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.

The season of Advent begins today. During the next 24 days we will look forward in hope. We will watch for the end times, when Christ will come in glory — Christ whose birthday we will celebrate very soon.

Catholics celebrate the feast of Christ the King this Sunday, remembering that our king’s life ended on a cross. Today we worship this wounded and resurrected God, who promises us a place in Paradise.