SOLEMNITY OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST THE KING

Are you the king of the Jews?” are the first words addressed to Jesus by Pontius Pilate in all four Gospels. Jesus is being condemned here on a political charge, a threat to the powers in Rome. The Sanhedrin had used the charge of blasphemy against Jesus, but that accusation would not have been effective before the Roman procurator. Jesus’ response to Pilate is affirmative but with reservations. He is not a king in the worldly sense, a domineering leader. “My kingdom does not belong to this world.” Many Israelites were looking for a kingly Messiah, a son of David, who would end the reign of Rome in Palestine.

Jesus sees that an important part of his mission from the Father is to bring the Father’s truth into the world rather than to seek human kingship. He confronts his opponents, “Because I speak the truth, you do not believe me.” At the Last Supper he prays to the Father for his disciples, “Consecrate them in the truth. Your word is truth.” Truth, the Father’s revelation, is the great gift that the Son makes available to the world. This is his kind of kingship. “Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.” Unfortunately for him Pilate did not listen to Jesus. With cynicism the procurator asks, “What is truth?”

A second key aspect of Christ as king is far removed from any worldly concept of king. Jesus sees his true kingship in service, in being the Suffering Servant. “Whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant.” By dying on the cross Jesus showed greatness as he took care of the one need that has eternal significance, the forgiveness of sins. How fitting it is then that the title above the crucified Savior was, “Jesus the Nazorean, the King of the Jews.” Dying on the cross, Jesus manifested the true greatness of a king not of this world. “Through his suffering, my servant shall justify many, and their guilt he shall bear.”


TODAY’S READINGS

First Reading—Daniel 7:13-14
One like a son of man received dominion, glory, and kingship.

Responsorial Psalm—Psalm 93
The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.

Second Reading—Revelation 1:5-8
Jesus Christ is the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead.

Gospel—John 18:33b-37
For this I came into the world, to testify to the truth.


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. If you are interested in learning more, please contact the Parish Office.


DEAR PARISHIONERS AND VISITORS,

In preparation for writing my reflections for the Solemnity of Christ the King, I decided to do a little research about the feast day. I discovered the Feast of Christ the King was established by Pope Pius XI in 1925. In the 1969 reform of the Roman Calendar, the feast was moved to the 34th or last Sunday of the liturgical year and given the rank of a solemnity, or major feast.

I carefully read and re-read the three readings from the prophet Daniel, the book of Revelation and the Gospel of John. The first reading relates the Son of Man received dominion, glory and kingship of all nations and people. This dominion is everlasting! The second reading declares Jesus Christ “ruler of the kings of earth. To him who loves us and freed us from our sins by his own blood.” “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the One who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty!”

In the Gospel reading, Pilate asks Jesus, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus replies that his kingdom is not of this world. If his kingdom were of this world, his subjects would not allow him to be handed over to the Jews. When Pilate says to him, “So, then you are a king?” Jesus answers that the reason why he was born and came into the world was to testify to the truth.

The best explanation for the celebration of the Solemnity of Christ the King I read in a resource book of blessings and prayers for school and parish. The brief explanation states that Jesus will gather his people into glory. He will be like a king welcoming people who have been on a long journey to his kingdom. But we don’t have to wait until the end of time to be members of that kingdom. Christ our King has come to us! “Jesus is Lord over all lord and King over all kings. His followers are chosen and special and faithful.” (Book of Revelation 16:14)

Jesus explained to everyone he was not a worldly king who ruled his kingdom. He did not have a lavish palace nor armies to help him rule. Jesus rules with the truth and a great heart filled with love.

Peace and blessings,
Pat Downey, Pastoral Council Member


QUESTION OF THE WEEK

How will I be a sign of God’s reign in my family? in my place of work?


PARISH CALENDAR

Dec 2 Building of the Christmas Crèche at 8:00 AM
Dec 3 Advent Wreath Making, Serra Hall, 12 Noon
Dec 4 Feast of Saint Barbara, Mass at 12 Noon
Dec 8 Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mass at 7:00 PM
Dec 9-10 Retirement Fund for Religious Collection
Dec 12 Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mass at 12 Noon


DO YOU KNOW…
“The Rite of Election”

How strange this title sounds to us! While many of us would probably agree that our national, state and local elections are rituals of a special breed, we hardly expect to find a “rite of election” in church. But long before any of our ancestors thought of electing their leaders, God was electing a people, selecting Israel, a rag-tag clan in a tiny corner of the earth, to be special, holy, a chosen people. God did not choose them because they were noteworthy in any way; they were not powerful, strong or particularly clever. But once they were chosen, they were God’s forever. Even when they strayed, looking to other gods for hope or help, God clung to them fiercely, calling them back again and again when anyone else would have gladly let them go.

It is the same with us. God chooses us, elects us, in Christ, to be a holy people, to be a church, to be signs of the reign of God on earth. The catechumens who have been preparing for baptism and those who have been working with them for months and years believe that God has chosen them to be one of us, the baptized. At the rite of election, their godparents, sponsors, catechists, pastors and friends will testify before the bishop that God has chosen these people. They will offer the evidence of their lives among us, hearing and following God’s word, praying with God’s people and taking part in the work and the communal life of God’s church. After listening to this testimony, the bishop will declare that they are elected for baptism, chosen to be God’s own in Christ Jesus—not because they earned it, but because God wants it. And that is election by a landslide!


