As we gather on this Fourth Sunday of Advent, our anticipation for the celebration of Christ's birth intensifies. The Scriptures today guide us to reflect on the fulfillment of God's promises and the profound mystery of the Incarnation.

In the first reading from “Micah”, the prophet foretells the emergence of a ruler from Bethlehem, whose origins are from ancient times. This prophecy points directly to Jesus, the long-awaited Messiah, who comes to shepherd His people with the strength of the Lord.

“Psalm 80” serves as our responsorial psalm, with the refrain: "Lord, make us turn to you; let us see your face and we shall be saved." This plea captures the deep yearning of humanity for divine intervention and the restoration that only God can provide.

In the second reading from “Hebrews”, we are reminded of Christ's obedience to the Father's will, emphasizing that His coming into the world was to do God's will, establishing a new covenant through His self-sacrifice.

The Gospel from “Luke” recounts the visitation of Mary to her cousin Elizabeth. Upon hearing Mary's greeting, Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, exclaims, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb." This encounter highlights the joy and recognition of God's work unfolding through Mary, who believed in fulfilling the Lord's word.

Christmas Mass Schedule

As we prepare to celebrate the Nativity of our Lord, I warmly invite you to join us for the Christmas liturgies at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish. Here is the schedule of Masses:

Christmas Eve – Tuesday, December 24: 4:00 PM, 7:00 PM, 10:00 PM (Broadcast)

Christmas Day – Wednesday, December 25: 8:00 AM, 10:30 AM (Broadcast), 12:00 PM

Daily Masses within the Octave of Christmas and before the New Year– December 26-31: 9:00 AM

Holy Family: Sunday Vigil – Saturday, December 28: 5:00 PM, Sunday Mass – December 29: 8:00 AM, 10:30 AM (Broadcast), 12:00 PM

Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God – Wednesday, January 1: 10:30 AM

Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord: Saturday Vigil, January 4: 5:00 PM, Sunday, January 5: 8:00 AM, 10:30 AM (Broadcast), 12:00 PM

I encourage you to bring family, friends, and neighbors to join us for these celebrations, where we can share the joy and peace that the birth of Christ brings to the world.

A Christmas Blessing

As we light the final candle on our Advent wreath, symbolizing love, let us open our hearts to the immense love God has shown us through the gift of His Son. May this Christmas season fill you with hope, joy, and the peace that surpasses all understanding.

Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed

and Merry Christmas!

In Christ's love,