THE LITURGICAL SEASON OF ADVENT

Embracing the Sacred Journey: Exploring the Liturgical Season of Advent

As we light the first candle on the Advent wreath and herald the beginning of a new liturgical year, we embark on a profound journey of anticipation and reflection. Advent, derived from the Latin word "adventus" meaning "coming," is a sacred season observed by Christian communities worldwide. Lasting four weeks, it serves as a spiritual preparation for the celebration of Christ's birth on Christmas.

The Symbolism of the Advent Wreath

Central to the Advent observance is the symbolic Advent wreath. Comprised of four candles, often three purple or blue and one pink, each candle represents a different aspect of the spiritual preparation:

Hope (First Week - Purple Candle): The first candle is lit to symbolize the hope of Christ's coming. As we light this candle, we reflect on the promise of a Messiah who brings light to the world.

Peace (Second Week - Purple Candle): The second candle represents peace. It reminds us of the tranquility that Christ's presence brings, inviting us to find inner calm amidst the hustle and bustle.

Joy (Third Week - Pink Candle): The pink candle, lit on the third Sunday of Advent, represents joy. It signifies the joy that comes with the imminent arrival of the Savior.

Love (Fourth Week - Purple Candle): The final candle symbolizes love. As we approach Christmas, we focus on the unconditional love embodied in the gift of Christ.

Liturgical Colors and Themes

The liturgical colors of purple or blue during Advent signify a time of penance, preparation, and royalty. The use of purple highlights the solemnity of the season, inviting believers to introspection and repentance. The third Sunday, known as Gaudete Sunday, introduces the pink candle, infusing a sense of joyful anticipation.

Practices and Traditions

Beyond the symbolism of the Advent wreath, various practices and traditions mark this season. Daily Advent calendars, Scripture readings, and prayers create a rhythm of reflection. Many Christian communities also engage in acts of kindness and charity, embodying the spirit of giving and love.

Anticipation of the Incarnation

Advent isn't merely a countdown to Christmas; it's a time of profound reflection on the mystery of the Incarnation. It calls us to ponder the significance of God becoming human, entering the world in humility and vulnerability.

Conclusion

As we journey through the liturgical season of Advent, we are reminded to cultivate a spirit of hope, peace, joy, and love. The intentional waiting and preparation echo the broader themes of patience and trust in the divine plan. In the quiet moments of Advent, we find a sacred space to draw near to the heart of the Christmas story, awakening our souls to the profound reality of Emmanuel, God with us.

PRAYER FOR DELIVERANCE FROM EVIL By St. John Paul II

In a world where challenges and adversities abound, the timeless wisdom of this beloved saint offers solace and guidance. St. John Paul II's prayer for deliverance from evil is  a powerful prayer, a beacon of hope, and a source of strength. May the words of this revered saint resonate with your soul and lead you towards a deeper understanding of the God as we explore the beauty and efficacy of prayer in seeking deliverance from the challenges that life presents.

In the spirit of St. John Paul II's profound words, we invite you to reflect on the collective cry for deliverance that echoes through time. As we delve into the heart of this prayer, may the Immaculate Heart guide us towards a renewed awareness of good and evil, and may the infinite saving power of merciful Love bring hope to a world in need  where the redemptive power of love triumphs over the darkness that threatens to obscure our collective humanity.

PRAYER FOR DELIVERANCE FROM EVIL
By St. John Paul II

Immaculate Heart! Help us to conquer the menace of evil, which so easily takes root in the hearts of the people of today, and whose immeasurable effects already weigh down upon our modern world and seem to block the paths towards the future!
From famine and war, deliver us.
From nuclear war, from incalculable self-destruction, from every kind of war, deliver us.
From sins against the life of man from its very beginning, deliver us.
From hatred and from the demeaning of the dignity of the children of God, deliver us.
From every kind of injustice in the life of society, both national and international, deliver us.
From readiness to trample on the commandments of God, deliver us.
From attempts to stifle in human hearts the very truth of God, deliver us.
From the loss of awareness of good and evil, deliver us.
From sins against the Holy Spirit, deliver us, deliver us.
Accept, O Mother of Christ, this cry laden with the sufferings of all individual human beings, laden with the sufferings of whole societies.
Help us with the power of the Holy Spirit to conquer all sin: individual sin and the "sin of the world", sin in all its manifestations.
Let there be revealed, once more, in the history of the world the infinite saving power of the Redemption: the power of merciful Love! May it put a stop to evil! May it transform consciences! May your Immaculate Heart reveal for all the light of Hope!

