ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC CHURCH

508 W. ANGUS STREET GRETNA, NE 68028

DECEMBER 6, 2020 REFLECT AND RESPOND 2nd Sunday of Advent

FIRST READING (IS 40:1-5, 9-11) Five hundred years before the birth of Christ, Isaiah prophesied these words of comfort and hope to the Israelites capve in Babylon. What would bring comfort and hope to you in ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC CHURCH this season of Advent?
Gretna, Nebraska
SECOND READING (2 PT 3:8-14) Today we hear how Peter challenged those in his day who denied that Christ would return. Peter argued that our human meline is not God’s meline. How do you reason with Welcome people today who deny the fundamentals of our faith?
We invite you to become involved

GOSPEL (MK 1:1-8) in our parish community!
Mark opens his Gospel by presenng the words and acvies of John the Bapst in the There are many opportunies for
context of fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy heard in our first reading. Why do you think experiencing the peace and joy
connecng Isaiah to John the Bapst was important to Mark and his community?
of our loving God in liturgy,
educaon, prayer and service.

GOSPEL MEDITATION If you would like to join our parish
family, please visit our website or
People knew over a year in advance that the Pope was the Parish Office for a registraon form.
coming for a visit to America and the preparaons began. Security, space limitaons and requirements, PARISH OFFICE Office Hours……………..….MRF 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
protocols, crowd management, ineraries, invitaons, Phone………………………….…..…….…….402R332R4444
regulaons, and so much more was necessary to pull Fax…………………………….……..….……...402R332R5107
this event off effecvely. It’s not every day that we get Website…………...………..…....stpatricksgretna.org
a visit from such a prominent dignitary. Thought, effort, Facebook……………………..…………..@stpatgretnane
meculous aenon to detail and vision all are ERmail……………[email protected]
necessary to make this thing work. A er all, he can’t just show up in the ordinary and
MASS AND HOLY EUCHARIST normal daily rounes of life and catch people unprepared! Tickets have to be purchased, Saturday……….………………………………….…..5:00 PM
buses rented, hotel rooms reserved, and travel arrangements made early because it will be Sunday……………..…...8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, & Noon
impossible to see him if we wait too long!
Monday…………...No Mass or Communion Service

Tuesday and Thursday…….……….…….…....6:00 PM
We do this kind of preparing not only for prominent religious figures but for polical Wednesday and Friday………………….....….7:30 AM
dignitaries, notable sports figures, people of fame, and even actors. If an individual Holy Days…………………….….....7:30 AM & 6:00 PM
intrigues us, we are going to want to do all we have to do to get a “good seat” in the house. Holidays (on weekdays) ..……..………...…..9:00 AM

Does Jesus Christ capvate this much of our aenon? We are asked to prepare the way of SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION the Lord and to do so not with franc frenzy but paent enthusiasm. We do not have to Saturday…………………….……..….4:00 PM R 4:40 PM
stand on a street corner making profound announcements about God’s coming or become Or call the parish office for an appointment.
overly zealous in our embrace of the Good News. Our task is quieter, more interior,
SACRAMENT OF MARRIAGE capvang, and consuming. We are asked to change. We have to conduct our lives with Parishioners registered for a minimum of one holy devoon.
year are eligible to marry here. Six months of
marriage preparaon prior to your wedding is Is the cost of that cket too much for you? Don’t you want the “best seat” in the house? required by the Archdiocese. Contact the Parish You don’t want to miss Our Lord’s arrival when he comes, do you? A er all, if he comes Office to schedule a wedding date and marriage while you are going about your daily rounes without you even knowing, he may catch you preparaon instrucon.
off guard. Or, he may come in disguise looking like a beggar, a prisoner, migrant, refugee,
SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM or someone who is lost. Would you be ready to recognize him then? Preparing for the Classes are held at 7:00 PM on the second coming of Christ requires a change of mind, heart, and behavior. It is not adequate to Monday of each month in the Fr. Hitch Room. simply do the things we always do. We want our lives to speak of the excing news of Please call the Parish Office if you will be Christ’s coming and the joy that the Gospel brings. It has to do with our demeanor, values, aending a specific class. A bapsmal date will priories, choices, and how we structure daily rounes. Of course, it involves sacrifice. All not be set unl you become a registered ancipaons do! Are you excited, capvated, enthusiasc, and sing on the edge of your parishioner and both the parents and Godparents aend the bapsmal class for their first child. seat eager to celebrate his coming among us at Christmas, and waing for him to come Bapsms take place a er the Sunday Noon Mass.
again? If not, why not?

MINISTRY TO THE SICK CATHOLIC LIFE EXPLAINED If you, a relave or friend are hospitalized or shut in, short or long term, and would like a visit from QUESTION: the Pastor, Deacon or Pastoral Minister, please Can a divorced Catholic receive holy Communion?
call the Parish Office. For emergencies or if facing
danger or death, call 402R332R4428.
ANSWER:

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Unfortunately, too many people today V Catholics and nonR The second Thursday of each month, exposion Catholics alike V mistakenly believe that divorce separates one begins at 7:30 AM and concludes before the start from the Communion of the Church and that divorced persons of the same day Mass (reposion at 5:45 PM). may not receive Communion. However, as the Church has For more informaon, contact Jean Hlavacek at communicated in a number of places, the issue at hand is not the 402R504R4222.
reality of divorce, but is more o en the reality of reRmarriage outside of the Church (such as in the case of a Catholic who Connued on next pageV>

2 | December 6, 2020
2nd Sunday of Advent
CATHOLIC LIFE EXPLAINED Continued from Page 2 was previously married within the Church, divorced, and remarried without receiving an annulment).

