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?
Even in a world marked by heartbreak and uncertainty, we still have the power to bring hope. Father Gene reflects on life's greatest calling—not to control everything that happens, but to create life through compassion, presence, and everyday choices.
Some of life's greatest lessons don't come from success—they come from learning to let go. Father Gene reflects on forgiveness, releasing old burdens, and discovering the quiet freedom that comes from choosing grace over regret, one day at a time.