St. John XXIII Catholic Church
13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers, FL 33912 | P 239-561-2245 | F 239-561-3713 | www.johnxxiii.netDecember 9, 2018
GiveUs
S E C O N D S U N DAY O F A D V E N T
St. John XXIII Catholic Parish in Fort Myers, Inc. a Florida non-profit corporation
MASS SCHEDULEDaily Masses:Monday-Saturday, 8:00amRosary-7:30am (Mon.-Sat.)Divine Mercy after 8am MassWeekend Masses:Saturday Mass 8:00am, 4:00pm, Vietnamese Mass 8:00pmSunday, 7:15am, 9:15am, & 11:15amSpanish Mass: 1:15pm first Sunday each monthReconciliation:Saturday 8:30-9:00amFirst Friday Adoration:Friday 8:30-9:00amPastorRev. Robert TabbertParochial VicarsFr. Saji Ellickal [email protected] Fr. Lawrence M. [email protected] Rich [email protected] Nick [email protected] Francis [email protected] OFFICE HOURS: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-Noon | 1:00-4:00pm239-561-2245
The Mission of St. John XXIII Catholic Church is to actively engage all those who desire to more fully accept and live out the message of Christ, welcoming and respecting all people regardless of background, history, race or color, as we strive to nurture spiritual growth and personal holiness on our journey to become more responsible stewards of God’s gifts.
Pastoral TeamBusiness ManagerHolly [email protected]______________________Maintenance SupervisorRob Erp 239-561-2245______________________ Dir. of Faith FormationChris [email protected] 239-561-7499______________________ BookkeeperAna [email protected]______________________ ReceptionistMaryAnn [email protected]______________________ Admin. AssistantJennifer [email protected]______________________ Coordinator of Parishioner Engagement Jennifer [email protected]______________________ Bulletin EditorColleen [email protected]______________________ Director of Music MinistriesThomas [email protected]______________________ Thrift Store ManagerCynthia [email protected] S. Tamiami Trail #110Ft. Myers, FL 33908
______________________ Parish Life CenterCoordinatorIvette [email protected] 239-561-2245______________________Coordinator/High School& Young Adult MinistryBeth [email protected] 239-561-3022______________________Coordinator/Middle School& Young Adult MinistryKelly [email protected] 239-561-3022______________________ Faith Formation AssistantTrisha [email protected] 239-561-7499 ______________________ Office AssistantBrenda [email protected]______________________ Admin. AssistantBarbara [email protected]
PART-TIME EMPLOYEES:THE 2019 MASS BOOK IS OPEN THROUGH JUNE 2019
To ensure availability throughout the year, we must limit requests for the English speaking Masses to no more than (2) weekend Masses and (2) weekday Masses for the entire year. Other options will remain available: Tabernacle Candle $15 per week, Eucharistic Host $15 per week.
MINISTRY TO THE SICK: A priest is on call 7 days a week, 24hrs a day for these hospitals:Health Park - St. Columbkille Church 239-489-3973Lee Memorial - St. Francis Xavier Church 239-334-2161Gulf Coast - St. John XXIII239-561-2245RECEIVING THE SACRAMENT: You are able to receive the Sacrament of the Sick before being admitted to a facility.St. Columbkille - Hope Hospice239-489-39739470 Health Park Circle,Ft. Myers, FL St. Raphael - Lehigh Acres Health & Rehab Center239-369-21941550 Lee Blvd, Lehigh Acres, FLHope Hospice 239-369-1831 1201 Wings Way, Lehigh Acres, FLSt. Leo - Hope Hospice239-992-090127200 Imperial Pkwy,Bonita Springs, FLSt. Vincent de Paul - Discovery Village 239-693-08182073 Lafayette St, Ft. Myers, FLSt. Vincent de Paul - Promise Hospital 239-693-08182073 Lafayette St, Ft. Myers, FL
Mass Inten t i on s
DECEMBER 16TH, 2018 - READINGS • 1ST READING ZEP 3:14-18A • 2ND READING PHIL 4:4-7• GOSPEL LK 3:10-18
December 9, 2018
Saturday, December 8th8:00 AM † Janet Hickey by Peter & Rosanne Meade
12:00 PM † Greysen Gregory by The St. John Pastoral TeamVIGIL MASS 4:00 PM Parishioners of St. John XXIII
8:00 PM † Teresa & PaulSunday, December 9th
7:15 AM † Elaine Sayres & Debi Grace-Smith by Linda Sayres9:15 AM † Lisa Pacifico by Aunt Peggy
11:15 AM ♥ Russell & Sandra Duttko - 50th Wedding Anniversary Monday, December 10th
8:00 AM † Teresa Prendergast by Rich & Marie Mullen Tuesday, December 11th
8:00 AM † Amelia Ruiz by Marian LoudenWednesday, December 12th
8:00 AM † Francis Kehoe by Josephine SmiarowskiThursday, December 13th
8:00 AM † Richard Tymec by Margaret Friday, December 14th
8:00 AM † Lloyd Kollasch by his wife, MarianneSaturday, December 15th
8:00 AM † Philip Stofanak by Bernie & Arlene Altmann4:00 PM † Louise Jackson & Harold Downs by
William Jackson & Dorothy Downs Jackson8:00 PM † Teresa & Maria Sunday, December 16th
7:15 AM † Mark Schupp by Jim & Marilyn Kovarik9:15 AM † Lawrence Arcarese by Larry & Sharon Waldsmith
11:15 AM † Angela LaPorte by Hubert Hudson
MASS TIME CHANGEFOR SATURDAYS ONLY3:30pm & 5:30pm MassesJanuary 5th - April 14th
FYI
Pastoral TeamBusiness ManagerHolly [email protected]______________________Maintenance SupervisorRob Erp 239-561-2245______________________ Dir. of Faith FormationChris [email protected] 239-561-7499______________________ BookkeeperAna [email protected]______________________ ReceptionistMaryAnn [email protected]______________________ Admin. AssistantJennifer [email protected]______________________ Coordinator of Parishioner Engagement Jennifer [email protected]______________________ Bulletin EditorColleen [email protected]______________________ Director of Music MinistriesThomas [email protected]______________________ Thrift Store ManagerCynthia [email protected] S. Tamiami Trail #110Ft. Myers, FL 33908
