Dear Parish Family,
 
We take time to prepare when we greet someone. For example, on Thanksgiving, we cook turkey and wait for families. Also, Christmas day as well. I’m sure you decorate your house and prepare meals for your family. We are now in the season of Advent to prepare for the coming of the Lord. During Advent, we decorate the parish and prepare for the Christmas liturgy. However, we do not prepare for the coming of Jesus simply by decorating the parish and the Christmas tree. We should prepare our hearts for Jesus so He can come to us well. This is the inner preparation that Christians must make.
 
The Gospel of Luke begins the Gospel by grounding John the Baptist’s ministry in history. The gospel names rulers and leaders—Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate, and others—to remind us that God’s work happens in the real world, in the midst of political and societal complexities. God doesn’t remain distant but intervenes directly into human history. This is a message of hope. Just as God sent John to prepare the way for Jesus, God still sends His Word to us today. No matter how chaotic our world or lives may seem, God is present and active.
 
John’s message concludes with a beautiful promise: “All flesh shall see the salvation of God.” Advent reminds us that Jesus’ coming is not for a select few but all people. His salvation is universal, offered to everyone who opens their hearts to Him. This promise challenges us to broaden our view. Preparing the way for Jesus also means helping others encounter Him. We can do this through acts of kindness, forgiveness, and sharing our faith. As we prepare for Christ in our hearts, we are also called to prepare His way in the world. 
 
Advent is a season of joyful expectation. As we prepare for Jesus, let us embrace John’s call to repentance, not with fear but with hope. Christ’s coming brings salvation, healing, and peace. Let us prepare the way for the Lord, so when He comes, He will find our hearts ready, our lives transformed, and our world a little brighter like this second Advent candle because of His love. Have a blessed week!
 
Here’s some information for you this week:

Immaculate Conception - A Holy Day of Obligation
Please note that the Christmas letter mailed to families was incorrect. The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception was transferred from Sunday to Monday, December 9 and it IS a Holy Day of Obligation. This was clarified after our Christmas mailer went out, and I apologize for the miscommunication. We will celebrate Immaculate Conception on Monday, December 9 at St. Patrick's with Mass at 7:00 pm, and at St. Mary's with Masses at 7:30 am, 9:30 am (with the school), and 7:30 pm.
 
Mark your calendars for Advent Vespers at St. Patrick's! We will celebrate Vespers (also known as Evening Prayer) each night in St. Patrick's Church at 7 pm from Tuesday, December 17 through Monday, December 23. Fill your hearts during the last week of Advent with this beautiful and solemn communal prayer of the Catholic Church!
 
In Christ,
Fr. Fabian Han