Weekly Letter from the Pastor

Dear Fellow Parishioners of St. Benedict:

The Advent Season and approach of Christmas is now close to fruition as we celebrate Christmas in just ten days time. I hope that everyone is making progress on all of the tasks and projects of the holiday season. More importantly, though, I hope everyone has been able to take advantage of Advent todo some spiritual reflection and preparation. Advent and Christmas are at their very core and definition religious observances. Therefore, it is our responsibility to make sure that we are indeed ready for what the season offers us: a time to reflect on the coming of God into our world, our human experiences, and ultimately our lives through the great mystery of the Incarnation of the Word of God.

If you missed the opportunity for Confession here last Sunday, there is a penance service this afternoon (Sunday,December 15th) at St. Mary Church in Colts Neck. The format is the same as ours, so feel free to show up anytime between three and four this afternoon.

On Tuesday, December 17th the Faith Formation office is offering an Advent prayer service and reflection after the 9:00 am Mass and again in the evening at 7:00 pm. This is good way to take a moment and focus on our Advent preparations.

This Thursday evening December 19th at 7:00 pm we will celebrate the Simbang Gabi Mass here. Please feel free to join the Filipino community for this Advent tradition. Simbang Gabi is a novena of Masses celebrated before Christmas. Though usually in the morning before sunrise, here in the US is it generally celebrated in the evening to accommodate our work and school schedules.

You will note that this weekend the priests are wearing the rose colored vestments, which we do only on two days of the year. The Third Sunday of Advent, Gaudate Sunday, is the reminder that the time of preparation and waiting is coming to an end, and we rejoice (hence gaudate)

Things are progressing well here as we prepare for Christmas.

I hope everyone has a blessed and peaceful week ahead.
Fr. Garry