______________________ Parish Life CenterCoordinatorIvette [email protected] 239-561-2245______________________Coordinator/High School& Young Adult MinistryBeth [email protected] 239-561-3022______________________Coordinator/Middle School& Young Adult MinistryKelly [email protected] 239-561-3022______________________ Faith Formation AssistantTrisha [email protected] 239-561-7499 ______________________ Office AssistantBrenda [email protected]______________________ Admin. AssistantBarbara [email protected]
December 9, 2018
n Saturday, December 8thCraftie Ladies Craft SaleKofC Selling Christmas MagnetsFeast of Immaculate Conception8am & 12pm Holy Day MassesVigil Mass 4pm Vietnamese Mass 8pm_____________________________
n Sunday, December 9thCraftie Ladies Craft SaleKofC Selling Christmas Magnets Second Sunday of Advent7:15, 9:15 & 11:15am MassesSing/Ring Choir Rehearsal/Choir Loft 8:45am9:15am Mass - Rite of Acceptance& Welcoming by RCIA Session/Rms St. Martha & St. Mary 10:30amBreakfast with Santa after the 9:15am & 11:15am Masses65+ Sunday Brunch/Heritage Palms Country Club/10:45amConfirmation Yr 2/RoomsSt. Martha & St. Mary 6pm____________________________
n Monday, December 10thMen's Gospel Forum/RoomsSt. Martha & St. Mary 7amCraftie Ladies/Villas 1pmKofC/Rooms St. Martha &St. Mary 7pm_____________________________
n Tuesday, December 11thOpening the Word/RoomsSt. Bernadette & St. Michael 9amBereavement/Rooms St. Bernadette & St. Michael 1pmLector Leadership Meeting/Rooms St. Martha & St. MarySpanish Rosary/Cry Room 6pmChoir Practice/Choir Loft 6:30pm_____________________________
n Wednesday, December 12thBlessed Little Angels/Lakes Park Train Playground 10amFaith Formation Session I/Main Hall 4:15pmMSYG Pizza Sales/PLC 5:30pmChildren's Choir Practice/Choir Loft 5:25pmFaith Formation Session II/Main Hall 6pmMSYG/PLC 6pm Middle School Choir Practice/Choir Loft 7:17pm_____________________________
n Thursday, December 13thParish Advisory Council Meeting/Rooms St. Martha & St. MaryChoir/Choir Loft 6pm_____________________________
n Friday, December 14th_____________________________
n Saturday, December 15thWG Cookie & Candy SaleChristmas Pops Concert Dress Rehearsal/Main Hall 10amVigil Mass 4pm Vietnamese Mass 8pm_____________________________
n Sunday, December 16thWG Cookie & Candy Sale Third Sunday of Advent7:15, 9:15 and 11:15amMassesSing/Ring Choir Rehearsal/Choir Loft 10:45amRCIA 9:15am Mass followed by 10:30am Session/RoomsSt. Bernadette & St. MichaelChristmas Pops Concert/Main Hall 1:30pmHSYG Spirit Night/Main Hall 6pm_____________________________ | PAGE 3 |
Knights of Columbus Service in the Memorial Garden at 12:30pmKnights of Columbus Service in the Memorial Garden at 12:30pm
THE TRUE MEANING OF ADVENT
GodCome s f o rUsby: Stephen Beale - Catholic Exchange
Pope Francis
“Advent is a journey towards Bethlehem. Maywe let ourselves be drawn by the light of God.”
“Seek and you will find”, Jesus told his disciples. This command is possible only through God, who moves us to seek and enables us to find Him. “For God is the one who, for his good purpose, works in you both to desire and to work,” as Paul states in Philippians 2:13.In the Old Testament, Abraham is called out of his home city of Ur to become a desert nomad, where he encounters God. The Israelites wander in the desert before arriving in the Promised Land where they experience the presence of God. Elijah strikes out into the desert and finds God in a mountain cave. Later, an exiled remnant of Israel will return home.But this is only half the story. In Advent, the hinges of history turn the other way. God seeks us out. This is what happens in the Incarnation. Heaven comes to earth. The invisible meets the visible. The infinite is inscribed in the finite.Man could always imagine the ascent to God. He could conceive becoming more than what he was. The limits of his own existence taught him to long for more, as St. Augustine realized.But it never occurred to man that God might first come looking for him. He never dreamt that God might descend to him. That God would not only do this but also become one of us—in the fullness of our humanity all the while losing none of His divinity—was beyond the imagination of ancient man.Heaven arrived on earth, but there no armies of angels that stormed the land, no horsemen of the apocalypse deliver God’s wrath to sinners, no fire and brimstone, no earthquakes or eclipses. Instead, angels sing songs to sleepy shepherds. A couple takes shelter in a cave. A woman gives birth to a son.What makes the Incarnation so great is that it was so small. God did not need conquering armies or avenging angels to announce His arrival on earth. No clouds of fire or quaking mountains accompanied His descent. The kingdom of heaven broke into earth not with a cry of battle but instead the cry of a newborn—because nothing could be more powerful than the fullness of God’s presence in single human being and no voice could echo through eternity like the divine Word Incarnate.In becoming fully man, God came to us in a way that stirs us to seek Him all the more. He came as a child, born at night, hidden in a cave. This is the lesson of the shepherds watching by night and the three wise men who journey from the East. We do not need to tunnel through the bowels of the earth or walk on the bottom of the sea to find God. He has already crossed the chasm of the infinite to find us. Seek and find Him because He is present to us even now.
