The Spirit of
St. Louis @
December 2017 / January 2018
BASIC TEACHINGS OF THE CATHOLIC FAITH Weekly Theology Classes By Tom Carani I used to be a great reader. In high school, I’d devour book after book—assigned in class or not—simply because I loved to lose myself in a story. The drama of the novel drew me in and transported me to a different place. Of Mice and Men.The Jungle. 1984.The Harry Potter series. Native Son. To Kill A Mockingbird. I couldn’t get enough.
always evident. It guides us through doctrine, bringing us to the heart of our faith. We may think that it’s unnecessary since we already believe, but theology is the way we continue to learn who God is and what God wants for our lives. From January to May, St. Louis will begin hosting a weekly theology class called Basic Teachings of the Catholic Faith. The class will cover essential articles of the Catholic faith such as Scripture and Revelation, Liturgy and Sacraments, and morality and prayer. This curriculum comes from the Diocese of Austin’s catechist certification program. The course isn’t only for our catechists, but also for any person interested in deepening his or her knowledge of the faith. Fr. Doug and I will lead the English sessions beginning January 11 and Fr. Alberto and Betty Franceschi will lead the Spanish sessions beginning January 9. The cost for the class and materials is $35. Theology is difficult. It causes our finite minds and souls to work to know our infinite God. But it’s a satisfying pursuit, and it’s here for you at St. Louis in January.
"Theology is difficult. It causes our finite minds and souls to work to know our infinite God." When I began studying theology, reading took on a new purpose. Books were longer. Topics were denser. My mind struggled to keep up with the great minds of the Church. Reading became a way for me to approach God in prayer and in my intellect. Not only was I reading for pleasure, but I was being nourished with the Mind of God by way of Aquinas, Augustine, philosophers, and the Scriptures. Even though it wasn’t easy to study, theology helped to deepen my relationship with God. Theology is the study of the science of God. It helps us answer questions about God and our faith that aren’t
The King's Institute of Theology
The King's Institute of Theology
Enseñanzas Básicas de la Fe Católica Thursdays form 7 to 9 PM
St. Louis King of France Catholic Church & School "Uniting God’s people in the Sacraments, stewarding His generosity, and evangelizing the community." OFFICE HOURS
Martes 7 a 9 PM
The BasicStarting Teachings of the11th, Catholic Faith Program offers el a 9general to Comienza de Enerointroduction de 2018 on January 2018 the theological principles found in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. It includes: Register online: Register Online at: Introduction to Life theLong Sacred Scriptures; The Creed; Liturgy and Sacraments; Christian or in person at the Christian Formation Office or in person at the Lifelong Christian Formation Office Morality; Prayer and Spirituality. Each of the five segments requires 6 hours of instruction, distributed in 3 classes of 2 hours. The total duration of the course is 30 hours. This program serves as the first step in basic adult formation for all ministry groups that seek evangelization and catechetical certification. El curso de Enseñanzas Básicas de la Iglesia Católica, ofrece una introducción general a los principios teológicos del Catecismo. Incluye: Introducción a las Sagradas Escrituras; El Credo; La Liturgia y Los Sacramentos; Moralidad Cristiana; Oración y Espiritualidad. Cada uno de los cinco segmentos requiere 6 horas de instrucción, distribuidas en 3 clases de 2 horas de duración. La duración total del curso es de 30 horas. Este programa es el primer paso en la formación básica para adultos que buscan la certificación de catequesis y evangelización. Register/Inscripcion: www.st-louis.org/theology
Monday-Friday 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.
7601 Burnet Road Austin, TX 78757 512-454-0384 www.st-louis.org
f /stlouisaustin l @stlouisaustin i /stlouisaustin #STLOUISAUSTIN
Clerical Endowment Fund Clerical Endowment Fund (CEF) cards offer a year-long spiritual bouquet of Masses and daily prayers for the recipient as well as the person who buys the cards. Cards range in cost from $2 - $100, and some are available in Spanish. All the funds go toward the education of our seminarians; currently there are 37 men in some level of formation. Cards are available in the church office year-round. Many people use the $2 card in lieu of a purchased card for almost any occasion – sacramental milestones, weddings, condolences, get well, etc. At this time of year, the $2 Christmas card is a wonderful way to remember family, friends and clergy. The CEF is a diocesan-wide effort and raises over $125,000 each year.
