Pastor

Special Advisor

Parish Administrator christine@smdmcc.org

Director of Religious Education denise@smdmcc.org

New Members/Hospitality maria@smdmcc.org

Music Director/Youth Ministry kim@smdmcc.org

Parish Secretary jean@smdmcc.org

Maintenance Supervisor nilton@smdmcc.org

CHRISTMAS EVE Thursday, Dec. 24

4pm Children’s Mass 8pm Mass with Adult Choir

CHRISTMAS DAY

(Day of Obligation in the U.S.) Friday, Dec. 25, 10am

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Thursday, Dec. 31, 4pm

NEW YEAR’S DAY (Day of Obligation in the U.S.)

Friday, Jan. 1, 10am

http://www.smdmcc.org

Parish Office: The parish office is open Tuesday-Friday, 9am-4pm with a break for lunch. All other buildings are closed until further notice. Please see Mass schedule below: Parish Masses: Bishop Estévez has dispensed the faithful from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass until further notice. Masks and social distancing are mandatory. Sunday Mass will be celebrated at 9am & 11am in the

church. Masks are required. Saturday Vigil Mass will resume at 4pm. Masks are

required. Sunday 10am Mass will continue to be streamed on

Facebook (www.facebook.com/smdmcc/) and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/user/SMDMCC).

Weekday Masses will be celebrated on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9am in the church. Masks are required.

High-Risk Individuals—Drive-up communion on Wednesdays from 9:30-10:30am.

Adoration—Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 9:30am-2pm. (Please contact Ginette Consentino (508) 423-9360 to sign up for Adoration)

Confessions— Saturday 3:30-3:50pm (before 4pm Vigil Mass), Sunday 8:30-8:50am (before 9am Mass) and 10:30-10:50am (before 11am Mass).

Visit the parish website for additional information. Appointments with Fr. Manny: Fr. Manny is available by phone Wednesday, 9:30am–12:30pm, and Thursday and Friday 9am–Noon. Call the parish office, 386-439-2791, to schedule an appointment. Daily Readings: Daily Mass readings (http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings) and brief video reflections (http://www.usccb.org/bible/reflections/) are available from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Spiritual Communion: The Church encourages us to make an act of ‘spiritual communion’ when we are prevented from receiving the Eucharist at Mass: “My Jesus, I believe that You are present in the Most Holy Sacrament. I love You above all things, and I desire to receive You into my soul. Since I cannot at this moment receive You sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace You as if You were already there, and unite myself wholly to You. Never permit me to be separated from You. Amen.” (St. Alphonsus Liguori) Rosary by Phone: Join the Legion of Mary daily at 4:20pm via conference call: 862-799-9790. For more information, Contact Steven at jsnandmjn@outlook.com or at 215-527-7411. Diocesan Resources: The Diocese of St. Augustine (https://www.dosafl.com/) has a special Coronavirus resource page (https://www.dosafl.com/coronavirus/), including links to televised, online, and radio Masses in our diocese and beyond. Magnificat: This monthly publication used for our weekday Masses is offering complimentary access online (https://us.magnificat.net/free) and via its iOS and Android apps. Laudate: The free Laudate app (iOS and Android) is a gateway to many Catholic prayers and other resources. Formed: FORMED.org has given SMdM limited-time free access to its library. It has great resources for all, including kids. Click Sign Up; select “I Belong to a Parish or Organization;” find Santa Maria Del Mar by parish name, address, or zip code; enter your email—and you’re in! Rice Bowl: CRS has instructions for contributing online, by phone, and by mail: https://support.crs.org/donate/change-life-lent-0. Rice bowls will be collected once we’re able to assemble again. Want to help others? You can help others in our community by mailing donations to Society of St. Vincent de Paul (https://www.facebook.com/flaglersaintvincentdepaul/), P.O. Box 1328, Flagler Beach FL 32136. Contributions for international relief can be sent to Catholic Relief Services (https://www.crs.org/).

Your Offertory Contributions: If at all possible, please continue to support Santa Maria del Mar by mailing your offerings (checks only) to the church (address above) or use our convenient online giving system (https://www.osvonlinegiving.com/1748).

Click on any link (blue highlight) to take you directly to the referenced website. Last updated Nov. 8, 2020.

