The Spirit of
St. Louis @
december 2013 - january 2014
New Year —
NEW EVANGELIZATION Resolutions for 2014
“Evangelization charges us, as Christians, to preach and witness to our faith in whatever circumstance we find ourselves and through whatever vocation the Lord has given us.” Fr. James A. Wehner, STD (Rector/President of the Pontifical College Josephinum)
Beginning a New Year As 2014 unfolds before us, we all face a “clean slate”, often making resolutions and lofty goals for our future that are impossible to keep. These goals while centered on improving our own perceived flaws, also reflect our desire to be better people with those around us, whether with family, friends or in the workplace. So what do our New Year’s resolutions have to do with this term “New Evangelization” that we’ve been hearing about in Church documents and media? New Year and New Evangelization Like our two-dimensional resolutions, the New Evangelization has two perspectives: (1) our own personal discernment and contribution and (2) as an ecclesial act of the Church. We can profess our belief in the one, holy, Catholic and apostolic Church, but it’s in living out our faith in our everyday lives that we truly witness to the Church and evangelize others in turn. The goal of the New Evangelization is to bridge faith and culture. Faith is personal, but it is lived out communally within the culture and society that surrounds us.
Seven Thoughts About the New Evangelization and the New Year Peter Murphy, D.Min. Executive Director of the Secretariat of Evangelization and Catechesis of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), offers seven things we should know about the New Evangelization. These seven points are food for reflection and would make good personal New Year’s resolutions, too. 1. The New Evangelization is a call to share Christ and bring the Gospel, with renewed energy and through ever-changing methods, to new and different audiences. Resolve to witness Christian values more frequently in your everyday encounters with family, friends, and perfect strangers. 2. The New Evangelization begins with personal conversion. We are called to deepen our own faith in order to better share it with others. Resolve to deepen your faith with daily prayer and Mass attendance, Bible studies or participation in religious education opportunities. 3. The New Evangelization is for believers and non-believers alike. All people, whether someone at Mass every Sunday, an inactive Catholic or someone for whom religion is not part of life are invited to discover faith anew. Resolve to invite inactives or non-believers to join you at a Church social, a special class or offer them inspirational reading to help them through a crisis, letting them know you care. 4. New Evangelization is about a personal encounter with Jesus Christ. Before a person can share Christ with others, they must first experience Christ in their own life. The most authentic and Continued on page 3 >>
A newsletter of st. louis catholic church • 7601 burnet road, austin, tx • www.st-louis.org
Advent and Christmas Schedule ADVENT & CHRISTMAS SCHEDULE FIRST WEEK OF ADVENT Dec. 1
First Sunday of Advent Prayer Blanket Sale in the narthex 9:00pm Sung Office of Compline
Dec. 3
12:05pm Advent Concert in Church
Dec. 4
7:00pm Spanish Advent Penance Service
Dec. 6
7:30pm Drive a Senior Benefit Concert
Dec. 7
8:00am Breakfast with Santa – Wozniak Hall
SECOND WEEK OF ADVENT Dec. 8 Second Sunday of Advent 9:00pm Sung Office of Compline & Sacrament of Healing in Chapel Dec. 9 7:00am Mass for Immaculate Conception (not a holy day of obligation) Dec. 9-10-11 6:00pm Spanish Masses with Our Lady of Guadalupe novena (chapel) Dec. 10 12:05pm Advent Concert in Church
FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT & CHRISTMAS Dec. 22
Fourth Sunday of Advent
9:00pm
Sung Office of Compline
1:30pm School Penance Service
Dec. 11
7:00pm English Advent Penance Service
Dec. 24
CHRISTMAS EVE Masses: 4:00pm, 6:00pm, 8:00pm (Spanish), 12 Midnight
Dec. 12
Our Lady of Guadalupe Masses: 5am (Spanish), 7am and 8am (English), 6pm (Spanish)
Dec. 25
CHRISTMAS DAY Masses: 9:30am (English), 11:30am (Spanish).
Dec. 26-28
No daily Masses scheduled until 5pm Dec. 28
Dec. 29
Holy Family Sunday
THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT Dec. 15
Third Sunday of Advent
Deadline for Giving Tree gifts to be returned 9:00pm Sung Office of Compline Dec. 16
7:00pm Holy Hour for Life
Dec. 17 Dec. 19
12:05pm Advent Concert in Church 6:30pm MFC Holy Hour in Chapel
NEW YEAR’S SCHEDULE AND EPIPHANY Dec. 31
6:00pm Vigil Mass (English)
Jan. 1, 2014 New Year’s Day – Mary, Mother of God Masses: 9:30am (English), 11:30am (Spanish)
Parish Reconciliation Services Reconciling ourselves to God helps us to prepare our hearts for his arrival at Christmas. Allow your heart to be unburdened and make room for Jesus! Parish Reconciliation services will be offered this year at the following times, all with multiple confessors (bilingual included): Wednesday, December 4
7:00pm
Spanish
Wednesday, December 11
7:00pm
English
Remember regular confession schedules apply each Saturday through December 21, 9:00-10:30am and 6:007:00pm. There will be no morning confessions on Saturday, December 28.
The Spirit of St. Louis
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St. Louis Parish New Evangelization and the New Year continued from cover
Giving Trees This year, beginning with the First Sunday of Advent (December 1), evergreen trees will be in the sanctuary or narthex covered with tags, describing gifts that can be purchased for those in need. Parish families are invited to select tags through December 14th and purchase the requested items. All items should be returned (unwrapped) with their tags attached no later than December 15th for disbursement before Christmas. Ministries that will benefit from your generosity this year include Gabriel Project and St. Louis Mobile Loaves and Fishes.
