© 2

011

Bon

Vent

ure

Serv

ices

, LLC

CHURCH OF SAINT PETER CLAVER WEST HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT December 7, 2014

Saturday, December 6 4:30 PM Anniversary: Edna P. Buckley

Sunday, December 7 8:30 AM 1st Anniversary: James Moore 10:30 AM Memorial: Jean Paul Berard Monday, December 8 ~ The Immaculate Conception 6:30 AM For the Parishioners of St. Peter Claver 5:30 PM Memorial: Harold Sedlik Tuesday, December 9 6:30 AM 5th Anniversary: Bridget Wheeler

Wednesday, December 10 6:30 AM 3rd Anniversary: Edward Brezinski Thursday, December 11 6:30 AM For the Parishioners of St. Peter Claver Saturday, December 13 4:30 PM Memorial: Robert & Jean Honold

Sunday, December 14 8:30 AM Memorial: Mary Ann LaFleur 10:30 AM Memorial: Angelo & Mary Giardini and Brian O’Meara

Tuesday, December 9 7:00 PM Parish Council ~ Hall Saturday, December 13 8:30 – 10:30 AM Breakfast with Santa ~ Hall 3:45 PM Children’s Rosary ~ Church

HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION Please note: Monday, December 8th is a Holy Day of Obligation celebrating the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Mass will be celebrated at 6:30 am and 5:30 pm.

A FAMILY PERSPECTIVE

Why is it so hard to forgive, yet so easy to get even? Listen to John the Baptist in today’s gospel and repent of the anger and ugly feelings which block your ability to forgive. This Christmas give a gift which makes a difference. Give forgiveness.

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT

First Reading: Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11 Isaiah emphasizes that from the desert to the mountains, all people must prepare for “the glory of the Lord to be revealed.” Rather than looking only at God’s power, Isaiah focuses on God’s kindness, comparing it to a shepherd who feeds and cares for his flock.

Second Reading: 2 Peter 3:8-14 For those who are impatient for the Second Coming, Peter explains that time is different to God than to people. He reminds them that they should be grateful for the extra time to prepare, and concentrate on striving to become all that God would want them to be.

Gospel: Mark 1:1-8 In this passage, John the Baptist stressed the importance of the coming of the Messiah. He acknowledged that he was only the messenger, and unfit to “stoop and untie his sandal straps.” John urged them to prepare for one far holier than he, who would walk among them.

©1999 Bon Venture Services, Inc.

READINGS FOR THE WEEKND DECEMBER 14 First Reading: Isaiah 61:1-2a, 10-11

Second Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 Gospel: John 1:6-8, 19-28

COME ONE, COME ALL TO OUR ANNUAL CHILDRENS CHRISTMAS PAGEANT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7TH ~ 3:00 PM

HOLIDAY BULLETIN DEADLINES

Due to our publisher’s holiday deadlines, all bulletin inserts should be forwarded via email to the parish office as soon as possible st.peterclaver@sbcglobal.net in order that your information is included on the weekend requested.

Advertiser of the Week

We would like to thank…

GLEDHILL GARDEN CENTER

…for advertising in our parish bulletin! Please patronize our advertisers and thank them for supporting our parish.

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT

The following reflects finances through the end of October 2014

2014 2014 2013 Actual Budget Actual (same period) $329,464 $351,442 $344,231

Includes ParishPay contributions: $7,646

OCTOBER EXPENSES Payroll/Taxes: $35,203; Insurance: $1,690; Employee Benefits: $7,488; School Support Tax: $1,333; Cathedraticum: $1,333; Parish Office Expenses: $2,242; Religious Education: $3,739; Sacramental & Liturgy: $1,346; Professional Fees: $1,804; Repairs & Maintenance: $7,378; Utilities: $2,405.

We thank you for your continued generous support!

CONGRATULATIONS MARIAN MACCARONE

On November 21st, our beloved Marian was presented the St. Cecilia Award (patroness of music)by Archbishop Blair. This award is given to individuals who are recognized

for outstanding contribution to liturgical music in the Archdiocese. Congratulations Marian on this well-deserved award!

IN SEARCH OF ELEMENTARY CATHOLIC SCHOOL PRINCIPAL CANDIDATES

Interested candidates should contact Deputy Superintendent Mrs. Maria Maynard via Diane Newell at diane.newel@aohct.org, 467 Bloomfield Ave. in Bloomfield, (860) 242-5573.

ST. PETER CLAVER CHRISTMAS CONCERT

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20TH ~ 7:30 pm

FEATURING OUR ST. PETER CLAVER CHOIR

AND SPECIAL GUESTS

Tickets will only be available after weekend Masses beginning this weekend.

Suggested donation: $20.