LET US PRAY FOR THE SICK

Joan Biasetti
Michael McEwen
Carmen Gonsalues
Diane Parsons
Mary Ann Jenquin
Katherine Purdy
Neil Kelley
John Ryan
Anne Lano
Joe Setka
Mia McCabe
Jack Stevens
John Tapia

May they know Christ's healing


GIVING TREE

As in the past, our Giving Tree is ready for our First Sunday in Advent. The tree will stand in the Parish Social Room, and we invite all to donate an unwrapped gift to be distributed by Catholic Charities at the end of Advent. This year, we suggest you bring your gift early, along with a small, unbreakable ornament to hang on the tree. This way, instead of arriving at the end of Christmas with a bare tree, our tree will be brightly decorated with ornaments throughout the season. Your ornaments will be donated to Catholic Charities next year for distribution to those in need.


CHRISTMAS CRÈCHE

We need able-bodied people to help early (8:00 AM!) on Saturday, December 2nd, with the construction of the Christmas crèche in front of the church. To sign up, please call the Parish Office.


WHOLE COMMUNITY ADVENT WREATH MAKING

Mark your calendars! Save the date! Don’t miss out! For the first time ever the whole parish is invited to gather together for a joy-filled “Whole Community Celebration of the Season of Advent.” All parishioners, young, old and in-between, should plan to come to Serra Hall on Sunday, December 3rd at 12:00 Noon. We will pray together, share a meal together and make Advent Wreaths for our homes. So that we are sure to have enough food and supplies for everyone, please RSVP to the Parish Office (682-4151).


BAPTIZED INTO NEW LIFE

James Steven Bradley
Son of Scott and Chrystee Bradley

Stella Ines Daoud
Daughter of Michael and Daniela Daoud

Gianna Marie Manderino
Daughter of Billy and Desa Manderino

Colin Robert Newell
Son of Chad and Cameron Newell

William Baird Small
Son of Warren Small and Alison Baird


MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER

A Marriage Encounter weekend is a beautiful experience for couples of all ages and backgrounds. Let Marriage Encounter make 2007 a great year for your marriage. Sign up now. The next weekends are January 19-21 and April 27-29 in Woodland Hills. For more information, please call (805) 648-4244, email info@wwme-la-north.org or visit their website at www.wwme-la-north.org.


ALWAYS OUR CHILDREN

The Catholic support group for parents of Gay and Lesbian Children from the Santa Barbara and Ventura area meets on the 4th Monday of every other month. We will meet Monday, November 27th, at 7:30PM. This is a safe and comfortable environment where you can share your feelings and fears, and ask questions. The meetings are informal and confidential. For more information, please call Kathie & Joe Schneider at (805) 687-4338.


VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Casa Esperanza homeless shelter will be open from December 1st – March 31st. The Community Kitchen is in need of volunteers to serve food every evening during that period. Please go to their website: www.my.calendars.net/communitykitchen, or call Estaban Solis at 705-7245. Transition House needs your help to provide a wonderful dinner and Holiday Cheer to the families living at the shelter. Please call 966-9668 ext 115 or email Charrod@transitionhouse.com.


TAMALES FOR SALE!

The Poor Clare Sisters from Ensenada, Mexico, will be here on December 2nd and 3rd to sell their delicious tamales. You can freeze the tamales for use during the holidays!


JUSTICE, PEACE & INTEGRITY OF CREATION

Orientation Meeting
7:00 PM on Wednesday, November 29th
Parish Social Room

Are you interested in working with fellow parishioners on social justice activities? Join Fr. Daniel Barica and the JPIC committee to share their passions and interests related to social justice. The mission of the JPIC committee will include prayer, education and action for both charity and justice. Please RVP to Maureen Earls at 450-6111.

Save the date: Saturday, January 13th, JPIC participants will join Fr. Daniel in a retreat day to plan for peace and justice work in our parish. Details to follow.


PILGRIMAGE

Join Fr. Daniel Barica, O.F.M., Pastor, St. Barbara Parish & Fr. Alberto Villafán, O.F.M., Associate Pastor, St. Francis on pilgrimage to The Holy Land and Petra, in Jordan
April 30 – May 10, 2007 … spring flower season!

$2798 includes 11 days of travel, air fare (LAX), first-class hotels (private room & bath), daily breakfast & dinner, daily Masses & much more for a group of 32, with Nawas International Travel. We will visit all the important sites in Jerusalem, Nazareth, Bethlehem and along the shores of the Sea of Galilee, including Capernaum, Tabgha (miracle of loaves and fishes), Garden of Gethsemane, Bethany, Dead Sea, Qumran caves and much more. Petra, a city carved out of rock, is spectacular!

Color brochures are available
in the Porter’s Office and the Parish Office.

$300 DEPOSIT DUE BY DECEMBER 1st
FINAL PAYMENT DUE 95 DAYS BEFORE DEPARTURE (1/26/07)

Please call Fr. Daniel Barica (805) 682-4713 x122 for more information.


THE SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL

We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at 9:30 AM. Our mission is to help and to serve the poor. Please call 687-7547 for more information.


