FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT DECEMBER 18, 2011 SharingsSharingsSharings

From Father Rich Homa

EVERYONE IS INVITED TO THE CRECHE (Prepare ahead of time little guest cards, as well as, pens and markers.)

WELCOME 1. The family is gathered around the crèche. 2. All sing or listen to a Christmas carol. 3. One of the children says: “Today, the celebration of Christmas is complete! We must share our joy. In becoming human, God desires to meet all people. He invites all the children of the earth to discover Him here, in the manager.” 4. Everyone responds to this invitation by saying: “Glory to you, Lord, you love all people.” 5. Mother: “It is true! In the same way that we have gathered together here around the crèche, God wants to reunite the whole human family around his own Son, Jesus, the only Savior. This is what was announced long ago by the prophet Isaiah. He pictures already the great gathering of people from every country. Listen.” 6. Father: Reads Isaiah 60:1-6. 7. All sing or listen to a Christmas carol.

SYMBOLIC ACT 1. A younger member of the family suggests the action, saying: “We who have received Jesus must proclaim him to those around us. To demonstrate our desire to share the Good News of Christmas, let’s exchange invitation cards.” 2. Everyone decorates an invitation card, and offers it to another member of the family, saying: “You, too ___________ (first name), are invited to meet Jesus!”( Keep several extra cards that will be given personally or sent to neighbors, grandparents, or friends.)

FINAL PRAYER AND BLESSING 1. Father: “Lord Jesus, we thank you because you have revealed yourself to us. You are here in the love that joins us together. We want you to be known better to all those around us, so give us the courage to invite others to come around your manger. Help us especially to speak to those who do not really know you and your gift of Christmas. May our home become a shining star of your love! May your grace sustain us! We ask this through Jesus, our Savior, in whose name we are gathered. Amen.” 2. Everyone make the sign of the cross. 3. The celebration ends with a song of thanksgiving. (This service can easily be adapted for single-parent families.)

May God bless you,

As we enter the final week of Advent, preparing the way of the Lord, lots of other preparations are under way for the celebration of the birth of Christ, one of which is the annual setting up of Nativity Scenes, in our homes and churches and other public places too. This is a family prayer service which takes place in your home around your crèche (nativity scene).

Page Two FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 18, 2011

Sunday Reflections

for Christmas

Dec. 25, 2011

Throughout history, God's word came through messengers, human and angelic; but in the fullness of time, God said, "Jesus" and God's Word became flesh, "pitching his tent" among us, as His Father had formerly done in the company of Israel — only this time more so: Jesus, truly God, truly human.

FOCUS: GOD'S CHRISTMAS CARD

The beautiful feet of Isaiah's messengers an-nouncing peace and bringing glad tidings can seem distant from our lives. Living in the digital age can diminish any excitement at receiving a message, since they pour in all the time. E-mail, cell phones, and digital intersections like Facebook and LinkedIn bring instantaneous connections, obliterating time and space barri-ers once crossed by such "antiquated" forms as snail mail, the telegram, and ... does anyone remember the rotary phone? But still, at the heart of all communication is the word, and that

is the image in these readings present to us in speaking of the mystery of the Incarnation, our God becoming human. Luke's baby of Bethlehem, wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger, is first presented in John's Gospel as the eternal Word of creation, as life, as light shining in the darkness, as the Father's only Son, full of grace and truth, and finally, as the Word become flesh who dwelled among us, true God and true man. Give yourself time over these days to ponder (a good Christmas word) not only the babe in the crèche but also the profound mystery of the Word of God in whom and through whom all things were made, this Word who became human, revealing the image of the invisible God. The human warmth Luke presents in his Bethlehem story is matched by John's image of Jesus as the only Son, stand-ing (as the New English Bible translation has it) "nearest to the Father's heart."

Readings for the Week December 19th-24th Mon.: Jgs 13:2-7, 24-25a; Lk 1:5-25 Tues.: Is 7:10-14; Lk 1:26-38 Wed.: Sg 2:8-14; Lk 1:39-45 Thurs.: 1 Sm 1:24-28; Lk 1:46-56 Fri.: Mal 3:1-4, 23-24; Lk 1:57-66 Sat.: 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16; Lk 1:67-79

REFLECTION

All the ends of the earth will behold the salvation of our God (Isaiah 52:7-10). FIRST READING

We hear the LORD comforts His people. This is the major theme of this section of the Book of the prophet Isaiah. We also hear that it is the LORD Himself who will comfort His people. Throughout these chapters the LORD insists that He himself will intervene. We hear

phrases like "I will rescue," etc. This is fulfilled in the birth of the babe of Bethlehem, for the child is God among us. The prophet struggles to find words appropriate to this announce-ment, for it is glad tidings, an announcement of peace, and of good news.

The author presents Jesus as wisdom incar-nate, a way of saying that even before Jesus was born in the flesh in Bethlehem, He al-ready existed. The Old Testament authors did not know it but whenever they wrote about Wisdom, they were actually writing

about Jesus. Starting with verse 14, we begin to hear that the Word became flesh — God did not consider our material world to be evil, but rather decided to join us and thus bless and consecrate this created world. Jesus is full of grace and truth, the only Son of God.

