Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
“Give Them Some Food Yourselves…”

Most of us have been acquainted with people whose physical or mental health was destroyed by the severity of the trials they had to endure. On the other hand, we have likely witnessed others who endured great affliction with unremitting courage and tenacity. Why some are crushed by their adversities and others rise above them is often a mystery. One thing we can find in common among those who do survive their afflictions is a strong personal faith in someone or something that supports them. When we know we are not left to fight our battles alone, our self-confidence can increase to the point where we can endure just about anything.

Today’s letter to the Romans is an eloquent proclamation of Christian confidence. In the face of any dilemma, problem, hardship or crisis, we have our champion. Paul’s absolute trust in God’s loving care provided him with the power to face any ordeal. He encourages us to throw ourselves with utter assurance into God’s supportive hands.

Confidence that we can endure and rise above whatever challenges or afflicts us does not rely solely on our native talents and abilities, or lack of them. We gain confidence from God’s supportive love. We can handle what comes our way because God is with us. We are never alone; we always have our champion. Whatever our afflictions, we can be fully confident of God’s unfailing support.

This theme is carried through the gospel of Matthew. In today’s passage, we hear a touching story about God’s care for even the simplest needs of our lives. Jesus did not want to see those who had come to hear him go away hungry. They certainly wouldn’t have starved, but his compassion for their physical needs urged him to feed them himself. The miracle recounted in this narrative is not so much the multiplication of the loaves and fishes, but in the revelation of Christ who cared so much.

When misfortunes strike and your burdens seem more than you can bear, fall back on your resources. Never be ashamed of using a crutch when you need one. God delights in being a support for you; permit God to carry some of your burden. When your strength seems insufficient, trust a strength that is superior to your own. Take advantage of God’s offer of help; put yourself in God’s hands. Who will ever separate us from the love of God, our champion? God’s arm may not deliver you from your problems, but it will certainly carry you through them.


Today’s Readings

First Reading—Isaiah 55:1-3
All you who thirst, come to the water!
You without money,
come to the feast!

Responsorial Psalm—Psalm 145
The hand of the Lord feeds us;
he answers all our needs.

Second Reading—Romans 8:35, 37-39
Nothing can separate us
from the love of God in Christ.

Gospel—Matthew 14:13-21
All ate until satisfied;
they collected twelve baskets
of what was left over.


The Feast of Our Lady of the Angels of the Portiuncula marks the beginning of the Franciscan Order at the tiny chapel restored by St. Francis and dedicated to Our Lady of the Angels. It is a special day for the entire Archdiocese. Our Lady of the Angels is our patroness and the patroness of the cathedral in Los Angeles.

Please join us for a beautiful liturgy at 7:30 AM on Tuesday, August 2nd, in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel. All are welcome.


PARISH CALENDAR

August 2 Feast of Our Lady of the Angels of the Portiuncula, 7:30 AM Mass in the
Blessed Sacrament Chapel
August 4 Fiesta—Misa del Presidente, 10:00 AM in the Church
August 6 Feast of the Transfiguration of Jesus
August 11 Feast of Saint Clare, Mass at 7:30 AM
August 15 Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 7:30 AM Mass
August 23 Baptism Class at 6:30 PM
August 28 Baptisms at the 9:00 AM Mass


Baptized Into New Life

Stephanie Delilah Alvarez
Daughter of Sam and Dulce Alvarez

Benicio Lito Garcia Holland
Son of Wes and Lia Garcia Holland

Nico William Niday
Son of Lawrence and Estella Niday


Do You Know ...?

How do we show reverence and love for Christ when we enter and leave the church? First, we greet each other as we would greet Christ. (“Where two or three of you gather, there I am.”) Then, we bow to the altar.

Why? On this altar we place our bread and wine that becomes Christ’s body and blood: This is the place of sacrifice. At this altar we sit with God to dine in eternity: This is Easter’s banquet table.

The altar of the Most High is this table in our midst—the table of every grace and blessing! And more. The Rite of Dedication of an Altar says, “Because it is at the altar that the memorial of the Lord is celebrated and his body and blood given to the people, the church’s writers see in the altar a sign of Christ himself—hence they affirm: ‘The altar is Christ.’”

Christ is the Anointed One, baptized, anointed with the Holy Spirit and robed in light. We are Christians, anointed ones, baptized, anointed with chrism and robed in white. Just like Christ, just like us, our altar was washed, anointed and robed. On its dedication day, it was sprinkled with holy water. The bishop rubbed holy chrism into its top, and ministers robed it in a white cloth.

So let’s bow to Christ at the altar before taking our places. And let’s bow again when we depart. Christ the offering. Christ the meal. Christ the altar of sacrifice. Christ the paschal banquet table. Holy Christ, we bow before you!


From Death to New Life

Josephine Bublitz
Mother of Randy and Sandi Bublitz

May her soul and all the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace


Meet our Newest Parishioners …

Gilbert Castro and Nancy Zavala


Recycle Sight

Donate used and old eyeglasses to the Lions Sight and Hearing Center. For information, call 569-8264.


We Pray for the Sick

Rose Margaret Braiden
Meg Chenoweth
Mary Alice Detwiler
Mary Devoy
Ellie Gymnaites
Mary Ann Jenquin
Steenie Medina
Alfred Parziale
Jim Shea
Viola Valenzuela

May they find strength and comfort in our prayers


Ministry to the Sick and Homebound

If someone you know is not able to come to Mass, or would like a minister to take Communion to their home, please call the Parish Office to make arrangements. Also, with the permission of the person who is ill, we are happy to include their name in the Prayer of the Faithful and list it in the bulletin.


Songs that Make a Difference

What are the songs that make a difference in the faith of American Catholics? The National Association of Pastoral Musicians (NPM) is trying to find out.

Between now and September 30, 2005, Catholics all over the U.S. may respond to that question by visiting the NPM web site at www.npm.org and completing a short survey.

Psalms, hymns and other liturgical songs have long helped to form and sustain the faith of Christian believers. Nearly everyone can identify a favorite or special song that they learned in church—perhaps a song associated with a particular person, event, or stage of life.

The words and melodies of songs used in the liturgy often create a profound sense of God’s presence and action in our midst. This experience can be even more powerful when people are part of a singing congregation.

NPM is inviting all American Catholics, not just musicians, to offer their selection of a liturgical song that makes a difference in their own lives. The organization is hoping to discover the texts and tunes that have done the most to help Catholics in the U.S. to form, nourish, and deepen their faith.

Results of the survey will be published later in the Fall in the Association’s journal, Pastoral Music, and on the NPM web site.


Enroll Now for Fall Ministry Certificate Programs at LMU

The Christian Initiation program is a thorough introduction to the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). Classes begin on September 10th and meet once a month for two semesters. Pastoral Studies (Estudios Pastorales) in Spanish is a two-year program designed to give Spanish-speaking students training for pastoral ministry. Classes begin on September 17th and meet one weekend per month in the city of Orange, CA. Both programs are sponsored by the Center for Religion and Spirituality at Loyola Marymount University. To enroll or to get more information, please call (310) 338-2799 or e-mail crs@lmu.edu; or visit their website: http://extension.lmu.edu/religion.


The Society of St. Vincent de Paul

We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at 9:15 AM. Our mission is to help and to serve the poor. Call our voicemail at 687-7547 and leave a message for more information.


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.


