“Do not complain, brothers and sisters, about one another, that you may not be judged.
The Letter of James is particularly concerned with ethical conduct, with various everyday challenges that certainly speak to our interaction with the world today. The admonition to avoid complaining about one another is particularly timely during these weeks of pre-Christmas business and numerous celebrations.
A heightened irritability due to our many obligations and tasks as well as extended time with family and friends make this time of year ripe for complaining and gossip. It is good then to not only hear these words of Saint James but reflect on how we can meet the challenge to adhere to them in these weeks ahead. In this admonition, Saint James tells us to act with patience and be mindful of the example of the prophets. Prophetic vision is one that sees beyond the present situation while patiently trusting in the evolution of God’s plan. Seeing beyond our everyday irritations, resisting the temptation to point out the faults of another, and recognizing what is joyful in all things are the spiritual exercises that we practice during these days of Advent. Because in Advent, we set our hearts on recognizing the incarnation of God himself who dwells within us and even those about whom we are tempted to complain.
GAUDETE SUNDAY – For the first two weeks of Advent, the focus can be summed up in the phrase, “The Lord is coming.” But beginning with Gaudete Sunday, the summary might be “The Lord is near.” This shift is marked by a lighter mood and a heightened sense of joyous anticipation. Liturgically, the colors lighten as well. The priest usually wears rose-colored vestments, a hue seen only on Gaudete Sunday and Laetare Sunday. On this day, we light the third candle of the Advent wreath, which is also rose-colored, or if you prefer, pink.
The word “Gaudete” is Latin for “Rejoice.” In times when the focus of our anticipation is often on the negative and fearful, this celebration is a reminder that God who loves us is still in charge and that we await his coming, not with fear, but with tremendous joy.
RELIGIOUS RETIREMENT FUND FOR RELIGIOUS – This week’s Second Collection is the national collection for the elderly and retired sisters, brothers, and religious order priests. We mistakenly announced this collection at masses last weekend. Elderly religious have offered a lifetime of service. Now they need your help. Please consider donating to the Retirement Fund for Religious collection this weekend. Learn more at https://retiredreligious.org .
PREPARE THE WAY OF THE LORD – IN THE SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION – The Lord’s reaction to our shortcomings is not complaint but compassion and forgiveness. These final two weeks of Advent and our joyful preparation for Christmas are an opportunity to receive not complaints or condemnation but mercy. Please take advantage of the opportunities to go to confession and make your soul a manger to worthily receive Jesus who comes to save us. Please consider the opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation during the season of Advent. Confessions are scheduled to take place Monday to Friday after the 9:00 am Mass, Saturdays at 4:00 pm, Tuesday, December 16 from 7:00 – 9:00 pm and Monday, December 22 from 2:00 – 4:00 pm and 7:00 – 9:00 pm.
LESSONS & CAROLS – Our annual celebration of Lessons and Carols for Advent and Christmas will take place this Sunday at 3:00 pm. The afternoon will feature our bell ensemble, youth and adult choirs and musicians.
HIGH SCHOOL ENCOUNTER NIGHT – High School age parishioners are invited to join us for a night of FAITH, SPORTS, FOOD and PRAYER this Friday night from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm in the St. Rose School Gym. RSVP: jt@fiveloavesmin.org.
Peace,
