To the editor:
During the Advent season, God calls us to reflect on the words of the prophet Isaiah, first spoken to the Israelites while exiled in Babylon. The people discovered God’s presence in their midst, far from their land and their temple, manifest in the simplicity of their daily lives. The Servant Songs were sung by the poor and outcast, whose experience of God’s love for them led them to discover their vocation. “I have chosen you and not cast you off; fear not for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you.”
As we journey through the season of Advent and approach the feast of the Incarnation, let us imagine Mary and Joseph hearing the promise God made through Isaiah: “No more shall there be heard the sound of weeping and the cry of distress. … They shall build houses and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and eat their fruit. … They shall not labor in vain, nor bear children for calamity. … They shall not hurt nor destroy …”
Let us strive to imitate the shepherds and Magi, who were open to the signs of God’s presence amid social upheaval, growing poverty, religious oppression. God was manifest for them and for us today.
We, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester in Brazil, send you our warmest wishes for a celebration of Christmas that reinforces a sense of connectedness with peoples the world over. Once again, we thank the people of the Diocese of Rochester for your support over the 40 years, which made it possible for us to have shared life and mission with the people of Brazil.
Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester in Brazil
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