An ad hoc journal/newsletter by His Grace, ✠Jerome Seleisi, providing informative news and thoughtful reflections to enlighten, educate, and inspire action.
w/c 27.xi.23
Advent Pastoral Letter
On Wednesday 29th I published my Pastoral Epistle for this Advent 2023
December Ordo 2023
What to do in Advent
Embracing Traditional Catholic Spirituality and Devotions for Advent
Advent is a sacred and joyous season in the Catholic faith, serving as a time of preparation and anticipation for the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a period when families come together to deepen their spirituality and engage in various devotional practices. In this article, we will explore the rich tapestry of traditional Catholic spirituality and devotions for Advent, including novenas, fasts, pious customs, and cherished family traditions. We will also delve into delightful culinary recipes that have been passed down through generations, adding a touch of warmth and flavor to this sacred time.
Novenas hold a significant place in Catholic devotion during Advent. These nine-day prayers foster a deep spiritual connection and prepare the heart for the coming of Christ. Popular Advent novenas include the Novena to the Immaculate Conception, the O Antiphon Novena, and the St. Andrew Christmas Novena. These prayers offer an opportunity for introspection, gratitude, and supplication, allowing individuals and families to draw closer to God.
St. Martin’s Fast, also known as St. Martin’s Lent, is a period of fasting that originated as early as 480 AD. It begins on November 11th, which is the Feast of St. Martin of Tours, and lasts until Christmas. This fasting period was established by church councils in the 6th century and was observed as a way to prepare for the birth of Jesus during the Advent season. St. Martin’s Fast was traditionally a time of spiritual reflection and self-discipline, much like the more well-known season of Lent leading up to Easter. It was an opportunity for Catholics to focus their minds and hearts on the coming of Christ.
Fasting during Advent is a traditional practice that helps to discipline the body and focus the mind on the spiritual significance of the season. While not as strict as the Lenten fast, it involves abstaining from meat on certain days, particularly Fridays. This act of self-denial serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Jesus and prepares the faithful to receive Him with a pure heart.
Catholic families often embrace pious customs during Advent to heighten their spiritual experience. These customs include the lighting of the Advent wreath, the setting up of a Christmas crib, and the creation of a Jesse Tree. The Advent wreath, adorned with candles representing hope, peace, joy, and love, is lit each week to symbolize the growing anticipation of Christ’s birth. The Christmas crib, a visual representation of the Nativity scene, serves as a focal point for prayer and reflection. The Jesse Tree, adorned with ornaments depicting biblical symbols and events, traces the lineage of Jesus from the root of Jesse.
Advent is a time when families come together to create cherished traditions that strengthen their bond and deepen their faith. These customs may include attending Advent Masses, particularly Rorate Masses, engaging in acts of charity, participating in Advent retreats, and engaging in acts of spiritual or corporal works of mercy. By involving children in these practices, families instill in them the importance of faith, love, and service.
During this period, there is an increase in social interactions like Christmas parties, professional events, and seasonal gatherings. Traditional Catholics should refrain from excessive indulgence to maintain the essence of the Advent season, even if they don’t observe St. Martin’s Lent or deliberate fasting. These gatherings provide an opportunity to convey the season’s significance to non-believers and those with a secular perspective. It’s important to remember that rejecting hospitality is not charitable, but one can tactfully manage the amount one accepts without causing offense.
Embracing traditional Catholic spirituality and devotions during Advent allows individuals and families to journey inward, preparing their hearts and minds for the birth of Jesus Christ. Through novenas, fasts, pious customs, and cherished family traditions, Catholics can cultivate a deeper connection with their faith and create meaningful memories. As the aroma of traditional culinary delights fills the air, the anticipation for Christ’s arrival grows stronger, reminding us of the true essence of the Advent season.
To buy traditional Advent Calendars
About traditional Advent Wreaths
About traditional Advent Cribs
The Christmas Novena
Prayer holds an indispensable role during the Advent period. Engaging in the recitation of this unique novena prayer on a daily basis presents a straightforward yet exquisite approach to commemorate the profound spiritual implications of the Advent season and to foster a more profound connection with the essence of Jesus. The St. Andrew Christmas novena, frequently included in various Advent prayer books, is accompanied by an array of other captivating prayers and customs that contribute to the splendor of this particular time of year.
