Dear Friend of Carmel Mission,
“Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks.” Wonderful advice from St. Paul but perhaps easier said than done. Rejoice yes, but always? What about when confronted with the sadness and disappointments that life presents? Pray, yes, but unceasingly? What about all the other things I need to do in God’s service? Give thanks for my blessings of course, but in all circumstances?. We can rejoice always, pray unceasingly and give thanks for all things when we turn ourselves, our work, our play, our very being over to the God who loves us and wants to be part of every moment of our lives. With God there is always space for joy, for the closeness to God that is prayer, and for thanksgiving in every breath we take.
I am grateful and impressed with how our community has reacted to the difficulties of the pandemic. In a time when we could have atrophied and turned inwards, we have instead broadened our reach. We are growing our virtual community and our online presence, celebrating the sacraments as safely as possible in the beautiful outdoor setting that God has given us, and continuing our outreach ministries in new and ever more important ways.
This Advent and Christmas season we have a program of sorts, The Season of Hope, that strives to unite us in a time that would usually filled with the togetherness of holiday parties and concerts as well as our beloved liturgies. Whether you can join us online or in our courtyard, or both I invite you to continue to pray with us throughout this season. We will be sharing photos and updates on our various events in our e-bulletin online. While this may not feel like the “year of favor from the Lord,” that the prophet Isaiah spoke of, when I consider our blessings and the opportunities we have been able to take advantage of in this time, I see cause for much hope and rejoicing.
I wish you and your loved ones continued Advent blessings of good health, renewed hope and great joy,
Fr. Paul
Please take a moment to read our Carmel Mission weekly bulletin.