Catholic Identity

Creator God, we follow in the footsteps of Jesus, as we walk together on your path of love, hope and faith.

Thank you for the gifts of our school, 

our environment, our families and friends.

May our school be a place of learning, care, welcome and celebration.

Mary our Mother, pray for us.

St Mary of the Cross, pray for us. 

Amen

Preparing Our Hearts for Christ: Reflections on Sunday’s Readings 

Last Sunday’s readings from Baruch 5:1-9, Philippians 1:3-11, and Luke 3:1-6 offer us important lessons on hope, love, and spiritual preparation, all relevant as we journey through Advent. 

Hope for Restoration 

The reading from Baruch calls us to put aside sorrow and embrace the hope of God's restoration. Just as the Israelites longed for deliverance, we too are invited to prepare our hearts for God’s healing and peace. This Advent, we are reminded to trust in God's ability to transform our lives, removing obstacles and filling us with His joy. 

Growing in Love 

St. Paul’s prayer for the Philippians encourages us to abound in love, knowledge, as we wait for Christ, we’re called to reflect on how we can grow in love for God and others. This season is a time to examine our relationships and ask: How can we live more fully in love and service? 

Preparing the Way for the Lord 

John the Baptist’s message in Luke calls us to prepare the way for Christ by making our hearts ready. Advent is not only about waiting but about turning away from sin and making space for Christ in our lives. We are urged to reflect on areas that need healing and change to better welcome the Lord. 

These readings remind us to: 

• Trust in God’s Healing: God promises restoration and peace, even in difficult times. 

• Grow in Love: Advent invites us to deepen our love for God and others. 

• Prepare Our Hearts: Like John the Baptist, we are called to clear the way for Christ through repentance and reflection. 

As we prepare for Christmas, let these Scriptures guide us in spiritual renewal, helping us open our hearts to Christ’s coming and experience the true joy of this season. 

God Bless  

Prayer for Advent Preparation 

Lord Jesus, 

As we journey through this season of Advent, help us to prepare our hearts for Your coming. 

Guide us to trust in Your healing and repairing, removing the hurdles in our lives that keep us from You. 

Fill us with a deeper love for You and for those around us and grant us the wisdom to live according to Your will. 

Like John the Baptist, help us clear the way for Your presence, so that we may joyfully welcome You into our hearts this Christmas and always. 

Amen 

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