Breakfast with Santa SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7
Bring your family for a great Breakfast with Santa from 8:00am-11:00am on Saturday, December 7th, in Wozniak Hall. Lots of food, games, fun and, of course, visits with Santa!!
Feast of Immaculate Conception Immaculate Conception, usually celebrated on December 8th, falls on a Sunday this year and consequently will not be observed in deference to the Second Sunday of Advent, which takes preference. The observance of Immaculate Conception has been transferred to Monday, December 9th and is not a holy day of obligation. The only Masses that day will be the regularly scheduled 7:00am Mass in English and a 6:00pm Spanish Mass, both held in the Chapel.
Landmark Anniversaries 2013 Certificates signed by Bishop Joe Vasquez will again be available to couples who have celebrated a landmark anniversary in 2013 . . . 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 years or more! The certificates will be available for pick-up in the Church Office (or can be mailed) after December 29th—Holy Family. Names and anniversaries will be published in the bulletin on Holy Family if they are submitted no later than December 15th to Evelyn McNair at evelyn.mcnair@stlouis.org or 512-454-0384 x 209. Leave your first and last names, your phone number and the landmark anniversary you have celebrated this year.
effective efforts are the ones closest to Christ. Resolve to count your blessings daily because Jesus is in each and every one of those encounters. 1. New Evangelization is not an isolated moment but an ongoing practice. Personal conversion and encounters with Christ are ongoing experiences that last a lifetime. Catholics are blessed to encounter their Lord in the Sacraments and to reflect the love of Christ to others. Resolve to share God’s love by caring for the poor and welcoming those who feel distant from God. 2. The New Evangelization is meant to counter secular culture by urging Catholics to enthusiastically share Christ in word and witness to others. Resolve to study Scripture more and read about the lives of the saints, learning from their example. 3. The New Evangelization is a priority for the Church. Blessed Pope John Paul II made it a major priority of his 26-year pontificate. Pope Benedict launched the Pontifical Council for Promoting New Evangelization in 2010 and made it the theme of the 2012 Synod of Bishops. The U.S. bishops issued a document on “Disciples Called to Witness: The New Evangelization”. The New Evangelization urges all Catholics to embrace the grace of their baptismal call and share the Good News. Resolve to make your faith a priority in 2014, and in doing so, use it to reach out to those around you, being part of the New Evangelization in this New Year!
La Fiesta en Honor a Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe ¡TODOS ESTAN INVITADOS A CELEBRAR LA FIESTA EN HONOR A NUESTRA SEÑORA DE GUADALUPE!
NOVENA DE POSADAS
NOVENA DE POSADAS PREPARACION A NAVIDAD
PREPARACION A NAVIDAD
¡Marquen su calendario! Son invitados a participar en los eventos en honor a nuestra Bendita Madre, Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, a partir del día 9 hasta el 12, de diciembre, 2013. EVERYONE IS INVITED TO CELEBRATE THE FEAST OF OUR BLESSED MOTHER, OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE!
Mark your calendars to attend the events Honoring our Blessed Mother, Our Lady of Guadalupe, starting December 9th through the 12th, 2013. DICIEMBRE 9-11, 2013
Triduo a Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe A 3-Day Prayer Service in Spanish Honrando a Nuestra Santísima Madre con un triduo, tendremos el rezo del Santo Rosario; la Santa Misa y oraciones del día empezando a las 5:30p.m. en la Capilla. To Honor our Blessed Mother with the recitation of the Holy Rosary; Mass and Triduo’s daily prayers starting at 5:30p.m. in the Chapel. DÍA 12 DE DICIEMBRE, 2013
Fiesta de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe Horario por la mañana / Morning Schedule (Spanish):
Las Mañanitas con Mariachi Traditional Hymns with Mariachi 4:00a.m.
4:30a.m. El Santo Rosario The Holy Rosary 5:00a.m. La Santa Misa / The Holy Mass Convivencia después de la Santa Misa en el Salón Wozniak. Fellowship after Mass at Wozniak Hall. 7:00a.m. Mass (English) 8:00a.m. School Mass (English) Horario por la tarde / Evening Schedule (Spanish): 5:30p.m. El Santo Rosario The Holy Rosary 6:00p.m. La Santa Misa / The Holy Mass Convivencia después de la Santa Misa en el Salón Wozniak. Fellowship after Mass at Wozniak Hall. Para más información, llamen a la Oficina del Ministerio Hispano, 512/454-0384 ext. 216.
1 DIA -16/DIC (LUN) 7:00 pm.-8:30 pm. (Wozniak Hall) •
LITURGICOS – Tema: La Virtud De Prudencia
2 DIA -17/DIC (MAR) 7:00 pm.-8:30 pm. (Wozniak Hall) •
GRUPO DE ORACION – Tema: La Virtud De Esperanza
3 DIA- 18/DIC (MIER) 7:00 pm.-8:30 pm. (Wozniak Hall) •
MINSTERIO DE NINEZ – Tema: El Don De Sabiduria
4 DIA -19/DIC (JUEV) 7:00 pm.-8:30 pm. (Sotano) •
VIA CRUCIS – Tema: El Don De Inteligencia
5 DIA 20/DIC (VIER) 7:00 pm.-8:30 pm. (Wozniak Hall) •
Movimiento Familiar Cristiano - Tema: El Don De Fortaleza
6 DIA 21/DIC (SAB) 7:00 pm.-8:30 pm (Wozniak Hall) •
CRSP: HOMBRES – Tema: El Don Temor
7 DIA 22/DIC (DOM) 7:00 pm.-8:30 pm. (Wozniak Hall) •
Rosario y Guadalupanas - Tema: El Don De Piedad
8 DIA 23/DIC (LUN) 7:00 pm.-8:30 pm. (Wozniak Hall)
•
CRSP: MUJERES – Tema: El Don De Ciencia
9 DIA 24/DIC (MAR) 7:00 pm.-7:30 pm. (Capilla) Comunidad: Solo Novena – Tema: El Don De Consejo
Music MiNistry THE SOUND OF MUSIC AT ST. LOUIS CHURCH
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ANNUAL NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERT BENEFITS
Advent Noon Concert Series All concerts at 12:05 noon with free admission; optional hot lunch afterward ($7) in Wozniak Hall. December 3 Advent and Christmas music for handbells, organ and voices. December 10 Christmas carol sing-along with carol improvisations. Chris Oelkers, organist. December 17 Magnificat Women’s Choir presents seasonal music, along with selections from the Mass for Peace by Bob Chilcott.
