1December 2024

1st Sunday of Advent

  1. Liturgical Calendar:

    • December 3: Memorial of St. Francis Xavier, Priest.
    • December 4: Memorial of St. John Damascene, Priest and Doctor of the Church.
    • December 6: Memorial of St. Nicholas of Myra, Bishop.
    • December 7: Memorial of St. Ambrose, Bishop and Doctor of the Church.
    • December 8 → 9: Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Solemnity (moved to Monday).
    1. Today is the first Sunday of Advent and the beginning of the new liturgical year. Advent has a dual nature — it is a time of preparation for the celebration of the birth of Christ, in which we celebrate the first coming of the Son of God to earth, and at the same time, a time of liturgical expression of our longing for the second coming at the end of time. Therefore, Advent is a time of sacred and joyful anticipation. The character of Advent is emphasized by modest decoration in the church and the prominent use of the symbol of light — the candle. Advent is divided into two parts: the first part, until December 16, has a pronounced eschatological focus, and the second, from December 17, is oriented toward the direct preparation for the birth of Christ.
    2. Also, today marks the beginning of the new month of the Living Rosary. Please follow the information on the bulletin board.
    3. On December 5, Thursday, at 19:00, there will be a meeting for those preparing for Confirmation.
    4. This week also includes the first Friday and first Saturday of the month. On Friday, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament will be held from 17:00 with the opportunity for confession.
    5. On Saturday, there will be a catechesis for adults. The first meeting will be from 13:00 to 15:00, followed by a break and tea organized by the participants.
    6. The latest issue of the Bible Guide will be available in the sacristy on Sunday after Mass.
    7. On December 8, Sunday, there will be a Mass in Polish at 18:00. Starting from the new year, this practice will be discontinued due to the lack of pastoral necessity.
    8. A collection for the organization of St. Nicholas' visit will be held after Sunday Mass.

    Pastor Fr. Michael
    Photo by E. Chudov