DEC 22, 2024
DEC 22, 2024
- VIDEOS
- SACRAMENTS
- SAINTS
Starfish Story
The story of the boy saving the starfish on the beach can be related to the passages from Micah 5:1-4a, Hebrews 10:5-10, and Luke 1:39-45 in the following way:
Micah 5:1-4a prophesies about the birth of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who was to come from Bethlehem. Just like the boy on the beach who made a difference by saving one starfish at a time, Jesus made a significant impact on the world by bringing salvation to all who believe in him.
Hebrews 10:5-10 highlights how Jesus came to fulfill the will of God by offering himself as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity. This act of selfless sacrifice mirrors the boy’s determination to save the starfish despite the overwhelming number of stranded creatures.
In Luke 1:39-45, Mary’s visit to Elizabeth showcases the ripple effect of kindness and love. Mary’s presence and the unborn Jesus she carried brought joy and blessing to Elizabeth and her unborn child, John the Baptist. Just as the boy’s small act of kindness made a difference to the starfish he saved, Mary’s simple visit had a profound impact on Elizabeth and John.
4th Sunday of Advent - YEAR C
REBEL SHOES PRODUCTIONS (1:10) – This video is a modern adaptation of the “Starfish Story” originally written by Loren Eiseley in 1969. It’s a story about how important making a difference in people’s lives, even if it is just one. It’s a great video to encourage teachers, fostering families, and adoption parents.
The Star Thrower
A boy was walking along a beach covered with thousands of starfish left dying by the receding tide. Seeking to help, he started picking up the dying starfish and tossing them back into the ocean. A man, who watched her with amusement, said, “There are hundreds of starfish on the beach. You cannot make a difference by putting a few of them back into the sea.” Discouraged, the boy began to walk away. Suddenly, he turned around, picked up another starfish, and tossed it into the sea. Turning to the man, he smiled and said, “At least I made a difference to that one!”
Today’s Gospel tells us how Mary, a village girl carrying Jesus in her womb, made a difference in the lives of her cousin Elizabeth and of Elizabeth’s unborn child, John. When John had grown up, he helped Mary’s Son to transform the history of mankind by preparing the way for the Messiah. The starfish story suggests that each person, no matter how unimportant, may truly benefit from our work, and that any service, however small, is valuable. The story also shows how seemingly hopeless problems can be solved by taking the first step.
World’s First Eucharistic Procession
Just as Mary carried Jesus in her womb and brought hope and blessing to Elizabeth and John the Baptist, believers in New York City are called to bring the presence of the Lord, Jesus Christ in the Blessed Sacrament, into the streets. By actively sharing their faith, they can inspire hope and unity among the people of the city, similar to how Mary’s visit brought joy and blessing.
The message of eternal life that believers in New York City are sharing on the streets reflects the fulfillment of God’s will through Jesus Christ, as mentioned in Hebrews 10:5-10. By embracing faith in the Eucharist amidst the vastness of the city, they can demonstrate the selfless love and sacrifice of Jesus to humanity.
In light of Pope Benedict XVI’s reflection on the Visitation as the world’s first Eucharistic procession, believers in New York City can see themselves as modern-day bearers of Christ, bringing his presence and blessings to the streets. Just as Elizabeth recognized the blessedness of Mary and the fruit of her womb, people in New York City can also experience the blessing of God’s presence as they gather to celebrate faith and unity in the city streets.
4th Sunday of Advent - YEAR C
PALOMITAL FILMS (2:58) – There is nothing like walking with Jesus through Midtown Manhattan during rush hour. Our film team captured the Napa Institutes 5th annual Eucharistic Procession through NYC.