POSTAGE STAMPS NEEDED

The Office of Restorative Justice is in need of donations of postage stamps. We distribute Christmas cards to our brothers and sisters in the County Jail and Juvenile Halls, but we need to provide postage. We need approximately 2600 stamps! Your contribution will be most appreciated. Please forward your donation by December 16 to:

Marciano Avilla
Office of Restorative Justice
4032 La Colina Rd., Santa Barbara, CA 93110
(805) 898-7008
marciano@sbpr.org


SAY “HELLO” TO OUR NEWEST PARISHIONERS

Jessica Huber
Kathryn Miratti
Jill Serve
Brandy Wilkinson


STEWARDSHIP OF TREASURE

Sunday, November 19th $10,785.00
Campaign for Human Development $1,832.00

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


PREPARE FOR NEXT SUNDAY’S LITURGY

First Reading: Jeremiah 33:14-16
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 25
Second Reading: 1 Thessalonians 3:12—4:2
Gospel: Luke 21:25-28, 34-36


REFLECTION ON NEXT SUNDAY’S LITURGY OF THE WORD
First Sunday of Advent

During Advent we remember Jesus’ coming at the first Christmas and we are getting ready for this year’s Christmas. But, Jesus’ first coming really looks forward to his final coming at the end. The early Christians thought this second coming would happen during their lifetime. The Gospel writers wanted to make it clear that Jesus never promised this. But, Luke wants his Church community and ours to wait with expectation and hope. His Gospel begins with God’s message to key people not to be afraid. At the predictions of the end of the world, Jesus again encourages people not to be afraid. The Son of Man will come to transform the world.

Life Focus

• In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, what are the situations and events that scare you?

• Who or what gave you the courage to go on when things seemed to be falling apart?

• Describe an experience when hope has carried you through a trying time.

• What has to change in this world of ours for God’s rule to come?


TRAVELING? DON’T FORGET TO GO TO MASS!

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

THIRTY-THIRD SUNDAY in ORDINARY TIME

The Gospel opens with the great lights in the heavens “going out” after a time of tribulation. We have the image, once again, that darkness reigns. Further, just as at Christ’s first coming, Christ at the Second coming enters a dark world and brings light and life (“coming...with great power and glory”). In the end sun, moon, stars, heaven and earth will pass away. What endures is Christ whose great power and glory gather all God’s people who “shall live forever.” As always, God’s action on our behalf leads not to death and destruction but to life. For the disciple of Jesus, the Second Coming of Christ need not be something to fear. As long as we are vigilant, we can long with joyful expectation to see “the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory.”

At the end of times—and we know not the day nor the hour—this world as we know it will pass and Christ will come to judge all people and the general resurrection will take place. For those of us immersed by baptism into the paschal mystery and who have surrendered ourselves in our everyday living of its rhythm, we can be assured that we are promised to be numbered among God’s elect. And, just as the paschal mystery constantly teaches us that when we surrender to the dying there is always new life beyond that dying, so will there be resurrection for the elect beyond the final judgment. There is no need to fear Christ’s Second Coming. All we need do is surrender ourselves to living the paschal mystery. This is a small price to pay in this life in order to share in eternal glory.


TODAY’S READINGS

First Reading—Daniel 12:1-3
Those who lead the many to justice shall be like the stars forever.

Responsorial Psalm—Psalm 16
You are my inheritance, O Lord!

Second Reading—Hebrews 10:11-14, 18
Where there is forgiveness, there is no longer offering for sin.

Gospel—Mark 13:24-32
Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.


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. If you are interested in learning more, please contact the Parish Office.


DEAR PARISHIONERS AND VISITORS,

This week we celebrate Thanksgiving Day, a day dedicated to praise and thanks to God for the many blessings God has given to us. Abraham Lincoln established this holiday (holyday) as a day for reflection on God’s goodness even in the midst of the grave suffering the nation was undergoing during the Civil War.

President Lincoln proclaimed in part, “The year that is drawing to a close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God….They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who in dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American people.” Lincoln continued by asking the people to pray “with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience,” and to “commend to God’s tender care those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it…to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquility and union.” (Proclamation of Thanksgiving, October 3, 1863).

At this time in our history, we are engaged not in a civil war, but rather in worldwide conflict. President Lincoln’s call to prayer and thanksgiving is as meaningful to us as it was to the people in 1863.

May your holiday be blessed!

Patricia Sandall, Pastoral Associate


QUESTION OF THE WEEK

What changes will I make in my life to be sure that each day I am ready for Jesus’ return?


DO YOU KNOW…
“The Catechumenate”

Have you ever tried to learn to do something from a book? How to knit a sweater or set up a computer can be learned from a book, but such things are better learned from someone who has mastered the skill. More important things, such as how to treat others kindly, how to stand up for our beliefs and how to be hopeful in difficult times, are almost always learned from the example of others.

How do we learn to live a life of faith? There are many books on the subject, but none of them can teach how to live the faith as well as the people who are trying to live it. When those who have been coming to the church to inquire about what we believe and how we live decide that they want to prepare to become Catholic, they enter the catechumenate. The word catechumenate is used for the process of becoming a Catholic Christian; it also means a specific period within that process.

During the period of the catechumenate, catechumens (unbaptized people) and candidates (baptized people) prepare to join the Catholic church by learning and doing what Catholics learn and do.

The strongest feature of this period is catechesis. This means that the catechumens and candidates learn to believe and celebrate the mysteries of the faith by listening as the scriptures are proclaimed and preached and by participating as the church celebrates what it believes throughout the liturgical year. They also learn the many other times and ways we pray. In addition, the church’s moral teachings, traditions and disciplines are explained.

In many parishes, the primary time for catechesis is after the liturgy of the word on Sundays. As the rest of the assembly proceeds with the Mass, the catechumens and, usually, the candidates go to another room to prepare to take their place as full, participating members of the body of Christ.

The catechumens and candidates also learn the ways of Christians by getting to know us and seeing how we deal in faith with daily life. They participate in parish events. They also participate in our life of service to the church and to the world.

By spending time with us, the catechumens and candidates forge bonds of friendship, strengthening their ties with the church. By our spending time with them, our faith is strengthened and renewed. They remind us that our faith is a living, growing reality, and that people are attracted to it today just as they were centuries ago by the teachings of Jesus and the life of his disciples.


