When we were naming our 3 children, my husband and I wanted their names to have meaning. My first born is, Alexandra meaning “defender of man.” A leader’s name. My second is Jaclyn. A Hebrew name meaning, “May God Protect.” Self-explanatory. My third child is Michael, “The Protector against Satan”! They are all special and all significant.
So, in today’s Gospel, Elizabeth and Zechariah’s son is born… one they thought they would never have. But through the Mercy of God, it happened. A special son who would point people to the light of life, the Holy Messiah. And that too is quite significant.
He will be called “John”, they said. What? Not Zechariah after his father? The neighbors and friends were shocked since infant boys were traditionally named after their fathers or at least someone in the family lineage. But this couple was instructed by God (through the angel Gabriel) to name him John, meaning- “The Lord has given Grace” whose mission would open the path for the Messiah’s coming. With great confidence, John would prepare the way for the coming of the Lord. This special child was sealed by God’s power and mercy and would fulfill important prophecies and promises. Remember Elizabeth was older and never thought she would have a child. But God had a special plan for this child.
So, when the surprised neighbors said “what then will this child be?” The answer is, “the greatest witness the world has ever known.”In Christ’s Peace,
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On June 13, 2018, Seniors Unlimited held their "Annual Picnic" at the Parish Center. It was another great event held by ministry leaders Lucille and Angelo DiNome.
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Congratulations to Class of 2018 Graduates NICHOLAS HENNESSY, Wayne Hills High and BRIELLE TOLLI, Wayne Valley High School who received the 2018 Our Lady of Consolation Youth Ministry Scholarships! They are both recognized for their dynamic leadership and willingness to give of their time and talent freely in the Youth Ministry Program throughout their high school years. They have made a significant contribution to the Our Lady of Consolation Church community as role models and confident leaders. Throughout their involvement at Our Lady of Consolation, they participated in Youth Group and became Peer Ministry Leaders. They completed a two-year Confirmation Program, attended many retreats, and became retreat team leaders.