Divorced persons are called to live chastely as single people and to observe the same call to ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC CHURCH avoid sin as anyone else who desires to receive the Eucharist. Beyond this, however, Pope Gretna, Nebraska Francis has reminded us that the healing power of the Eucharist can be especially significant for those who have “endured separaon, divorce, or abandonment … divorced READINGS THIS WEEK people who have not remarried, and o en bear witness to marital fidelity, ought to be encouraged to find in the Eucharist the nourishment they need to sustain them in their MONDAY: Is 35:1R10/Ps 85:9ab and 10, 11R12, 13R present state of life.” (Amoris Laea, no. 242) Moreover, he connues, “The local 14 [Is 35:4f]/Lk 5:17R26
community and pastors should accompany these people with solicitude, parcularly when TUESDAY: Gn 3:9R15, 20/Ps 98:1, 2R3ab, 3cdR4 [1]/ children are involved or when they are in serious financial difficulty.” (AL, no 242)

Eph 1:3R6, 11R12/Lk 1:26R38
As Pope Francis has also reminded us, the Eucharist is “not a prize for the perfect,” but “a WEDNESDAY: Is 40:25R31/Ps 103:1R2, 3R4, 8 and 10 powerful medicine and nourishment” (Evangelii Gaudium, no. 47). Because we all stand in [1]/Mt 11:28R30
need of healing and wholeness, the Church invites all who seek to live their faith in THURSDAY: Is 41:13R20/Ps 145:1 and 9, 10R11, 12R integrity and devoon to come and receive the grace offered in the Eucharist.
13ab [8]/Mt 11:11R15
FRIDAY: Is 48:17R19/Ps 1:1R2, 3, 4 and 6 [cf. Jn SAINT AMBROSE 8:12]/Mt 11:16R19
Bishop and Doctor of the Church SATURDAY: Zec 2:14R17 or Rv 11:19a; 12:1R6a, 10ab/Jdt 13:18bcde, 19 [15:9d]/Lk 1:26R38 or Lk Saint Ambrose is one of the four original doctors of the 1:39R47
Church. He was the Bishop of Milan and became one of NEXT SUNDAY: Is 61:1R2a, 10R11/Lk 1:46R48, 49R the most important theological figure of the 4th 50, 51R54 [Is 61:10b]/1 Thes 5:16R24/Jn 1:6R8, 19R28
century.

It is believed by many that when Ambrose was just an infant, a swarm of bees landed on his face and le behind a drop of honey. To his father, this was a sign that Ambrose would become someone great with a wonderful sense for speaking.

A er Ambrose's father passed away, he was educated in Rome, where he studied law, literature and rhetoric. Ambrose received a place on the council, like his father, and was made consular prefect, or the Governor, of Liguria and Emilia around 372. Ambrose’s headquarters were in Milan, the then second capital of Italy.

Ambrose remained Governor unl 374 when he became the Bishop of Milan. A er the former Bishop of Milan died, Ambrose aended the elecon to prevent any uproars between the Nicene Church and the Arians. While giving an address, the assembly began calling for him to become the next bishop. Ambrose was known for his Nicene beliefs, but Arians also favored him because he had previously shown charity in theological maers. However, being neither bapzed or trained in theology, Ambrose refused to become the next bishop. He ran and aempted to hide, but his colleague gave him up. Within a week's me, Ambrose was bapzed, ordained and duly consecrated bishop of Milan on December OBSERVANCES THIS WEEK 7, 374.

MONDAY: St. Ambrose, Bishop and Doctor of the As bishop, he donated all of his land and gave his money to the poor. He considered them Church
not a group of outsiders, but rather those of the united people. To him, giving to the poor was just a repayment of God's resources, which were intended for everyone equally. This TUESDAY: The Immaculate Concepon of the generosity made Ambrose widely popular and o en mes more polically powerful than Blessed Virgin Mary
even the emperor.
WEDNESDAY: St. Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin

FRIDAY: St. Damasus I, Pope
He studied theology with Simplician, a presbyter of Rome. Using his new educaon, along SATURDAY: Our Lady of Guadalupe
with his knowledge of Greek, he took the me to study the Old Testament and Greek rd NEXT SUNDAY: 3 Sunday of Advent
authors. Ambrose used all of this while preaching; his abilies impressed St. Augusne of Hippo, who previously thought poorly of Chrisan preachers.

A er meeng Ambrose, Augusne reevaluated himself and was forever changed. In 387, Ambrose bapzed Augusne. St. Monica, Augusne's mother, loved Ambrose "as an angel of God who uprooted her son from his former ways and led him to his convicons of Christ."

Ambrose is credited with advising Augusne of Hippo to follow local liturgical customs. "When I am at Rome, I fast on a Saturday; when I am at Milan, I do not. Follow the custom of the church where you are," he stated. This advice remains today, and is translated in English as the saying, "When in Rome, do as the Romans do."

2nd Sunday of Advent
December 6, 2020 | 3
EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

Please consider spending just one hour each month adoring Jesus Christ during our Exposion of
the Blessed Sacrament. Jesus asks Peter the queson, “Could you not ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC CHURCH spend one hour with me?”
Exposion begins on the Gretna, Nebraska second Thursday of the month, December 10, at 7:30 AM and concludes in the evening before the start of Mass PRAYER AGAINST CORONAVIRUS (reposion at 5:45 PM).
This is your opportunity to spend personal me with Jesus.
He is here and lovingly waing A Time of Prayer
for you to come. The blessings are eternal. For more As cases connue to rise and we inch closer to what informaon, contact Jean Hlavacek at 402R504R4222.
looks like potenally another lock down, it is important to remember who is really in charge. Let HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION us pray for God’s protecon and guidance during this me of confusion and unrest.
Parish Office will be Closed Tuesday The parish office will be closed on Tuesday, December 8, for the feast of the Immaculate Concepon of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This great feast is a holy day of obligaon, Mass at St. Patrick will be offered at 7:30 AM and at 6 PM. Holy days are like Sundays in that Catholics must aend Mass, and if possible, refrain from unnecessary servile work. Some Catholic countries, such as Italy, Spain, and Ireland, give legal holiday status to some of these holy days, so people can aend Mass and be with family instead of at work.

In 1854, Pius IX solemnly proclaimed: “The most Blessed Virgin Mary, in the first instant of her concepon, by a singular grace and privilege granted by almighty God, in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, the savior of the human race, was preserved free from all stain of original sin.”

