Happy New Year ?
By Mary Jeppson
Happy New Year? That is, Happy New Church Year! Yes, Advent is here…the beginning of the new liturgical year of the church. The church prepares us to celebrate the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
In the reading of 1 Thessalonians 3:12 we are told to increase and abound in love for one another, to strengthen our hearts and to be blameless in holiness before our God. In Luke 21: 34-36 we are warned to not let our hearts become drowsy with the anxieties of our daily life, to be vigilant and pray for the strength to do God’s will at all times so we can remain close to Him.
Advent is a time for prayer, penance, sacrifice and good works to prepare ourselves for the coming of our Lord. Our parish is hosting an Advent Mission this week with Deacon Thomas Kinnick. This is an opportunity for us to renew our faith and prepare ourselves with knowledge of what God wants for His children. What better way to start the New Church Year!