One of the great joys in ministry for me has always been the children at CCD. As a Deacon, I love the opportunity to visit with the confirmation classes, first communion classes and the RCIC. For over 5 years now I have been doing tours of the church with several classes (and my wife's idea) to explain the statues, stained glass, the sanctuary, the sacred vessels, the vestments and the tabernacle, the home of the Eucharistic Lord.
Tonight we celebrated Mass with all the children in CCD, from 1st grade through 10th grade. We celebrated an Advent Mass for children. I was privileged to preach tonight as I shared with the children an Advent message of joy, hope and patience. For an example I knew local kids of all ages could relate to I described the New Orleans Saints long journey to finally winning the Super Bowl. All of us, young & old, can relate to the patience to get there, the hope that it would happen and the joy of winning the Super Bowl.
Advent is all about patience, as tonight's Gospel reading reminded us, we can not know when or how Jesus will return. But the hope of his first coming, and his constant coming to us, sustains us. And the joy of realizing that we have Jesus everyday in our Mass, our Scriptures and most excellently, the Eucharist!
During the Mass, our presider, Fr. Raymond, took time to explain the different prayers and actions. He spoke to them in ways they could relate to.
At the end of Mass I took the opportunity to tell the students good-bye as their assigned Deacon. When they assemble again for classes I'll be down the road at my new parish. I must admit, their kind and generous response was overwhelming. I am so grateful for these children and the families that are trying to raise them in the faith.
And tonight I'm reminded to be an Advent Christian of joy, hope and patience!
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