December 16 - The Christmas Novena Begins

It is nine days before Christmas. Our Catholic tradition has utilized the Novena as a way of preparing ourselves for a great feast of the Church.

Remember, the first novena took place in the Upper Room where the Disciples, together with Mary, waited prayerfully for the coming of the Holy Spirit.

So, we have begun the Christmas Novena today here at SMT. This year I chose prayers that we used in the seminary. I am going back some 47 years ago. They are very traditional, but remind us of the joys and sorrows of the Holy Family on that first Christmas night.

The Spanish community begins Posadas tonight,- going from house to house with the baby Jesus seeking shelter. Is there room in the inn of your heart for Christ? If, perhaps, sin has displaced Grace, why not resolve to make a good Confession before Christmas?

Pax et Bonum.
Monsignor D.