Church of Our Lady of the Angels Pastoral Staffrector Fr. Peter Kirwin, ofm frpeter@thecasa.org x158vicar Fr. Joseph Schwab, ofm jschwabofm@thecasa.org x152deacon Dcn. Hervé Lemire, ofm deaconherve@cox.net in residence Fr. Alonso de Blas, ofm fatheralonso@yahoo.com x184Fr. Bill Bried, ofm frbill@thecasa.org x124liturgy and music Brian Kinzie brian@thecasa.org x127Norbert Zwickl casaliturgy@aol.com x126catechesis and sacraments Patty Tafolla dcm@thecasa.org x154high school youth minister James Whitaker youth@thecasa.org x122faith in action ministry (social action) Patti Sills-Trausch socialconcerns@thecasa.org x130Bonnie Wasniewski bonnie@thecasa.org x155Laura Libertore laura@thecasa.org x156wedding scheduling Nellie Castro pastoral@thecasa.org x171

Franciscan Renewal Center Administrative Staffexecutive director Fr. Joseph Schwab, ofm jschwabofm@thecasa.org x152general manager Charles Brown casa@thecasa.org x175executive assistant Rosa Rodriguez rosa@thecasa.org x186operations manager Mike Slivers mike@thecasa.org x129adult education, programs and retreats Pat Mullen patmullen@thecasa.org x160meetings and conferences Sue Force sue@thecasa.org x173Indra Tilgass-Rodney hosted@thecasa.org x164counseling and support groups Judith McHale counseling@thecasa.org x134spiritual direction Sharon Taszarek sharon@thecasa.org x162finance Kris Cook finance@thecasa.org x159Lora Nelson lora@thecasa.org x151volunteer opportunities Pat Bennier volunteer@thecasa.org x157the vision and its sustainability Sheri Baker sheri@thecasa.org x188Ryan Hill developmentpm@thecasa.org x145Patricia Lee patricialee@thecasa.org x147Rachel Oesterle casavision2@thecasa.org x161Sarah Privée sarah@thecasa.org x150Gordon Sims gordon@thecasa.org x128

Executive Committee of the FRC BoardDoug Olesen, Chair Alanna M. Mack, Treasurer William Anger, Vice Chair Tim Kerrigan, Secretary

Main Phone Number 480.948.7460Website: thecasa.org

THE CONVENTUAL CHURCH OF OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS

Page 2 • RENEWAL • thec asa.org

RENEWAL is published weekly by the Franciscan Renewal Center, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization 5802 E. Lincoln Dr., Scottsdale, AZ 85253. Federal Tax ID 86-0720036Printed by J.S. Paluch Company Inc. | Copyright 2014. All rights reserved.

The Spirit of Advent The spirit of Advent is one of sights,

sounds and participation in activities of relationship building. This season makes me search my clothes closet

for purple garments (actually violet for Advent) so that I can dress the part and act the part. Imagine what it would it be like to see a church full of people sporting something violet at worship (remembering, of course, to find something “pink or rose” to wear on the third week, called Gaudete Sunday), reflecting our joy in anticipation of the birth of Christ. Having an Advent wreath at home reminds me of my focus and preparation for Christmas, plus it makes the house smell good! The music for Advent is a little different from what we might be used to in the commercial world, since most of us grew up listening to Christmas carols beginning right after Thanksgiving. Church music sets a beautiful tone for me during Advent, and when people sing out their prayer it’s truly special. I love being surrounded by such beauty. Moreover, Advent offers the opportunity to carve out precious quiet time keeping me connected with God in prayer and with my sisters and brothers. Together we make our journey to Christmas and on the way discover opportunities for reaching out to those less fortunate sisters and brothers. At His birth, Jesus is wrapped in swaddling clothes, and this brings to mind “undie Sunday,” which we celebrated by collecting much needed socks and underwear for Andre House. Watching the blankets pile up at Christmas Masses during our annual blanket drive that provides warmth for those living on the streets is an awesome sight. Embrace the spirit of Advent and live it! Take the time to savor the season, and Christmas will be all the more special.

