Mass Schedule
	Weekend: Saturday 4:00 and 5:30 PM Sunday: 6:45, 8:00, 9:30, 11:00 AM, 12:30 PM  Daily: Monday-Saturday 7:30 and 8:15 AM (Daily Chapel) Monday Evenings: 7:30 PM Holy Days: See Current Bulletin First Friday Holy Hour 7PM Weekday Masses are held in the DAILY CHAPEL during Lent & Advent RECTORY OFFICE HOURS Monday thru Friday: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM Saturday and Sunday: 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM

Weekly Video Theme
Each week we select a few videos to reinforce the theme of the Sunday Liturgy. Click on the graphic in the sliding menu above.

“Joy to the world the
Lord has come”
9 videos,

• EM & Lector Schedule

• Music Schedule

• RCIA Catechist Schedule

• EM Schedule for Forge Pond 

• EM Shorrock Gardens

• Hospital EM Schedule

• CCD Schedule

Mass Intensions

SATURDAY December 24th
4:00 PM Frank & Eleanor Barlowski/req. Children
4:15 PM John & Eleanor Powers/req. Family
7:00 PM Catherine Fontana/req. Allan & Nina Hovanyetz
12:00 AM Frank Ragalinsk/req. Eileen Matonaki

SUNDAY, December 25th
8:00 AM For peace on Earth/rreq. Ray Bulwicz
9:30 AM Amato Family/req. John Amato
11:00 AM Frank Ragalinsk/req. Eileen Matonaki
12:30 PM Robert Mansfield/req. Family

Christmas Singalong Use the full screen buttons

FATHER BARRON ON THE NBC TODAY SHOW DECEMBER 15TH!!!

Father Barron was on the NBC Today Show December 15th in the 8:00 AM (IN ALL TIME ZONES) hour.

Fr. Barron was interviewed along with executive producer Mike Leonard on the Today Show to talk about the success of the CATHOLICISM series.

CATHOLICISM has now been seen over 1,000 times on public television stations throughout the country.

Our 2012 Movie Series will include all 10 Episodes of the Fr. Baron series now being aired on TV stations. 

Morning or Evening sessions are offered:

The first two Episodes will be shown on Wednesday, January 11 and 18 10AM in the Cafeteria or Thursday, January 12, and 19, 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm in the Daily Chapel.

Episodes 3 and 4 will be shown on Wednesday, February 8 and 15 10AM in the Cafeteria or Thursday, February 9, and 16, 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm in the Daily Chapel

Study Guide materials and small group discussions are part of the program.

Click here for a video and more information

Wednesday Morning 10 AM Bible Study  
"Celebrating Our Origins"
The Book of Genesis
Starting in January

People are intrigued about their origins. There is increasing interest in tracing genealogies and our families of origin. There are computer programs and websites that help a person with researching one's origin.
The first book in the Bible is all about origins. It could just as easily be called the "Book of Origins." It deals with the origin of the universe, of humankind, of sin, understood as alienation from God and fellow human beings, as well as the origin of the people of Israel.

If you can't join us in person you can follow along on line by clicking the Bible Study graphic above.

The Nativity Of The Lord
Christmas 

TODAY'S READINGS
Readings for Mass at Dawn
Isaiah 62:11-12Titus 3:4-7Luke 2:15-20
Readings for Mass during the day
Isaiah 52:7-10 Hebrews 1:1-6 John 1:1-18 or 1:1-5, 9-14

READINGS FOR THE WEEK

Dec 26 Mon Saint Stephen, first martyr
Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59  Matthew 10:17-22
Dec 27 Tues Saint John, apostle and evangelist
1 John 1:1-4  John 20:1a,2-8
Dec 28 Wed The Holy Innocents, martyrs
1  John 1:5--2:2 Matthew 2:13-18
Dec 29 Saint Thomas Becket, bishop and martyr
1 John 2:3-11 Luke 2:22-35
Dec 30 Fri The Holy Family
Sirach 3:2-7, 12-14 Colossians 3:12-21 Luke 2:22-40 or 2:22, 39-40
Dec 31 Sat Christmas Week1  John 2:18-21 Gospel: John 1:1-18

Sunday, December 25
Nativity of the Lord 1:1-18

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. (John 1:14)
For two thousand years, we have celebrated this day—and for good reason. This was no ordinary birth! On this day, Jesus, the "bread of God" came "down from heaven and gave life to the world" (John 6:33). So as we celebrate this joyous occasion, let's look a little more closely at the way Jesus gave life to the world.