Elaine Quan Ryan NovajaskyLynne HaugheyLinda SayresCarol ClausenMarlene LaRoseErika Arquilla HlavacekBernadette FrammarinoAntoinette Bosco Debbie Bintz Bates Al OldsNila MolnarElizabeth AndrewsPaul A. Lochner Jr.Michael AssanteEdward GrobRichard NetherlyHelen MannionDaniel Gelder
Kay NervieMarianne DicksonEric SanchezTherese Carmelite Nancy UhlGerald SnyderPaula MattrasBruce CarmodyDonna BairSharron KowpowskiJanet LenzFernando EspinozaTerry DugginsTom StankowskiTim SmithJill SokoloffMary CollinsGenevieve WiesenJuan Cruz
| PAGE 4 |
Please remember in your prayers all of our parish family and friends who suffer physically, emotionally or spiritually, especially:
These names are kept in the bulletin for one month. If you would like continual prayer, please add your name to the prayer book in the Narthex. The best way to ensure your loved ones are consistently prayed for within our greater E-Prayer Community - email Betsy Engelbrecht at [email protected] names will be circulated to an ever-growing list of people who will pray for them by name!
Pray e r Li s t
In Memory of: Theresa LeBreckRequested by: The Harley's
Tabernac l eCandle
Life is changed, not ended. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord!President George H.W. Bush
Prayers forEternal Life
Way s t o Memo r i a l i z eFor requests to memorialize a loved one, you may call or stop in our Parish office.
CREDIT CARD POLICY:We MUST request that any credit card transactions made at St. John XXIII be a minimum of $25. Thank You!
FYI
AdventR E C O N C I L I A T I O N
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18THOur Advent Reconciliation Service with Individual Confession will be available at 7pm.
ADVENT PRAYER2ND SUNDAY
All-powerful, most holy, most high, supreme God: all good,
supreme good, totally good, You Who alone are good, may we
give You all praise, all glory, all thanks, all honor, all blessing,
and all good. So be it! So be it!
Amen
Prepa r e t h eWay
| PAGE 5 |
• Have You Listened to Our Podcasts? Listen to our weekly inspirational messages from Father Bob and homilies from Mass. Visit our site weekly at johnxxiii.podbean.com
• “Like” our Facebook Page! For all the latest happenings and inspirational messages “Like” us on Facebook. Just search “St. John XXIII Catholic Church".
• Our Weekly Newsletter: Visit our website, johnxxiii.net, scroll down to “Stay Connected” and enter your email address.
• Download Our Parish App: Foster a stronger parish life at St. John XXIII and better engage the New Evangelization. Download our app today at myparishapp.com or search your phone’s app store for myparish. You can also text the word “APP” to 88202!
• St. John XXIII Catholic Church Mass Times: Stay up to date and visit: http://johnxxiii.net/info/new-mass-schedule/ for our Mass schedule.
• Directory of Perpetual Adoration Chapels: If you are visiting, vacationing or away from home, you can find churches that provide Adoration by visiting http://www.therealpresence.org/states/perp.htm
• Interested in Serving our Parish Family During Mass? Men, women and teens may serve as a Greeter, Usher, Lector, or Eucharistic Minister. Please contact the parish office at (239) 561-2245, if you feel called to serve in any of these areas, we can use your time and talent!
• Nonperishable Donations: When you are coming to Mass, please consider dropping off any nonperishable items in designated baskets located in the Narthex. These items help supply our food pantries and help those in need.
• Low Gluten Hosts: If you are interested in receiving low gluten hosts at Mass, then please go to the Sacristy before Mass begins to make your request with a Sacristan.
• Heavenly Children: This ministry was founded to allow families who have lost children to gather together with other parents who understand the pain of losing a child. Please contact Emily Johnson at [email protected] for more information.
• Journey to Hope: We offer support and education to families with mental illness or with dual diagnosis. The next meeting will take place Friday, January 4th at St. John XXIII in Rooms St. Martha & St. Mary.
• People Asking For Money Outside of Church: We remind you that if there is anyone asking for money around the Church outside of Mass at our exits, ignore them. We have been contacted by the police regarding a group of professionals who travel to various churches. Be generous in giving to our Poor Boxes. That is where and how we can assist those who are truly in need. Be sure to take your purses with you to Communion.
• FREE Rosary Repair: Send broken rosaries in a padded envelope to: Betty & Dick Holden, 7930 Estero Blvd., #502, Ft. Myers Beach, FL 33931. Rosaries will be returned within a week of receipt. Old or broken rosaries may also be donated, repaired and sent to the missions. For more information email: [email protected] or call Dick at (239) 463-3993
• If you are hospitalized at Gulf Coast Hospital and would like to be visited by one of our Eucharistic Ministers or our Parish nurses, please let the Hospital Admissions Office know you are from our parish and contact our parish office, as well. Once you go home, if you are unable to attend Mass and would like to have the Eucharist brought to you, please call the parish office. (239) 561-2245
General AnnouncementsNew Parish ioner s
Those who are new to our Parish this year, and those who’ve been coming for years without being registered, we need your help in staying organized and planning for our future needs. Having an accurate database of our parishioners will help us know where and how we need to grow. Thank you to everyone who registered with our Parish. If you have not received a welcome letter, please call the Parish Office to confirm your registration. All new parishioners, and those interested in registering in our Parish, are invited to attend The New Parishioner Orientation on Sunday, January 20th, 2019 at 12:30pm.This is your opportunity to become informed and active members of the Parish and participate in our various ministries. Registering at St. John XXIII is a declaration of your desire to be part of a Catholic community. Please let the parish office know your email address OR you can even update it on the Parish website! www.johnxxiii.net Frequently, those seeking to celebrate Marriage, Baptisms or serve as sponsors for Confirmation or Baptism request a letter stating that they are parishioners. To receive such a letter, one must be registered in the parish, attend Mass regularly, and be committed to stewardship of time, talent and treasure. One means of verifying participation is through the use of parish offertory envelopes. If you choose not to participate in the support of the parish or are unable to contribute at this time, please at least note your prayerful support on your envelope and place it in the weekly offertory basket.
