Advent & Christmas in the Diocese
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As we stand on the threshold of the sacred season of Advent, our hearts are filled with joy and anticipation.
Advent is never passive waiting; it is an active invitation to encounter the living Christ who has come to be among us, to extend that same invitation to others, and to walk together as disciples in the footsteps of our Lord. We encounter Jesus anew in the Scriptures, meet Him in the quiet moments of prayer, in the celebrations of the Sacraments, the Holy Eucharist, and recognize His presence in the lives of those in our families, parishes, neighbourhoods, schools, workplaces, and especially in those who are most in need. In the spirit of Pastoral Renewal, let us not keep this encounter to ourselves. The mystery of the Incarnation is not a solitary event but a communal one. God, in becoming flesh, chose to encounter humanity in the most intimate way possible. This is how we understand the call to become a Church of encounter and witness, where our encounters with Christ are not confined to personal experience but are shared experiences within a believing and supportive faith community. Just as Mary encountered the angelic announcement, and the shepherds witnessed the glory of the newborn Savior, our faith communities become witnesses to the ongoing revelation of God's love. In encounters with one another, we become aware of the divine encounter that occurred in Bethlehem's stable – a communal witness to the ongoing mystery of God dwelling among us. This Advent and Christmas, let our invitation to a life with Christ be intentional, rooted in love and humility. In our smallest acts, let us be architects of encounters, builders of bridges, and messengers of hope and the joy of Christ. Vertical Divider
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Resources for Advent
Need a New Year renewal project, or a Christmas gift? Consider the 2024 Lectio Divina Compendium from Seeds of the Word
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Ways to Serve & to Give this Advent #IamBlessed
Help Elizabeth House residents this Christmas through volunteering or fulfilling their Amazon Wish List. Learn more ways to help here.
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Your donation of mittens, socks, toques, gloves, or $10 fast food gift cards can greatly impact Feed the Hungry guests. How to give.
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Help your family journey along this path towards a meaningful Christmas with this year’s Advent Calendar and its daily activities.
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If you're passionate about helping vulnerable communities and can dedicate 2 hours weekly, become a warming station volunteer. It's an outdoor role that truly makes a difference.
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The Salvation Army and Diocese of Calgary are collaborating to provide winter coats. Learn how to arrange a Coat Drive or donate used coats.
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A generous Calgary couple will match your donation to Elizabeth House, up to $25,000, until Dec. 18. Thank you for your support and kindness! Double your gift now
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Advent Penitential Service |
Advent Reconciliation
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