As Roman Catholics mark the Third Sunday of Advent on Dec. 11, Balanga Bishop Ruperto C. Santos reminded the faithful to remain hopeful as the celebration of Christmas nears.
“Let us not be afraid. Jesus will come to liberate us from sin and selfishness. His coming brings a message of love and ushers a new way of life,” the Church leader said.
“Advent delivers hope. It makes us confident and joyful so we can move forward to meet God,” he added.
The Third Sunday of Advent is considered as a Sunday of joy as the celebration of Christmas nears. Church rites will include the lighting of the pink candle, the candle of joy. The two purple candles that were lit on the first two Sundays of Advent will also be lit.
The bishop said Jesus’ coming serves to dispel the fear and frustrations in the hearts of those who believe in Him.
“Advent means coming. Jesus comes not to bring despair and destruction, doom and gloom but to dispel fear and frustration in our hearts,” Bishop Santos said.
The prelate likewise urged the faithful “to get busy with Jesus.”
“Jesus knocks at the door of our hearts. Advent challenges us to welcome Him in the person of others – family members, fellow employees, neighbors and friends and to acknowledge His presence in our work, in our dealing with people, and even in our household chores. Advent reminds us to pay attention to Jesus, to get busy with Him, in Him and for Him,” Bishop Santos stressed.
Meanwhile, the Diocese of Balanga has begun preparing to celebrate its 50th Golden Anniversary in 2025. It has released a book, “Vox Dei” (The Voice of God), a compilation of homilies for the coming Misa de Gallo, Advent, Christmas, and other major Church events.