A Grace-Filled Second Evening of Our LNS Advent Reflection

Last night, 3rd of December 2025, our parish was blessed with a truly grace-filled second evening of the LNS Advent Reflection series, led by none other than Deacon Roberto Corpuz. The gathering drew a beautiful crowd: parishioners, families, friends, and even visitors from beyond our parish boundaries, each one eager to pause, reflect, and prepare their hearts during this sacred Advent season. The atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and full of anticipation, and the evening unfolded into a memorable celebration of faith, community, and spiritual renewal.

For many in our parish, the night felt like a joyful homecoming. Deacon Roberto’s return to LNS was especially meaningful, as this was the parish where he served during his very first assignment 20 years ago. The joy on the faces of long-time parishioners who knew him well, and the sense of affection and respect that filled the room, made the evening feel like a reunion of hearts. Stories were exchanged, memories rekindled, and gratitude expressed for the ways Deacon Roberto had touched the lives of so many during his early years of ministry.

His reflection for the evening was both heartfelt and deeply moving. With humility and openness, Deacon Roberto shared personal stories, including experiences from his recent pilgrimage to Medjugorje. One story in particular captured everyone’s attention: the powerful account of the massive statue of the Risen Christ that mysteriously sweats tears. As he described the profound symbolism and emotional impact of witnessing this phenomenon, many of us felt our hearts stirred. It was a moment that invited us to pause, reflect, and look inward, to consider the mystery of Christ’s enduring presence with us.

Through these stories, Deacon Roberto beautifully guided us back to the Advent theme of readiness, the importance of preparing not just for Christ’s birth at Christmas, but for His coming into our lives each and every day. His message reminded us that readiness is not merely an external posture but a spiritual openness: a willingness to let God meet us in our joys, struggles, uncertainties, and hopes. His words touched many deeply, leading us to reflect on how we might cultivate a daily habit of welcoming Christ with sincerity and love.

The evening concluded with a special blessing from Deacon Roberto, offered with warmth, compassion, and a shepherd’s heart. It was a fitting and grace-filled end to his reflection, one that left many of us feeling renewed, comforted, and spiritually encouraged.

And as always, the hospitality that followed made the night even richer. The shared food, laughter, storytelling, and heartfelt conversations allowed us to deepen not only our faith but also our bonds with one another. It was a beautiful reminder that community is one of God’s greatest gifts, an expression of His love alive among us.

Our second evening of Advent Reflection was truly a success, and we give thanks to God for the presence, wisdom, and joyful spirit of Deacon Roberto Corpuz. May the seeds planted in our hearts continue to grow as we journey through Advent with hope, readiness, and openness to Christ’s coming.