2 0 1 4 A D V E N T R E F L E C T I O N S

D e a r F r i e n d s ,

Our reflections for this holy season of Advent is our gift to you. We hope the thoughts and prayers

you read will help you and your family prepare for the celebration of the birthday

of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Each of the scripture readings has been chosen by the Catholic Church for daily Mass

throughout the Advent season.

The Kennedy Catholic faculty and staff have prayerfully interpreted and prepared reflections

meant to help reflect on how God is calling us to a deeper relationship with Him this Christmas.

We hope these readings and reflections are a blessing to you and your family throughout the holidays.

May they help us grow spiritually as a community of faithful people, with a united mission

to graduate leaders following Christ.

W i t h p e a c e a n d j o y,

T h e Fa c u l t y & S ta f f o f

K e n n e d y C at h o l i c H i g h S c h o o l

D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

1

N o v e m b e r 3 0 , 2 0 1 4

F i r s t S u n d a y o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | I S 6 3 : 1 6 B - 1 7 , 1 9 B ; 6 4 : 2 - 7

S e c o n d R e a d i n g | 1 C o r 1 : 3 - 9

G o s p e l | M K 1 3 : 3 3 - 3 7

In so much of life we ask people (especially our youth) to “do the best you can.” This is true in people’s endeavors in academics, athletics, arts, service,

work, and in our relationships. The two challenges we find though is that people’s “best” is a subjective concept and it is difficult for us to give our

“best” all the time. Even in the midst of these obstacles, we all do continue to strive for better. We acknowledge this effort as a sign of God’s life and love

(Grace) moving in us and the amazing reality of our free will.

As we begin this Advent we are reminded in the readings that God invites us to offer our “best” in our faith lives. The first reading acknowledges

our free will and the reality of the Israelites lack of faith in the Lord at times yet God calls them back to the “best.” Jesus relates the parable of preparation for the Lord’s coming and encourages us to be at our “best”; faithful, hopeful,

and loving grounded in the cardinal virtues of prudence, temperance, justice and fortitude. Let us use this season to give the Lord our BEST

again, perhaps focusing on one or two improvements in our prayer life, our relationships, our knowledge of the faith and our service to one another. And as you strive to offer the Lord the best of what you have remember:

ask Jesus for help!

F r . B r y a n D o l e j s i

C h a p l a i n

2

D e c e m b e r 1 , 2 0 1 4

M o n d a y o f t h e F i r s t W e e k o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | I S 2 : 1 - 5

G o s p e l | M T 8 : 5 - 1 1

Growing up in the 1950’s and 60’s was amazing. With the advent of the color TV, you could actually watch Walt Disney on Sunday nights in “Living

Color!” From a very young age, my sisters and I talked endlessly about our dream trip—a trip to Disneyland. Frontier Land, Tomorrow Land,

the Pirates of the Caribbean, the Matterhorn, It’s a Small World— something for each of us!

As a middle class family—four kids and a dog, my dad self-employed, and my mom a stay at home mom, we had little opportunity financially let alone making this dream a reality. With us all in private school, while we rarely went without,

that vision of a perfect holiday was always a perennial possibility.

As we enter this time of preparation, Isaiah provides a vision of the future; the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established as the highest mountain,

exhorting us to pursue His House so that we may walk in his ways. St. Paul reminds us to not put off our pursuit of holiness, for our salvation is nearer now

than when we first believed. And finally, St. Matthew reminds us that at a moment’s notice, the Son of Man will come, often when you least expect it.

The Father is calling us to that perfect vacation, with promises of great attractions in living color. We are reminded to have our bags packed,

our faces washed and a smile of anticipation as we prepare for the coming of the Child Jesus, our ticket to Heaven.

M i k e P r at o

P r e s i d e n t

3

D e c e m b e r 2 , 2 0 1 4

T u e s d a y o f t h e F i r s t W e e k o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | I S 1 1 : 1 - 1 0

G o s p e l | L K 1 0 : 2 1 - 2 4

In Luke’s Gospel today Jesus says “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. For I say to you, many prophets and kings desired to see what you see,

but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it.”

These words lead us to ask ourselves, “What do we see and what do we hear this Advent season?” As we rush around this busy month, are we really

seeing the spirit of the newborn Jesus in those we encounter— the tired sales clerk at the department store, the postal employee, the elf managing the

Santa line? When we listen to the homily on Sunday and hear the call for action this Advent, do we truly hear it, or are secretly we hoping someone else in the parish will step forward so we can finish the last bit of wrapping or baking?