Free to a Good Home

The Parish has lots of plants that need some TLC and a good home (and some water!). Choose from an assortment of bromeliads, ferns, hydrangea and more. They’ll be waiting for you on the patio behind the Parish kitchen after the Masses this weekend.


Reflections on “Walk for Life”

Brendan Darby, grandson of parishioners Tom and Lilian O’Reilly, would love to give a presentation to your group regarding his experiences as a member of a delegation sent to Washington D.C. to participate in the annual Walk For Life on the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision. Please contact the Parish Office for further information.


My children, the three acts of faith, hope
and charity contain all the happiness of humanity upon earth.
— St. John Mary Vianney


The Franciscan Missionary Union

Today you will be encouraged to support the Franciscan Missionary Union through a second collection that will be taken up at all the Masses. Throughout the year, Franciscan Parishes hold this second collection on fifth Sundays. If you have already made a contribution, we thank you for your support.


Stewardship Ministry

Sunday, July 24th $9,658.00
National Needs Collection $891.00

Thank you for your continuing generosity!
(Don’t forget to use your contribution envelopes.)

A good steward believes that everything you have and everything
in the world around you is not yours, but is “on loan” from God,
for you to care for accordingly.


Prepare for Next Sunday’s Liturgy

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

First Reading: 1 Kings 19:9, 11-13
Second Reading: Romans 9:1-5
Gospel Reading: Matthew 14:22-33


Reflection on Next Sunday’s Liturgy of the Word

Part of the purpose for next week’s Gospel passage was to encourage the community. This account was written fifty years after the Resurrection event. Matthew’s audience is suffering opposition, rejection, even persecution. They are beginning to worry that the risen Lord has abandoned them as well. Here Jesus reassures his followers, telling them not to be afraid. Matthew gives special attention to Peter’s attempt to walk on water. Peter often acted impulsively. He came to realize his weakness and his need to rely on the Lord for help. Matthew hopes his listeners will come to the same recognition.

Life Focus

When has fear overcome trust in your life?
Relate an experience when you trusted at first, but later began to lose faith.
Where do you find courage in your life?


The Catholic Church Welcomes You!

Are you thinking about returning to actively practicing your faith? If you are a Catholic who has been away from the Church, know you are in our prayers. We invite you to explore your faith and your future with the Catholic Church. Please contact the Parish Office if you’d like more information (682-4151).

Traveling?
Don’t forget to go to Mass.

For nationwide Mass times and locations, visit www.MassTimes.org.

Getting in the Parish Bulletin

For Parish announcements, call Laura in the Parish Office (682-4151). Please contact Mission Publishing at (888) 253-4358 for business ads.

Sunday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time

We Treasure the Reign of God

In this series of sayings, Jesus continues his teaching about the reign of God. What will it be like? What can we expect? His teaching is both clear as a bell and yet filled with mystery we cannot fully plumb.

The treasure in the field he describes must have been a very great treasure. The fellow who found it, the text tells us, hid it so he could go and buy the entire field! He sold all he had to possess this great treasure.

And the merchant who sold everything to buy that fine pearl must nearly have put himself out of business. Apparently it wasn’t the enterprise of selling pearls that attracted him, but the beauty of the one fine pearl that superseded all others. Apparently half measures won’t do when it comes to fine pearls.

And then there is that fishing crew who netted fish of every kind. Here Jesus presents a warning. At the end, only the good fish will be kept; the bad ones will be thrown out and forgotten. Hmmm. Which are the good and which are the bad? The text leaves that unclear for us.

In today’s world, it can be very difficult to sort out the good pearls or the best fish from all the others. We are confused by a cacophony of noise coming from everywhere—media, World Wide Web, neighbors, family, and our own inner voices. Which voice is the voice of God? How can we sort it out? The key to all this is found in a simple word, easy to overlook, in the first line of the reading. Look again.

Jesus teaches us that the mark of the right choice, the way we can know it, is that we will experience joy. In the old Baltimore Catechism, widely used in the church until Vatican II, we were taught that God made us to know, love, and serve him, but with the ultimate goal of being happy. When you pause to take the temperature of your conscience, finding deep joy tells you the work is terribly hard. Still, if there is joy deep in your heart, it is a sign that God’s reign is present within you.


Dear Parishioners and Visitors,

In these last, lazy days of July and into the month of August, the Church, particularly the Franciscans, celebrates the feasts of many prominent holy women and men who lived heroic lives for the sake of God’s reign. We start out this week with the feast of St. James the Apostle on Monday. He and his brother, John, were among the first to be called by Jesus who invited them to learn to fish for human beings. The following day we honor St. Ann and St. Joachim, the parents of Mary and the grandparents of Jesus. For centuries people in various parts of the world have kept a devotion to Ann and Joachim. On Friday of this week, we remember St. Martha, who with her sister, Mary, and her brother, Lazarus, was loved deeply by Jesus. The gospel tells us that Jesus laughed and cried with them. St. Ignatius of Loyola’s feast day falls on Sunday this year, however we do remember him as the founder of the Jesuits and the author of Spiritual Exercises, which is still in wide use today. On August 1st, we honor another founder of a religious order, St. Alphonsus Liguori, founder of the Redemptorists and doctor of the church. August 2nd is the grand feast of Our Lady of the Angeles of Portiuncula, which marks the beginning of the Franciscan order. Our Lady of the Angeles is also the patroness for the Archdiocese. Saturday, August 6th, is the Feast of the Transfiguration of Jesus. On a high mountain, Jesus allowed Peter, James and John to glimpse the glory of his resurrection to come. August 8th is the feast of St. Dominic, the founder of the Dominican order. Legend has it that St. Francis and St. Dominic crossed paths as the journeyed to carry the Good News throughout the world. The Franciscans and Dominicans are “kissing cousins” and joyfully celebrate the feasts of one another’s founders. August 11th marks the feast of St. Clare of Assisi, founder of the Poor Clares, and close friend of St. Francis. August 14th is the feast of St. Maximilian Kolbe, a Franciscan priest who gave his life at Auschwitz in order to save another prisoner. The first half of the month of August concludes with the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary into Heaven. It is Mary’s greatest feast, her Passover.

Next week, we will look at the feasts in the second half of August. It is truly a glorious month for us to celebrate our belief in the communion of saints in heaven and on earth.

Love, Pat


The Catholic Church Welcomes You!

Are you thinking about returning to actively practicing your faith? If you are a Catholic who has been away from the Church, know you are in our prayers. We invite you to explore your faith and your future with the Catholic Church. Please contact the Parish Office if you’d like more information (682-4151).


PARISH CALENDAR

July 30-31 Franciscan Missionary Union Collection
August 2 Feast of Our Lady of the Angels of the Portiuncula, 7:30 AM Mass in the Church
August 4 Fiesta—Misa del Presidente, 10:00 AM in the Church
August 6 Feast of the Transfiguration of Jesus
August 11 Feast of Saint Clare, Mass at 7:30 AM in the Church
August 15 Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 7:30 AM Mass in the Church
August 23 Baptism Class at 6:30 PM
August 28 Baptisms at the 9:00 AM Mass


Do You Know ...

