Dear family members and friends: We are entering the second Sunday of Advent which symbolizes Peace. It denotes the expectation that there will be peace on earth after all divisions and destruction. Jesus is the King of peace and we expect the establishment of peace through Jesus. Today’s Gospel brings to us the message given through John the Baptist to “repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” It is really the invite to prepare the way for the Lord, and make straight paths for him. Through the observation of the days of the Advent, let us prepare the way for the Lord by our prayers, sacrifices and good deeds of charity. Let us specially pray for the peace in the world, especially in those places where there are all types of atrocities and problems. Amen
Our Our Advent Appeal second collections will be for The Friends of the Holy Land. The Christians of the Holy Land have continued to experience pressure from all sides. Knowing that the wider Christian community is thinking of them renews their spirits and helps them find hope in what can feel like a hopeless situation. Let us remember those striving to remain in the birthplace of our Hope.Advent Appeal second collections will be for The Friends of the Holy Land. The Christians of the Holy Land have continued to experience pressure from all sides. Knowing that the wider Christian community is thinking of them renews their spirits and helps them find hope in what can feel like a hopeless situation. Let us remember those striving to remain in the birthplace of our Hope.
Dear family members and friends: We are entering another Liturgical year on this first Sunday of Advent. The theme of this Sunday is Hope, which calls us to trust in God’s promises and anticipate his arrival in faith. Today’s Gospel reminds us to stay awake to receive the Lord, who comes at an hour which we do not know. St. Paul also warns us to wake from sleep for salvation is nearer to us. Let us get ready to receive this salvation with great hope. Let this season of Advent be a season of preparation to receive the Lord into our lives. Amen
Dear family members and friends: Today we celebrate the feast of Christ the King. Jesus Christ is the King of the universe. St. Paul says, “He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” His Kingdom is the Kingdom of eternal salvation. On the cross Jesus tells the thief on the right side, “Truly I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” That is the eternal salvation. Christ is the King of that paradise, the place of eternal salvation. Let us proclaim Jesus as our King and submit ourselves to Him to be with Him always. Amen
St. Simon Stock Catholic Church 
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