My beloved brothers and sisters,
Praise to you Lord Jesus!
Last Monday at 5pm, we gathered for our annual Advent Wreath-making event at St. John Vianney Parish, welcoming families from our Catechism classes and parishioners from both Parishes in Penticton. The hall was filled with laughter, creativity, and the warm energy of families working side by side. Watching the children and parents design their wreaths—each one vibrant, unique, and full of meaning—was truly inspiring.
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated: our dedicated Catechism families, our parishioners, the Knights of Columbus of St. John Vianney for providing food and evergreens, and the St. Ann Catholic Women’s League for supplying the materials that made each wreath possible. Events like this remind us of the power of community. When we come together—sharing our time, our talents, and our hearts—we bring more light, hope, and love into daily life. Just as each Advent wreath reminds us to prepare for the coming of Jesus Christ, these shared moments help our community flourish in faith and unity.
As we begin a new liturgical year, Advent arrives like a quiet dawn—expectant, peaceful, and filled with possibility. It invites us not only to prepare for Christmas, but to prepare our hearts for Jesus Himself, who comes to us in every season of life and will come again in glory. This Sunday’s Scriptures call us to awaken, to walk in God’s light, and to rediscover hope in the ordinary rhythm of our days. Advent is our reminder that God is always drawing us closer and offering us new beginnings.
Three Invitations for the Journey
1.Turn Toward the Lord’s Mountain (Isaiah 2:1–5)
Advent encourages us to “go up the mountain of the Lord”—to rise above the noise and make intentional space for God. Every small choice matters: a moment of quiet prayer, a patient response, a step toward forgiveness. These simple acts become rays of light guiding us through the week, helping us walk more fully “in the light of the Lord.”
2. Wake Up and Put On Christ (Romans 13:11–14)
St. Paul’s words carry urgency and hope: “It is now the moment for you to wake from sleep.” Advent becomes our spiritual alarm clock, reminding us that transformation begins with small, steady choices. What is one habit you can shift this week? Less complaining and more gratitude? Fewer screens and more stillness? Less hurry and more presence? Putting on Christ begins in these quiet, everyday moments of choosing virtue.
3. Live Today as a Faithful Disciple (Matthew 24:37–44)
Jesus does not call us to fear the future but to live the present with faith and attentiveness. Holiness grows in the hidden moments—when we show kindness, act with integrity, offer help, or choose forgiveness. Christ comes to us in these simple acts long before His final return. Advent reminds us that readiness is faithfulness lived one moment at a time.
May this season awaken our hearts, deepen our hope, and open our eyes to the ways Jesus Christ is already moving in our lives. Let us walk forward with expectation—because God is drawing near.
Advent Prayer:
Come, Lord Jesus. Awaken our hearts, strengthen our faith, and help us walk in Your light each day. Fill us with Your peace and make us ready for Your coming. Amen.
God loves you! ~ Fr. Neil