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E-Newsletter for
December 8, 2024
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Message from Fr. John Chrysostom Tibakunirwa, Pastor
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On this Second Sunday of Advent, we hear from Prophet Baruch who was in exile with the people of Israel Jerusalem has been destroyed, except in the hearts and spirits of the people. They definitely had that old Advent feeling as they hear Baruch's whole message. They longed to go back and begin. they had suffered for their sins. They grasp at any little message that would keep their hopes alive. They were Jerusalem, undestroyed. For God is leading Israel in joy by the light of his glory, with his mercy and justice for company.
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Paul writes out his Advent list for the members of the early Christian community of the Philippians. He prays that their spiritual stockings, may be fulfilled with the fruit of righteousness. As Israel longed to be back home with God, Paul longs that the early church learn to discern what is of value and to be ever more and more loving toward each other.
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The Old Advent Feeling might have something of such longings in our hearts. We will spend time searching for fullness and discerning what is of good value. longing for completion: longing for more love within and around us seem to be part of that old feeling. John the Baptizing -Preacher calls out in the wilderness to prepare the way of the Lord, make straight His paths.
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John, like Baruch, calls to those God loves, to return along the paths which are straight and along the roads that have been smooth. So the way back is easier, but John preaches about the leaving of personal exile. Repentance for the forgiveness of sins is what he calls out and we wonder if that is part of the Old Advent Feeling as well. God has made return possible, but the TURNING IS UP TO US.
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News & Events
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Please watch here for news and events, and join our events for good Catholic community!
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Beacon of Faith - Pledge Month
We have already met our ACA goal of $50,000. Because of this, 50% of all funds raised will be returned to the parish; and 75% of funds raised over the target will remain here.
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We are asking all parishioners to please turn in their pledge cards before Thanksgiving. We hope you consider making a 4-year pledge to the campaign.
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Sunday Rosary
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Beginning December 1st, the Rosary will be said at church each Sunday morning at 10:00a.m.
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Religious Education
- Sunday morning CCD (Faith Formation) programs are on-going at the Social Center. First graders are being welcomed for Pre-First Communion classes, and those children who had their First Communion are welcome to continue their religious education.
- We are also registering adults who need their sacraments.
- There will be a Retreat for all Confirmation Students at the church on Sunday, December 8th, from 3:00-6:00p.m. with Fr. Yerick Mendez
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If you have any questions, please contact Sr. Caritina at 733-5823, ext. 130, or at 413-777-5115.
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Bible Study
takes place on the third Wednesday of every month at 10:00a.m. at the rectory.
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Everyone is welcomed to come.
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Blue Army
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On the first Saturday of every month, the Blue Army group follows the 8:15a.m. Mass with a rosary, meditation on the mysteries and confession until approximately 10:30a.m. Everyone is invited to stay after Mass to take part.
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Eucharistic Adoration Time Change
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With the daylight hours decreasing, the new time is 1-4p.m (still on Tuesdays). The Chaplet will still be prayed at 3p.m. and the Rosary at 3:30p.m. followed by Benediction.
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From the Diocese of Springfield, Office of the Vicar General
Dear friends, we have all witnessed the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. For so many whose lives were impacted, there is a long road ahead. It is at moments like this that we are called upon to look beyond our community to help those in need.
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Thank you in advance for your compassionate response.
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Junior Legion of Mary
The Junior Legion of Mary is coming to Holy Name in October! The only requirements are being under 18 and wanting to grow with God.
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