St. Matthew 10703 Wurzbach Rd. San Antonio, TX 78230-2499

NET ADDRESS: http://www.stmatts.org

ADMINISTRATION BUILDING (All Offices) ST. MATTHEW CATHOLIC SCHOOL (210) 478-5000 (210) 478-5099

“The mission of St. Matthew Catholic Church is to be a welcoming community that encounters Christ through prayer, sacraments, and charitable service.”

XXVVIX No. 52

1

St. Matthew Catholic Church 10703 Wurzbach Rd. San Antonio, Texas 78230-2499 210 478-5000 NET ADDRESS: www.stmatts.org WORSHIP SERVICE WEEKEND MASS Saturday 5:30 pm Sunday 7:30, 9:15, 11 am, 11:15 am McDonald Family Center Gym Children’s Liturgy of the Word & Eucharist, 12:45 pm (All Spanish Mass ) and 6:00 pm

DAILY MASS Church Mon.—Fri. 6:00, 8:15 am , 12:05 & 6:00 pm; PASTORAL COUNCIL PRESIDENT 857-8025 Sat., 8:15 am Chapel of Eucharistic Adoration Always Open Danny Padron Penance Wednesday 4:30 - 6:00 p.m. [email protected] Saturday 4:00 - 5:30 pm Church (Or you FINANCE COUNCIL 478-5000 may make an appointment with one of the parish priests) Art Machado BUILDING COMMITTEE 492-2401 Anointing of the Sick SECOND Sunday 2:00 pm Bob Mason and Also on First Friday following 12:05 pm SCHOOL COUNCIL PRESIDENT Phillip Reede 478-5099 Prayer Groups English Thursday 7:00 pm SCHOOL PRINCIPAL 478-5099 Espanol Monday 8:00 pm Alvin Caro Novena to Miraculous Medal Tuesday 7:30 pm SCHOOL PTC Christiane Garcia, President 316-4356 PASTOR 478-5000 [email protected] Rev. Dennis D. Aréchiga PRIESTS 478-5000 ALTAR SERVERS Rev. Jake Empereur, SJ Richard and Carrie Fuhrmann 492-2064 Rev. Abel Ruiz Msgr. Juan Alfaro (Living in Residence) CATECHESIS-EDUCATION 478-5000 DEACONS Sister Therese Gleitz (Children) 478-5010 Deacon Wilbur Hoelscher (Senior Deacon) 342-0351 Mari Vallone ( Liturgy w/Children) 478-5019 Deacon Pete Cuellar 410-7591 Natalia Ramirez (High School Coordinator) 478-5011 Deacon Tom Fox 521-3377 Deacon Alonzo Guzman, Jr. 558-6294 Michelle Weekley (Assistant High School Coordinator) Deacon Norman Kutschenreuter 525-8245 Gail Dereszewski, (Adult Education/RCIA Director) 478-5004 Deacon Rafael Lara 601-0800 Beth Duarte (Adult Education Ministries/ACTS) 478-5006 Deacon Mendiola 478-5000 Deacon Norman Kutschenreuter 478-5060 Deacon Nealis 478-5000 (Annulments and Convalidations) Deacon John Ochiagha 478-5000 Deacon Oscar Vela, Jr. 413-1463 COUNSELORS 478-5000 RETIRED DEACONS Maria Leavy Hoelscher, Ph.D., LMFT 478-5005 Deas Ernesto Garza, Keith Werner, Roberto Rios, Tom Houle Judith Poston, LCSW,CGP 478-5016 ADMINISTRATION STAFF 478-5000 Mari Gonzalez, M.Ed., LPC 478-5018 Paul Canales (Business Manager) 478-5007 COMMENTATORS/LECTORS 857-8025 Bernard Zarazua (Facilities Manager) 478-5001 Danny Padron Kay Moczygemba (Pastor/Priests/Parish Secretary) 478-5003 EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS 342-0351 Ginger Wurz (Catechesis Secretary) 478-5008 Deacon Wilbur Hoelscher (Senior Deacon) 478-5013 Ursula Flowe (Bookkeeper) 478-5014 HOSPITALITY 641-7670 Georgia Wall (Senior Center Manager) 478-5017 Richard Loza Bruce Orey (Consolation Ministry) 478-5036 MUSIC COORDINATOR 478-5000 Chris Juarez, (Parish Athletic Director) 478-5027 Sister Therese Gleitz 478-5010 Bill Cancel (Refugee Ministry) 478-5029 Nanette Dion (Director of Advancement) 478-5015

