The Season of Advent ends on Tuesday, so the celebration of the birth of Christ is now very close. We gather in preparation for that great event, worshipping God who was made flesh to bring us to glory.

Traditionally, this Sunday is called Gaudete Sunday, which means ‘a day for rejoicing’. Advent is more than half over, and the day of the Lord’s coming is nearer. We worship God who promises us joy without end.

Catholics gather today to celebrate the beginning of the life of Mary the Mother of Jesus, free from sin from the moment she was conceived.

John the Baptist is the focus of the Gospel reading on the Second Sunday of Advent each year. His words challenge and inspire. We worship God who uses many messengers to call us from darkness to light.