Santa Maria del Mar Catholic Church 915 North Central Avenue Flagler Beach, FL 32136 386-439-2791 www.smdmcc.org • Facebook (www.facebook.com/smdmcc/)

https://www.facebook.com/smdmcc/https://www.facebook.com/smdmcc/https://www.youtube.com/user/SMDMCC/featured?view_as=subscriberhttps://www.youtube.com/user/SMDMCChttp://www.usccb.org/bible/readingshttp://www.usccb.org/bible/reflections/http://www.usccb.org/bible/reflections/https://www.dosafl.com/https://www.dosafl.com/coronavirus/https://www.dosafl.com/coronavirus/https://us.magnificat.net/freehttps://us.magnificat.net/freehttps://bookstore.magnificat.net/magnificat-app-us-edition-ios.htmlhttps://bookstore.magnificat.net/magnificat-app-us-edition-android.htmlhttps://apps.apple.com/us/app/laudate-1-catholic-app/id499428207https://www.amazon.com/AJ-Laudate/dp/B005YH5R7A#ace-8881249860https://formed.org/https://www.facebook.com/flaglersaintvincentdepaul/https://www.facebook.com/flaglersaintvincentdepaul/https://www.crs.org/https://www.osvonlinegiving.com/1748https://www.osvonlinegiving.com/1748http://www.smdmcc.orghttps://www.facebook.com/smdmcc/https://www.facebook.com/smdmcc/

Your offering of as little as one hour’s wage will help us meet our daily needs.

Our parish is grateful for your continued support at this time. Thank you! Please consider making your weekly donation to Santa Maria del Mar online at: www.osvonlinegiving.com/1748

Keep up-to-date on announcements from

the Diocese of St. Augustine regarding

COVID-19 here: www.dosafl.com/

coronavirus/

The Mission of the Parish Library is to support the Parish by providing books on prayer, formation, stewardship, spirituality, support, saints, the Blessed Mother, the Old & New Testaments, etc. Included are books for children and Youth. The committee members review, catalog and shelve the books weekly, and check-in books that have been donated or purchased.

The Ministry members are Chair, Ivy Alvarez, Kim Atel, Rosemary Costabile, Maria Flake, Evonne Ligeiro, Allison Low, Kathy McArdle, Janice Romanish and Joan Smith. These parishioners quietly work unobserved as they offer a significant service to the parish.

The Library is located in the back of church next to the Chapel and extends a wealth of opportunity for everyone to enrich their faith and enhance their spirituality. If you are interested in joining the Library Ministry, please contact the Parish Office (maria@smdmcc.org).

Spiritual reading is food for the soul. The words enter into the mind and descend into the heart and help us to be a changed and better person.

The angel Gabriel was sent from God to Mary, who was blessed to become the mother of Jesus, the Messiah. Angels are messengers of God and our protectors. Would we have faith and a strong enough belief to trust that a messenger has come from God to convey the will of God? Could we accept this unbelievable communication? Through the centuries people have believed in the miraculous visions from divine messengers from God. Appraise your faith intensity; can you/we accept all that the Lord has revealed to us? This week’s revelation is that the Virgin Mary brought forth a son, the son of God. As Mary, “Do not be afraid” because nothing will be impossible for God.” This is the miracle that as a Steward (like Mary) we need to see the invisible to learn to do the impossible.

Glory to God in the highest and peace to men of good will. 3rd Week, Nov. 2020

Offertory:

$11,778.

Online Giving: $5,045

3rd Week, Nov. 2019

Offertory:

$16,447.

Online Giving: $3,265.

https://www.osvonlinegiving.com/1748https://www.dosafl.com/coronavirus/https://www.dosafl.com/coronavirus/mailto:maria@smdmcc.org

