01 Advent 1st Sunday

The Advent Wreath

DVRodriguez2023-12-22T08:21:13-05:00

The Advent Wreath is full of rich symbolism. The circular shape evokes eternity and the evergreen represents hope and renewal. Purple stands for penance and rose for joy. Each colored candle represents a millennia and a person(s). A blessed and lighted candle always symbolizes Christ. Each candle also represents a great truth about Christ: [1] He will come again in power to judge all. [2] He will judge me at the moment of my death. [3] Jesus comes to me with His grace, now, especially at Mass. [4] Jesus came in the flesh to save us - to save me. Hope [...]

The Advent WreathDVRodriguez2023-12-22T08:21:13-05:00

Mystery is Essential to Christmas

DVRodriguez2023-12-08T16:06:31-05:00

Christ subverts the expectations of the worldly. Yet we are still in love with the things of this world – and our vice – because we have yet to see the true worth in tossing them aside. Christ changes the way we value things. The element of mystery, which surrounds Christmas, compels us to acts of greater virtue. (Note: Father's considerations of the Holy Family in Bethlehem touch upon matters not defined by Scripture or Tradition. Faithful Catholics are free to disagree on such details.)

Mystery is Essential to ChristmasDVRodriguez2023-12-08T16:06:31-05:00

Christmas and the Judgment

DVRodriguez2022-11-30T06:02:25-05:00

The Coming of the Lord is the great Mystery with which the Church year begins (and ends). Why does Jesus come? [1] To save your soul. [2] To judge your soul. We must see it as something very personal – as “Jesus and You.” God is giving you this year to prepare for your death and judgement, that you may avoid hell and gain Heaven. Consider Christmas in the light of salvation and of faith – not in a worldly way. Recommendations for Advent include prayer (e.g. the Christmas Novena), penance, and especially detachment.

Christmas and the JudgmentDVRodriguez2022-11-30T06:02:25-05:00

Be Prepared to Meet Thy God

DVRodriguez2021-12-03T11:07:10-05:00

As best you can, stay focussed throughout this Advent on the three comings of our Savior Jesus Christ. It is perhaps during this season that one most dramatically sees how far the Catholic faithful are from the Catholic Faith. Jesus is calling us and we don't hear. Keep the celebrations for the Christmas season (after Dec 25). During Advent, focus on prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Pray novenas, litanies, Las Posadas, and other Christmas devotions. Consider the powerful symbolism of the Miraculous Medal. Come to the chapel, the Blessed Virgin awaits you.

Be Prepared to Meet Thy GodDVRodriguez2021-12-03T11:07:10-05:00