Saint Charles Borromeo on the Season of Advent

Saint Charles Borromeo delivered these words nearly 450 years ago in a pastoral letter to the faithful under his care in the diocese of Milan, urging them to renew their hearts and souls during the holy season of Advent. May we do the same.

Beloved, now is the acceptable time spoken of by the Spirit, the day of salvation, peace and reconciliation: the great season of Advent… . The Church asks us to understand that Christ, who came once in the flesh, is prepared to come again. When we remove all obstacles to his presence he will come, at any hour and moment, to dwell spiritually in our hearts, bringing with him the riches of his peace.

— St. Charles Borromeo

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Prayer for St. Charles Borromeo's Intercession 

Preserve in the midst of your people, we pray, O Lord, the spirit with which you filled the Bishop Saint Charles Borromeo, and through his holy intercession, that your Church may be constantly renewed and, by conforming herself to the sacred likeness of Christ, may show his face to the world. Who lives and reigns with you, and in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever, Emmanuel. Amen.