The Spirit of St. Louis
Advent & Christma s schedule First Week of Advent Dec. 3: First Sunday of Advent 7:00 pm Solemn Vespers with Benediction (Chapel) Dec. 6: 12:00pm Advent Organ Series (Chapel) Dec. 8: Immaculate Conception Masses 6:30am, 8:00am, 12:00pm, 6:00pm, 8:00pm (Spanish) Dec. 9: 9:00am Deck the Bushes (covered sidewalk) Dec. 9-10-11: OLG Tridiuum of Prayer, 6:30pm (Main Nave) Second Week of Advent Dec. 10: Second Sunday of Advent 7:00pm Choral Vespers (Chapel) Dec. 12: Our Lady of Guadalupe Masses: 5:00am (Bilingual), 12:00pm (English), 6:00pm (Spanish) Dec. 13: 12:00pm Advent Organ Series (Chapel) Advent Penance Services 1:30pm and 7:00pm Dec. 14: No 5:00pm Confessions or 6:00pm Spanish Mass due to a Diocesan Clergy event. Dec. 15: 7:30pm Ensemble VIII concert (Chapel) Dec. 16-24: 6:30pm Posadas (Wozniak Hall) Third Week of Advent Dec. 17: Third Sunday of Advent 7:00pm Choral Vespers (Chapel) Dec. 18: 7:30pm O Antiphons Concert (Chapel) Dec. 20: 12:00pm Advent Organ Series (Chapel)
Dec. 21: 9:00am Deck the Halls (Church, Chapel, Narthex) Dec. 22: Church Offices close at Noon for the holiday Dec. 23: Vigils for 4th Sunday of Advent: 5pm and 7pm (Spanish) Fourth Week of Advent Dec. 24: Fourth Sunday of Advent Masses at 7:30am, 9:30am, and 11:30am (Spanish) only Dec. 24: Christmas Eve Masses: 4:00pm, 6:00pm, 8:00pm (Spanish), 12 Midnight with 11:15pm Lessons & Carols Monday – Christmas Day Dec. 25: Masses: 9:30am (English), 11:30am (Spanish) Dec. 27: Offices re-open for regular hours Sunday – Holy Family Dec. 30: 5:00pm Vigil Mass (English) Dec. 31: Regular Sunday Mass schedule for Holy Family No Vigil for the Holy Day of Mary 7:00pm Choral Vespers (Chapel) Monday – Holy Day of Mary (New Year’s Day) Jan. 1 Masses: 9:30am (English), 11:30am (Spanish)
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DECEMBER-JANUARY O ANTIPHONS December 18 at 7:30 pm is the return of the O Antiphons concert. Sung by the multi-talented St. Louis King’s Choir, and led by Director of Music Rick Gabrillo, the music will reflect the quiet and peacefulness of Advent. Music last year ranged from ancient Gregorian chant to a modern interpretation o f the Lord’s Prayer in Aramaic. Suggested donation is $15 for general admission and $10 for seniors and students. All proceeds go to help the Music Department.
MARK ANTHONY CRUZ January 27 at 7:30 pm brings the talented classical guitarist Mark Anthony Cruz to our chapel. Cruz earned his M. M. in guitar performance at Texas State University, San Marcos, where he has been professor of guitar for 18 years. As a composer, Cruz has been published by Shawnee Press, Soundboard Magazine, MelBay and Clear Note Publications while managing his own company, MAC Publications. A winner of many composition and guitar competitions, his music has been performed around the world by notable artists and numerous high school and university ensembles. As a performer, Cruz has been a featured artist in the Eastfield Guitar Festival in Dallas, Classical Minds Guitar Festival in Houston, the Brownsville Guitar Ensemble Festival and Competition, among others. Five of Cruz's CDs have been featured on the internationally syndicated radio program Classical Guitar Alive hosted by Tony Morris. Two of his all-original CD’s received positive reviews in the scholarly periodical, Soundboard. As a teacher, Cruz's students have won first and top prizes in the national Brownsville Guitar Ensemble Festival. He taught at the Narnia Music Festival in Narni, Italy. Many of his former students are active in the Texas education system.
The Spirit of St. Louis
Sharing Our Story THROUGH MUSIC
Rollie Sidla is a jack of many trades, as evidenced by his involvement at St. Louis Church, a theme he would begin very early in his life. As a young man, he thought he would join the Peace Corps, until fate intervened in a very strong way. Originally from Minnesota, he found his way to Texas after a series of disasters, including losing his job and wife, and ending up in the hospital for the removal of a colon tumor, the same hospital where his daughter also had been admitted for health problems. Some people might have given up, but not Rollie. Moving to Texas with a new job, he became an accountant, after deciding the life of a musician would be harder to make ends meet. Realizing that his spiritual needs were not being met, sometime in the late 1990’s, he decided to start attending church again. He began his search at San Jose Church in Austin, the same week that Fr. Bud Roland was being ordained as a priest. At that same service, he ran into Evelyn McNair, who warmly invited him to St. Louis because of the great music program. Rollie initially joined the 11:30 am choir as a singer and begin playing saxophone with the ensemble. Eventually he made his way to the 9:30 am choir, singing under Ed Gifford. He was beginning to feel at home. An invitation to join the Knights of Columbus followed, and now Rollie is the comptroller and on the retention committee for the group. You can see him many Sundays making breakfast for the parishioners with a smile on his face, or rehearsing in the chapel with the 9:30 am choir. In the Central Texas community, a visit to the Down Ranch piqued his interest in the pond society, and this eventually led to his part in rebuilding the koi pond at the former St. Louis Rectory. As a musician, he has been playing for many decades. Beginning piano in elementary school age, he added the clarinet in junior high, and saxophone in high school. As a professional performer, he played with the Vagabonds, and The Tornados, mostly in the upper Midwest area, and is even listed in the Minnesota Rock and Country Hall of Fame. As a Marine Corp Reserve, he supported our country, and has played for countless weddings, corporations, and service clubs like the NCO, Officers Club, and VFW. If you visit his house, you will see a piano, Hammond organ, and many other instruments he has used over the years. Back at St. Louis, he sings in the 9:30 am choir, plays in the Ambrose Ringers Handbell Choir, and regularly sings or plays in a wind ensemble at the 11:30 am Mass. His talents on the computer have helped arrange music for trumpet, sax, clarinet, flute, and bassoon. At 77 years young, Rollie is in his element! Blessings to him, and to God be the glory!
