We are called to "rejoice always," and it’s easy to do so when things are good. But when things are bad or dark or depressing or without hope? It's not so easy, and yet at those moments we should praise God all the more - not for the darkness, but so that the light of the world overcomes the darkness. By speaking and proclaiming light into that darkness, we are acting as agents of Christ. No matter our situation, remember to rejoice, for the light will always overcome the darkness.

Readings at this Mass: Zep 3:14–18a | Phil 4:4–7 | Lk 3:10–18

Though none of us can live exactly as Mary did, being immaculately conceived and living without sin, we are called as Catholic Christians to lead a life filled with grace. How do we do that? Attending Mass, receiving the Eucharist, going to confession - all these things help return us to a state of grace.

Readings at this Mass: Gn 3:9–15, 20 | Eph 1:3–6, 11–12 | Lk 1:26–38

Each one of us is called to share the good news by imitating John the Baptist to be a missionary, helping others to encounter Christ and to prepare and straighten the paths for God. Joy, peace, suffering, and persecution are parts of any journey, including the journey of faith in God. However, only in the journey of faith in God with our missionary effort can we face suffering and persecutions gracefully on the way toward the eternal peace and joy.

Readings at this Mass: Bar 5:1–9 | Phil 1:4–6, 8–11 | Lk 3:1–6

The lesson that Advent holds out to all of us, in the midst of all the purchasing, planning, and frantic activity around us, is patience. Trusting that when life doesn’t look the way we think it should look, God is still in control. Remember: some things can’t be rushed. God has a plan, and if we open our lives to Him and let Him work, He’ll get us where we need to be - even if He doesn’t do it the way we would do it. Advent means remembering how to wait.

Readings at this Mass: Jer 33:14-16 | 1 Thes 3:12—4:2 | Lk 21:25-28, 34-36

What are you thankful for? That’s the question Fr. Bill asks of our Thanksgiving Day Mass attendees, after playing a video that reminds us not to take things for granted. Consider what you are thankful for as you listen to their responses!

Readings at this Mass: Sir 50:22-24 | 1 Cor 1:3-9 | Lk 17:11-19

Jesus is more than just an ordinary person or a religious leader. He is God, our creator, the reason we exist. The laws of physics and science depend on him. Our ultimate happiness resides in him. Our ability to go to heaven is only through him. He is the King of the Universe, our Lord, our Messiah - and He loves you. The king of all things loves you.

Readings at this Mass: Dn 7:13–14 | Rv 1:5–8 | Jn 18:33b–37

When it comes to preparing for anything, often we think of stocking up or loading up on things. The process of preparation often gives us anxiety, taking away our peace due to the unknowns. But as people of faith, being prepared is to not be in fear, to not let the idea of the end times frighten us. Being prepared is to let go of our sins, vices, unhealthy habits, and the things we do not need to gain peace and to be free of anxiety.

Readings at this Mass: Dn 12:1–3 | Heb 10:11–14, 18 | Mk 13:24–32

Right now, it’s far more helpful – emotionally, psychologically, relationally – to be proactive and focus on the things over which we have some influence, rather than to send ourselves into tailspins reacting to what we can’t control. Think about God’s initiative in your own life. Today, concretely, what can you influence? Who can you help?

Readings at this Mass: 1 Kgs 17:10–16 | Heb 9:24–28 | Mk 12:38–44