Austin Civic Wind Ensemble DECEMBER 14 | 2:00PM
14 December at 2:00 pm. Free admission. Seasonal favorites along with the Finale from the Saint-Saens ‘organ’ symphony. Maestro Robert Laguna, conductor, Chris Oelkers, organist. This is a great event for the whole family.
Ensemble VIII
DECEMBER 17 AND 18 | 7:30PM
Ensemble VIII will offer a celebration of the classic Festival of Lessons and Carols as presented every Christmas by the choir of King’s College, Cambridge. This is a ticketed event, but not to be missed. For ticket information go to www. ensembleviii.org
Formerly North Central Caregivers
Friday, December 6 St. Louis Sanctuary
Don’t miss this outstanding concert featuring choirs from at least 10 churches in our neighborhood! Each of these parishes are supporting Drive a Senior with financial donations and volunteers throughout the year. Their participation enables the homebound and elderly shut-ins of North Central Austin to stay in their homes and yet still get to appointments and live independently. This concert supplements the work of the outstanding volunteers! There is no charge for the event, but good will donations are gratefully accepted! Join us at 7:30pm for this musical event enjoyed by all!
St. Louis Flower Guild
St. Louis Flower Guild welcomes volunteers throughout the year to enhance our worship spaces. There are two ways to volunteer: 1. Each Friday, join a team that is creating the floral arrangements for the weekend Masses. 2. Volunteers are especially needed before major feasts like Christmas and Easter. Call Dolores Rumpf 512-836-2190 for additional details. Whether you can give two hours or ten, come help us decorate God’s house! Maybe you can’t arrange flowers but you can help provide the flowers through your generosity. Altar flowers may be used to honor or memorialize a loved one or a special family event. Consider donating toward the altar flowers for a particular weekend. Call Evelyn McNair 512-454-0384 x 209 or email evelyn.mcnair@st-louis.org and send a check for $65.00 payable to St. Louis Church. Your donation will benefit our St. Louis Flower Guild that offers fresh floral arrangements weekly in our main sanctuary!
Parish News BULLETIN DEADLINES Typically our regular bulletin deadline is Wednesday noon for the bulletin issue 10 days out. However, publication deadlines are always impacted by holidays and closures in the church offices and that of our publisher. Please mark your calendar for this earlier deadline for three weekend bulletins and submit your bulletin news items in advance to bulletin@st-louis.org Thank you for planning ahead and submitting all three weeks at one time. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated to insure that your events are advertised in a timely manner, especially during the busy Christmas season. DEADLINE: Wednesday, December 11 @ 12 Noon For the December 21-22 bulletin For the December 28-29 bulletin For the January 4-5 bulletin
and
Updates
2014 DEADLINES FOR PARISH NEWSLETTER Our parish newsletter, The Spirit of St. Louis, is published ten times a year. Your cooperation in meeting news deadlines is greatly appreciated by the editors, Jessica Connolly and Evelyn McNair. Please post this schedule, refer to it often and adhere to deadlines for maximum advertisement of your ministry events and activities. Send news items and photos electronically to evelyn.mcnair@st-louis.org or bulletin@st-louis.org NEWSLETTER DEADLINE FOR DESIGNATED ISSUES January 5 February issue February 5 March issue March 5 April issue April 5 May issue May 5 June-July issue July 5 August issue August 5 September issue September 5 October issue October 5 November issue November 5 December-January issue
Ladies, What a Treat! A NIGHT OUT AND FREE DINNER TOO!
The Garden Ministry The Garden Ministry seeks volunteers to help with garden maintenance. Ongoing tasks include weeding, watering and harvesting as well as various construction projects. Volunteer hours are Tuesdays from 4:00-6:00pm and Saturdays for 9:00-11:00am. No experience necessary! Contact Anna Walsh for more information or to sign up: annaruthwalsh@gmail.com
Find more progress photos on the blog at www.stlouisgarden.wordpress.com
The Saint Louis Women’s Club’s January 15, 2014 meeting is the Annual Souper Supper. Our ladies know their way around a soup pot, and there will be tasty homemade soups and breads to ward off the January chill. Dinner is served at 7PM in Wozniak Hall followed by a presentation on meditation and relaxation techniques. All women of the parish are invited. The March 13, 2014 meeting will feature a presentation on nutrition, including shopping tips, label reading, and special recipes. The St. Louis Women’s Club bi-monthly meetings offer an opportunity to socialize and network mixed with informative or fun-filled programs. President Marie Moore can provide information on club activities and the January and March programs. Contact Marie at 512-256-5633 or mooremd10@aol.com.
Yes, we are selling tamales again! The Knights of Columbus, Council # 5967 are again selling tamales after the 6:00am, 7:30am and the 9:30am Masses during the first three Sundays of each month, at the Parish Activity Center (Wozniak Hall). Cost for a dozen will be the same as last year, $7.00. If you are unable to pick up your tamales at the above times, please call Mr. Kirby Krause at (512) 453-4823 and he will make arrangements to ensure you can purchase your tamales.
