Encouraging the Culture of Encounter with Jesus Christ, His Church, and All People

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Happy New Year! - Advent Begins!
The new liturgical year begins. Remember that this season is primary focused on the Coming of Christ again at the end of time.  This emphasis is a continuation of the them from the past month, but now it is done in reference to the preparation God made for His first coming.  Hence saints we focus on will be the Old Testament prophets along with Mary, Jospeh, and John the Baptist.  Then on Dec. 17 the shift happens when we look to celebrating the Nativity of Christ in particular. 
As we have done in years past, be prepared for this focus on expectation.  Our music, liturgical gestures along with sanctuary decorations and arrangement will reflect this advent season as we look forward to the Lord’s coming.

Holy Hours and Faith Formation
This Advent there are some other opportunities for people to grow in our Catholic Faith.  In response to suggestions from the Listening Sessions and recent surveys, we will add a Holy Hour on the 1st Sunday of the month.  It will happen in between the two Masses from 9:15-10:15.  Then on the 3rd Sunday of the month will be a Faith Formation session in the PAC from 9:15-10:15.  This will allow people the flexibility to participate in multiple events.  First Holy Hour begins this Sunday Dec. 3.  The Eucharist will be exposed immediately following Holy Communion of the 8am Mass (8:55ish) until 10:15am. During that time I will also be available for confessions.

This month for Faith formation, we will focus on liturgical catechesis.  On Dec. 17 from 9:15-10:15 in the PAC, I will present on Understanding the Liturgy: Language, Symbols, and Meaning. 

Thank you’s All Around!
Thank you to all who made the Annual Ecumenical Christmas Concert a success!  This is a great way for us to show our connection with surrounding community and to foster unity.
Thank you for you patience and thoughtful comments regarding the finance report from last week.  Any questions please call the office.  Thanks to Jeff, Kendro, VIcki Williamson, Jeanne Bearer, Hallie Wolff, and our finance council for their diligent work.
Thank you to those giving blankets in the narthex and those helping with the giving tree.
Thank you all who strive for holiness as faithful members of our parish family.

Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Pfr