I hope my children get it. But, there is so much to get. I want each of them to have an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ and experience him in the fullness of truth. Friendship with Jesus; fullness of truth. There is so much to this faith and so much to this person. The liturgical year offers an opportunity to draw our children into the mystery of Christ. Here are some ways to celebrate the liturgical year as a family:

• Celebrate your child’s feast day as your would celebrate a birthday. Bake a cake. Invite the godparents. Make your child’s favorite meal. Then take time to pray for the child and ask for the patron saint’s intercession for the child.

• For younger children, make crafts that relate to the liturgical year. Cut out and decorate doves for Pentecost. Make your own cardboard donation boxes during Lent. Get chicken wire, dried flowers and candle holders for an Advent wreath.

• Don’t be afraid of rewards. Assign scripture passages that relate to the season. The older the children are, the longer the passage. When they memorize it, give them a reward. Desserts do wonders!

• Have a family outing that relates to the season. During Lent, volunteer somewhere and give alms of time. During Easter, make an intentional visit—a pilgrimage—to the church where the kids were baptized.

• Create a sacred space in the house. Have a place that is dedicated to religious objects. Change it according to season or feast day. The Feast of the Assumption, Christ the King and Our Lady of Guadalupe are feasts that lend themselves well to decorating a sacred space. Assign teams of two to take turns decorating.

These are just a few simple suggestions. Think about your family and its character. Create such rituals or events that are inspired by the church’s year-long celebration of Jesus. Your children just might get it.


Today’s Readings

First Reading—1 Kings 3:5, 7-12
Solomon prays for an understanding heart

Responsorial Psalm—Psalm 119
Lord, I love your commands

Second Reading—Romans 8:28-30
All things work for the good for those who love God

Gospel—Matthew 13:44-52
The one who knows of the kingdom of heaven brings new and old from the storeroom


We Pray for the Sick

Meg Chenoweth ? Mary Alice Detwiler
Mary Devoy ? Ellie Gymnaites
Mary Ann Jenquin
Alfred Parziale ? Jim Shea
Viola Valenzuela

May they find strength and comfort in our prayers



Ministry to the Sick and Homebound

If someone you know is not able to come to Mass, or would like a minister to take Communion to their home, please call the Parish Office to make arrangements. Also, with the permission of the person who is ill, we are happy to include their name in the Prayer of the Faithful and list it in the bulletin.


Eucharistic Minister & Lector Schedule

July 30-31 … next weekend

Anfuso, Bernice Sunday 9:00 AM Lector B
Blakemore, Donna Sunday 10:30 AM Eucharistic Minister
Bourgeois, George Saturday 4:00 PM Lector A
Cardenas, Ralph Sunday 7:30 AM Eucharistic Minister
Carman, Bob Sunday 10:30 AM Lector A
Carman, Lyn Sunday 10:30 AM Lector B
Cunningham, E.B. Sunday 7:30 AM Lector A
Dal Pozzo, Joanne Sunday 7:30 AM Eucharistic Minister
DeBerry, Pat Sunday 9:00 AM Eucharistic Minister
DeDecker, Sherry Saturday 4:00 PM Eucharistic Minister
DeLeon, Yvonne Saturday 4:00 PM Eucharistic Minister
Doetch, Leona Saturday 4:00 PM Eucharistic Minister
Ducale, Jim Sunday 9:00 AM Eucharistic Minister
Estes, Nancy Sunday 10:30 AM Eucharistic Minister
Gamberdella, Jacque Sunday 10:30 AM Eucharistic Minister
Gaudi, Arthur Sunday 7:30 AM Lector B
Gonzalez, Jackie Sunday 9:00 AM Lector A
Hoffman, Paulette Sunday 12:00 PM Lector A
Kenzel, Carole Sunday 9:00 AM Eucharistic Minister
Kruse, Patricia Sunday 9:00 AM Eucharistic Minister
Lebens, Lissa Sunday 10:30 AM Eucharistic Minister
Lehne, Conchita Sunday 10:30 AM Eucharistic Minister
McManus, John Sunday 12:00 PM Lector B
Milligan-Mulroy, S. Sunday 10:30 AM Eucharistic Minister
Molony, Kitty Sunday 10:30 AM Eucharistic Minister
Nadeau, Jeanette Sunday 12:00 PM Eucharistic Minister
Nelson, Linda Saturday 4:00 PM Eucharistic Minister
Newbury, Marion Sunday 7:30 AM Eucharistic Minister
Olsen, Ken Sunday 9:00 AM Eucharistic Minister
Parkus, Carol Sunday 12:00 PM Eucharistic Minister
Petrini, Ginny Saturday 4:00 PM Eucharistic Minister
Rickard, Carolyn Sunday 10:30 AM Eucharistic Minister
Romo, Rosie Sunday 12:00 PM Eucharistic Minister
Sheahan, Mary Sunday 12:00 PM Eucharistic Minister
Spence, Sally Sunday 7:30 AM Eucharistic Minister
Stark, Ruth Sunday 7:30 AM Eucharistic Minister
Townsend, Martha Sunday 12:00 PM Eucharistic Minister
Tuomey, Joann Sunday 9:00 AM Eucharistic Minister
Van den Broek, K. Saturday 4:00 PM Lector B
Viani, Marla Sunday 9:00 AM Eucharistic Minister
Wilkinson, P.J. Sunday 9:00 AM Eucharistic Minister


You Can Save Your Marriage

Is your marriage in trouble? Do you want to save it? If so, the Retrouvaille Program is designed to provide the communication tools needed to put suffering, troubled marriages back in order. Please call Paul and Marisa Montgomery for the schedule dates. For more information and a confidential brochure, please call (800) 470-2230 or visit their web site at www.retrouvaille.org.


St. Vincent de Paul Potluck Dinner

St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Old Mission Santa Barbara, is sponsoring a potluck dinner for members and friends of St. Vincent de Paul Society at 5:00 PM on Tuesday, July 26th. Nettie Peterson has cordially offered her house for this event (1405 Alameda Padre Serra). Please bring your favorite potluck dish to share with four to six persons. After dinner, Bob Burtness will provide a slide presentation on the Circle V Ranch showing summer camp and island activities over the past 50 years.



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 every other month. The next meeting is July 26th at 7:30 PM. This is a safe and comfortable environment where you can share your feelings and fears, and ask questions. The meetings are formal and confidential. For more information, please call Kathie and Joe Schneider (687-4338).



Handicapables Mass and Luncheon

Holy Cross Parish (1740 Cliff Drive) will host the Handicapables on Saturday, July 30th, beginning with a Mass at 11:30 AM and followed by lunch. For reservations and/or transportation information, please contact Shirley Dettmann at 967-9985.


Prepare for Next Sunday’s Liturgy
Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

First Reading: Isaiah 55:1-3
Second Reading: Romans 8:35, 37-39
Gospel Reading: Matthew 14:13-21


Reflection on Next Sunday’s Liturgy of the Word

Jesus is mourning the death of John the Baptist. But even though he is troubled, Jesus is aware of the needs of those around him. Instead of focusing exclusively on his own needs and concerns, he reaches out to heal others and even to feed a great multitude. This miracle had eucharistic implications for the early Christians. Moreover, Christ continues to feed the poor and the hungry through the Church. When the disciples suggested that he send the crowd away to “buy some food for themselves,” Jesus tells them, “Give them something to eat yourselves.” The Christian community is likewise commanded to feed the hungry in its midst. The Eucharist would be an empty ritual if it didn’t motivate people to do what Jesus did.

Life Focus

Recall a time when you felt mournful, threatened or afraid, but the needs of others took priority.