End of Year
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Author: Catholic.net Translated by: Betty Franceschi Director of Childhood Ministry
REFLECTION for New Year’s Eve
Today you have finished the writing of another chapter in the story of your life. When you were born, this book was all yours. God put it in your hands. You could write on it what you wanted: a poem, a nightmare, an adventure, a blasphemy, or a prayer. You could…now you cannot because it is not yours anymore, you’ve already written it, now it is God’s. God will read it to you in the very day you die, with all its details.You cannot correct it, because it has passed into the realm of eternity. Think for a moment in this New Year’s Eve. Take your book and read it slowly. Let the pages fly between your hands and your conscience. Have the pleasure of reading it to yourself! Read it all. Reread the pages of your life in which you put your best style, do not forget that one of your best teachers, if you have a well-formed conscience, is yourself. Read also the pages that you would like to have never written. No!…Do not try to tear them up! It is useless. Have the courage to read them. They are yours.You cannot tear them up…but you can override them when you write the following pages. If you do so, God will surely pass over them when reading your book on your last day. Read your book this evening. There are in it whole pieces of yourself. It is an exciting drama in which the main character is you: You on the scene with God, with men, with life itself. You’ve written it with the amazing instrument of your freedom on the surface of a vast and shifting world. It is a mysterious book, and the most interesting part, it can be read by no one but you and God. Tonight, when you finish reading it…if you want to kiss it, do it. If you want to cry over it, cry hard on your old book, but mostly…pray on your old book. Take it in your hands, lift it into heaven, and tell God just two things: “thank you” and “I am sorry”. Then give it to Christ, no matter how it looks like…as it is, even with black pages…do not forget that Christ forgives us. Tonight, God will give you a new book. It’s all yours.You can write on it whatever you want. Write the name of Jesus on the first page. Then ask Him not to let you write by yourself. Ask Him to guide your hand and heart.
Thank you, Lord, for everything you have given me this year! Thank you for the sunny days and the cloudy ones! Thanks for the quiet nights and the restless dark hours! Thanks for health and illness, for pains and joys! Thank you for everything you lent me and then asked me back! Thanks for the friendly smile and the helping hand, for the love and everything beautiful and sweet! For the flowers and the stars and the existence of children and good souls! Thanks for solitude, for work, difficulties and tears; for all that brought me to you more intimately! Thank you for your presence in the Tabernacle and the grace of your Sacraments! By letting me live, thank you Lord! What will bring the coming year? Whatever you want, Lord! I ask your faith to see you everywhere, hope not to falter; perfect love in everything I do, think and wish. Give me patience and humility. Give me detachment and total forgetting of myself. Give me, Lord, what you know suits me and I do not know how to ask for: enough battles to keep me strong, enough sorrow to keep me human, enough failures to keep me humble, and enough determination to make each day better than yesterday. May I love you more and make you loved by those around me! Pour O Lord, thy graces on me and all I love, so that in this coming year, we always have our hearts alert, attentive ears, active hands and mind, and our feet ready to go out to extend your kingdom!
Parish News Adoration for 2014
and
Updates,
CONT.
WELCOME OUR NEW YOUTH MINISTER PAUL STADELMAN
In 2014, plan to spend time with the Lord in perpetual adoration as a gift that you give yourself and the parish. Anyone is welcome at any time during the day to pray and meditate in the small Adoration chapel. After hours, nights and weekends, please use the keypad entrance that requires a code. The locked doors at these times provide security for adorers and for the sanctuary building itself. If you can commit to a specific time each and every week, you are truly a blessing! Keeping watch with the Blessed Sacrament is such a privilege and honor and your life will be enriched by the time spent with Jesus. To sign-up for a specific hour each week or for keypad code information, please contact Joshua Merrill at Joshua_Merrill@baylor.edu or 512-879-7514.
The Healing Sacrament
Don’t forget that on the second Sunday of every month, the Sacrament of Healing with laying-on of hands and anointing is offered during the 9:00pm Compline ser vice in the Chapel. Join us for this weekly, meditative ser vice of beautiful Gregorian chant. No reser vation is needed and the ser vice lasts approximately 30 minutes.
St. Louis Parish is proud to introduce Paul Stadelman, our new Director of Youth Ministry. A graduate of Franciscan University in Steubenville with a Bachelors of Science in Social Work, Paul had not planned a career in youth ministry. But during college, he spent a year working as a NET (National Evangelization Team) missionary in Australia and it changed his perspective. He was on a team of eleven other young people who were passionate about their faith. Nearly every school day, they went to middle and high schools and led retreats centered on Christ. In sharing his relationship with God and those young people, Paul found a true joy and peace. Going back to college, he became involved in campus ministry leadership and took every opportunity to enroll in as many Theology and Philosophy courses as his schedule would allow. After graduation, he began working as a social worker in San Antonio where he learned first-hand what the Church means by Social Justice. His original desire to meet the material needs of the poor, however, was changing to help those in spiritual poverty find the love of Christ. He began volunteering at the St. Pius X youth group as a Life Teen Core member. As he saw the fruit of youth ministry in the teen’s lives (as well as his own), he felt the call to youth ministry on a full-time basis. Paul brings to St. Louis a solid, personal foundation in Catholic education, a strong spiritual love of Christ, as well as leadership experience, facilitating youth retreats, socials, Bible studies, liturgical and charity events for students from ages 10 to 20. More importantly, he brings an enthusiasm and desire to help our youth cope with the demands of the everyday culture by developing a Christ-centered focus in their lives. In this regard, Paul’s approach is very much in line with the New Evangelization. Please join us in welcoming Paul to the parish! He will be a wonderful blessing as well as an example of faith to our youth!
