A Holy Day of Obligation

Today is the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. It is a Holy Day of obligation among the faithful. What better way is there to start the secular New Year than by attending Mass. It really gets the year off on the right foot.

While today is the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God in the life of her son, Jesus Christ, today is the 8th day since His birth. According to Jewish tradition and practice, Christ was circumcised on this day. We can think of it as a prelude to what would come, the shedding of His blood as a sacrifice for all.

Once upon a time if a wife did not produce children (preferably sons) she was made to feel inadequate, inferior and it was even thought of as a reason for a Husband to divorce his wife. Today if a woman decides to be nothing more than a wife and mother, often others tell her she is somehow settling or not living up to her full potential. Some believe a woman can have it all – a career and a family. More often than not, it’s a lie. Sure, most women can balance a job and family, but a career requires personal sacrifice. Family requires personal sacrifice. Something would need to give.

For some there is no greater calling than to be a mother. No one should ever be made to feel ashamed or to apologize for following their calling, whatever that might be. Sacrificing for others does not make you a doormat. It takes strength and grace to give all you have to others. Those are virtues to be admired.

Just as we are called to be more Christ-like in our relationships with God the Father and our fellow man, we are called to imitate Mary, His blessed mother. She is such a beautiful example of the quiet stillness and strength of womanhood. Amen.

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Irish Potatoes O’Brien Scrambled Eggs
6 Russet Potatoes
1/2 Yellow Onion
1/2 Red Bell Pepper
1 Jalapeño Pepper
6 Eggs
2 tablespoons Butter
Salt to taste
Black Pepper to taste

Note: Typically Potatoes O’Brien are made with red and green bell peppers. If your family is like mine and needs a little heat, trade out the green bell pepper for a Jalapeño pepper. If not, use the green bell pepper. It’s a personal thing.

Peel and dice potatoes. Place in the steamer basket of your Instant Pot. Place 1 cup of water into the inserte. Place the basket over the water.

Lock lid in place. Set PRESSURE COOK, HIGH, 4 MINUTES. Press Start. Let pressure naturally release for about 5 minutes, then release any remaining pressure. Remove basket, set aside.

While the potatoes pressure cook, cut onion in half from root to tip. Reserve half the onion for another use. Peel and dice remaining half. Stem, core and dice the peppers. Lightly beat eggs in a bowl.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium high heat. Add the par-cooked potatoes, diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté until potatoes are browned. Stir in the egg, let cook until the eggs are just set. Season with salt and pepper, scramble with a large fork. Serve Irish Scramble with toast and jam. Enjoy!

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The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger.