Sometimes, two holy days fall on the same day. In order that each is celebrated fully, one is transferred to a new day. This year, the Immaculate Conception, normally celebrated on December 8th, will be celebrated on Monday, December 9th.
The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception is a significant feast during Advent. It honors the belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was conceived without original sin. This doctrine highlights Mary’s purity and her special role in God’s plan of salvation. During Advent, reflecting on the Immaculate Conception can inspire us to prepare a worthy place for Jesus in our lives. Just as God prepared Mary to be the mother of Christ, we are called to prepare ourselves to receive Christ through prayer and reflection.
As we continue “Preparing Room in the Inn: An Advent Journey of Prayer,” the Immaculate Conception reminds us of the importance of making space for God in our hearts. Free from sin, Mary was a perfect vessel for the incarnation of Christ. Similarly, we are invited to cleanse our hearts of sin and distractions, making room for Christ to dwell within us. Churches of the Home can use this time to engage in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, seek forgiveness, and renew their commitment to living a holy life. By doing so, we follow Mary’s example and create a spiritual inn where Christ can be welcomed.
By focusing on prayer, repentance, and acts of love, we make room for Jesus in our lives. This Advent, let us strive to emulate Mary’s openness to God’s will, ensuring that our hearts are ready to receive the greatest gift of all—Jesus Christ. Through this journey of prayer, we can experience the profound joy and peace that comes from welcoming Christ into our lives.
A Holy Day of Obligation is a special day in the Catholic Church when the faithful are encouraged to attend Mass and participate in the celebration of significant events in the life of Jesus, Mary, and the saints. These days are opportunities to deepen one’s faith and connect with the broader Catholic community. Rather than feeling obligated or guilty, Catholics can view these days as invitations to step away from the busyness of daily life and focus on spiritual growth. Attending Mass on a Holy Day of Obligation can be a joyful and enriching experience, offering a chance to reflect, pray, and celebrate the mysteries of faith with others.
Join us for Mass this weekend
in person at 4:00 PM on Saturday, 8:30 or 10:30 AM on Sunday, on www.gbres.org/live, our YouTube channel, and our Facebook page.
READINGS FOR THIS WEEKEND’S MASSES
VIRTUALLY SUNDAY REFLECTION
Be a "Hope Dealer" this Advent Season! Just like John the Baptist, who called for change and optimism even in the face of adversity, we too must spread hope in small and large ways in a world filled with darkness and oppression. How can we rise to the challenge of spreading hope in our communities? Join Bridget as she reflects upon the second week of Advent.
AUDITIO DIVINA
In this episode of Auditio Divina, hosts Katie and Tony explore the themes of hope and purpose through the Second Sunday of Advent scripture readings from Baruch and Luke, alongside the song 'One Day' by Matisyahu. They reflect on the importance of creating a world where children can play and the significance of discovering one's purpose in life. The conversation emphasizes the need for prayer and contemplation during the Advent season, encouraging listeners to let their chosen words or phrases guide their actions and reflections.
Lyrics:
Sometimes I lay under the moon
And thank God I'm breathin'
Then I pray, "Don't take me soon
'Cause I am here for a reason"
Sometimes in my tears I drown
But I never let it get me down
So when negativity surrounds
I know someday, it'll all turn around because
All my life, I've been waitin' for
I've been prayin' for, for the people to say
That we don't wanna fight no more
There'll be no more wars, and our children will play
One day (one day), one day (one day)
One day (oh-oh-oh)
One day (one day), one day (one day)
One day (oh-oh-oh)
FAMILIES
WEEKLY BULLETIN
(click to read)
RECENT LOSS IN OUR PARISH FAMILY
PARISH LYCEUM
The Parish Lyceum will feature a variety of topics, guidelines, and relevant information to nurture the PIESS of our lives – physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and social.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Ruby and Res
Ruby loves just watching Fr. Tom and Tony work!
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