As we joyfully prepare to celebrate the birth of our Savior, I extend my heartfelt wishes to you and your families for a blessed and peaceful Christmas season. May the hope, peace, and light of Christ fill your homes, and may the spirit of faith, fraternity, and our heritage continue to unite and strengthen us as one family.
This past year has been a time of dedication and perseverance for our Society. Through your continued support, we have maintained our mission of service—caring for our members, supporting our communities, and providing financial security through our life insurance and annuity products. Thank you for the trust you place in us and for the fraternal spirit you share each day.
As Christmas approaches, many families are thinking about gifts for the children in their lives. In today’s world, we often see children receiving more toys than they can fully appreciate—gifts that bring joy for a moment but are quickly forgotten. This year, I encourage you to consider a more lasting and impactful gift: investing in their future.
Opening an annuity, a JEP policy, or a Coverdell Education Savings Account makes a wonderful Christmas present for a child or grandchild. These accounts grow with them and can be added to on special occasions such as birthdays, First Communions, confirmations, and graduations. Beyond financial growth, these young members may one day qualify for one of our many FCSU Scholarships—another powerful way we support education and opportunity within our fraternal family.
I am pleased to share that our FCSU Scholarship applications are now available. These scholarships assist students attending Catholic grade schools and high schools, as well as those enrolled in college, graduate programs, and vocational schools. I encourage all eligible members to apply and take advantage of this important benefit.
Looking ahead, 2026 will be a significant year for us. In June, we will gather for our 53rd Quadrennial Convention, an important moment to set our course for the next four years. Preparations are well underway, and in the coming months, we will continue to work diligently to finalize every detail to ensure a productive and inspiring convention.
The Election of Delegates has begun and will continue into the new year. I encourage all members to stay informed and engaged in this important process. Please visit our website regularly for the latest updates and announcements regarding convention planning and delegate elections.
December is designated as National Identity Theft Prevention and Awareness Month. The holiday season increases the risk of identity theft due to more online shopping and financial activity. It serves as a reminder for consumers and businesses to take extra precautions to protect their personal and financial information from scams and cyber criminals. A few years ago, I personally experienced identity theft. While it was a challenging experience, it reminded me of the importance of vigilance and preparedness—a story I share in more detail in the December 2025 Jednota.
On behalf of my wife Theresa, the Board of Directors, and the Home Office staff, we wish you a joyous Christmas and a new year filled with peace, health, and renewed hope. May we continue to live our mission of service, fraternity, and stewardship in the year ahead.