Second Sunday of Advent Staff Reflections

PEACE

"Peace begins with a smile," (Mother Teresa.)  PEACE is a stress-free state of security and calmness. I have this PEACE not because of the lack of chaos in life, but because Jesus brings me PEACE throughout the chaos. Our faith in God; our trust in others; our love for others; and the joy we bring to others is what brings us PEACE. – Antoinette Oliverio

 When I reflect on the word “Peace” I think about a couple of my favorite verses from Philippians 4:6-9. I have read these words from St. Paul many, many times because they remind me that true peace can only be found in Jesus and that the only way to be at peace is to set our minds on Him. As we prepare for Christmas 2020, my prayer is that we free our minds of all of the negativity of the past year and make room in our hearts for the only source of true peace, Jesus Christ. – Heidi Lynch

 Amidst the stench of a stable, the bleating of sheep, the anxiety and worry of new parents, the weariness of a multitude of travelers, the attention of royal guests and their caravan, the blinding brightness of a star, and the crush of a multitude of angels a baby slept blissfully in a manger.  He was fed, loved, and content.  This is the peace of Christ that is extended to us all this Advent season. - Deacon Centenera

The first message of the Angels after the birth of the Lord was, “Peace on Earth!”.(Luke 2:14)

The first message of the Lord after his Resurrection was, “Peace Be with You!” (John 20: 19, 21, 26)

The first thing we all need as Individuals, Families, Communities, Cultures, Countries and Continents is “PEACE.”….. The Peace that God alone can give, the Peace that the world cannot give.(John 14:27)

Christmas once again brings that Peace! - Father Raja