The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us (John 1:1-5, 1-18). GOSPEL

The author of this reading combines Jewish learning and Greek philosophy to proclaim Jesus as our High Priest. He speaks of how God revealed His word through the prophets of old. This was a wonderful gift, but the prophets could never fully communicate God's word in human words. Human words always fall short. That is why there had to be many prophets, because none was every fully successful in revealing God's word to His people. This is why God chose to send His

own Son, Jesus, the only-begotten Son of God, who is the Word of God, the perfect ex-pression of who God is and what He asks of us. It is only through Him that we can truly know God. The last part of the reading shows how Jesus is superior to the angels. In Greek philosophy, totally spiritual beings were supe-rior to material beings. Jesus took on our flesh, so some wondered if angels were su-perior to Him. Our author argues that Jesus is the Son of God and above every angel.

SECOND READING God has spoken to us through the Son (Hebrews 1:1-6).

STEWARDSHIP

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Three

Sat., Dec. 17th (5pm) Leona Pieczyrak; Mary Eileen Vlaming; Florence Luciani; Fred Tammaro; Bernice Nemeth; Diane Sheehy Sun., Dec. 18th (7:15am) Daniel Paska; Jacob Fischer; Joseph Valdez; Virginia Hopkins (8:30am) Greg Szyndrowski; Ralph Vennetti; DEnnis Corluka; Fred Grzenia; Scott Misch (10am) Politano and Skibinski Families; Angela Simon; John Nolan; Helen Kurek; Willard and Estelle Bush; Frank and Stella Brotan; Robert Petrie; Elizabeth Konieczny (11:30am) Ray and Corinne Gillis; Felix Serafini; Mary Biegel; Kenneth Schomers; Leonard and Tomczyk Families Mon., Dec. 19th (9am) Judy Gradman; Edward Chianelli; Bob Kelman Tues., Dec. 20th (9am) Thomas Brugman; John Nolan; Marie Geoppo; Giuseppe Latorraca; Leona Pieczyrak Wed., Dec. 21st (9am) Bernice Badwick; Ketti Justic; Dorothy Lehocky Thurs., Dec. 22nd (9am) Bernice Badwick; John Nolan; Leona Pieczyrak Fri., Dec. 23rd (9am) Jovita Daisy Legaspi; Helen Michalak; Camille Rosiak

December 18, 2011

COLLECTION FOR 12-11-11: $26,377.03

KIDS COLLECTION: $115.67

Thank you for your generosity.

We remember the sick, infirm, and those recommended to our prayers, that they may experience the healing power of Christ: Mildred West Dan Roczniak And for our deceased: Cecilia Zmuda Justinas Glamba Donald D’Ercole Bernadette Bechelder “Heavenly Father, accept the prayers which we offer for them.”

MASS INTENTIONS

PLEASE PRAY FOR

Nickoliev and Christina Abed (Children: Anthony and Thomas Stolts and Alyssa Abed) Erin Adgent Robert and Karolyn Hall

WELCOME

Please pray for the following couples who are preparing for the Sacrament of Matrimony: Jennifer and Michael Drymiller; 1-7-12

WEDDINGS

Christmas and New Year’s Mass Schedule

CHRISTMAS EVE Saturday, Dec. 24th

4:00 PM (In the Church and Parish Life Center)

6:00 PM 10:00 PM with Adult Choir

(Carols begin at 9:30 P.M.)

CHRISTMAS DAY Sunday, December 25th

7:15-8:30-10:00-11:30 A.M.

NEW YEAR’S EVE Saturday, December 31st

5:00 p.m.

NEW YEAR’S DAY Sunday, January 1st

7:15-8:30-10:00-11:30 A.M

FOR YOUR INFORMATION The parish offices will close on Friday, Dec. 23rd

and will reopen on Tuesday, Dec. 27th. The entire staff wishes all a happy Christmas and blessed New Year!

Page Four FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 18, 2011

Morning prayer makes us rise and thank God for a restful night, for another day of life and for the strength and courage to do God’s will. The spiritual practice of celebrating Morning Prayer is a way of consecrating the day to God. The official public, daily prayer of the Church is the celebration of the Liturgy of the Hours. Psalms are prayed, scriptures are proclaimed, hymns and canticles are sung and the intercessory prayer is offered. The daily singing and reciting of the Book of Psalms is a most ancient tradition.

AADVENTDVENT L LITURGYITURGY OFOF THETHE H HOURSOURS

Morning Prayer Daily (Monday-Friday) 8:30AM Beginning November 28th in the Church

Prayer Booklets are supplied and we sit around a beautiful fresh Advent Wreath and light the candles as we pray in a monastic style of Left/Right rotation of voices. We encourage you to begin praying the daily prayer of the church in this community setting.

Advent Prayer Opportunity

What is the Liturgy of the Hours?

The official public, daily prayer of the Church is the celebration of the Liturgy of the Hours. Psalms are prayed, scriptures are proclaimed, hymns and canticles are sung and the intercessory prayer is offered. The daily singing and reciting of the Book of Psalms is a most ancient tradition. The Liturgy of the Hours is also called the Daily Office, the Divine Office, or the Breviary. Daily Advent Morning Prayer

Please join us Monday through Friday in the Stations Chapel at 8:30AM in the morn-ing. Prayer Booklets are supplied and we sit around a beautiful fresh Advent Wreath and light the candles each week as we pray in a monastic style of Left/Right rotation of voices. Our hope is that the Liturgy of the Hours becomes a satisfying human ritual marking the passage of day and night in our lives. “When the people are invited to the Liturgy of the Hours and come together in unity of heart and voice, they show forth the Church in its celebration of the mystery of Christ.” LITURGY DOCUMENTS II -GENERAL INSTRUCTION OF THE LITURGY OF THE HOURS Morning prayer makes us rise and thank God for a restful night for another day of life and for the strength and courage to do God’s will. The spiritual practice of celebrating Morning Prayer is a way of consecrating the day to God.

