Encouraging the Culture of Encounter with Jesus Christ, His Church, and All People

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Rejoice on this Gaudete Sunday
There are only two days of the year that the liturgical color is rose, and today is one of them.  “Gaudete” comes from from the first word of the entrance antiphon (introit) of today’s Mass.  “Gaudete” means “Rejoice” in latin.  This Sunday usually marks the halfway point of Advent reminding us to continue persevering with our advent penance with Christian joy as we await Christ’s coming.  This year, due to Christmas falling on a Monday, this is more like two thirds through.  Even so, we celebrate this day with slightly more joyful solemnity as we transition from Advent’s focus on the Second Coming of Christ to now more pointedly preparing to celebrate Christ’s First Coming at His Nativity.  Do not be afraid to make extra efforts today to prepare joyfully. Whether wrapping presents, cooking a meal, or taking more time for prayer and service to our neighbor, remember the Christian joy that should enliven our charity.

Faith Formation this Sunday!
One way to celebrate this joy is to attend the return of our Faith Formation! Today, Sunday, from 9:15-10:15 in the PAC, I will present on Understanding the Liturgy: Language, Symbols, and Meaning.  I encourage everyone to attend but especially those who are still adjusting to our new 10:30 Mass, I plan on addressing specifics for deeper participation. 

Christmas Schedule
This year is a weird one.  Since Christmas falls on a Monday, the Christmas weekend will look like this:
4th Sunday of Advent
            Sat Vigil Dec. 23 @ 4:30pm
            Sun. Dec 24 @ 8am and @ 10:30am
Christmas schedule
            Sun  Dec. 24 Vigil Mass @ 4pm
            Mon Dec 25  Mass @ Midnight (12am) and @ 10am

Sometimes the question is asked, if one goes to Mass at the 4pm Xmas vigil on Sunday, does that count for both Masses of obligation (since we are obliged to go on Sunday and other days of obligation).  The answer is NO; no double-dipping allowed. Of the six Masses listed above, one must attend two of them (one fulfilling the 4th Sun of Advent obligation and one fulfilling the Christmas obligation). 

Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Pfr