"Let not your heart be disturbed"
On December 12, 1531, Our Lady of Guadalupe spoke to Juan Diego with a message of peace. She said, "Do not fear that sickness, nor any other sickness or anguish. Am I not here, who is your Mother?"
We reflect this Advent season of the peace that comes from Christ. Throughout history, numerous moments of grace have pointed us toward the peace given by God - a peace that means justice has been achieved for all people. We seek that peace today, knowing Christ brought it into being and that there is still so much more to do. We continue to search for an authentic, all-encompassing peace for all people.
Thus, the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe is an extreme example of the mercy that flows when we are awake to moments of grace. St. Juan Diego was awake and open to experiencing the apparition of Mary as Our Lady of Guadalupe. Mary appeared to a humble, indigenous farmer rather than to the bishop himself, or someone else who was more powerful. This action is a sign that God is with all people, even those who might not be considered worthy of finding peace. Peace is for all.
Reflect and discuss as a Church of the Home:
What kind of peace do you long for? Why does peace feel unachievable?
When did you experience an authentic peace in 2023? Where does anger live in your body? How can you release the anger? When did you last lose your cool?
How might you begin to seek peace within yourself? With another person? For the world?
In Ephesians 4, St. Paul gives us practical instructions for peacemaking: be humble; be gentle; be patient; bear with one another in love; live a life worthy of your calling. Which are hardest for you? What can you do to begin practicing them regularly?
How can you share the gift of an authentic peace in 2024?
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
The words of the prophet Isaiah still ring true, even though they were proclaimed 700 before the birth of Christ. In a world full of pain, suffering, and separation, God's speaks through Isaiah to give a message of hope. The message: comfort. Join Fr. Tim as he reflects on the Second Sunday of Advent.
Families
This Weekend's Bulletin
(click to read)
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.
Revealed Podcast
Rick Brunner of Rick's Toybox visits Katie and Tony to discuss how he sees the sacred in his organization's mission to put smiles on as many little faces as they can, one toy at a time.
Announcements
Ruby and Res
Whoa! Ruby is surprised by how many tags are still on the Tree of Giving.
