St. Mary on the Hill

Transcription

1 St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church 100 YEARS - Celebrating our past, moving forward in the Spirit! Fourth Sunday of Advent -- December 18, 2016 ORDAINED MINISTERS Fr. Jerry Ragan, Pastor Fr. Gonzalo Meza, Parochial Vicar Fr. Lou Lindsey, Senior Parochial Vicar Fr. Michael Hull Fr. David Arnoldt Deacon Ken Maleck Deacon Donald McArdle Deacon Al Sullivan Deacon Tony Wagner MASSES Saturday Vigil 5:00 pm Sunday 7:45 am, 10:30 am, 12:15 pm, 5:30 pm Weekdays Monday through Friday 7:00 am Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9:15 am Wednesday Miraculous Medal Novena & Evening Mass 5:15 pm Saturday Morning Mass & Anointing of the Sick 9:15 am RECONCILIATION Saturdays 3:45 4:45 pm ROSARY Monday 5:00 pm and Saturday 4:30 pm SACRED HEART PERPETUAL ADORATION CHAPEL 1210 Monte Sano Avenue Available to all parishioners to spend time in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament and is open 24 hours per day 7 days per week. BAPTISMS Baptisms are celebrated once a month (except during Lent). Preparation classes are held prior to the WEDDINGS Arrangements should be made at least four months in advance. NURSERY Available at the 10:30 am and 12:15 pm Sunday Masses for ages 6 months to Pre-K4. A pre-school religious program is offered during the 10:30 am Mass for 3 and 4 year olds. EMERGENCIES After Hours (706) TRINITY HOSPITAL CHAPEL MASS Thursday 12:00 noon MINISTERIO CATOLICO HISPANO Misa en Español: Domingo 2:00 pm, Iglesia de Saint Teresa of Avila, 4921 Columbia Road, Grovetown, GA Domingo 4:00 pm, Iglesia de Saint Joseph, 2607 Lumpkin Road, Augusta, GA PARISH MISSION St. Mary on the Hill Parish, a Catholic community, is committed to caring for God s people through stewardship. We are bound together by the Eucharist, directed by the Gospel teachings and the teachings of the Church, enlightened by the Holy Spirit, and are committed to sharing in the ministry of Jesus Christ. As stewards, we will proclaim the Gospel, promote peace and justice, and use our time, talents, and treasure to advance God s Kingdom. PARISH MEMBERSHIP Welcome new members! or call to register. Active parishioner status is determined by the following: You are registered with the parish; You attend Sunday Mass and Holy Days regularly, You use parish envelopes weekly to indicate your mass attendance, You have a Stewardship Commitment your pledges of time, talent, and treasure. DECEMBER 18, 2016 HYMNS Entrance Hymn 490 Offertory Hymn 1009 CHURCH STAFF Administrative Assistant Martha Kearns martha.kearns@knology.net Music & Worship Alvin Blount stmmusic@knology.net Stewardship Deacon Al Sullivan al.sullivan@stmaryonthehill.org CCD Barbara Kareis & Joan Purucker (706) stmarysccd@hotmail.com Mothers Day Out & Nursery Gina Craw (706) gina.craw@knology.net Senior Center Patty Lezotte (706) patty.lezotte@knology.net Youth Ministry Michael & Missy Lammers Joanna Watwood smothyouthgroup@gmail.com Secretaries Mary Bowles Karen Brooks Finance Dori Thorstad dori.thorstad@stmaryonthehill.org Facilities Cris Edge cris.edge@knology.net SCHOOLS St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School Joseph McBride, Principal (706) smcs@knology.net Aquinas High School Maureen Lewis, Principal (706) Deadline for bulletin is Monday at noon. Send information by smbulletin@knology.net, fax or phone