In Blaise Pascal’s work, Pensees, he says: “What else does this craving, and this helplessness, proclaim but that there was once in man a true happiness, of which all that now remains is the empty print and trace? This he tries in vain to fill with everything around him, seeking in things that are not there the help he cannot find in those that are, though none can help, since this infinite abyss can be filled only with an infinite and immutable object; in other words by God himself.” We have a difficult time accepting that fulfillment and happiness are not achieved by our own merits but through a relationship with God. We are hardwired for this relationship and it is in our DNA. The simple fact is that we come from God and are designed to return to God. If our beginning and our end define who we are, why would we not want to seek the One who can truly satisfy? The world does not realize that it is waiting. It is waiting for the birth of God in time, within one’s soul and in eternity. We get so confused by seeking other momentary satisfactions that we misinterpret the hunger within. We crave God. The union of God and humanity, revealed in Jesus Christ, is precisely what sets us on a straight path, orders our relationships, establishes proper focus and goals and tells us whose kingdom we really are meant to serve. We are so lost. God is with us. The prophet Nathan told this to King David, the angel said this to Mary and the birth of Christ brings this Good News to us. We do not need to be busily looking for more things but must learn to find contentment and blessing in the One Presence. This is the beautiful simple message of Advent! If you are feeling unsettled, anxious, angry, disgruntled, disconnected, unhappy, worried, fearful, off center, becoming overly self-indulgent, unable to spend time alone and without distraction, then there’s a good chance you are lost. Now is the time to allow God to find you! Ponder the holy simplicity of Mary’s call to be the Mother of God. “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” When we are helpless and at home with our emptiness, God will fill us. Our Savior has come.

©LPi

FIRST READING: “When your times comes and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your heir after you, sprung from your loins, and I will establish his kingdom firm.” (2 Sm 12) PSALM: For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord. (Ps 89) SECOND READING: According to the revelation of the mystery kept secret for long ages but now manifested through the prophetic writings and, according to the command of the eternal God. (Rom 16:25b-26a) GOSPEL: “Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High.” (Lk 1:31-32a) The English translation of the Psalm Responses from the Lectionary for Mass (c) 1969, 1981, 1997, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights

MON DEC 21 ST. PETER CANISIUS

Sg 2:8-14 or Zep 3:14-18a Ps 33:2-3, 11-12, 20-21 [1a; 3a] Lk 1:39-45

TUES DEC 22 1 Sm 1:24-28 1 Sm 2:1, 4-5, 6-7, 8abcd] Lk 1:46-56

WED DEC 23 ST. JOHN OF KANTY Mal 3:1-4, 23-24 Ps 25:4-5ab, 8-9, 10 and 14 [cf. Lk 21:28] Lk 1:57-66

THUR DEC 24 CHRISTMAS EVE 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16/Ps 89:2-3, 4-5, 27 and 29 [2]/Lk 1:67-79

Christmas Vigil: Is 62:1-5/Ps 89:4-5, 16-17, 27, 29 [2a]/Acts 13:16-17, 22-25/Mt 1:1-25 or 1:18-25

FRI DEC 25 THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD Is 52:7-10 Ps 98:1, 2-3, 3-4, 5-6 [3c] Heb 1:1-6 Jn 1:1-18 or Jn 1:1-5, 9-14

SAT DEC 26 ST. STEPHEN Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59 Ps 31:3cd-4, 6 and 8ab, 16bc and 17 [6] Mt 10:17-22

SUN DEC 27 THE HOLY FAMILY OF JESUS, MARY & JOSEPH Sir 3:2-6, 12-14 or Gn 15:1-6; 21:1-3/Ps 128:1-2, 3, 4-5 [cf. 1] or Ps 105:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9 [7a, 8a]/Col 3:12-21 or 3:12-17 or Heb 11:8, 11-12, 17-19/Lk 2:22-40 or 2:22, 39-40

George Aiello Beverly Alleman Judy Batson Bella Family Zafarani Betancourt Nora Bocignone Richard Bocignone Michael Boyle Sr. Br. Elijah Pat Brandt Jim Brogan Marlene Bushnoe Dellis Carey Roger Carey Sr. Rogeree Carey Valerie Ann Cipolla Daniel Clark Joseph Connell Betty Connelly Joshua Cummings Marlene Curtain Sheryl D. Mary Dardzinksi Nita Derois Greg DiVico Irene Donaghy Robert DuLong Marie & Alfred Durand Carmen Enright Kirsten Ernst Greg Everett Beth Farnsworth Antonio Filipe Jonah Finn Lou Freda Lou Giammarlari Scott Giguere

