Fourth Sunday of Advent December 19 & 20, 2015

“‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.”’

- LUKE 1:42

Upcoming Events!

SAINTAMBROSE PARISH ADVENT 2015 DECEMBER 21 Meals with Meaning JANUARY 3 “Lord Jesus Christ, you have taught us to be merciful like Women’s Fellowship the heavenly Father, and have told us that whoever sees JANUARY 8 Couples’ Night Out you sees Him. Show us your face and we will be saved.” JANUARY 9 - From Pope Francis’ Prayer for the Year of Mercy Italian Dinner An Advent Filled with Mercy @SaintAmbroseChurch. Stay Connected We are a Catholic community of StAmbrose.us faith centered on Jesus Christ, who @StAmbroseChurch Saint_Ambrose_Brunswick

is everything for us! StAmbroseBrunswick www.StAmbrose.us

929 Pearl Road, Brunswick, OH 44212 • 330.460.7300 This Week Mark Your Calendars

SUNDAY // DECEMBER 20 8:00 am-1:00 pm Donut Sunday (HH) 9:45-11:45 am Ten Minute Teaching (PLCJP) 10:30-11:30 am Breaking Open the Word (PLCJP) 1:00-2:30 pm Community Meal (HH) 1:00-6:00 pm Cornerstone of Hope (PLCJP) 6:00-9:00 pm Men’s Renewal Team (LCLK) 6:00-7:30 pm Boy Scouts #513 Meeting (LCMT) MONDAY // DECEMBER 21 9:00 am-9:00 pm Eucharistic Adoration (CC) 6:00-8:00 pm Divorce Care (LCMK) 7:00-8:00 pm Recovery Support Group (LCMT) 7:00-8:00 pm Rediscover Jesus (PLCMT) 7:00-9:00 pm Catholic Works of Mercy (LCMT) TUESDAY // DECEMBER 22 9:00-11:00 am Sarah’s Circle (LCMK) 9:00 am-5:00 pm Art & Environment (CC) 5:30-7:00 pm Music Ministry Angels Choir (C) 6:00-6:30 pm Legion of Mary 20 Minute Challenge (CC) 7:00-8:00 pm Overeaters Anonymous (LCMT) 7:00-8:30 pm Prayer Group (CC) 7:00-9:00 pm Knights of Columbus (LCFM) 7:00-9:00 pm Music Ministry Cantor Rehearsal (C) WEDNESDAY // DECEMBER 23 9:00-10:00 am Yoga (PLCMT) 9:00 am-5:00 pm Art & Environment (C) 2:30-4:00 pm Heavenly Angels Cleaning (C) 4:30-6:00 pm Prayer Shawl Ministry (LCMT) 6:30-8:30 pm Music Ministry Adult Choir (C) 7:00-9:00 pm Parish Finance Council We had a fantastic time at our annual THURSDAY // DECEMBER 24 Senior Christmas Breakfast. 4:00 pm Mass (C, HH) A sing-a-long with our Angels Choir rounded out a 6:00 pm Mass (C) 8:00 pm Mass (C) fun time of faith and friendship. FRIDAY // DECEMBER 25

