We spring into a new Advent once again; that four-week period of prayer and preparation preceding the remembrance of the coming of our longed-for Messiah, Jesus Christ. Our liturgical celebrations during Advent make present once again in word, sign and sacrament the events of salvation history that lead up to the birth of the Savior.
These events are dramatic and solemn, yet full of expectant hope as we see the dawn of our salvation on the horizon. The sacred liturgies not only recall these events but actually bring them to us once again in grace and in mercy, so that we may be immersed in the joy and hope that they promise.
God is the source of all hope! In the Incarnation of his Son, all can be made new through his heavenly power. All can be made new in our souls, in our marriages, in our families, in our nation, in our Church, in our world. In Jesus Christ lies the hope of the world.
Beseech the Prince of Peace to make all things new this Christmas!
Have a blessed Advent!
Fr. Tim Byerley
Pastor