As children, many of us remember this time of the year as being a time of anticipation and excitement. It felt like the days leading up to Christmas Day went so slow. As an adult the days leading up to Christmas Day can often be hectic and tiring. Attending various Christmas parties, shopping for Christmas presents amongst the rush of the crowds and attending family gatherings. By the time Christmas comes around many people are already over Christmas itself.

It is important to take the time to purposely reflect on the meaning of Advent (coming from the Latin word Adventus – meaning the coming) as a time of waiting and preparation. The purpose of the season is to help us focus on the Second Coming of Christ; to take time for prayer, stillness, and sacrifice (I encourage you to access the resources in the link below). It is only by doing this that we can reduce the stresses of planning for Christmas and magnify the real meaning of Christmas. Let us enjoy the Christmas decorations, let us sing with intent the traditional Christmas carols, let us see how we can be a ‘gift’ to others, especially the needy and focus our attention on the nativity.

I would like to thank all staff and students who have ministered in the various Masses over the past couple of weeks and this year. These are wonderful times to gather to celebrate the Eucharist and give thanks to God as a Catholic Community. In particular, I would like to thank our Faith and Social Justice Captain Maya Simunija, who have made a wonderful contribution to faith and social justice within our College.

May you experience a joyful, peaceful and holy Christmas with your families.

Catholic Advent Resource Guide 2023

See local Parish websites for upcoming Christmas Mass timetables:

St Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, Caroline Springs Website
Sacred Heart/Emmaus St Albans & Sydenham Website
Resurrection Catholic Parish, Kings Park Website