Written by Jane Scupham, principal
The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness…. The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul that seeks him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD…. Although he causes grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love; for he does not willingly afflict or grieve anyone. 
Lamentations 3:22-26, 32-33
For the past few weeks in Church we have been hearing about the end times. The scripture readings had a theme of repentance and preparation for the final judgment. But this past Sunday marked the first Sunday of Advent, the beginning of a new Church year. No more hearing about the end of the world and the final judgment. Advent is a time of preparation, anticipation, and hopefulness for all Christians. This Saturday morning our second grade classes will celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time. It seems so appropriate that they should receive this sacrament of forgiveness during this holy time of Advent. We, too, can celebrate the sacrament of Reconciliation at this time of year. What better time to contemplate all that our Savior has done for us in our lives? What better time to ask for forgiveness when our efforts at Christian living have fallen short? The marvelous aspect of Reconciliation, and Advent too, is the never-ending abundance of hope and forgiveness that the Lord has for all of us. We are loved and cherished even in our brokenness. As the Bible reading above states, the Lord’s love is a steadfast one. This steadfast love is showered on us no matter if we are second graders going to confession for the first time, or world-weary adults seeking forgiveness.
I wish you an Advent that is full of the Lord’s compassion, mercy, and His steadfast love.