Today is the first Sunday of Advent, marking the start of a new liturgical year. The scripture passage of Mark 13:33-37, observed on this day, reminds us of the importance of being vigilant and ready for the coming of the Lord. Jesus' words in this passage emphasize the uncertainty of the time of his return and the need for staying alert. As we enter the Advent season, we should reflect on our spiritual preparedness, examining the state of our hearts, staying connected with God through prayer and reflection, and living according to Christ's teachings. The Advent wreath, lit on this day, symbolizes hope and anticipation, reminding us to not only celebrate the birth of Christ but also eagerly anticipate his second coming. During this season, the scripture inspires us to be watchful and faithful in our spiritual journey. Let us be mindful of this sense of urgency and strive to grow in our discipleship. 

The Saint Jerome community stands as a testament to the strength of faith and unity that defines its members. This Tuesday, as they bid a poignant farewell to Tom Larkin, a cherished member who contributed significantly to the parish through his involvement in the men's group and various connections, the community experienced a profound loss. Despite the pain, the faith that unites them became a source of solace and a catalyst for coming together. The parish mass and celebration of Tom's life were not just rituals but a testament to the deep bonds that tie the community. A heartfelt appreciation extends to the funeral committee, whose exceptional dedication and hard work shone through, seamlessly bringing the parish together. In this challenging time, the collaborative spirit of the committee and other parish leaders was instrumental in crafting a beautiful and memorable farewell, illustrating the strength of St. Jerome's community bonds and their commitment to supporting one another in times of both joy and sorrow.

Dear parishioners, your generosity and commitment to our community have brought us remarkably close to achieving our goal for this year's Annual Bishop's Appeal. We are incredibly grateful for the support from most of our parishioners, but we find ourselves just shy of reaching the finish line. We are reaching out to you once again, not out of preference but out of necessity. We believe in the strength of our community, and with your collaboration and support, we can bridge the remaining gap. This weekend, we are doing a special collection dedicated to covering the remaining amount. If your finances allow, we kindly ask you to consider contributing by writing a check to Saint Jerome, with "Bishop's Appeal" in the memo. Your continued support and understanding make a significant impact on our parish, and together, we can ensure the success of this important endeavor. Thank you for being an integral part of our St. Jerome family.

In closing, I extend heartfelt gratitude to everyone who played a pivotal role in making our tree-lighting event a memorable success. Despite the unfavorable weather, the warmth of community spirit prevailed as many of you came forward to participate. A special acknowledgment goes to Daniela, Joe, and Kathy, whose dedication and leadership shone brightly, steering the event with grace and enthusiasm. Their efforts, alongside those of other dedicated parish leaders, truly made the occasion special. Thank you for your unwavering support and the indomitable spirit that makes our parish truly exceptional.

Wishing you a graceful Advent season, yours lovingly – Fr. Rojin