THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Two THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 13, 2020
CORCORAN’S CORNER
The Third Sunday of Advent: JOY SUNDAY… Help Make Christmas For Others… This Third Sunday of Advent encourages us to be aware Well the good news is that people are rapidly registering and appreciative of all that we have to be joyful about. Dur- for our Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Masses. A word to ing this COVID-19 Christmas, a lot of ordinary joy-filled the wise: with a capacity of 200 people per Mass, please do moments have been taken away from our lives. I absolutely register in the days ahead, as we will fill up! As of December loved “Donuts with Santa” sponsored by our Men’s Club. 10, our 3:00 PM Christmas Eve Mass is fully-booked; 5:00 There was such a buzz of excitement in O’Mara Hall. And PM Mass has 180 registered; and 7:00 PM has 39 regis- I loved seeing all the smiling faces. The children seemed tered; and 10:00 PM is now over 100 registered. We have to enjoy the event too. I know the Men’s Club did! enough volunteers in the church for Christmas Eve and I missed hosting our Annual Christmas Concert/Gala last Christmas Day Masses. Hurrah! Thank you to these volun- weekend. It was always a delight hearing our choirs and or- teers for your generosity. chestra, complimented by our liturgical dancers. The audi- The problematic part of our puzzle is for people to ence loved it. [Desserts afterward were also a great treat.] volunteer for our 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM Masses in the CJB Our parish organization individual Christmas parties were School classrooms and the McBrady Center. Volunteers will filled with fun as these groups know how to have a fun time. check people in and/or distributing Holy Communion. [Our Similarly, our Religious Education Program catechist dinner 9:30 AM Christmas Day Mass is filling up with volunteers and the CJB School Faculty dinner were always festive and nicely!] So, if you can volunteer to come back to church so delicious. Father John Zurek and I always enjoyed preparing we can open CJB School and the McBrady Center for 3:00 our parish staff Christmas Party, and a good time was had and 5:00 PM Mass, it will be gratefully appreciated. You will by all. All these great events in abeyance. This is sad. But truly make someone’s Christmas. Please contact Carlos this year remembering these great days, events, gatherings, Bautista after Mass to volunteer or contact 708-403-0101 and the people we shared them with remain truly joy-filled x102 or [email protected]. memories. We savor these memories, and the memories
bring joy to our days now. They are bright spots through Our Virtual Ministry/Parish Organization Fair… For some weeks now we have featured in our parish bul- these tough times. letin and on our parish website a “Virtual” Parish Ministry and Remembering these good blessed days in the past help Parish Organization Fair. In past years the Parish Pastoral us to appreciate how fortunate we were to spend Christmas Council [PPC] sponsored this in our church Narthex as a with each other. The people whom we get to celebrate this way to highlight all the good things the parish is doing and all year's Christmas are far fewer in number, which perhaps of our ministries/clubs/groups in which we all can join. This makes them even more meaningful. year due to social distancing, etc., we could not have this in This weekend let us all remember the sources of joy in person, but are highlighting all of them through our website our lives in our blessed past, and blessed present. and bulletin. This Virtual Parish Ministry Fair is also a way to Celebrating Bambinelli Sunday Today... invite parishioners to join these ministries/clubs/groups. COVID-19 or no COVID-19, we continue our tradition of Many things are in abeyance at the moment—but this abey- Bambinelli Sunday on this weekend [Third Sunday of ance will not last and we will be ready to go. Please take a Advent]. On Bambinelli Sunday, the people of Rome bring look at our many, varied ministries/clubs/groups listed and if their Christ Child figurine from their home Christmas creche you want to join one or to receive more information, please to be blessed by our Pope in St. Peter’s Square. When you return the request slip found on the bottom of the flyer in this bring your creche figure to church, we will ask you to stand, bulletin or on our website. You will be most welcome. but not come forward to the altar, and holding the figure we
will bless them as you remain in your pew in church. This Marching Towards Christmas… While our outside church is fully lit, our church sanctuary custom joins your home creche to our parish church creche. was very spare for the First Sunday of Advent. Then last During Advent, it is the one “shrine” you set up in your home, week some Christmas trees were erected. This week our remembering and celebrating the Holy Family. Christmas creche is up in our Narthex. [We do not want to CHRISTMAS SHARING OPPORTUNITIES: lose any church seating space this year!] We are slowly The RESPOND NOW Gift Card Toy Drive… showing our preparation for Christmas more and more, Our St. Vincent DePaul Drive and the RESPOND NOW as a way of showing the progress of the Advent season. Gift Card Toy Drive both conclude this Sunday, Dec. 13. You can drop off your SVDP items or RESPOND NOW Christ- COVID-19 Killers… mas Gift Card Toy Drive at Masses this weekend or by con- Our parish has purchased bright “St. Elizabeth Seton tacting our parish office [708-403-0101] by this Monday, COVID-19 Killer” t-shirts for Mass volunteers and our cate- Dec. 14, to arrange a drop off time [from 9:00 AM-1:00 PM]. chists who have so generously stepped forward so that par- ish life of celebrating Mass and passing on the faith could Our Resurrected Choir… continue. We are very grateful. Following Archdiocesan guidelines, and wearing new masks designed for singers, we now can have three mem- Sacrament Of Reconciliation… bers of our choir enhance our music at Mass. We are also It was erroneously printed in our parish mailing that we teaching the congregation to clap during the “Alleluia.” This could celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation on will not spread germ particles, adds to participation at Mass, Wednesday, Dec. 23. from 3:30-4:00 PM. This is NOT true. and is kind of fun. We are making music together again! We will however, have extended time for Reconciliation this Saturday, Dec. 19, from 3:30-4:30 PM. All are welcome. Thanks To The Knights Of Columbus… Fr. John Zurek and I will be the confessors. The local Knights of Columbus have made a kind and generous donation to those in need in our community. Keep Smiling, I want to thank these “good elves” for making Christmas brighter for others. December 13, 2020 THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Three
FOR YOUR INFORMATION • The parish office is temporarily closed as a precaution due to the COVID 19 virus. Your parish business can still be conducted by calling the parish office at 708-403- 0101. Please leave a message and you will be contacted with arrangements to assist your needs. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Our Women’s Club is offering
Oplatki wafers for Christmas… WELCOME FREE WILL OFFERING ACCEPTED Celebrate Christmas/w Oplatki James and Kelly Houston
OPLATKI is available in the parish office for (Children: Nora, Emma and James Houston) those wanting to participate in this centuries old custom. Oplatki, Holy Bread, is our Christmas oblation and the Christmas wafer BAPTISMS is reminiscent of the word Bethlehem, which means “House of Bread.” The breaking of Congratulations to David Olson and Courtney Joyce on the baptism bread with family in your home is a sign of of their child, Cameron Joyce, on Sunday, Dec. 6, 20202. charity, unity, and friendship. With prayer for God’s grace and for the welfare of the present/absent members of the family, PLEASE PRAY FOR the broken wafer pieces are distributed to each one at the table. Due to temporary parish office closure Due to privacy issues we honor prayer requests (by you/family member
for COVID-19 precautions, Christmas only) for two weeks. Please call to add name or continue for two weeks. Oplatki is available in the Narthex on a We remember the sick, infirm, and those recommended to our table located outside of the parish office prayers, that they may experience the healing power of Christ: Kathy Kocher door from 9am-1pm and on Sundays Maria Teresita Martinez from 8am-1pm. If these time slots are Haley Galvin inconvenient, please call the office Ray Alba (708-403-0101) to schedule a pickup. Joseph Mannion
Elvira Valdez Seton Sowers Rosemary Sprague Sharon Oskielunas
Newborns in Need Newborns in Need volunteers provide care And for our deceased: necessities to agencies/hospitals serving Eileen Broderick premature, ill, or impoverished newborns. “Heavenly Father, accept the prayers which we offer for them.” Newborns In Need distributes these items free of charge. Newborns in Need is unable to meet due to the current virus but we are MASS INTENTIONS still collecting items. If you knit, crochet or sew, we would be happy to have you make Sat., Dec. 12 (5pm) Vincent Caputo; Kevin Danahy and share baby items for premature and sick Sun., Dec. 13 newborns. The group would also appreciate (7:30am) Barbara Connell; Genine Algenio donations of baby fabric and yarn as well as (9:30am) Olsen Family; Sharon Grill any financial gifts you want to share. For (11:30am) John F. Carmody; Rolando Ybanez information or for drop off arrangements, Mon., Dec. 14 (9am) Norma Burke; Frederick Valentine Borowski call Carol Dimer at 708-479-6994. Tues., Dec. 15 (9am) Frank Stasic; Frank and Lucy Stasic Wed., Dec. 16 (9am) Christine McGrane; David Ferrer Thurs., Dec. 17 (9am) Rolf Helfer; Grace E. Beissel STEWARDSHIP Fri., Dec. 18 (9am) Daniel Paska; Tina Hennis Sat., Dec. 20 (5pm) Purgatorial Society; Jeff Johnson Sun., Dec. 21 COLLECTION FOR 11-29-2020: (7:30am) Jacob Fischer; Steve Lukasiewicz $12,048.00 (9:30am) Charles Lofrano; Grace E. Beissel (Envelopes: $8,519.00/E-giving: $3,529.00) Thank you for your generosity. (11:30am) Jack Hayes; Benedetto and Joanne Sebben Page Four THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 13, 2020
FEAR NOT, YOU ARE INADEQUATE By Rev. Ronald Rolheiser It is both healthily humbling an excuse to slacken our efforts, be lazy, or to shirk responsibility. and upli ing to accept the God may be the real parent or the fact that we are not God. real teacher or the real friend, but God, in the Incarnation, has tied ver 20 years ago, while divine power to human hands and on a retreat, an elderly nun human effort. Hence the fact that O was assigned to me as di- nobody, except Jesus, is ade- rector. She proved to be a woman quate to give expression to God of rare maturity, providing the must not however deter us from guidance that I needed at the trying. time. Being young and intense, I Be that as it may, this adage, too easily made a cosmic drama the “common-sense faith” of a and tragedy out of every ordinary very good nun—is itself a prayer. desolation or setback and she How? challenged me with a wisdom, an earthiness, and a sense of humor ealthy prayer functions that continually helped deflate my paradoxically: on the one pompousness. H hand, it connects us to God At one stage of the retreat, and links us to divine energy. sensing my Hamlet type propensi- Conversely, at the same time, it ties, she gave me a little proverb: dissociates us from God by mak- Fear not, you are inadequate! He admitted and did not deny it, ing it clear to us that we are not Through the