Let us pray that Advent offers us continual opportunities to hear and see God in all things that are around us. Find a time this week to slow down

and listen for Jesus in the sounds of the Season and look for Him in those you encounter in the hustle and bustle of your Holiday activities.

A m y H a l l

D i r e c t o r o f A d va n c e m e n t

4

D e c e m b e r 3 , 2 0 1 4

W e d n e s d a y o f t h e F i r s t W e e k o f A d v e n t

M e m o r i a l o f S a i n t F r a n c i s X av i e r , P r i e s t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | I S 2 5 : 6 - 1 0 A

G o s p e l | M T 1 5 : 2 9 - 3 7

“How many loaves do you have? Seven, and a few fish.”

Maybe a sly smile flashed across Jesus’ face when he asked the disciples how many loaves they had with them. I’m willing to guess he already knew what he was about to do. Jesus would take whatever the disciples were willing to give,

their small and meager offerings, and use them for a spectacular miracle.

I find myself thinking of what Jesus is asking of me. “How many loaves do you have?” I am ashamed to tell him. My gifts and abilities are inadequate. Ask

someone else, Jesus. My offering is too weak, too small, too much like myself. But that is precisely what Jesus asks of me, and of us. He asks us to recognize our gifts, however humble, and to place them in his hands. He accepts them.

He accepts us. In the hands of God, what is meager becomes mighty.

The miracle in this passage occurred after the disciples gave Jesus what they had. It was good enough. The miracle this Advent is in recognizing that it is not the gifts we have, but the ones we give over to the Lord that will be multiplied

for the good of the many. What are we willing to give over to God for wondrous purpose? There is nothing that is too small. This Advent let us answer this

question with courage in our hearts. “How many loaves do you have?”

A i r e s Pat u l o t

T e a c h e r

C a m p u s M i n i s t e r

5

D e c e m b e r 4 , 2 0 1 4

T h u r s d a y o f t h e F i r s t W e e k o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | I S 2 6 : 1 - 6

G o s p e l | M T 7 : 2 1 , 2 4 - 2 7

The prophet Isaiah reminds us in the first reading to “Trust in the Lord always!” even in the midst of adversity.

Then Matthew retells a story about Jesus reminding his disciples to build a strong foundation. This foundation could be looked at as a spiritual rootedness,

a physical space, or a clear conscience. Do we have trust that the Lord is present in our lives? Recently, my family moved from one house to another

house a mile away. We moved in response to a lot of gun violence in our neighborhood, and because we needed more room for our growing children.

This transition called for my husband and I to “Trust” as we packed up everything we owned, said good-bye to neighbors and embarked on a new journey of establishing a home that is safe for our children to grow, learn,

and love. However, in today’s society, we know that safety is not something that is guaranteed. As we decorate our new house for Advent and Christmas, we reflect on preparing for Jesus’ coming: pausing as a family to pray each evening while lighting the Advent wreath, asking for forgiveness from each other when we make mistakes, and preparing treats and meals for visitors

throughout the season. As you continue to prepare for Jesus’ coming, are you building a foundation in your morals, actions, and beliefs that show

you are seeking a relationship with God? Is there some “room cleaning” you need to do internally and with your family and friends as you prepare

for Advent? Build your foundation of faith by looking to those who help you to be on solid ground, and don’t forget to “Trust in the Lord always!”

J e n n y Fa r r e l l ‘ 9 2

D i r e c t o r o f C a m p u s M i n i s t r y

T e a c h e r

6

D e c e m b e r 5 , 2 0 1 4

F r i d a y o f t h e F i r s t W e e k o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | I S 2 9 : 1 7 - 2 4

G o s p e l | M T 9 : 2 7 - 3 1

I love this gospel from Matthew. Faith is such a tricky thing. Some days it feels as though having faith, truly believing in something

is so easy. Then there are other days where having faith really tries ones belief system. I appreciate that during Advent we are able to reflect on the concept of “Let it be done for you according to your faith.”

I wonder if we all had faith in the love of God if our interactions with those around us would be influenced. I wonder if we all had faith that the Lord will heal us if we could lift up those around us that are most affected by disease and distress. I am grateful that the Lord heals us

if we have faith and I want to scream it from the rooftops.