Our Mili tary Personne lPRAYERS FOR
WELCOME
Dean & Carrie UlrichBruce BepplerCarol McCloskeyAmy SukayPaige Galvin
n
n
n
n
n
Eugene PalumboE. Thomas & Joanne NorrisRobert & Deborah Van ArnumStephen WilhelmFrancis McNelis
n
n
n
n
n
PFC Bryan BardSean BallMajor Bart BomaStaff Sgt. Dennis CosgroveSgt. Phil DelliboviStaff Sgt. Chris DominskiCPT Andrew Dugan, Spec. Forces Captain Andrew DuguaySgt. Jared GaudetTech Sgt Jeffrey K. Green1st Lt. Kellyn HallAndrew Herman1st Lt. Paige HortmanSgt. Kathleen Hudepohl PFC Michael P HughesSPC Michael JednakPFC Andrew KanopkhMichael KlemCapt. Bradley D. LauxLt. Jacob Mundo, US ArmySgt. Nicholas Mundo, USMC
SSGT Anthony Padula LCP James Palenik Master SGT Peter Parison Sgt. Justin Pingicer, Army Lt. Col. Brady Sexton 2nd Lt. Kristen Thompson Christian Troutner, US Navy Alex Zizzo, US Navy Medic PFC Jordan Feil, USA Hayden Linde Aaron Crump, USCG PFC Nathaniel Broemmel Lt. Com. Mark Buonomo Col. Scott C. Woodward Private Nicholas Loeb, ARNG Andrew Hawkinson, USN Cavalry Scout Specialist, Ryan Silva, Army 2nd Lt. Greg Fry, USMC Jared Broemmel, US Navy
| PAGE 6 |
Opening the Word is a weekly Bible Study exploring the upcoming Sunday Readings.When? Tuesday Mornings from 9am-10am
All Are Invited to Opening The Word!
We will use the parish resource, Formed.org to prepare for the Readings that we hear each Sunday.To register go to www.johnxxiii.formed.org and follow the instructions to sign in and to view Catholic content 24/7.We will watch a short video (7-10 minutes), share what the Readings say to us, and discuss how we can apply them to our lives.This Bible Study meets every Tuesday morning in the PARISH LIFE CENTER FROM 9AM-10AM IN ROOMS ST. BERNADETTE & ST. MICHAEL.
All are Welcome!
Next Session: Tuesday, December 11th
ADULT FAITH
Educa t i o n
JANUARY 8 - FEBRUARY 28 6:30-8PM n
J E F F C A V I N S B I B L E S T U D Y
SAVE THE DATES
The next sessions will be offered Tuesday nights from 6:30-8pm in the Parish Life Center, in rooms St. Bernadette and St. Michael.To join our study and register, go to:www.ascensionpress.com and create an account. Follow the instructions to join and register online. You will purchase your study set book at this time ($28.95 + shipping) and it will be shipped directly to you. You can view the videos from home!
Contact: Edith Trafford: [email protected]
Fai t h Fo rma t i o nContact Chris Biel | 561-7499 | [email protected]
OUR POLICIES FOR SACRAMENT PREPARATION:BAPTISM: Congratulations on your decision to baptize your child! At St. John XXIII we are happy to help your family prepare for the celebration. Baptisms are offered for registered members of Saint John XXIII and are scheduled only after the preparation process is completed by the parents. Please do not make arrangements for family members until you have actually received a date. Contact the office at (239) 561-2245 for more information or to begin the process.FIRST COMMUNION: (also called First Eucharist and First Reconciliation) Children in First grade or above, who have expressed a desire and willingness and are attending Mass, are welcome to begin the two year process of preparing for these Sacraments. The first year consists of regular attendance at Faith Formation classes or through a Diocesan Catholic school. (Either St. Francis Xavier or St. Andrew) The second year continues those classes, but also adds in direct Sacramental Preparation (Reconciliation and Communion) sessions. Contact Chris at 561-7499 for more information or to begin the process. Parents who Home school their children must contact the office during Year I. CONFIRMATION PREPARATION: celebrating the Sacrament of Confirmation is a two year process that now begins at the start of 9th Grade and is celebrated in the Fall of 11th grade. (Older teens are certainly welcome also!). Each year consists of Faith Formation through the parish Youth Group or a Diocesan Catholic school (Bishop Verot) as well as scheduled Confirmation classes and a retreat. Please note: Students from Bishop Verot must register and attend the preparation classes at the beginning of 9th grade. If you are entering the 9th grade or would like more information on our program, contact Chris at (239) 561-7499 to begin the process.
THIS WEEK IN FAITH FORMATION:Faith Formation will be held this Wednesday, December 12th. The remainder of December is as follows:• 12/12: Faith Formation • 12/19: No Class - Faith Formation Christmas Break• 12/27: No Class - Faith Formation Christmas Break
Wednesday, December 12:5:30pm-6pm
Thursday, December 20:5:30pm-6pm
CHRISTMAS EVE 4PM MASS AND CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PAGEANT
REHEARSALS
| PAGE 7 |
Young Adult Ministry - 561-3022 xt 107
Youth Ministry - 561-3022 xt 107
Contact Beth Benham | [email protected] Contact Kelly Evers | [email protected]
HSYG Contact Beth Benham | [email protected] Contact Kelly Evers | [email protected]
High School Youth GroupHSYG - Sundays 5pm to 6:30pm *NOTE NEW TIME
Welcoming All Young Adults 18 -39
Join Our Facebook Group: Rooted at St. John XXIII for updates and local happenings.