And since Andrew helped his brother find the Messiah, and he can do the same for us as our spiritual brother. He can lead us, in spirit, to the Christmas crib, saying, “Here is the Messiah.”
Here is the beautiful prayer:
Hail and blessed be the hour and moment
in which the Son of God was born
of the most pure Virgin Mary,
at midnight, in Bethlehem, in piercing cold.
In that hour vouchsafe, I beseech Thee,
O my God, to hear my prayer and grant my desires
through the merits of Our Savior Jesus Christ,
and of His blessed Mother.
Amen.
Practicing this novena fifteen times a day for twenty-five days may present some challenges, but if you are able to commit to it, it will undoubtedly prepare your heart in a profound manner to welcome the arrival of Christ. The prayer’s inherent beauty and depth will gradually reveal itself to you as you recite it daily, enabling you to engage in deeper meditation on the profound mystery of the Incarnation. Memorizing it is actually quite manageable. In the meantime, you have the option to duplicate it, store it on your electronic devices, print a hard copy, or affix it to your car dashboard as a reminder. Employ whichever method best assists you in ensuring daily prayer until Christmas Eve.
When to start celebrating Christmas
How not to tire of the season before the feast…
With the holiday season drawing near, Catholics globally eagerly await the commemoration of Christmas. In adherence to the Catholic customs, the timing of adorning homes with Christmas decorations holds profound significance, coinciding with the essence of Advent. Here I want to delve into the traditional Catholic viewpoint on the appropriate timing for decorating for Christmas and underscores the significance of spiritual readiness during the Advent period.
It is worth noting that traditional Catholic churches typically adhere to a minimalist style of decoration during Advent, which serves as a stark contrast to the festive ambiance commonly found in stores and homes. The liturgical color of the season, a sober purple or violet, is predominantly accompanied by greenery rather than seasonal flowers. The absence of elaborate decorations in the church provides solace for some, enabling a more profound engagement in spiritual contemplation and readiness. By promoting a minimalistic approach to decorations, the Church urges its followers to embrace the authentic essence of the Advent season.
Although the Church does not prescribe specific instructions regarding the timing or manner of decorating homes for Christmas, there exist numerous traditions and individual inclinations in this matter. Nevertheless, it is generally expected that decorations should not be displayed on the First Sunday of Advent, which signifies the commencement of the preparatory liturgical season. Certain individuals may deem Gaudete Sunday, the third Sunday of Advent, as an appropriate juncture to adorn their surroundings with more exuberant decorations, while others may opt for the Fourth Sunday of Advent or Christmas Eve, particularly when these occasions coincide, as is the case this year.
It is vital to find a harmonious equilibrium between personal customs and the core tenets of the Catholic faith. For families who have recently embraced traditional Catholicism, embarking on the journey of observing Advent traditions might be uncharted territory. In such instances, it proves beneficial to refer to traditionalist platforms like blogs or vlogs or seek counsel from the clergy to ensure a genuine and profound encounter.
The Catholic tradition of decorating for Christmas is intertwined with the spiritual journey of Advent. By embracing simplicity and engaging in devotional practices like the recitation of the O Antiphons (from December 17th), believers foster a sense of reverence and preparation for the celebration of Christ’s birth. While the timing of home decorations may vary, it is crucial to prioritize spiritual reflection amidst the hustle and bustle of the season. As Catholics prepare their hearts and homes, the joy and anticipation of the birth of our Savior are kindled, reminding us of the profound significance of the Advent season.
The Jesse Tree
Unveiling the rich history, tradition, and symbolism
During the Advent season, the Jesse Tree serves as a significant symbol that links us to the foundations of our faith and prompts us to reflect on the eager expectation and readiness for the arrival of Jesus Christ. This time-honored practice dates back to the Old Testament and has developed over many generations, encompassing a wealth of historical depth and deep-seated symbolism. In this piece, we will delve into the origins and customs of the Jesse Tree, examine its symbolic meaning, and offer guidance on how to adorn one.
