Third Sunday of Advent

Dear Parishioners,

Well here we are the Third Sunday of Advent, or commonly known as Gaudete Sunday.

The word “gaudete” comes from the imperative form of the Latin verb “gaudeo,” which means to rejoice or take delight in. In Latin, the imperative form of a verb is a direct command. The pink candle on the Advent wreath, signifying joy and the command to “rejoice,” reminds us that in spite of the trials we face, God’s plan for salvation will triumph.

As we look at the state of our world, it’s easy to become discouraged. The false gods of money, power and self are elevated, at the expense of piety, virtue and sacrifice. Those who work hard to bring about a peaceful and just society seem to toil in vain. Corruption has found root in families, governments, business and at times, even within the church.

Yet, God still calls, or rather commands, us to rejoice not because all is well now, but because the end of the story has already been determined. God’s renewing power through the birth, life and death of Jesus has already triumphed over the darkness of sin. Catholics are especially blessed because we are invited to experience this transforming power through the Eucharist. For us, the king of Israel is literally in our midst.

God’s renewal goes even deeper than changing our hearts. Our God does not merely accept our repentance by allowing us to join him in heaven. He rejoices over us, singing as one does at concerts. How does one sing at concerts? With gusto and abandonment to the joy of the celebration!

In preparation for that joyous celebration of Christmas the church is being slowly decorated. As we are getting our parish church ready joyfully for Christ’s birthday; are you preparing your heart to experience this great joy? There is still time to get a novena in, some quiet time talking to the Lord and of course going to confession. Let the joy of these remaining days begin to radiate in your hearts for

the coming of the newborn King!


God Love Ya!                                                                       
Fr. Reilly 


Third Sunday in Advent


This third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete (“Rejoice!”) Sunday, the special rose candle is lit. This is called the Shepherds’ candle. We take time at this halfway point in Advent to rejoice that Christ will soon be here. We also ponder the extraordinary joy that the shepherds must have felt when the angels announced to them the miraculous birth of the infant Messiah on that first Christmas Day.