Check-out the free resources below our pastor’s message!
Dear Friends,
As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, I find myself contemplating and reflecting more on what is most important in life. My meditations have taken on a new meaning given the current pandemic we’re in. I appreciate more fully the people in my life, including friends, parishioners, and family, and realize how easy it is to take for granted the many blessings I receive each day.
Now that Advent is soon to be upon us, my prayer has a sharper focus. I hear the cry of John the Baptist speak to us “Prepare ye the way of the Lord!” and sense in the depths of my heart that God “is about to do a new thing.” (Is. 43:19) Despite the anxiety and suffering around us, there is hope: God is present among us and God’s grace abounds. Although we may not easily see God’s grace and presence, Jesus assures us that he is with us always. (Mt. 28:20)
Advent, the Church’s calendar period leading up to the great feast of Christmas, is a perfect time of the year for us to pause and listen to the whisper of God. I know too well, as I’m sure you do too, how easy it is to let day-to-day life consume our attention and prohibit us from hearing God’s voice. We need to pause and to listen, not simply for our physical and emotional wellbeing, but also for our spiritual health. God yearns and desires to be with us if only we would open our hearts to him. God wants to sustain us and breath life into our mortal bodies. Will you take the time to listen this Advent season?
To help you with your reflection, I share with you a number of resources to support your Advent Pilgrimage to Christmas. Included below are a number of our resources for folks of all ages, including those with children. We hope you will welcome this gift from the parish and pray you will incorporate some of these practices into your daily prayer life.
My friends, although the pandemic may not allow us to be fully together during this time, I want you to know we are here for you. Whether you need someone listen to your joys or struggles, someone to pray with you, or someone to simply talk with, know we are here for you. Be assured of my prayers for you and know too that I am here for you as well.
May the good Lord bless and keep you. May God let his face shine upon you. And may his peace fill your hearts with joy this Advent season.
Yours in Christ,
Rev. Don Beyers
Advent Resources
How to Make an Advent Wreath for Home
Ideas for Families for Praying and Celebrating Advent
Advent Daily Bible Reading Schedule
Advent Bible Study and Reflections
Advent Devotional