Third Sunday of Advent

THE COUPLE THAT PRAYS TOGETHER STAYS TOGETHER.

 Fr. Johnny Doherty, C.Ss.R.

 December 15^th –  21^st 2024

A Day of Festival

The people asked John: ‘What must we do?’ This question was in the context of John’s proclaiming the Good News of the coming of Christ. As we prepare for Christmas this year what a good question that is for all of us. ‘What must we do?’ If you are a parent, give time to your children rather than just giving them all the costly presents that you are planning. If you are married, give your wife/husband the gift of your attention and affection rather than spending all that time apart at Christmas parties. If you are young, give some of your time and energy to those in need rather than just looking for what you can get. If you are at odds with someone, make it up. If you are in bad form, change for the sake of those close to you. And for all of us, what we must do is put Christ at the heart of Christmas and have a wonderful time.

Morning Prayer, when together

Lord God, may we your people,

who look forward to the birthday of Christ,

experience the joy of salvation

and celebrate that feast with love and thanksgiving.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

During the day, when apart

Lord, may the gift of our marriage

which we offer in faith and love

be a continual sacrifice in your honour

and truly become a source of joy and salvation

for us and for all those we love.

We ask this through Christ Our Lord.

Evening/Night Prayer together

God of mercy, may our love for each other

 bring us your divine help,

free us from our sins,

and prepare us for the birthday of our Saviour.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Questions for Action for the week

For your marriage: How can you be really romantic

for your wife/husband this week?

For others: To whom could you bring a sense of joy and well-being this week?