Beginning the Church’s liturgical year, Advent (from, “ad-venire” in Latin or “to come”) is the season encompassing the four Sundays (and weekdays) leading up to the celebration of Christmas.
The Advent season is a time of preparation that directs our hearts and minds to Christ’s second coming at the end of time and to the anniversary of Our Lord’s birth on Christmas. From the earliest days of the Church, people have been fascinated by Jesus’ promise to come back. But the scripture readings during Advent tell us not to waste our time with predictions. Advent is not about speculation. Our Advent readings call us to be alert and ready, not weighted down and distracted by the cares of this world (Lk 21:34-36). Like Lent, the liturgical color for Advent is purple since both are seasons that prepare us for great feast days. Advent also includes an element of penance in the sense of preparing, quieting, and disciplining our hearts for the full joy of Christmas.
Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception
Due to the Second Sunday of Advent falling December 8th, the holy day is transferred to Monday, December 9th. All Catholics have the obligation to attend Mass on Monday for this Solemnity.
Please see the holy day schedule:
Holy Infancy Church:
7:30 AM English
12:15 PM English
7:00 PM Spanish/Portuguese
Incarnation Church:
8:30 AM English School Mass – open to all
7:00 PM English
