"The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen." Let us go forth from this early morning liturgy and share with our loved ones the Good News that Jesus Christ is born!

"For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Christ the Lord." On this joyous night, let us join the angels in singing, "Glory to God in the highest!"

"Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means God Is With Us." The Gospel of Matthew's carefully crafted genealogy of the Messiah is turned on its head by divine intervention through the conception of the Son of God within Mary by the power of the Holy Spirit.

"Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled." Mary's tender and trusting faith inspires us as we journey from Advent to Christmas.

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I say again: Rejoice! Your kindness should be shown to all. The Lord is near."  

"Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." Mary said Yes and submitted humbly to God's will. She is our model of holiness.

"Jerusalem, take off the robe of mourning and misery! Put on the splendor of glory from God forever... For God is leading Israel in joy by the light of his glory." Advent is our season of joy!

"There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on earth nations will be in dismay... But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand." Advent is our season of hope.

"Stand up and go! Your faith has saved you." On this wonderful day, we are privileged to pray the Eucharist, the great feast of thanksgiving, as we gather with family and friends in our parish community.

"My kingdom does not belong to this world." Jesus is our King, and he leads us to a kingdom that transcends the standards of the world. Jesus reigns in our hearts.