LET US PRAY FOR THE SICK

Joan Biasetti
Michael McEwen
Carmen Gonsaluex
Diane Parsons
Mary Ann Jenquin
Katherine Purdy
Neil Kelley
John Ryan
Anne Lano
Joe Setka
Mia McCabe
Jack Stevens
John Tapia

May they know Christ’s healing.


CHRISTMAS CRÈCHE

We need able-bodied people to help early (8:00 AM!) on Saturday, December 2nd, with the construction of the Christmas crèche in front of the church. To sign up, please call the Parish Office.


WHOLE COMMUNITY ADVENT GATHERING

Mark your calendars! Save the date! Don’t miss out! For the first time ever the whole parish is invited to gather together for a joy-filled “Whole Community Celebration of the Season of Advent.” All parishioners, young, old and in-between, should plan to come to Serra Hall on Sunday, December 3rd at 12:00 Noon. We will pray together, share a meal together and make Advent Wreaths for our homes. So that we are sure to have enough food and supplies for everyone, please RSVP to the Parish Office (682-4151).


JUSTICE, PEACE & INTEGRITY OF CREATION

Orientation Meeting
7:00 PM on Wednesday, November 29th
Parish Social Room

Are you interested in working with fellow parishioners on social justice activities? Join Fr. Daniel Barica and the JPIC committee to share their passions and interests related to social justice. The mission of the JPIC committee will include prayer, education and action for both charity and justice. Please RVP to Maureen Earls at 450-6111.

Save the date: Saturday, January 13th, JPIC participants will join Fr. Daniel in a retreat day to plan for peace and justice work in our parish. Details to follow.


TAMALES FOR SALE!

The Poor Clare Sisters from Ensenada, Mexico, will be here on December 2nd and 3rd to sell their delicious tamales. You can freeze the tamales for use during the holidays!


PILGRIMAGE

Join Fr. Daniel Barica, O.F.M., Pastor, St. Barbara Parish &
Fr. Alberto Villafán, O.F.M., Associate Pastor, St. Francis
on pilgrimage to The Holy Land and Petra, in Jordan
April 30 – May 10, 2007 … spring flower season!

$2798 includes 11 days of travel, air fare (LAX), first-class hotels (private room & bath), daily breakfast & dinner, daily Masses & much more for a group of 32, with Nawas International Travel. We will visit all the important sites in Jerusalem, Nazareth, Bethlehem and along the shores of the Sea of Galilee, including Capernaum, Tabgha (miracle of loaves and fishes), Garden of Gethsemane, Bethany, Dead Sea, Qumran caves and much more. Petra, a city carved out of rock, is spectacular!

Color brochures are available
in the Porter’s Office and the Parish Office.

$300 DEPOSIT DUE BY DECEMBER 1st
FINAL PAYMENT DUE 95 DAYS BEFORE DEPARTURE (1/26/07)

Please call Fr. Daniel Barica (805) 682-4713 x122 for more information.


PARISH CALENDAR

Nov 19 Catholic Campaign for Human Development Collection
Nov 23 Thanksgiving Day Mass at 10:00 AM
Nov 26 Solemnity of Christ the King
Dec 2 Building of the Christmas Crèche at 8:00 AM
Dec 3 Advent Wreath Making, Serra Hall, 12 Noon


SAY “HELLO” TO OUR NEWEST PARISHIONERS

Douglas and Sue Kraemer
Jason Miller
Nicholas and Barbara Teti
Elizabeth Vos and Suzanne Gehrich


THANK YOU, ST. BARBARA PARISH

“On behalf of the Board of Directors and the clients of Casa Esperanza Homeless Center, thank you for responding to our winter appeal with your generous gift in the amount of $1,000. Charitable contributions from caring community members such as you enables Casa Esperanza to continue to provide critical services to more than 1,500 individuals each year. Your gift will be used to provide emergency food and shelter for those in crisis situations and will help to maintain the Center’s life-altering programs and services for the homeless who are working to improve their physical and mental wellness, achieve sobriety, and secure employment and permanent housing. Thank you again for your support.”

Sincerely,
Michael J. Foley, Executive Director
David L. Peri, Board of Directors


CATHOLIC CHARITIES FOODBANK

The St. Vincent de Paul Conference of Saint Barbara Parish will collect food for those in need at the Thanksgiving Mass at 10:00 AM on Thursday, November 23rd. All food that is collected will be given to the Catholic Charities Pantry Pick-Up in Santa Barbara. Please bring your food to the Thanksgiving Day Mass. We suggest that you donate the following non-perishable items:

tuna, peanut butter, beans & rice, dried fruits & nuts, cereal, vegetable oil, canned fruits & vegetables, soups, pasta & pasta sauce.

Thank you for your generosity!


ALWAYS OUR CHILDREN

The Catholic support group for parents of Gay and Lesbian Children from the Santa Barbara and Ventura area meets on the 4th Monday of every other month. We will meet Monday, November 27th, at 7:30PM. This is a safe and comfortable environment where you can share your feelings and fears, and ask questions. The meetings are informal and confidential.

For more information, please call Kathie & Joe Schneider at (805) 687-4338.


VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Casa Esperanza homeless shelter will be open from December 1st – March 31st. The Community Kitchen is in need of volunteers to serve food every evening during that period. Please go to their website: www.my.calendars.net/communitykitchen, or call Estaban Solis at 705-7245.

Transition House needs your help to provide a wonderful dinner and Holiday Cheer to the families living at the shelter. Please call 966-9668 ext 115 or email Charrod@transitionhouse.com.