Kathleen Grant Roger Gronert Susan Gronert Roe & Hal Hanson Ken Harple John & Terri Pat Kiley Tina Kiley Louie Kolonics Andrew Kozer John Kuchta Silvestre Labaredas Frank Leonardo Deborah Lepley Johnny Lewis Jim Loisel Dina Mancuso Frankie Mancuso Teresa Mancuso William Mania Linda Maxwell Agnes Sister McDevitt Damien McFadden Elle McFadden Vivian McMonagle Giorgio Meloni Maureen Milici Tiesha Miller Dolores Moody Peggy Morris (RIP) Barbara Motta Lee Mulvihill Mary Nolleman Bridget O’Hara Jack O’Hara Kristen O’Hara Luisa Olivo

Terry Parenteau Sue Persch Barbara Petrella Hannah Pica Marrianne Prieser Peter Prieser, Sr. Eileen Puglisi Patricia Quinn Vincent Rafaelle Vincent Raffaele Julie Raia Robert Rizzo Matt Robinson Barbara Royere Amanda Ruotolo Brian Schalt Kara Schalt Amanda Schark Michael Sheridan Sandy Silva David Smith Ryan Socrates Catherine Sveda James Terlizzo Stephen Troxell &

Family Gifford Tures Linda Walcek Donald Whitmore Deidre Williamson Mary-Ann Woika Kelly Wolff We Commend to God’s Loving Embrace: †††Victor Villarejos

Heal us, Lord, and we shall be healed; save us, and we shall be saved; for it is You we praise. Send relief and healing for all our diseases, our sufferings and our wounds; for You are a merciful and faithful healer. Blessed are You Lord, who heals the sick.

Parishioner of SMdM is in need of a kidney transplant. Please contact the Parish Office, if you know of a possible donor.

Col. Andrew Morgado (US Army)

Jay Matthews (US Navy) Sgt. Benjamin Wurtz (US

Army/Ft. Hood, TX) Honor Otmar (US Air Force) Matthew Callegari (USCG) Jayson Trucksess (US Navy) Chief Gregory Worman (US

Navy) Joshua Raffaele (USMC) Rachel Mincey (US Navy) LCDR Brandon Aten (USCG) Joseph Otmar (USMC) Casey Henrikson (US Navy) Chad M.R. Schuch (US Air

Force) Emma J. Schuch (US Navy) Col. Daniel O’Connor (USMC) Sgt. Sean Collins (US Army) Michael Martins (USMC) Dr. Nick Patellis (NG/Kuwait) Justin Smallwood (USMC) ENS Barret Manfre (US Navy/

USS San Diego Bryan Donohue (USMC) Cpl. Ryan Rindge (US Army) Trent Jerdon (US Army)

If you have a family member in the military and would like us to pray for them, call the parish office to have their name added to the bulletin, or email your request to Christine Sudano at christine@smdmcc.org. Please advise when a person above is no longer deployed so we can remove their name from our list. God bless them all & continue to pray for them!

The persevering love shown in prayer allows us to open ourselves to three enlightening and life-giving facts of faith about prayer. It helps us understand that it is always possible to pray, prayer is a vital necessity, and prayer and Christian life are inseparable. In order to pray without ceasing, we must unite our prayer to good works in union with the Holy Spirit. (CCC #2742-2745)

Catholic Life Explained ______________________________________

Question: What is the difference between apostles and disciples?

______________________________________

Answer: When we look at the gospel accounts of the life of Jesus, we see two special titles applied to his followers: apostles and disciples. At first glance, we might think that these two words are interchangeable, but when we look at what each one means, we quickly see that the evangelists were using them very specifically. When we look more closely, we see that while Jesus had many disciples, the group of apostles was much more limited and referred to Jesus’ closest collaborators. The word apostle essentially means “one who is sent forth” or, as we might think of it today, “an ambassador.” The group of apostles — sometimes called the Twelve — included those twelve men who formed Jesus’ inner circle (see Mark 3:13-14; Luke 6:12-13). It was this group that received the gift of the Holy Spirit and who were sent out by Jesus with the special mission of forgiving sins on that first Easter Sunday (see John 20:19-23). In time, the Catholic Tradition also recognized Saint Paul and Saint Barnabas as apostles, recognizing that they also shared the mandate of going out in the Lord’s name to pray, to bless, and to preach. In 2016, during the Jubilee of Mercy, Pope Francis raised the liturgical celebration of Saint Mary Magdalene to the rank of feast, recognizing that she also received a special mandate to proclaim the good news of Jesus’ resurrection to the Eleven, becoming the “apostle to the apostles.” In a particular way, the bishops continue the mission of the apostles in our own time. When we think of the word disciple, we see that it has a very different meaning. Rather than referring to those who were sent out to carry on the mission of Jesus, disciple literally means “student” or, more specially, an “apprentice learner.” The task of the disciple is to learn and integrate into their lives the teachings, values, and way of life of their master teacher. Although a disciple might be called on to explain or represent aspects of their life, in light of the teachings they receive from this master teacher, Christian discipleship is ultimately about living our lives with faith and integrity, guided by the life and mission of Jesus, our Master Teacher. The call to discipleship is the common vocation of all Christians.

