On this Third Sunday of Advent we celebrate Gaudete (Joy) Sunday.  It captures the sense of joyful expectation that God’s great plan for us is near.  John the Baptist leads the way to God’s kingdom.
     This week offers three opportunities for people to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The first scheduled Rite of Communal Reconciliation is Sunday (today) at 2:30 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi parish at the St. Anthony site.  Then we come home to Christ the Good Shepherd on Tuesday, December 17^th at 7:00 p.m. and finish at Holy Spirit Parish on Thursday, December 19th at 7:00 p.m.  It’s an excellent way to prepare the way of the Lord.  Christmas is so near that you can feel  it.
     Today at the Cathedral, Dale Sisson will mark another step on the journey to becoming a Permanent Deacon for the Diocese. He will receive the ministry of Lector from Bishop Gruss at the 5:30 p.m. mass at the Cathedral. Please keep him in prayer.  He has put a lot of hard work and study into the formation program getting him ready for ordained ministry in the Church.
     You will see some decorations will be up already when you come to church next week.  This Christmas we have a very brief window of opportunity to decorate church.  I hope you are patient and understanding.  Enjoy the last of the Advent season.
                                                           Peace,
                                                              Fr. Ron