Pope Benedict XVI on the Visitation: the world’s first Eucharistic procession:
Pope Benedict XVI has written that the Visitation is more than just a trip into the country for a young girl from Nazareth. As he explains, when Mary “set out in haste” to visit her cousin Elizabeth, she embarked on the world’s first Eucharistic procession. She carried Christ into the world. She was a living tabernacle. And so it is that her cousin became the first to experience Eucharistic adoration, and to share in the first Benediction. “Blessed are you,” she says to Mary. “Blessed is the fruit of your womb. Blessed are you who believed.” Three times, she speaks the word “Blessed.” I can’t help but be reminded of our own Benediction, when the bells ring three times, and then we chant the divine praises: “Blessed be God…”
A Tiny Ripple of Hope
The readings from Micah 5:1-4a, Hebrews 10:5-10, and Luke 1:39-45, resonate with Robert F. Kennedy’s idea of the ripple effect. These passages reveal how seemingly small acts can contribute to shaping history and changing the world.
In Micah 5:1-4a, we learn about the prophecy of a ruler coming from Bethlehem, a small and seemingly insignificant place. This ruler, however, would have a profound impact on history, bringing peace and unity to the people of Israel.
Hebrews 10:5-10 highlights the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice, a single act that changed the course of history by establishing a new covenant and providing salvation for all.
In Luke 1:39-45, we witness the Visitation, where Mary, a humble young woman, offers service and support to her cousin Elizabeth. This seemingly small act of love and compassion sets in motion a ripple effect that leads to the birth of Christ and the dawn of a new era in human history.
4th Sunday of Advent - YEAR C
SAVANTEIUM (8:11) – Few will have the greatness to bend history itself; but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the total of all those acts will be written the history of this generation” — Bobby / Robert F. Kennedy
“Let No One Be Discouraged…”
Robert F. Kennedy said: “Let no one be discouraged by the belief there is nothing one man or woman can do against the enormous array of the world’s ills – against misery and ignorance, injustice and violence… Few will have the greatness to bend history itself; but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the total of all those acts will be written the history of this generation… It is from the numberless diverse acts of courage and belief that human history is shaped. Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends a tiny ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring, those ripples build a current which can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance.”
The World’s First Love
Archbishop Sheen describes the meeting between Mary and Elizabeth as a significant moment in history where child-bearers became the first heralds of the King of Kings. This aligns with the Gospel passage where Mary, pregnant with Jesus, visits her cousin Elizabeth, who is also pregnant with John the Baptist. The meeting of the two women and their unborn children symbolizes the beginning of a new era of salvation.
4th Sunday of Advent - YEAR C
BEHOND 2020 (4:57) – ‘When God became man, or when he willed it from the very creation of the world, he had a dream about a mother … She was the dream come true, the world’s first love.’
When Pregnancy Met Pregnancy
(Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen in The World’s First Love): One of the most beautiful moments in history was that when pregnancy met pregnancy, when child-bearers became the first heralds of the King of Kings. All pagan religions begin with the teachings of adults, but Christianity begins with the birth of a Child. From that day to this, Christians have ever been the defenders of the family and the love of generation. If we ever sat down to write out what we would expect the Infinite God to do, certainly the last thing we would expect would be to see Him imprisoned in a carnal ciborium for nine months; and the next to last thing we would expect is that the “greatest man ever born of woman” while yet in his mother’s womb, would salute the yet imprisoned God-man. But this is precisely what took place in the Visitation.
Today’s Gospel describes how an unknown Jewish virgin, Mary occasioned such a ripple effect by her little, loving acts of humble service to her elderly and pregnant cousin Elizabeth.
Arts and Faith
Jeff
Cavins
Exalting Mary as the new Ark of the Covenant, the Advent season underscores her role as a vessel of God’s presence and divine pledges, ultimately preparing the way for the arrival of Jesus Christ in the world.
4th Sunday of Advent - YEAR C
LOYOLA PRESS (2:59) – ‘Explore the Visitation with a visual prayer experience this Advent. For the complete Arts & Faith: Advent series visit here,
Henry Ossawa Tanner’s realistic portrayal of the Visitation transports us to Elizabeth’s house, capturing the moment when Mary arrives. The setting is simple, with a table covered in a white cloth, displaying bread, wine, and a bowl of fruit.
Mary’s arrival is warm and inviting, her face expressing kindness and joy, as if she’s already singing the Magnificat before even speaking. Her presence feels familiar and relatable, like a loved one coming home for the holidays.