It took a long me for this doctrine to develop. While many Fathers and Doctors of the Church considered Mary the greatest and holiest of the saints, they o en had difficulty in seeing Mary as sinlessVeither at her concepon or throughout her life. This is one of the Church teachings that arose more from the piety of the faithful than from the insights of brilliant theologians. Even such champions of Mary as Bernard of Clairvaux and Thomas Aquinas could not see theological jusficaon for this teaching.

Two Franciscans, William of Ware and Blessed John Duns Scotus, helped develop the theology. They pointed out that Mary’s Immaculate Concepon enhances Jesus’ redempve work. Other members of the human race are cleansed from original sin a er birth. In Mary, Jesus’ work was so powerful as to prevent original sin at the outset.
AFTER ALL MEETINGS AT THE PARISH Sanitization Protocol A er your club or group meets in one of the spaces at the parish we ask that you please sanize the room in preparaon for the next group coming in and to protect our parish family.

You will find that in every room in the Church there will be spray boles for your use in cleaning the space. We ask that you clean all surfaces and then spray them wet and let dry. This is called the “dwell” me to kill any viruses. Do NOT wipe a er you spray as leng it sit is what kills the virus. Instrucons are on the boles. As you are cleaning surfaces please remember to spray tables, chairs, light switches, and any other surface used. Thank you for helping us keep our community safe.

4 | December 6, 2020
2nd Sunday of Advent
MARCH FOR LIFE CHICAGO COMING TO OMAHA You’re Invited to Stand for Life in Nebraska Since this year it’s a bit harder to travel to the March for Life, the March for Life Chicago is coming to Omaha! This year, babies need our voices and ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC CHURCH protecon more than ever. That’s why the Archdiocese of Omaha is coRhosng this incredible Gretna, Nebraska opportunity to gather with proRlifers throughout our region.
THE


Aborons are in the rise in the Midwest and we KNIGHT’S
have the chance to act! Mark your calendars, CORNER
because on January 10 we’ll listen to inspiring speakers, meet others in the proRlife community, and witness to our communies that every human THANK YOU FOR DONATING TO THE 5TH life is worth defending. This is an incredible ANNUAL COAT DRIVE

opportunity for individuals, families and groups to Thank you to all those that make a stand for life in their own state and community. The rally will start at 3 PM in Sku donated to the 5th Annual Catholic High School's parking lot (3131 S 156th St, Omaha), and we will finish with a Coat Drive. It was the largest caravan through Omaha of cars decked out with proRlife signs. There will also be a diaper coat drive we’ve ever had. drive to support local Pregnancy Care Centers.
Over 800 items were
donated including: blankets, This is a safe local opportunity (we’ll be following COVID guidelines!) to come as an scarfs, socks, gloves, hats individual, family, or group and rally for the rights of the unborn. We are planning for a and coats! The warm excing, strong, proRlife event, that is also safe and will follow guidelines from civil clothing is shared by Least authories. Omaha is one of six proRlife rallies throughout the Midwest, leading up to the of My Brethren, Gretna March for Life Chicago on January 23.
Neighbors as well as other local area organizaons.
A special thanks to Bob Ostdiek and Tim Gilligan for Register today and receive the latest updates about locaon details and logiscs; proRlife chairing the drive and all the knights and families speakers; and a chance to support pregnant mothers in need. We need your voice! Will you that helped gather and load the truck!
join us? Register today at hps://marchforlifechicago.org/tour.

O Most Holy Lord, Creator of heaven and earth, from Your gentle hand flows the gi of life. To Your sons and daughters You have given the role of stewards to care for all of Your creaon from womb to tomb. Hear us as we pray for a greater respect for all of life throughout our world: that the unborn may be born, that the child may be safe, that the teen may be prepared, that the young adult may be otherRcentered, that the adult may be selfless, that the aged may be revered, that the dying may have dignity, that the deceased may rest in peace, that the resources of creaon may be used well, that all Your creaon may be blessed. Having served You loyally on earth, may we obtain the rewards of everlasng life. We ask this through Christ our Lord,, Amen.

REQUEST A BAPTISMAL CERTIFICATE TODAY Was your child bapzed here at St. Patrick, but you never received a Bapsmal Cerficate? You can request a copy of your child’s Bapsmal Cerficate by vising the parish office, calling 402R332R4444, or you can fill out the form below and mail it in, 508 W. Angus St., or drop it in the Sunday offering basket. Please fill out one form per child.

We ask that you please make your request before December 31, 2020. Please allow two weeks to receive a copy of your child’s Bapsmal Cerficate as this process may take some me with several requests coming in at once.
BAPTISMAL CERTIFICATE REQUEST
Child’s Full Name:______WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A KNIGHT

We are Catholic men who lead, serve, protect and Child’s Birthday:______
defend. We share a desire to be beer husbands,
fathers, sons, neighbors and role models and to put charity and community first. Join us and become a Your Name:______
Knight.


Phone Number:______


Knights of Columbus
Address:______
Grand Knight, Jim Hain…….………….....402R981R8831

Deputy Grand Knight, Joe Krajicek ....402R616R9612
Addional Sacraments Received at St. Patrick (Esmated Date)
Financial Secretary, Marty Stednitz...402R332R3840

Chancellor & Membership Director, John Schaffert
1st Communion
Yes No






Confirmaon
Yes No Matrimony
Yes No
……………………..…………..…….…………....402R672R7903

2nd Sunday of Advent
December 6, 2020 | 5
THE WEEK AHEAD

ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC CHURCH Gretna, Nebraska MASS INTENTIONS

An individual may ask a Priest to offer a Mass for SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6TH—2ND SUNDAY OF ADVENT several reasons: for example, in thanksgiving, for the intenons of another person (such as on a NO RELIGIOUS EDUCATION birthday or if they are ill), or, as is most common, 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, Noon Mass VSanctuary
for the repose of the soul of one who has died (†). 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM Least of My BrethrenVNarthex
We must never forget the infinite graces that flow 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM BapsmsVSanctuary
from the Sacrifice of the Mass which benefit one’s
MONDAY, DECEMBER 7TH
soul.
To request a Mass intenon, stop by the Parish Office to schedule. A minimum of $10 per 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM CRHP WomenVParish Center C
9:00 PM to 10:00 PM CRHP RosaryVSanctuary
Mass is requested.


TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8TH—THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION— PARISH OFFICE CLOSED
7:00 AM to 7:20 AM Rosary (before Mass begins at 7:30 AM)VSanctuary
5:30 PM to 5:50 PM Rosary (before Mass begins at 6:00 PM)VSanctuary
MONDAY, DECEMBER 7TH 6:30 PM to 6:40 PM Our Lady of Perpetual Help Devoon (a er Mass)VSanctuary
7:00 PM to 8:30 PM Parish Council MeengVFather Hitch Room
No Communion Service or Mass


TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8TH WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9TH
7:30 AM
Weier Family
7:00 AM to 7:20 AM Rosary (before Mass begins at 7:30 AM)VSanctuary
6:00 PM
† Lucas Sawyer
8:00 AM to 12:00 PM Outreach MinistryVParish Center A/B

4:00 PM to 8:00 PM Religious Educaon ClassesVReligious Ed Classrooms
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9TH 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM RE Parent Faith SharingVFather Hitch Room
7:30 AM
† Steve Rongisch
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM St. Rose Guild MeengVParish Center C

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10TH THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10TH 6:00 PM
† Mike Hoffman

7:30 AM to 5:45 PM Eucharisc AdoraonVSanctuary
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11TH 5:30 PM to 5:50 PM Rosary (before Mass begins at 6:00 PM)VSanctuary
7:30 AM
† Frank and Rose Trihy
6:00 PM to 8:00 PM American Heritage GirlsVParish Center A/B


SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12TH FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11TH 5:00 PM
† Jack Griffey
6:30 AM to 7:30 AM Men’s Faith SharingVFather Hitch Room

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13TH 7:00 AM to 7:20 AM Rosary (before Mass begins at 7:30 AM)VSanctuary

8:00 AM
† Tim Tegels

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12TH
10:00 AM
† Jerome Hinderks
12:00 PM
Parishioners and Benefactors
4:00 PM to 4:40 PM ConfessionVFather Hitch Room
5:00 PM to 6:00 PM Mass VSanctuary

Let us pray for all those affected SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13TH—3RD SUNDAY OF ADVENT by COVIDR19. Pray for Jalinn 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, Noon Mass VSanctuary
Woodworth, Chad and Kelli 8:55 AM to 9:55 AM Religious Educaon ClassesVReligious Ed Classrooms
(Jalinn’s parents), Pete (Chad’s 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM AHG Mother Daughter Tea ExchangeVParish Center A/B, Kitchen
dad), Paul (brotherRinRlaw of Sandy Scheef), Jessica Blum and Randy Kohlbek. Pray for Deb HOLIDAY BULLETIN DEADLINE Rodgers (sisterRinRlaw of Peggy Two Week Before the Weekend Publication Curs), Mark Bauer, Cecil Wortmann, Walt Sherry, LeRoy With the holiday season upon us, our bullen arcle submission Childress (neighbor and brotherR deadline will be pushed to two weeks prior to the weekend inRlaw of Tim Gilligan), and publicaon. This deadline will be in effect unl January 13. DeDra Robb. Pray for Reece Biner, (grandson of Thank you for your corporaon, and have a blessed holiday Bruce Jefferies). Pray also for all our parishioners season!

who are homebound, hospitalized, and in nursing Please send your bullen arcles to Megan Seamann at homes, and for all our parishioners and loved ones [email protected], by Noon on the Friday two weeks who have recently passed away.
(fi een days) prior to the Saturday/Sunday weekend publicaon.
Arcles MUST be wrien in a completed “bullenRready” format. To add a loved one to the prayer line, please call Limited or incomplete sentences and/or thoughts will not be accepted. Please provide a Corliss Lovstad at 402R968R5877 or email her at graphic or photos if desired and if there is space, we may include them. Overly detailed or [email protected].
lengthy arcles with a request for us to “use what we want to” will not be accepted. We appreciate your cooperaon in helping us to create a meaningful bullen.

6 | December 6, 2020
2nd Sunday of Advent
LAY MINISTER’S SCHEDULE 3rd Sunday of Advent

DECEMBER 12TH DECEMBER 13TH DECEMBER 13TH DECEMBER 13TH 5:00 PM 8:00 AM 10:00 AM NOON



Altar Servers
Altar Servers
Altar Servers
Altar Servers
ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC CHURCH None scheduled
None scheduled
None scheduled
None scheduled
Gretna, Nebraska at this me
at this me
at this me
at this me




PARISH STAFF EMHCs
EMHCs
EMHCs
EMHCs
Dan Hlavacek
Deb Benes
Dennis Cannon
Jennifer Loosvelt
PASTOR (North and South Transepts)
(North and South Transepts)
(North and South Transepts)
(North and South Transepts)
Fr. Gregory P. Baxter……….……………...402R332R4444
Jean Hlavacek
Duane Benes
Phyllis Cannon
Janie Vipond
[email protected]
(South Nave)
(South Nave)
(South Nave)
(South Nave)




Residence………………………………….…….402R332R4428
Standby: (if a sub is needed)
Standby: (if a sub is needed)
Standby: (if a sub is needed)
Standby: (if a sub is needed)
Larry Neppl
Gene Schwarng
Diana Alderson
Ginny Giebelhaus
Emergencies (if facing danger or death), call:
Wendy Neppl
Kathy Schwarng
Chris Reinig
Delma Stoner
402R332R4428




DEACONS Greeters
Greeters
Greeters
Greeters

Deacon Ken Broz…………………………....402R676R1025
None scheduled
None scheduled
None scheduled
None scheduled
Deacon Steve Grandine……….……….402R896R4693
at this me
at this me
at this me
at this me
Deacon Joseph Hartne…….…………...402R690R4347