When Jesus came, he brought with him a whole new teaching. He taught us how to think, act, and pray in a way that would bring us closer to his Father. He taught us that it is as important to love one another as it is to love God himself. So let's vow to put the teachings of Jesus into practice each day. Let's vow to love one another as Jesus loves us.

Jesus also performed many miracles while he walked this earth. These miracles showed that he had power over nature, over sickness, and over sin. What's more, he told us that if we believe, we too will be able to perform great miracles (John 14:12). So today, let's vow to put our faith in Jesus' words. Let's renew our belief in him and his power. Let's pray for miracles, both small and large, and believe that God will answer our prayers.

Jesus came two thousand years ago so that he could save us from sin. He is God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God. Only he has the power to destroy sin and death. So today, let's look at the baby in the manger and say: "Thank you for saving me and bringing me into eternal life."

The Incarnation is a deep mystery. It is every bit as incomprehensible as the mystery of the Trinity. How can the Creator enter creation? How can the Eternal enter time? 

Today, and every day for the rest of our lives, let's all proclaim:
"Jesus, you are my Lord. 1 consecrate myself to you."

The Catholicism Project 

Join Fr. Robert Barron on a journey across the planet and deep into the faith. CATHOLICISM is a breakthrough documentary series presenting the true story of Christianity and the Catholic faith.

EVERYBODY HAS A STORY

I was raised as a protestant, more specifically Baptist. My family had always went to church for as long as I could remember, and I had always felt a strong compelling for God; however, that compelling for God was paired with a deep struggle with sin. I kept a feeling of constantly clawing at the walls of the hole I was in and never being able to climb out Even when I felt I was doing well and was feeling close to God, I was still found wanting. A few weeks before I turned 19, I found myself in a spiritual low and while I was there I found myself studying the Rosary, which seemed crazy to me because I was raised in a background that caused me to be terrified of the Catholic Church. Within days I was praying the Rosary and one year of crazy ups and downs later, by the Grace of the Holy Trinity and the prayers of Our Lady, I was confirmed as a Catholic! I don't despise my protestant background, but nothing can offer what the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic church has to offer. Now, less than a year after my conversion, I have two friends in RICA! Thanks be to God for his amazing work.
- Josh B., Monticello, KY United States 

I was totally unchurched as a child. As a 40 year old I began a search that eventually landed me in the Catholic Church. I was always a great skeptic, often scoffing at those who embraced faith in God. However, the question of "Why is there something rather than Nothing" always haunted me. I began reading Sufi mystics and other books from eastern religion. One day it seemed strange to me that I had not spent that kind of time on Christianity. I believe that avoided Christianity because my friends , all in the sciences, belittled Christians, thinking them naive and perhaps even less than bright. I began reading Merton, C.S. Lewis, Chesterton, a bit of Aquinas and finally the Church Fathers. Before me was brilliance that I had never known in other literature. Augustine struck me as the best "psychologist" I could read.

I ended up in the Episcopal Church, to which I am sincerely grateful. However, I read myself into the Catholic Church, of course with the grace of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. There is a depth, piety and power in the Church that is indescribable. The greatest gift is God's peace which can transform any life, even mine. I hope people will seriously seek what they are missing, as only God can satisfy. If God is real and is at the center of our very being, and gives us our very breath, then how can we do anything less than give him our all.
Lynn P., new orleans, LA United States 