- Saint John Paul II, Consecration of all Individuals and Peoples of the World to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, 1984

Saint Andrew Prayer: Christmas Novena

For those with a very specific petitions, the St. Andrew Novena is one connected with answered prayers! Here’s a little excerpt about it:

November 30, is the Feast of St. Andrew. It is piously believed that whoever recites the St. Andrew Christmas Novena fifteen times a day from the feast of St. Andrew until Christmas Eve will obtain what is asked.

NOVENA

Hail and blessed be the hour and moment at which the Son of God was born of the most pure Virgin Mary, at midnight in Bethlehem, in the piercing cold. In that hour vouchsafe, O my God, to hear my prayer and grant my desires (Mention your intentions here) through the merits of Our Savior Jesus Christ, and of His most Blessed Mother. Amen.

Imprimatur

+Michael Augustine, Archbishop of New York

February 6, 1897

SAINT CECILIA, Patron of Musicians

🙏sᴀɪɴᴛ ᴄᴇᴄɪʟɪᴀ, ᴘʀᴀʏ ғᴏʀ ᴜs! ❣️

According to legend, Cecilia was a young Christian of high rank betrothed to a Roman named Valerian. Through her influence, Valerian was converted, and was martyred along with his brother. The legend about Cecilia’s death says that after being struck three times on the neck with a sword, she lived for three days, and asked the pope to convert her home into a church.

The story of Saint Cecilia is one of courage, evangelization, and love of God in the midst of persecution and strife.

St. Cecilia is most remembered today as the patron of musicians due to this legend:

“While the profane music of her wedding was heard, Cecilia was singing in her heart a hymn of love of Jesus, her true spouse.”

St. Cecilia is typically portrayed in art, statues, rosaries, and medals with a harp or other musical instruments. St. Cecilia gifts remind us to invoke the prayers of Saint Cecilia for those musicians lifting their talents up to God.

The intercession of St. Cecilia is also the patron saint of:

* Church music

* Poets

* Singers

* Authors

Prayer to Saint Cecilia:

O glorious Saint, who chose to die
instead of denying your King. 
We pray you please to help us
as His fair praise we sing!
We lift our hearts in joyous song 
to honor Him this way.
And while we sing, remembering
to sing is to doubly pray.
At once in our hearts and our
tongues we offer double prayer
Sent heavenward on winged notes
to praise God dwelling there.
While with our hearts and tongues
we try with song to praise God twice.
We ask dear Saint to help us be
united close with Christ. Amen.

The Litany of Trust (by The Sister of Life)

Praying this beautifully written litany by a Sister of Life will cast away so many anxieties, and give you peace about the past and future.

The Litany of Trust 

From the belief that I have to earn Your love, Deliver me, Jesus.

From the fear that I am unlovable, Deliver me, Jesus.

From the false security that I have what it takes, Deliver me, Jesus.

From the fear that trusting You will leave me more destitute, Deliver me, Jesus.

From all suspicion of Your words and promises, Deliver me, Jesus.

From the rebellion against childlike dependency on You, Deliver me, Jesus.

From refusals and reluctances in accepting Your will, Deliver me, Jesus.

From anxiety about the future, Deliver me, Jesus.

From resentment or excessive preoccupation with the past, Deliver me, Jesus.

From restless self-seeking in the present moment, Deliver me, Jesus.

From disbelief in Your love and presence, Deliver me, Jesus.

From the fear of being asked to give more than I have, Deliver me, Jesus.

From the belief that my life has no meaning or worth, Deliver me, Jesus.

From the fear of what love demands, Deliver me, Jesus.

From discouragement, Deliver me, Jesus.

That You are continually holding me, sustaining me, loving me, Jesus, I trust in you.

That Your love goes deeper than my sins and failings, and transforms me, Jesus, I trust in you.

That not knowing what tomorrow brings is an invitation to lean on You, Jesus, I trust in you.

That you are with me in my suffering, Jesus, I trust in you.

That my suffering, united to Your own, will bear fruit in this life and the next, Jesus, I trust in you.

That You will not leave me orphan, that You are present in Your Church, Jesus, I trust in you.

That Your plan is better than anything else, Jesus, I trust in you.

That You always hear me and in Your goodness always respond to me, Jesus, I trust in you.

That You give me the grace to accept forgiveness and to forgive others, Jesus, I trust in you.

That You give me all the strength I need for what is asked, Jesus, I trust in you.

That my life is a gift, Jesus, I trust in you.

That You will teach me to trust You, Jesus, I trust in you.

That You are my Lord and my God, Jesus, I trust in you.

That I am Your beloved one, Jesus, I trust in you.

-Sr. Faustina Maria Pia, SV 

THE DIVINE MERCY CHAPLET

The Divine Mercy Chaplet is a beautiful and profound prayer that allows us to reflect on God's infinite mercy and seek His compassion. Whether you are facing challenges, seeking guidance, or simply want to deepen your connection with Jesus, this prayer offers a sacred space for reflection and healing.

