Today, on the Third Sunday of Advent, also known as Gaudete Sunday, we are reminded to rejoice as we draw nearer to the celebration of Christ’s birth. The rose-colored candle we light on the Advent wreath symbolizes joy and a spirit of anticipation as we prepare our hearts to welcome the Savior.

In the first reading from Isaiah 61:1-2a, 10-11, the prophet declares a message of hope, proclaiming the Lord’s mission to bring glad tidings to the poor and heal the brokenhearted. This prophecy reminds us that Christ’s coming fulfills God’s promise to restore and renew His people.

The responsorial psalm, Luke 1:46-48, 49-50, 53-54, offers Mary’s Magnificat, a beautiful hymn of praise. She exclaims, "My soul rejoices in my God," expressing the joy and gratitude we, too, are called to embrace during this season.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Paul urges us to "Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks." This encouragement invites us to maintain a spirit of joy and thanksgiving, trusting in God’s faithfulness to sanctify and guide us.

Finally, the Gospel from John 1:6-8, 19-28 introduces John the Baptist as the voice crying out in the wilderness, preparing the way for the Lord. His humility and mission inspire us to be witnesses of Christ’s light in the world.

A Special Thanks and an Invitation to Christmas Celebrations

As we approach Christmas, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all who have participated in our Advent journey. Your prayers, presence, and acts of kindness have brought joy and inspiration to our parish family.

As we prepare to celebrate the birth of our Savior, I warmly invite you to gather with us at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church for our Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Masses. This is a wonderful opportunity to come together with your family and friends to experience the beauty of Christ’s presence among us.

I encourage you to extend this invitation to a neighbor or friend who may be seeking a place to worship this Christmas. Let us share the joy of Christ’s birth with all those around us, making this holy season a time of unity and love.

As we light the rose candle this Sunday, may we rejoice in the hope and promise of Christ’s coming. Let us prepare our hearts and lives to welcome Him, just as Mary and John the Baptist did, with humility, faith, and joy.

In Christ's love,
Fr. Matt