OFFICE HOURS PHONE PARISH ADMINISTRATION Mon-Fri 8am to 7pm, Sat 9am-12N 478-5000 SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION Mon-Fri 8am to 4pm 478-5099 SENIOR NUTRITION CENTER Mon-Fri 8:30 am-12:30 pm 478-5024 SOCIETY OF ST VINCENT DE PAUL Tues-Sat 8:30 am to 12:00 pm (Noon) 478-5020 2

PARISH ORGANIZATIONS MEETING DAY TIME PARISH ORGANIZATIONS MEETING DAY TIME Blessed Sacrament & Altar Society 1st Wednesday 10:00 a.m. Men’s Club – Holy Name Society 2nd Monday 7:00 p.m. ACTS Core Group 1st Monday 7:00 p.m. Novena of the Miraculous Medal Tuesdays 7:30 p.m. Athletic Association 1st Thursday 7:30 p.m. Parish Pastoral Council 2nd Wednesday 7:00 p.m. Burmese Liturgy of the Word Sundays (MCDFCenter) 9:15 a.m. Perpetual Adoration Mike Robles 579-0716 Cancer Support Group 4th Monday 7:00 p.m. Prayer Group (English) Thursdays 7:00 p.m. Catholic Daughters of America 3rd Monday 7:00 p.m. Refugee Ministry 4th Thursday 478-5029 Children’s Mass Sundays(MCDFCenter Gym)11:15 a.m. Respect Life Ministry Deacon Pete Cuellar 410-7591 Choirs - ACTS Sundays 7:30 a.m. School Council 3rd Tuesday 7:00 p.m. Adults Wednesdays 7:30 p.m. SCOTS(Dolores Mc Atee) Twice Monthly 340-5449 Bilingual Tuesdays 8:00 p.m. Scouts (Boys) Stephen Tipps 694-0152 Children’s Saturdays 4:30 p.m. Scouts – Cubs Charles Butcher 437-3057 Family Folk Sundays 5:00 p.m. Scouts – Venturing Larry Grona 696-2889 Youth Sundays 10:00 a.m. Scouts -Girl Sharon Beiter 275-6461 Christian Meditations Wednesdays7-8p.m. 445-1107 Society of St. Vincent de Paul Tuesday-Saturday 8:30 a.m. - Confraternity of Our Lady of 12 Noon Guadalupe 1st Sunday 11:00 a.m. Spanish Prayer Group Mondays 8:00-9:00 p.m. Finance Council 3rdWednesday 7:00 p.m. St. Matthew’s Mission Group 2nd Tuesday 7PM 344-7310 Faith Based Mental Health Support 3rd Wednesday 6:30 p.m. St. Matthew’s Singles (40+) Thursdays MFC RM 106 7:00 p.m. Knights of Columbus 3rd Degree 1st Tuesday 7:30 p.m. Transportation Ministry 2-3 Days’ Notice 478-5000 Knights of Columbus 4th Degree 3rd Thursday 7:00 p.m. Widow/Widower 1st & 3rd Tuesday 7:00 p.m. Legion of Mary Monday 7:00 p.m. YC 3 (Young Adults 25-40) Beth Duarte 478-5006 Thursday 6:30 p.m.

QUICK MESSAGE-INFORMATION dial 478-5098 please press Emergency Line for Sickness/Sickness ONLY 1 Mass and Confession Schedule 4 Infant Baptism 5 Marriage (Contact Church 6 Months prior to Wedding Date) 6 CYO Athletic 478-5027 Senior Nutrition Center 478-5017 RCIA/Adult Confirmation 478-5004

PASTORS MESSAGE “Now there were shepherds in that region living in the fields and keeping the night watch over their flock. The angel of the Lord appeared to them and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were struck with great fear. The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid: for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of a savior has been born for you who is Christ and Lord.” Luke 2:8-11 Our hearts are filled with joy at the great mystery of Christ’s Incarnation, becoming one of us, Emmanuel. The richness of the Christmas mystery is wrapped around its stark contrasts: Near the darkest day of winter Christ our light is born The maiden chosen as Christ’s mother is unknown and humble of heart The Holy Spirit and human flesh collide in birthing our God-Hero The King of Kings is born not in a royal palace but a lowly manger The attendants at the manger are lowly animals and simple shepherds The unassuming day of his birth would change the world for all eternity Certainly, the mystery of Christ’s incarnation involves our standing at wonder at how all of this could have come about in such an unexpected, yet marvelous way. Amid the challenges and at times monotony of our daily lives, Christmas dawns again. We reflect upon God becoming human, one of us and of how being fashioned in God’s image Genesis reminds us that what God created is good. May the incarnation of Christ remind us of the goodness that is latent in our own lives. May we open our hearts to imitate and Mary’s faith and humility and the Christ child’s desire to bring peace, truth and light to a broken world. May we be instruments of His peace. Merry Christmas! - - Fr. Dennis