A FRESH PERSPECTIVE ON THE SUNDAY READINGS HIS WORD TODAY by Rev. William J. Reilly

“Thus it is that John the Baptizer appeared in the desert proclaiming a baptism of repentance which led to the forgiveness of sins…The theme of his preaching was: ‘One more powerful than I is to come after me. I am not fit to stoop and untie his sandal straps. I have baptized you in water; he will baptize you in the Holy Spirit.’…So, beloved, while waiting for this, make every effort to be found without stain or defilement, and at peace in his sight.”

We hear the message of John the Baptist so frequently that it might fall on deaf ears. He called, yes, challenged his listeners to examine their lives, change their way of living and in the words of Peter to be without stain or defilement. In the past there were few detergents. One brand or another was used for all laundry needs. We then became sensitive to retaining colors and not too harsh on fabrics. Special products were developed to remove stains and those tricky spots. They speak of the power found in products to achieve a perfect wash. Although advent is a time of anticipation and waiting, our preparedness is of great importance. Four short weeks allow us to focus on the baptism in the Holy Spirit and the power the Spirit pours into our lives. Are we serious about advent? Do we need that power today? Am I committed to preparing the way of the Lord in my own life, at home, with those who enter the circle of my friends? Do I speak of my spiritual preparation and not just shopping for gifts? The gift of the Spirit of Jesus is the reason for our advent. Together let us prepare the way of the Lord.

CHILDREN’S ROSARY Our Children’s Rosary will be held on

Saturday, December 13th at 3:45 pm in the Church All ages are welcome. Please join us!!

KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTMAS POSTER CONTEST

SPONSORED BY THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS

Attention All Students Ages 5 – 14 Come Share Your Artistic Talents With Us!

Pick up your entry form on the table located outside of the Religious Education Office or in the connector. First and second place prizes will be awarded to winners in three age categories! Council winners will be entered in the District and possibly State Contests! Deadline for entry is Sunday, December 21st. Please read the directions carefully. Poster entries should be dropped off at the Rectory Office. Questions, email or call Dr. Rick arayachiro@gmail.com or 860- 883-9040.

It can be difficult for us to know how to follow Jesus, so God sends us helpers. Our helpers are our parents, teachers, Church leaders, and the Bible. In the Bible we learn that God sent John the Baptist as a helper to prepare the way for Jesus. John taught the people the impor-tance of repenting for their sins by becoming cleansed in the waters of Baptism. John also told the people to look for another who would be greater than he was. That person is Jesus! During Advent, we are called to look for ways that we can be better followers of Jesus - by becoming more loving, caring, sharing, and helpful, as we prayerfully wait for His coming at Christmas!

Contact the Faith Formation Office with any questions at 860-521-2904 or email at spcreled@sbcglobal.net.

"I will listen to what God has to say; for He proclaims peace to His people.” Psalm 85:9

Our Annual Christmas Pageant

takes place this Sunday, December 7 at 3pm!

Join us in celebrating the True Meaning

of Christmas. JESUS is the Reason For The Season!

Refreshments will be served in the Hall following the

Pageant. All are welcome to this special parish event! SCHEDULE OF UPCOMING CLASSES

GRADES 3 - 6

Sunday Students meet this Sunday, December 7 , 9:30 - 10:30am.

Weekday Students meet as follows: Tuesday, December 9, 3:45-4:45pm

Wednesday, December 10, 2:15-3:15pm

GRADE 7 Students meet Sunday, December 14,

11:45am - 12:45pm

GRADE 8 Sunday Students: December 21 at 11:45am-12:45pm

Tuesday Students: December 16 at 6:30-7:30pm.

MONTHLY PENANCE PROGRAM

Grade 5 Sunday Students will receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation on Saturday, Dec. 13. Weekday Stu-dents receive on Dec. 9 and 10 during their class time.

ADAPTIVE PROGRAM Our next Class for Children with Special Needs meets on Tuesday, December 16, from 6:30-7:30pm for our Family Christmas Party! Contact the Faith Formation Office or email Craig Lomma at clomma@comcast.net for more details.

CONFIRMATION PREPARATION GRADE 9: Students meet Sunday, December 14 at 11:45am-12:45pm.

GRADE 10: Students meet Sunday, December 7, 11:45-1pm.

FAMILY & CHURCH CLASSES

GRADE 1 Sunday Students: December 7, 9:30am - 10:30am Tuesday Students: January 13 at 3:45pm - 4:45pm

GRADE 2 Sunday Students: December 21, 9:30am- 10:30am Tuesday Students: December 16, 3:45pm- 4:45pm

Wednesday Students: December 17, 2:15pm-3:15pm

Time With Jesus Response Sheets at Mass

December Outreach Project

GIFTS FOR BABY JESUS

Our Students and their Families are asked to add the name of Baby Jesus to their Christmas shopping list! As you shop for gifts for family and friends, please pur-chase a baby item listed on the flyer given at class.

