December 3, 2022
Next Saturday, December 10, we will gather to remember victims of violence whose lives have ended since last month’s vigil. We will pray for: JOHN MULLINS, 61, September 29, Trotwood; a homicide ruling was made in November. KEYTON MARLON WOODS, 20, November 15; shot to death in 3700 block of W. Second St. KRISTEN CONNOR, 22, November 20; vehicular homicide, Riverside - Beatrice Dr. MARQUAN COCHRAN, 22, November 26, shot, died on Nov. 28; 1100 block of Rosedale. SCOTT PATRICK HANNAH, 27, November 27; stabbed to death; Riverside - Dundee Circle. We pray for their families and loved ones as they face the Christmas holidays without their loved ones. Our prayer leader will be Barbara Mosley from Omega Baptist Church. A refrain we often hear sung during these pre-Christmas (Advent) days) is “Come, Lord Jesus.” While we remember Jesus’ coming historically and anticipate his coming at the end of time, we tend to forget that Jesus is here now, in our time. Do we call upon him as that life unfolds? When we find ourselves anxious… Come, Lord Jesus. When we feel left out or alone…. Come, Lord Jesus. When we don’t want to answer one more phone call or e-mail…. Come, Lord Jesus. When we don’t want to hear another sad story…. Come, Lord Jesus. When we stand with those who grieve…. Come, Lord Jesus. When we are ready to give up all hope for a better world…. Come, Lord Jesus. When we don’t feel like celebrating Christmas – or anything…. Come, Lord Jesus. When we count our blessings before we fall asleep…. Come, Lord Jesus. What would you add to this litany? May this Advent season find you praying, “Come, Lord Jesus.” May you “gift” yourself with moments to breathe deeply and remember the peace of God who walks with you, loves you uniquely and is present in all of life’s ups and downs. Just call, “Come, Lord Jesus.” Christmas blessings to you and your loved ones! — Sr. Jeanette Buehler