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Advent Week 2
Peace
Often called the “Bethlehem Candle,” the second Advent candle reminds us of Mary and Joseph’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem before Mary gave birth to Jesus.
PEACE is the theme this week. Jesus is coming, and so is his Kingdom of Peace. It is acutely resonate now in our world so torn with violence. But peace is also the experience of Joseph and Mary as they awaited the birth of their Son. Day and night they waited, steadfast, unfaltering in prayer and quietness. Probably scared and shaken-- but grounded in faith and inner peace.
The White Owl
Our Image this week...
White owls are renowned for their association with purity and peace. These graceful birds have long been seen as symbols of wisdom and innocence. The white plumage of owls symbolizes purity, while their ability to see even in darkness represents wisdom. In many cultures, owls are considered to be messengers of peace and are believed to bring blessings to those who encounter them. The sight of a white owl can invoke a sense of calmness and tranquility, making it a fitting symbol of peace.
Owls can sit, silent, without moving for hours at a time. They canvas the landscape before them becoming aware of their environment and connecting to what is before them.
Luke 2: 18-19: “And all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.
“How comfortable am I sitting in silence? What might I set aside these next two weeks of Advent so that I have more time to sit before Jesus.
Not thinking. Not reading.
Just sitting, like the owl, quiet and receptive to hear God's voice..."
Suggestions for Prayer
Offerings will change each week of Advent
Each week a night prayer will be offered as you go to bed. It will change each week and reflect the theme for the week.
Minute with Mary
Progressive
Rosary
Each week we will offer a decade of the rosary for you to pray on the Road to Bethlehem. The Mysteries will reflect the THEME each week.
This week we pray our first decade on HOPE, with the Butterfly as our guide.
Each Thursday and Saturday a one minute video reflection on Mary offered by Fr. Carl Pieber, C.M.
