Twenty-Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time


Every one of us is the rich person in today’s gospel. There is always someone poorer than we are at our doorstep. Some years ago at an international conference in the capital of a developing country, a visitor was struck by the poverty he met in that city. Orphaned street children surrounded the conference building, and poor people sat begging in the streets. He joined an exposure excursion to a slum area, and he was simply overwhelmed by the poverty.
When the conference was over and after about a week or so, he was heard to say that he was very glad to go home because he would not be able to stand this confrontation with poverty all the time.

He went and escaped, in a way. Yet, he did not escape at all. He only enlarged the distance between his front door at home and those poor people. He behaved like a child, closing his eyes to a danger, reasoning: "If I don’t see it, it does not exist."

All of us are rich in comparison to those who are poorer than we are. That is why all of us have to listen carefully to this gospel story. What are we being called to do?

The story tells us riches, as such, neither help in one’s salvation nor in one’s relations with God. It does not advise us to turn over our riches or become poor in the process.

The gospel teaches something else. When the rich man in hell asks Abraham to send Lazarus to his five (rich) brothers, Abraham answers that they should listen to Moses and the prophets. They should listen to those who urged all of us to organize—in the name of God—a world in which everyone would feel at home, and nobody would lie at the door of someone else. We are called to invite one another into our homes and our hearts, so that we look at each poor person as "one of us" and not "one of them." Ultimately, we are compelled to witness the suffering with others intimately.


CELEBRATE THE FEAST OF ST. FRANCIS OCTOBER 2 - 4 at the OLD MISSION SANTA BARBARA
_________________________________
Saturday, October 2nd
Heart and Sole AIDS Walk
9:30 AM ¬ Meet at Ledbetter Beach
_______
Transitus Liturgy
(The Passing of St. Francis from Earthly Life to Eternal Life)
7:00 PM ¬ In the Church
_________________________________
Sunday, October 3rd
Blessing of the Animals
2:00 PM ¬ In Front of the Mission
_______
Feast of St. Francis Celebrated
at all Sunday Liturgies
_________________________________
Monday, October 4th
Feast of St. Francis Celebrated
at 7:30 AM Mass
_________________________________
Sunday, October 10th
Parish Family BBQ
1:30 PM ¬ Tucker’s Grove Park


PARISH CALENDAR
September 30 Bereavement Ministry Training Session, 7:00-9:30 PM
October 2 Transitus, 7:00 PM in the Church
Heart and Sole AIDS Walk/Run
October 2-4 St. Francis Days
October 3 Blessing of the Animals at 2:00 PM
October 4 Feast of St. Francis
October 10 Parish Family BBQ, 1:30 PM at Tucker’s Grove Park

USING CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING AS A LENS FOR THE ELECTION
NETWORK uses the principles of the Catholic social justice tradition as a lens through which to view federal policy and legislation and how it will contribute to a more just and economically sustainable world. It may be helpful for you to use some questions taken from that tradition to guide your decision-making in relation to the 2004 elections:
- How does the candidate’s position advance the common good?
- Does it unite us as one or create divisions?
- Does it include all?
- Does it give advantage to some at the expense of others?
- Does it enhance or diminish human dignity, life, rights?
- What does it do to people, for people?
- Who can participate?
- How will this affect people who are poor?
- What will this do to Earth and the natural world?
In addition, watch how a candidate behaves with regard to an issue. For example, if one were to say that he or she believes that it is important to care for the resources of this planet in order that the next generation will have the benefits these resources provide, and yet the candidate voted to eliminate regulations designed to preserve those resources, your would question whether he or she is really serious about that belief. In the same way, if a candidate were to say that he or she believed that it was important to eliminate nuclear weapons but then agreed to invest federal dollars in programs to develop new nuclear weapons, the words would fall short and the actions would speak louder than the words.

In order to determine how the candidate thinks about an issue, it is important to research how the candidate has acted in the past and is likely to act in the future. Research, study and the reading of current news articles are important preparations for forming a judgment about a candidate. After taking time in prayer, study and personal reflection, it is necessary to make a choice. In humility, we recognize that none of us is perfect and that our decisions are made with the best of intentions and with faith in God. Do so with trust that your decision will promote justice, peace and the integrity of creation.
Written by Mary Elizabeth Clark, SSJ, NETWORK

ELECTION 2004
"We hope that voters will examine the position of candidates on the full range of issues, as well as their personal integrity, philosophy, and performance. We are convinced that a consistent ethic of life should be the moral framework from which to address all issues in the political arena. We urge our fellow citizens to see beyond party politics, to analyze campaign rhetoric critically, and to choose their political leaders according to principle, not simply party affiliation or mere self-interest."