I am blessed to have been raised by my mother who has always been a devout Catholic. My grandparents laid a rock foundation for mom which would prove later to be monumental. I went away to college and like many people I fell away from my faith. I continued to go to mass and I would always have a prayer life but I became a cafeteria Catholic, I would pick and choose what I wanted to believe. My two brothers stopped going to church and became angry about our faith. My mother would continue to pray for each one us over the years. 
I married a cradle Catholic and we would go to mass off and on over the years. When we started a family we started going to mass more regularly. Something in me was missing, I had a wonderful husband and two healthy children and I felt unfulfilled. We moved to NY from OH in 07 for a job change. My husband grew up in NY and his father needed help. My mom told me God had a plan. Little did I know what God had in store for my family. My brother died of an accidental overdose after fighting an addiction for 15 yrs. He came back to his faith and was getting his life back on track when he relapsed. My world caved in, my family was all in OH and I felt so alone. This started my reversion back into our faith. I started teaching CCD and going to Thursday mass at the kids school. Over the next year I joined many ministries within our parish. Advent last year we started reading the daily gospel in the morning. I started praying the rosary, it did not happen over night but we changed many spiritual habits in our family. Lent last year I was in Adoration and picked up Rediscover Catholicism by Matthew Kelly. I could not put the book down, you see in Part 3 of his book he speaks of the Seven Pillars of Spirituality. Our family over a years time had acquired each of those seven habits. Our lives change when our habits change.. My families life is forever changed. My brother was my ah ha moment. It has been 19 months since my brother has been gone. My life will never be the same. There has been beauty in our suffering. I feel fire in me that I have never felt before. I know now how important it is to raise our children in the faith and teach them how to live it as their own. The Catholic faith is waiting to be Rediscovered, what will be your ah ha moment? I challenge everyone this Advent to read Kelly's book. Change your habits as a family and let it transform your life... We are on a mission, as Francis of Assi said "preach the gospel at all times and when necessary use words." We need to teach this generation the richness of our faith and how to live it in our everyday lives. May you Never Let Go of God's Hand : )
- Christie T., Getzville, NY United States 

Born, raised, attended Catholic school, married and raised 2 children in the Catholic faith. Left the Catholic faith, the Holy Eucharist for a worldly life and attended non denominational churches for years. Something was missing, but I could not pin point it. In 2005 the Lord gave me 3 separate locutions and I returned to the church. I promised to learn all that the church taught and if I wasn't' convinced I would leave the church for good. God took me on a spiritual journey for 3 months where at the end I fell on my knees, tears streaming down my cheeks and gave Him the rest of my days on earth. Seek the Holy Eucharist. Seek the One Church Jesus began on the Foundation of the Rock. Seek the Authority by means of the keys, given by Jesus to Kepha. I can't wait to see this series on EWTN. Thank you for taking us on a journey few could ever take on their own. May God continue to richly bless you! - Janice S., Lake Arrowhead, CA United States 

Emotionally stirring!!!
Our parish is just completing the series CATHOLICISM and without exception, those who attended have moved by it ALL!!... the message, the music, the images, the people... this is truly a remarkable expression of our FAITH!!!
WELL DONE "GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT"
WE are now going to do a double re-run a) as an introductory viewing and b) as an in depth study series. Many people have expressed an interest in the emotionally stirring music that underlines each episode. When will there be a soundtrack available?
May God continue to bless your ministry!!!
- Deacon David C., Perth, Ontario, Canada

Born Catholic, raised Catholic, remain Catholic because I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of the living God! Father Barron has made a wonderful documentary, I ordered my complete set today. I was only able to see the EWTN releases and am looking forward to seeing them all. I have joyfully raised my three kids in the catholic faith but it has been difficult due to the sex scandal. To paraphrase Churchill, never before has so much damage been done by so few to so many. I plan on showing my kids this series over the Christmas holiday to reinforce to them the beauty and Holiness of the Church. We need Catholics to trust in God's providence and assent rather than dissent. Only by understanding the mystical body of Christ can the Church be understood as One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic, this is not blind faith but like Peter I answer, to where shall we go, you have the words of eternal life. Christ lives today and always in His mystical body the Church. God love you all.
- joe d., waco, TX United States 

I was raised in a home where God was never spoken of. My parents wished I found my own religion on my own and never wanted to "force" me into a religion. As a teenager I was invited to a few of my friend's churches, but the services felt superficial to me. I never felt a true connection with God. 