YOUTH MINISTRY

Senior High “LifeTeen Mass” takes place Sunday evenings at 5:30 PM at our partner parish, St. Raphael’s. It is followed by “LifeNight” at 7:00 PM. The Junior High Youth Ministry “The Edge” meets at St. Raphael’s on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month from 7:00 to 8:45 PM. For information, please contact John Vasellina, St. Raphael Parish Youth Minister, at 964-3466, ext. 1.


OFFICE CLOSURE

The Parish Office will be closed Thursday and Friday, November 23rd and 24th. We hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!


REFLECTION ON NEXT SUNDAY’S LITURGY OF THE WORD
Solemnity of Christ the King

Next Sunday’s Gospel is all about the world not recognizing Jesus. Neither the Roman world nor the Jewish religious community recognized who Jesus really was. They call Jesus “king,” but they do not realize the truth of what they say. In John’s Gospel, Jesus is in control of the situation. He is already the victor. He walks the way of the cross like a king to his throne and he rules from the cross. Jesus’ power is the truth he has and the truth he is. His reign is not of this world, but his reign is very much coming into this world of ours. That reign calls into question the way things are done by the rulers of this world.

LIFE FOCUS

• How have you recently experienced the conflict between the values of the reign of God and the values that modern society preaches?

• Relate a personal experience of being rejected as Christ was.

• Jesus testified to the truth. When have you been challenged to do the same?

• What are the obstacles that pull you away from following Jesus?


PREPARE FOR NEXT SUNDAY’S LITURGY

First Reading: Daniel 7:13-14
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 93
Second Reading: Revelation 1:5-8
Gospel: John 18:33b-37


STEWARDSHIP OF TREASURE

Sunday, November 12th $11,553.50

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


TRAVELING? DON’T FORGET TO GO TO MASS!

For nationwide Mass times and locations, please 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.

THIRTY-SECOND SUNDAY in ORDINARY TIME

The abusive scribes have it all now—status, clothes, seats of honor, power, wealth—and end up losing everything. The poor widow has little and surrenders even that—and ends up gaining everything! So it is with Jesus’ disciples. Like the Master, we give our all now. And gain everything—eternal life.

A child’s handmade birthday card to Mom is as precious to her as Dad’s gift of jewelry. It is not the size of the gift which measures its value but the depth of the self-gift from which it comes. Placing ourselves at the center of worldly values—status, clothes, seats of honor, power, wealth—gains us condemnation. Surrendering our selves as disciples at the service of others and living a life of self-giving gains us salvation. But how easily we are fooled about where our hearts truly lie!

We might look at the widow’s giving all she had as a foreshadowing of Jesus giving his all on the cross. The good news is that when we surrender our all there is a constant reversal in the order of things: oppressed becomes protected; beneficiary becomes benefactor; master becomes servant; least becomes greatest; last becomes first; condemnation becomes salvation; poverty becomes surplus; death becomes life. When we give our all, we never run out. God is the one who is always there to provide. The paschal mystery reminds us that if we rely on ourselves and amass our own treasures, we will lose everything. If we surrender ourselves in loving self-sacrifice, we gain everything. The choice is ours.


TODAY’S READINGS

First Reading—1 Kings 17:10-16
The widow of Zarephath had only a handful of flour and a little oil, but made a little cake for Elijah.

Responsorial Psalm—Psalm 146
Praise the Lord, my soul!

Second Reading—Hebrews 9:24-28
Christ will appear a second time to bring salvation to those who eagerly await him.

Gospel—Mark 12:38-44
Beware of those who like to go around in long robes and accept greetings in the marketplaces and places of honor at banquets.


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.

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is a community-based process for welcoming new members into the Roman Catholic Church that is guided by the Gospel and the lived example of the community. Adults learn about the Catholic tradition and prepare for the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation. If you are interested in learning more, please call Carol Parkus at 682-4713 x140 or stop by the Parish Office.


DEAR PARISHIONERS AND VISITORS,

I have enjoyed many ministries in my life, and I am happy to tell you that I am still participating in most of them. When I first joined Saint Barbara Parish, it started with singing in the Choir and in ways this ministry is still active because I participate in the singing at Mass. I joined other ministries but think of it more as just giving a helping hand. My most favorite ministry, and I guess we all have a “favorite” ministry, is the Altar Server ministry. And I must tell you that this started in 1994 because of Robert, my husband, wanting to serve at the Altar again. At that time we were introduced to Fr. Benny; he came into our lives and changed my life after that. We all have experiences that change us in how we look at our daily lives; Fr. Benny was such an instrument. Robert knew that he wanted to serve at the Altar, but I on the other hand was not too sure. Fr. Benny was very patient with me. Every week Fr. Benny would ask “are you sure that you don’t want to serve?” And I would answer “no, not yet.” What made me change my mind? It’s really hard to pinpoint, but one day I just answered “yes” to Fr. Benny, and I am so very happy I did.

Fr. Benny gave me some of his coins. It is just like the widow who gave her coins. Fr. Benny’s coins actually were the gift of himself in so many ways. Others at Saint Barbara Parish that know Fr. Benny will understand what I am talking about. And I guess what I am trying to impress to all is to “volunteer” to “help” to “give” and you will be the receiver of many coins. Saint Barbara Parish is a strong, growing, living community. Once you start to get “involved”, you will be embraced with loads of love and much satisfaction.

The widow and Fr. Benny demonstrate to us that they were not self-centered but centered on others. Only when we get to this centeredness on others will we grow in our own relationships and in our spirituality. Go out and give your coins of Time, Talent and Treasure and you will receive many in return.

