December 7, 2025 - Second Sunday of Advent
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
As we enter the Second Sunday of Advent, the Scriptures invite us into a deeper posture of hope and conversion. Today we meet John the Baptist, that bold and uncompromising figure crying out in the wilderness: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” (Mt 3:2). His message is not meant to instill fear, but to awaken hearts. Advent is not simply about preparing for Christmas festivities—it is a season of spiritual readiness. Christ comes not only in Bethlehem, but into every heart willing to receive Him.
The prophet Isaiah offers a vision of the Messiah unlike any earthly ruler: a shoot from the stump of Jesse, filled with the Spirit of wisdom, understanding, counsel, and strength (Is 11:1–10). This promised One brings harmony, justice, and peace—so complete that even natural enemies dwell together without fear. Isaiah’s vision reminds us that Advent hope is not wishful thinking, but a confident trust that God is at work, even when the world feels like a barren stump.
St. Paul reinforces this hope by encouraging the Christian community to “welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you” (Rom 15:7). Unity, patience, and encouragement are not optional virtues—they are the fruits of a people who know that God keeps His promises.
In this second week of Advent, we light the candle of Peace. Yet true peace begins with conversion—a turning away from whatever hardens the heart and a renewed openness to the transforming grace of God. John the Baptist reminds us that preparing the way of the Lord is an active task. It may mean mending a relationship, making room for prayer, simplifying our lives, or letting go of habits that do not reflect God’s kingdom.
As we continue our Advent journey, let us ask for the grace to hear the voice crying out in our own wilderness. May we respond with courage, humility, and hope, preparing our hearts so that Christ may find in us a place worthy of His peace. Let us not only be ready to receive it, but as well to give it to others. Come, Lord Jesus.
This weekend we celebrate the Blessed Mother venerated in Paraguay under the invocation of Our Lady of Caacupe. May the Immaculate Virgin Mary, Patroness of the Church in the United States of America intercede for the Church in both Americas, so that we may grow in faith, hope and love for God and for others as we nurture on the tender care that God has shown for all the peoples in the example of the Blessed Mother. May the people of Paraguay and of Americas be enriched by the devotion and recognition of her Motherly love in the midst of every family.
God bless everyone always!
Fr. Stan
