The church hall was adorned with soft, golden lights strung across the high wooden beams, giving the space a warm, festive glow. A beautifully decorated Christmas tree still stood in one corner, its ornaments glinting in the light of the candles set out for the New Year's Eve prayer event. The air was filled with a sense of reverence and hope as the congregation began gathering for the evening's celebration.
Maria stood near the entrance, her winter coat wrapped tightly around her. She had just finished helping Sister Jessica arrange the prayer books and was now waiting for the event to begin. Her mind wandered to the promise she had made Catherine the night before—a video call during the prayer session so they could share the moment despite the distance.
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Preparing for the Call
As the clock approached 10:30 p.m., Maria slipped into a quieter corner of the hall, pulling out her phone. She dialed Catherine's number and waited as the line connected.
Catherine: (cheerfully picking up the call)
"Maria! I've been waiting for your call. Are the prayers starting soon?"
Maria: (smiling warmly)
"Yes, they'll begin in a few minutes. I thought I'd call you now so you can join us in spirit. How's everything there?"
Catherine: (laughing)
"It's good, but not as lively as it would've been with you here. Honestly, I miss you, Maria. I've been counting the days until I come back."
Maria's heart warmed at Catherine's words.
Maria:
"I miss you too, but don't worry about me. I'm doing fine here. You just enjoy your time with your family—it's good to have these moments with them."
Catherine: (softly)
"You're so sweet, Maria. But I still can't wait to be back. January 4th isn't far now."
Maria chuckled, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face.
Maria:
"It'll come sooner than you think. Now, get ready—I'll keep the video call on so you can join the prayers."
Catherine:
"Thank you, Maria. I really appreciate this."
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The New Year's Prayer
As the event began, Maria positioned her phone on the bench beside her, ensuring Catherine had a clear view of the altar. Father Robert stood at the front, his voice resonating through the hall as he led the congregation in prayer.
Father Robert:
"Tonight, we gather not only to bid farewell to the year gone by but to welcome the blessings and challenges of the new year. Let us pray for strength, unity, and hope as we step into 2025."
Maria bowed her head, feeling a sense of calm wash over her. The soft hum of voices reciting prayers filled the room, blending with the gentle flicker of candlelight.
On the screen, Catherine watched intently, her hands clasped together in prayer.
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After the Prayers
When the prayers concluded and the clock struck midnight, the church bells rang out joyously, signaling the start of the new year. The congregation erupted into soft applause and exchanged warm greetings.
Maria picked up her phone to find Catherine smiling brightly on the other end.
Catherine:
"Happy New Year, Maria! I wish I could've been there with you."
Maria: (smiling back)
"Happy New Year, Catherine. I'm glad we could share this moment, even if it's through a screen."
Catherine: (teasingly)
"Well, mark my words—I'll be there in a few days, so you better prepare for some company!"
Maria: (laughing)
"I'll be ready. But until then, enjoy your vacation and don't worry about anything here."
Catherine:
"Alright, I will. But only because I know you're doing fine."
They ended the call with promises to catch up soon, and Maria returned to her room feeling a deep sense of contentment.
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January 4th: Catherine's Return
The days passed quickly, and soon it was January 4th. The snow-covered grounds of the church glistened under the pale winter sun as Maria stood near the entrance, her scarf wrapped snugly around her neck. She had been eagerly awaiting Catherine's arrival and kept glancing at her watch.
At exactly 11 a.m., a taxi pulled up to the gate, and Maria spotted Catherine stepping out, her cheeks flushed from the cold.
Maria: (waving excitedly)
"Catherine! You're finally here!"
Catherine rushed over, her suitcase trailing behind her, and pulled Maria into a warm hug.
Catherine: (laughing)
"I told you I'd be back! Did you miss me?"
Maria: (teasingly)
"Maybe a little. It was nice and quiet without you."
Catherine: (mock-offended)
"How dare you! But don't worry, the quiet days are over—I'm back to bring some life into this place!"
The two friends laughed as they made their way inside, chatting about Catherine's trip.
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Settling Back In
As they reached the dormitory, Maria helped Catherine unpack and settle back into her room. Catherine recounted stories from her vacation, her excitement infectious.
Catherine:
"Nathan was so thrilled to see me! He even made me breakfast one morning, can you believe that? And Mom's cooking—oh, Maria, you have to come home with me one day to try it!"
Maria: (smiling)
"I'd love to. It sounds like you had a wonderful time."
Catherine: (pausing)
"I did, but I really missed this place—and you. It's good to be back."
Maria felt a surge of gratitude for their friendship.
Maria:
"It's good to have you back, Catherine. Now, let's get ready for the new semester. We've got a lot to look forward to this year."
As the day went on, the two friends caught up over tea, their laughter filling the room as they shared their hopes and plans for the months ahead. Together, they welcomed the new year with renewed energy and the promise of more adventures to come.