Life in the Spirit Seminar The St. Louis Prayer Group is hosting a Life in the Spirit Seminar that began on October 24th and will run every Thursday through December 12th, except Thanksgiving. They meet in Wozniak Hall, Meeting Room 1, from 7:30-9:00pm and sessions are open to anyone, even if you have missed some sessions. Use this Advent to grow in your relationship with Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit! All are welcome!
Is Your Information Correct?
Do we have your most up-to-date address and phone information? Are you receiving church envelopes monthly or quarterly in the mail? If not, please contact Belinda at the church office to update your records 512-454-0384 or Belinda.bryant@ st-louis.org.
The Spirit of St. Louis
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The Library is Ready – Come and See!
SANCTUARY CANDLE MEMORIALS
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 17 - 23 Memory of Floriberto Hurtado by Elizabeth Hurtado (M/N)
Check out the great children’s corner in the St. LCheck ouis Parish It’s ready for reading! Visit in the outLibrary! the great children’s corner 8 - 14 Library on Wednesdays 9am-‐5pm and Sundays 8the :30-‐11:30am. W ould y ou l ike t o g ive a C hristmas o St. Louis Parish Library! It’s ready forgift tDecember Memory of Donald the Library? Here’s some books on their “wish” reading! list below. Visit the Library on Wednesdays
and Sundays Teach Your Children Well – A Parent’s Guide to t9am-5pm he Stories, Polems, Fables and 8:30-11:30am. Tales That Instill Traditional Values by Christine Allison
Would you like to give a Christmas gift are some books on the “wish” list.
A Call to Character – A Family Treasury by Colin to Greer Herbert KBelow ohl theand Library? The Read-‐Aloud Handbook: Seventh Edition by Jim Trelease
Ten Ways to Destroy the Imagination of Your Child by Anthony Esolen
Teach Your Children Well – A Parent’s Guide to the Stories, Polems, Fables and Tales That Instill Traditional Values by Christine Allison A Call to Character – A Family Treasury by Colin Greer and Herbert Kohl The Read-Aloud Handbook: Seventh Edition by Jim Trelease Ten Ways to Destroy the Imagination of Your Child by Anthony Esolen
Busk by Brenda Beltran (M/N) December 15 - 21 Memory of Jim Dunlap by Karen Dunlap (C) December 22 - 28 Memory of Charles B. Dellana by Teresa Dellana (C) January 19 – 25, 2014 Memory of Elizabeth Reavelyn Pray by Lourdes Massa (C) January 26 – February 1 Memory of John & Margaret Barnes by Rita Barnes (M/C and C)
Adult
and
Family MiNistry
YOUNG ADULT, ADULT AND FAMILY FAITH FORMATION MINISTRIES.
Women of Faith A women’s small church community that explores the feminine genius of being created in God’s image will continue this spring with its morning meetings. The meetings are held Wednesdays at 7:30 am in the Parish Education Center – PEC 201 with breakfast and fellowship first, followed by an exploration of women’s spirituality drawing upon various resources and including group discussions. This is a great way for women of all walks of life to start their day. To register, or for more questions please contact Kim Barger at kimb@ bargers.com
Catholic Scripture Study Catholic Scripture Study of Austin is held Wednesday mornings, through April, 9:30-11:30am in the St. Louis Church sanctuary. The weekly two-hour bible study consists of prayer, small group discussions and guest lecturers and follows the Austin Independent School District calendar for holidays, including a long Christmas break. CSS is open to men and women and some participants have been enjoying its programs for 13 years or more! In the spring, the Book of James will be examined in depth using the CSS International series written by Dr. Scott Hahn. Classes resume on Wednesday, January 8th. Register online at www.cssaustin.org If you have questions, contact Rosemary Howard at 512-345-3687.
Fellowship of Catholic Men The Central Texas Fellowship of Catholic Men has an active chapter at St. Louis Church. All men over the age of 18 are invited to participate, sharing Scripture, spiritual reading and their faith. The group meets each Sunday evening at 7:00pm in the narthex. Many will stay for the 9:00pm Compline service afterward. For more information, contact Steve Watkins swatkins@caci.com or (512) 836-4777.
SAVE THE DATE JOHN MICHAEL TALBOT IS COMING TO ST. LOUIS!!
Our Lenten Mission this year will feature John Michael Talbot, in person. Please save the dates: March 6, 7, 8, 2014 in the St. Louis sanctuary! Described as a “Motivational Minister,”, prolific author of 24 books and a “Christian Music Pioneer”, his dedication to Christ will be an inspiration to all who hear him. Matthew Kelley described him as “one of the great Catholic voices of our times…not just as a musician, but through his speeches and writing.” You do not want to miss this outstanding speaker for our annual Lenten Mission! For details on John Michael Talbot, go to www.johnmichaeltalbot.com
Don’t Miss This Lenten Series! THE WOUNDED HEART OF CHRIST: FOUNTAIN OF DIVINE LOVE AND DIVINE MERCY DEACON ROB EMBRY, PRESENTER MONDAYS MARCH 10, 17, 24, 31 | WOZNIAK HALL
Join Deacon Embry in this motivational, meditative and evangelizing Lenten series that will focus on the images and devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Divine Mercy image. We will explore this from the perspective of: 1. Scriptural foundations. 2. Development of these themes in the Church Fathers and from the Councils and Creeds. 3. Their interconnection with Eucharistic piety. 4. The medieval mystics, St. Margaret Mary and St. Faustina. 5. How the popes of the last hundred years or so, especially Pius XII and John Paul II have emphasized the devotion and used the underlying theology in their own teaching.