Recall a time when someone helped you in your time of need.

Name a time when you helped another who was in material or spiritual need.

What are people in your life hungry for?


Stewardship Ministry
Sunday, July 17th $9,842.00

Thank you for your continuing generosity!
(Don’t forget to use your contribution envelopes.)

A good steward believes that everything you have and everything in the world around you is not yours, but is “on loan” from God,
for you to care for accordingly.


National Needs Collection

Each year, your support of the National Needs Combined Collection makes it possible for the Catholic Communication Campaign to:

• continue its television, radio and print media ministry;

• provide aid to some of the neediest African American and Native American communities through the vital evangelization programs of the Black and Indian Home Mission;

• ensure the highest standards of quality Catholic education through The Catholic University of America’s exceptional programs of scholarship, research and service;

• strengthen the Church at home;

• help provide basic pastoral resources and services to needy ethnic communities in scattered and isolated areas through the Catholic Home Missions Appeal.

Thank you in advance for your generosity.


The Franciscan Missionary Union

Next weekend you will be encouraged to support the Franciscan Missionary Union through a second collection that will be taken up at all the Masses. Throughout the year, Franciscan Parishes hold this second collection on fifth Sundays. If you have already made a contribution in it, we thank you for your support.

The Franciscans minister to God’s needy all over the world. The missionary work of the St. Barbara Province has expanded over the years to include rural parishes, Hispanic and Native American missions and ministry among the poor of the inner cities. In other parts of the world, our friars work with church communities in the Philippines, Mexico, Thailand, Peru, Guatemala, El Salvador, Russia, Kazakhstan, and the Holy Land.

Over the years, the Franciscans have been assisted in their missionary efforts by people sharing their spiritual and financial resources through the Franciscan Missionary Union (FMU). The FMU is an association of persons who help the missions by their prayers, alms, spreading knowledge and love for the missions and encouraging missionary vocations - all works of the highest charity.

The Franciscans invite you to become partners with them in this ministry of love and compassion. Through your support of the Franciscan Missionary Union, you become partners in the work of the Franciscan Missionaries. Please join us!

Traveling?
Don’t forget to go to Mass.

For nationwide Mass times and locations, visit www.MassTimes.org.

Getting in the Parish Bulletin

For Parish announcements, call Laura in the Parish Office (682-4151). Please contact Mission Publishing at (888) 253-4358 for business ads.

Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time: Three Parables about God’s Reign

These parables in Matthew’s gospel focus on the reign of God. Each offers us a dimension of Heaven. God’s reign, we believe, will exist in its fullness at the end of the world. God alone will bring it about.

God’s reign also exists on earth, although not yet completely fulfilled. We are God’s instruments on earth, with Jesus whose spirit enables us to do God’s work. In the Lord’s Prayer that Jesus taught us, we pray, “thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”

When Jesus speaks of the tiny mustard seed growing into the huge shrub, we see God’s reign in process. Also, we see process as we image the small amount of yeast that enables the whole mass of dough to rise. Like tiny seeds and small bits of yeast, the reign of God comes into being and gains strength and prominence. God’s reign exists where people treat each other with justice, as Jesus treated all people.

If we value God’s people, regardless of their appearance, social stature, or accomplishments, we are acting with justice. The reign of God is furthered when any one performs deeds of justice. The reign of God is now in process. We either nurture its growth or we impede its progress.

Another perspective of God’s reign is offered through the parable of the weeds. Here wheat and weeds grow together until harvest, and then are completely separated. Jesus explains the strong symbolism of this parable. The field is the world; the good seed, those who want to be part of God’s reign; the weeds, those who choose to follow evil ways. The harvest is the end of the world. Jesus uses very vivid, ancient imagery to explain to his disciples how people will either enter into God’s ultimate reign or, through their sinful choices, will be separated from it and receive punishment.

Certainly Jesus was urging his followers to be people of God’s reign. However one images the end of the world, no believer wants to be separated from God.


Dear Parishioners and Visitors,

On Thursday, July 7th, Cardinal Mahony sent the following letter to Cardinal Murphy-O’Connor, the Catholic Archbishop of Westminster in England. We are reproducing it here as a reminder to pray for an end to fear and violence of every kind in our world.

Fr. Richard Juzix, O.F.M., Pastor

His Eminence
Cardinal Cormack Murphy-O’Connor
Archbishop of Westminster
Archbishop’s House, Ambrosden Avenue
Westminster, London SW1P 1QJ
England, Great Britain

Your Eminence:

It was with shock and dismay that we all learned the sad news of the explosions in London today, as well as the loss of human life and the many terrible injuries.

The Catholic Community of Los Angeles extends our prayers, our sympathy, and our support to all of the residents of London and of England on this tragic day in your long history.

On a day such as this our world shrinks dramatically, and we are all neighbors one to another. We feel deeply the suffering that has been inflicted upon your people and your city, and we are linked to you in solidarity of spirit. When terrorists strike any people in the world, all of us feel the pain.

I am asking our Catholic People here in Los Angeles to offer special and fervent prayers to sustain all of you during these painful days. May we deepen our common resolve to create a world community without fear, terror, and suffering. People who use terror to promote their own suspect goals cannot prevail.

Assuring you again of our collective prayers and support, I am

Sincerely yours in Christ,

His Eminence
Cardinal Roger J. Mahony
Archbishop of Los Angeles


Readings for the Week of July 17, 2005

Monday:
Ex 14:5-18/Ex 15:1-6/Mt 12:38-42
Tuesday:
Ex 14:21-15:1/Ex 15:8-10,12,17/Mt 12:46-50
Wednesday:
Ex 16:1-5,9-15/Ps 78:18-19,23-28/Mt 13:1-9
Thursday:
Ex 19:1-2,9-11,16-20/Dn 3:52-56/Mt 13:10-17
Friday:
Ex 20:1-17/Ps 19:8-11/Jn 20:1-2,11-18
Saturday:
Ex 24:3-8/Ps 50:1-2,5-6,14-15/Mt 13:24-30


Do You Know ...

We are called to use our gifts for the good of the community. It’s not true that some people are gifted and some are not. Every single person is creative, and each has gifts. We hope the church will not only treasure each individual’s gifts, but also will put them to good use. St. Paul in his first letter to the Corinthians, Chapter 12, tells us that there are many gifts. He also says there are different gifts.

Many people can sing. Not everyone is called to be a cantor or leader of song in the liturgical assembly. Some desire to be a cantor on the part of the individual is necessary, but consultation with the music director will probably provide a more accurate discernment. Sometimes it doesn’t work out. The challenge then is to recognize your gifts. Putting those gifts to good use is another way to build up the community.

Discovering and recognizing your gifts for ministry is part of the work of Christians. There are several approaches to discernment. The first style is “invitation by hunch.” You’ve observed Communion ministers over the years and you think you might like to serve the community through this ministry, but you’re not certain. This is a valid call to ministry from within. Check it out! Talk with friends already involved in the ministry and ask them what they think. Several opinions from the community will help you confirm your hunches.

Unlike the invitation by hunch, a second style is “invitation by nudge,” a call from outside yourself. The recruitment blurb for liturgical ministers is resonating through the room and the person next to you nudges you. Check it out! In this situation, you may have to look within yourself to recognize that indeed you have a unique gift to offer. Don’t deny it. Use it. Even if it means getting up early on Sundays.

