We’ve made it to Advent’s halfway point. That’s the message behind the rose vestments on the priest and the rose candle on the Advent wreath. We come to a Sunday where the season’s dark color lightens. We hear that Sunday summon us to rejoice in these passing days that have brought us closer to Christmas. But, at the same time, this reminder of time’s passing may jolt us into wondering what we’ve been doing with our Advent? Have we prayed more deeply? Have we been more generous in the works of charity and justice? Have we taken account of our weakness and sin? Of course, in God’s grace, we’re called to use well these final two weeks of Advent. In the busyness of these days, let’s think again about two ways in which we can use our time.

First, a reminder of the remaining opportunities for confession. Advent reminds us that we’re sinners and Advent reminds us that we have a Savior. We can experience that mercy in the sacrament he left us. Before Christmas we have two penance services in our area: this Wednesday, December 14 at 7 p.m. at St. Joseph the Worker and next Wednesday, December 21 at 7 p.m. at Resurrection in Muncy. Please remember our Monday evenings from 5:30 to 7 p.m. both weeks—and continuing after Christmas.

Secondly, give some thought to Christmas Mass. Unless these two parishes live in a different universe from the rest of Catholicism, we tend to want to come to Mass early on Christmas Eve which means crowds in churches and parking lots. We do have other options: 11 p.m. (rather like the traditional Midnight Mass—late enough to allow a Christmas Eve with family first) and 9 a.m. on Christmas Day. The crowding stresses drop significantly at those two celebrations. Of course, you are welcome whenever you come—but, make careful and prayerful choices as you prepare to celebrate this great feast.