Let’s face it: We are a people living and dying in ever increasing numbers in a society that reeks of violence, especially gun violence. In other years, a large swath of society has been called the “silent majority.”

We have entered into the Season of Advent, the beginning of a new year in the church when we are all expectantly waiting for Christmas. Many people are waiting for something specific to happen: a family that has a child with cancer awaits test results; another family stands vigil while an elder begins the journey home.

Entering the Season of Advent, we find ourselves in a time of “hopeful waiting.” Most folks — small and tall, young and old — are waiting for Christmas, for the beginning of another Church year, for the gifts this year will bring.