S3 E9: Always in Advent: Preparing Our Hearts for Christ (1st Sunday of Advent)

Mary Shaughnessy invites us to pause amid the holiday rush and rediscover the true meaning of Advent. While the season often feels consumed by shopping lists, decorations, and deadlines, Advent calls us to something deeper—preparing not only for the celebration of Christ’s birth but for His coming again. Through personal stories and powerful imagery, Mary reminds us that life’s most significant moments—birth, death, and meeting Jesus face-to-face—are known only to God.

This reflection challenges us to put as much energy into preparing our hearts for eternal life as we do for Christmas Day. With practical encouragement and a prayerful spirit, Mary inspires us to let Christ’s light guide our lives and shine through all we do this season.

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Mary and husband Kevin have been members of Blessed Sacrament for 45 years where they raised their children. Their family now consists of 4 children, each of their spouses and 10 grandchildren!  Mary has been involved in Faith Formation, Christ Renews and Small Faith groups for several years.  She is a commissioned Lay Eccesial Minister and is currently involved in the Hospital Ministry and other Liturgical ministries.  She has been volunteering at the Toni and Trish Home for the terminally ill for the last 17 years as well as serves on the Board of Directors there. She graduated from MSU with a BSN and worked in several areas of nursing.  Go Green!  She and Kevin enjoy traveling at home and abroad in their spare time.