3

SACRAMENT OF PENANCE BEFORE BAPTISM CLASSES CHIRSTMAS NO” DECEMBER BAPTISMAL CLASSES

Saturday. December 23 Baptismal Classes Baptismal Classes January 8 & 22 February5 & 12 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. (Parish Hall ) 7:30 p.m. (Parish Hall ) 7:30 p.m. Fr. Abel, Fr. Tony C. and Msgr. Michael O Pre-registration by Pre-registration by December 30 January 27 Group Baptisms Saturday, Group Baptisms Saturday, Dec. 24 and 25 Christmas Eve and Day January 27 at 11:00 a.m. February 24 at 1:00 p.m. Mass Schedule on Page 6 Parents & Godparents/ Parents & Godparents/ Sponsors must be in the Sponsors must be in the Dec. 27 The Church Office will Church by 10:30 a.m. Church by 12:30 p.m. re-open at 8:00 a.m. Dec. 29 Church Office will close for the Parents and Godparents/Sponsors are required New Years Holiday at 1:00 p.m. to attend all of the monthly classes chosen and re-open on Tuesday, before or after the baby is born St. Matthew January 2 at 8:00 a.m. Parishioners need to take the classes at St. Dec.31-Jan. 1 SOLEMNITY OF MARY, THE Matthew’s. MOTHER OF GOD–NOT A HOLY DAY Pre-registration is required and “NO” late OBLIGATION THIS YEAR registrations will be accepted. Registration Because it falls on a Monday, the Solemnity packets are available at the Administration of Mary, The Mother of God is not a Holy Day Building. The child's state birth certificate is of Obligation. of the Feast of the Holy Family. required. Godparents/Sponsors from another parish may attend classes in their own parish if Masses on Jan. 1st will be at 8:15 a.m.; 12:05 they bring a letter or certificate of completion. p.m.; 6 p.m. Note: there will not be a 6 a.m. Mass on Jan. 1st The Sunday 6 p.m. Mass on Dec. 31st will not be a vigil Mass for this NEWLY ENGAGED? solemnity but will be for the Sunday intention CONGRATULATIONS! Jan, 3 Sacrament of Penance 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Our Parish family rejoices with you as you pre- Jan. 5 Divine Mercy 3:00 P.M., Church pare for this life-long covenant of love. We know that these next months will be filled with many details planning for your wedding day. VINCENT DE PAUL CLOSURE In order to help you prepare for your sacra- mental marriage, take time from your busy The Saint Vincent de Paul office will schedule as soon as possible to contact Ju- dith Poston at 478-5016 for Marriage Prepara- be closed starting Tuesday, Decem- tion. Together may you follow the way of love ber 19, 2017 through Monday Janu- as Christ loved you. (Ephesians 5:2). ary 1, 2018. The Office will reopen AND SPECIAL OBSERVANCES on Tuesday, January 2, 2018 at Sunday: Fourth Sunday of Advent 8:30 AM. Please refrain from drop- Monday: The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas) Tuesday: St. Stephen; Kwanzaa begins ping off any donations during this Wednesday: St. John time. We wish all a Merry and Thursday: The Holy Innocents Friday: Fifth Day within the Octave of the Blessed Christmas. Thank you so Nativity of the Lord; much for your continued support of St. Saturday: Sixth Day within the Octave of the our ministry. Nativity of the Lord

4

5

May God bless you and your families with the peace that Mary experienced in her life and the peace that only her Son can give! Merry Christmas! Fr. Dennis, Fr. Abel, Fr. Jake, Msgr. Alfaro, Deacons, Sr. Therese and Staff

