A time to prepare and ponder

A message from Vice President Fr Anthony Casamento csma: This Advent season reminds us to not lose hope and remain ready to act for justice.

In the Gospel for the First Sunday of Advent, Mark writes for the early community of Christians in Rome at a time when Roman imperial forces have destroyed the Jewish temple and the followers of Jesus face violent persecution. 

It must have been hard to hold onto hope.  Amid this suffering, Jesus assures them the “Master of the house” will return. He tells them that Son of man will come in power and glory to set all wrongs right.  

Meanwhile, his message to them – and to us – is not to be found complacent and sleeping but rather to “stay awake.” 

As we progress through this beautiful season of Advent, may we also 'keep awake', not losing hope in the face of the challenges of this world, but ready to act together. 

Treasuring each other and our common home, may we stand ready at the door for the hour of our Master’s return.

Over the remaining weeks of Advent, I invite you to prepare by reflecting on the following:

• On challenging days, what gives you hope? What signs of hope, near or far, have come to your attention lately?
• In Fratelli Tutti, Pope Francis writes, “Hope is bold; it can look beyond personal convenience, the petty securities and compensations which limit our horizon, and it can open us up to grand ideals that make life more beautiful and worthwhile” (#55). When have you witnessed ‘bold’ hope?
• How might your hope for the future help you to work for justice now?

Wishing you all a blessed Advent as we prepare for a joy filled Christmas and holiday season!