12:00 am Mass (C) Have a PARISH OFFICE HOURS: 8:00 am Mass (C) Blessed Sun 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Phone | 330.460.7300 10:00 am Mass (C) Christmas Mon 8:30 am- 8:30 pm Fax | 330.460.7342 12:00 pm Mass (C) Tues-Thurs 8:30 am - 8:00 pm Web | www.StAmbrose.us SATURDAY // DECEMBER 26 Fri 8:30 am - 6:00 pm Facebook: StAmbrose.us Twitter: @StAmbroseChurch 10:00 am-1:00 pm Busy Bees (PLC Work Room) Sat 8:30 am - 2:30 pm CALENDAR KEY: LCMT Lehner Center, Matthew C = Church LCMK Lehner Center, Mark CC = Church Chapel LCLK Lehner Center, Luke S = School LCJN Lehner Center, John PLC = Parish Life Center LCFM Lehner Center, Fr. McGivney HH = Hilkert Hall PLCJP Parish Life Center, John Paul HHG = Hilkert Hall Gym PLCMT Parish Life Center, Mother Teresa 2 December 20, 2015 From the Pastor Parish News …”When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, …This past week was the last of our Divorce leave our campus safe and sound (and at the infant leaped in her womb, and Care for Kids series. Many thanks to Sarah peace). Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried Gati who helped facilitate the program for out in a loud voice and said, ‘Blessed are our parish. The kids made Christmas cards …We are passing out a great book by you among women, and blessed is the fruit on their last week for us. Each expressed Matthew Kelly this Christmas, called of your womb. And how does this happen to a sincere thanks for Divorce Care for Kids ReDiscover Jesus. It’s inspiring and a great me that the mother of my Lord should come (DC4K). “Thank you for DC4K….I am going to book for the new year to help all of us connect to me? For at the moment the sound of your miss the group.” It’s one more way that we more fully to Jesus Christ. If you are heading greeting reached my ears, the infant in my bring the compassion of Christ to those in out to visit family and friends this Christmas, womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who need of God’s mercy and healing. Another make sure you ask one of your friends to pick believed that what was spoken to you by the session will begin in February. For more up a copy for you. We will distribute 3,000 Lord would be fulfilled.’” Elizabeth’s beautiful information, please contact Lisa Homady copies on Christmas Day. This year’s book profession of faith and God’s blessings in our ([email protected]). comes as a gift from one of our parish Gospel for the Fourth Sunday of Advent is a members to all of us – their family. Praise powerful reminder of the joy that should fill …The 12 days of Christmas program has be God. our hearts…for so near is the Lord our God. 11 families visiting and leaving ‘little acts In these final days before Christmas, may of kindness (like cookies) to 12 of our …As I write this week’s bulletin, I just we trust and believe in the promise of families. It’s been a wonderful experience received word that our shipping container Jesus who desires to be the mercy that we for those involved. This weekend’s Gospel arrived today in our mission community seek – that our world desperately needs. reminds us of the goodness of visiting our filled with medical supplies, used sports family and members of our parish family. balls and equipment collected by Brunswick …This past week has been filled with These little packages of joy are bringing Youth Soccer, along with sewer and water wonderful celebrations of faith and family. forth great joy. pipe that will be used to help us build homes From Christmas plays and pageants to the in the new year. For them…it was an early gathering of church friends for prayer and …This weekend our Good Sams ministry Christmas. If you would like to learn more reflection, you can see and feel around our is coming together at the 9:00 am Mass about our mission outreach efforts for the campus that so many are preparing the way for prayer and an opportunity to renew their new year, go online to: of the Lord. No group helps our parish commitment to serve the Lord and to visit our www.missionpossible.us. more, at this time of year, than our Catholic homebound and hospitalized members. We Works of Mercy team. They have been are blessed with so many who go forth in the …We received an early Christmas gift this sorting, wrapping, collecting, and meeting name of the Lord to share Holy Communion past week. We received word that we have with families from our community that need with those who cannot physically join us at been awarded a $25,000 from the Rooted some extra help and support this Christmas. the Table of the Lord. May God bless them in Faith Campaign towards new windows Truly soul stirring is your incredible for their ministry and the compassion in the school building. This is GREAT news. response from our Advent Giving Trees. All that they share on behalf of our entire Rooted in Faith is the Diocesan Capital the tags were selected and all the items have community. Special thanks to the two Campaign initiated four years ago. found their way back to SA for the families people who responded last week to my in need. God bless you over and again for appeal for some new members for the Good ...Thanks to the goodness of some of your goodness and care for so many this Sams. We are still in need of a few more our members, you will see us in a new Christmas, and always. people who can help in this important and matching set of vestments this Christmas. life giving ministry. God bless Father Rob for coordinating …God bless our Scout Troops. They were a this effort. It’s a great blessing for our force of goodness up and down the streets of …So near is the Lord our God. I hope and community. Brunswick. Thanks to their heroic efforts, pray these final days of Advent are filled with they collected 9000 cans of food last week. God’s mercy and peace. It is hard to believe …May these final days of Advent and They then sorted and separated so that they that Christmas is upon us. Our Children’s Christmas be a time of God’s grace and could be distributed to families on Saturday Pageant will take place on Christmas Eve blessing. May you know the outpouring of (this weekend). God bless our Scouts and at 3:15 pm. Our Music Ministry has been God’s mercy and peace in your life. May your all who gave so generously….being the practicing hard for all of our Christmas Eve/ heart be stirred with great joy and peace mercy of God to those most in need this Day Masses. They will also do a special as you gather with your family and friends. Christmas. Lessons and Carols at 11:15 pm before Thank you for all you do for our parish so the Midnight Mass. Many thanks to all that we can continue to share and bring the …When we were passing out food at who are working so hard to prepare for our presence of Christ to our world and especially Thanksgiving to almost 100 families, Father celebration of Christmas. Please say a prayer to those in need. I pray for you every day Rob and I together observed the line around for them as they spend these days before and especially in these holy days. May the campus of cars each representing Christmas helping all of us celebrate the birth Jesus be the Mercy that you seek now and families…brothers and sisters in the Lord… of our Savior. always. whose lives will know a little more mercy and help because of your kindness and goodness. …With the amazing unseasonably warm The same picture will be seen again this weather we are enjoying, we should be in weekend as we do the same. Praise be God. perfect shape for Christmas Eve parking. We also have three off-duty police who will be on campus to make sure we all arrive and December 20, 2015 3 Intentions Remember in Your Prayers

