SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT

My dear friends,

Our Advent journey continues as we enter the second week of preparations for the coming of Christ into our hearts this Christmas.  This past week many of the clergy of our diocese had the blessed opportunity to take part in a virtual Advent morning of recollection with Dr. Josephine Lombardi.  Dr. Lombardi provided us with rich insights and reflections, drawing us into a deeper relationship with Christ and our Blessed Mother.  This was time very well spent.
 
One question that Dr. Lombardi posed is that what we should ask ourselves is “What does it feel like to be in my presence?”  In other words, when people are with me, either at home, or work, school, when they see me at the grocery store, or here at St. Julia, how do they feel?  What are they thinking when they walk away?  Or, what are they thinking when I am speaking, praying that they are listening to me?  Dr. Lombardi said that they should sense our Lord.  They should sense the fruits of the Spirit.
 
Taking the candles on our Advent wreath, when people are in my presence, do they feel a sense of hope?  Do they leave with a sense of peace in their heart?  Joy?  Love?  This is yet another opportunity and challenge.  We know very well the challenges we are facing at this time – together – never alone.  Yet we have an awesome opportunity to radiate what it is that we believe, and to radiate the one who dwells within us.  That is our saviour, Jesus Christ.
 
Please know of my prayers for our continued health and safety, and may God bless each of you and those that you love.
 
Fr. Greg