December 6, 2015
Transcription
December 6, 2015
Second Sunday of Advent—December 6th, 2015 Dear Parish family, With this second weekend in the new liturgical year we are already half way into our watchful and prayerful journey of Advent. We are continually reminded through the liturgy that Advent is a time to slow down, meditate and reflect on the meaning of Jesus Christ in our lives. It is a time not only to look back on the first coming of Christ in Bethlehem but also to look (watch!) forward to Christ coming again. I remember on one occasion I came across an article written by Page Zyromski in the Catholic Update publication, it was titled “The God-Shaped Hole.” In the article she states “We’re born with a God-shaped hole in our hearts, one of the saints tells us. It’s a space for God alone. Until we recognize what it is, we try to fill it up by stuffing earthly things into it; - possessions, people, activities, self-importance. It is like trying to force the wrong piece of a jigsaw puzzle into a space not meant for it. We don’t know why we’re not satisfied, so we search for novelty in the things we can cram into the hole. It doesn’t work. Nothing but God will fit the God-shaped hole.” Advent is a time to unclog that hole, to clear out all the litter. What obstructions are blocking the space we give to God in our lives? Are we offering him a temporary parking place until Christmas, or a permanent dwelling in our hearts? This Advent season I would like to invite each of you to ponder the above questions daily as we prepare not only for Christmas but also for Christ’s Second Coming. Will He find us watchful and alert with the hole in our heart filled with God or will He find us sleeping with lots of self-importance, possessions and activities taking priority in our life? Advent is a time for change, a time to allow Christ’s light to shine into the darkness of our heart and to clear the litter! Mary the Mother of Jesus and Our Mother is a great guide and inspiration during this Advent journey. I would like to remind you of the invitation for all of you to come and honor Our Lady during this week. Tuesday, December 8, is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is the patronal feast of the United States and a holy day of obligation, as well as the beginning of the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy. As a sign of God’s mercy, and in view of the great devotion many of our people have for Our Lady of Guadalupe, Bishop Joseph Tyson is dispensing the obligation to attend Mass December 8 for those who will attend a Guadalupe Mass December 12. As is already the case, Catholics who are unable to attend Mass on a holy day of obligation may seek a dispensation from a priest or deacon of the diocese, who can either excuse the person from the obligation completely, or commute it to another pious work, such as praying the Rosary. Here at Holy Family we are having the regular holy day of obligation Masses; 5:30pm Vigil Mass, 7am, 12:15pm & 7pm the day of the Solemnity. The Mass for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe will be at 8:15am on December 12. Please take the Advent booklets located in the bins. They can help you make Advent a mini retreat and also to take inventory of your spiritual journey heading toward Christmas. Remember the Christ as Givi g Tree on your shopping list and let us brighten these Holy Days for those who have less. Let us continue to make Holy Family Parish a home and a holy place which will help all of us fill the God-shaped hole in our hearts. Advent Greetings and Blessings, Rev. César Vega M. Pastor As we have shared with you before, the Thomaskutty family, parishioners here at Holy Family were involved in a very bad car accident while visiting Canada in November. Their oldest son Joseph, who is in our youth group, has suffered a fractured back and has been transported to Harborview in Seattle. Joseph has undergone multiple medical treatments and therapy. He will continue to be under the care of his physicians for the next couple of months. The family has had numerous medical costs due to this event. Many people have asked how they can help; we are offering on option for those who choose to help financially. There has been a GoFundMe account established for the family. Please visit http://e.gofund.me/jhc7kh78 to donate. Please continue to pray for this family. Thank you to all who have contributed and prayed. 1 Second Sunday of Advent—December 6th, 2015 VOICE Reflection for First Reading Jeremiah 33:14-16 Perhaps you noticed right away that the author of this reading is a poet. He is filled with hope and joy as he assures the Israelites in exile that God will bring them back to the holy city of Jerusalem. They are suffering very much because they are far from their homeland. But their return will be such a joyful event that even the mountains, the valleys, and the forests will do what they can to make the journey easier! In this beautiful vision of the future, the people have God’s “mercy and justice for company.” Advent is a time for making progress on our faith journey. Take time to give thanks for God’s mercy and justice in your life. Reflection for Second Reading 1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:4 In his letter to the Christians at Philippi, a city in Macedonia, Paul makes two things clear. The first is his great love and affection for the Philippians, who have helped him in his ministry. The second is his hope that they will continue to become more and more like Christ. Paul is looking forward to the second coming of Christ. And he wants to make sure that all Christ's followers will be ready to receive him when he comes. What will you do