.jpg)
"O Come, O Come Emmanuel!" This familiar hymn reminds the church of the season of Advent, a time traditionally marked for remembering the years of preparation and consecration prior to the coming of the Messiah.For many centuries, the Church has identified the beginning of the Christmas celebration with a time of reflection and expectation called Advent.Today, we mark Advent in the church with the display of a wreath - its circle reminds us of God Himself, eternal and endlessly merciful. It is evergreen - reminding us of the hope of eternal life. The four outer candles incorporated into the display represent the time of waiting and preparation for the Messiah during the four Sundays of Advent. The light of the candles reminds us of the Light of world, and the prophetic promise of His coming. The white central candle of the Advent wreath, lighted at Christmas, reminds us of the fulfillment of His first Advent and the pure, humble means by which He came.Christians today have tasted of His first coming as Savior, experiencing His forgiving grace and saving power. Through faith, we have learned about and embraced the truths of His virgin birth, His sinless life, His atoning death, and His glorious resurrection. In these days of tragedy, uncertainty and war, let us arise to renewed hope and expectancy. In this Advent season, may we be even more encouraged, hopeful, and purposeful, looking with passion for the Second Advent of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Let us create a Sacred Space for Jesus the Incarnate Saviour in our communities, schools, orphanages, social work centres and hospitals by being Mystics .
I wish all of you dear sisters a grace-filled season of Advent!