"Peace I leave with you, my own peace I give you; a peace the world cannot give, this is my gift to you. Let not your hearts be troubled or afraid." -John 14:27
Greetings!
There is an overwhelming lack of peace in the world today...peace in our hearts, peace in our families, peace in our communities, and yes, even peace in our Church. And for good reason.
Advent is a time to place a pause in the challenges that swirl around us and focus our hearts and minds on Jesus. We anticipate His nativity as the Christ Child. We also long for His final coming as the Prince of Peace at the end of time when everything that opposes Him will fall away and His peace will reign forever and ever.
How can we cooperate in the grace of peace that God desires to bestow upon us?
What better way can we call down God's grace upon individuals and our world than to participate in a special Novena of Masses for peace in our families and in our world? It is for this special intention that I have requested for you and your families to have Reverend Father Venansio Okidi, Archdiocese of Gulu, Northern Uganda, offer a special Novena in honor of the Nativity of Jesus, from December 24th, Christmas Eve, through January 1st, the Feast of Mary the Mother of God.
There are so many needs that weigh heavy upon our hearts today. I hope you will join our novena by submitting the names of your family members, spouses, loved ones and friends along with any intentions you have.
Do you have loved ones who are sick, dying, isolated, or afraid because of Covid-19 or another disease? Is someone you know struggling because of financial challenges? Are family members restricted from receiving the grace of sacraments? Do you know of a marriage that is going through a bitter divorce? Are you praying for loved ones who have lost their faith? Is someone you love struggling with addiction? There are so many situations that can rob us of peace both individually and corporately.
Please submit these names and intentions to us and Father Okidi will pray for them in a special way. After submitting the names, you will be asked to prayerfully consider making a donation. In gratitude for your stipend gift, we will send you links to Women of Grace Christmas, a series of programs featuring the beautiful sights, sounds, and hymns of the season.