december 5, 2021
One of the important figures of the Advent season is John the Baptist. We him proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sin in the gospel reading on the second Sunday of Advent.
There are many things that we do during the season of Advent to get ready for Christmas. We might even be fully aware that Advent also speaks about the first Coming of Christ in Bethlehem as a new born child and the Second Coming of Christ in Glory at the end of time.
But do we consider that Advent does in a real way call us all to turn from sin and turn closer to God. While Advent is not a penitential season with the intensity of Lent, it does have something of a feel for repentance.
Consider these days before Christmas. Consider all the preparations that most of us do – buying gifts, sending cards, cooking, baking, cleaning, decorating and going to family gatherings. May we also stop to take the time to ask God for forgiveness. Take time to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
With that in mind take time to pray in quiet and silence. Yes, we have adoration every Monday and on first Friday. Come when you can. Join us also for the quiet time of Taizé prayer on Friday’s on zoom or an in person Evening of Reflection on December 14at 7 p.m.
Quiet time and reconciliation. Part of our preparation for the Coming of Christ in the fullness of time and at Christmas.
