‘Prepare the way of the Lord’ – This admonition is found in the reading from Isaiah and in the Gospel passage. Isaiah describes a long line of exiles returning to Jerusalem after many hard years in Babylon. God leads them back home. In preparation for God’s and the people’s entry, the way is made clear: “Every valley shall be lifted up…The rugged land shall be a plain” (Isaiah 40:4). The road is repaired, just as we might do if someone important were coming to town. The Gospel writer reinterprets this passage. Instead of repairing an actual roadway, the words of John the Baptist prepare for the entrance of Jesus into his public ministry. Despite their differences, both passages speak of the “way of the Lord,” which is the way of salvation. 

The people are told they will get a new start. In the first reading it will be after exile; in the Gospel it is the new ministry of Jesus. Even St. Peter refers to this newness. He calls it “new heavens and a new earth” (2 Peter 3:13). He goes on to explain what this means. It will be existence “in which righteousness dwells.” Saint Peter further states that this will come to pass on “the day of the Lord,” the day when God’s promises will be fulfilled and “all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9–10). 

The events described in all three readings unfold because of God’s merciful love of all. It is for such a day that we are called to prepare. Are we willing to exert the effort? Are we willing to listen to God’s words?

Let’s prepare ourselves to see and feel God’s love and peace ….  Can you say God is near to you without hesitation? 

Stephen ofm

Fr Stephen also has a short series of Advent reflections on St Clare. If you would like to participate, please click the button below. Happy Advent!

Young Adults - YA Festival is back! Gather yourself amongst many amazing young adults from our archdiocese. We as young people are dedicated to gathering, raising up and sending out a new generation of Catholics who are on fire for Jesus and filled with the Holy Spirit. Come along for some awesome preaching and worship, faith formation, social activities and so much more! This is an 18+ Event, organised by the Ignite Youth. 15^th – 18^th December; camping, worship, and peace!

Tickets are $85 each (optional extra of $65 for meals) 

Advent Begins - As we enter our new Liturgical Year and begin the Season of Advent, we rejoice in hope, peace, joy, and love. As Catholics, we celebrate the lead up to the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ and wait in anticipation for our Lord to come. Throughout our faith, Advent is celebrated through deep prayer, reconciliation, attendance at mass and more. During the 2023 Advent Season, members of our youth will share reflections on the weekly themes of advent and identify how these themes are present in the lives of young people today.  Stewart England

Peace is like a quiet, calm day without any storms. Imagine a place with no fighting, where people understand each other and feel happy. That’s what peace is about – a world where we’re friends, and everything goes smoothly. Peace is reflected in the smiles of people who understand and respect each other. Peace is often deeply rooted in the teachings of the Catholic faith. It goes beyond the absence of conflict and extends to a spiritual harmony and connection with God. Peace can be shown through understanding in relationships, resolving conflicts and with empathy, and promoting a positive atmosphere. Peace feels like catching a break from life. I feel peace through hanging out with friends or having a quiet moment. During Advent, peace is found through spiritual reflection on the message of hope and the anticipation of Jesus’ birth. It encourages moments of calm, and gratitude reminding us of the promise of peace.

Please check the newsletter each week for possible changes in weekday Mass times. Both of our priests have commitments that make them unavailable at times.

Donations are tax deductable