ROLLIE SIDLA
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ST. LOUIS CATHOLIC SCHOOL forming children in wisdom and holiness
INSTILLING VIRTUES THROUGH A FRESHWATER AQUARIUM By: Seminarian Will Rooney and Jessica Chaffee
During a meeting at the beginning of the school year, Father James Misko, pastor of St. Louis King of France Catholic Church and School, noticed an old 40 gallon hexagonal aquarium collecting dust in the corner of the school’s science lab. Recognizing an opportunity to share his interest in aquariums, Fr. James, an avid aquarist, has since collaborated with Jackie Padilla, the science teacher at St. Louis Catholic School, to teach the seventh grade class how to keep fish. Seminarian Will Rooney, who has a degree in Biological and Agricultural Engineering from Texas A&M University, joined Father James and the seventh graders in this endeavor. Under the pair’s direction, students cleaned the aquarium, set-up the tank and its biome, and learned to test the water quality. After setting up the tank, students were eager to add livestock, but had to wait the necessary time to optimize water quality for fish health. Because of the waiting necessary, beyond growing in scientific knowledge, this project created space for a parallel growth in virtue. “This year at St. Louis Catholic School we have infused all classes with the teaching of the virtues. So this project has really tapped into the learning of patience,” explained Father James. “Of course, they wanted to put fish in the tank immediately. But this project has taught them to wait so that the tank will actually be able to sustain the animals. It takes about two weeks for the initial water quality to cycle and level off at the correct chemical and physical properties to replicate a natural water environment.” Students will also learn prudence and responsibility as they make many decisions regarding the aquarium and its inhabitants’ care. The first fish were added - with much rejoicing - on October 30. During the rest of the coming year students will care for the fish by properly feeding them, maintaining the aquatic environment water quality, and determining what additional species to add to the tank. As they continue to build and maintain the aquatic biome for their fish, they will also continue to grow in virtue. Our Lord, a fisher of men, would approve.
The Spirit of St. Louis
Save the Date! All of our events are for the school, parish, and community! Look for updates in the bulletin, our school website www.slcsaustin.org, or the school office (512)614-6622. Sunday, January 28 St. Louis Catholic School Open House. We invite you all to tour your parish school after Mass as we celebrate Catholic Schools Week. Thursday, February 1 Prospective Family Information Morning and Bring a Friend to School Day. Wednesday, March 7 Future Cougar Round Up for all incoming PreK and K students. Saturday, February 10 Green and White Night Dinner and Auction is our Home and School Association’s largest fundraiser of the year, where the school and parish communities come together to support the students, faculty, and staff of St. Louis Catholic School. Saturday, April 21 Cougar Chase 5K and Kids K Fun Run. A community building event on our beautiful St. Louis campus. Everyone is welcome!
Now Enrolling 2018-2019
www.slcsaustin.org | (512) 614-6622
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St. Louis Home & School Association invites you to the 2018 Dinner and Auction
1920’s NIGHT at the GREEN & WHITE
February 10, 2018 Take a step back in time to the Roaring ‘20s DoubleTree Hotel
6505 IH-35 North, Austin 78752 6:00 pm: Pacesetter Preview* 6:30 pm: Doors Open 7:30 pm: Dinner and Live Auction 9:00 pm: Casino Opens
The evening will feature a sit-down dinner, music, live and silent auction and casino. Sponsorships and tables are available. For more information, call (512)614-6622 or www.slcsaustin.org Roaring ‘20s attire optional
The Spirit of St. Louis
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SOLIDARITY IN A SHARED JOURNEY BY: SEMINARIAN WILL ROONEY Forty-eight hours without water; days without food. This is the plight of a refugee whom I met in a shelter in Houston, TX. I can’t remember precisely what profession he practiced, but he was an educated man – perhaps a doctor. Driven by a combination of economic necessity and fear, he traveled thousands of miles to reach Houston, TX where he hoped to make a life. As I went back to the comfort of the seminary after meeting him, I was struck by how much I took for granted in my life. I shared a small part of this man’s journey, when I met him and hundreds more like him in the fall of 2015 at Casa Juan Diego in Houston,TX.Through its numerous ministries Casa Juan Diego has served the immigrants, refugees, and the poor of Houston since 1980. During our initial meeting, Louise Zwick, the co-founder of Casa Juan Diego, asked me and another seminarian to give weekly basic English classes to the recently arrived immigrants who stayed at the shelter. We were not sure exactly how to teach English but, we figured that we could at least offer something. That fall, the shelter had seen a steady increase in the number of men who needed shelter. The men came mostly from Latin and Central America. When I walked into the shelter for the first time, I saw the effects of this increase of the immigrant population first-hand. The shelter, for which all were grateful, consisted of 3-4 dormitory rooms with beds in them, and a large room that served as a common space, classroom, chapel, and extra sleeping space. The men told me that they were just happy to have a place to stay for the night and a good meal. To put it mildly, James and I were trying to do something way beyond our limited capacity as teachers - to help these men learn enough English to survive and work in the United States in 1.5 hours a week. This was compounded by the fact that the class makeup was never consistent – so we felt like we had to start over each time. Nevertheless, we tried to teach them very basic things: how to spell out their name in letters that English speakers would understand over the phone, how to understand basic directions, and how to ask about some job related terms.1 In our limited time, we might have helped a few of them, but honestly the teaching impact was likely minimal. Despite our lackluster pedagogy, or perhaps because of it, the most important part of our ministry soon became listening and being with the men for a few short hours a week. The men’s stories left a lasting impact on me. In encountering the immigrant population face to face, and listening to their stories of hardship, I developed a growing awareness of the plight of the immigrant and the need to work for justice and charity for these men and women. I think I got a taste of what it was like for Christ to see the multitude and have “compassion for them.”2 Unlike Christ, however, I could not fix all the problems that these men faced. They were too big for me. But I also realized that I could do something. I could offer them those brief lessons each week and an ear to listen. I could advocate for my brothers and sisters in my small sphere of influence. I could take into account these brothers as I made other decisions. To be clear, I do not advocate here for a particular brand of “immigration reform.” Neither walls nor amnesty alone will fix the problem upon which the #sharethejourney campaign seeks to shine a light. Rather, increased solidarity with the brothers and sisters in our community who are often overlooked is the goal. Solidarity means a firm disposition to stand with our brothers and sisters in seeking the good for each other and society as a whole. Christ calls us to love our neighbor. Solidarity is a virtue which helps us to love our neighbor by remembering the impact we have on our neighbors as we make decisions. To be in solidarity with others means that we must first look at the people around us. Seeing is not good enough. To look implies intentionality; to see does not. Just as Christ looked for the lost sheep to seek its good, we must look for those who are suffering so that we can seek their good. This will require sacrifice. After we have looked in a way which truly acknowledges the other as one deserving of our love, we must listen. We need to listen to the story of the individual. We need to listen for their needs. We need to be willing to allow ourselves to empathize with the other. This will require sacrifice. Finally, to be in solidarity means to work to fulfill the legitimate needs that we have heard inasmuch as we are able. This process is, by nature, personal. Programs can help (or they can hurt) but they are never sufficient because programs don’t love people. This will require sacrifice. Every human person is made in the image and likeness of God. Every human person is called to communion with God. If we are the Body of Christ, we have to be willing to be in communion with people who differ greatly from us. All people of good-will are all on a journey towards the Lord, from different and diverse places. As we travel towards the Lord, we should also find ourselves becoming closer and closer towards our neighbor as if we were traveling from the outside of a circle to its center on a straight path. This learning to encounter the other as a fellow traveler is the essence of what it means to share the journey.
1 2
The vowels in English and Spanish are the same but they have different names for the letters, for example “i” is pronounced like “ee” in “bee” and “E” sounds like “ay” in “way.” The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version, Catholic Edition (Washington, DC: National Council of Churches of Christ, 1993), Mt 9:36.
WOMEN’S CLUB GOINGS AND COMINGS
The October daytime social was a trip to view the art at St. John Neumann Church in South Austin. Even those who had been there before found the docentled tour a fascinating two hour explanation of the process for creating the mosaic dome over the altar. The victorious Lamb is in the center; surrounded by the four-prefigurations of the Eucharist and the evangelists; the twelve tribes and apostles; the Our Father; and the marks of the church. To create the scene there are 30 million hand cut glass mosaics in 1500 colors; it is also 25 percent gold. New to many of the ladies was a chance to see the interior of the chapel. Each of the stained glass windows depicts one of the seven sacraments in a very intimate setting with Christ. Above each scene is the citation of a scripture verse for the scene, a symbol of the sacrament. See more of what we saw at http:// sjnaustin.org/about-us/ chapel. The November 22 evening meeting featured a home-made cookie exchange. Karen Dunlap explained the origins of some of the most iconic Christmas traditions – wreaths, cards, carols. Others shared customs from European countries.
The Saturday before Thanksgiving the Club hosted the traditional Turkey Bingo night, a fund-raiser for the organization. Donated turkeys, wine and food items were the game prizes. The food concession was staffed by CRSP and proceeds benefited that Hispanic ministry. Next up is the January 17, 2018 Souper Supper. All ladies of the parish are welcome to this traditional January event. 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. Returning ladies, you know what’s in store. Join us at 7PM in Wozniak Hall. For the program, nurse practitioner Elaine Eike will share stories about life in the neonatal nursery. Twenty years of experience allow her to share some of the amazing advancements in medical care for premature babies. Watch the bulletin for information on February’s social.
The Spirit of St. Louis
SENIOR MINISTRY St. Louis Seniors went on a trip to tour two famous, recently restored churches in the Czech Communities in central Texas, Corn Hill and Granger, Texas. They visited Holy Trinity Catholic Church at Corn Hill where Pastor Stephen Nesrsta gave a beautiful history of the church. Afterwards Father James Misko celebrated the Mass. During the Mass, beautiful songs were sung in Czech reflecting the Czech heritage by the Austin Czech singers, joined by three of the Holy Trinity Czech choir. A delicious noon meal was catered to the parish hall by Crossroads Cafe of Schwertner. Those wishing took a self guided tour of the cemetery after the meal. As we traveled through the countryside we viewed the beautiful leveled farm lands to our next stop---Sst. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in Granger. We were met by a long time parishioner who gave us a history of the 125 year old parish celebrated earlier this year. We traveled to our last stop, Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist in Georgetown to see the convent and prayer garden. Sr. Maria Jose and Sr. Maria Rosario gave a wonderful presentation with photos of the future plans. They have stepped out in faith by establishing and moving forward to build the first phase of a Religious House in Texas, which will house, form and educate up to 112 sisters ready to live the Dominican vocation of preaching and teaching the Gospel across our nation. The trip ended with many wonderful memories to talk about in the days to come. Next question asked, "When is our next trip?"
Submitted: by Alice Kubacak
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Behind the Scenes PARISH MINISTRIES IN ACTION
Each worship experience in a Catholic Mass is full of sensory stimuli. From the smell of the incense, to the visual beauty that surrounds the altar in the floral arrangements, the flickering candles, the matching vestments, the soft glow of polished brass. If you were serving at the altar, you might notice the pressed white linens that are used by clergy and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, or the taste and smell of the wine newly poured into chalices. Up closer, you would hear the snap of the fresh host that Father breaks and elevates during the Consecration. If you’re the priest you feel the water poured on your hands during the Eucharistic prayers, dried with a fresh white towel offered by the Altar Servers. All of these items are common to every Catholic Mass, but behind the scenes, faithful volunteers are working weekly to ensure everything is in place and ready for the daily, weekend and holy day schedules. Are you a “behind the scenes” person? Then St. Louis has ministries just for you!
Altar Guild Our parish altar guild is composed of faithful women (men are welcome) who meet weekly on Friday or Saturday to prepare the Church for weekend Masses. Some are dusting pews and straightening hymnals, dusting window sills, confessionals, ambos and statues while others are replacing oil in the candle holders, changing out candles in the votive candle stands or washing the wine cups, flagons, ciboria and Lavabo for use at Masses. Others may be sweeping or changing out the holy water at entrances. Still others are replacing the altar cloths and white linens on the altar or cleaning the glass doors in the vestibule, while checking out the cry room, which also doubles as a bride’s room. These are just some of the tasks that are done weekly behind the scenes by teams who give two hours a week on a rotating basis. For more information, contact Elizabeth Polito at Elizabeth.polito@st-louis.org or (512) 454-0384 x 213.
Brass Polishing Brass polishers volunteer on their own schedule, polishing the candles, processional torches, bookstand, thurible, incense boat, and Eagle Lecterns. This small but dedicated group works quietly on their own or in teams, especially around high holy days when everything must shine. Ex-military men and women are especially good at brass polishing and their “shining” service keeps our brass sparkling for any liturgy! For information and training, contact Norma Sigler at nsigler4710@att.net or (512) 339-7643.
Flower Guild Members of this ministry work in teams to prepare the incredible floral arrangements that grace our altar area. They, too, work their own schedules, usually on Thursdays or Fridays, rotating with other pre-scheduled teams. They pick up the flowers from floral supply warehouses used by the church, and create their arrangements in the Flower Guild Room. Flower Guild takes a break from floral arranging during Advent and Lent, using stark branches in pots to reflect these liturgical seasons
The Spirit of St. Louis
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SANCTUARY CANDLE MEMORIALS
of repentance and reconciliation. Training in floral arranging is preferred but not a requirement. Newcomers are paired with experienced volunteers to learn the art of floral arranging for St. Louis. For more information or to volunteer contact Marilyn Hamilton at djh5502000@yahoo.com or (512) 342-8416.
Sisterhood of the Holy Cloth Want to become a laundress for the Lord? Members of this ministry work in teams of two or three, volunteering about once every 5-6 weeks. Team members pick up the linens on Monday or Thursday morning, then wash and press them in the comfort of their own home (no meetings required)! Detailed instructions are given on cleaning and folding sacred linens, which should be returned to the Church before the next weekend. Contact Judy Bonham at rrbonham@austin.rr.com or (512) 836-4639 to volunteer. This behind-the-scenes ministry is truly important because clean linens are used at every Mass throughout the week.
These “behind-the-scenes” ministries are essential to the liturgical events we celebrate at St. Louis, whether it be the daily, holy day or weekend Masses. When attending Mass, just be aware that the lighted candles were filled by a volunteer, the vessels holding our bread and wine were washed by volunteers, the brass accessories were polished by volunteers, the beautiful flowers were created by volunteers and the linens used at Mass were lovingly laundered by volunteer hands. YOU can be a part of one of these “behind-the-scenes” ministries, too! You’ll be serving the Lord and your parish, too, with your gift of time!
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 19 – 25 Memory of Mark Garza by Dora & Alex Garza (M/N) Memory of Augusto Angel by Gloria Angel (C) November 26 – December 2 Memory of Robert Perez Jr. by his family (M/N) December 3 – 9 Memory of Talmadge Foster (M/N) December 10 -16 Memory of Raymundo Meza by M/M James Brittnacher (M/N) Given by the Guadalupana Society (C) December 17 – 23 Memory of Mark Garza by Dora and Alex Garza (M/N) To Honor Poly Gonzalez by Juan Gonzalez (C) December 24 – 30 Memory of Bertin Aviles by Eudocio & Cornelia Aviles (M/N) January 7-13 Memory of Fred McNair by Evelyn McNair (M/N & C)
Around the Diocese and beyond Upcoming Diocesan Collections
Religious Vocations in the Diocese of Austin
Retired Clergy and Religious Collection will be held December 2-3 in our parish. This appeal is for the national Retirement Fund for Religious and the diocesan Clergy Medical Fund. Your generosity will benefit those Catholic sisters, brothers and priests who face financial crisis due to limited savings and rising costs of health care. Please place your special envelope for this purpose in the regular collection.
Heart of Jesus will be held Dec.15-17 at Cedarbrake Catholic Retreat Center in Belton. This is a weekend retreat for Catholic men (ages 1745) with an openness to a priestly vocation and at varying stages of discernment. The weekend will include talks by priests and seminarians, prayer, silence and meals.
Holy Family Collection will be held on December 30-31 and benefits various family services within the Diocese of Austin including maternity homes, foster care programs and adoption services that help expectant mothers and children in need. These important programs provide much needed assistance and promote our Catholic values of respect for all human life. Your support is appreciated. Please place your special envelope for this purpose in the regular collection that weekend.
Permanent Diaconate Discernment English and Spanish speaking men wishing to explore the permanent diaconate are invited to Project Stephen, a monthly gathering for men and their wives to pray, listen, and discern in community. Project Stephen meets year-round, on the third Thursday of each month from 7:00-9:00pm at the diocesan Pastoral Center in Austin. Men must first discuss their interest in the diaconate with their pastors and receive his consent to attend. When a new formation class begins (every three years), men will be invited to apply. For more information, email formation directors@austindiocese.org
DISCERNMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR MEN, WOMEN
Project Andrew will be held Feb. 17, 2018, at St. Mary Cathedral in Austin. This is a day for Catholic men, ages 16 to 45, interested in learning more about the priesthood, discernment and seminary life. There will be time for prayer, testimonies by priests and seminarians, Mass and lunch. Project Miriam will be held Feb. 24, 2018, at St. Mary Cathedral in Austin. Single, Catholic women between the ages of 16 to 45 are invited to learn more about Mary’s joyful “yes” to God and how that is lived out in religious life. The day will include prayer, testimonials by religious sisters, Mass and lunch. Heart of Mary will be held April 6-8, 2018, at Cedarbrake Catholic Retreat Center in Belton. This is a weekend retreat for Catholic women ages 18 to 45 with an openness to the vocation of consecrate religious life. Quo Vadis will be held July 27-29, 2018, at Eagle’s Wings Retreat Center in Burnet. This is a retreat designed to help young men in high school (incoming freshmen to incoming seniors) grow spiritually and allow them to think and pray about what God might be asking them to become. Visit www.godiscalling.me for more information about the priesthood, consecrated life and tools for prayer and discernment or contact the diocesan Vocations Office at (512) 949-2430.
Marriage Encounter Weekend Married couples are invited to strengthen, renew and rekindle their marriage sacrament by attending an upcoming Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend in 2018. For more information on 2018 dates, visit www.austinme.org or email wwwmeaustin@gmail.com or call (512) 6679963.
Retrouvaille REDISCOVER YOUR MARRIAGE Retrouvaille (pronounced retro-vi with a long i) simply means “rediscovery”. The program offers couples the chance to rediscover themselves, their spouse, and a loving relationship in their marriage. Many couples headed for divorce have successfully saved their marriages by attending this retreat. Retrouvaille is not a spiritual retreat, not a sensitivity group, not a seminar, not a social gathering. For confidential information about the next program visit the website at www.helpourmarriage.com or call 800470-2230.
The Spirit of St. Louis
December 10, 2017 Consecration of the
Diocese of Austin to the
Immaculate Heart of Mary
PHOTO BY ARLEN NYDAM -NYDAMPHOTO.COM
A special announcement from Bishop Joe Vรกsquez: Over the years, I have been personally inspired by the love that the people of our diocese have for the Blessed Virgin Mary, and how this love is expressed in beautiful devotions across various cultures. Therefore, in this Fatima centennial year and in the 70th year since the founding of our diocese, I have decided to consecrate the local church of the Diocese of Austin to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. On December 10, 2017, I invite the people in all of our parishes to join me in a solemn prayer to the Mother of God, asking for her maternal help and protection. In doing so we are not only entrusting ourselves to her loving heart, but we are asking her to bring us ever closer to her Son, Jesus. I thank you for your continued prayers for me, our Auxiliary Bishop Daniel Garcia, and for the Diocese of Austin. May God bless you.
* The diocesan prayer of consecration will be prayed during all Sunday and vigil Masses Dec. 9-10 in the parishes of the diocese. The prayer may also be prayed by individuals and families wherever they are, in solidarity with Bishop Vรกsquez.
For a copy of the consecration prayer, more information, and additional resources, visit www.austindiocese.org/ihmconsecration
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High School students Grades 9-12 The cost of the event is $120 and includes meals, transportation, lodging, conference fee and the conference t-shirt. A $40 dollar non-refundable deposit is due by Dec. 8 and can be paid in the Religious Education Office or online. For more information contact alissa.molina@st-louis.org or 512-454-0384 ext. 219
The Spirit of St. Louis
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 27, 2018
Sidewalk Prayer Vigil, Rosary for Life, Diocesan Pro-life Masses, March for Life, Texas Rally for Life among others. Luisa de Poo Associate Director Pro-Life Activities (512) 949-2487 luisa-dePoo@austindiocese.org
Enero 27, 2018
Vigilia de Oración en la acera, Rosario ProVida, Misas Diocesanas 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
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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
SEPTEMBER 6 – NOVEMBER 5, 2017 Adan Miguel Guzman Mondragon
Ignacio Palacio-Lopez, Jr.
Yetzali Sumaya Perez Rivera
Noah Michael Howell
Chelsey Ariana Ramirez Gonzalez
Matthew Stephen Heyl
Keila Giselle Velazco-Corona
Henry William Kline
Thomas Ethridge Stuart
Olive Katherine Garibay
Hazel Stellalynn Betanski
Aileen Betancourt Hernandez
Nathaniel Robert Cisneros
Melanie Esperanza Corona
Matthew Franklin Moore
Kevin Everardo Resendiz-Espinola
Shantel Daisy Njideka Nwaka
Adelyne Sanchez Martinez
Samantha Lynn Doss
Asher Augustine Faltin
Matthew Gutierrez Figueroa
Cora Madelyn Rhodes
Ethan Gael Mondragon Duran
Addilyn Rose Vasquez
Emiliano Morales-Zarate
FIRST EUCHARIST SEPTEMBER 23, 2017
Rafael Emilio Flores Ferrera OCTOBER 7, 2017 Joaquin Bello Leyva Leticia Salazar Morales
MARRIAGES & CONVALIDATIONS SEPTEMBER 6 – NOVEMBER 5, 2017
Ramon Jimenez Mendoza and Miriam Ivette Aguilar Lopez Rafael Emilio Flores Ferrera and Jacqueline Alejandra Cruz Gonzalez Santiago Rudy Lopez-Lopez and Silvia Leticia Vasquez Lopez Joaquin Bello Leyva and Leticia Salazar Morales Alex Joseph Ortiz and Ariana Judith Buenrostro-Garcia Ronald Alan Bueche and Monica Renee Chavarria Luis Ernesto Rodriguez Martinez and Nicolaza Suarez Chaparro Hiram Jean-Claude Moughanni and Jennifer Renae Freudenberg
RECENTLY DECEASED Lawrence Dean Butler II
Lupe G. Pina
Marilyn Kettler
James Gerald Bauer
Raymond Sanchez
Ronald Coy
Israel Garcia
Ismael Ponce
Conrado Gonzales
Ellen Raghavan
The Spirit of St. Louis
St. Louis Women’s ACTS Retreat Registration
