Today, we begin the sacred season of Advent, a four-week period that leads to Christmas festivities. This season has a two-fold character: during the first two weeks, we direct our minds and hearts toward the second coming of Christ (also known as the Parousia) or the end of time, which we do not know the day or hour of. The last two weeks focus on Christ's first coming to humanity in the flesh, which we celebrate at Christmas. For this reason, Advent is a time of devotion and joyful expectation.

As the first two weeks of Advent begin, the gospel draws our attention to the second coming of Christ, revealing certain truths and the dramatic events that will unfold. It reminds us that the Parousia will reflect the significant themes from the Biblical narrative of the Great Flood. In those times, Noah, a faithful servant of God, prepared himself with vigilance and obedience during the calm before the storm. When the floodwaters arrived, he was ready and steadfast, while others-caught up in their daily routines of eating, drinking, celebrating, and pursuing earthly pleasures-were caught off guard and swept away by the deluge.

This powerful message serves as a solemn reminder for us all. We must never allow ourselves to become so consumed by the temporal concerns of this world that we lose sight of eternal life. Though our earthly responsibilities may feel significant, they should never overshadow our awareness of the Divine. We must hold fast to the understanding that our livesevery moment, every breath-are ultimately in the hands of God. When His call comes-whether it be at dawn, noon, or twilight-let us be found vigilant, prepared, and ready to respond to our Creator.

Additionally, the gospel indicates that the coming of Christ will be a time of separation. Two people engaged in the same activity will be separated; one will be taken to heaven, while the other will be left behind to face their fate. This event signifies the moment of judgment when God will gather to Himself those who are His own.

On the other hand, the predominant theme in the liturgy of the word over the last two weeks of Advent is inspired by the message of the Prophet Isaiah: "A voice of one crying out in the desert, Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths" (Isaiah 40:3). As we prepare the way for the Lord, we are called to practice repentance and to increase our good deeds. This preparation helps ensure that our hearts are ready to welcome the Savior at Christmas.

To express sentiments of repentance during the liturgy, the Gloria is omitted, the use of the organ and other musical instruments is limited, and floral decorations at the altar are kept minimal. This is done to prevent anticipating the full joy of Christmas.

However, the best way to prepare for the coming of the Lord is to go to Confession, in response to the call of John the Baptist: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!" With that in mind, we will hold a communal celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation in the church on Wednesday, December 17, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. We will follow the order for reconciling several penitents with individual confession and absolution. We have invited about seven priests to assist with confessions that evening, providing you with a variety of confessors to choose from. Therefore, I encourage you not to miss this opportunity.

In God's service and yours,

Fr. Thomas Kagumisa

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