years, that little but admitted, God. Hence, a good prayer life is adage has come back to me, off paradoxical too in its effect, and on, mostly at times when I “I am not the Christ.” namely, it connects us to God and have been a bit overwhelmed by — JOHN 1:20 thus saves us from depression my own inadequacy or have even as it dissociates us from been, usually without a lot of God and thereby saves us from success, trying to console somebody else. There is a inflation and self-righteousness. deceptive depth in that little saying. On the one hand, there is a certain consolation in it. Simply put, if someone does not pray, in some Whether you are a parent, a teacher, a minister, a priest, an advocate for justice, or simply a friend to someone in way, he or she is forever falling either into depres- need, there are countless times when you come face to sion or into infan le grandiosity, either there is a face with your own inadequacy, when you are helpless lack of connec on to God or there is an over iden- in the face of all that you should be doing. At times like that, it is important to remember that God alone is ade- fica on with God. Both have nega ve effects. quate, that you are not God, and that God is more par- ent, teacher, minister, priest, advocate for justice, and Thus, for example, when we look at someone like friend than you are. Obvious as this is, it is not always David Koresh—the Cult Davidian leader who burned to evident to us, as our history of needless worry, being death in Waco, Texas—one sees precisely an over iden- angry, feeling self-important, living with ulcers, and being tification with God. There was plenty of energy, plenty of chronically overextended give ample testimony to. fire, but too little in the way of dissociation. He might well Great spiritual writers have always said this. For ex- have meditated that little proverb on inadequacy and ample, John of the Cross, in a treatise on spiritual direc- come to understand that he was not God. tion, reminds directors that God is the real spiritual direc- Conversely, when we are chronically depressed (as tor and that they are only secondary instruments. That is opposed to being clinically depressed) we are too out of also true for every parent, teacher, minister, priest, jus- touch with divine energy and stand in need of more con- tice advocate, and friend. God is the real parent, the real nection. Accepting our inadequacy can help bring us to teacher, the real minister, the real advocate for justice, prayer. and the real friend and alone is adequate for that task. We are instruments, mere instruments, albeit important ear not, you are inadequate! To accept the ones, and, unlike God, we are not adequate to the task. truth of that is to make a little prayer. It is both Knowing this should give us some consolation at F healthily humbling and uplifting to accept the fact those times when it seems that, somehow, we should be that we are not God and that we are not asked to try to doing better than we are. However, that consolation, be. When we are overly discouraged it is because we expressed so well in the proverb, should never give us have forgotten that truth. When are overly inflated, it is for the same reason. December 13, 2020 THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Five
Come, Let Us Adore Him!
FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY Saturday, Dec. 19 Saturday, Dec. 26 5:00 pm 5:00 pm Sunday, Dec. 20 Sunday, Dec. 27 7:30, 9:30, 11:30 am 7:30, 9:30, 11:30 am
*CHRISTMAS EVE *NEW YEAR'S EVE Thursday, Dec. 24 Thursday, Dec. 31 3:00, 5:00, 7:00 and 10:00 pm 9:00 am and 4:00 pm
*CHRISTMAS DAY *NEW YEAR'S DAY Friday, Dec. 25 MARY, MOTHER OF GOD 7:30, 9:30, 11:30 am Friday, Jan. 1 10:00 AM MASS ONLY Registration is required for all Masses. To register, visit WWW.STESETON.COM: *Scroll down website homepage to register for these special holy day Masses: CHRISTMAS EVE, CHRISTMAS DAY, NEW YEAR’S EVE, NEW YEAR’S DAY
CONFESSIONS/ SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION Saturday, Dec. 19 3:30-4:30 PM (in the church)
St. Elizabeth Seton Church Fourth Sunday of Advent/Christmas/ Holy Family/New Year’s Mass Schedule Page Six THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 13, 2020
SECOND COLLECTION THIS WEEKEND, DEC. 12/13
In his letter to the Galatians, St. Paul urges us to remain steadfast in helping others: “Let us not grow tired of doing good, for in due time we shall reap our harvest, if we do not give up” (Gal 6:9). During these unprece‐ dented times, many are hurting and need our assistance, including elderly religious. Senior religious were in‐ strumental in establishing Catholic schools, hospitals, and charitable agencies. Often this progress came at great sacrifice, and many older sisters, brothers, and religious order priests served for little to no pay. Today, hundreds of religious communities do not have enough retirement savings and struggle to provide for a growing number of elder members. Covid‐19 has only increased the challenge to provide adequate care. Your gift to the Retirement Fund for Religious provides vital funding for medications, nursing care, and more. If you are unable to give during Mass, please mail your offertory envelope to your parish or donate through your parish’s online giving platform, GIVE CENTRAL. You can also send your contributions to: National Religious Retirement Office, 3211 Fourth Street NE, Washington DC 20017‐1194. Please make your check payable to Retirement Fund for Religious. December 13, 2020 THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Seven
The official public, daily prayer of the Church is the celebration of the Liturgy of the Hours. Psalms are prayed, scriptures proclaimed, hymns and canticles sung, and intercessory prayer is offered. The daily singing and reciting of the Book of Psalms is a most ancient tradition.
