It has been said that the way to ‘conceive’ Jesus in your heart is through the joint work of the Virgin Mary and the Holy Spirit. It was through their union that Jesus was first conceived in Mary’s womb. All three: Jesus, Mary, and the Holy Spirit, desire to reclaim that moment in your heart. The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is, of course, the celebration of Mary’s Immaculate Conception. Still, in the end, it all revolves around Jesus. God the Father desired to prepare the most perfect home in the womb of the Immaculate Virgin. By the Immaculate Conception, her heart was likewise perfectly positioned to contemplate the ways of her creator and savior. This brings us to the question of your heart and preparing a suitable place for the Christ child’s conception in your life. Is your heart well prepared? Might you make it a bit more hospitable? One additional virtuous act or heavenly contemplation? The Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary desire to assist in this preparation. Their union in mystical matrimony is focused on the conception of spiritual children. Their desire to see you as Jesus has the potential to move mountains and change lives. Are we willing to consider this preparation?
Almighty, ever-living God, you inspired the Blessed Virgin Mary,
when she was carrying your Son, to visit Elizabeth.
Grant that, always docile to the voice of the Holy Spirit,
we may, together with Our Lady, glorify your Name.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you
in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
In Gratitude to:
· Tom Guelda, Louis Amshoff, and Pablo Fierros for their work replacing the rectory water heater last month. If you need a plumber, I highly recommend Guelda’s Plumbing.
· Theresa White and Nannette Bradley-Pryor for organizing and helping to lead the November women’s club grief retreat. I know everyone left having received much love and support.
· You all, for your prayers and support for me as I was away for retreat last month.
• All who came to the Thanksgiving Day Mass at Saint Benedict. I hope everyone enjoyed the special day of gratitude with their family and friends.
Requests for:
· Continued support from the Saint Aloysius community for the Catholic Services Appeal. Saint Benedict has completed their goal, and Saint Aloysius is not far behind with 75% completion. I hope to have the campaign wrapped up by the new year, and with your continued efforts, we can see that happen.
• Your consideration for attending the Mass in the Longest Night on Thursday, Dec. 21st at 6:30 at Saint Aloysius. This Mass is especially catered to those grieving through the holiday season.
Two Parishes, One Heart,
Fr. Adam