Mass Schedule Our Sick Daily: 8:15 am & 5:30 pm Virginia Adams Robby Kilner Saturday: 8:15 am & 4:30 pm Vigil Kathy Barta Leo Kwiatkowski Sunday: 7:30 am, 9:00 am, 10:30 am, 12:00 pm & 5:00 pm Austin Belaska Agnes Lewandowski Doug Carey Larry Mach Sunday, December 20 | Fourth Sunday of Advent Bryan Carroll Joseph Madigan 7:30 Darl & Bernice Fifer (Linda & John Fifer) RR Aubrey Charek Sheila McIntyre 9:00 Julia Terhart (Daughter) RS Shirley Cimera Gloria Praznik 10:30 Patrick Coughlin Sr. (Family) RS Kathleen Cunningham Debbie Prante Bill Crump Marge Sabados 12:00 Anita & Jack Shaneyfelt (Family) RR Mary Ann Dodig Diane Saunders 5:00 Tom Sherman (Family) TW Matthew Exton Andy (Son) Sprok Karen Eskut Jerry Talmon, Sr. Monday, December 21 | Saint Peter Canisius Carolyn Hunt Melanie Ulan 8:15 Barbara Sinclair (Husband & Children) Robert Kestranek, Sr. Danny Zifcheck 5:30 Francine Konecny (Husband) If you would like your loved one’s name on the prayer list, please call Connie at 330.225.9236. Tuesday, December 22 | Late Advent Weekday 8:15 Alex Cika (Cheryl Cika & Family) 5:30 Solinsky Family (Betty Kobak) Those Called Home to the Lord Wednesday, December 23 | Late Advent Weekday Michelle Baumbargar 8:15 Margaret Cusick (Family) Born into Life: January 7, 1987 5:30 Joseph & Valeria Swec (Jeff & Diane Chapman) Called into Eternal Life: December 4, 2015

Thursday, December 24 Margaret Boss 8:15 Josephine Vecchione (Chesna Family) Born into Life: June 13, 1912 4:00 H Emory & Mary Ann Hovanec (Family) TW Called into Eternal Life: December 9, 2015 4:00 C John Chakan (Family) RS 6:00 Florence & Carman Ravo (Pillats Family) RR Louis Cifranic 8:00 Charles Gazso (Family) RS Born into Life: April 29, 1945 Called into Eternal Life: December 13, 2015 Friday, December 25 | Christmas 12:00 John Kleinhans (Family) RS, RR Mary Ann Forbes 8:00 Michael Mullins (Blake Family) TW Born into Life: December 6, 1935 10:00 Dec’d Members of the Neff & Pipak Families (Family) Called into Eternal Life: December 15, 2015 RR 12:00 Bernardo T. Guido (Donna Jean Guido) RS Josephine Glinka Born into Life: December 7, 1920 Called into Eternal Life: December 5, 2015 Saturday, December 26 | Saint Stephen 8:15 Saint Ambrose Members Rosaleen Palzes 4:30 Dallas Winrod (Family) RS Born into Life: December 4, 1925 Called into Eternal Life: December 11, 2015 Sunday, December 27 | The Holy Family 7:30 Joseph Walgus (Family) GH Linda Rundo 9:00 Emory & Mary Ann Hovanec (Family) GH Born into Life: September 11, 1947 10:30 Rita Pavlick (Friends & Family) RS Called into Eternal Life: December 12, 2015 12:00 Christopher Kaczynski Sr. (Family) RS 5:00 Tony & Lydia Baker (Family) TW Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let the perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