©LPi

We invite all youth in the parish to participate in the Knights of Columbus Keep Christ in Christmas poster contest. The contest will allow youth to engage their creative talent and imagination while understanding the true, spiritual meaning of Christmas The contest is open to all youth between the ages of 5 and 14. Contest entrants compete in one of three age groups: 5-7, 8-10, and 11-14. Each participant will receive a Keep Christ in Christmas Participation Certificate. The winner in each category will receive a $25 gift card. Each poster should be the original work of a single person. It should be on 11 x 17 paper with the age and name of youth on the back. All posters should be submitted to the Parish Office by December 20 for judging and winner announcement.

Allen, Richard & Antoinette Anderson, James & Jeanne Baj, Aloysius & Deborah Bari, Carol Berreth, Duane & Janice Bowe, Mary Campbell, Alice Carney, John Jr. Carpino, Thomas & Rosemary Comiskey, Mary Consentino, Frank Jr. & Ginette Cospito, John & Judith Crisologo, Frank Cummings, Joshua Czajkowski, Janet Da Silva, Selma Davitt, John & Tracy De Blasi, Guy & Mary Doan, Khanh Doligosa, Wilhelmina Dunton, James, Jr. & Colleen Fishbein, Steve & Anamaria Garcia, Armando Gortz, Jolanta Gronert, Roger & Susan Hanlon, Tom & Nancy Harris, Michelle Hewson, Catherine Japitana, Margarita Ksyniak, Stan Ledek, Robert & Theresa Little, Robert & Antoinette Mangano, Sal & Angela Marin, John & Linda

Martellucci, Pasquale McArdle, Richard & Katherine McNally, Bill & Cheryl Mehling-Brown, Bruce & Judith Miranda, Iris Murphy, Deborah Naes, James & Rebeca Nori, Joseph & Nancy Osborne, Larry & Beverly Papa, Jose &Kelly Pellegrini, James & Maureen Puccio, John J. & Michelle M. Rizzo, Robert & Nancy Roberti, Anthony & Joan Rockett, Stuart & Sharyn Santagata, Anthony & Annita Santiago, Alex and Joji Scofi, Frank & Marie Smith, Mavis Sullivan, David & Patricia Taylor, Brian Tran, Thuy Van Kooten, John Verdugo, David & Lisa Vicente, Antonio Williamson, Sarah & Roger Wolak, Ronald & Deborah

Christmas Flowers Donors

Each fall, the Social Justice Ministry sponsors a fair-trade sale outside the church to call attention to Catholic social teaching on economic justice. The COVID-19 pandemic makes it impractical to hold a “live” sale this year. Instead, this year’s fair-trade sale is virtual and online! (A select few items are also available for sale in the Gift Shop.) It’s never been easier to change a life for the better. When you buy handmade gifts, food items, and home decor using the web link below, not only will you be helping disadvantaged artisans and supporting fair-trade practices, but 20% of your purchase will be donated to our parish. The link is available year-round:

www.serrv.org/?a=smdmfts

Dedicated to fighting poverty through fair trade since 1949, SERRV International works with nearly 8,000 artisans and farmers in 24 countries to bring you the world’s most beautiful handcrafts. SERRV artisans and farmers benefit from fair wages, a sustainable income, safe working conditions, education, and equality. Fair-trade commitments reduce the need for people to migrate. For more information on a Catholic framework for economic justice, visit https://www.usccb.org/committees/domestic-justice-and-human-development/economic-justice-domestic-poverty “[Pope] Benedict XVI reminded us that precisely because it is human, all human activity, including economic activity, must be ethically structured and governed. We must return to the centrality of the human being, to a more ethical vision of

