Dear Friend of Carmel Mission,
In the Gospel today the Angel Gabriel assuages Mary’s doubt and fear by reminding her that “nothing will be impossible for God.” We are close to the celebration of the Incarnation, that seemingly impossible moment when God, the King of Kings, is born into human form in the lowliest of settings. Especially in this uncertain and fearful time in our human history, it is comforting to remember that God is capable of anything and everything. The joy and fullness of life that may seem out of reach, perhaps even impossible, to us in this moment, is completely possible through the God who loves us with an unfathomable love.
We have been faced with many new obstacles to overcome in this year that is swiftly coming to a close. Things that seemed unimaginable, in ways small and large, back in January are now a part of our daily routines. The speed at which a vaccine has been developed is completely unprecedented, and sadly, so is the scale of the loss of life in this country from the pandemic. I certainly never imagined we would celebrate Mass, including the Masses for the Nativity of the Lord, in our Central Courtyard. Nor did I anticipate the exponential speed with which our virtual community has grown. In the face of the need to remain at a distance physically, we found new ways to be close online. I certainly never fathomed the number of Zoom meetings I would attend!
I am so very grateful for your ongoing and generous support of your spiritual home, Carmel Mission. In ordinary times all that we do is made possible by your generosity and selfless stewardship, and this has only been amplified in this difficult year. This is a crucial time of year in terms of the generosity of our community and I hope that you will consider supporting our Mission with a year end contribution. Your support can ensure that we survive and thrive in the year to come. I thank you in advance.
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.