4 December 20, 2015 Time - Talents - Treasures Spiritual Life

Donut Sunday & Mini-Ministry Fair Family of God THIS Sunday 33 Days to Morning Glory Please join us in Hilkert Hall There are times we after the Sunday morning grow spiritually as and early afternoon Masses individuals. Then, there for Donut Sunday and the are times when we mini-ministry fair, where our work with a group to service organizations will have grow spiritually. A small information on display. Enjoy a donut and learn more group of the Saint about how you can share your talents in 2016! We can’t Ambrose Family of wait to see you there! God recently met each week with the 33 Days to Morning Glory Parish Program. During the program you get to hear Children and Teen Envelopes Fr. Gaitley discuss the week’s topics in depth, reflect with the Our Young People’s Incredible Gifts use of a retreat companion workbook, and have discussions Every week, our young people contribute to Saint with those in the program. Here are some the participants’ Ambrose–not only through monetary gifts, but through reflections: their actions. The following are some of the ways our kids have been Christ in our community. As Jesus asked in “I just finished my 3rd consecration. Participating in the Matthew 21:16, “Do you hear what they are saying?” group, with all the resources, really helped me understand the consecration more fully. My biggest takeaway was this: when • “I bought toys for the poor.” we rely on Mary, give ourselves to her, she will guide us to do the • “I helped mom fold the laundry.” Will of God.” • “I helped papa with the Christmas decorations.” • “I helped my teacher.” “During the retreat of 33 Days to Morning Glory, we grew spiritually. By studying and reflecting on the writings of four contemporary Marian experts, we gained a new appreciation of In Support of Our Parish Mary as our true spiritual Mother. We learned that by entrusting December 13, 2015 ourselves to her through consecration, she will lead us into a closer relationship with her son, Jesus. The time and effort December 13, July 1, 2015 - July 1, 2014 participating in this retreat was a blessing and we are looking 2015 December 13, - December forward to the next group retreat Consoling The Heart of Jesus.” 2015 14, 2014 Sunday $31,774 $762,841 $725,875 “Mary has gone above and beyond what good mothers do.... Collection she has read my mind and heart even when I didn’t know it Amount ($32,000) ($768,000) myself. She has opened my heart more and more to Jesus. She Needed knows my deepest desires and has brought me to where they are Over / (Under) ($226) ($5,159) fulfilled in her son, Jesus. To sum it up, I am amazed; I am awed; and I am so very, very thankful. I feel loved and part of a family. Building Fund $1,004 $11,719 I am so honored to have Mary as my mother.” ACH Collection $3,043 (weekly) $0 (monthly) “I learned best through my interactions with other participants. Children’s $100 (104 envelopes received) We shared and listened to one another, which was a growing Envelopes experience for me.” Vision 20/20 Week of Week of December 7 December 14 Join others as the Family of God when our next session starts Pledge $4,220.00 $ 10,665.33 early next year. Watch future bulletins for further details! Payments Total Payments $ 2,500,250.96 $2,510,916.29 “It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air.” Thank you for your continued generosity. May God -W. T. Ellis bless you for your support of Saint Ambrose!

December 20, 2015 5 Parish News Family Life | Upcoming Events

Family Life Ministry Legion of Mary Marriage Tips Join Us this Tuesday, December 22 The winter solstice brings the longest night of the year. Put “Christ” in “Christmas” this Advent Warm it with candlelight. For some couples, however, dark Season. Join the Legion of Mary on nights bring depression. If you are among Tuesday, December 22, in the chapel at those who are currently struggling in your 6:00 pm for the “20 Minute Challenge” this marriage, turn to the power of prayer as one Advent. Christmas is all about preparation. resource. Use this last opportunity during Advent to prepare and honor the Holy Family by Parenting Tips praying the Rosary for twenty minutes. These last few days before Christmas can be hectic - concerts, cooking, creating gifts... As the nights grow The Virgin Mary traveling statues are also available for longer, a candle can be your friend. Light the 3rd Advent a two week stay in your home. Please contact Mary at candle tonight and pause, gaze, take a deep breath. Let the 330.273.1113 to arrange a visit. pause refresh and calm you. www.SusanVogt.net Project S.N.O.W. Serving Neighbors is Our Way We are called to love our neighbors as Bingo Lingo ourselves, and this takes on a special Every Friday Night! meaning in the winter days when snow Just a friendly reminder hits the driveways and sidewalks. So there will be no Bingo on many of our seniors are not able to tend to their own drives. Friday December 25 and It’s incredibly essential that their drives and walks are open, Friday January 1. Have a especially in the case of an emergency, but this does not very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We will see always happen. Project SNOW is simply a call for each you on January 8, 2016, when you will have a chance to of us to be good neighbors to our home bound and our win cash to payoff those Christmas bills. We are always in seniors. Please help keep their drives and walks open and need of volunteers at bingo! Get a little exercise and make accessible. Want to lend a hand? Call the Parish Office new friends! Bingo supports the day school and all the (333.460.7300) to share how you can help. You know the little extras here at Saint Ambrose. If interested, please need. You know your neighbors. When the snow falls, Serve contact Lynn Rogers at [email protected] or your Neighbor – after all, it’s Our Way as followers of Jesus 330.460.7335. and members of Saint Ambrose Parish.