Lector
Lector
Lector
Lector
Deacon Larry Heck………..….……………..402R572R1319

(Read Both 1st and 2nd Readings)
(Read Both 1st and 2nd Readings)
(Read Both 1st and 2nd Readings)
(Read Both 1st and 2nd Readings)
PARISH OFFICE Jim Koch
Cari Kaup
Theresa Gulizia
Eric Hiner





Jolene Jefferies, Parish Mgr…...402R332R4444, x203
Standby: (if a sub is needed)
Standby: (if a sub is needed)
Standby: (if a sub is needed)
Standby: (if a sub is needed)

jmjeff[email protected]
Need Sub
Randy Rosenthal
Tony Tiefenthaler
Steph Lampe
Megan Seamann, Communicaons Associate




Rosary Reciter
Rosary Reciter
Rosary Reciter
Sacristan
[email protected], x202
None scheduled
None scheduled
None scheduled
Ginny Giebelhaus
Judy Weier, Secretary……..….….402R332R4444, x201
at this me
at this me
at this me

[email protected]
Ushers




DIRECTOR OF RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Sacristan
Sacristan
Sacristan
Ginny Giebelhaus
Larry Neppl
Lori Frederick
Mitch Wendlandt
Pete Giebelhaus

Shane Fagan………………………...…………402R332R3454



Delma Stoner

[email protected]
Ushers
Ushers
Ushers

Marty White
DIRECTOR OF PRESCHOOL EDUCATION Kevin Kaup

Dan Dauner
Terese Croghan

Stephanie Adams…….…….….…….……..402R332R3050
Kathy Dauner
Frank McEvoy
Jim Hain
Fogger Crew
See schedule posted

[email protected]
Chris Lingbloom
Tom Nienaber
John Schaffert

Chad Soupir
Pat Shurtliff
Tony Vanek
on SignUp Genius
YOUTH COORDINATOR




Irene Lempke………….……..………402R332R4444, x213
Fogger Crew
Fogger Crew
Fogger Crew
Vocaons Crucifix

[email protected]
See schedule posted
See schedule posted
See schedule posted
David Hubert

on SignUp Genius
on SignUp Genius
on SignUp Genius
PASTORAL MINISTRY AND LITURGY
Francesca Dammermann….…...402R332R4444, x204
LAY MINISTER’S SCHEDULE [email protected]

The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
MUSIC MINISTRY
Tracy Hoye…………………….…..……….….402R618R8606

Lector
[email protected]
DECEMBER 8TH DECEMBER 8TH
Lector
(Read Both 1st and 2nd Readings)
PARISH CENTER COORDINATOR 7:30 AM (Read Both 1st and 2nd Readings)
6:00 PM Lori Frederick

Claudia Perchal



Lezlie Thomas………………….……..…..….402R525R3098
Standby: (if a sub is needed)
EMHCs

EMHCs

[email protected]
Standby: (if a sub is needed)
Kelly Eby

Therese Nisbet
Kathy Schwarng
Nancy Kruse

FACILITY MANAGER (North and South Transepts)
(North and South Transepts)
Sacristan

Judy Knight……………..……….…...402R332R4444, x212
Gene Schwarng
Sacristan
Tim Kruse
Andi Towey
(South Nave)
(South Nave)

[email protected]

Larry Neppl

Ushers

Standby: (if a sub is needed)

Standby: (if a sub is needed)
PASTORAL COUNCIL PRESIDENT Clint Bollock
Marty Stednitz
Ushers
Jim Hoovy
Bill Baumert……..……..……….………...….402R332R5201
Frank McEvoy
Dan Dauner

Jerry Thoendel
Chris Reinig
FINANCE COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN Bob Sis
Kathy Dauner
Ginny Giebelhaus
Ma Meyer…………..……………….……….402R301R4855

HOLY SEPULCHRE CEMETERY
Jerry Thoendel………….……..………….....402R332R3475

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS
Jim Hain………………….…...….…….……....402R981R8831
[email protected]

AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS TROOP #NE-0508
Pam Golka……………[email protected]

TRAIL LIFE USA TROOP #NE-0508
Brian Stransky……….…[email protected]

2nd Sunday of Advent
December 6, 2020 | 7
SENCOND WEEK OF ADVENT

ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC CHURCH Gretna, Nebraska INSTRUCTION FOR PRAYER

Jesus says in Mahew’s Gospel: “Whenever you pray, go to your room, close your door, and pray to your Father in private.”

Now, do what Jesus asks and find a quiet place to be alone. Open your mind and heart to spending some me resng in God’s presence. Try to be as present to these few moments as you can, bringing all that you are and everything that is happening in your life to this sacred space. Trust that God knows what you need. Don’t worry about what to say or how to say it. Be present with love in search of Love. Desire that God’s will and your will become one.

A er a few moments, slowly pray as Jesus taught:

Our Father who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come,
thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread
and forgive us our trespasses
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And, lead us not into temptaon but deliver us from evil. Amen.

Offer a brief Thanksgiving to God for simply Being who God is and for making you into the person you are. Rest with this affeconate gratude for a while.

May the grace of the Advent season consume my heart as I prepare for the coming of the Lord. Let me not, especially this year, overlook the hope and NATIONAL NIGHT OF PRAYER joy which comes from fully embracing the tradions December 8 of a Catholic celebraon of Advent and Christmas.

Join from home in praying for a Culture of Life on Tuesday, Breathe in, breathe out. Come, Lord Jesus! Come!
December 8, the feast of the Immaculate Concepon of the Blessed Virgin Mary from 8 PM to 12 AM. It is suggested to pray the Joyful mysteries of the rosary during the first hour, “Pray always and do not lose the Luminous mysteries during the second hour, the heart.”
Sorrowful mysteries during the third hour, and the Glorious
mysteries during the final hour. Please consider praying for as If you are considering a much or as lile me that you can.
vocaon as a priest, deacon or
in the consecrated life, let the 11 PM to 12 Midnight, is referred to as the Hour of Unity, grace of prayer encourage you.
during which we will be united in spirit by churches across the
country in prayer to end aboron, and to restore God's Call Father Andrew Roza at
blessings of life, liberty, faith, and His peace in America and the enre world.
402R558R3100, or email
voca[email protected].
Prayer packets can be found in the narthex of the church. For more informaon contact or Megan Seamann at [email protected].
8 | December 6, 2020
2nd Sunday of Advent
LEAST OF MY BRETHREN ANNUAL APPEAL

It's me for the annual update and appeal for the Least of My Brethren Ministry.
As you know, Least of My Brethren is a St Patrick ministry, focused on helping homeless and those living on the edge.
There are easily ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC CHURCH 200+ volunteers, most of whom are from our parish. This year COVID presented some challenges; Gretna, Nebraska however,
thanks
to the generosity of you and many ADVENT GIVING TREE others, many in need
sll received food, clothing, hygiene items, and furniture and other furnishings.