One night, around two in the morning my friend and I were running around the streets of Grand Rapids, Michigan when we stumbled across a Catholic church. The doors were unlocked, so we decided to go in and look around. As we entered the church, I was overwhelmed with God's love and grace. I began to cry. I immediately knew that this is where I was supposed to be, there was no doubt in my mind. I could feel God pulling on my heart to return to this church. I had never felt God's presence like this in my life before, it consumed me. At eighteen years old I took religious education classes at that same church and was later baptized, took my first Eucharist, and Confirmation. I am truly blessed that God decided to take that single moment in my life and make it the moment that changed my life forever. My husband and I were married in a Catholic church and still practice today. We are truly blessed. 
- Michelle K., Phoenix, AZ United States 

I was baptized into the Catholic Church on April 30, 1989, but was raised in a Protestant home. On April 23, 2011 I came home to the Catholic Church during the Easter Vigil Mass, receiving the Sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Eucharist. Interestingly enough, I received these Sacraments at the very same church I was baptized in. I discovered the truth of the Catholic Church over six years of studying on my own. Once I began to study about the Catholic Church, my eyes were opened and I knew there was no turning back. In death, Blessed John Paul II first called me to study and learn about the Catholic Church. Along the way St. Ignatius Loyola met me in the stillness of retreat to affirm the decision to be Catholic. The Roman Catholic Church is my spiritual home here on earth, and I hope to serve Christ through the Catholic Church all the days of my life. 
- Robert R., Mansfield, OH United States

My story: Raised a passionate Lutheran, but became a Roman Catholic a year before I married my Irish husband. Thinking I could handle being Catholic however the culture change was horrendous - lay people were treated like they didn't exist or at best ignored. Became an active Catholic. Tom and I were the Bishops representative to the Diocesan Pastoral Council. For the last 20 years I have been the Bishops Liaison to Charismatic Renewal. I have taught Religion classes for 35 years. I have tons of certificates completing years of study in Scripture, History of the Church - plus other stuff. And needless to say, much of my cultural problem has been resolved - because I have a big mouth, yet we still treat our parishioners as if they are psychologically absent - devoid of feelings. When are we going to "love thy neighbor as thyself" We shoot ourselves in the foot and wonder why we limp?? People don't leave the church because of teachings or rituals, they leave because they are not being psychologically cared for. This drives me crazy because I love our gifted church, yet we don't do the obvious - and this wouldn't cost a dime in our budget. I remember as a Lutheran kid, the pastor would say at the end of the Service, "say hello to ten people you don't know today!" We could do that, but we don't! Not because we are not good people and not because our hearts aren't in the right place, it's because, we don't know how! And because our leadership don't have even one person in their life that they are personally responsible for! But if our pastors had to literally monetarily support just one person, they would have a better handle on life and caring for another person. Then their focus wouldn't always be on self.
- Janice C., Dassel, MN United States 

I grew up in a family with a mother who practiced Catholicism and regularly went to church. My Dad attended sometimes with her although he was basically Agnostic. I always loved the feeling of sitting in the beautiful church we attended and all the rituals and formality of the Church. I would wear a dress with white gloves! How times have changed though. Many churches today look like auditoriums and even if there is a decent minister, it's hard to get inspired. When I first attended a Protestant church with my husband who grew up Methodist, I was shocked at the informality and the casualness of it all compared to the formality and distance of the priests. I've stayed away from church for a number of years frankly because I don't feel inspired -- I do a lot of good works volunteering, etc. This series is incredible! I found it while flipping through the channels one night and was awestruck! Father Barron talks to us like a good friend - not a distant priest who is "higher and mightier" than we are and he has gotten me interested again in the Catholic Church. The series is incredible and inspirational and mostly informative! I love the journey Father Barron is taking us on --showing us not only the beautiful places of worship around the world and those who practice it, but the true meaning and history of Catholicism! Can't wait to see the next program! Thank you Fr Barron!
- Barb A., Denver, CO United States 