- The Origin and History of the Jesse Tree:
The origin of the Jesse Tree can be traced back to the book of Isaiah in the Old Testament. In Isaiah’s prophetic writing, he mentions that a shoot will emerge from the stump of Jesse, and from his roots, a Branch will bring forth fruit (Isaiah 11:1). Jesse, being the father of King David, this prophecy foreshadowed the arrival of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who would be a direct descendant of David. - The Symbolism of the Jesse Tree:
The Jesse Tree serves as a graphical depiction of the lineage of Jesus, commencing with Jesse and culminating in the arrival of Christ. Each ornament or symbol adorning the tree symbolizes a momentous figure or occurrence from the Bible, effectively illustrating the ancestry and groundwork for the Messiah. These symbols function as a navigational tool, guiding us through the narrative of salvation history and serving as a poignant reminder of God’s unwavering devotion. - Guide to Decorating the Jesse Tree:
a. Symbol Selection: The process of choosing ornaments or symbols for the Jesse Tree involves creativity and personal preference. You have the option to select symbols that resonate with you or follow established patterns found in various resources. Some commonly used symbols include Noah’s Ark, the Ten Commandments, the Star of Bethlehem, and more.
b. Ornament Creation: You can create your own ornaments using a variety of materials such as paper, felt, clay, or wood. Alternatively, you can acquire printable ornaments from online sources or purchase them.
c. Attachment Technique: Secure each ornament to the Jesse Tree using hooks, strings, or ribbons. As you hang each ornament, take a moment to contemplate its symbolism and the corresponding biblical story it represents.
d. Daily Contemplation: Throughout the Advent season, allocate time each day to read the corresponding Bible passage and reflect upon its significance. This practice fosters a deeper understanding and spiritual connection with the story behind each ornament. - The Advent Journey with the Jesse Tree:
As one moves forward in the observance of the Advent season, the Jesse Tree serves as a visual representation of the narrative of salvation history, reaching its pinnacle with the miraculous birth of Jesus on the sacred occasion of Christmas Day. By actively participating in the exploration of the ornaments and their accompanying tales, we enhance our understanding and admiration for the divine plan that encompasses all of humanity, and we grasp the profound importance of Jesus’ arrival into our world.
Jesse Tree Symbols and Decorations
The Jesse Tree derives its name from Jesse, the paternal figure of King David in biblical scripture. Within the book of Isaiah, a prophecy declares the emergence of a sprout from Jesse’s remains, which will yield a fruitful Branch rooted in his lineage. This Branch symbolizes Jesus, who is revered by Christians as the embodiment of a fresh branch, representing rejuvenation and the commencement of a new chapter.
Historically, Jesse Trees served as significant visual representations within churches, taking the form of extensive carvings, tapestries, or stained glass windows. Their purpose was to impart biblical knowledge to those who lacked literacy skills, guiding them through the narrative from the creation of the world to the Christmas story. In modern times, Jesse Trees have evolved into Advent calendars, offering a unique way to commemorate the season. They can be fashioned using either a customary Christmas tree or a banner designed in the shape of a tree. Every day during Advent, or sometimes exclusively on the four Sundays leading up to Christmas, a distinctive ornament or decoration that conveys a biblical tale is delicately hung upon the tree.
Stories and symbols are abundant resources that can be utilized. Here, I have curated a selection of 25 stories and symbols that I personally find captivating.