2 December 18, 2016 Sunday, December 18 Is 7:10-14; Ps 24; Rom 1:1-7; Mt 1: :45 am (Fr. Jerry Ragan) 10:30 am (Fr. Lou Lindsey) 12:15 pm (Fr. Gonzalo Meza) 5:30 pm (Fr. Michael Hull) Monday, December 19 Jgs 13:2-7, 24-25a; Lk 1:5-25 7:00 am Michael & Kathryn Rubish SENIOR CENTER CLOSED MDO 9:00 am SA Rosary & Miraculous Medal Novena 5:00 pm SJDC 9:15 am Walter Ingram Walking Aerobics 9:00 am PH RCIA 7:00 pm PH Rev. Henry Drozd & Rev. Richard Young / Theodore Agba, Pastoral Year* Tuesday, December 20 Is 7:10-14; Lk 1: :00 am Praise & Thanksgiving MDO 9:00 am SA SMCS Junior High Dance 7:00 pm CAF/G 9:15 am Shannon Burke Agee Very Rev. Raymond Levreault, VF & Rev. Matthew Ericksen / Peter Lanshima, Pastoral Year* Wednesday, December 21 Memorial of Saint Peter Canisius, Priest & Doctor of the Church Sg 2:8-14 or Zep 3:14-18a; Lk 1:39-45 (Memorial: 2 Tm 4;1-5; Mt 5:13-19) 7:00 am Mary Bowles SENIOR CENTER CLOSED SMCS Early Release 11:50 am 8 th Anniversary MDO 9:00 am SA Parish Choir Rehearsal 7:30 pm PH NO Walking Aerobics 5:15 pm Bill Doker Rev. Francis Higgins & Rev. Msgr. William O Neill / Solomon Kaanan, Theology II* Thursday, December 22 1 Sm 1:24-28; Lk 1: :00 am 9:15 am SMCS CLOSED SENIOR CENTER CLOSED MDO CLOSED Rev. Rodolfo Roxas & Rev. Peter Oyenugba, MSP / Robert Phillips, Theology II* Edgardo Mucha Victor Martinez Fourth Sunday of Advent CCD 9:00 am CAF/SMCS Mass for the People Children s Liturgy during Tony Price 10:30 Mass PH Baptisms celebrated during 12:15 Mass Daniel Wongo Church League Basketball Jim Cullum 12:30-5:30 pm G Most Rev. Bishop J. Kevin Boland, DD / Patrick May, Theology III* Friday, December 23 Memorial of Saint John of Kanty, Priest Mal 3:1-4, 23-24; Lk 1:57-66 (Memorial: Jas 2:14-17; Lk 6:27-38) 7:00 am Betty Ducey & Patti Ducey PARISH OFFICE CLOSED No Walking Aerobics 9:15 am Patrick Joseph Martin SMCS CLOSED Rev. Msgr. Marvin LeFrois & Very Rev. Timothy McKeown, VF / Carlos Rivero, Theology II* Saturday, December 24 Vigil of Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord Morning: 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16; Lk 1:67-79 Vigil: Is 62:1-5; Ps 89; Acts 13:16-17, 22-25; Mt 1:1-25 Night: Is 9:1-6; Ps 96: Ti 2:11-14; Lk 2:1-14 9:15 am 4:00 pm (Fr. Jerry Ragan) 6:00 pm (Fr. Gonzalo Meza) 9:00 pm (Fr. David Arnoldt) 12:00 midnight (Fr. Michael Hull) Jeannie Mulherin Tamara Cundy Dunstan & Beloved Son Jean Sieron Brandi Bowers Ray Philip Bo Weigle NO Reconciliation Rev. Michael O Keeffe & Rev. Thomas Nellis / Emmanuel Antwi, Theology I* Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord Dawn: Is 62:11-12; Ps 97; Ti 3:4-7; Lk 2:15-20 Day: Is 52:7-10; Ps 98; Heb 1:1-6; Jn 1:1-18 NO CCD 9:00 am (Fr. Thomas Healy) Mary Selzer NO Church League Basketball NO Men s Basketball 11:00 am (Fr. Lou Lindsey) Terry Melton No Middle or High School Youth Groups Saints Overseas 3:00 pm SC Youth Choir Practice 4:00 pm C Men s Basketball 5:30-7:00 pm G High School Youth Night 6:30 pm AH Prayer Group 7:30 pm FCH Spirit & Truth 7:30 pm AH Youth Holy Hour 9:00-10:00 pm AC A = SJC Atrium AC= Adoration Chapel AH=Annunciation House MR1=Meeting Room 1 MR2=Meeting Room 2 YC=Youth Center (1 st Floor) Our Holy Father, Pope Francis / Christopher Awiliba, Theology I* BR= Bride Room C = Church CAF=SMCS Cafeteria CL= SMCS Computer Lab FCH = Fr. Charlie s House G = School Gym MC = SMCS Media Center N = Nursery NX= Narthex PH= Parish Hall R = Rectory SA = St. Anne s Hall SC= Senior Center SH = Scout Hut SJC = St. Joseph Center SJDC = St. Joseph Day Chapel SMCS = St. Marys Catholic School UR= SJC Upper Room *= Please pray daily for our Priests & Seminarians. =Deceased Living

3 St. Mary on the Hill December 18, 2016 We get a full fourth week of Advent this year, so it gives a little breathing room to those who do such a great job every year putting up the Nativity Scene and all the other decorations. On the other hand as pastor I am a little anxious that the calendar this year might put a bit of a strain on our parish budget. With Christmas and New Year s Day falling on Sunday, I fear some will treat the offertory as what my Dad use to call a twofer. You get two liturgies for the price of one. Now most parishioners are unusually generous at Christmas time, but it is almost compulsory as your pastor that I gently suggest that you also add to the Christmas offertory what you would usually donate on the fourth