Pray with the CRS Advent Wreath

During Advent, the light of hope guides us through the darkness of life. Jesus, as a source that quenches our thirst, allows us to trust and overcome the fear of the future. Despite the difficulties, we know that Jesus is with us, even in the midst of hunger and despair. In this first week of Advent, let us reflect on Mary and Joseph, who with hearts full of hope experienced a special Advent as they prepared for the birth of Jesus. They made room in their hearts and lives for God to find a place to be born. God invites us to do the same: to welcome people who have been left out, in the “margins” that we create as a society. And to be sources of hope.

This second week of Advent we are invited to reflect on faith. It is in that same faith that moved Joseph and Mary to act in a specific way when faced with the challenge of finding an appropriate place to bring Jesus into the world. Such is faith, it is given to us to share it and to put it into action. Today the home we share with all species, our planet, is also facing the challenge of global warming. Our faith also requires us to care for and protect God's creation. Faith calls us to be good stewards of the Earth, to work together to preserve this home we share, and to care for those who suffer disproportionately from the consequences of climate change.

During Advent, our faith invites us into a time of waiting and preparation to celebrate the birth of Jesus, and the coming of a more just and loving world promised by him. A world in which each of us must participate in its construction. The joy of Advent is not a superficial happiness; it is a deep joy that arises from hope and anticipation of positive change.

In the midst of this season of joy, we are called to reflect on the difficult realities of the world, such as hunger and climate change. World hunger is a sad contradiction in an age that should be filled with generosity and compassion. Climate change, meanwhile, threatens to exacerbate food insecurity and increase the number of people in need.

The connection between Advent and these global challenges lies in the call to action. The joy of Advent invites us to share with people who have less, to be light in the darkness for those who suffer. It reminds us that every act of kindness and every step toward sustainability reflects the divine love we celebrate. Thus, as we rejoice in the joy of Advent, we also commit ourselves to being agents of change, working to alleviate hunger and protect our common home, the Earth. In this season of Advent, may our joy be translated into concrete actions that bring hope and relief to those who need it most, and may our care for the planet be our gift to the child born among us, promising a better future for all.

The birth of Jesus is a moment of deep meaning and hope. When God became flesh and dwelt among us, He brought with Him a message of love, reconciliation, and peace. Through his life and teachings, Jesus showed us the way to lasting peace.

In that humble manger, God revealed Himself as a Savior accessible to all. He did not choose a royal palace or a cradle of gold, but a simple place. This teaches us that peace is not found in material greatness, but in humility and closeness to God.

Jesus' promise to save us from our sins is an immense gift. His sacrifice on the cross offers us reconciliation with God and inner peace. Through him, we find forgiveness and the hope of a transformed life. The light that Jesus brought into the world dispels our darkness. His message guides us toward peace with ourselves and with others. During difficulties, his presence calms us and reminds us that we are not alone.

The peace that Jesus offers is neither superficial nor temporary. It is a peace that is embodied in our daily lives, transcends circumstances, and is rooted in faith. God invites us to trust him and collaborate in his creation; even when everything seems uncertain, we know that his love and care sustain us. This Advent, let us remember that true peace comes from Jesus. May his light illuminate our hearts and inspire us to be agents of peace in a world in need.