December: a new liturgical year begins.
Advent calls us to wait in hope as God’s promise of salvation unfolds.
From centuries ago, the words of our founders still resound, full of wisdom and insight for today. The Virgin of Guadalupe and Saints Elizabeth Ann Seton, Vincent de Paul, and Louise de Marillac are our companions during these days of Advent. They show us how to seek the face of God each day in new and surprising places.
Listen, and let it penetrate your heart….Let nothing discourage you, nothing depress you,
let nothing alter your heart or your countenance.
Do not fear any illness or vexation or pain.
Are you not under my shadow and protection?
Are you not in the folds of my mantle and in the embrace of my arms?
Is there anything else you need?
— Words of Our Lady of Guadalupe to St. Juan Diego
(Elizabeth Seton treasured a painting of Guadalupe that had been given to her for the Sisters.)
ST. ELIZABETH ANN SETON
Oh if indeed you could pass this Advent with us — …do try much to take all its grace — it is so sweet a season for comforting the poor and in every one our coming Lord.
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL
Jesus Christ was the sovereign Lord, and yet during the time he lived with Mary and Joseph he did nothing without their advice. I would ask you to honor this mystery by acting accordingly, so that God will lead you and aid you.
ST. LOUISE DE MARILLAC
The Crib is the throne of the Kingdom of Holy Poverty in which I ardently desire to be a subject, since the King of the Poor loved this virtue above all others. He proved this by allowing only the truly poor and simple to recognize him. |
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