At our historically German-ethnic parish, the priest wore rose vestments (of the more pinkish hue). I finally saw that while there is no actual Advent wreath (which, of course, is not required by anyone or anything anyway), there are four candles arranged on stands in the sanctuary in a sort of tasteful circular setting.

(By the way – on the vestments – there might be reasons for no rose vestments in a parish. Vestments are expensive, and in a smaller parish, buying a set of vestments that are worn twice a year might not be a priority. If it bothers you, inquire, and if they need vestments – give them the money to buy some!)

Opening hymn was Holy Darkness by Schutte, again. It seems it must be the seasonal opener of choice, unfortunately. I say that because the traditional name of the day "Gaudete" is derived from the Introit of the day, and using that would be a very direct way to begin our Mass on the right foot, on the way the Church sets out for us. The closing hymn was O Come, O Come Emmanuel – but not the "O Come o Wisdom from on High…"

I say this not so much to complain, but to try to point out that too many liturgists are so very busy trying, trying, trying hard to make connections and make things meaningful…when, with a little knowledge, they might see, that some stupendous connections have already been made.

The homily was interesting. The very low-key pastor took the gospel as his inspiration and emphasized justice and charity. I think what he was trying to help his listeners see was that the joy of God’s love is brought into the world partly through what we do in response to God’s invitation – using John the Baptist’s responses to his listener’s questions – i.e. – change your life, live generously and mindful of the poor.

This priest hardly ever enters into first person mode in his homilies, but today he did, so that was different and prompted a little more listening effort on my part, despite the shaky church sound system and the not-shaky MIchael, Jr. Sound System. He noted how many complaints he’d received over the past 30 years whenever he even tiptoed up to issues of justice and charity in his homilies, noting one woman, in particular, who said she wanted to leave church with a "happy feeling," and he was ruining that for her. He did a good job of pointing out the real nature of "rejoicing" in this world of suffering, and the meaning and purpose of hope, as opposed to happy feelings.

Donuts after Mass, and the old roof slate tiles that were recently removed, engraved with the name of the church and sold for 5 bucks a tile were available. I got two. Tiles, not donuts.

Your turn in the AM, when comments are opened.