February 22-25, 2018
“This is my beloved son, listen to Him.” Matthew 17:5 Please print clearly Name:
(As you would like it on your nametag)
Address:
(Street, city, state & zip code)
Home Phone:
Work Phone:
Cell Phone:
Email address: Parish or Church you attend:
(or religion if not affiliated with a parish or church)
Name two family members or close friends you would like praying for you during this retreat. Name:
Relationship:
Cell: (
)
E-mail:
Name:
Relationship:
Cell: (
)
E-mail:
I have included my: ___ $50 deposit or ___ $175 retreat fee. Make checks payable to St. Louis ACTS Indemnity and Waiver
I release and agree to and hold St. Louis Catholic Church of Austin, Texas, the Catholic Diocese of Austin, and their clergy, officers, agents, employees, and volunteers (Released Parties) harmless from any and all liability, claims, losses, or damages arising from or in connection with the St. Louis ACTS retreat. I assume all risk of injury or loss to my person and my property. I agree to indemnify the Released Parties from any liability, claim, demand, or damage caused by me or caused by my participation in the retreat. Signature: ____________________________________ Date: ______ /______ /______
Medical Information
Please read and list all conditions which apply. All information will be kept confidential.
Please list any special dietary needs or restrictions: Do you have difficulty climbing stairs, walking on unpaved or uneven surfaces, other mobility problems (e.g. use cane, walker, wheelchair)? [ ] No [ ] Yes (please list) (Mobility challenges should NOT deter you from attending.) Please list any medical conditions: I take the following medications:
I will bring to the retreat all necessary medications and directions, including dosage(s) and frequency of consumption. In case of emergency persons at or associated with the retreat may transport me to a hospital for medical or surgical treatment. In an emergency, please contact: ****MUST LIST AT LEAST ONE EMERGENCY CONTACT**** Name: Cell Phone: (
Family Doctor: Insurance Plan: Policy Number: Signature: Date:
Relationship: ___________________________________ Home Phone: ( )_____________________________
)
For Office Use Only
/
/
Application Received: Amount Received: Cash Paid Online Received by:
/ $ Check #
/
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St. Louis Women’s ACTS Retreat Registration February 22-25, 2018 Down Home Ranch 20250 FM 619, Elgin, Texas
ACTS is a Catholic retreat movement presented by parishioners for parishioners with the guidance of religious leaders. The goal of each retreat is to facilitate a deepening of our relationship with Jesus Christ, to renew ourselves spiritually, to give new meaning to our prayer life, and to build lasting friendships with members of our parish communities. The ACTS retreat will begin on Thursday evening, February 22 and continue through the weekend ending with an 11:30 Mass on Sunday, February 25 at St. Louis Catholic Church at 7601 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78757. The retreat cost is $175, payable to “St. Louis ACTS”. Registration is open for St. Louis, St. Theresa and St. Albert the Great. Out of parish registrations will begin Monday, January 16 for any remaining openings. To reserve your place, please return this registration form and include a $50 deposit payment. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis, with a waiting list thereafter. Forms are date and time stamped upon receipt. The $125 balance will be due upon check-in Thursday evening at St. Louis Catholic Church or any time prior to that date. **Please note that financial hardship should not prevent anyone from attending the retreat. If you are unable to pay the entire fee, contact the director or co-director as a limited number of partial scholarships are available.
Deliver or mail registration form to: St. Louis Catholic Church Office 7601 Burnet Road Austin, TX 78757
Register online at:
www.st-louis.org/acts http://www.st-louis.org/groups
It is the policy of ACTS Missions and St. Louis Catholic Church that alcohol will not be a part of the retreat. The retreat center does not permit alcohol. Smoking is allowed only in designated areas. Platonic behavior only. For further information regarding the retreat weekend, please contact the director Yvonne Ojeda at yojeda0809@gmail.com or 512-740-3799, co-director Andrea Coles at andreakcoles@gmail.com or 512-623-9057, or co-director Margaret Bruns at jbruns@austin.rr.com or 512-426-9149. A letter will be sent to registered retreatants 7-10 days prior to the retreat providing you with further details, directions, and suggestions on what to bring for the weekend.
Please fill out and return registration form on reverse side.