ADVENT LITURGY OF THE HOURS
MORNING PRAYER JOIN US WEEKDAYS (MONDAY-FRIDAY) AT 8:30 AM IN THE CHURCH THROUGH WEDNESDAY, DEC. 23 We ask those participating in the daily 8:30 AM Morning Prayer are required to register at WWW.STESETON.COM, under the 9:00 AM Mass (even if you only attend Morning Prayer). Questions or for assistance please contact Carlos Bautista at 708-403-0101, x 102.
JOIN US FOR VIRTUAL EVENING PRAYER WEDNESDAYS DURING ADVENT, 7:00 PM WWW.STESETON.COM Evening Prayer will be offered “virtually” only on Wednesdays at 7:00 PM on our website: WWW.STESETON.COM or on FACEBOOK [St. Elizabeth Seton Church-Orland Hills].
The official public, daily prayer of the Church is the celebration of the Liturgy of the Hours. The daily singing and reciting of the Book of Psalms is most ancient tradition—a way of “sanctifying every hour and moment of our lives prayer, scripture, and reflection.” In the complete “Liturgy of the Hours,” during the course of a month, all 150 Psalms are prayed, scriptures are proclaimed, hymns and Canticles are sung, and intercessory prayer is offered. Here is the outline of Evening Prayer.
Procession Singing of the Magni icat Evening Hymn Intercessory Prayer Lighting of the Evening Lights Lord’s Prayer Singing from the Book of Psalms Concluding Blessing Scripture Proclamation Sign of Peace Quiet Re lection Page Eight THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 13, 2020
Help Us “Light The Way” This Advent
S . E S C to invite families/ministries/clubs to participate at Mass in the “Lighting of Advent Candles.” This year, due to COVID 19 precautions, I we are modifying the opening ceremony. We are seeking ONE MEMBER from a family/ ministry/club to light the week’s Advent Candle at the opening of Mass during the reading of the Advent Prayer re lection. Sign up in the Narthex or contact Carlos Bautista, at 708-403-0101, x102.
PARTICIPANT DATE AND MASS TIME
THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT 12/12 5:00 PM Jennifer Balediata 12/13 7:30 AM
Reiter Family (representative) 12/13 9:30 AM
12/13 11:30 AM
FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT John Sobol 12/19 5:00 PM
12/20 7:30 AM
Gill Family (representative) 12/20 9:30 AM
Aaron Villegas 12/20 11:30 AM
Pray the Rosary Christmas Flower with the Memorial Gift
St. Elizabeth Seton Christmas Flower envelopes Rosary Prayer Group are in your monthly packet. If you already sent in a flower The Rosary Prayer Group memorial gift, fill out this form so gathers in the church we can publish the names of your loved
one(s) in the bulletin after Christmas.
after 9am Mass on Tuesdays
Given in Memory of
and Thursdays by our statue, ______, to MARY, SEAT OF WISDOM
offer intentions with the ______
intercession of Mary, and pray
the decades of the rosary while ______
contemplating the scenes of our Lord’s life, death and resurrection. Given by
______
ALL ARE WELCOME Please place in collection TO PARTICIPATE basket. Thank you. December 13, 2020 THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Nine
O LORD, on this GAUDETE SUNDAY, we should be filled with JOY awaiting the birth of our Savior, instead, we have been silenced by this pandemic.
We are missing our friends whom we should be gathering with to prepare for this JOYOUS occasion.
We are doing our best to stay JOYFUL as we await the birth of our Savior, and we are crying in our heart, instead of preparing to JOYFULLY celebrate the birth of our Savior in our hearts.
On this day, shepherd us as you have always done. Guide us as a shepherd guides his flock to the stable for safety and comfort. AMEN.
A A Page Ten THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 13, 2020
St. Elizabeth Seton Church
VIRTUAL Parish ministry fair Education Ministry Groups Come Follow Me Education Ministry Clubs We are all blessed Parish Life Ministry Groups with gifts and talents. Parish Life Ministry Clubs Is God calling you to share your faith, Spiritual Life Ministries and time and talents Human Concerns Ministry Groups with others? Parish group/club leaders are eager to assist you in learning more about the different ministries/groups/clubs, and explore where God might be calling you to share your faith, time, and talent. Maybe it’s time to give back. Join us! Please fill out the form below and return to the parish or drop off in our collection box. The ministry/club leader will contact you.