Sunday of December so that budgets stay on track. Thanks for almost always easing my anxieties concerning financial matters. And a special thanks to all those who gave to this year s Bishop s Annual Appeal. I like to keep my boss happy but I honestly wasn t sure if we were going to make our goal this year. It would have been my first loss as a pastor. But when the pledges and one time gifts are added up the total comes to $135,662, which is $36 over our goal. Thank you for being so caring as you help the Bishop with his many ministries in our Diocese. Thank you for being so responsive to the giving tree which helps our outreach to the wounded veterans in our neighborhood and our Saints Overseas, the aids orphans of Goala, Ethiopia. Thanks for being such good stewards of the resources that God has entrusted to you. Your generous hearts gives Christ a new birth into our world once again this Christmas. And yet today s gospel doesn t give us a very sentimental picture of the first Christmas. God s entrance into our human condition made waves for both Mary and Joseph. They were betrothed, so they obviously had other plans than the ones the angel sprang on Mary and revealed to Joseph in his dream. It is not hard to imagine how difficult it was and subject her to punishment. He planned not to publicize what seemed like the wrong she committed and was ready Joseph and Mary didn t have the advantage of our hindsight. They had to fulfill their roles in God s plans with many sailing; no exemption from living with mystery and journeying with faith in darkness. Like Joseph and Mary, many people have a lot of difficult journeys to make. Some raise handicapped or even emotionally disturbed children, taking care of them well beyond what most other parents normally have to do for their offspring. Some choose to care for a spouse with Alzheimer s or another crippling disease. Some are widowed and may still have dependent children to raise. Some must hold down two jobs to pay for their children s Catholic education. Some like Fr. Lou face serious illness with courage and, despite the challenges keep on going with a wonderful sense of humor. These and so many others have heard a call--- the call invited them, in the midst of their lives and plans, to undertake sailing just that somehow they would not be on their own---god would be with them. Like Joseph, who awoke from his dream and changed his plans, others have awakened after hearing their call and have set out in faith, with trust that God would sustain them. Emmanuel--- God is with us. The Good News of Christmas is that God is always with us even in the midst of a not so perfect world. In a perfect world everyone would get the perfect seat for the 4:00 pm Mass on Christmas Eve, but that simply isn t the reality. So, in your plans to celebrate the Incarnation of our Lord, think about what would be the most joyfully spiritual experience for your family. Yes, the 4:00 pm Mass does work well for many families. But in addition to the 4:00 pm Mass on Christmas Eve, there will be 3 other Masses that night that you might consider. There will be Masses at 6:00 pm, 9:00 pm and 12:00 midnight. These Masses are well attended and have great music but normally at these Masses you don t have to get to Church an hour before hand in order to get to sit with the entire family. A growing trend, which I am happy to see, is that parishioners along with their family and guests are returning to the old tradition of participating in Mass on Christmas Day. Masses on Christmas Day are at 9:00 am and 11:00 am. These Masses are not overcrowded and they are still wonderful liturgies. Where ever you find yourself at Christmas, I pray that you will also find that Emmanuel is there too. God is truly with us. If Jesus truly is Emmanuel, God with us, how do you experience his presence during these days of Advent and Christmas?

