Advent is upon us - actually nearly over before I actually finished this post. The beginning of Advent this year also brought the new translation of the Mass for all of the English speaking Catholic churches. There really aren't that many changes for the congregation - a few responses and the Nicene Creed - but the priests have many changes in their prayers. I feel it has been a good change - they don't change the meaning of the Mass, nor does it change our faith. It simply uses a different format for translating from the Latin version (which is the language all versions are translated from). I like saying "...and with your spirit." in response to the priests "May the Lord be with you". And I like the changes in some of the musical pieces. I like the changes mostly because it makes people pay attention during the Mass. Some individuals are very complacent and just say the words without meaning them (robot-like). These changes are bringing new meaning to people's faith because they are listening and reading and pay attention to the words once again. It's like we're brand-new Catholics!! I love it. Merry Christmas - blessings to you and your family. Until next time: Live, love, and show others your faith in the process.