The Spirit of
Evangelization.com St. Louis A Parish-Focused@Digital Platform December 2016 / January 2017
Faith Formation! At Home! Small Group!
Do you have a desire to continue learning and growing in your faith, but find that work, traffic, schedules and family obligations keep you from attending the pre-scheduled programs at the church campus? What if you were able to participate in a study group from home, or structure a study group so that it meets your particular schedule and interests?
feature some of the most trusted and recognized authorities in their fields, people such as Matthew Pinto, Fr. Mitch Pacwa, Teresa Tomeo, Edward Sri, Curtis Martin, Jason Evert, Tim Gray, Jeff Cavins, and Christopher West. Topics include: Scripture Study, Prayer, Bible History, Mary, Theology of the Body and MUCH MORE!
Built to Enhance the Small-Group Experience… Not Replace It There is no excuse now
Well it’s here! Ascension Press has made 38 study programs available to every parishioner to either join in OR set up a small group study. It’s extremely easy to access the online streaming videos of the various programs. These programs
to keep you from continuing your ongoing faith formation. If you are interested in joining or starting a small group using one of the many study programs, contact the Adult and Family Ministry for more information at adultfaith@st-louis.org or call 512-454-0384 x220.
Explore all the study programs available online at https://study.ascensionpress.com A newsletter of st. louis catholic church • 7601 burnet road, austin, tx • www.st-louis.org
Advent and Christmas schedule 2016 PUBLICATION DEADLINES The next deadline for the parish newsletter, Spirit of St. Louis, is January 5th for the February edition. Thank you for your cooperation in meeting that deadline. Submit newsletter items to bulletin@st-louis.org Weekly bulletin deadlines are always 10 days in advance of an intended weekend. Submit items to bulletin@ st-louis.org no later than Wednesdays at noon. During the month of December, bulletin deadlines may be earlier due to the publisher’s holiday printing schedule.
HOLIDAY CLOSURES All Church offices will close on Thursday, December 22 at 12 Noon and will be closed through Monday, December 26. Offices will reopen 9am-Noon only on TuesdayWednesday-Thursday, December 2729. Offices will be closed for the New Year’s holiday on Friday, December 30th, reopening on Monday, January 2, 2017 for regularly scheduled hours.
NEW LEADERSHIP IN YOUR MINISTRY? If you have elected new officers or other leadership in your ministry/ organization that meets on the St. Louis campus, be sure the new people are certified in the Ethics and Integrity in Ministry policies of the Diocese of Austin. They must have completed an Application for Ministry for a background check and should have attended an EIM workshop. Call Brenda Beltran (512) 454-0384 x 211 or contact her by email to report names of new leaders or to check on EIM status: brenda.beltran@st-louis.org
First Week of Advent Nov. 27 First Sunday of Advent 9:00 p.m. Sung Office of Compline (Chapel) Nov. 29 11:30 a.m. Advent Organ Series (Main Nave) Dec. 1 1:30 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. Advent Penance Services Dec. 2 7:30 p.m. Drive-a-Senior Benefit Concert (Main Nave) Dec. 3 8:30 – 11:00 a.m. Breakfast with Santa (Wozniak Hall) 8:00 a.m. Deck the Bushes (covered sidewalk) Second Week of Advent Dec. 4 Second Sunday of Advent 9:00 p.m. Sung Office of Compline (Chapel) Dec. 6 11:30 a.m. Advent Organ Series (Main Nave) Dec. 8 Immaculate Conception Masses: 6:30 a.m., 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m., 7:30 p.m. (Spanish) Dec. 9-10-11 6:00 p.m. Our Lady of Guadalupe Prayers (Main Nave) Dec. 10 7:00 p.m. Our Lady of Guadalupe Pageant (Main Nave) Third Week of Advent Dec. 11 Third Sunday of Advent 9:00 p.m. Sung Office of Compline (Chapel) Dec. 12 Our Lady of Guadalupe Masses: 5:00 a.m., 7:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m. Dec. 13 11:30 a.m. Advent Organ Series (Main Nave) No 6:00 p.m. Spanish Mass today – Diocesan clergy event Dec. 14 7:00 p.m. Simbang Gabi Mass (Main Nave) Dec. 16 7:30 p.m. Ensemble VIII concert (Chapel) Dec. 16-24 6:30 p.m. Novena de Posadas (Wozniak Hall) Dec. 17 7:30 p.m. Austin Civic Wind Ensemble Concert (Main Nave) Fourth Week of Advent Dec. 18 Fourth Sunday of Advent 9:00 p.m. Sung Office of Compline (Chapel) Dec. 19 7:30 p.m. O’Antiphons and Magnificat Concert (Chapel) Dec. 20 9:00 a.m.-Noon Decorate Sanctuary Christmas trees Dec. 24 Christmas Eve Masses: 4:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m., 8:00 p.m. (Spanish), 12 Midnight with 11:20 p.m. Carols Sunday – Christmas Day Dec. 25 Masses: 9:30 a.m. (English), 11:30 a.m. (Spanish) New Year’s Schedule Dec. 31 5:00 p.m. Vigil Mass (English) Jan. 1, 2017 Regular Sunday Mass schedule for Holy Day of Mary 6:00 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. in Spanish 7:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. in English.
