A Homily by Fr. Ryan on the main emphasis of Advent.

There is something very special about having family pictures! They bring up fun memories, sad memories, good times, and hard times too! Why do we take pictures of these moments? I think simply we want to recall these memories, especially the happy ones, and it helps us to be grateful…it reminds us that every moment is special and that we should not take any moment for granted.

If I were to ask you, “What is the most precious thing in your life right now?” What would you say?

As I have reflected on my life, I realize that there are so many times that I needed my mom. I remember hearing from others that when I was little, I never wanted anyone to pick me up or hold me…only mom.

Some people wonder, what is the significance of the Immaculate Heart? We already have Devotion to the Sacred Heart. There is always a deep connection between a mother and her child. Mary’s Immaculate Heart points us to a deeper love; a love that goes deeper than any other love in this world. That is the love of God.

Ever wonder where the First Saturday devotion to Our Lady originated? In December of 1925, our Blessed Mother Mary had some very important words for Sr. Lucia dos Santos.

Have you ever heard these expressions: “Put your heart into everything you do,” “I am broken-hearted!” “this is the desire of my heart…” What do all these expressions have in common? They all speak about the heart.