6

TREASURES FROM OUR TRADITION Children of the parish are somewhat focused on Santa Claus these days, who is keeping an eye on who’s naughty and who’s nice. Santa Claus, with his heavenly Nicholas, has been more or less in charge of gift-giving to American children for a hundred years or so. In other places, perhaps more at- tentive to our Christian tradition, there are different gift-bearers. In Greece, Saint Basil delivers the presents on his feast day, December 31, and makes sure everyone is sprinkled with holy water. The Baby is in charge elsewhere, called the Christkind in Austria and Belgium, El Niño Jesús in Columbia, and Le Petit Jesus in France, where he shares his duties with Père Noël. In the Czech Republic almost every- one is atheist, but Ježíšek, the infant Jesus, brings gifts to one and all. In Poland the “Star Man” is said to bring the gifts, although often he turns out to be the village priest in disguise. Saint Nicholas, not his Americanized cousin, is the giver in Holland, where he wears a bishop’s miter, and in Russia, where he wears a bishop’s crown. Soviet Russia tried to dethrone Saint Nicholas and promote Grandfather Frost, but no one was much fooled by this attempt to squeeze religion out of Christ’s birth. One country has a saintly woman in charge of the gifts, , honored in Sweden on December 13, when children serve their parents breakfast in bed, and others awake to news that they have been nominated for a Nobel Prize. Some children have a second round of gifts on Epiphany, when the magi assume the gift-giving du- ties. In general, the gifts of Christmas are simple pleasures, not great heaps of treasures. Once upon a time, a new pair of socks or an orange was enough for us. No matter what gifts we receive, all of them are to point us to the true gift, and the true giver. —Rev. James Field, Copyright © J. S. Paluch Co.

The child to be born Divine Mercy Chaplet will be called holy, The Divine Mercy Chaplet Will be recited every the Son of God. “First Friday of the Month” —Luke 1:35 (January 5) at 3:00 p.m. in the Church. It will be followed with the Proverbs 3:5-6 “ recitation of the Rosary. Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways Come and join us. Please call acknowledge him, and he will make straight Deacon Oscar at 210-413-1463. your paths.”

TRAFFIC CONTROL

Due to construction areas, weekend Masses (and Christmas volume) of traffic necessitate patience from all parishioners and visitors in regards to the parking areas. PLEASE follow directions of the traffic officers. DO NOT move the traffic cones. WE MUST allow room for emergency vehicles to reach all areas of the complex. We are doing our very best to accommodate everyone. Thank you for your understanding.

7

Is Servant Leadership a Bridge between Cultures? The Experience and Well-Being of Catholics in San Antonio I have the acknowledgement of Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller with respect to a prior ver- sion of my dissertation study (which I have since scaled-back at the direction of my faculty); a copy of his acknowledgement is attached. Also, I have the approval of the Institutional Re- view Board of OLLU with an “Exempt” status, indicating that the survey and methods I will use pose no risks to participants or subjects, and are consistent with normal opinion survey procedures. Finally, I have attached the content of the survey in English and Spanish for your review. I am very willing to come to your parish office or speak to you by phone at your convenience if you’d like to discuss any aspect of the study. I understand that the Christmas season is an extremely busy one and bulletin space is at a premium, so there are many reasons why you may not be able to support this request. For my study record-keeping, I ask that you please reply regarding your ability to support my study, either Yes or No. Thank you, Bruce A. Stanfill PhD Candidate-Our Lady of the Lake University BAS- [email protected] 210-739-2606

8

SECOND COLLECTION ASSUMPTION SEMINARY CHRISTMAS EVE AND CHRISTMAS DAY

At the Seminary there are 75 men studying for the Catholic Priesthood. Please keep them in your prayers. Thank you for your support of the next generation of Catholic Priests. May God Bless you. Very Rev. Jeff Pehl, Rector

SAVE THE DATE!

9

School Office Hours are: 7:30 a. m. — 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday Please contact Bonnie Marx, 478-5044 for more information.

JANUARY PILGRIM CENTER OF HOPE EVENTS DAY OF HOPE with Fr. Pat Martin at the Pilgrim Center of Hope. Thursday, January 11; 9:00am-11:30am. Mass at 9:00 am. 7680 Joe Newton. 210-521-3377 www.pilgrimcenterofhope.org. All are welcome!

AFTERNOON TEA with THE SAINTS Join us for Tea and sweets as we learn about St. Bona of ! Thursday, January 18; 2:00pm – 3:30pm. Pilgrim Center of Hope, 7680 Joe Newton 210-521-3377, www.pilgrimcenterofhope.org. All are welcome!

