As we know, Advent is a special time in the Church year as we prepare for the coming of the Lord. Advent holds out the hope and desire to see the light of Christ shine through the darkness of our world. Pope Francis stated that, “The time of Advent…returns us to the horizon of hope, a hope that does not disappoint because it is founded on the Word of God.” He added that Advent is “a new journey of the people of God with Jesus Christ, our Shepherd, who guides us in history toward the completion of the Kingdom of God.”
At this special time, we are urged to remain watchful and vigilant as we wait in joyful anticipation for the coming of the Lord. He is ready to come more fully into our homes. He is ready to come more fully into our lives. He is ready to come more fully into our hearts. This Christmas we are invited to give the Lord the gift of a pure heart. During our Mission, Fr. Francis will focus on the Book of Isaiah with the theme “In the Desert, I Prepare the Way of the Lord.” He will speak of the gift of the Christ Child that awaits us. There will be time for prayer and reflection. His message should resonate with all people of goodwill including families, young adults, and teens.
We invite you to come to this Mission. Please invite your friends, especially those Catholics who may have been away from the Church for some time and for some reason. Through God’s grace, you may be instrumental in getting your friends to return to the precious faith we love and cherish.
The Advent Mission will take place this Monday, November 30th to Wednesday, December 2nd. There will be both morning and evening sessions for your convenience. Details concerning the Mission can be obtained from the Parish bulletin and website as well as from the Parish office.
I pray that you will participate in the Parish Mission and avail yourself of this special time of grace.