during this second week of Advent to show that you, too, are becoming more like Christ? Reflection for Gospel Luke 21:25-28, 34-36 Why do you suppose Luke makes such an effort to pin down the historical timing of the preaching of John the Baptist? He gives us a complete rundown of Roman and Jewish leaders who were in power. Luke wants us to realize that John, a "common man" chosen by God, is much more important than any worldly ruler, because he is the herald who announces the Lord's coming. John urges the people to be baptized as a sign of their repentance for their sins. When they do this, they will make the path clear for Christ to come into their lives. Then all people "shall see the salvation of God." SEMINARIANS! Bishop Tyson has encouraged us to pray for vocations to the priesthood and religious life. Edgar Rene Estrada is studying English at C.W.U. Please keep him and those who are considering vocations in your prayers. Mass of Anointing & Senior Luncheon Thursday, December 17th beginning with Mass in the Chapel then in the Father Murtagh Gathering Hall. Please plan on joining us. Holy Day of Obliga on Vigil Mass on Monday, December 7th at 5:30 PM Tuesday, December 8th 7:00 AM & 12:15 PM and 7:00 PM Mass for Our Lady of Guadalupe-December 12th 8:15 AM READINGS FOR NEXT WEEK MAGNIFICAT Third Sunday of Advent December 13th, 2015 1st Reading: Zephaniah 3:14-18a 2nd Reading: Philippians 4:4-7 Gospel: Luke 3:10-18 February 20th Bible Study – Gospel of Luke Rev. Miguel González Thursday mornings, we have began our Scripture Study on the Gospel of Luke at 10:15-11:45 a.m. in Room 10, Parish Activity Center. To register, please call Amy at 9665344 or email amy.baumgardner@holyfamilyyakima.org. If childcare is needed please call as soon as possible. Fee: $5 Walk-ins are always welcome! Formation School of Faith, Leadership and Lay Ministry Ministries Ecclesiology Bishop Joseph Tyson Catechesis Stephanie Bafus 9:00 am—1:00 pm Pastoral Center in Yakima 5301-A Tieton Drive 2 Discussion Questions-Reading 1 For the people of Israel, coming home from exile was a joyful occasion. The word Advent means "coming." Usually we think of Advent as a time to prepare for the coming of Jesus. But we could also think of it as a time for us to "come home"—to what? To our faith, hope, or love? To our basic values? To our family life? How can you "come home" to something deeper this Advent? How can you reclaim something you had lost or left behind? How can you return from exile? Discussion Questions-Reading 2 Advent is a time of beginnings. Saint Paul is confident that God's work begun in the people of Philippi will continue through to the end. What work have you begun this Advent? Have you asked God's help to continue and to complete it? (Hint: Share ideas on what this "work" might be: for example, being kind when people interrupt you, really listening to family and friends, refusing to listen to gossip, speaking well of others instead of tearing them down in words, and so on). Discussion Questions Gospel Have you ever cleared a path with a shovel or even your bare hands— perhaps through snow, or through a dense undergrowth of vines or weeds? It's hard work! This is what John is asking us to do—to clear a path in our lives to welcome Christ. Is there a path in your life that might take some heavy lifting or some cutting back of things that "catch you up"? How will you clear your path to Christ? Maybe, because of help from family, teachers, parish, and friends, you have a smooth path toward Christ ahead of you. If so, how will you thank God? How can you help others clear their paths? How can the Sacrament of Reconciliation help you in your work of pathclearing? Advent is a beautiful time to celebrate this sacrament. Copyright© by William H. Sadlier, Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission. Discovering hope and joy in the Catholic faith. December 2015 Holy Family Catholic Church Rev. César Vega M., Pastor Unwrap the gifts from your Father St. Thomas Becket Thomas enjoyed power and riches as a close friend of England’s King Henry II, who appointed him chancellor of England. In 1162, King Henry had Thomas named Archbishop of Canterbury. The King tried to pressure Thomas and the other bishops into agreeing to laws allowing the state to regulate Church matters, but Thomas refused. The King exiled Thomas, who fled to France for safety. To protect the Church, Thomas returned to England and was martyred soon after. God loves to give his children gifts, especially at Christmas. “Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift” (2 Corinthians 9:15). This year, unwrap your heavenly gifts … Joy – “Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitant of Zion, for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel” (Isaiah 12:6). We are joyful because God gave us the gift of himself. Celebrate by talking about God with others. For example, tell how he has blessed you in the last year. Peace - "Be not afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which will come to all the people” (Luke 2:10). Is it possible to live in the world and not be afraid? Yet peace is what the angel advised Zechariah, Mary, and the shepherds at the Incarnation. Take the angel’s advice and “be not afraid.” Accept the gift of peace; avoid worry and doubt. Love – When God sent his Son to our rescue, he gave us an incomprehensible gift of love. This gift calls for a response, as he invites us to share in his love. “Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God, and he who loves is born of God and knows God” (1 John 4:7). Share love at Christmas by spending time, not money, on those you love. Gratitude and Generosity Gratitude and generosity often go hand in hand. God is generous in his blessings to us, and often gives us more than we need. Our gratitude inspires us to “give back” to God. Gratitude is the attitude of a generous heart. “Do not let your left hand know what your right is doing, so that your almsgiving may be secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you” (Mathew 6:3-4). © Copyright 2015 Success Publishing & Media, LLC Why does the priest wear purple during Advent? The colors of the priest’s vestments highlight a season of the liturgical year or a mystery of the faith. Purple (violet) represents a time of penance and preparation. During three weeks of Advent, the priest wears violet vestments to remind us to prepare penitentially for Christ’s coming. On the third Sunday of Advent (Gaudete Sunday), he wears rose vestments to signal the halfway point of Advent. This is a happy time when we anticipate the joy in Christ’s coming. December 2015 Page 2 The peacemakers are children of God This is the season during which we become our better selves. Peace reigns in our hearts while we exchange gifts and pleasant thoughts. The best gift we can offer the King of Peace, however, is to be peacemakers throughout the year. Bring harmony. It isn’t enough to avoid conflict. Peacemaking means admitting wrongdoing and accepting responsibility immediately. Peacemakers give up ground even if they are entitled to it. Allow small things to remain small. It can be easy to find opportunities to take offense or find others in the wrong. Peacemakers don’t accept every opportunity they are offered for a fight. Catch others at their best. Gratitude and graciousness are the best remedies for conflict and anxiety. Share respect freely. Bring goodwill to every situation. Watch for opportunities to spread peace. Daily you will face situations in which you will have to make a choice, take a stand, defend a position, or seek a peaceful resolution. Be prepared to be a peacemaker even when it won’t be popular, pleasant or easy. Luke 2:41-52, Living in the world In this reading, the Holy Family went to Jerusalem during the year Jesus was twelve. In those days, a Hebrew boy became a man around the age of twelve and was recognized in a ceremony we know as a Bar Mitzvah. At this point a Jewish boy would begin formal education in the Torah and Hebrew Scriptures. This was an important time in Jesus’ life. This reading said that Jesus stayed behind to talk with the scholars and teachers, and told his parents he was doing his Father’s work. He had become aware of his duties to his Father in Heaven, yet he remained mindful of his responsibilities to his parents on Earth and obediently left with them. Christians live in the world, in neighborhoods, schools, and workplaces. Jesus demonstrated his respect for his ties to his family, yet he continued to pursue his place in God’s plan of salvation. The lesson for us is we don’t have to retire from the world to be holy. Instead, we have to find ways to live a holy life in the world. Dec. 8 – The Immaculate Conception of Mary. On this day we commemorate that Mary was conceived in St. Anne’s womb without original sin. In addition to attending Mass, praying the rosary is a wonderful way to celebrate. Dec. 9 – St. Juan Diego (1548). A humble Native American and faithful Christian, Juan Diego was visited by the Blessed Virgin at Tepeyac Hill in Mexico. She asked that a chapel be built for her, and sent him to the bishop with roses as a sign. When the roses were emptied before the bishop, Juan’s cape retained the image of the Blessed Mother. Dec. 21 – St. Peter Canisius (1597). Born in Holland, Peter joined the Jesuits in 1546, and worked to safeguard the faith through his writings and teachings. His work, The Catechism of the Catholic Church, is still used today. Dec. 28-The Holy Innocents: On this day, we remember the infants massacred by King Herod’s soldiers (Matthew 2:16-18). We also pray for the safety of unborn children. Where did we get the Nativity Scene? The tradition of the nativity scene started in Greccio, Italy. St. Francis of Assisi was amazed that God, out of love for us, would allow himself to be born in a lowly stable. He wanted to illustrate the humility of the Bethlehem scene for those around him. Three years before his death, he had the chance to do just that. The chapel his order usually used was too crowded to celebrate Midnight Mass indoors, so St. Francis set up an altar in a nearby cave and celebrated Mass there. With the permission of the Holy Father, St. Francis also set up a manger in the cave and brought in an ox and a donkey. The nativity scene was powerful in rekindling the faith of the people of Greccio. A former soldier even reported seeing the wax figure of the baby Jesus come to life! Whether the figure came to life or not remains a mystery. Today, it reminds us God “was made flesh, and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). To provide practical ideas that promote faithful Catholic living. Success Publishing & Media, LLC Publishers of Growing in Faith™ and Partners in Faith™ (540)662-7844 (540)662-7847 fax http://www.growinginfaith.com (Unless noted Bible quotes and references are from the Revised Standard Version and the New American Bible) © Copyright 2015 Success Publishing & Media, LLC Descubriendo esperanza y gozo en la fe católica. Diciembre de 2015 Holy Family Catholic Church Rev. César Vega M., Pastor Desenvuelvan los dones del Padre Santo Tomás Becket Tomás disfrutaba de poder y riquezas en su calidad de amigo del rey de Inglaterra Enrique II, que lo había nombrado canciller de Inglaterra. En 1162 el rey nombró a Tomás arzobispo de Canterbury. El rey intentó forzar a Tomás y a los otros obispos para que apoyaran las leyes que permitían al estado entrometerse en los asuntos de la Iglesia, pero Tomás se negó. El rey envió a exilio a Tomás que escapó a Francia para ponerse a salvo. Tomás regresó a Inglaterra a fin de proteger a la Iglesia y poco después fue martirizado. Gratitud y generosidad A Dios le gusta dar regalos a sus hijos, especialmente en Navidad. “¡Gracias sean dadas a Dios por su don inefable!” (2 Corintios 9:15). Desenvuelvan este años sus dones celestiales… Alegría – “¡Grita de contento y de alegría, oh Sión, porque grande es, en medio de ti, el Santo de Israel!”. (Isaías 12:6). Estamos alegres porque Dios se dio a sí mismo como regalo. Celébrelo hablando de Dios con otras personas. Por ejemplo, dígales cómo ha sido bendecido este año pasado. Paz – “No teman, porque les traigo una buena noticia, una gran alegría para todo el La gratitud y la generosidad suelen ir juntas. Dios es generoso en las bendiciones que nos otorga y a menudo nos da más de lo que necesitamos. Nuestra gratitud nos inspira a “devolver” a Dios. La gratitud es la actitud de un corazón generoso. “Tú, cuando ayudes a un necesitado, ni siquiera tu mano izquierda debe saber lo que hace la derecha: tu limosna quedará en secreto. Y tu Padre, que ve en lo secreto, te premiará” (Mateo 6:3-4). © Copyright 2015 Success Publishing & Media, LLC pueblo” (Lucas 2:10). ¿Es posible vivir en el mundo y no tener miedo? La paz es lo que el ángel aconsejó a Zacarías, María y los pastores en la Encarnación. Sigan el consejo del ángel y “no teman”. Acepten el don de la paz; eviten la preocupación y la duda. Amor – Cuando Dios envió a Dios a rescatarnos, nos dio un incomprensible don de amor. Este don requiere una respuesta a la invitación de Dios de compartir su amor. “Queridos míos, amémonos unos a otros, porque el amor viene de Dios. Todo el que ama ha nacido de Dios y conoce a Dios” (1 Juan 4:7). Compartan amor en Navidad dedicando tiempo, no dinero, a las personas que usted aman. ¿Por qué se viste el sacerdote de morado en Adviento? Los colores de las vestiduras del sacerdote representan un tiempo del año litúrgico o un misterio de la fe. El morado simboliza penitencia y preparación. Durante las tres semanas de Adviento el sacerdote se viste con vestiduras moradas para recordarnos que nos preparemos penitencialmente para la llegada de Cristo. El tercer domingo de Adviento (domingo Gaudete), se viste con vestiduras rosas para indicar que se ha llegado a la mitad del Adviento. Es un tiempo feliz en el que adelantamos el gozo por la llegada de Cristo. Diciembre de 2015 Página 2 Los pacificadores son hijos de Dios Ésta es la época del año en la que intentamos sacar lo mejor de nosotros mismos. La paz reina en nuestros corazones mientras intercambiamos regalos y pensamientos placenteros. Sin embargo el mejor regalo que podemos ofrecerle al Rey de la Paz es ser pacificadores a lo largo del año. Lleven harmonía. No es suficiente evitar el conflicto. Hacer la paz implica ser capaz de admitir lo que se hace mal y aceptar inmediatamente la responsabilidad. Los pacificadores ceden terreno aunque tengan derecho a él. Procuren que las cosas pequeñas sigan siendo pequeñas. Es fácil encontrar ocasiones de aprender o de descubrir los errores de los demás. Los pacificadores no aceptan cada ocasión de lucha que les sale al paso. Vean a los demás en sus mejores momentos. La gratitud y la cortesía son los mejores remedios para el conflicto y la ansiedad. Compartan el respeto sin reservas. Aporten buena voluntad en todo tipo de situaciones. Busquen oportunidades de distribuir la paz. A diario se encontrarán con situaciones en las que habrán de elegir, tomar partido, defender una postura o buscar una resolución pacífica. Estén listos para ser pacificadores aunque ello no sea popular, agradable o fácil. Lucas 2:41-52, Vivir en el mundo En esta lectura la Sagrada Familia fue a Jerusalén durante el año en que Jesús tenía doce años. En esos días un niño hebreo se convertía en hombre a la edad de doce años y se le reconocía en una ceremonia que conocemos como Bar Mitzvah. En este momento un niño judío podía empezar su educación formal en la Tora y en las Escrituras hebreas. Fue un momento importante en la vida de Jesús. La lectura dice que Jesús se quedó atrás para hablar con los estudiosos y maestros y les dijo a sus padres que estaba haciendo la obra de su Padre. Fue consciente de sus deberes con su padre celestial, pero no se olvidó de sus responsabilidades con sus padres en la Tierra y se marchó obedientemente con ellos. Los cristianos viven en el mundo, en los barrios, en las escuelas y los lugares de trabajo. Jesús demostró el respeto que sentía por sus vínculos con su familia, pero continuó buscando su lugar en el plan divino de salvación. La lección para nosotros es que no tenemos que retirarnos del mundo para ser santos. Debemos, en cambio, encontrar la manera de vivir con santidad en el mundo. 8 de diciembre – Inmaculada Concepción de María. En este día conmemoramos que María fue concebida en las entrañas de santa Ana sin pecado original. Además de asistir a misa, una forma maravillosa de celebrar la fiesta es rezar el Rosario. 9 de diciembre – San Juan Diego (1548). Humilde nativo americano y fiel cristiano, Juan Diego fue visitado por la Bienaventurada Virgen en Tepeyac en México. La Virgen le pidió que construyera una capilla en su honor y le envió al obispó llevando rosas como señal. Al depositar las rosas frente al obispo, la capa de Juan conservó la imagen de la Bienaventurada Madre. 21 de diciembre – San Pedro Canisius (1597). Nacido en Holanda, Pedro ingresó en los jesuitas en 1546 y se esforzó por proteger la fe con sus escritos y enseñanzas. Su obra, el Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica, sigue usándose hoy. 28 de diciembre – Los santos inocentes. En este día recordamos a los niños masacrados por los soldados del rey Herodes (Mateo 2:16-18). También rezamos por la protección de los niños que aún no han nacido. ¿Cuál es el origen del belén navideño? La tradición del belén tiene su origen en Greccio, Italia. A san Francisco de Asís le maravillaba que Dios, por amor a nosotros, hubiera nacido en un humilde establo. Quería ilustrar la humildad de la escena de Belén para los que estaban junto a él. Tres años antes de su muerte tuvo la ocasión de lograrlo. En la capilla de su orden donde se celebraba la Misa del Gallo no cabían todos los asistentes, así que san Francisco colocó un altar en una cueva cercana y allí celebró la misa. Con el permiso del Santo Padre, san Francisco también puso un pesebre en la cueva y llevó un buey y una mula. La escena de la natividad reforzó la fe de los habitantes de Greccio. ¡Un antiguo soldado dijo que había visto que la figura de cera del Niño Jesús cobraba vida! Saber si esto sucedió sigue siendo un misterio. Hoy, nos recuerda que “la Palabra se hizo carne y habitó entre nosotros” (Juan 1:14). Proporcionar ideas prácticas que fomenten la vida en la fe católica Success Publishing & Media, LLC Publishers of Growing in Faith™ and Partners in Faith™ (540)662-7844 (540)662-7847 fax http://www.growinginfaith.com (Salvo advertencia, las citas y referencias bíblicas son de la Biblia de la Biblioteca de Autores Cristianos o de la Nueva Biblia de Jerusalén.) © Copyright 2015 Success Publishing & Media, LLC Second Sunday of Advent—December 6th, 2015 WELCOME TO HOLY FAMILY CHURCH If this is your first time at Holy Family, welcome and be sure to pick up a registration card at the Welcoming Desk or call the Parish Office at 966-0830 and we will be glad to assist you. If you are looking for a church home, we invite you to become a member of Holy Family. Special Announcements Rosary in Honor of the Unborn On the 5th Sunday of the month the KC’s will lead the Rosary in honor of the unborn at 6:30 am before the 7:00 am mass. Please plan to join us on those 4 Sundays of the year. Catholics Returning Home Holy Family Parish Welcomes You! Were you, or someone you know, raised a Catholic but do not come or seldom come to Church anymore? Are you a Catholic who feels separated from the Church? Would you like to feel at home in the Catholic Church again? The Catholics Returning Home (CRH) Team is here for you to answer your questions and to offer information and materials to help you with your decision. If you would like to schedule a One to One visit with one of our team members, please call Cathy Schlieman at 833-9456. CRH Team Members: Jeff and Cathy Schlieman, Mary Hamelin, Jack Greif, and Claudia Bouchey. REMINDER MASS TIME CHANGED!!! Our bilingual Mass time changed from 11:45 am to 11:00 am. Women’s Bible Study: Monday’s at 6:30pm, in Room 5 of our Ac vity Center, For more informa!on contact: Office of Adult Faith Forma on @ 966-5344 or email amy.baumgardner@holyfamilyyakima.org Pew Pad Contributions: We would like to begin wor k on finishing the church and Chapel with the Pew Pads. The cost for the Chapel will be roughly $16,000.00 and the Church $65,000.00, If you would like to make a donation, please mark your check for this purpose. WE STILL NEED YOU! Hear Ye! Hear Ye! Holy Family Parish will present a Christmas program called A Shepherd’s Tale, a 45 minute deligh:ul musical for all who love the story of Christmas and the experience of a whole Parish family involvement from Religious Educa on to Choirs and a few surprises too. Bring the family and enjoy the true spirit of Christmas for FREE. There will be two performances in the main Church: Friday, December 18th, 6:30 PM with refreshments following; and Sunday, December 20th at 4:00 PM with Santa and tamale dinner. Call Mary Smith 966-0830 if you wish to par cipate and have not had a chance to sign on with Choirs or Religious Ed ministries. Christmas Youth Orchestra: Our Christmas Youth Band/Orchestra for the Christmas Eve 4:00 PM family liturgy will be held in the church on Saturdays, December 12th from 1:00–2:00PM, December 19th, from 11:00 AM to noon and Tuesday, December 23rd from 11:00 AM to noon. Anyone who has had two or more years of band or orchestra experience is welcome to join us. This is a special and rewarding Christmas gi7 we can give to our parish family. Call Mary Smith, 966-0830 or 965-8682 for further informa on. 3 PEOPLE WHO CAN SEW ARE BADLY NEEDED ON TUESDAY MORNINGS TO HELP MAKE THE ALTAR LINENS AND VESTMENTS FOR OUR PRIESTS. PERHAPS GIVING ONE YEAR TO THIS MINISTRY COULD BE YOUR GIFT TO THE PARISH. THE SEWING MINISTRY MEETS ON TUESDAYS FROM 9:30 AM TO NOON IN THE BRIDES ROOM OFF THE CHURCH FOYER. December 12th, 8:30-11am SANTA IS COMING TO BREAKFAST SATURDAY Santa will join kids of all ages for a special Christmas Breakfast. Bring your camera to take priceless pictures of your child with Santa. Join in raffles & shop the Country Store. A fun morning for all! Children 3-12 $4, 13 & over $7. Sponsored by the Catholic Daughters of the Americas at Holy Family Church, 5315 Tieton Drive. No reservations needed. (509)910-1691 Second Sunday of Advent—December 6th, 2015 By: Brian Kissinger Ever y year m y fam ily has a W hite Elephant gift exchange on Christmas Eve. W hat started out as a fun way to enjoy each other’s company has turned into a competition to find the m ost ridiculous present. 