Catholic Ideas for New Year's Resolutions

by Alexis Ries | January 1, 2026

Hand writing 2026 New Year's resolutions

It's the time of year when everyone says "New Year, New Me" but New Year's resolutions hit different when they're rooted in faith. If you're looking for a way to hit "restart" in 2026, here are some faith-focused ideas that will put Jesus first.

Focus on Your Prayer Life

Our prayer is our relationship with God. Here are some ideas to revitalize your prayer life in 2026.

  • Commit to daily prayer, even if it’s just 5–10 minutes.
  • Pray the Rosary once a week.
  • Make Eucharistic Adoration a regular part of your routine, whether that be weekly or monthly.
  • Start your morning by doing the daily readings on your phone before you scroll through your email and social media.
  • Take a journal to Mass to take notes on the readings & homily.
  • Commit to the First Friday devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Continue Forming Your Faith

Faith formation isn't just for K-12! With a faith that's over 2,000 years old there is always something new to learn.

  • Follow along with the Bible or Catechism in a Year plan with Fr. Mike Schmitz.
  • Pick one spiritual book to read this year (or once a month if you're ambitious). Some ideas include Introduction to the Devout Life by Francis de Sales, The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis, or How to be Holy by Peter Kreeft.
  • Find or form a Bible study in your parish.

Commit to Love & Service of Others

Each Sunday Mass ends with a call to "Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life." One way we do this is by committing to love and service of others.

  • Find an opportunity to regularly volunteer with your parish.
  • Look at your household finances and commit to financially supporting your parish and local charities.
  • Incorporate the Corporal Works of Mercy into your year.

Grow in Virtue

We should always be striving to grow in virtue. The four cardinal virtues are prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance. These act as the hinges for our moral life, guiding us to live a good life oriented towards God.

  • Go to Reconciliation monthly.
  • Observe meatless Fridays year-round or add a weekly fast.
  • Begin each day by asking the Holy Spirit for wisdom and guidance.
  • Stand for truth and charity in conversations, even when it is uncomfortable.
Alexis Ries

Alexis Ries is the Digital Evangelization Specialist for the Diocese of Des Moines. She manages and optimizes the Diocese website and social media accounts to boldly proclaim the Gospel.