4 Kim Agee Vicky Barnett Martha Bauman Keith Beckum Patricia Beckwith Lillian Bennett Barbara Benton Bill Berry Arlene Brown Frances Brown Retta Burke Natalie Bush Clifford Carey Sam Carter Pray for the Sick of Our Parish Carolyn Cashin Cameron Clark Joyce Coble Luanna Cole Paul Colohan Diane Cone Liz Cook Marianna Daskal Scott Davis John Harrison Doucet Jane Douglas Margaret Dunstan Diane Dymeck Joe Fulghum Margaret Gordon Michael Graziano Hugh Greene Ami Gulliams Charles Hinnant John Hoverkamp Jennifer Jackson Cambri Jewell Genie Johannsen Lisa Johnson Ed Kulik Carolyn Landrum Laurie Landrum Audrey Lavin Chris Lessard Donna Luce Sheppard Lynch Earluth McArthur Hope McCampbell Jack McCoy Ann McDaniel Eva Marie Mobley Kathy Mosner Pop Newman Tim O Shea Margaret Polonus Sallie Rankin Paul Reese Joan Reid Ashton Rinker Jimmie Roberts Aileen Robinson Wanda Roper Pam Rosema Lauren Seagraves Joan Schenkel Matthew Schexnayder Shirley Schwanenberger Martha Scott MaeAnnie Screven Julia K. Smith Brandy Stephens Joyce Stigall John Strelec Oreste Tropea Joe Ward John Ward Vickie Walters Lynn Ward Mary Williams Sharon Wolfe Pray for the Military MAJ Thomas M. Beier ENS Kyle A. Iasiello USS Farragut PO2 Andrew Sexton - USS Carl Vinson 2LT Christopher Singletary - Afghanstan Lindsay Armstrong Tessa Best Pray for Expectant Mothers Callie Cosper Molly Garren Douglas Kate Bowles Floyd Jessica Futrelle Megan Snead Goldberg Mia Boyd McBride December 18, 2016 Rest In Peace Please remember in your prayers those who have died recently: Ingrid Peters; If you have a loved one in need Catherine Ward Stewart Grace Bowles Weller Please pray for our expectant mothers and their babies. If you are a member of St. Mary s and expecting a baby, pray for those couples that are wishing to adopt Abraham & Amanda Newton Jordan and Joanna Watwood JUST A NOTE TO REMIND YOU Please remember to have your 2016 yearly contributions in before December 31, Contributions received on or after January 1, the year, THANK YOU for helping us reach our BAA target of $235,626!! As this year comes to an end, we would like to thank you, our parish community, for your continued support of St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church and our ministries through your time, talent, and treasure. As a stewardship parish, we are able to enrich many lives each year through our ministry and outreach efforts. Often, parishioners desire to make year-end gifts allowing them to receive various your continued generosity, and want to list a few opportunities for year-end giving that may be of interest to you. 1) St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church General Fund 2) St. Mary on the Hill Catholic School Endowment Fund DON T FORGET TO TURN IN YOUR COMMITTMENT CARD If you haven t returned your Commitment Card, you weekend collection basket. Returning your card is an important part of being an active member of St. Mary on the Hill. Please take this opportunity to express your support for our parish with your time, talent, and treasure! Stewardship Opportunities - Year-End Giving 3) Gifts of Stock: Stock that is held for more than one year can be donated to St. Mary and provide a tax savings for you. By making this gift, you can eliminate a capital gains tax while receiving a tax deduction for the full fair market value on the date of the gift. residual is left to the Church). For more information about ways to give to St. Mary s Parish or School, please

