The season of Advent is a time of serious preparation not only physically for Christmas but also and more importantly for the coming of Christ, whether at the end of our lives, at the end of time, or daily in Holy Communion or in our prayer. With the shadow of COVID-19 in our lives to a certain degree this season, perhaps it is a good time to emphasize the spiritual side of Christmas even as we prepare to celebrate the feast as best we can given the circumstances in which we find ourselves. With the onset of Advent, there are a number of prayers offered in preparation for Christmas. One of these was introduced to me by my grandmother many years ago. I keep it in my breviary and the card is quite old & worn.

I shared it with you some years ago and some parishioners have asked me to share it again, so here is it: 
Hail and blessed be the hour and moment in which the Son of God was born of the most pure Virgin Mary, at midnight, in Bethlehem, in piercing cold. In that hour vouchsafe, O my God, to hear my prayer and grant me desires, through the merits of Our Savior, Jesus Christ, and of His blessed Mother. 
Amen

This prayer is to be said 15 times a day from the Feast of Saint Andrew (November 30) until Christmas (December 25). Please remember to lend your support to the We Give Catholic initiative this coming Tuesday, Nov. 29th. This effort assists us in supporting Catholic education at St. Albert the Great at 
Assumption Academy but also will provide funds for the replacement of the concrete stairs on the north side of the church building and addition of a ramp to assist in making our church more accessible to those who are physically challenged. There are several parties who have offered matching gifts as an incentive for us as a community to match their donation. Let’s make this day count for Assumption. 
Thank you ahead of time for your support.