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Giving Advent and Christmas the greater share
Dear Rea
We’ve reached that all-too-familiar point of the year when we must contend with the limits of our time, energy and material resources, even as the demands of the secular Christmas holiday ramp up. Spending time in quiet and prayerful preparation for the coming of Christ’s birth might seem challenging, requiring us to be very intentional about giving it the greater share of ourselves
This month’s issue of The Monitor Magazine offers inspiration to help on that score with a robust selection of Advent and Christmas content, beginning with a compilation of messages from our own shepherd -- Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M. Other offerings include:
‘Arriving at the manger through Mary’s pondering’
‘O Antiphons’ -- Advent prayers even the overscheduled can embrace
Advent reflections from the women doctors of the Church
Thoughts on Scripture from Father Garry Koch; Reflections on the Blessed Mother’s journey from Mary Morrell and ‘Prioritizing what really matters this Christmas’ in Faith at Home.
For nine new deacons of the Diocese, this year will be like no other following their recent Ordination. Relive some of the most moving moments of that day in our news and photo collection, and read what has most touched their hearts in our In their own words feature.
We also highly recommend two special news packages in this December issue – one on Artificial Intelligence and the other on the current immigration crisis. Much has been said in recent months on both of these evolving and impactful topics, but the messages from our faith leaders warrant our dedicated time and in-depth study.
As always, there is lots more in this latest issue of the magazine, including a recap of our diocesan delegates’ experience who attended the National Catholic Youth Conference and were present for the livestreamed interview with the Holy Father.
You will also find recaps of Pope Leo’s visit to Turkey and Lebanon, and the November meeting of the U.S. Bishops.
We hope you will also catch this month’s Viewpoints which laments “the nation’s potty mouth.”
Also look for local packages on Advent wreath making and lighting; the Torches of Our Lady of Guadalupe; November highlights in the parishes, and Young Catholics making a positive difference.
Please be sure to check out our BEST COVER SURVEY and get back to us, via email, with your first, second and third ranked picks for The Monitor’s best cover in 2025.
Please stay informed with daily updates of Church-based news at TrentonMonitor.com. BE ADVISED that the log-in form is currently disabled. Enjoy full access to all content without logging in during this interim period. We will be launching our new website in January and will send key information for all subscribers.
The December print edition has been mailed to all PREMIUM SUBSCRIBERS (includes both the print and digital editions). Not yet getting the print edition? Upgrade now by writing to [email protected].
Your digital edition is available HERE. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the email address above or call (609) 403-7169 if you need any assistance.
The people who work together to bring you The Monitor – from our publisher, Bishop O’Connell, to those who work on editorial, art and graphics, advertising and circulation – have you, our reader, in our prayers today and throughout the year. May God bless you and your loved ones with a joyful Christmas and a peace-filled new year!
Rayanne Bennett
Associate Publisher
And The Monitor team
Saturday, December 13, 2025