Elizabeth’s expression upon welcoming Mary is more intricate. Tanner captures a moment of awe as she rises from the table to embrace her cousin. Elizabeth’s hands are raised in prayer, honoring God’s presence in her home and around her table. Her serene expression represents her wonder and reverence, aware of the divine presence within her and confirmed by her child’s stirring in her womb. She knows, utters, and prays, “Blessed are you, Mary.”
The meeting of Mary and Elizabeth in this artwork illustrates how we can encounter holiness in everyday moments – an arrival, a homecoming, or a meal shared at a table. Although holiness is found in our world, Elizabeth’s expression reminds us that it’s not of this world. Discovering holiness offers a glimpse of God’s otherness, inviting us to come closer while also inspiring wonder and awe. As Advent comes to an end, may we find and welcome holiness as we await the arrival of Christ’s light.
Connecting the
Sunday Readings
to the Sacraments
The suggestions offered are intended to assist the homilist in weaving one or two sentences about a sacrament into the larger context of the homily, thereby highlighting its significance within the broader message.
4th Sunday of Advent - YEAR C
Baptism
Micah 5:1-4a
The Call to Holiness through Baptism:
Micah 5:1-4a foretells the coming of a savior who will bring peace and unity to God's people. Baptism calls us to partake in this mission by embracing our identity as children of God and striving for holiness in our daily lives.
The Unity of Christ's Body:
Micah 5:1-4a portrays the coming of a ruler from Bethlehem who will unite God's people. Baptism incorporates us into the Body of Christ, uniting us with fellow believers and challenging us to work for peace, justice, and the common good.
Living the Sacrament of Baptism:
Micah 5:1-4a encourages us to prepare our hearts for the coming of the Lord, reminding us that baptism is not a one-time event but a lifelong commitment to living as disciples of Christ.
Baptism
Hebrews 10:5-10
The Call to Holiness through Baptism:
Hebrews 10:5-10 highlights Jesus' sacrifice as the ultimate offering, emphasizing the grace bestowed upon us through his body. Baptism allows us to share in Christ's death and resurrection, empowering us to live a life of righteousness.
The Unity of Christ's Body:
Hebrews 10:5-10 emphasizes the offering of Christ's body as a sacrifice, highlighting the unity and sanctity of his body. Baptism calls us to recognize our interconnectedness and to respect the inherent dignity of every human being.
Living the Sacrament of Baptism:
Hebrews 10:5-10 underscores the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice, calling us to embrace the grace bestowed upon us in baptism and to live out our faith in word and deed.
Baptism
Luke 1:39-45
The Call to Holiness through Baptism:
Luke 1:39-45 portrays the joy and reverence surrounding the unborn Jesus, reminding us of the inherent value of each human life. Baptism sanctifies and consecrates our lives, calling us to defend and promote the dignity of all human beings.
The Unity of Christ's Body:
Luke 1:39-45 showcases the joy and unity shared between Mary and Elizabeth, reminding us of the importance of community and solidarity in our faith journey. Baptism strengthens our bond with the Church and urges us to support and uplift one another.
Living the Sacrament of Baptism:
Luke 1:39-45 exemplifies the joy and humility of Mary and Elizabeth, inviting us to embody these virtues as we strive to live a life worthy of our baptismal calling.
Eucharist
Micah 5:1-4a
The Eucharist as a Source of Strength:
Micah 5:1-4a foretells the coming of a savior who will bring peace and unity to God's people. The Eucharist strengthens us to partake in this mission by nourishing our spiritual lives and uniting us with Christ.
The Eucharist as a Sign of Unity:
Micah 5:1-4a portrays the coming of a ruler from Bethlehem who will unite God's people. The Eucharist is a sign of unity, drawing us closer to our fellow believers and challenging us to work for peace and justice.
Living the Sacrament of the Eucharist:
Micah 5:1-4a encourages us to prepare our hearts for the coming of the Lord, reminding us that the Eucharist is a call to ongoing conversion and commitment to living as disciples of Christ.
Eucharist
Hebrews 10:5-10
The Eucharist as a Sacrifice:
Hebrews 10:5-10 highlights Jesus' sacrifice as the ultimate offering, emphasizing the grace bestowed upon us through his body. The Eucharist is a memorial of this sacrifice, allowing us to participate in Christ's redemptive act.