The Bird Prince

T here is an old Jewish folk tale about a king’s son who goes mad: the boy believes he is a bird. He removes all his

clothes and goes to live in a tree near the nests of robins and starlings; he refuses to eat normal food or return to his warm, safe room in the castle. His distraught father summons all manner of experts to come and cure the boy but no physician or sage can help the sad prince. Then one day a rabbi, a man of great compassion and humility, hears about the plight of the royal family. He comes to the castle and offers his help. The king, desperate for a cure, takes the rabbi to see the prince. The rabbi then does something that no one else had done: he climbs the tree and joins the boy on one of the highest branches and declares that he too is a bird and has come to live in this beautiful tree. Over time, the rabbi and the prince become

friends. The prince begins to trust this old “bird” living in the tree with him; the boy comes to realize that the rabbi is a man of great wisdom and grace.

Gradually the rabbi is able to convince the bird-prince to put on his clothes and return to his home and family.

I n today’s gospel, God breaks into human history in the birth of Mary’s child.

God puts aside divinity to climb the tree into which we have escaped in our “madness” and fear. In becoming “birds” like us, in taking on our human condition in all its complexities and challenges, God—in the person of Jesus of Nazareth—shows us how to live fulfilling and grace-filled lives of

compassion, forgiveness, and justice. In what ways do you see God affecting the

decisions you make?

Reflection by Jay Cormier — Waiting in Joyful Hope

And the angel said to Mary in reply,

“The Holy Spirit will come upon you,

and the power of the Most high will over shadow you.

Therefore the child to be born will be called holy,

the Son of God.” — Luke 1:35

Come, Lord Jesus, Light of God’s grace,

and illuminate our road to the Father.

Come, Lord Jesus, Mirror of God’s love

and teach us to reconcile our world in justice and peace.

Come, Lord Jesus, Bread of God’s life,

and feed us with manna of wisdom and righteousness..

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT

AN AMAZING JOURNEY

Appreciate The Gift That Is Your Life

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Five December 18, 2011

Page Six FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 18, 2011

Journey with the Lord and let your heart hear God’s Words….

By Margie Guadagno St. Elizabeth Seton Pastoral Associate

When the disciples

met Jesus

on the road,

they were

disappointed

and sad.

He walked with them

and listened to

their story.

Then, by opening up

the Scriptures

He gave them hope!

He helped them see

that they were

not abandoned

or left orphaned,

that God

was with them

and would

always be part

of their journey.

The Road To EmmausThe Road To EmmausThe Road To Emmaus The Road To Emmaus The Road To EmmausThe Road To EmmausThe Road To Emmaus

Something Worth Waiting For...

W HEN WE WERE small children, my brother, sister and I shared a bed-room. Louisa was the baby so she

was in a crib, but my brother and I, as the older—and wiser—siblings, had a bunk bed (ah, the stories I could share about that!). Our room was quite small so positioning the furni-ture was important to allow us access to the closet and dressers. It just so happened that the ideal spot for the bunk beds afforded a sliver of a glimpse of the living room. Nor-mally that really didn’t mean anything, but on Christmas Eve? It was everything! And, as luck would have it, I had the top bunk. That meant that reconnaissance duty was mine. Of course, Christmas Eve was one of the few times of the year that we didn’t grumble about bedtime (there’s a surprise). And even though we were quite willing to go to bed at, say, 6pm, my mom assured us that it didn’t matter because Santa Claus wouldn’t come until we were all fast asleep. So, we would watch TV or play a game with one eye on the clock. Just before it became time to actually go to bed, we would set out the obligatory plate of goodies for Santa. In our house, though, it wasn’t cookies. My dad would tell us that he was sure Santa had had plenty of cookies before getting to our place and that a change might be nice. So, at the Baran house, we always set out vegetables and dip! Every year we harbored slight doubts about that but every year my dad was proven right because they were gone in the morning and Santa always left a nice thank you note for our consideration of his waistline. Now, here’s where the top bunk comes in. I would quietly lay in bed listening for the slightest sound coming from the roof, and with every creak and groan I would lean way over to catch that glimpse of the living room to see if Santa was there yet. I was determined to catch him in the act. I knew

that if I just stayed awake long enough, I would see him. But, every year my Santa Detail fell short. I just couldn’t maintain the vigil. However, that didn’t stop me from trying again the following year. In fact, even now in my adult years, Christmas Eve still holds feelings of magic for me. But now I get to regale my grandchildren with tales of my failed attempts to observe the ‘Santa moment’ embellishing the stories with “I almost caught him!” or “I woke up in time to watch the sleigh drive out of sight!” The younger ones squeal with delight and promise that they’ll stay awake to see what I never could catch. The older ones, though, just grin and wink and follow my lead, teasing them with stories of their own “I almost caught him” efforts. I guess we do that because we want our children to have that sense of wonderment for as long as possible. These days, with the explicitness of music videos, movies, and television, the time of childhood innocence is woefully short. They quickly catch on to how the world really works. Sometimes that’s good, sometimes it’s not. There is one thing that can still create that sense of wonderment, even for us adults. It’s the absolutely unbelievable fact that God chose to take on our flesh and join his divine nature to our human nature in Jesus the Christ. It is so unbelievable that we spend our lifetimes contemplating it yet never fully understanding it.