Spiritual Life Ministry Groups Education Ministry Groups and Clubs Eucharistic Ministers — Carlos Bautista, Liturgy Director Religious Education Program — Diana Barracca, Mary Vlaming Lectors — Carlos Bautista, Liturgy Director Cardinal Joseph Bernardin School — Kelly Bourrell, Principal Altar Servers — Father John Zurek, Associate Pastor Baptism Preparation — Father John Zurek Greeters — Carlos Bautista, Liturgy Director Marriage Preparation (PreCana) — Frank and Maryola Ward Sacristans and Assistants — Carlos Bautista, Liturgy Director Sacred Space — Sister Liz Pardo Adult Choir — Linda McKeague, Music Director Scripture Study (Adult) — Father Bill Gubbins Teen Choir — Linda McKeague, Music Director Mary Vlaming Parish Instrumentalists — Linda McKeague, Music Director Book Club— Claudia Nolan Ministers of Care — Carlos Bautista, Liturgy Director RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) — Father Bill Corcoran
Ministry of Consolation — Doug Benker Human Concerns Ministry Groups Adult Altar Servers — Kathy O’Sullivan, Doug Benker Creation Care Team — Andy Panelli Art and Environment — Carlos Bautista, Liturgy Director Seton Sowers, Newborns in Need — Carol Dimer Children’s Liturgy of the Word — Diana Barracca, Mary Vlaming Social Action Ministry — Father John Zurek, Associate Pastor Rosary Group — Helen Dalka Soup Kitchen — Bernadette Kemp Centering Prayer — Marge Quinn Nancy Arredia
Divine Chaplet of Mercy — Tom Scorzo
Sharing Parish-St. Procopius Church — Doug Benker
Parish Life Ministry Groups and Clubs SWIFT (Southwest Interfaith Team) — Carol Davis Men’s Club Mike Zukevic , President Right for Life — Darlene Raila Women’s Club — Donna Kujawa, President Fair Trade Events — Darlene Raila Seniors of Seton (SOS) — Doug Benker, President Sue Rosinski Branches Teen Ministry — Bruce Hall Respond Now — Elizabeth Wisnasky Young Adult Ministry — Archdiocese of Chicago St. Vincent DePaul Society — Father Bill Gubbins Youth Athletics — Bob Myjak, Athletic Director Marybeth Walter Welcome Committee — Father Bill Corcoran Alcoholics Anonymous Cub Scouts (at CJB) — Contact School HOPE Employment Ministry — Arnie Skibinski Boy Scouts — Rose Ucha Prayer Shawl Ministry — Carol Donnelly Parish Pastoral Council — Father Bill Corcoran Heartwarmers — Leslie Skrzypiec Parish Finance Committee — Father Bill Corcoran St. Monica Ministry of Compassion to the Family — Kathy Galvin Kolbe House Jail Ministry — Doug Benker To reach a Parish Ministry/Club leader fill out the form below and drop it in the collection box and they will contact you.
NAME ______PHONE ______EMAIL ______MINISTRY OF INTEREST ______December 13, 2020 THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Eleven
ST. ELIZABETH SETON PRAYER/OUTREACH MINISTRIES ST. ELIZABETH SETON Social Action Ministry PARISH INFORMATION How we serve: Soup Kitchen in Joliet; Sharing Parish with St. Procopius Church; Pro Life Ministry: COURAGE Program, New Parishioners We welcome new members. Mother’s Day Flowers For Life, Life Chain Sunday, Diaper All are invited to participate in the life and mission of Drive; Respond Now Outreach; SWIFT (South West Interfaith the parish. A complete listing of parish services and Team); Environmental Ministry; Speaker nights. organizations is available in the parish office and on our Seton Rosary Group All are invited to pray the Rosary each Tuesday/Thursday in the parish website. Please visit the parish office to register church, by our statue of the Mary, after 9am Mass. or obtain the registration form on the parish website. Chaplet of Divine Mercy NEW HOURS Sacrament of Reconciliation Prayer offered on Wednesdays following the 9am Mass. is offered on Saturday, between 4:00-4:30pm. Creation Care Team Ministry Sacrament of Baptism is celebrated twice A cross-parish Renew My Church initiative taking action to monthly at 1pm. Reserve your time by calling the parish promote positive environmental change through education, office early. Limit of two children per Sunday. individual action and community outreach in the spirit of Pope Baptismal Preparation Couples preparing for Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si. The group meets the third the birth of their child should contact the Pastoral Monday each month in the Gubbins Center, 7pm. Call Andy Center to register for a one night seminar, focusing on Panelli, 708-301-8038. a parent’s role in faith development. This session is Heart Warmers Meal Ministry mandatory prior to the Baptism. Heart Warmers is an outreach program where Seton volunteers Anointing of the Sick is available in the Church deliver homemade meals to people of our parish community every Monday after the 9am Mass. For those who are ill when they are experiencing times with medical, health, new or facing hospitalization, it is appropriate to receive the baby, recovery, or grief issues. To schedule receiving a meal sacrament once every six months. Call 708-403-0101 or to become a meal provider contact Leslie Skryzpiec at 708-349-4153 or [email protected]. for