Advent is a season of joyful waiting, a sacred time when the Church invites us to prepare our hearts to welcome the Christ Child at Christmas. Just as Mary and Joseph made room in the manger for the newborn Savior, we too are called to make room within our own souls clearing away anything that keeps us from receiving Jesus more deeply into our lives. One of the most powerful ways to do this is by celebrating the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
This Monday, December 15th, from 4:00–7:00pm, Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish will host the annual Light Is On Campaign for the entire Greater Utica Area at the Lourdes campus.
All the priests of our region will be present to hear Confessions and offer the healing mercy of Christ. Whether it has been a few months or many years, this is a grace-filled moment to return to the Lord and prepare your heart for His coming.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is not merely about acknowledging sins it is about encountering the mercy of Jesus, who desires to lift burdens, restore peace, and rekindle hope. When we confess our sins, we remove whatever blocks the light of Christ from shining fully within us. In this way, Confession becomes a deeply Christmas-centered act, because it opens our hearts to receive the Savior with renewed purity, humility, and joy.
As the Nativity draws close, consider that Christ longs to dwell in a heart made ready quieted, forgiven, and refreshed. Just as the shepherds approached the manger with wonder, and the Magi with gifts, we can approach Christmas bringing the gift of a heart reconciled to God.
For those who may be nervous or out of practice, here is a simple guide to making a good Confession:
- Examine your conscience – Ask the Holy Spirit to help you see where you need God’s mercy.
- Be sincere and honest – Speak openly to the priest; he is there to accompany you.
- Trust in Christ’s compassion – Remember that God delights in forgiving His children.
- Receive absolution with gratitude – This is Christ Himself embracing you.
- Complete your penance – A small act of prayer or sacrifice seals your renewed friendship with God.
We warmly encourage every parishioner to participate in The Light Is On this Monday evening. Let Christ find in you a heart made ready open, peaceful, and joyfully prepared to receive Him this Christmas.
Your Servant in Christ,
Father Jason C. Hage, Pastor
Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us!
Our Lady of the Rosary, pray for us!
Mary, Mother of Our Savior, pray for us!