Peace and Blessings,
Claudia Chyla, Pastoral Council Member


WHOLE COMMUNITY ADVENT GATHERING

Mark your calendars! Save the date! Don’t miss out! For the first time ever the whole parish is invited to gather together for a joy-filled “Whole Community Celebration of the Season of Advent.” All parishioners, young, old and in-between, should plan to come to Serra Hall on Sunday, December 3rd at 12:00 Noon. We will pray together, share a meal together and make Advent Wreaths for our homes. So that we are sure to have enough food and supplies for everyone, please RSVP to the Parish Office (682-4151).


QUESTION OF THE WEEK

How is God’s presence in the abundance different than God’s presence in the emptiness?


DO YOU KNOW…
Rite of Acceptance

Have you ever been intrigued by a travel brochure or the travel section of the Sunday newspaper? They lay before us all the marvels and wonders of distant and different lands. They may show us places and things that we’ve never seen; they hint at adventures that can’t fully be described. Usually we spend a minute or an hour imagining what the journey might be like and then we turn the page or set the brochure down.

Those who come to us to find out about the Catholic church begin with a period of inquiry. The period of inquiry might be compared to reading a travel brochure. What kind of journey might this be? What might we encounter on the way? Where might we end up? These are important questions, but asking them is not the same thing as taking the journey.

The Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens—celebrated at the end of the period of inquiry—is something like sign-up day. At this liturgy, the inquirers who have asked the questions and now are ready to embark on the journey arrive at our door. We greet them and ask them what they want. They want what we told them that we could help them discover: faith, baptism, eternal life. We mark them with the cross, for this is the sign of all who are on this journey. We give them the holy scriptures: it is the guidebook that we use on the way. We promise to be with them on this trip, for we are still on it ourselves. And we give them wise guides—sponsors, catechists, pastors and many others—to surround them and support them as they learn the ways of the road.

Any good travel agent will tell you that she or he cannot guarantee how a journey will end, or what exactly will happen along the way. We can’t say, either, what will happen along this way. But in faith we can say that if we and those we invite on this journey are faithful to the one who has called us to make it, then the end of the journey will be more marvelous than we imagined at the onset.


VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Casa Esperanza homeless shelter will be open from December 1st – March 31st. The Community Kitchen is in need of volunteers to serve food every evening during that period. Please go to their website: www.my.calendars.net/communitykitchen, or call Estaban Solis at 705-7245.

Transition House needs your help to provide a wonderful dinner and Holiday Cheer to the families living at the shelter. Please call 966-9668 ext 115 or email Charrod@transitionhouse.com.


OPEN HOUSE

Transition House is hosting an open house at its new facilities on Wednesday, November 15th, from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM. All Transition House volunteers are invited!


CATHOLIC CHARITIES FOODBANK

The St. Vincent de Paul Conference of Saint Barbara Parish will collect food for those in need at the Thanksgiving Mass at 10:00 AM on Thursday, November 23rd. All food that is collected will be given to the Catholic Charities Pantry Pick-Up in Santa Barbara. Please being your food to the Thanksgiving Day Mass. We suggest that you donate the following non-perishable items:

tuna, peanut butter, beans & rise, dried fruits & nuts, cereal, vegetable oil, canned fruits & vegetables, soups, pasta & pasta sauce.

Thank you for your generosity!


PARISH CALENDAR

Nov 12 Stewardship of Treasure Sunday
Nov 14 Baptism Class at 6:30 PM
Nov 18 Baptisms—9:00 AM & 12 Noon Masses
Nov 18-19 Catholic Campaign for Human Development Collection
Nov 23 Thanksgiving Day Mass at 10:00 AM
Nov 26 Solemnity of Christ the King


SAY “HELLO” TO OUR NEWEST PARISHIONERS

Mark, Wendy and Steven Kollmann
Paul Rogers
Sally Sheridan and Andy Norris
Hosea and Elizabeth Williams


LET US PRAY FOR THE SICK

Joan Biasetti
Michael McEwen
Rose Margaret Braiden
Diane Parsons
Carmen Gonsalues
Katherine Purdy
Mary Ann Jenquin
Joe Setka
Neil Kelley
Jack Stevens
Anne Lano
John Tapia
Mia McCabe

May they know Christ's healing


MINISTRY TO THE HOMBOUND

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 YOUNG ADULTS!

“I’m Christian and Catholic and so…” Before you finish this sentence, join in the lively conversations each month from November to June. Msgr. Michael Jennett will begin the series on Tuesday, November 14, at 7:00 PM at the Pastoral Center (4032 La Colina Road). Refreshments will be served. For more information or to RSVP, call Kelly and Michelle at (805) 682-1408 or email them at BridgeSantaBarb@aol.com


NEW MEXICO – A SPIRITUAL ADVENTURE!

Take a journey through time, space and being complete with Native American dances, a visit to historical and trendy Santa Fe, and time in Chimayo, “The Lourdes of America.” Experience Albuquerque and Los Alamos, the desert and the mountains. Fr. Jack Clark Robinson, OFM, who spent eighteen years as a priest there, will share his New Mexico with you July 12-17, 2007. For more information, please contact Bernice Anfuso at (805) 963-6521.


STEWARDSHIP OF TREASURE

Sunday, November 5th $10,564.00
All Saints Collection $624.00

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

When we hear that 37 million Americans live in poverty—that many families are two paychecks away from becoming poor themselves—are we overwhelmed? Paralyzed? We can make a difference. We can give a hand up to people struggling to change their lives and communities. The Catholic Campaign for Human Development supports self-help projects of poor and low-income people working together to break the cycle of poverty.

Please give generously to the CCHD appeal next weekend.


