St. Jude

Dear Friend of St. Jude,

It’s not too late to send your special intentions for Advent to the National Shrine of St. Jude today.

God's love for us is strong. He seeks us out, always drawing us closer into His friendship. St. Jude, our powerful patron, accompanies us in our Advent preparation for Christ. He offers a gleaming ray of hope in the darkness of winter. Know that you have the support of the St. Jude League community throughout these days.

Thank you for taking time this Advent season for these daily reflections. We look forward to praying with and for you during these holy days.

Let's take a moment this first Sunday of Advent to reflect with expectant joy:

Today the church celebrates its new year. As we enter into the quiet of Advent, resolve to grow in holiness. Even as the world's pace quickens in anticipation of Christmas, embrace the practices of daily prayer, frequent reflection, and quiet solitude. Allow yourself to hear God's voice.

Therefore, stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come.

We take a moment this second day of Advent to reflect with expectant joy:

Pray for peace. Jesus' gentle love is needed all over the world. May peace enter all hearts and places where conflict lingers.

For over all, his glory will be shelter and protection: shade from the parching heat of day, refuge and cover from storm and rain.

We take a moment this third day of Advent to reflect with expectant joy:

Where do you need healing? In your mind? Your spirit? Your body? Ask St. Jude to accompany you on the path to healing..

But a shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse, and from his roots a bud shall blossom.

We take a moment this fourth day of Advent to reflect with expectant joy:

A life lived without reflection is not lived at all. Take some time today to examine your life. Where is God calling you to change?

Behold our God, to whom we looked to save us! Let us rejoice and be glad!

We take a moment this fifth day of Advent to reflect with expectant joy:

Generosity is the mark of Jesus' disciples. Give honor and glory to God during Advent by sharing your gifts freely with those who have less than you do.

The way of the just is smooth; the path of the just you make level.

We take a moment this sixth day of Advent to reflect with expectant joy:

Advent is the season of waiting. Today embrace the opportunities you have to wait joyfully on others—including the Lord.

The lowly will ever find joy in the Lord, and the poor rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.

We take a moment this seventh day of Advent to reflect with expectant joy:

A sense of gratitude does not happen all at once; it is practiced. Give thanks today for all you have been given.

Here is your God, he comes with vindication; with divine recompense he comes to save you.

Yours in hope,

Father Mark Brummel, C.M.F.
St. Jude League Director