Return Gifts by December 8
Financial donaons
made from December 1 to January 5 will result in matching The Advent Giving funds.
Volunteers will be in the Narthex a er all Masses this weekend to answer quesons Trees have been in the main Narthex, regarding our mission and how you can help.
Thank you.
and the south
To sign up to volunteer for Least of My Brethren go to hps://www.signupgenius.com/ entrance since last go/30E0A4EA8AB2AA6FD0Rlomb10.
weekend for those parishioners who wish to donate a gi .
FORMED SUBSCRIPTION
Login or Register Today Gi s should be returned by Tuesday, FORMED provides the very best Catholic content December 8. Thank from more than 60 organizaons to help parishes, you for your families and individuals explore their faith consideraon to anywhere. You can watch movies, listen to podcasts, reach out to those in or read eBooks. There are dozens of tles made for need. Quesons can be directed to Joan Ingram at kids to learn more about the saints and the stories in 402R203R3604 or [email protected].

the Bible, hps://watch.formed.org/kidsR1.

Diving into the beauty of the Faith has never been easier: at home, on the go, or from any CLOISTERS ON THE PLATTE internet connected device. Discover thousands of books, audio talks, movies, Men’s Retreat Openings documentaries, and studies. There is something for every member of the family to help them grow closer to Christ and His Church.
Retreats are good for the
mind and good the for soul. Registering for FORMED is easier than ever. You no longer need to have a parish code or There are several openings remember a passwordVall you need is your name and email.
for the December 10 men’s
retreat weekend at The HOW TO REGISTER FOR AN ACCOUNT IF YOUR NEW TO FORMED. Cloisters on the Plae. The Go to
formed.org/signup
Cloisters have implemented Select your parish
(using zip code is easiest)
several changes and Register with your name and email address
precauons to ensure the Check that email account for a link to begin using FORMED
safety of all retreatants. It is encouraged, if you
would like to aend a Cloisters retreat, man or HOW TO LOG INTO FORMED IF YOU PREVIOUSLY HAD ACCESS. Go to
formed.org/signup
woman, to sign up on the waing list for the In the upper right corner, select "Sign In"
weekend you would like to aend. Cancellaons A new "Sign In" screen appears and user enters their email address and selects "Next"
make it possible for your name to be moved up on A message appears for user to "Check your email!"
the list quickly. For more informaon or to sign up Check that email account for a link to begin using FORMED
go to hps://cloistersontheplae.com.
LOST AND FOUND
RETIREMENT FUND FOR RELIGIOUS COLLECTION December 12-13 Our lost and found at St. Patrick keeps In good mes and bad, senior Catholic sisters, growing. Have you brothers, and religious order priests have lost something dedicated themselves to service and acts of recently and think mercy. Today, they pray for an aching world. you may have le it Yet years of serving for lile or no pay have le at the Church? We their religious communies without enough have an array of rerement savings. Your gi to the Rerement jewelry including rings and earrings, rosaries, hair Fund for Religious helps provide medicaons, accessories and other odds and ends.
nursing care, and other necessies. Please be
generous during the collecon next weekend.
There are a couple rings recently found that look
like they might be wedding rings. Some of the Across the United States, hundreds of religious rosaries that have been found are just beauful.
communies lack financial resources sufficient
to meet the rerement and healthRcare needs of aging members. Today, rered religious Call Megan or Judy at 402R332R4444 or come into outnumber wageRearners by nearly three to one. For more informaon go to the parish office during office ours to ask about reredreligious.org.
your lost item and see if we might have it.

2nd Sunday of Advent
December 6, 2020 | 9
AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE

ADVENT INVITATION—IN FRONT OF MERCY VILLA, 72ND STREET, DECEMBER 10
As we enter into this Advent season, when the suffering of ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC CHURCH refugees and immigrants in our world seems more severe than ever, we can try to effect change by prayerful witness. Gretna, Nebraska The group Mother's and Others: Jusce and Mercy for Immigrants holds a witness every Thursday morning from 8 HELPFUL RESOURCES AM ll 9 AM along 72nd St. in front of Mercy Villa, (just North of College of St. Mary). We invite anyone interested to come AL-ANON (ALCOHOL TREATMENT—OMAHA) Phone……………………..……….…..…….…402R553R5033
join us on December 10, or any other Thursday, as we stand Website……………….……………………..….…alRanon.org
with banners and posters (which are provided) in solidarity with those who are fleeing violence, hunger, and natural disasters. Masks are required and BOYS TOWN NATIONAL HOTLINE social distancing is expected.
Phone……………………..…….…..…….…1R800R448R3000
Website……………….…………….…www.boystown.org
LIVING NATIVITY—ST. JOHN VIANNEY CATHOLIC CHURCH, MILLARD, CATHOLIC ANSWERS DECEMBER 11-12 Phone…………………….…….……...…….1R888R318R7884
Website……………………………………www.catholic.org
On Friday, December 11 or Saturday, December 12 from 7 PMV9 PM both nights drive to St. John Vianney Catholic CATHOLIC CEMETERIES Church (5801 Oak Hills Drive, Millard) for their Living Grief & Healing Counselor………...…..402R391R3711
Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Gretna....402R332R3475
Navity. Stay in your car and drive the family through the luminary path to our beauful manger scene. During this CATHOLIC CHARITIES—OMAHA me of social distancing, this is a perfect way to remind Phone…………………….…….…..…….…….402R554R0520
your family of the true meaning of Christmas. For more Website……………………………………….....ccomaha.org
informaon contact Mary Johnson by email at CATHOLIC VOICE ONLINE [email protected] or phone 402R895R0808.
Website……………………..…catholicvoiceomaha.com

COURAGE (PASTORAL SUPPORT—SAME-SEX ATTRACTION) A NIGHT OF HOPE—VIRTUAL, DECEMBER 12 Phone…………………….…….…...……….…402R557R5692
Our firstRever Night of Hope in July was a Website……………………….....…………….couragerc.org

success. We loved spending the evening in EWTN (GLOBAL CATHOLIC TELEVISION NETWORK) praise and worship with you and more than Phone…………………….…….…...…….…1R800R447R3986
44,000 people worldwide. So, this Advent, Website………………………..…………….www.ewtn.com

we’re coming together again! Join us on HOLY FAMILY SHRINE Saturday, December 12, from 6:00R8:00 PM, for Phone…………………….…….…..…….…….402R332R4565
our second Night of HopeVa free, livestreamed Website………………………….….holyfamilyshrine.com
Steubenville Conference. Celebrate the feast of

LEAST OF MY BRETHREN Our Lady of Guadalupe with a keynote Phone…………………….…….…..…….…….402R681R5424
presentaon about our Blessed Mother from Facebook Group……..…………@LeastOfMyBrethren
Catholic speaker Mary Bielski, Eucharisc adoraon with Father Dave Pivonka, TOR, and

MARRIAGE RESOURCES more. It’s all livestreamed from Franciscan University of Steubenville. Share with your For Your Marriage………www.foryourmarriage.org
family, friends, or parish, and invite them to this powerful encounter with Christ our Hope! Retrouvaille………………………….…...1R800R470R2230
Register for free at steubenvilleconferences.com/nightRofRhope.
Retrouvaille……………….www.helpourmarriage.org

MASS TIMES NATIONWIDE FULL OF GRACE: AN ADVENT MORNING OF REFLECTION—ST. VINCENT DE PAUL, OMAHA, DECEMBER 12 Phone…………………….…….…..……..…1R858R207R6277
Website…………………..…………..www.massmes.org
Join the Instute for Priestly Formaon for an

NEBRASKA HOMESCHOOL NETWORK Advent Morning of Reflecon, Saturday, December Website…………..…………..nebraskahomeschool.org
12 at St. Vincent de Paul Church (14330 Eagle Run
Drive, Omaha).
The morning begins with Mass at POPE PAUL VI INSTITUTE (FERTILITY HELP) Phone…………………….…….…..………..…402R390R6600
10:00 AM followed by presentaons by the IPF Staff, Website………………..…………..www.popepaulvi.com
me for silent reflecon, and concludes at noon.
CDC guidelines will be observed.
This event RACHEL’S VINEYARD (ABORTION HEALING) will also be livestreamed from IPF’s website, Phone…………………….…….…..……..…1R866R482R5433
www.priestlyformaon.org, and Facebook Website……….………………www.rachelsvineyard.org
pages.
There is no charge for the event.
For more informaon, call Linda at 402R280R3901 SPIRIT CATHOLIC RADIO—FM 102.7 or go to www.priestlyformaon.org.
Phone…………………….…….…..…….…….402R571R0200

Website………………….www.spiritcatholicradio.com
GOD IS NOT SOCIALLY DISTANT—OUR LADY OF GOOD COUNSEL RETREAT CENTER,

ST. BENEDICT CENTER (RETREATS IN SCHUYLER) DECEMBER 19

Phone…………………….…….…..………..…402R352R2177
Don't pracce social distance with Jesus!
Fr. Jeffery Eickhoff will help Website………....chrishekingpriory.com/sbcabout
men and women of all ages to prepare to celebrate Christmas with ST. JOHN PAUL II NEWMAN CENTER this retreat day, to rejoice in Our Savior “born for us today” who Phone…………………….…….…..…….…….402R557R5575
comes into our world to save us from our sins and to show us His Website………………………….……………..jpiiomaha.org
love! The retreat will begin with a 9 AM conference and 11 AM

STRIVE (BREAK FREE FROM PORNOGRAPHY) Mass, followed by 1 PM conference and
Adoraon and 3 PM Phone………….………….…….…..…….…1R800R588R1422
conference. There are opons to aend this retreat via inRperson at Website………………………………….……….strive21.com
the Retreat House or atRhome, live stream and on demand

WOMEN’S CENTER FOR ADVANCEMENT recordings. For more informaon or to register visit (DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, HUMAN TRAFFICKING, ETC.) goodcounselretreat.regfox.com/eickhoffR12R19R2020 or contact Fr. 24/7 Hotline….………….….…..…….…….402R345R7273
Gary Coulter 402R786R2705 or by email [email protected].
Website……………………………………....wcaomaha.org

10 | December 6, 2020
2nd Sunday of Advent
Gretna Chapel 11710 Standing Stone Drive (402) 332-4770 - Tax Preparation -Insurance Come visit our friendly pharmacy staff! snellheatingac.com Mark Hintz, Owner -Estate Planning -Investments Hours: Mon-Fri 9-7 • Sat 9-5 • Sun 11-3 Gretna, NE 68028 COMPLETE

108 E. GLENMORE DR. AUTO & LIGHT TRUCK 402-334-6708 11422 Miracle Hills Dr. Call: 402-332-3531-Gretna 611 N Highway 6 Gretna 402.332.5990 332-0090 GRETNA, NE 68028 FOREIGN & DOMESTIC

Knights of Columbus Berkshire Hathaway Insurance HomeServices Ambassador Real Estate Mark Allgood Realtor® Kevin Weber, FICF, MDRT Parishioner HUBBLE REICHERT DDS 402-630-7877 cell [email protected] 402-905-2880 402-490-7326 Cell [email protected] www.nebraskakofcins.com 11812 Standing Stone Blvd. • Gretna