Christmas is right around the corner! Why not share your faith by purchasing religious gifts from the SMdM Gift Shop? Conveniently located near the Gathering Area (hallway leading to the restrooms), the Gift Shop offers many affordable religious items you can easily mail to love ones far away or place under the tree. You’ll find everything from holy cards and coin tokens, to sterling silver crosses and crucifixes, rosaries of all shapes and sizes, and plenty of Christmas ornaments. Gift Shop is open before and after weekend Masses. You can also view some of the inventory in the white display cabinet in the Gathering Area. Order forms are located next to the cabinet. Any special requests you may have can be made through the order form or you can email your request to giftshop@smdmcc.org Support your church by buying religious gifts for yourself and loved ones from our own gift shop! Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy 2021 from the Gift

Thank you to everyone that participated with Giving Tree donations! Your generosity will be felt by many of our community children and their families helping bring a little more Christmas joy to their Season!

http://www.serrv.org/?a=smdmftshttps://www.usccb.org/committees/domestic-justice-and-human-development/economic-justice-domestic-povertyhttps://www.usccb.org/committees/domestic-justice-and-human-development/economic-justice-domestic-povertyhttps://www.usccb.org/committees/domestic-justice-and-human-development/economic-justice-domestic-povertyabout:blank

ATTENTION: The Diocese of St. Augustine treats all allegations of sexual misconduct seriously and deals with all allegations in a prompt, confidential, and thorough manner. To Report Abuse, call the police or the Department of Children & Families at (800) 962-2873. Or call the Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator at (904) 208-6979 or email inquiries@dosafl.com. To report abuse by a bishop, call (800) 276-1562 or visit www.reportbishopabuse.org.

December: Dec. 20 Class/zoom meet Dec. 27 No Class/Christmas Break January: Jan.10 Class 10am / Mass 11am Jan. 17 Class at home Jan. 24 Class/zoom meet Jan. 31 Class at home February: Feb. 7 Class 10am / Mass 11am Feb. 14 Class at home Feb. 21 Class/zoom meet Feb. 28 Class at home March: Mar. 7 Class 10am / Mass 11am Mar. 14 Class at home Mar. 21 No Class/ Spring Break Mar. 28 Class at home April: Apr. 4 Easter Sunday Apr. 11 Class 10am / Mass 11am Apr. 18 Class at home Apr. 25 Class/zoom meet May: May 2 Class 10am / Mass 11am May 8 Confirmation (Sat) @2pm May 16 First Communion time TBA *Contact Denise@smdmcc.org

Virtual Faith Formation (K-8) *First Sunday of the Month Children’s

Class at 10am / Mass at 11am. Attendance encouraged.

Congratulations to Livi DeSantis, Nayeli Rodriguez, Brandon Doan and Zachary Selic on receiving the Sacrament of First Communion! Thank you Knights of Columbus for providing box lunches to the children after class.

December 21 Tyler Allen, Isaak Arroyo,

Nicole Avena, Matthew Bryant, Kerri Carubia, Jolene Clark, Claire Collins, Richard Dors,

Joseph Flecha, Anthony Hand, Maleah Lodi, Joseph McColgan,

Janet Mosher, Nick Riggio, Lee Robell, Holly Swider, Deborah Zarajczyk

December 22 Tommy Aloia, Cayden Avena,

Jacqueline Buitrago, Mary Callery, Frances Chiodo, John Fenion, John Fischer, George Foggia,

Alanna Gallagher, Mary Giraulo, Bryce Graham, Elizabeth Leprohon, Ryan McDonald, Thomas McCann,

Robert Oehl III, Tyler Peeples, Selena Sellazzo, Carla Stevenson,

Ozzie White

December 23 Ana Blaine, Cristina Campo, Gina Carlisi, Andrea Casui,

Janet Diluzio, Christine Gaspar, David LaGassa, Chasity Santiago, Humberto Torrao, Michael Torre

December 24 Normand Descoteaux, Anita Dillon, T.J. Goco, Donna Grady, Allison Low, Michelle Manfredi, Nikolas Varvara

