MONDAY, DECEMBER 28 | FEAST OF THE HOLY INNOCENTS
1 John 1:5-2 :2; Psalm 124; Matthew 2:13-18
"We turn our gaze to Jesus, who reveals himself as King of Peace, even as war looms around him. He remains steadfast in meekness, while others are stirring up violence. He offers himself to embrace humanity, even as others raise swords and clubs." – Pope Leo XIV, Palm Sunday, 29 March 2026.
This Christmas season we celebrate that Jesus, the King of Peace, has entered our world. The Feast of the Holy Innocents reminds us that amid tragedy, violence and sometimes the senseless killing of innocent lives, we have a God that draws close to us and is with us. As Pope Leo XIV has reminded us, Jesus, the King of Peace, who is always with us, takes a different approach to violence and power. We are called to follow Jesus and spread the love and peace we have received from Him, one small act at a time.
Jacob Harrison, PhD
Chief Catholic Mission Officer
Intermountain Health
Pause
What is one action I can take this week to bring more peace into the world?
Pray
God of the Universe, Creator of Light and Dark: You have formed us together as one body to proclaim Your peace. Draw us beyond our own narrowness to recognize Christ within ourselves and one another. Help us to choose unity – humility over pride and patience over anger. Make in us Your dwelling place, O God, that we may be worthy builders of Your Kingdom and true instruments of Your grace. Amen.