The Gospel today introduces John the Baptist as a voice crying out in the desert, inviting us to a transformative spiritual journey. Like Israel at Sinai and Jesus after His baptism, the desert represents a place of discernment, where we confront our inner struggles and find our core. John’s call to “level the hills and fill the valleys” symbolizes removing obstacles and filling spiritual voids within us, so the Lord may enter our lives fully.
The Second Sunday of Advent reminds us of the vital call to conversion as we prepare to celebrate Christ’s birth and anticipate His final coming. Conversion aligns us with God’s will, filling the deep longing of our souls for eternity. As St. John the Baptist urges, turning away from sin and embracing God’s love through prayer, sacraments, and acts of charity is essential for true joy and fulfillment. Advent is not only a time of preparation but also of hope, reconnecting us to our divine purpose.
Saint John of Damascus, often considered the last of the Church Fathers, was a staunch defender of sacred images during the iconoclastic controversies of his time. His teachings on the veneration of icons, the nature of the Trinity, and the role of matter in the sacraments profoundly shaped Christian theology. His legacy, rooted in his monastic life and literary contributions, continues to inspire devotion and faith.
On November 27, 1830, Our Lady appeared to Sister Catherine Labouré of the Daughters of Charity in Paris, revealing the design for what would become the “Miraculous Medal.” This medal, symbolizing grace and devotion to Mary, sparked a worldwide movement of faith and miracles, especially during the cholera epidemic of 1832. As we approach the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, let us remember this powerful story of hope and trust in Mary’s intercession.
Fr. Lawrence Lew, O.P., the General Promoter of the Rosary for the Dominican Order, will visit Macau from December 19–22. Known for his passion for the Rosary as a tool of personal devotion and community prayer, Fr. Lew will conduct sessions across English-speaking communities in Macau. With a background in theology, sacred art, and a deep love for Marian devotion, he has inspired a global resurgence in praying the Rosary, emphasizing its relevance in modern times.
Advent invites us to prepare for Jesus’ birth and second coming through prayer, vigilance, and repentance. Jeremiah’s prophecy of a Savior is fulfilled in Jesus, who brings justice and salvation. The Gospel urges us to stay alert and not let distractions dull our hearts. This is a season of grace—a time to awaken to God’s love and make room for Him in our lives.
Advent is a season of hope and preparation, reminding us to reflect on Christ’s first coming and anticipate His return. The Gospel calls us to “stand erect and raise your heads,” signaling that salvation is near even amidst chaos. In today’s world, chaos often stems from environmental crises and human neglect. This season invites us to restore harmony by caring for creation and repairing broken relationships.
The Sixth American Missionary Congress (CAM6) gathered thousands of missionaries from across the Americas in Ponce, Puerto Rico, from November 19–24, 2024. With the theme “America, Empowered by the Spirit, Witnesses of Christ,” the event fostered reflection, collaboration, and renewed dedication to evangelization. Highlights included workshops, inspiring liturgies, and a vibrant exchange of missionary strategies, united in the goal of taking the Gospel to the ends of the earth.
Saint Germanus (634–732) stood firm during the Iconoclastic Controversy, defending sacred images as representations of invisible realities. His teachings on Marian devotion and the beauty of liturgy continue to inspire, reminding us of God’s presence in the Church and the world.
Is tithing a commandment? The New Testament does not explicitly require tithing, and the early Christians did not practice it. Instead, St. Paul encouraged voluntary and generous giving based on one’s means, emphasizing charity over obligation. While the Catechism urges Catholics to support the Church “according to their abilities,” the essence of Christian giving is love, not legalism.
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