Deacon’s Corner: December 2025

Merry Christmas to everyone, what a blessing our first year here in Bartlesville has been. Marge and I are very grateful for the warmth we received, THANK YOU! Please know you all remain in my prayers.

During the Sunday Celebration of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, I carried an “OMBRELINO.” The ombrellino is a ceremonial umbrella used in religious processions, particularly within the Catholic Church, symbolizing Authority and Reverence.

Derived from the Italian word for umbrella, it is made from fine fabrics and a wooden frame, it is mostly carried over the head of a significant figure (Cardinal, Archbishop, or Pope) or more importantly over the (Blessed Sacrament) Monstrance in procession.
It dates back to the time of the Popes as they resided in Avignon France, to protect the Popes from the Sun, but over time it became important in procession and liturgical events such as the Corpus Christi procession, or for Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe procession. It is not seen often these days, but it is a beautiful reminder of the authority of Christ in the Eucharist, may we use it more often.

Advent Candles and their significance:
– First week of Advent – Theme is HOPE – or often called the Prophet’s candle. It symbolizes our anticipation of Christ’s coming.
– Second Week of Advent – Theme is Faith – reminding us of all of the importance of Trust in God.
– Third week of Advent – Theme is JOY, to Rejoice Gaudete Sunday – Our Lord is Coming!
– Forth Week of Advent – Theme is Peace – God’s peace the peace only He can bring.
– White Christmas Candle – Christ Candle – The arrival of Jesus, the Lord of Lord’s coming in total humility as a Child to save us.