5 MARY AND JOSEPH If your child would like to be Mary or Joseph at one of the Christmas Eve Masses (4:00 pm, 6:00 pm or 9:00 pm), please contact Martha Kearns at or FAMILY ADVENT PENANCE SERVICE Other Advent Penance Services Tuesday, December 20 St. Teresa of Avila 7:00 pm Wednesday, December 21 Sacred Heart, Waynesboro 6:00 pm Thursday, December 22 St. Joan of Arc, Louisville 6:00 pm CHRISTMAS MASS SCHEDULE Christmas Eve - Saturday, December 24, :00 pm * + Contemporary Choir 6:00 pm Family Liturgy 9:00 pm Brass with Parish Choir 12:00 Midnight Brass with Congregational Singing 9:00 am + Congregational Singing 11:00 am Congregational Singing * Nursery Available + Incense Free Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God Vigil - Saturday, December 31, :00 pm 7:45 am, 10:30 am, 12:15 pm & 5:30 pm ALTAR SERVERS, LECTORS, USHERS, EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS, & SACRISTANS Please remember to check your schedules and arrange for a sub before you leave for vacation. If you are at Mass, please check to see if you are needed. PERPETUAL ADORATION - ADORERS NEEDED! 11:55 pm - 1:00 am Sunday, Monday, Saturday 1:00-2:00 am Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 2:00-3:00 am Sunday, Monday,Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 3:00-4:00 am SUNDAY*, Monday,Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 4:00-5:00 am Sunday, Saturday 5:00-6:00 am Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday 6:00-7:00 am Tuesday, Friday, Saturday 8:00-9:00 am Tuesday 9:00-10:00 am Friday 10:00-11:00 am Sunday, Monday, Thursday 11:00-12:00 noon Sunday, Thursday 12:00 noon - 1:00 pm SUNDAY*, TUESDAY*, Wednesday, Friday 1:00-2:00 pm Friday, Saturday 2:00-3:00 pm Tuesday, Saturday 3:00-4:00 pm Sunday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 4:00-5:00 pm Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 5:00-6:00 pm Sunday, Thursday 6:00-7:00 pm Tuesday, Thursday 7:00-8:00 pm Thursday, SATURDAY 8:00-9:00 pm Monday, Friday 9:00-10:00 pm Sunday, Friday 10:00-11:00 pm Thursday, SATURDAY 11:00 pm - midnight Sunday, Saturday B I G N E E D F O R A PARTNER OR A SUB FOR December 18, 2016 ATTENTION EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS!!! Please check the sign-up sheet in the Grotto room, and sign up to serve at one of the Christmas Masses. * Sunday, Tuesday IF YOU CAN HELP WITH ANY OF THESE HOURS, PLEASE FREE MINISTRY TO TRAVELING CATHOLICS For nationwide Mass times and locations: Call Mass Times (( ) or Internet In Loving Memory of: Erna Hull by Cliff Hull Dr. Ed B. Chung by Dr. Ted Chung, Dr. Ok Chung & Augustine Chung Great -Grandmother & Dorothy by Claire Rafoth Dr. Paul Mahoney, the Gregory & Mahoney Families by Audrey Mahoney Moreau & McDonough Families by Dr. & Mrs. Paul McDonough Jerry & Fred Spencer, Jo & Frank Virgilio by R. Virgilio & C. Spencer Robert Lenartz by Dorothy Lenartz Mr. & Mrs. Jack Johannsen, Sr by Pat Johannsen Paul Bogosian & Jimmy Adams by Edith Bogosian CHRISTMAS FLOWERS Wade Owens, Agnes & Ed Rhodes, Nan J. Owens by John & Kay Owens Mother & Daddy, Mom & Dad, All of Our Grandparents by Annonymous Margaret F. Blackmon by Patricia Rimbey Deceased Members of the Barnett & Chamberlain Families by Bob & Stephanie Barnett Agnes & John Thorstad by Sue Thorstad Lauren Cauthen by Jimmy & Roxanne Elliott