New Beginnings!

This morning at the Mass for our Catholic School students I asked them what the word "Advent" means. I received several answers but the one that I used was "preparing for the coming of the Lord." Of course, Advent or "Adventus" means "Coming." We are preparing ourselves for the coming of the Lord, not only at Christmas, but ultimately at the end of time. Advent is our new year, the beginning of the new liturgical year, but it is also a new beginning for us. Even though Advent is a joyful time it is still a penitential time, a time to look at our relationship with God and with others. During this holy season, we put an emphasis on the Sacrament of Reconciliation and invite people to truly prepare themselves for the coming of the Lord. In the Sacrament of Reconciliation, we encounter the love, mercy, healing, and forgiveness of God. It is a time to turn away from sin, turn back to God, and believe in the Good News. A new beginning, that is the joy of this Season of Advent. Let us make the most of this time that God has given to us and do what we can to live holy, faithful, prayerful, and dedicated lives. Have a blessed day!!!