Reverend Larry Silva, Bishop | Diocese of Honolulu

About a month ago, the National Catholic Youth Conference took place in Long Beach, California. It brought together over 3,000 youth from across the country, including more than 90 attendees from Hawaii. The event featured many memorable moments, with participants identifying Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament as particularly impactful. Observers noted that many young people moved closer to the stage during this part of the conference to be nearer to what they believe is the true presence of Jesus.

In a related reflection for the Fourth Sunday of Advent, a homily highlighted Mary's journey from Nazareth in Galilee to Judea's hill country. Mary traveled approximately 90 to 100 miles to visit her relative Elizabeth, who was six months pregnant despite her advanced age. According to scripture, Mary had learned of Elizabeth's pregnancy through an announcement by Archangel Gabriel and visited her relative not only to share good news but also likely to assist her during her final trimester.

The homily drew parallels between Mary's carrying Jesus within her womb and believers receiving Jesus in Holy Communion. "When we leave this Church," it was stated, "we will be carrying Jesus within us." This notion suggests that individuals act as vessels for Jesus' presence in their everyday interactions.

Furthermore, believers are encouraged to serve others as Mary did for Elizabeth. This service can take various forms: comforting those who mourn, guiding those who have strayed back onto a righteous path, offering support and resources to those in need, or simply bringing joy into people's lives.

As Christmas approaches and commemorations of Christ’s birth unfold in Bethlehem—meaning “House of Bread”—the homily emphasized that each person becomes like Bethlehem when they embody Christ's spirit and share his love globally.