General Updates
Advent Reflection by Deacon Paul Williams
Advent: A New Beginning
Our Catholic liturgical calendar starts with the Advent season, November 30, 2025. Advent is a time of preparation that directs our hearts and minds to Christ’s second coming at the end of time and to the anniversary of Our Lord’s birth on Christmas. From the earliest days of the Church, people have been fascinated by Jesus’ promise to come back. But the scripture readings during Advent, tell us not to waste our time with predictions. Advent is not about speculation. Our Advent readings call us to be alert and ready, not weighted down and distracted by the cares of this world (Luke 21:34-36). Like Lent, the liturgical color for Advent is purple, since both are seasons that prepare us for great feast days. Advent also includes an element of penance in the sense of preparing, quieting, and disciplining our hearts for the full joy of Christmas.
As we prepare for Christmas, the General Instruction of the Roman Missal notes some differences to the Mass that should be observed during the season of Advent. For instance, the priest and deacon wear violet or purple during Advent, except for the Third Sunday of Advent (Gaudete Sunday), when a rose color may be worn.
The final days of Advent, from December 17 to December 24, we focus on our preparation for the celebrations of the Nativity of our Lord at Christmas. In particular, the "O" Antiphons are sung during this period and have been by the Church since at least the eighth century. They are a magnificent theology that uses ancient biblical imagery drawn from the messianic hopes of the Old Testament to proclaim the coming of Christ as the fulfillment not only of Old Testament hopes, but of present ones as well.
Advent devotions, including the Advent wreath, remind us of the meaning of the season. You are encouraged to fully enter into the season of Advent, with daily prayer and repentance, in order to prepare yourself spiritually for the birth of Jesus Christ.
Come, Lord Jesus, Come!
Gratitude for Guardians: Recognition Luncheon on Nov. 15
THANKS! A THOUSAND THANKS!
All Schoenstatt San Antonio Guardians are invited to a special recognition luncheon on Sat., Nov. 15, 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm in Kentenich Hall.
Sometimes it is easy for us to forget that the Cor Unum in Patre Shrine is unique in that it relies on the generosity of lay people to keep its doors open.
As Guardian Coordinators, we know how much the Blessed Mother must appreciate the cooperation and love of her children, who give every month of their love and talents as Schoenstatt Guardians. The blessings that Our Lady wishes to bestow on all who come to visit in Her shrine are abundant and unending.
How often have we hoped that every person, family, friend or stranger, could know her gracious love and understanding? If only they could look into the eyes of the Picture of Grace...numerous are the stories our Guardians tell of people who have come faithfully for many years, as well as those who have come in awe for the very first time. Often, they come with grief in their hearts or a song of thanksgiving. Our Mother greets them all and gathers them into her arms, pointing them always to her Son, Our Lord.
Our Shrine could not function without the unselfish help of our Schoenstatt Guardians, who pour out themselves in loyalty and love for their Mother and Queen.
We are so thankful to have the assistance of the Guardian Circle so that the gates of Mount Schoenstatt may remain open to all. Every day, we pray that the Guardians are cared for in a special and spiritual way and know that Our Lady in her exchange of hearts will bless each one as only she can.
Rick & Kate Otto
Board of Directors Property Update
- The annual testing of the well water results show water meets quality standards for both drinking and using.
- Both septic systems (Sacristy and K-Hall) have been pumped and cleaned as part of routine maintenance.
- The entire air conditioning/heating system for the Sacristy has been replaced.
- The lawn is being mowed on a regular basis thanks to amazing volunteers.
- The pathway project is paused due to lack of project specific donations.