I am Catholic, raised, and will die Catholic. I left the Church as a teen, 18 years later returned, now been back 18 years. The series Catholicism brought tears to my eyes, especially about purgatory, so humbling. Thanks, Father!
- Anthony F., Bedford, OH United States 
After having been away from the church for 30 years, I returned two years ago. It was the best decision I have ever made in my life. I would not miss Mass for the world and all it contains. During this time so much joy and peace has entered my heart. And, yes, there have been hard times and doubt as well. A bump in the road. I must thank our priests who are so reverent and giving, even when they are rushed. All those who are "away", open your hearts and really listen to God. 
- Gail S., Bridgeport, CT United States

Thank you for the Catholicism series. It provides a candid description of what the Catholic Church is and is not to respond to it's critics, it is beatiful in imagery and in meaning , explains the contributions the church has made to improve the human condition, and the importance of the need to understand what isin is and why salvation in Christ is worth living and dying for.
- Daniel F., Plymouth, MI United States 

I am cradle Catholic, born and raised in Germany until I immigrated to the US in 1964.
For a while I drifted but something always pulled me back. I married a great woman who converted to the Catholic faith and I must admit was a better Christian Catholic than I was. Cancer took her from me in 1995 at the young age of 45. As a great and Holy priest (Capuchin) told me "you have your own saint in heaven"... I had three children with her, one who died in infancy and two who make me proud and I pray that they stay with their faith
I met another great lady with whom I had a daughter. This lady too converted to Catholicism and brought me deeper into my faith.
I especially appreciate Father's series. He brings the Faith to light like I have never heard before.. I only wish I could relate the faith to those who are getting ready for confirmation. 
God Bless you for this series - it is an experience of Faith of our Holy Founder and his bride the Church
mh
- Michael H., Colorado Spring, CO United States 

More Stories

For More Information Please Visit:
http://www.thecatholicismproject.org/

Sunday Bible Reflections 
by Dr. Scott Hahn

December 25th, 2011 - 
Fourth Sunday in Advent

In the New Beginning

The birth of Jesus marks a new creation, the start of a new heavens and a new earth (see Isaiah 65:17; 2 Peter 3:13). That’s why the first words of today’s Gospel reprise the Bible’s first words - “In the beginning” (see Genesis 1:1).

Jesus is the Word that God spoke when He said, “Let there be,” and all things came to be (see Genesis 1:3, 26). The Wisdom through whom all things were made (see Proverbs 8:22-31; Wisdom 7:21-27), Jesus is also the mighty Word by whom God sustains all things. 

The Word of God (see Revelation 19:13) has become flesh. This is the mystery we sing of in today’s Psalm - the revelation of mankind’s salvation in the sight of the nations. 

The Word comes as God and king, we hear in today’s First Reading. Enthroned at God’s right hand (see Psalm 110:1), He is the royal Son who has received all the nations as His inheritance (see Psalm 2:8).

The Word comes, too, as a heavenly high priest, as we hear in today’s Epistle. Through His blood, He accomplished atonement and purification from sin (see Exodus 30:10; Hebrews 6:20; 10:3-7, 11-13).

And by this, He has made it possible for each of us to live as children of God, as “new creations” (see 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15). 

In the beginning, God made men and women in His image (see ). In the new creation, He brings that divine image to perfection in Jesus, who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation, and the firstborn from the dead (see Colossians 1:15,18). 

Let us resolve this Christmas to give Jesus rule over our hearts, to ever more mold our hearts in the image of our Creator - that the Christ-child may be the firstborn of a worldwide family of God (see Colossians 3:10; Romans8:29).

