FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY
It seems rather odd, at first glance, that the Church has placed the feasts of St. Stephen the Martyr, St. John the Evangelist and the Holy Innocents in between the glorious solemnity of Christmas and the feast of the Holy Family. What might these feasts have to do with the Christmas season and the feast of the Holy Family? They are to remind us, even in the midst of our joy, that suffering will occur in fulfilling the mission of Christ. This reality is manifested in the lives of Joseph and Mary, both of whom took social and religious risks in obedience to the will of God, and both of whom were open to the word of God sent to them from on high. In these ways, they prefigured the lives of Jesus and us, the followers of Jesus.
SOLEMNITY OF EPIPHANY
Epiphany means “manifestation,” a revelation of Jesus as truly God. Matthew and Luke show this child to be divine through stories of “signs and wonders” when Jesus was an infant. Matthew’s account of the visit of the three magi also shows the Church’s mission to the Gentiles. Matthew’s audience, largely Jewish Christians, was struggling to accept the presence of Gentile Christians in their community. Matthew shows in this Gospel passage that the salvation of Gentiles as well as Jews was indeed God’s plan.
Who or what on your journey has helped you to know and understand Jesus and his message better?
Who have you learned to accept and appreciate?
ANNUAL OFFERTORY COMMITMENT
The interim report from the Stewardship Committee indicates that 389 households responded with pledges totaling $462,488.00. Last year, 270 households responded with pledges totaling $442,312.00. Thank you for your willingness to make a commitment to support your parish. It is on the basis of these numbers that we plan for the next year.
YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY
¨ Senior High Youth Ministry: No AfterMass today. PAUSE does not meet this Thursday, but will resume weekly meetings next Thursday, January 9th, from 7:00-8:30 PM in the Youth Room. Happy Holidays!
¨ Junior High Ministry: No SHINE today. Our weeknight fellowship, RISE, does not meet this Tuesday, but will resume weekly meetings next Tuesday, January 7th, from 7:00-8:30 PM (new time!) in the Mission Youth Room. Happy Holidays!
¨ College Ministry: Please call Andrew if you are interested in starting this ministry.
¨ Young Adult Ministry: Stay tuned for upcoming events and opportunities. Happy New Year!
NEW PARISH CENSUS
Please pick up a card at the back of the church. You may drop the completed card in the collection or return it to the parish office. Thanks!
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CONGRESS: FEB 28-MAR 2
Don’t miss out on this! Mark your calendars and make your hotel reservations immediately! Don’t miss out on this year’s Congress featuring over 265 workshops. Truly, there is something for everyone! For information on the workshops, speakers, and events, or to get a registration booklet, please call the Office of Religious Education at (213) 637-7332.
STEWARDSHIP: FIRST FRUITS BACK TO GOD
Sunday Offering: December 15th $11,959.50
Thank you for your continuing support!
TAIZE PRAYER AROUND THE CROSS
Please join us for our beautiful candlelit Taize Prayer Around the Cross liturgy. Take time with us in prayerful contemplation on the mystery of God’s most gracious gift—Jesus Christ. Come away and rest in Christ.
CHILDCARE IS NOW AVAILABLE!
We are thrilled to announce that childcare is available during the 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM Masses in the “Good Shepherd” room. Call Melody DuPrau at 687-2198 for information and to volunteer.
JANUARY 1ST: SOLEMNITY OF MARY, THE MOTHER OF GOD
Mary holds a special place in God’s plan. “Most blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb.” Please join us at 10:30 AM for a festive Mass honoring Mary, the Mother of God. What a beautiful way for us to start out the new year!
GUADALUPE FILM
Fr. Gary, O.F.M., is planning to produce a film on the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe. If you think you might be interested in helping with this production, please contact Fr. Gary at 682-4713, ext. 168.
“HEALING A PAST MISCARRIAGE OR ABORTION”
La Casa De Maria has scheduled a weekend retreat, January 24-26, for those who have suffered the loss of a child through miscarriage or abortion. The loss of a fetus, whether by choice or by chance, can bring up recurring feelings of confusion, vulnerability and grief. Our weekend is about understanding, acceptance and healing. Please call 969-5031.
TRANSITION HOUSE NEEDS A DRIVER
Please call Mark Morehart at 968-1211 if you can help transport food from the Food Bank once a month.
NETWORK’S ACTIVITIES
St. Barbara Parish is a member of Network, a national Catholic social justice lobby. Enclosed in today’s Bulletin is a summary of Network’s current political lobbying activities. Please contact Sen. Barbara Boxer (202-224-3553), Sen. Diane Feinstein (202-224-3841), and Representative Lois Capps (805-730-1710) and urge them to consider co-sponsoring and supporting the bills advocated by Network if they have not already done so. Network’s report on the movement for affordable housing is available in the Parish Office.
CELEBRATION
Celebrate and give thanks to God as we close out 2002 and welcome 2003! Join your Parish family on Tuesday, December 31st at 11:00 PM for a beautiful and inspiring liturgy in celebration of the New Year. Following the liturgy will be an elegant reception in front of the Mission. We look forward to seeing you there!
COPING WITH GRIEF:GOD’S LOVE IN A TIME OF SORROW
St. Mary’s Seminary presents a day of prayer and reflection on the topic of grief. The day is designed for those who have recently suffered the loss of a loved one and for those regularly engaged as care givers or counselors to the grieving. The celebration of the Eucharist and Sacramental Reconciliation will be integral to the day. Reservations are required. Please call St. Mary’s Seminary at 966-4829.

