fourth sunday of advent - church of the holy family
TRANSCRIPT
Bulletin 2015-12-20.pubHoly Family 11804 S. Saginaw Street Grand
Blanc, MI 48439
810-694-4891 hfgb.org
are called together by Christ’s love.
We are committed to drawing all people to God with the help of the Holy Spirit.
We will spread the good news of Jesus
Active & Participating Parishioner
Is a registered member of Holy Family Parish who participates weekly in
Sunday Mass and contributes time, talent and treasures through
stewardship.
Parish Stewardship Program We acknowledge that all we are and all we have comes from God and we give back to
God a planned portion of all we have received as part of Sunday Eucharist,
where our personal sacrifice is joined to Christ’s Sacrifice.
F O U R T H S U N D A Y O F A D V E N T
2 hfgb.org
P a r i s h D i r e c t o r y
Parish Office .................................... 694-4891 Hours…...………...…………………... M-T 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. W-Th-F 8 a.m. - noon and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Fax .………………………………………………. 694-1583 Email: [email protected] Website: hfgb.org Pastor, Msgr. Jerry Vincke
Parochial Vicar, Fr. Gary Koenigsknecht
Deacon, Dcn. Peter Lawrence
Liturgy Coordinator, Lorri O’Dea
Evangelization/Discipleship, Larry Blondin
Bulletin Editor, Linda Doyle
Special Projects Coordinator, Nicole Urbanik
Plant Services Supervisor, Brian Aulph
Mass Schedule Weekend: Saturday (Vigil) 5:00 p.m.; Sunday 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 12 p.m. & 5 p.m. (7 p.m. Memorial Day - Labor Day / 5 p.m. changes to 7 p.m. June 6th, 2016) Children’s Liturgy of the Word - during 10 a.m. Mass For children four years old - 2nd grade Weekday: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. Holy Day: As announced in bulletin.
Sacraments Reconciliation: Mon. - Fri. 5 - 5:30 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. - 12:00 noon, Sunday 9:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. - 12 p.m., and by appt. with a Parish Priest. Baptism: Please make arrangements in advance. Marriage: Please make arrangements with Parish Priest at least nine months in advance.
Prayers & Devotions Rosary: 7:15 am MWTF / 4:45 pm Tue / 8:30 am Sat Eucharistic Adoration: Tuesday……. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Our Mother of Perpetual Help Devotion ….Tue. 6 p.m. Fatima Prayer Cell …... Wednesday 4:40 p.m.
Ministry to the Ill & Bereaved Linda Waggoner, Linda Blondin ........................ 694-4891
Social Outreach Ministry ......... 771-7279 Hours ................................................ M-F 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Deacon Jack Daunt (retired) / Brian Holyfield
Holy Family School ..................... 694-9072 School Day .......................................... 7:45 a.m. - 3 p.m. Principal, Theresa Purcell Assistant to Principal, Donna Delaney Administrative Assistant, Lisa Harvey Secretary, Orysia Novajovsky
School Receptionist, Shelley Corcoran
Religious Education .................... 694-9072 Religious Education Classes (Pre-school - Adult) Children’s Liturgy of the Word… during Sun. 10 am Mass Grades K-6 Mon. 5 - 6:15 pm or Sun 11:30 am -12:45 pm Grades 7-8…..Tues. 6:30 - 8:30 pm in St. Joseph Center Grades 9-12…..Confirmation prep (once per month, Sundays)
Special Education ........................... Contact the RE office Director, Janet Gravel ......................................... ext. 151 Secretary, Sheila Konieczny……………………. ext. 101 RCIA/Baptism Director, Maddie White.………….ext. 154
Youth Ministry ............................... 694-9072
Coordinator of H.S. Youth Ministry, Jennifer Giddings, ext. 153, meets Wednesday (during the school year), 6 - 8 pm (with an optional half hour social time until 8:30) in the St. Joseph Center.
Coordinator of M.S. Youth Ministry, Jan Gravel Meets once a month - Friday, 6:30-9:00 pm
Event/Facility Coordinator ..... 694-9013 Carrie Pilarski Meeting and Event Facilities: Father Bush Parish Center, St. Joseph Center, and all other venues
Pastoral Council Chairperson, Joe Bonifazi
Vice Chairperson, Matthew Williams
Commissions: Christian Service Commission Facilitator, Michelle Furman Education Commission Facilitator, Evangelization Commission Facilitator, Randy Petrides Finance Commission Facilitator, Jim Distelrath Parish Life Commission Facilitator, Connie Lesley Worship Commission Facilitator, Bill Harris Youth Commission Facilitator, Communications Commission Facilitator, Melissa Jablonski To contact any Facilitators, please call parish office
Bulletin Deadline: The deadline for each Sunday is the previous Monday by noon. Watch the bulletin for holiday early deadlines. Submit to: [email protected]
3 hfgb.org
Msgr. Jerry’s Journal
P a s t o r a l N o t e s
A beautiful gift from the past: Recently I received a nice note from Fr. Jim Swiat. Along with his card was the original crucifix in Ho- ly Family’s first Church—the little white hall—dating back to 1946. The crucifix shows the “wear” of its age, but is still precious. I am not sure where to put the crucifix yet. If you have any thoughts, please let me know. Baptisms: Today (Dec. 20) I am heading to Ann Arbor to baptize a couple of babies. One couple, friends of mine for a long time, had tried to conceive for years and years, and finally their hopes were realized. So happy for them! Dinner: This Tuesday, Dec. 22, Fr. Jon Perrotta is com- ing over for dinner. It will be great to be with him again. KFC lunch: This Tuesday, the last day of school before the break, I am having a KFC lunch with our 8th graders. It’s always a joy to be in the school. 4th week of Advent: As we begin this last week of Ad- vent, may you and your families be filled with joyful ex- pectation of our Lord’s coming among us. We’ll have an- other bulletin for Christmas Day. Saint quote of the week: “They shall name him Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.” (Matthew 1:23).
Parish Office Christmas Hours
The Parish Office will be closed at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 23rd,
and closed Thursday, December 24th, Friday, December 25th, and
Monday, December 28th
In case of emergency, please call Msgr. Vincke or Fr. Gary at 694-9183.
Christmas Vigil 4:00 p.m. Mass The 4:00 p.m. Vigil Mass in the church will have a homily geared specifically toward the children. Please join us and bring a bell to ring during the Gloria.
Christmas Masses - Bells At all Christmas liturgy Masses, all parishioners, please feel free to bring a bell to ring during the Gloria.
Contribution Reminder In order to assure accuracy in crediting your donations to Holy Family, may we ask that you either use your parish envelope or write your membership number on your check. This will identify your check as a charitable contri- bution and not a payment of any kind...which is important at tax time. If for some reason you did not receive your envelopes or need your membership number, please call Theresa in the parish office (694-4891). If you would like your donations posted to your 2015 account, envelopes must be received by December 30, 2015, otherwise donations will be posted to 2016.
4 hfgb.org
Stewardship & Worship Receive God’s gifts gratefully - Cherish & tend to them responsibly - Share them in justice & love - Return them to God
Retired Religious Collection Religious give thanks. “We cannot begin to repay all who contribute,” writes a Catholic sister. “So we pray to God, who is never outdone in generosity, to reward you.” Heartfelt thanks for your donation to last week’s collection for the Retirement Fund for Religious. May God bless you for your goodness! (An envelope may be found in your packet or you may choose to give online.)
Stewardship of Treasure
December 12 & 13, 2015
Registered Families 1760 Envelopes received this week 485 Online givers this week 87 Amount offered from envelopes $ 23,931.00 Amount offered from online giving $ 5,370.00 Amount offered from visitors $ 1,550.70 Total Weekly Offerings $ 30,851.70
Note: Quarterly Financial Statements are now available on the church website.
Reflection
“For behold, when the voice of your greeting came to my ears, the babe in my womb leaped for joy.” (LUKE 1:44)
When you hear the scripture readings and Gospel read- ing each Sunday, do you “leap for joy?” If not, don’t blame the lector or priest, rather look inside yourself. Do you prepare for Mass each week or do you just show up and expect to be entertained?
Catholic Calendars for 2016 A must for the home - with the Saints’ feasts, the Holy days, the days of fast and abstinence, etc. Important things you’ll want to know in 2016. Our Mis- sion Auxiliary is making these calen- dars available for a donation. Whatever you can give will be appreciated. All proceeds support various missions, local and abroad. Help spread our faith in this small way.
