Advent

Dear Parishioners,

           Sunday, November 28 is the First Sunday of Advent. This beautiful liturgical season helps to prepare us for the celebration of the birth of our Savior, our Salvation, Jesus Christ.
            I know we will be busy in the next few weeks with shopping, cleaning, baking, decorating, etc. These are all exciting preparations for Christmas, but I hope you don’t see them as the most important preparation.
            Advent reminds us that we must prepare ourselves inwardly for the celebration of our Savior’s birth. We must prepare our hearts, mind and souls for the coming of Christ at Christmas and ultimately for His coming at the end of time.
I would suggest that we all take time in the next few weeks to pray and reflect on what Jesus means to us, personally. I would also suggest that we receive the Sacrament of Penance and participate at Mass more often, and more attentively.
          Invite a family member, a friend or neighbor who has been away from Mass and the Sacraments to attend Mass with you during Advent and consider returning to the Sacraments and Mass for Christmas. This could be the beginning of a new and deeper relationship with Jesus, for those returning. What better gift can we offer to those we love and care for?
These personal spiritual preparations are really what will bring out the true meaning of Christmas for us. They will bring us closer to, and more like our Savior, Jesus Christ, who is the reason for the season.
 
God bless us all!
Fr. Citino