Scroll down to see earlier bulletins of 2009.  Click HERE to see bulletins from last year

THE HOLY FAMILY OF JESUS, MARY, AND JOSEPH
December 27, 2009

May you have the spirit of Christmas which is PEACE the gladness of Christmas which is HOPE and the heart of Christmas which is LOVE

Birth and Dedication of Samuel
“As surely as your live, my Lord, I am the woman who stood here beside you praying to the Lord. I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he will be given over to the Lord.”
(1 Samuel 1:26-28)
What in your life gives a sense of self-worth? My children, my job, my education, I am not sure anything does, or the people I spend time with…
Have you or your parents made a vow?

“How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty”!
(Psalm 84: 1)
With whom do you feel “at home”? Why? What do you like to do to make someone feel “at home” with you?

Love One Another
“…this is his command: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us…”
(1 John 3: 23)
If you were to consciously practice “Jesus-like” love this week for a particular “brother,” how would you show it in your family, church, work, community, politics?
Toward those you don’t like?

The Boy Jesus at the Temple
“Every year his parents went to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover…”
(Luke 2: 41)
What was your best family trip? Ever get lost as a child? What happened?
How much does Jesus seem to know about his mission? How much do his parents know? Why do you think Luke included this episode of Jesus’ life?

Hannah and Elkanah offer their son, Samuel, to God in the Lord’s temple. Mary and Joseph find Jesus in the temple. He returns to Nazareth, obedient to them.

CONFESSIONS:
By request or appointment
BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:
Call the office for an appointment.
For Pregnancy Support:
Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

 
MASS INTENTIONS
Dec 26 to Jan 1, 2010
Saturday    5:00 p.m.  Alex Pelfrey
Sunday     10:00 a.m.  + John Shevenell
Tuesday       9:00 a.m. Communion Services
Thursday      8:00 a.m.  Communion Services
Friday        10:00 a.m.  Evangelina Diaz

The Holy Innocents, Martyrs
The massacre of the Innocents bears witness to the blood of Jesus which cleanses us from sin and frees us from death.
Monday, December 28 the feast of the Holy Innocents, we prayers for the innocent who have perished through abortion, starvation, and war.

Friday January 1st Octave of Christmas
The Blessed Virgin Mary Mother of God
Mass at 10:00 a.m.

  A New Year Blessing

Beannacht for Josie

On the day when the weight deadens on your shoulders and you stumble, may the clay dance to balance you.
And when your eyes freeze behind they grey window and the ghost of loss gets into you, may a flock of colours, indigo, red, green and azure blue, come to awaken in you a meadow of delight.
When the canvas frays in the currach of thought and a stain of ocean blackens beneath you, may there come across the waters a path of yellow moonlight to bring you safely home.
May the nourishment of the earth be yours, may the clarity of light be yours, may the fluency of the ocean be yours, may the protection of the ancestors be yours. And so may a slow wind work these words of love around you, an invisible cloak to mind your life.

(From A Book of Blessings by John O’Donohue)

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT
December 20, 2009

It is the beautiful task of Advent to awaken in all of us memories of goodness and thus to open doors of hope.
Pope Benedict XVI

A Promised Rule from Bethlehem
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, through you are small among the rules of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are of old, from ancient times.”
(Micah 5: 2)

What good things have come to you in “small packages”? Who is this rule from Bethlehem: King David, Christ Jesus or both? What will he do for his people?
Restore us, O Lord God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved.
(Psalm 80: 19)

God will protect and save us!

Christ’s Sacrifice Once for All

“With burnt offerings and sin offerings you were not pleased. Then I said, ‘Here I am-it is written about me in the scroll- I have come to do your will, O God.”
(Hebrews 10: 6-7)

How did Jesus’ once-and-for-all sacrifice make future sacrifices unnecessary?
Jesus offering himself once and for all in doing the Father’s will!

Mary Visits Elizabeth
“When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb…”
(Luke 1: 41)
Who do you call first when you have special news to share?
Born of Mary the servant of the Lord!

CONFESSIONS:
By request or appointment
BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:
Call the office for an appointment.
For Pregnancy Support:
Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS
December 19 - 25
Saturday    5:00 p.m.  Alex Pelfrey
Sunday  10:00 a.m. +  John Shevenell
                                      Alex Pelfrey
Tuesday 9:00 a.m. +  Kenneth Duncan
Wednesday  8:00 a.m.    Alex Pelfrey
Thursday 5:00 p.m. + Katherine Hanley
Friday         10:00 a.m.  Evangelina Diaz
                                       Alex Pelfrey

December 23 – Wednesday
7:00 pm – Prayer, Adoration and Rosary

Sacrament of Reconciliations (Confessions)
Wednesday 23rd 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm &
Thursday 24th 9:00 am to 9:30 am

  The Christmas Season

The Christmas season extends from the Mass of the Vigil of Christmas through the Baptism of the Lord, Sunday,
 10 January 2010

God has spoken to us through his Son, the Word made flesh. Thus has salvation been revealed to all the nations!

May you have the spirit of Christmas which is PEACE
The gladness of Christmas which is HOPE
And the heart of Christmas which is LOVE
Christ’s peace, hope and love enfold you today and evermore.
A Blessed Christmas!

December 24 -Thursday
VIGIL OF CHRISTMAS Mass
 At 5:00 p.m.

December 25 - Friday:
The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas)
Mass at 10:00 a.m.

Thank you!
For the flowers offerings, for the Christmas tree, for all the work of art and decorations. For lectors, ministers of the Eucharist, music, the children on the Pageant, all the persons work very hard for the Parish. Thank you for your presence – you together make the Christmas Season  2009-2010.

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT
December 13, 2009

It is the beautiful task of Advent to awaken in all of us memories of goodness and thus to open doors of hope.
Pope Benedict XVI

The Future of Jerusalem
“Be glad and rejoice with all your heart, O Daughter of Jerusalem! The Lord has taken away your punishment; he has turned back your enemy.”
(Zephaniah 3: 14-15)
What will be the cause for their rejoicing “on your days”?
Which of God’s actions do you believe would make the people most glad, but seem “too good to be true”?
The Lord will rejoice over you with gladness!

“The Lord, the Lord, is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.”
(Isaiah 12: 2)
How would you share good news with a loved one: Phone? Write a letter? E-mail? Sing a song?
How well does your joy match your walk and your talk for God?
Exhortations
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near!
(Philippians 4: 4-5)
Who makes peace in your family? How does he or she do it?

John the Baptist Prepares the Way
“What should we do then?” the crowd asked.
(Luke 3: 10)
When people come to John asking, “What should we do?” he gives them the most reasonable, commonsense reply. He says in effect, “Live reality. God asking you to be faithful to the ordinary circumstances of your life. He will make himself evident there” And with that advice, “the people were filled with expectation, asking in their hearts whether John might be the Christ.”
All because John made them attentive to their own hearts in a way that neglected nothing of their humanity. They can exult with all their heart because now they can trust that the desires of their heart are not illusions. They have no anxiety, for the Lord is as near as the next moment and whatever it brings.

CONFESSIONS:
By request or appointment
BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:
Call the office for an appointment.
For Pregnancy Support:
Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

Wisdom, O holy Word of God, you govern all creation with your strong yet tender care. God and show your people the way to salvation.
Advent Antiphon, Liturgy of the Hours

Saturday    5:00 p.m.   +  Gérard Chapurs
                    7:00 p.m.  For the migration reform
Sunday     10:00 a.m.   +  Cecily Olsen
Tuesday       9:00 a.m.      Alex Pelfrey
Wednesday  8:00 a.m.      Alex Pelfrey
Thursday     8:00 a.m.       Alex Pelfrey
Friday          8:00 a.m.       Alex Pelfrey

December 16th Wednesday at 7:00 p.m.
The “Posada” it commemorates the events in the journey of Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem.
Candles, music, prayers, saints, open doors, good food and piñata!!!
Please come and bring ALL the family!

STEWARDSHIP
This season celebrates the coming of our Savior. Stewards wait in joyful anticipation for God’s Word to continue to change the world. Stewards share this joy as they work as disciples in support of the Church’s mission of proclaiming, teaching, serving, and sanctifying.

STRUDEL SALE
 Strudel will be ready to be picked up after up Mass on Dec. 12/13.
Questions - call Andrea Bruna 408 353-3101.

ADVENT 2009 

   Events for the Parish – December

 December 19 - Saturday

 Go to Greenfield to deliver the gifts to the people in need and connect with them.

December 23 – Wednesday

 7:00 pm - Prayer, Adoration and Rosary

The Christmas Pageant
Children wishing to participate in the Christ Pageant should stay after Mass on December 20th, for the rehearsal and to pick up costumes.

The Christmas Season
December 24 -Thursday - 5:00 pm
VIGIL OF CHRISTMAS MASS

December 25 – Friday – 10:00 am
The Nativity of the Lord
(Christmas) Mass

Thank you! The gifts of food from the people of Christ Child and the mountains to own pantry was amazing, we filled our shelves with soups, peanut butter, pasta, canned fruits & vegetables…With gratitude!
From Saint Francis Soup Kitchen and the Pantry of Holy Cross

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT
December 6, 2009

It is the beautiful task of Advent to awaken in all of us memories of goodness and thus to open doors of hope.
Pope Benedict XVI

God Will Comfort Jerusalem
“Jerusalem, take off the clothes that show you are sad and mourning. Put on the beautiful clothes of God’s bright glory and never take them off! Wear the robe of God’s justice and crown of his eternal power.”
(Baruch 5: 1-2)
What are the better clothes for Christmas?
You received the clothes in the Church the clothes of glory, justice and power!
Jerusalem, God will show your splendor.

“The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.”
(Psalm 126: 3)

Has God ever done something so great you had to pinch yourself to see if you were dreaming?
How does God tend to answer your prayers: A flash flood or a long plating season?

Thanksgiving and Prayer
“In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now…”
(Philippians 1: 4-5)
What are Saint Paul’s feelings for this church? What does that show about his leadership style?  What qualities are important in fellowship?
Why?

To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul; in you I trust, O my God.” (Psalm 25:1-2)
What are you most in need of today: protection, guidance or forgiveness? Do you feel you will receive it? Why or why not?

John the Baptist Prepares the Way
“… The word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the desert. He went in to all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.”
(Luke 3: 2-3)
Who have been “John the Baptists” in your life- people who have show you the way, led you to Christ, encouraged you, and give you a kick in the pants?
What would John say you could do specifically to show Christian love and repentance?
What one action will you take this week to “produce fruit in keeping with your repentance”?

CONFESSIONS:
By request or appointment
BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:
Call the office for an appointment.
For Pregnancy Support:
Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS
December 5 - 11
Saturday    5:00 p.m. + Norman Leo Boisvert
Sunday     10:00 a.m. + Leslie R. Olsen
Tuesday       9:00 a.m. + Nathaniel Van Tuly
               7:00 p.m. For the Parishioner
Wednesday  8:00 a.m.                                   
Thursday      9:00 a.m.  Cindy & Jerry Boisvert
Friday  8:00 a.m.                             

 Tuesday December 8
Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Masses 9:00 am and 7:00 pm
After the 7:00 pm Mass we will have Adoration with the Blessed Sacrament of the Altar! FOR LIFE!!!
(Holy Day of Obligation)

STRUDEL SALE
Christmas STRUDEL sign up will take place after Mass on Nov. 28 & 29, and Dec. 6. Strudel will be ready to be picked up after up Mass on Dec. 12/13. Questions-Contact Andrea Bruna 408 353-3101.

   Events for the Parish December Advent

December 12 - Saturday

Our Lady of Guadalupe

Masses at 5:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.  

CHRISTMAS PARTY AFTER 7PM MASS (Pot luck)

  December 16 - Wednesday

 7:00 p.m.   The “Posada”

December 19 - Saturday

 Go to Greenfield to deliver the gifts to the people in need and connect with them.

December 23 Wednesday 7:00 pm

Prayer, Adoration and Rosary

The Christmas Season
December 24 -Thursday
VIGIL OF CHRISTMAS Mass
 At 5:00 p.m.

December 25 - Friday:
The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas)
Mass at 10:00 a.m.

FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT
November 29, 2009

It is the beautiful task of Advent to awaken in all of us memories of goodness and thus to open doors of hope.
Pope Benedict XVI

ADVENT
Advent has a two-fold character: as a season to prepare for Christmas when Christ’s first coming to us is remembered, and as a season when that remembrance directs our mind and heart to await Christ’s second coming at the end of time. Advent thus is a period of devout and joyful expectation.

Promise of Restoration
“The days are coming, declares the Lord…”
(Jeremiah 33:14)
This may be a good time to take inventory of your family’s loyalty to its covenant. Where have you found covenant has the family let you down? How can you renew your covenant with God, your family, your life…?

“To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul; in you I trust, O my God.” (Psalm 25:1-2)
What are you most in need of today: protection, guidance or forgiveness? Do you feel you will receive it? Why or why not?

Living to Please God
“…Sisters and brothers, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus.”
(1 Thessalonians 4: 1-2)
In what ways will a lifestyle that bears witness to God affect human sexuality? Work relationships?

Signs of the End of the Age
“Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.”
What should be the attitude of believers when they see the Son of Man coming?
What will you do this week to become better at watching and praying?

CONFESSIONS:
By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS
Call the office for an appointment

.
For Pregnancy Support:
Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS
Nov. 28 – Dec. 4
Saturday    5:00 p.m. + Josephine O’Mahar
                                     + Michael Rada
Sunday     10:00 a.m. + Nathaniel Van Tuly
Tuesday       9:00 a.m. + Nathaniel Van Tuly
Wednesday  8:00 a.m. + Aurelio Arámburo
Thursday     9:00 a.m.  + Barry Weber
Friday          8:00 a.m.    

SAVE The DATE!
WORLD YOUTH DAY 2011
Please join the Diocese of Monterey as we prepare to celebrate World Youth Day (WYD) 2011 - please contact Fr. Eugenio 353.2210

“O God of all the nations of the earth: Remember the multitudes who have been created in your image, and who yet do not know the fullness of your truth and love in the death of your Son Jesus Christ. Grant that by the prayers and labors of your church they may be… brought to worship you through your Son our Savior Jesus Christ.
(December 3 Saint Francis Xavier)

STRUDEL SALE
Christmas STRUDEL sign up will take place after Mass on Nov. 28 & 29, and Dec. 6. Strudel will be ready to be picked up after up Mass on Dec. 12/13. Questions-Contact Andrea Bruna 408 353-3101.

ADVENT 2009
Events for the Parish - December

December 2 - Wednesday at 7:00 p.m.
Advent Penance Service

December 5 & 6 Saturday & Sunday
During Mass - Anointing of the Sick 

December 8 - Tuesday
Mass: The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Mass at 9:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.
After Mass - Adoration for Life
(Holy Day of obligation) 

December 9 -Wednesday
Men's Club at 6:30 p.m. 

 December 12 - Saturday
Our Lady of Guadalupe
Masses at 5:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.
Christmas Party after 7 p.m. Mass (Pot luck)

December 16 - Wednesday
 7:00 p.m.   The “Posada” 

December 19 - Saturday
 Go to Greenfield to deliver the gifts to the people in need and connect with them. 

December 23 Wednesday 7:00 pm
Prayer, Adoration and Rosary

THE CHRISTMAS SEASON

December 24 -Thursday
VIGIL OF CHRISTMAS Mass
 at 5:00 p.m.

December 25 - Friday:
The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas)
Mass at 10:00 a.m.

OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST
 THE KING
(34th and the last Sunday of Ordinary Time)
November 22, 2009

 The Book of Daniel
Daniel is written in the context of the exile. It seeks to evoke a commitment to God’s law amongst the people of God who is suffering persecution (even unto death). Daniel beckons them to awaken and prepare for the unexpected intervention of God into world affairs.
“In my vision at night I looked, one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven… He was given authority, glory a sovereigns power; all people, nations and human beings…”
(Daniel 7:13-14)
What are the coming kingdom and its heavenly leader like?
What does this emphasize to you about Jesus Christ? Why is it significant to you that he like this?

“The Lord reigns, he is robed in majesty… the world is firmly established; it cannot be moved.” 
(Psalm 93:1)

Is it sometimes hard to believe that God controls nature and history? What does this belief imply? What might obscure it?

Revelation
Apocalyptic writing (which involves the unveiling of the future events) was commonly used by Jewish authors at this time in history. Revelation was written during a time of Roman oppression, probably during Domitian’s reign (A.D. 90-95).
“To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom an priests to serve his God and Father – to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.”
(Revelation 1:5-6)
What three things does Christ do for us?

Jesus before Pilate
“Pilate said to Jesus, ‘Are you the King of the Jews?”
(John 18: 33)
His kingdom is everlasting, a kingdom of cosmic dimensions.

CONFESSIONS:
By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:
Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:
Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS November 21 - 27

Saturday    5:00 p.m. + Gerard Chapuis
Sunday   10:00 a.m. + Antonio & Alix Pitré
Tuesday   9:00 a.m.  Wilkinson’s Family     
Wednesday  8:00 a.m                                
Thursday     9:00 a.m.   The parishioners
    Friday          8:00 a.m.    Evangelina Díaz

“I believe, O Lord, but strengthen my faith. Heart of Jesus, I love you, but increase my love. Heart of Jesus, I trust you, but give vigor to my confidence.” 
Blessed Miguel Agustín Pro, priest, martyr

STRUDEL SALE
It’s that time of year again! The Christ Child Ladies, led by Gina Boisvert, will be making delicious apple strudels for your enjoyment. We are taking orders this week-end and give to you for Thanksgiving Day.  They are $25 and all proceeds go to advance our Christ Child picnic area development. Also, if anyone would care to help us out by donating apples, we need only Granny Smith (tar green) or if you’d like to join us to make them please contact Jeanette Roberts at 352-1801.

THANKSGIVING DAY
From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another.
 (John 1:16)
Thursday November 26 Mass at 9:00 a.m.

ADVENT 2009

   “It is the beautiful task of Advent to awaken in all of us memories of goodness and thus to open doors of hopes.”
                                                                                     Pope Benedict XVI                       

Events for the Parish  - December

 The book of Magnificat Advent Companion for everybody; prayer and reflections.

December 2 at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday:    Advent Penance Service Wednesday         

 December 5 & 6 Saturday & Sunday: During Mass - Anointing of the Sick

 December 8 - Tuesday: Mass of Immaculate Conception 9:00 a.m. & 7:00 a.m. After Mass - Adoration.

December 9 - Wednesday: Men’s Club at 6:30 p.m.           

December 12 - Saturday: Our Lady of Guadalupe Masses at 5:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. CHRISTMAS PARTY AFTER 7PM MASS

December 16 - Wednesday: 7:00 p.m.   The “Posada”

December 19 - Saturday:  Go to Greenfield to deliver the gifts to the people in need and connect with them.

December 23 Wednesday 7:00 pm Prayer, Adoration and Rosary

THIRTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY
November 15, 2009

The End Times
“At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then…”
(Daniel 12: 1)
Verses 1-4 sound almost like a “Good news / Bad news” joke if the subject matter weren’t so serious. (Which do you want to hear first?)
For Daniel and his readers, what is the good news?  What is the bad news?
This is the first and only use of the term “everlasting life” in the Old Testament. What does that tell you about what most Jews in Daniel’s day believed (or didn’t believe) about life after death?
Pretend this was the first time you have ever heard such a doctrine: What questions would you have? Imagine, too, you are one of those who lose their life in the “distress” or coming persecution. What comfort do you find here?

“You are my in heritance, O Lord!
You will show me the path of life, fullness of joy in your presence…”
(Psalm 16:5, 11)

Christ’s Sacrifice Once for All
“…Since that time Christ waits placing his enemies under his feet, because by one sacrifice Christ has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.”
(Hebrews 10:13-14)
Do you live your life as if you were being made holy? Why or why not? In what way is God calling you to practice greater holiness?

Signs of the End of the Age
“JESUS said ‘to us:’ In those days, following that distress, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its lights…Ant that time ‘you’ will see the Son of Man coming… No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”
(Mark 13: 24, 26, 32)
What is the most exciting thing to you about the Second Coming? The most distressing? What questions would you like to ask Jesus about it?
Those whose names are in the Book shall live forever in light and joy!

CONFESSIONS:
By request or appointment
BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:
Call the office for an appointment.
For Pregnancy Support:
Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

Saturday    5:00 p.m. Matt Stair
Sunday     10:00 a.m. +  Vergil & Donna
                      Kennel 60th Wedding Anniversary
Monday       8:00 a.m. + Balbina García Peral
Tuesday       9:00 a.m. + Balbina García Peral
Wednesday  8:00 a.m.  Faithful Departed
Thursday     8:00 a.m.   Faithful Departed
Friday          8:00 a.m.   Faithful Departed

SAVE The DATE!
WORLD YOUTH DAY 2011
Please join the Diocese of Monterey as we prepare to celebrate World Youth Day (WYD) 2011 - please contact Fr. Eugenio 353.2210

It is by the path of love, which is charity that GOD draws near to human beings and human being to GOD.               St. Albert the Great

STRUDEL SALE
It’s that time of year again! The Christ Child Ladies, led by Gina Boisvert, will be making delicious apple strudels for your enjoyment. We will begin taking orders this week-end (14th – 15th) for pick-up next week-end (21st- 22nd). They are $25 and all proceeds go to advance our Christ Child picnic area development. Also, if anyone would care to help us out by donating apples, we need only Granny Smith (tar green) or if you’d like to join us to make them please contact Jeanette Roberts at 352-1801.

THANKSGIVING DAY
Individuals, families and parish we praise what wonders God has done!  Let us thank the God who heals us and calls us to communion with Christ. Please come to celebrated together with the MASS this
November 26 Thursday at 9:00 p.m.

Within my heart a place prepare, O Lord, to meet and greet you there!
COME LORD JESUS!

THIRTY-SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
November 8, 2009

The Widow at Zarephath
“Elijah the prophet went to Zarephath. He called to widow and asked, ‘Would you bring me a little water in a jar so I may have a drink? And bring me please, a piece of bread.”
(1Kings 17: 10-11)
Where does God send him and why?
If you were the widow, how would you have responded to Elijah’s request?
Do you have any ‘impossible’ requests to bring before the Lord?

“The Lord watches ever the alien and sustains the fatherless and the widow, but is frustrated by the ways of the wicked.”
Praise the Lord!
(Psalm 146: 9-10)
Who should the oppressed trust: Princes? Divine intervention? Human intervention inspired by God? Their own actions?

“Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.”
(Hebrews 9: 28)
In telling others that Christ died to take away their sins, what responses do you get: Lazy indifference?  Sincere gratitude?  Zealous devotion?  What would help your message to have more impact?
In Jesus, God became poor for us, offering himself to take away our sins!

The Widow’s Offering
“…But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny.”
(Mark 12:42)
What is Jesus’ point in contrasting their situation with that of the poor widow? When is “more” actually “less”? When is a “little” a “lot”?
Why do you give to God’s work?
What do you give beside money?
Her generosity is mirrored in the widow in the temple, who gives from her poverty and not from power, privilege, or excess.

CONFESSIONS:
By request or appointment
BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:
Call the office for an appointment.
For Pregnancy Support:
Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS November 7 - 13
Saturday    5:00 p.m. + Thomas O’Mahar
Sunday     10:00 a.m. +  Cecily Olsen
Tuesday       9:00 a.m.    Wilkinson’s Family
Wednesday  8:00 a.m.
Thursday     8:00 a.m.
Friday          8:00 a.m.  

SAVE The DATE! WORD YOUTH DAY 2011
Please join the Diocese of Monterey as we prepare to celebrate World Youth Day (WYD) 2011 if you interest please contact Fr. Eugenio 353.2210

Stewardship gives us the power to change how we live our lives.
 How we use our time can change our life.
Stewards can use time to further the kingdom of God by worshiping and praying together as a family, studying Scripture or simply spending time with family members.

STRUDEL SALE
It’s that time of year again! The Christ Child Ladies, led by Gina Boisvert, will be making delicious apple strudels for your enjoyment. We will begin taking orders this week-end (14th – 15th) for pick-up next week-end (21st- 22nd). They are $25 and all proceeds go to advance our Christ Child picnic area development. Also, if anyone would care to help us out by donating apples, we need only Granny Smith (tar green) or if you’d like to join us to make them please contact Jeanette Roberts at 352-1801.

 
Religious Education - Children
Please bring your children!
Classes for Grades 1 to 8 – Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m.

Communion with the Dead
In full consciousness of this communion of the whole Mystical Body of Jesus Christ, the Church in its pilgrim members, from the very earliest days of the Christian religion, has honored with great respect the memory of the dead; and because it is a holy and a wholesome thought to pray for the dead that they may be loosed from their sins’ she offers her suffrages for them. Our prayer for them is capable not only of helping them, but also of making their intercession for us effective.

CHRISTMAS PARTY of the PARISH
December 12 Saturday 7:00 PM

ALL SAINTS
November 1, 2009

First mentioned in the 4th century Eastern feast of All Martyrs (13 May) and attested to by Saint Ephrem of Edessa (+ 373), this feast came to be celebrated on other days as well in the East, e.g., Easter Friday, and the Sunday after Pentecost, the day of its observance in some places in the West. In 609 or 610, the Roman Pantheon was dedicated on 13 May under the title Saint Maria ad Martyres.
Many see in this the origin of All Saints Day. For reasons which are unclear, Pope Gregory IV (827-844) transferred the feast from May to 1 November, adopting perhaps the English-Gallican practice dating from the first quarter of the 8th century/

The Seals
“Then I saw another angel coming up from east, having the seal of the living God.”
(Revelation 7: 2)
How have you sensed God’s protection in the last six months?
What sort of seal has God placed on your life? How is this seal evident to others?
The Great Multitude in White Robes
“After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.”
(Revelation 7: 9)
What piece of clothing (bathrobe, tennis togs, toga, 3-piece suit, jeans, etc.) do you feel expresses your personality best?
How do you feel when wearing it?
What’s the significance of the white robes, the palm branches, and the washing?

“Such is the generation of those who seek you Lord; who seek your face, O God…”
(Psalm 24: 6)

Children of God
 “Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known.”
(1 John 3: 2)
Sing of the love the Father has bestowed upon them through the blood of the Lamb.

The Beatitudes
“Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them, saying…)
(Matthew 5: 1-2)
Poor in Spirit = Self-Acceptance
Mourn = Empathy
Meek = Gentleness
Spiritual Hunger = Spirituality
Merciful = Sensitivity
Pure in Heart = Transparency
Peacemaker = Peacemaking
Persecution = Endurance
Of these eight qualities, which two do you desire most in your life? Why? Who in your family or friends do you associate with each?

CONFESSIONS:
By request or appointment
BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:
Call the office for an appointment.
For Pregnancy Support:
Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS October 31 – Nov. 6

Saturday    5:00 p.m. + Roby O’Mahar
                                    + Luella Demeks
Sunday     10:00 a.m. + Leslie R. Olsen
                                    + Luella Demeks  
Monday      9:00 a.m.    All Souls
                    7:00 p.m.    All Souls
Tuesday       9:00 a.m.    Wilkinson’s Family
Wednesday  9:00 a.m.
Thursday     8:00 a.m.
Friday          8:00 a.m.  

A Stewardship Moment
Speak to the whole Israelite community and tell them: Be holy, for I, the Lord, your God, am holy. (Leviticus 19:2)
All holiness flows from God’s holiness. Jesus Christ, God’s only begotten Son, is the wealth of his house; the Spirit pouring out upon the world through his death and resurrection is the stream of God’s delight and the source of life. These gifts of God’s love are what make human beings holy.

 Last Second Collection for Maintenance of the Parish was $ 571.00

 
Nov. 2 Monday: The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls)
Masses at 9:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.
Please use the envelope to inscribe the name of your beloved dead who will be remembered in prayer of the masses during this month.

THIRTIETH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

October 25, 2009

Restoration of Israel

“They will come with weeping; they will pray as I bring them back. I will lead them beside streams of water on a level path where they will not stumble, because I am Israel’s father, and Ephraim is my firstborn son.”

(Jeremiah 31:9)

What is the best news you heard last week? What made it so special?

An “oracle of consolation” regarding the restoration of Israel finds its fulfillment in the person of Jesus, our merciful high priest.

“The Lord has done great things for them.” “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.”

(Psalm 126: 2-3)

Has God ever done something so great you had to pinch yourself to see if you were dreaming? How does God tend to answer your prayers: A flash flood or a long planting season?

Jesus the Great High Priest

“Every high priest is selected from among men and is appointed to represent them in matters related to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins.”

(Hebrews 5:1)

Through Him, with Him, in Him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honor is yours, almighty Father, for ever and ever. Amen.

Blind Bartimaeus His Sight

“Jesus stopped and said, ‘Call him.’ So they called to the blind man, ‘Cheer up! On your feet! He’s calling you.’ Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet and came to Jesus.”

(Mark 10: 49 -50)

How do you respond when a beggar approaches you on the street? Why?

About the way this beggar is treated by the crowd? How does he evidence faith (while the crowd does not)?

If Jesus asked you, ‘What do you want me to do for you? What would you said? What would be your part and God’s part in fulfilling your desire?

His healing of the blind man, witnesses to the inauguration of the kingdom!

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS October 24 – 30

A Stewardship Moment

After healing the blind man Jesus told him to go, to be on his way. But the man decided to follow Jesus. Being a disciple of Jesus is a choice. The stewardship way of life likewise involves a choice, in fact many choices. We choose to be grateful, we choose live generously, and we choose to trust that God will always provide for our needs. These are three choices central to the stewardship way of life.

 Last Second Collection for WORLD MISSION SUNDAY was $ 652.00

TWENTY-FIRST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

August 23, 2009

“Then Joshua assembled all the tribes of Israel at Shechem. He summoned the elders, leaders, judges and officials of Israel, and they presented themselves before God.”

(Joshua 24: 1- 2a)

The Covenant Renewed at Shechem

When you were a child in school, were you ever summoned to the principal’s office?

For what?

Are there other gods that you have been tempted to serve? What are they? How are you able to resist that temptation? What symbols of commitment does your church use to help people count the cost of following the Lord Jesus?

Frankly speaking, are you really serious about serving the Lord? If so, how do you show it? By what symbols of commitment is that evident to others?

“Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.”

(Psalm 34)

“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.”

(Ephesians 5:21)

Christ’s love led him to die for us: what would it mean for a husband to live with his wife with this type of love?

In your own words, how would you express the goal of Christian marriage?

“On hearing it, many of his disciples said, ‘this is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?”

(John 6: 60)

What teaching do Jesus’ followers find so unacceptable? Do you think they turned away because they did – or did not- really understand what he meant? Why? Why do you think Peter and the others decided to stay? How does this relate to verse 66: “From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him.”

With Peter, however, let us profess our faith in the Lord, who gave himself up for us all.

The Fellowship of the Believers

“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers… Day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they partook of food with glad and generous hearts.”

Acts 2:42, 46.

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS August 22 - 28

Saturday  5:00 p.m. Souls in Purgatory

                                   Mrs. Jeanette Robert

Sunday   10:00 a.m.  Souls in Purgatory

Tuesday     9:00 a.m. Communion Services  

Thursday   8:00 a.m.  Communion Services

Friday        8:00 a.m.  Communion Services

STEWARDSHIP

How shall the young remain sinless?

By obeying your word. (Psalm 119:9)

If you are young, look forward to God’s fidelity to you throughout your life; if you are an alder, look back on God’s fidelity to you through all that is past. Whatever your age, know that God’s love is the foundation upon which all our hope stands firm.

Stewardship of Treasure

Report Sunday August 15 & 16, 2009

Total Plate                               $1,342.10

EFT                                          $   370.00

TOTAL                                    $1,712.10

Thank you and God bless you!

We also welcome Father Bill Carroll (Jesuit) and Father Roy Margallo and those who preside in the Eucharist of our Parish!!!

As our body cannot live without nourishment, so our soul cannot spiritually be kept alive without prayer. St. Agustine August 28

TWENTIETH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

August 16, 2009

Invitations of Wisdom and of Folly

Wisdom has prepared a banquet of food and wine.

“Come, eat my food and drink the wine I have mixed.

Leave your simple ways and you will live; walk in the way of understanding.”

(Proverbs 9:6)

Describe a memorable dinner you’ve attended. What made it memorable: The food? The people? The gifts exchanged? The lobbying or prospecting that went on?

The Eucharist meal is an image expressive of God’s communion with us.

Taste and see the goodness of the Lord!

(Psalm 34:9a)

“Be very careful, then, how you live… making the most of every opportunity…”

(Ephesians 5:15 -16)

For those who desire life, Jesus gives his own flesh and blood; thus we shall be filled with the Spirit.

“I am the living bread that came down from heaven, if anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever.”

(John 6:51)

In your culture, what is the main reason for following Jesus? What was your original motive?

How would you describe your daily spiritual diet: Junk food? Frozen food? Baby food? TV microwave food? Left over’s? Meat and potatoes? Pure bread and wine?

Has your familiarity with Jesus (raised on Eucharist Sundays & personal prayers) ever kept you from seeing who he really is?

What can help remove the blinders?

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS August 15 - 21

Saturday  9:00 a.m.    For the Parish

Saturday  5:00 p.m. + Gilbert Coughlin

Sunday   10:00 a.m.  +Clair Muller

                                      Souls in Purgatory

Tuesday     9:00 a.m.  Communion Services

Thursday   8:00 a.m.   Communion Services

Friday        8:00 a.m.   Communion Services

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

From September 27, 28, 29, 30 –October 1,2,3,4, 2009. Bishop Richard J. Garcia invites you to a series of Novena Events at various California Missions in the Dioceses of Monterey celebrating the 800^th Anniversary of the Approval of the Rule of St. Francis and the 225^th Anniversary of the death of Blessed Junipero Serra. A reception will follow each event and Bishop Garcia will be granting a partial indulgence for those who attend at least three of the novena events. More information to follow!

“However may be the temptation, if we know how to use the weapon of prayer well, we shall come off conquerors at last, for prayer is more powerful than all the devils. He who is attacked by the spirit of darkness needs only to apply himself vigorously to prayer, and he will beat them back with great success.”

Bernard of Clairvaux. Abbot of Cistercian , Doctor of the Church: reformer and spiritual author, founded sixty-eight monasteries, preached the 2^nd Crusade; denounce injustice and worked for peace; patron of Gibraltar. Feast day August 20

Stewardship of Treasure

Report Sunday August 8 & 9, 2009

             Total Plate                $    971.50

               EFT                         $    370.00

               TOTAL                   $ 1,341.50

Thank you and God bless you!

NINETEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

August 9, 2009

Elijah Flees to Horeb

“While Elijah himself went a day’s journey into the desert…and prayed that he might die.”

(1 Kings 19:4)

When you experience a spiritual let down, what helps you recover?

Listening to good music, prayer, exercise, rest, fellowship, an “angel,” or establishing a new routine.

“Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.”

(Psalm 34: 9a)

Walk in love, just like Christ

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

(Ephesians 4:32)

“I am the bread of life… this bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.”

(John 6: 48, 51)

From the passage as a whole, what does Jesus mean by “eating his flesh” and “drinking his blood” does the image of eating and drinking clarify what he means by believing in him?

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS August 8 - 14

Saturday  5:00 p.m. Souls of Purgatory

Sunday   10:00 a.m. + Cecily Olsen USMC Squadron 214     

Tuesday     9:00 a.m. + Claire Mullen

Thursday   8:00 a.m. + C. Roberto Montalvo

Friday        8:00 a.m. + Kate N. Radonich

STEWARDSHIP

“Live in love, as Christ loved us and handed himself over for us as a sacrificial offering to God for a fragrant aroma.”

(Eph 5:2)

Christ handed himself over without reserve to the Father in the sacrifice of the cross. He hands himself over to us in love as the bread of life in the Eucharist. Feed at his table, let us also hand ourselves over in love to God and neighbor through lives of faithful worship, witness, and service.

Stewardship of Treasure

Report Sunday August 1 & 2, 2009

             Total Plate               $ 1,156.50

               EFT                         $    370.00

               TOTAL                   $ 1,526.50

Men’s Club Meeting This Wednesday August 12 at 7:00 p.m. Community Center. We have very good support for one another.

The signs of bread and wine

At the heart of the Eucharistic celebration are the bread and wine that, by the words of Christ and the invocation of the Holy Spirit, become Christ’s Body and Blood. Faithful to the Lord’s command the Church continues to do, in his memory and until his glorious return, what he did on the eve of his Passion: “He took bread…” “He took the cup filled with wine…” The signs of bread and wine become, in a way surpassing understanding, the Body and Blood of Christ; they continue also to signify the goodness of creation…

In the Old Covenant bread and wine were offered in sacrifice among the first fruits of the earth as a sign of grateful acknowledgment to the creator.

But they also received a new significance in the context of the Exodus: the unleavened bread that Israel eats every year at Passover commemorates the haste of the departure that liberated them from Egypt; the remembrance of the manna in the desert will always recall to Israel that it lives by the bread of the Word of God; their daily bread is the fruit of the promised land, the pledge of God’s faithfulness to his promises.

        Catechism of the Catholic Church # 1324-1327

VOLLLEYBALL CLASS

If you would be interested in learning the basics of good volleyball technique, I will be teaching 3 consecutive nights: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday August 25, 26 & 27 from 7-9 p.m. sand volleyball court at Summit and Timmus Lane. We have lights. Age group is 10 and up. Please call 353-3326 to reserve your spot. We need a minimum of 4 in the class and can take up to 14. Norma Hammons

EIGHTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

August 2, 2009

“In the desert the whole community grumbled against Moses and Aaron…”

(Exodus 16: 2…)

What were the “good old’ days” like for you?

What made them so “good?

Who cooked Sunday dinner in your childhood home?

If you could receive one thing from the Lord every day, what would it be?

Homemade bread, a reassuring hug, insight from his Word, forgiveness for my sins or anything, so long as he delivered it personally…

“The Lord gave them bread from heaven.”

(Psalm 78: 24b)

Living as Children of Light

This means no longer living in the futility of our minds. It means putting away “the old self of your former way of life” and being renewed, putting on “the new self, created in God’s way in righteousness and holiness of truth.”

(Ephesians 4: 20-24)

Jesus the Bread of Life

What type of bread are you today:

 All natural? “Rye”? Moldy? Crusty? Fresh? Easy to “butter up”?

Who is the easiest in your family for you to communicate with?

With which person are you often misunderstood?

(John 6: 24-35)

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS August 1 - 7

Saturday  5:00 p.m. +James Jim Hanlon

Sunday   10:00 a.m. +Leslie R. Olsen

Tuesday     9:00 a.m. +James Kerins

Thursday   8:00 a.m. +C. Roberto Montalvo

Friday        8:00 a.m.  

STEWARDSHIP

All work done by stewards is important.

No job is too menial or too insignificant to be part of God’s plan.

Stewards use their work for the greater glory of God, in partnership with God.

All that we do is part of our conscious effort to collaborate with God in fulfillment of creation.

“Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.”

(John 6:27)

The Eucharist is the work of a measureless love that has at its service an infinite power, the omnipotence of God.

(Saint Peter Julian Eymard)

Stewardship of Treasure

Report Sunday July 25 & 26, 2009

     Total Plate                            $ 1,026.00

     EFT                                        $    370.00

     TOTAL                                  $ 1,396.00

Second Collection for Maintenance Fund

$501.00

SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

July 26, 2009

Elisha Feeds One Hundred People

“There’s not enough here for a hundred people, his servant said. ‘Just give it to them,’ Elisha replied. “The Lord has promised there will be more than enough.”

2 Kings 4: 23

“The hand of the Lord feeds us, he answers all our needs.”                      Psalm 145:16

Unity with Christ

“We have only one Lord, one faith, and one baptism. There is one God, who is the father of all people,                       Ephesians 4: 5-6

Feeding Five Thousand

“The people ate all they wanted, and Jesus told his disciples to gather up the leftovers, so that nothing would be wasted.”

John 6: 12

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS July 25 - 31

Saturday  5:00 p.m. + Michele Dean

Sunday   10:00 a.m.   Soul in Purgatory

                                    USMC Squadron 214

Tuesday     9:00 a.m.   Mrs. Jean Kronmal

Thursday   8:00 a.m.   USMC Squadron 214

Friday        8:00 a.m.  + Clair Mullen

STEWARDSHIP

“How can I repay the Lord for his goodness to me?”               (Psalm 116:12)

“Thanksgiving” is the meaning of the Greek word “Eucharist.” The attitude of thankfulness is central to Christian spirituality. The debt of gratitude we own for God’s faithful love can be repaid only in a two-sided coin: turning to God in thanksgiving and doing for others what has been done for us.

Stewardship of Treasure

Report Sunday July 18 & 19, 2009

Total Plate                               $2,051.00

EFT                                          $   370.00

TOTAL                                    $2,421.00

Thank you and God bless you!

Men’s Club Meeting This Wednesday August 11 at 7:00 p.m. Community Center. We have very good support one another.

Our Father Who Art in Heaven

 We begin with the salutation “Father.” Reinhold Schneider writes apropos of this in his exposition of the Our Father: “The Our Father begins with a great consolation: we are allowed to say ‘Father.’ This one word contains the whole history of redemption. We are allowed to say ‘Father,’ because the Son was our brother and has revealed the Father to us; because, thanks to what Christ has done, we have once more become children of God.”

It is true, of course, that contemporary men and women have difficulty experiencing the great consolation of the word father immediately, since the experience of the father is in many cases either completely absent or is obscured by inadequate examples of fatherhood.

We must therefore let Jesus teach us what father really means. In Jesus’ discourses, the father appears as the source of all good, as the measure of the rectitude (perfection) of man. “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good” (Mt 5:44-35). The love that endures “to the end” (Jn 13:1), which the Lord fulfilled on the Cross in praying for his enemies, shows us the essence of the Father. He is this love. Because Jesus brings it to completion, he is entirely “Son,” and he invites us to become “sons” according to this criterion.

God is our Father in the sense that he is our Creator. We belong to him because he has created us.  “Being” as such comes from him and is consequently good; it derives from God. The idea that God has created each individual human being is essential to the Bible’s image of man. Every human being is unique, and willed as such by God. Every individual is known to him. In this sense, by virtue of creation itself man is the “child” of God in a special way and God is his true Father.

 (Pope Benedict XVI Jesus of Nazareth)

SIXTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

FIFTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
July 12, 2009

The prophet hears what God proclaims: “I will hear what God proclaims; the Lord – for he proclaims peace, salvation and glory dwelling in our land,” and is called to speak in God’s name.
The Twelve hear the message of Jesus and are sent forth to preach the good news: “Jesus summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority…”
In the Lord Jesus Christ have we been chosen to be full of love.

The Gospel of the Kingdom of God

The “gospel” the term has recently been translated as “good news.” That sounds attractive, but it falls far short of the order of magnitude of what is actually meant by the word evangelion (gospel). This term figures in the vocabulary of the Romans emperors, who understood themselves as lords, saviors, and redeemers of the world. The messages issued by the emperor were called in Latin evangelium, regardless of whether or not their content was particularly cheerful and pleasant. The idea was that what comes from the emperor is a saving message, that it is not just a piece of news, but a change of the world for the better.
For this reason, the Gospel is not just informative speech, but per formative speech –not just the imparting of information, but action, efficacious power that enters into the world to save and transform.
For here it is the real Lord of the world –the living God- who goes into action.
The core content of the Gospel is this: “The Kingdom of God is at hand. And an answer to this gift is demanded of human being: conversion and faith.
When Jesus speaks of the Kingdom of God, he is quite simply proclaiming God, and proclaiming him to be the living God, who is able to act concretely in the world and in history and is even now so acting. He is telling us: “God exists” and “God is really God,” which means that he holds in his hands the threads of the world.
In this sense, Jesus’ message is very simple and thoroughly God-centered, God is acting now –this is the hour when God is showing himself in history as its Lord, as the living God; God’s being-Lord, of his lordship.
(From Joseph Ratzinger Pope Benedict XVI Jesus of Nazareth)

CONFESSIONS:
By request or appointment
BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:
Call the office for an appointment.

“Present glory is fleeting and meaningless, while it is possessed unless in it we can glimpse something of heavens’ eternity. But God’s mercy toward the human races provided a useful remedy when he made the reward for earthly existence a share in our heavenly country.
(Saint Henry - July 13)

MASS INTENTIONS July 11 - 17
Saturday 5:00 p.m. + Dr. C. Roberto
Montalvo
Sunday 10:00 a.m. Clarence (Ike)
Carpenter Jr.
Tuesday 9:00 a.m.
Thursday 8:00 a.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. + Fr. John Murphy

STEWARDSHIP
So do not worry and say, “What are we to eat?” or “What are we to drink?” or “what are we to wear?” (Matthew 6:31)
God did not create the world only to abandon it to its own devices. He cares day by day for all that he has made, though we do not always recognize his hand at work.
Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?

Stewardship of Treasure
Report Sunday July 4 & 5, 2009

Total Plate $ 1,046.00
EFT $ 370.00
TOTAL $ 1,416.00
Thank you for your support and generosity.
God bless you!

For Pregnancy Support:
Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

PARISH BBQ
Many thanks to all the people who made our Parish BBQ so successful and wonderful. Thank you for your presence and your love of the Parish.
Thank you ladies and Men’s Club for all your hard work and great cooking!
Nobody sees God, but as human being with love one another, God is present!

Men’s Club
Next Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. we will have a meeting to plan the next event in the Parish. Please come – everybody welcome - we need you!!!


Choir Call If you’d like to sing or play an instrument in the choir, please give us your ideas.
We need you! Questions? Call Norma Hammons @ 353.3326

Are you an Adult? And would you like to be Catholic or be confirmed or receive the Eucharist. Please call at 408. 353.2210. We will be very happy to help you! Fr. Eugenio


RETREAT FOR CAREGIVERS: AUG 7, 8, 9
By Way of the heart: Finding Grace and Freedom through the heart of Jesus.
Charmeil Teresi will direct the Caregiver’s retreat to be held in St. Joseph’s hall. We will explore tools for coping and caring for ourselves while caring for others. We will learn ways to be gentle with ourselves in the midst of stress, confusion and grief. It will be a time to connect with others caregivers on our caregiver’s journey while focusing upon self discovery through the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Please join us on Friday evening from 5:00-9:00 for dinner and Part One; Saturday from 9:00-5:00 including lunch for Part Two, and Sunday morning from 9:00 until 11:00 Mass followed by lunch for Part Three. Offering: $35. Please call 831-475-8211, ext 17 and leave your name and number to reserve your space. Deadline July 26th.

The Year for Priest
Please Prayer for Vocations, every day in your personal prayers!!!

THIRTEENTH SUNDAY

IN ORDINARY TIME

June 28, 2009

The synagogue official and the woman with the hemorrhage are convinced that God “formed man to be imperishable” – an imperishability that begins now in their present plight.

How can they be so sure? Because they have encountered Jesus Christ to whom they hand themselves over in their certainty.

God made the human person in “the image of his own nature.”

It is so that relationship with the Infinite that this man and this woman appeal with infinite hope, convinced that the Lord will draw them clear, preserve them from the pit, and change their mourning into dancing… which he does.

“…By the envy of the devil, death entered the world, and they belong to his company experience it.”                       Wisdom 1:23-24

“…That though Lord Jesus Christ was rich, for your sake he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich.”

2 Corinthians 8: 9

“Jesus took the child by the hand and said to her, ‘Talitha koum,’ which means, ‘Little girl, I say to you, arise!”            Mark 5:41

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS June 27 – July 3

Saturday  5:00 p.m.  Mrs. Rose Smith

                                   + Martin P. Hanley

Sunday   10:00 a.m.  + Carlos Roberto   

                                       Montalbo

Monday    8:00 a.m. For the Church

Tuesday     9:00 a.m.  + Martin P. Hanley

Thursday   8:00 a.m.

Friday        8:00 a.m.  + Joseph Walsh

STEWARDSHIP

God did not make death, nor does he rejoice in the destruction of the living. For he fashioned all things that they might have being.                          (Wis 1:13-14a)

How reassuring! God seeks life, not death, for all creation. Through the death and resurrection of Christ, God brings to life all that is dead in sin. Let us sing praise!

Stewardship of Treasure

Report Sunday June 20 & 21, 2009

Total Plate                 $ 1,311.00

               EFT                         $    370.00

               TOTAL                   $ 1,681.00

We Need Your Support, Thank you and God bless you!

Men’s Club Meeting

 Wednesday July 8 at 7:00 p.m.

 Community Center.

 We provide good support for one another.

Sunday – July 5^th – after Mass

Parish BBQ

We are the Parish, the Church and we are the people of freedom and peace.

Please come and celebrate together with a Parish BBQ – Tri-tip, etc will be provided – please bring a side dish, salad or dessert to share.

The Faith of the Church

Jesus fully, completely, and definitively reveals God to humanity.

Even more dramatically, Jesus reveals that God is with us to save us, to lift us up, to snatch us from the dark forces of sin and death, and to make us sharers in eternal life.

 Our response to this great revelation is what Saint Paul calls “the obedience of faith”

(Cf. Dogmatic Constitution On Divine revelation 4-5)

Safety Message

Parents and Caregivers of children: When you and your children are attending Mass or any other events at the parish, please keep your child with you at all times.  If your child needs to leave the building, he or she must be accompanied by an adult.

Reduce Reuse Recycle - Freecycle

A local on-line re-use group has been formed as part of the world wide Free Recycling Group – check it out at Keeping It Local - http://groups.yahoo.com/group/95033free/

You give something…you get something.

TWELFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

June 21, 2009

“Here shall your proud waves be stilled!”

Job 38:11

“Behold, new things have come.”

2 Corinthians 5:17

“Who is this whom even wind and sea obey?”

Mark 4:41

We regard the ocean as a force so fierce that no human might can contain it. But Jesus chooses the sea as the place to exhibit his supreme authority.

“They who sailed the sea in ships…saw the works of the Lord.”

Just as “the Lord addressed Job out of the storm, today Christ commands the “violent squall.” “He hushed the storm to a gentle breeze,” and “shut within doors the sea.” The “awe” formerly had for the furious sea the disciples now show to Jesus. Faith reveals that “whoever is in Christ is a new creation…new things have come” greater than the law of nature.

God, ever close to us, we rejoice to call you Father!

Keep us one in your peace, secure in your love!

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS  June 20 - 26

Saturday     5:00 p.m. + Leo Le Gear

Sunday     10:00 a.m.  + Leslie R. Olsen

                                    + Michael Cox  

Tuesday      9:00 a.m. + Winifred Walsh

Thursday    8:00 a.m.  + María Refugio R.    

                                       Medina

Friday         8:00 a.m.  + Geraldine

                                        Barkyoumb

STEWARDSHIP

Then he asked them, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?          (Mark 4:40)

Storm overwhelms us by their power, whether they blow on the sea, in the circumstance of our daily lives, or in our hearts. We are foolish to take refuge in our own feeble strength. Let us instead anchor our faith in Christ, our Rock.

 TREASUR REPORT SUNDAY

June 13 & 14, 2009

Plate………………………. $    940.00

EFT……………………….. $    370.00

Total                                      $ 1,310.00

For a Father

In Memoriam of all fathers

The longer we live, the more of your presence

We find, laid down, weave upon weave within our lives.

The quiet constancy of your gentleness drew no attention to itself, yet filled our home.

With a climate of kindness, where each mind felt free, to seek its own direction.

As the fields of distance opened inside childhood, your presence was a sheltering tree, where our fledgling hearts could rest.

The earth seemed to trust your hands, as they tilled the soil, put in the seed, gathered together the lonely stones.

Something in you loved to enquire, in the neighborhoods of air, searching its transparent rooms, for the fallen glances of God.

The warmth and wonder of your prayer opened our eyes to glimpse, the subtle ones who are eternally there.

Whenever, silently, in off moments, the beauty of the whole thing overcame you, you would gaze quietly out upon us, they look from your eyes like a kiss alighting on skin.

There are many things, we could have said, but words never wanted to name them; and perhaps a world that is quietly sensed across the air in another’s heart becomes the inner companion, the one’s own unknown.

Love to all the fathers on Father’s Day!

God bless you Fathers!

May you receive a blessing from the Lord, the God of Israel, and Father, under whose wings you have come for refuge.

Amen.

HOLY CROSS SCHOOL

Holy Cross School, Santa Cruz, California, invites members of the Christ Child Parish community to apply for Preschool through Grade 8 for the fall of 2009. For more information please contact Kathleen Ryan at 831-423-4447 or Kathleen.Ruan@holycsc.org

Summer Envelopes

We sincerely thank our parishioners who mail or deliver their weekly envelopes or donation to the parish office while on vacation or out-of-town. As many of you understand our parish expenses and obligations do not take a vacation when you do, so of is very helpful to be able to rely on your continued support even when you cannot personally attend Mass here.

God bless your summer and we prayer for your family!

Question for Journal Keeping

June - the Encircling Rainbow

Name discouraged and distressful aspects of your life.

Where or to who would you most want to bring the hope of God?

June 24 Birth of Saint John the Baptist

You called John the Baptist from his mother’s womb to prepare the way of your Son; help us to follow in the path which the Baptist opened before the Lord Jesus. O Lord, guide our feet into the way of peace.

 

Moses ratifies the covenant by offering a thanksgiving sacrifice and by sprinkling blood over the people.

The new covenant, the law’s oblation, is ratified in the blood of Christ, the unblemished offering poured out for us.

From a work by Saint Thomas Aquinas, priest.

O precious and wonderful banquet!

Since it was the will of God’s only-begotten Son that men should share in his divinity, he assumed our nature in order that by becoming man he might make men gods.

Moreover, when took our flesh he dedicated the whole of its substance to our salvation. He offered his body to God the Father on the altar of the cross as a sacrifice for our reconciliation.

He shed his blood for our ransom and purification, so that we might be redeemed from our wretched state of bondage and cleansed from all sin.

But to ensure that the memory of so great a gift would abide with us for ever, he left his body as food and his blood as drink for the faithful to consume in the form of bread and wine.

No other sacrament has greater healing power; through it sins are purged away, virtues are increased, and the soul is enriched with an abundance of every spiritual gift.

It is offered in the Church for the living and the dead, so that what was instituted for the salvation of all may be for the benefit of all.

It was to impress the vastness of this love more firmly upon the hearts of the faithful that our Lord instituted this sacrament at the Last Supper. As he was on the point of leaving the world to go to the Father, after celebrating the Passover with his disciples, he left it as a perpetual memorial of his passion.

It was the fulfillment of ancient figures and the greatest of all his miracles, while for those who were to experience the sorrow of his departure, it was destined to be a unique and abiding consolation.

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS June 13 - 19

Saturday 5:00 p.m. + Michael Dean

Sunday 10:00 a.m. + Cecily Olsen

Tuesday 9:00 a.m. + Lillian & George

Howington

Thursday 8:00 a.m. + Fr. Thomas Agar

Friday 8:00 a.m. John Diego Ikegami

Lewis (Newborn)

STEWARDSHIP

I would feed my people with finest wheat and fill them with honey from the rock.

Psalm 81:17

When we eat this bread and drink this cup, we ourselves enter into the Lord’s Passover journey from death to life.

Taste and see that the Lord is good.

Psalm 34:9

In the body and blood of Jesus Christ offered on the altar of the cross, God establishes a new covenant of peace.

TREASURY REPORT SUNDAY

June 6 & 7, 2009

Plate………………………. $ 890.00

EFT…………………..……$ 370.00

Total .................................$ 1,260.00

Thank you and God the Father Bless you!

　

　

The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus

June 19 Friday

"The term ‘sacred Heart of Jesus’ denotes the entire mystery of Christ, the totality of his being, and his person… Devotion of the Sacred Heart is a wonderful historical expression of the Church’s piety for Christ: It calls for a fundamental attitude of conversion and reparation, of love and gratitude, apostolic commitment and dedication to Christ and his saving work"

One of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a lance, and at once there flowed out blood and water.John 19:34

The Immaculate Heart of Mary

June 20 Saturday

The memorial of the Immaculate Heart of Mary is a celebration of the complex visceral relationship of Mary with her Son’s work of salvation: from the Incarnation, to his death and resurrection, to the gift of the Holy Spirit.

The Mother of Jesus never had any other spirit, will, or affections but those of the Father of Jesus, and attained that union, or rather that unity, by three means:

By entire separation from all sin!

By perfect detachment from the world, from self-love, and from all created things!

By a most ardent love for the Divine Will!

　

　

Monastery Vocations Retreat Announcement

Attention prayerful single men!

The Holy Trinity Trappist Monastery (for men) in Huntsville, Utah will be hosting a "Live-in Experience" vocational retreat soon. The monks are on a scenic 2000 acre farm. Work and pray with the monks and enjoy the vocational talks. The group Live- in will be held on August 5^th -9^th. (Individual July dates available at your convenience.) There is no cost. Call toll free 1-800-221-1807. If you take a bus or plane to Salt Lake City they will pick you up for free.

Are you called to be a monk, nun, or priest? Take a free online test at www.vocationsplacement.org

(Over 630 persons like you have reported applying and entering religious life or the priesthood.) 1-800-221-1807.　

 

THE MOST HOLY TRINITY
June 7, 2009

The Lord God is one, there is no other.
We have been chosen as his own, and, through the Spirit, are able to call God Abba.
Through baptism all nations are called to share in the life of the Son and acknowledge the triune God.

Light, radiance and grace are in the Trinity and from the Trinity

It will not be out of place to consider the ancient tradition, teaching and faith of the Catholic Church, which was revealed by the Lord, proclaimed by the apostles and guarded by the fathers. For upon this faith the Church is built, and if anyone were to lapse from it, he would no longer be a Christian either in fact or in name.
We acknowledge the trinity, holy and perfect, to consist of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. In this Trinity there is no intrusion of any alien element or of anything from outside, nor is the Trinity a blend of creative and created being. It is a wholly creative and energizing reality, self-consistent and undivided in its active power, for the Father makes all things through the Word and in the Holy Spirit, and in this way the unity of the holy Trinity is preserved. Accordingly, in the Church, one God is preached, one God who is above all things and through all things and in all things. God is above all things as Father, for he is principle and source; he is through all things through the word; and he is in all things in the Holy Spirit.
Writing to the Corinthians about spiritual matters, Paul traces all reality back to one God, the Father, and saying: Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of working, but it is the same God who inspires them all in everyone.
Even the gifts that the Spirit dispenses to individuals are given by the Father through the Word. For all that belongs to the Father belongs also to the Son, and so the graces given by the Son in the Spirit are true gifts of the Father. Similarly, when the Spirit dwells in us, the Word who bestows the Spirit is in us too, and the Father is present in the Word. This is the meaning of the text: My Father and I will come to him and make our home with him. For where the light is, there is the radiance; and where the radiance is, there too are its power and its resplendent grace.
This is also Paul’s teaching in his second letter to the Corinthians: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. For grace and the gift of the Trinity are given by the Father through the Son in the Holy Spirit. Just as grace is given from the Father through the Son, so there could be no communication of the gift to us except in the Holy Spirit. But when we share in the Spirit, we possess the love of the Father, the grace of the Son and the fellowship of the Spirit himself.
(From the first letter to Serapion by Saint Athanasius)
CONFESSIONS:
By request or appointment
BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:
Call the office for an appointment.
For Pregnancy Support:
Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS June 6- 12
Saturday 5:00 p.m. + Michele Dean
Sunday 10:00 a.m. + Leslie R. Olsen
Tuesday 9:00 a.m.
Thursday 8:00 a.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. + Lillian & George
Howington

TREASURY REPORT
May 30 & 31, 2009
Plate……………… ………. $1,537.00
Second Collection for the Parish $688.08

Thank you and God the Father Bless you!

FOOD FOR GOD’S PEOPLE…
We collect non-perishable food items for food pantry of Santa Cruz every Saturday and Sunday. Your donations help feed the poor and hungry – Thank you.

The Best Gift
Offer the MASS for birthdays, anniversaries, special intentions, and for the repose of the soul. We have No Mass intentions. PLEASE use this opportunity.


TODAY!!!
Please give your support to the
Loma Prieta Firefighters BBQ
Sunday - June 7
11:00 am. To 4:00 pm.
Praise and eternal glory to God the father and the Son and to the Holy Paraclete through all ages.
(Traditional Antiphon)

God is exalted in mystery and majesty, triune and one in glory, yet nearer to us than we are to ourselves through the divine indwelling. What can we offer but praise that dares to go beyond the small boundaries of our finite understanding into the realm of light inaccessible?

***********

Parents – please continue to help your children to continue in union with Jesus Christ in the Eucharistic Bread!



Let us adore the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit; let us praise and exalt God above all forever.
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!

A Lifeline for Marriage
Retrouvaille helps couple through difficult times in their marriages. It is designed to provide the tools to help get your marriage back on track. It will give you the opportunity to rediscover each other and examine your lives together in a new and positive way. This program has helped 10’s of 1000’s of couples experiencing marital difficulty at all levels including disillusionment and deep misery. For confidential information about call 831-479-1260 or email: Monterey@RetroCA.com or visit the web site at www.HelpOurMarriage.com

PENTECOST SUNDAY

May 31, 2009

 

All of us have been baptized into one and the same Spirit; let us live, then, by the Spirit!

That same Spirit, the Advocate, who “renews the face of the earth”, was given as gift to the disciples to strengthen them to go forth in the name of the Lord, and to obtain forgiveness of sins.

 

The sending of the Holy Spirit

 

When the Lord told his disciples to go and teach all nations and to baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, he conferred on them the power of giving men and women new life in God.

He had promised through the prophets that in these last days he would pour out his Spirit on his servants and handmaids, and that they would prophesy. So when the Son of God became the Son of Man, the Spirit also descended upon him, becoming accustomed in this way to dwelling with the human race, to living in men and women and to inhabiting God’s creation. The Spirit accomplished the Father’s will in men and women who had grown old in sin, and gave them new life in Christ.

Luke says that the Spirit came down on the disciples at Pentecost, after the Lord’s ascension, with power to open the gates of life to all nations and to make known to them the new covenant. So it was that men and women of every language joined in singing one song of praise to God, and scattered tribes, restored to unity by the Spirit, were offered to the Father as the first fruits of all the nations.

This was why the Lord had promised to send the Advocate: he was to prepare us as an offering to God.

The Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and strength, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of God, came down upon the Lord, and the Lord in turn gave this Spirit to his Church, sending the Advocate from heaven into all the world into which, according to his own words, the devil too had been cast down like lightning.

Now, through the Spirit, the image and inscription of the Father and the Son have been given to us, and it is our duty to use the coin committed to our charge and make it yield a rich profit for the Lord.

 (From the treatise Against Heresies by Saint Irenaeus, bishop)

 

Since you are all children of God through your faith in Christ Jesus, God has sent into your hearts the Spirit of his Son, crying out: Abba, Father, alleluia.

(Galatians 4:6; 3:26; 2 Timothy 1:7)

 

 

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS May 30 – June 5

Saturday  5:00 p.m. + Leo Le Gear

Sunday   10:00 a.m. + C.Roberto Montalvo

Tuesday     9:00 a.m. 

Thursday   8:00 a.m.

Friday        8:00 a.m.  

 

STEWARDSHIP

The spirit of the Lord fills the whole world!  (Wisdom 1:7)

At the culmination of the Easter season, let us unite in a great chorus of praise in the Spirit who is the life-breath of the whole world made new in the death and resurrection of Christ

Stewardship of Treasure

Report Sunday May 23 & 24 2009

 

             Total Plate               $ 1,468.00

               EFT                         $    370.00

               TOTAL                   $ 1,838.00

 

Second Collection Catholic Charities $1,595.25

Thank you and God bless you!

 

 

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

 

From September 27, 28, 29, 30 – October 1,2,3,4, 2009. Bishop Richard J. Garcia invites you to a series of Novena Events at various California Missions in the Diocese of Monterey celebrating the 800^th Anniversary of the Approval of the Rule of St. Francis and the 225^th Anniversary of the death of Blessed Junipero Serra. A reception will follow each event and Bishop Garcia will be granting a partial indulgence for those who attend at least three of the novena events.

More information to follow!

       The Diocese of Monterey has posted on its website a letter “To the People of God in the Diocese of Monterey” regarding the upcoming trial involving the Diocese of Monterey.

To access this letter, go to: http://www.dioceseofmonterey.org          

 

Choir Call If you’d like to sing or play an instrument in the choir, please give us your ideas. We need you! Questions? Call Norma Hammons @ 353.3326            

 

Are you an Adult?  And would you like to be Catholic or be confirmed or receive the Eucharist. Please call at 408. 353.2210. We will be very happy to help you!  Fr. Eugenio

 

Men’s Club Meeting On Wednesday June 10 at 7:00 p.m. in the Community Center. We have very good support for one another.

 

The Easter candle is lit at all Masses today. The Easter season ends with the evening prayer (Vespers). The Easter candle is then placed near the baptismal font where it is displayed with honor. In the baptismal rite, the candle of the newly baptized are lit from the Easter candle.

 

 

 

Plants need fertilizer….

…to grow healthy and strong and so too does your marriage. Without some nurturing and care it will remain weak and unfulfilling. Spread a little fertilizer on your relationship. Attend a Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend and watch your love for each other grow. Our next weekend is July 10-12, 2009. To receive more information, call Vic & Joan Penacho at 831.638.9498, email ME@penacho.com, or visit www.wwme-centralca,org

 

 

 

THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD

May 24, 2009

 

Jesus commissions his disciples to baptize in his name, reminding them that he is always present through his Spirit. Having ascended to his Father amid cries of gladness, we are to be his witnesses for we have been gifted with his Spirit of wisdom and revelation.

Let us, therefore, live in a manner worthy of the call we have received.

 

 

Jesus Prays His Followers May Be One

Prayer is necessary if we are to be united with Jesus and one another.

 

A cross-country bus made a scheduled stop at a depot that was located near four different restaurants. The driver announced, “Folks, we’ll be here for thirty minutes. The bus line has a strict policy never to recommend an eatery by name, so I am not permitted to tell you which restaurant of the four you have to choose from here is the best. However, I can say this. While we are here, if any of you should need me for any reason, I’ll be at Tony’s Diner directly across the street.”

 

Our actions tell people what our true beliefs are. Do our actions help build up the Body of Christ?

 

         ****************************

“God seated Jesus at his right hand in the heavens, far above every principality, authority, power, and dominion, and every name that is named not only in this age but also in the one to come.”

(Ephesians 1:21-22)

 

In this Jubilee Year marking the 2000th anniversary of St. Paul’s birth

 

MASS INTENTIONS May 23 - 29

Saturday   5:00 p.m.  + Matin P. Hanley Jr.

Sunday    10:00 a.m.  + Mary Diehl    

                                     + Ma. Refugio Ruiz Medina

Tuesday      9:00 a.m.  + Kathleen P. Hanley   

Thursday    8:00 a.m.   + Ma. Refugio Ruiz Medina

Friday         8:00 a.m.  + C. Roberto Montalbo

                                  

 

CONFESSIONS

By request or by appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

 

 

 

Stewardship of Treasure Report

May 16 & 17, 2009

 

Plate…….………………………$ 1,070.25

EFT……………………………..$    370.00

TOTAL                                        $ 1,440.25

 

Thank you and God bless you!

PLEASE HELP US!

 

 

CHOIR CALL

If you’d like to sing or play an instrument in the choir, please give us your ideas. We need you!!! Questions??? Call Norma Hammons @ 353.3326

Also we need someone to play music at the Saturday evening Mass at 5:00 p.m. Please contact to Fr. Eugenio @ 353.2210

 

 

 

It takes so much effort just to make ends meet in our world today. Do you wish you could talk about something besides all the stresses in your life? A Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend gives you the time and tools to revitalize romance, deepen communication, and nourish the spirituality in your marriage. Our next weekend is July 10-12, 2009. For more details about a weekend call Vic & Joan Penacho at 831-638-9498, email ME@penacho.com, or visit www.wwme-rentralca.org

 

 

Teen Center

The Men’s Club is planning to develop a teen center. If anyone has any of the following items to donate, please contact Dan Devlin, 408-353-4599 or one of the other men. We are looking for: a ping pong table, pool table, and an air hockey table.

 Thanks for your help.

 

Men’s Club Meeting

Our next meeting will be a 7 p.m. on this Wednesday, June 9 at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Center. We are very good support for one another. For more information, contact Dan Devlin @ 353.4599

Every man welcome!

 

Please give your support to the

Loma Prieta Firefighters BBQ

Sunday – June 7 at the Gazebo

 

BIRTHRIGHT - THANK YOU

   Thank you so much to you, the very generous Christ Child community that donated close to $400 to Birthright on Mother’s Day week-end for our flower event.

   The women and families we serve thank you for supporting us so we can support them. If you would like more information about our all volunteer pregnancy support organization you can call us at 408-241-8444 or visit our web site at www.birthright.org

 

Thank You!!!

Kim Avoy

Florence B. Beckmann

Herb Curran

Sara George

Ruth McCormick

Nanette Thomas

You are very good teachers for our children. Thank You!!!

 God reward you with many blessings.

 

*************

The weekday after the Ascension through the Saturday before Pentecost is a time of preparation for the coming of the Holy Spirit

 

Come, Holy Ghost, Creator blest,

And in our hearts take up thy rest;

Come with thy grace and heavenly aid.

To fill the hearts which thou hast made.

To every sense thy lights impart,

And shed thy love in every heart.

To our weak flesh thy strength supply: unfailing courage from on high.

 

 

SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

May 17th, 2009

The Gospel of John contains no record of Jesus teaching the Lord’s Prayer. But if we read closely chapter 17 of John, several elements of the Our Father appear. The unity integral to that prayer compels Peter today to seek out someone to “become with us a witness to his resurrection.” The night before he dies, Jesus begs his Father, “Keep them in your name.” And the Psalmist proclaims, “All my being, bless his holy name.” We can do the same thanks to our belonging to the company Christ has given us in his one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church.

 

A Disciple’s Prayer

How easy to believe that I am an instrument of your love when my life is going well. O god. How difficult to believe this when my life seems to be going nowhere, or is filled with many concerns and activities that wear me out. Yet, you greatly desire to proclaim your goodness through every part of my life, no matter what the situation is.
I do not need to have good feelings in order to be an instrument of your love. I do not need to always feel satisfied with what I am attempting to be and to do in order to be a disciple of yours. It is the intention of my heart that makes the difference. Deep within I long for you and I give myself to your cause. I place my heart in yours and enter as fully as I can into your loving embrace.
I am your messenger, ready to tell of your enormous kindness and mercy. I will trust in you, I believe that those with whom I live and work will see your love shining through all I am and all I do. It is your radiance within me that will transform the bits and pieces of my life into a tapestry of ardent devotion. Thank you for being present in my life and for calling to me with your gracious voice of unconditional love. Amen.

CONFESSIONS:
By request or appointment
BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:
Call the office for an appointment.
For Pregnancy Support:
Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS          May 16 - 22

Saturday     5:00 p.m. In Thanksgiving of
                                    Abigail Lynn Stacey
Sunday     10:00 a.m.   + Fred and Bea
                                        Wagner                                   
Tuesday      9:00 a.m.  + C.Roberto Montalvo
Thursday    8:00 a.m.   + Leo Le Gear
Friday         8:00 a.m.   + Martin P. Hanley Jr.

 

TREASURY REPORT
May 9 & 10, 2009
Plate………………………. $ 1,234.00
EFT……………………….. $    370.00
Total                                      $ 1,604.00

Thank you and God the Father Bless you!

FOOD FOR GOD’S PEOPLE…
We collect non-perishable food items for food pantry of Santa Cruz every Saturday and Sunday. Your donations help feed the poor and hungry – Thank you.

The Best Gift
Offer the MASS for birthdays, anniversaries, special intentions, and for the repose of the soul. We have No Mass intentions. PLEASE use this opportunity.

CHRIST has many Faces…
You see Him every day!
Catholic Charities
TODAY Second Collection, please give with your generosity.

 

Please give your support to the
Loma Prieta Firefighters BBQ
Sunday - June 7

Catholic Charities Dioceses of Monterey
Serving the people and communities of Monterey, Santa Cruz, San Luis Obispo and San Benito Counties
Following the Social Justice teachings of the Church, Catholic Charities is here to provide help and create hope in the lives of those less fortunate by strengthening families, building communities and advocating for justice.
Counseling service
Family Supportive Services
Immigration and Citizenship Services

In light of the difficulties facing so many people. You are very generosity all the time for the Parish, the Dioceses and for the poor.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!
On your First Holy Communion

Hope Isabel Beckmann
Megan Marie Murray George
Mario Nuñez Medina
Michael Joset Hench
José Emmanuel Gonzalez
Erik Samuel León Bravo

Parents – please continue to help your children to continue in union with Jesus Christ in the Eucharistic Bread!

Thank you to all the teachers of the Religion Education Program in our Parish

“We must remember God more often than we draw breath” - but we cannot pray “at all times” if we do not pray at specific times, consciously willing it.”
(St. Gregory Nazianzen)

A Lifeline for Marriage
Retrouvaille helps couple through difficult times in their marriages. It is designed to provide the tools to help get your marriage back on track. It will give you the opportunity to rediscover each other and examine your lives together in a new and positive way. This program has helped 10’s of 1000’s of couples experiencing marital difficulty at all levels including disillusionment and deep misery. For confidential information about call 831-479-1260 or email: Monterey@RetroCA.com or visit the web site at www.HelpOurMarriage.com

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

May 10, 2009
The early Church was “at peace,” and “being built up.” With the consolation of the Holy Spirit it grew in numbers.” Only one thing can account for such astounding well-being and prosperity: the presence of the risen Christ. “The way we know that he remains in us is from the Spirit he gave us.” Jesus warns, “Without me you can do nothing.” In fact, the disciples feared the solitary Saul, “Not believing that he was a disciple,” until the moment when “Barnabas took charge of him.” Such companionship transforms the Church, demonstrating dramatically how “God is greater than our hearts.”

CONFESSIONS:
By request or appointment
BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:
Call the office for an appointment.
For Pregnancy Support:
Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS           May 9 - 15

Saturday     8:00 p.m.  For the Parishioners
Sunday     10:00 a.m.   + Cecily Olsen
Tuesday      9:00 a.m.   Communion Services
Thursday    8:00 a.m.    Communion Services
Friday     8:00 a.m.     + Dr. Carlos R. Montalvo                                 

When stewards collaborate with the Creator, life holds a special meaning.
It can’t be diminished, cheapened, or cast aside.
Stewards reverence all of life, as it is the ultimate and first gift from God.
Stewards give respect to life in all its stages, even when to do so is a challenge.

TREASURY REPORT SUNDAY
May 2 & 3, 2009

Plate………………………. $ 1,095.35
EFT……………………….. $    370.00
Total                                     $  1,465.35

Thank you and God the Father Bless you!

FOOD FOR GOD’S PEOPLE
We collect non-perishable food items for food pantry of Santa Cruz every Saturdays and Sundays. Your donations help feed the poor and hungry that come to the parish.

The Best Gift
Offer the MASS for birthdays, anniversaries, special intentions, and for the repose of the soul. We have No Mass intentions. PLEASE use this opportunity.

Congratulations on receiving your First Holy Communion …..
Hope Isabel Beckmann
Megan Marie M. George
Erik Samuel L. Bravo
Jose Emmanuel Gonzalez
Michael Joset Hench
Mario N. Medina

 

 

Men’s Club Meeting
Our next meeting will be a 7 p.m. on this Wednesday, May 13th at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Center. We are very good support for one another. For more information, contact Dan Devlin @ 353.4599 - Every man welcome!

Who could have given me our Lord, but the Virgin Mary. It was easy to pray to her, repetitious through it may seem. Saying the rosary as I did so often. I felt that I was praying with the people of God, who held on to the physical act of the rosary as to a lifeline.                               Dorothy Day

Christ has many Faces…
You see Him every day!

Second Collection Catholic Charities
May 16 & 17, 2009
We need work together
Second Collection for our Parish Maintenance Fund May 30 & 31, 2009

Mother’s Day
Mother of God, you risked saying yes to being pregnant with the seed of the Holy One., may I also overcome my fears and take the risks that spiritual growth requires of me.
Mother of God, you offered the hospitality of your womb as a dwelling place for the Holy One, may I continually open the womb of my heart to all who need a welcome there.
Mother of God, you awaited the long nine months to the child’s gestation, may I wait patiently when spiritual growth seems to come fat too slowly.
Mother of God, you did not know how the birth of your child would affect your life, may I trust in God’s presence to protect and guide me when I face uncertainty.
Mother of God, you cared for nurtured the divine life within you, may I daily do the same through faithfulness to prayer and virtuous action.
Mother of God, you experienced the pain of contractions as you birthed the Holy One, may I have the courage to bear the pains of my inner growth.
Mother of God, you found kinship with your pregnant cousin, Elizabeth, may I recognize the Elizabeth who sustain and encourage me.
Mother of God, you felt the child within you stirring and kicking, may I deepen my awareness of God’s stirrings in the midst of my life.
Mother of God, when the divine child pushed forth from your womb he uttered his first cry, may I believe in the goodness within me that is yet to resound.
Mother of God, the newly born child in your arms engendered awe, mystery, and wonder, may I, too, reverence and be awed by the way that the Divine One enters my life.
All of your mother’s thank you to said to us “Yes.” Happy Mother’s Day and God bless you, because you my mother. Amen.

BIRTHRIGHT FLOWERS
The flower being presented to honor all women as spiritual mothers today is a gift from Birthright of San Jose. Birthright is an all volunteer pregnancy support services that have been serving women and families in San Jose for more that 30 years. We come to you today to request your prayers, and to ask you consider whether God maybe calling you to lend your hand to this work as a phone volunteer, auxiliary member, or as a donor. If you would like to know more about Birthright or know someone who might need our help, the flower has a card with our phone number. Thank you and God bless you.

 

 

FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

May 3, 2009

To "take refuge in the Lord," he Good Shepherd, we must face the predicament of our powerlessness, our extreme limitations, and our need to follow someone if we want to experience true fulfillment in our life. Unlike literal sheep, we are aware of the risk that our Shepherd takes: "A good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep." Therefore we exclaim, "See what love the Father has bestowed on us!" More than merely knowing the Shepherd’s voice, we know his name "by which we are to be saved." Because we agree to be sheep, "we are God’s children now."

CONFESSIONS: By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDING: Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Suppor: Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS May 2 - 8

Saturday 5:00 p.m. + Francis Mc LaughlinSunday 10:00 a.m. + Leslie R. OlsenTuesday 9:00 a.m. Communion ServicesThursday 8:00 a.m. Communion ServicesFriday 8:00 a.m. Communion Services

Jesus shepherds us.

Dr. Martin Luther King wrote: "One night… I settled into bed late… and just as I was about to doze off the telephone rang. An angry voice on the other end of the line said, ‘Listen, nigger, we’ve taken all we want from you; before next week you’ll be sorry you ever came to Montgomery.’ I hung up… and sleep would not come. It was as if all my fears coalesced into one giant terror. I got out of bed and began to walk the floor."Finally I went to the kitchen and made a pot of coffee. I was ready to give up. With my cup of coffee sitting untouched before me, I tried to think of a way to move out of the picture without appearing a coward. In this state of exhaustion I decided to take my problem to God."With my head in my hands, I bowled over the kitchen table and prayed aloud. The words I spoke to God that midnight are still vivid in my memory. ‘Lord, I am here taking a stand for what I believe is right. But now I’m afraid. The people are looking to me for leadership, and if I do not stand before them with strength and courage, they also will falter. I am at the end of my power. I have nothing left. I can’t face it alone.’

"At that moment I experienced the presence of God as I had never experienced (God) before. It seemed I heard the quiet assurance of (God’s) voice saying: ‘Stand up for righteousness, stand up for truth; and I will be at your side.’ My fears evaporated and my uncertainty disappeared. I was ready to follow (God) and face anything."

(Source unknown)

If necessary, the shepherd is ready to die for his sheep. To what extent are we willing to put ourselves out for others?

STEWARDSHIP

He is our God and we the people who belong to his pasture, the flock that is led by his hand. (Psalm 95:7)Jesus Christ is the One whom God has chosen to shepherd his people to salvation. All other shepherds serve in his name.

TREASUR REPORT SUNDAYApril 25 & 26, 2009

Plate………………………. $ 1,263.00

EFT……………………...….. $ 370.00

Total $ 1,633.00Thank you and God the Father Bless you!

Flowers for Mothers

We are again planning to participate in BIRTHRIGHT’S flowers for Mothers on Mother’s Day. If you can help us prep the flowers the day before, Saturday May 9^th we’ll be at St. Francis Cabrini in Kelly Hall from 8 am. To noon. Its great way for kids to meet their service hour requirements for school. Bring scissors and gloves and we’ll provide refreshments. Questions, call Birthright at 241.8444

Married Couples

Are your dreams still visible, or are they buried somewhere in the laundry basket full of busy jobs, kids’ activities, tiredness, bills and no time? Would you like to pull them out and give them new life? That can happen on a Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend. The next weekend is July 10-12, 2009. For more details about a weekend call Vic & Joan Penacho at 831-638-9498, email ME@penacho.com or visit www.wwme-centralca.org

DIOCESAN VOCATIONS PRAYER

Good and gracious Father, bless our Diocese of Monterey with consecrate men and women to serve the church. Increase the number of priests who announce the Gospel and celebrate the sacraments. Lord, give to your priests a generous heart that they may follow the example of Jesus our Good Shepherd, and through the intercession of your servant St. John Vianney, grant them the grace to love their ministry. We pray also for women that they may be inspired to follow you by serving others in religious life. O Virgin Mary, Lady of Bethlehem, sustain with your grace all those who have been called to serve. Amen.

Men’s Club Meeting

Our next meeting will be a 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 13^th at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Center. We are very good support for one another.

For more information, contact Dan Devlin @ 353.4599 every man welcome!

15th Annual Bishop’s Golf Tournament May 8th 2009

Please contact Dave Hammons to play with Christ Child Parish teams (408) 353-3326

Please pray for:The children who make their First Communion, today.For the all people suffer cancer and other illness.For all brothers and sisters who are suffering due to job losses.Let us pray for a better economy in our own county and throughout the country.For Dr. Carlos Roberto Montalvo – father of Norma Hammons – who passed away Friday afternoon April 24. May he rest in peace!

For God help us and protect us for the full!

 

THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER

April 26, 2009

Peter said to us: “The God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus…”

We respond with the Psalm 4: “Lord, let your face shine on us!
John said to us: My children, I am writing this to you so that you may not commit sin…”
The two disciples recounted what had taken place on the way, and how Jesus was made known to them in the breaking of bread!

 

The celebration of the Eucharist

No one may share the Eucharist with us unless he believes that what we teach is true, unless he is washed in the regenerating water of baptism for the remission of his sins, and unless he lives in accordance with the principles given us by Christ.
We do not consume the Eucharistic bread and wine as if it were ordinary food and drink, for we have been taught that as Jesus Christ our Savior became a man of flesh and blood by the power of the Word of God, so also the food that our flesh and blood of the incarnate Jesus by the power of his own words contained in the prayer of thanksgiving.
The apostles, in their recollections, which are called gospels, handed down to us what Jesus commanded them to do. They tell us that he took bread, gave thanks and said: Do this in memory of me. This is my body. In the same way he took the cup, he gave thanks and said: This is my blood.

On the day we call the day of the sun, all who dwell in the city or country gather in the same place. The recollections of the apostles or the writings of the prophets are read, as long as there is time. When the reader has finished, the president of the assembly speaks to us; he urges everyone to imitate the examples of virtue we have heard in the readings. Then we all stand up together and pray.
On the conclusion of our prayer, bread and wine and water are brought forward. The president offers prayers and gives thanks to the best of his ability, and the people give their assent by saying, “Amen.” The Eucharist is distributed, everyone present communicates, and the deacons take it to those who are absent.

We hold our common assembly on the day we call the day of the sun (Sunday) because it is the first day of the week, the day on which God put darkness and chaos to flight and created the world, and because on that day our savior Jesus Christ rose from the dead. For he was crucified on Friday and on Sunday he appeared to his apostles and disciples and taught them the things that we have passed on for your consideration.
(From the first apology in defense of the Christians by Saint Justin, martyr.)

CONFESSIONS:
By request or appointment
BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:
Call the office for an appointment.
For Pregnancy Support:
Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS April 25 – May 1

Saturday     5:00 p.m. +  Mary Diehl
Sunday     10:00 a.m.  +  Mary Diehl
                                    +  Douglas M. Hanley
Tuesday      9:00 a.m.  +  Remo Cipolla
Thursday    8:00 a.m.  +  Leo Le Gear
Friday         8:00 a.m.      For the Parish

 

Please pray for:
For David Alan Sternzon and Maria Cecilia Saleme who got married yesterday (Saturday) in our parish.  Congratulations!!!

The Children of First Reconciliation and Communion, for the all the people suffer cancer and other illness.

For all brothers and sisters who are suffering due to job losses – let us pray for a  better economy in own country.

For + Leo Le Gear - mother of Mike Le Gear – who passed away on Wednesday, April 22 in Dublin.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam”
May she rest in peace!

STEWARDSHIP
Give and Let Give      (Proverbs 28:27)
An old expression advises, “When there’s a piano to be moved, don’t reach for the stool.” Generosity certainly isn’t a value unique to Catholicism. But making it a nonnegotiable part of our families’ lives no matter what our circumstances is a part of our Faith…

 TREASUR REPORT SUNDAY
April 18 & 19, 2009
    Plate………………………. $ 1,162.00
    EFT……………………….. $    370.00
    Total                                      $ 1,532.00
Second Collection Maintenance $448.00

Thank you and God the Father Bless you!

Sacred Heart School Salinas, California
(Transitional Kindergarten-8 Coed)
PRINCIPAL POSITION AVAILABLE
2009-2010 School Year
Sacred School is the fully-accredited parish school of Sacred Heart Church in Salinas, California. Sacred Heart School has current enrollment of 268 students in Transitional Kindergarten through Grade 8 and 15 professional staff.
Application Procedures: For further information and to apply, contact: Kim Pryzbylski, Ph.D. Superintendent of Schools
485 Church Street, Monterey, CA 93940
Telephone 831.373.1608 E-mail
kpryzbylski@dioceseofmonterey.org

15th Annual Bishop’s Golf Tournament May 8th 2009
Please contact Dave Hammons to play with Christ Child Parish teams
(408) 353-3326

FLOWERS FOR MOTHERS
We are again planning to participate in Birthright’s flowers for Mothers on Mother’s Day. If you can help us prep the flowers the day before, Saturday May 9th we’ll be at St. Francis Cabrini in Kelly Hall from 8 am. To noon. It’s a great way for kids to meet their service hour requirements for school. Bring scissors and gloves and we’ll provide refreshments. Questions, call Birthright at 241.8444. 

 

SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER

DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY

April 19, 2009

Thomas believed because he saw the risen Jesus. Although we have never seen him, we believe that Jesus is the Christ, begotten by God. We give thanks to the Lord that he has formed us into a community of believers, united in the Spirit.

　

LISTEN TO YOUR HEART

It’s there in your heart that Jesus speaks most intimately to you. Praying is first and foremost listening to Jesus who dwells in the very depths of your heart. He doesn’t shout. He doesn’t thrust himself upon you. His voice is an unassuming voice, very nearly a whisper, and the voice of a gentle love. Whatever you do with your life, go on listening to the voice of Jesus in your heart. This listening must be an active and very attentive listening, for in our restless and noisy world Jesus’ loving voice is easily drowned out.

"Let anyone who is thirsty come to me, and let the one who believes in me drink…"

John 7:37-39

Prayer

Glorious God, I remember how Moses parted the waters of the Red Sea in order to save the Israelites, I remember how Christ walked on water on the Sea of Galilee, I say with the psalmist, "I truly am thirsty for you, my God." Let these examples and all the oceans, lakes, rivers, creeks, and streams remind me of the goodness of your grace. Amen.

Easter Action

Practice attentive "listening" to your own thoughts. Challenge each and every unkind and angry through that contaminates your mind.

(Fr. Henri J.M. Nouwen)

Jesus is RisenIt never grows old, this glorious news of Christ’s resurrection.

Hope it brings you at Easter Season!

　

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

　

MASS INTENTIONS April 18 - 24

Saturday 8:00 p.m. For the ParishionersSunday 10:00 a.m. The Olsen Family+ Catherine Pavelko Tuesday 9:00 a.m. + Catherine PavelkoThursday 8:00 a.m. + Catherine Pavelko

Friday 8:00 a.m.

　

　

TREASURY REPORT SUNDAYApril 11 & 12, 2009

Plate………………………. $ 3,036.83

EFT……………………….. $ 382.50

Total $ 3,419.33

　

Thank you and God the Father Bless you!

CONGRATULETION

Diane Cardoza, Michael Carvelho,Girlie Carvelho, Bryan Hackett and Teresa M. Fernandez.

You said the Lord Yes through your sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.

Please pray for our brothers and sisters!!!

　

15^Th Annual Bishop’sGolf Tournament,

May 8^th 2009

Bishop Richard Garcia invites you and your friends to join him on Friday, May 8^th for a fun day of golf at Rancho Cañada Golf Club, followed by a delicious dinner and silent and live auctions. The proceeds from this event provide tuition assistance for Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Monterey and the Direct Aid Program of Catholic Charities. Last year’s tournament provided significant help to these valuable programs. If you have not participated before, you are encouraged to join us and help make this event successful. Wonderful challenges and prizes await you. Please contact Dave Hammons to play with Christ Child Parish teams - (408) 353-3326. More for further information call (831) 373-1834 or online go to: www.dioceseofmontereyonline.org/golfournament.htm

FOOD FOR GOD’S PEOPLE…

We collect non-perishable food items for food pantry of Santa Cruz every Saturdays and Sundays. Your donations help feed the poor and hungry that come to the parish.

The Best Gift

Offer the MASS for birthdays, anniversaries, special intentions, and for the repose of the soul. We have No Mass intentions. PLEASE use this opportunity.

Urbi et Orbi Message

Of His Holiness

Pope Benedict XVI

From the depths of my heart, I wish all of you a blessed Easter. To quote Saint Augustine, "The Resurrection of the Lord is our hope." With these words, the great Bishop explained to the faithful that Jesus rose again so completely finished; Christ is risen to give us hope.

A Lifeline for Marriage

Retrouvaille helps couple through difficult times in their marriages. It is designed to provide the tools to help get your marriage back on track. It will give you the opportunity to rediscover each other and examine your lives together in a new and positive way. This program has helped 10’s of 1000’s of couples experiencing marital difficulty at all levels including disillusionment and deep misery. For confidential information about or to register for the program beginning with a weekend on May 1-3 call 831-479-1260 or email: Monterey@RetroCA.com or visit the web site at www.HelpOurMarriage.com

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

EASTER SUNDAY

THE RESURRECTION OF THE LORD

April 12, 2009

Today, we are witnesses to the Risen Christ and we repeat His proclamation of peace, and hope to all humanity.

We bear witness to his death and resurrection, especially to the men and women of our own time, caught up in the crisis of the economy.

CHRIST, WHO DIED AND ROSE FOR US, YOU ARE THE FOUNDATION OF OUR HOPE!

　

HE IS RISEN!

Easter morning. A very simple, quiet Eucharist around the table in Madame Vanier’s dining room….A small group of friends happy to be together.

We spoke together about the resurrection. Liz, who works with many anguished people, said, "We have to keep rolling away the large stones that prevent people from coming out of their graves." Elizabeth, who lives with four handicapped people…said, "after the resurrection Jesus had breakfast again with his friends and showed them the importance of the small, ordinary things of life." Sue…said, "It is such a comfort to know that Jesus’ wounds remain visible in his risen body. Our wounds are not taken away but become sources of hope to other."

Christ Risen and Dies No more

Romans 6:3-8

Prayer

God of never-failing light, you who created the bright lights of the sky, you who have no hint of darkness, grant that your flame of hope will renew my intention to serve you and to inflame and purify my actions with your love and mercy. Amen.

Easter Action

Observe this great day with prayers of thanksgiving and with actions symbolizing the significance of our salvation. Wear white on this joyful day in honor of your baptism and in memory of this verse from Revelation: "They stood before the throne and before the Lamb. They wore white robes and held palm branches in their hands – (7:9). Spend some time by candlelight this day in honor of the paschal candle that is lit from Easter Vigil fire and carried into the church to the words "Christ our Light." Or you may wish to create Easter baskets for the poor and needy.

(From Wisdom Henri J.M. Nouwen)

"Love is the joy of Easter…

And the greatest blessing in life."

Wishing you His Love in your heart, His peace in your soul, and His joy in your life – on Easter and always.

Have a Beautiful Easter and Springtime

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

　

MASS INTENTIONS April 11 - 17

Saturday 8:00 p.m. For the Parishioners

Sunday 10:00 a.m. + Cecily Olsen

Tuesday 9:00 a.m.

Thursday 8:00 a.m.

Friday 8:00 a.m.

TREASURY REPORT

April 4 & 5, 2009

Plate………………………. $ 1,239.10

EFT……………………….. $ 382.50

Total $ 1,621.60

Thank you and God the Father Bless you!

　

CONGRATULETION

Diane Cardoza, Michael Carvelho,

Girlie Carvelho, Bryan Hackett and Teresa M. Fernandez.

You said the Lord Yes through your sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.

　

　

Many thanks for all the volunteers – Lectors, Eucharistic Ministers, Musicians, Acolytes, Environment and ALL the people who participated in the Holy Week and Easter ceremonies.

　

　

15th Annual Bishop’s Golf Tournament

May 8^th 2009

Bishop Richard Garcia invites you and your friends to join him on Friday, May 8th for a fun day of golf at Rancho Cañada Golf Club, followed by a delicious dinner and silent and live auctions. The proceeds from this event provide tuition assistance for Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Monterey and the Direct Aid Program of Catholic Charities. Last year’s tournament provided significant help to these valuable programs. If you have not participated before, you are encouraged to join us and help make this event successful. Call Dave Hammons at (408) 353-3326 to join up with the team from Christ Child Catholic Church. Wonderful challenges and prizes. For further information call (831) 373-1834 or online at: www.dioceseofmontereyonline.org/golfournament.htm.

　

　

　

A Lifeline for Marriage

Retrouvaille helps couple through difficult times in their marriages. It is designed to provide the tools to help get your marriage back on track. It will give you the opportunity to rediscover each other and examine your lives together in a new and positive way. This program has helped 10’s of 1000’s of couples experiencing marital difficulty at all levels including disillusionment and deep misery. For confidential information about or to register for the program beginning with a weekend on May 1-3 call 831-479-1260 or email: Monterey@RetroCA.com or visit the web site at www.HelpOurMarriage.com

 

FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT

March 29, 2009

"Give me justice, O God, and defend my cause against the wicked; rescue from deceitful and unjust men.

You, O God, are my refuge."

Psalm 42:1-2

I will make a new covenant and remember their sin no more.

Create a clean heart in me, O God.

Christ learned obedience and became the source of eternal salvation.

If a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it produces much fruit.

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

"Christ made Himself poor for you"

(2 Cor 8:9)

Today 33 days of Lent 2009

Live the Pain!

The great challenge is living your wounds through instead of thinking them through. It is better to cry than to worry, better to feel your wounds deeply than to understand them, better to let them enter into your silence than to talk about them. The choice you face constantly is whether you are taking your wounds to you head or your heart. In your head you can analyze them, find their causes and consequences, and coin words to speak and write about them. Bu no final healing is likely to come from that source. You need to let your wounds go down to your heart. Then you can live through them and discover that they will not destroy you.

Lenten Action at end of Lent!

Pick one of the corporal works of mercy to practice over the next few days. The corporal works of mercy are as follows: To feed the hungry, to give drink to the thirsty, to clothe the naked, to visit the imprisoned, to shelter the homeless, to visit the sick, to bury the dead.

MASS INTENTIONS March 28 – April 3

Saturday 5:00 p.m. + Colleen Impey

Sunday 10:00 a.m. For the Parishioners

Tuesday 9:00 a.m.

Thursday 8:00 a.m. + Sister Constance

Petrucelli, O.F.M.

Friday 8:00 a.m.

STEWARDSHIP

Father, I thank you for hearing me! (John 11:41)

In today’s Gospel, we hear the voice of God affirming that the prayer of Jesus on the cross will be heard. By wresting the world from the grasp of sin and death, Jesus will glorify God’s name. The hope of Easter looms large on the Lenten horizon.

TREASUR REPORT SUNDAY

March 21 & 22, 2009

Plate………………………. $ 1,491.02

EFT……………………….. $ 382.50

Total $ 1,873.52

Thank you and God the Father Bless you!

　

2009 Lenten Opportunities

Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confessions)

Thursday April 2, 7pm to 8pm

Wednesday April 8, 1pm to 2pm

Saturday April 11, 11am to 12pm

Pray for our RCIA catechumens and candidates as they continue their faith journey.

BISHOP’S ANNUAL MINISTRIES APPEAL 2009

Life + HOPE

Our Annual Ministries Appeal (AMA) continues.

So far 21 families have pledged $8,105.00 to the campaign, thus exceeding our Diocesan assessment of $5,700.00

If you have made a donation or pledge, we thank you.

If you have your envelope and contribution filled out, you can drop it into the weekend’s collection or stop by the parish office.

If you have not filled out an envelope, we ask that you please consider making a pledge if you are able. Thank you. Fr. Eugenio

　

Station of the Cross

Friday April 3^rd at 6:30 p.m. Simple Meal of Soup and Salad. 7:15 p.m. Station of the Cross.

Good Friday, April 9 Station of the Cross -12 Noon Lenten Journey

Every week please pick up one card, then during the week look at your New Testament in the letter’s of Saint Paul. If you read and find one sentence you like more, please hand write it on the card and bring it to the church every Sunday.

Flowers for Easter

We would love to have your help in beautifying our worship space for Easter. We are looking for spring blooms such as azaleas, hydrangea, tulips, etc. Shades of white and yellow will be used in our sanctuary and all other spring colors will be used to brighten other areas of the church.

HOLY WEEK & EASTER 2009

The Sunday of the Passion: Palm Sunday

Mass Saturday April 4 at 5:00 p.m.

Mass Sunday April 5 at 10:00 a.m.

The CHRISM MASS on Monday, April 6 at 11:00 a.m. at Madonna Del Sasso Church in Salinas.

TRIDUUM

Holy Thursday April 9

Mass of the Lord’s Supper - 7 pm

Good Friday, April 10

The Passion of Our Lord – 7pm

Holy Saturday Night:

The Great Vigil of Easter, April 11, 8pm

Easter Sunday, April 12

Sunrise Service with Mountain Bible Church at the Gazebo – 7 am

Mass Resurrection of the Lord

At 10 am

After Mass there will be an Egg Hunt in the Church grounds!

 

THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT

March 15, 2009

 

The Cleansing of the Temple

 

The events of the Gospel we read today fall in John’s reckoning at the beginning of Jesus’ teaching, but the spirit which informs them is that of the last period of struggle where they are placed by the synoptic. Jesus comes into the temple, finds it turned into a market. In the court of the heathen all the beasts for sacrifice –animals and doves- are set out for sale, and the pilgrims’ money is being changed for temple money.

Their prayer is desecrated by the haggling of the traders. His heavenly Father’s house has become a market fair, where not only the petty business of every day is carried on, but the soul is cheated of its membership in the new people to come.

Enslaved, these men and women cannot even pray for their liberation. Their longing for the liberator, for the Father, their thirst for everlasting life, is stuck fast in the haze of the sacrifices which repair nothing redeem nothing; in the evil mist of human darkness and full self-complacency which feels itself free when it is chained, and thinks that it needs no redemption. This is the deeper reality which is visible beneath the husk of the outward event.

(Sister Aemiliana Lohr (+ 1972) was a German Benedictine nun who wrote about the liturgy.)

 

Lent 2009

“Christ MADE HIMSELF POOR FOR YOU.”              2 COR 8: 9

                       

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

 

MASS INTENTIONS March 14 - 20

Saturday     5:00 p.m.  + Anthebien

Sunday     10:00 a.m.   + Jim Shore

Tuesday      9:00 a.m. 

Thursday    8:00 a.m.

Friday         8:00 a.m.

 

STEWARDSHIP

He was speaking about the temple of his body.                                               John 2:21

On the cross, Jesus once and for all took the place of the paschal lamb sacrificed in the temple. By his resurrection, he became the Temple of the new and eternal Zion, toward whom we journey through life’s deserts.

 

TREASUR REPORT SUNDAY

March 7 & 8, 2009

 

Plate………………………. $ 1,069.00

EFT……………………….. $    382.50

Total                                      $ 1,451.50

 

Thank you and God the Father Bless you!

Christ beside me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ within me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ on my right,… Christ in every eye that sees me, Christ in every ear that hears me.

 

St. Patrick’s Day - March 17

May God grant you always..

A sunbeam to warm you, a moonbeam to charm you, a sheltering Angel so nothing can harm you. Laughter to cheer you. Faithful friends near you. And whenever you pray, Heaven to hear you.

Happy Saint Patrick’s Day!!!

 

 

2009 Lenten Opportunities

You like COFFE! Please come at 9:00 am (before Sunday Mass) to the Rectory and you can learn more about the FAITH! Or if you would like to receive the Easter Sacraments!

 

Pray for our RCIA catechumens and candidates as they continue their faith journeys.

 

 

2009 ANNUAL BISHOP’S APPEAL

You are very generous with your contributions to your Parish and all the ministries’ of the Dioceses; please accept my thanks in the name of many people of the parish and the people of our Diocese of Monterey.

Our parish goal this year is $8,000.00. God willing, and with your help it will be achieved.

Only 15 families have pledged a lot- $5,730.00 – thank you for your generosity.  We need support from all of you.

Thank you, God reward all your generosity, and my prayers for your families,                           Fr. Eugenio

Station of the Cross

 

Friday’s March 13^th & 20^th at 6:30 p.m. - dinner followed by the prayer of the Stations of the Cross at 7:15 p.m.

Friday’s March 27^th & April 3^rd at 7:15 p.m. - the prayer of the Stations of the Cross.

All Fridays of Lent are a day of Abstinence in the Church

 

Lenten Journey

Every week please pick up one card, then during the week look at your New Testament in the letter’s of Saint Paul.  If you read and find one sentence you like more, please hand write it on the card and bring it to the church every Sunday.

 

Friday, March  20^th, Mass at 8:00 a.m.

Solemnity of Joseph, husband of Mary

For anyone raised in the Catholic tradition, it’s obvious that devotion to Saint Joseph permeates the life of our Church. And through the centuries, countless numbers of people and institutions have placed themselves under his holy patronage. But for all the greatness of this saint and the solemnity we celebrate March 19, there’s a certain mystery surrounding Joseph.

Saint Joseph’s challenge our spiritually ally: just and obedient servant of the Lord, husband to Mary, protector of the Holy family, foster father of the Son of God himself.

Joseph shows us the simple courage to be when things don’t add up, when we must place our trust completely in the hands of God, because we no other option.

 

 

Mass’s in your Home! Yes this season of Lent, Fr. Eugenio will go to your home and celebrate the Mass with your family. If you like this, please contact Fr. Eugenio at 353.2210

 

SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT

March 8, 2009

 

The law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.

 

The Lord reveals his glory in the presence of chosen witnesses. His body is like that of the rest of mankind, but he makes it shine with such splendor that his face becomes like the sun in glory and his garments as white as snow.

The great reason for this “Transfiguration” was to remove the scandal of the cross from the hearts of his disciples, and to prevent the humiliation of his voluntary suffering from disturbing the faith of those who had witnessed the surpassing glory that lay concealed.

With no less forethought he was also providing a firm foundation for the hope of holy Church. The whole body of Christ was to understand the kind of transformation that it would receive as his gift. The members of that body were to look forward to a share in that glory which first blazed out in Christ their head.

Moses and Elijah, the law and the prophets, appeared with the Lord in conversation with him.

As Saint John says: The law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. In him the promise made through the shadows of prophecy stands revealed, along with the full meaning of the precepts of the law. He is the one who teaches the truth of prophecy through his presence, and makes obedience to the commandments possible through grace.

In the preaching of the holy Gospel all should receive a strengthening of their faith. No one should be ashamed of the cross of Christ, through which the world has been redeemed.

No one should fear to suffer for the sake of justice; no one should lose confidence in the reward that has been promised. The way to rest is through toil, the way to life is through death. Christ has taken on himself the whole weakness of our lowly human nature. If the we are steadfast in our faith in him in our love for him, we win the victory that he has won; we receive what he has promised.

        (From a sermon by Saint Leo the Great, pope)

 

“CHRIST MADE HIMSELF POOR

 FOR YOU.”        2COR 8:9

 

 

CONFESSIONS:

By request or by appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

 

 

MASS INTENTIONS March 7 - 13

Saturday    5:00 p.m.   For the Parishioners

Sunday    10:00 a.m.    + Cecily Olsen     

Tuesday     9:00 a.m.    For our Country 

Thursday   8:00 a.m.        

Friday        8:00 a.m.        

 

STEWARDSHIP OF TREASURE

REPORT SUNDAY

February 28 & March 1, 2009

 

TOTAL PLATE                  $ 1,456.25

     EFT                                        $   382.50

     TOTAL                                  $1,838.75

 

Thank you! Please help us!

God Bless You!

 

CHOIR CALL

If you’d like to sing or play an instrument in the choir, please give us your ideas. We need you! Questions? Call Norma Hammons @ 353-3326

 

And would you like to be Catholic or be Confirmed or receive the Eucharist. Please call at 408 353-2210. We will be very happy to help you! Please come to the Rectory on Sundays at 9:00 am.  Enjoy some Coffee!

 

Outreach

Prayer Line:  Please calls Fr. Eugenio at 408 353-2210 if you or someone you know is in need of prayer or would like Communion brought to them.

 

Men’s Club Meeting

Our next meeting will be a 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11^th at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Center.  We are very good support for one another.

For more information, contact Dan Devlin @ 353.4599

Every man welcome!

 

 

 

 

 

Branch 184 of the Italian Catholic Federation

Will be hosting its Spring Dinner Dance on

April 4 at St Mary’s Church in Los Gatos.

No host cocktails @ 6:00 p.m. - Dinner @ 7:00 p.m. and dancing to follow.

Flyers at the back of the Church or contact Marie Yurosko at 354.4407

 

 

2009 Lenten Opportunities

 

Stations of the Cross

 March 13^th & 20^th at 6:30 p.m.

Dinner followed by the prayer of the Stations of the Cross at 7:15 pm.

March 27^th & April 3^rd at 7:15 p.m.

 The prayer of the Stations of the Cross.

 

Lenten Journey

 Every week please pick up one card, then during the week look at your New Testament in the letter’s of Saint Paul. If you read and find one sentence you like more, please hand write it on the card and bring it to the church every Sunday Mass.

 

Mass in your Home!

Fr. Eugenio will go to your home and celebrate the Mass with your family. Please contact Fr. Eugenio @ 353.2210.

 

Pray for our RCIA catechumens and candidates as they continue their faith journeys.

 

AMA: Annual Bishop’s Appeal!

Please give your support to all the ministries’ of the Dioceses. Our parish goal this year is $8,000.

 

 

During Lent let us improve our spirit of prayer and recollection. Let us free our minds from all that is not Jesus.         Blessed Teresa of Calcutta.

 

FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT

March 1, 2009

 

A Lenten Reflection

 

I was standing in an aisle in the grocery store when a sharp spiritual pain pinched my awareness and let me see the rest of the world. I was appalled. I realized I could by anything in the store that I wanted. The richness of my life slapped me in the face as I stood there, thinking about how many people do not even have a tore like that available to them, let alone the money to purchase what is in it.

Not long after that experience, I read some statistics in an article by Joan Chittister that increased my awareness of my richness in light of the world’s poverty:

Social statisticians tell us that if the earth’s population were a village of 100 people, there would be 57 Asians, 21 Europeans, and 8 Africans. Only 14 people in the village would be from both North and South American combined. Seventy of the people in this village would be nonwhite. Seventy would be non-Christian. Seventy would be illiterate. Fifty of them would malnourished. Fifty percent of all the money in the village would be held by six people –and all of them would be white, male Americans…

But there is also hope. There are people in wealthy nations whose awareness of the rest of the world is making a difference. They want to help. They are working to change the great gap between the haves and have-nots. I see the choices these generous and compassionate people are making. It is essential that we are reminded often that each human being is our sister or our brother. It is the message that Jesus taught so long ago. It is an ageless teaching and we are always in need of re-learning and living the message. Len is a good time to re-enter the heart of this reaching.

                From “Out of the ordinary” by Joyce Rupp

“Christ MADE HIMSELF POOR FOR YOU.”  2 COR 8: 9

 

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

 

MASS INTENTIONS Feb 28 – March 5

Saturday     5:00 p.m.  For Parishioners

Sunday     10:00 a.m.   + Leslie R. Olsen

Tuesday      9:00 a.m. 

Thursday    8:00 a.m.

Friday         8:00 a.m.

 

STEWARDSHIP

It is written, “One does not live by bread alone.”                                      (Luke 4:4)

It is when we are hungry that we most need the bread of life and not the banquet spread by temptation. It is when we are thirsty that we most need the cup of salvation and not the wine held out by sin. It is when we are weak that we most need the strength of Christ and not our own.

TREASUR REPORT SUNDAY

February 21 & 22, 2009

 

Plate………………………. $ 1,433.00

EFT……………………….. $    382.50

Total                                      $ 1,815.50

 

Thank you and God the Father Bless you!

 

 

 

“Learn to love the Creator in his creation, the Worker in his work.

Don’t be so fascinated by things created that you forget the One who created them all.”

St. Augustine

 

 

You like COFFE! Please come before Sunday Mass 9:00 a.m. to the Rectory and you can learn more about the FAITH! Or if you would like to receive the Easter Sacraments!

 

 

2009 ANNUAL BISHOP’S APPEAL

 

In light of the difficulties facing so many people. I do hope this year is going well for you. But you are very generosity all the time for the Parish and all the ministries’ of the Dioceses; please accepted my thank in the name of many people of the parish and more people of own Dioceses of Monterey.

Our parish goal this year is $8,000.00. God willing, and with your help it will be achieved.

Thank you, God reward all your generosity, and my prayers,                           Fr. Eugenio

 

 

Station of the Cross

 

Friday’s March 6^th, 13^th & 20^th at 6:30 p.m. - dinner followed by the prayer of the Stations of the Cross at 7:15 p.m.

Friday’s March 27^th & April 3^rd at 7:15 p.m. - the prayer of the Stations of the Cross.

 

All Fridays of Lent are a day of Abstinence in the Church

 

March 1 “Troop Care Package Project”

TODAY at 12:00 p.m. we will have a “Potluck” and assemble troop care packages for our military serving overseas.

The entire parish’s together with the members of the Mountain Bible Church, a very good beginning for the Season of Lent 2009.

Everyone, including children is welcome.

 

Lenten Journey

 

Every week please pick up one card, then during the week look at your New Testament in the letter’s of Saint Paul.  If you read and find one sentence you like more, please hand write it on the card and bring it to the church every Sunday.

 

 

Mass’s in your Home!

Yes this season of Lent, Fr. Eugenio will go to your home and celebrate the Mass with your family. If you like this, please contact Fr. Eugenio at 353.2210

 

 

SEVENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

February 22, 2009

 

 

Gospel: We see Jesus as healer again, only this time he does something even greater than physical healing. Jesus is in Capernaum again, where he cast out the demon from a man in the synagogue. Word has spread, and the house is so crowded with people that it is impossible to get in at the door. Nothing daunted, four friends lower their paralyzed friend through the roof of the house. Jesus, seeing their faith, speaks to the paralyzed man tenderly: “Child, your sins are forgiven” (Mark 2:5). The people are shocked, and the scribes are indignant. They whisper among themselves: Who is this man to be forgiving sins? Only God can forgive! Jesus then proves his authority by speaking again to the paralyzed man, this time with words of healing – and the paralyzed man gets up and goes out, freed of his burdens, both spiritual and physical. As with all the wonders Jesus works, the healing of the paralytic is not an end in itself, but a sign, which demonstrates Jesus’ authority to forgive and lead others to faith.

Father, keep before us the wisdom and love you have revealed in your Son.

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

 

MASS INTENTIONS February 21 - 27

Saturday     5:00 p.m.  + JoAnn B. Marx

Sunday     10:00 a.m.   For Parishioners

Tuesday      9:00 a.m.

Wednesday 9:00 a.m.

                    7:00 p.m.

Thursday     8:00 a.m.

Friday          8:00 a.m.

 

STEWARDSHIP

He said to the paralytic, “I say to you, rise, pick up your mat, and go home.” (Mark 2:11)

In the Gospel today, paralysis is seen as a real physical condition but also as an image of the cumulative power of our sinful choices to ensnare us and hold us back from walking freely in the way of Christ.

 

TREASUR REPORT SUNDAY

February 14 & 15, 2009

 

Plate……………………   …. $    992.00

EFT……………………   ….. $    382.50

Total                                         $ 1,374.50

Let us give thanks and praise!

 

 

 

Lent begins on Wednesday 25

Masses at 9:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.

 

Ash Wednesday is a day of universal fast and abstinence in the Church!

 

Ash Wednesday

Lent begins with ashes – a traditional sign of mourning, and repentance for both Jews and Christians                     (Is. 58:5; Mt. 11:21)

Today, as we receive ashes on our heads, usually traced in a Sign of the Cross, we’re reminded of who we are: creatures in need of God’s love and forgiveness.

The readings for Ash Wednesday offer us good guidance, not only for this day, but for the journey we are taking throughout the next few weeks.

+ Joel calls us to return to the Lord through our prayer and fasting.  + Paul appeals to us not to “receive the grace of the Lord in vain”   (2 Cor. 5:20-6:2)

+ Jesus reminds us to pray, fast, and give alms with an eye to please only God, not impress other people.    (Mt. 6:1-6; 16-18).

LENT 2009

“Christ made Himself poor for you”

2 Cor 8, 9

Each year, Lent offers us a providential opportunity to deepen the meaning and value of our Christian lives, and it stimulates us to rediscover the mercy of God so that we, in turn, become more merciful toward our brothers and sisters.

For this year’s Lenten Message, We wish to spend some time reflecting on the practice of almsgiving, which represents a specific way to assist those in need and, at the same time, an exercise in self-denial to free us from attachment to worldly goods.

According to the teaching of the Gospel, we are not owners but rather administrators of the goods we possess: these, then, are not to be considered as our exclusive possession, but means through which the Lord calls each one of us to act as a steward of His providence for our neighbor.

The material goods bear a social value, according to the principle of their universal destination.

Lent invites us to “train ourselves” spiritually, also through the practices of almsgiving, in order to grow in charity and recognize in the poor Christ Himself.

March 1 “Troop Care Package Project”

Food and Snack items; Hygiene &Entertainment items& Miscellaneous, Ziploc Bags.

We will have a “Potluck” and assemble troop care packages for our military serving overseas. Pick up a wish list of items at the back of the church – TODAY!

 

2009 ANNUAL BISHOP’S APPEAL

Dear Parishioner,

In light of the difficulties facing so many people. I do hope this year is going well for you.

Our Diocesan Ministry Appeal in once again upon us. And your help is wanted, needed and appreciated.  The revenues collected are used, solely to provide much needed services to the people of our diocese and parish. Our parish goal this year is $8,000.00. God willing, and with your help it will be achieved.

Thank you and my prayers,           Fr. Eugenio

 

“Give and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap.”

Luke 6:38

 

Rite of Candidacy to Holy Orders

On Saturday, February 21^st the Rite of Candidacy to Holy Orders will be celebrated at San Carlos Cathedral during the 4pm Mass with Bishop Richard Garcia presiding.

This is the first rite along the path toward Permanent Deacon Ordination which the following men will celebrate. Please keep these men, their wives, and their families in your prayers.

Jim Burrows, Ed Callahan,

DAVID HAMMONS

Mark Kite, David Lansford, Salvador Lopez, Michael McNally, Rick Minton, Tom O’Brien, Camerino Padilla, Ron Panziera, Efrain Parra, José Valenzuela & Morton Zavala.

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

February 15, 2009

Today’s Gospel shows Jesus reaching out in love to the leper. It is a good weekend to think about how we can widen the embrace of our community. Who are the "lepers" of today, those who are kept at the outskirts of our culture and our love?

　

First Reading: Leviticus provides a context for Jesus’ healing of the leper in the Gospel. Leprosy (the term was used to describe a variety of skin ailments) was unlike any other illness the people had seen; it rendered the person ritually "unclean" (Leviticus 13:3). When the first signs of leprosy were apparent, The Hebrew law required that the person be brought to a priest, not a physician. The priest would make the diagnosis of leprosy, and the afficted person would have to leave his own house and live "outside the camp" (13:46), and he would have to cry out "unclean, unclean," (13:45) to warn those approaching him unwittingly. The leper was treated more like a criminal than a sick person.

　

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS February 14 - 20

Saturday 5:00 p.m. + Larry Sandman

Sunday 10:00 a.m. + Anthony De Costa

Tuesday 9:00 a.m. + Anthony De Costa

Thursday 8:00 a.m.

Friday 8:00 a.m.

STEWARDSHIP

Whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God. (1 Cor 10:31)

Shame drove lepers into lonely exile. Shame can drive us away from the Christ whose love will never fail to touch and heal us. Today’s leper gave glory to God by asking for and receiving healing.

TREASUR REPORT SUNDAY

February 7 & 8, 2009
Plate……………………. $ 1,160.00
EFT……………………….. $ 382.50
Total................................. $ 1,542.50
Thank you and God the Father Bless you!

　

　

Even if I am tired, even if exhausted, at the end I can find rest on the heart of Jesus.

St. Bernadette Soubirous

　　

"He fasted for forty days and forty nights, and afterwards he was hungry" (Mt 4, 1-2)

At the beginning of Lent, which constitutes an itinerary of more intense spiritual training, the Liturgy sets before us again three penitential practices that are very dear to the biblical and Christian tradition –prayer, almsgiving, fasting- to prepare us to better celebrate Easter and thus experience God’s power!

ASH WEDNESDAY

February 25, 2009

Mass at 9:00 a.m.

Mass at 7:00 p.m.

Ash Wednesday is a day of universal fast and abstinence in the Church.

　

2009 ANNUAL BISHOP’S APPEAL

"The Annual Bishop’s Appeal (AMA) will start in our parish on Lent 2009. The AMA provide an opportunity for us to join with all parishes throughout the Diocese of Monterey to support programs and services that benefit our own parish as well as our Diocesan ministries. Look a brochure about the AMA in this week, and prayerfully consider how your family will respond to this call to carry on Christ’s work in our community.

Will You Be My Valentine?

"Peter, will you be my valentine?"

"Jesus, you know everything. You know I want to be your valentine"

(Rough translation of John 21:17)

Jesus also speaks to me: "Will you be my valentine? Will you be my friend?"

Which is to say:

Will you let me give you my unconditional love?

Will you accept my peace for your tired and worn self?

Will you receive my mercy and forgiveness?

Will you believe in my love when everyone else has gone away or given up on you?

Will you be generous enough to take my love to others when they need you?

Will you be bread to my hungry, love to my needy, hope to my desolate?

Will you love yourself well and believe in the gifts I’ve given to you?

Will you trust me to always companion you?

Will you lay down your life for me?

"Will you be my valentine? Will you be my friend?"

Retrouvaille

A lifeline for marriages

32 Families say Thank You!

This is just a short note to say "Thank You!"

The Retrouvaille weekend just completed Sunday night was attended by 32 couples. Those 32 couples have 52 children living at home with them. That’s 32 families who now have a fighting chance. Their journey has just begun. Retrouvaille is not just a weekend; it is a 3 month program. Please continue to keep these couples and their children in your prayers. We have another Retrouvaille program starting soon.

March 1 "Troop Care Package Project"

Food and Snack items- Hygiene, & Entertainment & Miscellaneous. Ziploc Bags.

We will have a "Potluck" and assemble troop care packages for our military serving overseas. Pick up a wish list of items at the back of the church - today!

FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

February 8, 2009

Job asks, "Is not a man’s life on earth drudgery?" We, too, often wonder if we will "see happiness again." Jesus responds, "Let us go on to the nearby villages." The presence of Jesus is the antidote for our "months of misery." When "the night drags on" and we are filled with restlessness, only one thing makes us want to get out of bed in the morning: Jesus Christ. The gracious God "rebuilds Jerusalem" one broken heart at a time. To the weak he became weak to win over the weak. In Christ’s preaching, "He calls each by name."

(From the Magnificat)

　

Our heart is restless until rests in you!

You are great, Lord, and worthy of our highest praise; your power is great and there is no limit to your wisdom. Man, a tiny part of your creation, wishes to praise you. Through he bears about him his mortality, the evidence of his sin and the evidence that you resist the proud, yet this man, a tiny part of your creation, wishes to praise you. It is you who move man to delight in your praise. For you have made us for yourself, and our heart is restless until it rests in you.

Lord, help me to know and understand which is for me, first movement, to call upon you for help or to praise you; or if it must first know you before it can call upon you. But if someone does not know you, how can he call upon you? For, not knowing you, he might call upon someone else instead of you. Or must you first be called upon in order, to be known? But Scripture says: Unless they believe in him, how shall they call upon him. And how shall they believe unless someone preaches to them?

Those who seek the Lord will praise him. Seeking the Lord they will find him, and finding him they will praise him. Lord, let me seek you by calling upon you, and let me call upon you believing in you, for you have been preached to us. Lord, my faith calls upon you, and the faith you have given me, the faith you have inspired in me by the incarnation of your Son and through the ministry of your preacher…

(From The Confessions of Saint Augustine, bishop)

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

MASS INTENTIONS February 7 -13

Saturday 5:00 p.m. + Craig Wells

Sunday 10:00 a.m. + Cecily Olsen

Tuesday 9:00 a.m. For Parishioners

Thursday 8:00 a.m.

Friday 8:00 a.m. For the Priests

　

STEWARDSHIP

Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give. (Matthew 10:8)

Like Simon’s mother-in-law, who opened her house so that others might receive the healing that she had been given, Saint Paul felt the burden and the privilege of handing on the others the Gospel of salvation which he had received. As we have received, so let us give!

TREASURER REPORT

Jan. 31 & Feb. 1, 2009

Plate………………………. $ 1,716.55

EFT……………………….. $ 382.50

Total $ 2,099.05

Thank you and God the Father Bless you!

WORD MARRIAGE DAY IS BEING CELEBRATED TODAY!

　

　

In less than a month, LENT will begin. Planning for this season you might focus on the following areas: Prayer: Eucharist Sunday, daily. Penance individual confession and traditional devotions. Fasting: communal and individual, simple meals; Almsgiving: works of charity and justices, participation in public activities, etc.

ASH WEDNESDAY

February 25, 2009

Mass at 9:00 a.m.

Mass at 7:00 p.m.

Be reconciled and return to the Lord by means of prayer, fasting and deeds of loving services.

Thank you!!!

Many of the people of the Parish we enjoy the Parish’s FEAST and we enjoy the gathering, and food and fellowship.

