St. Bernadette Mission — Sunday Reflection
A Season Rooted in God’s Promise
The Syro-Malabar Church begins its liturgical year with the Season of Annunciation (Subara)—a time of joyful preparation for the birth of Jesus. This season invites us to reflect on God’s promise to dwell among us and to prepare our hearts to receive Him.
The Syro-Malabar liturgical season of Advent, called Subara, meaning ‘announcement’ begins on the Sunday between November 27 and December 3. The name of the season is in reference to the announcement by the Archangel Gabriel to the Blessed Virgin Mary, that she would conceive and bear a son and become the mother of Jesus Christ. It emphasizes the joyful proclamation of the Incarnation and the historical encounter between God and humanity, culminating in the angel Gabriel’s message to Mary.
- The Season of Annunciation is described as a “big Christmas” for the East Syriac tradition, full of joyful celebration, with December 25th being the climax.
- As part of the preparation, the Syro-Malabar Church observes a 25-day fast (called Irupathanchu Nombu) from December 1st until Christmas.
- The Annunciation season usually consists of four Sundays before Christmas, followed by a short Nativity season that extends until Epiphany (Denha).
We hear the voices of the prophets who foretold His coming:
“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.” — Isaiah 9:2
“Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you.” — Luke 1:28
“Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” — Luke 1:38
These readings remind us that God always fulfills His promises.
The Mystery of the Incarnation
The heart of this season is the celebration of Emmanuel – God is with us.
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” — John 1:14
The humility of Mary, the faith of Joseph, and the bold voice of John the Baptist call us to open our hearts to the Lord who comes gently and lovingly into our world.
Welcoming Jesus by Welcoming Others
“Whatever you did for the least of these my brothers and sisters, you did for me.” — Matthew 25:40
Advent reminds us that welcoming Christ is not only a spiritual idea—it is a way of life.
- When we open our hearts to others, we open our hearts to Christ
- When we show kindness, forgiveness, and compassion, we prepare a place for Jesus in our lives.
- Welcoming the poor, the lonely, and the forgotten is truly welcoming Jesus Himself.
Invitation to Prepare
The Church invites us to prepare ourselves through:
- Prayer and reflection on Scripture
- Family prayer, especially the rosary
- Acts of charity
- Reconciliation and forgiveness
“Let us put on the Lord Jesus Christ.” — Romans 13:14
A Season of Hope and Joy
Advent fills us with hope that Christ is coming, His light will overcome darkness and His presence brings peace.
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, rejoice.” — Philippians 4:4
As we journey through the Season of Annunciation, may we prepare our hearts as Mary did—with faith and openness.
Let us welcome Jesus by welcoming one another, for in loving others, we make room for Christ.
