Gulf Pine Catholic

Gulf Pine Catholic • January 24, 2025 15 “Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and for- sakes them will obtain mercy.” Proverbs 28:13 As we say goodbye to 2024 and get settled into 2025, it can be helpful to sit and reflect on the year being left behind. Each year is intended to help us dive deeper within ourselves to learn and grow in our lives. Howev- er, the lessons of each year can be in vain if we don’t take the time to sit and reflect on the events meant to teach us and help us grow. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 But this is not a time to find regret or judgment in our actions. Rather, it is a time to sit without emo- tion. Like an outsider looking in, we can look back on the moments that stand out in our mind and ask ourselves, “If this were to present itself again, would I do things any differently?” “Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though out- wardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” 2 Corinthians 4:16-17 Once time has been dedicated to reflecting on the last year, give thanks to God for allowing you to recall the moments that were meant to have your attention, and leave 2024 in the past. As it’s written in Isaiah 43:18-19, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” The 2024 version of ourselves has passed, and with each year we are presented with an opportunity to be a new and improved version of the person we once were. As we step into 2025, I challenge you to sit and reflect on who you were in 2024. Use the past year to make a list of goals for the upcoming year and place the list somewhere that will be seen at the start of each day. Sometimes all it takes is seeing the changes we wish to make in our lives for us to begin uncon- sciously gravitating towards the goals we set. “Because of the Lord’s great love, we are not consumed. For His compassions never fail. They are new every morning”. Lamentations 3:22-24 Happy New Year! I am sending many prayers of peace and joy to everyone in 2025. Let’s make this year stand out from the rest! God Bless. Ashley Bonney is a member of Most Holy Trinity Parish, Pass Christian. Fresh start Bonney Guest Columnist SVdP Pharmacy From page 4 Pruett’s long career in healthcare has been cen- tered on at-risk populations, and she finds fulfill- ment in assisting individuals who are struggling to make ends meet. “Sometimes their health needs are simple, but they just can’t afford the medications they need,” she said. The pharmacy serves a diverse group of clients, including many who are at risk and many who are working poor -- individuals who may hold jobs but lack health insurance. Pruett emphasized that the program is designed to help those who truly need assistance, dispelling any misconceptions that the service is available to people who could afford med- ications if they chose to. “This program is a real blessing,” Pruett said. “I feel like I get the best deal. I get to help people, and I see firsthand the good that’s being done.” A shared mission of care and compassion As the SVDP Community Pharmacy continues to expand and reach more people in need, it remains a beacon of hope and support for vulnerable commu- nities across South Mississippi. Whether serving clients in Biloxi, Hattiesburg, or beyond, the phar- macy’s mission is rooted in compassion, working to ensure that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, has access to the medications they need to stay healthy. Burke’s ultimate goal is clear: to ensure that every eligible person, whether insured or not, can access affordable medication. “If you have more going out than coming in, you’re likely eligible for our program,” he said. “We’re going to treat you with professional service and empathetic ear.” As the pharmacy’s reach continues to grow, so does the sense of community and cooperation that underpins its success. With the help of dedicated volunteers and community organizations, the SVDP Community Pharmacy remains a critical lifeline for those in need. How you can help “We still predominantly purchase our medication from a wholesaler. In Hattiesburg we also work with a network of long-term care facilities to acquire their unused medication from residents that can be redis- tributed through the charity pharmacy,” said Burke. “Due to regulations the charity pharmacy is lim- ited in what it can accept as medicine donation. Insulin and diabetic supplies are accepted. The insu- lin must be sealed, in date, and kept cold. Clients can also use adult diapers and Ensure.” To make monetary donations, click on the QR code or visit svdprx.org/donate. Prayer for Vocations God our Father, We thank you for calling men and women to serve in Your Son’s Kingdom as priests, deacons, and consecrated persons. Send your Holy Spirit to help others to respond generously and courageously to Your call. May our community of faith support vocations of sacrificial love in our youth and young adults. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen