Weekly Letter from the Pastor

As Advent is a time of spiritual preparation for the coming Christmas
Season, the Sacrament of Penance (or Confession or Reconciliation if you
will) should be a part of our journey. This Sunday we are offering
Confessions beginning at 3pm. With multiple priests in attendance, it is a
good opportunity for the entire family to come together. There is no
accompanying prayer service and the lines do move fairly quickly. 
As we are rushing now towards Christmas, there are many events
happening. This coming Thursday we are hosting one of the Masses for the
Simbang Gabi Novena sponsored by the Filipino community. Please feel
free to join us at 7pm for this celebration. 

While we have yet to see the first day of winter, it is not too early now to
think about the Summer Religious Education Academy. Pre-planning
details are in the bulletin, although registration does not open until January.
Start making your plans now. Please contact the Faith Formation office if
you have questions.

Likewise, for those of you with school age children, the Open House for St.
Benedict School is coming quickly as well. Catholic Schools Week is
January 28.

This week is the delivery of the Christmas gifts through the RAINE
foundation. While the need is great, the response has been even greater.
Thank you so much for your generous outpouring for the season. 
This week is also the time for the school pageants and celebrations, so
there will be much excitement around the building. Our last day of school is
on Friday this week. Our teachers, staff, and students will all enjoy a much
needed two-week break. We pray that everyone travels safely and enjoys
their holidays.

As Christmas approaches, please check the Mass schedule for the holy
days. Masses on Christmas Eve: the Children’s Christmas Pageant
followed by the Children’s Liturgy at 3:30 pm in the Gym; Mass at 4, 6, and
8:00 pm in the Church. Choir Christmas Concert at 11:30 pm followed by
Mass at Midnight. On Christmas Day, Masses are celebrated at 9:00 and
11:00 am. Weekend Masses as per usual. January 1, is the Feast of the
Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, a Holy Day of Obligation. Masses will be
celebrated on December 31 at 5:00 pm and January 1 at 9:00 am. 
This is Rose Sunday -- we celebrate with joy, knowing that Christmas
draws ever near.
Have a blessed week,
Father Garry