November 30, 2025

Dear Brothers and Sisters, I’m always amazed at how Advent seems to sneak up on us every year. With the rush of activities throughout the fall, it seems like you blink once, and then it’s Thanksgiving, and you blink again, and then Christmas is only four weeks away. But as in every year, the activity of the fall passes, and we start Advent, the season when we await the light of Christ. This year, at the beginning of our liturgical “new year,” our parish is at a moment where we are very aware of God’s power and joy, as well as the challenges in our lives and community that need his power and joy. Together with our families, friends, and neighbors, we need God’s light to shine brightly. As our parish continues to commit ourselves to God’s mission and also to gathering the down payment for our new church building, I propose that we spend these next weeks considering a specific theme: “The Urgent Need for Light.” There is so much darkness and worry in our world these days. The people around us need the hope that can only come from Christ. Which is why our mission isn’t about numbers: it’s about the urgent need for Jesus’ light to shine brightly in and through us, so that all those who need hope can find it. We strive especially to bring God’s light to those who dwell in the shadow of fear, poverty, and loneliness. I should also add that our building campaign is not ultimately about bricks and parking spaces. It’s about following Jesus’ leading to build a house where his light is visible and where his Presence is loved in the sacraments and in the infinite dignity of every human being. We commit ourselves to making sure that whenever anyone passes through the doors of our parish home, they are welcomed with truly Catholic hospitality and a seat at the table. As we enter this season of devout expectation of the Light that enlightens the world, let me extend my welcome to anyone who might be visiting with us. You are loved and welcome here. And for our whole parish family, I’m excited once again to be overjoyed with you at the special celebrations and traditions of the season: the candles, the special music, the Montevallo Christmas Parade, and especially the Feasts of the Immaculate Conception and Our Lady of Guadalupe. Through our Lady’s intercession, and the prayers of our patron St. Thomas, let’s get ready to rejoice at the Light of Christ, which came into the world on the first Christmas and is destined to shine in every human heart. God bless,

Father Jantz