10

SAVE THESE DATES If you want answers and would like to know more about the Catholic faith for men today, then come to the San Antonio Catholic Men’s Conference, Friday and Saturday, March 16-17 in Greehey Arena at St. Mary’s University. The Conference offers powerful speakers such as Dr. John Bergsma, Tom Peterson, Capuchin Father John Lager, Mass with Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller, live music, Reconciliation, BBQ lunch, and much more! Registration at CMCSanAntonio.com or call Pilgrim Center of Hope: 210-521-3377

SAVE THE DATE FEBRUARY 24, 2018 CATHOLIC SENIORS’CONFERENCE Pilgrim Center of Hope warmly invites you to the annual Catholic Seniors’ Conference! Saturday, February 24, 2018 at St. Matthew's, all are wel- come to this day of prayer, learning, fellowship, and laughter. Family members and caretakers are welcome! There is no minimum age to attend. Come join us and learn about God’s calling for senior citizens; discover a message of joy and hope! Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller will cele- brate morning Mass. Speakers include Fr. Jona- than Felux on "Fatima for Us Today," Dr. Susan Muto on "Little Ways to Transform Your Heart," and Deacon Tom & Mary Jane Fox on "Prayer In- tercessors: Living as Missionaries As We Are." Register today at PilgrimCenterOfHope.org or call 210-521-3377.

ATTENTION: LECTORS WELCOME TO The 2018 OUR CHURCH (English and Spanish) Workbook for The Welcome to Lectors Our Church booklets have arrived. can be picked up at the You may purchase a Church copy at the Church Sacristy or Administration Building Church Administra- tion Building Cost is $2.00

Cost: $5.00 11

MASS REMEMBRANCES FOR 2018 We are taking 2018 Mass Remembrances on The policy followed is shown below so that we can accommodate as many of our parish family as possible. According to Canon Law, a priest can accept only ONE MASS STIPEND per day. If there are multiple inten- tions for a particular Mass, the additional stipend is donated to the parish. This is the Mass Remembrance policy for St. Matthew. Specific Masses will be designated monthly for: Living and deceased members of the parish; Specific intentions requested by organizations; Special request of all parishioners; We will accept requests on Wednesday thru Fridays 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. If you mail your requests for Mass Remembrances, we cannot guarantee the dates you request but will give you the first available. In order to accommodate as many of our parishioners as possible, and to allow the availability for emergencies we must limit the number of Masses you request to one every other month (or 6 a year) (Maximum 2 of which could be Sunday Masses, only if available.) Thank you for helping us provide an opportuni- ty for all our parishioners to schedule Masses.

12

13 14

!!!MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OF OUR SENIOR CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY SCHEDULE CITIZENS!!! MONDAY, DECEMBER 25 THROUGH MONDAY, JANUARY 1 – CHRISTMAS SEASON HOLIDAYS ST. MATTHEW SENIOR CENTER IS OPEN MONDAY THE SENIOR CENTER WILL REOPEN ON TUESDAY, THRU FRIDAY FROM 7 AM UNTIL NOON. MEMBERSHIP JANUARY 2, AT 8:00 AM IS OPEN TO ANY SENIOR WHO IS 60 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER, AND WHO RESIDES IN BEXAR COUNTY. OUR GOAL IS TO PROVIDE A SAFE, FRIENDLY, AND EXTRA MONTHLY ACTIVITIES INTERESTING PLACE WHERE OUR SENIOR CITIZENS CAN COME AND SPEND SOME TIME WITH OTHER Active members of the Senior Center enjoy additional SENIORS. NEW FRIENDSHIPS HAVE BEEN MADE AND activities during every month. SOME OLD FRIENDSHIPS HAVE BEEN RENEWED. Once during every month, we offer the following activities VARIOUS ACTIVITIES ARE SPONSORED BY ST. for our members. MATTHEW PARISH DURING THE MORNING HOURS. 1) A guest speaker who will speak on topics that are of THE CITY OF SAN ANTONIO, DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN interest to our senior citizens, SERVICES, SENIOR SERVICES DIVISION, PROVIDES THE 2) Lunch at a local restaurant (private pay) CENTER MEMBERS WITH A NUTRITIOUS LUNCH FROM 3) A morning trip to a place of interest for our seniors 11:15 AM TO 11:30 AM EVERY DAY. (museums, historical places, shopping) OUR SENIOR CENTER IS NOT CAPABLE OF CARING FOR THOSE SENIORS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS. MEMBERS When the Senior Center bus is used for special events, OF ST. MATTHEW SENIOR CENTER NEED TO BE ABLE members sign up in advance for a seat on the bus to transport TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ACTIVITIES OF THE SENIOR them to the function. CENTER WITHOUT REQUIRING SPECIALIZED For additional information, please call Georgia at 210-478- ATTENTION TO THEIR NEEDS. 5017 !!!Pre-registration is required for the lunch program!!! AFTER REGISTRATION, PLEASE ALLOW 4 -7 DAYS ART GROUP FOR YOUR APPLICATION TO BE PROCESSED. The Senior Center Art Group will be discontinued at the end AFTER IT IS PROCESSED YOU WILL RECEIVE A of December. Currently, the art group does not have an CARD THAT WILL ENTITLE YOU TO COME IN instructor. AND ENJOY A MEAL IN THE SENIOR CENTER. If you are interested in becoming the art group instructor (a PLEASE NOTE THAT MEALS ARE SERVED DAILY volunteer position), please call Georgia Wall at 210 478-5017 ON A FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE BASIS for information. If you are interested in applying to be a member, or have any questions concerning the Senior Center, please call the Senior JEWELRY CLASS (For seniors 60 years young or a little Center at 210-478-5024. older) If you like to be creative and if you like jewelry, this is the WEEKLY ACTIVITIES place for you to come on Thursday mornings. This class is The following activities start at 9:00 AM and end at 11:00 open to both men and women. AM. Bring your own beads and your own jewelry tools. Meet Monday – Bingo other creative, talented individuals who share your same Tuesday – Quilting Group (Quilting group is filled to interest in jewelry. Make new friends while sharing your capacity. No new members will be accepted until further ideas and learning from others. notice. No instruction is offered with this group) No donations are required. Tuesday - Bunco Instruction is offered on the 2nd Thursday of each month Wednesday, - Bingo. only. Thursday – Jewelry Making, Mexican dominoes Call 210 478-5024 for more information, or just show up on Friday – Bingo the designated Thursday mornings.

