December 10, 2025

Father Mark Stelzer speaks of finding hope in the midst of darkness during Advent

REGIONAL
Story and photos by Carolee McGrath

SPRINGFIELD – Father Mark Stelzer, chaplain, professor of humanities, and special assistant to the President for Catholic Identity at Our Lady of the Elms College in Chicopee, gave a special Advent reflection for the staff of the Diocese of Springfield, Wednesday, Dec. 10 at the Bishop Marshall Center. Father Stelzer, who is also the pastor of St. Mary Parish in Hampden, spoke on dealing with anxiety, grief, and darkness during Advent, even though people are expected to be “filled with joy.”

“The more we grasp for the perfect holiday, the more anxious and depleted we will become,” he told the crowd gathered. He said that most people are over scheduled and try to fit in every party and and event.

“A common source of anxiety is over commitment. Also, a common source of anxiety is unrealistic expectations,” which he said are not from God. He referred to St. John of the Cross who spoke of “clearing the way,” in order to rest in the love of Christ.

“John of the Cross often gave practical wisdom. It’s about clearing the way of all of the clutter that will prevent you from enjoying the season. John of the Cross said ‘let nothing disturb you,’” Father Mark explained.

He also discussed the painful experience of grief during the Christmas season. 

“As we get close to Christmas, those dealing with the darkness of any kind can feel especially lost. The Christmas lights, the music reminds us of the loss of our loved ones,” he said.

He commented on the Gospel reading of the day, in which Jesus said in Matthew 11:28-30, “Come to me all you who labor and are burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heat; and you will find rest for yourselves.”

“It’s not a coincidence,” Father Stelzer said of the Gospel reading which just happened to correspond to his talk, even though he hadn’t planned it that way. “It’s what we call a God-incidence.”

He encouraged all present to take time during Advent to rest in the love of God.

“When we hear the words today, take my yoke upon you, it is a yoke of profound love, a love of God, a love of neighbor and a love of self,” he said.

He ended his talk be encouraging those gathered to remember the hope of the season.

“We look at the example of the three kings in darkness who wandered while they wondered. But nevertheless, they were full of hope, that they were on to something,” he said. “Mary and Joseph, they had no idea what would happen. It was this virtue of hope that led them.”

Following the discussion, Bishop William D. Byrne celebrated the 12:10 p.m. Mass at St. Michael’s Cathedral. The staff gathered for a potluck lunch after Mass in the Bishop Marshall Center.