Adult
Sunday School Adult Sunday School Continues! Join us each Sunday morning at 11:00am in the St. Louis Catholic School Library. The class is facilitated each week by Chad Nusbaum, St. Louis’ Pastoral Associate and candidate for the Catholic priesthood. Join the group in learning more about the Catholic faith and discussing topics important to you. If you have questions, please contact Chad Nusbaum at chad.nusbaum@ st-louis.org or call the church office at 512-454-0384 x 208.
holic men (ages 16-45) interested in learning more about discernment, the priesthood, and seminary Join us for prayer, testimonials by priests and seminarians, Mass and lunch with Bishop Vásquez. The Spirit of St. Louis
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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
Project Andrew Discovering one’s vocation is about meeting a person: the person of Christ. For Catholic men (ages 16-45) interested in learning more about discernment, the priesthood, and seminary. Join us for prayer, testimonials by priests and seminarians, Mass and lunch with Bishop Joe Vásquez. Saturday, February 8, 2014 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. St. Mary Cathedral | 203 E. 10th Street, Austin Free parking available in the Donahue Center Parking Garage (entrance located on San Jacinto Street). You must pay for parking meters.
Discovering one’s vocation is about Project Miriam
October 6 – November 5, 2013 Kennedy Grace Tart Nathan Parker Tart Katie Esparza-Cortez Abisai Rosas-Torres Alejandro Rosas-Torres Lindamar Tiburcio-Victoriano Lydia Claire Steinbach Gabriela Aguirre
MARRIAGES & CONVALIDATIONS
October 6 – November 5, 2013 Octavio Javier Singlaterry and Sonia Daniela Villar
meeting a person: oin other single, Catholic womenProject (ages 16the –Miriam 45) person of Christ. Miriam is Hebrew for Mary.
eeking to learn from Mary’s joyful “yes” to God.
Brian Lee Burns and MIRIAM IS HEBREW FOR MARY Casey Lee Reagan Join other single, Catholic women (ages 16-45) seeking to learn joyful “yes” to God. Paul Earl Chartier and St. Mary Cathedral (203 E. from 10thMary’s Street, Austin) Monica Anne Gully The morning includes testimonials and prayer with religious Sisters serving in the Diocese as Raymond Ellis Rosamond and ee parking available in the Donahue Center Garage (entrance locatedJoe onVásquez. San Jacinto Street). well asParking Mass and lunch with Bishop Tania Karina Ward You must pay for parking in the street at the meters. Saturday, February 15 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. RECENTLY DECEASED St. Mary Cathedral | 203 E. 10th Street, Austin Alfonso Castaneda Diocese Center of Austin Free parking available in the Donahue Parking Garage (entrance The Catholic Church of Central Texas located on San Jacinto Street). You must pay for parking meters. For more information, contact the Vocation Office at vocations@austindiocese.org or 512.949.2430. AUSTINVOCATIONS.COM
Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Heart of Jesus
The morning includes testimonials and prayer with religious Sisters erving in the Diocese as well as Mass and lunch with Bishop Joe Vásquez. DISCERNMENT
RETREAT For Catholic men (ages 17-40) with an openess Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to Austin) a priestly vocation and at varying stages St. Mary Cathedral (203 E. 10th Street, of discernment. December 13-15, 2013, king available in the Donahue Center Parking Garage (entrance located on San Jacinto Street) Cedarbrake Catholic Retreat Center, Belton. For You must pay for parking at the meters. more information and registration information, Diocese of Austin contact the Vocation Office at vocations@ austindiocese.org or 512.949.2430. The Catholic Church of Central Texas
information, contact the Vocation Office at vocations@austindiocese.org or (512) 949-2430.
BOY SCOUT TROOP 89
Boys in 6th through 12th grade are invited to join Troop 89. Monthly outings include camping, backpacking, canoeing, shooting and archery. Many boys also attend summer camp. Please contact Scoutmaster Don Michler at don.michler@gmail.com or Committee Chairman Joe Leary at jleary1@austin. rr.com for more information.
St. Louis Catholic SCHOOL NEWS PREPARING THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW WITH THE LIGHT OF CHRIST AS THEIR GUIDE
Please mark your calendars for our upcoming Gala ~ February 8, 2014 at Marriot La Frontera in Round Rock. We hope to see you there!
School Registration for 2014 - 2015 Year
St. Louis Catholic School
OUR ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE is scheduled for Sunday, January 26th, Pre-K4 - 8th Grade 10:00 am -1:00 pm. Please call the number below and leave contact information to receive a personal invitation in the mail. Registration for the 2014-2015 school year will begin soon! Please consult the schoolNOW office orACCEPTING the school’s website for detailed information. Application forms will also be available at that time. There is a non-refundable initial application fee, APPLICATIONS per application due at the time the application is submitted. St. Louis Catholic School is a parish school which does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, or gender, in administration of educational policies, admission policies, and other school administered programs; our doors are open to students of all religious beliefs. We achieve high standards inspired by encouraging teachers, who stand as role models, planting the seeds for love of learning.
For families interested in applying to St. Louis Catholic School please call Mrs. Rosalie Dowling at 512-454-0384, ext. 245, for information and/or to schedule personal a tour. The school office is open between the hours of 7:30am and 3:30pm.
Contact Mrs. Dowling 512.454.0384 Advent Newsx245 from
St. Louis Catholic School
Advent will be a time of prayer and service for the school children at St. Louis. Our students will have daily prayers around the Advent wreath. Several classes utilize various types of religious Advent calendars as a way to keep track of the days leading up to Jesus’ birthday. Advent Secret Angels include special prayers that students say for their Secret Angels. Our middle school students will also be participating in a Day of Reflection on the Nativity Gospel of Luke.
