It has become a tradition that before Christmas, our community in the Philippines visits the local women's prison in Mandaluyong, where Ms. Basia from Poland has been incarcerated for more than 13 years. The meeting was accompanied by great emotion and much joy. At the end, Ms. Basia gave us a handmade small Christmas tree made of beads.
s. Agata
4th Sunday of Advent
6th Day of Christmas Novena
Gospel Luke 1:39-45
“Why should I be honoured with a visit from the mother of my Lord?” Today marks the 4th Sunday of Advent and the 6th Day of the Christmas Novena—a time steeped in anticipation and reflection. The Gospel for today, from Luke 1:39-45, recounts the profound moment when Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, recognizes the divine presence within Mary, exclaiming, “Why should I be honored with a visit from the mother of my Lord?” These words invite us to a similar attitude of awe and humility every time we enter a chapel or a church. Each visit to these sacred spaces is not merely a routine act but an extraordinary encounter with the Lord Himself, present in the Eucharist. Our hearts, like John the Baptist in Elizabeth’s womb, should leap with joy whenever we find ourselves before the tabernacle, for we stand in the presence of divine love and mercy. This Advent, as we draw nearer to celebrating Christ’s birth, let us cultivate a deeper awareness of the privilege and grace of being invited into His presence, allowing each visit to be marked by a spirit of reverence, gratitude, and joy. Let’s reflect: How often do I approach the presence of the Lord in the Eucharist with the same awe, joy, and humility that Elizabeth expressed, and how can I deepen my awareness of this profound encounter in my daily life?
Don Giorgio
Commemoration of Saint Peter Canisius, Priest, Doctor
5th Day of Christmas Novena
21 December
Gospel Luke 1:39-45
“Mary set out and went as quickly as she could to a town in the hill country of Judah”. This moment in the Gospel reflects the immediacy and generosity of Mary's response. Upon hearing of Elizabeth’s miraculous pregnancy, Mary, though herself carrying the weight of her own divine calling, does not linger or hesitate. Instead, she sets out “as quickly as she could,” filled with the desire to share in Elizabeth’s joy and to offer her presence and support. This act reveals a profound heavenly attitude: the readiness to rejoice with others in their blessings and to accompany them in their journeys. Mary’s visit to Elizabeth is not just a familial obligation; it is an act of selfless love and solidarity, a gesture of active participation in the work of God unfolding in Elizabeth’s life. In a world that often emphasises self-centeredness or the rush of individual pursuits, Mary's example invites us to pause and ask: How readily do we make time to share in the joys of others? Do we set out “as quickly as we can” to bring encouragement, joy, and support to those who need us? Mary’s journey to Elizabeth is also a reminder of the importance of community in faith. Her presence affirms Elizabeth’s experience, just as Elizabeth, through her greeting, confirms Mary's own divine calling: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” The meeting of these two women becomes a sacred moment, a testament to the power of shared faith and mutual encouragement. Let’s reflect: How can I cultivate the same readiness and generosity as Mary, setting aside my own concerns to share in the joys and needs of others with love and humility?
Don Giorgio
20 December
4th Day of Christmas Novena
Gospel – Luke 1:26-38
On the Fourth Day of the Christmas Novena, we reflect on the profound mystery revealed in the Gospel of Luke 1:26-38, where the angel Gabriel announces to Mary the incarnation of the second Person of the Holy Trinity. Gabriel’s words, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will cover you with its shadow,” unveil the divine plan of salvation, a moment where heaven meets earth through the purity and obedience of a humble young woman. This passage underscores the active presence of the Holy Trinity in the miraculous conception: the Holy Spirit as the source of life, God the Father as the provider of divine protection, and the Son taking on human flesh to dwell among us. Mary, with her profound understanding of this sacred calling, responds with unparalleled faith and humility, declaring, “I am the handmaid of the Lord, let what you have said be done to me.” Her response is not merely an acceptance of her role but a complete submission to God's will, demonstrating trust and love that stand as a model for all believers. In her “yes,” Mary becomes the living tabernacle of God’s presence, inviting us to follow her openness to the God and reminding us of the transformative power of surrendering to God’s plan in our lives. Let’s reflect: How does the mystery of the Incarnation challenge me to see God’s presence in the ordinary and unexpected moments of my life, and how can I allow this profound truth to shape the way I respond to His call daily?
Don Giorgio
19 December
3rd Day of Christmas Novena
Gospel Luke 1:5-25
“Zechariah, do not be afraid, your prayer has been heard”. These words spoken by the angel Gabriel to Zechariah carry a profound and timeless message, offering us guidance as we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ this Christmas. The angel’s message is deeply reassuring. It reminds us that our prayers, even those whispered in moments of doubt or despair, are always heard by God. As we journey through the Christmas novena, these words challenge us to reflect on the state of our own hearts. Are we carrying fears, anxieties, or uncertainties about the future? Like Zechariah, we may find it hard to believe that God is working behind the scenes, answering our prayers in ways we may not yet understand. But the angel’s message invites us to let go of fear and fill our hearts instead with courage and hope. Hope is not mere optimism; it is a deep trust in God’s promises, even when circumstances seem bleak. It is the quiet assurance that, just as God fulfilled His promise to Zechariah, He will also fulfill His promises to us. To prepare for Christmas is to cultivate this hope, to believe wholeheartedly that Emmanuel—God with us—has come and will come again to bring light into our darkness. This preparation is not passive; it calls us to actively listen for God’s voice, to embrace His presence in our lives, and to trust in His timing. As we approach the celebration of Christ’s birth, let us hold onto these words: “Do not be afraid, for your prayer has been heard”. Let them remind us that God is faithful, that He hears us, and that His love is steadfast. Let’s reflect: What prayer or longing in my heart have I been holding onto, and how can I open myself to trust in God's timing and faithfulness, even if the answer is not yet clear?
Don Giorgio