On Sunday, 15 December 2024, our seminary community joyfully welcomed Don Gabriel Chablé, an alumnus of Sedes and a priest from the Diocese of Tabasco, Mexico. Returning to celebrate the Third Sunday of Advent, Gaudete Sunday, Don Gabriel led us in a Eucharistic celebration filled with hope and reflection. His homily centered on the themes of joy, humility, and trust, offering profound insights for all present.
Reflecting on the Gospel, Don Gabriel invited us to ponder the question posed to John the Baptist: “What must we do?”. This query, he explained, is not only relevant to the people of John’s time but also deeply personal for us today. It challenges us to consider our vocation and mission, encouraging us to seek guidance in Christ to navigate the uncertainties of life with trust and clarity.
Drawing from John the Baptist’s example, Don Gabriel highlighted the importance of humility in our ministry. Like John, we are called to prepare the way for Christ, pointing others toward Him rather than seeking personal recognition. This call resonates deeply, especially with seminarians, as we strive to lead lives that reflect Christ’s love and light.
Don Gabriel concluded by emphasizing the joy and hope that come from the nearness of the Lord, a central message of Advent. He urged us to trust in God’s plans, even in moments of doubt, drawing inspiration from Mary’s unwavering faith. His words reminded us that our vocation is both a gift and a responsibility, calling us to live as witnesses of the Gospel.
At the end of the celebration, Don Gabriel expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the seminary, the formators, and the seminarians. He acknowledged the profound influence that his time at Sedes had on his journey and thanked everyone who had contributed to shaping his vocation.