December 15.  Sunday Advent 3C.  Live in Joy! Three candles are lit if you have an Advent wreath and we pray to live in joy!  Fr Teddy looked around the congregation and noted that it had grown much smaller as people had started to go away.  Nevertheless, he greeted those staying behind and some others coming to visit. That is how families experience Advent and Christmas in many parts of the country. He said to them, “This is holiday time but Advent is quite a serious time of reflection. Last month we had the COP 29 climate conference, and the 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM against abuse of women and girls has just ended.  Every day we are being faced with images and news of the wars and conflicts around the world. However the real purpose of the season is to celebrate the fulfilment of the promise of a Messiah and our welcoming him each year with great joy. What are the real joys in your family life? Are they simple everyday things like having fun together or bigger things, like father and other family members coming home from work for the holidays, or for some of us able to go away or meet together?  Working at and achieving family unity in our own particular type of family is one of a family’s most important tasks. Use the time to practice the ‘listening and sharing’ technique we have been speaking about  when you spend a little prayer time together.” He paused, sighed and then concluded, “I will miss my own family but look forward to enjoying special time with some of you. Please invite me!”   Scripture: The Lord your God is in your midst, a warrior, who gives victory; he will rejoice over you with gladness, he will renew you in his love; he will exult over you with loud singing as on a day of festival.” Zeph.  3:14-18.Pope Francis: General audience November 15 2023:  “An encounter with Jesus always brings you joy and if this does not happen to you it is not a true encounter with Jesus.” Pope Francis concluded by offering comforting words for the faithful to take to heart, and to do some homework. “Each of us today take a little time and think: ‘Jesus, You are within me: I want to meet You every day. You are a Person, not an idea; You are a companion, not a programme. You are Love that solves so many problems. You are the beginning of evangelization, of good news for all.  You, Jesus, are the source of joy.’ Amen”  Your Sacred Heart is our source of Love. Dilexit Nos. Reflect, share, and pray.  Don’t forget, The family that prays, + plays together stays together.