Couples’ Night Out Support Our 8th Graders Friday, January 8 Order from Yankee Candle and Help Looking to spend more time with your significant other Looking for that perfect Christmas in 2016? There will be plenty of opportunities to start the gift? Candles are always a hit, New Year off in the company of other couples! Starting and if you shop at Yankee Candle, off, make sure you have Friday, January 8th, from 7:00- you’ll help out a great cause in the 9:00 pm, set aside as Date Night! We will be showing a process. great movie while enjoying cheese and crackers, along with other refreshments. Is marriage still relevant? How Saint Ambrose School 8th Graders need your support. important are dads to a family? Find out by joining us! In an effort to minimize the overall cost of our students’ RSVP to Deacon Tom or Helen [email protected] or Washington, D.C. trip, Yankee Candle will be donating 40% 330.460.7322 by Tuesday, January 5. Free babysitting will of all profits bought directly from their designated site to be provided—when you RSVP, make sure to let us know if the program. Visit www.yankeecandlefundraising.com and you’d like to take advantage! enter the group ID #990088228 when you place your order. It’s really that simple. Thank you for your support!

6 December 20, 2015 Upcoming Events Parish News

2016 First Step Program 6 Week Bereavement Series Facilitated by the Diocese of Cleveland Beginning Wednesday, January 20 During this Holy Year, the Jubilee Please join us on the road toward healing as we journey of Mercy, we are called to renew through the many feelings and emotions associated with our relationship with God and the the death of a loved one. The bereavement program helps to Church. Attempting to pick up the provide comfort and support to those grieving through the pieces of one’s life after the tragedy use of prayer, music, coping measures, and understanding of divorce is an area that can impact a person’s relationship the pain associated with the loss of a loved one. with God and the Church. One of the significant issues that a person faces is their place in the Church. Does the Registration is required. Please contact Monica Kortan Church still care about me even though I am divorced? Am I 330-460-7304 or E-mail [email protected] for allowed to go to Mass? Can I receive communion? How can more information, or to sign-up. the Church help me heal? If I decide to marry again, what do I have to do? March for Life 2016 The Tribunal of the Diocese of Cleveland, especially January 21-23 during this Jubilee of Mercy, offers its First Step Program Join the Knights of Columbus on a road trip in order to help individuals deal with these questions to the March for Life 2016. We’ll depart in order to renew and/or strengthen their relationship on Thursday, January 21 at 9:30 pm, with God and the Church. This program is offered to arriving in time for morning Mass at help everyone, especially those who have experienced Basilica of the Immaculate Conception divorce, learn more about Catholic teaching regarding and the Rally & March at the National marriage, divorce, and remarriage. Representatives from Mall on the 22nd. We’ll be returning to Brunswick on the Ministry to the Divorced Office of the Department for Saturday, January 23 at 3:00 am. The cost is $55.00 per Marriage and Family Ministry will also be present to explain person. the resources they offer to the divorced. Seating is limited and on a first come, first served basis. In any endeavor, taking the “first step” is always the most Meals are NOT included. Bus service provided by Baron difficult. The First Step Program helps individuals to Bus. For more information, please contact Jim Maslach at navigate the path of healing and closure. Please refer to the 440.785.9838 or via Email at [email protected]. Tribunal website (www.dioceseofcleveland.org/tribunal) for testimonials about the program from past participants.

The schedule for the general meetings in 2016 is: Exciting Pilgrimage October 2-18, 2016 • Tuesday, March 8, 2016, at Saint Peter Parish, Come and join Hearts of the World Lorain, at 7:00 pm Pilgrimages as we journey to Poland, • Thursday, May 19, 2016, at Saint Noel Parish, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Croatia on Willoughby Hills, at 7:00 pm an excursion from October 2nd – 18th, •Tuesday, September 13, 2016, at Immaculate Heart 2016 to celebrate the Jubilee of Mercy. of Mary Parish, Cuyahoga Falls, at 7:00 pm Stops include Czestochowa (Jasna Gora •Tuesday, October 18, 2016, at Saint Ambrose monastery which holds the miraculous Parish, Brunswick, at 7:00 pm icon), Krakow (including the Divine Mercy Shrine, Wawel Cathedral and more), Auschwitz, Wadowice Note that the Diocese of Cleveland no longer requires (hometown of St. John Paul II), Medjugorje and Trogir. any fees for this process. The price is $4980 per person. There are only 30 seats available at this price. Medjugorje only is also available. For more information, call the Tribunal (216.696.6525 or 800.869.6525, ext. 4000) or check out the website: Interested parties should contact Sandee McAleer (Director) www.dioceseofcleveland.org/tribunal. at 330.801.0838 or Fr. Rob Ramser (Spiritual Director) at 330.460.7300 with any questions or for reservation forms.

