December 17-18

Dear Brothers and SIsters in Christ,

It always seems to me that Advent goes by too fast. There is not enough time to absorb the contemplative nature of the season and let sink in the wonders of expectation that accompany it. Now we hurry up to take care of last minute “necessities” that supposedly make the Season bright. The Bright that we prepare for and should always be preparing for is the Light of Christ. He dispels the darkness and dark corners in our lives that need exposure to the healing rays of Divine forgiveness.

In these final days of Advent we ask God to illumine us and remove the shadows of sin in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. When He radiates His grace upon us we cannot help but radiate that grace upon others. Have you ever had someone say to you: “Gee, you look different.” Perhaps they cannot put their finger on it but they do recognize something “different” about us. Perhaps, after a good Confession, you are radiating the beauty of an unencumbered soul! What a magnanimous gift from The Lord, and what a splendid gift you are giving to others.

On Monday evening your spiritual fathers will be hearing Confessions in St Mary Magdalen and bestowing God’s grace and forgiveness. Our Lord has this wonderful gift ready for you. Come and claim the gift that sets us free.

With Blessings,

Father Langan

Eucharistic Adoration Chapel will be closed effectively immediately (12/15) until 8:00 A.M., Saturday, Dec. 17.

The St. John the Evangelist Christmas Concert has been postponed until next Sunday, December 18 at 2:00 P.M.

10:30 Mass will be held in St. Mary Magdalen Church this morning

Faith Formation Classes today are cancelled due to weather.

December 10-11

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

 So soon upon us is Gaudete Sunday.  We rejoice because the Lord is near.  The "lightening-up" of this season of darkness is represented by the rose-colored candle of the Advent wreath and the vestments of the priest.  This lightning-up is not just external but internal as well.  Sin is a heavy burden that we carry on our souls.  The Lord knows how it weighs us down and impedes our progress in the spiritual life.  In the Sacrament of Reconciliation He meets us and lightens our load, setting us free.  Who would not want to avail themselves to this comforting grace from our Savior?  In this latter half of Advent make that resolve to come to the Lord Who wipes our sins away and gives us the light that dispels the darkness of our souls.

 Your parish offers a little gift to all of you in this season of giving: “Holy Moments, A Handbook for the Rest of your Life.”   Please take one as you leave Mass today.  I hope you find it helpful, as I have, as you continue your spiritual journey.  Sometimes we need just a little reassurance that we are following the path that the Lord has planned for us.

With Blessings,
Father Langan

Mass schedule for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception is as follows:

        December 7 (Vigil)      6:00 PM     St. Mary Magdalen

        December 8                  7:25 AM     St. Mary Magdalen
                                             12:05 PM    St. Mary Magdalen 

                                             5:30 PM      St. Joseph
                                             6:00 PM      St. Bernard