Since the 16th century, the Catholic Church has given each month of the year a special devotion. For the month of January, the devotion is to the The Most Holy Name of Jesus. Some of the months have applicable indulgences, January is one of these months.  If you are interested in doing The Most Holy Name of Jesus Novena, please click on the link: http://www.catholictradition.org/Christ/holy-name2.htm#NOVENA

St. Paul first mentions The Most Holy Name of Jesus in Philippians 2:5-11 “the power of Our Lord Jesus Christ, and how in reality our attitude should be the kind that was shown to us by Jesus Christ, who though he was God, did not demand and cling to his rights as God, but laid aside his mighty power and glory, taking the disguise of a slave and becoming like men. He also humbled himself even further, going so far as actually to die a criminal’s death on a cross.  Yet it was because of this that God raised him up to the heights of heaven and gave him a name which is above every other name, that at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

St. Bernardine of Siena, a 15th century Franciscan monk had a very deep devotion to The Holy Name of Jesus.   He used this devotion as a way of overcoming the frequent bitter and bloody class struggles, along with family rivals and vendettas that were considered a societal norm during this century in Italy. 

In 1530, Pope Clement approved an Office of the Holy Name for the Franciscans; then in 1721 Pope Innocent XIII extended the Feast Day to the entire church.

If you are interested in the Litany and Chaplet of The Most Holy Name of Jesus you will be able to find this information at the following site: http://www.catholictradition.org/Litanies/litany1.htm#BERNARDINE

I hope your New Years Day was a cherished and pleasant day, starting with peace within your own family, as we continue to pray for world peace and healing throughout the world. 

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on us as we work hard to follow your will in this upcoming 2012 year. Please give us the strength, will, perseverance and endurance to be your prayer warriors here on earth so that we may complete the mission you placed us here to accomplish. Amen. 

Michele