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Simbang Gabi Returns to St. Louis Parish
END OF YEAR CONTRIBUTIONS
The Philippines, the only Catholic country in the Far East, has diverse religious traditions and practices especially during the Christmas season. One of these is the “Simbang Gabi” celebrated as a nine-day novena honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary, as the Mother of God. In some churches, the “panuluyan”, a reenactment play of the journey of Joseph and Mary to find a suitable lodging, is independently presented, very similar to the Hispanic “Las Posadas”.
In order to receive 2016 credit for your donations, end-of-year contributions must be submitted to the Church Office no later than noon on Thursday, December 29th or postmarked by Saturday, December 31st.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14
The spirit of “Simbang Gabi” gathers and re-unites families and friends together in reconciliation with one another. Indeed “Simbang Gabi” has become one of the most popular traditions of the Filipinos, not only as a family but also as a nation. More than anything else, “Simbang Gabi” is a spiritual preparation for Christmas. The public is invited to attend one or all of the scheduled Masses in the area. The 2016 schedule of “Simbang Gabi” Masses in the Austin area is as follows: Tuesday, December 13
7:00pm St. Vincent de Paul - Austin
Wednesday, December 14
7:00pm St. Louis, King of France - Austin
Thursday, December 15
7:00pm St. Margaret Mary – Cedar Park
Friday, December 16
7:00pm St. Peter the Apostle - Austin
Saturday, December 17
7:00pm St. Catherine of Siena - Austin
Sunday, December 18
7:00pm St. Albert the Great, Austin
Monday, December 19
7:00pm St. Paul - Austin
Tuesday, December 20
7:00pm St. Elizabeth of Hungary - Pflugerville
Wednesday, December 21
7:00pm St. Albert the Great - Austin
Parish Library The St. Louis Parish Library will be closed on Christmas Day and the Monday after, December 26. The library will be open on Wednesday, December 28 from 9:00 a.m. until noon. However, we will love seeing our patrons again on Monday, January 2, with our new extended hours for the New Year: Sundays: 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Mondays: 3:00 - 8:00 p.m. Wednesdays: (new extended hours) 9:00 a.m. - noon and 1:00 - 8:00 p.m. Start the New Year of 2017 with a resolution to learn more about your faith through the many resources of your parish library. Come check us out!
We are grateful for all donations, large or small and hope that your generosity will bring you much needed tax relief when filing your 2016 tax returns in 2017. Per IRS regulations, St. Louis Church automatically sends out 2016 tax statements to anyone who has given a single donation of at least $250 or more. Donors who don’t quite meet this threshold may contact the Church Office at 512-454-0384 x 201 to request your statement. We are happy to mail your first statement at no charge, but ask that you pick up replacement statements from the Church Office during regular business hours.
DECEMBER CONCERTS FOR THE PARISH Three more outstanding concerts are planned before Christmas and you don’t want to miss them! Ensemble VIII brings "Repeat the Sounding Joy!" on Friday, December 16 at 7:30pm. This is a ticketed event in the Chapel, featuring vocal works from the Renaissance and Baroque eras. Visit www.ensembleVIII. org to purchase tickets. Austin Civic Wind Ensemble returns to St. Louis for their free Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 17 at 7:30pm. This 70-piece group is always a crowd pleaser! The St. Louis King’s Choir, is offering the O Antiphons and Magnificat Concert on Monday, December 19 at 7:30pm. Mark your calendars and join us for these sounds of music in December!
REPRESENTADORES DE LAS APARICIONES GUADALUPANAS
SOCIEDAD DE GUADALUPANAS
MARIACHI ESTRELLA
LOS MATLACHINES
LIDERES DE MINISTERIOS HISPANOS
Eventos Navideños 2016 SERVICIO DE ONFESIONES DE ADVIENTO 1 DE DIC (jueves) - 1:30 p.m./7:00 p.m. SOLEMNIDAD DE LA INMACULADA CONCEPCION 8/DIC (jueves) - 7:30 p.m. (Iglesia) TRIDUO EN HONOR A NUESTRA SEÑORA DE GUADALUPE (Iglesia) 1 DIA: 9/DIC (viernes) 6:00 p.m. TEMA: San Juan Diego 2 DIA: 10/DIC sábado) 6:00 p.m. Representación De Las Apariciones 3 DIA: 11/DIC (domingo) 6:00 p.m. TEMA: Camino Al Tepeyac DIA 12 de Diciembre (lunes) FIESTA: Nuestra Señora de GUADALUPE (Iglesia) Se invita a los niños a participar vestidos como San Juan Dieguito o como Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe. Además, estamos pidiendo que ayuden con una donación o artículos para el Ministerio Proyecto Gabriel. Este Ministerio apoya a las madres y sus niños recién nacidos. 4:00 a.m. -Santo Rosario 4:30 a.m. -Las Mañanitas 5:00 a.m. -Santa Misa (Bilingüe) 6:30 a.m.-7:30 a.m. - Convivencia (Wozniak) † 5:30 p.m. - Santo Rosario 6:00 p.m. - Santa Misa (Español)
NOVENA DE POSADAS PREPARACION A NAVIDAD 1 DIA -16/DIC (viernes) 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Guadalupanas/Grupo del RosarioWozniak Hall 2 DIA -17/DIC (sábado) 6:30 p.m.- 8:30 p.m. Vía Crucis - Wozniak Hall
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NOCHEBUENA DE NAVIDAD 24/dic (sábado) MISA 8:00 p.m. - Español
NAVIDAD 25 de diciembre (domingo) MISA 11:30 a.m. - Español
3 DIA - 18/DIC (domingo) 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. CRSP: Hombres - Wozniak Hall 4 DIA -19/DIC (lunes) 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. CRSP: Mujeres – Wozniak Hall 5 DIA - 20/DIC (martes) 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Grupo de Oración - Wozniak Hall 6 DIA - 21/DIC (miércoles) 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Estudio de Biblia / Cenáculo de la Divina Misericordia - Wozniak Hall
Feliz Navidad
7 DIA - 22/DIC (jueves) 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Movimiento Familiar Cristiano Wozniak Hall
Un Próspero Año Nuevo!
