Reflection for the Fourth Sunday of Advent and Preparatory Catechesis for the Jubilee Year 2025 with Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati by Br. Karlo Cruz, Council Moderator of Frassati Society Philippines

In a few days, we will celebrate the Lord’s Nativity. Today, as we culminate our preparation for Christmas, we are invited to reflect on Mary’s joyful expectation in the spirit of service. The First Week of Advent urged us to be vigilant and hopeful for the coming of Christ. The spiritual preparations of this season require personal conversion. We can only achieve this by self-examination, identifying the obstacles that might hinder us from truly welcoming the Messiah.

The Second Week called us to repentance and renewal. As we journey with Christ, He invites us to deepen our commitment to prayer and reconciliation. Through this renewal to holiness, we prepare the way for Christ both in our hearts and in our actions. Last week, despite the challenges along the path to holiness, we were called to rejoice, knowing that the Savior is near.

Throughout the weeks of Advent, Pier Giorgio Frassati has accompanied us in our reflections through his inspiring example of holiness. Frassati lived with a sense of urgency and purpose, always ready to serve Christ in the poor and the needy. His readiness to help others inspires us to be vigilant in our own faith. Pier Giorgio’s life exemplifies a profound awareness of our need for God’s mercy, and his joyful service to others reflects the joy that comes from knowing Christ.

In today’s Gospel, we hear the narration of Mary’s visitation to Elizabeth. During this encounter, Elizabeth proclaims two significant phrases: 1) “Blessed are you among women,” spoken out of joy at being visited by the Mother of our Lord, and 2) “Blessed are you who believed,” a recognition of Mary’s faith and the fulfillment of God’s promise. These words, inspired by the Holy Spirit, highlight Mary’s example of charity and humility. Mary’s actions make her a living witness of the Beatitudes, particularly being “pure in heart” and “poor in spirit.”

Marco Beltramo, a friend of Pier Giorgio, once wrote, “We can’t understand the spirituality of Pier Giorgio if we don’t understand his love for the Blessed Virgin Mary.” Pier Giorgio had a deep filial devotion to Our Lady, often expressing that we owe everything to her. Indeed, through her actions and humility, Mary helps us grasp the true meaning of Advent. This season of preparation for the Lord’s birth and His victorious coming would be incomplete without embracing the truths revealed through her example.

As we approach Christmas, let us rediscover our mission as baptized Catholics. This is a time to discern our calling and respond to our unique vocation with renewed purpose. By imitating the Blessed Mother, we can welcome the Lord into our hearts, minds, and entire lives.

May we celebrate Christmastide with hearts transformed, embracing the joy and hope that come from Christ’s presence. Like Mary, let us serve in humility and love, recognizing the profound gift of our Savior’s birth.