Rebecca Maria Kwong
(Infant Granddaughter of Arthur and Linda Ruffton)
May her soul and all the souls of the faithfully departed rest in peace.

BECOME A LITURGICAL MINISTER
We are always in need of liturgical ministers. Please consider serving your parish in one of the following ministries:
Ushers work in concert with the sacristans to prepare before and after the Mass. In addition, they welcome and assist people as needed, and they take up the collection during the Mass.
Eucharistic Ministers serve the Body and Blood of Christ and purify the vessels after Communion.
Lectors proclaim the Word of God to the gathered assembly, and read the Prayer of the Faithful.
Altar Servers and Adult Acolytes assist the Presider in various ways during the Mass.
Call the Parish Office for more information.

TRAVELING?
For nationwide Mass times and locations, call Mass Times (410) 676-6000 or visit www.MassTimes.org.

CONFIRMATION PREPARATION and YOUTH MINISTRY
Our 2004 Confirmation program has already started. St. Barbara Parish continues to partner with St. Raphael Parish in sending our youth to their facility to receive preparation for this sacrament.
Also, the Junior High Youth Ministry "Tobiah Club" will begin meeting on October 7th.
Registration Packets for First Year Confirmation, Second Year Confirmation, and "Tobiah Club" are available in the St. Barbara Parish Office. For more information, please contact St. Raphael Parish Youth Minister, John Vasellina at 964-3466, ext. 1.

IT’S PARISH PICNIC TIME AGAIN!
We hope you will come to our annual Parish Family BBQ at Tucker’s Grove Park on Sunday, October 10th at 1:30 PM. Tickets are available in front of the church after all of the Masses (and must be purchased in advance). There will be lots of good food and good fun. Don’t forget, the drawing for the cruise will be held at the picnic!

SACRAMENT OF MATRIMONY
David Crafton and Christine TeSelle

CONSIDER REMEMBERING YOUR PARISH IN YOUR WILL OR TRUST
For more information, please contact H. Richard Closson, Archdiocesan Director, Trust and Estate Programs (213) 637-7472, HRClosson@la-arch-diocese.org. The correct legal title for our parish is: Roman Catholic Archbishop of Los Angeles, A Corporation Sole for the benefit of St. Barbara Parish.

ELEMENTARY RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
We are gearing up and will be ready to welcome our children in grades one through six on October 10th at 9:15 AM for class, followed by Mass with the Children’s Liturgy of the Word at 10:30 AM. If you have not already registered, please pick up a form from the Parish Office.

HEART AND SOLE AIDS WALK/RUN
On October 2nd, Team St. Barbara will be participating in the 14th annual AIDS Walk/Run in support of our commitment to foster justice for all people. Please consider joining us as a walker, runner or financial supporter. Contact John and Anna Stump at 560-7614 for more details.

RETROUVAILLE PROGRAM
If your marriage has become troubled or stressed, unloving or uncaring, or if your relationship has grown cold and distant, if you are thinking of separation or divorce, or if you already are separated or divorced but you want to try again—then the Retrouvaille Program can help you. The next program will take place November 5-7, 2004. Space is limited, so call early. For more information and a confidential brochure, please call (800) 470-2230 or visit www.retrouvaille.org.

RACHEL’S VINEYARD RETREAT
November 12-14, 2004
Rachel’s Vineyard retreat is for men and women struggling with the emotional and spiritual pain of abortion. Developed in the Roman Catholic Tradition, it utilizes spiritual exercises and rituals to help grieve the loss of the unborn children and to accept God’s forgiveness. Cost is $175 per person (partial scholarships are available). For confidential inquiries and registration, please call 866-2-RACHEL or email www.rachelsvineyard.org.

SANTA BARBARA REGIONAL CONGRESS
"Come to See—Called to Serve"
Mark your calendars now for the October 30th Santa Barbara Regional Religious Education Congress at Bishop Diego High School (4000 La Colina Road). There will be a morning praise at 8:00 AM, followed by three workshop sessions at 9:45 AM, 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM, and a 3:45 PM Mass with Bishop Curry. Join your fellow catechists and parish ministers for some eye-opening excitement. Bring others with you whose ears are waiting to hear God’s call. Experience God’s peace in prayer and worship. Pre-registration is $20. Please call 569-1135 or email sandy@sbpr.org for more information.
FOR "SAIL"
Mexican Riviera Cruise … $5.00*
(*If you hold the winning ticket!)
Don’t miss out on your chance to win a seven-night dream vacation aboard the brand new "Carnival MS Pride." Tickets are $5.00 each or six for $25.00, and are available after Mass today. The drawing will take place on Sunday, October 10th at our Parish Picnic. You could be the lucky winner!