1. Daily Prayer. Don’t just give Him the leftovers of your tim e. Make a commitment to spend time communicating with Him every day (5-10 m inutes to start) 2. Fasting. To remember that He is the one that our souls really hunger for, allow yourself to be hungr y by giving up something that you lik e. In Advent, w e are supposed to focus and prepare Maybe it’s a snack, a meal once a week , or som e other good thing that you enjoy. for Jesus. We’ r e n o t j u s t g et t i n g r ead y f o r Christmas, the Church’s liturgies and readings in3. Almsgiving. Find a way to serve others. If vite us to prepare for when w e will meet Him at you can give m oney to your church or to an orHis second coming. ganization that serves the poor, then do that. If Sadly, that’s one of the biggest things weighing on m y m ind right now as I think about Christmas. you can give your tim e to help others in need (whether through volunteering or going out of your wa y to help som eone that you k now), then make an extra effort to serve. Given the two options of think ing about Christmas (wish lists and presents galore) and think ing about the end of our lives (heaven, hell, purgatory, and the final judgment), I’m not surprised that we focus on the Christmas sales. Could you im agine ABC Fam ily airing non-stop 25 Days of Judgment? Dec. 9th- Christmas Caroling at the Highgate But no matter how much stuff w e have to distract us from the reality of death, w e will one day meet Jesus face to face. Jesus Himself reminds us that w e should be w atchful, since w e know “neither the day nor the hour” when we’ll meet Him (Matthew 25:13). Dec. 16th- No Class-Penance Service No Class on Dec. 23rd- Merry Christmas No Class on Dec. 30th-Happy New Year Classes resume on Jan. the 6th. Am I looking forward to that day, or am I terrified of meeting Him? Is my relationship w ith Jesus the number one priority in my life, o r am I m o r e w o r r i ed ab o u t m y relationship with the hundreds of people, bots, and companies that follow m e on Twitter? This Advent we are given an opportunity to refocus our lives and redirect our hearts back to Jesus. Don’t miss out on this season of grace. Take time to honestly evaluate where you stand with the Lord. No m atter where you are, no matter how close or far you feel, Jesus is inviting you to draw closer to Him. As we learned from the first Christmas, Jesus is willing to enter into whatever space w e’ve got for Him. A r e w e w i l l i n g t o o p en o u r l i v es t o Hi m , to let Him dwell in even those areas where we’d least expect Him to make His hom e? Here are three suggestions to help mak e this Advent a real time of working on our relationship with Jesus: 4 Jan. 15th – 17th, 2016 Confirmation Retreat Sunday, Jan. 17th, 2016 Parent/Sponsor Meeting @ 11AM in Chapel How will you stay focused on Jesus this Advent Season? "All High School students in grades 9 - 12 and Incoming Freshmen are welcome, 6:30-8:30" Dec.9th– Regular Group Dec. 16th—Penance Service—All H.S. groups meet in Church @ 6:45pm Dec. 23rd & Dec. 30th— No Group, Christmas Break Second Sunday of Advent—December 6th, 2015 Sacraments/Faith Formation Announcements Children’s Ministries: PRESCHOOL THRU GRADE 5 Middle School Ministries: GRADES 6, 7 & 8 - Middle School In today’s gospel we are introduced to a most interesting character, John the Baptist. In the wilderness John hears the word of God. With boldness and determination he urges people to repent and be baptized for the forgiveness of sins. The Haven: Yakima’s Catholic Young Adult Group: The Haven at 810 S. 16th Ave. Faith study at 7 pm on Thursday’s all people John the Baptist understands that he has important work to do. He wants people to be ready for ages 18-35 are invited! Like the coming of Jesus. John announces the coming of the Lord, and those who hear him look “The Haven” on Facebook to forward with great anticipation. John the Baptist prepares the way for Jesus. During the season keep up to date on all ac vi es . of Advent we listen to the message of John the Baptist, and we prepare for the coming of the For more informa on Contact Lord. Steven Easterby at Family Questions: steveneasterby@gmail.com or • During Advent how do we prepare for the coming of Jesus? 509-831-9945 Who points the way to Jesus for us? How can we announce the coming of Jesus to others? • Baptism Preparation: Infant Baptisms take place on the 1st, 3rd & 5th weekends during Mass; and on the 2nd & 4th weekends in the chapel at 10:30. Par ents r equesting baptism for children are expected to attend two preparation sessions prior to your child's baptism. Godparents are also encouraged to attend. Please register ahead of time, and if you need childcare you must call the office, 509-966-5344. Next Classes: January 11th & 25th 6:00pm RCIA: The RCIA is a process of conversion that involves personal prayer, support of the parish community, and learning about the Catholic faith. It prepares one to embark on a journey of faith that leads to a lifelong commitment as a Catholic. All Catholics are called to daily conversion and renewal – to be on the faith journey. Please pray for those entering the RCIA and embarking on their journey of faith. We meet every Tuesday evening in the Parish Activity Center. If you or someone you know is interested in joining the RCIA process, or to request childcare, please call the office of Adult Faith Formation at 966-5344, email amy.baumgardner@holyfamilyyakima.org or call the Parish Office at 966-0830. Special Announcements Annual Catholic Appeal Update so far we have had 247 families who have so generously turned in their pledge to the ACA. We are a parish with about 1200 Families. Our goal is to have 100% participation so far we have 20.58% of our families participating. If you would like to participate please take an envelope and mail it in to our office or