December 20, 2015 7 Parish News Parish Life

Women’s Fellowship Italian Pasta Dinner Sunday, January 3 Saturday, January 9 Ladies, have you questioned or wanted to look into the Save the date! Saint lives of some of the Bible’s most faithful women? Their Ambrose will host our struggles and temptations are the same trials faced by annual pasta dinner on us today. We need to celebrate their courage, vision, Saturday, January 9th, hospitality, and spiritual giftedness. It’s no wonder women beginning at 5:30 pm in Hilkert Hall. The evening will were so important to God’s plan revealed in the Old also include a Talent Show, featuring some of our very and New Testaments! It wasn’t their natural qualities that talented Music Ministry Members! Trust us, you won’t want made these women extraordinary, but the power of the to miss this fun event. For more information, contact the one true God. Parish Office (330.460.7300 or [email protected]).

“Twelve Extraordinary Women” and what God wants to do with Divorce Care you begins on Sunday, January Mondays 3. We will meet on the first Sunday Are you facing the struggles of of the month, from 6:00-7:30 pm in divorce or separation? Loneliness? Lehner Center Mark. This is not a Anger? Betrayal? Depression? scripture or bible study, but a share Financial cutbacks necessitating huge life changes? group with women in search of a Helping kids adjust? better understanding and longing to be everything Christ wants us You are not alone! There is help, to be. If interested, contact Helen hope and healing in Christ, and at [email protected] or Saint Ambrose offers a powerful 330.460.7322 for additional information. Christ-centered support group through the Diocesan approved, non-denominational Divorce Care and Divorce Care for Kids programs (see www.divorcecare.com for program details). Our group meets every Monday from Angels on Wheels 6:00-8:00 pm in the Lehner Center. We offer adults peer Help Out Those in Need support, free materials, and the Divorce Care 13 week video Our Angels On Wheels Ministry series on topics of interest, with expert counselor and recently had a Christmas celebration pastor input on how to heal most effectively in Christ. You for all of our volunteers- those that may find yourself up in wonderful and surprising places on graciously use their culinary talents your journey with Him as you recover. for our parishioners in need! We gathered together to give thanks Please contact Diane Capretta at 330.351.5471 for more for the wonderful work that our information on the adult group, and Lisa Homady at ministry does–not only bringing a home-cooked meal LHomady@S tAmbrose.us for more information on Divorce to those families in need, but bringing God’s love, Care for Kids (DC4K). care and compassion into their life when they need it most! We are blessed with all of our volunteers for their compassionate hearts, dedication to serving others, and, of Heavenly Angels course, their delicious cooking skills and talents! Wednesday, December 23 With school being out for Christmas, we could use some If you are interested in joining our ministry– providing volunteers to help clean our church on Wednesday, a few meals per year for those in need– or if you know December 23rd, from 2:30 – 4:00 pm. Many hands someone that could use a meal, please contact Lisa at make light work! Please consider taking some time to 330.460.7315 or [email protected]. If you know of clean the Lord’s house before we celebrate His birth. For someone who is struggling, for whatever the circumstance, more information, contact Lisa Beckett at 330.604.5180 or we are here for them. Our volunteers are looking to serve [email protected]. the Lord by serving others!