REFLECTION ON NEXT SUNDAY’S LITURGY OF THE WORD
Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

As the Church year nears its end, the readings also speak of the end time. These readings were written during times of trial and persecution, and their purpose is to encourage people not to give up. Next Sunday’s reading from Daniel comes just one hundred sixty-five years before Jesus. It speaks of great conflict—even the earth will shake and the stars will fall—but for the first time in the Old Testament, there is a very clear belief in the resurrection of the faithful and punishment for evil. God’s reign will win over every kind of evil. God’s faithful who do good and lead others to goodness (justice) will shine with God’s own light. The Gospel proclaims that Jesus will come at the end of time to call his people from all over the world to share in his victory. All the physical world—earth, sun, moon, stars—will be under and belong to him.

LIFE FOCUS

• In tough times, what keeps you going?

• If the world were ending tomorrow, how would you experience today differently?


PREPARE FOR NEXT SUNDAY’S LITURGY

First Reading: Daniel 12:1-3
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 16
Second Reading: Hebrews 10:11-14, 18
Gospel: Mark 13:24-32


TRAVELING? DON’T FORGET TO GO TO MASS!

For nationwide Mass times and locations, please 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.

THIRTY-FIRST SUNDAY in ORDINARY TIME
The Greatest Commandments

After his richly symbolic entry into Jerusalem, Jesus headquarters with the disciples in nearby Bethany. Visiting the city again, he evicts merchants from the temple, and immediately incurs the murderous wrath of the priests and the scribes. In a third visit he finds his authority questioned by priests, scribes and elders. Before onlookers, he turns the tables on them. Then he teaches with a parable about tenants in a vineyard that challenges the authorities. Questioned about taxes and the resurrection of the dead, he eludes traps and teaches something new. And in today’s verses, a scribe breaks ranks to ask Jesus about the first of all the commandments. It is a question asked of rabbis quite frequently.

In reply, Jesus recites today’s first reading. You must love the Lord alone, with all your heart and your soul and your strength. He also adds another quotation from the Torah: Love your neighbor as yourself. Unlike similar descriptions of the same encounter, Mark’s does not explicitly connect the two commandments. Even so, they work together to suggest that all the rest of the Law consists of variations on these themes. The scribe accepts this reply and insists that loving the neighbor is worth more than all burnt offerings and sacrifices. And Jesus informs him that he is not far from the reign of God. Note that the reign is not something in the future. It is here, now. From this point on, Jesus’ challengers remain silent, preferring to execute their fatal plans.



TODAY’S READINGS

First Reading—Deuteronomy 6:2-6
The Lord, the God of your fathers, will give you a land flowing with milk and honey.

Responsorial Psalm—Psalm 18
I love you, Lord, my strength.

Second Reading—Hebrews 7:23-28
Jesus is always able to save those who approach God through him.

Gospel—Mark 12:28b-34
To love God with all your heart and to love your neighbor as yourself is worth more than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.



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.

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is a community-based process for welcoming new members into the Roman Catholic Church that is guided by the Gospel and the lived example of the community. Adults learn about the Catholic tradition and prepare for the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation. If you are interested in learning more, please call Carol Parkus at 682-4713 x140 or stop by the Parish Office.


DEAR PARISHIONERS AND VISITORS,

Because of my studies in the field of landscape architecture and through the grace of God and many good friends, I have traveled to many places in the world. At some of the places I have visited, I have felt like I was walking on holy ground, even if only for the physical beauty. I imagine God’s reign as a special and graced way of being with all living beings but because of my love for the landscape, I also expect it to look like a paradise.

Jesus tells the scribe that he is “not far from the kingdom of God,” only because he agrees with Jesus’ description of the greatest commandments. Why didn’t the rich young man get the same response from Jesus? That man was able to not only know the most important commandments but testified that he had also lived those commandments from his youth. What is Jesus really trying to say about God’s reign?

This weekend the parish embarks on a stewardship campaign as a way to help us remember God’s generosity to us and that everything we are given comes from and returns to God. We are invited to consciously partake in that process as we commit ourselves to entrust a portion of our time, talents and treasures to this parish family so that God’s work will continue here. To be not far from God’s reign is to understand God’s laws. To really experience God’s reign is to cherish God’s gifts without clinging to them, including our most valuable possession: our time. That is why Jesus told the rich young man, even though he was upright and religiously devoted, to sell what he had and to follow Jesus. I know that we really don’t live this way – it is next to impossible. Our most immediate interpretation of stewardship is to hold on to what we have so that we won’t run out in the future. But when we cling to our possessions, we interrupt God’s cycle of generosity, withhold resources from the poor and in so doing, distance ourselves from God’s reign. It becomes far off.

During this month of Thanksgiving which begins with the blessed memory of our saints, let us be mindful of both the beauty and the bounty God has blessed us with in the time, talents and treasures of our lives. And let us not be afraid to respond with the same generosity God has shown us as we place our trust in God’s provision for our future.

Truly yours in discipleship and in God’s generous love,

Fr. Daniel F. Barica, O.F.M, Pastor


PARISH CALENDAR

Nov 5 & 12 Stewardship of Treasure Sunday
Nov 7 Election Day
Nov 14 Baptism Class at 6:30 PM
Nov 18 Baptisms—9:00 AM & 12 Noon Masses
Nov 18-19 Catholic Campaign for Human Development Collection
Nov 23 Thanksgiving Day Mass at 10:00 AM
Nov 26 Solemnity of Christ the King


DO YOU KNOW…
Period of Evangelization

Where do you go when you have questions about God? About the meaning of life? About prayer or sin or Mary or the saints? How do you respond when you are touched by another person’s faith or selflessness or goodness? Whom do you go to in times of sadness or uncertainty? What do you do when you feel blessed?

