Third Sunday of Advent: Gaudete Sunday

Readings of the day: RB 62Mass: Isaiah 61:1-2a, 10-11; Resp. Psalm (Lk 1); 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24; John 1:6-8, 19-28

AUGURI! BUON COMPLEANNO.HAPPY BIRTHDAY, POPE FRANCIS.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice.Indeed, the Lord is near.
Welcome to Gaudete Sunday, the Third Sunday of Advent!
As we rejoice wholeheartedly, we also begin our last week of preparation for the celebration of Christmas. In these days, one might reflect on how to prepare in a more direct way for the Nativity of the Lord. The Baptist heralds: ‘Make straight the way of the Lord!’ Saint Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonians, offers: Rejoice always; Pray without ceasing; in all circumstances give thanks. In what way will you testify to the light this week? A few suggestions: sit quietly with someone who is grieving; embrace someone who is anxious; reach out to someone with whom you have difficulties; sit with your family, community, or book club and allow each member to share something she is grateful for; listen to your friend tell a story, even if you have heard it before; contact a person with whom you are estranged.
Grant us the grace, living and true God,to be to be generous in showing kindness and mercy.
Say to the faint of heart: Be strong and do not fear.Behold, our God will come, and he will save us. 
MARANATHA.