That’s right, it’s still Christmas!

We are in the part of our liturgical year called the Christmas season, which goes until January 8, when we celebrate the Baptism of the Lord. We find ourselves immersed in the profound mystery of the Incarnation—the miraculous moment when the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. It is a time of joy, celebration, and contemplation for the Catholic faithful, as we reflect on the wondrous gift of God's love.

As we traverse the sacred season of Advent, our hearts are enveloped in the warmth and glow of the candles on the Advent wreath, each one representing a different facet of our spiritual preparation. This week, as we focus on love, we delve into the profound essence of God's love revealed in the unfolding narrative of Christ's coming.

On the Third Sunday of Advent, the Church in her wisdom, gives us, the people of God, Gaudete Sunday, which is Latin for “Rejoice” Sunday. Gaudete Sunday, signified by the rose colored candle in the middle of the Advent season of waiting and preparation reminds us of joy. Joy not because the Lord has come, but because the Lord is coming.

As we enter into the season of Advent, we are called to embark on a spiritual journey marked by anticipation, hope, and, most importantly, peace. Rooted in the rich traditions of the Church, Advent serves as a sacred time of preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus, inviting us to delve deeper into the profound peace that only He can provide.

Advent is a season of Hope – certainly a virtue that may be illusive in a world torn by strife and in a society which seems to commercialize everything. Yet, Hope is the key to keeping the season holy. We anticipate two important events in these sacred days. We look forward to commemorating the first coming of Christ, the Prince of Peace, on Christmas as we also look forward to His second coming at the end of time.

Although Thanksgiving will be celebrated this week across the nation, everything around us is pointing towards Christmas already. In some cases, retailers have been advertising their sales since before Halloween and certainly their stores have been decorated with Christmas trees and such for several weeks now. Advertisements on television, radio and social media proclaim the joyous news of Christmas’ sales! It is difficult not to have anxiety this time of year if you’re a parent or grandparent trying to figure out how Santa will ever be able to fill children’s stockings this year.