8 DIA - 23/DIC (viernes) 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Ministros de Hospitalidad - Wozniak Hall 9 DIA - 24/DIC (sábado) 6:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Comunidad – Directora, Sumayah Abullarade Solo Novena (Capilla)
Y
TUESDAYS AT 11:30 A. M. FREE-WILL OFFERING MASS AT 12 NOON FOLLOWS
NOVEMBER 29
DECEMBER 6
DECEMBER 13
Advent,
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LET´S BE READY TO RECEIVE JESUS!
By Betty Franceschi
The Latin word "Adventus" means "coming". For Christians it refers to the coming of Jesus Christ. It is an opportunity to prepare in hope and repentance for the coming of the Lord at Christmas and for his Second Coming to the world, when he will return as King of the whole Universe. It is a time where we can check how our spiritual life has been, about our relationship to God and convert. It is a time when we can make a life plan to become a better person. The liturgical color of this time is purple, which means penance. This privileged period invites us to remember the past, impels us to live the present and to prepare for the future. • Reminisce: To celebrate and contemplate the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. The Lord has already come and was born in Bethlehem. This was his coming in the flesh, full of humility and poverty. He came as one of us, man among men. This was his first coming. • Live the present: To live in our daily lives the "presence of Christ" in us and for us into the world. It also means to live forever vigilant, walking in the ways of the Lord, in justice and in love. • Prepare for the future: This is to prepare for the Parousia or second coming of Jesus Christ in the "majesty of his glory." Then He will come as Lord and Judge of all nations, and he will reward with Heaven all those who have believed in Him; that had lived their lives as faithful children of the Father and good brothers and sisters of others. We await his glorious coming that will bring us salvation and eternal life without suffering. The Church invites us during Advent to prepare for this moment through review and projection: Taking advantage of this time to think about how good we have been so far and what we can do to be better than before. It is important to take a break in life and reflect on our spiritual life and our relationship with God and others. Every day we can and should be better.
El La palabra latina "adventus" significa “venida”. En el lenguaje cristiano se refiere a la venida de Jesucristo. Es una oportunidad para prepararnos en la esperanza y en el arrepentimiento para la llegada del Señor en navidad y para la segunda venida de Cristo al mundo, cuando volverá como Rey de todo el Universo. Es un tiempo en el que podemos revisar cómo ha sido nuestra vida espiritual, nuestra vida en relación con Dios y convertirnos de nuevo. Es un tiempo en el que podemos hacer un plan de vida para mejorar como personas. El color litúrgico de este tiempo es el morado que significa penitencia. Este período privilegiado nos invita a recordar el pasado, nos impulsa a vivir el presente y a preparar el futuro. • Recordar el pasado: Celebrar y contemplar el nacimiento de Jesús en Belén. El Señor ya vino y nació en Belén. Esta fue su venida en la carne, lleno de humildad y pobreza. Vino como uno de nosotros, hombre entre los hombres. Esta fue su primera venida. • Vivir el presente: Se trata de vivir en el presente de nuestra vida diaria la "presencia de Jesucristo" en nosotros y, por nosotros, en el mundo. Vivir siempre vigilantes, caminando por los caminos del Señor, en la justicia y en el amor. • Preparar el futuro: Se trata de prepararnos para la Parusía o segunda venida de Jesucristo en la "majestad de su gloria". Entonces vendrá como Señor y como Juez de todas las naciones, y premiará con el Cielo a los que han creido en Él; vivido como hijos fieles del Padre y hermanos buenos de los demás. Esperamos su venida gloriosa que nos traerá la salvación y la vida eterna sin sufrimientos. La Iglesia nos invita en el Adviento a prepararnos para este momento a través de la revisión y la proyección: Aprovechando este tiempo para pensar en qué tan buenos hemos sido hasta ahora y lo que vamos a hacer para ser mejores que antes. Es importante saber hacer un alto en la vida para reflexionar acerca de nuestra vida espiritual y nuestra relación con Dios y con el prójimo. Todos los días podemos y debemos ser mejores.