Everyday Stewardship Years ago, I asked our parish faith formation children to pray for children who were seeking to be adopted into a loving family. I received the first names and pictures of children in foster care in our area and gave each class a different child. In the month of stewardship of prayer that we were observing, they were to pray for these children each day of the month. It was a moving experience for the children and me. To even contemplate the reality of so many children in the world who had no place to truly call home made us emotional. After some time had passed, I contacted the service that had supplied the names to me. About seventy percent had found perma- nent families! What a tremendous use of prayer! We have been given many wonderful things in this life, including the ability to pray. But there are more people who can pray than there are children who live in stable families. According to the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute, nearly 400,000 children in the US are living without permanent families. In 2011, UNICEF stated that there were close to eighteen million orphans who had lost both parents and were living in orphanages or on the street. I can only assume that with the events of the past few years, particularly in the Middle East, that staggering number has only increased. To think about it is truly dev- astating. The Holy Family were refugees, having to flee their land to avoid persecution and death. But, thankfully, they had each other. The Son of God already had to be born in a stable. Imagine what welcome this world would have had for the newborn King if not for his earthly parents. Not all of us can adopt a child. But we can all use our gift of prayer to pray for those who long for love. Everyone deserves love. To find out more about adoption, contact your local Cath- olic Charities office. Tracy Earl Welliver, MTS © Liturgical Publications Inc
5 hfgb.org
W h a t ’ s H a p p e n i n g H e r e
55 & Over Group Christmas comes and touches our lives like Christmas of long ago, bringing the many wonders and laughter that playing children enjoy and fills our home and warms our hearts - remembering Christmas of long ago. Merry Christmas to everyone! NO Tuesday lunches on December 22nd or December 29th. We will resume our Tuesday lunches after the holidays on Tuesday, January 5th, 2016. Please join us!
December Small Group Teaching Seminarian John Vinton’s December Small Group Teaching titled, “Bear Wrongs Patiently” is available to listen to or read on our website by following the link un- der the “Resources & More” link. Click on “small group teachings.”
HFS Position Available - Food Service Worker Holy Family School is seeking to fill a part-time food ser- vice position, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., September through June. All applicants must be a faith-filled person who enjoys assisting with food preparation and serving students and staff. He/she must enjoy working with students, have a good attendance and work history, be flexible and able to work as part of a team in a fast-paced work environment. This position re- quires a minimum of a high school diploma. Send resume, cover letter, and three letters of reference to Theresa Purcell, Principal of Holy Family Catholic School via e-mail to [email protected]. Resumes will be accepted until position is filled.
Pastoral Council Minutes Holy Family’s Pastoral Council minutes for December 9th are now online. Follow “Pastoral Council” link on the home page of our website under the Ministries & Ser- vice tab.
Bottle and Cans Needed! Recycling your bottles and cans can be such a hassle. Let the Holy Family Youth Group take care of it for you! Drop off your refundable bottles and cans in a closed bag in the shed next to the maintenance garage. All proceeds will fund the summer mission trip to Cincinnati with the Franciscans for the poor.
Faith Enrichment Courses - Winter 2016
Consoling the Heart of Jesus Small-group experience delving into the simplicity and grandeur of Consoling spirituality. Jan. 11 - Mar. 14 The Holy Year of Mercy A faith-sharing Bible study discussion group focused on the theme of experiencing and sharing God’s mercy. Jan. 12 - Mar. 1 Unlocking the Mystery of the Bible The easiest way to understand the Bible. Jan. 21 - Mar. 10 A Pilgrim’s Way Life and Relationships in God’s Family Jan 12 How to Draw Your Child Back to the Church It’s time to stop waiting and just hoping for the best. You need proven tools and strategies to draw your child back to the Church. Jan. 18 - Feb. 15 For specific days, dates and times, see Holy Family’s website home page, or contact Larry Blondin (810) 694- 4891, ext. 254 or email [email protected]
Free Catholic App Have a Smartphone? You may be inter- ested to know that Laudate, the most popular and most comprehensive Cath- olic App, is free. Laudate (Lou-dah-tay) contains Daily Mass Readings (with Saint of the Day and Reflections), Liturgy of the Hours, New American Bible, interactive Ro- sary and Chaplet of Divine Mercy, Seven Sorrows Ro- sary, Chaplet of St. Michael, Latin Rosary, Stations of the Cross, searchable prayers and Latin prayers with English translation and multiple podcasts for daily meditations. It also contains Catechism of the Catholic Church with the ability to bookmark and share. My Prayers lets you store your own prayers and move them between iPad and iPh- one. Confession guides through the sacrament of recon- ciliation. Contains Vatican documents: 2nd Vatican Coun- cil, Code of Canon Law and more. A nice little app to have!
6 hfgb.org
FAITH FORMATION . . . ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Call the school office to meet with the principal or to take a tour of the school at any time, day or evening
(810) 694-9072, Ext. 0 or email [email protected] Website: www.hfsgb.org
HFS 2012 Class Reunion
On December 4th Holy Family School host- ed its graduates from the class of 2012. These high school seniors enjoyed recon- necting with each other, former teachers, and administrators. As they talked about their high school careers and plans for the future, they enjoyed Little Joe’s pizza, sal- ad, pop, and the video they made in eighth grade. As the HFS class of 2012 did dur- ing their time at Holy Family School, the current students pray often for all past, present, and fu- ture Holy Family students. We wish them well for the future, hope for many more reunions, and pray that they stay committed to the faith-filled foundation they re- ceived at HFS.
H o
ly F
a m
ily S
c h
o o
l C
December 20, 2015 7
THIS SIDE OF PAGE GETS CUT OFF
Liturgical Ministry December 26 - 27 Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph
Weekly Readings December 20 - 27
5:00 PM Liturgy for Saturday, December 26 Lectors: Debbie Hux, Lou Lobsinger Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Mary Ann Hergenreder Linda Schauman Dennis Bridges Kourtney Lobsinger Rebecca Moran Denise Dye Darlene McKone Linda Nawrocki Mike Dye Servers: Help (names removed for web publication) 8:00 AM Liturgy for Sunday, December 27 Lectors: Judy Puidokas, Art Puzycki Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Cesar Bernabe Yvonne Cesal Karen Horton Ica Bernabe Peter Cook Dick Jobbagy Dan Charboneau Kim Dinger Cathy Lane Servers: (names removed for web publication) 10:00 AM Liturgy for Sunday, December 27 Lectors: Jim Garland, William Garland Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Martha Jane Wynn Roy Linkowski Colleen Argus Ed Suess Matt Dillon Doug Benchley Monna Suess Patsy Dillon Richard Cross Mary Ann Whidden Terri Yochim David Whidden Betty Ardahl Servers: (names removed for web publication) 12:00 PM Liturgy for Sunday, December 27 Lectors: John Tuohy, Peggy Tuohy Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Karen Allen Kathy Savoie Cindy Villaire Desiree Londrigan Sue Snyder Scott Villaire Paul Londrigan Jodi Sordyl Katie Woycehoski Michelle McLane Kathy Stewart Sondra Rutkoski John Tuohy Servers: (names removed for web publication) 5:00 PM Liturgy for Sunday, December 27 Lectors: Joseph Sliwka, (name removed for publication) Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Al Schmit Geraldine Szydlowski Sheila Konieczny Judi Schmit Chris McVannel (Help needed - 3) Debbie Stiff Servers: Help (names removed for web publication)
Sunday: Mi 5:1-4a/Ps 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19/Heb 10:5-10/Lk 1:39-45 Monday: Sg 2:8-14 or Zep 3:14-18a/Ps 33:2-3, 11-12, 20 -21/Lk 1:39-45 Tuesday: 1 Sm 1:24-28/1 Sm 2:1, 4-8/Lk 1:46-56 Wednesday: Mal 3:1-4, 23-24/Ps 25:4-5, 8-10, 14/Lk 1:57-66 Thursday: Morning: 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16/Ps 89:2- 5, 27, 29/Lk 1:67-79 Friday: Vigil: Is 62:1-5/Ps 89:4-5, 16-17, 27, 29/Acts 13:16-17, 22-25/Mt 1:1-25 or 1:18-25 Night: Is 9:1-6/Ps 96:1-3, 11-13/Ti 2:11-14/Lk 2:1-14 Dawn: Is 62:11-12/Ps 97:1, 6, 11-12/Ti 3:4-7/Lk 2:15-20 Day: Is 52:7-10/Ps 98:1-6/Heb 1:1-6/Jn 1:1-18 or 1:1-5, 9-14 Saturday: Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59/Ps 31:3-4, 6, 8, 16-17/Mt 10:17-22 Next Sunday: 1 Sm 1:20-22, 24-28 or Sir 3:2-6, 12-14/Ps 84:2-3, 5-6, 9-10/1 Jn 3:1-2, 21-24 or Col 3:12- 21 or 3:12-17/Lk 2:41-52
8 December 20, 2015
Mass Intentions December 21 - 27
Holy Family Happenings
Sunday, December 20 9 AM - 2 PM Coffee & Donuts (FBPC) 11:30 AM - 12:45 PM K-6th Grade Religious Ed class (HFS) 6:30 - 9 PM Men’s CRHP Formation Mtg. (HFS) Monday, December 21 4 - 5 PM High School Chamber Choir Rehearsal (HFS) 5 - 6:15 PM K-6th Religious Ed. classes (HFS) 6:30 - 8 PM Parish Bell Choir rehearsal (Dr. Lee’s office) Tuesday, December 22 9 AM - 5 PM Eucharistic Adoration (CH) NO Senior Luncheon 6 - 6:15 PM Our Mother of Perpetual Help Devotion (CH) 6:30 - 8:30 PM 7th/8th grade Religious Ed (SJC) Wednesday, December 23 NO St. Joseph Guild 4:40 PM Fatima Apostolate Prayer Group (CH) NO High School Youth Group Thursday, December 24 - Christmas Eve Friday, December 25 - Christmas Day Saturday, December 26
Monday, December 21 8:00 AM Margaret Boyle by The Hehl Family 5:30 PM Denny O'Rourke by Howard and Barb Gillespie Tuesday, December 22 8:00 AM Orvel Birdsey by Darlene Schrader 5:30 PM Ila Rice by Chet Hank Wednesday, December 23 8:00 AM Michael Mullany by The Racine Family 5:30 PM Carl Jarema by Aileen Jarema Thursday, December 24 4:00 PM Joan Powell by The Powell Family Church 4:00 PM Robt. & Mary Catherine Turnbull by Kathy Stowell 6:00 PM Myrna Afek by Elaine and Alan Thompson Midnight All Holy Family Parishioners Friday, December 25 8:00 AM Dec. Mem. of the Jobbagy Fam. by R. Jobbagy 10:00 AM William Barkey by Lisa Beach and Gavin Saturday, December 26 8:00 AM Fr. Ken Coughlin (Living) by Hasselbach Family 5:00 PM Irene Nolde by Fred and Peggy Nolde Sunday, December 27 8:00 AM All Holy Family Parishioners 10:00 AM All Benefactors of Holy Family Parish 12:00 PM Anne Dallas by Cathy and Patrick O'Rourke 5:00 PM Eugene & Rose Smigiel by Ronald & Nancy Williams
Mass Schedule, see above.
9 hfgb.org
Y o u t h N e w s a n d m o r e High School Youth Ministry Religious Education
Evangelion will resume regular meetings in the new year. Please check the Facebook group or website for updates
on any activities that take place over the holidays!
Email [email protected] or Jennifer Gid- dings at [email protected] for more infor- mation. Visit our website for future meeting details at www.Evangelionmichigan.weebly.com
Youth Group There is no Youth Group this week, December 23rd, or December 30th. Enjoy your Christmas break with your families! We will see you again on Wednesday, January 6th.
Drop-In Center The Drop-in center is open to all high school teens who are looking for a place to hang out, do homework, talk, or work group projects. Drop-In Center will be open this week only on Monday, December 21st, from 2:30 - 5:00 p.m. There will be no Drop-In December 23rd – De- cember 30th. Drop-In will resume on Monday, January 4th.
High School Winter Retreat 2015 The winter retreat at Subiaco was cancelled for this week- end. Please watch the bulletin for the rescheduled week- end.
Summer Mission Trip 2016 There is still room for current high school youth to sign up to attend the summer mission to Cincinnati on July 10th – 16th, 2016. Registration paperwork is on the parish website under the youth ministry page. Please contact Jennifer in the Religious Education office with any ques- tions or to sign up.
On behalf of the Religious Education Department we would like to thank all those who helped make Christmas merrier for those in need by donating to the Toy and Blan- ket Drive, supporting the bake sale, or by donating to the "Got Milk Campaign," Our Holy Family maintenance staff delivered two truckloads of toys, blankets, coats and more to Crossroads Ministry, over $700 was raised by the bake sale and all monies went to Outreach for the Christ- mas food baskets. Donations for milk are still being col- lected, but know that that money will be used to purchase milk for the food baskets. Please know that so many chil- dren and families will be blessed by your donations! Thank you!
A Christmas Prayer The day of joy returns, Father in heaven, and
crowns another year with peace and good will. Help us rightly to remember the birth of Jesus,
that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and the worship of
the wise men.
Close the doors of hate and open the doors of love all over the world.
Let kindness come with every gift and
good desires with every greeting.
Deliver us from evil, by the blessing that Christ brings, and teach us to be merry with clean hearts.
May the Christmas morning make us happy to be your children,
and the Christmas evening bring us to our bed with grateful thoughts,
forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus' sake. Amen.
Henry VanDyke
Wishing you and your family a blessed Christmas!
Evangelion Young Adult Ministry Since forming this summer, Evangelion has held weekly informal gatherings with the intention of building faith and fellowship among local Catholic young adults. Typically we have a small presentation on a faith topic and have time for fellowship either at member’s homes or in public places. Since this summer we have heard about Rome from Msgr. Jerry, the liturgy of the hours from Fr. Gary, and we have had discussions on scripture, encyclicals, the saints, and apologetics among other things. Other activities have included game nights, watching movies, bowling, canoeing, meeting for dinner, and a dessert cook-off. We hope you will join with us as we enter into 2016! Scripture Verse
And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father's only Son, full of grace and truth. - Jn 1:14 Excerpts from the Lectionary for Mass ©2001, 1998, 1970 CCD.
10 hfgb.org
P a r i s h P r a y e r s a n d m o r e
Please pray for the following Holy Family
parishioners who died on these dates:
December 20 Robert McGuinity, Sr., Annamarie York, Victoria Tahash December 21 Donald York, Roberta (Bobbi) Piesko, Barbara Koneazny, Carl Jarema December 22 Mary M. Blower, Rickie Gillespie, Gordon Ragnone, Mary Elizabeth Andrews, Timothy T. Wisniewski December 23 Estelle McCann, Althea May Dewey, Mary Ann Rous- seau, Betty J. O’Reilly December 24 Aurora R. Garcia, Mary Mangiaracina, Christopher D. Swinney, Lucille D. Armstrong, Beatrice M. Dwyer, Mary Susan Marran, John Skolnik, John Psenski December 25 Loretta Meehan, Thomas Goyette, Mark Seirmarco December 26 Jeanette Hughes
Prayer Intentions of Pope Francis
for December Experiencing God’s Mercy - That all may experience the mercy of God, who never tires of forgiving. Families - That families, especially those who suffer, may find in the birth of Jesus a sign of certain hope.
Please Pray for the Ill and their Caregivers Please remember in prayer those listed in the December 6 bulletin and those listed in the Parish Book of Intercessions at the back of the church.
Saints for the Week (Dec. 20 - 26)
December 21: St. Peter Canisius St. Peter Canisius was canonized and declared a doctor of the Church in 1925. Pope Leo XIII called him the sec- ond apostle of Germany after St. Boniface. At the age of 23, Peter entered the Society of Jesus and published treatises on the Fathers of the Church. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1546 and became the theologian to the cardinal of Augsburg at the Council of Trent. Called to Rome by St. Ignatius of Loyola, he was sent to Messina, Sicily, to teach rhetoric. He spent thirty years in Germany working for the renewal of Catholic life. He wrote a Cate- chism which was written in a persuasive and logical way. St. Peter had a mystical experience of the Sacred Heart. He is an excellent example of how to dialogue with per- sons outside the Catholic Church. December 23: St. John of Kanty St. John of Kanty was born in a small village near Kanty in Poland. He became a doctor of philosophy at the Uni- versity of Cracow in 1418. He engaged in pastoral minis- try for some time but gave it up and returned to teaching. He transcribed more than 18,000 pages of theological treatises. St. John of Kanty distinguished himself by his fidelity to orthodox doctrine and his kindness in his deal- ings with his adversaries. He is buried in the Church of St. Ann in Cracow and from the moment of his death he enjoyed the reputation of a saint and a miracle worker. St. John preached the truth and practiced it. His preaching was reinforced by his example of humility, chastity, com- passion, and penance. He always set aside a portion of his income, and sometimes part of his food, for the poor, whom he welcomed as Christ. December 26: St. Stephen The feast of St. Stephen has been celebrated in the West since the fifth century. St. Stephen was a deacon in the early Church and had been assigned to distribute food to the poor. When certain Jews would engage him in argu- ment, he would always confound them with his wisdom. Ultimately, they made false charges against him, brought in false witnesses, and stoned him to death. The account of his martyrdom is described in chapters 6 and 7 of the Acts of the Apostles. St. Stephen prayed for and forgave his persecutors. He teaches us to do the same. He is also the patron of all deacons. Coffee and Donuts or Pizza
Please remember to join us in the Father Bush Parish Center after the 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., and 12:00 p.m. Masses. We have coffee and donuts after the Sunday morning Masses and pizza is served after the 12:00 p.m. Mass. Come visit with your fel- low parishioners!
11 hfgb.org
Many volunteers are still needed for Christmas and Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God (Dec 31/Jan 1) Liturgies. If you can serve, please contact Lorri at 694-4891, ext. 214, or e-mail, [email protected].
Christmas Masses - Liturgical Ministry Schedule 4:00 PM Liturgy for Thursday, December 24 (Hall) Mass Captain: Bill and Christopher Harris Lectors: Dan and Lori Charboneau Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Bill Harris Jane Harris Chris Harris Dan Charboneau Cindy Villaire Scott Villaire Paula Rainey Kim Dinger Mike Drzewiecki Lori Drzewiecki Server Coach: Help needed Servers: (names removed for web publication) 4:00 PM Liturgy for Thursday, December 24 (Church) Mass Captain: Nancy Repuyan Lectors: Doug Benchley and Joe Sliwka Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Darlene McKone Katie Woycehoski Sandy Sprague Kristin Koglin Dawn Davis Cindy Edmonds Dennis Bridges Mona Shonts Nancy Distelrath Jim Distelrath (Need 3) Server Coach: Help needed Servers: (names removed for web publication) 6:00 PM Liturgy for Thursday, December 24 Mass Captain: Sam Burdick Lectors: Liam Konieczny, (Help needed) Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Linda Nawrocki Martha Mansour Don Sienko Sheila Konieczny Deborah Jansen VanGalen John Tuohy Peggy Tuohy Pat Burdick Sam Burdick Kathy Savoie Chris McVannel (Need 2) Server Coach: Andy Cocagne Servers: (Need 4) (name removed for publication)
Midnight Liturgy for Thursday, December 24 Mass Captain: Karen Allen Lectors: Dave Caldwell, Heidi Bigsby Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: (Need 5) Sr. Sharon Hektor J. J. Vicari Megan Vicari Karen Allen Sandy Rutkoski David Roberts Lyric Walsh Sharon Peasel Server Coach: Dave Roberts Servers: (names removed for web publication) 8:00 AM Liturgy for Friday, December 25 Mass Captain: Dick Jobaggy, Karen Horton Lectors: Jim Campbell, Help needed - 1 Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: (Need 3) Yvonne Cesal Rick Perry Danny Paris Jean Farris Cesar Bernabe Ica Bernabe Server Coach: Help Needed Servers: (Need 3) 10:00 AM Liturgy for Friday, December 25 Mass Captain: Monna Suess / Terri Yochim Lectors: Jim Daris, Mike Zelley Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: (Need 1) Roy Linkowski Martha Jane Wynn Paul Garson Trish Sheaffer Betty Ardahl Monna Suess Ed Suess Terri Yochim Kathy Stewart Earl Hagen Cheryl Gelissse Server Coach: Amy Zagata Servers: (names removed for web publication) (Need 2)
O h H o l y N i g h t O h H o l y N i g h t O h H o l y N i g h t O h H o l y N i g h t ----
CHRISTMAS EVE Thursday, December 24
4 p.m. - Mass in the church and the hall (Mass in the church geared toward children) Christmas music prelude begins at 3:30 p.m. in the
church by the Children's Choir. 6 p.m. - Mass in the church
Midnight - Mass in the church Christmas music prelude begins at 11:30 p.m. by the Adult Choir with Handbell Choir. (Incense at all Masses except 4 p.m. in the hall)
CHRISTMAS DAY Friday, December 25
Mass: 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. (No incense at 8 a.m. Mass)
FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY Sunday, December 27
Regular weekend Masses (Incense at all Masses except 8 a.m.)
BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, MOTHER OF GOD
Thursday, December 31 Vigil Mass: 5:30 p.m. (Incense will be used)
BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, MOTHER OF GOD
Friday, January 1 Mass: 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.
(No incense at 8 a.m. Mass)
EPIPHANY OF THE LORD Sunday, January 3
Regular weekend Masses (Incense at all Masses except 8 a.m.)
Christmas Masses
It is the night of our dear Savior’s birh
This schedule was cur- rent as of Dec. 14th.
12 hfgb.org
W h a t ’ s H a p p e n i n g H e r e
Ms. Gretchen’s 3rd grade Religious Education class celebrates Advent with an Advent Tea. Students spent time learning about Advent and enjoyed some treats.
Advent Tea
Are You Sure That You Are a Registered Parishioner? Attending, active parishioners in the church, ESPECIALLY those wishing to be married, have a child baptized, to be a sponsor or be a godparent must be reg- istered. Without being registered and actively attending, permission may not be granted and you may not qualify for parishioner discounts on Holy Family School and Reli- gious Ed. tuition or on Holy Family hall rentals. If you are an adult and are not yet registered on your own, we highly encourage you to register as a member of the parish so that you will receive the services you want when you need them.
TO ALL: Assume that if you are not receiving envelopes that you are NOT a registered parishioner (this does not apply to those giving electronically who request to not receive envelopes).
YOUR ENVELOPES MARK ATTENDANCE AT MASS
To register as a parishioner, you may stop in the parish office or visit our website: holyfamilygrandblanc.catholicweb.com to fill out a registration form. See “Join our Parish Family” in the blue box on the right side of the home page. If you have any questions, you may contact Theresa Dyer in the Parish Office at 694-4891.
365 Days to Mercy App Celebrate the Jubilee Year of Mercy with a great new app from Our Sunday Visi- tor! 365 Days to Mercy is designed to accompany you on your spiritual journey during the Jubilee Year of Mercy. The app includes daily reflections on mercy, everyday Scripture reflections, Pope Francis’ tweets, the Divine Mercy Chap- let and Novena, and lots more. Go to your app store and search “365 Days to Mercy” and install it today! Go to OSV.com/YOM to learn more.
(pictures removed for web publication)
13 hfgb.org
A r o u n d t h e D i o c e s e
Retreats - St. Francis Retreat Center Upcoming one-day, 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Retreats at St. Francis Retreat Center, DeWitt. Directed by Tony Speren- di. Info and registration: 517-669-8321 http:// www.stfrancis.ws/ • Friday, January 15 - "St. Therese of Lisieux: The
Little Way for Everyone." Learn to grow in trust and love and experience yourself as a beloved child of the Father. Life-changing!
• Wednesday, January 20 - "Sir, We Wish to See Je-
sus." A retreat to encounter the life-giving person and message of Jesus in the Gospels and in your own life. Ignite or deepen your relationship with Him who loves you!
• Friday, February 12 - OR - Saturday, February 27. "Mercy Knows No Limits." A Lenten retreat to discov- er the mercies of God for you and your loved ones. We will also pray and learn how to become persons of mercy. "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall ob- tain mercy" Matthew 5:7.
Passion & Purpose For Marriage with Dr. Allen Hunt Passion & Purpose for Marriage is not what you are ex- pecting! First of all, don't worry, you will not have to share your feelings with a group. Come and enjoy acoustical music by George Lower and soak up what Dr. Allen Hunt has in store. Allen talks about the Five Love Languages, along with a variety of other topics and research bits, he combines everything into three very faith centered, com- pelling sections; The Five Things Women Need to Know about Men, The Five Things Men Need to Know about Women, and finally the Most Important Word in a Mar- riage...ant it's not Love. Allen's speaking style is bound to capture your attention; his humor will have you laughing, and all along the way learning more about every relation- ship in your life. Because we all want a happy life. Dr. Allen Hunt is one of the great emerging Catholic voic- es of our time. For more than twenty years he has been helping couples develop, nurture, and grow dynamic mar- riages. His incredible story of how he became Catholic is presented in his bestselling book Confessions of a Mega Church Pastor. His other titles include Everybody Needs to Forgive Somebody and Nine Words. Tickets $25 (per person) includes event materials! Two upcoming dates in Michigan: Fri., March 11, 2016, 7:00 PM - 10:30 PM St. Stephen Church, 2711 Mackinaw St., Saginaw, 48602 Sat., March 12, 2016, 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM St. Anastasia, 4571 John R Road, Troy, 48085 Doors open an hour before the event, we suggest you arrive a half hour to an hour before the event to check in, collect your materials, and be seated. To register visit DynamicCatholic.com/events.
Morning of Prayer and Reparation for World Peace The World Apostolate of Fatima Diocesan Morning of Prayer and Reparation for World Peace will be held at St. John’s Parish (404 N. Dayton, Davison) on January 2nd, 2016, at 9:00 a.m. The morning will include Divine Litur- gy, Investiture in the Brown Scapular, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Holy Hour of Prayer and Rosary.
St. John Marketing/Communication Committee Part-Time Communication Media Specialist—The Catho- lic Community of St. John and Blessed Sacrament (Davison) is seeking a dynamic, motivated communication media specialist to develop and maintain parish-wide communication via digital media. A complete job descrip- tion can be found at www.stjohndavison.org. Send re- sume and cover letter listing three forms of new media you have designed and/or currently maintain to Tina Sim- monds [email protected] by January 15th.
