Today has a bit of an identity crisis. It is the 4th Sunday of Advent, but it is also Christmas Eve. It was also a tricky day for me when I was working in a parish. People were eager to decorate the Church for Christmas, but traditionally the churches were kept plain, with no flowers or adornment during Advent. It was always a challenge to find a compromise, a way that would keep everyone happy.

I am sure you have now got your Christmas Tree decorated and all your food ready, in fact with the long weekend, your festivities may have already started.

Today we lit the final red candle. This candle reminds us of the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus. Her obedience to God call on her to bear his Son is something that has been marvelled at down through the ages. A young girl finding herself in unusual circumstances and yet given the most responsible job that any mother can do, raise a child.