• January 3 - The next Rooted session will meet in January. Have a Merry Christmas and a safe Happy New Year!
• December 9 - Confirmation Year 2 Session• December 16 - GLOW PARTY DJ & KARAOKE:
We have a great night planned! Please let Beth know if you plan on attending so we have enough food and drinks.
Have you received the Sacrament of Confirmation?Just as bodies and minds grow, Catholics believe that the soul also needs to grow in the life of grace. The Sacrament of Confirmation builds on the sacraments of Baptism, Reconciliation and Holy Communion, completing the process of initiation into the Catholic community.
Thinking about joining the Catholic Church, but feel a little lost? The RCIA inquiry stage is the starting place for adults who are thinking about entering the Catholic Church.“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10In the inquiry stage, you’re just finding out about Jesus, Christianity, and the Catholic Church. Talk to people, walk around in our shoes for a bit and get a feel for the place. As an inquirer, you’re not yet sure exactly what you think about the Catholic Church. Your main task here is to develop your faith a little bit, get to know Christ, prayer, the Catholic Church, and how Christians live. That’s the only way you can make an informed decision about entering the Catholic Church.
Want to Hear More?Please call the parish office at (239) 561-2245 and make an appointment to meet with Father Bob.
For questions please contact Ginny Whelan at:(239) 362-1283 or email: [email protected]
DOCTRINE SESSIONS
Decemb e r : 12/9: - Rite of Acceptance and Welcoming 9:15am Mass - Your Journey of Faith
12/16: - Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition: Word of God
12/23: - NO SESSION
12/30: - The Loving Forgiveness of God
Please contact Beth Benham if you are interested in going on the 2019 St. John XXIII Mission Trip with Catholic Heart Mission Trip to Gainesville FL. Spots are filling up fast! The deadline is January 6, 2019
RCIARITE OF CHRISTIAN ADULTS
Middle School Youth GroupMSYG - Wednesdays 6pm to 7:15pm
• December 12 - Christmas Party• December 16 - Christmas Break
Sav e t h e Dat e : Mission M&M Fundraiser:
HSYG MISSION NEWS:
We need volunteers for the weekend of January 13-14. Contact the youth office to sign-up.
THIS WEEK: We will celebrate Christmas with music, fun and games. We ask the youth to wear festive clothing and bring a snack or treat to share!
| PAGE 8 |
Hispan i c Mini s t ry
• El día 27 de noviembre celebramos el día de la aparición de la Virgen de la medalla de la Milagrosa. La Virgen se apareció a Santa Catalina una humilde religiosa. La Virgen venía vestida de blanco y junto a ella se vislumbraba un globo resplandeciente con una cruz. Nuestra señora abrió sus manos y de ellas salieron rayos. María Santísima dijo entonces a Sor Catalina: Este globo que has visto es el mundo entero, donde viven mis hijos. Estos rayos luminosos son gracias y bendiciones que yo expando sobre todos aquellos que me invocan como Madre. Para más información, se recomienda la visita de la página oficial de la Capilla de Nuestra Señora de la Medalla Milagrosa (Francia) disponible en varios idiomas, entre ellos el español.
• Los invitamos a que nos acompañen al rezo del Rosario todos los martes a las 6pm. dentro de la Iglesia, no pierdan la oportunidad de acercarse a Nuestra Santísima Madre.
• Anímense a participar en la misa como lector o en otras actividades de preparación y celebración de nuestra misa.
• Reiteramos la buena noticia que para este 2019 nuestros encuentros serán semanales, para conocer mas detalles o despejar cualquier dudas o alguna petición o preguntas favor escribir a [email protected] o puede visitar http://www.facebook.com/HispanosJPXXIII
St. John XXIIICatholic Church
Music, Art and Drama series being inaugurated in the new Parish Life Center. The musical “GODSPELL” will be performed on April 12th & 13th. Please contact Tom Tiehel for an audition.
“GODSPELL” AUDITIONS
TEENSTO
ADULTS
CONCERT
NEXT SUNDAY
D E C E M B E R 1 6 T HJoin us Sunday, December 16th for a “A CHRISTMAS CUP OF CHEER” concert event at 1:30pm in the Parish Life Center! All choirs will be singing various sacred and secular music for the Christmas/Advent Season. Desserts and beverages will be served during the concert.Free will offering will be received. For more information please contact Tom Tiehel [email protected]
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Get ready for Breakfast with Santa, this Sunday following the 9:15am and 11:15am Masses!Families are invited to attend and have their picture taken with Santa. Delicious pancakes will be served by The Knights of Columbus!The event is free, but free-will donations will be taken for food and pictures.
T H I S S U N D A Y !Jesus waits for your visit....Come Sit with Me.
Come Sit With Me
“An hour actually passes very quickly, but if done on a regular basis, it establishes a structure for your entire week. Come sit with me.”
WE ENCOURGE YOU TO BECOME AN Adorer , SO THAT THE BLESSED SACRAMENT IS NEVER ALONE
Chape l Hours
The REAL Presence is Becoming....RealMONDAY, JANUARY 7, 2019
MONDAY - FRIDAY: 9am-4pmSATURDAY: 9am-3pm
Jesus waits for your visit....Come Sit with Me.
Keep in mind that ALL are Welcome to visit the Blessed Sacrament during the times that the St. LUKE Adoration Chapel is OPEN.
Being an Adorer is committing to spending one (1) Hour with the Blessed Sacrament.
