At this point in our global pandemic, we maintain hope in our Creator, we understand the manner in which this virus spreads and can take reasonable precautions, and have renewed encouragement from the science that has brought our world effective vaccinations which will be available in the coming year. No doubt we have all been touched by grief and loss, but we are of stronger stuff than those who grieve without hope. And so, we offer reading for the new year, intellectual engagement that will fortify and strengthen our spirits, early light to the beacons of hope that may yet shine upon our church, our nation, and our world.