The Masses began with the Bishop standing near the doors leading into the churches where he read a section of the Jubilee Decree, Spes Non Confundit (Hope does not disappoint). Once inside, he went to the baptismal font where he said a prayer and led the congregation in the renewal of their baptismal promises. The congregation was then sprinkled with holy water.
THE WORD “ADVENT” COMES FROM THE LATIN TERM ADVENTUS, literally meaning “coming to.” The four weeks of the season of Advent before Christmas create a unique season of hope-filled preparation for all of us in the Catholic Christian community — although it can easily be missed by society at large as simply an extended, early celebration of Christmas. True enough, Christ has come, and we should rejoice in his Incarnation every day of our lives. But Advent gives us all time for a prayerful “retelling” of the story of the “Hope of Israel.” We prepare ourselves for the commemoration of Christ’s coming in history in Bethlehem, his coming in mystery each day in the Church and the sacraments, and his coming in majesty at the end of time.
In anticipation of the ordinary Holy Year that the Church will begin celebrating at Christmas this year, our Holy Father has chosen as its theme “Pilgrims of Hope.” In his 2022 letter announcing the 2025 Holy Year, Pope Francis wrote: “We must fan the flame of hope that has been given us and help everyone to gain new strength and certainty by looking to the future with an open spirit, a trusting heart and far-sighted vision. The forthcoming Jubilee can contribute greatly to restoring a climate of hope and trust as a prelude to the renewal and rebirth that we so urgently desire.”
The word “advent” comes from the Latin term adventus, literally meaning “coming to.” The four weeks of the season of Advent before Christmas create a unique season of hope-filled preparation for all of us in the Catholic Christian community — although it can easily be missed by society at large as simply an extended, early celebration of Christmas. True enough, Christ has come, and we should rejoice in his Incarnation every day of our lives. But Advent gives us all time for a prayerful “retelling” of the story of the “Hope of Israel.”
The Aftercare Coordinator is responsible for planning, supervising, and managing afterschool care for children in a safe, structured, and engaging environment. Individual should develop and oversee daily schedules to keep children engaged and active. Maintain accurate attendance records, daily activity logs, and incident reports.
The Pastoral Associate for Religious Education and Youth Ministry at St. Peter Church is a dynamic and faith-filled leader responsible for fostering the spiritual growth of children, teens, and young adults within the parish community. This role includes coordinating and overseeing all aspects of religious education and youth ministry programs, promoting active faith development, and nurturing a deeper understanding of Catholic teachings and values. The Pastoral Associate will work closely with the Pastor, volunteers, and other parish staff to create a welcoming and engaging environment that supports lifelong discipleship and community involvement.
Today, the Third Sunday of Advent, is traditionally called “Gaudete Sunday,” a Latin word from the ancient prayers that begin this day’s Mass telling us “To rejoice.” Advent is the doorway to the joys of Christmas when Jesus came to dwell with us, the joys of encounter with Christ!
Today, the Third Sunday of Advent, is traditionally called “Gaudete Sunday,” a Latin word from the ancient prayers that begin this day’s Mass telling us “To rejoice.” Advent is the doorway to the joys of Christmas when Jesus came to dwell with us, the joys of encounter with Christ!
MARKING THE FEAST OF OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE ON DEC. 12, the New Jersey Catholic Conference shared a “letter of pastoral interest” in support of the dignity of immigrants that had been written by several officers of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and a leading Catholic organization on immigration.
The Catholic bishops of the state met Dec. 6 with some 60 superiors or their delegates of mens’ and womens’ orders of consecrated life doing apostolic works in the ecclesiastical province of New Jersey.
AS WE GATHER IN THIS SECOND SUNDAY in this sacred season of Advent, we are invited to prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ by “listening.” The readings today beautifully weave together themes of hope, joy, and transformation, guiding us on our journey towards Christmas. Listen to them.