"Muchas gracias" to the strong women who worked very hard for many hours for us: Agripina Montion, Alejandra Bravo, Concepción Montion and Teresa Medina.

Also Gina Boisvert.

TRAINING SESSION – TODAY

for Lectors and Eucharistic Ministers.

After Sunday Mass today, there will be an information and training for prospective Eucharist Ministers and Lectors including young people. Please come and join us.

The session will last 30-45 minutes.

Teen Center

The Men’s Club is planning to develop a Teen Center. If anyone has any of the following items to donate, please contact Dan Devlin @353.4599 or one of the other men. We are looking for: a ping pong table, pool table, air hockey table and basketball hoop on a rolling base. Thanks for your help.

KIDS CLUB

We need you; we need more helpers from Christ Child Church. So far there are only three of us. We meet in the Community Center at C.T. English on Wednesday from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. For more information contact Fr. Eugenio @353.2210 or Herb @402.2666 or Ruth McCormick @353.1017

Men’s Club Meeting and Dinner Wednesday February 11^th at 7:00 p.m.

Community Center.

All men are welcome!!!

FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

February 1, 2009

What can free us from being "anxious about the things of the world?" The authority of JESUS who "commands even the unclean spirits and they obey him." The people in the time of Moses begged for such a prophet. That promise is fulfilled definitively in Jesus Christ whose authority astonishes the assembled crowd. "If today you hear his voice," adhere "to the Lord without distraction." "To him you shall listen," because obeying the authority of Christ makes us more human and fills us with a burning desire for things truly great.

　

Graces of the Presentation

Let us receive the light whose brilliance is eternal.

In honor of the divine mystery that we celebrate today, let us all hasten to meet Christ. Everyone should be eager to loin the procession and to carry a light.

Our lighted candles are a sign of the divine splendor of the one who comes to expel the dark shadows of evil and to make the whole universe radiant with the brilliance of his eternal light. Our candles also show how bright our souls be when we go to meet Christ.

The true light has come, the light that enlightens every man who is born into this world. Let all of us, my brethren, be enlightened and made radiant by this light. Let all of us share in its splendor, and be so filled with it that no one remains in the darkness. Let us be shining ourselves as we go together to meet and to receive with the aged Simeon the light whose brilliance is eternal. Rejoicing with Simeon, let us sing a hymn of thanksgiving to God, the Father of the light, who sent the true light to dispel the darkness and to give us all a share in his splendor.

By faith we too embraced Christ, the salvation of God the Father, as he came to us from Bethlehem. Gentiles before, we have now become the people of God. Our eyes have seen God incarnate, and because we have seen him present among us and have mentally received him into our arms, we are called the new Israel. Never shall we forget this presence; every year we keep a feast in its honor.

(From a sermon by Saint Sophronius, bishop)

　

MASS INTENTIONS Jan. 31 – Feb. 6

Saturday 5:00 p.m. For Parishioners

Sunday 10:00 a.m. + Leslie R. Olsen

Tuesday 9:00 a.m.

Thursday 8:00 a.m. +Larry Sandman

Friday 8:00 a.m.

CONFESSIONS

By request or by appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

TODAY: Parish Feast Day

THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD

Thank You, you faith, hope and love your made the Parish alive!

The Lord blesses you and keeps us!

The Lord let his face shine upon us, and be gracious to us!

The Lord looks upon us kindly and give us peace!

Amen.

Stewardship of Treasure Report

January 24 & 25, 2009

Plate…….………………………$ 1,250.00

EFT……………………………..$ 382.50

TOTAL $ 1,632.50

Second Collection for Our Parish Maintenance Fund Last Weekend $ 624.00

Thank you and God bless you!

PLEASE HELP US!

CHOIR CALL

If you’d like to sing or play an instrument in the choir, please give us your ideas. We need you!!! Any questions, please call Norma Hammons at 353.3326.

Would you like to be a Lector or a Eucharistic minister?

After Sunday Mass on February 8^th, there will be an information and training for prospective Eucharistic Ministers and Lectors including young people. Please come and join us. The session will last 30-45 minutes.

The best gift

Offers the Mass for birthdays, anniversaries, special intentions, for the repose of the soul… in our parish, we have no Mass intentions. Please use this opportunity.

Men’s Club Meeting and Dinner Wednesday February 11^th at 7:00 p.m. Community Center.

KIDS CLUB

Can you spare 1-1/2 hours a week to bring the words and message of Jesus to children in our community? Kids Club is co-sponsored by Christ Child Church & Mountain Bible Church. The goal is to bring the loving message of Jesus to children who may never have heard of Him. It is non-denominational, low-key and fun with crafts, games and stories. The program is new to our community but successfully operates in many school districts in California. The program is for kindergarten through 5^th grade.

The activities have all been planned. Father Eugenio and Pastor John lead us in a short prayer. Herb Curran from Christ Child is an enthusiastic helper with 4^th and 5^th graders.

We need more helpers from Christ Child. So far there are only three of us. We meet in the Community Center at C.T. English on Wednesday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. For more information contact Fr. Eugenio @353-2210; or Herb @402-2666 or Ruth McCormick @353-1017.

The Saratoga Civic Center Theatre presents the "Will Rogers Follies" a Benefit Performance for Birthright of San Jose at the Saratoga Senior Center on Thursday, February 5, 2009 at 8:00 p.m.; doors open at 6:15 p.m. Tickets $25 which includes a champagne reception. Big Raffle – the grand prize is a 5 night stay at a Donner Lake cabin –contact Norma at 353.3326 for raffle tickets; for tickets for the show, contact Pat Bradley at 353.8403.

Teen Center

The Men’s Club is planning to develop a Teen Center. If anyone has any of the following items to donate, please contact Dan Devlin, 408.353.4599 or one of the other men. We are looking for: a ping pong table, pool table, hockey table and a basketball hoop on a rolling base. Thanks for your help.

 

THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

January 25, 2009

Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul, Apostle.

The conversion of Saul, persecutor of the early Church, was of pivotal importance for the worldwide development of Christianity. Paul means much for our faith and for the New Testament.

Today we commemorate that significant event on the road to Damascus when Saul, fallen to the ground in amazement at a great light from heaven, spoke with the risen Savior and arose as Paul, to become the Apostle to the Gentiles.

　

Paul, more than anyone else, has shown us what man really is, and in what our nobility consists, and of what virtue this particular animal is capable. Each day he aimed ever higher; each day he rose up with greater ardor and faced with new eagerness the dangers that threatened him. He summed up his attitude in the words: I forget what is behind me and push on to what lies ahead. When he saw death imminent, he bade others share his joy: Rejoice and be glad with me! And when danger, injustice and abuse threatened, he said: I am content with weakness, mistreatment and persecution. These he called the weapons of righteousness, thus telling us that he derived immense profit from them.

The one thing he feared, indeed dreaded, was to offend God; nothing else could sway him. Therefore, the only thing he really wanted was always to please God.

The most important thing of all to him, however, was that he knew himself to be loved by Christ. Enjoying this love, he considered himself happier than anyone else; were he without it, it would be no satisfaction to be the friend of principalities and powers. He preferred to be thus loved and be the least of all, or even to be among the damned, than to be without that love and be among the great and honored.

To be separated from that love was, in his eyes, the greatest and most extraordinary of torments; the pain of that loss would alone have been hell, and endless, unbearable torture…

(From a homily by Saint John Chrysostom, bishop)

God was merciful to me, because in my unbelief I acted in ignorance.

The abundant grace of our Lord was poured out on me, and gave me the faith and love which are ours through union with Christ Jesus.

1 Tm. 1:13-14

****************************

In this Jubilee Year marking the 2000^th anniversary of St. Paul’s birth

MASS INTENTIONS January 24 -30

Saturday 5:00 p.m. For Parishioners

Sunday 10:00 a.m. + Cecily Olsen

Tuesday 9:00 a.m.

Thursday 8:00 a.m.

Friday 8:00 a.m.

CONFESSIONS

By request or by appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

PARISH FEAST DAY

THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD

We will celebrate the feast on Sunday, February 1^st at 10:00 a.m. Mass and we will have a gathering after Mass.

In preparation we will have two evenings of prayer, a gathering and fellowship on Thursday & Friday January 29 & 30 at 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Stewardship of Treasure Report

January 17 & 18, 2009

Plate…….………………………$ 815.00

EFT……………………………..$ 382.50

TOTAL $ 1,197.50

Thank you and God bless you!

PLEASE HELP US!

The Saratoga Civic Center Theatre

Presents the Will Rogers Follies - a Benefit Performance for Birthright of San Jose at the Saratoga Senior Center on Thursday, February 5, 2009 at 8:00 p.m; doors open at 6:15 p.m. Tickets $25 which includes a champagne reception. Big Raffle – the grand prize is a 5 night stay at a Donner Lake cabin - contact Norma at 353 3326 for raffle tickets; for tickets for the show, contact Pat Bradley at 353-8403

CHOIR CALL

If you’d like to sing or play an instrument in the choir, please give us your ideas. We need you!!! Questions??? Call Norma Hammons @ 353.3326

Also we need someone to play music at the Saturday evening Mass at 5:00 p.m. Please contact to Fr. Eugenio @ 353.2210

Want to be a lector or Eucharistic minister??

After the Sunday 10 AM mass on February 8^th, there will be training and information for prospective Eucharistic ministers and lectors including young people. Please come and join us. The session will last 30-45 minutes.

Teen Center

The Men’s Club is planning to develop a Teen Center. If anyone has any of the following items to donate, please contact Dan Devlin, 408-353-4599 or one of the other men. We are looking for: a ping pong table, pool table, air hockey table and a basketball hoop on a rolling base.

Thanks for your help.

Important enrollment information for Holy Cross School ….. Families interested in attending Holy Cross School are invited to attend our Kindergarten information meeting will be on Sunday, February 8 from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. in the Kindergarten classroom at 150 Emmet Street, Santa Cruz. Children who are not yet enrolled in Holy Cross Preschool will be scheduled for testing appointments beginning on Saturday, February 28 at 9:30 a.m.

Today we begin celebrate National Catholic Schools’ week from Jan. 25 to Jan. 31, 2009!!! The values of a Catholic Education in one of our schools should still be a viable option for your prayerful consideration.

THEFTS

We have heard from many parishes that they are experiencing automobile break-ins during Mass. Unfortunately, we have also heard of increasing theft of purses and other valuables during Mass and other events. Without creating alarm, it would be prudent to remind you to lock your vehicles and take your valuables with you or place them out of sight. Do not leave purses and other valuable items unattended during Mass.

SECOND SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME

January 18, 2009

"I have waited, waited for the Lord." In our yearning, John the Baptist sends us to the Lamb of God. Jesus looks at us and addresses us with breathtaking question, "What are you looking for?" Christ’s first words call us to search our desires. For Jesus draws us to himself through the longings of our heart. The Lord once said to Saint Catherine of Siena, "I who am infinite God want you to serve me with what is infinite, and you have nothing infinite except your soul’s love and desire." "You are not your own’; God’s law/desire has been placed within our heart. To do his will is our delight. The Son of God says to us now what Samuel once said to Eli: "Here I am."

"We have found the Messiah: Jesus Christ, who brings us truth and grace."

　

MASS INTENTIONS January 17 - 23

Saturday 5:00 p.m. For Parishioners

Sunday 10:00 a.m. + Leslie R. Olsen

Tuesday 9:00 a.m. Doris De Costa

Thursday 8:00 a.m.

Friday 8:00 a.m.

CONFESSIONS

By request or by appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

　

PARISH FEAST DAY

THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD

This feast, originating in 4^th century in Jerusalem, came to be celebrated in Rome by the middle of the 5^th century, under its Greek title "Feast of the Meeting"; known also as Candlemas Day.

We will celebrate the feast on Sunday, February 1^st at 10:00 a.m. Mass and we will have a gathering after Mass.

In preparation we will have two evenings of prayer, a gathering and fellowship on Thursday & Friday January 29 & 30 at 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

　

Stewardship of Treasure Report

January 10 & 11, 2009

Plate…….………………………$ 1,077.00

EFT……………………………..$ 382.50

TOTAL $ 1,459.50

Second Collection Seminarians &

continuing Education of Priests $ 700.00

Thank you and God bless you!

PLEASE HELP US!

　

CHOIR CALL

If you’d like to sing or play an instrument in the choir, please give us your ideas. We need you!!! Questions??? Call Norma Hammons @ 353.3326

Fifth Annual Giving at Greenfield

All 50 families were adopted!!!

Dear Families - My family and I would like to give you thanks for the food and gifts. I’m forever grateful for the blessings you gave to my family in these hard times that we are going through. May our Lord bless you & your family everywhere you go. Thank you so much & God Bless.

Sincerely Family Gamboa. Greenfield, Ca.

DAY OF PENANCE

On this anniversary of the Supreme Court decision, Roe vs. Wade (1973), this day shall be observed in all dioceses of the United States as a particular day of penance for violation to the dignity of the human person committed through acts of abortion, and of prayer for the full restoration of the legal guarantee of the right of life.

Stress less: in bad mood? 10 easy ways to lift your spirits

Give yourself a compliment. If you can’t think of one, write down the 10 things you must admire about yourself.

Keep a list of 10 of your happiest memories – things that bring you joy when recall them.

Listen to uplifting music.

Plan to eat a healthy meal and look forward to it throughout the day.

Call someone who makes you feel good.

Get organized and prioritize the most important tasks that need to get done first.

Do something kind for someone else.

Take a walk or do some other form of exercises.

Find or create a special place in your home or neighborhood that soothes you and visit that place often.

Look for the humor, fun, or something you enjoy in whatever you’re doing.

Prayer: The Lord of the universe is more splendid than the sun and the stars. He will never leave me! St. Agnes January 21.

　

KIDS CLUB NEEDS HELP

The Loma Prieta Kids Club, co-sponsored by Christ Child and Mountain Bible Church, is new to our mountain community this year.

This is an after-school program, currently running in over 26 schools in 16 school districts. It is open to any child, K through 5, from public school, parochial school or home-school. The mission is to bring the light of God’s love to the children and positively impact the whole community.

The children seem to love it. The adult volunteers are friendly and caring – the 1-1/2 hours fly by, filled with snacks, crafts, games, a different verse about Jesus each week and lots of music and interactive singing and story-telling. Listening to Pastor John from Mountain Bible with his guitar and wonderful relationship with children is a treat in itself.

Would you like to be part of this friendly group? Only requirement is that you love children and want to spread the loving Gospel of Christ to our community. The lessons plans are already in place. We need more volunteers to give each child individual attention. In addition to Father Eugenio, we have only two volunteers from Christ Child. The bulk of the program is being handled by Mountain Bible.

We meet each Wednesday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. in the community center at C.T. English School. If you would like more information, please contact Ruth McCormick, 353-1017 or ruthmcc@flash.net.

Start the New Year Right!

Join us for an evening of

"Concentration, Prayer and Meditation"

Presented by Father Matthew Pennington

Thursday, January 22^nd, 7:00pm to 9:00pm.

In The Sanctuary of St. Joseph’s Church

435 Monterey Avenue, Capitola, CA

Sponsored by the Adult Formation & Perpetual Adoration Ministries.

 

THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD

January 11, 2009

 

Jesus’ public activity begins with his Baptism in the Jordon by John the Baptist.

 

The gospel of Luke has already supplied two important time references in the infancy narratives. Recounting the beginning of the Baptist’s life, Luke tells us that it took place “in the days of Herod, king of Judea” (Lk 1:5). The time reference in the Baptist’s case thus remains within the bounds of Jewish history. By contrast, the story of Jesus’ infancy begins with the words “in those days a decree went out from Ceasar Augustus” (Lk 2:1). The wider history of the world, represented by the Roman Empire, forms the backdrop.

 

The mention of the Roman emperor serves to indicate Jesus’ chronological place in world history. We are not meant to regard Jesus’ activity as taking place in some sort of mythical “anytime,” which can mean always or never. It is a precisely datable historical event having the full weight that real historical happening; like them, too, it happens once only; it is contemporary with all times, but not in the way that a timeless myth would be.

 

But the point is not just the chronology: The emperor and Jesus represent two different orders of reality. They are by no means mutually exclusive, but their encounter does have the potential to spark a conflict that has implications for the basic questions facing humanity and human existence.

 

The Christian has to “obey God more than men” (Acts 5:29). It is then that Christians become “martyrs,” witnesses of Christ who himself was “the faithful witness” who died on the Cross under Pontius Pilate (Rev 1:15).

 

Looking at the events of Baptism of Jesus in light of the Cross and Resurrection, the Christian people realized what happened: Jesus loaded the burden of all mankind’s guilt upon his shoulders; he bore it down into the depths of the Jordan. He inaugurated his public activity by stepping into the place of sinners.

 

The whole significance of Jesus’ Baptism, the fact that he bears “all righteousness,” first comes to light on the Cross: The Baptism is an acceptance of death for the sins of humanity, and the voice that calls out “This is my beloved Son” over the baptismal waters is an anticipatory reference to the Resurrection. This also explains why, in his own discourses, Jesus uses the word baptism to refer to his death (cf. Mk 10:38; Lk 12:50).

               (Pope Benedict XVI - Jesus of Nazareth)

 

John saw Jesus approaching him, and said: Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. 

 

CONFESSIONS:

By request or appointment

BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS:

Call the office for an appointment.

For Pregnancy Support:

Birthright 241-8444 or 800-550-4900

 

MASS INTENTIONS January 10–16, 2009

Saturday  5:00 p.m. For Parishioners

Sunday   10:00 a.m. +Norman Leo Boisvert

Tuesday     9:00 a.m.  For the Peace

Thursday   8:00 a.m.

Friday        8:00 a.m.  For Our Country

 

STEWARDSHIP

Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of the one who sent me and to finish his work.”                                   (John 4:34)

Jesus listene