401(k) rollovers - IRA’s - Roth IRA’s - Whole Life - Nursing Home Coverage - Disability Insurance www.gretnadentist.com A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC

Mission Village NUCCA Chiropractic NonSurgical Spinal Decompression Animal Clinic Dr. Drew Drummond Dave Hubert Parishioner KATHERINE KNAKE, DVM Parishioner 402.932.3400 BETH SOULLIERE, DVM (402) 660-8780 www.spinalbalancehc.com www.davehubert.com 144th & Stony Brook Blvd 894-5550 • 16843 “Q” St. Kristin McGregor, M.D. St. Patrick’s Parishioner Katie Vollmuth, M.D. Children’s Physicians, Gretn a 11856 Standing Stone Drive 402-955-6630 ET LA CARP ND 4301 Industrial Ave. “27th & Superior” Lincoln’s Premier Floor Covering Outlet (402) 467-6363

HydroSeeding • Sodding Ambassador | Real Estate Lawn Sprinkler Installation & Service Commercial & Residential Jacki Ehmke | Realtor “From Lots to Acres – We Cover It All” Parishioner 100% Full Satisfaction Guarantee 402-616-7212 | [email protected] LOCALLY NATIONALLY GLOBALLY John Roll KNOWN RECOGNIZED RESPECTED (402) 332-4506 • Mobile: 690-8726 windows + siding + gutters CHARITY FRATERNITY sunrooms + backyard living

UNITY PATRIOTISM Jeremy Eickhoff Parishioner Knights of Columbus Gretna Council #10047 Serving Our Parish Community GRAND KNIGHT - Jim Hain (402) 429-3183 402-981-8831 • [email protected] www.PapioRoofing.com

LYNNETTE ROXBURGH Birnstihl Real Estate Group 402.679.5327 Parishioner & Realtor Contact Kjirsten Finnegan to place an ad today!

[email protected] or (800) 950-9952 x2659 A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC

For ad info. call 1-800-950-9952 • www.4lpi.com St. Patrick, Gretna, NE B 4C 02-0793 Hartnett CPA Services, P.C. HAWKINS ROOFING CFO-to-Go, Accounting Ambassador Real Estate & Tax Services - Christina Reinig Commercial • Residential • Industrial • Churches Business & Personal Realtor® “All Work Guaranteed” Andrew Consbruck, PT, DPT, PRC - Parishioner Parishioner Joe Hartnett Nate Dickes, PT, DPT - Parishioner 253-3011 36 Years Experience • Omaha Based 402-690-4347 Standing Stone Plaza www.hughestree.com (402) 677-7099 [email protected] 402.905.9089 Serving Omaha Area For [email protected] 731-6322 New Clients Welcome! www.dptgretna.com Over 50 Years Chris Batliner Parishioner KIRK W ROHMAN, AGENT Phone: 402.812.1499 620 N HWY 6, STE C 11922 I St, Omaha GRETNA, NE 68028 Religious Greeting Cards Office: 402-332-4727 NE 68137 Fax: 402-332-3861 For All Occasions E-mail: [email protected] No Cost Consultation- I Can Help You Website: www.kirkrohmanagency.com Access Anytime: 1-800-MYAMFAM (800-692-6326) Better Understand Your Medicare Options 402-332-5166 TRADE WELL PALLET, INC.

Shops of Legacy 168th & Center Ph: 402-332-3500 Nebraska 896-1246 22801 Fairview Road www.makovickapt.com P.O. Box 310 www.olympicpoolomaha.com Grenta, NE 68028 EVERY DAY IS GAMEDAY LYNDEL SPURGEON REALTOR/PARISHIONER

• NOW OPEN! • [email protected] 402.960.7271 Dr. Jay Kocian - Parishioner Commercial • Industrial - Remodel 20024 Glenmore Dr #105 • Gretna David Nienaber BERKSHIRE 4427 S 139th St. • Omaha, NE 68137 HATHAWAY HomeServices CatholicMatch.com/NE 402.916.9300 • www.gretnafamilydental.com 402-933-3322

Check out our... Storm Proof Roof!

Office: 402-332 Ken Beckman % ® 3946 REALTOR - Parishioner 2 to St. Patrick’s Church! 208 W Gruenther Road 402-957-5491 Gretna Dental 402-330-0911 Patrick Cockerill, D.D.S. [email protected] 830 Village Square • Gretna, NE 68028 lastimeexteriors.com Jamie Pflug & Carole Carraher-Pflug

All Types of Roofing, Siding & Gutters The Area’s Most Experienced Custom Designed Labels Stone-Coated Metal Roof Company! Brian Nienaber-Owner 7805 W. Center Road Wind, Fire & Hail Resistant Blake Jackson-Project Manager 402-331-1180 “Next Time You Need a Roof, Make it the LASTIME” (402) 933-8002 • CityWideRoofs.com AmericalStickers.com

Contact Kjirsten Finnegan to place an ad today! [email protected] or (800) 950-9952 x2659

826 Village Square 8802 South 121st Street La Vista, NE 68128 Office: (402) 339-2666 332-4808 Fax: (402) 339-5824 Website: www.waldinger.com [email protected]

Specialized Care for Infants, Children & Young Adults Gretna Family Counseling Mark Hauptman Bryan Hohenstein, D.D.S. Specializing in: Anxiety, Parish Depression, Divorce Care, Parishioner Matthew Schieber, D.D.S. Grief, Stress, Family Conflicts, Rick Carstens, D.D.S. Discounts Relationship Conflicts, Parent- Bryce Cushing, D.D.S. ing, House Calls. 402-916-9500 Amanda Snyder, D.D.S. Making Life Better... www.hhlawns.com 402.330.5535 Joanie Hansen, MA, LIMHP 180th & Harrison 402-203-6193 620 North Hwy 6, Suite D, Gretna Lawn Care & Fertilization • Landscape Design 168th & Maple (402) 215-3038 www.omahakidsdentist.com Jon and Traci Miller [email protected] Installation and Maintenance For ad info. call 1-800-950-9952 • www.4lpi.com St. Patrick, Gretna, NE A 4C 02-0793