My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
James 1:2-3
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Happiness
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
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The First Sunday of Advent
“Advent is the season of the presence and expectation of the eternal. For this very reason, it is in a particular way a period of joy …joy in the fact that God made himself a Child. This joy, invisibly present within us, encourages us to journey on with confidence.”
Pope Benedict XVI
Prayers for Lighting the Advent Wreath Candles
From A Prayer Book of Catholic Devotions
First Week
All powerful God, Increase our strength of will for doing good that Christ may find an eager welcome at his coming and call us to his side in the kingdom of heaven, where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit one God, forever and ever.
Amen.
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