information. Prayer Shawl Ministry Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults Shawls are prayerfully created, blessed, and distributed to Adults, 18 and older, who wish to become Catholic are those who have a need for the spiritual, physical or emotional enrolled in a formation process (RCIA) that includes comfort. Knit or crochet in your home and/or at the twice- prayer, dialogue, instruction, and introduction to the monthly meetings. To become a knitter or to obtain a shawl, call Church’s life and values, rituals and traditions. For in- the parish office at 708-403-0101. formation call the parish office 708-403-0101. Seton Sowers-Newborns in Need Ministry of Care is available to give Communion If you knit/crochet/sew, your skills to make clothing/blankets for to the housebound, to visit and pray for hospitalized premature newborn babies at the University of Illinois Hospital. and/or to arrange for the Anointing of the Sick. Please Donations of yarn/fabric/baby toiletries/supplies accepted. For call the Pastoral Center for assistance. information/meeting dates, contact Carol Dimer at 708-479-6994. In the Hospital? Because of HIPAA Privacy regu- HOPE Employment Ministry lations hospitals can no longer contact the parish re- The HOPE Employment Ministry is available to provide assis- garding your hospitalization. It is the responsibility of tance to anyone who is seeking employment or a career you or a family member to notify our parish. We desire change. If you require assistance with the job search process, to offer whatever spiritual support we can. Please call including resume review, networking or interview skills, please the Pastoral Center. contact [email protected]. Couples planning to Alcoholics Anonymous Sacrament of Marriage If you have a problem with alcohol and feel a sincere desire to marry are asked to make arrangements six months in stop drinking, you are welcome to attend a meeting of advance. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in the O’Mara Hall, Thursdays, Wedding Workshops are offered throughout the 7:30-8:45pm. AA is a fellowship of men and women sharing year. They provide engaged couples with guidelines their experience, strength, and hope so that they may solve and suggestions for the celebration of the Sacrament of their common problem and help others to recover. The only Marriage. The workshop covers topics ranging from requirement is a sincere desire to stop drinking. readings and music to flowers and video taping. Families Anonymous Adult Choir sings at all 10am Sunday Masses, as If your life has gone astray due to living with someone who has well as at a number of special liturgies. a substance abuse problem, attend a Families Anonymous on Teen Choir sings at the 11:30am Sunday Masses. Mondays from 7-8:30pm at Palos Hospital, 123rd and 80th Moving? Please call the office at 708-403-0101. Ave., Palos Heights (Ambulatory Care Center, Rm. 1). Call 708- 429-2507 or 708-269-9853. 9300 West 167th St., Orland Hills, IL St. Vincent de Paul Society 708-403-0101 Anyone within parish boundaries in need of assistance from SVDP, may call the parish office at 708-403-0101. www.steseton.com Page Twelve THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 13, 2020
St. Vincent DePaul Holiday Drive 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 Sunday, Dec. 13. Suggested gift items are:
Sweat Shirts and Pants Denture Cleaner Kleenex Denture Container Body Wash Skin Lotion Shampoo Spray Room Deodorizer Antiperspirant Puzzle Books Toothpaste T-shirts (white/color, Toothbrushes long sleeve, size large) Denture Adhesive Socks, white
NO gift wrapping needed. Items must be identifiable from outside.
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 members 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 cli- ents within our parish boundaries with emergency assistance for utilities, rent, security deposits, food, clothing, medical, dental, eye care and occa- sionally 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. December 13, 2020 THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Thirteen Page Fourteen THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 13, 2020
Gi Card Dona ons accepted through Monday, Dec. 14
GIFT CARD DONATIONS (WALMART/TARGET) ONLY OF VALUES UP TO $20
A MESSAGE FROM RESPOND NOW OF CHICAGO HEIGHTS
Gree ngs! We at RESPOND NOW hope you are and have been well. Due to current circumstances and COVID-19 precau ons, RESPOND NOW will not be able to host our usual Christmas event. Instead, we are hoping to provide for every child in the families whom we serve with $20 in gi cards. By last year’s count, that would be close to 700 CHILDREN — and in these uncertain mes — the need could be greater.
We are hoping our wonderful donors and volunteers will generously help us reach our goal by dona ng gi card(s) from TARGET or WALMART of individual card values of no greater than $20 (to accommodate distribu on).
Cards from Aldi in $10 amounts are also helpful for the families.
