NOVEMBER PASTORAL MESSAGE
2025 Advent & Thanksgiving
Beloved,
Here we are at the beginning of November, and as of early October, stores were filled with Christmas decorations and sales??? I smiled as it reminded me the Christmas season of Lent is approaching (November 15th); Lent, which grounds us. Like the Paschal Lent, the Christmas Advent season is a 40-day period of fasting during which we abstain from certain foods, receive the sacraments of the Church more frequently, spend more time reading the Bible, and apply ourselves to more charitable works.
Christmas Lent is an opportunity for us to keep the reason for the season in perspective. I am certainly not suggesting that we do away with the gifts, Christmas Tree and the many other traditions we celebrate surrounding Christmas. I, for one, cannot wait to put lights up. What I am suggesting is that we focus more on the spiritual Manger of our souls by intentionally observing the prescribed 40-day period of Lent.
Fasting means we are abstaining from something. When we abstain, we have more to give. Let us give this year as the Christ-child gave of Himself, selflessly and for the good of others. Perhaps, consider donating a Turkey for our FTIN drive this month.
May this November 15th be the beginning of our spiritual walk with Joseph and Mary, the Panagia, a spiritual walk which ends at the foot of the precious Manger of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. What gifts have we received? We have received the gift of life. What gifts can we offer Him? Our gift back to Him is living lives pleasing to the Lord by giving love selflessly and charity abundantly.
Kalo Mina! Peace and blessings as I pray your life is filled with thanks-living this Thanksgiving & Advent season.
Brotherly, and with pastoral blessings,
