Many people struggle with prayer, feeling they aren’t doing it “properly” or getting anything out of it, as if it were a task with a right way to complete it. However, prayer is more about being than doing, and simply trying to pray means we are already praying. Spiritual teachers remind us that distractions are normal, and even experienced monks face them, yet God still welcomes our efforts and transforms them into true prayer.

The New Year and Epiphany have passed, and we now celebrate the Baptism of Jesus alongside the Baptism of Adam Spicer, making the occasion feel especially meaningful. As winter settles in, please prioritize safety during inclement weather by checking conditions before heading to church. Upcoming events include a brief practicum for lectors on January 19 and 26 and Eucharistic Minister and Visitor training on a Saturday in February—please share your availability for scheduling. Stay tuned for more updates!

In her reflection, Mo. Laura invites us to pause amid the busyness of Advent and imagine Mary’s thoughts as she journeyed to visit Elizabeth. She highlights the awe and wonder of their encounter, the prayers, and the miracles they shared, encouraging us to embrace the same contemplative spirit. By finding moments of stillness, we can prepare to experience the joy and beauty of Christmas with renewed awe.

Fr. Jerry Gaeta recently shared a reflection with the Benedictine Oblates, emphasizing that during Advent, we should recognize that God earnestly seeks us, as demonstrated by Jesus becoming human to be closer to us. He highlighted the biblical narrative of God asking Adam and Eve, “Where are you?” after their disobedience, illustrating God’s genuine desire for fellowship rather than judgment. This message serves as a reminder for all believers, not just Benedictines, to acknowledge that in our spiritual journey, it is God who is actively seeking a relationship with us.

The message encourages the congregation to reflect on St. Nicholas during the second Sunday of Advent by exploring icons and artifacts from Fr. Cliff Carr’s collection. It also reminds them to embrace Advent’s stillness and anticipation, avoiding the urge to busy themselves unnecessarily, akin to Jesus’ wilderness experience.

This letter, written on Election Day, reflects on the inevitable nature of change—whether in leadership, the universe, or our lives—and acknowledges the anxiety it can bring. Amid this uncertainty, it reassures that God’s love and Jesus’ presence remain constant, offering an unshakable foundation during turbulent times. Regardless of political or personal storms, we are called to continue loving God, serving others, and spreading love in the world.

The Diocesan Convention is approaching, and prayers are requested for discernment regarding the reunification with the Diocese of Central Pennsylvania. The Parish Hall has a new, more accessible door installed by Greg and his team, improving both energy efficiency and accessibility. St. Margaret’s Day weekend will feature a special Celtic music concert on November 15th as a community outreach and fundraiser, and gift cards for Weis and Giant are now available at the church to support the parish.

In challenging times, it’s helpful to focus on what we can do rather than what we can’t. By shifting our mindset from limitations to possibilities, we can make small, meaningful contributions, and find strength in contentment, as St. Paul emphasizes in Philippians 4:11-13.

This October 18-19, the Diocesan Convention will vote on whether to reunify with the Diocese of Central PA to form the Diocese of the Susquehanna. Bishop Kevin has asked us to share relevant materials, including a detailed report from the Reunification Committees, and if you have thoughts on the matter, please reach out to Lori Sysak, Susan Schaffner, or me before the vote.

I’ll be on vacation next week and will return on August 31. Enclosed are flyers with food bank needs for the upcoming month and information about our fall class—please share them widely! I look forward to seeing you all when I return.

Prayers for everyone, Mo. Laura