ALWAYS OUR CHILDREN
The Catholic support group for parents of Gay and Lesbian Children from the Santa Barbara and Ventura area meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month. The next meeting is September 28th at 7:30 PM. This is a safe and comfortable environment where you can share your feelings, fears and ask questions. The meetings are informal and confidential. For more information, please call Kathie and Joe Schneider at (805) 687-4338.

ATTENTION YOUNG ADULTS
Bridge Building of Santa Barbara, a spirituality program for young adults, invites you to their Fall series with Fr. Marty Connell, SJ— "Following the Way of Christ as Lay Young Adults in the Workaday World" — on October 24th and November 21st. There will be a Mass in the Chapel at 5:00 PM, followed by hors d’oeuvres and dialogue in the Lounge at Bishop Diego Pastoral Center (4032 La Colina Road, Santa Barbara). Please RSVP by calling (805) 682-1508, or email BridgeSantabarb@aol.com.

FEAST OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL
Monday, September 27th, is the feast day of St. Vincent de Paul, spiritual guide for the St. Vincent de Paul Society. In his years as a priest, St. Vincent de Paul worked to help the poor, the homeless, the elderly, and the imprisoned. Placed under the patronage of St. Vincent de Paul, the Society derives its inspiration from his philosophy and work. Through a spirit of justice and charity, and by the person-to-person involvement of its members, the Society makes every effort to help those who are suffering. Join us on Monday, September 27th, at 7:30 AM in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel of the Old Mission to celebrate St. Vincent de Paul’s feast day.

TWELVE STEPS IN MEDITATION
Through word and music, Former Franciscan Friar Bill Degnan and jazz pianist David MacKay will present a healing experience based on the spirituality of "The Twelve Steps" on October 10th, October 17th and October 24th from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Tickets must be purchased in advance. For more information call 682-4713 x133.

REFLECTION ON THE LITURGY OF THE WORD
The first reading calls for deep trust that God’s plan is happening and will soon be completed. In the Gospel reading the disciples ask for an increase in faith. Jesus is saying they do not need to be heroes. An ordinary amount of trust in God’s help will help them accomplish great things. Transplanting a sycamore tree into the sea is a highly exaggerated example. It serves, however, to make the point: "What is impossible for human beings is possible for God" (Luke 18:27).
Life Focus
How have you experienced the struggle between doing what God wants and doing what you want?
How have you reacted when asked to do more than what you really wanted to do?
Describe an experience when you received less recognition than you expected.

PREPARE FOR NEXT SUNDAY’S LITURGY
Twenty-Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
First Reading: Habbakuk 1:2-3, 2:2-4
Second Reading: 2 Timothy 1:6-8, 13-14
Gospel Reading: Luke 17:5-10

TOGETHER IN MISSION APPEAL
The Archdiocese has reported that collections to date have reached almost $57,000 against our Parish goal of $60,807. Many thanks to those who have already generously given. To those who have not yet joined this Together in Mission appeal, we ask you to prayerfully consider doing so. Your pledge or donation offers substantial financial support to 32 parishes and 46 parish schools in our Archdiocese, providing education, ministry and a Catholic presence for tens of thousands of people who simply cannot continue in ministry without your generous support. Pledge envelopes are available in the pews and at the back of the church. Thank you.

STEWARDSHIP MINISTRY
Sunday, September 19th
$8,604.00
Don’t forget to use your contribution envelopes.
Business Ads in the Parish Bulletin
Please call Mission Publishing (888-253-4358)

Twenty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time


We may be tempted to think that our sinfulness is the focus of the readings this week. In fact, the readings actually point to God’s extravagant mercy and unconditional forgiveness. The three parables illustrate how God acts. They call us to expand our own image of God and to enter ourselves more fully into God’s extraordinary generosity as givers and receivers. The parables show us how God moves heaven and earth to welcome sinners. We are invited to do the same—to act like God, as it were—to go to any lengths in welcoming, accepting, and loving all people.