K at i e B u r n s , ‘ 9 0

A c t i v i t i e s C o o r d i n at o r

T e a c h e r o f L e a d e r s h i p

C h e e r C o a c h

L i n k C r e w A d v i s o r

7

D e c e m b e r 6 , 2 0 1 4

S at u r d a y o f t h e F i r s t W e e k o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | I S 3 0 : 1 9 - 2 1 , 2 3 - 2 6

G o s p e l | M T 9 : 3 5 - 1 0 : 1 , 5 A , 6 - 8

“The reading from Isaiah 30 tells that, “no more will you weep ...the Lord will give you the bread you need and the water for which you thirst.”

Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it?

To be trapped inside of your own small ego is always to be afraid, seeking some kind of control to settle the dust. To NOT have Someone

that you can trust deeply is necessarily to be a control freak. Thus, great religion tries to free individuals from the tyranny of their

small and fragile selves and introduce them to Someone-They-Can-Trust. Only if you trust such a ‘Someone’ will you eventually know that you

do not have to create all the patterns nor do you have to solve all the problems. You are in fact being guided.”

(With special thanks to Franciscan Fr. Richard Rohr)

M i k e M a g g a r t

A d m i n i s t r at i v e T e a m

8

D e c e m b e r 7 , 2 0 1 4

S e c o n d S u n d a y o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | I S 4 0 : 1 - 5 , 9 - 1 1

S e c o n d R e a d i n g | 2 P T 3 : 8 - 1 4

G o s p e l | M K 1 : 1 - 8

Lord, let us see your kindness. In today’s readings, we are reminded of the patience, kindness and loving compassion of God. The Lord is

like a shepherd who feeds his flock, who carries his lambs, gathering them in his arms. During the Christmas Season, many of us become caught up in the anxiety and hustle of consumer America. We spend wasted hours

worrying about finding the perfect gift for a loved one. We anxiously attempt to perfect our homes for visiting family while stressing about the house

cleaning and baking. It seems like there is too much to accomplish in the little time we have. Peter tells us that for God one day is like a thousand years

and a thousand years is like one day. Why then, should we be anxious at all? It is all too easy to lose sight of the peace, comfort and joy that we should be proclaiming to the world. For the Lord is patient and kind. He will take care

of all of our needs. He will gather us lovingly into His arms and carry us. Therefore, proclaim the goodness of the Lord and prepare

the way for his coming.

M e g a n O b e r w e i s e r

U S H i s t o r y T e a c h e r

9

D e c e m b e r 8 , 2 0 1 4

M o n d a y o f t h e S e c o n d W e e k o f A d v e n tSolemnity of the Immaculate Conception

of the Blessed Virgin Mary,

Patronal Feast day of the United States of America

F i r s t R e a d i n g | G N 3 : 9 - 1 5 , 2 0

G o s p e l | E P H 1 : 3 - 6 , 1 1 - 1 2

“The most Blessed Virgin Mary was, from the first moment of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege of almighty God and by virtue of the merits of Jesus Christ, Savior of the human race, preserved immune from all stain

of original sin.” (Pius IX, Ineffabilis Deus, 1854)

In 1854, Pope Pius IX’s solemn declaration, clarified with finality the long-held belief of the Church that Mary was conceived free from original sin.

Mary was granted this extraordinary privilege because of Her unique role in history as the Mother of God. That is, She received the gift of salvation

in Christ from the very moment of her conception. Even though Mary is unique in all humanity for being born without sin, She is held up by the Church

as a model for all humanity in Her holiness and Her purity, in Her willingness to accept the Plan of God for Her.

Every person is called to recognize and respond to God’s call, to their own vocation, in order to carry out God’s plan for their life and fulfill the mission

prepared for them since before the beginning of time. Mary’s “Let it be done to me according to Thy Word,” in response of the Angel Gabriel’s

greeting is the response required of all Christians to God’s Plan.

The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception is a time to celebrate the great joy of God’s gift to humanity in Mary, and to recognize with greater

clarity, the truth that each and every human being has been created by God to fulfill a particular mission that he and only he can fulfill. Let us be open to God’s

call in our lives this Advent Season and prepare our hearts like Mary to be the reflection of the sun to the world in darkness. O Mary, Conceived without sin,

pray for us who have recourse to thee!