If you are already a liturgical minister, you might consider passing this recruitment column on to a friend whom you think would become a good minister. If you yourself are interested in becoming a liturgical minister, consider this: As Christians we believe that gifts have certain characteristics: (1) they are truly gifts—a grace given to us from somewhere other than ourselves; (2) they are forms of service—given to build up the community; and (3) God is working through our gifts. If you believe this, you will become a good servant.


PARISH CALENDAR

July 19 Baptism Class at 6:30 PM
July 23 Baptisms at the 4:00 PM Mass
July 23-24 National Needs Combined Collection
August 2 Feast of Our Lady of the Angels of the Portiuncula,
7:30 AM Mass in the Church
August 4 Fiesta—Misa del Presidente, 10:00 AM in the Church
August 11 Feast of Saint Clare, Mass at 7:30 AM in the Church
August 15 Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary,
7:30 AM Mass in the Church


Meet our Newest Parishioners …

Josephine and Sandi Bublitz


The Catholic Church Welcomes You!

Are you thinking about returning to actively practicing your faith? If you are a Catholic who has been away from the Church, know you are in our prayers. We invite you to explore your faith and your future with the Catholic Church. Please contact the Parish Office if you’d like more information (682-4151).


Ministry to the Sick and Homebound

If someone you know is not able to come to Mass, or would like a minister to take Communion to their home, please call the Parish Office to make arrangements. Also, with the permission of the person who is ill, we are happy to include their name in the Prayer of the Faithful and list it in the bulletin.


We Pray for the Sick

Mary Alice Detwiler l Mary Devoy
Justin Gillett l Mary Ann Jenquin
Alfred Parziale l Jim Shea
Viola Valenzuela l Br. Fabian Walker

May they find strength and comfort in our prayers


Notre Dame School 2005-2006 Enrollment

Notre Dame School is more than just a school; it is a family. We learn together, play together and pray together. Students, teachers, staff and parents work as a team in building a quality educational experience. They are conveniently located in downtown Santa Barbara at 33 E. Micheltorena Street. You can visit their website to learn more (www.notredamesb.org). Apply online or call 965-1033 for an application packet.


Summer Bible Camp

Mark your calendar for San Roque Parish’s annual Summer Bible Camp August 1st-5th. The theme this year is “Serengeti—Where Kids are Wild About God!” Don’t miss out on this fun-filled adventure. Call the San Roque Parish Office of Religious Education today to reserve your spot (682-1097).


Theology on Tap

Are you a young adult (single or couple in your 20s or 30s)? Are you trying to make sense of your life? Do you want to meet other Catholic young adults asking the same questions? Are you thirsty for Christ in your life? Then “Theology on Tap” may be just what you need! “Theology on Tap” is a four-week series where we take God out of the confines of a church building and into our daily lives in a fun and relaxed environment. “Theology on Tap” will be meeting in the Santa Barbara region on Sunday evenings at 7:30 PM from July 17th through August 7th in the Parish Hall of Our Lady of the Assumption (3175 Telegraph Road, Ventura).

• July 17—One Nation Under God: The Separation of Church and State (Bishop Thomas Curry)
• July 24—Star Wars: Religious Faith in an Age of Scientific Knowledge (Fr. Dave Heney)
• July 31—Catholic to the Core: Understanding Funky Traditions and Quirky Rituals (Fr. David Loftus)
• August 7—Work Sucks But I Need the Bucks: How to Maintain Your Faith & Find Peace at Work (Floy Hawkins, MFCC)


Handicapables Mass and Luncheon

Holy Cross Parish (1740 Cliff Drive) will host the Handicapables on Saturday, July 30th, beginning with a Mass at 11:30 AM and followed by lunch. For reservations and/or transportation information, please contact Shirley Dettmann at 967-9985.


French Choir to Sing

The Jeune Choeur d’Ile de France, a choir of 60 children from Paris, will be singing in the Mission at the 12:00 Noon Mass on Sunday, July 31st. We encourage you to hear this outstanding group of youngsters again at their concert the following evening, August 1st, at 7:30 in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church. Admission is free, but an offering will be taken. For more information, contact Dr. Paulson-Thorp at 988-0342.


Prepare for Next Sunday’s Liturgy
Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
First Reading: Kings 3:5, 7-12
Second Reading: Romans 8:28-30
Gospel Reading: Matthew 13:44-52


Reflection on Next Sunday’s Liturgy of the Word

Next Sunday’s gospel speaks of true wisdom, a priceless treasure to be sought with all one’s heart. In the first comparison Jesus uses, a man discovers a treasure that was so valuable that he “sold all he had and bought the field.” In the second comparison a pearl merchant discovers a pearl worth more than all his other possessions. Common to both stories is the marvel of discovering such a price and giving everything to gain possession of it. The point of both parables is that gaining the treasure of God’s saving love is worth any sacrifice.

Life Focus

Relate an experience when you were able to uncover a “hidden treasure.” What helped you to see its value?

What in your life now is most valuable to you? How do you find God present in that value?

What are you willing to “pay” or “give up” in order to possess what is valuable to you?

What about you could be described as being like the “pearl of great price?” What are the gifts that are uncovered by being related to each other as members of the same community?



Stewardship Ministry

Sunday, July 10th $11,360.00

Thank you for your continuing generosity!
(Don’t forget to use your contribution envelopes.)

A good steward believes that everything you have
and everything in the world around you
is not yours, but is “on loan” from God,
for you to care for accordingly.


Together in Mission Annual Appeal
We’re almost there!!

“Together in Mission” will provide financial support to the 32 parishes and 46 schools most in need within the Archdiocese this year. Many thanks to those who have already responded with donations or pledges. Our parish goal for this year’s appeal is $59,362 of which $53,614 (90% of our goal!) has been collected. If you have not yet made a donation or pledge, please consider doing so. Thank you for your generosity.


National Needs Collection
Next Weekend
Each year, your support of the National Needs Combined Collection makes it possible for the Catholic Communication Campaign to:

• continue its television, radio, and print media ministry;

• provide aid to some of the neediest African American and Native American communities through the vital evangelization programs of the Black and Indian Home Mission;

• ensure the highest standards of quality Catholic education through The Catholic University of America’s exceptional programs of scholarship, research and service;

• strengthen the Church at home;

• help provide basic pastoral resources and services to needy ethnic communities in scattered and isolated areas through the Catholic Home Missions Appeal.

Thank you in advance for your generosity.


Traveling?
Don’t forget to go to Mass.

For nationwide Mass times and locations, visit www.MassTimes.org.


Getting in the Parish Bulletin

For Parish announcements, call Laura in the Parish Office (692-4151). Please contact Mission Publishing at (888) 253-4358 for business ads.

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Parable of the Sower and the Seed
A biblical scholar by the name of C.H. Dodd offers the classic definition of a parable:

At its simplest, the parable is a metaphor of common life, arresting the hearer by its vividness or strangeness, and leaving the mind in sufficient doubt about its precise application to tease it into active thought.

Jesus very often taught the crowds in parables. In this passage, he explains to his disciples why he chooses to teach in this way. He even quotes the prophet Isaiah, who was also troubled about the lack of in-depth understanding of the people to whom he prophesied. Parables offer deep truth in story form. They allow the hearers (readers) to judge for themselves where they fit in the story.

