Introduction by
the Celebrant:
A. Happy New Year! Yes, advent marks the beginning of the Church’s
calendar. The Church once again invites us to a period of waiting, hope and
expectation.
B. Waiting in
Tension: "Stand erect, hold your heads high."
This is the message the Lord speaks to us on this First Sunday of Advent. There
are terrible civil wars, there is famine in many parts of the world, and there
are millions of refugees seeking safety. Yet our Lord assures us that we should
keep up our hope and expectations, for he is still with us and near to us. Be
attentive to his presence, not only here in the Eucharist but also in the life
of every day.