The shepherds said to one another, "Let us go, then, to Bethlehem to see this thing that has taken place which the Lord has made known to us." From this early morning liturgy, let us return home and share with our loved ones the Good News that Jesus Christ is born!

"The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shown." A child has been born to us! He is the Prince of Peace.

"For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her." The Gospel of Matthew's carefully crafted genealogy of the Messiah is upended by divine intervention through the conception of the Son of God within Mary by the power of the Holy Spirit.

"Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her." Joseph's unwavering faith inspires our celebration of Emmanuel - God-with-Us!

"Say to those whose hearts are frightened: Be strong, fear not! Here is your God." On Gaudete Sunday, we rejoice as our celebration of Christmas draws near.

"I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." Through Mary, we are inspired to join her in saying Yes to God's will. She is the First Disciple and our model of holiness.

"On that day, the root of Jesse, set up as a signal for the nations, the Gentiles shall seek out, for his dwelling shall be glorious." During Advent we are uplifted by the poetry of the prophet Isaiah, who points to a world transformed by the coming of the Lord.

"It is the hour now for you to awake from sleep, for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed." The joyful season of Advent begins!

"And now, bless the God of all, who has done wondrous things on earth... May he grant you joy of heart and may peace abide among you." On this day of blessings, we pray the Eucharist, the great feast of thanksgiving, as we gather with family and friends in our parish community.

"Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." In the midst of our troubled world, across this vast universe, in life and in death, Jesus Christ is our Lord and King.