ADVENT - Get Ready for Jesus’ Birthday

This Sunday is the third Sunday of Advent and it is traditionally called Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete means “rejoice” in Latin. At the beginning of this Sunday’s Mass we say: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice! The Lord is near.” (Philippians 4:4,5). We light the third candle on the Advent wreath. This candle is pink and is called the Shepherd’s Candle.’ We reflect on the joy the shepherds felt at the birth of Jesus.

"And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them." Luke 2:20

During the Christmas season, most of us like to rejoice by spending more on presents, food, decorations etc. It is a time for spending, partying and lots of giving. Our God was extremely giving when he gave us the gift of Jesus… but Jesus came in plain wrapping—he was the infant of two poor migrants. (Who very likely would be turned away from Australian shores in this day and age!) There was no designer cot for Jesus; not even the comforts of home. But the gift of that child was so rich and fine, that poor shepherds and educated wise men from far countries were all drawn to him with tears of joy. And over the following 2022 years countless others, like Mary Mackillop, have been drawn to His message of peace and love.

So perhaps this Christmas we could think about giving ourselves in addition to giving ‘stuff.’

What kind of presence am I to those I love? How can I give myself as a present to others? Am I aware of God’s presence in my life? We tend to forget that God’s presence is enough to meet our innermost desires. This Christmas season is a great time to spend more time in God’s peaceful presence; and more time exploring the power and wonder of our own presence with others. What better present can we give to our Lord and each other!

A few suggestions for loving gifts:

A warm welcome

Time for a phone conversation

A firm handshake to a shaky soul

A kind word to a lonely person

A warm smile to the disheartened

A sincere concern for someone troubled

Compassion for the neglected

Comforting words for the bereaved

A word of witness to help a seeking soul

A patient and non-judgemental listening ear

Dear Jesus, may the light of your love always shine in our hearts. As Christmas draws closer, we marvel at your great love for us. Let your love transform every aspect of our lives and touch everyone we encounter. Our hearts are open to you, Jesus. Amen.

Wishing you all joy and peace this Christmas season

St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal

Many thanks to those who supported our St Vinnies Christmas appeal. St Vinnies staff were overwhelmed by the generosity of St Mary’s School community when they received our donations.

In Appreciation

St Mary’s School Community wishes to thank Fr Joshy, Fr Hilary, and Sr Rosemary for their wonderful nurturing support and for guiding us on our Faith journey this year. We also wish Sr Rosemary all the best and many blessings in her new position in Sydney. She will be greatly missed.