This year’s Advent Reflection, presented by Fr. Brian King, ChD, offered members, candidates, family, and friends a profound look into Pope Leo XIV’s apostolic exhortation Dilexi Te. Building upon the legacy of Pope Francis, “I Have Loved You” is a compelling call to embrace the poor—urging us toward concrete action that confronts both poverty and systemic injustice. It challenges us not merely to extend charity, but to recognize Christ present in the marginalized. In serving the hungry, the stranger, and the imprisoned, we serve Christ Himself.

The exhortation also reminds us that the poor are not only recipients of our service but evangelists in their own right, teaching us what it means to lean fully on God. Following the reflection, we joined in the celebration of Mass at St. Edward’s Basilica, and then gathered for a joyful reception. The fellowship we shared was a beautiful reminder that our mission unites us not only in service but also in friendship, community, and faith.