Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
The wonderful, hope-filled season of Advent is almost over, but Advent never ends without leading us to the most exciting reality. That reality is that the Christ Child is born anew in our hearts once again. The entire world is in eager anticipation of Christmas Eve, and Masses that will be said in every language imaginable and all for one purpose: to welcome the Lord Jesus into our hearts and lives. As we continue our journey to the climax of Advent, remain prayerful. Ask the Holy Spirit to sweep your heart clean of anything that pulls you away from our Savior. Look about yourself and find someone to whom you can be a little Christ by making their life more hopeful and meaningful.
We have so much to be grateful for at St. Mary of the Lake. After a long, challenging renovation program, we now have the fruit of our labors and our sacrifices in which to worship. This new temple is an inspiration, and we thank God for the generosity that has made it possible. Yet, because this holy season is a time of giving, you are reminded that there are yet ecclesiastical items that are needed for the sanctuary, worship life, and the church in general. If you discover that you have an unexpected windfall, remember to share your abundance with the Baby Jesus. No gift is too small, and gifts may be given in honor or memory of your family members and loved ones. Let us remember that what no one of us can do alone we join hands to do together. Therefore, prayerfully consider the opportunity of making a gift to our Newborn King. Checks should be made out to St. Mary of the Lake-BOHC Contingency Fund.
Regardless of your reason for being here, there is no better time than the present to renew your commitment to our blessed Lord. If you attend Mass weekly, consider coming to weekday Mass as an extra way to praise God and be edified by Word and Sacrament. If you have pushed confession and reconciliation to the backside of your life, make it an active part of staying close to our Lord. If you have strayed from the Catholic faith and have been wandering, then COME HOME to the Church. Your priest and fellow members have open arms ready to embrace you! Never forget – God came to us. We must always come to Him!
My hope for you and your family is that you will have a joyous, hope-filled Christmas with your family and those you love. But, above all, my greater wish is that you will be filled with the gift of the Holy Spirit and that you will feel drawn to love and serve the Lord Jesus in and through His Church. May the peace of the Christ Child bless you and may His promise cause you to serve Him with your whole life.
In His love,
Fr. Craig
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