From Fr. Tom

Welcome to the Third Sunday of Advent.
Today is called “Gaudete” Sunday because today’s Mass begins with the Entrance Antiphon, “Gaudete in Domino semper” (“Rejoice in the Lord always”). Today we light the rose candle of the Advent wreath, and the priest may wear rose vestments to express our communal joy in the coming of Jesus as our Savior. The theme of the third Sunday of Advent is rejoicing in hope. Advent is a time for joy, not only because we are anticipating the anniversary of the birth of Jesus, but also because God is already in our midst. Christian joy does not come from the absence of sorrow, pain, or trouble but from an awareness of the presence of Christ within our souls through it all.
What should we do in preparation for Christmas? This is the same question the Jews asked John. His answer to them, and to us, is: “Repent and reform your lives,” and prayerfully wait for the Messiah. Our Blessed Mother, in her many apparitions, urgently calls us to more fervent prayer, particularly to her Rosary, with fasting, and penitential sacrifices. Let us remember that the Mass is the most powerful of prayers. We must Eucharistic people, living and experiencing the presence of Jesus in our hearts and adoring Him in His Tabernacle. Let us remember that conversion is an ongoing process affected by our daily cooperation with Jesus, whom we encounter in the Sacraments. Regular monthly Confession makes us strong and enables us to receive more grace in the Eucharist. Let us read the Bible and pray the Rosary daily. We might also fast once a week all year round, rather than just in Advent and Lent; after all, we sin all year round! Let us have the courage of our Christian convictions to turn off TV programs that show explicit sexual behavior, violence, and the use of foul language. Let us spend some time every week in adoration of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. Let us forgive those who offend us and pray for them. Finally, let us share our love with others with selfless and humble service. “Do small things but with great love”.
P.S. In the last bulletin, Deacon Lawrence wrote a beautiful article, which was a simple reminder, how the holy Communion is supposed to be ministered by the extraordinary Eucharistic Minister outside of Mass.
Next weekend, on the IV Sunday of Advent, after each Mass, Deacon Lawrence will provide a training session for those who are already eucharistic ministers and those administering Holy Communion outside of Mass.
As a shepherd of this parish community, I’d like to express my gratitude to all of you who have been helping us with the distribution of the Holy Communion in and outside of the church. You have been playing such an important role in helping us shepherd and feed God’s people. It’s necessary to do that with faith, with love and respect, and of course in the way that the church is calling us to do. I am certain that this session given by Deacon Lawrence will help you be more aware, devoted, and dedicated to your ministry.
For those of you who want to be a Eucharistic Minister, please contact myself or Deacon Lawrence, and we will help you to become a part of that ministry.
For those of you who are NOT Eucharistic Minister, please do not take Holy Communion to those who are sick without previous training and blessing. Please inform the parish office that your family member, friend or member needs to receive Jesus in His sacramental presence and we will help you.
May the third week of Advent be for you blessed and holy.
Fr. Tom