Third Sunday of Advent
12-17-2023Pastor's CornerVery Rev. Robert J. Deehan, VFThis weekend, we celebrate the Third Sunday of Advent traditionally known as Gaudete (Latin for “rejoice”) Sunday. It is so named because “Rejoice” is the first word in the entrance antiphon for today's Mass taken from Philippians 4:4,5: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice! The Lord is near.”
As we get closer to the celebration of the coming of the Messiah, Jesus, at Christmas, the Church highlights the joy and anticipation of this time by lighting a rose colored candle on our Advent wreath, and the priest wears rose colored vestments. Still, some might not be ready to celebrate in joyful anticipation because in they’re in panic mode right now since there's still a lot of shopping and other preparations to take care of before Christmas. Nevertheless, hopefully, you've built in time to make some spiritual preparations for Christmas. A special opportunity to get ready spiritually and "prepare the way of the Lord" is the Sacrament of Reconciliation - Confession. Have you been to Confession recently? We'll have some extra opportunities for you to go to Confession before Christmas. One is this Tuesday, Dec. 19 from 6:30 - 8:00 pm and the other is on Saturday, Dec. 23 from 3:30 – 4:45 pm in the Reconciliation Room, which will be the final opportunity to receive this sacrament before Christmas. Free sacramental grace of forgiveness, healing, renewal and peace... a bargain! It's the best deal you'll find this season!!
A Prayer for Our Advent Journey with Christ by Pope Francis
Jesus, in you I am never alone, even at difficult moments, even when my life's journey comes up against problems and obstacles that seem insurmountable. I accompany you, I follow you, but above all I know that you accompany me and carry me on your shoulders. This is my joy, this is my hope that I must bring to this world. Teach me to see with your eyes, to live life as you lived, to understand life as you understood it. Help me be ready for an encounter with you, which means being able to see the signs of your presence, keeping my faith alive with prayer and the sacraments, and taking care not to forget about God.
God bless you!
Fr. Bob
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