8 December 20, 2015 Upcoming Events Parish News

Year-End Giving and Morality Series Future Planning Starting in January When you think of the Church’s stance on different moral Please Remember our Parish issues, do you think of these teachings as restrictive bonds, In this season of giving, consider making a year-end or a pathway to freedom? Come to this Morality Series gift to our parish in gratitude for all the blessings you and learn what the Church has to say about morality have received in life. As you plan to make the most of and why! This series will be offered January 6, 13, your charitable donations in 2015, know that we gratefully 20, and 27, all at 7:00 pm in the PLC Mother Teresa accept gifts of cash and appreciated Room. For more information, contact Jane Baldwin at assets such as stocks and bonds. If 330.460.7381 or [email protected]. you are 70 1/2 or older, contact your IRA administrator to find out if 2015 legislation has been enacted that will Meals with Meaning allow you to make an income-tax free Monday, December 21 gift from your IRA to our parish. Lastly, On Monday, December 21, continue should this year-end find you creating to help support our service outreach or updating your estate plan, please at Saint Ambrose Parish by eating at consider helping us grow our parish ministry for future one of these great local restaurants: Coppertop, Bob Evans, generations by including our parish as a beneficiary of your Sweet Frogs, and Wingz. When you dine in or carry out, will, trust, retirement plan or life insurance policy. 10-15% of your bill will be donated back to the Saint Ambrose Service Outreach program. Visit Questions? Please contact Lynn Rogers at our Parish Office www.StAmbrose.us/MealsWithMeaning to download the at [email protected] or 330.460.7335. coupon or sign up to receive instant alerts!

Christmas Schedule

CHRISTMAS MASS Schedule SACRAMENT OF Reconciliation Christmas Eve - December 24 Saturday, December 19 4:00 p.m. Church and Hilkert Hall 3:30 – 4:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m., 8:00 p.m. & We celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation 12:00 Midnight in Church every Saturday from 3:30pm – 4:00pm and always by appointment (330.460.7300). Christmas Day - December 25 Please join us for this healing Sacrament. 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12:00 noon NEW YEAR’S Schedule New Year’s Eve - December 31 Vigil of Mary, Mother of God 4:30 p.m. & 6:00 p.m. New Year’s Day - January 1 Mary, Mother of God ADVENT 2015 9:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

December 20, 2015 9 Education News Our Children Saint Ambrose Catholic School PSR A Christmas Blessing from Mr. Baxendale The 4th grade PSR students did a On behalf of the Saint Ambrose wonderful presentation of the Students, faculty and staff, I Christmas Play for all of our students wish Saint Ambrose parents and their families. I would like to thank our 4th grade and parishioners a blessed and catechists – Kathy Cipalla, Abbey Kraft and Bob Makara – prayerful Christmas season who worked hard with our students to make this joy-filled filled with the love of family and friends. May the coming event happen. year be filled with joy, peace, and hope, and mayGod continue to bless you and your families in the new year. Three 8th Grade Students to Receive Scholarship to Padua Our students at Saint Ambrose School continue to do amazing things everyday. Congratulations are in order to Matthew Stracensky, Grant Bell, and Benjamin Gorecki, all of whom have received PSR Schedule Reminders placement test scholarships from Padua Franciscan High As a friendly reminder, please note that there are NO PSR School! We are proud of you! classes December 16 – January 4. Classes will resume on January 6, 9 and 11. Grade 8 Christmas Play 1st Grade Baptismal Workshop On Thursday, December 17, the 8th grade class presented 1st grade PSR students and their families are invited to our its annual Christmas production. The title of this year’s Baptismal Workshop held during the regular scheduled performance was “Can Mrs. Claus Save Christmas?” As session. It is an opportunity to reflect and learn with your part of Saint Ambrose tradition, all of the 8th graders child about one of the Sacraments of Initiation and to join were involved in making the play a success, whether it be together with other families in our community. through acting, decorating the stage, gathering props, or working on the lights. The parents and guests were • Wednesday, January 6th from 4:30-6:00 pm treated to a heartfelt performance reminding them about • Saturday, January 9th from 9:00-10:30 am the true meaning of Christmas. • Monday, January 11th from 6:30-8:00 pm Students To Share Their Christmas Spirit with Willowood Nursing Home Journey with Jesus Throughout this Christmas season, students have been Mark your calendars to join us for Grandparents Day on collecting lotions, shampoos, small Christmas trees, door Sunday, January 10th in Hilkert Hall following the Masses. hangers, etc. for the residents of Willowood Nursing Home. Why? They want to share the spirit of Christmas. Students CLOW stayed after school to help wrap and make over a 100 gifts We are currently looking for more Leaders to facilitate & door hangers so every resident would have something. CLOW at 4:30pm, 9:00am, and 10:30am Masses. We will On Monday, December 21, at 10:00 am students will be have a training session for those who are interested to caroling through the halls of Willowood as they give away provide you with the resources and guide you in the these gifts. If you are interested in joining us, please process of helping our children learn from the Gospel e-mail Kate Monnin at [email protected] for Reading. If you are interested to hear more about this more details. faith-filled ministry, contact Janet Majka at [email protected] or 330.460.7321.