Dear Parishioners and Visitors,
Those of you who were present at the Masses on July 25th will remember that Fr. Richard promised to arrange a time for us to come together with members of the Franciscan community and the Independent Response Team to talk about the on-going sexual abuse crisis in the Church as it relates to the Franciscans. Fr. Richard has arranged for Fr. Michael Doherty, OFM, representing the Province, Paul Fericano founder of SafeNET, a victims’ advocacy group, and Angelica Yokum and Israel Rosales, members of the Independent Response Team to be with us on Monday, September 20th at 7:00 PM in the Friars Lounge. The Franciscans will offer background information on what the Province has done regarding allegations of abuse. In addition, they will outline the on-going treatment of friar offenders, and review the steps that the Province takes in order to offer care and support to the victims. Following their presentation, they want to listen to your comments and answer your questions. All of the information garnered will be reported to the Provincial so that the friars can continue to refine and strengthen their processes. Please join us if you can.

Reluctantly, we bid adieu to Andrea and Brad Roe, who are moving to Ojai. Andrea coordinated our elementary religious education program, and Brad volunteered his time setting up and updating our website. Their two little children, Sydney and Christian, delighted us with their periodic visits. We will miss them all! Thank you Andrea and Brad, and many blessings.
Love, Pat

MICHAEL PETRINI’S OASIS
Michael Aldo Petrini left this earthly place to rest in peace in Heaven on August 30, 2004, at his beloved Santa Barbara Mission.

We want to express our thanks to all the emergency services that responded to that 911 call. They performed their duties with compassion, sympathy and professionalism.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to Dr. Keith Paulson-Thorp and choir for their heavenly music, and Evelyn Housman and her wonderful kitchen staff for an outstanding reception. A special thank-you also goes out to the Santa Barbara News Press and KEYT News Channel for their stories on Michael.

Our sincere gratitude goes to KCSB radio for all the wonderful tributes and shows dedicated to Mike.
The numerous prayers, phone calls, cards of sympathy, sharing of food with our family in time of need, and floral arrangements are graciously accepted with humility and love.

Mikey was living proof that Christianity is alive and well at the Old Mission. Our gratitude to the Franciscan Friar Community doesn’t have a word in the dictionary capable of describing our feelings.
Michael had a strong desire to become a Franciscan Friar and spent eight months in Portland, Oregon, studying to fulfill his dreams. This didn’t work out, but it never discouraged "The Little Engine That Could". He approached the situation from a different perspective and decided to live his life in the manner of a Franciscan Friar by giving his time, talent, prayers , and good deeds without expecting anything in return. These attributes of Michael did not go unnoticed by the Franciscan Community, who bestowed the honor on Michael of being buried with the Franciscan Robe in his casket. Michael’s dream was now complete.

Michael’s life proved that any one person, no matter what degree of talents they possess, can make a difference. Numerous people approached us after the Vigil and burial Mass and told us that Michael’s death had changed their life in a better way.

God has taken our beloved Michael for now, but we will be together again. Thank you and may God bless you and give you peace.
— Madeline and Julio Petrini and Family

PARISH CALENDAR
September 15 Justice and Peace Committee
Meeting 7:00 PM
September 16 Second Bereavement Ministry Training Session, 7:00-9:30 PM
September 18-19 Catholic Charities Food Drive
September 19 Catechetical Sunday
September 20 Parish Meeting, 7:00 PM in the Friars Lounge
September 21 Pastoral Council Meeting 7:00 PM
September 22 Baptism Class at 6:30 PM
September 25 Candlelight Concert 7:30 PM in the Church
September 26 Baptisms at the 10:30 AM Mass

SMALL CHURCH GROUP
Everyone is invited to attend our new Small Church Group meeting on September 22nd from 9:30 AM until 11:00 AM to review and reflect on the Gospel for the following Sunday. If interested, please call Carol Parkus at 569-5639 for details.


CONFIRMATION PREPARATION and YOUTH MINISTRY
Our 2004 Confirmation program starts on Monday, September 13th. St. Barbara Parish continues to partner with St. Raphael Parish in sending our youth to their facility to receive preparation for this sacrament.
Also, the Junior High Youth Ministry "Tobiah Club" will begin meeting on October 7th.
Registration Packets for First Year Confirmation, Second Year Confirmation, and "Tobiah Club" are available in the St. Barbara Parish office. For more information, please contact St. Raphael Parish Youth Minister, John Vasellina at 964-3466, ext. 1.

U.S. POVERTY INCREASES
The U.S. Census Bureau released a report on August 26, 2004, showing that the ranks of the uninsured and the impoverished grew in 2003 for the third consecutive year while incomes stayed level.

