My soul rejoices in my God.

Third Sunday of Advent

Sunday, December 14

Take a close look at the Advent wreath today, and you will notice that the pink candle has been lit. The color pink stands for joy, and this Sunday, the Church wants us to remember that Jesus came to give us the fullness of joy.

For that reason, St. Paul tells the people of Thessaly to avoid, "every kind of evil." Notice he says: "every kind." Not just big evil like murder, or terrorism, or grand theft, but even little evil like casual gossip, hurtful teasing, or minor lies. Why? Because even small sins steal the joy Jesus wants for us.

Lord Jesus, help me to turn from sin so that I can receive the fullness of joy.

Reflect on the journey that brought Mary and Joseph to the stable - and to call to mind all those communities around the world that continue to encounter poverty in their own daily journeys. This Advent, these prayer and short weekly reflections can be used at home with your family.

St. Anne Community Outreach is celebrating the birth of Christ by providing 101 Christmas food baskets to families facing the crisis of poverty. Our generous parishioners chose from 516 angels on our giving tree. These gifts (new clothes and toys) are for children and elderly or disabled adults that would otherwise not receive anything special during this joyful time of year.

Thank you for helping those in need!

Katie Byers

Director, St. Anne Community Outreach

Chair, Muscogee County Emergency Food and Shelter Program