| Bible Story: | Where it is in the Bible: | Symbol: |
|---|---|---|
| Creation | Genesis 1 | The earth |
| Adam and Eve / Garden of Eden | Genesis 2:4 – 3:24 | A tree with fruit or an apple |
| Noah & the Flood | Genesis 6:9 – 9:17 | A rainbow |
| God’s promise to Abraham | Genesis 12:1-7 & 15:1-6 | A tent |
| Isaac | Genesis 22:1-18 | A ram |
| Jacob’s Ladder | Genesis 28:10-19 | A ladder |
| Joseph’s Coat | Genesis 37 & 50 | A multicolored coat or robe |
| Moses | Exodus 2:1 – 4:20 | A burning bush |
| Israelites and the Passover | Exodus 12:1-42 | A lamb |
| The 10 Commandments | Exodus 19:1 – 20:20 | Two stone tablets |
| Joshua and the fall of Jericho | Joshua 6:1-20 | A ram’s horn trumpet |
| Ruth | Ruth (Whole Book) | A sheaf of corn |
| King David | 1 Samuel 16:1-3 | A six pointed ‘Star of David’ |
| Solomon’s Temple | 1 Kings 6 | The temple |
| Elijah and Baal’s Priests | 1 Kings 18:16-39 | A bonfire |
| Isaiah’s ‘Jesse’ Prophecy | Isaiah 11:1-11 | A tree stump with a single branch growing from it |
| Jonah and the Whale | Jonah (Whole Book) | A whale |
| John the Baptist | Matthew 3:13-17 | A scallop shell |
| Mary | Luke 1:26-38 | A white lily |
| Elizabeth | Luke 1:39-56 | A mother and child |
| Zechariah | Luke 1:57-80 | A pencil and tablet |
| Joseph | Matthew 1:19-25 | A carpenter’s hammer |
| The Shepherds | Luke 2:8-20 | A fluffy sheep! |
| The Wisemen | Matthew 2:1-12 | A gold star or the three gifts or three crowns |
| Jesus | Luke 2:1-8 | A baby in a manger |
The tradition of the Jesse Tree presents an uncommon and significant method to ready ourselves for the commemoration of Christmas and enhance our comprehension of the arrival of Jesus. Through an examination of its past, an embrace of its symbolism, and the imaginative embellishment of the tree, we can actively participate in a profound Advent expedition. Allow the Jesse Tree to serve as a constant reminder of God’s unwavering loyalty, affection, and the optimism we discover in the advent of our Redeemer.
Please be reminded that the Jesse Tree’s profound allure resides not solely in its adornments, but also in the spiritual odyssey it encourages us to undertake. May this beloved custom enhance your Advent season and foster a deeper connection to the essence of the Christmas narrative.
1000 Ave’s for Christmas
A practice of devotion to Mary and her Son, influenced by the thousand Christmas Eve Aves of St. Catherine of Bologna, entails reciting 1,000 Aves over a span of 25 days. This entails offering 40 Aves in prayer each day for a total of 25 days. The commencement of this devotion takes place on St. Andrew’s Eve (November 29) and concludes on the night preceding Christmas Eve (December 23). It is important to note that while some religious orders and lay individuals opt to recite the entire 1,000 Aves in one sitting on Christmas Eve, which typically requires more than three hours, it is more customary to distribute the practice over the course of 25 days.
The Raccolta describes the devotion as beginning with preparatory prayers which are followed by four groups of ten Aves, with each group being accompanied by a different meditation. The Aves are followed by more prayers, the Litany of Loreto, and concluding prayers. The following can be downloaded to make it easier to pray: Twenty Five Days Preparation for the Nativity, After the Example of St. Catherine of Bologna (pdf)
Lumen Gentium series
My reflections on the Sunday liturgies of Advent will be broadcast once again on Old Roman TV. Each week I offer thoughts and explanations on the theme, prayers and readings of the traditional Mass for each Sunday of Advent.
Old Romans Unscripted Returns!
In the News
The Christian Institute: Christian MP warns new ‘conversion therapy’ law would endanger gender-confused kids
Christian Concern: Indi’s father pays tribute to his ‘beautiful warrior’
Christian Concern: Abortion complications – new official statistics
The Catholic Thing: Are Catholics Catholic?
Rorate Caeli: Pope Francis as Public Heretic: The Evidence Leaves No Doubt
The Daily Compass: The Pope: “Away with Cardinal Burke’s house and salary”
Reflections
Antisemitism
Last week, I had the opportunity to share some exciting news about my participation in the March against Antisemitism. However, I feel it is necessary to delve deeper into the reasons behind my decision to attend this significant event. It is crucial to address the existence of a particular strain of Traditional Catholicism that, by any reasonable assessment, can be considered antisemitic. Additionally, there is a well-known bishop, whom I greatly admire in many respects, but who has unfortunately gained notoriety for his controversial views and opinions on this matter.
In order to provide a comprehensive understanding of my perspective, it is important to acknowledge my belief that the Christian Church has assumed the role of God’s chosen people, surpassing the Jewish people. From my vantage point, the promises and commitments made to Israel in the Hebrew Bible have been fulfilled through Jesus and the establishment of the Church. However, it is crucial to emphasize that my stance does not in any way endorse or support the concept of “blood libel” or any form of antisemitism, persecution, condemnation, or discrimination against Jews, whether it be religious, secular, political, or ethnic in nature.
