Dear Parishioners of St. James:
Praised be Jesus Christ!
Time and time again in salvation history Israel (and the Church in the New Covenant) have disobeyed God by not following His commandments. The Lord, respecting the free will of His chosen people, has allowed them to suffer the consequences of their sins against Him while promising restoration when they come to repentance. God married His people and will not abandon them. He waits for repentance so that He may bring reconciliation and peace.
The Word of God came to St. John the Baptist telling His people through John to repent of their sins in preparation for the coming of the Messiah. Some responded and repented; some saw no need of repentance since their lives seemed to be going just fine, not thinking that they needed restoration. God wants to restore our souls from the exile that sin creates. Are we aware of our own exile? Do we want restoration? Do we even recognize the need?
Please examine your conscience this Advent and make a good confession of your sins. Be open to the action of the Holy Spirit Who wants to restore your soul to its original beauty. No matter what has happened or how far we have drifted, God desires and promises our restoration. Our Lord seeks to straighten the winding roads of our sins and to make our rough ways smooth.
God bless you,
Fr. Geary
Saint James Catholic Church 