This corner is dedicated to all of you people in your 20s and 30s. The descendants of the "Baby Boomers", the first of the "Latch Key generation", "Generations X and Y", the millennial generation etc. In short people in there 20s and 30s married or Single

Catholics Come Home

The Christmas Spirit Survival Guide
Helpful terms of engagement to maintain holiday cheer
by John Mattras 

Hollywood families (at least in their writers’ imagination) seem to have warm and fuzzy family Christmas dinners. Mine are more complex. Somehow, the relative morality of another family member invariably becomes a topic of conversation. Over the years, I have developed terms of engagement I consider essential to a healthy, productive holiday conversation about morality. For those of you determined to maintain your own Christmas cheer at the family dinner table this year, I will relay what I have learned. Consider it a “Christmas Spirit Survival Guide.”

Working with Catholic religious communities has taught me two ways to encounter others: I can espouse core Christian beliefs in a welcoming manner or I can advocate those same beliefs in a way that alienates people. Becoming an agent of welcome requires adherence to a few core principles: respect other people, listen to what they have to say, educate yourself, and be candid about your own struggles. 

Respect other people
The most basic rules of respect are obvious. Unfortunately, they often need repeating. There is no room in a spiritually-rooted debate over morality for name-calling, brow-beating, physical or emotional intimidation, or mocking or ostracizing those with different views. If your personal feeling about someone you consider to be violating your moral code of conduct (or disagreeing with you) veers to anger, you are probably crossing the line and hating the sinner — not just the perceived sin. 

A former Sister of Life shared with me her encounters with different kinds of abortion clinic protests. She said she was moved by witnessing the number of women intending to enter an abortion clinic opting to speak with protesters quietly praying the rosary. In contrast, those protests that were loud and included accusations of “baby-killer,” only drove the women away, causing them to hurry into the clinic or seek an alternate entrance. Respect breeds respect. Berating breeds contempt.

Listen to what others have to say
Genuinely listening is equally important, especially if the other person is directly affected by the moral issue at hand. Try to understand why someone might have reached a conclusion different from your own. Knowing someone’s perspective is invaluable as a tool for formulating your own response or, in some cases, postulating alternatives. 

A childhood friend of mine moved to Europe after divorcing her husband. She later called to tell me she was planning on re-marrying. I spent considerable time formulating arguments about why she should annul her first marriage so she could remarry in the church. Visiting her that summer, I took every opportunity I could to bring up the possibility of an annulment. 

On the last night, finally giving up, I asked nothing more than what she had learned from her first marriage. After an hour, she broke down and revealed to me she was a victim of domestic violence and threats (including after the marriage), and was terrified of contact with her ex-husband (hence, the move to Europe.) By listening, instead of trying to force a plan of action, I was able to understand her fears. With permission, after I returned to the U.S. I contacted diocesan representatives to explore the possibility of a one-party annulment, a process that is ongoing. The point is that I realized how easy it had been to condemn (or teeter on condemning) without understanding. With understanding, which is only possible by creating a safe space for dialogue, it is possible to be part of a healing process rather than inflicting more wounds.

Educate yourself
Broadening your scope of understanding shows you care enough to be widely informed rather than just a talking head for one side or the other. There is no shortage of information on the internet from a wide range of sources. Most importantly, find out where beliefs intersect, and where they diverge. The argument is in the disagreement, but if you at least recognize common ground (and minimize sources of contention) you are in a better position to reach each other.

On the opposing sides concerning moral appropriateness of gay relationships, for example, many people would be surprised to know the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (in formulating “Always our Children”) and mainstream medical, psychological and psychiatric organizations are in fundamental agreement that homosexuality is not a choice and not something that can be changed. There remains a lot of room for discussion, but these points alleviate the need to spend time discussing heated aspects of the issue on which there is general consensus. By showing you have sought information from opposing sources or sides, you gain credibility as well as understanding. 

Be candid about your own struggles
Pointing out (and hammering) the sins of others to ameliorate our own perceived moral failures is one of the greatest dangers to our own spiritual well-being. Exempting yourself from scrutiny while pointing fingers at everyone else is hypocritical and compromises your professed sincerity.