E ach year, as we enter Advent anew, we think we can get a handle on the whys and hows of the Incarnation,

and every year the most we can say, “I almost understand!” But, that’s okay, because like everything else, the destination isn’t really important, it’s the journey that takes us there that is. And the day on which we finally get it will be the Santa moment of our lives.

December 18, 2011 FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Seven

HOW ABOUT A BAKER’S SQUARE PIE!

$11 for fruit pies $13 for cream pies

These pie coupons are available for purchase in the church office. Purchase a pie coupon and you pay no sales tax! All one has to do is... simply take the coupon to Baker’s Square and trade it for your most favorite fresh pie!

Need an idea for a Christmas or what to bring/serve at your party?

Christmas Flower Memorial Gift

If you plan on using the Christmas Flower envelope found in your monthly packet of envelopes, or if you already sent in a flower memorial gift, please fill out the form below so we can publish the names of your loved one(s) in the bulletin after Christmas.

Given in Memory of _________________________________________

_________________________________________

__________________________________________

Given by ________________________

________________________ Please place in collection basket. Thank you.

Newborns in Need The Seton Sowers Chapter of New-borns in Need will meet at 9:30am on Monday, Dec. 19th in the downstairs church hall meeting room. There is still time to give us any Christmas donations you want delivered this year. We wel-

come anyone who would like to help us knit, crochet and sew baby items for the University of Illinois, St. James and Provena/St. Joseph Hospitals. These hospitals specialize in the care of premature and ill babies who need to spend time in the hospital after birth. For more information, call Carol Dimer at 708-479-6994. Annual Baby Shower The Bremen-Orland Families for Life invites all to their An-nual Baby Shower on Tuesday, Dec. 20th at 7:30pm at Bre-mentowne Manor, 16130 Oak Park Ave., Tinley Park (use west doors). Needed are new or good condition baby and maternity items that will be given to local crisis pregnancy centers. For information call Lana Stack at 708-429-0760. Families Anonymous If your life has gone astray due to living with someone who has a substance abuse problem, consider attending Families Anonymous on Mondays from 7-8:30pm at Palos Hospital, 123rd and 80th Ave., Palos Heights (1st Floor Conference Room A). For more information please call Warren at 708-429-2507 or Therese at 708-269-9853. Alcoholics Anonymous If you have a problem with alcohol and feel a sincere desire to stop drinking, you are welcome to attend a meeting of Alcohol-ics Anonymous (A.A.) in the downstairs St. Elizabeth Seton Church Hall on Thursdays from 7:30-8:45pm. Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other so that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover. The only requirement is a sincere desire to stop drinking.

Saint Elizabeth

Seton 25th

Anniversary Dinner Dance is scheduled

for Saturday, February 18th at the Orland Château.

This is a great opportunity to celebrate with parishioners,

family and friends! Tickets go on sale in January. For details see full page flyer

in this bulletin.

NO gift wrapping needed. Items must be identifiable from outside.

During Christmas seasons, St. Vincent DePaul has sponsored a special collection of items for the homeless. Many come without adequate clothing. We thank all the

parishioners for their heartfelt generosity. Proceeds will be distributed to the South Suburban PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) Homeless Shelter Organizations.

The collection will continue until TODAY, Sunday, December 18th, the Fourth Sunday of Advent.

Suggested gift items are:

deodorant hand sanitizer toothpaste toothbrushes disposable razors shaving cream

white socks winter coats hats scarves gloves (men’s large) mittens

St. Vincent DePaul Holiday Drive

Page Eight FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 18, 2011

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT

The Zuelke and Barra Family 5:00 PM

The Knieps Family 7:15 AM

St. Elizabeth Seton Men’s Club 8:30 AM

The Chiarito Family 10:00 AM

The Biegel Family 11:30 AM

12/17

12/18

12/18

12/18

12/18

LIGHTING OF THE

ADVENT CANDLES

December 18, 2011 FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Nine

Thank You from Aid for Women Aid for Women is one of the pro-life organizations that received a monetary gift from the St. Elizabeth Seton Social Action Ministry from your generous donations in support of life.

Dear St. Elizabeth Seton Parishioners, Please let me express to you my most sincere thanks for your generous gift of $200. Your support is deeply appreciated and is invaluable to our work of empowering individuals to make choices consistent with the dignity of the human person and the family. Patricia (pictured here with her five-month old daughter) came to Aid for Women a little over a year ago in need of support. As a teenage college student with a bright future, her unplanned pregnancy left her with mixed feelings. She was concerned about finances, being a single mother and just needed encouragement as she embarked on her new journey to motherhood. With the support of her mentor, Patricia worked through her concerns, made plans to finish college and prepared to provide a loving and stable life for her child. Patricia stays in touch with Aid for Women and her smile is a reflection of how she feels about what lies ahead for her and her baby. Please continue to pray that Our Lord might provide us with the resources necessary to continue to serve the women and teenagers who come to us for information, assistance and support. Again, on behalf of our board of directors, staff, volunteers and especially our clients and their children, thank you very much for your continued generosity. Sincerely yours, Susan R. Barrett, Executive Director

\Aid For Women, 8 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 1100, Chicago, IL 60603 Email: contact@aidforwomen.org Client Hotline: 312-621-1100

Office: 312-621-1101

St. Elizabeth Seton Church Social Action Ministry

Making a difference each month…

This Sunday, Dec. 18th, the Social Action Ministry is serving

the homeless at the Daybreak Shelter Soup Kitchen in Joliet.