By participating in the March against Antisemitism, I aimed to demonstrate my unwavering commitment to combating any form of discrimination or prejudice against the Jewish community. It is essential to emphasize that my attendance was driven by a deep-rooted belief in the importance of fostering charity, understanding, and respect among all individuals, regardless of their religious or ethnic background. The March provided a platform to stand in solidarity with the Jewish community and to raise awareness about the harmful effects of antisemitism.
My decision to attend the March against Antisemitism was motivated by a sincere desire to promote inclusivity, tolerance, and respect. It is crucial to address and challenge any ideologies or beliefs that perpetuate discrimination or hatred towards any religious or ethnic group. By actively participating in events like this, we can raise greater awareness of the love of God manifest in Christ by our own witness to the Truth – that all our wonderfully made and called into relationship with God in Christ.
Cardinal Burke
While there is currently no official confirmation, it is important to acknowledge the recent suggestion that Pope Francis may have expressed his intention to address the situation regarding Cardinal Burke’s withdrawal of his subsidized Vatican apartment and pension to Vatican Dicastery heads. This development has gained significant global attention, with both Catholic and secular news outlets reporting on the matter. If accurate, many perceive this action as retaliatory in nature.
Although I may hold differing views from Cardinal Burke on the SSPX and the Old Romans, I recognize his unwavering support for Summorum Pontificum, the attempted release of the Traditional Latin Mass by Pope Benedict XVI, and his strong adherence to conservative doctrinal Catholicism. He has shown great courage by openly addressing the perceived ambiguity in Pope Francis’ teachings, always utilizing proper channels to raise questions, such as submitting dubia to the Holy See/Pope.
Despite experiencing instances of humiliation from Pope Francis, I admire Cardinal Burke’s unwavering loyalty. He consistently promotes prayer for the Pope and refrains from condemnation, even when expressing theological criticisms of his teachings. According to sources close to the Cardinal, he refuses to engage in negative discussions about the Pope in his presence. On November 4, 2014, Burke openly expressed his concern regarding the lack of direction in the church, clarifying that he did not intend to criticize the Pope.
However, on November 8, four days later, Pope Francis removed Burke from his position as prefect of the Apostolic Signatura and appointed him as Patron of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, a largely ceremonial position typically given to retired cardinals or as a secondary role to an active one. Although Pope Francis appointed him as a member of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints on September 26, 2015, he removed him from the Congregation for Divine Worship in November 2016. This action was seen as a response to the dubia submitted by Burke, along with three other cardinals, regarding certain aspects of Amoris laetitia that they believed contradicted Catholic moral teachings, particularly in relation to the treatment of divorced individuals. However, in September 2017, Francis reappointed him as a rank and file member of the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signatura.
Despite the ceremonial nature of his newly acquired role as Patron, obstacles arose for Burke in early 2017 when it was revealed that he, along with then Grand Master Matthew Festing of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, had taken steps to remove Chancellor Albrecht Freiherr von Boeselager from his position for distributing condoms in Myanmar. This action went against the official Catholic doctrine that strictly prohibits the use of artificial contraception. Consequently, on February 2, 2017, Pope Francis relieved Burke of his duties as the Patron of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta and appointed Archbishop Giovanni Angelo Becciu as a special delegate to the order, entrusting him with exclusive responsibility for the duties traditionally fulfilled by the Patron. Subsequently, on February 21, Albrecht von Boeselager, the order’s grand chancellor, stated that this decision effectively suspended Burke from his role as the patron. Finally, on June 19, 2023, Pope Francis designated Cardinal Gianfranco Ghirlanda as Burke’s successor in the position of patron.
Nevertheless, Cardinal Burke and other individuals are primarily focused on asserting and obtaining affirmation from the Pope concerning the longstanding doctrine of the Church. However, what was previously clear has now become perplexing, what was once unquestionable is now subject to examination, and what was once considered sacred has been disregarded. During Pope Francis’ papacy, well-established principles of ecclesiastical discipline, firmly rooted in dogma, have encountered direct challenges either from the Pope himself or from individuals appointed by him to influential positions, all of whom he has been cautious not to admonish. The following links demonstrate the degree and number Pope Francis has treated unfairly and without justice.
