Sunday, December 20, 2020037From the first Sunday in Advent, we have heard the warning over and over again to prepare the Way of the Lord. In the Gospel reading of that day, we were told to awaken from our slumber and to prepare the way for our Creator to come to save us and all the Earth.
Saturday, December 19, 20200164One of the things I love about Advent is the daily reading from the Book of the Prophet Isaiah. These are readings of God’s promise, they cast a vision of peace and beauty, and they give us what we need most right now…HOPE.
Wednesday, December 16, 20200128In Advent we meditate on the coming of Christ. Traditionally, we contemplate not only his coming at Christmas, but also his second coming at the end of time – his coming “in glory to judge the living and the dead” (as we say in the Nicene Creed).
Sunday, November 29, 2020026Concelebrating Mass with newly created cardinals, Pope Francis said Advent is a time to be vigilant, hopeful and helpful. People of faith who believe in the heaven that awaits them should not be caught up with earthly concerns, he said during a Mass in St. Peter's Basilica Nov. 29, the first Sunday of Advent, which marks the start of a...
Saturday, November 28, 20200400Christians look to the light of Christ, the true light that knows no darkness or extinguishing (see John 1:4-5), to irradiate the gloom of their own suffering. Our efforts to purify the weak and fluttering flame of our heart from the ravenous cravings of selfishness, lust, and greed dim the light we radiate to others, and can bring us to...
Sunday, November 27, 2016037Advent is a season of expectation. The prayers and readings of the liturgy teach us to look forward to the coming of Christ, the bringer of every blessing. This involves conversion, or an effort to unite our affections into an undivided love for “God-with-us” (Emmanuel), Jesus of Nazareth, who brings with himself wisdom, justice and...
Wednesday, December 17, 2014099It is Advent season, and we have been warned to stay awake and to keep our eyes alert for a special coming of someone who will show us the path that leads to eternal life.
Monday, December 8, 2014042In the heart of Rome's high-end shopping district, sparkling with Christmas lights and shiny baubles in the windows of famous designers, Pope Francis prayed that people would spend time in silence and in service as they prepare to celebrate Jesus' birth. Celebrating the feast of the Immaculate Conception Dec. 8, Pope Francis prayed for...
Thursday, December 4, 2014038As Advent got underway, Pope Francis included in his morning Mass homilies specific graces Catholics should pray for as they prepare for Christmas.
