The Third Sunday of Advent is traditionally called “Gaudete Sunday” or the “Sunday to rejoice.” It goes back to a time when Advent was more deeply penitential than it is today. Gaudete Sunday signaled the halfway mark signifying that Advent was almost over. People were invited to rejoice that Christmas was near.
Today we had great reason to rejoice with all of the boys and girls who were in our church today in preparation for their First confession and Communion. The church was beautifully decorated by the girls school with their art work depicting the Advent wreath.
They placed lovely biblical symbols on the Jesse tree.
They dramatised the gospel and listened with great attention to Mick from our local V de P conference as he made the annual appeal for our Maynooth conference to assist those in need in our community.
As is normal at the end of mass we displayed some photos of children’s parents on their First Communion Day.
Given the time of the year the Elf appeared after eating my chocolate.
Great gathering afterwards in our Pastoral Centre plenty of goodies for all.
Thanks to all the parents who have helped out to date. I take this opportunity to wish all of you a happy, peaceful and holy Christmas.
Fr. Frank