The report noted that in 2003, job growth was slow until the second half of the year while wages overall were stagnant. Many of those who did get jobs were faced with accepting scaled-back benefits and pension plans.
There were 35.8 million people living in poverty last year, or 12.5 percent of the population. That was 1.3 million more than in 2002. Children made up more than half of the increase—about 800,000. The child poverty rate rose from 16.7 percent in 2002 to 17.6 percent.

The government definition of poverty varies by the size of the household. For instance, the income threshold for a family of four was $18,810, while for two people it was $12,015. Thus, millions are living only slightly above the poverty line.

More people lacked health insurance as well—about 45 million last year, or 15.6 percent, compared with 43.5 million, or 15.2 percent the previous year. The rate of uninsured children was relatively stable at 11.4 percent, probably the result of recent expansions of coverage in government programs covering the poor and children, such as state Children’s Health Insurance Program, analysts said.

Prayer

Jesus, help us to remember that to reach out to those in poverty is to reach out to you. Help us be creative enough in our imagination and inspired enough in our action to find multiple ways to serve those in poverty. Give us the will and the courage and the dedication to transform the systems and structures of society so we can all live lives of dignity with economic justice for all. Amen.

HUMANITARIAN DISASTER IN THE SUDAN
We have all been touched by the anguish which the people of the Darfur Region of the Sudan are suffering. Presently, tens of thousands of Sudanese refugees are in camps. They face the lack of food and water, as well as adequate shelter.
Once again, Catholic Relief Services is bringing aid to these refugees. Today we pray for them in our Prayer of the Faithful. You may also assist by a financial donation to:
Catholic Relief Services/Sudanese Relief
% Office of Justice and Peace
Archdiocese of Los Angeles
3424 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90010
CASABLANCA BALL FUNDRAISER
Transition House is looking for volunteers to help with their annual gala fundraiser scheduled for Saturday, September 25th to benefit their Children’s Program. If you can help with the preparation (decorations, props, painting, etc.) or on the day of the party (hostesses, food servers, clean-up, security guards, etc.), please call Xochitl Ortiz at 966-9668 x115.
SPIRITUAL FORMATION
You are invited to a 4-week series of talks offered by the Institute for Adult Spirituality. The sessions will take place Monday evenings at 7:00 PM in the Friars’ Lounge beginning September 13th. Please call Kathleen Strittmatter for details at 687-0357.

ELEMENTARY RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
We are gearing up and will be ready to welcome our children in grades one through six on October 10th at 9:15 AM for class, followed by Mass with the Children’s Liturgy of the Word at 10:30 AM. Families registered in the program last year will receive registration packets in the mail. We ask families new to the program to call the parish office to be added to the mailing list.

CANDLELIGHT CONCERT
Please join us at 7:30 PM on September 25th in the Mission Church and experience ageless music in a serene setting, then stay for an elegant reception in its gardens. Music will be performed by the chamber orchestra conducted by Stephen Dombek. Net proceeds will benefit Adams Elementary School Music Program. Tickets can be purchased at the Mission Gift Shop or at the door. Donation $30.
Volunteers are still needed to help with decorating, set-up and tear-down, as well as workers in the kitchen and reception area. If you can lend a hand, please come to the volunteers meeting on September 14th at 6:30 PM in the Assisi Room. For more information, call Bob or Claudia Chyla at 683-4966.

OUR LADY OF SORROWS FESTIVAL
You are invited to join Notre Dame and Our Lady of Sorrows Parish for their 76th annual festival on Sunday, September 26th from 9:00 AM until 7:00 PM. Admission is free. Mark your calendars!
St. Barbara’ Summer Social
Oktoberfest
(Yes, we know it’s only September!)
Deutsches bier
Brezeln
und
Anderes behandelt
German beer, pretzels & other treats
September 15th 6:00 pm ‘til dark
Softdrinks for the kids

PREPARE FOR NEXT SUNDAY’S LITURGY
Twenty-Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
First Reading: Amos 8:4-7
Second Reading: 1 Timothy 2:1-8
Gospel Reading: Luke 16:1-13

REFLECTION ON THE LITURGY OF THE WORD
The point of the parable in next Sunday’s Gospel is that Christians should exercise at least as much clever thinking in the pursuit of good as this fellow did in the pursuit of ill-gotten gain. Luke goes on to suggest to his audience that they are to use their money in a way that will merit God’s blessing, for example, by sharing with the poor. One has to be concerned about money, but a thick line divides concern and being controlled. When one steps over that line and gives oneself to money, one becomes its slave. Quite simply, "you cannot give yourself to God and to money."
Life Focus
Relate an experience in your life when someone did something for you without expecting something in return.
What gives you a feeling of security?
Describe a time in your life when your personal needs overrode the needs of others.
Looking back on your life, what achievements or struggles made you feel worthwhile?
Describe an experience of trying to balance your responsibilities in this world and in the next.

