It is hard to believe we are already in December and celebrating the Second Sunday of Advent. Today, Dec. 8 is the day we usually celebrate the Patroness of the USA with a Holy Day of Obligation, The Immaculate Conception. It will be celebrated on the 9th and it is not a Holy Day of Obligation. We have several Advent helps for you in the foyer including Advent Calendars, holy cards and booklets to help you pray daily during Advent as we prepare for the coming of Christ. Be sure to pick them up as you leave church.
Today one of the main characters of Advent makes his appearance, John the Baptist and what an appearance it is. John is “A voice of one crying out in the desert, Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his path.” “John wore clothing made from camel’s hair and a leather belt around his waist. His food was locust and wild honey.” His preaching of repentance brought people to him from all over the area. Many thought he was the Messiah. But John said referring to Jesus: “I am baptizing with you with water, for repentance, but the one who is coming after me is mightier than I. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”
Our first reading from the Prophet Isaiah gives a beautiful picture of how things will be in Jesus’ kingdom.
Our second reading opens up this great kingdom to all with these words: “Therefore, I will praise you among the Gentiles and sing praises to your name.” Come Lord Jesus! Maranatha!
Let us continue to pray for peace in the world. Let us also pray for vocations to the church. Let us pray for the sick of the parish. Let us pray that all will come to respect life. Let us pray for one another and for the canonization of Father Tolton. Let us also pray for those who are victims of sexual abuse and mass shootings.
A Venerable Father Tolton Prayer: Father in Heaven, the Venerable Father Tolton’s suffering service sheds light upon our sorrows; we see them through the prism of your Son’s passion and death. If it be your Will, O God, glorify your servant Father Tolton, by granting the favor I now request through his intercession (mention your request) so that all may know the goodness of this priest whose memory looms large in the Church he loved. Complete what you have begun in us that we might work for the fulfillment of your kingdom. Not to us the glory, but glory to you O God, through Jesus Christ, your Son and our Lord; Father, Son and Holy Spirit, you are our God, living and reigning forever and ever. Amen.