10 December 20, 2015 PASTORAL STAFF Readings for the Week Father Bob Stec, Pastor 330.460.7333 www.usccb.org Father Rob Ramser, Parochial Vicar 330.460.7311 Father Tom Weber, Parochial Vicar 330.460.7312 Deacon Clem Belter Mon SG 2:8-14 or ZEP 3:14-18A; LK 1:39-45 Deacon Gary Tomazic Tues 1 SM 1:24-28; LK 1:46-56 Deacon Thomas Sheridan Wed MAL 3:1-4, 23-24; LK 1:57-66 Deacon Frank Weglicki Thur 2 SM 7:1-5, 8B-12, 14A, 16; LK 1:67-79 Abbot Gary Hoover, OSB,Weekend Assistant IS 62:1-5; ACTS 13:16-17, 22-25; MT 1:1-25 (Vigil) Jane Baldwin, Spiritual Life Coordinator 330.460.7381 Fri IS 9:1-6; TI 2:11-14; LK 2:1-14 (Midnight) Jake Bihari, Parish Events | Mission 330.460.7331 IS 62:11-12; TI 3:4-7; LK 2:15-20 (Dawn) Tom Bonezzi, Music Ministry 330.460.7337 IS 52:7-10; HEB 1:1-6; JN 1:1-18 (Day) Amy Fraleigh, FIAT Youth Ministry 330.460.7388 Lisa Homady, Care and Compassion Coordinator 330.460.7315 Sat ACTS 6:8-10; 7:54-59; MT 10:17-22 Helen Lanzarotta, Music Ministry & Events 330.460.7343 Sun SIR 3:2-6, 12-14 or 1 SM 1:20-22, 24-28; COL 3:12-21 Caitlin O’Neill, FIAT Youth Ministry 330.460.7387 or COL 3:12-17 or 1 JN 3:1-2, 21-24; LK 2:41-52 Helen Sheridan, Family Life Ministry 330.460.7322

SUPPORT STAFF James Ergh, Building & Grounds Supervisor 330.460.7309 David Hoover, Communications 330.460.7334 Kathy Sarazin, Front Office Coordinator 330.460.7300

PSR STAFF Ann Marie Frattare, Junior High Youth Ministry 330.460.7325 Deb Houdek, PSR Secretary 330.460.7326 Janet Majka, PSR Coordinator 330.460.7321 Baptisms Jenni Wasowski, Journey with Jesus Coordinator 330.460.7381 We Welcome into the Waters... SCHOOL STAFF Elanor Grace Kisan Nathan Baxendale, Day School Principal 330.460.7350 Cora Rose Lucius Catherine Mitchell, Preschool Director 330.460.7361 Nancy Monnin, Institutional Advancement 330.460.7318 Attention parents! Please note that we do not have Baptisms during the season of Lent, February 10th - March 25th. PARISH LEADERS Bob Downs, Parish Finance Council 330.273.3108 Bryce Rausch, Parish Finance Council 215.896.9248 Jim Lepi, Athletic Director 330.273.1801 Frank Gati and Alan Yarcusko, School Advisory Board [email protected] Ken Trepkowski, Parish Pastoral Council 330.220.6958

BAPTISM Parents need to attend a Pre-Baptism Class for their first child. Please call Kim Nemet at 330.460.7316 to register. 10 Minute Teaching MARRIAGE Please call a priest or deacon at the Parish Office at least six months THIS Weekend prior to proposed date to begin your wedding preparations. We’ll be hosting our monthly 10 Minute Teaching this weekend, after the 9:00 and 10:30 am Sunday Masses. This RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION FOR ADULTS (RCIA) month’s topic will be Mercy Incarnate. The 10 Minute Come and learn more about the Catholic faith. Call the Parish Office. Teaching is a great, quick way to dig deeper in our faith. Just meet us in the Parish Life Center, John Paul II room for 10 PARISH MEMBERSHIP Call the Parish Office to register. Current minutes–it’s really that simple! See you there. members are asked to notify the Parish Office when they move.

SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION Confessions are “The simple shepherds heard the voice of an angel celebrated Saturdays from 3:30 – 4:00 pm and by appointment. and found their lamb; the wise men saw the light EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Every Monday from of a star and found their wisdom.” 9:00 am-9:00 pm in the Church Chapel -W. T. Ellis

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Mama Scheier Show January 17 Join us from 6-8:00 pm on January 17 for our annual Mama Scheier Show! Mark your Thank you Junior High PSR students and parents for sharing your Christmas joyand calendar for this talk show-style evening with Christ’s love with the residents at Willowood Care Center!! special guests and a lot of laughing. This is one FIAT Night you don’t want to miss!

14 December 20, 2015