Texas Roadhouse Restaurant

will donate a ham... Texas Roadhouse has offered to donate a ham to Respond Now for every $50 gift cer-tificate that is purchased at their restaurant in December (please mention this ad when pur-chasing your gift certificate).

Angel Volunteers are Needed for Respond Now

Respond Now holds a Christmas “Store” for their clients at the First Christian Church, 1045 Dixie Highway, Chicago Heights, and provide toys and gifts for the needy children of the south suburbs. Set-up is Tuesday, Dec. 20th from 9am-3pm and Distribution is Wednesday, Dec. 21st and Thursday, Dec. 22nd from 9am-3pm. Clean up is Thursday, Dec. 22nd from 3-5pm. To volunteer please call Liz at 708-614-6475.

“Thank the Lord for His steadfast love, for His wonderful works to humankind

for He satisfies the thirsty and the hungry He fills with good things.”

— Psalm 107:8, 9

St. Elizabeth Seton Parish 25th Anniversary Dinner Dance

Tickets will be on sale and available in the Narthex after all the Masses January 7/8 and January 21/22, 2012

For more information contact Patrice at 708-532-0914.

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 18, 2011 Page Ten

Four score and seven years ago (actually 25 years ago) our

fore-Fathers (and Sisters) started a catholic congregation known to us all as St. Elizabeth Seton Parish. Please join our fore-Fathers and Sisters by attending the “St. Elizabeth Seton 25th Anniversary

Dinner Dance.” All the present and former pastors and associates will be invited to the celebration. This will be a great opportunity for you, your family and friends to reserve a table, dine, dance and mingle with those that have helped to form our heartfelt community!

St. Elizabeth Seton 25th Anniversary Dinner Dance Saturday, February 18, 2012

Orland Chateau Donation:$49/person

includes dinner, open bar and live band

Entertainment by Peter Oprisko America’s Best Pop, Jazz and Standards Four-piece quartet/live singing and DJ

.

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Eleven December 18, 2011

‘ I

N In today’s Gospel the angel Gabriel said to Mary, “Do not be afraid…” Without understanding all that

will flow from it, Mary speaks her yes. Men of college-age and older are invited to an Exploring Priesthood

Weekend Retreat to learn about, reflect on, and discuss with seminarians and priests the possibilities of

diocesan priesthood in Chicago. The next EPW is January 13-15, 2012. To register contact Fr. Brian

Welter at bwelter@archchicago.org or call 312-534-8298, or visit www.ChicagoPriest.com for more

details.

PLEASE HELP! VOCATION CROSS PARTICIPANTS ARE NEEDED!

The Vocation Cross is presented on

Wednesday at the 9am Mass. Participants pray daily for one week and return the

cross on Tuesday for the next participant. To sign up, please call 708-403-0101.

Please join them in prayer… PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, graciously hear our prayers. Give us generous hearts to respond to Your call in our lives. Lift up courageous men and women willing to follow after Your Heart as priests, sisters and brothers. Help parents and teachers to share the faith and to encourage young people to explore religious vocations. Guide all people, Lord, in Your ways of compassion, truth and peace, that we may find happiness in fulfilling our vocations. Amen.

Parish Vocation News

Ah Choo! Ah Choo! Ah Choo!

We are all challenged to do our sensible best to avoid getting the flu or cold and passing it on to others. Life does and will continue to go on and we will be washing our hands more, coughing and sneezing into our

sleeves, using hand sanitizer and staying out of crowds when appropriate. We want you to know we are well aware of the many concerns people have regarding the reception of the Eucharist during this season. All Eucha-ristic Ministers take care that health and safety concerns will prevail. The reception of the Precious Blood will re-main available for those who wish. The greeting of “Peace” will continue to be given. If you wish to ac-knowledge someone with a verbal greeting only, please do so. May we all be blessed with good health.

Simbang Gabi 2011 You are invited to Simbang Gabi, an inter-parish novena of Masses celebrated by the Filipino community and offered by the Office for Asian Catholics in preparation for Christmas:

Sunday, Dec. 18th, 3:30pm St. Albert the Great Church 5555 W. State Rd., Burbank

Monday, Dec. 19th, 7pm St. Gerald Church 9310 S. Central Ave., Oak Lawn

Tuesday, Dec. 20th, 7pm St. Fabian Church 8300 Thomas Ave., Bridgeview

Wednesday, Dec. 21st, 7pm St. Michael Church 14327 Highland Ave., Orland Park

Thursday, Dec. 22nd, 7pm St. Damian Church 5300 W. 155th St., Oak Forest

Friday, Dec. 23rd, 7pm St. Linus Church 10300 S. Lawler Ave., Oak Lawn

For a complete list of all Chicago area churches celebrating Simbang Gabi Masses call 312-534-8328 or visit www.archchicago.org.

Father Homa to kick off the H.O.P.E. Ministry’s

7th year of service with a Special Mass!

Tuesday, Jan. 3rd at 7pm The H.O.P.E. (Helpful Outreach for People seeking Employment) Employment Support Ministry meets at Saint Elizabeth Seton Church on the first Tuesday of every month at 7pm in the Parish Hall and our sessions are open to all faiths and denominations.

