A Thanksgiving message from the shrine director
The Advent of Advent
There are so many reasons to be thankful and this month always seems to be the time to express it in open and charitable ways. We are charged with the task of giving, and our ways and methods of giving vary according to our life situations, our abilities and careful consideration of all that we ourselves are thankful for. Though gratitude is a year-long and life-long attitude to practice, it reaches its peak during this month in extraordinary ways. What are the things you are most grateful for?
This year, November not only celebrates the beautiful feasts of All Saints and All Souls, including All Carmelite Saints, it also moves us through the culmination of another liturgical season into the beautiful season of Advent. The Solemnity of Christ the King brings our months of ordinary time into clearer focus as we honor Jesus Christ as the King who will bring us into the light of the new kingdom.
Here at The National Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Middletown, NY we are so grateful to you for your presence here and ongoing support of our mission and ministry. “The Advent of Advent” is a slow movement into a new attitude of gratitude for all that we have and all that is to come for us. We hope you will journey with us into this new liturgical season and join us for the following programs and celebrations here at the Shrine:
1) “All Saints in Carmel & their special relationship with Mary” to be presented on Monday, November 14th by Bro. Joseph Tuan Bui, O.Carm. at 9:30am
2)Thanksgiving Day Mass – 11:30am
3)“A Triduum Celebrating the Immaculate Conception during the Synod on Synodality” Monday, December 5 – Thursday, December 8th to be presented by Fr. Jim Hess, O.Carm. Solemn Evening and Taize Prayer on Wednesday, December 7th at 7:00pm
These and several more December programs are planned and posted on our website. Please check “Special Events” for new updates and further information.
As the weather cools down and we begin to prepare for the winter months ahead, the Shrine will radiate the love of God through the ongoing presence and protection of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. May you experience the peace and serenity of the Advent season as we prepare our hearts and minds for Jesus!
May God continue to bless you abundantly! Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for us!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Carol Bezak, MA
Shrine Director
cbezak@carmelites.com