STEWARDSHIP MINISTRY
Sunday, September 5th
$10,684.00
Don’t forget to use your contribution envelopes.

TOGETHER IN MISSION APPEAL
The Archdiocese has reported that collections to date have reached $56,591 against our Parish goal of $60,807. Many thanks to all of those who have already generously given. You can see that we are closing in on our goal, but we are not there yet! To those who have not yet joined this Together in Mission appeal, we ask you to prayerfully consider doing so. Your pledge or donation offers substantial financial support to 32 parishes and 46 parish schools in our Archdiocese, providing education, ministry and a Catholic presence for tens of thousands of people who simply cannot continue in ministry without your generous support. Pledge envelopes are available in the pews and at the back of the church. Thank you.

Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time


Today’s gospel serves as just one more wake-up call in a series of such calls we have heard these past weeks. Jesus insists that the command to follow in his steps and to carry one’s cross is a lifetime endeavor and requires diligence. The phrase “hating” one’s father and mother seems harsh to us, yet the original translation of this text used that exact wording. Matthew’s Gospel softened it considerably by rewording it: “Whoever loves father or mother more than me…” (Matthew 10:37). Luke prefers to stay with the more severe original. He does not want his point to be missed. Disciples must avoid over-attachment to possessions and relationships. Nothing is to get in the way of one’s relationship with God or with the mission of Christ. Absolutely nothing, absolutely no one.

Christians were experiencing serious persecution. Their Christian affiliation was beginning to cause trouble even on the home front. Jesus is exhorting his disciples to stand firm in the face of persecution, to accept the cross even when it reaches into the home environment.

In the ancient world, loyalty to the family was paramount. People seldom left the family system. Families were extremely controlling and dictated behavior. It would be difficult to resist the pressures of family dominance. Radical discipleship insists that followers of Christ leg got of the security of their family ties. Jesus was well aware of that dynamic, but insisted that such control constituted excessive attachment. Disciples cannot afford over-attachment to anything.

Their lives must now be directed toward their new family—the family of God. Christianity is costly; it may even cost a people their primary relationships. No one ever suggested that carrying the cross would be easy. It requires tough choices. But the rewards are eternal.

Dear Parishioners and Visitors,

After Michael Petrini’s death and spending time with his family, Andrew Gafvert wrote the following:

LIVELOVE

Mike didn’t wear a habit, but he was sure caught in the habit of sharing that Franciscan spirit of kindness and joy with all those lucky enough to meet him. I never once saw him in a bad mood. On occasion when I was stressed and frustrated and might have even been short with him, he was never anything but caring and helpful in return. Mike was an angel of sorts. With a flutter of his wings he’s left us, yet he’s still here. Being without Mike is strange and mysterious, as his touch endures on all of our lives with or without his physical presence.

Mike had a hard life, but he was never the worse for the wear. He is the most determined person I have ever met. When I first befriended Michael I soon felt like he was a bit of a needy friend, but our friendship truly began when I realized that it was no longer Mike who needed me, but I who needed Mike. Mike called me a lot at first and I mean a lot, he was almost a pest in his pursuit of friendship, but the more I got to know him, the phone would ring and I began to hope it would be him.

Mike was a little different, but none of us ever loved him out of pity, we loved him because we saw that the difference in Mike was not the disabilities he lived with, but the love he brought to life. Mike you lived a love that was almost otherworldly and now you are in a world of it. Some say live long, others say live strong, Mike taught us to live love.


From Death to New Life

Michael Petrini
Maria Newman

May their souls and all the souls of the
faithfully departed rest in peace.


PARISH CALENDAR

September 9 First Bereavement Ministry Training Session, 7:00-9:30 PM
September 11 Concert of Mission Music, 7:30 PM
September 16 Second Bereavement Ministry Training Session, 7:00-9:30 PM
September 18-19 Catholic Charities Food Drive
September 19 Catechetical Sunday
September 22 Baptism Class at 6:30 PM
September 25 Candlelight Concert in the Church
September 26 Baptisms at the 10:30 AM Mass

Justice and Peace Committee News

This Fall’s first meeting will be held on September 15th at 7:00 PM in the Parish Social Rooms. Everyone is welcome. Please call Kitty Maxwell, 682-5606, for more information.


