11 AM Sunday Mass - Gaudete Sunday: Rejoice! Third Week of Advent

GAUDETE SUNDAY: REJOICE! This Sunday, even as the darkness grows all around us, we reach into the depths of our souls, even into the depths of our pain, and we touch the seeds of rejoicing. When all the world seems lost and frightened, we announce joy on the horizon. Isaiah proclaims life in the desert while armies are surrounding Judah; Jesus tells us of the signs of the Kingdom while his dear friend, John the Baptist, sits in prison. Where are the signs of life? Where is the healing now? James counsels patience; he acknowledges that the light is not yet visible, the growth in the field is yet hidden, our life in Christ so near, yet not yet revealed. Even in the midst of suffering, we trust that God’s promises to us, in Christ, are being fulfilled. The birth of our Savior in a manger is mirrored by the birth of hope in our hearts. We remain patient, trusting God’s love for us and our love for each other. While the darkness deepens, we become ambassadors of light. Our hope brings the dawn. This is what it means to cooperate with God’s grace, daring to rejoice at the dawn which has not yet come, celebrating the answers to prayer which have not yet shown themselves, embracing the Kingdom of God which is “at hand.” We pray, “Again, I say rejoice!” because we know the first time we say “Rejoice!” it will likely fall on deaf ears, be ridiculed, be met with doubt and fear. So again, we say, “Rejoice!” Our love transforms the darkness. Let us persevere in faith; let us become the Baptist’s cry; let us be the healing, the hope, the peace, the joy we seek. God bless you. Saint Josephine Bakhita, you are with us. Fr. Mitch St. Josephine Bakhita Live Stream Welcome to the live stream of St. Josephine Bakhita Parish! Join us as we open wide our doors and hearts to worship, evangelize, and serve all God's people. Experience uplifting liturgies, inspiring homilies, and a welcoming community rooted in faith and love. Whether you're here to celebrate Mass, reflect on the Gospel, or find a moment of peace and prayer, we are blessed to have you with us. Let us come together in unity, embracing the spirit of St. Josephine Bakhita, as we grow as family through worship, service, and sharing the Good News. Thank you for being part of our online faith community! Stay connected, share your intentions, and let the love of Christ guide us all. "St. Josephine Bakhita, you are with us." Learn more about us at stbakhitastl.org Follow us on social media: @stbakhitastl