WIDOW/WIDOWER: DIVINE MERCY CENACLE COPING WITH LOSS GROUP Welcomes you to participate in an evening of Grieving is a very powerful emotional journey that helps you adapt song, prayer, discussion of Scripture and the to drastic changes in your life. Sharing and walking with others writings of St. Faustina. This devotional who have experienced this type of loss is very helpful and healing. community gathers on the second and fourth This support group meets the first and third Tuesday of every Monday of each month in the McDonald month in Rm. 104, MFC. For more information, please contact Family Center, Rm. 104, from 7:00 — 8:30 p.m. Lupe and/or Bruce Orey, 348-6199. Contact: Glen & Charlotte Jones, 479-0039.

15 16 17 18 19

YOUTH MINISTRY NEWS The magic of Christmas is not in the presents, but in His presence.

RELIGIOUS ED CLASSES (FRESHMAN, CONFIRMATION, & JUNIOR/SENIOR) Classes started on September 10th and are being held in the St. Matthew’s School from 7:15 to 8:30 pm. No more registrations will be taken. All of our Religious Education teaches are volunteers. All students should go each class to the Cafeteria to meet with their instructors and not go to the rooms without their instructors. Call Natalia Ramirez at (210) 478-5011 if you have any questions. Class schedule for December: December 31 – No classes – New Year Holiday

***Day of Reflection for High School Confirmation candidates with Sr. Mary Fagan: January 6th from 10am to 3 pm in the Parish Hall. Space is full. ***

***SERVICE HOUR OPPORTUNITY!!!*** Bring in pajamas for our pajama drive! You will receive 1 hour per adult size, and 1 hour per 2 child size pajamas!

RCIA FOR TEENS This program is designed for any teenager who would like to know more about the Catholic faith, as well as for any teenager who would like to prepare to receive the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation. If a teen has been baptized, but has not received first Eucharist or Confirmation, these classes will guide him/her through the preparation process for these sacraments. Classes began September 10th and run through to the end of May. If you have any questions, please call Natalia Ramirez at (210) 478-5011. December 31 – No Class – New Year Holiday

HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH GROUP Youth Group is for all teenagers who are classified as High School students. The meetings are held on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at 11039 Vance Jackson Dr. (the pink brick house just past the fire station). If you are interested in joining with a group who share your Catholic Christian beliefs, come and be a part of the great social and spiritual activities that members of the Youth Group participate in. There is free food too!!! Call Natalia Ramirez at (210) 478-5011 for additional information.

MIDDLE SCHOOL YOUTH GROUP T.A.G (Tweens and God) If you are a middle schooler and would like the opportunity to share in social and spiritual activities with your friends, we meet twice a month from 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. at the Vance Jackson House (11039 Vance Jackson – the pink house just past the fire station). We have all kinds of fun things to do, and we feed you too! If you would like to come and join us please call Natalia Ramirez at (210) 478-5011. See you there!

FREEDOM FINDERS – YOUNG ADULT GROUP Are you 18 years of age and older, and want to connect with Christ and old friends, as well as meet new people in your St. Matthew Community?! Well, then come join the Freedom Finders Young Adult Group! Our goal is to continue to strengthen and intensify our relationship with each other as Brothers and Sisters in Christ. We will address current issues, hot topics and participate in activities that will rejuvenate our urge to serve The Lord and our community. We meet on Mondays from 7:00 – 9:00 pm at the Vance Jackson House (11039 Vance Jackson).

