TREASURES FROM OUR TRADITION An old joke asks, “What time is Midnight Mass?” The answer is not really obvious, since Christmas is unique in having several distinct celebrations. The readings and prayers vary greatly from hour to hour. The Vigil Mass hinges on the family heritage of Jesus and his origins. The concept of “midnight” predates clock time, and really has to do…
TREASURES FROM OUR TRADITION By now, the first Christmas carols are heard in the home, but usually not yet in church. What is a “carol” anyway? Originally, a carol was any kind of communal song sung at a festival such as a harvest. By the thirteenth century or so, carols were associated with household celebrations. “Carol” comes from the Old French carula, meaning a circular dance. Carols weren’t for church, since…
Advent Giving Tree at St. Mary’s The tradition continues: the Advent giving tree is in the vestibule with cards. Each card has a childs name, age and wished-for gifts. Over the next 2 weeks parishioners that are willing to share with those in need, should bring back the wrapped gift, with the card attached. You can give your gifts to the ushers…
TREASURES FROM OUR TRADITION Before the Second Vatican Council in the mid-1960s, Advent had a strong penitential tone, reminiscent of Lent. From as long ago as the fourth century, some Christians began a solemn fast on St. Martin’s Day, November 11. This “Saint Martin’s Lent” extended all the way to Christmas, and was widely followed in the dioceses of France and Germany, and in the Middle Ages in England.…
TREASURES FROM OUR TRADITION Among the Catholics seeking religious freedom in America were the Carrolls of Maryland, who arrived in 1649 from Ireland via England. Charles Carroll, born in Annapolis in 1737, was the only Catholic signer of the Declaration of Inde-pendence, and was the longest-surviving signer. As was the custom for English Catholics, he attended English schools in Belgium and later…
Noviembre 26 de 5 a 9 p.m. Y Noviembre 27 de 10 a 1:00 p.m. En el Hall de St. Mary Immaculate Fr. Jose Ramon Perez De la Arquidiocesis de San Antonio Tx. Impartira este taller. Aparta tu lugar despues de las misas del domingo. Cupo limitado.
Thanksgiving Masses St. Mary’s Thanksgiving Mass – 10:30 am St. Peter’s Thanksgiving Mass – 8:30 am Bring your food for a special blessing
For a comparision of Republican and Democratic Issues and Platforms please go to the following websites: From the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops: http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship/index.cfm From Priests for Life Political Responsibility Center: http://www.priestsforlife.org/candidates/index.htm Here are links to Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship (or en Español)