From the Pastor's Desk - 12/7/2025

   May God be with you, and bless you and your loved ones at the beginning of this Holy Advent Season. This is a time for us to wait and prepare—first for the second coming of Christ on the Last Day, and also to celebrate the first coming of Jesus at Christmas. Our liturgical color is violet. This season is penitential in nature.  We are given an opportunity to slow ourselves down and reflect on our relationship with Jesus.

    This weekend, December 6, is St. Nicholas Day. St. Nicholas was a bishop in Myra, which is now a part of modern-day Turkey. St. Nicholas is known for his kindness, healing, and help for travelers. There are many customs and traditions, particularly those found in Germany. With St. Nicholas Day here, Christmas cannot be far behind!

     This week on Monday, December 8, we remember the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary and her parents, St. Anne, and St. Joachim. This is a Holy Day—and there will be 3 masses available for you to attend between our 2 parishes of shared ministry. Mass will be at 8:30 in the morning at Christ the King, Lombard, then at noon at Ascension, Oakbrook Terrace, and again at 12:15 at Lombard. It is good for us to think about the Blessed Mother and her family. All chosen by God to do His Will. How might each of us say “yes” to God in knowing, and doing His Will?

Peace…….Fr. Jeff