The Eucharist as the Body of Christ:
Hebrews 10:5-10 emphasizes the offering of Christ's body as a sacrifice, highlighting the unity and sanctity of his body. The Eucharist is the real presence of Christ's body, strengthening our union with him and one another.
Living the Sacrament of the Eucharist:
Hebrews 10:5-10 underscores the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice, calling us to embrace the grace bestowed upon us in the Eucharist and to live out our faith in word and deed.
Eucharist
Luke 1:39-45
The Eucharist as a Celebration of Life:
Luke 1:39-45 portrays the joy and reverence surrounding the unborn Jesus, reminding us of the inherent value of each human life. The Eucharist celebrates and affirms this sanctity of life, calling us to defend and promote the dignity of all human beings.
The Eucharist as a Source of Joy:
Luke 1:39-45 showcases the joy and unity shared between Mary and Elizabeth, reminding us of the importance of community and solidarity in our faith journey. The Eucharist is a source of joy and unity, drawing us closer to Christ and our fellow believers.
Living the Sacrament of the Eucharist:
Luke 1:39-45 exemplifies the joy and humility of Mary and Elizabeth, inviting us to embody these virtues as we participate in the Eucharist and strive to live a life worthy of our calling as disciples of Christ.
Confirmation
Micah 5:1-4a
Confirmation as a Call to Mission:
Micah 5:1-4a foretells the coming of a savior who will bring peace and unity to God's people. Confirmation calls us to participate in this mission by deepening our commitment to our faith and embracing our role as witnesses to Christ in the world.
Confirmation as a Sign of Unity:
Micah 5:1-4a portrays the coming of a ruler from Bethlehem who will unite God's people. Confirmation strengthens our bond with the Church and our fellow believers, uniting us in our shared mission to proclaim the Gospel.
Living the Sacrament of Confirmation:
Micah 5:1-4a encourages us to prepare our hearts for the coming of the Lord, reminding us that confirmation is a call to ongoing conversion and commitment to living as disciples of Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Confirmation
Hebrews 10:5-10
Confirmation as a Strengthening of Faith:
Hebrews 10:5-10 highlights Jesus' sacrifice as the ultimate offering, emphasizing the grace bestowed upon us through his body. Confirmation deepens our understanding of this sacrifice and strengthens our faith in Christ's redemptive act.
Confirmation as a Gift of the Holy Spirit:
Hebrews 10:5-10 underscores the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice, calling us to embrace the grace bestowed upon us in baptism and confirmation. Through confirmation, we receive the Holy Spirit's gifts, empowering us to live out our faith and share it with others.
Living the Sacrament of Confirmation:
Hebrews 10:5-10 emphasizes the importance of Christ's sacrifice as a once-for-all offering, reminding us that confirmation is not the end of our spiritual journey but a call to ongoing growth and commitment to living as witnesses of Christ in the world.
Confirmation
Luke 1:39-45
Confirmation as a Response to the Call of God:
Luke 1:39-45 portrays the joy and reverence surrounding the unborn Jesus, reminding us of the inherent value of each human life. Confirmation calls us to respond to God's call with a resounding "yes," embracing our role as disciples and defenders of life and human dignity.
Confirmation as a Joyful Affirmation:
Luke 1:39-45 showcases the joy and unity shared between Mary and Elizabeth, reminding us of the importance of community and solidarity in our faith journey. Confirmation is a joyful affirmation of our faith, drawing us closer to Christ and our fellow believers.
Living the Sacrament of Confirmation:
Luke 1:39-45 exemplifies the joy and humility of Mary and Elizabeth, inviting us to embody these virtues as we live out our confirmation and strive to be faithful witnesses to the Gospel in our daily lives.
Reconciliation
Micah 5:1-4a
Reconciliation as a Return to God's Peace:
Micah 5:1-4a foretells the coming of a savior who will bring peace and unity to God's people. Reconciliation invites us to experience this peace by acknowledging our sins, seeking forgiveness, and reconciling with God and our neighbors.