SECULAR FRANCISCANS
Secular Franciscans is a community of Catholic men and women who seek to pattern their lives after Christ in the spirit of St. Francis. This international order was founded by St. Francis of Assisi almost 800 years ago. For more information, please contact Bob Carman at 964-1042, or Fr. Alberic Smith, O.F.M., at 682-4713 x157.


CONFIRMATION PREPARATION and YOUTH MINISTRY
Our 2004 Confirmation program starts on Monday, September 13th. St. Barbara Parish continues to partner with St. Raphael Parish in sending our youth to their facility to receive preparation for this sacrament.

Also, the Junior High Youth Ministry “Tobiah Club” will begin meeting on October 7th.

Registration Packets for First Year Confirmation, Second Year Confirmation, and “Tobiah Club” are available in the St. Barbara Parish office. For more information, please contact St. Raphael Parish Youth Minister, John Vasellina at 964-3466, ext. 1.

CONSIDER REMEMBERING YOUR PARISH IN YOUR WILL OR TRUST
For more information, please contact H. Richard Closson, Archdiocesan Director, Trust and Estate Programs (213) 637-7472, HRClosson@la-arch-diocese.org. The correct legal title for our parish is: Roman Catholic Archbishop of Los Angeles, A Corporation Sole for the benefit of St. Barbara Parish.

RELOCATION OF THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS
The Santa Barbara Historic Landmark Commission has given unanimous preliminary approval of the Conceptual Plan for the relocation of the Stations of the Cross. The proposal will be presented to interested members of the parish for their comments and approval on September 16th at 7:00 PM and again on September 19th at 4:00 PM. Both presentations will be held at Bonaventure Hall. If you have questions or need more information, please call Peter Kruse (687-2405) or Bob Kuhn (682-3237).

A Mission Heritage Concert
The Mission Musicians perform Music from Spain, Mexico and Early California

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2004
7:30 P.M.
OLD MISSION, SANTA BARBARA

FREE ADMISSION
In conjunction with the Conference of Mission Museum Curators and
Directors, under the auspices of the California Missions Foundation



REGIONAL ASSISTANT TO THE BISHOP
(Position available in Santa Barbara)

Position Summary: Works as a member of the Pastoral Center team assisting the Regional Bishop in the areas of pastoral and financial planning, and ministry for the region.

Minimum Qualifications: B.A. Degree. Experience in the diocesan structure and areas of pastoral ministry. Knowledge of principles of planning, management and human resources management. Excellent communication skills in written and oral form. Knowledge of modern office methods and procedures. Computer proficient.

To apply, please fax resume to (213) 637-6242 or call (213) 637-7494 for an application.

SPIRITUAL FORMATION

An introductory workshop to Centering Prayer will be held on September 18th from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM at St. Joseph Parish in Carpinteria. For more information, contact Sr. Suzanne Dunn at 684-2181 x11.

You are invited to a 4-week series of talks offered by the Institute for Adult Spirituality. The sessions will take place Monday evenings at 7:00 PM in the Friars’ Lounge beginning September 13th. Please call Kathleen Strittmatter for details at 687-0357.

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE
One of our parishioners has generously offered to fund the education of high-achieving high school students from the Santa Barbara area at the college of their choice. The scholarships are available for those pursuing a bachelor’s degree in engineering/science. Eligibility will be based on academic scores, extra curricular achievements, character references, and need. If you are interested, please call 683-9363.

LABOR DAY 2004

CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING

The Dignity of Work
While work is not the source of human dignity, it is the means by which persons express and develop both being and dignity. Persons are the subjects of work and are not to be looked upon simply as a means of production or a human form of capital. Work must be organized to serve the workers’ humanity, support their family life, and increase the common good of the human community—the three purposes of work. Workers have the right to organize and form unions to achieve these goals. (On Human Work [Laborem Exercens])

The Priority of Labor Over Capital

Products and technologies are the fruits of work and part of the universal heritage of the human family. People always take priority over products, profits, and production systems. (On Human Work [Laborem Exercens]) The primary concern must always be with the development and well-being of the workers, not the efficiency, productivity, profits and competitiveness of the business, though these are important to its survival. Any business that does not enhance its workers and serve the common good is a moral failure no matter how healthy its financial bottom line appears. This is a central issue of justice in the processes of globalization of production and trade. The fundamental question to ask about economic development, then, is “What is it doing to people? What is it doing for people? What is it enabling people to do themselves and to participate in?” (Economic Justice for All)

