This Sunday begins the Season of Advent. It 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. As reported in the media publication, “Vatican News”, Our Holy Father Pope Francis focused on the importance of spiritual preparation during Advent. He noted that it is with “affection-filled expectation that we also want to prepare ourselves to welcome Jesus at Christmas. Let us carefully prepare the house of the heart, so that it may be orderly and hospitable.”
As we reflect on these words of Our Holy Father, and as we begin our Advent Season, we are pleased to sponsor an Advent Parish Mission presented by Dr. Allen Hunt. He is a well-known author and former radio host who converted to the Catholic faith in 2008. Dr. Hunt is also a dynamic speaker and conference leader who focuses on enhancing the spiritual life of those who wish to grow in their knowledge and understanding of the Christian life.
A Parish Mission can be viewed as an opportunity for spiritual reflection and conversion. It also can provide an opportunity to change hearts and transform lives as we renew and strengthen our relationship with Our Lord.
At this special time, we are urged to remain watchful and vigilant as we wait in joyful anticipation for the coming of the Lord. This Christmas we are invited to give the Lord the gift of a pure heart by being spiritually prepared for His coming. During the Mission, Dr. Hunt will speak about more fully understanding and appreciating the Eucharist and the joy we experience as we prepare for the coming of the Christ Child. He will also focus on the hope-filled meaning of Advent.
There will be time for prayer and reflection. The message of Dr. Hunt 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 on Monday, December 9th, and Tuesday, December 10th, with morning or afternoon sessions for your convenience. There will be a light reception on Monday in Corbett Hall after the Holy Day Mass at 5:00 PM.
We invite you to participate in the Parish Mission and avail yourself of this special time of grace.