1st Sunday of Advent

As we know, a new Church Year has commenced as we have entered the season of Advent.  Integral to the season of Advent is the Advent Wreath, which has a long Catholic tradition.  The Wreath is displayed prominently in front, on the left side of the Sanctuary.  It typically has four candles that are lit progressively during the Sundays of Advent.  The first candle is the Prophecy Candle or the Candle of Hope.  It reminds us that we can have hope because God is faithful and will keep the promises made to us.  (Read more…)

Solemnity of Christ the King

Today is the last Sunday of the Church’s liturgical year and we gather to celebrate this great feast of Christ the King. The Church wants us to reflect upon what the whole of all creation is ultimately about. Our Faith tells us that Christ will return to establish the Kingdom of God and when that time comes, the world as we know it will be transformed. This is not something to be feared but rather something we long for because it means the complete fulfillment of God’s will. (Read more…)

Deacons

In addition to “transitional deacons” who are in formation for the priesthood, the Catholic Church provides an opportunity for men to serve as Permanent Deacons. Those men who are called to the Permanent Deaconate can be married, and they are ordained usually after a period of five years of training and formation. Many permanent deacons have secular jobs to support their families, and strive to balance family, Church, work, and other responsibilities.

Deacons can: Preside at baptisms and marriages. (Read more…)