As we try to meet the challenges of 2020, we hope to make Christmas merrier for our RESPOND NOW children. As always, thank you for your con nued support. To learn more about the services please visit WWW.RESPONDNOW.ORG. Sue Perkins, RESPOND NOW Christmas Commi ee
Please place your gi card dona ons in a separate envelope (labeled ATTENTION: RESPOND NOW). Drop it in the Seton Collec on Box at Mass; OR call the parish office at 708-403-0101 to arrange a drop off me by this Monday, Dec. 14, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. December 13, 2020 THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Fifteen
Makes a great Christmas gift! SAINT OF THE WEEK Only $20! A great way in supporting local businesses during the The feast in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe COVID-19 goes back to the 16th century. Chronicles of that period tell us the story. pandemic! A POOR INDIAN NAMED CUAUHTLATOHUAC WAS A Golden Opportunities allows you to save thousands BAPTIZED AND GIVEN THE NAME JUAN DIEGO. of dollars at a variety of your favorite local merchants that He was a 57-year-old widower, and lived in a small include: dining pleasures, casual dining, entertainment, village near Mexico City. On Saturday morning sports, retail, and more! December 9, 1531, he was on his way to a nearby Available in the Parish Office barrio to attend Mass in honor of Our Lady. Call the office at 708-403-0101 to set up a pickup time. Juan was walking by a hill called Tepeyac when he heard beautiful music like the warbling of birds. A radiant cloud appeared, and within it stood an Indian maiden dressed like an Aztec princess. The lady spoke to him in his own language and sent him to the bishop of Mexico, a Franciscan named Juan de Zumarraga. The bishop was to build a chapel in the place where the lady appeared. Eventually the bishop told Juan to have the lady give him a sign. About this same time Juan’s uncle became seriously ill. This led poor Juan to try to avoid the lady. Nevertheless the lady found Juan, assured him that his uncle would recover, and provided roses for Juan to carry to the bishop in his cape or tilma. On December 12, when Juan Diego opened his tilma in the bishop’s presence, the roses fell to the ground. The bishop sank to his knees. On the tilma where the roses had been appeared an image of
Mary exactly as she had at the hill of Tepeyac.
COMMENT Mary’s appearance to Juan Diego as one of his people is a powerful reminder that Mary—and the God who sent her—accept all peoples. In the context of the sometimes rude and cruel treatment of the Indians by the Spaniards, the apparition was a rebuke to the Spaniards and an event of vast significance for the in- digenous population. While a number of them had con- verted before this incident, they now came in droves. According to a contemporary chronicler, nine million Indians became Catholic in a very short time. In these days when we hear so much about God’s preferential option for the poor, Our Lady of Guadalupe cries out to us that God’s love for and identification with the poor is an age-old truth that stems from the Gospel itself. Page Sixteen THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 13, 2020
Scripture Reflections for GOSPEL FOURTH SUNDAY Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to OF ADVENT me according to your word (Luke 1:26-38). This is the account of the Annunciation through which Jesus became incarnate in our world. The angel Gabriel LLIVINGIVING appears to Mary. He greets her, calling her one who is full of grace. Gabriel asks Mary to be the mother of the Son of God. Because Mary was immaculate from the moment of thethe her conception, she is able to respond to God’s invitation with great generosity. She does not seek her own ad-
vancement, but rather places herself at the disposition of
God, saying that she is God’s handmaid. She answers
WORD WORD
God’s call even though she does not yet fully understand
DECEMBER 20, 2020 what it all means. The child is to be called Jesus (Yahweh
NEXT WEEK’S FOCUS: saves). He will be the ful illment of Nathan’s promise to BUILDING HOUSES David, for he will be a king with an eternal reign. All of Though David wanted to build a dwelling place this happens, even though Mary is a virgin. This is impos- for God to dwell in, God promised David something sible to worldly logic, but nothing is impossible for God. God, who gave Elizabeth a child even though she was ad- greater: a “house” that would last forever. In Christ, vanced in years, could certainly give a child to Mary. we ind that promise ful illed.
REFLECTION FIRST READING Promises made are empty words unless there is evidence I will ix a place for my people. I will plant them so that they that they are kept. When we say: “I’ll call you,” do we? may dwell in their place without further disturbance When we say, “I’ll visit you,” do we? It’s only after the call (2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16). is made or the visit takes place that it is clear our words David approached Nathan (a court prophet, counselor) had meaning. The same is true for marriage or religious about building a temple for the L . When David con- vows, priestly promises, and the other commitments we quered Jerusalem, he brought the Ark of the Covenant make. When we see that vows and promises are kept and into that city, but he had not yet built a temple for it. Da- commitments are lived, we know that the words were vid had established an empire that extended from river to true and not empty. David wants to build a house for the river (Nile to Euphrates) and he was ready to honor the Lord, but God has other plans. God will establish a house, L by building him a temple. The Lord refuses this idea a lineage that will last longer than any house that David because David appears over arrogant. He tells him that he could build. God will be a father to David. David will be a will create a house for David (a dynasty) if he and his sons son to God. When Gabriel visits Mary, the angel announc- are faithful to the ways of the Lord, and they would reign es the ful illment of that promise: “You will conceive in in Israel forever. God will remain close and loving to your womb and bear a son… the Lord God will give him David and his descendants, as a father loves a son. This the throne of David his father… and of his kingdom there promise is only realized in the birth of Jesus, the son of will be no end” (Luke 1:31a, 32b, 33b). The letter to the David. Romans af irms this: The mystery that was kept secret, SECOND READING God’s promise to David, is made manifest through Jesus To the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, be glory Christ. Advent reminds us of God’s promise to share this forever and ever (Romans 16:25-27). everlasting reign with us. All we need to do is re lect on This reading is actually a hymn of praise and celebrates Mary’s “yes” and say with her, “May it be done to me ac- the goodness of the Lord who is faithful to his promises. cording to your word” (Luke 1:38)—then ful ill those God revealed his promises long ago through the law words by how we give birth to Jesus each and every day. and prophets. Now he ful illed them through the birth of Our tongues are powerful. They can speak truth or empty Jesus. This miracle of grace was proclaimed not only to promises. Will our actions make clear that we are the the people of Israel but also to all of the nations on the servants of the Lord, living to ful ill God’s promises by earth. how we live our faith in Jesus every day?
