Let's get to know the Joaquin Family as they light the third candle of Advent!
Today is the Third Sunday of Advent! Let’s get to know Sockie and Francis Joaquin as they light the third candle, symbolizing joy
Pictured are Sockie and Francis Joaquin, two long-time parishioners of SJA; “It’s been an amazing experience to be part of St. Joan of Arc Parish for 32 years and counting. Our daughter Janel and son Jonathan both graduated from St. Joan of Arc School. Jonathan used to sing at the choir and now resides in Las Vegas working as an artist with his multi-talents in music, photography, and holistic medicines, etc. Janel is a nurse consultant and lives in New York with her husband Justin. We are so proud of our church and lovable community.”
_____________________________________________________________________
The theme for the third week of Advent is Joy. Reflecting on this past year, what does joy mean to you? How have you brought joy to others?
2020 has been a very challenging year for all of us - but with God's mercy and our strong faith, we can achieve joy and happiness. The joyous moments of spending more time with our families and loved ones, the joy of praying together, group chatting and expressing support and care for each other virtually, anytime and anywhere in the world is such a moment to treasure.”
“Although I'm not able to physically visit the hospital for pastoral care, I volunteered to talk to the patients by phone and offer them healing prayers , comfort , and words of wisdom to lessen their physical, emotional and spiritual concerns while in the hospital. The patients and their families are very grateful and I can feel the joys in their hearts.”
Merry Christmas to all from Sockie, Francis and the Joaquin Family!
Advent 2020/Week 3 - JOY
We light this third candle on our
Advent Wreath for the gift of joy.
Heavenly Father, This third week of Advent,
let us remember that the good news of
Jesus' birth has the power to bring us great
JOY this Christmas Season.
Our JOY isn't dependent on what is going
on in our life, in our world, or the people we
are with. It doesn't depend on the gifts we
give or the gifts we find under the tree.
No earthly thing can ever give us complete JOY.
Our JOY comes from You.
The JOY that flooded the hearts of the
shepherds, the angels, the hosts of heaven,
and Mary & Joseph is the JOY that still has
the power to overwhelm our hearts with rejoicing.
We thank You, Jesus, for the JOY
and PEACE you give,
AMEN