simply place it in the collection basket. Gala 1200 Households November Collec Opera!ng Funds 1. $13585.50 2. $15394.50 3. $17238.00 4. $11784.25 5. $11442.26 Total: $69444.51 on 2015 Reserve $1237.00 $466.00 $340.00 $205.00 $90.00 $2338.00 KC Breakfast Sunday, December, 13th. Breakfast will be served NEXT Sunday from 7:30 to 11:00 am. Dona ons at the door. Proceeds go for KC Projects Adver ser of the Week H y Fa i y THANK YOU TO ALL WHO MADE THE GALE A SUCCESSFUL EVENT. FOR ALL THOSE THAT PARTICIPATED WITH DONATIONS WITH LABOR AND ATTEND- 509-452-7373 We thank Felix & Rosie Rifa and all of our Adver sers who make this bullen possible. THANK YOU! See their ad on the back of this bulle n. Monthly Collec on Average Needed Weekly $16,000 OPERATION THANK YOU of Yakima Valley We send boxes of items FREE to our troops and vets. We need names and addresses so we can send these items. You can call Dixie Boyce at 575-7832 or email her at: silverlady@nwinfo.net Next weekend you will have an opportunity to do some holiday shopping as George Alwayteen will be selling Olive wood products after all Masses. DECORATING FOR CHRISTMAS! Saturday December 19th Decorating the church for Christmas. Help is needed– Please come whatever time you can! Beginning @ 9:00 am Lunch will be provided 5 Second Sunday of Advent—December 6th, 2015 Ministries & Groups EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Chaplet of Divine Mercy is sung on the 1st Tuesday of the month at 3:00 pm. Adoration: Tuesdays from 8:00 to 5:45 ending with Benediction. HOLY FAMILY NURSERY: Ages 4 and Under The Childcare Center at Holy Family church is available during the Saturday 5:00 pm Mass and Sunday 9:00 am & 11:45 am Masses. We invite all other children to attend Mass with their families. PRAY AND PLAY!! “Basketball -a decade of the Rosary- and reflection” Join us on Tuesdays from 6:00 to 7:00 a.m. Call Tom Kelleher for more information at 494-3738. All adults (22 and older) are welcome!!!!! PRAYER INTENTIONS Sister Janet Strong -Tel: 576-0931; email: annunciation@beitmery.org, our Diocesan religious Hermit, would like us to know that she is very happy to pray, before the Blessed Sacrament, for any intentions that might be referred to her. PRAYER HOTLINE: For any prayer requests call Barb McKinney at 945-0477 or email: rbmckinney84@gmail.com If you’d like to become a member of the prayer hotline please call Barb. LOW GLUTEN HOSTS We have low Gluten hosts available if you need them. Check with the Parish Office. HOLY FAMILY MOMS: If you are interested in sharing ideas, talking about your children, connecting with other Catholic Moms or just hanging out, join our group. On the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month from 9:30 to 11:30 at the Holy Family Activity Center Room 14. Childcare is available. If you have any questions please call Rose Meyer at 966-0788. If you have wondered about how to plan a vigil and funeral liturgy contact Deacon Jim at 945-5432 after 4pm “Holy Grounds” after Mass Fellowship Coffee and donuts every weekend. Coffee hours will follow the 7:00, 9:00 am Masses. Come visit and have a latte or coffee. Elizabeth Ministry is a wonderful ministry in our parish that congratulates new parents and welcomes your new little one into our faith community. Do you know someone who is pregnant, or someone with a new baby? Please call Kathleen Silvernail at 901-1104 so that we can ‘gift’ them with some goodies and helpful information. We offer support for women who have suffered the loss of a baby to miscarriage. In this time of grief and questions please call Christine Levitan at 9014995. Knitting & Crocheting for Jesus: A pr ayer shawl ministry: Caring, Comfort and Celebration is what Knitting & Crocheting for Jesus does. Knitters & those who Crochet, knit & crochet at home and during our Prayer shawl gatherings twice a month (2nd and 4th Tuesdays from 9:3011:00am). If you know someone who needs Caring or Comfort or has an event to Celebrate please call Mary Patrick 9521974 or the parish office. More knitters & those who crochet are also needed. Come and Knit or Crochet for Jesus. FREE MEDICAL CLINIC Union Gospel Mission together with St. Vincent De Paul presents a FREE Medical Clinic. Dr. Crafts, MD & Alondra Garibay RN, will be seeing patients on Thursdays from 5:00 to 8:00 pm in the Parish Activity Center, Rm 2. 5502 West Chestnut. All are welcome. For questions you may contact: yugmclinic@gmail.com Doctorcrafts@yahoo.com Facebook.com/yugmc oncqueen@live.com or call 509-853-4327. Help Stop Abortion! Please join Greg Sherman and Nathan Stone in representing Holy Family's crusade against abortion. Tuesday mornings from 9-11:00 and Wednesday mornings from 9-11:00, people committed to ending abortion walk with signs in front of the Planned Parenthood abortion clinic on 11th Ave & Tieton Dr. Please contact Nathan at 966-3216 for more information. PRAISERCISE Praise and Exercise to get strong for God Have fun getting faith fit and body fit! Out of shape, in shape, or over-shaped? Ladies...You are invited! 1:15-2:45pm-Mondays & Wednesdays Right after the 12:15 Mass Bring a mat, sneakers & a friend! Where? In the Gym. Questions? Call Cathy Schlieman at 833-9456 FLOWER REMEMBRANCE • • • • • Holy Family Men’s Ministry Please join the other men in the parish for one of our Men’s Ministry Programs. The Journey – Mondays at 7:00pm The Journey is an opportunity to grow closer to Christ and in the process become in influencer to those in your life That Man is You! – Thursdays -7:00pm. That Man is You! – Fridays - 6:00am. That Man is You! explores the true dignity of fatherhood and becoming a man after God’s own heart. Please call the Parish Office for more information 509-966-0830. The Yakima Diocese has a sexual abuse hotline for those who wish to report some incident concerning that issue as regards to a bishop, priest, deacon or diocesan employee or volunteer. Please call (888) 276-4490. 