Beginning The Year Rooted In Christ

Grab

As we begin this New Year, complete this sentence:
“This 2026, I am rooting for __________.”
(You may share a hope for yourself, your family, or your faith.)

Grace

Read: “You must live your whole life according to the Christ you have received, Jesus the Lord; you must be rooted in him and built on him and held firm by the faith you have been taught, and full of thanksgiving.”  Colossians 2:6–7 (NJB)

A new year often begins with plans, goals, and resolutions. We root for success, healing, peace, growth, or change. But before anything else, St. Paul reminds us of what truly matters: being rooted in Christ. Without strong roots, even the best intentions will not last.

To be rooted in Christ means that Jesus is the source of our strength, direction, and hope. Like roots that anchor and nourish a tree, our relationship with Christ sustains us through challenges, uncertainties, and changing seasons of life. These roots grow through prayer, Scripture, the Eucharist, and our life in community. In MFC, our households and shared faith journey provide fertile ground for deeper roots. When Christ is at the center of our personal lives and families, we begin the year not just with hopes, but with a solid foundation.

Here are three ways we can begin the year rooted in Christ:

1. Root Our Hopes in Christ, Not Just in Outcomes

It is good to hope for better health, stable work, peaceful relationships, or success for our children. But these hopes must be rooted in Christ, not in circumstances. When Jesus is our foundation, we trust Him whether things go according to plan or not. Rooting our hopes in Christ gives us peace and perseverance.

2. Root Our Daily Life in Prayer and the Sacraments

Roots grow quietly and consistently. In the same way, our faith deepens through daily prayer, regular Scripture reading, and faithful participation in the Eucharist. Even simple, consistent practices help us stay connected to Christ throughout the year.

3. Root Our Families in Community and Mission

Faith grows stronger when shared. Our MFC households help us stay grounded, encouraged, and accountable. As missionary families, we are also called to share Christ with others. When we live rooted in Him, our lives naturally become a witness of hope and love.

Gather

1. What am I “rooting for” this year, and how can I entrust this fully to Christ?

2. What concrete habit can help me grow deeper roots in Christ this 2026?

Go Forth

1. Read and reflect on the 2026 theme verse as a family.

2. Attend the Section Congress this year. 

Give

God is Generous and in response, let us be good stewards by consistent Spiritual Giving, our tithing. For Tithes Remittance of NCR Members: bit.ly/mfctithes

Go on Mission

Seek for opportunities to service in MFC and/ or LCSC. MFC members 3 years and up are encouraged to go on mission in your own area or province. This can be done as a couple, with your household, or with your family. #FamiliesOnMission