Bishop Strickland, Archbishop Gänswein, Cardinal Müller, Archbishop Viganò, Fr Frank Pavone, Bishop Daniel Fernandez Torres
The pontificate of purges: ten years of defenestrations
Pope Francis, ten years of turmoil and dismay
Let us take a moment to reflect on a few thought-provoking examples that have sparked discussions within the Catholic Church. These examples include the allowance for individuals who continue to live outside the sacramental bond of marriage to receive absolution and Holy Communion, a topic that has raised questions about the boundaries of forgiveness and the role of the sacraments in the lives of believers. Similarly, there is the same allowance for those who publicly endorse abortion and other grave sins, which has prompted debates about the Church’s stance on moral issues and the extent to which individuals can be forgiven for their actions.
Another topic of discussion is the insistence that priests provide absolution without thoroughly verifying genuine repentance. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of the sacrament of reconciliation and the importance of true contrition in the process of forgiveness. Additionally, there is the acceptance of contraception and even assisted reproductive technologies within certain boundaries, which has led to conversations about the intersection of faith and modern reproductive practices.
The acceptance of euthanasia under certain circumstances is another controversial topic that has been explored within the Church. This has sparked debates about the sanctity of life, the role of suffering, and the ethical considerations surrounding end-of-life decisions. Furthermore, there is the endorsement of blessings for unmarried couples and even homosexual individuals, which has prompted discussions about the inclusivity of the Church and the recognition of diverse relationships.
The affirmation that God embraces the existence of multiple religions has also been a subject of contemplation. This has led to reflections on interfaith dialogue, religious pluralism, and the understanding of God’s presence in different religious traditions. Additionally, there has been reconsideration of mandatory celibacy, with discussions about the potential benefits and drawbacks of allowing priests to marry.
The exploration of the possibility of an ordained female diaconate and the consideration of women in the priesthood have been topics that have sparked conversations about gender equality within the Church and the role of women in religious leadership. The reversal of the Church’s stance on the death penalty has also been a significant development, prompting discussions about the sanctity of life and the Church’s evolving understanding of justice.
The contemplation of revising Church teachings on homosexuality has been a topic of great significance, raising questions about the Church’s approach to LGBTQ+ individuals and the recognition of same-sex relationships. Additionally, the allowance for Protestants to partake in Holy Communion has been a subject of discussion, with considerations about ecumenism and the unity of Christian denominations.
Lastly, the reformation of the Church’s hierarchical structure through the inclusion of lay individuals with voting rights at a synod of bishops has been a proposal that has generated conversations about the distribution of power within the Church and the involvement of the laity in decision-making processes.
These illustrations showcase the wide range of intricate issues that have arisen due to the ambiguous nature of Pope Francis and the individuals he advocates for, safeguards, and permits to propagate uncertainty and bewilderment. All of these were “settled” matters before Pope Francis. Only those who have sought to stand by the perennial magisterium have been sanctioned.
Confidence & Courage
Yet there is hope. The finding that has garnered the most attention is that younger clergy tend to be more conservative than their elders on a host of issues. “We find strong empirical confirmation of the nearly ubiquitous perception that younger priests are more orthodox in their beliefs than older priests,” the authors state in the abstract. “Additionally, we find a significant turn toward pessimism regarding the current state and trajectory of the Church.” NCR Compared to their older peers, younger priests are far more likely to describe themselves as theologically orthodox or conservative, politically conservative or moderate, and prepared to be “first responders” to the abuse victims they encounter in their ministry. NCR
Two young Catholic individuals, Josh and Nick Alexander, took a stand against what they perceived as tyranny and oppression. Despite facing consequences like being fired from jobs and being suspended from school, they remained steadfast in their beliefs. They organized walkouts and participated in the Freedom Convoy in Ottawa, where they experienced a break from the oppressive state they felt they were living under. Their actions were not driven by political motivations initially, but rather a desire for freedom and change. They demonstrated courage and determination, even at a young age, and were willing to face the fallout of their actions. They also showcased entrepreneurial spirit through their welding business, which they started while still in high school. Overall, their story highlights the power of individual action and standing up for what one believes in, even when facing opposition.
The Future of Canada – And the West | Josh and Nick Alexander | EP 399
Miserere nobis