O
Antiphons and Magnificats
Monday, December 19, 2016 | 7:30 pm A quiet service of meditation and reflection on the ancient songs of the Church. Featuring the St. Louis King’s Choir Rick Gabrillo, Director of Music Scott McNulty, Organist
A free-will offering will benefit the music program
parish social MINISTRy
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SERVING THE NEEDIEST AMONG US
For Whom The Bell s Toll Please remember to keep in prayer the souls of those inmates who have been executed and those scheduled to die. Pray also for the victims of crime, their families and the executioners.
December 2016 7 8
TX John Battaglia AL Ron Smith
January 2017 11 11 12 12 23 25 26 31
OH TX OH OH OR TX TX MO
Anthony Kirkland – Stayed Chirstopher Wilkins James Hanna – Reprieve Granted Ronald Phillips Gary Haugen Kosoul Chanthakoummane Terry Darnell Edwards Mark Christeson
OUR SACRAMENTS OUR FAITH “The purpose of the sacraments is to sanctify men, to build up the Body of Christ and, finally, to give worship to God.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church123) BAPTISMS OCTOBER 6 – NOVEMBER 5, 2016 Victoria Alexandra Abel Brian Patrick Sowada Jacob Alonso-Marcelino Emili Daliana Hernandez Leylah Marie Mondragon McKenzie Noelle Mondragon Miriam Zavaleta-Lopez
FIRST EUCHARIST NOVEMBER 4, 2016 Adam Daniel Zeidler
MARRIAGES & CONVALIDATIONS When you give 100% of your donation directly to St Louis Food Pantry and St. Louis Mobile Loaves and Fishes, you provide food for the hungry and compassion to those in need. Through Souper Bowl of Caring, you are making a difference and changing lives. The next Souper Bowl of Caring will be the weekend of February 4-5.
GIVING TREES Thank you in advance for the gifts from the Giving Trees. The last day to bring the gifts to the Church is December 18th. If you still want to donate, we accept donations anytime throughout the year, and you can bring the gifts to the Social Ministries building off of St. Joseph’s Blvd.
OCTOBER 6 – NOVEMBER 5, 2016 Juan Pablo Paita and Maria Del Rocio Campuzano Matthew Alan Ross and Kathleen Joy Santos Larry Edward Fox and Marisol Elissa Flores Shane Landon Lane Thomas and Laura Marie Hayes Roberto Gonzalez, Jr. and Stephanie Lynn Wilson Samuel Felix Higgins III and Natalie Marie Perez Justin Bryce Smith and Carlina Marie Villalanti Adam Daniel Zeidler and Claudia Leticia Amezcua Timothy Edwin Hanson and Caitlin Marie LaVerdure
FOOD PANTRY DRIVE Shelves are empty and the collection is low, please help us stock the shelves. Bags will be handed out January 28th and 29th. Please return them on February 4th and 5th.
RECENTLY DECEASED Basil Philippy Shirley LeBlanc Dorothy Ott John Oppermann
ST. LOUIS CATHOLIC SCHOOL NEWS PREPARING THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW WITH THE LIGHT OF CHRIST AS THEIR GUIDE
Success
STARTS HERE
WWW.SLCSAUSTIN.ORG 512-614-6622 2114 ST. JOSEPH STREET AUSTIN, TX 78757
f L I
/SLCSAUSTIN @SLCSAUSTIN @SLCSAUSTIN
ALL-SAINTS
First grade did a fantastic job for the Feast of All Saints by portraying their favorite Saint in Mass on November 1. They had great answers for Fr. James when he brought them on the altar to talk about their Saint during the Homily. It was a great sight to see some of our youngest learners connecting their faith with their education
STUDENT HAPPENINGS The Annual Christmas Program is scheduled for December 15th in the Main Church and students are working hard in preparation of this memorable event. Our Pre-K and Kindergarten students have a special presentation planned for our school Nativity Mass on December 16th, at 8am.
CLASS OF 1966 REUNION
The St. Louis School class of 1966 had a reunion this past month. The alumni re-created their 8th grade class picture on the steps of the old Church (now the PEC). Top row: Pat O’Connell, Roger Broz (at least in one picture!), John Burns; Third row: Chrissie (Toungate) Daniel, Linda (Matula) Gaas, Martha (Webster) Hartley; Second row: Sandy (Teseny) Peerman; First row: Carol (Lambert) Bull; Karen (Pechacek) Welch, Cindy (Winslow) Greig (also only in one picture); Patty Wilson; Debbie (Maldonado) Ramirez
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Save the Date! GREEN AND WHITE NIGHT Dinner and Auction February 18, 2017 DoubleTree Hotel Austin 60TH ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATIVE MASS with Bishop Joe Vasquez April 1, 2017 5pm Vigil Mass COUGAR CHALLENGE FUN RUN April 25, 2017 St. Louis Campus
FUN FEST
We had a great time at Fun Fest! Thank you to all who supported this wonderful community event!