December 25 Madilynn DeLorenzo, Daniel Kratofil,

Thomas Muir, Shaun Porter, Frank Reubel, Elizabeth Savone,

Nancy Sexton, Ryan Sparrow, Linda Thibault, Thomas Troidle, Christy Vincent, Maureen Vitello

December 26 Linda Brittian, Joan Guy,

Jon Hetzler, Katelyan Kutik, Abbie LaFosse, Larry Madama,

Jacqueline Marino, Robert McGrath, Pilar Ocoy, Kathleen Overbeck, Lillie Roy, Carmen Velazquez,

Arabella Wells

December 27 Brynn Akialis, Cristina Alvarez,

Noreen Bartolotta, Deneah Bledsoe, Jacob Chavers, Tracey Cobb, Robert Colon, Jaisa Ferlazzo,

Francis Gerosa, Mark Helfrich, Janet Holland, Khloe Jones,

Terri Klemstine, Matthew Marcusky, Lynne McCabe, Margaret McDonnell,

Timothy Sanchez, Robert Will, Gavin Winfree

Do you enjoy history? Who said "Stewardship is not a program or a way to raise more money for the parish. It is a Way of Life that seeks to put God first in our lives..."? How many thrift stores sponsored by the Society of St Vincent de Paul are there in the Diocese? Why did Father Thomas Cody need track shoes? Answers to all of these questions and information on the rich history of the Diocese of St Augustine can be found in "Faith on a Mission." Now on sale at the Parish Office and the Gift Shop for $25. Over 300 pages of beautiful images, historical facts and pullout mementos. View a copy of the book prior to purchase in the Parish Office Tues.—Fri. from 9am to 4pm and in the Gift Shop before and after weekend Masses. Please note that there are limited quantities available. Please purchase a copy now! They make wonderful Christmas presents!

An opportunity to more deeply understand and increase your faith.

We have learned through our first session, The Sacraments, that the current situation of meeting in the church sanctuary is far from ideal in terms of encouraging communication and interaction, following proper Covid protocols and generally allowing people to get as much out of the course as possible. For now, we will postpone more classes until the Learning Center reopens and we can all get together in a classroom environment which is more conducive to our spiritual growth and development.

Coming up! When possible we will be offering a brand new course: Hebrews. Hebrews takes us on a guided tour of what is considered the “Holy of Holies” of biblical theology. The book of Hebrews is steeped in rich truths about our Catholic Faith, almost like a second Catechism. This study will help us to: Understand the book of Hebrews and a variety of aspects of the Catholic

faith including the Creed, the Sacraments, salvation, judgment, heaven, hell, morality and prayer.

Appreciate, more fully, the power of the Holy Mass and return to church with a renewed awe and awareness that heaven is truly present to us.

Learn the critical differences between the Old and New Covenant. Be encouraged by the community of saints, the tremendous “cloud of

witnesses” rooting for us to get to heaven and interceding on our behalf. Be challenged to become the faithful Catholics we’re called to be as we

realize that much is expected from those to whom much is given. Awaken to the true sublimity of God’s revelation and work in and

through Jesus Christ so we can see all of the beauty laid present to us. Discover key connections to the patriarchal period of salvation history

and veiled references to the Blessed Mother and the Mercy Seat. May the Holy Spirit move you to join us and enjoy the blessings of these enlightening sessions.

Lord God, thank you for the gift that Mary is to our lives and the life of the Church. Thank you for encouraging her through your grace to say “yes” to the great mystery and power that is the Incarnation of our Lord. Teach us today to greet these difficult and somewhat daunting moments of our life with courage and faith. Amen.

The angel greeted Mary with great excitement, and she returned that excitement with an expression of humility. Have you ever fallen short in kindness when returning a greeting or conversing with someone? What usually causes you to be less charitable?

Read Luke 1:26-38 In anticipation of upcoming family gatherings,

what will it look like for you to greet your family members at Christmas this year? How will potentially being distanced from the family you usually celebrate with feel? Is there anyone in particular you do not get along with? Why?

Is there someone, maybe the person you mentioned in the previous question, in need of a kind word or gesture? Who is that person, and what could you do for him or her?