Blessings,

Fr. Peter Kirwin

The 2nd Sunday of Advent December 6 & 7, 2014 ~ Cycle B

thec asa.org • RENEWAL • Page 3

LITURGY CONNECTION

Simple Thoughts... Last week, our readings challenged us to not wait passively. They reminded us that Advent is an intentional time of preparation. This week, our readings make clear “who” we are waiting for. We have this season to prepare a place in our hearts to receive Christ anew. In our first reading, we hear words of comfort. Our God is coming, and nothing will keep Him from getting to us! He is coming to gather His lambs to Himself and care for us, His people. The prophet Isaiah called the Israelites, and calls us, to prepare His way, to look forward to the day when He will come to restore all people to a relationship with Him. In the Gospel, John the Baptist is the voice that echoes the first reading and is again calling us to prepare the way of the Lord. We must prepare ourselves to see our God, coming to be with us. John shows us one way we can do this: repent. Turning away from the things that are not of God helps us to see God more clearly in our lives. As Catholics, we have a beautiful way to celebrate our turning from sin. The Church gives us two forms of the Sacrament of Penance: one form is private and takes place between God, the ordained priest and the individual. Another form is celebrated together with the community where we acknowledge the broader implications of both our good and hurtful actions (and inaction). Here at The Church of Our Lady of the Angels we offer this form of “Communal Reconciliation” twice a year (once in Advent and the other during the season of Lent). These powerful liturgies remind us that we aren’t in this alone; we are always a community seeking to help one another come closer to God and each other. Consider for yourself if this is one way, this season, that you will respond to the voice that cries out in the desert, “Prepare the way of the Lord!” ~ The Church Staff

The night was lighted up like the day.

The story of St. Francis in Greccio will be told through some of the art in our new Church of Our Lady of the Angels. During Advent, we are sharing with you the story as it was written by St. Bonaventure.

Francis in Greccio, Part 2 (From St. Bonaventure’s “The Life of Saint Francis of Assisi”)

The manger was prepared, the hay had been brought, the ox and ass were led in. There simplicity was honored, poverty was exalted, humility was commended, and Greccio was made, as it were, a new Bethlehem. The friars were called together, the folk assembled, the wood echoed with their voices, and that night was made radiant and solemn with many bright lights, and with tuneful and sonorous praises. The night was lighted up like the day, and it delighted men and beasts. The man of God [St. Francis], filled with tender love, stood before the manger, bathed in tears, and overflowing with joy. Solemn Mass was celebrated over the manger, and Francis chanted the Holy Gospel. (To be continued next week...)

Art Glass Concept by Scott Parsons. Other photos by Peter Jordan

The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be celebrated with the entire community on Monday, December 15 at 7:00 pm. Come and experience the peace that comes from hearing the words of absolution.

A Call for Hospitality VolunteersWith Christmas approaching, the Hospitality Ministry is extending its annual appeal for volunteers to help us serve community members and visitors during this very important and busy time. Your help is greatly needed and appreciated. Help with greeting worshippers, handing out worshipping aids/church bulletins, gathering the collection, guiding the faithful to communion, etc. Sign up today!

For more information about Baptisms, Sacramental Preparation and Family Catechesis, please contact Patty Tafolla at 480.948.7460, ext. 154 or dcm@thecasa.org

FAMILY CATECHESIS & SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION

Page 4 • RENEWAL • thec asa.org

The Advent Adventure Continues!What is the Reason for the Season? Check it out!

www.smp.org/resourcecenter/resource/5414/

Second Sunday of AdventEnjoy a few minutes of prayer and reflection

with this video clip: www.smp.org/resourcecenter/resource/9531/

This week’s candle symbolizes “Faith and Love.”

Question of the Week:Who has pointed to Jesus for you?

Family Faith Activities Dec. 7: 2nd Sunday of AdventIn today’s gospel, John the Baptist tells us that something great is about to happen. The promised savior is coming! John tells the people to make room in their hearts for Jesus. John the Baptist has been sent to prepare the people for the coming of Jesus. The message that John shares with us is about repentance, the forgiveness of sins, as the way to welcome Jesus. To do this we must experience a change of heart and be truly sorry for our sins, then strive to live a gospel life! Ask your family to share a special event that you prepared for. How did you prepare? What happened at the event? Read Mark 1:1-8 and discuss:

• What does John the Baptist announce to the people?• What does John tell the people to do?• How do the people get ready for the coming of Jesus?

