Welcome to St Wilfrid's Parish in the Heart of Preston

‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight’

Today we celebrate the many great deeds God has worked for us, as he shares with us his mercy and bountiful love. For our part, we are called to repentance of heart and to live a life of love.

Using poetic language, the First Reading offers a prophetic message of joy and hope. The saving presence of God brings about the transformation of his broken-hearted people, and the restoration of Jerusalem.

The Gospel speaks of a still more glorious restoration. John the Baptist, herald of Jesus, appears, calling us to turn again to God. John announces that all humanity is to see ‘the salvation of God’, anticipating the preaching of the gospel to all nations.

St Paul, in the Second Reading, is writing to the Philippians: a church for which he has deep affection. He encourages the new community to continue to grow in love and knowledge of Christ Jesus, so as to enable them to live even better, more fruitful lives.

The Psalmist remembers the joy of deliverance from exile. He begs that God will act again to bring fertility and abundance to his people.

During this season of Advent, we seek the true meaning of repentance in preparation for the coming of Jesus. We pray to leave aside anything that might hinder and blind us to God’s love, and to become even more open to a deepening, faith-filled relationship with the Lord.

(With thanks to St Beuno's Outreach)

ARTWORK
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