WHY?

The aim of this material is to provide opportunities for priests and parishioners to make connections between the Sunday gospel and how they live as Christians among the "pots and pans" of daily life. The material can be used as a strategy for "Whole Parish Catechesis" the ultimate aim of which is to help nurture communities where faith is shared through lived experience.

For Advent 2008 we reflect on the theme "Seeing things differently" with the intention of providing opportunities for parishioners to let the Christmas message "Emmanuel; God is with you" influence how they see themselves both in relationship with God and also as Christians in their parish communities,

WHEN?

During Sunday mass the priest introduces the theme for the week, elaborating on the theme in the homily and encouraging parishioners to take home the THINK-DO-PRAY ideas provided. (Printed in bulletin or in separate booklet). Suggestions for prayers of the faithful are provided. Themes can also be picked up at other appropriate times in the liturgy - before opening prayer, lighting advent wreath, after communion, in the music.

The "take home" booklet or bulletin mateiral encourages parishioners to reflect on the ideas at home. All or part of each week's suggestions can be used as part of the meeting and activity of parish groups. Booklets can also be taken into parish schools for the use of both pupils and staff.

WHAT?

For each week, material provided includes: key message(s) to use as basis for homily together with THINK-DO-PRAY ideas for inclusion in bulletin or distribution in the form of a small booklet and also a few prayers of the faithful. The themes for each week are:

Advent 1 Watch! Slowing down and paying attention to the world around us.

Advent 2 Behold ... my messenger. Godsends; God's presence in us and with us

Advent 3 Who are you? Being yourself . . .and enjoying it..

Advent 4 Full of grace. We are - like Mary - full of God's grace.

Christmas True light. How God sees us: Emmanuel; the Lord is with you.

You can download the Homily Notes in pdf format here.


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