To join us, simply click the video above. Feel free to invite your friends, family, and anyone else who may benefit from this powerful prayer experience.

Let us unite in prayer, embracing the mercy that knows no bounds and trusting in the love that redeems and restores. We look forward to praying with you and creating a sacred moment together.

HOPEFUL ASSURANCE: Jeremiah 29:11 and a PRAYER of TRUST

 

Jeremiah 29:11 is a verse from the Old Testament of the Bible, specifically from the book of Jeremiah. It is often quoted and cherished by many for its message of hope and assurance from God. The verse goes as follows:

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

This verse is part of a letter that the prophet Jeremiah sent to the exiled Israelites in Babylon. In this letter, God is assuring the Israelites that, despite their current circumstances of being in exile, God has a plan for them. It conveys the idea that God's intentions for his people are positive and filled with hope.

Here are some key points of understanding regarding Jeremiah 29:11:

1. God's Knowledge: The verse begins with "For I know the plans I have for you." This indicates that God has full knowledge of the future and what lies ahead for His people.

2. Positive Intentions: God's plans for His people are positive and intended for their well-being. He desires to "prosper" them and not to harm them.

3. Hope and a Future: The verse promises that God's plans include giving His people hope and a future. It reassures them that there is a better future in store, despite their current hardships.

Many people find comfort and encouragement in this verse, especially during challenging times, as it reminds them that God has a purpose and a plan for their lives, and that this plan is ultimately for their good. It is often used as a source of inspiration and hope for a better tomorrow.

Here's a prayer inspired by the message of Jeremiah 29:11:

Heavenly Father,

I come before you with gratitude in my heart, for I know that you are a God who knows the plans you have for me. Your word in Jeremiah 29:11 reminds me of your unwavering love and your desire for my well-being. You have promised plans to prosper me and not to harm me, plans to give me hope and a future.

In the midst of life's challenges and uncertainties, I find solace in your promise. I pray that you help me trust in your divine plan, even when I cannot fully understand it. Give me the strength to remain patient and steadfast, knowing that your timing is perfect.

Guide my steps, Lord, and help me align my life with your purpose. Grant me wisdom, discernment, and a heart open to your leading. May I find hope in your promises and assurance in your love.

As I move forward in life, I place my future in your hands, knowing that you are the source of all hope and that you will lead me to the path you have prepared for me. Help me to remember that your plans are always good and that you are with me every step of the way.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Saint Michael Prayer

Michael Prayer, sought to counter darkness and defend the Church during turbulent times by praying the St. Michael Prayer after Mass. Originally abridged from Pope Leo XIII's more robust composition which he was compelled to pen after his troubling mystical experience with the “smoke of Satan,” this simple prayer creates dynamic spiritual protection and power, both in our own life and in the life of the Church.


Michael, as you point out, was never a human being. Like the other angels, he was created by God as a pure spirit — with intellect and will, but no physical body. The word “saint,” though, is derived from the Latin meaning “one who is holy,” and the holiness of Michael has long been recognized by the church.


Michael the Archangel, whom the faithful have long looked to for protection in times of peril. The patron of the military and police forces, St. Michael is a fierce warrior and defender of the children of God.
Times when we struggle to find the words asking for God's help. Turn to St. Michael whenever going through a “battle” of your own. Ask him to intercede on your behalf and protect you.


The sword and shield are used today to represent a cutting of cords or energies that no longer serve and protecting us from harm. Michael can help in healing and repairing our energies where trauma, grief, past lives or karmic debts are holding us back from our true potential in this life.


St. Michael promised that whoever would practice this devotion in his honor would have, when approaching Holy Communion, an escort of nine angels chosen from each of the nine Choirs.

A Prayer Against Financial Curses

A Prayer Against Financial Curses

This Prayer is from the Catholic Deliverance Prayer for the Laity by Father Ripperger

People: I invoke my natural law rights over my own property and finances. I lift any curses sent against me or my property or finances. I reject any sins that may have led to these curses coming against me and ask for God's forgiveness. I break any unholy bonds that allowed such curses to come upon me. I command the demons related to these curses to leave permanently and not be replaced by any other evil spirits. I ask the Blessed Virgin Mary to receive now the entire and full right of disposing of these goods according to God's holy will. May she cast out any and all evil spirits, sanctify our goods, protect them from any future evil action, and use them for the glory of God.

