receive your Star Word for the new year.

For now, as you reflect on the year 2024, perhaps there is a word to sum up the ways you have encountered God’s presence on your journey.