Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity Sister Patricia Sevcik and Sister Sue Ann Hall share a reflection on a recent Advent talk by Archbishop Robert J. Carlson.
The Archbishop Carlson ‘s Advent Day of Recollection began at 10:00 a.m. with his talk on 10 Saints who helped reform the Church: Catherine of Genoa, “Love conquers all things”; St. Thomas Moore, “I die the kings good servant but God comes first”; St. Ignatius of Loyola: “Go and set the world on fire”‘; St. Francis Xavier; St. Phillip Neri; St. Charles Borromeo: “I am now wedded to the spouse- Jesus Christ; St. Pius V ” I’ve been called to serve the Church”; St. Terese of Avila: “God’s enough”; St. John of the Cross: “Where there is no love put back love and you will get love”; St. Francis De Sales. (Sometimes he forgot to give a quote.) and the 11th spot is open for you.
After the talk followed Adoration and a chance for Confession for about an hour. The Joyful mysteries of the rosary followed flowing right over to lunch next to the Cathedral.
We returned at 1:30 p.m. as the Archbishop introduced us to St. Francis of Assisi. Because of his humility he could experience the fullness of Jesus. “I am nothing but Jesus loves me.” Because he was holy, rather critical, for St. Francis it was the Scriptures, the Incarnation, the Crucifix. We keep our crucifixes up all year. Why not the Manger scene?
We concluded with the Seven Advent Stations-people who made Jesus possible throughout history.