Religious and Social Development

The results or objects of work, the human construction of the world, is not “secular” in the sense of being outside of God’s plan or activity. As the process of development of human persons and communities, it is intimately involved with the dynamic of the Reign of God. Human products and services express personal and community values and play a part in the future of the people’s lives, forming the context and the structures that shape subsequent human development. Therefore, the sacred and the secular are not distinct realms; faith and justice are necessarily linked together. And they pertain to every part of life. (The Church in the Modern World [Gaudium et Spes], One Hundred Years [Centesimus Annus])


BEREAVEMENT MINISTRY TRAINING

In partial fulfillment of our stated parish objective to establish a “Service in Time of Need” ministry, we will be holding Bereavement Ministry training sessions for seven Thursdays from 7:00-9:30 PM in the Parish Social Rooms, beginning September 9th. Sessions will be held every Thursday night thereafter through October 21st. If you are interested in participating in this new ministry, please contact the parish office at 682-4151 and register for Bereavement Ministry training.


Humanitarian Disaster in the Sudan
We have all been touched by the anguish which the people of the Darfur Region of the Sudan are suffering. Presently, tens of thousands of Sudanese refugees are in camps. They face the lack of food and water, as well as adequate shelter.

Once again, Catholic Relief Services is bringing aid to these refugees. Today we pray for them in our Prayer of the Faithful. You may also assist by a financial donation to:

Catholic Relief Services/Sudanese Relief
% Office of Justice and Peace
Archdiocese of Los Angeles
3424 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90010


Catholic Charities Food Collection
The Catholic Charities pantry desperately needs re-stocking. We invite you to bring non-perishable food items to the church on the weekend of September 18-19. Monetary donations are also welcome.

FOR “SAIL”
Mexican Riviera Cruise...$5.00*

(*If you hold the winning ticket!)

Don’t miss out on your chance to win a seven-night dream vacation aboard the “Carnival MS Pride.” Tickets are $5.00 each or six for $25.00, and are available after Mass today. The drawing will take place on Sunday, October 10th at our Parish Picnic. You could be the lucky winner!

PREPARE FOR NEXT SUNDAY’S LITURGY OF THE WORD

Twenty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
First Reading: Exodus 32:7-11, 13-14
Second Reading: 1 Timothy 1:12-17
Gospel Reading: Luke 15:1-32

Readings for the Week of September 5, 2004
Monday:
1 Cor 5:1-8/Ps 5:5-7,12/Lk 6:6-11
Tuesday:
1 Cor 6:1-11/Ps 149:1-6,9/Lk 6:12-19
Wednesday:
Mic 5:1-4/Ps 13:6/Mt 1:1-16,18-23
Thursday:
1 Cor 8:1-7,11-13/Ps 139:1-3,13-14/Lk 6:27-38
Friday:
1 Cor 9:16-19,22-27/Ps 84:3-6,8,12/Lk 6:39-42
Saturday:
1 Cor 10:14-22/Ps 116:12-13,17-18/Lk 6:43-49


Reflection for the Liturgy of the Word

Luke keeps assuring his readers of God’s amazing acceptance of sinners. This conviction is central, of course, to all New Testament writings. God makes the first move, even before the sinner is ready to return. Luke recounts three parables to respond to the snobbery of some of the Pharisees and scribes. Jesus directs these three parables at the self-righteous people, the people who think God must follow their rules. Such people think they determine who and how God will forgive. But Jesus says God follows God’s own rules. Christians are being told not to imitate the religious “snobs” of Jesus’ day. They must let God be God and not presume to tell God who can be saved and how people must be saved.


Life Focus

Speak of an experience of forgiveness you never thought possible.

Relate a time when you felt lost and someone reached out or did not reach out to you.

Name an experience that made you proud to be a son or daughter.

In these parables, with which person or image do you identify? Why?

When have you received more than you deserved?



STEWARDSHIP MINISTRY
Sunday, August 29th

$8,663.00

Don’t forget to use your contribution envelopes.


TOGETHER IN MISSION APPEAL
The Archdiocese has reported that collections to date have reached $56,591 against our Parish goal of $60,807. Many thanks to all of those who have already generously given. You can see that we are closing in on our goal, but we are not there yet! To those who have not yet joined this Together in Mission appeal, we ask you to prayerfully consider doing so. Remember, your pledge or donation provides substantial financial support to 32 parishes and 46 parish schools in our Archdiocese, providing education, ministry and a Catholic presence for tens of thousands of people who simply cannot continue in ministry without your generous support. Pledge envelopes are available in the pews and at the back of the church. Thank you.

TRAVELING THIS SUMMER?
For nationwide Mass times and locations, call Mass Times (410)676-6000 or visit www.MassTimes.org.