At a local store, I heard, “Just the coffee, please.” Then another voice chimed in, “That’s okay, I’ve got his coffee.” And then, the voice of the second clerk behind the counter spoke up, “No, honey, someone already paid for you!”

     That moment of unexpected and unsolicited generosity was a great way to begin my day, even as an objective third-party observer. I have no doubt that it was an even more memorable moment for everyone directly involved. There was one who received, two who gave or offered to give, and one whose tone of voice revealed how happy she was to announce the good news.
     These days are and will be filled with the sights, sounds, tastes and feel of the season. There will be gifts and music, meals and family stories to share precious memories. There will be celebrations of newborns’ and newly marrieds’ First Christmas. There will be a quiet place or moment where or when we remember the one who is not with us for Christmas for the first time. In all of these circumstances, God invites us to see and to hear the message of glad tidings that touches our joy or our grieving, the wealth or the poverty that affects but should not define our lives. Whether it is an ornament or other seasonal decoration we have placed with care, a favorite song or carol that catches us by surprise on the radio or in church, or even the smell of someone’s recipe that has been handed on to a trusted friend or family member, there is a herald of good news! See and hear... 
     May your families and friends know the joy and the power of the Gift we receive and truly celebrate these days! Please plan to join with us for Mass on Christmas Eve at 4:30pm, with Christmas Carols to precede the Mass, or for Mass on Christmas Day at 9:00am. The grace of this glorious Mystery be with you all!