Our Lady of Grace in Penndel shared a note from the pastor on Nov. 29. 

“Jesus tells us as we begin the Season of Advent. Our pastoral theme this year of ‘Be Not Afraid’ is one that encourages hope. Advent is the Season of Hope. Hope for the Lord’s return and final deliverance,” Monsignor Joseph Prior wrote.

"After the Lord returns in his second coming, a number of things will happen, including an end of death itself, no more sin, no more hunger, no more sadness and no more evil. 

"While we are not at this time in history yet, we do have the opportunity every day to live as though Christ could come back. 

“There are many opportunities to grow spiritually during the season. The Church is open everyday from dawn to dusk, one simple way to enjoy Advent is to stop by for a visit, 15 minutes of silent prayer can do wonders on our outlook on life,” Prior wrote. 

Additionally, practical information was included in his note, such as the fundraising for Giving Tuesday and the schedule for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception.

“Although the obligation for the Holy Days has been lifted due to the pandemic, please make every effort to attend either in Church or via live stream. Our Lady is our parish patron, and the patron of our country, her intercession is especially needed to lift us up in hope. She heard the words 'be not afraid,' and believed. The effects of which were felt then, now and for eternity,” Prior wrote. 

"Let us take heart and take hope in the realization that while we wait for the perfection of all things, we can worship and rejoice in a God who has already conquered all things. We trust in him and wait for him to come again soon."