“Advent is thus a favorable time to pray with greater intensity, to reserve to the spiritual life the important place it deserves” (Pope Francis)
The First and Last Coming
This Sunday is the second Sunday of Advent. As we light the second Advent Wreath candle, the readings remind us to prepare for the coming of Christ at Christmas and, most importantly, his second coming at the end of time to judge the living and the dead. The themes of “New Heaven” and “New Earth,” “time and eternity,” are very prominent.
The “incarnation” of Christ on Christmas and His “Second Coming” at the end of time, are two great mysteries profoundly highlighted by the fact that God stands outside of history. Hence, the idea of the “end of the world” or “end of time” can only be comprehended in the light of an “eternity” with God who is outside time and has no beginning or end. This is where our Christian Faith takes over. It is also why death would make sense as a “new beginning,” and not the end.
Hence, Christ came the first time to bring His kingdom to us (Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth …). When he comes again in glory, he will take us to His kingdom of truth, holiness, light, grace, justice, and peace. We must therefore prepare for this journey which will begin at the end of our lives and conclude at the end of time.
This is why John the Baptist reminds us in the wilderness to “Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.” This world, like our hearts and minds, is our wilderness of temptation, sin, worry, anxiety, sadness, sorrow, confusion, etc. The way that leads to true joy and peace is the way of righteousness, truth, and justice. We must prepare through prayer, penance, and charity. As we prepare for the “two comings” of Christ, may we keep in mind that “In the first, Christ has been our Redemption; in the last, He will appear as our Life; in His coming between, He is our Rest and our Consolation!” (St Bernard of Clairvaux).
~Fr. Augustine
Advent Penance Service will be held on Friday, December 15 at 6:45 pm.
Please email bulletin notices to: bulletin@hf-cc.orgEnvelopes for Christmas Flowers are available at all entrances. If you would like to donate a Poinsettia ($10 each) in honor ormemory of a special person, please print the names on the envelope and return to the office no later that Sunday, December 10.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Saturday, December 16 at 9 am to help decorate the outside of the church.
Consider using our secure electronic giving program. eGiving will automatically process any offertory or second collection donations of your choosing. It is the most convenient way to make sure that the parish receives your gift regularly. No more checks to write or envelopes to worry about. Please click on the picture or call the office (254-547-3735) if you need assistance to establish eGiving.
New parishioners: All Catholics living within the parish boundaries (Copperas Cove and Kempner) and regularly participate in the liturgy are invited to register online. Keep in mind, church attendance alone does not make you and your family registered members. Your Privacy is Our Priority - This information is confidential and will only be used for the purpose of registering you and/or your family with Holy Family Catholic Church. We do not and will not share your information with any other individuals or businesses. This is our pledge to you!
Please click here to fill out a registration form.
Parishioners who are unable to walk in the communion line to receive the Eucharist during weekend Masses are asked to inform an usher before Mass begins each week. This will ensure that the head usher directs the Extraordinary Minister to your seat and that you do not miss the opportunity to receive Our Lord.
If you or a family member are ill or facing surgery, and would like to be anointed, please contact the office to let Fr. Augustine know at least 2 days in advance of your scheduled procedure. When it is not an emergency, please call before going to the hospital. Our number is 254-547-3735.