OPEN HOUSE Please join us for our Annual Open House at the beginning of Catholic School’s week on Sunday, January 29, 2017 from 10am-3:30pm. Student Ambassadors will conduct tours and teachers will be available in their classrooms for any questions you might have. If you cannot join us for Open House, please join us on Touring Tuesdays! Every Tuesday morning through the end of the school year, families may come by the school for tours and information without appointments. Tours may also be scheduled upon request. Please contact Mrs. Dowling at 512-614-6622 x245 for more information.
COUGAR CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT April 27, 2017 Twin Creeks Country Club
CATHOLIC MONTESSORI COMING FALL 2017 St. Louis Catholic School will offer the only Catholic Montessori in Central Texas beginning in August 2017 The new program will be offered in the Primary program for our youngest learners who are three, four and five year olds.
ST. LOUIS CATHOLIC SCHOOL NEWS PREPARING THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW WITH THE LIGHT OF CHRIST AS THEIR GUIDE
REGISTRATION Starting in January, we will begin taking applications for the 2017-2018 school year. We offer a Christ-centered education for students in Pre-K4 through 8th grade and our graduates continue to make us proud. Tours are available by appointment; please contact Mrs. Dowling at 512-6146622, ext. 245 for more information. Forms and additional information are available on the school website at slcsaustin.org. We look forward to hearing from you!
THE HEART OF ST. LOUIS ANNUAL APPEAL Thank you to those who have already shown their support for Catholic Education with a donation to our Annual Appeal. We are so blessed to have the Heart of this parish support our students and the school’s mission, which is “to prepare the leaders of tomorrow with the light of Christ as their guide.” Be sure to make your donations before the end of the year to be acknowledged for the 2016 calendar year! For more information, please contact Ms. Tamara Luera, Director of Advancement, at 512-614-6622 x296.
DUKE TIP
St. Louis had an outstanding twenty-three students in fourth through seventh grade qualify for the Duke University TIP talent search program. Students are evaluated on their yearly IOWA assessment and those who scored 95% or above on one or more qualifying tests are invited to join this program.
Important School Dates: CHRISTMAS December 16th (noon) - January 4th, 2017 Students Return on January 5th
GIRLS VOLLEYBALL 3A CHAMPIONSHIP
7/8 3A Volleyball, coached by Nelson Brites and Peter Barger, won 1st Place for the season. They defeated St. Ignatius 2-1 in the final game to claim 1st in the AIPL Tournament. They earned two championship banners and t-shirts. Congratulations on a great season!
The Spirit of St. Louis
St. Louis Catholic School H.S.A. invites the Parishioners of St. Louis to our Annual Green & White Night. February 18, 2017 Doubletree Hotel 6505 IH-35 North Aus�n, TX 78752
We would love to see our alumni a�end! For addi�onal informa�on, please visit our website. www.slcsaus�n.org/advancement/annualschoolauc�on/
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Music MINISTRy BUILDING THE KINGDOM / WITH MUSIC
Sharing Our Story/Through Music In their eighth year as Co-Directors of Coro Nueva Alianza, the husband and wife team of Pedro and Maria Murillo faithfully work each week to bring beautiful music to the Sunday 5 p.m. Spanish Mass. Coro Nueva Alianza was formed in May, 2000 under the direction of Roberto and Lolys Navarro to support the music of the new Spanish Mass at St. Louis Church. From the beginning, contemporary music was used, with most of it coming from Mexico where many of the members originated. The group also played for prayer groups, youth retreats, weddings, and quinceañeras. After the Navarro’s moved to Houston in 2008, Pedro and Maria Elena took over as directors, and have continued to volunteer in many church activities like the Christmas Posadas, Via Crucis, weddings, quinceañeras, and other special Masses. Coming from musical backgrounds, both Pedro and Maria grew up in Dallas and met at the cathedral youth group, singing in the choir estudiantina. Maria’s mother was a cantor at the Dallas cathedral for forty years, and Pedro remembers his grandfather and other family members being active in music. Pedro also admits to learning guitar so he could impress Maria, and ask her out on a date! Continuing the tradition of service to the church, each of their three children have served as altar servers and attended St. Louis School as students. The Murillos have diligently worked to set high musical standards for Coro Nueva Alianza. A new singer/ instrumentalist to the group must attend at least four rehearsals before they can perform in the Mass. Because the members learn music by ear, it can take a little longer to learn newer music, but that does not stop or slow anyone. The group has well over 549 songs committed to memory, and it can quickly select different music to fit the church season. While the group uses the hymnal Flor Y Canto for a few of the tunes, most songs are recorded and given to the members to rehearse on their own. In addition, a weekly Thursday night rehearsal in the school music room from 7:30-9:30 p.m. (Room 120) helps members become more confident with the memorization of the music, which usually focuses on upbeat contemporary repertoire. Currently there is a pianist, bass player, two guitarists, and percussionists who help accompany the songs. Pedro and Maria would like to see the group expand with more singers (especially male singers!), more guitarists, and people to play more instruments, like violin, flute, or saxophone. If you are interested in joining this wonderful group, please contact Pedro and Maria Murillo at pmurillo1957@gmail.com.
