3RD SUNDAY OF ADVENT 14TH DECEMBER 2025

    Rejoice! The Lord is Near.

On this Third Sunday of Advent, Gaudete Sunday, our readings call us to a joy that is not superficial, but rooted in patient, watchful hope. To you, the parishioners of St. John Vianney, living the vibrant yet sometimes challenging reality of West Green Road, this message speaks directly.

The prophet Isaiah paints a stunning picture of transformation: the desert blooms, feeble hands are strengthened, and fearful hearts are made bold. He speaks of a highway of holiness, where sorrow and sighing flee. This is God’s promise for our world and for our own hearts. Where we see barrenness—in our spirits, our community, or our world—God is at work, bringing life. Our parish, in the heart of this diverse London community, is called to be a glimpse of that blooming desert, a place of strengthening and joy.

Yet, how do we live in this hope when the road seems long? St. James gives us practical, parish-hall wisdom: “Be patient, brothers and sisters, until the coming of the Lord.” He speaks to anyone who has ever felt weary in doing good, who has prayed for change that seems slow to come. Your patience in building up your families, serving people in need, and maintaining this parish community is not in vain. It is the very work of Advent.

Even John the Baptist, from his prison cell, experienced a moment of doubt and sent his disciples to ask Jesus, “Are you the one?” Jesus’ answer is not a philosophical argument, but a report of concrete actions: the blind see, the blind walk, the poor have good news proclaimed to them. Look for the Lord’s presence here and now, in the sacraments we share, in the kindness shown at the food bank, in the comfort offered to a neighbour. This is how we know He is here.

So today, we rejoice. Not because all is perfect, but because God is faithful. He walks with us on West Green Road. He strengthens our feeble hands and makes our parish a highway where His love is encountered. Let us be patient and courageous, for our redemption is indeed drawing near.

Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I say, rejoice!