D a r i o M o b i n i

T h e o l o g y T e a c h e r

10

D e c e m b e r 9 , 2 0 1 4

T u e s d a y o f t h e S e c o n d W e e k o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | I S 4 0 : 1 - 1 1

G o s p e l | M T 1 8 : 1 2 - 1 4

We can never underestimate the support we give to one another and our reliance on each other through struggle and strife. Seasons will change

and nature will cycle through her transitions; however, God doesn’t change. His omnipresence never falters and we should

never question His devotion to us in dire times or those of great success and joy—His power saves each of us.

One of the ways God reveals His love for us is through each other as each one of us remains a vital component to the whole. And even though

we will struggle many times, God’s power and love will help each of us overcome these temporary setbacks.

D av i d V i n s o n

T e a c h e r o f J u n i o r E n g l i s h

S e n i o r G r e at I d e a s

S e n i o r U W W r i t i n g

11

D e c e m b e r 1 0 , 2 0 1 4

Wednesday of the Second Week of Advent

F i r s t R e a d i n g | I S 4 0 : 2 5 - 3 1

G o s p e l | M T 1 1 : 2 8 - 3 0

“They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar as with eagles’ wings; they will run and not grow weary, walk and

not grow faint.” Isiah 40:31

There she was, head resting on her arms at the dining table, lesson plan, checked papers and students’ science project papers piled high next to her.

Fatigue had overcome her tiny body that showed barely any meat on her bones.

It’s been a long day— scrambling to get all her six children ready for school in the morning and ensuring that they had a good nutritious breakfast, lunches packed, and getting herself ready for school to teach

those 130 or so students. By evening, when all her children are back from school and done with their assigned household chores, she gathers them

for 6pm Angelus and family rosary. Dinnertime can be interesting, with personalities ranging from the fussy and restless one to the very quiet,

withdrawn one. And then, there was study time when all six children needed her attention with balancing a chemical equation, understanding an algebraic expression, working on an art project, practicing delivery

of Walt Whitman’s “O Captain, my captain!...” or even helping the little one write his name. By the time everybody’s tucked in bed,

she finally sits down and does her own school homework.

This was her typical day, exhausting as it was, she managed to come to school with much enthusiasm and vigor to teach 130 students.

I used to wonder how my mother was able to get such energy from her small body with hardly any rest. Truly, God has sustained her as she took to heart the above verse from Isiah and accepted Christ’s invitation to

“Come, all you who labor and are burdened, for I will give you rest.”

J o a n Ta p i a - B e e m a n

A s s i s ta n t D i r e c t o r o f F i n a n c e

A c c o u n ta n t

12

D e c e m b e r 1 1 , 2 0 1 4

T h u r sd ay of t h e Se c on d W e ek of A d v en t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | I S 4 1 : 1 3 - 2 0

G o s p e l | M T 1 1 : 1 1 - 1 5

I am the LORD, your God, who grasp your right hand;It is I who say to you, “Fear not, I will help you.”

Every year I feel blessed to offer a reflection on December 11— the day of my daughters’ birth. That day, that instant; was simply miraculous. My mom, my husband, our loving doctors and nurses and those three beautiful

babies— it was a moment filled with grace.

This past year I lost my mom after she battled for several years with a progressive neurological disorder. During her sickness there were so many

times to wonder why. The day our girls were born was one of the proudest days of her life – I remember so distinctly the look on her face. First her fear, then her pride but always her deep love. It is so hard to imagine them

growing up without her there to celebrate every joy, every pain, every success: every single thing.

Losing her was and is so painful.

When we have times that are painful and hard, we must remember that our feelings are so small, so simple and so human compared to God.

His love is like our love – a million times over. We simply cannot imagine how immense it is. No matter the difficulty, no matter the time, no matter

the circumstance, we will be lifted up by God.

“Fear not, I will help you.”

God is powerful and God is love. Even when we are going through out toughest times, these are the moments when God’s grace is present – we just need to look for it. In losing my mom I still wonder why, but I am comforted in knowing that

she is with God and embraced by His true love.

As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, look for God’s grace. Take the time to enjoy a nostalgic look at the past but always remember the

blessing in the renewal of hope and love for the year ahead.

God has so much in store for each of us.