I have an aunt who refused to attend my cousin’s Protestant wedding. She adamantly vocalized her disapproval in front of my cousin and others. In her view, marriage by a Catholic without the church’s blessing was no marriage — the equivalent of living together without marriage. Fed up, my cousin confronted her. How could my aunt reconcile being a proponent (and former user) of birth control while using her version of church teaching to justify disapproving her niece’s wedding? Whatever the merits of either argument, there is wisdom in the biblical admonition to confront one’s own “beam in the eye” before analyzing someone else’s morality. Otherwise, we subject ourselves to being exposed and dismissed. (For those who might think they are outside the realm of disobeying magisterial teachings on sexuality, remember that sex outside of marriage, contraception, divorce, remarriage, masturbation and homosexuality all fall within the same range of church teachings on human sexuality.) 

This year, I encourage everyone to consider these terms of engagement and preserve their own “Christmas spirit.” If someone in the family gets the best of you nonetheless, there’s always eggnog.

Originally published 12/21/10.

December 22, 2011  Jesus washed His disciples feet. The Church needs to learn to serve again. You need to learn to serve instead of always wanting to be served.  December 21, 2011  As Christmas draws near remember: Jesus is coming, prepare the way.  December 19, 2011  Let go. It is the hardest thing to do.  December 18, 2011  I believe the greatest of all human sufferings is to feel alone. Visit someone this week who needs your company. You will bring the light of Christ to that person's life and you will learn more than you think.

Why Catholic

The Adult Catechism of the Catholic Church

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EWTN Live
2  Interviews 
with Fr Mitch Pacwa SJ

To view full screen click on the 4 dot icon at the end of the time bar  

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Events

JUSTICE & LIFE MINISTRY
Sacred Heart will host a bus trip to Washington, DC on January 23, 2012 for the peaceful March for Life. The bus will leave Sacred Heart parking lot at 7:00 AM and return approximately 10:00 PM. There will be a quick rest stop on the way down and a stop for dinner at the Golden Coral in Glen Bernie, Maryland on the way home. Dinner will be at your own expense. A donation of $25.00 for the cost of the bus trip is suggested. For additional information or to make reservation, please call Dotty by January 10, 2012 at 732-295-0862 or e-mail dmacchia1124@comcast.net.

Every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday
Public Witness and Prayer at abortion clinic
A serious concern has arisen in the Toms River area for which we ask your assistance. An abortion clinic has opened and is operating in the community. We will provide a prayerful presence at the American Women's Center, 651 Route 37 West, Toms River on Wed. from 4:30 to 6 pm, and Fri. and Sat, 1 pm to 5 pm. Feel free to arrive and depart as your schedule allows. If you would like more information, contact M. Sherry 732-350-5474 or E. Spirko at 732-350-7447.

Every Saturday
Pro-Life Prayer Witness
Please join representatives of a number of local respect life organizations at a brief weekly prayer witness at 9:45 a.m. each Saturday morning at the Planned Parenthood facility in Trenton at State and Clinton. We only recite the Rosary, so it is not a huge time commitment, and then we leave. If you would like to get a ride, please call 609-896-3206.

GIVE THE GIFT OF WARMTH

The Respect Life Ministry is once again collecting winter coats, jackets, hats and gloves for the needy through the month of October. These items may be brought to St. Vincent de Paul on Saturday mornings from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. 

This year we are also collecting blankets for the homeless and for our wounded servicemen and women in the hospital in Kandahar, Afghanistan. We are especially in need of men’s coats. We appreciate your past generosity and look forward to another year of “warmth for the needy”.

Each week we will be looking at other parish web sites and reporting back items of general interest to Visitation parishioners

HOLY HOUR
Join us in the Church for 
Holy Hour and Benediction 
FIRST FRIDAY NIGHT
January 6, 2012 7:00 to 8:00 PM

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COMMUNITY LUNCHEON
Visitation Parish will hold a free community Luncheon on the third Wednesday of each month from 12:00 to 1:00 PM in the Church Auditorium.  For additional information, please call Frank and Isabel Kronicz at 732-255-2835 if interested in helping.