Gifts will be collected during the Advent Season and will be given to mothers and babies in need at the St. Gerard’s Center for Life in Hartford. Thanks so much for sharing and caring for God’s Little Ones at Christ-mas! Jesus tells us in Matthew 25:40 - “Whatever you do for the least of my people, you do for Me.”

A Prayer for the 2nd Sunday of Advent

Let us pray…

O God of Hope, we thank You for the blessing of this Advent Season that reminds us to prepare the way for Jesus to come into our hearts and homes. Fill us with joy and peace in believing, that we may bring Your love to the world. Let these days of Advent teach us to appreciate Your life within us and be grateful for every gift of Your love, especially the Gift of Jesus, Your Son. We ask this in His Holy name. Amen!

PARISH HAPPENINGS

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA All are welcome to join us on Saturday, December 13th from 8:00 – 11:00 am for Breakfast with Santa ~ a St. Peter Claver tradition. Tickets will be on sale in the Parish Center after all Masses until the event.

CHRISTMAS FOOD BASKET PROGRAM St. Peter Claver Parish has a long history of showing generosity to less fortunate families. The Christmas Giving Program provided for 140 families last year and we anticipate a similar demand this Christmas. The intent of the program is to provide a box of food for Christmas Day for families who truly need assistance. Unfortunately, we are only about half way to meeting our goal. This is an opportunity to make a very basic yet significant impact on the lives of our neighbors. Please take a moment after Mass to sign-up to donate. Sheets are on the tables at the exit doors.

When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?”

“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”

Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you truly love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”

The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.”

– John 21:15-17

DECEMBER YOUTH GROUP NEWS Attention Teens 8th – 12th grade: We hope you will join us on Friday, December 12th,

7:00 – 9:00 pm in the Parish Hall. We will dedicate our new 70” TV and get into the Christmas Spirit by watching “ELF” while eating popcorn, candy canes and sipping hot chocolate!

RSVP to spcyouthgrp@gmail.com. Bring a friend!!

Summer Mission Trip For Teens ~ The Catholic Heart Work Camp will run a Mission to the City of Hartford July 12-18, 2015. St. Peter Claver is organizing a group! Applications can be found in the Parish Hall by the Religious Ed Office. Visit heartworkcamp.com for detailed information. An $85 non-refundable deposit is due with your application. First come first served as these camps fill up quickly so do not hesitate! This will be a life changing week for Teens currently in Grades 8-12. Call Anne Carroll with questions 860-561-4912.

L&M PAVINGDIVISION OF BEGLEY LANDSCAPING CO.

233-6528FREE ESTIMATES CT #555055

Jim Schulz Painting, LLCINTERIOR · EXTERIOR · POWERWASHING

860.810.8880

ParishionerMiller Plumbing & Heating

Established in 1951General Plumbing · Water Heating · Heating Systems

147 PARK ROAD · WEST HARTFORD 523-9966

Funeral HomeEstablished in 1909

ANDREW T. TAYLOR

ROBERT J. KENNEDY, JR.

521-4400136 South Main Street

West Hartford

144A (MV) • St. Peter Claver, West Hartford FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION CALL: (800) 883-4343 • BON VENTURE SERVICES, LLC • P.O. Box 850, Flanders, N.J. 07836

Volpe Monument Co.81 REED AVENUE

WEST HARTFORD, CT 06110860-953-5000

~ Michele Volpe-Trudeau ~

MARTIN COURSEY

674-2400WWW.COURSEYFINANCIAL.COM

Venora Electric

See Our Work At The Church

860-242-8081

COREY SHAGENSKYVeterinarian / Parishioner

325-2124progressiveanimalwellness.com

Chris Molloy, Parishioner

232-1322www.molloyfuneralhome.com

906 Farmington Avenue • West Hartford, CT 06119

Premier RealtorsMargaret Farrell O’Keefe

REALTOR®

860-882-0402Toll-free 877-376-2265 | farmingtonbankct.comToll-free 877-376-2265 | farmingtonbankct.com

Toll-free 877-376-2265 | farmingtonbankct.com

DR. NEIL KEMP

Advanced Optometric Care1138 New Britain Ave. • 860-236-0896

margaret@remax-premier-ct.com • 75 Brace Rd. · West Hartford

860-233-51777 Raymond Rd.West Hartford

Landscaping & In Ground Sprinklers860-236-9576

www.ChenailLandscaping.com

“Proud to Serve St. Peters”

GledhillGarden Center &Landscape Company

660 Mountain Rd., W. Hrfd.860-233-5692

www.gledhillnursery.com