December 2024

December 2024 is Year C in the Sunday liturgical cycle. See Mass readings resources for specific Sundays and feast days in for December 2024 here. Learn more about lectionary cycles from the USCCB.

1st Sunday of Advent

Sunday December 1, 2024

The 1st Sunday of Advent Year C begins a season of preparation for the coming of Jesus at Christmas and at the end of time. The themes focus on hope in God’s promise, faithful waiting, and growing in love. We are reminded to live in holiness and be watchful for signs of Jesus’ return. Through prayer and strength, we stay faithful as we prepare for His coming. This time helps us get our hearts ready for Jesus by trusting in God, living with love, and staying alert to His presence.

2nd Sunday of Advent

Sunday December 8, 2024

In December 2024, the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year C calls us to prepare for the coming of Jesus. John the Baptist urges us to repent and make our hearts ready for Christ. The readings remind us that God keeps His promises of salvation and guides us with joy. Paul encourages us to grow in love and faith as we wait for Jesus. Advent is a time of joyful preparation, where we focus on God’s love and our need to be spiritually ready for Christ’s coming.

The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Monday December 9, 2024

The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary is transferred to the 9th in December 2024 because the 2nd Sunday of Advent takes precedence.

The Immaculate Conception is a teaching about Mary being free from original sin from the moment of her conception. God gave her this special grace to prepare her to be the mother of Jesus. Catholics celebrate this on December 8th to honor Mary’s purity and God’s plan for her. This teaching shows us the importance of Mary in our faith and how she is a model of saying yes to God’s will. It also reminds us of God’s mercy and power in preparing her for her role in salvation.

3rd Sunday of Advent

Sunday December 15, 2024

The 3rd Sunday of Advent Year C, also called Gaudete Sunday, is a day of rejoicing because the Lord is near. The readings remind us to find joy in waiting for Jesus, knowing that God is with us. We are called to share with those in need, live in peace, and prepare our hearts through repentance. This Sunday gives us hope and encouragement as we get ready for Christ’s coming.

4th Sunday of Advent

Sunday December 22, 2024

The readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year C highlight themes of hospitality, history, and family. The readings reveal that the Messiah will be born in Bethlehem, emphasize the importance of doing God’s will, and depict the visitation of Mary to her cousin Elizabeth, who recognizes the anointed one in Mary’s womb. Key themes include welcome and hospitality, recognizing Jesus, family bonds, and the significance of small events in a larger context.

Christmas Day – The Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord

Wednesday December 25, 2024

The readings for the Nativity of the Lord (Christmas) include the Vigil Mass, Mass During the Night, Mass at Dawn, and Mass During the Day. These readings emphasize the joyous celebration of the incarnation of Jesus Christ, God becoming one of us. Key themes include the saving grace of Jesus, and the light and salvation brought by the birth of our Savior.

The Feast of the Holy Family

Sunday December 29, 2024

The Feast of the Holy Family Year C focuses on consecration, holiness, and sacred spaces. The readings highlight the importance of family relationships and the dedication of children to God. Key themes include the blessings of family, the love that binds us together, and the recognition of sacred spaces in our lives.