St. Mark's News & Events for December 17, 2006

Greetings as we begin another week!

As we get closer to the birthday of Jesus, I'm sure some anxiety is starting to set into some of us. Shopping needs to get finished, what do we buy for Uncle Harry and Aunt Jane who have everything?! The kids are cranky after all day at the mall and they're hungry. I guess sometimes it's not too bad being a priest during this hectic time of year, especially when it comes to getting ready for the Christmas Feast. However, sometimes us priests even get real stressed out preparing for that magical day and we also have to remind ourselves what this season is all about. This year, our family made an agreement that we wouldn't buy gifts for each other and to give some of that money to those who really need it. I have to say, this is the first year that the stresses of gift giving are not evident for me and this experience of a peaceful Advent will finally turn into Christmas joy for real! I have been amazed how our parish has embraced the Christmas giving tree located in the narthex. All the "ornaments" are gone and it proves to be a great Christmas for kids who are less fortunate. I would like to thank Chuck and Katie Thibault for all their work these past years in coordinating this event. You have brought joy to lots of children. If Advent peace hasn't happened to you this year, why not try it the next time Advent rolls around and truly experience this gift of peace that God wants us to so desperately have in our lives.

This past week has also seen an increase of people in hospitals with various forms of illness. Fr. Isaac and I have been to UCH more times than the doctors who work there. I am happy to say that they all are getting better and I ask that you continue to pray for those who are sick in hospitals and at home so that they will experience God's loving care during this special time.

No golf to report on this week since I didn't want to disturb my Advent peace! However, I did get some new shoes, which will at least make me look good the next time I play.

Well, that is all for now. Continue to enjoy the gift that God has given us in each other.

Peace, Fr. David