And we begin another cycle around the sun (in the Gregorian calendar)… happy new year!
January 1st is also the feast day of Saint Basil in the Eastern Orthodox Church (and January 2nd in the Roman Catholic Church).
Basil of Caesarea, also called Saint Basil the Great was an early Roman Christian prelate who served as Bishop of Caesarea in Cappadocia from 370 until his death in 379. He was an influential theologian who supported the Nicene Creed and opposed the heresies of the early Christian church, fighting against both Arianism. St Basil is considered one of the great leaders and thinkers of the Orthodox Christian Church.
In addition to his work as a theologian, Basil was known for his care of the poor and underprivileged. Basil established guidelines for monastic life which focus on community life, liturgical prayer, and manual labor. He is considered a saint by the traditions of both Eastern and Western Christianity. He is also the patron saint of monks, hospital administrators, reformers and Russia.
There are many traditions associated with Saint Basil’s day including setting an extra place at the table. In many Greek homes, a special cake is baked on the eve of St Basil’s Day with a gold or silver coin hidden inside. Similar traditions exist for Western Christian Churches.
One way to honour his legacy is to serve the poor. The following is one of his quotes and shows how radical the economic vision of the early church was, rooted in extravagent love for neighbours.
‘When someone steals a person’s clothes, we call him a thief. Should we not give the same name to one who could clothe the naked and does not? The break in your cupboard belongs to the hungry; the coat hanging unused in your closet belongs to those who need it; the shoes rotting in your closet to the one who has no shoes. The money which you hoard up belongs to the poor” .
Prayer
Creator God, at the start of this New Year
when thoughts turn again to beginnings and starting afresh,
be with us as we gaze into the distance of fresh mission grounds,
of hopes and dreams, opportunities for service,
challenges, and uncertainties.
Take our fears and turn them into strengths.
Take our lack of faith and empower us
through the Spirit who breathes life into this world,
whose presence is reflected in the icy chill of winter’s breath,
as well as the comforting warmth of a summer breeze.
Walk with us into this New Year of opportunity. Amen
(John Birch)