Today is the Third Sunday of Advent. It is often called Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete basically means ‘be happy’ or ‘rejoice’. On the surface, we are rejoicing because Christmas is almost here.
On a deeper level, we are rejoicing because Jesus, Who came as our Savior long ago, is coming again to bring us to the fullness of His Kingdom. In spite of all the troubles in our world, we wait in joyful hope for the coming of Christ and His Eternal Kingdom of Peace and Justice.
The brightly colored rose candle we light today, like the rose-colored vestments the priest wears today, are a reflection of this joy. They are also a reminder that, as we wait for Christ and the joy of His Kingdom, we should bring joy to others by our works of charity and compassion. I want to thank all who did so by bringing gifts for the Giving Tree!
Last Sunday afternoon I had the pleasure of joining the Columbiettes at their Christmas party. After having no such celebrations last year, it was so good to be with these faith filled women who do so much for our parish and community. I look forward, over the next week, to being with some of our other organizations at their Christmas parties, as much as my schedule allows. I always enjoy being with you, especially at this time of year.
After the Columbiettes, I watched the 5th and 6th grade boys’ basketball game at the school. Once again, it was nice to be at something we could not have last year!
Remember that there will be a Penance Service this Mon, Dec 13 at 7:00pm in our Church. About 10 priests will be there to hear Confessions, so you shouldn’t have to wait too long. The priests will hear Confessions as long as necessary that evening.
Each of us should make a good Confession this Advent. It is the best way to ‘clean up’ our soul and so prepare ourself to celebrate Jesus’ birth with a soul free from sin and filled with God’s grace!
With Advent moving along so quickly, this would be a good time to start thinking about what Mass you will attend for Christmas. Please remember that the 4:00pm on Christmas Eve is generally very crowded. If you need a good parking spot, or a little more space in Church it might be wise to go to Mass on Christmas morning, when there is generally a lighter crowd (especially at the 7:00am and 9:00am). Of course, the main Mass of Christmas is the Solemn Mass at Midnight. I love to celebrate this joyful and beautiful Mass. It is the very heart of my Christmas celebration, and Ihopemanyofyouwilljoinmeatit. Ifyoucangoto Midnight Mass, please do. There is something very
moving about celebrating our Savior’s birth at Midnight on Christmas Eve!
Have a great week, and pray a Hail Mary for me!
Fr. John