SUPPORT OUR Various classes will have Jesse Trees, special writing projects about Jesus’ PARISH SCHOOL BUY SCRIP/GIFT CARDS
AFTER WEEKEND ENGLISH MASSES
birth, and other class projects with Nativity themes. Our students will also be collecting donation items for St. Louis Parish Social Ministries.
Come visit us for our special performance events this Christmas season! Our School Band, Round Rock Academy of Music, will perform at Holy Family Catholic School on Tuesday, December 10th at 7:00 pm. St. Louis Catholic School students will present a Christmas Musical performance on Thursday, December 19th at 6:30 pm, in Wozniak Hall. Please join us for our special Nativity Mass, celebrated on Friday, December 20th at 8:00 am. What a joyous way to celebrate the Season! Please see our school website at www.st-louis-school.org for more information about these events and other school Advent and Christmas activities. As always, thank you for your support of St. Louis Catholic School.
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ANNUAL FUND 2013 - 2014 Thank you of those of you that have already shown your support to St. Louis Catholic School with your donation to the 2013 - 2014 Annual Fund, THANK YOU! We appreciate your support! There is still time to make a donation (see below). Please consider participating in the Annual Fund. Giving to the Annual Fund is an investment in the school and in the community of St. Louis Catholic Church. Our goal is 100% participation and it’s important to remember that every gift is greatly appreciated, no matter the amount. St. Louis Catholic School is a wonderful community and we feel BLESSED that you have chosen to support us. We have a very inclusive and welcoming community because of families like you!
Support St.St.Louis 2013-14Annual AnnualFund Fund Support LouisCatholic Catholic School School ’s’s 2013-14 Support St. Louis Catholic School ’s 2013-14 Annual Fund
atholic Catholic schoolsschools represent both our andand American identities. started schools in 1606 in Florida and St. Elizabeth represent bothCatholic our Catholic American identities.The The Franciscans Franciscans started schools in 1606 in Florida and St. Elizabeth Annopened Seton opened herCatholic first Catholic School in 1808 in Maryland.We Weare are honored honored to this legacy in faith, academics, diversity, nn Seton her first School in 1808 in Maryland. tocontinue continue this legacy in faith, academics, diversity, and more. nd more. Catholic schools represent both our Catholic and American identities. The Franciscans started schools in 1606 in Florida and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton opened her first Catholic School in 1808 in Maryland. We are honored to continue this legacy in faith, academics, diversity,
Did you know that St. Louis students rank at the 84th percentile in national standardized tests; which is significantly higher than the na-
id you know that St. andLouis more. students rank at the 84th percentile in national standardized tests; which is significantly higher than the national average. St. Louis offers one of the few Diocesan approved Dyslexia & Literacy Academic Support programs, Take Flight. St. Louis onal average. St. Louis offers one of the few Diocesan approved Dyslexia & Literacy Academic Support programs, Take Flight. St. Louis Did youinknow that St. Louis students rank free at thetuition 84th percentile in national tests; significantly higher thanathletics, the nais the only school the Diocese to offer families for the 4th+ child standardized enrolled. And, St.which Louisisprovides exceptional the only intional theand Diocese offer families free tuition forapproved the 4th+ child&enrolled. And, St. Louisprograms, providesTake exceptional athletics, average. St.to Louis offers one of the few Diocesan Dyslexia Literacy Academic Support Flight. St. Louis fineschool arts, music, various other after school programs. the only school the Diocese to programs. offer families free tuition for the 4th+ child enrolled. And, St. Louis provides exceptional athletics, ne arts, music, andis various otherinafter school To ensure we’re ablemusic, to continue offering exceptional opportunities, we need your support in the Annual Fund. The Annual fine arts, and various otherthese after school programs.
Fund is one of the school’s primary fund raising events of the year. Our goalwe thisneed year your is $40,000. We in arethe asking businesses, alumni, St. o ensure we’re able to continue offering these exceptional opportunities, support Annual Fund. The Annual To ensure we’re ablefamilies to continue offering these exceptional opportunities, we need your support inmission the Annual Fund. Thethe Annual Louis parishioners and school to help. Your generous contribution will help us continue our to prepare leaders of und is one of the school’s primary fund primary raisingfund events of the year. Our goal this year is $40,000. We are asking businesses, alumni, St. Fundthe is one theChrist school’s raising events of the year. Our goal this year is $40,000. We are asking businesses, alumni, St. tomorrow with lightoffamilies of as guide. ouis parishioners and to their help. Your generous contribution willwill help ususcontinue our mission to prepare theofleaders of Louisschool parishioners and school families to help. Your generous contribution help continue our mission to prepare the leaders Participation is simple: tomorrow with the light of Christ as their guide. omorrow with the light of Christ as their guide.
PARTICIPATION IS isSIMPLE: Participation simple: 1. isGo to http://bit.ly/slcsdonate rticipation simple: 1. Go to http://bit.ly/slcdonate 1. Go to http://bit.ly/slcsdonate 2. http://bit.ly/slcsdonate In the “contribution information” category, select “School AnnuGo to 2. In the “contribution information” category, select “School Annual Fund”. 2. In the “contribution information” category, select “School Annual Fund.” Complete information and submit (add yourselect child/family’s name to the al Fund.” In the3.“contribution information” category, “School Annu3. Complete information andFOR submit (add your child/family’s name comments). THANK YOU YOUR SUPPORT! 3. Complete information and submit (add your child/family’s name al Fund.” to the comments). Thank you for your support! to the comments). Thank you for your support!
Complete information and submit (add your child/family’s name to the comments). Thank you for your support!
liturgical MINISTRy SERVICE AT THE ALTAR
Fall Elevation Service for Altar Server Ministry, 2013.