It is so easy to have good initial intentions to follow the Word of God, but the world is rarely a nurturing place. Trials and temptations confront us daily. Jesus is completely aware of the many pulls and distractions of our lives. He knows the presence and power of evil. He is so painfully aware with love, knowing the greatness of his message. “But blessed are your eyes, because they see, and your ears, because they hear.” As difficult as it may be to hold fast to the Word of God, those seeds that take root in our hearts, Jesus assures us, will bring blessings “a hundred- or sixty- or thirty-fold.”


Dear Parishioners and Visitors,

The gospel parable of the sower is one of the more famous of Jesus’ parables in Matthew’s Gospel. The parable appears simple and stresses the challenges involved in sowing seed in a field filled with hazards. Hard soil, birds, rocks and thorns are all obstacles to any fruitful growth. Nevertheless there is also rich soil and it does produce a harvest. The point is—keep sowing!

This last week, just by accident, I bumped into three parishioners volunteering in different places. It was a delight to see. The work that volunteers do plants a seed in very rich soil and yields harvests in ways and in places we would never have imagined. During the summer, I guess for a variety of reasons, I’ve noticed a lack of volunteers, Eucharistic Ministers, Ministers of Hospitality (ushers), and Lectors. Running out into the Church three minutes before the beginning of Mass to find folks to help is not the happiest solution. So I’m going to keep on sowing too, or in this case, inviting. I’m asking your help, especially for the noon Mass on Sunday. There will be sign-in sheets at coffee and donuts this weekend and next, and I’ll be at the front doors after the four o’clock Mass on Saturday and the noon Mass on Sunday. If you’re in town during the months of July, August and September and would be willing to “pitch-in” during those three months, please think about stepping forward. We need to have some reserves on the bench that we can call on. Most of us, I guess, can “get by” but our guests cannot. Thank you.

Peace and all Good,
Fr. Richard Juzix, O.F.M., Pastor


PARISH CALENDAR

July 19 Baptism Class at 6:30 PM
July 23 Baptisms at the 4:00 PM Mass
July 23-24 National Needs Combined Collection
August 2 Feast of Our Lady of the Angels of the Portiuncula, 7:30 AM Mass in the Church
August 4 Fiesta—Misa del Presidente, 10:00 AM in the Church
August 11 Feast of Saint Clare, Mass at 7:30 AM in the Church
August 15 Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 7:30 AM Mass in the Church


Do You Know ...

What makes being Catholic different from being part of any other organization that does good works?

In essence, we don’t have a choice. Everything Christians do is a response to God, who first began that good work in us. Those who seek to be baptized are simply responding to God, who “sought and summoned them in many ways.” By being baptized, we are essentially changed from being an isolated body moving by our own will to being a part of the Body of Christ, in whom “we live and move and have our being.” With St. Paul we say, “I have been crucified with Christ; yet I live, no longer I, but Christ lives in me.” The life we live is the life of Christ who continues to work on earth through the mission of the church.

Vatican II’s “Decree on the Apostolate of Lay People” describes this right and duty of the faithful:

“The church was founded for the purpose of spreading the reign of Christ throughout the earth for the glory of God the Father...All activity of the Mystical Body directed to the attainment of this goal is called the apostolate, which the church carries on in various ways through all her members. For the Christian vocation by its very nature is also a vocation to the apostolate. No part of the structure of a living body is merely passive but has a share in the functions as well as life of the body: so, too, in the body of Christ, which is the church.”

It even goes on to say that “the organic union in this body and the structure of the members are so compact that the member who fails to make his proper contribution to the development of the church must be said to be useful neither to the church nor to himself.”

Therefore, no one in the church is ever really a “volunteer,” which is defined as one who does a service or participates in an activity without any obligation to do so. By baptism, all Christians are obligated to participate in the work of the church according to each one’s gifts and abilities.


You have crowned the year
with your bounty,
And your paths overflow with a
rich harvest.
—Psalm 65:12



Readings for the Week of July 10, 2005

Monday:
Ex 1:8-14,22/Ps 124:1-8/Mt 10:34-11:1
Tuesday:
Ex 2:1-5/Ps 69:3,14,30-31,33-34/Mt 11:20-24
Wednesday:
Ex 3:1-6,9-12/Ps 103:1-4,6-7/Mt 11:25-27
Thursday:
Ex 3:13-20/Ps 105:1,5,8-9,24-27/Mt 11:28-30
Friday:
Ex 11:10-12:14/Ps 116:12-13,15-18/Mt 12:1-8
Saturday:
Ex 12:37-42/Ps 136:1,10-15,23-24/Mt 12:14-21


Summer Bible Camp

Mark your calendar for San Roque Parish’s annual Summer Bible Camp August 1st-5th. The theme this year is “Serengeti—Where Kids are Wild About God!” Don’t miss out on this fun-filled adventure. Call the San Roque Parish Office of Religious Education today to reserve your spot (682-1097).


Sacrament of Matrimony

Matthew Adams and Jenny Guzik


Secular Franciscans

Secular Franciscans are 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.


Recycle Sight

Donate used and old eyeglasses to the Lions Sight and Hearing Center. For information, call 569-8264.


Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities Santa Barbara offers professional psychological counseling to individuals, couples and families. A very reasonable sliding scale is available. The office is located at 609 E. Haley St. Call (805) 965-7045 x102 for English; Spanish speakers or bilingual call 965-7045 x114.


Music Notes

If you are a singer or instrumentalist, your musical gifts are needed at our liturgies. Please contact Dr. Keith Paulson-Thorp, Music Director, for details on how you might join in our music ministries.


Justice, Peace & Integrity of Creation

The primary purpose of our parish Justice, Peace & Integrity of Creation Committee is to educate the committee members and the rest of the parish about the principles of Catholic social teaching and to explore ways to put these teachings into practice in our personal lives and at every level of society.

During the coming year, the committee will be focusing on the principle of “the integrity of creation” (the care of the earth), as defined by Pope John Paul II. We plan to share the results of our study periodically with the rest of the parish via the Sunday bulletin and will occasionally ask our parishioners to support legislation designed to protect the environment.


We Pray for the Sick

Mary Alice Detwiler ? Mary Devoy
Justin Gillett ? Mary Ann Jenquin
Alfred Parziale ? Jim Shea
Viola Valenzuela ? Br. Fabian Walker

May they find strength and comfort in our prayers


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.

Please call the Parish Office for more information.


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.


Meet our Newest Parishioners …

Richard and Mayanna Knight-Gill
Andree LeBlanc


The Catholic Church Welcomes You!

Are you thinking about returning to actively practicing your faith? If you are a Catholic who has been away from the Church, know you are in our prayers. We invite you to explore your faith and your future with the Catholic Church. Please contact the Parish Office if you’d like more information (682-4151).


Ministry to the Sick and Homebound

If someone you know is not able to come to Mass, or would like a minister to take Communion to their home, please call the Parish Office to make arrangements. Also, with the permission of the person who is ill, we are happy to include their name in the Prayer of the Faithful and list it in the bulletin.


Attention Eucharistic Ministers & Lectors

A new Ministry Schedule for the months of July and August is now available. You may pick up a copy in either the Sacristy or the Porter’s Office. In addition, the schedule is posted on the Parish website (www.sbmission.org).

If you have recently moved or changed your phone number, please call Laura in the Parish Office so that she can update your information in the Ministry database.


