Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God.
Philippians 4:6
Third Sunday of Advent. St. Paul reminds us that God is an abundant God – He is the ultimate giver of gifts. He promises to give us all that we need. Remember, that we are created in God’s image and likeness. We, too, are made to be generous with all of our gifts as well. Placing our trust in God frees us from being a slave to possessions. It allows us to gratefully and generously share ourselves and our goods with others.
The theme this week is all about joy! The first week of Advent we focused on hope, last week on love, and this week we look for ways to grow in joy, sharing our faith, sharing our gifts. There are many reasons for us to be joyful – for example, Christmas parties have begun. Last week I enjoyed gathering for Mass with St. Finnan’s CWL Council, and this week with St. James’ CWL Council. It’s great to see everyone, and make new connections.
Another way to grow in joy is to celebrate the Sacrament of Joy, the Sacrament of Reconciliation that heals our wounds, and awakens us and reminds us of God’s personal love for each and everyone of us. Our parishes this year for Christmas offers you the gift of Formed.org, resources for Sacramental Preparation, and other content for all parishioners. Please stay tuned for more information in the coming weeks. I invite you to sign up for free, and I look forward to your comments, and suggestions.
One program offered on Formed.org is Forgiven – not the Clint Eastwood movie, that’s Unforgiven (1992), but rather Forgiven is a three-part series on what the Sacrament is all about, and how-to experience God’s love, and know His joy. There are also resources for parents on how-to prepare their children for Confession, as well as other resources for our parish leaders in how-to promote Confession in our parishes. Please consider watching the series during Advent.
Confessions continue to be available before our daily Mass. Also, during this busy season, i’ve added extra hours on Saturdays for Confession times.
- Saturday, December 11, 3pm – to 4:50pm (Fr. Blake)
- Saturday, December 18, 4pm to 6pm (Fr. Blake and Fr. Marcil)
- at St. Finnan’s Basilica
- or by appointment, please call the parish office, or sign up: https://calendly.com/jsblake
Let’s pray for one another. Have a great week. Peace.