The angel said to Mary, “Do not be afraid.” Why do you think Mary was afraid or looked fearful? How would you have felt if you were in Mary’s position?

Have you ever encountered fear when a great task was set before you? What calmed those fears?

Why is Mary and Elizabeth’s relationship special?

Is there anyone in your life you feel connected to like Mary did to Elizabeth? Why?

Is there anyone in your life you struggle to understand or get along with? What causes those disagreements or frustrations?

What virtue can you resolve to grow in to help you be a better acquaintance, friend, family member, etc.?

Think about how you answered the last two questions. Write a prayer for that person in your journal or on a piece of paper, specifically asking the Lord to help them grow in the virtue necessary to be a better person. Consider writing a letter to the person, simply wishing him or her a Merry Christmas and/or apologizing for a past wrongdoing.

Pray for that person every day during the next week, and, if applicable, mail or hand the letter to them.

Contact Kim Cazzaniga at (386) 931-8710 (text is best!)

Advent Health Arctic Breeze AC & Heating, Inc Martins Restaurant Chardani Roofing Santore Fireworks Waterside Pools, Inc Flagler Dental Associates Ardent Family Care Rotary Club of Flagler Beach Morejon & Andrews Orthodontics Seaside Spine and Pain Center Helena Stoughton Realtor Beach 92.7FM Steve Barnier, CPA, CFP

Oceanside Grill and Bar Florida Spine and Wellness Institute Tomoka Eye Associates Jukido Academy Jujitsu Self Defense A.W. Baylor Knights of Columbus 10514 Flagler Beach, FL Dennis Bayer Bayer Law Integral Academy Tutoring The Blue Mantle Outback Plumbing, 386-793-3690 Acute Care Pediatrics Tony's Pizzeria, 386-439-9900 Decicco Properties LLC CBL Plumbing Company, 386-225-6304 Gail E. Lampert Law, P.A. Adams Rehab Solutions Physical Therapy Olde Florida Title

Do you have a comment or suggestion for the Parish Council to consider? Submit items on paper by placing them in the Listening Post box located on the cabinet under the wall-mounted TV in the Gathering Area, or you can submit items via email by sending them to: listeningpost@smdmcc.org. All submitted items must be civil and respectful, and be within the scope of the Parish Council, i.e., the pastoral life of the parish.

Many bibles have been donated to the Parish Library and now we are offering some of them to the parish community. The bibles are located on the bottom two shelves in the bookcase closest to the Chapel. Please feel free to take your choice. There are editions for adults, teens and children. Many have attractive, colorful pictures. Consider taking one to

God gives us every breath and second of our lives, why not give Him back one hour in Adoration?

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 9:30am—2:00 pm in the Adoration Chapel Contact Ginette Consentino (508-423-9360) for information or to sign up for Adoration.

Caring and confidential Catholic support is available “Trust the past to the mercy of God, the present to His love, and the future to His providence.” St. Augustine The Catholic Therapist Network is a listing of counselors who are Catholics in good standing and loyal to the theology, traditions, and values of the Catholic faith. Though not affiliates or employees of the Diocese, all participating mental health professionals are independent practitioners, currently licensed and insured. They are committed to extending their expertise and offering full discretion in meeting with clients. Contact information for Network participants is available at https://family.dosafl.com/therapists/

Rosary for Life, Alpha Women’s Center Please join our Rosary for Life at 8:30am before the First Friday Mass. Thank you for your generous donations of diapers, wipes, and gift cards during our Annual Baby Shower. Please continue to donate to the Alpha Women’s Center at 386-586-0210. Thank you for supporting our ministry.

The Legion of Mary is one of the largest lay apostolic associations in the Catholic Church, with several million members serving in most countries of the world. The goal of the Legion is to make its members better Catholics – through a balanced program of prayer and service in union with the Holy Spirit as He operates through Mary, the Mother of the Church. Our members participate in the life of the parish by visiting families, the sick (both in their homes, nursing homes, and hospitals), and by collaborating with other ministries in any apostolic undertakings sponsored by the Parish. Our members meet weekly for prayer, spiritual reflection, discussion, and planning in a family atmosphere. Then, we are assigned an apostolic work and report back the following week.

“There are only two ways to live your life. One is though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.”

- Albert Einstein

https://family.dosafl.com/therapists/