I, N_____, a faithless sinner, renew and ratify today the vows of my Baptism; I renounce forever Satan, his pomps and works; and I give myself entirely to Jesus Christ, the Incarnate Wisdom, to carry my cross after Him all the days of my life, and to be more faithful to Him than I have ever been before. In the presence of all the heavenly court I choose you, the Mother of God, this day for my Mother and Mistress. I deliver and consecrate to you, as your servant, my body and soul, my goods, both interior and exterior, and even the value of all my good actions, past, present and future; leaving to you the entire and full right of disposing of me, and all that belongs to me, without exception, according to your good pleasure, for the greater glory of God in time and in eternity.

Receive, O Blessed Virgin, this little offering of my servitude, in honor of and in union with, that subjection which the Eternal Wisdom deigned to have to your maternity; in homage to the power which both of you have over this poor sinner, and in thanksgiving for the privileges with which the Holy Trinity has favored you. I declare that I wish henceforth, as your true servant, to seek your honor and to obey you in all things. O admirable Mother, present me to your dear Son as His eternal servant, so that as He has redeemed me by you, by you He may receive me! O Mother of mercy, grant me the grace to obtain the true Wisdom of God; and for that end receive me among those whom you love and teach, whom you lead, nourish and protect as your children. O faithful Virgin, make me in all things so perfect a disciple, imitator and servant of the Incarnate Wisdom, Jesus Christ your Son, that I may attain, by your intercession and by your example, to the fullness of spiritual maturity in Jesus on earth and of His glory in Heaven. Amen.

[If a priest is present add the following:]

Priest: In the Most Holy Name of Jesus, by the authority of my priesthood, I invoke the keys of St. Peter and I ratify your breaking of each and every financial, business, property curse and all curses coming against you and your family affecting your livelihood, your property, your finances or any goods or any works. With that same authority, in Jesus’ name, I bind any evil spirits that may have attached themselves to you or harass you in any way as a result of these curses and I command them to leave you now and go immediately and directly to the foot of the cross for our Lord Jesus to deal with as he wills. Vade Retro Satanas. In the name of Jesus Christ leave them now. + Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen

LITANY TO THE SORROWFUL MOTHER

LITANY TO THE SORROWFUL MOTHER 

Lord, have mercy on us. 

Christ, have mercy on us. 

Lord, have mercy on us. 

Christ, hear us. 

Christ, graciously hear us. 

God the Father of Heaven, Have mercy on us. 

God the Son, Redeemer of the world, Have mercy on us. 

God the Holy Ghost, Have mercy on us. 

Holy Trinity, One God, Have mercy on us.

Holy Mary, conceived without sin, Pray for us. 

Holy Mother of God, Pray for us. 

Mother of Christ, etc. 

Mother of Our Saviour Crucified, 

Mother most Sorrowful, 

Mother most tearful, 

Mother most afflicted, 

Mother most lonely, 

Mother most desolate, 

Mother pierced by the sword of sorrow, 

Queen of Martyrs, 

Comfort of the sorrowful, 

Help of the needy, 

Protectress of the forsaken, 

Support of widows and orphans, 

Health of the sick, 

Hope of the troubled, 

Haven of the ship-wrecked, 

Refuge of sinners, 

Hope of the despairing, 

Mother of mercy, 

Through thy poverty in the stable of Bethlehem, 

Through thy sorrow at the prophecy of Simeon, 

Through thy sad flight into Egypt, 

Through thy anxiety when seeking thy lost Child, 

Through thy grief when seeing thy Divine Son persecuted, 

Through thy fear and anxiety when Jesus was apprehended, 

Through thy pain caused by the treason of Judas and the denial of Peter, 

Through thy sad meeting with Jesus on the way of the Cross, 

Through the tortures of thy loving Heart at the Crucifixion of Jesus, 

Through thy agony at the death of Jesus, 

Through the sword of sorrow that pierced thy heart when the side of Jesus was transfixed by the lance, 

Through thy lamentations over the dead Body of thy Divine Son lying on thy bosom, 

Through thy deep mourning at His tomb, 

Through thy desolation after the burial of Jesus, 

Through the tears thou didst shed for thy beloved Son, 

Through thy wonderful resignation to the will of God in all thy sufferings, 

O Queen of peace, 

In all our tribulations, 

In our illnesses and pains, 

In our sorrows and afflictions, 

In our need and destitution, 

In our fears and dangers, 

In the hour of our death, 

On the Day of Judgment, 

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Spare us, O Lord. 

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Graciously hear us, O Lord. 

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Have mercy on us, O Lord. 

Pray for us, O Sorrowful Virgin, 

That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. 

Let Us Pray .

We beseech Thee, O Lord Jesus Christ, let Thy Mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary, whose holy soul was pierced by a sword of sorrow at the hour of Thy passion, implore Thy mercy for us, both now and at the hour of our death, Who livest and reignest, world without end. 

Amen.