Fr. Mike's Communication for Dec 26, 2021

Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord & Feast of the Holy Family
December 25-26, 2021

And suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel,
praising God and saying:
“Glory to God in the highest
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

~ Luke 2:13-14

Merry Christmas!

On the first Christmas, only a few rag-tag shepherds noticed; Jesus’ entrance definitely lacked the pomp and glory worthy of a newborn King. But your presence this Christmas helps correct humanity’s misstep. To properly recognize the spectacular miracle of God coming to dwell with us, requesting to breathe new life into every part of our lives. Christmas reminds us of Jesus’ intention. To be welcomed into our homes, parish community, and world. Thank you for accepting our Lord’s offer by being here to worship and being part of our parish family. Your presence strengthens our mission – to bear witness to the world of the promises of new life in Jesus!

I need for you to know that our parish staff is eager to support you, our parishioners, and your families so that you may grow in your love of Christ and live with intention. The very goal of our discipleship pathway Four is to provide a path to joy and purpose in Jesus. At the heart of FOUR are words spoken by the one who knows you best and made you – Jesus himself. Belong, “Come and See.” (John 1:39): connecting with the community of the faithful and establishing friendships, Believe, “Who do you say that I am?” (Matthew 16:15): celebrating the sacraments, worshiping the Lord, and studying the faith we profess, Become, “Follow me.” (Matthew 9:9): appreciating our identity as beloved daughters and sons of God and accepting our particular vocations from the Lord, and Beyond, “Go, Make Disciples.” (Matthew 28:19): generously offering ourselves, our time and treasures in care and compassion of others. We often include a four logo with a corresponding color indicating what part of the pathway an offering at the parish encourages. We do this so you can benefit from these FOUR experiences, no matter what part of the discipleship pathway you are traveling. We hope that all parishioners take advantage of our discipleship pathway, a simple, straightforward way of living out the plan and purpose for your life so that you can transform your life and the world. It has been our absolute privilege to journey with you!

Please join us as we celebrate the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God, and usher in a New Year together. Our Vigil Mass will be Friday, December 31 at 7 pm, in the Church with Adoration to follow from 8 pm to midnight and then a candlelit Mass at midnight. On New Years’ Day, Mass is offered at 9 am for the Solemnity (and that evening as usual at 4:30 pm as we begin our celebration of the Epiphany). To coincide with Adoration, Reconciliation will be offered from 8:30 pm to 10:30 pm on December 31.

Finally, I pray that we never forget the gift offered to us on Christmas – Jesus. Our newborn King wants to dwell with us, forever! Let us remain committed to bringing about the world He intended, a place of warmth and life, hope and love.

May God bless you this Christmas!

Some considerations:

The OLPH St. Vincent Ministry says, ” Thank you! “ On behalf of the OLPH St. Vincent team, we would like to thank the parish for their generous support toward Grassroots, St. Veronica, St. Wenceslaus, SALT, The Franciscan Center, and Sarah’s Hope this Christmas season. We collected 211 gift cards and 293 wrapped gifts, which were all delivered to or picked up by each organization between December 12th and 14th.
Post Abortion Recovery Group – The Columbia Pregnancy Center offers a 9-week session for women who have had an abortion and desire to explore the healing and mercy Jesus offers. This is a confidential group to share your experience with other women who have also had an abortion. As unresolved grief can cause stress, anxiety, or depression we hope you will take this step toward peace, call or text today 410-730-3223.
Playbook for the Spiritual Life: Ignatius’ 14 Rules for Discernment – St Ignatius of Loyola gave us 14 Rules to show us how becoming aware, understanding, and taking action in our spiritual lives makes all the difference in whether we grow or fizzle. And Fr Timothy Gallagher and Coach Mike Gutelius are here to help us apply those rules to our real lives. Access Playbook for the Spiritual Life, visit https://setusablaze.tv/

St. Joseph, pray for us.
Live Jesus in our hearts, forever.

Rev. Michael S. Triplett