As we embark on this second week of Advent, that no doubt includes the hustle and bustle of work, end of semester exams or the usual rush of checking gifts off of your Christmas to-do list, we hope that you might find a few minutes of quiet to read this newsletter. 

Advent gives us a great opportunity to slow down and find some time for personal reflection. It also gives us much to reflect upon! Over the weekend the Church celebrated the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, a chance to reflect upon the beauty of Mary's courageous witness in a life without sin. In a blog post marking this Holy Day, Cardinal Wuerl the Archbishop of Washington D.C. notes that as we come to know the Virgin Mary, "...we might see in this Year of Faith that the entire life of Mary is not only a model, but the model for each of us, both in our earthly lives and in the eternal life which her Son offers to us." 

Despite the busy nature of this time of year, perhaps we all could use just a few minutes of quiet each day, especially during this season of Advent. Pope Benedict XVI, reminded us in his address on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception that "God's voice is not recognized in the noise and agitation". We pray, that through our ministry we may be able to provide you with resources for reflection and help enhance your Advent season as we all discover the apostle God is calling each of us to be. 

May the charity of Christ urge you on! 

The Catholic Apostolate Center Team