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Since ancient times, the Fourth Sunday of Advent has been a Marian feast. In today’s reading, Luke describes the Annunciation. The angel greets Mary with words very familiar to Catholics: “Hail Mary! The Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women.” Mary does not understand the greeting, so the angel continues: “You shall bear a son who will inherit the throne of David, and who will rule forever.” The reading concludes as Mary willingly accepts all that the angel has told her. Mary is a powerful symbol for us. Christians proclaim that David’s throne has been made everlasting through her son, Jesus, that Jesus is the eternal king come forth from David’s house. Just as important, Mary's encounter with the angel illustrates the receptivity that we call faith. Just like Mary’s, our journeys in faith begin in awe. Sooner or later they lead us to ask practical questions, which may include doubt, but which always grow out of our particular circumstances. And, sometimes, like Mary, our journeys take us to complete acceptance and gratitude.
DECEMBER 29TH: FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY
The Gospel reading begins with the simple scene of a devout Jewish family obeying the Law. The holy man Simeon then meets them and says that this child will fulfill the hopes of Israel. Not only that, he will be a “revealed light to the Gentiles.” One of Luke’s dominant themes is salvation for everyone, Gentiles as well as Jews. This simple and strong description of the Holy Family concludes with their return home to ordinary daily life in a small village.
In what ways does your family express the love of God to each other and to others outside the family?
Where does your family need healing?
ANNUAL OFFERTORY COMMITMENT
The interim report from the Stewardship Committee indicates that 389 households responded with pledges totaling $462,488.00. Last year, 270 households responded with pledges totaling $442,312.00. Thank you for your willingness to make a commitment to support your parish. It is on the basis of these numbers that we plan for the next year.
YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY
¨ Senior High Youth Ministry: The AfterMass meets today from 12:30-1:30 PM in the San Roque Parish Hall. PAUSE does not meet this Thursday and will not resume until Thursday, January 9th. Happy Holidays!
¨ Junior High Ministry: Our Sunday fellowship, SHINE, meets today in the Youth Room from 2:30-4:00 PM. RISE, does not meet again until Tuesday, January 7th. Happy Holidays!
¨ Young Adult Ministry: We need your help with the security for the outdoor Christmas Creche. Please call the office to volunteer, ASAP.
NEW PARISH CENSUS
Please pick up a card at the back of the church. You may drop the completed card in the collection or return it to the parish office. Thanks!
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CONGRESS: FEB 28-MAR 2
Don’t miss out on this! Mark your calendars and make your hotel reservations immediately! Don’t miss out on this year’s Congress featuring over 265 workshops. Truly, there is something for everyone! For information on the workshops, speakers, and events, or to get a registration booklet, please call the Office of Religious Education at (213) 637-7332.
STEWARDSHIP: FIRST FRUITS BACK TO GOD
Sunday Offering: December 15th $11,959.50
Thank you for your continuing support!
TAIZE PRAYER AROUND THE CROSS
Please join us for our beautiful candlelit Taize Prayer Around the Cross liturgy. Take time with us in prayerful contemplation on the mystery of God’s most gracious gift—Jesus Christ. Come away and rest in Christ.
LOS ANGELES RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CONGRESS 2003: FEB 28 - MARCH 2
Don’t miss out on this! Mark your calendars and make your hotel reservations immediately! Don’t miss out on this year’s Congress featuring over 265 workshops. Truly, there is something for everyone! Beautiful, uplifting liturgies are planned. Daily noon time concerts and evening performances promise to be entertaining and inspiring. The topics addressed will range from spirituality and personal development to theology and catechesis. For information on the workshops, speakers, and events, pick up a registration guidebook from the Parish Office. Please note, the Parish does not have a block of rooms this year; you will need to make your own hotel reservations.
CHILDCARE IS NOW AVAILABLE!
We are thrilled to announce that childcare is available during the 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM Masses in the “Good Shepherd” room. Call Melody DuPrau at 687-2198 for information and to volunteer.
REMEMBER A LOVED ONE AT CHRISTMAS
You are invited to donate white poinsettias in the name of a loved one which will be used in decorating the church for Christmas. Please bring them to the Parish Office by December 23rd at 9:00 AM.
ATTENTION EUCHARISITC MINISTERS
Please check the sacristy and make a note of your Christmas Eve and Christmas Day assignments. We will not issue a separate Christmas schedule. Please come 15 minutes early. Thanks.
GUADALUPE FILM
Fr. Gary, O.F.M., is planning to produce a film on the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe. If you think you might be interested in helping with this production, please contact Fr. Gary at 682-4713, ext. 168.
THANK YOU ST. BARBARA PARISH

