Today we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. We honor the Holy Family as the model of the human family. Their faithfulness to God and to one another, purity of heart, joy, endurance in suffering, and compassion for the poor are virtues that we can emulate in our families.

Blessings to you this Fourth Sunday of Advent! In our Gospel, Mary travels in haste to visit Elizabeth. We might also be feeling that sense of "haste" as we make our final preparations in our homes and in our hearts for Christ this Christmas.

The Third Sunday of Advent is known as "Gaudete" ("Rejoice!") Sunday. The readings this weekend are exuberant with joy, and for good reason: Christmas, the Solemnity of the Birth of our Savior, is almost here!

We take time to prepare when we greet someone. For example, on Thanksgiving, we cook turkey and wait for families. Also, Christmas day as well. I’m sure you decorate your house and prepare meals for your family. We are now in the season of Advent to prepare for the coming of the Lord.