S a r a h D a h l e e n

D i r e c t o r o f A d m i s s i o n s

13

D e c e m b e r 1 2 , 2 0 1 4

F r i d a y o f t h e S e c o n d W e e k o f A d v e n t

F e a s t o f O u r L a d y o f G u a d a l u p e

F i r s t R e a d i n g | Z E C 2 : 1 4 - 1 7

G o s p e l | L K 1 : 2 6 - 3 8

Our Tainted Nature’s Solitary Boast

The story is a familiar one: Satan, disguised as a cunning serpent, convinces Eve, our first mother, to eat the fruit of the

Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. Perhaps he persuaded her that only by disobeying God could she fully exercise her free will and enjoy true independence. However he accomplished it, he disguised as good that

which is inherently evil – disobeying the Creator of the Universe, who shared His very life with those whom He formed in His image and likeness.

Even today, our tainted nature still echoes with Eve’s “no:” “no” to the gifts of impassibility, infused knowledge, integrity,

and immortality; “no” to internal and external harmony; and “no” to an intimate, personal relationship with God.

But God loves us too much to leave us with nothing. Today, the angel proclaims a message of hope to another woman,

this time one who opens herself totally to the will of God. Mary is, quite literally, the foil of Eve. When “Eva,” the Latin rendering of our first

mother’s name, is spelled backwards, the result is “Ave,” the first word of the angel Gabriel’s greeting to Mary. Mary’s “fiat,” her “let it be,”

reverses Eve’s “no.” Mary gifts her entire self, body, intellect, and soul, unto God as a vessel through which His incarnate Son will enter the world.

What Eve refuses, Mary embraces. Mary thereby becomes the spiritual mother of all the living, and the model of the Christian life. May we, too, say to God, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to

me according to your word.”After all, we can only benefit from imitating her who is our tainted nature’s solitary boast.

S t e p h e n B a r b a r o s s a

T e a c h e r

H o n o r s I n t r o d u c t i o n t o C a l c u l u s

Pa s c h a l M y s t e r y a n d M o r a l i t y

14

D e c e m b e r 1 3 , 2 0 1 4

S at u r d a y o f t h e S e c o n d W e e k o f A d v e n t

M e m o r i a l o f S a i n t L u c y, V i r g i n a n d M a rt y r

F i r s t R e a d i n g | S I R 4 8 : 1 - 4 , 9 - 1 1

G o s p e l | M T 1 7 : 9 A , 1 0 - 1 3

“The signs of the times.”

In the Gospel reading for today, Jesus tells the disciples that the signs of the coming Messiah have already appeared, namely John the Baptist. John stood in the wilderness and boldly told people to “Repent, for the

Kingdom of God was near.” Today we have our own version of John the Baptist, who is sponsored by all the major retailers across

the country. As early as October, Christmas lights started showing up on shelves, wrapping paper began to be on sale, and decorations

pushed their way past the orange and black of Halloween. As some saw this, they reacted with a shake of the head

and a comment like, “Who do they think they are, it’s not time for this yet.” These are the many who missed the sign. These are

the many who may have shook their heads at a seemingly strange messenger in John the Baptist and commented with a

“who does he think he is, it’s not time for this yet.” But, fortunate are those who see the signs and know the real meaning behind them. The retailers may not intend to promote the Christ we know, but they

are a voice and a sign proclaiming that Christ is coming. Blessed are those who see and believe.

K a l e D y e r

T e a c h e r o f

M at h , S c i e n c e , a n d R e l i g i o n

D e c e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 1 4

T h i r d S u n d a y o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | I S 6 1 : 1 - 2 A , 1 0 - 1 1

S e c o n d R e a d i n g | 1 T H E S 5 : 1 6 - 2 4

G o s p e l | J N 1 : 6 - 8 , 1 9 - 2 8

The word “rejoice” can be found in each of the first three readings for today. Yet how do we rejoice in the midst of so much disease, destruction

and despair in our world today?

The answer can be found in today’s Gospel. John the Baptist states that “He was not the light but came to testify to the light.” John came to

make known the coming of the light who is Christ.

We are all familiar with the power of light. On a recent trip to the Oregon coast, I stood on the beach at nighttime and looked to the sky. The darkness was immense but it was the small, twinkling stars that

captured my attention. Several years ago, while walking in my neighborhood, I saw the following words, attributed to a holocaust survivor, etched into the sidewalk, “I love the stars too much to ever be afraid of the night.”

We need the light of Christ, most especially in times of darkness. Despite the suffering in our lives, we are never alone.

