Isaiah 40.1-5, 9-11/2 Peter 3.8-14/ Mark 1.1-8
In this season, we are preparing. Traditionally, we may be decorating our homes, baking special foods, planning celebrations, enjoying seasonal music, buying or making gifts, and taking part in special events that benefit groups and persons in need. Maybe we still send Christmas cards to stay connected. We tend to do things we always did. We slide into our comfort zone. We ask one another, “Are you ready for Christmas?”
Visitation sculpture from the prayer centre at the 2017 Provincial Chapter
News and Views From the West
“Behold, a Virgin shall conceive and bear a Son; and His Name will be called Emmanuel.” Isaiah 7;14
Advent Invites Us -What might we do to make our hearts ever more ready for the in -breaking of Love?
“The spaciousness of deep prayer readies our hearts for the inbreaking of the reign of Love which is, in fact, an evolving consciousness …” Pat Farrell, OSF
May each of us experience this season as a time of deepening love and Joy … a blessed time of care and hope for our world!
Prayers for Lighting the Advent Wreath Candles
by William G. Storey
https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/advent
First Week
All-powerful God, increase our strength of will for doing good that Christ may find an ea-ger welcome at his coming and call us to his side in the kingdom of heaven, where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. ~AMEN.
Second Week
God of power and mercy open our hearts in welcome. Remove the things that hinder us from receiving Christ with joy so that we may share his wisdom and become one with him when he comes in glory, for he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. ~AMEN.
Third Week
Lord God, may we, your people, who look forward to the birthday of Christ experience the joy of salvation and celebrate that feast with love and thanksgiving. We ask this through Christ our Lord. ~AMEN.
Fourth Week
Father, all-powerful God, your eternal Word took flesh on our earth when the Virgin Mary placed her life at the service of your plan. Lift our minds in watchful hope to hear the voice which announces his glory and open our minds to receive the Spirit who prepares us for his coming. We ask this through Christ our Lord. ~AMEN.
Excerpted from A Prayer Book of Catholic Devotions