Weekly Marriage Tip Do the chores you’ve been avoiding – the laundry that’s been piling up or the windows that need cleaning – together. Chores are always more fun when you’re not doing them alone. Catechism of the Catholic Church Are you aware that you can access it on line? Here is the link: http://www.vatican.va/archive/ccc_css/archive/catechis m/ccc_toc.htm Feast of Christ the King Pope Pius XI instituted this feast in 1925 for the universal Church. Just as the Feast of Corpus Christi was instituted when devotion to the Eucharist was at a low point, the Feast of Christ the King was instituted during a time when respect for Christ and the Church was waning, when the feast was needed most. Pius hoped the institution of the feast would have various effects. They were: a) that nations would see that the Church has the right to freedom, and immunity from the state; b) that leaders and nations would see that they are bound to give respect to Christ; c) that the faithful would gain strength and courage from the celebration of the feast, as we are reminded that Christ must reign in our hearts, minds, wills, and bodies. Today, the same distrust of authority exists, although the problem has gotten worse. Individualism has been embraced to such an extreme, that for many, the only authority is the individual self. The idea of Christ as ruler is rejected in such a strongly individualistic system. Also, many balk at the idea of kings and queens, believing them to be antiquated and possibly oppressive. Some even reject the titles of "lord" and "king" for Christ because they believe that such titles are borrowed from oppressive systems of government. However true these statements might be (some kings have been oppressive), these individuals miss the point: Christ's kingship is one of humility and service. Jesus connected his role as king to humble service, and commanded his followers to be servants as well. While Christ is coming to judge the nations, his teachings spell out a kingdom of justice and judgment balanced with radical love, mercy, peace, and forgiveness. When we celebrate Christ as King, we are not celebrating an oppressive ruler, but one willing to die for humanity and whose "loving-kindness endures forever." Presentation of First Communion Candidates We welcome the parents and their children who are journeying towards their first participation at the table of the Lord for their First Holy Communion in May 2020. As the primary teachers of the faith of their children, the parents are encouraged to participate actively in their children’s sacramental preparation. They are provided opportunities to journey together in faith alongside their children. The entire parish community assures them of our prayers and continued support. Congratulations and blessings! As November draws to a close we pray in a special way for our deceased loved ones God, our Father, In your abundant generosity, hear our prayer for our loved ones who have passed away. In your abundant mercy, forgive their failings. In your loving kindness, bring them safely to their heavenly home, to forever remain with you, to rejoice in the glory of your presence, to find their eternal rest in you. Our Father… Hail Mary… Beginning next weekend and on December 7 & 8, the second collection will be designated for the purchase of Christmas flowers. Please be generous in your donation to help beautify our church with flowers for Christmas and the whole year. If you would like to have your donation included in your tax receipt place your offering in a plain envelope with your name, address and envelope number and mark it “FLOWERS” or use the envelope in your boxed set. Thank you. Welcome to St. Joseph’s Parish Family Alexa Fhey Cunanan and Kiell Dian Fam May God grant them, their Parents and Godparents many blessings. Special Collection The second collection on December 14 & 15 will be given to Our Place/Chez Nous. This collection hopefully will cover the cost of their Christmas dinner (150 people) – thank you in advance for your generous donation to the less fortunate during this Christmas Season. If you would like to have your donation included in your tax receipt please place your offering in a plain envelope with your name, address and envelope number and mark it “OUR PLACE”. St. Joseph’s Parish Wedding Anniversary Celebration Saturday November 16, 2019 Thank you Joe, Alma & Hazel Sevilla, Lito Camuyong, Siony Bustamante, Danilo Santos, Ray, Tess & Rosabella Tankeko, Manny Diaz, Noel & Malou Garciso, Donna Roxas, Faith Quieng, Nina & Em Roxas and all those who helped to make this such a wonderful success! Rest in Peace Father Gary Killen Your kind prayers are requested for the repose of the soul of Reverend Gary Killen who passed away at the age of 78. Fr. Killen was born in Winnipeg on July 26, 1941 and passed away October 25, 2019. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Immaculate Conception Parish (181 Austin Street N.) beginning at 10:00 am on Saturday, November 30 with Archbishop Richard Gagnon presiding. A reception will follow in the parish hall. Eternal Rest Grant Unto Him O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. STEWARDSHIP When we look after God’s business - He will look after ours. Back in the time of England’s Queen Elizabeth the First, there was a retired admiral of the Royal Navy who in his retirement was now running a thriving business. The Queen asked him to return to military service during a time of this national crisis. The man hesitated, asking” … but what will become of my business?” The Queen replied: “You look after my business, and I will look after your business.” When we look after God’s business He will look after ours. The Finance Committee is not asking anyone to donate more than you are financially capable of but we would like to encourage all families to practice Stewardship Principles. We appeal to those who give $10.00 each week and strongly encourage you to increase your donation. We are still missing your gift ! As Catholics one of our responsibilities is financial support to our Parish and the Archdiocese. We do not have access to government grants and we do no campaigning for funds in the community. St. Joseph’s Parish and the Archdiocese are totally dependent on what you contribute financially. It is a matter of justice that ALL parishioners participate in Sharing God’s Gifts and not just some. Please return Sharing God’s Gifts envelopes via the collection basket with your substantial donation. Envelopes are available in your collection boxed sets or on the brochure wall at the side entrance and at the front entrance of the church.