20 PRAYER LIST MASS REMEMBRANCES Please pray for those suffering from illness that they WEEK OF DECEMBER 25—31, 2017 may find relief from their burdens, especially: Christmas Day Marco Acosta Dr. Antonio P. Flores Laura E. Moreno Mon. — 9:15 a.m. — Living & Deceased Members of the Parish Ruth Alba Justin Flowe Virginia Morrow Mon. — 11:00 a.m. — Living & Deceased Members of the Parish Carolina T. Aldrete Tracie Foreman Kenneth Narendorf Mon. — 12:45 p.m. — Living & Deceased Members of the Parish Joey Alonzo Chris Friedrichs Sr. Barbara Newton Mon. — 6:00 p.m. — Living & Deceased Members of the Parish Jose Alonzo Dennis Friedrichs Kathy Nichols

Erasmo Alvarez, Jr. Daniel Gallegos Martha Nunez Tues. — 6:00 a.m. — Ignacio Lopez (Birthday) Socorro Alvarez Alicia Gaona Rachel Olvera Ignacio Lopez  Edward Arismendez Margarita Garbalena Bruce Orey Tues. — 8:15 a.m. — Jack Heeney  Maddie Barber Ana Garcia Uva Perches Bill Pratt  Edith Barbin Sofia Garcia Flor Perez Tues. — 12:05 noon — Josefina Lopez Cisneros  Marlene Blake Helen Garza Herbert Picou Margaret Trejo  Joan Bleir Frank Gebhardt Sheri Quinlan Tues. — 6:00 p.m. — William B. Moon  Rhiannon Bleir Joyce Gebhardt Betty Ramirez Esther Mata  Robert Bleir Albert Georges Natalia Ramirez

Dinah Braun Joe Georges Juan Ramirez, V Wed. — 6:00 a.m. — Mary Govoni (Recovery) George Braun Mary Jane Georges Stephanie Randell Wed. — 8:15 a.m. — Dr. Raymond H. Hernandez  Reagan L. Breeding Kathy Gisin Taylor Ray Bill Pratt  Edna Marie Brzyski J. Gonzalez Reynaldo Resendez Wed. — 12:05 noon — Esther Munoz  Betty Burke Lois Goetz Ava Reyes Guillermo De Hoyos  Charles Burke Richard Goetz Paula Reyes Wed. — 6:00 p.m. — Josefina Vando  David Burke Mary Govoni Christine Rios Louis Hernandez  Julian Burke Sylvia Griffith D. Russell

Andrea Camero Shirley Grossman Luis G. Salazar Thurs. — 6:00 a.m. — Gilbert Davila, Sr.  Jeannine Campion Robert Guerrero, Jr. Ruben Santana Thurs. — 8:15 a.m. — George & Anita Dennis  Maria Cardona Jerry Gueldner Lucy Seta Thurs. — 12:05 noon — Neri Rodriguez  Grant Carroll Doris Harrell Kellie Shivitz Deceased Members of the Rivera, Parra & Rojas Families Sharon Carroll Alvah C. Hawkins Wayne Slater Thurs. — 6:00 p.m. — Matthew Thomas Castillo  Steve Carroll Charles Hayden Sylvia Smith Poor Souls in Purgatory Terri Carrington Kristen Helky Rose Sonnen

Tony Cascio Christoph Henry Andrew Stolz Fri. — 6:00 a.m. — Antonia Lopez  Ortensia Castro Meredith Herrera Letty Stover Jesus L. Calderon  T. Chavez Mary Higgins Karen Sturdivant Fri. — 8:15 a.m. — Andrea Michelle Camero (Birthday) Viola Cobos Jack Hirsh Mary A. Swindell Elvira Palacios  T. Collins Ethel Hayden Howard Ethna Torres Fri. — 12:05 noon — Argie & Howard Elizondo  Rosa Colon Michelle Huff Manuel Torres Fernando Faz  Bettie Conrad William Huff Tina & Armando Torres Fri. — 6:00 p.m. — Dr. Armando Barbosa  M. Coward Josephine Johnson Kathy Toudouze Henry Quintero  Pauline Davidson George Jowers Fr. James Tucker