We meet to offer support, fellowship, guidance and information for the employed, unemployed, or those in Career Transition. HOPE Ministry leaders review and critique resumes; offer job search and interview tips; and pass along job leads. Each month we also provide a guest speaker to support those in transition. To help kick off the 7th year of service to the community, Father Rich Homa - Pastor of St. Elizabeth Seton Church, will celebrate a Mass on the evening of Tuesday, January 3rd at 7:00pm. HOPE invites people of all faiths to join us for this Mass. The Mass is intended to be a shared prayer for support and inspiration in the job search; in gratitude for blessings received; and for the hope of blessings forthcoming. Whether you are employed or unemployed, all are most welcome, including spouses and children, as they are part of everyone’s support group. We especially encourage Alumni of the HOPE program to attend and share their experiences. A Networking Reception will immediately follow this uplifting, energizing event. Please RSVP to Tom McMahon via email – tom.mcmahon@mcmahonjobs.com so that we can plan accordingly for the reception. Please put HOPE Mass in the subject of your email. LinkedIn Members: LinkedIn Members are encouraged to join the H.O.P.E. Employment Support Ministry Group to share job leads, network, etc. The group can be accessed through www.linkedin.com. Employers: Please forward your job leads to Tom.McMahon@McMahonJobs.com for distribution to our members.

Start the New Year off right with some HOPE and a Mass

on Tuesday, January 3rdth at 7pm… because everyone could use a little HOPE!

In addition to our HOPE Meetings at St. Elizabeth Seton Church, we also host meetings the 2nd Thursday of every month, 7:00pm, at St. Patrick’s Church in Lemont (200 E. Illinois); and the 3rd Thursday of every month, 7:00pm, at Our Lady of the Woods Church in Palos Park (10731 W. 131st St.).

Page Twelve FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 18, 2011

UPCOMING EVENT

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Thirteen

Seniors of Seton

S

SAINT OF THE WEEK

BLESSED JACAPONE DA TODI d. 1306

JACOMO, OR JAMES, WAS BORN A NOBLE MEMBER OF THE BENEDETTI FAMILY IN THE NORTHERN ITALIAN CITY OF TODI. HE BECAME A SUCCESSFUL LAWYER AND MARRIED A PIOUS, GENEROUS LADY NAMED VANNA. His young wife took it upon herself to do penance for the worldly excesses of her husband. One day Vanna, at the insistence of Jacomo, attended a public tournament. She was sitting in the stands with the other noble ladies when the stands collapsed. Vanna was killed. Her shaken husband was even more disturbed when he realized that the penitential girdle she wore was for his sinfulness. On the spot, he vowed to radically change his life. He divided his possessions among the poor and entered the Secular Franciscan Order (once known as the Third Order). Often dressed in penitential rags, he was mocked as a fool and called Jacopone, or "Crazy Jim," by his former associates. The name became dear to him. After 10 years of such humiliation, Jacopone asked to be a member of the Order of Friars Minor (First Order). Because of his reputation, his request was initially refused. He composed a beautiful poem on the vanities of the world, an act that eventually led to his admission into the Order in 1278. He continued to lead a life of strict penance, declining to be ordained a priest. Meanwhile he was writing popular hymns in the vernacular. Jacopone suddenly found himself a leader in a disturbing religious movement among the Franciscans. The Spirituals, as they were called, wanted a return to the strict poverty of Francis. They had on their side two cardinals of the Church and Pope Celestine V. These two cardinals, though, opposed Celestine’s successor, Boniface VIII. At the age of 68, Jacopone was excommunicated and imprisoned. Although he acknowledged his mistake, Jacopone was not absolved and released until Benedict XI became pope five years later. He had accepted his imprisonment as penance. He spent the final three years of his life more spiritual than ever, weeping "because Love is not loved." During this time he wrote the famous Latin hymn, Stabat Mater. On Christmas Eve in 1306 Jacopone felt that his end was near. He was in a convent of the Poor Clares with his friend, Blessed John of La Verna. Like Francis, Jacopone welcomed "Sister Death" with one of his favorite songs. It is said that he finished the song and died as the priest intoned the Gloria from the midnight Mass at Christmas. From the time of his death, Brother Jacopone has been venerated as a saint.

JANUARY 26TH — SNOWBALL

Snow Ball on January 26th at Gaelic Park for $25.00. Lunch, Music and Show. Any questions and reservations call Virginia at 708-478-0737 or Anna at 708-532-6731.

JOIN THE CHAPLET OF DIVINE MERCY PRAYER GROUP

in the church after the 9am Mass every Wednesday. Rosaries

and chaplets will be provided.

Chaplet of the Divine Mercy Ministry

“Be not afraid.” — POPE JOHN PAUL II

December 18, 2011

Get Your Golden Opportunities Book Today!

Makes a great gift!

Only $20!

The Seniors of Seton are providing the best deal in town! Golden Opportunities Coupon books are available in the parish office for only $20! The coupon book offers many favorite local restaurants offering discounts of 50% off or 2-for-1. In addition, great savings at movies, grocery stores, sporting events, and much more! Most coupons are valid once a month.

Available in the parish office!

December 18, 2011 Page Fourteen FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT

Do you recognize this box? It is the Saint Vincent DePaul Society Offering Box

You are invited to give a monetary gift or Jewel food certificates which will go toward providing a better Christmas for families in our community.

SVDP Christmas Collection For your convenience, SVDP boxes are located at all the entrances of our church. We depend solely on the contributions placed in the donation boxes. SVDP mem-bers would like to thank all who contributed to the Thanksgiving collection—and to those who use the SVDP boxes at each entrance. All monies donated go directly to those in need. We service clients within our parish boundaries with emergency as-sistance for utilities, rent, security deposits, food, clothing, medical, dental, eye care and occasionally gasoline to get to a job site. As calls come throughout the year we look to your generosity and sense of sharing and justice to assist these people. It is your goodness that makes our work possible. May God continue to bless you.

