Advent
With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, the start of Advent isn't too far away. As we speed into the holiday season, Advent can often be nudged to the periphery, despite the fact that Advent can have a profound effect on our attitude about Christmas. Advent is a time to concentrate on Mary, the mother of God. Sometimes we forget that Mary put her hopes, dreams, and aspirations on hold in order to answer God's call to be the mother of Jesus. Mary said "yes," and that changed her whole life. A question for us to ponder this Advent season: How many times have we put our plans aside and said "yes" to God's plan for us?
We live in a throwaway culture where it can feel easier to replace something than repair it. Father Gene asks whether we’re bringing that same mindset into our relationships—and what happens when we choose forgiveness, say “I’m sorry,” and decide to stay.
Depression can make life feel empty, isolating, and without meaning. Father Gene talks honestly about facing those feelings without pretending they aren’t real—and how connection, meaningful action, and simply reaching out can help bring a little light into the darkness.