Whether we can see the stars or not, they are always present. In Jesus Calling, Sarah Young writes,“Awareness of My Marvelous

Companionship can infuse Joy into the darkest days.” Recognition of Christ’ abiding light, especially in times of darkness,

gives us a profound reason to rejoice!

K at h r y n H u t t e r

C h a i r o f C o u n s e l i n g D e pa rt m e n t

15

D e c e m b e r 1 5 , 2 0 1 4

M o n d a y o f t h e T h i r d W e e k o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | N M 2 4 : 2 - 7 , 1 5 - 1 7 A

G o s p e l | M T 2 1 : 2 3 - 2 7

Teach me your ways, O Lord.Advent is our prayerful journey to prepare for a great arrival — Jesus. Each week we light prayerful candles — the candle of hope, the candle

of preparation, the candle of joy and the candle of love.

Just a couple of years ago, I felt like I experienced the Advent journey in May and June for a Christmas in July. My parents and my sister were in a car

accident they should not have survived. But God had another plan. And so began the prayers of hope. My parents sent to two different trauma centers four hours apart while my sister, who suffers from cerebral palsy,

needed my care 24/7 for her broken arm. It was an overwhelming and exasperating experience. But as the responsorial psalm reads:

“Teach me your ways, O lord; He guides the humble to justice, he teaches the humble his way.”

God was humbling me and leading me back to prayer through my sister. What happened next is nothing less than a miracle. Prior to a very complicated spinal column surgery on our father, my sister wanted to ask people to pray —

something she witnessed our mother do daily. She asked the hospital receptionist if a family friend was working in the hospital that day in hopes of recruiting her prayers. Our family friend was the Chairman of the Board of the hospital. My sister and our family friend connected. While she was asking for prayers, I was reviewing the credentials of the medical team.

Clearly, I was wasting my time. In a moments notice, our friend provided VIP medical support to the surgical team — all hands were on deck for our father’s surgery. My sister was only seeking additional prayers;

her faith in God and prayer presented that medical miracle. Within weeks, our father could climb stairs again.

Advent is that magical time to take to reacquaint ourselves with prayer; to let God teach us His way.

J u d y S h a f e r

M a r k e t i n g a n d C o m m u n i c at i o n s M a n a g e r

16

D e c e m b e r 1 6 , 2 0 1 4

T u e s d a y o f t h e T h i r d W e e k o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | Z E P 3 : 1 - 2 , 9 - 1 3

G o s p e l | M T 2 1 : 2 8 - 3 2

How often do we look to the world as our compass and gauge for right and wrong? We so easily convince ourselves, as we attempt to convince others, our positions and decisions are just, as we strive to meet the demands

of this world, compromising our integrity and placing our own individual needs above that of our families, all in the name of ‘success’.

We are daily inundated with messages challenging our foundational beliefs, minimizing the holiness of God and compromising our faith. Over time,

without intentional focus on the one true and holy God, we slip, little by little, into patterns of belief and subsequent action aligning much more closely with the world than our God. We forget—living a Godly life is not relative to anything but the life of Christ. And, in the end, God will

not allow His righteousness to be compromised.

Pride and humility are forever at odds within us, yet God’s grace is sufficient, as we humble ourselves and align our hearts with his will. He will draw

us to Him in accordance with our repentant heart, as we humble ourselves and call on His name.

In our suffering and the darkest of times, God waits for us to call on Him.

In our sin and ungodliness, God waits to restore us to Him.

P e r r y S a m p l y

V i c e P r i n c i pa l

17

D e c e m b e r 1 7 , 2 0 1 4

W ed n e sd ay of t h e T h i r d W e ek of A d v en t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | G N 4 9 : 2 , 8 - 1 0

G o s p e l | M T 1 : 1 - 1 7

A call to Remember and Reflect

The instant gratification pushed forth in our culture causes us to often be distracted by the immediate or the urgent.

The busy nature of our schedules leave little room for the simple discipline highlighted in today’s reading. Ironically, this reading is often

quickly passed over due to its length and also the apparent lack of significant meaning. However, what the reading points to is the power and significance of the discipline of remembering. To remember takes time; it is much more

than to simply a recall an event, to remember in this way is more often like taking time to reflect. Reflection is a deep place where important

details live. Reflection is the space where hindsight illuminates the building blocks of who we are. Reflection is an invaluable resource giving depth to us as people. This Advent, take time to remember and reflect upon the

many layers of who you are and the people of that have helped to shape you. Give yourself the gift of reflecting upon who Christ has been

in your life and who Christ might yet be in the coming year. Resist the pull of the immediate and carve out a few moments to let yourself reflect.