Reconciliation as a Call to Conversion:
Micah 5:1-4a encourages us to prepare our hearts for the coming of the Lord, reminding us that reconciliation involves a commitment to ongoing conversion and transformation in Christ.
Living the Sacrament of Reconciliation:
Micah 5:1-4a emphasizes the need for peace and unity among God's people, calling us to live out the sacrament of reconciliation by actively working for peace, justice, and forgiveness in our relationships and communities.
Reconciliation
Hebrews 10:5-10
Reconciliation as Participation in Christ's Sacrifice:
Hebrews 10:5-10 highlights Jesus' sacrifice as the ultimate offering, emphasizing the grace bestowed upon us through his body. Reconciliation allows us to participate in this sacrifice, receiving forgiveness and healing through Christ's redemptive act.
Reconciliation as a Renewal of the Covenant:
Hebrews 10:5-10 underscores the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice, calling us to embrace the grace bestowed upon us in baptism and reconciliation. Through reconciliation, we renew our covenant with God and commit to living as disciples of Christ.
Living the Sacrament of Reconciliation:
Hebrews 10:5-10 reminds us of the importance of Christ's sacrifice as a once-for-all offering, urging us to live out the sacrament of reconciliation by striving for holiness and seeking ongoing conversion in our daily lives.
Reconciliation
Luke 1:39-45
Reconciliation as a Response to God's Grace:
Luke 1:39-45 portrays the joy and reverence surrounding the unborn Jesus, reminding us of the inherent value of each human life. Reconciliation calls us to respond to God's grace by acknowledging our sins, seeking forgiveness, and embracing our identity as beloved children of God.
Reconciliation as a Path to Joy and Unity:
Luke 1:39-45 showcases the joy and unity shared between Mary and Elizabeth, reminding us of the importance of community and solidarity in our faith journey. Reconciliation restores our relationships with God and others, leading to greater joy and unity in the Body of Christ.
Living the Sacrament of Reconciliation:
Luke 1:39-45 exemplifies the joy and humility of Mary and Elizabeth, inviting us to embody these virtues as we live out the sacrament of reconciliation and strive to be faithful witnesses to the Gospel in our daily lives.
Anointing of the Sick
Micah 5:1-4a
Anointing of the Sick as a Sign of Hope:
Micah 5:1-4a foretells the coming of a savior who will bring peace and unity to God's people. The Anointing of the Sick offers hope to those who are ill or suffering, uniting them with Christ's redemptive mission and reminding them of God's promise of eternal life.
Anointing of the Sick as a Call to Trust:
Micah 5:1-4a encourages us to prepare our hearts for the coming of the Lord, reminding us that the Anointing of the Sick calls us to trust in God's providence and mercy, even in the midst of suffering.
Living the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick:
Micah 5:1-4a emphasizes the importance of peace and unity among God's people, calling us to live out the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick by offering compassion, support, and prayer for those who are ill or suffering.
Anointing of the Sick
Hebrews 10:5-10
Anointing of the Sick as a Participation in Christ's Sacrifice:
Hebrews 10:5-10 highlights Jesus' sacrifice as the ultimate offering, emphasizing the grace bestowed upon us through his body. The Anointing of the Sick allows us to participate in this sacrifice, receiving spiritual healing and strength through Christ's redemptive act.
Anointing of the Sick as a Renewal of Faith:
Hebrews 10:5-10 underscores the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice, calling us to embrace the grace bestowed upon us in baptism, confirmation, and the Anointing of the Sick. This sacrament renews our faith and commitment to living as disciples of Christ, even in the face of illness or adversity.
Living the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick:
Hebrews 10:5-10 reminds us of the importance of Christ's sacrifice as a once-for-all offering, urging us to live out the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick by persevering in faith and offering our own sufferings in union with Christ's sacrifice.
Anointing of the Sick
Luke 1:39-45
Anointing of the Sick as a Response to God's Grace:
Luke 1:39-45 portrays the joy and reverence surrounding the unborn Jesus, reminding us of the inherent value of each human life. The Anointing of the Sick calls us to respond to God's grace by offering prayer, support, and comfort to those who are ill or suffering.