Our New Electronic (VSP) Self Scheduling Sign Up for January-March of 2019 will take place December 9th-23rd. All those who have already signed up to be Adorers please look for email from Adoration Ministry St. John XXIII to begin self-scheduling.
ALL NEW Adorers are WELCOME to register now by visiting the Church Website Ministry tab or going directly to: https://secure.rotundasoftware.com/l/enrollment/johnxxiii
| PAGE 10|
M A Y W E S U G G E S T . . . .
RELAX!
God put the wiggle in your children so don't feel you have to suppress it in God's house. All are welcome! Sit toward the front where it is easier for your little ones to see and hear what is going on at the altar. They tire of seeing the backs of others! Quietly explain the parts of the Mass and actions of the priest, altar servers, lectors, choir, and others. Help them find the hymns and prayers in the hymnal or booklets. Sing the hymns, participate in the liturgy, and pray! Children learn about worship and liturgical behavior by copying you. If you have to leave Mass with your child, feel free to do so, but please come back. As Jesus said, "Let the children come to me". Remember that the way we welcome children in the church directly affects the way they respond to the church, to God, and to one another. Let them know that they are at home in His house of worship.
Parents of Young Children:
The presence of children is a gift to the church and a reminder that our parish is growing. Please welcome our children and give a smile of encouragement to their parents.
Those Without Young Children:
Get more resources for families at:www.themassbox.com
Your Coop e r a t i o n i s App r e c i a t e d
LAST WEEKENDTO RETURN GIFTS
Please return ALL giftsto ensure timely delivery.
DEADLINE DECEMBER 9TH
Knight s o fColumbusWHAT’S NEW?
Brother Knight Sir Alan Dente poses with Fr. Bob and Bishop Dewane at the dedication for the Parish Life Center that took place on Sunday, November 18th. The 4th Degree, Assembly 158, provided an honor guard for the ceremony. Future Knights of Columbus meetings, Council 13624, will be held in the Parish Life Center.
http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/prayers-and-devotions/the-popes-monthly-intention.cfm
For more information:
DECEMBER: EvangelizationIn the Service of the Transmission of Faith
That people, who are involved in the service and transmission of faith, may find, in their dialogue with culture, a language suited to the conditions of the present time.
THE POPE’S PRAYER INTENTIONS
| PAGE 11 |
St. John XXIII Catholic Church
11/25/2018 12/02/2018Offertory $22,959.60 $26,098.66Building Fund $5,865.50 $5,781.00Total $28,825.10 $31,879.66Mass Attendance 3188 3301Registered Families 3578 3578Kid’s Offertory Envelopes $0.00 $0.00
No money is kept on Church property. Thank you for your continued generosity!
*Please make your checks payable to “St. John XXIII”
2018 Catholic Faith Appeal2018 Goal $339,000Pledge $510,310.67% of Goal 150.53%% of Households 28.88%Total $497,421.07
Holly Atkins at (239) 561-2245
“I bequeath the greater of $_____ or _____% of the residue of my estate to Bishop Frank J. Dewane, (or his successor), Roman Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Venice in Florida, a corporation sole, whose principal office is located at 1000 Pinebrook Rd., Venice, FL 34285, For the benefit of St. John XXIII Catholic Parish, in Fort Myers, Inc.”
The actual wording in your will should be determined by you and your attorney.
A bequest is a wonderful way to express gratitude to God for a lifetime of blessings! The gift you give establishes a lasting legacy of love for others by helping the Church to continue our Catholic heritage through its many ministries.PLEASE NOTE: Leaving money to the Parish in your will is not assessed and 100% goes to the parish.The following is possible wording for including a bequest in your will:
PLANNING YOUR WILLRemember St. John XXIII
Weekly Financials
For more information, questions, or wish to consider a gift annuity or trust for St. John XXIII Catholic Church, then please contact:
Parents of Young Children:
Those Without Young Children:
Imagine being able to transfer up to $100,000 from your Individual Retirement Account to any charity you like… TAX FREE! Thanks to the PATH Act, making permanent the opportunity to give IRA assets to charity free from federal tax …YOU CAN! How it works... The provision allows retirees age 70 ½ and older to donate up to $100,000 tax free from their IRA each year. Gen-erally, when you take a distribution from your IRA, it is treated as taxable income. Under this provision those assets are excluded from income if the distribution is given DIRECTLY to a charity. The distribution is not included in your income so you avoid the potential negative consequences that regular IRA withdrawals in retirement can create, including taxes on Social Security benefits. Distributions excluded from income are also equivalent to a 100% de-duction. Normally, charitable contribution deductions are limited to a lower percentage (or are eliminated alto-gether) for taxpayers who do not itemize and take the standard deduction. Spouses may also participate to the same level if they have a separate IRA, giving married couples the opportunity to donate up to $200,000. This preserves the full amount for charity ad allows donors to do this during their life-time, rather than waiting to give through estate plans.
Turn your required distributions into charitable donations! IRS rules mandate that individuals age 70 ½ and older take RMDs from their IRA each year, regardless of whether the income is needed. These annual withdrawals are subject to ordinary income taxes. By making a charitable con-tribution from your IRA, you can satisfy your RMD amount without reporting additional income. By donating the money to charity, you can enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that you are making a significant and meaningful difference in the lives of so many while effectively lowering your tax bill. This information is not meant as tax or legal advice. Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Please consult a professional tax advisor to determine how this tax law affects your situation.
Turn your IRS into a
Gift of Hope
December 2, 2018
First AnnualADVENT WREATH N IGHT
Our 1st Annual Advent Family Night was a wonderful event! Families enjoyed a delicious dinner, a talk on Advent, sing-ing and making Advent Wreaths.A special thank you to Kathy Danehy for organizing the event, Deacon Rich Klish for presenting, Gabi Frei for lead-ing us in music, Lois Becker and her fabulous committee for preparing and serving food, Beth Benham and the St. John XXIII Youth for the “Green Screen” photos and all their help, and to the Bishop Verot NHS Students for setting up, serving food, and cleaning up. Please save your Advent Wreath forms as we will do this again next year!
| PAGE 13 |
"We need to see each child as a gift to be welcomed, cherished and protected."