We Catholics have many answers to those questions. We may seek out our pastor or another parish minister, or turn to another believer, perhaps a friend or family member. Maybe we seek the intercession of the saints or go directly to God in prayer.

But where does someone go who doesn’t belong to a community of faith? Many of them, too, seek out a Catholic minister or friend. This may be the first step in wanting to learn more about what Catholics believe and perhaps even the first step in joining the Catholic church. If so, they may be invited to join others who have similar questions. These people, called inquirers, meet with some members of the community, clergy and laity, to seek answers to their questions and learn about what the church believes.

This first, informal step in the Christian initiation process is called precatechumenate because it precedes the decision and commitment that people in the catechumenate are called to make. The precatechumenate period is a time of inquiry. It may last a short time or for a period of many months or years; it is up to the inquirer. It is also called the period of evangelization because in this time we tell the good news that we have to share: the Christian faith as it is lived in the Catholic communion. We tell it through the great stories of scripture, through the history and tradition of the church, through the lives of ordinary Christians. And because the questions that urged the inquirers to learn more about God and the church are signs of God already present and active in their lives, we listen, too, and help the inquirers see how God has always been with them and where God is leading them.


QUESTION OF THE WEEK

What does it mean to love God with all my heart? with all my soul? with all my mind? with all my strength?


LET US PRAY FOR THE SICK

Joan Biasetti
Rose Margaret Braiden
Carmen Gonsalues
Mary Ann Jenquin
Neil Kelley
Anne Lano
Mia McCabe
Michael McEwen
Diane Parsons
Katherine Purdy
Jack Stevens
John Tapia

May they know Christ's healing


MINISTRY TO THE 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.


SAY “HELLO” TO OUR NEWEST PARISHIONERS

Ruben, Mary, Andrew & Nick Hernandez
Megan Jenrich
Paul & Judith Kuklinski
Scott, Janet, Eric, Jeff, Keith, Kate & Jenna Lederhaus


THE SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL

We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at 9:30 AM. Our mission is to help and to serve the poor. Please call 687-7547 for more information.


YOUTH MINISTRY, CONFIRMATION PREPARATION AND JUNIOR HIGH “THE EDGE”

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 “The Edge” meets every other Thursday from 7:00 PM to 8:45 PM. For more information, please contact John Vasellina, Youth Minister, at (805) 964-3466 (ext. 1) or email him at srym12@yahoo.com.


HELP BREAK THE CYCLE OF POVERTY

In his first encyclical letter, God Is Love, Pope Benedict XVI stated that “within the community of believers there can never be room for a poverty that denies anyone what is needed for a dignified life.” In our country, 37 million Americans struggle in poverty, many despite working full-time. Within our community of believers we do make a difference—when we support the work of the Catholic Campaign for Human Development. CCHD is committed to helping people create permanent solutions to the problem of poverty in their community. You can help break the cycle of poverty.

Please give generously to the CCHD appeal on November 18-19.


BREAD FOR THE WORLD

St. Barbara Parish is a Bread for the World Covenant Church. As such, we commit ourselves to working for an end to world-wide hunger. We ask you to reflect on the covenant the parish made with Bread for the World several years ago:

We Covenant…

- In our worship and study: to seek God’s message for us regarding our hungry brothers and sisters, and to learn about the causes of—and solutions to—hunger, emphasizing the role of public policy.

- In our working and giving: to help hungry people in our community, to support our Church’s hunger relief, development and education programs, and to participate corporately in the work of the Bread for the World membership

- In our living: to give prominence to the needs of hungry people, and to reflect in our lives an awareness of our role as stewards of God’s gifts.

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.” —Proverbs 31:8-9


CATHOLIC CHARITIES

Catholic Charities Psychological Services offers individual, marriage and family counseling in English and Spanish by licensed therapists. There is a sliding scale fee based on income. For more information, please call all (805) 965-7045 x102 for English; Spanish speakers or bilingual call 965-7045 x114.


REFLECTION ON NEXT SUNDAY’S LITURGY OF THE WORD
Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

Next Sunday’s reading from Kings illustrates several things: God’s care for the poor, even the foreign poor (Zarephath was over Israel’s border in what is now Lebanon); Elijah’s activity as God’s agent; and, in the context of today’s liturgy, the trusting generosity of a widow who sacrifices her own livelihood to the needs of another. Quite clearly we are invited to connect her to the widow of the gospel reading. In Mark’s gospel the poor widow who contributed “all that she had to live on” is sharply contrasted with the wealthy who gave sizable amounts from their surplus wealth. The rich do not depend on God. They have plenty to live on. The widow now has only God and God’s people to lean upon.

Life Focus

- In those areas where we are “wealthy,” it is easy to share with others. Share some moments when you gave to others even when you felt poor and giving was a big risk.

- How have others helped you discover what is important in loving God?


PREPARE FOR NEXT SUNDAY’S LITURGY

First Reading: 1 Kings 17:10-16
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 146
Second Reading: Hebrews 9:24-28
Gospel: Mark 12:38-44


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.

Stewardship of Treasure

Sunday, October 29 $9,388.00
Franciscan Missionary Union $1,779.00

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

This weekend we are asked to reflect on the gifts that God has given us to be shared with our parish community. We ask that you prayerfully consider the following questions:

- Do I have a need to give or do I give only when there is a need?

- Do I understand that there is an obligation to provide regular financial support to the parish?

- What priority do I give to my parish? Where does it fit relative to other ways that I use my financial resources?

- How much money do I give the parish on a weekly basis?

- Do I give too much, too little or are my commitments just right?

This week you will receive a letter in the mail asking you to consider your commitment of treasure.


TRAVELING? DON’T FORGET TO GO TO MASS!

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