Who Are You? Activity: Get out the scrapbooks and share the story of everyone’s baptism. Who was there? Call some of those people to ask for details. What was the weather like? Was there a party? Who did you become through baptism?

Locust and Honey Snacks: You will need crescent roll dough, raisins, pretzels and honey. Shape the crescent rolls into bugs! Use raisins for eyes, pretzel sticks for legs and antennae. After baking, brush them with honey and enjoy locusts with honey!

Concluding Prayer: Loving God, help us get ready for the coming of Jesus. Let all the wonderful sights and smells of this season remind us to be ready to welcome Jesus. Amen.

Advent Time Saints and Feasts!Dec. 8: Immaculate Conception of Mary Did you know that Mary, the mother of Jesus, is the patron saint of the United States? This feast recognizes that Mary was born without sin. Two Franciscans, William of Ware and Blessed John Duns Scotus, helped develop this theology.Dec. 9: St. Juan DiegoVisit the mural of Juan Diego on the north side of the Guadalupe Shrine. Dec. 12: Our Lady of Guadalupe Patron of the AmericasDec. 13: St. Lucy One of only seven women mentioned in the Order of Mass prayersRead the stories of all these saints at:www.loyolapress.com/saints-stories-for-kids.htm?cId=402682

Come Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Fr. Alonso’s Ordination!

Saturday, December 20 5:00 pm Mass

St. Mary’s Basilica

A reception will follow in St. Mary’s Social Hall, located at 231 N. 3rd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004

All are welcome to attend.

For more information, please email:

bethk1932@gmail.com

thec asa.org • RENEWAL • Page 5

For the latest news and general information, visit us at thecasa.org or call the front desk at 480.948.7460

CASA YOUTH MINISTRY

For information on upcoming events, the latest news and forms , visit us at CasaYouth.org or call James Whitaker at 480.948.7460 ext. 122

Photo by Peter Jordan

coming soon

December 14 High School Meeting: “Are we there yet?” 5:00 pm in Longo

A few weeks ago, our high school teens joined St. Paul’s Parish youth on a spiritual retreat at Living Springs Camp in Sedona, Ariz. We focused on love, forgiveness, and compassion. The teens heard witness talks from their peers and discussed the interplay of these three concepts and how we are called as Catholic, Christians to live them out in our lives. As you celebrate this Advent season in waiting and preparation, I challenge you to find a few ways to show love through compassionate acts toward others. Seek and offer forgiveness where it is needed. Prepare to receive the heart of Jesus into your life once again by loving others as He has loved us. Take the opportunity to volunteer for one of the many events that our Casa family takes part in. Contact James (see below) to see how you can get involved. God bless.

Casa Youth and St. Paul’s Parish Youth members on a retreat at Living Springs Camp in Sedona, Ariz.

Blood Drive Sunday, December 14Did you know 17 percent of non-donors cite “never thought about it” as the main reason for not giving, while 15 percent say they’re too busy. You can save a life

by offering just one hour of your time. Schedule your appointment online for our next blood drive at BloodHero.com (Sponsor Code: Franciscan), or stop by the registration table in the Hospitality Area this morning. All donors receive a coupon for a FREE medium cheese pizza from Streets of New York.

Does Your Employer Participate in the United Way Workplace Campaign?

If so, you can make a paycheck deduction for the charity of your choice, and your employer will match your contribution. You can support the good works of the Casa by writing in “Franciscan Renewal Center” as your designated charity. We are grateful for the many ways the community blesses the Casa.

Help Wrap Our Neighbors in Warmth

Once again, we will be collecting blankets during all Christmas Masses.

All blankets will be given to the guests at Andre House to help keep them warm during the winter.

Please bring new or gently used blankets with you to Mass. You can use them at the outside Masses to keep warm and then donate them to Andre House. Blankets will be accepted at all the Christmas Day Masses, too. No children's blankets are needed.

