In late fall, as the days get shorter and the sky grows darker, Catholics enter into the season of Advent. Advent comes from the Latin word, adventus, which means a coming or an arrival. For Christians, it is the Lord’s coming on which we focus – his coming as Incarnate Lord 2,000 years ago and his second coming as King of the Universe. Advent is a season of spiritual preparation – a preparation of our hearts to receive Christ and his light. In the Catholic tradition, the season of Advent also marks the beginning of a new liturgical year which follows salvation history from the birth of Christ in late December to the second coming of Christ in late November.
This year we will also begin a new Jubilee year in the Catholic Church which will commence on the Feast of the Holy Family. The great Jubilee occurs every 25 years and provides a time to reflect on God’s mercy and grace. This year’s theme, chosen by Pope Francis, is “Pilgrims of Hope” and will provide Catholics an opportunity to reflect on our cause for hope in a world that is often darkened by sin and violence. We know by faith, that our hope is in the Lord, who made heaven and earth and sent his son Jesus to redeem our fallen humanity. The new Jubilee year will begin with Masses at the Cathedral of St. Paul and the Basilica of Saint Mary.
In December, we will begin a new series on hope which will continue throughout the new year. I will begin the series with a talk, entitled, “The Virtue of Hope: Foundations and Applications.” It would seem to me that to live with genuine hope in our modern world is an essential task of modern Christian disciples and a way to credibly evangelize those we encounter. Please explore the many opportunities to deepen your faith at The Basilica as we continue our pilgrim journey together. May the God of Jesus Christ – the God of light and peace – be with you and your families at Advent, throughout the Incarnation Season, and beyond.
Peace,
Fr. Daniel Griffith
Pastor and Rector