Hey there,
Christmas is 13 days away. Everyone is knee-deep in preparations … or running behind.
Holiday decorating.
Shopping and gift wrapping.
Baking and meal planning.
These are all a part of the commercial aspects of Christmas that fill up our time. They get in the way of Advent and prevent us from spending time doing what God wants us to do.
As Catholics, we are called during Advent to prepare for the coming of Jesus Christ.
With prayer … confession … and charity.
It’s up to us to remove all the obstacles in our life to prepare for the coming of our Lord.
To find time to pray and to listen to the Lord. He will give us direction if we put ourselves in a position to hear Him.
To examine our conscious and seek absolution for our sins through reconciliation.
And to give of ourselves to help others, whether through time, talent or treasure.
This week’s Genuflect features resources to help us all focus on the important preparations for Advent … prayer, confession and charity … so we will experience the real joy of Christmas on December 25th.
Keep Believing-
Katy Barrilleaux
Editor, Genuflect
Resources
Why Advent is a Season of Discernment
While we may not often think of it in this way, Advent is a season of discernment. To hear the Lord’s voice, various things are needed.
10 Ways to Hear from God Regularly
God is constantly speaking to people. But too often, they miss out on hearing God’s messages because they seek His guidance only occasionally – usually when they’re going through a crisis or facing a major decision. Then, with a dire need to hear from God, people become confused and frustrated when they don’t clearly hear what they should do. They start to wonder how to hear from God and why they aren’t. Here are 10 ways how you can hear from God and recognize his voice regularly.
What Does it Really Mean to Observe Advent?
Amid the frenzy of pre-Christmas preparations, the meaning of Advent can be obscured. While crafts and activities can help one better celebrate Christmas, it’s important not to let them distract from the true purpose of the season.
Pope Francis: Advent Demands Conversion, Recognizing our Mistakes
Advent is a time of waiting and expectation, Pope Francis said Sunday, but this season also requires a “journey of conversion.” Here’s how.
6 Ways to Examine Your Conscience for Confession
The Catechism says, “The reception of this sacrament ought to be prepared for by an examination of conscience made in the light of the word of God.” Here are some ways to prepare your heart and mind for confession.
Getting More From Confession
Advent is upon us! It is a time of preparation for our Lord’s birth at Christmas. Whenever we encounter Jesus, it means we have to be ready for him! Therefore Advent, like Lent, is a special time of conversion: it is a penitential season. Here’s how to get more out of confession.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Sacrament of Penance/Reconciliation/Confession
Many people have questions about the Sacrament of Penance. This list has been prepared in order to try to respond to the most common of them. It is our hope that those who have questions about the Sacrament of Penance may find this FAQ useful in helping to overcome whatever hesitations they may have in coming to receive the sacrament. It is also hoped that Catholics who frequently receive this sacrament may find this list a means for greater appreciation of what they already esteem.
True Gifts of Advent and Christmas
The Christmas season is supposed to be about giving over receiving. Doing good over doing well. Compassion over consumption. Here are some very good ways (and even better reasons) to rethink your giving this Christmas season.
Being the Body of Christ at Christmas
While on earth, a mere touch from Jesus could bring comfort and healing. He, however, is now in heaven. Therefore, He left us to continue His mission of spreading His Gospel and love. Look around you. Someone in your midst is suffering. Reach out to them. Share God’s love and concern. Here are a few ideas.
Exclusive Photos: The Unveiling of the Vatican Nativity Scene
The 75-foot Christmas tree in St. Peter’s Square was lit last week and the life size 700+ ton sand sculpture Nativity scene unveiled. See exclusive photos and read excerpts from Pope Francis’ reflections.
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Photo by Luke Porter on Unsplash
