Gaudate Sunday

My dear friends in Christ,

This day has been traditionally called Gaudate Sunday, or Rejoice Sunday, marked by the contrasting rose candle on the Advent wreath and vestments. In today’s Gospel, John the Baptist sends one of his disciples to ask: “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” Jesus responds to this inquiry by pointing out things that are happening. “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them. John had been out in the desert offering baptisms as a means to repent of sin and for preparation of the arrival of the Messiah. Jesus’ answer to his question cites Isaiah as a means to ensure John the Baptist comprehends the moment, as well as describing many of the episodes in the Gospel. Jesus performed these works of mercy to make sure people knew who He was, and that the Lord had sent Him to save them from their sin. John clearly understands this, but few others do. Where are we in our own preparation for the coming of the Messiah?

As you will see, the Annual Financial Report is included with this bulletin. We finished 2018 operating at a deficit and we have finished 2019 operating at a deficit as well. I can only ask that when it comes to parish debt reduction you truly be as generous as your means may allow.

May God bless you all,

Father John