Advent Chris tmasSCHEDULE 2018
&
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18 7:00pm Advent Reconciliation Service with Individual Confessions
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 19 8:30am - 9:30am Individual Confessions
MONDAY, DECEMBER 24CHRISTMAS EVE LITURGIES 4:00pm Mass (Children’s Pageant) 6:30pm Mass 9:00pm Mass 11:00pm - Vietnamese Mass
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25CHRISTMAS DAY MASSES 7:15am, 9:15am & 11:15am Masses 1:30pm Spanish Mass SATURDAY, DECEMBER 29Feast of the Holy Family 4:00pm Vigil Mass
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30 7:15am, 9:15am & 11:15am Masses
MONDAY, DECEMBER 31 6:00pm Vigil Mass for Holy Day
TUESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2019Feast of Mary Mother of God - HOLY DAY 10:00am Mass
NEW SATURDAY TIMEBEGINNING JANUARY 5, 2019Saturday Vigil Masses resume at 3:30pm and 5:30pm through Palm Sunday, April 14, 2019
Advent couldn’t arrive at a more appropriate time of year. Just when we’re getting geared up for special parties, homemade dishes to complement fine feasts, gift shopping, and lavish decorating, the Church reminds us to be still. To listen. To wait with God, and for Him.It can be agonizing to wait in silence when we’re used to bustling activity. Maybe we’ve set lofty expectations of what “must” be done, because it’s a family tradition: getting that perfect photo for our Christmas cards, finding expensive gifts for our hard-to-please relatives, making grandma’s pecan pie from scratch. To eliminate or substitute seems like utter failure, or at the very least, disappointment.So we are, once again, a countercultural people as we attempt to retreat inward, slow down, and ponder the treasure nestled within Mary’s womb. We don’t like to wait, but wait we must. Only this time, during Advent, our waiting is intentional. Expectant. Anticipatory.Most people are flippant when they have to wait. It’s not about exercising charity in our demeanor and language. We don’t always consider how we respond in situations that test our patience. Instead, we lash out at the poor cashier, construction manager, sales clerk, or receptionist. No, the world does not appreciate the value of waiting, certainly not this time of year.But Advent waiting accesses a less primal part of us, namely, our souls. We’re invited into a pregnant waiting instead of the “hurry up and wait” mentality of the current cultural climate. This spiritual expectancy differs from the secular understanding of its desire to eschew any opportunity, self-imposed or otherwise – to pause and ponder.We can grow during our spiritual hiatuses. These include patience, practice, and perseverance: three very key virtues and disciplines (as in the case of practice) that will aid you in your Advent journey.
THE JOURNEY OF
Rejoi c e
St. John XXIII Catholic Church
| PAGE 14 |
Following the time honored tradition, many families will begin their Christmas Eve celebration by waiting for the appearance of the first star in the early evening sky as they look toward the East. This first star appearing sym-bolizes the Star of Bethlehem which announced that the Great Light was coming into our world, to the “people who lived in darkness.”The table at which the family gathers for the Christmas Eve dinner typically has some straw strewn beneath a fine white tablecloth to commemorate the birth of the Christ Child in the manger or cave where the animals lived. A more modern adaptation includes the use of straw or sprigs of evergreen which are placed on a serving platter and then covered with a fine white napkin on which the Oplatki wafers rest.The Christmas Eve meal begins with the eldest member of the family taking an Oplatki wafer, breaking it and sharing it with the family member next to him. Each then shares pieces of the Oplatki wafer with everyone else present at the table, Some families, particularly of the Slovak tradi-tion, share the Oplatki with honey on it, as a symbol of the sweetness and joy of the occasion. The sharing ritual is accompanied by embracing and the exchange of good wishes. The symbolism of sharing the wafer with each person and then back and forth, symbolizes the giving and sharing of our lives.
Families of Polish, Slovak and Lithuanian background observe this Christmas Eve Tradition. Family members and guests are each handed an oplatek and they each break off a piece from one another and eat it, express-ing best wishes and blessings to each other, and asking for forgiveness. This is a tender, touching family celebration of love and forgiveness. Envelopes of the bread are located in the Office and Church Narthex.A $3 donation towards the cost of the Oplatki is greatly appreciated and can be placed in the envelope next to the basket.
OPLATKI TRADITION
Christmas Oplatki Bread
CAUTION
• Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a few minutes.
• When leaving for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.
• Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer.
• Leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.
• In today’s inter-connected age, it is important to be very careful about what you share on social media. If you decide to share your gifts, make sure you don’t have your location tagged to the post.
• Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.
• When setting up a Christmas tree or other holiday display, make sure doors and passageways are clear inside your home.
• Don’t let the bad guy know what you or your family got for Christmas. Break down the boxes.
| PAGE 15 |
SALE
Craftie LadiesCraftie Ladies SATURDAYDECEMBER 8TH3PM - 6PM
SUNDAYDECEMBER 9TH7AM - 1PM
$2 EACH or 3 for $5
THE SALE WILL BE HELD IN THE NARTHEX ONLYWeather Permitting, the sale will extend out onto the St. Patrick's Patio Garden
RAFFLE MONEYGoes Towards:
SOLES FOR SOULS & SPECIAL
EQUESTRIANS
This is the LAST WEEKEND the Knights of Columbus will be selling raffle tickets at all Masses. (December 8-9)$2 PER TICKET OR 3 FOR $5The drawing will be held on Monday, December 10th for 3 cash prizes of $150, $100, and $50, along with numerous other prizes!“Keep Christ in Christmas” car magnets will also be sold at that time for $4 each.Proceeds will go to help parish families in need during the holidays.The Knights appreciate your generosity in helping us to help others.
