Dr. Helen Titilola OLOJEDE

Many denominations began the year 2026 with all manner of programmes, including 100-day to 1,000,000-day fasting and prayer. We can quietly do ours without all the drama or jumping on the bandwagon. You can consider a quiet retreat or some of the ideas we discussed below.

Last week, we discussed hope in Christ as we enter into the New Year. This week, we shall examine how we can further prepare spiritually as we enter the New Year. Preparing spiritually for the New Year is less about striving and more about becoming receptive. New seasons, whether they arrive as opportunities, changes, losses, or beginnings, ask something subtle of us: a willingness to soften, to listen, and to trust what is unfolding beyond our full understanding. A gentle place to begin is with stillness.

In a world that values speed and certainty, stillness can feel unproductive, yet it is often where spiritual readiness quietly grows. Taking time for silence, prayer, meditation, or reflective walking allows the inner noise to settle. In that quiet, we begin to notice what we are carrying, old fears, expectations, or attachments that may no longer serve us. Preparing for the new often means making space by releasing what has become too heavy.

Another important practice is honest self-examination, approached with compassion rather than judgment. The new frequently exposes parts of us that are still healing or learning. Instead of resisting this, we can gently ask: What patterns am I being invited to outgrow? What beliefs about myself or the world am I ready to soften? Spiritual preparation does not demand perfection; it asks only for sincerity and humility.

 

Gratitude also plays a quiet but powerful role. By honouring what has already been, we ground ourselves in abundance rather than fear. Gratitude does not deny pain or difficulty; instead, it acknowledges that even challenging seasons carry wisdom. When we bless what we are leaving behind, we loosen our grip and step forward with lighter hands.

 

Finally, spiritual readiness is nurtured through gentleness toward oneself. Change can awaken vulnerability, and meeting that vulnerability with patience is an act of spiritual strength. Rest when needed. Seek a supportive community. Allow joy and grief to coexist. Preparing for the new is not a test to pass but a relationship to enter.

In the end, spiritual preparation is an opening of the heart. It is the quiet decision to remain present, curious, and receptive. When we prepare in this way, the new does not feel like an intrusion, but like an arrival one we are ready to welcome, even if we do not yet know its name.

 

Through the intercession of Our Lady Help of Christians, may the Lord accompany us and see us through the New Year.