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Mark your calendars for the following events being planned for 2011 

January 11 & 12
Catholicism Study Series
Episode 1

January 18 & 19
Catholicism Study Series
Episode 2

February 8 & 9
Catholicism Study Series
Episode 3

February 15 & 16
Catholicism Study Series
Episode 4

Watch the weekly Church Bulletin for details. Dates and events subject to change

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THRIFT STORE NEW DAYS AND HOURS
Our thrift store is NOW open Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday from 8:00 am to 12:00 noon. We will be closed on Saturday, December 31.
Stop in and see us. You never know what you may find. We hope to see you there!!!

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Tune in every First Friday and listen to "The Shepherd's Voice"

The Shepherd's Voice with Bishop David M. O'Connell airs on the First Friday of each month from 3:00 - 4:00 PM.  Bishop O'Connell begins the program with a teaching and a brief commentary.  Jim & Cheryl Manfredonia facilitate the hour as they open the telephone lines so listeners can call in and speak to the Bishop.  The program will repeat on First Friday night at 10:00 PM, the following Saturday at 4:00 PM, Sunday at 10:00 AM and Monday at 8:00 AM.  

Call in LIVE and speak with Bishop O'Connell at 609-882-9357 or 1-877-552-2488, or send a question by e-mail: question@domesticchurchmedia.org 

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Parish Registration
The Church of the Visitation is obliged to serve and minister to all baptized Catholics living in our local area. PLEASE REGISTER – it assists the staff in knowing you as a parishioner, providing for your needs, informing you of parish programs and activities, and utilizing your gifts and talents in service of the Church and one another. Envelopes for weekly contributions are available to you once you are registered. Please contact Deacon Sal Vicari at ext. 218 to registe

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R.C.I.A.  
Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults

Do you know of anyone who has not been baptized? Do you know anyone who would like to learn more about the Roman Catholic faith? What about someone who has been baptized in another Christian Church and wishes to enter into full communion in the Catholic Church? Maybe you know a baptized Catholic who has not completed all of their sacraments. Please take the time to mention to them about our process here at the Church of the Visitation. Our process welcomes all; anyone who is interested in an introduction into the Roman Catholic Church, its faith and life. Please contact Dale Zanetti at ex. 214 for more information or for any questions you might have.

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We are excited to inform you that On-Line Giving is now available. As a church that seeks to serve, we wanted to provide /you the convenience of being able to give the way you want, whenever you want. Online Giving offers you the opportunity to make secure, automatic contributions from your bank or credit card account to our Visitation bank account. Online Giving costs you nothing and provides many advantages to you:

•  No check writing or ATM stops before church

• ·Safe, secure, and confidential

• ·Use your checking, savings, or credit card

• ·Schedule recurring or one-time donations

• ·Change a gift or account any time you like

• ·Choose offertory, special funds, pledges

• ·Earn rewards through your credit card

As we begin this new program, you may notice your neighbors placing “I Gave Online” offertory cards into the collection basket instead of traditional envelopes. You will be able to pick up one of our “I Gave Online” cards on your way into church and use that at offertory time if you still want to place something in the offertory basket.

We ask that you consider using this service—especially if you currently manage your bills or banking online. To sign up click the Online Giving symbol above,  For more information, call Vicki at 732-477-0028 216.

However you choose to give your time, talent, and treasure, we thank you! Visitation’s facilities and ministries thrive only with your  help.

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WE ASK THAT YOU PLEASE DO NOT TALK IN CHURCH. SOME ARE PREPARING FOR MASS WHILE OTHERS ARE GIVING THANKS. PLEASE TURN OFF ALL CELL PHONES WHILE IN THE CHURCH WORSHIP SPACE. THANK YOU AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU.

CHURCH COURTESY
Often in church we lack the simple signs of courtesy to one another that we would normally show to anyone anywhere. Here are some examples: When someone comes to sit in the row where we are, why make them climb over us instead of moving in? When we come to church why stand against the wall even when we are asked to take a seat? Why do we pass the Eucharist without some sign of reverence or respect? Either a bow or a genuflection would show the proper respect, demonstrate faith in the presence of the Lord, and be a sign of reverence for the real presence of Jesus in the tabernacle

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