Anointing of the Sick as a Path to Joy and Unity:
Luke 1:39-45 showcases the joy and unity shared between Mary and Elizabeth, reminding us of the importance of community and solidarity in our faith journey. The Anointing of the Sick strengthens our bond with the Body of Christ, leading to greater joy and unity as we share in the suffering and healing of others.
Living the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick:
Luke 1:39-45 exemplifies the joy and humility of Mary and Elizabeth, inviting us to embody these virtues as we live out the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick and strive to be faithful witnesses to the Gospel in our daily lives.
Matrimony
Micah 5:1-4a
Matrimony as a Sign of Unity and Peace:
Micah 5:1-4a emphasizes the importance of peace and unity among God's people, calling married couples to live out the sacrament of Matrimony by embodying Christ's love and forgiveness in their daily lives.
Matrimony as a Call to Love and Service:
Micah 5:1-4a foretells the coming of a savior who will bring peace and unity to God's people. Matrimony reflects this unity by joining two individuals into one flesh, symbolizing the peace and love that Christ brings into the world.
Living the Sacrament of Matrimony:
Micah 5:1-4a emphasizes the importance of peace and unity among God's people, calling married couples to live out the sacrament of Matrimony by embodying Christ's love and forgiveness in their daily lives.
Matrimony
Hebrews 10:5-10
Matrimony as a Participation in Christ's Sacrifice:
Hebrews 10:5-10 highlights Jesus' sacrifice as the ultimate offering, emphasizing the grace bestowed upon us through his body. Matrimony calls spouses to participate in this sacrifice by offering their lives to one another in selfless love, mirroring Christ's love for the Church.
Matrimony as a Covenantal Union:
Hebrews 10:5-10 underscores the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice, calling us to embrace the grace bestowed upon us in baptism, confirmation, and Matrimony. This sacrament creates a covenantal union between spouses, uniting them in a lifelong commitment of love and fidelity.
Living the Sacrament of Matrimony:
Hebrews 10:5-10 reminds us of the importance of Christ's sacrifice as a once-for-all offering, urging married couples to live out the sacrament of Matrimony by persevering in love, forgiveness, and self-sacrifice for the good of their spouse and family.
Matrimony
Luke 1:39-45
Matrimony as a Response to God's Call to Love:
Luke 1:39-45 portrays the joy and reverence surrounding the unborn Jesus, reminding us of the inherent value of each human life. Matrimony invites couples to respond to God's call to love by embracing the vocation of marriage, bringing new life and joy into the world.
Matrimony as a Joyful Witness to Love:
Luke 1:39-45 showcases the joy and unity shared between Mary and Elizabeth, reminding us of the importance of community and solidarity in our faith journey. Matrimony is a joyful witness to love and fidelity, inspiring others to seek the same union and serving as a model of Christ's love for the Church.
Living the Sacrament of Matrimony:
Luke 1:39-45 exemplifies the joy and humility of Mary and Elizabeth, inviting married couples to embody these virtues as they live out the sacrament of Matrimony and strive to be faithful witnesses to the Gospel in their daily lives.
Holy Orders
Micah 5:1-4a
Shepherding God's People:
Just as Micah speaks of a shepherd who will care for God's people, priests are called to shepherd their flock through the sacrament of Holy Orders. They are given the grace to guide and protect God's people as spiritual leaders.
Embodying Christ's Peace:
Micah prophesies a time of peace and unity. Priests, through Holy Orders, are empowered to embody Christ's peace, fostering unity among the faithful and ministering to those in need of reconciliation and healing.
Serving with Humility:
The prophecy in Micah emphasizes humility. Priests, through the sacrament of Holy Orders, are called to serve their communities with humility and dedication, following the example of Christ.
Holy Orders
Hebrews 10:5-10
Sacrificial Love:
The passage in Hebrews focuses on Christ's self-offering for our salvation. Priests, through the sacrament of Holy Orders, participate in this self-offering by celebrating the Eucharist, which unites the faithful with Christ's sacrifice.