A d r i a n n e D y e r

T e a c h e r

C a m p u s M i n i s t e r

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D e c e m b e r 1 8 , 2 0 1 4

T h u r s d a y o f t h e T h i r d W e e k o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | J E R 2 3 : 5 - 8

G o s p e l M T | 1 : 1 8 - 2 5

Hope. The words of Jeremiah the prophet are full of promise for

God’s Chosen People. He is predicting that a wise and righteous king will reign in security. From the house of David, no less. It is going to be great! This promise of peace and security should be enough

to encourage Jeremiah’s audience to remain faithful. Jeremiah knows that the people long a great King who will restore the greatness known

in the time of David.

But what if Jeremiah’s audience was the 21st century United States? What could Jeremiah prophesize that would give us this kind of hope?

We still want peace and security. It is true the more things change, the more they stay the same.

Stay Hopeful everyone.

B e v C a c a b e l o s

T e a c h e r o f M o t h e r T e r e s a P r o g r a m R e l i g i o n

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D e c e m b e r 1 9 , 2 0 1 4

F r i d a y o f t h e T h i r d W e e k o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | J G S 1 3 : 2 - 7 , 2 4 - 2 5 A

G o s p e l | L K 1 : 5 - 2 5

In 1223, in Greccio, Italy, St. Francis of Assisi created a background for an outdoor Christmas mass. Behind the altar was a cave in which

St. Francis arranged living people to represent Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus. A living ox and ass were also included.

Pope Honorius III expressed his enthusiastic approval. Within a hundred years, every church in Italy had a living manger

scene at Christmas.

Sculpted nativity scenes soon began replacing living nativities. The Magi, stars, shepherds, angels, and various animals were added.

By the 1500s, nativity scenes were being produced in Italy and exported around Europe.

By the 1800s, European countries were creating their own unique nativity scenes. Elaborate clay figures called santons were made in France. In Poland, nativities called szopka used historical buildings as backgrounds

for the manger scene. In England, mince pies were baked in the shape of the manger. Baby Jesus was laid in the pie until it was time to eat it.

Today, nativity scenes are common wherever Christians live. Nativities are traditionally set out December 8.

The crib remains empty until baby Jesus is laid in it the evening of December 24.

M e l a n i e B at t

T e a c h e r o f

F r e n c h a n d W o r l d H i s t o r y

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D e c e m b e r 2 0 , 2 0 1 4

S at u r d a y o f t h e T h i r d W e e k o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | I S 7 : 1 0 - 1 4

G o s p e l | L K 1 : 2 6 - 3 8

“The Lord spoke to Ahaz: ‘Ask for a sign from the Lord, your God.’” (From today’s first reading: Isaiah 7:10)

My 86-year-old mother died last November. She had been in a nursing home for the previous two months after having been cared for by my sister and brother-in-law for the prior eight years. My sister felt

very badly about the nursing home move, but due to my mom’s deteriorating Alzheimer’s condition, my sister and her husband

were no longer able to provide the 24/7 care that my mom needed.

My sister and her husband took a month-long road trip this past summer, the first time in eight years that they had been away from their home for

any extended period of time. Driving through Montana, there was a road sign warning about deer crossing the road. My sister said this prayer to God,

“If I see a deer, it will be a sign that Mom has forgiven me for putting her in the nursing home.” Just around the next corner, my sister saw a deer.

Was this a sign from God? Was this an answer to my sister’s prayer? I do not know for certain the answer to these questions.

What I do know is that there are signs of God’s presence all around us every day of our lives. I pray that each of us will open our eyes to the signs

of God’s love and goodness in our lives this day.

J u d i t h M c D o n a l d

T e a c h e r M e n t o r

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D e c e m b e r 2 1 , 2 0 1 4

F o u r t h S u n d a y o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | 2 S M 7 : 1 - 5 , 8 B - 1 2 , 1 4 A , 1 6

S e c o n d R e a d i n g | R O M 1 6 : 2 5 - 2 7

G o s p e l | L K 1 : 2 6 - 3 8

With our sensibilities already dulled by the frenetic commercial pace of the season, it may be easy for us to gloss over this oft-repeated

story of Mary’s “yes.” We have heard over and over the simple lesson to be learned from saying “yes” to our Creator, and understand on some level

what it must mean to be a cooperative participant in God’s great designs.

