Merry Christmas!

Christians around the world continue to celebrate the great mystery of Christmas: the Incarnation, God becoming flesh and dwelling among us. This mystery was unfathomable to the people of Jesus' time, and in many ways, it should still leave us in awe today. It reveals the astonishing, generous, and tender love God has for His people. God did not choose exaltation or privilege, but humility. He entered our world vulnerably, revealing that our journey of faith is one of humility, tenderness, and loving care for one another.

Dear Parishioners,

As we enter the fourth Sunday of Advent, the final purple candle joins the others in shining brightly on our Advent wreath. Together they remind us that the Light of Christ is drawing near, just four short days away. These final days before Christmas are often filled with activity and last-minute preparations. But as important as the tree, the decorations, and the gifts may be, even more important is a heart that is ready; ready to receive the peace and love of our God and the incomparable gift of His Son.

Dear Parishioners,

Ten days remain in this holy season of Advent as we move steadily toward the radiant celebration of Christmas. These final days invite us to wait with renewed longing, with expectant and joyful hearts, allowing God to deepen within us the wonder of His love. Our Advent theme, "Be Still," continues to guide us.

Dear Parishioners,

What a blessing it is to be in this holy season of Advent with our parish prayer challenge to BE STILL. Earlier today, as I sat quietly in our darkened church, I was reminded that Ad- vent means "He is coming." We remember His coming in three ways: He comes in history - Jesus entered our world, became man, and dwelt among us. He taught, healed, forgave, and invited us to know the Father. He came so that we might be his friends. What amazing love was revealed in His coming! He comes in mystery - He is present now whenever we recognize Him in the world: in the Sacraments, in the Scriptures, in acts of kindness and charity, and in the daily moments of grace. He is with us today. He will come in majesty - one day He will return to reconcile all things to Himself. His promise is one of hope, heal- ing, and restoration for our wounded world.