Sharing the Word for December 15, 2021
Today’s psalm refrain has become the theme song for the liturgical season of Advent. In it we acknowledge God’s plans for us and pray for the coming of the Savior.
Sunday Soundbite for December 19, 2021
God’s promise to shepherd his flock spans both the old and the new covenants. The birth of the shepherd-Messiah from the line of David will fulfill ancient promises and usher in an age of peace.
Blessed Mary Frances Schervier
Blessed Mary Frances Schervier founded the Sisters of the Poor of Saint Francis, devoted to caring for the poor of this world. To this day they run hospitals and homes for the aged in the United States and around the world. Blessed Mary Frances died in 1876.
Day Eighteen: A Catholic Family Advent
Scripture
Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have good news brought to them.”
— Luke 7:22
Reflection
Faith and Family for December 19: Fourth Sunday of Advent
As we near the end of Advent, in this week’s Gospel, we hear the story of Mary–very pregnant with Jesus–visiting her cousin Elizabeth, who is also with child.
Papal commission looks at role, rights of alleged victims in abuse trials
The Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors hosted a three-day seminar looking at the rights in church trials of those alleging they suffered sexual abuse as children.