On the Fourth Sunday of Advent, Archbishop Charles Scicluna reflected on the Gospel passage concerning the announcement of the name of Jesus, a name which means “God saves.” He explained that this name clearly expresses Christ’s mission in the life of every person.
The Archbishop recalled that “the mission of Jesus is to save us from sin, to give us new life, and to be born in our hearts.” He said that Advent is a time of waiting and spiritual preparation, and therefore “we are invited to cleanse our hearts,” including through the sacrament of confession.
During his reflection, Archbishop Scicluna also referred to Jesus being known as “Emmanuel,” meaning “God with us.” He explained that Jesus saves humanity precisely because “he becomes one of us,” remaining close to people in every circumstance of life.
At the end of the Mass, the Archbishop blessed the statues of the Baby Jesus brought by the children. He invited them to pray with the words: “Jesus, be for me my Saviour and Emmanuel, because I need you.”
The Mass was celebrated at the Archpriestal Church of Our Lady of the Nativity in Mellieħa.
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Photos: Ian Noel Pace