Also, we need Volunteers to help after all the Masses. Gather your family or a group of friends, and volunteer together at one Mass time. Sign up at the Front Desk for the Mass time that works for you.

Bless the World with Your Gifts...Casa Grounds for Solidarity Sells Fair Trade–Plus Coffee. If you missed the sale this weekend, we also will sell goods on December 13 and 14.

Café Justo coffee sales give hope in the face of desperation by providing a viable living wage to Mexican growers and roasters.

Café Justo is excellent, pure, organic coffee, but the taste is even more exquisite when you know that you are reducing poverty for Mexican families in the spirit of justice. Our goal is to provide a means for people to remain on their family lands.

Remember to purchase enough for Christmas and hostess gifts this month.

If you would like to join this mninistry, contactEileen Waldron at: gewald@msn.com

FAITH IN ACTION MINISTRIES

Page 6 • RENEWAL • thec asa.org

Contact us at 480.948.7460 or email Patti Sills-Trausch at socialconcerns@thecasa.org, Laura Libertore at laura@thecasa.org or Bonnie Wasniewski at bonnie@thecasa.org

If you owe taxes to the State of Arizona, you can qualify for a tax credit and direct money towards organizations that provide assistance to low income residents

of our state. You choose the organization or agency to which you wish to donate, make that donation before the end of December 2014, and then claim that donation on your tax form when you file in April. If you are single, the tax credit is $200, and if your are married, it is $400. On the Arizona Department of Revenue website, you can find a list of qualifying organizations, which include many that we support throughout the year:

St. Vincent DePaul, The Justa Center, St. Mary’s Food Bank, Welcome to America Project, Catholic Charities, Arizona Career Pathways, Maggie’s Place and Habitat for Humanity.

You do not have to give your donation to just one place. Thus, you can divide your dollar amount between a variety of organizations. Also, you can still participate in the school tax credit.

Support a Veteran or Military Family At our December coffee sales, we are offering Casa community members the opportunity to purchase a bag of coffee for a veteran or military family. These will be donated to a local veteran organization. Look for the decorated box at the Casa Grounds for Solidarity table in the Hospitality Area.

Amidst the “hustle and bustle” of this season…

Treat yourself to some scripture reflection, and also help to lend our

voice to our common prayer.Just Scripture will meet on December 14 at 8:45 a.m in the Ventura room in Piper Hall. Join us and discuss how the Sunday readings connect with our daily lives.

No biblical training is necessary.

All are welcome.

Saturday - Sunday, December 6 - 7 & 13 - 14 A little action feeds a big hunger

As we prepare for the Christmas season, the Casa is planning its annual Food Card Collection Drive. This special collection offers our community the opportunity to open our hearts in prayer and giving for our Native American brothers and sisters.

You may purchase Bashas’ Food Cards (Bashas’ is on or near the reservations) at A.J.’s, Bashas’ or Food City. In addition, cash or check donations will be accepted and used to purchase Food Cards. We are unable to accept donations of food — perishable and non-perishable. The Food Cards will be divided among the Franciscan Missions serving:

• Whiteriver, Ariz. • San Carlos, Ariz.

The Whiteriver and San Carlos communities have requested Bashas’ Gift Cards in $25 amounts. However, you may donate any amount that you are able. The needs of our recipients are many, and they are very grateful for the generosity of the Casa community.

The Casa Angels Team will be in the Hospitality Area after each of the Masses to accept your donations.

Be the change you want to see in the world!To register for these Faith in Action Programs, call 480.948.7460 or visit thecasa.org

thec asa.org • RENEWAL • Page 7

FAITH IN ACTION PROGRAMS

Food Card Collection at the Casa

• Topawa, Ariz.• local hunger needs

Popcorn Pizza and Peace: Movie Night at the Casa

Friday, December 126:00 - 9:00 pm

“The Power of Forgiveness”

The “Power of Forgiveness” explores recent research into the psychological and physical effects of forgiveness on individuals and within relationships under a wide variety of conditions. This includes feature stories on the Amish, the 9/11 tragedy and peace-building in Northern Ireland, along with interviews with renowned Buddhist teacher Thich Nhat Hanh, Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel, best-selling authors Thomas Moore and Marianne Williamson and others. The film also explores the role forgiveness holds in various faith traditions.

After the film, we will hold small-group discussions facilitated by Pax Chrisiti-Phoenix members.

• Pizza and soft drinks are planned for 6:00 pm.

• The film will start approximately at 6:45 pm.

Fee: $10 includes pizza, refreshments, popcorn and the film. Registration required

For more information or to register for any of these programs please visit thecasa.org/programs-a-retreats or call 480.948.7460

Page 8 • RENEWAL • thec asa.org

ADULT EDUCATION & PROGRAMS

Franciscan Mentor Program New Year’s RetreatClaim the Old, Welcome the New, Visions of Hopewith Fr. Norm Douglas, Larry Vuillemin, JD, Donna DeFelice, MD; Deacon Phil LoCascio and Brian Kinzie

Tuesday, December 30 - Thursday, January 1

The challenges, set-backs and struggles of our daily lives and of the world around us can be daunting. We’ll look at what has happened, what is ahead, and ready ourselves with a strong spiritual focus on the hope our faith provides.

This dynamic retreat will be full of laughter, song, prayer and reflection.

What a great way to start the New Year! Retreat includes presentations, personal reflection time, sharing, music, prayer and a festive New Year’s Eve dinner and evening celebration (outside if weather permits).

Spiritual directors will be available to give retreatants an opportunity to share their faith journey in individual sessions.

Fees: Commuter: $135; Single: $225; Double: $175 ppregistration required

In the Footsteps of Francis and Clare Sources of Franciscan Spirituality

Saturdays, 9:00 am - NoonJan. 10, Feb. 7, Mar. 7, Apr. 18, May 16

This program educates community members about our founders, history, values and the Franciscan way of life.

Beginning in January, 2015 you may join us for one or all of these sessions (You need not have attended previous Mentor Program sessions to participate.):

Jan. 10: Healing at the Places of St. Francis Kathleen Osbelt, OSF

Feb. 7: The Role of Suffering Then and Now Joanne Schatzlein, OSF

Mar. 7: Back to Eden: Forgiveness and Healing John Quigley, OFM

Apr. 18: The Resurrection in the Franciscan Tradition Steven McMichael, OFMConv.

May 16: Mary’s Poverty; Christ’s Pardon Kathy Warren, OSF

Fee per session: $25 Registration required

Arizona Bible ClassWednesdays, 10:00 -11:30 amWinter Quarter: January 7, 14 (site to be announced), 21, 28; February 4, 11, 18, 25; March 4, 11

Kevin Saunders alternates his lectures between the testaments. Books from the Old Testament are followed by a study from a book in the New Testament.

Remember, no one is excluded because they cannot pay. Each session is recorded and will be posted on the ArizonaBibleClass.com website. This means that you will never have to miss a class.

Fee: $65 no pre-registration required (register in lobby)

For more information or to register for any of these programs please visit thecasa.org/programs-a-retreats or call 480.948.7460

thec asa.org • RENEWAL • Page 9

ADULT EDUCATION & PROGRAMS

Kevin Saunders holds a Master’s Degree in New Testament from the University of Notre Dame. He has lived and studied the Bible in Jerusalem, attending graduate courses at the acclaimed École Biblique. Kevin leads annual tours to the lands of the Bible.

T’ai Chi/Qigong – For Health & Harmony (Beginners)

Mondays, 6:30 - 7:30 pm5-Week Session Dates:Session 1: January 5, 12, 19, 26, February 2 Session 2: February 9, 16, 23, March 2, 9Session 3: March 16, 23, 30, April 6, 13

T’ai Chi and Qigong are easy-to-learn movements recommended by the American Medical Association for reducing stress while increasing one’s natural energy and health. Wear loose clothing and comfortable shoes.

Don Fiore is a certified T’ai Chi/Qigong instructor and Feng Shui consultant. He has taught at Scottsdale Healthcare, Thunderbird Samaritan Hospital and Phoenix City Hall.

Fee: $60 for 5-week program Registration required

The Art of Intentional Loving: A Path to Creating Happiness, Harmony and Intimacy in Your Relationships

Wednesdays, 7:00 - 9:00 pmJanuary 7 – February 25 (No class, Feb. 18)

What does it mean to love intentionally? How do we do it?

