Message from Monsignor Ken, Rector, Holy Trinity Cathedral, Kingston, Jamaica -- ADVENT: Time of preparation…Listen to the Word!

During the Advent Season, the church invites us to look forward, in two ways, to the coming of Christ with great expectation.

In one way, we are to recall that we must be vigilant, watching and waiting in prayer, the Lord’s return in glory, the end of time. He will claim as His own, those who have lived faithful lives according to His words. Those who have been unfaithful will be treated accordingly.

In the other way, we are to reenter the experience of the people who awaited the fulfillment of prophecy, the appearance of the Messiah that took place two thousand and ten years ago. This experience comes alive for us during the fourth week of Advent and the celebration of the Christmas Season.

Our expectation for both encounters requires a particular kind of preparation. This preparation must be inspired by the very Word of God…attentive listening to the Word of God.

- Listen with your ears, the proclamation and explanation of the Word.

- Listen with your eye, as you read the Scripture and by your attentiveness to the wonders of creation.

- Listen with your heart, as the Spirit of God speaks within you, giving understanding to what you have heard and seen.

In listening we must seek the Divine Revelation…what are you saying to me Lord…and how can your will for me be accomplished? Our acceptance of God’s will, avails us the assistance of the Holy Spirit. Hence, like Mary the Mother of our Lord, we must commit to doing God’s will: I am the servant of the Lord, let your will be done (Luke 1:38).

I wish for you a blessed Advent Preparation of conversion and growth!

Msgr. Kenneth D. Richards