Left to Right: Fr. Larry addresses the candidates. The Observers wait to receive their white surplice; a sign of their Baptism. The Juniors accept their new duty of caring and processing the American Flag and the Papal Flag in the Mass. Juniors who are servants of God and stewards of Christ’s Mysteries being elevated to the Order of Confraternity of St. Louis King of France. Newly elevated Apprentices presented to the Assembly.
Altar Server Continuing Education Class
Altar Server Ministry, Continuing Ed Classes are held once a month on a Saturday morning for altar servers to hone their skills in serving at the altar at our weekend Masses.
Pre-Altar Server Times The little children learned about the workings of the sacristy at Church. Liturgical colors, holy vestments, altar server ministry and the duties within the ministry like bell ringing, trying on altar server vestments, and seeing the Monstrance where the Blessed Sacrament is contained for Holy Hour were some of the interesting religious experiences during the sacristy tour on October 10, 2013.
The Spirit of St. Louis
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Please Save the Date: December 14, 2013 Parish Social Ministries Volunteer Appreciation Dinner at 6:30 p.m. at Wozniak Hall. More information will go out as the date gets closer.
St. Vincent Truck is Coming!
Before you begin the celebration of Christmas, please set aside some time to go through your closets - the St. Vincent de Paul Society would love to have your gently used clothing, household items, sports equipment, small furniture, books and magazines, children’s items, and your no-longer-used holiday items. The SVdP truck will be in the St. Louis Church parking lot on Saturday, December 14, from 10am - 2pm, rain or shine. Items that you no longer need can give hope to a needy family - please help us to help others!
MONDAY, DECEMBER 9 Join us for dinner and the opportunity to reflect on Advent. guest speaker will be MONDAY, DECEMBER Our 9 Fr. James Misko, Pastor of Christ the King Catholic Join us for dinner and the opportunity to Church in Belton, TX. The will social reflect on Advent. Our guest speaker be begins at 6:30pm, Fr. James Misko, Pastor of Christ the King Catholic dinner at 7:00 pm followed by the Advent Church in Belton, TX. The social begins at 6:30pm, Presentation. Cost is $25. dinner at 7:00 pm followed by the Advent Presentation. Cost is $25.
Welcome Ministry Team 9:30 & 11:30 Sunday Masses Do you have the gift of hospitality? St. Louis is looking for new members to join our Welcome Ministry team for both the 9:30 and 11:30 Sunday Mass times. This is an opportunity to help newcomers feel welcomed to our parish and assist our clergy to insure that everyone has the information they need to get plugged in to life in our church community. We especially need ministers for the 11:30am Mass time. If you are interested in helping others understand all the wonderful ministries available here at St. Louis, please contact Chad Nusbaum in the Church office for details chad.nusbaum@st-louis.org or 512-454-0384 x 208.
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS LADIES AUXILIARY
KC Ladies Auxiliary encourages members to enrich their spiritual life, promotes a spirit of friendship and gives assistance to the KC Council in developing independent programs and projects. Membership is open to any lady over 18 years of age, Catholic or non-Catholic whose husband, father, son, brother or sweetheart is a member in good standing of a Knights of Columbus Council, or the widow/daughter of a deceased member. If you have questions or need more information, please contact President Julia Johnson at 512836-1726.
ST. LOUIS BEREAVEMENT MINISTRY
This dedicated ministry provides food and comfort to registered parishioner’s families and friends grieving the loss of their loved one. There are several Bereavement teams and each team serves in rotation. Team leaders will call members for food donations to be delivered to a central location. If Wozniak Hall is available and needed, a group leader may also ask for help to set-out food and serve. Those in this ministry are usually called to donate food about two times a year. There are no meetings to attend. Food donations do not have to be homemade. The group leader will have an idea of what food the family needs when calling team members. Funerals are during the day, so there is no night driving. Men and women interested in serving this ministry can contact Jane Hellinger 512-452-9748 or Frances Krause 512-453-4823 or leave your name and number at the Church Office for more information.
Naomi Circle
This parish group is specifically for widows, who would like to seek the support and friendship of other women who have lost their spouse to death. The group meets monthly. If you are interested in attending or want more information, contact Annette Kohoutek at 512-451-1425 or Eileen Rosipal at 512-452-3292.
SENIOr MINISTRY SERVING THE YOUNG AT HEART
Christmas Luncheon The Friendship Group Christmas potluck luncheon will be on Wednesday, December 18 from 11:30am to 1:00 p.m. in Meeting Room 1 of Wozniak Hall. All seniors are invited to attend. We look forward to seeing you there.
Bible Timeline Class Classes will run on Tuesdays, December 3, 10, and 17. After the holidays, classes will resume on January 21. These classes are taught in the Main Room of Wozniak from 10:30 a.m. - Noon. Everyone is invited to attend.
AARP Driver Safety Class This class will be offered on Thursday, January 23 from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. in Wozniak Hall. The class fee is $15.00 for AARP members and $20.00 for non-members. The class may qualify you for a reduction in your insurance. For more information and/or to register, please contact the Senior Ministry office at 512-454-0384 ext 206.
Catholic Life Insurance Offers Scholarships Catholic lay men and women, pursuing graduate degrees that might qualify them for professional positions in parish or diocesan ministry, are encouraged to consider the Rev. Msgr. Larry J. Droll Scholarship Fund scholarship. The scholarships are awarded to practicing Roman Catholics who have already attained a bachelor’s degree and are now enrolled in Catholic graduate schools of theology or religious studies. Deadline for applying is February 15, 2014. Applications are available in the parish office or by contacting Barbara A. Cheaney at (210) 828-9921 or 1-800-292-2548.