The Gospel for the Fourth Sunday of Advent begins: “This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about.” Joseph is the hero of this section of Matthew’s Gospel. We do not know much about Joseph except for a few references to him in the Gospels, but what we read is amazing. This is not only a compassionate man, but a brave man who is willing take this pregnant woman as his wife. Everything in the culture of those times said: “She should be stoned. Stay away from that woman.” Joseph has a dream and is given an assurance that what his heart is telling him is what he will do. Although we may not have an angel appear in our dreams, many times we should listen to our hearts. They can draw us closer to others that we may not understand. Joseph is strong example for us to consider when we want to understand another person or situation.

I hope you attended the Carols with the Choir last Sunday. It was inspiring, moving, spirit filled. Congratulations to Meredith, the choir, our cantors, organists, and musicians for drawing us closer into the Advent/ Christmas spirit. We are blessed to have such talent here at St. Francis.

Check the schedule for our Christmas Masses!

-Fr. Andrew Reitz, O.F.M.