An Advent Invitation To Support Loretto’s Work for Peace And Justice

First Sunday of Advent: The Season of Eternal Newness

Pope Francis prays: 

Son of God, Jesus, through you all things were made.
You were formed in the womb of Mary our Mother,
You became part of this earth, 
and you gazed upon this world with human eyes.
Today you are alive in every creature. Praise be to You.

Laudato Si’,  page 119

Look around. Nature is going to help us this Advent understand God’s greatest gift to us: Jesus. This year as we in Loretto are applying Laudato Si’ to our prayer life and mission, we try to understand that nature is showing us the process: First there is a little seed, then a sprout, then maybe a blossom and finally the fruit. Or you might think that first there is a larva, then a chrysalis and finally a butterfly. This unfolding was all God’s idea in the first place: a prediction, then an angel visiting, then a maiden listening and finally a baby. Amazing stages of growth. We wait to understand what is happening. Christ is hidden within each of us, in the dark of winter, waiting to be born. Jesus is the gift of eternal newness. That’s the best gift of all.

The writer Margaret Silf tells us, “It is always Advent, because Christ is continually struggling to come to birth wherever and whenever we are.” 

It is always Advent. Look around. Nature tells us of the changes to come. We wait during this season of eternal newness and we watch for the fulfillment of our hope. All of creation holds vigil with us as it has done since the beginning of time.

Traditionally, during this season of waiting and watching your mailbox brings letters that tell the story of good people doing good works. These letters ask for your donation to very good causes. This week Loretto’s Facebook page will tell the story of what Loretto is doing in mission. Joining us in our work, whether through prayer, action or making a donation, is your Advent gift to us. Thank you.