THE GIFTS OF ADVENT REFLECTION SERIES

OPENING OUR MINDS & HEARTS TO THE
UNIVERSAL CALL OF THE NEW BORN KING

Fr. John reflects on the gifts of Advent — Hope, Peace, Joy & Love as we prepare for Christmas.  Advent is a time of reflection, conversion and renewal.  God offers us many gifts during our Advent journey, culminating in the birth of our Lord and Saviour.  Make straight the paths of our hearts this Christmas as we embrace the gifts of Advent!

REFLECTION #1

Fr. John introduces the series by first talking about the difference between a present and a gift as we begin our Christmas shopping series.  Then, Fr. John focuses on the gift of HOPE that God offers to us—the hope of eternal salvation, the hope of something more in our lives!

REFLECTION #2

Fr. John continues this special series reflecting on the GIFT OF PEACE that we receive in Advent. There is a sense of internal and external peace that requires hard work, faith and constant attention. Peace is not a passive reality. We are all called to be peace builders.

REFLECTION #3

Fr. John continues this special series reflecting on the GIFT OF LOVE that we receive in Advent. Although this is Gaudete Sunday—the Sunday of Joy, Fr. John wants to end the series with joy that leads to Christmas.  In this reflection, Fr. John invites us to discover real love in our lives that only Christ can give and share with us.  Our love must go beyond ourselves as pure gift expecting nothing but goodness for the sake of others.

REFLECTION #4

Fr. John concludes the series with a reflection on true joy—the joy of Christ being born in our hearts!!  There are so many distractions and overwhelming things during the Christmas season that it sometimes is hard to be joyful.  In addition, Christmas can be a tough time for many who are alone, grieving the loss of a loved one or have trouble with family and friends.  Jesus brings us joy that gives us strength to endure and embrace the light!