On this “Second Sunday of Advent”, our readings call us to prepare our hearts for the coming of the Lord, emphasizing themes of repentance, renewal, and joyful anticipation.

In the first reading from “Baruch 5:1-9”, the prophet encourages Jerusalem to shed its garments of sorrow and to embrace the splendor of God's glory. This passage invites us to leave behind our past transgressions and to look forward with hope to the salvation that God promises.

“Psalm 126" serves as our responsorial psalm, expressing the joy of those restored by the Lord: "The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy." It reminds us of God's faithfulness and the joy that comes from His saving acts.

In the second reading from “Philippians 1:4-6, 8-11”, Paul expresses gratitude and confidence that God, who began a good work in us, will bring it to completion. He prays that our love may overflow more and more, leading us to live pure and blameless lives in preparation for Christ's return.

The Gospel from “Luke 3:1-6” introduces John the Baptist, who calls for repentance and proclaims the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy: "Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths." John's message urges us to examine our lives, to repent, and to make room for the Lord's coming.

Special Thanks for Christmas Decorations

This Advent, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated Christmas trees to decorate our church. Your kindness and thoughtfulness have helped create a space of beauty and warmth, enhancing our worship environment as we prepare to celebrate Christ’s birth. Thank you for your fast response and sharing your gifts with our parish family.

Advent and Christmas Parish Events

As we journey through Advent, I warmly invite you to participate in the following parish events designed to enrich your spiritual preparation:

-Annual Christmas Concert: Today, Sunday, December 8, at 3:00 PM. Join us for an afternoon of beautiful music celebrating the joy of the season.

-Advent Solace Music Meditation: Wednesday, December 11, at 7:00 PM. Experience a peaceful evening of music and meditation, providing a moment of calm amidst the busyness of the season.

-Advent Carol- Musical Drama: Saturday, December 14, at 7:00 PM. Come together for a festive evening of  reflection on the Mary and Joseph Journey of Faith.

Additionally, for those interested in deepening their faith through pilgrimage:

Pilgrimage to Spain and Portugal Information Meeting: Tuesday, December 10, at 6:45 PM in the lower meeting room. Learn about our planned pilgrimage in May 2025, which will include visits to sacred sites such as Fatima and Santiago de Compostela.

As we heed John the Baptist's call to prepare the way of the Lord, let us embrace this Advent season as a time for personal renewal and joyful anticipation. May our participation in these parish events help us to open our hearts more fully to Christ's coming.

In Christ's love,

Fr. Matt