Advent is such a wonderful time in the Catholic Church.  This Advent is especially meaningful for me and my family because we are waiting with expectation for a new baby in March.  It has brought a new meaning and focus to Advent for us as we prepare for a new member of our family.  It’s exciting to watch and wait, and we are getting the crib, dresser, and other things around the house ready for a new member.  The Advent season is to prepare us for Jesus’ coming into our hearts in a deeper way.

At St. Joe’s, we celebrate Advent, or “coming,” in several ways.  The picture above is Father Jerry talking to a class about Saint Nicholas.  He also visited a 7th grade religion class and spoke about images of Christ’s coming.

Tomorrow (Thursday, Dec. 8), we will celebrate the Feast of Immaculate Conception.  Each of the school Masses during Advent is special–beginning in darkness and asking participants to reflect on the meaning of their lives and their faith journey.

During Advent, we also offer all students and staff an opportunity to participate in Reconciliation.  I hope you and your family are celebrating this blessed season of Advent at home.  Creighton University has great prayers for each day of Advent.  Advent is also an important time to think about those less fortunate in our community.  The weather has turned very cold, and St. Vincent de Paul is working to help those who need housing assistance.  Their organization is one way to give back during this season.  There are many other opportunities (i.e. toy drives) in our community to help.

We are blessed to celebrate this season as a school community.  Thank you for being part of our school.