Advent I

zelusdomustuae
✠ The Bishop’s Corner ✠
St. Michael is back on his perch presiding over our church, very securely fixed in place. His heavy white coat glistens in the sun, and is more visible now at night. But it would still be great to get him a light. Many thanks to those who took care of him. He’ll take care of you, and of us all here at St. Gertrude the Great, I pray.

We’ve been trying to say that short St. Michael prayer after most Masses, so greatly do we need the assistance of God’s Champion. And angels come when they are invoked: “St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in the battle, that we perish not in the fearful judgment.” (300 days’ indulgence)

Yesterday we concluded our 54-Day Rosary Novena, on the feast of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal. Thank you for your devotion and persevering prayer. May our Advent be one of sober “rejoicing in hope” and calm prayer as we prepare for the coming of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.

As the clouds of impending doom continue to gather, our Catholic homes must be inviolable sanctuaries where the Faith is loved and practiced. What a help is the Church year, with its charming customs which never grow old, and give the very best atmosphere in which children should grow up. Remember the Advent Wreath, the straw placed by the little ones in the crib for each prayer or sacrifice, and always a blessed candle for the family Rosary.

It seems such a quick turnaround when Thanksgiving leads directly to Advent Sunday. The Fall leaves and harvest themes give way to evergreens, the feasting to at least a little bit of fasting, from groaning plenty to purple and penance. Fix your Advent program now, what you will give up, and what you will do extra, like a little Lent. You won’t regret it. Jesus is always on His way to us, either as the sweet little Child, the Savior on His clouds of glory, or Jesus Hostia in every Holy Mass. “Behold, He comes.”

Make the most of First Friday and Saturday this week. Watch and pray with us during the quiet sacred hours of the night. It is our chance to catch up with Christ before the world does with all of its demands this December.

Blessed Advent!
– Bishop Dolan