Dr. Lawrence invites us to examine our core needs for love and attachment and to gain awareness of the part they play in making our relationships flourish or fail.

Gabrielle Lawrence, PhD is a licensed psychologist and a certified counselor in the State of Arizona, a clinical member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, a registered Play Therapy Supervisor and a Certified Trauma and Loss Specialist.

Fee: $95 registration required

Marriage Preparation: “Marriage in the Lord”

Saturdays, 8:30 am – 5:30 pmJanuary 10, March 14, or May 2

These classes are for couples of whom neither partner has previously been married.

The entire one-day program must be completed to receive a certificate of completion that fulfills the requirements for the Married Life Skills Training, Step 3, of the Diocese of Phoenix marriage preparation program.

Fee per couple: $110 (Includes workbook and lunch) Registration necessary

RENEWING LIVES Ourselves. Our Communities. Our World.

Six ways you can support the Casa’s good worksThe Casa is seeking gifts for its Annual Appeal (operations) and Capital Campaign (building). This year, help is especially needed in all areas. 1. Programs & Operations(Sustainability)Sustain the on-going activities and day-to-day needs of the Casa through Sunday collections, Annual Appeal, or Tau Society multi-year pledge.

2. New Construction (Capital)Support renovation and new building with a gift restricted to construction needs.3. Planned gifts of Estate (Endowment)Such contributions are invested so principal remains intact, while monthly distributions may provide operational support.

4. Special CollectionsCertain special collections support friars’ needs, Catholic organizations or like-minded causes.5. VolunteerismGifts of time are a s v a l u a b l e a s financial support. Volunteers help reduce administrative costs while emboldening our community.6. ParticipationYour attendance at retreats, workshops, classes – or by bringing an organization here to rent meeting & conference space – can contribute more than 1/3 of the financial support needed annually at the Casa.

Since 1951, the Casa has been renewing lives through spiritual growth, healing and transformation, and serving others.

133,000 visits to the Casa’s campus in FY 2014

“For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.” - Matthew 6:21

Financial Results for October 2014

Vision Corner

Page 10 • RENEWAL • thec asa.org

For more information regarding the RENEWING LIVES initiative, or to contribute material to the Vision Corner, please call 480.948.7460, ext. 186 or email communications@thecasa.org

Photo by Peter Jordan

Each month we will report financial results for the Franciscan Renewal Center. Below are results for the period of October 1- 31, the second month in our fiscal year.

Month YTD % to goal 2014 - 15 GoalPrograms and Retreats: $22,713 8.3% $407,240

Meetings & Conferences: $79,981 14.4% $853,100

Sustainability (Sunday collections, Annual Appeal, Tau pledges paid this month): $220,019 29.8% $807,490

By Oct. 2015 Capital pledges since inception $14,699,638 73.5% $20,000,000

COUNSELING MINISTRY

For more information about hosting your next non-profit event at the Casa, please call 480.948.7460, ext. 134 or counseling@thecasa.org

We Are Here for YOU…We welcome all who are interested in attending.

Counseling Support GroupsNo appointments required for groups listed below

Monday: 6:30 - 8:00 pm: Divorce & Separation/Relationship EndingsTuesday: 5:30 - 7:00 pm: Grief Support Group 6:30 - 8:30 pm: Depression Support Group

Individual SessionsIndividual sessions are available mornings, afternoons and evenings, Monday - Friday, and require an appointment.

To make an appointment, please call the Counseling Ministry at 480.948.7460 ext. 133, 8:30 am - Noon. If you know someone who is looking for help, answers, guidance or just needs someone to listen, please suggest our counseling ministry.

Judith McHale, MA, LPC, Director of Counseling Ministry

For more information about hosting your next non-profit event at the Casa, contact Sue Force at 480.948.7460, ext. 173 or sue@thecasa.org. Visit us at CasaMeetings.org

thec asa.org • RENEWAL • Page 11

MEETINGS & CONFERENCES

We offer non-profit organizations an exclusively serene gathering place for meetings, conferences, and special events. With spaces and lodging designed to inspire the mind and soothe the spirit, as well as exceptional food to nourish the body, the Franciscan Renewal Center is a wellness plan for non-profits that allows them to renew and recharge.