Dear Fr. Vince,
Thank you for your generous contribution from St. Barbara Parish. You and the parishioners at St. Barbara’s are to be commended for your continued recognition of the importance of Catholic education...Your contribution helps us maintain a stable financial status. In addition, we are encouraged that our students may be eligible for extracurricular enrichment opportunities through your support...With gratitude and best wishes,
Louise Talarico MacKenzie, Principal, Notre Dame School

Dear Friends,
Peace and all good! Thank you for your recent gift to the Franciscan Missionary Union. Your generosity helps the Franciscans to serve the needs of the Church and the world...Please pray with me for a spirit of peace among people of all faiths and nations.
Bro. John Summers, O.F.M.

OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS CRECHE
We still need Christmas shepherds to watch over the Christmas Creche each night in two hour shifts from 8:00 – 12:00 PM. Please call Mike Petrini, 962-9295.
“HEALING A PAST MISCARRIAGE OR ABORTION”
La Casa De Maria has scheduled a weekend retreat, January 24-26, for those who have suffered the loss of a child through miscarriage or abortion. The loss of a fetus, whether by choice or by chance, can bring up recurring feelings of confusion, vulnerability and grief. Our weekend is about understanding, acceptance and healing. Please call 969-5031.
TRANSITION HOUSE NEEDS A DRIVER
Please call Mark Morehart at 968-1211 if you can help transport food from the Food Bank once a month.


CHRISTMAS SEASON

December 24: Christmas Eve
The Nativity of the Lord
Mission Church
5:00 PM: Vigil Mass
7:30 PM: Vigil Mass
11:15 PM: Carols
Midnight: Solemn Mass (Choir)
Serra Chapel
5:00 PM: Vigil Mass
Midnight: Solemn Mass

December 25: Christmas Day
The Nativity of the Lord
7:30 AM: Mass
9:00 AM: Mass
10:30 AM: Mass, (Choir)
Noon: Mass, Bishop Curry, Presider, Children’s Liturgy of the Word

December 31st: New Year’s Eve
11:00 PM: Prayer Vigil and New Year’s Eve Party

January 1st: New Year’s Day
Mary, Mother of God
10:30 AM: Festive Mass

Individual Rite: December 23rd, 12:00 -1:00 PM

NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION AT THE OLD MISSION
Plan to celebrate and give thanks to God as we close out 2002! You are invited to join your Parish family on Tuesday, December 31st at 11:00 PM for a beautiful and inspiring liturgy in celebration of the New Year. Following the liturgy will be an elegant reception in front of the Mission. Mark your calendars!
‘IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS. SOON THE BELLS WILL RING”
Nativity scenes and Christmas trees, Poinsettias, Wreaths and Fresh Flowers...these are just some of the decorations we gather around us in our homes as we prepare for Jesus’ arrival on Christmas Day! We do this every year in our home here at St. Barbara’s as well, and we invite all to join us today, December 22nd, following the noon Mass to decorate Serra Chapel, and on Monday, December 23rd, at 9:00 AM, to decorate the main church. Please call Carol, 569-5639 or email cparkus@cox.net to claim your date and place. Thanks.