810-694-4891 hfgb.org
are called together by Christ’s love.
We are committed to drawing all people to God with the help of the Holy Spirit.
We will spread the good news of Jesus
Active & Participating Parishioner
Is a registered member of Holy Family Parish who participates weekly in
Sunday Mass and contributes time, talent and treasures through
stewardship.
Parish Stewardship Program We acknowledge that all we are and all we have comes from God and we give back to
God a planned portion of all we have received as part of Sunday Eucharist,
where our personal sacrifice is joined to Christ’s Sacrifice.
F O U R T H S U N D A Y O F A D V E N T
2 hfgb.org
P a r i s h D i r e c t o r y
Parish Office .................................... 694-4891 Hours…...………...…………………... M-T 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. W-Th-F 8 a.m. - noon and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Fax .………………………………………………. 694-1583 Email: [email protected] Website: hfgb.org Pastor, Msgr. Jerry Vincke
Parochial Vicar, Fr. Gary Koenigsknecht
Deacon, Dcn. Peter Lawrence
Liturgy Coordinator, Lorri O’Dea
Evangelization/Discipleship, Larry Blondin
Bulletin Editor, Linda Doyle
Special Projects Coordinator, Nicole Urbanik
Plant Services Supervisor, Brian Aulph
Mass Schedule Weekend: Saturday (Vigil) 5:00 p.m.; Sunday 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 12 p.m. & 5 p.m. (7 p.m. Memorial Day - Labor Day / 5 p.m. changes to 7 p.m. June 6th, 2016) Children’s Liturgy of the Word - during 10 a.m. Mass For children four years old - 2nd grade Weekday: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. Holy Day: As announced in bulletin.
Sacraments Reconciliation: Mon. - Fri. 5 - 5:30 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. - 12:00 noon, Sunday 9:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. - 12 p.m., and by appt. with a Parish Priest. Baptism: Please make arrangements in advance. Marriage: Please make arrangements with Parish Priest at least nine months in advance.
Prayers & Devotions Rosary: 7:15 am MWTF / 4:45 pm Tue / 8:30 am Sat Eucharistic Adoration: Tuesday……. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Our Mother of Perpetual Help Devotion ….Tue. 6 p.m. Fatima Prayer Cell …... Wednesday 4:40 p.m.
Ministry to the Ill & Bereaved Linda Waggoner, Linda Blondin ........................ 694-4891
Social Outreach Ministry ......... 771-7279 Hours ................................................ M-F 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Deacon Jack Daunt (retired) / Brian Holyfield
Holy Family School ..................... 694-9072 School Day .......................................... 7:45 a.m. - 3 p.m. Principal, Theresa Purcell Assistant to Principal, Donna Delaney Administrative Assistant, Lisa Harvey Secretary, Orysia Novajovsky
School Receptionist, Shelley Corcoran
Religious Education .................... 694-9072 Religious Education Classes (Pre-school - Adult) Children’s Liturgy of the Word… during Sun. 10 am Mass Grades K-6 Mon. 5 - 6:15 pm or Sun 11:30 am -12:45 pm Grades 7-8…..Tues. 6:30 - 8:30 pm in St. Joseph Center Grades 9-12…..Confirmation prep (once per month, Sundays)
Special Education ........................... Contact the RE office Director, Janet Gravel ......................................... ext. 151 Secretary, Sheila Konieczny……………………. ext. 101 RCIA/Baptism Director, Maddie White.………….ext. 154
Youth Ministry ............................... 694-9072
Coordinator of H.S. Youth Ministry, Jennifer Giddings, ext. 153, meets Wednesday (during the school year), 6 - 8 pm (with an optional half hour social time until 8:30) in the St. Joseph Center.
Coordinator of M.S. Youth Ministry, Jan Gravel Meets once a month - Friday, 6:30-9:00 pm
Event/Facility Coordinator ..... 694-9013 Carrie Pilarski Meeting and Event Facilities: Father Bush Parish Center, St. Joseph Center, and all other venues
Pastoral Council Chairperson, Joe Bonifazi
Vice Chairperson, Matthew Williams
Commissions: Christian Service Commission Facilitator, Michelle Furman Education Commission Facilitator, Evangelization Commission Facilitator, Randy Petrides Finance Commission Facilitator, Jim Distelrath Parish Life Commission Facilitator, Connie Lesley Worship Commission Facilitator, Bill Harris Youth Commission Facilitator, Communications Commission Facilitator, Melissa Jablonski To contact any Facilitators, please call parish office
Bulletin Deadline: The deadline for each Sunday is the previous Monday by noon. Watch the bulletin for holiday early deadlines. Submit to: [email protected]
3 hfgb.org
Msgr. Jerry’s Journal
P a s t o r a l N o t e s
A beautiful gift from the past: Recently I received a nice note from Fr. Jim Swiat. Along with his card was the original crucifix in Ho- ly Family’s first Church—the little white hall—dating back to 1946. The crucifix shows the “wear” of its age, but is still precious. I am not sure where to put the crucifix yet. If you have any thoughts, please let me know. Baptisms: Today (Dec. 20) I am heading to Ann Arbor to baptize a couple of babies. One couple, friends of mine for a long time, had tried to conceive for years and years, and finally their hopes were realized. So happy for them! Dinner: This Tuesday, Dec. 22, Fr. Jon Perrotta is com- ing over for dinner. It will be great to be with him again. KFC lunch: This Tuesday, the last day of school before the break, I am having a KFC lunch with our 8th graders. It’s always a joy to be in the school. 4th week of Advent: As we begin this last week of Ad- vent, may you and your families be filled with joyful ex- pectation of our Lord’s coming among us. We’ll have an- other bulletin for Christmas Day. Saint quote of the week: “They shall name him Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.” (Matthew 1:23).
Parish Office Christmas Hours
The Parish Office will be closed at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 23rd,
and closed Thursday, December 24th, Friday, December 25th, and
Monday, December 28th
In case of emergency, please call Msgr. Vincke or Fr. Gary at 694-9183.
Christmas Vigil 4:00 p.m. Mass The 4:00 p.m. Vigil Mass in the church will have a homily geared specifically toward the children. Please join us and bring a bell to ring during the Gloria.
Christmas Masses - Bells At all Christmas liturgy Masses, all parishioners, please feel free to bring a bell to ring during the Gloria.
Contribution Reminder In order to assure accuracy in crediting your donations to Holy Family, may we ask that you either use your parish envelope or write your membership number on your check. This will identify your check as a charitable contri- bution and not a payment of any kind...which is important at tax time. If for some reason you did not receive your envelopes or need your membership number, please call Theresa in the parish office (694-4891). If you would like your donations posted to your 2015 account, envelopes must be received by December 30, 2015, otherwise donations will be posted to 2016.
4 hfgb.org
Stewardship & Worship Receive God’s gifts gratefully - Cherish & tend to them responsibly - Share them in justice & love - Return them to God
Retired Religious Collection Religious give thanks. “We cannot begin to repay all who contribute,” writes a Catholic sister. “So we pray to God, who is never outdone in generosity, to reward you.” Heartfelt thanks for your donation to last week’s collection for the Retirement Fund for Religious. May God bless you for your goodness! (An envelope may be found in your packet or you may choose to give online.)
Stewardship of Treasure
December 12 & 13, 2015
Registered Families 1760 Envelopes received this week 485 Online givers this week 87 Amount offered from envelopes $ 23,931.00 Amount offered from online giving $ 5,370.00 Amount offered from visitors $ 1,550.70 Total Weekly Offerings $ 30,851.70
Note: Quarterly Financial Statements are now available on the church website.
Reflection
“For behold, when the voice of your greeting came to my ears, the babe in my womb leaped for joy.” (LUKE 1:44)
When you hear the scripture readings and Gospel read- ing each Sunday, do you “leap for joy?” If not, don’t blame the lector or priest, rather look inside yourself. Do you prepare for Mass each week or do you just show up and expect to be entertained?
Catholic Calendars for 2016 A must for the home - with the Saints’ feasts, the Holy days, the days of fast and abstinence, etc. Important things you’ll want to know in 2016. Our Mis- sion Auxiliary is making these calen- dars available for a donation. Whatever you can give will be appreciated. All proceeds support various missions, local and abroad. Help spread our faith in this small way.
Everyday Stewardship Years ago, I asked our parish faith formation children to pray for children who were seeking to be adopted into a loving family. I received the first names and pictures of children in foster care in our area and gave each class a different child. In the month of stewardship of prayer that we were observing, they were to pray for these children each day of the month. It was a moving experience for the children and me. To even contemplate the reality of so many children in the world who had no place to truly call home made us emotional. After some time had passed, I contacted the service that had supplied the names to me. About seventy percent had found perma- nent families! What a tremendous use of prayer! We have been given many wonderful things in this life, including the ability to pray. But there are more people who can pray than there are children who live in stable families. According to the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute, nearly 400,000 children in the US are living without permanent families. In 2011, UNICEF stated that there were close to eighteen million orphans who had lost both parents and were living in orphanages or on the street. I can only assume that with the events of the past few years, particularly in the Middle East, that staggering number has only increased. To think about it is truly dev- astating. The Holy Family were refugees, having to flee their land to avoid persecution and death. But, thankfully, they had each other. The Son of God already had to be born in a stable. Imagine what welcome this world would have had for the newborn King if not for his earthly parents. Not all of us can adopt a child. But we can all use our gift of prayer to pray for those who long for love. Everyone deserves love. To find out more about adoption, contact your local Cath- olic Charities office. Tracy Earl Welliver, MTS © Liturgical Publications Inc
5 hfgb.org
W h a t ’ s H a p p e n i n g H e r e
55 & Over Group Christmas comes and touches our lives like Christmas of long ago, bringing the many wonders and laughter that playing children enjoy and fills our home and warms our hearts - remembering Christmas of long ago. Merry Christmas to everyone! NO Tuesday lunches on December 22nd or December 29th. We will resume our Tuesday lunches after the holidays on Tuesday, January 5th, 2016. Please join us!
December Small Group Teaching Seminarian John Vinton’s December Small Group Teaching titled, “Bear Wrongs Patiently” is available to listen to or read on our website by following the link un- der the “Resources & More” link. Click on “small group teachings.”
HFS Position Available - Food Service Worker Holy Family School is seeking to fill a part-time food ser- vice position, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., September through June. All applicants must be a faith-filled person who enjoys assisting with food preparation and serving students and staff. He/she must enjoy working with students, have a good attendance and work history, be flexible and able to work as part of a team in a fast-paced work environment. This position re- quires a minimum of a high school diploma. Send resume, cover letter, and three letters of reference to Theresa Purcell, Principal of Holy Family Catholic School via e-mail to [email protected]. Resumes will be accepted until position is filled.
Pastoral Council Minutes Holy Family’s Pastoral Council minutes for December 9th are now online. Follow “Pastoral Council” link on the home page of our website under the Ministries & Ser- vice tab.
Bottle and Cans Needed! Recycling your bottles and cans can be such a hassle. Let the Holy Family Youth Group take care of it for you! Drop off your refundable bottles and cans in a closed bag in the shed next to the maintenance garage. All proceeds will fund the summer mission trip to Cincinnati with the Franciscans for the poor.
Faith Enrichment Courses - Winter 2016
Consoling the Heart of Jesus Small-group experience delving into the simplicity and grandeur of Consoling spirituality. Jan. 11 - Mar. 14 The Holy Year of Mercy A faith-sharing Bible study discussion group focused on the theme of experiencing and sharing God’s mercy. Jan. 12 - Mar. 1 Unlocking the Mystery of the Bible The easiest way to understand the Bible. Jan. 21 - Mar. 10 A Pilgrim’s Way Life and Relationships in God’s Family Jan 12 How to Draw Your Child Back to the Church It’s time to stop waiting and just hoping for the best. You need proven tools and strategies to draw your child back to the Church. Jan. 18 - Feb. 15 For specific days, dates and times, see Holy Family’s website home page, or contact Larry Blondin (810) 694- 4891, ext. 254 or email [email protected]
Free Catholic App Have a Smartphone? You may be inter- ested to know that Laudate, the most popular and most comprehensive Cath- olic App, is free. Laudate (Lou-dah-tay) contains Daily Mass Readings (with Saint of the Day and Reflections), Liturgy of the Hours, New American Bible, interactive Ro- sary and Chaplet of Divine Mercy, Seven Sorrows Ro- sary, Chaplet of St. Michael, Latin Rosary, Stations of the Cross, searchable prayers and Latin prayers with English translation and multiple podcasts for daily meditations. It also contains Catechism of the Catholic Church with the ability to bookmark and share. My Prayers lets you store your own prayers and move them between iPad and iPh- one. Confession guides through the sacrament of recon- ciliation. Contains Vatican documents: 2nd Vatican Coun- cil, Code of Canon Law and more. A nice little app to have!
6 hfgb.org
FAITH FORMATION . . . ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Call the school office to meet with the principal or to take a tour of the school at any time, day or evening
(810) 694-9072, Ext. 0 or email [email protected] Website: www.hfsgb.org
HFS 2012 Class Reunion
On December 4th Holy Family School host- ed its graduates from the class of 2012. These high school seniors enjoyed recon- necting with each other, former teachers, and administrators. As they talked about their high school careers and plans for the future, they enjoyed Little Joe’s pizza, sal- ad, pop, and the video they made in eighth grade. As the HFS class of 2012 did dur- ing their time at Holy Family School, the current students pray often for all past, present, and fu- ture Holy Family students. We wish them well for the future, hope for many more reunions, and pray that they stay committed to the faith-filled foundation they re- ceived at HFS.
H o
ly F
a m
ily S
c h
o o
l C
December 20, 2015 7
THIS SIDE OF PAGE GETS CUT OFF
Liturgical Ministry December 26 - 27 Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph
Weekly Readings December 20 - 27
5:00 PM Liturgy for Saturday, December 26 Lectors: Debbie Hux, Lou Lobsinger Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Mary Ann Hergenreder Linda Schauman Dennis Bridges Kourtney Lobsinger Rebecca Moran Denise Dye Darlene McKone Linda Nawrocki Mike Dye Servers: Help (names removed for web publication) 8:00 AM Liturgy for Sunday, December 27 Lectors: Judy Puidokas, Art Puzycki Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Cesar Bernabe Yvonne Cesal Karen Horton Ica Bernabe Peter Cook Dick Jobbagy Dan Charboneau Kim Dinger Cathy Lane Servers: (names removed for web publication) 10:00 AM Liturgy for Sunday, December 27 Lectors: Jim Garland, William Garland Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Martha Jane Wynn Roy Linkowski Colleen Argus Ed Suess Matt Dillon Doug Benchley Monna Suess Patsy Dillon Richard Cross Mary Ann Whidden Terri Yochim David Whidden Betty Ardahl Servers: (names removed for web publication) 12:00 PM Liturgy for Sunday, December 27 Lectors: John Tuohy, Peggy Tuohy Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Karen Allen Kathy Savoie Cindy Villaire Desiree Londrigan Sue Snyder Scott Villaire Paul Londrigan Jodi Sordyl Katie Woycehoski Michelle McLane Kathy Stewart Sondra Rutkoski John Tuohy Servers: (names removed for web publication) 5:00 PM Liturgy for Sunday, December 27 Lectors: Joseph Sliwka, (name removed for publication) Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Al Schmit Geraldine Szydlowski Sheila Konieczny Judi Schmit Chris McVannel (Help needed - 3) Debbie Stiff Servers: Help (names removed for web publication)
Sunday: Mi 5:1-4a/Ps 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19/Heb 10:5-10/Lk 1:39-45 Monday: Sg 2:8-14 or Zep 3:14-18a/Ps 33:2-3, 11-12, 20 -21/Lk 1:39-45 Tuesday: 1 Sm 1:24-28/1 Sm 2:1, 4-8/Lk 1:46-56 Wednesday: Mal 3:1-4, 23-24/Ps 25:4-5, 8-10, 14/Lk 1:57-66 Thursday: Morning: 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16/Ps 89:2- 5, 27, 29/Lk 1:67-79 Friday: Vigil: Is 62:1-5/Ps 89:4-5, 16-17, 27, 29/Acts 13:16-17, 22-25/Mt 1:1-25 or 1:18-25 Night: Is 9:1-6/Ps 96:1-3, 11-13/Ti 2:11-14/Lk 2:1-14 Dawn: Is 62:11-12/Ps 97:1, 6, 11-12/Ti 3:4-7/Lk 2:15-20 Day: Is 52:7-10/Ps 98:1-6/Heb 1:1-6/Jn 1:1-18 or 1:1-5, 9-14 Saturday: Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59/Ps 31:3-4, 6, 8, 16-17/Mt 10:17-22 Next Sunday: 1 Sm 1:20-22, 24-28 or Sir 3:2-6, 12-14/Ps 84:2-3, 5-6, 9-10/1 Jn 3:1-2, 21-24 or Col 3:12- 21 or 3:12-17/Lk 2:41-52
8 December 20, 2015
Mass Intentions December 21 - 27
Holy Family Happenings
Sunday, December 20 9 AM - 2 PM Coffee & Donuts (FBPC) 11:30 AM - 12:45 PM K-6th Grade Religious Ed class (HFS) 6:30 - 9 PM Men’s CRHP Formation Mtg. (HFS) Monday, December 21 4 - 5 PM High School Chamber Choir Rehearsal (HFS) 5 - 6:15 PM K-6th Religious Ed. classes (HFS) 6:30 - 8 PM Parish Bell Choir rehearsal (Dr. Lee’s office) Tuesday, December 22 9 AM - 5 PM Eucharistic Adoration (CH) NO Senior Luncheon 6 - 6:15 PM Our Mother of Perpetual Help Devotion (CH) 6:30 - 8:30 PM 7th/8th grade Religious Ed (SJC) Wednesday, December 23 NO St. Joseph Guild 4:40 PM Fatima Apostolate Prayer Group (CH) NO High School Youth Group Thursday, December 24 - Christmas Eve Friday, December 25 - Christmas Day Saturday, December 26
Monday, December 21 8:00 AM Margaret Boyle by The Hehl Family 5:30 PM Denny O'Rourke by Howard and Barb Gillespie Tuesday, December 22 8:00 AM Orvel Birdsey by Darlene Schrader 5:30 PM Ila Rice by Chet Hank Wednesday, December 23 8:00 AM Michael Mullany by The Racine Family 5:30 PM Carl Jarema by Aileen Jarema Thursday, December 24 4:00 PM Joan Powell by The Powell Family Church 4:00 PM Robt. & Mary Catherine Turnbull by Kathy Stowell 6:00 PM Myrna Afek by Elaine and Alan Thompson Midnight All Holy Family Parishioners Friday, December 25 8:00 AM Dec. Mem. of the Jobbagy Fam. by R. Jobbagy 10:00 AM William Barkey by Lisa Beach and Gavin Saturday, December 26 8:00 AM Fr. Ken Coughlin (Living) by Hasselbach Family 5:00 PM Irene Nolde by Fred and Peggy Nolde Sunday, December 27 8:00 AM All Holy Family Parishioners 10:00 AM All Benefactors of Holy Family Parish 12:00 PM Anne Dallas by Cathy and Patrick O'Rourke 5:00 PM Eugene & Rose Smigiel by Ronald & Nancy Williams
Mass Schedule, see above.
