Category: Mass

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Introduction – Prayers Of The Faithful

Hodie Christus Natus Est

Today Christ is born

These words were first spoken to shepherds by angels. They have been sung throughout the centuries to announce news of great joy to people of every age. Christ is born!

Today the world is enveloped in a pandemic and its restrictions.
Today many people are separated from family and friends.
Today many people still mourn the death of loved ones.
Today many fear loss of jobs, businesses and their homes.
Today many are anxious about their education.
Today many hungry and homeless fear even greater poverty.
Today many are excited about the progress against COVID-19.
Today some are celebrating recovery from illness.
Today some are celebrating a recent marriage or engagement.
Today some are celebrating the birth of a new child or the news that a new child is on the way.
The news is the same.
CHRIST IS BORN TODAY!
It is meant for each of you. May this news give hope and healing, begin to ease sadness and mourning and continue to move so many people to express their care and love and trust in God in giving service to others.

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Introduction – Prayers Of The Faithful

Our Bishop, Christian Riesbeck, has sent out his most welcome Christmas letter to us and all the people of the Diocese. He, too, has experienced all of the limitations imposed on us by the pandemic. His thoughts and concerns are directed towards the rest of us and he offers a message that is hopeful and forward looking. He is especially mindful of people who have been away from their parishes or from the church for awhile and encourages us to be especially kind and welcoming to them.

In the gospel today, Mary receives the most wonderful news from God. She is to bring God’s Son into the world. He asks her to cooperate with Him in His plan for salvation. In that moment she is isolated, socially distant from family and friends. Only an angelic messenger is there to confirm this invitation from God. This faithful daughter of Israel responds completely and freely. She might not have known or understood all the details or the cost but she responded with an overwhelming YES!

This Christmas offers a chance to make Jesus present in the lives of those who are distant from Him. With our Bishop we look to Mary to teach us how to say YES!