A Letter from the SSMO Superior General
Dear Friends, Family, Sisters and Brothers,
We are in the season of Advent, the sacred time of preparation and anticipation that leads us to the joyful celebration of Christmas. Advent, from the Latin ad-venire, meaning “to come to,” invites us to prepare our hearts with hope, peace, joy, and love. It is our season to practice being ready. In the midst of the many distractions that can weigh us down, the Catholic Church gently gives us this time to quiet our spirits and open ourselves to the grace of Christ’s coming.
Advent spans the four Sundays before Christmas and began this year on Nov. 30. Throughout these weeks, the Catholic Church offers us moments of beauty and reflection. On Dec. 8, we celebrate the Immaculate Conception, honoring the singular privilege given to Mary of Nazareth, who was preserved from all stain of sin from the moment of her conception. Shortly after, on Dec. 9 and 12, we remember the profound encounter of St. Juan Diego with Our Lady of Guadalupe, whose message of compassion and presence continues to inspire hearts throughout the world.
As we move through this holy season, the colors of our liturgy shift to violet, reminding us of both preparation and longing. On the Third Sunday of Advent, Gaudete Sunday, the rose-colored vestments call us to rejoice, for the Lord is near. Our prayers grow rich with the beloved “O Antiphons,” sung in the final days before Christmas, expressing our deep hope and proclaiming Christ as the fulfillment of ancient promise and present longing. The glow of Advent wreaths in our churches and homes reminds us of the growing light of Christ.
We, the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon, hold you and your loved ones close in prayer during these days. From Dec. 15 to Dec. 24, you will be included in a special remembrance during the Eucharistic Liturgies offered in our Motherhouse Chapel. Every day, you remain present in the prayers and good works of our SSMO Community. Your friendship, support, and faithfulness are true blessings to us.
As Christmas approaches, may your hearts be filled with the peace of Christ, the joy of His birth, and the enduring hope that comes from knowing Emmanuel, God with us. May the Light of this holy season guide you into the New Year with renewed strength and grace.
Sister Michael Francine Duncan
Sr. Michael Francine Duncan
SSMO
Superior General
SSMO Leadership Team:
SSMO Superior General
SSMO Vicar General
SSMO General Councilor
SSMO General Councilor
These four Sisters were installed at a special Mass on Sunday, June 29 at 9 a.m. at the Sisters’ Our Lady of Perpetual Help Chapel inside the SSMO Motherhouse. Visit ssmo.org/ssmo-announces-new-leadership-team/ to learn more about the Sisters’ elections and General Chapter Meetings.
