Bursting forth

     My apologies for not posting the last few days.  But with the first of the week, I'm at it again.  The weekend was busy with Reconciliations (here and at the neighboring parish for 1st Penance), Masses (our second weekend with the new Roman Missal translations which, by the way, went rather well  - people are catching on), a baptism and other things.

     The Advent readings continue to show us the transforming presence and power of God in our lives, and the effect that that presence brings to us.  When the paralyzed man was lowered through the roof and placed before Jesus, he was healed and forgiven his sins.  He stood up immediately, glorifying God.  Those who were there, believer and skeptic alike also glorified God.  There was nothing else that they could do.  The Hebrew scriptures remind us that those whom the Lord has ransomed will return to Zion singing, filled with everlasting joy and gladness.  They were compelled because they were bursting forth in praise of God's goodness and love.

     We tend to be too refined at times to express our joy and gladness.  Yesterday our choir was joined by Diana Mikash in an Advent piece at the presentation of gifts that was in the style of an old spiritual.  It was beautiful, and brought to my mind those who were returning to Zion ... with hands clapping and voices ringing and bodies swaying.  We were a little more reserved, much to our detriment.  But the spirit was there, as was the praise of God in our hearts.

     At the 11:00 am Mass we also welcomed Kenna Grace Scrima into the family of God through Baptism.  She brought a joy to our celebration.  We thank her parents for the gift of life that they shared with us.