FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT YEAR B

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Happy New Year in the life of the Church. Advent is the beginning of the spiritual preparation for the First Major Event of the Christian Calendar, Christmas itself, the birth of Christ the Saviour of the World. If ever the world needed Jesus and the values he teaches, it is now in this day and age!

Advent is a time of purple vestments at the celebration of our Masses up until Christmas. Why, because like Lent it is a time of fasting and abstinence, a time of spiritual preparation. If you have not yet taken a little booklet and advent calendar, there are some at the back of church to take and/or to take to someone you know who may appreciate a little gift to help with spiritual preparation for the coming season of Christmas Tide.

As part of our approaching time we celebrated our Winter Fayre. As usual it was a great success even though cold and fresh. Thank you to everyone who took part, helped prepare and man the stalls.

Please note that our Reconciliation Service takes place a little earlier this year, Thursday December 14th, at 7.15 p.m. There will be four priests available for confessions following a short introductory service. Let us all be in good heart, spirit and grace for the wonder of the Christ child. Also note that all the local parishes will be having their own services, just have a quick look on their parish websites.

As December begins, I note with some pleasure all the local efforts being made to light up the neighbourhood for the weeks up to the big day itself. So too we light up our hearts for the love of Jesus. As well as secular let us also remember our faith decorations, the crib, our Advent Wreath and all beautiful symbols attached.

Enjoy the season and prepare for that wonderful wish of peace and goodwill to all men and women!

All good wishes and God bless to you all!

Father Anton s.c.j.