Fourth Sunday in Advent

Dear Parishioner,

Christmas evokes many feelings from people. One common desire is to reconcile with God. It is so good on Christmas morning to feel like we are in the “state of grace.” Think of the last time you were in an argument with another person. Wasn’t it wonderful if there was an apology and a new beginning? We feel better about ourselves when we believe we are in a right relationship with God.

For that reason, the Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered several special times during the Advent Season. Next week we will have our Advent Reconciliation service on Monday night at 7:00 p.m. and we will offer extra confessions from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday evening and 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday evening (the 22nd).

The Monday night service is a wonderful way of celebrating Reconciliation because confessions are heard in the context of a prayer service. Scripture, music and a homily are shared. There are six priests present so you can select who you want to confess to. If you have not celebrated this sacrament in a long while now is the time. If you have a friend or family member who wants to return to the faith this is the time to invite them to return to the practice of their faith.

Please note that because of the different services during this week before Christmas and the chaos that is Christmas Eve we will not offer Reconciliation at the regular time next Saturday. The priests need to get ready for the three Masses on the evening of the 24th.

Blessings

Fr. Mark