ChristmasR A F F L E
2018 ANNUAL
WEEKEND OF:DECEMBER 15th & 16th
After All Masses
ALL FUNDS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED AMONG THE WOMEN’S GUILD
CHARITABLE FUNDS
Don’t have time to bake for Christmas or not a baker? Then treat your friends and family to delicious homemade cookies and candy made by women of the St. John XXIII parish!
SALECOOKIES & CANDY
Festive Falcon-Family Bazaar: Wednesday, December 12th from 8am-12pm at St. Francis Xavier Parish Hall, 2055 Heitman Street, Ft. Myers, FL. It is a great way to feature our school families, support their businesses and finish up your holiday shopping!Perpetual Help Retreat Center: The next scheduled date is December 12th. Each day begins at 9am and includes continental breakfast, lunch, two conferences, and opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, private meditation and prayer. Mass at 2:30pm will conclude the day. Registration discount, 10 days prior is $30. Registration increases to $35 thereafter. Register at https://olph-retreat.org/1-day-retreatsWisdom & Works of Mercy Group Study: Tuesday, January 8th in Room 308 at Our Lady of Light. Books and worksbook required. Two opportunities from 2:30pm-4pm or 6:30pm-8pm. For more information call (239) 267-7088Notre Dame Liturgical Choir Concert: During their Winter Tour, the University of Notre Dame Liturgical Choir will be performing a concert at St. Cecilia's Catholic Church at 8:30pm on Thursday, January 10th. 5632 Sunrise Drive in Ft. Myers. The concert will be free to the public. A freewill offering will be taken to support the choir and CDs will be available for purchase after the concert. For more information email [email protected] Pain FREE Workshop: Thursday from 1pm-3pm at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, 5632 Sunrise Drive, Ft. Myers, FL. Scheduled dates are: January 10, 17, 24, 31 and February 7, 14. To register, call (239) 343-0264Francis Xavier 80th Anniversary: Saturday, January 26th from 6-9pm at St. Francis Xavier Catholic School. Includes: entertainment, buffet and Anniversary Toast! For more information contact Esther at (239) 334-7707 ext. 222 or e-mail [email protected] Bishop Verot Catholic High School Open House: Join us Tuesday, January 29th at 6:30pm. Prospective students and their parents will be able to tour campus, speak with students and teachers, and get an overview of the curriculum, house system, and co-curricular opportunities that Bishop Verot provides. Reservations are required and can be made online at bvhs.org/admissions or by calling our admissions office at (239) 274-6760Novena of Masses for Life: Participate in a Mass near you and pray for life! Visit www.dioceseofvenice.org/respectlife for the monthly schedule of Novena of Masses for Life.Televised Mass for the Homebound: For those who are unable to attend Mass due to medical or physical limitations, the Diocese of Venice offers a televised Mass each Sunday. For viewers in the northern portions of the Diocese, the Mass airs at 9:30am on the CW Network; and for those in the southern portions of the Diocese, the Mass is at 10:30am on WFTX-TV (FOX-4). SWFL Catholic Moms: Join other moms for coffee, brunch, childcare and fellowship the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month, from 9:30-11:30am at Church of the Resurrection’s Parish Hall. 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Ft. Myers. For more information contact Amanda Gavini at (239) 222-0452
Catho l i cCommuni tyHAPPENINGS
| PAGE 16 |
please register at: www.faithandale.com
Welcome All Men
with guest speaker:DAVE “The Ghost” CASPER
“Still Fighting:Notre Dame & Football”
THURSDAY JANUARY 17TH6PM at Our Lady of Light
THE 13TH ANNUAL
please register at: www.faithandwineleecounty.com
Welcome al lWomenTHURSDAY JANUARY 24TH
6:30PM at St. John XXIII
with guest speaker:KELLY WAHLQUIST
“Why the Church Needs Wine: Womenin the New Evangelization”
SFXChristmas Program
2018
Friday, December 14th6:30pm
2055 Heitman StreetFt. Myers, FL 33901
All are welcome to join St. Francis Xavier Catholic School for their Annual Christmas Program!
Women s Guild’ of St. John XXIII preSentS:
n
n
n
St. John XXIII PARISH LIFE CENTER: 13060 Palomino Lane Ft. Myers, FL 33912 n
PLEASE PRINT - Table or reservations by:
Name: ____________________________________________________________ Email Contact: _____________________________________________________Phone # _______________________ I have enclosed Check #______________For ________ Reservations @$45 each Total $ ___________
THOSE TO BE SEATED:
1. ______________________________ 6. _______________________________2. ______________________________ 7. _______________________________3. ______________________________ 8. _______________________________4. _______________________________ 9. _______________________________5. ______________________________ 10. _______________________________
SPECIAL DIET MENU will be offered for those requesting in advance. Contact Barbara Artale at [email protected] FORM TO: St. John XXIII - Women’s Guild Fashion Show13060 Palomino Lane, Ft. Myers, FL 33912
n nF A I T H
To confirm please complete and return with check(s) for all reservations. We have tables that seat 8 or 10. Make checks payable to St. John XXIII with fashion show in memo line. When you return this reservation form with fewer than 10, additional guests may be seated to complete the table. Please list those to be seated at your table below and return with payment by January 15th. All reservations are transferable and nonrefundable.
F R I E N D S H I P F A S H I O N
FASHION SHOWBY TRADER RICK’S AND LUNCHEON
THE 13TH ANNUAL
Saturday, February 23rd 2019 DOORS OPEN AT 11AM
ENTER THROUGH THE NORTH ENTRANCE (FRONT) OF THE PARISH LIFE CENTER
