The New Year is a time for hopeful new beginnings and upbeat news, such as Jan. 1’s gospel narrative of the message of joy spread by shepherds who came to Bethlehem to rejoice in the birth of the Savior. Over the last 20 years the State Penitentiary in Angola, Louisiana has produced something . . .

The magi came from the east to the newborn Jesus, the Epiphany Sunday gospel relates, because they “saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.” A generation ago Americans paid homage in very high numbers to the honesty and ethics of members of the clergy, Gallup polls . . .Please note: This week's issue of Preaching the News covers the gospel readings for Jan. 1 and the Solemnity of the Epiphany.The next issue will appear Thursday, Jan. 9 in conjunction with the readings for Sunday, Jan. 12.

"One true king knew when to step aside and give up the reins of power . . . all for the sake of glimpsing, just once in a lifetime, the face of a holy child."

According to a poll by the Financial Planning Association, 46 percent of financial advisers in the U.S. do not have a retirement plan for themselves.