9 hfgb.org
Y o u t h N e w s a n d m o r e High School Youth Ministry Religious Education
Evangelion will resume regular meetings in the new year. Please check the Facebook group or website for updates
on any activities that take place over the holidays!
Email [email protected] or Jennifer Gid- dings at [email protected] for more infor- mation. Visit our website for future meeting details at www.Evangelionmichigan.weebly.com
Youth Group There is no Youth Group this week, December 23rd, or December 30th. Enjoy your Christmas break with your families! We will see you again on Wednesday, January 6th.
Drop-In Center The Drop-in center is open to all high school teens who are looking for a place to hang out, do homework, talk, or work group projects. Drop-In Center will be open this week only on Monday, December 21st, from 2:30 - 5:00 p.m. There will be no Drop-In December 23rd – De- cember 30th. Drop-In will resume on Monday, January 4th.
High School Winter Retreat 2015 The winter retreat at Subiaco was cancelled for this week- end. Please watch the bulletin for the rescheduled week- end.
Summer Mission Trip 2016 There is still room for current high school youth to sign up to attend the summer mission to Cincinnati on July 10th – 16th, 2016. Registration paperwork is on the parish website under the youth ministry page. Please contact Jennifer in the Religious Education office with any ques- tions or to sign up.
On behalf of the Religious Education Department we would like to thank all those who helped make Christmas merrier for those in need by donating to the Toy and Blan- ket Drive, supporting the bake sale, or by donating to the "Got Milk Campaign," Our Holy Family maintenance staff delivered two truckloads of toys, blankets, coats and more to Crossroads Ministry, over $700 was raised by the bake sale and all monies went to Outreach for the Christ- mas food baskets. Donations for milk are still being col- lected, but know that that money will be used to purchase milk for the food baskets. Please know that so many chil- dren and families will be blessed by your donations! Thank you!
A Christmas Prayer The day of joy returns, Father in heaven, and
crowns another year with peace and good will. Help us rightly to remember the birth of Jesus,
that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and the worship of
the wise men.
Close the doors of hate and open the doors of love all over the world.
Let kindness come with every gift and
good desires with every greeting.
Deliver us from evil, by the blessing that Christ brings, and teach us to be merry with clean hearts.
May the Christmas morning make us happy to be your children,
and the Christmas evening bring us to our bed with grateful thoughts,
forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus' sake. Amen.
Henry VanDyke
Wishing you and your family a blessed Christmas!
Evangelion Young Adult Ministry Since forming this summer, Evangelion has held weekly informal gatherings with the intention of building faith and fellowship among local Catholic young adults. Typically we have a small presentation on a faith topic and have time for fellowship either at member’s homes or in public places. Since this summer we have heard about Rome from Msgr. Jerry, the liturgy of the hours from Fr. Gary, and we have had discussions on scripture, encyclicals, the saints, and apologetics among other things. Other activities have included game nights, watching movies, bowling, canoeing, meeting for dinner, and a dessert cook-off. We hope you will join with us as we enter into 2016! Scripture Verse
And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father's only Son, full of grace and truth. - Jn 1:14 Excerpts from the Lectionary for Mass ©2001, 1998, 1970 CCD.
10 hfgb.org
P a r i s h P r a y e r s a n d m o r e
Please pray for the following Holy Family
parishioners who died on these dates:
December 20 Robert McGuinity, Sr., Annamarie York, Victoria Tahash December 21 Donald York, Roberta (Bobbi) Piesko, Barbara Koneazny, Carl Jarema December 22 Mary M. Blower, Rickie Gillespie, Gordon Ragnone, Mary Elizabeth Andrews, Timothy T. Wisniewski December 23 Estelle McCann, Althea May Dewey, Mary Ann Rous- seau, Betty J. O’Reilly December 24 Aurora R. Garcia, Mary Mangiaracina, Christopher D. Swinney, Lucille D. Armstrong, Beatrice M. Dwyer, Mary Susan Marran, John Skolnik, John Psenski December 25 Loretta Meehan, Thomas Goyette, Mark Seirmarco December 26 Jeanette Hughes
Prayer Intentions of Pope Francis
for December Experiencing God’s Mercy - That all may experience the mercy of God, who never tires of forgiving. Families - That families, especially those who suffer, may find in the birth of Jesus a sign of certain hope.
Please Pray for the Ill and their Caregivers Please remember in prayer those listed in the December 6 bulletin and those listed in the Parish Book of Intercessions at the back of the church.
Saints for the Week (Dec. 20 - 26)
December 21: St. Peter Canisius St. Peter Canisius was canonized and declared a doctor of the Church in 1925. Pope Leo XIII called him the sec- ond apostle of Germany after St. Boniface. At the age of 23, Peter entered the Society of Jesus and published treatises on the Fathers of the Church. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1546 and became the theologian to the cardinal of Augsburg at the Council of Trent. Called to Rome by St. Ignatius of Loyola, he was sent to Messina, Sicily, to teach rhetoric. He spent thirty years in Germany working for the renewal of Catholic life. He wrote a Cate- chism which was written in a persuasive and logical way. St. Peter had a mystical experience of the Sacred Heart. He is an excellent example of how to dialogue with per- sons outside the Catholic Church. December 23: St. John of Kanty St. John of Kanty was born in a small village near Kanty in Poland. He became a doctor of philosophy at the Uni- versity of Cracow in 1418. He engaged in pastoral minis- try for some time but gave it up and returned to teaching. He transcribed more than 18,000 pages of theological treatises. St. John of Kanty distinguished himself by his fidelity to orthodox doctrine and his kindness in his deal- ings with his adversaries. He is buried in the Church of St. Ann in Cracow and from the moment of his death he enjoyed the reputation of a saint and a miracle worker. St. John preached the truth and practiced it. His preaching was reinforced by his example of humility, chastity, com- passion, and penance. He always set aside a portion of his income, and sometimes part of his food, for the poor, whom he welcomed as Christ. December 26: St. Stephen The feast of St. Stephen has been celebrated in the West since the fifth century. St. Stephen was a deacon in the early Church and had been assigned to distribute food to the poor. When certain Jews would engage him in argu- ment, he would always confound them with his wisdom. Ultimately, they made false charges against him, brought in false witnesses, and stoned him to death. The account of his martyrdom is described in chapters 6 and 7 of the Acts of the Apostles. St. Stephen prayed for and forgave his persecutors. He teaches us to do the same. He is also the patron of all deacons. Coffee and Donuts or Pizza
Please remember to join us in the Father Bush Parish Center after the 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., and 12:00 p.m. Masses. We have coffee and donuts after the Sunday morning Masses and pizza is served after the 12:00 p.m. Mass. Come visit with your fel- low parishioners!