Theology on Tap

Are you a young adult (single or couple in your 20s or 30s)? Are you trying to make sense of your life? Do you want to meet other Catholic young adults asking the same questions? Are you thirsty for Christ in your life? Then “Theology on Tap” may be just what you need! “Theology on Tap” is a four-week series where we take God out of the confines of a church building and into our daily lives in a fun and relaxed environment. “Theology on Tap” will be meeting in the Santa Barbara region on Sunday evenings at 7:30 PM from July 17th through August 7th in the Parish Hall of Our Lady of the Assumption (3175 Telegraph Road, Ventura).

• July 17—One Nation Under God: The Separation of Church and State (Bishop Thomas Curry)

• July 24—Star Wars: Religious Faith in an Age of Scientific Knowledge (Fr. Dave Heney)

• July 31—Catholic to the Core: Understanding Funky Traditions and Quirky Rituals (Fr. David Loftus)

• August 7—Work Sucks But I Need the Bucks: How to Maintain Your Faith & Find Peace at Work (Floy Hawkins, MFCC)


Prepare for Next Sunday’s Liturgy
Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary TimeFirst Reading: Wisdom 12:13, 16-19
Second Reading: Romans 8:26-27
Gospel Reading: Matthew 13:24-43


Reflection on Next Sunday’s
Liturgy of the Word
In next Sunday’s gospel, Jesus tells three parables that describe the reign of God. In the first we hear about a field where weeds and wheat grow together. It was difficult to tell the weeds apart from the wheat. To cut or pull the weeds while the wheat was growing would hurt the wheat. When the crop was full grown, however, the weeds could be pulled without endangering the wheat. In the Christian community, we find the same situation—good and bad grow together, and none of us is wise enough to weed out the bad without harming the good. God, the “Master of the Harvest,” will make this judgment at the end of time. In the meantime, we must be nonjudgmental and practice patience.

Life Focus

Describe a time when you found it difficult to be patient but doing so brought about a positive outcome.

Relate an experience in your life when you were glad that someone was patient and gave you additional time.

When has a first impression of someone changed from “weed” to “wheat” for you? What would you have missed if you had not taken the time to understand the person more thoroughly?


Together in Mission Annual Appeal
We’re almost there!!

“Together in Mission” will provide financial support to the 32 parishes and 46 schools most in need within the Archdiocese this year. Many thanks to those who have already responded with donations or pledges. Our parish goal for this year’s appeal is $59,362 of which $53,614 (90% of our goal!) has been collected. If you have not yet made a donation or pledge, please consider doing so. Thank you for your generosity.


Stewardship Ministry

Sunday, July 3rd $10,160.00


Thank you for your continuing generosity!
(Don’t forget to use your contribution envelopes.)

A good steward believes that everything you have
and everything in the world around you
is not yours, but is “on loan” from God,
for you to care for accordingly.


Traveling?
Don’t forget to go to Mass.

For nationwide Mass times and locations, visit www.MassTimes.org.


Getting in the Parish Bulletin

For Parish announcements, call Laura in the Parish Office. Please contact Mission Publishing at (888) 253-4358 for business ads.

Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Jesus himself is praising and thanking God for the revelation given to him. This revelation proclaims that “...although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned, you have revealed them to little ones.” The “wise and learned” among the Jews of Jesus’ time were the Pharisees and the Sadducees, the religious leaders and scholars and interpreters of the Law.

Jesus was able to receive everything from the Father, for his heart and mind were totally open to the will of God. Jesus was without personal desires; he had no agenda of his own. Jesus was not interested in his own glory, but only that of God. His humility was complete. And humility is truth.

In our lives, we reveal ourselves to very few people. We reveal ourselves only to those who completely accept and love us. We hold back the deep, sacred truth in our lives from all those who could use that truth against us, or mock our self-revelation. When Jesus speaks of his relationship with the Father, we learn of a relationship of complete love and trust, a relationship of oneness. Although Jesus is part of the human race, he is God’s own Son, for he desires only what God desires. His will is pure, and he is God with us. Through Jesus, we learn of God, for he has revealed God’s truth and way to us, the merest of children. Our own desires and our own life agendas prevent us from knowing and accepting the fullness of divine truth.

Certainly all people have known the weariness of life. Jesus is inviting us to be one with him and to learn his gentleness and his heart’s humility. Knowing what God wishes to reveal to our hearts would lighten our burdens and give rest to our souls. To find this rest, we must be willing to accept Jesus, who is eager not only to share our burdens, but also to bring us to the love of the Father.


Independence Day

Imagine flying over the United States in a small private plane at twilight tomorrow night. You could watch fireworks going off beneath you in all directions, as every town celebrates the birthday of the nation. They celebrate because, on this day in 1776, the Declaration of Independence was announced publicly.
The Declaration was basically a list of the reasons why the 13 colonies had broken ties with their mother country, Great Britain. It was written by a committee headed by Thomas Jefferson. It stated that all people have a right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. By the time the Declaration was produced, the Revolutionary War had already been going on for some months. It would take eight years for the colonists to win the independence they prized so greatly.
Traditional celebrations for Independence Day include torchlight parades, bell ringing, picnics, family reunions, band concerts and, of course, fireworks. It’s a time for fun and a time for reflection, too. People give thanks for a beautiful country.
Even in the United States, the poor and some minority citizens are often robbed of their basic rights. Frederick Douglas, the great anti-slavery writer, was once asked to give a speech on the Fourth of July. Pointing out that many African Americans were still held as slaves, he told those who had asked him to speak, “The blessings for which you on this day rejoice are not held in common.”
Our bright celebrations this day are done in the hope that one day all will be free, that one day the earth itself will shine with liberty.


Thank You, St. Barbara Parish
Dear Friends,
Our whole family wishes to extend our heartfelt thanks to all of you for your generous outpouring of love and support upon Steven’s death. You will be remembered with thanks in prayer; and your kindness will always live on in our hearts.
May God bless you,
Day Day and David Chenoweth and Family


PARISH CALENDAR

July 4 Independence Day
July 19 Baptism Class at 6:30 PM
July 23 Baptisms at the 4:00 PM Mass
August 2 Feast of Our Lady of the Angels of the Portiuncula, 7:30 AM Mass in the Church
August 4 Fiesta—Misa del Presidente, 10:00 AM in the Church
August 11 Feast of Saint Clare, Mass at 7:30 AM in the Church
August 15 Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 7:30 AM Mass in the Church


The Catholic Church Welcomes You!

Are you thinking about returning to actively practicing your faith? If you are a Catholic who has been away from the Church, know you are in our prayers. We invite you to explore your faith and your future with the Catholic Church. Please contact the Parish Office if you’d like more information (682-4151).


Readings for the Week of July 3, 2005

Monday:
Gn 28:10-22/Ps 91:1-4,14-15/Mt 9:18-26

Tuesday:
Gn 32:23-33/Ps 17:1-3,6-8,15/Mt 9:32-38

Wednesday:
Gn 41:55-57;42:5-7,17-24/Ps 33:2-3,10-11,18-19/Mt 10:1-7

Thursday:
Gn 44:18-21,23-29;45:1-5/Ps 105:16-21/Mt 10:7-15

Friday:
Gn 46:1-7,28-30/Ps 37:3-4,18-19,27-28,39-40/Mt 10:16-23

Saturday:
Gn 49:29-32;50:15-26/Ps 105:1-4,6-7/Mt 10:24-33


Do You Know ...

