A Grace-Filled Finale: Concluding Our Advent Reflection Evenings with Bishop David Walker

A gentle sense of completion and gratitude filled the Lower North Shore Parish last night as we concluded our final Advent Reflection Evening for the year. What began four weeks ago as a simple invitation to pause, pray, and prepare for Christmas has blossomed into a deeply enriching spiritual journey for our community. The closing night, graced by Bishop David Walker as our final retreat speaker, became a fitting culmination of this beautiful series.

Bishop David guided us through the scripture readings for the Fourth Week of Advent with a warmth and spontaneity that immediately drew everyone in. His theological depth, paired with his pastoral gentleness, created an atmosphere where reflection felt both profound and accessible. It was no surprise that St. Thomas’ church was once again filled not only with our own parishioners but also with visitors from neighbouring parishes and even beyond our diocese. The regular attendance each week has been a testament to the hunger for spiritual nourishment during this sacred season.

One of the central themes Bishop David explored was the role of Mary in the Advent story. He invited us to see her not only as the mother of Jesus but as a model of readiness, trust, and quiet strength. In a world that often celebrates noise and speed, Mary’s contemplative heart becomes a powerful reminder of what true preparation for Christmas looks like. Bishop David also spoke about the Rosary, describing it as a deeply meaningful tool for prayer and reflection, one that allows us to enter the mysteries of Christ’s life through Mary’s eyes. Many attendees later shared how this renewed appreciation for the Rosary would shape their prayer life in the days leading up to Christmas.

His reflections on Matthew’s Gospel, particularly on the anticipation of Jesus’ coming, sparked thoughtful engagement from the audience. After the talk, several participants asked questions that opened up even richer layers of discussion. These moments of dialogue highlighted the beauty of communal learning, of how faith deepens when shared, questioned, and explored together.

As with the previous evenings, the night concluded with the warm hospitality our parish is known for. A table was filled with delicious food, and the church’s foyer buzzed with conversation, laughter, and the simple joy of being together. Stories were exchanged, friendships formed, and familiar bonds strengthened. It was the kind of gathering that reminds us that community is itself a gift of Advent, a sign of God drawing us closer not only to Him but to one another.

To complete the evening, Bishop David joined Fr. Vincent, Fr. Roger, and Seminarian Victor for a shared dinner, a quiet moment of fellowship that beautifully wrapped up the entire four-week journey. Their presence together symbolized the unity and shared mission that has guided these reflection nights from the beginning.

As we now turn toward Christmas, our hearts carry the fruits of these past four weeks: deeper reflection, renewed prayer, and a stronger sense of community. The Advent Reflection Evenings have once again reminded us that preparing for Christ’s coming is not just a personal act but a communal pilgrimage. Thanks again to Deacon Peter McCulloch, Deacon Roberto Corpuz, Fr. Hien Vu, and Bishop David Walker for helping us made them happen in the last 4 Wednesdays. And this year, our parish walked that path with grace, curiosity, and joy.

May the spirit of these evenings continue to inspire us as we welcome the light of Christ into our homes and hearts this Christmas.