These reflections are a result of more than 40 years of ministry as a Roman Catholic priest. Most of these years I spent in the Diocese of Charlotte which covers Western North Carolina. Now I am retired, and live in Medellín, Colombia where I continue to serve as a priest in the Archdiocese of Medellín.

Sunday, Advent I, World AIDS Day, December 1

The days are coming, says the LORD, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and Judah. In those days, in that time, I will raise up for David a just shoot; he shall do what is right and just in the land. In those days Judah shall be safe and Jerusalem shall dwell secure; this is what they shall call her: “The LORD our justice.” (Jer 33:14-16)
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/120124.cfm
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the founding of Caring Hearts AIDS Ministry when I was pastor of Saint Joan of Arc Parish in Asheville, NC. We lovingly remember all those we have lost. As we begin this season of Advent, we prepare for the coming of the Lord who brings us justice. May this season remind us that our help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth (Psalm 121).