The Third Sunday of Advent
“Brothers and sisters:
Rejoice in the Lord always,
I shall say it again: Rejoice!
Your kindness should be known to all.
The Lord is near.
Have no anxiety at all, but in everything,
by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving,
make your requests known to God.
Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding
will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
(Philippians 4:4-7)
This reading comes from the last part of the Letter to the Philippians. St. Paul wrote that letter after he had been imprisoned and faced the real possibility of being put to death. This gave him a clearer perspective on life and faith. As we enter the third week of the Advent Season, it is good to reflect on what gives you and me “a clearer perspective” on life and faith. Many of the prayers of the Advent liturgies refer to keeping focused on what endures forever in the midst of those things that are passing away. May this week be a reminder of the presence of Jesus with us in all things, and from that perspective, let us rejoice always….. even when the situations around us would lead another direction.
Some Items to Look Forward to in this Third Week of Advent
- Tuesday at 7 p.m.: Advent Penance Service at Mission Basilica in San Juan Capistrano.
- Wednesday at 7 p.m.: Advent Penance Service at Our Lady of Fatima in San Clemente.
- Friday at 7 p.m.: Annual Filipino “Simbang Gabi” Mass followed by delicious Filipino food for all.
Monsignor John Urell
