Advent Begins
Advent is a special time for Churches of the Home to prepare their hearts and homes for the coming of Christ. The theme “Preparing Room in the Inn: An Advent Journey of Prayer” invites everyone to reflect on the story of Mary and Elizabeth opening themselves to prepare for the coming of Jesus and John, as well as Mary and Joseph seeking shelter in Bethlehem. Just as there was no room for them in the inn, we are called to make room in our busy lives for Jesus. This can be done through daily prayer, reading Scripture, and participating in Advent traditions such as lighting the Advent wreath and setting up a Nativity scene. These practices help us to focus on the true meaning of Christmas and to welcome Christ into our hearts.
During Advent, Churches of the Home can create a prayerful atmosphere in their homes by setting aside a special place for prayer and reflection. This could be a small table with an Advent wreath, a Bible, and other religious items. Each day, families can gather together to light a candle on the wreath, read a passage from the Bible, and pray together. This time of prayer can be a moment of peace and connection, helping family members to grow closer to God and to each other. It is also an opportunity to teach children about the importance of prayer and to model a life of faith.
The journey of Advent is not just about preparing for Christmas Day but about preparing our hearts to receive Jesus every day. By making room for prayer and reflection, we open ourselves to the presence of Christ in our lives. This Advent, let us strive to be like the innkeeper who, despite the crowded inn, found a place for Mary and Joseph. Let us clear away the distractions and busyness of our lives and make room for Christ with open hearts and minds. Through this journey of prayer, we can experience the true joy and peace of Christmas.
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
Our idealistic expectations don't always align with the practical challenges of living out Christian values, especially during the Advent season. We are to embrace the complexities of faith and love, moving towards the ideals of the gospel even when perfection seems unattainable. Join Steve as he reflects on the readings from the First Sunday of Advent.
AUDITIO DIVINA
Katie and Tony pray and reflect with the song "Keep Your Head Up" by Andy Grammer using the Auditio Divina process for the First Sunday of Advent.
Lyrics:
I've been waiting on a sunset, bills on my mindset
I can't deny they're getting high
Higher than my income, income's bread crumbs
I've been trying to survive
The glow that the sun gets right around sunset
Helps me to realize
This is just a journey, drop your worries
You are gonna turn out fine
Oh, you turn out fine
Fine, oh, you turn out fine
But you gotta keep your head up,
And you can let your hair down,
You gotta keep your head up,
And you can let your hair down,
I know it's hard, know it's hard
To remember sometimes
But you gotta keep your head up,
And you can let your hair down.
FAMILIES
WEEKLY 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.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Ruby and Res
Cold days are bearable with warm hugs.
Thank you for all you do…
HARD to keep track of all activities..thanks for the post card