11 hfgb.org
Many volunteers are still needed for Christmas and Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God (Dec 31/Jan 1) Liturgies. If you can serve, please contact Lorri at 694-4891, ext. 214, or e-mail, [email protected].
Christmas Masses - Liturgical Ministry Schedule 4:00 PM Liturgy for Thursday, December 24 (Hall) Mass Captain: Bill and Christopher Harris Lectors: Dan and Lori Charboneau Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Bill Harris Jane Harris Chris Harris Dan Charboneau Cindy Villaire Scott Villaire Paula Rainey Kim Dinger Mike Drzewiecki Lori Drzewiecki Server Coach: Help needed Servers: (names removed for web publication) 4:00 PM Liturgy for Thursday, December 24 (Church) Mass Captain: Nancy Repuyan Lectors: Doug Benchley and Joe Sliwka Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Darlene McKone Katie Woycehoski Sandy Sprague Kristin Koglin Dawn Davis Cindy Edmonds Dennis Bridges Mona Shonts Nancy Distelrath Jim Distelrath (Need 3) Server Coach: Help needed Servers: (names removed for web publication) 6:00 PM Liturgy for Thursday, December 24 Mass Captain: Sam Burdick Lectors: Liam Konieczny, (Help needed) Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: Linda Nawrocki Martha Mansour Don Sienko Sheila Konieczny Deborah Jansen VanGalen John Tuohy Peggy Tuohy Pat Burdick Sam Burdick Kathy Savoie Chris McVannel (Need 2) Server Coach: Andy Cocagne Servers: (Need 4) (name removed for publication)
Midnight Liturgy for Thursday, December 24 Mass Captain: Karen Allen Lectors: Dave Caldwell, Heidi Bigsby Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: (Need 5) Sr. Sharon Hektor J. J. Vicari Megan Vicari Karen Allen Sandy Rutkoski David Roberts Lyric Walsh Sharon Peasel Server Coach: Dave Roberts Servers: (names removed for web publication) 8:00 AM Liturgy for Friday, December 25 Mass Captain: Dick Jobaggy, Karen Horton Lectors: Jim Campbell, Help needed - 1 Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: (Need 3) Yvonne Cesal Rick Perry Danny Paris Jean Farris Cesar Bernabe Ica Bernabe Server Coach: Help Needed Servers: (Need 3) 10:00 AM Liturgy for Friday, December 25 Mass Captain: Monna Suess / Terri Yochim Lectors: Jim Daris, Mike Zelley Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist: (Need 1) Roy Linkowski Martha Jane Wynn Paul Garson Trish Sheaffer Betty Ardahl Monna Suess Ed Suess Terri Yochim Kathy Stewart Earl Hagen Cheryl Gelissse Server Coach: Amy Zagata Servers: (names removed for web publication) (Need 2)
O h H o l y N i g h t O h H o l y N i g h t O h H o l y N i g h t O h H o l y N i g h t ----
CHRISTMAS EVE Thursday, December 24
4 p.m. - Mass in the church and the hall (Mass in the church geared toward children) Christmas music prelude begins at 3:30 p.m. in the
church by the Children's Choir. 6 p.m. - Mass in the church
Midnight - Mass in the church Christmas music prelude begins at 11:30 p.m. by the Adult Choir with Handbell Choir. (Incense at all Masses except 4 p.m. in the hall)
CHRISTMAS DAY Friday, December 25
Mass: 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. (No incense at 8 a.m. Mass)
FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY Sunday, December 27
Regular weekend Masses (Incense at all Masses except 8 a.m.)
BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, MOTHER OF GOD
Thursday, December 31 Vigil Mass: 5:30 p.m. (Incense will be used)
BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, MOTHER OF GOD
Friday, January 1 Mass: 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.
(No incense at 8 a.m. Mass)
EPIPHANY OF THE LORD Sunday, January 3
Regular weekend Masses (Incense at all Masses except 8 a.m.)
Christmas Masses
It is the night of our dear Savior’s birh
This schedule was cur- rent as of Dec. 14th.
12 hfgb.org
W h a t ’ s H a p p e n i n g H e r e
Ms. Gretchen’s 3rd grade Religious Education class celebrates Advent with an Advent Tea. Students spent time learning about Advent and enjoyed some treats.
Advent Tea
Are You Sure That You Are a Registered Parishioner? Attending, active parishioners in the church, ESPECIALLY those wishing to be married, have a child baptized, to be a sponsor or be a godparent must be reg- istered. Without being registered and actively attending, permission may not be granted and you may not qualify for parishioner discounts on Holy Family School and Reli- gious Ed. tuition or on Holy Family hall rentals. If you are an adult and are not yet registered on your own, we highly encourage you to register as a member of the parish so that you will receive the services you want when you need them.
TO ALL: Assume that if you are not receiving envelopes that you are NOT a registered parishioner (this does not apply to those giving electronically who request to not receive envelopes).
YOUR ENVELOPES MARK ATTENDANCE AT MASS
To register as a parishioner, you may stop in the parish office or visit our website: holyfamilygrandblanc.catholicweb.com to fill out a registration form. See “Join our Parish Family” in the blue box on the right side of the home page. If you have any questions, you may contact Theresa Dyer in the Parish Office at 694-4891.
365 Days to Mercy App Celebrate the Jubilee Year of Mercy with a great new app from Our Sunday Visi- tor! 365 Days to Mercy is designed to accompany you on your spiritual journey during the Jubilee Year of Mercy. The app includes daily reflections on mercy, everyday Scripture reflections, Pope Francis’ tweets, the Divine Mercy Chap- let and Novena, and lots more. Go to your app store and search “365 Days to Mercy” and install it today! Go to OSV.com/YOM to learn more.
(pictures removed for web publication)
13 hfgb.org
A r o u n d t h e D i o c e s e
Retreats - St. Francis Retreat Center Upcoming one-day, 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Retreats at St. Francis Retreat Center, DeWitt. Directed by Tony Speren- di. Info and registration: 517-669-8321 http:// www.stfrancis.ws/ • Friday, January 15 - "St. Therese of Lisieux: The
Little Way for Everyone." Learn to grow in trust and love and experience yourself as a beloved child of the Father. Life-changing!
• Wednesday, January 20 - "Sir, We Wish to See Je-
sus." A retreat to encounter the life-giving person and message of Jesus in the Gospels and in your own life. Ignite or deepen your relationship with Him who loves you!
• Friday, February 12 - OR - Saturday, February 27. "Mercy Knows No Limits." A Lenten retreat to discov- er the mercies of God for you and your loved ones. We will also pray and learn how to become persons of mercy. "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall ob- tain mercy" Matthew 5:7.
Passion & Purpose For Marriage with Dr. Allen Hunt Passion & Purpose for Marriage is not what you are ex- pecting! First of all, don't worry, you will not have to share your feelings with a group. Come and enjoy acoustical music by George Lower and soak up what Dr. Allen Hunt has in store. Allen talks about the Five Love Languages, along with a variety of other topics and research bits, he combines everything into three very faith centered, com- pelling sections; The Five Things Women Need to Know about Men, The Five Things Men Need to Know about Women, and finally the Most Important Word in a Mar- riage...ant it's not Love. Allen's speaking style is bound to capture your attention; his humor will have you laughing, and all along the way learning more about every relation- ship in your life. Because we all want a happy life. Dr. Allen Hunt is one of the great emerging Catholic voic- es of our time. For more than twenty years he has been helping couples develop, nurture, and grow dynamic mar- riages. His incredible story of how he became Catholic is presented in his bestselling book Confessions of a Mega Church Pastor. His other titles include Everybody Needs to Forgive Somebody and Nine Words. Tickets $25 (per person) includes event materials! Two upcoming dates in Michigan: Fri., March 11, 2016, 7:00 PM - 10:30 PM St. Stephen Church, 2711 Mackinaw St., Saginaw, 48602 Sat., March 12, 2016, 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM St. Anastasia, 4571 John R Road, Troy, 48085 Doors open an hour before the event, we suggest you arrive a half hour to an hour before the event to check in, collect your materials, and be seated. To register visit DynamicCatholic.com/events.
Morning of Prayer and Reparation for World Peace The World Apostolate of Fatima Diocesan Morning of Prayer and Reparation for World Peace will be held at St. John’s Parish (404 N. Dayton, Davison) on January 2nd, 2016, at 9:00 a.m. The morning will include Divine Litur- gy, Investiture in the Brown Scapular, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Holy Hour of Prayer and Rosary.
St. John Marketing/Communication Committee Part-Time Communication Media Specialist—The Catho- lic Community of St. John and Blessed Sacrament (Davison) is seeking a dynamic, motivated communication media specialist to develop and maintain parish-wide communication via digital media. A complete job descrip- tion can be found at www.stjohndavison.org. Send re- sume and cover letter listing three forms of new media you have designed and/or currently maintain to Tina Sim- monds [email protected] by January 15th.