Dear friends in Christ

Joy and hope are the characteristics of the Advent season, and this is expressed in the opening words of the Mass from the Introit: Gaudete—Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice…the Lord is at hand! This is also the joy of every day, knowing that Jesus is very near to us. Our Lord brings joy and not affliction; peace not discord. It is the certainty that God is our Father and wants the best for us. In those inevitable moments of life, when our soul may be filled with sadness or doubts, we remind ourselves that The Lord is very close to us. Gloominess is at the mercy of the Evil One, who wants us to feel discouraged and lead us into sin. That is why the Church exhorts us at this midway point of Advent, to have joy and trust; optimism and hope. Advent is given to us so that we can prepare for Christmas, but even more importantly to prepare for the moment when our life will end and we are taken into eternal life. This should put in perspective all of the worldly preparations we make at this time of the year. God is calling to us, he is coming to us, let us be ready. We prepare for Christmas with our Lady, who knew so many contradictions and tiredness as she prepared for the birth of her Son.

God bless you!

Msgr Kevin Hale