Carmen De Leon Daniel Kana Matthew Tufono Sat. — 8:15 a.m. — Otto & Dolores Buechner  John J. De Leon, Jr. Louis Konze Ernesto Valdez Holy Souls in Purgatory Michael De Leon Charlotte Krimmel Kelly Vazquez Sat. — 5:30 p.m. — Dr. Raymond Hernandez, Jr.  Phillip De Leon Martha Laughlin Margarita Villarreal

Patricia DeLua Alice Laurel Dixie Wallace Sun. — 7:30 a.m. — Greg Crane  Margaret DeMunbrun Bill Lawrence Carolyn Walton Sun. — 9:15 a.m. — Roger Hernandez  Clara Maria DiBlasi Maria Lopez Irene Weber Jenny Barrs Stallworth (Special Intention) Sr. Shelia Donegan Jordan Lord Ben Webster Sun. — 11:00 a.m. — Living & Deceased Members of the Julie Dotson Tammy McCloud Anny Weekley Montemayor Family Vicki Dotson Jason McClung Juliana Wetmore Living & Deceased Members of the Roy Duran Joe Medellin Myra Wiatrek Max Family Egle Family Rosie Melendes Thomas Williamson Sun. — 11:15 a.m. — For the Parishioners Leonard Elias Rachel Meyer Alijah Wiser Sun. — 12:45 p.m. — Richard Arias  Teodora Ellis Ed Michels John Worch Sun. — 6:00 p.m. — Yolanda Trevino  Enrique Espinosa Mary Michels E. Wurz Elda Maria Estrada Todd Miller & Family Msgr. Mike Yarbrough Teresa Estrada Antonio A. Molina, Jr. Bernard Zarazua Dr. Diane Fetchik A. Molina Cuca Montecel

Three phrases that sum up Christmas are: Peace on Earth, Goodwill to Men and Batteries not Included. :) :) :)

21 READINGS FOR THE WEEK PRESIDER SCHEDULE Monday: Vigil: Is 62:1-5; Ps 89:4-5, 16-17, 27-29; DECEMBER 30/31, 2017 Acts 13:16-17, 22-25; Mt 1:1-25 [18-25] Sat. — 5:30 p.m. — Fr. Jake Empereur, SJ During the Night: Is 9:1-6; Ps 96:1-3, 11-13; Sun. — 7:30 a.m. — Fr. Abel Ruiz Ti 2:11-14; Lk 2:1-14 Sun. — 9:15 a.m. — Fr. Abel Ruiz Dawn: Is 62:11-12; Ps 97:1, 6, 11-12; Sun. — 11:00 a.m. — Msgr. Juan Alfaro Ti 3:4-7; Lk 2:15-20 Day: Is 52:7-10; Ps 98:1-6; Heb 1:1-6; Sun. — 11:15 a.m. — Fr. Jake Empereur, SJ Jn 1:1-18 [1-5, 9-14] Sun. — 12:45 p.m. — Fr. Dennis Aréchiga Tuesday: Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59; Sun. — 6:00 p.m. — Fr. Dennis Aréchiga Ps 31:3cd-4, 6, 8ab, 16bc, 17; Mt 10:17-22 Wednesday: 1 Jn 1:1-4; Ps 97:1-2, 5-6, 11-12; Jn 20:1a, 2-8 LITURGY OF THE HOURS — Psalms Thursday: 1 Jn 1:5 — 2:2; Ps 124:2-5, 7cd-8; Mt 2:13-18 Friday: 1 Jn 2:3-11; Ps 96:1-3, 5b-6; Lk 2:22-35 THE BLESSED SACRAMENT CANDLES will Saturday: 1 Jn 2:12-17; Ps 96:7-10; Lk 2:36-40 Sunday: Sir 3:2-6, 12-14 or Gn 15:1-6; 21:1-3; Ps 128: burn this week in loving memory of E. Henry 1-5 or Ps 105:1-6, 8-9; Col 3:12-21 [12-17] or Trevino. Hb 11:8, 11-12, 17-19; Lk 2:22-40 [22, 39-40] THE SANCTUARY LAMP will burn this week in loving memory of Greg Crane.

ATTENDANCE for December 16/17 to be published in next week’s bulletin.

CHURCH NAME AND ADDRESS St. Matthew Church #515367 10703 Wurzbach Road San Antonio, TX 78230

TELEPHONE 210 478-5000

CONTACT PERSON Kay

EMAIL: [email protected]

SOFTWARE MSPublisher 2007 Adobe Acrobat X Windows XP

PRINTER HP Laserjet CP2025

TRANSMISSION TIME SUNDAY DATE OF PUBLICATION

December 24, 2017 NUMBER OF PAGES SENT 1 through 12 and 13through 22 1/2

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

13