Youth Ministry
Please consider donating to help a teen go on the 2017 Steubenville Conference! Your donation will change a teen’s life! Please contact our Youth Minister- Elena Murdock at elena.murdock@st-louis. org/512-454-0384 ext 219 for more information on this awesome conference! Registration is now open.
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An Engaging 8-Part Study Featuring Jeff Cavins
Save Dates! Date,The Times, Location Thursdays, February 2 – March 23, 2017 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Wozniak Hall, Youth Room
Cost/Registration Registration will open in December
You will: · Make sense of the Bible and see how it More Information relates to yourFor everyday life · Discover the remarkable connections between the Old and New Testaments · See how the sacraments, the Church and our entire Catholic Faith is rooted in Scripture … and much more!
T
his study provides the easiest way to understand the Bible. Unlocking the Mystery of the Bible makes the complex simple. It helps you uncover the story woven throughout Scripture, so that you can get the “big picture” of the Bible and understand what it’s all about. The Bible is a story about the Father’s unfailing love for you, a love that you are now called to share with others. “The effect on my parishioners has been wonderful: a deeper love for Christ, a deeper experience with the sacraments, and continued love for the Scriptures.” —Fr. Becker, Minnesota
Visit www.st-louis.org Visitbulletin BibleStudyForCatholics.com to learn more. and for more information
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Women's Club News Nothing Without You…. Nothing Without Us LADIES VISIT SCHOENSTATT SHRINE In an effort to provide an opportunity to participate in Club activities outside the evening meetings, the St. Louis Women’s Club organized a trip to the Schoenstatt Shine. Nineteen ladies, many of whom do not come to evening meetings, carpooled to the South Austin site last October. Schoenstatt is an international Catholic movement of education and spiritual formation. Started in Germany during WWI, its followers look to Mary to guide them to be active witnesses of Christ in modern life by uniting their faith with their everyday lives. A docent recounted the history of the Schoenstatt movement and explained the relevance of the statues and items in the chapel. The title of this article appears across the front of the altar. After reciting the rosary together, the ladies enjoyed lunch at the nearby County Line on the Hill restaurant. Barbara Matocha is the “organizer” for upcoming excursions which will occur in even months on the third Thursday. If you have an idea for a future destination, please contact her at 512-516-5897. Meanwhile, watch the bulletin for news about the December 15 activity.
Ladies, Come Meet Seminarian Chris Wednesday, January 18, 2017 is the Women’s Club’s traditional souper supper. There will be a variety of homemade soups, with all the trimmings for a winter dinner. If you haven’t come to a souper supper in the past, now’s the time to put it on your calendar. The Club Board is pleased to announce that our seminarian, Chris Yeager, has accepted an invitation to join us that evening and tell us about his life in the seminary as well as at St. Louis.
SLC Women to Visit Ten Thousand Villages After a successful visit to the Schoenstatt Shrine last October, the St. Louis Women’s Club continues with its daytime outings by visiting 10,000 Villages on Thursday, December 15. As one of the world’s oldest and largest fair trade organizations, Ten Thousand Villages has spent more than 60 years cultivating trading relationships in which artisans receive a fair price for their work and consumers have access to distinctive handcrafted items. We will have a guide to share what the program and products are all about and then have time to do some shopping. Anyone wanting to carpool should meet on the north side of the church by the covered entrance. We leave promptly at 10:15. The store is located at 4803 Burnet Road, for those who wish to drive there directly. Plenty of parking in the back. We are scheduled for a 10:30 – noon visit. Afterwards, we’re off to a local restaurant for a group lunch. Barbara Matocha is the planner for this event and can be reached at 512-516-5897 if there are questions.
Adult
and
Family MiNistry
YOUNG ADULT, ADULT AND FAMILY FAITH FORMATION MINISTRIES
MOTHERS OF YOUNG CHILDREN (MOYC) This parish group gives mothers and their children the opportunity to engage in fellowship and spiritual growth through prayer, book study, and scriptural reflection plus play dates. They meet in PEC 202 on the first and third Fridays of the month at 9:30am and on the second and fourth Fridays at parks around town. Contact Shanna Steinbach shannakathleene@gmail.com for additional information.
WOMEN OF FAITH Women of Faith is a women’s spiritual enrichment group that explores the feminine genius of being created in God’s image. This is a great way for women of all walks of life to meet and share their faith. There are both evening and morning Women of Faith groups. The evening Women of Faith group meets Tuesdays at 7:00pm. For more information about the evening group, contact Vickie at vicsmailbox@sbcglobal.net The morning Women of Faith group meets on Thursdays at 8:00am in Wozniak Hall, Room 1. For information about the morning group, contact Kim Barger at kimb@ bargers.com
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SANCTUARY CANDLE MEMORIALS
2017 AT THE ST. LOUIS FARM As 2017 begins, make it a resolution to help out at St. Louis Farm! The winter months are a great opportunity to volunteer -- the weather is cooler, the Farm is full of tasks large and small, and volunteering is a great way to give back after Christmas feasting. We'll be having monthly Saturday Work Days on January 23 and February 27 from 8am-12pm. We'll have refreshments, fellowship, seasoned volunteers to guide you, and you can help us provide fresh vegetables for the Food Pantry! Mark your calendars, pull on a sweatshirt, and come on out -- we're located on the church property near the corner of St. Joseph and Hardy Street. For more info, follow us on Facebook or send us an email at stlouisfarmatx@gmail.com.
