This weekend’s celebration of the Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord grips our attention with the flickering light of a star. A star, as we hear in the Gospel of Matthew, that led the magi to the newborn king, the infant Jesus.
Christmas is often the occasion when we take a trip down memory lane. We remember not only the traditions, sights, and smells of Christmastime, but especially the people who, for various reasons, may or may not be with us this Christmas day.
I would like to offer a profound THANK YOU to Dan Palko, Director of Music Ministry, for sharing his gifts and musical talent here at St. James the Apostle Church. During our short time working together, Dan has proved to be an extraordinary musician and man of deep faith.
You may have noticed an upward trend in our Sunday Collections over the past few weeks…THANK YOU! Thank you for responding so generously to our appeal for your increased financial support. Your response to our appeal is humbling.
Advent is here and well underway. I hope you notice this year that the environment in the church will slowly develop as we progress further and further into the Season of Advent, ultimately culminating at Christmas. This slow yet methodical development is what’s called progressive solemnity.
We will be participating in providing gifts for the needy during this holiday season for St. Joseph Social Service Center in Elizabeth. If you can purchase a gift of warm clothing, it would be greatly appreciated.
It’s almost hard to believe that Advent has arrived. To be honest, I almost always begin the Advent season with mixed emotions. While the excitement of Christmas does stir the heart and comfort the soul, I just can’t shake off the fact that another year is almost over.