A new liturgical year begins with Advent, which is a time of waiting in joyful hope for the coming of Our Lord Jesus Christ in glory at the end of time (First Sunday). 

To orient us to this “Second Coming” we recall His links with the ministry of John the Baptist—heralding repentance and renewal (Second and Third Sundays). 

Finally, we recall Christ’s incarnation in the womb of the Virgin Mary (Fourth Sunday), the angels’ proclamation of His birth in Bethlehem to outcast Jewish shepherds (Christmas) and the star that guided the Gentile Magi to the Christ Child, filling them with joy (Epiphany).

Advent, then, marks not just our anticipation of Jesus’ final coming, but also our remembrance of His arrival in our world more than 2,000 years ago.

Of course, we also welcome Our Risen Lord every time we gather for Mass, as we receive His Body and Blood under the appearances of bread and wine.

This is why Sunday Mass is the high point of our week’s activity that should represent rich and joy-filled praise of God. A good resolution for this new liturgical year is to strive to make it a priority in our lives, for each individual and for our family.

The fruits of the Mass are deepened by adoration of the Eucharist so that we can seek and obtain for the Church the graces we need.  I especially commend, to those able to do so, to make visits to the Blessed Sacrament or take part in periods of adoration. As you know the Diocese has the St. Julien's Perpetual Adoration Chapel located behind St. Peter's Parish.

Let us pray then for vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life, so needed in our local church and that our youth will generously commit themselves to a good marriage in Christ or to the single state.

May our Advent preparation for Christmas include watchful prayer, a good personal confession and gestures of care for the poor and needy—all signs of renewal in spirit.

A blessed Advent to one and all!