Obedience to God's Will:
Hebrews emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's will. Priests, through Holy Orders, are given the grace to listen to God's call and serve His people faithfully, offering their lives in service to the Church.
Being a Bridge between God and His People:
The passage highlights Christ's role as the mediator between God and humanity. Priests, through Holy Orders, share in this role by being a bridge between God and His people, facilitating the encounter between the divine and the human.
Holy Orders
Luke 1:39-45
Joyful Service:
Luke recounts the joy experienced by Mary and Elizabeth as they encounter one another. Priests, through Holy Orders, are called to serve their communities with joy, inspired by the example of Mary and Elizabeth.
Bringing Christ to Others:
Elizabeth recognizes Mary as the mother of the Lord, acknowledging the presence of Christ within her. Priests, through Holy Orders, are given the grace to bring Christ's presence to others through their ministry, especially in the celebration of the sacraments.
Embracing God's Call:
Luke emphasizes Mary's willingness to accept God's call. Priests, through Holy Orders, are called to embrace their vocation with humility and trust, serving God's people with love and dedication.
DECEMBER 23
St. John
of Kanty
Each week THE WORD THIS WEEK features a saint form the upcoming week and relates the Sunday readings to his/her life.
LESSONS FROM THE SAINTS
FIRST READING
Micah 5:1-4a
St. Augustine of Hippo: He emphasized the importance of humility and service in Christian life, reflecting the message of Micah 5:1-4a. He wrote, “The humility of God is the medicine for the pride of man.”
St. Francis of Assisi: He embodied the call to serve the poor and marginalized, as foretold in Micah 5:1-4a. He once said, “Preach the Gospel at all times, and when necessary, use words.”
St. Teresa of Calcutta: She dedicated her life to serving the poorest of the poor, embodying the message of Micah 5:1-4a. She famously said, “We can do no great things, only small things with great love.”
St. Thérèse of Lisieux: She emphasized the importance of doing small things with great love, reflecting Micah 5:1-4a’s call to humble service.
SECOND READING
Hebrews 10:5-10
St. Ignatius of Loyola: He emphasized the importance of discerning and following God’s will, reflecting the message of Hebrews 10:5-10. He is known for his “Spiritual Exercises,” a guide for those seeking to deepen their relationship with God.
St. Thomas Aquinas: He Aquinas highlighted the centrality of Christ’s sacrifice in our salvation, as emphasized in Hebrews 10:5-10. He wrote, “Jesus is true God and true man in the unity of one Person, and that through Him all things were created.”
St. Maximilian Kolbe: he embodied the spirit of sacrificial love emphasized in Hebrews 10:5-10 which emphasizes that “by God’s will, we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” In his own life, St. Maximilian Kolbe embraced this spirit of self-sacrifice by volunteering to take the place of a fellow prisoner who had been condemned to death in Auschwitz.
GOSPEL
Luke 1:39-45
St. Elizabeth of Hungary: She, like Mary in Luke 1:39-45, was known for her joy and dedication to serving others. She sold her jewels to help the poor, reflecting Mary’s humble acceptance of God’s will.
St. Bernard of Clairvaux: He emphasized the importance of living in unity with God’s will, as exemplified by Mary in Luke 1:39-45. He wrote, “The humility of Mary was the exaltation of Christ.”
St. John Paul II: He emphasized the importance of embracing our vocation with joy and trust, as demonstrated by Mary in Luke 1:39-45. He wrote, “Mary’s fiat is a lesson in abandonment to God’s will.”
St. Catherine of Siena: She emphasized the importance of spiritual maternity, as exemplified by Mary in Luke 1:39-45. In her writings, St. Catherine frequently referred to Mary as the “Mother of Mercy,” highlighting her role in bringing Christ, the source of mercy, into the world. She encouraged believers to imitate Mary’s example by embracing their own spiritual maternity, which entails nurturing and caring for the spiritual well-being of others.
4th Sunday of Advent - YEAR C
SOURCE: Catholic Faith Network
Sunday’s Readings
Through the Lens of Saints
Children Illustration
Above graphic can be used separately from the Kids Bulletin provided that source is acknowledged and credited.
How do I look at readings from previous weeks ?