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 desires to see the light of Christ shine through the darkness of our world. As reported in a major Catholic publication, Our Holy Father Pope Francis focused on the importance of hope during Advent. He stated, “I invite everyone to renewed Hope, for hope speaks to us of something deeply rooted in every human heart, independently of our circumstances and historical conditioning. Hope speaks to us as a thirst, an aspiration, a longing for a life of fulfillment.” He called on us to “live in hope” during Advent.
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 Fr. Martin Connor, an experienced mission leader and spiritual director with the Legionairies of Christ. 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, Fr. Martin will speak about more fully understanding and appreciating the Mass, and the joy we experience as we wait 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 Father Martin 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 Tuesday, November 29th, and Wednesday, November 30th. 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.
We invite you to participate in the Parish Mission and avail yourself of this special time of grace