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT
John models the kind of attitude and behavior that each individual Christian and the entire Christian community are called to imitate. All that we do is meant to point to Christ and to direct others to Christ, not to call attention to ourselves or to heighten our own importance. We practice this when we reach beyond ourselves to help others live life to the fullest. Models of this kind of selfless love are still found amidst the often overwhelming evils of the world. They include those who value charity and work for justice bringing “glad tidings to the lowly and brokenhearted.” They illuminate our world as the holiday lights illuminate the darkness of December nights. May we be numbered among them!
ANNUAL OFFERTORY COMMITMENT
The interim report from the Stewardship Committee indicates that 389 households responded with pledges totaling $462,488.00. Last year, 270 households responded with pledges totaling $442,312.00. Thank you for your willingness to make a commitment to support your parish. It is on the basis of these numbers that we plan for the next year.
GUADALUPE FILM
Fr. Gary, O.F.M., is currently planning to produce a film on the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe. If you think you might be interested in helping with this production, please contact Fr. Gary here at the Old Mission, at 682-4713, ext. 168.
YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY
¨ Senior High Youth Ministry: The AfterMass meets today from 12:30-1:30 PM in the San Roque Parish Hall. PAUSE meets Thursday from 7:00-8:30 PM in the Youth Room.
¨ Junior High Ministry: Our Sunday fellowship, SHINE, meets today in the Youth Room from 2:30-4:00 PM. RISE, does not meet again until January 7th. Happy Holidays!
¨ Young Adult Ministry: We need your help with the security for the outdoor Christmas Creche. Please call the office to volunteer.
NEW PARISH CENSUS
Please pick up a card at the back of the church. You may drop the completed card in the collection or return it to the parish office. Thanks!
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CONGRESS: FEB 28-MAR 2
Don’t miss out on this! Mark your calendars and make your hotel reservations immediately! Don’t miss out on this year’s Congress featuring over 265 workshops. Truly, there is something for everyone! For information on the workshops, speakers, and events, or to get a registration booklet, please call the Office of Religious Education at (213) 637-7332.
STEWARDSHIP: FIRST FRUITS BACK TO GOD
Sunday Offering: December 8th $12,757.50
Thank you for your continuing support!
TAIZE PRAYER AROUND THE CROSS
Please join us for our beautiful candlelit Taize Prayer Around the Cross liturgy. Take time with us in prayerful contemplation on the mystery of God’s most gracious gift—Jesus Christ. Come away and rest in Christ.
LOS ANGELES RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CONGRESS 2003: FEB 28 - MARCH 2
Don’t miss out on this! Mark your calendars and make your hotel reservations immediately! Don’t miss out on this year’s Congress featuring over 265 workshops. Truly, there is something for everyone! Beautiful, uplifting liturgies are planned. Daily noon time concerts and evening performances promise to be entertaining and inspiring. The topics addressed will range from spirituality and personal development to theology and catechesis. For information on the workshops, speakers, and events, pick up a registration guidebook from the Parish Office. Please note, the Parish does not have a block of rooms this year; you will need to make your own hotel reservations.
CHILDCARE IS NOW AVAILABLE!
We are thrilled to announce that childcare is available during the 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM Masses in the “Good Shepherd” room. Call Melody DuPrau at 687-2198 for information and to volunteer.
REMEMBER A LOVED ONE AT CHRISTMAS
You are invited to donate white poinsettias in the name of a loved one which will be used in decorating the church for Christmas. Please bring them to the Parish Office by December 23rd at 9:00 AM.
SPECIAL COLLECTION FOR THE RETIREMENT FUND FOR RELIGIOUS TODAY
Parishes all across the country will take up the 15th annual collection for the Retirement Fund for Religious. By so doing, we honor the fidelity of the over 60,000 elderly religious sisters, brothers and priests who have given their lives in service to God and the Church. Let us give generously.
ALWAYS OUR CHILDREN
Parents and families of gay and lesbian Catholics are invited to a support group on December 19th at 7:30 PM. These meetings are informal and confidential. Please call Kathie and Joe at 687-4338.
ADVENT GIVING TREE
This is the final weekend for you to take a gift tag ornament from the Giving Tree,” purchase a gift, secure the tag to the unwrapped gift and place it under the tree. The St. Vincent De Paul Society and Catholic Charities will distribute the packages to those in need. Please note that we must have your gift by noon on Sunday, December 21st. If you are unable to meet that date, you are invited to take your gift directly to Catholic Charities at 609 East Haley St. Thank you.
OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS CRECHE
We still need Christmas shepherds to watch over the Christmas Creche each night in two hour shifts from 8:00 to midnight. Please call the Parish Office.
“HEALING A PAST MISCARRIAGE OR ABORTION”
La Casa De Maria has scheduled a weekend retreat, January 24-26, for those who have suffered the loss of a child through miscarriage or abortion. The loss of a fetus, whether by choice or by chance, can bring up recurring feelings of confusion, vulnerability and grief. Our weekend is about understanding, acceptance and healing. Please call 969-5031.
CHRISTMAS SEASON
December 24: Christmas Eve
The Nativity of the Lord
Mission Church
5:00 PM: Vigil Mass
7:30 PM: Vigil Mass
11:15 PM: Carols
Midnight: Solemn Mass (Choir)
Serra Chapel
5:00 PM: Vigil Mass
Midnight: Solemn Mass