Danny O. Gentry, Henry L. Bragg, Sr, Margaret Bragg, Henry Bragg, Jr, Joseph Bragg, Gentry Family by Theresa Gentry Szalkowski & Zielinski Families by Mary Ellen & Paul Zielinski Ron Thomas, Etta Mae Thomas, Liz Thomas, Haimasn Su, Li-Chiang Su by Reid Thomas & Cecilia Su- Thomas Mary & Jim Nooney by Nancy Nooney Amy Lovering Roberts, Deceased Members of the Lovering & Salmon Families by Janet & Earle Lovering Dr. Paul Mahoney by Audrey Mahoney In Honor of: Joshua Rafoth & Poppy by Claire Rafoth Mary Earles, Jim Nooney & Nancy Nooney by Nancy Nooney Miscellaneous Donations: Brett Ardrey Walker Widener Barry Hall Michael & Barbara Walsh Peggy & Tom Lovelace

6 BAPTISMS Baptism Preparation Classes typically are scheduled for the first Sunday of the month. Baptisms normally will be held the third weekend of the month at the 5:00 pm and 12:15 pm Masses. Please call December 18, 2016 WEDDING BANNS Mary-Ruth Ann Alzheimer, St. Mary on the Hill, and Jonathan Paul Carlson, Evans, GA Isabella Teresa Metz, North Augusta, SC and Daniel Miles Dunstan, St. Mary on the Hill ENGAGED COUPLES - Deanery Marriage Preparation Retreat The next Marriage Prep Workshop will be at St. Mary on the Hill, Friday, January 13, and Saturday, to get married in the Catholic Church. For more at Advance registration is required. GOLDEN & SILVER WEDDING ANNIVERSARY MASS CELEBRATION 2017 Couples celebrating their Silver or Gold (25 th or 50 th ) Wedding Anniversaries in 2017 are invited to breakfast and a special Mass in their honor at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Savannah, GA on Sunday, with Bishop Gregory Hartmayer. Those wishing to attend should contact the St. Marys than Tuesday, December 20, RETROUVAILLE ( RE-TRO-VI ) A LIFE LINE FOR MARRIED COUPLES Are you and your spouse slowly drifting apart? Are you being torn apart by terrible words and actions? Are you frustrated, hurt, or angry? Does talking about it only make it worse? Rediscover a loving relationship in your marriage. Reach for the Retrouvaille lifeline. Our next Retrouvaille Weekend will be in Augusta, GA. Please call (706) or visit CATHOLICISM: REDISCOVERING OUR FAITH Come rediscover your faith with Fr. Meza on to better understand what we practice and believe. We will enter into the heart of the Catholic faith to better travel into the road of holiness: You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect (Mt 5:48). As George Bernanos said: None of us will ever know enough theology to become a priest. But we know enough to become a saint. Come join us! What: meetings to pray and study our faith. When: Remaining Wednesdays (1/18, 1/25, 2/8, 2/22, 3/15, 3/29, 4/12, & 4/26) from 7:00-8:30 pm. Where: Church - Day Chapel For more information or to attend the class, please sign up at the Church THE SENIOR CENTER IS CLOSED THIS WEEK. NO AEROBICS DECEMBER 21 OR 23 NO AEROBICS DECEMBER 26, 28, 30 OR JANUARY 2. BEGINNERS BRIDGE LESSONS WEDNESDAYS Beginning January 11 Therese Evans will begin at the beginning! She is the best teacher EVER.and she s VERY patient. SENIOR CENTER SIGN UP FOR UPCOMING EVENTS: January 10 Tuesday Music Live.I must collect before January 4 January 16 CLOSED MLK DAY January 17 ADULT Mass & Luncheon January 24 Tuesday Music Live.I must collect before January 18 January 30 Ken Maleck Tax Tips & Lunch WATERCOLOR Painting Class Senior Center Calendar for December is available in the Narthex.

