November 26-27

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

     Already we are bombarded with urgent reminders to get ready for Christmas.  But as we begin the holy season of Advent we do so with a very different perspective.  Over the next four weeks (and it’s a full four weeks this Advent), we recall how The Son of God came and still comes to us.  Our Lord Jesus Christ first came to us as an infant lying in a food trough for animals.  On a future day He will come “like a thief in the night”, as our judge at the end of time.  But today and every day He comes to us as Emmanuel, “God with us”, in the Sacramental life of His Mystical Body, the Church.

The Sacraments, through Word and Action, put us in the very Presence of God Who in turn becomes present in us.  Most especially in the Holy Eucharist do we recognize His Real Presence in our midst.  Whenever we sing the beautiful hymn, “O Come, O Come Emmanuel “we become very much aware of His Presence in our midst.  How then should we in turn welcome the Lord?  Certainly, with the greatest reverence and adoration but also with a clean heart and conscience we say Come Lord Jesus.  Ever merciful, beyond our comprehension, He provides the very means for us to be cleansed before entering into His Presence, namely the Sacrament of Reconciliation/Confession.

We fret so much about providing the “perfect” gift for those who are dear to us.  What about the perfect gift for Him whose birthday we are celebrating?  Since Advent reminds us to be in a state of preparation, for we know not the hour or the day, let us resolve at the very beginning of this holy season to make the best preparation, a good and thorough Confession.

With Blessings for a Fruitful Advent,

Father Langan