December 25: Christmas Day
The Nativity of the Lord
7:30 AM: Mass
9:00 AM: Mass
10:30 AM: Mass, (Choir)
Noon: Mass, Bishop Curry, Presider, Children’s Liturgy of the Word

December 31st: New Year’s Eve
11:00 PM: Prayer Vigil and New Year’s Eve Party

January 1st: New Year’s Day
Mary, Mother of God
10:30 AM: Festive Mass

Communal Sacrament of Reconciliation: December 19th at 7:00 PM
Individual Rite: December 21st 3:00-4:00 PM

NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION AT THE OLD MISSION
Plan to celebrate and give thanks to God as we close out 2002! You are invited to join your Parish family on Tuesday, December 31st at 11:00 PM for a beautiful and inspiring liturgy in celebration of the New Year. Following the liturgy will be an elegant reception in front of the Mission. Mark your calendars!
‘IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS. SOON THE BELLS WILL RING”
Nativity scenes and Christmas trees, Poinsettias, Wreaths and Fresh Flowers...these are just some of the decorations we gather around us in our homes as we prepare for Jesus’ arrival on Christmas Day! We do this every year in our home here at St. Barbara’s as well, and we invite all to join us on any of the following days: Saturday morning at 9:00 AM, December 21st for outside trees and wreaths, just in time for Caroling at 7:00 PM, Sunday, December 22nd, following the noon Mass to decorate Serra Chapel, and Monday, December 23rd at 9:00 AM to decorate the main church. Please call Carol, 569-5639 or email cparkus@cox.net to claim your date and place. Thanks.

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Unlike Lent, Advent is not primarily a penitential season. It does, however, invite us to acknowledge what in our lives stands in the way of God’s reign. Unlike John the Baptist, we do not look forward to Christ’s first coming among us, but rather to his coming to us anew each day and to his return in glory at the end of time. John’s call is nonetheless valid-repentance and forgiveness are essential for those who would prepare the way of the Lord. Our Advent journey also calls us to focus on the virtue of patience. Like the child struggling to resist the temptation to unwrap presents under the tree, we sometimes want to get through Advent and get to Christmas. We want Christmas and we want it now! But we must be patient. So it is with the reign of God. The season of Advent feeds us the wild honey of joyful expectation, reminding us that the reign of God is already being experienced but not yet complete. We must be patient!
FEAST OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
You are invited to celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception at a special Mass on December 9th, at 12:00 Noon. There will be no 7:30 AM Mass.
YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY
· Senior High Youth Ministry: The AfterMass meets today from 12:30-1:30 PM in the San Roque Parish Hall. FREE FOOD will be provided. PAUSE meets Thursday from 7:00-8:30 PM in the Youth Room.
· Junior High Ministry: Our Sunday fellowship, SHINE, will not be meeting today due to the Parish Convocation. Our weeknight fellowship, RISE, meets on Tuesdays from 6:30-8:00 PM. Hope to see you there!
· Young Adult Ministry: Thanks to all who made our “Flashdance” so great! Please don’t forget to call Owen Guitteau about setting up the Creche.
NEW PARISH CENSUS
Please pick up a card at the back of the church. You may drop the completed card in the collection or return it to the parish office. Thanks!
STEWARDSHIP: FIRST FRUITS BACK TO GOD
Sunday Offering: November 24 12,461.00
Thank you for your continuing support!
TAIZE PRAYER AROUND THE CROSS
Please join us for our beautiful candlelit Taize Prayer Around the Cross liturgy. Take time with us in prayerful contemplation on the mystery of God’s most gracious gift-Jesus Christ. Come away and rest in Christ.
LOS ANGELES RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CONGRESS 2003: FEB 28 - MARCH 2
Don’t miss out on this! Mark your calendars and make your hotel reservations immediately! Don’t miss out on this year’s Congress featuring over 265 workshops. Truly, there is something for everyone! Beautiful, uplifting liturgies are planned. Daily noon time concerts and evening performances promise to be entertaining and inspiring. The topics addressed will range from spirituality and personal development to theology and catechesis. For information on the workshops, speakers, and events, pick up a registration guidebook from the Parish Office. Please note, the Parish does not have a block of rooms this year; you will need to make your own hotel reservations.


