As we light the first candle of Advent, the candle of hope, we are reminded of the prophecies and promises that foretold the coming of our Savior. This season invites us to reflect on the hope that Christ brings into our lives, a hope that is steadfast and unwavering, even in the face of uncertainty.
St. Benedict, in his Rule, emphasizes the importance of living a life rooted in faith and trust in God. He teaches us to approach each day with a hopeful heart, grounded in the belief that God’s grace is ever-present and guiding us. This hope is not passive; it is active and alive, calling us to engage with our faith through prayer, work, and community.
The Children’s Revival of Participation in Sunday Mass, beginning this Advent, embodies this spirit of hope. By inviting our youngest members to take an active role in the Mass, we are planting seeds of faith and hope in their hearts. This initiative reflects St. Benedict’s vision of a community where each member, regardless of age, contributes to the spiritual life of the whole. As children participate more fully, they experience the joy and hope that comes from being part of a faith-filled community.
In this first week of Advent, let us embrace the hope that Christ brings and strive to live out this hope in our daily lives. Let us follow St. Benedict’s example, nurturing a hopeful spirit within ourselves and our community and encouraging our children to do the same. Together, we prepare our hearts for the coming of our Lord, filled with the hope that his birth brings to the world.