READINGS FOR THE WEEK [DECEMBER 14-20]
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Nm 24:2-7, 15- Zep 3:1-2, Is 45:6b-8, 18, Gn 49:2, 8-10 Jer 23:5-8 Jgs 13:2-7, 2 Sm 7:1-5, 17a 9-13 21c-25 Mt 1:1-17 Mt 1:18-25 24-25a 8b-12, 14a, 16 Mt 21:23-27 Mt 21:28-32 Lk 7:18b Lk 1:5-25 Rom 16:25-27; Lk 1:26-38 December 13, 2020 THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Seventeen
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Jewelry Spa Gifts Wellness Singing Bowls Scarves and Shawls Sweaters, Ponchos and Toppers Outerwear Socks Home Décor Kitchen Table Top World Treasures Baskets Cards and Journals Holiday Games Children’s Gifts Food items Coffee and Cocoa Page Eighteen THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 13, 2020
Introducing a YouTube Channel dedicated to the growth of the Liturgical and Spiritual Formation of St. Elizabeth Seton Parishioners!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UCrkjPhaXNUoq0pw3JaPJorg
The global pandemic has forced many of us to stay home since it hit back in March. It also forced our parish to adapt her liturgical activities, formation sessions, and our daily/weekly celebration of the Holy Mass. Thus, I created this YOU TUBE channel for our parishioners to virtually continue our Spiritual and Liturgical Formation. I invite all to subscribe to this YOU TUBE channel and get involved in Our discussions, conversations, and formation sessions as we dive deeper into the mysteries of our faith through the Liturgy and parish spirituality. You may simply take your smartphone and scan the QR code above or type the URL into the address bar of your web browser to get started.
I look forward to continuing this journey with everyone! Stay safe and God bless!
Carlos Bautista, MALS, St. Elizabeth Seton Director of Liturgy December 13, 2020 THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Nineteen Page Twenty THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 13, 2020 December 13, 2020 THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Twenty One Page Twenty Two THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT December 13, 2020 December 13, 2020 THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT Page Twenty Three
5:00 PM 7:30 AM 9:30 AM 11:30AM GREETERS
REOPENING LITURGICAL MINISTRY SCHEDULES
Liturgical ministries will be serving on a limited basis.
Currently, Mass Captains are serving at each Mass time LECTORS to ensure safety restrictions are implemented. When the parish returns to 100% capacity, we will list the Liturgical Ministry schedule in full. SACRISTANS Due to the Archdiocesan guidelines ALTAR for CORONAVIRUS concerns, SERVERS we will refrain from the distribution of Holy Communion EUCHARISTIC to the faithful via the chalice. MINISTERS All Liturgical Minister inquiries should be directed to Carlos Bautista, Director of Liturgy, [email protected] 708-403-0101, ext. 102.
VISIT OUR St. Elizabeth Seton Church Join us on FACEBOOK WEBSITE AT 9300 W. 167th Street Orland Hills, IL 60487 St. Elizabeth Seton Church- WWW.STESETON.COM Parish Office: 708-403-0101 Orland Hills Religious Education: 708-403-0137
PARISH OFFICE HOURS: MONDAY-FRIDAY: 9AM-1PM SUNDAY: 9AM-1PM
SATURDAY: 1PM-6PM SUNDAY: 8:30AM-1PM Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Catholic School WEBSITE: WWW.CJBSCHOOL.ORG 708-403-6525 Principal: Kelly Bourrell Vice Principal: Jennie Pagliaro Administrative Assistant: Cindy Labriola Devlin
Pastoral Staff Youth/Young Adult Ministry Rev. William T. Corcoran, Ph.D., Pastor Bruce Hall, Coordinator
Rev. John Zurek, Associate Pastor Rev. William Gubbins, Resident Priest Athletics
Bob Myjak, Director Rev. William T. O’Mara, Pastor Emeritus
Deacon: Frank Gildea Maintenance Staff Deacon: Dennis (Barb) Cristofaro Raymond Yanowsky, Director of Maintenance Carlos Bautista, Director of Liturgy Linda McKeague, Director of Music Laurie De Mik-Renn, CJB Day Maintenance Supervisor Parish Office Staff Marie Makuch, Staff Donna Stolinski, Business Manager Joseph Shake, Staff Darlene Raila, Communications Director Dan Kosty, Staff Joan Nemec, Receptionist Karen Mirecki, Receptionist Karen Opyd, Receptionist REGULAR MASS SCHEDULE Monday-Friday: 9:00 am Religious Education Staff Saturday: 5:00 pm Diana Barracca, Catechesis Sunday: Mary Vlaming, Catechesis 7:30, 9:30, 11:30am