Nevertheless, it is interesting to consider the paradigm through which St. Luke is telling this incredible story. In the other Synoptic Gospels, as well as in St. John,

women are frequently portrayed as masters of hard questions and bantering. Not so the case in St. Luke; his Gospel is well known for its attention to women,

but they are typically portrayed through the lens of obedience and holiness. Mary, in this context, becomes a supreme model.

Could it be that this holy moment in salvation history is finally providing an answer to the disobedience of Eve in the Garden of Eden? Perhaps the assertiveness and hard questions of the very first woman are finally

made complete in the obedience and loyalty of the Mother of Christ.

Our God will be born where God will be born, but there is no place to look for the One who comes to us.

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When God is ready God will come

even to a godforsaken place like a stable in Bethlehem.

Watch… for you know not when

God comes.

(From The Coming of God, by Ann Weems)

J i m Pa y n t o nC h a i r o f t h e F i n e A rt s D e pa rt m e n t

T e a c h e r o f M u s i c

Watch, that you might be found

whenever, wherever God comes.

D e c e m b e r 2 2 , 2 0 1 4

M o n d a y o f t h e F o u r t h W e e k o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | 1 S M 1 : 2 4 - 2 8

G o s p e l | L K 1 : 4 6 - 5 6

The word Advent derives from the Latin word adventus meaning coming. The Lord is coming. We will celebrate His birth in just 3 short days.

True, every year at this time we celebrate His birth, but we should never lose the feeling of excitement and anticipation Advent offers. If we do, then our preparation was lacking and we are not embracing the true

meaning of this season.

As a coach, I often witness a similar anxiety and hope in our student athletes before a big game. Even after a long career and thousands

of big games, matches and meets, I never tire of that feeling of excitement we share. It brings us joy and a renewed outlook no matter what the result

of the contest might be.

Be Hopeful, Be Joyful, Be a Lancer!

B o b B o u r g e t t e

D i r e c t o r o f At h l e t i c s

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D e c e m b e r 2 3 , 2 0 1 4

T u e s d a y o f t h e F o u r t h W e e k o f A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | M A L 3 : 1 - 4 , 2 3 - 2 4

G o s p e l | L K 1 : 5 7 - 6 6

Today’s Gospel reminds us to trust in God’s plan. Trust requires patience, acceptance, and love. Currently, our seniors are applying to the universities and colleges they hope to attend next year. It is a process that requires much thought, effort, confidence and trust.

Trust on many levels: trust in the career path or course of study selected, trust in the process,

trust in the guidance of professionals, and most importantly, trust in God that He will lead them to the right path.

The right path may not be the university or college of first choice. It is important to have faith in God and the plan He has laid out for us.

L a u r a S c h o m e r

D e a n o f C a m p u s L i f e

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D e c e m b e r 2 4 , 2 0 1 4

W e d n e sd ay of t h e F o urt h W eek of A d v e n t

F i r s t R e a d i n g | 2 S M 7 : 1 - 5 ; 8 B - 1 2 ; 1 4 A ; 1 6

G o s p e l | L K 1 : 6 7 - 7 9

As Advent draws to a close, we are reminded that the last 25 days have been invitations to draw us closer to the mystery of how

Jesus came into this world and why. As we prepare for the Holy Night ahead and Christmas tomorrow, we reflect upon how He came.

He came in poverty. He was born in a stable. His only possession was a swaddling cloth.

Throughout His life, He did not shun this poverty. He embraced it. Much as He desires to embrace us today, on Christmas Eve and throughout the year. At this moment

we may not feel ready or ‘religious enough’ to welcome His embrace, but if we let Him come into our hearts we will find ourselves

entering the sacred night and morning of Christmas more joyful than ever before.

Come, Lord Jesus. Come and visit your people.

We await your coming. Come, O Lord.

A m y H a l l

D i r e c t o r o f A d va n c e m e n t

K e n n e d y C at h o l i c H i g h S c h o o l

w w w. k e n n e d y h s . o r g

1 4 0 S . 1 4 0 t h S t r e e t

B u r i e n , WA 9 8 1 6 8

2 0 6 . 2 4 6 . 0 5 0 0

C o p y r i g h t 2 0 1 4 A l l R i g h t s R e s e r v e d .