Take a Google Virtual Tour of the campus at CasaMeetings.org. We appreciate referrals of churches, non-profits or government entities. Contact Sue Force, Director of Meetings and Conferences (see below).

• Comfortable conference rooms of various sizes• Private guest rooms with individual baths• A/V equipment and high speed internet• Full-service dining room featuring

buffet-style meals

• Poolside and courtyard area for relaxing under the sun or stars

• Quiet places for reflection including the Meditation Chapel and Healing Garden

• Views of Camelback and Mummy mountains

The Casa Prayer Partners Ministry petitions prayers and prays for our human family. Send requests to: CasaPrayerPartners@gmail.com

COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD

For the latest news and general information, visit us at thecasa.org or call the front desk at 480.948.7460

Page 12 • RENEWAL • thec asa.org

How to Submit Your Bulletin Information:E–mail: bulletin@thecasa.orgDrop Off: at the front desk (Attn: Bulletin)Fax: 480.948.2325Deadline: Two weeks in advance of bulletin issue Community member with visual impairment seeks someone to drive and accompany her from Arcadia to occasional evening events at the Casa. Will pay driver’s event fee. Cheryl 602.840.2163

Dog Sitting services provided at my home, with a pet-loving family. Big grassy yard with lots of places to explore. Sure beats a a cage or cubicle in a kennel or pet hotel, and it’s more affordable, too! Suzana 602.418.8413

Assistance for older adults provided by mature, responsible woman with excellent experience and references. Grace 480.518.3115

Seeking FT/PT Nanny and/or Vacation Pet Care Position: In your home. Paradise Valley to Cave Creek, Carefree & N. Scottsdale. 36+ yrs exp. Former school employee. Fingerprint clearance. References available. Cathy Fimiani 908.216.1093 or cuinaz58@yahoo.com

House-sitting services provided by long-time Casa community member. Immediately available. Mary 602.617.2568

The Casa may publish requests in this space but it does not reflect our endorsement or knowledge of the people submitting the information. We reserve the right to edit all submissions.

The Casa Single Adult MinistryWidowed? Divorced? Never married? Single spiritual men and women of all ages gather to share their journey with like-minded people of faith. We meet at 6:30 pm on the 2nd Friday of every month and often organize outside activities to keep the group connected. Confirm upcoming meeting dates and join our mailing list at: spiritualsinglesouls@gmail.com.

AZ Males We meet at 7:00 pm on the last Wednesday of the month. The discussions typically focus on the teachings and philosophy of Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM. Visit azmalespirituality.com to confirm meeting dates.

Men in SpiritWe are a men’s group in search of guidance and strength, bonded by common challenges and faith in a God who knows us and is always with us. We meet on the 1st Saturday of every month. Please join us for 7:00 am Mass, followed by breakfast and our meeting. Contact jmccroy@yahoo.com to confirm upcoming meeting dates and discussion topics.

About the Franciscan Renewal Center

The Franciscan Renewal Center began in 1951 as a place for retreat programs. Affectionately known as the “Casa de Paz y Bien” or simply “the Casa,” it is today a Catholic renewal center in Paradise Valley, Ariz., offering spiritual growth, healing and transformation that moves lives into the service of others. The Casa is an active religious community of the Order of Friars Minor — part of the worldwide Franciscan family, following in the footsteps of Sts. Francis and Clare of Assisi. The Casa is a wholly owned entity of the Franciscan Province of Saint Barbara, based in Oakland, Calif., that works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix.Activities at the Casa include daily and Sunday Mass, retreats, gathering space for non-profit groups, licensed behavioral health counseling, as well as more than 50 volunteer ministries that give aid to the poor or vulnerable, empower individuals to improve their circumstances, and build community fellowship.

Discover more at TheCasa.org

Books and BlessingsA bookstore and spiritual boutique at the Franciscan Renewal Center

Monday - Friday 10:00 am - 2:00 pmSaturday 10:00 am - 6:30 pmSunday 8:30 am - 2:00 pm 5:30 - 8:30 pm

Cornerstone at the Casa offers meditation sessions every Monday and Friday at 11:30 am in the Meditation Chapel and every Wednesday at 11:30 am in the Casita. All are welcome - no charge.