CATHOLIC SCRIPTURE STUDY This city-wide program continues to meet on Wednesday mornings from 9:3011:30am in the St. Louis sanctuary. This weekly two-hour Bible study consists of prayer, small group discussions and guest speakers and is open to both men and women. The 2016-2017 study on the Book of Isaiah by R. Mitch Pacwa, SJ, runs through May 3, 2017, following the AISD holiday schedule. As the program is underway, newcomers are welcome but requested to come on the first Wednesday (January 4th) for orientation and assignment to a study group. You may also register online at www.cssaustin.org or contact Patty Hogan (512) 257-4789 with questions.
REMEMBER THE CRY ROOM! Although we love our infants and toddlers and the “music” they make, please remember that what may be music to one person’s ears, can be distracting to another. If your little tyke begins to “sing” during Mass, please exit quickly and introduce your child to the Cry Room. It’s often difficult to hear in our Church, even when there are no background noises, so be considerate of others and remove your little one as promptly as possible! Due to the Cry Room’s size, just one adult should accompany the child, so there’s room for more future choir members! THANK YOU!!!
The sanctuary candle is traditionally seen in Catholic churches, burning constantly to indicate the presence of the Blessed Sacrament in the tabernacle. At St. Louis, in both the main nave and the chapel, the sanctuary candles are burning high above the floor in beautifully ornate fixtures suspended from the ceiling. Parishioners are given the opportunity to memorialize a deceased loved one with a $10 contribution, selecting a specified week in which one or both of the two sanctuary candles will be burned in their honor. Visit the church office with your donation, the name of your loved one, your choice of sanctuary candle and the selected week. Memorials are denoted in the Main Nave (M/N) or Chapel (C). Memorials reserved since the last newsletter deadline include: November 27 – December 3 Memory of Talmadge Foster by Tommie Foster (C & M/N) December 4 – 10 Memory of Paul Vincent Navarro by Julie Navarro (M/N) Memory of Jose Felix Estrada-Rios by Julie Navarro (C) December 11 – 17 Memory of Bertin Aviles by Guadalupanas (C & M/N) December 18 – 24 Memory of Richard Bernal by Mary Sue Bernal (C & M/N) December 25-31 Memory of Joe Castro by Paul & Patsy Alvarez (M/N) Memory of Richard K. Redfearn by Betty Redfearn (C) January 1 – 7, 2017 Memory of Basil Philippy by Lauren DePue (M/N) Memory of Joyce DePue by Lauren DePue (C)
Project Andrew Feb. 11, 2017 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. St. Mary Cathedral · Austin
For single Catholic men, ages 16 – 45, interested in learning about the priesthood, discernment and seminary life.
Join us for prayer, testimonials by priests and seminarians, Mass and lunch with Bishop Joe Vásquez.
Free parking available in the Donahue Center Parking Garage (entrance located on San Jacinto). You must pay for parking in the street at the meters.
For more information contact the Vocation Office at (512) 949–2430 Register online: austinvocations.com · Deadline Feb. 8, 2017 This event is free, but you must register.
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RELIGIOUS VOCATIONS HEART OF JESUS – MEN’S DISCERNMENT RETREAT
A retreat for Catholic men (ages 17 to 40) with openness to a priestly vocation, will be held December 16-18 at Cedarbrake Catholic Retreat Center in Belton. The weekend will include silence, prayer, meals and talks by priests and seminarians. This is a great opportunity to spend time with other young men who are seeking God’s will for their life and to discover the key to our identity as men and our vocation in the Heart of Jesus. For information, contact the Vocation Office at (512) 9492430. Register online: www.austinvocations.com Cost is $35 and deadline to register is December 12th.
PLANNING MARRIAGE IN THE FUTURE? The Sacrament of Marriage involves many steps, but your faith community is here to assist you. While you don’t have to be a member to marry here, it is the support and tithes of our generous parishioners that make our marriage programs and facilities possible. Consequently, fees for the rental of facilities are assessed according to parishioner or non-parishioner status. If you have been a registered member and documented giver (through checks or envelopes) for at least six months before coming in to plan a future wedding, you will be eligible for the discounted parishioner rate. Call our Church Office for more information on this and all questions related to the marriage preparation process (512) 454-0384 x 209.
