Saint Joseph Catholic Church - Bastrop

02/14/2026

01/23/2026

Due to the winter weather expected this weekend, I want to share an important update regarding our Mass schedule for Sunday, January 25.

We will celebrate Mass at St. Patrick Church in Lake Providence at 8:30 AM, where I am currently residing. Please know that while Mass will be available, no one is expected to attend if there is any danger involved in traveling. Your safety always comes first, and I strongly encourage you to remain at home if road conditions feel unsafe.

This Mass will be live streamed on our parish page so that parishioners from all three communities may participate remotely.

Please note the following changes:
• There will be no Adoration or Confession prior to Mass as normally scheduled.
• There will be no Mass at Sacred Heart in Oak Grove or at St. Joseph in Bastrop this weekend.

As many of you know, I am inexperienced with driving on icy roads and, after receiving reports that Highway 2 becomes especially dangerous during winter weather, I do not feel it is safe to make the drive during this upcoming storm.

Thank you for your patience, understanding, and support. Please continue to pray for one another, and stay warm and safe during this time.

Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Kelby Tingle

12/28/2025

Feast of the Holy Family. May Jesus, Mary, and Joseph guide all families on the path to holiness.

Photo: Statue of the Holy Family, St. Joseph Church Shreveport, ©Diocese of Shreveport 2025

12/14/2025

11/28/2025

NOV 30, 2025
1st Sunday: HOPE

DEC 07, 2025
2nd Sunday: PEACE

DEC 14, 2025
3rd Sunday: JOY

DEC 21, 2025
4th Sunday: LOVE

The Meaning of the Four Sundays of Advent

Advent is a season of preparation—a time when Christians around the world pause, slow down, and ready their hearts for the coming of Jesus Christ at Christmas. It is not just a countdown to December 25, but a spiritual journey that invites reflection, prayer, patience, and expectation. The four candles traditionally lit during Advent symbolize the unfolding story of salvation and the posture of the human heart awaiting the Savior.

The first candle represents Hope. Hope is not wishful thinking—it is confidence in God’s promises. As the Old Testament waited for the Messiah, Christians today place trust in God’s faithfulness, believing He is present, active, and leading all things toward good.

The second candle stands for Peace. The peace of Christ is deeper than the absence of conflict; it is the calm of knowing God is in control. During a noisy and uncertain world, this Sunday invites reflection on the peace Jesus brings—peace for the heart, peace for families, and peace for the world.

The third candle is Joy, often marked by a rose-colored candle. Joy is more than happiness; it is rooted in God’s grace. This Sunday reminds believers that even before Christmas arrives, they can rejoice because salvation is near.

Finally, the fourth candle represents Love. The story of Christmas is ultimately the story of love—God becoming human to save humanity. This Sunday prepares hearts to welcome not just a holiday, but a person: Jesus Christ.

As the candles grow in light week after week, so does the anticipation. Advent teaches patience, builds faith, and reminds us of the greatest truth ever told: that God came near and continues to walk with His people. In a world longing for meaning, Advent quietly whispers a timeless message—Christ is coming, and His light is stronger than any darkness.