For the latest news and general information, visit us at thecasa.org or call the front desk at 480.948.7460

thec asa.org • RENEWAL • Page 13

Contact Ryan Hill to learn more about the La Verna Legacy Society and estate planning with the Franciscan Renewal Center. Call 480.948.7460, ext. 145, or visit thecasa.org/planned-giving.

Give the Gift of FaithThe love you have for our community can go on forever when you include the Franciscan Renewal Center (the “Casa”) in your will or other estate plans. With endowment funds, the principal is kept intact while distributions from growth and earnings provide the Casa with a steady stream of income forever.

Helping to ensure the continuity of the Casa.

La Verna LEGACY SOCIETY

Catholics Can Come HomePeople have told us they decided to come to these gatherings because they had one or more of these experiences:

• Drifted away from the Church • Hold some hurt or anger about the Church • Find the Catholic religion is no longer relevant

7:00 - 8:30 pm Thursdays, January 22 - March 5

St. Barbara Room at the Casa

Join us if you are curious about the Catholic Church of today, or if you know someone who has walked with us before…would you invite them to join us?

Contact Gwendolyn Schran 602.549.3269 or email at gschran@gmail.com for more information

December 7, 2014 • Second Sunday of Advent

thec asa.org • RENEWAL

This Week at the Casa

Sunday 9:00 am RCIA for Children5:00 pm Hogan’s Heroes5:00 pm Youth Ministry Meeting

Monday11:30 am Cornernerstone Meditation Session6:00 pm Rosary6:30 pm Divorced & Separated Support Group

Tuesday5:30 pm Grief Support Group6:00 pm Rosary6:30 pm Depression Support Group7:00 pm Catechetical Session

Wednesday10:00 am Arizona Bible Class11:30 am Cornerstone Meditation Session6:00 pm Rosary7:00 pm Holy Listening with Spiritual Companions

Thursday 7:45 am Contemplative Prayer9:30 am Daughters of Eve6:00 pm Rosary

Friday11:30 am Cornerstone Meditation Session5:00 pm Grief and Loss Retreat5:45 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet6:00 pm Popcorn Pizza and Peace

Saturday9:00 am Franciscan Mentor Program3:30 pm “Pace Minore” Children’s Music & Dance

Some of these events require advance registration. Please visit thecasa.org or call 480.948.7460 for more information.

Readings & Mass Intentions December 7 - 13, 2014

Sunday Is 40:1-5, 9-11; Ps 85:9-14; 2 Pt 3:8-14; Mk 1:1-8 Benefactors FMU 7:30 am Pro Populo 9:15 am Judy Teets 11:00 am Louis Volpe 7:00 pm

Monday Gn 3:9-15, 20; Ps 98:1-4; Eph 1:3-6, 11-12; Lk 1:26-38 Josephina Leon 7:00 am

Tuesday Is 40:1-11; Ps 96:1-3, 10ac, 11-13; Mt 18:12-14 Nicholas Bonanno 7:00 am

Wednesday Is 40:25-31; Ps 103:1-4, 8, 10; Mt 11:28-30 Mildred Devine 7:00 am

Thursday Is 41:13-20; Ps 145:1, 9, 10-13ab; Mt 11:11-15 Patricia Denison 10:00 am Friday Zec 2:14-17 or Rv 11:19a; 12:1-6a, 10ab; Jdt 13:18bcde, 19: Lk 1:26-38 or Lk 1:39-47 Daniel G. Castro 7:00 am Saturday Sir 48:1-4, 9-11; Ps 80:2ac, 3b, 15-16, 18-19; Mt 17:9a, 10-13 Louis Baiad 7:00 am Jack and Linda Bergen 5:00 pm (50th Wedding Anniversary) Next Sunday Is 61:1-2a, 10-11; Lk 1:46-50, 53-54; 1 Thes 5:16-24; Jn 1:6-8, 19-28

The intentions listed here will be the intentions of the priest and will not be announced to the gathered assembly.