The pastor of St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Nashwauk encouraged his parishioners to let go of things in their lives that are damaging their spiritual health.

The Rev. Joseph Sobolik shared his message as Advent season began to help his congregation get ready for the coming of Jesus Christ, the parish bulletin reported. 

Sobolik told his congregation in the parish bulletin that as the Church has taught for years, penance is a great way to get rid of the bad and help develop the good things in spiritual life. He believes it's fitting the color purple, which clergy members wear during the season of Advent and the color of three candles on the Advent wreath, is also the same color symbolizing penance. He said it reminds Catholics of their need for Reconciliation during the holy season.

Advent, which means "coming," prepares us for Christ's birth, which is similar to the Lenten season which prepares Catholics for Easter, he said.

"I am not saying we need to do as much penance at Advent as we do at Lent," he said, the bulletin reported. "Maybe we just do something simple for these 26 days of Advent, like watching less TV or cutting back on sweets. Even a small penance can help us prepare."

Sobolik encouraged parishioners to also pray during Advent, since he said it's another important way to prepare for the coming of Christ. 

"We desperately need more prayer this year," he said in the bulletin.

Sobolik encouraged parishioners to pick up a prayer book from the back of the Church. He also said there were sets of candles available for people to make their own Advent wreaths at home. He encouraged folks to take advantage of the season to help prepare for the coming of God's Son.