ROME. This year, Catholics will be able to receive a plenary indulgence from Dec. 8, the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, to Feb. 2, 2024, the feast of the Presentation in the Temple of Our Lord Jesus Christ, by praying before a Nativity scene in a Franciscan church.

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

On this first weekend of Advent, we hear Jesus in St. Mark’s Gospel encouraging us to, “Be watchful!  Be alert!” With these words, Jesus is not suggesting we prepare for his birth, so what is this emphasis on watchfulness on this First Sunday of Advent?

Queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo,

En este primer fin de semana de Adviento, escuchamos a Jesús en el Evangelio de San Marcos animándonos: “Velen y estén preparados“  Con estas palabras, Jesús no está sugiriendo que nos preparemos para su nacimiento, así que ¿a qué se debe este énfasis en la vigilancia en este primer domingo de Adviento?

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Bishop Golka's Reflection on Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe

COLORADO SPRINGS. The St. Serra Apostolate of Colorado Springs, which fosters and promotes vocations to the priesthood and religious life, will hold their annual anniversary Mass and dinner on Jan. 15, 2024 at the Newman Center, 4785 Stanton Rd., Colorado Springs, 80918. Father Kyle Ingels will celebrate Mass at 4 p.m., followed by an induction ceremony for new Serrans. A wine reception and silent auction will take place before the catered dinner. Tickets are $45 per person and much be confirmed by Dec. 31. Those who plan to attend should contact 307-922-6813 or serraCOSprings@diocs.net. 

(Updated 2023/11/30)