Dear Folks,

Pope Saint John Paul II repeatedly called for a “New Evangelization.” My sister ’s husband sent me this description of the New Evangelization: “a) renewing our own understanding of the faith,

b) restoring a confidence in what we believe, and

c) being willing to share our gift of faith.”

I really like that as a simple condensation of how the work of evangelization begins in our souls with these 3 steps. Our hearts and minds need perpetual renewal and deepening of our understanding. This will never end, not even in Heaven. And the more we know and love Jesus, the more He will restore confidence in what we believe. Especially in 2024, how often do we feel we must apologize for our faith in the public square? Let Christ restore your confidence that you have something wonderful to share. And finally, be willing to do that sharing!

Ok, advent is here, and I hope you got a chance to pick up the Magnificat Advent Companions that we set out last week. Hopefully there are some still left for you to pick up as this is a great devotional. Reminder that the 7 pm Sunday Masses are Candlelight Masses on December 1st, 8th, 15th, and 29th.

Also, this weekend the Marian Antiphon changes to the Alma Redemptoris Mater. I personally found this one the hardest for me to learn, but I think I have it down now. It is only around for advent and Christmas seasons, so we don ’t have as long to learn it.

If you wold like to hear it sung, here is a nice version on youtube (with a shortened link):https://tinyurl.com/464rzknu

Also, I think this translation from Wikepidia captures the meaning:

Loving Mother of the Redeemer, who remains the accessible Gateway of Heaven, and Star of the Sea, Give aid to a falling people that strives to rise; O Thou who begot thy holy Creator, while all nature marvelled, Virgin before and after receiving that “Ave” from the mouth of Gabriel, have mercy on sinners.

May this advent season be truly blessed for you and your family.

pax et bonum,

Father John Mosimann