Our Faith - Religion - Prayer 

St Patrick's Church Walcha 

For Baptism or Marriage enquiries phone Monsignor Ted Wilkes 67784070.

Monsignor Ted Wilkes would like to invite parishioners to Sunday Mass 10am.

Term 4 Mass Dates

Tomorrw, Friday 13th December: End of Year and Year 6 Graduation Mass at 11.30am

Reflection

The Third Sunday in Advent - REJOICE -15th Dec

This upcoming Sunday marks the third Sunday of Advent, also known as Gaudete Sunday. It marks a joyful turning point in the season of preparation for the birth of Jesus. Falling roughly halfway through Advent, this special day invites us to rejoice as Christmas draws near.

The word "Gaudete" comes from the Latin word for "rejoice," and it reflects the spirit of this Sunday. In many churches, the Advent wreath's third candle is lit—a rose-colored candle symbolizing joy. This contrasts with the purple candles of the other Sundays, which represent penance and preparation.

The readings and prayers of Gaudete Sunday focus on hope and celebration. For example, the first reading often includes a message of gladness, such as Isaiah’s proclamation of the joy that comes with the arrival of the Lord. The Gospel might highlight the role of John the Baptist in announcing the coming of Jesus, inspiring anticipation and excitement among the faithful.

Gaudete Sunday reminds us to pause amidst the business of the season and reflect on the good news of Christ’s coming. It encourages us to embrace gratitude and find joy in the small blessings around us as we continue our spiritual journey toward Christmas.

Feast of the Immaculate Conception last Monday

On the 9th of December, the church community gathered in reverence and joy to celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, a significant solemnity in the Catholic calendar. This feast honours the unique privilege granted to the Virgin Mary, who, from the moment of her conception, was preserved free from original sin, preparing her to be the Mother of Jesus Christ.

PRAYER - Advent 

Loving God,

As we light the candle of joy this week,

Fill our hearts with gladness as we prepare for the coming of Your Son.

Help us to pause amidst the busyness of the season,

To reflect on Your boundless love and the gift of salvation.

May the joy of this season uplift our spirits,

And may we share that joy with those around us,

Spreading kindness, hope, and peace to a world in need.

Through the example of Mary and John the Baptist,

Teach us to trust in Your promises

And to proclaim Your goodness with confidence and faith.

Come, Lord Jesus,

Shine Your light into our hearts

And make us ready to welcome You with joy and love.

Amen.

End of Year and Year 6 Graduation Mass -Tomorrow 13th December at 11.30am

Tomorrow, all of the staff and students will be celebrating our End of Year and Year 6 Graduation Mass at St Patrick's Catholic Church at 11.30 am.  Everyone is welcome to join us for this special event.

Catherine McAuley

Catherine’s spirituality was centred on the mercy of God…prayer in action…action in prayer.