6 • • Walter & Charlotte Markusiewicz: In loving memory of mothers and sister deceased in December: Michalina Markusiewicz, Magdalena Cichon, Stella Topoll and Marilyn Dryzmala. Bob & Cecile Schneider: In loving memory of Rosemary Benoit & both of their fathers Dr. Louis Benoit and Casper Schneider. Dwain & MaryAnn Schrank: In loving memory of our son, Cleatis on the anniversary of his death, Dec. 6th. Juanita Jean and Shanda & Casey, Amanda, Claudia & great grandchildren: In loving memory of Pedro & Esther Ybarra on the anniver sar y of their passing. Marty & Bob Eschbach: In loving memory of our son Craig, on the anniversary of his death, December 12th. Veronica Ziegler and Family: In loving memory of my husband, Nick and their father on the anniversary of his death, December 9th. Jean Garrison, wife and sons Craig, Steve, Mike and Dale and their wives: In loving honor of Jerry Garrison on the anniver sar y of his death, December 12, 2008. Sharing the Light Gift Shop Normal hours are Saturday 4:45-6:15 (closed for Mass) & Sunday, 8:00 am –11:45am. Gift Shop Closed for The Gala Open again: Dec. 6 @ 8am. Please suppor t these adver tisers who make this bulletin possible • Gold • Silver • Rare Coins • Sports Cards RON’S COIN Innovation Award Winner Tom Roy Quality Homes General Contractor ROYCO**Q54D9 Since 1992 509-930-5392 You Can Feel Better...a Lot Better LALLY CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Pre-Arrangements•Markers 1508 S. 36th Avenue Yakima, WA 98902 509-457-8462 • 1405 S 24th Ave 509-248-0301 Nathan A. O’Connor, D.D.S. Tim L. O’Connor, D.D.S. Fa m i ly D e n ta l 1015 S. 40th Ave., Ste. 15 966-0660 Eye Center Richard E. Ehlers, M.D. Ben Jaramillo, O.D. Ehlers Eye Surgery 7410 W Nob Hill Blvd P rhous owe e Grill Locally Owned, Operated and Proudly Serving Yakima for 12 Years! Good Shepherd Sharpening 3403 Powerhouse Road Yakima 966-2253 Corner of Nob Hill & 5th Ave “All Children & Adults Welcome” 509-452-7373 APPLIANCE Locally Owned and Operated for over 60 years (509)453-6543 1423 So. First Street “For All Your Automotive Needs” Oil Changes, Brakes, Diagnostic, Electrical, Cooling and Heating, Steering and Suspension Felix & Rosie Rifa - Owners SHORTY’S Sweets, Treats ‘N Cakes Linda Davis - Owner , Locally Owned Home of the ORIGINAL CHEESE ZOMBIES 115 N. 3rd St. Yakima (509) 469-9845 Hablo Español lindadyakima@gmail.com “Don’t forget your holiday desserts at Shorty’s!” Shopkeeper Floral Custom Knife and Tool Sharpening For All Your Floral Needs Tyler Shepherd 3105 Summitview • 509-452-6646 www.shopkpr.com 4001 Summitview #5-365 Yakima, WA 98908 509-453-3141 Weddings • Funerals • Anniversaries • Birthdays • Special Occasions • Fine Gifts • Home Accesories & Furnishings • Distinctive Interiors 509-424-0669 nadkts@gmail.com e s i d a r a P HAIR DESIGNS Mathew D. Petersen CRUZITA PEÑA Parishioner (509) 457-5667 Ken & Jean Bongers Take “n” Bake Pizza Call ahead & we’ll have it ready Locally Owned Since 1955 Yakima / W Nob Hill 3 Locations to Serve You Selah / S 1st St Yakima/Tieton 248-2922 697-7300 St. Paul Cathedral School EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION • Christian Values in Catholic Tradition • Safe, Supportive Environment • Academic Excellence 575-5604 • www.stpaulsch.org Financial Advisor Yakima/Terrace Heights 6802 Tieton Dr. #104 453-4545 509-965-5211 MEMBER SIPC Union Gap Carniceria 8AM-8PM Seven Days A Week Seafood •Vegetables Beef • Pork 909 Ahtanum Union Gap 509-453-0933 ESPIGA DE ORO Free In-Home Design Service LA FAMILIA ISLAS Bakery/Panaderia y Pastaleria 1010 W. Nob Hill Blvd. Yakima, WA 98902 (509) 469-3582 Open/Abierto los 7 dias 803 W. Nob Hill Blvd • Yakima Bradley D. Meyer 972-0090 4302 RICHEY ROAD • YAKIMA CPA/ABV, CVA 509 575 1040 Ofice 509 457 2145 Fax matt@petersenadvisors.com You Talk. We Listen. In Person. “Like us on Facebook” ed@isaakshome.com www.isaakshome.com 509.248.1620 Cell: 509.945.7285 Cas Schell 5627 Summitview Ave, Yakima 509-965-8999 Auto, home and business insurance policies issued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company®, COUNTRY Preferred Insurance Company® and COUNTRY Casualty Insurance Company®. Life insurance policies issued by COUNTRY Life Insurance Company® and COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company®. Fixed annuities issued by COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company®. All issuing companies located in Bloomington, IL. 1015-552HO SINCE 1961 509-453-7248 FUCHSL@msn.com WA License 223-02-FU-CH-SL-J370PW CatholicMatch Washington CatholicMatch.com/meetWA Mike Irma Philp Mike& & Irma Philp owner - operator owner - operator Bus: (509) 248-7874 1718 S. 18th Street (509) 248-7874 Cell: (509) 480-7874 Yakima, WA 989011718 S. info@mikesautoart.com 18th Street Yakima Fax: (509) 576-7874 www.mikesautoart.com info@mikesautoart.com / www.mikesautoart.com WE WARRANTY OUR WORK! • Insurance Claims www.catholicprintery.com Holy Family Member Larry J. Fuchs Lifetime Member Knights of Columbus Past Nat’l Pres. of Painting & Decorating Contractors of America 050 - CPI, P.O. Box 81026, Seattle, WA 98108-1026 - For Advertising call Jaime Oviedo 509-388-6362 Heating & Air Conditioning Energy Saving Ideas For Ofice/Home/Industry Paul Smith • Owner (509) 225-3420 paul@airfxllc.com AIRFXFL931QM Calvary Cemetery & Monuments ©CPI Buy • Sell • Trade Now Selling School Letterman’s Jackets 6 North 3rd St., Yakima • 248-1117 TOM LALLY D.C. SCOTT LALLY D.C.