CHILDCARE IS NOW AVAILABLE!
We are thrilled to announce that childcare is available during the 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM Masses in the “Good Shepherd” room. Call Melody at 687-2198.
REMEMBER A LOVED ONE AT CHRISTMAS
You are invited to donate white poinsettias in the name of a loved one, living or deceased, which will be used in decorating the church for Christmas.
SPECIAL COLLECTION FOR THE RETIREMENT FUND FOR RELIGIOUS
On December 15th, parishes all across the country will take up the 15th annual collection for the Retirement Fund for Religious. By so doing, we honor the fidelity of the over 60,000 elderly religious sisters, brothers and priests who have given their lives in service to God and the Church. Let us give generously.
GUADALUPE FILM
Fr. Gary, O.F.M., is planning to produce a film on the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe. If you think you might be interested in helping with this production, please contact Fr. Gary at 682-4713, ext. 168.
PARISH CONVOCATION
Please come to our Parish Convocation TODAY from 2:00-4:00 PM at Serra Hall. We seek your input regarding the vision, mission, goals and objectives the Pastoral Council has delineated to take us through the next three years.
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL “BLANKET SUNDAY”
TODAY members of the St. Vincent De Paul Society are in front of the church to receive blankets for the homeless in our community. Cash donations to further their work among the poor are also welcome.
FEAST OF OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE
Our Lady of Guadalupe is the patroness of the Americas. Join us in a festive celebration of her feast day on Thursday, December 12, at 5:30 PM. We will begin with a beautiful liturgy, including the recitation of the Rosary using Pope John Paul II’s Mysteries of Light. Following, we will indulge in a fabulous Mexican dinner with all the trimmings on the front portico. Volunteers are needed for set-up, serving, clean-up and dessert preparation. If you can help in any way, please give Kathy Valenta a call at 692-1154, as soon as possible! Thank you.
CHRISTMAS TAMALES FROM THE POOR CLARES
We are pleased that the Poor Clare Sisters from Mexico will be here on Sunday, December 15th to sell their homemade tamales just in time for Christmas. Your purchase will help support the sisters and give you an unexpected treat! Mark you calendar now.
ADVENT GIVING TREE
Each year we have the opportunity to reach out to the poor in our community through our “Giving Tree.” You are invited to take a gift tag ornament from the tree, purchase a gift, secure the tag to the unwrapped gift and place it under the tree. The St. Vincent De Paul Society and Catholic Charities will distribute the packages to those in need. Please note that we must have your gift by noon on Sunday, December 21st. If you are unable to meet that date, you are invited to take your gift directly to Catholic Charities at 609 East Haley St. Thank you.
OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS CRECHE
We need your help on Saturday morning, December 14th to set up the outdoor Christmas Creche. Please call Owen Guitteau, 682-4474. We also need Christmas shepherds to watch over the creche each night in two hour shifts from 8:00 to midnight. Call the office.
“HEALING A PAST MISCARRIAGE OR ABORTION”
La Casa De Maria has scheduled a weekend retreat, January 24-26, for those who have suffered the loss of a child through miscarriage or abortion. The loss of a fetus, whether by choice or by chance, can bring up recurring feelings of confusion, vulnerability and grief. Our weekend is about understanding, acceptance and healing. Please call 969-5031.
TRANSITION HOUSE NEEDS A DRIVER
Please call Mark Morehart at 968-1211 if you can help transport food from the Food Bank once a month.
NEW YEAR’S EVE CLEBRATION AT THE OLD MISSION
Plan to celebrate and give thanks to God as we close out 2002! You are invited to join your Parish family on Tuesday, December 31st at 11:00 PM for a beautiful and inspiring liturgy in celebration of the New Year. Following the liturgy will be an elegant reception in front of the Mission. Mark your calendars