MEN’S DISCERNMENT DINNERS are for single Catholic men (high school – adult) with openness to discerning a priestly vocation. The evenings include dinner and evening prayer with discussions about the priesthood, seminary and discernment. Dinners are on separate Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30pm. The high- school men’s group meets on first Wednesdays of the month in the Religious Education Building of St. William Parish in Round Rock. The group for men 18 and older meets on second Wednesdays of the month at the St. Charles Borromeo House of Discernment, 905B Duncan Lane in Austin. For more information visit www.austinvocations. com
¿PLANEANDO MATRIMONIO EN LOS PRÓXIMOS AÑOS? El sacramento del matrimonio implica muchos pasos, pero su comunidad de fe está aquí para ayudarle. Mientras que usted no tiene que ser miembro para casarse aquí, es el apoyo y el diezmo de nuestros feligreses generosos, que hacen que nuestros programas e instalaciones de matrimonio sean posibles. En consecuencia, las tarifas para rentar las instalaciones son evaluadas de acuerdo a los feligreses o no feligrés de estado. Si usted ha sido un miembro registrado y documentado dador (a través de cheques o sobres) al menos de seis meses antes de venir a planificar una futura boda , usted será elegible para la tasa feligrés. Llame a nuestra oficina de la iglesia para obtener más información sobre esta y todas las preguntas relacionadas con el proceso de preparación matrimonial 512-454-0384.
Project Miriam (Miriam is Hebrew for Mary)
Quo Vadis
For single Catholic women ages 16 – 45 open to learning more about consecrated life. (Latin for “where are you going?")
Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017 · 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. St. Mary Cathedral · 203 E. 10th St., Austin
Join other single, Catholic women (ages 16 – 45) seeking to learn from Mary’s joyful “yes” to God.
The morning includes prayer and testimonials with religious sisters serving in the diocese, Mass and lunch.
Free parking with validation is available in the Donahue Center Parking Garage (entrance located on San Jacinto Street). You must pay for parking at the meters.
For more information contact the Vocation Office at (512) 949–2430 Register online: austinvocations.com Deadline Feb. 15, 2017 This event is free, but you must register.
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Around the Diocese and beyond Support Drive-a-Senior
WHILE SHOPPING ON AMAZON Many of us order items online through Amazon. How would you like Amazon to make a donation of 0.5% of your purchase amount to Drive a Senior North Central with no extra effort? Next time you want to order something, go to smile.amazon.com, enter your email address and password as you've always done on Amazon. Then select the charity to receive the donation: in the search field, type North Central Caregivers of Austin (they still have our former name). Select it from the list that comes up, and you're done! You'll get a confirmation email from Amazon Smile. You only need to select the charity the first time – it remembers the charity you selected after that, so you go straight to shopping. Then, whenever you use smile.amazon.com to shop, Drive a Senior North Central will get 0.5% of your Amazon purchases. Amazon Smile has the same selection of items and the same prices as Amazon. Thanks for helping us out! If you have questions, call parishioner Linda St.Clair, Drive a Senior board member, at 512 689-4107.
Cedarbrake Catholic Retreat Center (254) 780-2436 www.cedarbrake.org cedarbrake@austindiocese.org JANUARY 16 TRANSFORMED BY FAITH A DAY OF RETREAT: This day will be spent reflecting on the gifts of five women whose courageous actions impacted the world (Sojourner Truth, Thea Bowman, Maya Angelou, Rosa Parks and Harriet Tubman). Their fearlessness and faithfulness changed lives because they embraced the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Come and learn about these incredible women, who they were and what they did. Beverly Collin will facilitate the day. The cost is $40 and includes lunch. FEBRUARY 20 CANCER SURVIVOR’S RETREAT A DAY OF REFLECTION: This retreat is a time for cancer survivors to come together to share their stories. Wanda Gibson is a business owner, spiritual director and cancer survivor. Mrs. Gibson will lead this prayerful, winter day of reflection, meditation, discussion and movement through the survivor’s journey into the present moment. Whether you are celebrating one week or twenty years since your cancer experience, you are invited to join us in courageous company as we allow our mind, body, and spirt to engage, heal, rest, renew and rejoice. The cost is $40 and includes lunch.
Recycle-Recycle-Recycle!
St. Louis Parish now has blue recycling cans in every office and building on campus! Those using facilities are asked to recycle with us. The blue recycle cans accept paper, glass, aluminum, plastic and cardboard items. In Wozniak Hall, parishioners can use the large blue containers in the kitchen the same way they use the trash containers. Just dump recycled items into the large recycling dumpster outside, at the end of their events. Help us help the environment!! Recycle with us!
For information or registration for the above programs, please contact Cedarbrake at the above websites or phone number.
Texas Catholic Pro-Life Day in Austin
Mark your calendars and join the Diocese of Austin for these Pro-Life activities: For more information contact the
Office of Life, Charity, & Justice Diocese of Austin
Día Pro-Vida de los Católicos de Texas en Austin
Marca tu calendario y acompaña a la Diócesis de Austin en éstas actividades
Pro-Vida : Para mayor información contacta la
Oficina de Vida, Caridad y Justicia de la Diócesis de Austin
January 28, 2017
Sidewalk Prayer Vigil, Rosary for Life, Diocesan Pro-life Mass, March for Life, Texas Rally for Life among others. Luisa de Poo Assoc. Director, Pro-Life Activities (512) 949-2487 luisa-dePoo@austindiocese.org
Enero 28, 2017
Vigilia de Oración en la acera, Rosario Pro-Vida, Misa Diocesana Pro-Vida, Marcha Por la Vida, Rally Pro-Vida de Texas, entre otros eventos. Luisa de Poo Dir. Asociada Actividades Pro-Vida (512) 949-2487 luisa-dePoo@austindiocese.org