The manner in which we begin and end each day becomes a lens through which we view the rest of the day. This is no contemporary wisdom. As long as human beings have been around to greet each new sunrise and pause in wonder at the setting of the sun, the need to mark the day’s beginning and end has been in our bones.
The Church, too, acknowledges the natural rhythms of the day by inviting us to share in the prayer called the Liturgy of the Hours. In recent centuries, the Liturgy of the Hours was commonly understood to be the domain of priests and nuns. Readers over forty may recall seeing their parish priests and religious praying what was then called the Divine Office from a book called a breviary. As a result of the Second Vatican Council, the Liturgy of the Hours has been restored to its proper place as an integral part of the church’s public prayer for all who have been baptized.
For most of us, the Sunday Eucharist is our primary gathering for prayer each week. The Liturgy of the Hours invites us to pause during the course of each day, especially at morning and evening, to offer prayers of praise and petition to the God whose loving care permeates our days. Again, readers may recall praying the morning offering or the angelus, traditional prayers that were closely connected to particular times of day.
In the Liturgy of the Hours, Morning Prayer calls us to offer praise and thanks to God for the wonders of creation and the great mystery of the resurrection. With psalms and hymns and a short reading from the scriptures, we acknowledge our dependence upon God’s mercy and seek God’s blessing on the day ahead. We might bless ourselves with holy water at Morning Prayer. We seal our prayer with the Lord’s Prayer and the sign of peace. At Evening Prayer (also called vespers), the church gives thanks for the day’s joys and sorrows and begs for God’s continuing protection. We might begin with a service of candle lighting. We might also burn incense and sing Psalm 141: “My prayers rise like incense.” We seal our prayer with the Lord’s Prayer and the sign of peace.
Ideally, Morning and Evening Prayer are celebrated in common, but individuals are encouraged to mark the beginning and end of each day with prayer even if they cannot gather with others. At its heart, the Liturgy of the Hours calls us to a simple and repeated pattern of prayer, prayer that readily springs to our lips because it is already rooted deep in our hearts.


We Pray for the Sick

Mary Alice Detwiler l Mary Devoy
Justin Gillett l Mary Ann Jenquin
Alfred Parziale l Corado Reginatto
Viola Valenzuela

May they find strength and comfort in our prayers.


Ministry to the Sick and Homebound

If someone you know is not able to come to Mass, or would like a minister to take Communion to their home, please call the Parish Office to make arrangements. Also, with the permission of the person who is ill, we are happy to include their name in the Prayer of the Faithful and list it in the bulletin.


Meet our Newest Parishioners …

Marcus Chevitarese
Charles Johnson and Gina LaMonica
Todd Warren and Elizabeth Castillo


Sacrament of Matrimony

Bhavin Patel and Rebecca Durham


Baptized Into New Life

Julianna Sophia Draper
Daughter of Mark and Janine Draper
&
Corinne Alexa Yungling
Daughter of Stephen and Anne Yungling


The Society of St. Vincent de Paul

We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at 9:15 AM. Our mission is to help and to serve the poor. Call our voicemail at 687-7547 and leave a message for more information.


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.

Please call the Parish Office for more information.


Attention Eucharistic Ministers & Lectors

A new Ministry Schedule for the months of July and August is now available. You may pick up a copy in either the Sacristy or the Porter’s Office. In addition, the schedule is posted on the Parish website (www.sbmission.org).

If you have recently moved or changed your phone number, please call Laura in the Parish Office so that she can update your information in the Ministry database.


Theology on Tap

Are you a young adult (single or couple in your 20s or 30s)? Are you trying to make sense of your life? Do you want to meet other Catholic young adults asking the same questions? Are you thirsty for Christ in your life? Then “Theology on Tap” may be just what you need! “Theology on Tap” is a four-week series where we take God out of the confines of a church building and into our daily lives in a fun and relaxed environment. “Theology on Tap” will be meeting in the Santa Barbara region on Sunday evenings at 7:30 PM from July 17th through August 7th in the Parish Hall of Our Lady of the Assumption (3175 Telegraph Road, Ventura).

· July 17—One Nation Under God: The Separation of Church and State (Bishop Thomas Curry)

· July 24—Star Wars: Religious Faith in an Age of Scientific Knowledge (Fr. Dave Heney)

· July 31—Catholic to the Core: Understanding Funky Traditions and Quirky Rituals (Fr. David Loftus)

· August 7—Work Sucks But I Need the Bucks: How to Maintain Your Faith & Find Peace at Work (Floy Hawkins, MFCC)


You Can Save Your Marriage

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 want to try again—then the Retrouvaille Program can help you. For more information and a confidential brochure, please call (800) 470-2230 or visit their web site at www.retrouvaille.org.


St. Joseph’s Festival

St. Joseph Catholic Church will be celebrating its 48th annual festival beginning 5:00 PM on Friday, July 8th, through 10:00 PM on Sunday, July 10th. St. Joseph’s is located at Linden Avenue and El Carro Lane in Carpinteria. Parking and admission are free. The festival will include fun rides, games for kids of all ages, live entertainment and a delicious BBQ. Discount BBQ tickets are available now. Please call 684-4266 for more details.


“4-Closure”

The St. Barbara Parish Offices will be closed all day on Monday, July 4th. The staff will return at 9:00 AM on Tuesday, July 5th. Happy Fourth of July!


Prepare for Next Sunday’s Liturgy
Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
First Reading: Isaiah 55:10-11

Second Reading: Romans 8:18-23

Gospel Reading: Matthew 13:1-23


Reflection on Next Sunday’s Liturgy of the Word

The parable of the sower tells of the fruitfulness of God’s creative word. It is a parable about the coming of God’s reign. Preaching God’s reign will meet all kinds of obstacles, but in the end it will be successful. As powerful as the word is, however, it needs to be received. We must be willing to listen and to bring the message into our lives. We see this in the way that the disciples, open to God’s word, are given insights into “the mysteries of the reign of God.”

Life Focus

Why do you think God put you on this earth? What harvest is God bringing from your life?

What helps or hinders God’s ways becoming rooted in your everyday life?

When, in the last month, have you felt encouragement and hope in your life?

In what way have you enriched God’s reign?

When has personal suffering brought you closer to God?


Stewardship Ministry

Sunday, June 26th $9,421.00


Thank you for your continuing generosity!
(Don’t forget to use your contribution envelopes.)

A good steward believes that everything you have
and everything in the world around you
is not yours, but is “on loan” from God,
for you to care for accordingly.


Together in Mission Annual Appeal

“Together in Mission” will provide financial support to the 32 parishes and 46 schools most in need within the Archdiocese this year. Many thanks to those who have already responded with donations or pledges. Our parish goal for this year’s appeal is $59,362 of which $49,834 (84% of our goal!) has been collected. If you have not yet made a donation or pledge, please consider doing so. Thank you for your generosity.


Peter’s Pence Collection For the Works of the Holy Father

Thank you for your generous contributions to last week’s collection for the Works of the Holy Father. Your participation in this work of justice and kindness strengthens our parish’s commitment to the poor and needy. May God bless you.

Traveling?
Don’t forget to go to Mass.

For nationwide Mass times and locations, visit www.MassTimes.org.

Getting in the Parish Bulletin

For Parish announcements, call Laura in the Parish Office. Please contact Mission Publishing at (888) 253-4358 for business ads.