Holy Week is the holiest week of the year, in which we enter into the greatest mysteries of our faith: Jesus' Institution of the Eucharist, His Passion, Death, and Resurrection. This reflection invites us to be present with Jesus at each of these events — Palm Sunday, Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Easter Sunday — simply to be with Him and to immerse ourselves ever more deeply in these sacred mysteries.

This Third Week of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday, we are rejoicing because of the anticipation of the long-awaited Messiah. Advent, a season of preparation, is coming to an end, and Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior will be coming into the world just as the Scriptures foretold. We need to continue to prepare for His arrival in our hearts, minds, and actions.