MUST REGISTER BY 12-31-11 with deposit to receive

$100 Early Bird discount 11 Days 15 meals

2012 Departure May 14, 2012

PENTECOST SUNDAY Page Five June 12, 2011 December 18, 2011 FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Fifteen

SETON YOUTH PROGRAMSETON YOUTH PROGRAMSETON YOUTH PROGRAM

Sunday, Dec. 18th No Branches

Friday, Dec. 23rd 7:30pm Christmas Eve Eve Lock-In in the Gym Sign-up forms are due at least a week before. Must be a Branches member to attend. Get a form during TUF night or one of our other events.

NO TUF NIGHT WEDNESDAY, DEC. 28TH

TEENS UNDERSTANDING FAITH (T.U.F. NIGHT) IN THE TEEN ROOM WEDNESDAYS FROM 6:30-8:30PM

Drop into the Teen Room (inside the gym) for a night of relaxation, conversation, and fun with your friends every Wednesday night from 6:30-8:30pm. Bring homework, games, music, what-ever… we may even do some singing! Of course, it wouldn’t be TUF Night without a little B.S. — (Bible Study) caps it all off the last half hour.

If you have questions about upcoming

events or need more information please contact Bruce Hall at 708-403-7834.

Wednesday, Dec. 21st 6pm Annual Soup ‘R Salad Supper Night and Madrigal Singers Doors open at 6pm. Meeting begins at 6:30pm. Tickets are $3/members and $5/guests. Each participant is asked to bring an appetizer, soup, salad or dessert to share with serving utensils for each dish. We encourage everyone to bring a friend! After dinner, we will enjoy Christmas music from the Madrigals. Questions call Kathy at 614-0576 or Sue at 403-7834. If you want to participate in the Christ-mas grab bag, don’t forget to bring a wrapped gift worth up to $10. Great time to come and experience the warmth of the Women’s Club.

Mark your calendars! Monday, Jan. 16th

Annual Skating Party Arctic Ice Arena at 1pm Crafters and vendors are wanted

for our Vendor Fair on Sunday, March 4, 2012. For more details call Lynn Miller at 708-460-6113.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Women’s Club

You can qualify to receive a FREE Eating Well Guide with any purchase. If you participated in the FREEQUENT buyer pro-gram remember to place a third order of $40 in January to re-ceive a FREE insulated bag at the January sale pick-up. Help us reach our goal of $10,000. Every purchase helps us reach our goal! AND every purchase is 100% guaranteed. Sign-up at www.marketday.com to receive monthly newsletters, exclusive offers, and money saving coupons. Order forms due to church by Sunday, Jan. 8th or order online www.marketday.com school #16266 by 11pm on Jan. 14th. Pickup is Wednesday, Jan. 18th from 5:30-7pm in the Church Hall. Pay by credit card online or pay with cash or check at the sale. Contact Laurie Kman 708-532-6732 or Jen Krueger 708-873-1387 with questions. Wishing you a blessed Christmas.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Your Valued Opinion Please! The Archdiocese of Chicago needs your opinion! We are engaged in a process to understand how the needs of parishes and educational priorities within the Archdio-cese of Chicago may be addressed. You are invited to take a brief and anonymous online survey which will be available until Dec. 18th. Just follow this link: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/HSP8GN7

Page Sixteen FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 18, 2011

Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Catholic School Students Compete in “Olympics” Sixth grade students at CJB wore bed sheets as togas and competed in their own classroom “Olympics” to conclude their lesson on Ancient Greece. Events included an Olympic Torch relay race, the javelin throw (using a toothpick), the discus throw (using a foil covered cardboard disc), and the pole vault (using paper towel rolls, a straw, a spoon and a penny). An awards ceremony was held after the competition to honor the winners with Gold, Silver and Bronze medals. “By taking part in the Olympic Games, sixth grade students experienced one aspect of life in ancient Greece” said Social Studies teacher Barb Kristin. “The students learned how to compete in the games as if they were a part of that era. This was an enjoyable learning activity.” For information on CJB’s classroom activities and academic programs, visit ww.cardinaljbschool.com.

After “HO HO HO” comes “HA HA HA” SAVE THE DATE!

Saturday, Jan. 21st at 7pm

Get rid of the mid-winter blues with a tasty dinner and a lot of laughs!

Orland Chateau 14500 S. LaGrange, Orland Park

Hosted by St. Stephen, Deacon and Martyr Parish and Cardinal Joseph Bernardin School

First Annual Comedy Night Fundraiser

Gather your family and friends for an evening of laugh-ter, great food and FUN on Saturday, January 21 for the 1st Annual Comedy Night Fundraiser at the Orland Cha-teau in Orland Park. Doors open at 6pm, dinner is served at 7pm and the show kicks off at 8:30pm. The event will feature Bill Brady’s Comedy Capers Show…featuring the talents of Bill Brady, Gerry Grossman and Paul Kelly. Tickets are: $ 35 Dinner and Show $350 Table of 10 (includes dinner/show) $ 20 Show only (limited availability)

For more information, please call the St. Stephen Parish

office at 708-342-2400.

OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, January 29, 2012 1:00pm until 3:00pm

3-year-old Pre-K through 8th Grade

Kindergarten Presentations at 1:15pm 3- and 4-year old Pre-K Presentations at 1:45pm

Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Catholic School is a Nationally Recognized

Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

For more information visit www.cardinaljbschool.com

or email Cynthia Labriola Devlin cdevlin@cardinaljbschool.com or call 708-403-6525 x127

CJB Races to the Finish at Solar Car Competition Twelve CJB students competed in a Solar Car Competition on December 1st at St. Xavier University’s Orland Park campus. The students were grouped into teams of three, with two teams representing the 8th grade class and two teams representing the 7th grade class. CJB earned a 3rd place finish and a 4th place finish at the competition which included 16 local Catholic and public schools. “We were very pleased with our showing at the 1st Solar Car Competition at St. Xavier University,” said coach Christine Kirk. “The students were enthusiastic about the designing of their cars and it was a great way for them to use their creativity and problem-solving skills. They are already working on ways to improve their cars for next year’s competition.” The 3rd place winning team included 8th graders Jonathan Hoezel, Mike Wolf , and Nick O’Connell. The 4th place team included 7th graders Zach Flowers, Caitlin Shanahan, and Joe Wardell.

December 18, 2011 FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Seventeen

Pastoral Staff Rev. Richard Homa, Pastor Rev. Stanislaw Kuca, Associate Pastor Margie Guadagno, Pastoral Associate Donna Stolinski, Business Manager Claudia Nolan, Director of Liturgy Linda McKeague, Director of Music Elaine Pawlak, Religious Education Coordinator

Pastor Emeritus: Rev. William T. O’Mara

Resident Priest: Rev. William Gubbins

Deacon: Frank (Betty) Gildea Deacon: Joseph (Nancy) Bishop

Liturgy and Music Staff Claudia Nolan, Director of Liturgy Linda McKeague, Director of Music

Parish Office Staff Donna Stolinski, Business Manager Darlene Raila, Parish Publications Joan Nemec, Morning Receptionist Sharon Daley, Afternoon Receptionist

Religious Education Staff Elaine Pawlak, Catechetics Diana Barracca, Administration Karen Mirecki, Administration

Branches Youth Program Bruce Hall, Coordinator Rick Vlaming, Coordinator Rick Wojcik, Coordinator

Athletics Bob Myjak, Director

Maintenance Staff Raymond Yanowsky, Director of Maintenance Carlos Juarez, CJB Maintenance Coordinator Frank Siwiec, Staff Marie Makuch, Staff Joseph Shake, Staff Mike Makuch, Staff Mark Siwiec, Staff

REGULAR MASS SCHEDULE

Monday-Friday 9am Saturday 5pm

Sunday 7:15, 8:30, 10:00, 11:30am

St. Elizabeth Seton Church 9300 W. 167th Street Orland Hills, IL 60487

Parish Office: 708-403-0101 WEBSITE: WWW.STESETON.COM Religious Education: 708-403-0137

PARISH OFFICE HOURS: MONDAY-WEDNESDAY: 8:30AM-8:30PM THURSDAY-FRIDAY: 8:30AM-4:30PM SATURDAY-SUNDAY: 8AM-1PM

Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Catholic School 708-403-6525 Principal, Mary Iannucilli Administrative Assistant, Cindy Labriola Devlin

12/24 & 12/25 5:00PM 7:15AM 8:30AM 10:00AM 11:30AM GREETERS Please see

holiday schedule Please see holiday schedule

Please see holiday schedule

Please see holiday schedule

Please see holiday schedule

LECTORS Please see holiday schedule

Please see holiday schedule

Please see holiday schedule

Please see holiday schedule

Please see holiday schedule

ALTAR SERVERS

Please see holiday schedule

Please see holiday schedule

Please see holiday schedule

Please see holiday schedule

Please see holiday schedule

EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS

Please see holiday schedule

Please see holiday schedule

Please see holiday schedule

Please see holiday schedule

Please see holiday schedule

Attention All Ministers!

Ministers schedules are now available on our website at: www.steseton.com Then visit: Music and Liturgy

ST. ELIZABETH SETON PARISH INFORMATION

Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered on Saturday, between 4:15-4:45pm.

Sacrament of Baptism is celebrated twice monthly at 1pm. Reserve your time by calling the Pastoral Center early. We are limited to six children per Sunday.

Baptismal Couples preparing for the birth of their child should contact the Pastoral Center to register for a one night seminar, focusing on a parent’s role in his/her child’s faith development. This session is mandatory prior to the Baptism.

Anointing of the Sick is available in the Church every Monday after the 9am Mass. For those who are ill or facing hospitalization, it is appropriate to receive the sacrament once every six months. Please call the Pastoral Center for more information.

Ministry of Care is available to give Communion to the housebound, to visit and pray for hospitalized and/or to arrange for the Anointing of the Sick. Please call the Pastoral Center for assistance.

In the Hospital? Because of HIPAA Privacy regulations hospitals can no longer contact the parish regarding your hospitalization. It is the responsibility of you or a family member to notify our parish. We desire to offer whatever spiritual support we can. Please call the Pastoral Center.

Sacrament of Marriage Couples planning to marry are encouraged to make arrangements at least six months in advance.

Wedding Workshops are offered throughout the year. They provide engaged couples with guidelines and suggestions for the celebration of the Sacrament of Marriage. The workshop covers topics ranging from readings and music to flowers and video taping.

Adult Choir sings at all 10am Sunday Masses, as well as at a number of special liturgies.

Moving? Please call the office at 708-403-0101.

HELP IS A PHONE CALL AWAY: DOMESTIC ABUSE 24-HOUR HOTLINE: 708-429-SAFE

CRISIS PREGNANCY HOTLINE: 888-4-HOPE-4-1 HURTING FROM AN ABORTION?: 888-456-HOPE