Dear Parishioners and Friends,
It seems that, for the past several years, Advent has begun under a strange set of circumstances. In 2020 we were still dealing with uncertainties of the pandemic with churches still under rather strict protocols for safe distancing, etc. Last year Advent began under the cloud of war in the Middle East. This year, we begin Advent with the country preparing for a new Presidential administration. Each of these circumstances have instilled a certain amount of uncertainty in all of us.
The Scriptural readings for this first Sunday of Advent offer a mix of dread and hope. In the Gospel from Luke we hear Jesus telling his disciples: “Nations will be in dismay, perplexed by the roaring of the sea…People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the world…Pray that you may have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent…” But in the reading from the prophet Jeremiah, we hear these words: “In those days Judah shall be safe and Jerusalem shall dwell secure.” Finally, St. Paul tells the Thessalonians: “…Conduct yourselves to please God — and as you are conducting yourselves — you do so even more.” In other words, even in the midst of turmoil, doubt, uncertainty and fear, we are called to continue living in trust and faith that God is with us and we are to support one another at all times.
That being said, I pray that your observance of Advent will be a time blessed with hope and renewed faith. I would also like to mention that the universal Church will shortly begin a Jubilee Year for 2025. Pope Francis announced the Jubilee with a “Bull of Indiction” titled “Spes non confundit” (“Hope does not disappoint”).
Taking a cue from the Holy Father’s message, we are planning a special prayer service, “Advent Hope for a Weary World” on Tuesday, December 17 at 7:00 PM in the church. I’d like to invite everyone to come together to pray for peace in our world and our nation, and to lift up to God all our hopes for the new year that lies ahead.
Blessings on your week ahead!
Fr. Tim Shreenan, O.F.M.
Pastor
