Sunday, 14 December 2025 (Third Sunday of Advent)

 

✨ Opening Prayer 

God our Father,
You so loved the world that in your mercy you sent your Son,
to restore to us the joys of eternal life.
Grant that we who prepare in faith for the coming of your Son,
may deserve to behold him face to face,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
Amen.

(This prayer reflects the spirit of Advent — expectant hope in the coming of Christ.)




📖 Mass Readings – Third Sunday of Advent (Year A)

1️⃣ First Reading — Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10

The prophet foretells the joy of salvation:

“The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad; the desert shall rejoice and blossom.”
God will come to bring healing, strength and joy.
💡 This reading reminds us that Advent isn’t just waiting — it is transformation and hope renewed. Read officially at the USCCB site or see full text here. Dynamic Catholic

Link — Full English Text:
👉 USCCB Sunday Readings 14 Dec 2025

🗣️ Responsorial Psalm — Psalm 146:6-7, 8-9, 9-10

Response: “Praise the Lord, my soul!”
The Psalm praises God for justice, mercy, healing and freedom — the very things the Messiah brings.

2️⃣ Second Reading — James 5:7-10

St. James encourages patience:

“Be patient, therefore, brothers and sisters, until the coming of the Lord.”
We are reminded that waiting for the Lord involves endurance, mutual encouragement and trust in God’s justice. Dynamic Catholic

✠ Gospel — Matthew 11:2-11

The disciples of John the Baptist ask Jesus:

“Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?”
Jesus replies by pointing to the works of mercy — healing the blind, freeing captives and proclaiming good news to the poor. Dynamic Catholic

💡 Gospel key message:
We don’t wait for a distant Saviour — Jesus is present in every act of mercy and compassion. Our mission is to recognise Him in the needs of others.

🙏 Closing Prayer 

Lord Jesus Christ,
You give yourself to us as food for our journey.
Grant that, sustained by your Body and Blood,
we may live in joyful hope for the coming of your kingdom,
and grow in love, faith and service.
You live and reign for ever and ever.
Amen.

📌 Short Reflection & Application

🌟 Theme of the Day — Joyful Hope in Christ

This Sunday in Advent is often called Gaudete Sunday — from the Latin for “Rejoice!” Our readings highlight God’s salvation drawing near.

  • Isaiah paints a picture of desolate places blossoming — a symbol of how God transforms our fears into hope.

  • James reminds us that faith grows in patience and perseverance.

  • Jesus’ words show that the Messiah is already here, revealed in mercy and love.

🧠 Practical Takeaways (For Catholics & Catechumens)

✅ Prepare your heart this Advent not by rushing but by patient prayer.
✅ See Christ in others: visit someone who’s lonely, help someone in need, comfort the fearful.
✅ Live the readings: mercy isn’t only inner hope—it’s outward action.

🛐 Useful Official Links

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