7 St. Mary on the Hill December 18, 2016 Thank you to all who contributed to GRACE Scholars in We appreciate the generous support of St. Mary on the Hill parishioners. For the 2016 GRACE donations from our parishioners, more than $54,000 was directed to St. Mary on the High School, and $3,000 to Immaculate Conception Catholic School. These donations greatly help deserving students attend Catholic schools in Augusta. What is GRACE Scholars? GRACE Scholars is a Catholic student scholarship organization (SSO) in Georgia. Because GRACE is an SSO, Georgia taxpayers can redirect part of their tax liability to GRACE who desire Catholic education grows each year. It is already time to pre-register to pre-register. Go to org and select one of the pre-registration buttons in the middle of the home page. You can pre-register online or print a paper form and send it to GRACE. Please pre-register today and let s grow GRACE Scholars in Augusta! For more information, contact GRACE Scholars at or askgrace@gracescholars.org. NICHES ARE NOW BEING SOLD! For more information about the Columbarium, please see the brochures in the Narthex or burial@stmaryonthehill.org CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICE As we prepare to remember and celebrate the gift of Christ s Coming among us and Christ s saving presence with us, please put Catholic Social Services on your Christmas List. Whatever gift you give will be gratefully received and will help a struggling individual/family to know Christ s love, His loving providence, and His saving presence anew this Christmas. Mail your donation to Catholic Social Services of Augusta, th Street, Augusta, GA Thank You!! SAVE THE DATE - LIVE NATIVITY The Live Nativity will be held this Sunday, December 18 in front of the Church with cookies and hot chocolate in the Parish Hall. Please take time out of your busy schedule to remember why we celebrate Christmas. There will be 3 presentations of the Birth of Jesus following the 5:30 Mass. The second at 7:00 pm and the third at 7:30 pm. Following each presentation we will sing Christmas carols and hot chocolate will be served. BULLETIN DEADLINE The bulletin deadline for January 1 bulletin is noon on Monday, December 19, mail, fax, or at smbulletin@knology.net 13 TH ANNUAL CIAO, BELLA! DANCE Start making your plans to go to the 13 th Annual Ray Meneghello Ciao, Bella! Dance sponsored by Knights of Columbus Council 677 on Saturday, January 21,. It s a nice, post-christmas evening at the St. Mary on the Hill Parish Hall, with a catered dinner, dancing to live music by Soundtrack, and conversation with old friends and new. Dinner starts at 6:30 pm, and dancing is from 7:30 until 11. The cost is only $45 per couple in advance, or $50 at the door. For reservations, contact Rich Dimenna at richdimenna@gmail.com or call KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS COUNCIL 677 COAT DRIVE This coat drive is for Children and Adults and is for new or gently used coats. We will be taking coat donations until when we will bring all of the coats to Catholic Social Services for them to distribute. Please drop off at the Knights of Columbus Council home in the evenings after 7:30 pm, Monday - Saturday. Craig Archer at craigpaularcher@aol.com or Keith Wagner at apothecary5@gmail.com or WE NEED YOUR HELP St. Mary on the Hill Parish th Anniversary of Our Founding All of us have stories, memories, recollections, parts of the parish s history. Each of us has played a part in shaping the parish; the parish, likewise, has had a profound impact on our lives. We want to bring to life many of the memories we have of the parish, the chance to relive some events (celebrations, parish socials, Vatican II, etc.), and remember people who shared and shaped our lives. We would like for all of this to be included in this history of our parish. We want to collect the following, and you are the best source for this information: 1) Family histories that can be traced back to the original members of the parish; 2) Names of parishioners who have entered religious life; 3) Names of parishioners who have received papal or national honors; 4) Tell us about groups or committees that you were a part of (Holy Name Society, Parish Council, PCCW, Confraternity drives, Altar Society, a parish ministry, altar servers, etc.) 5) Your stories, memories, recollections, and personal experiences. Monte Sano Ave ), your responses to SMOTH100@knology.net, or put in the collection basket. you can help, please contact John Scherer at SMOTH100@knology.net. ANGEL TREE Saints Overseas Angel Tree St. Mary s support of the children in Goala over the past several years has truly changed their lives! From clean and abundant drinking water to assistance with daily nutritional needs, you have helped them survive day by day. Let s wrap our arms around them again this Advent with generous gifts to help them thrive. Please PRAY for the children and GIVE to the Angel Tree project. More details (and pictures of the Well!) are in the Narthex. Call Katie Conner at (706) if you d like additional information. Angel Tree -- Veterans Don t forget our veterans! Angels are available on the tree for $25 donations for gifts for the veterans at the VA hospital.

8 St. Mary on the Hill December 18, 2016 YOUTH EVENTS SMY Calendar March for Life/High School Ski Trip (Washington DC/Winterplace, WV - January 26-29, 2017 Middle School White Water Rafting Trip - April HS Youth Night - 1 st and 3 rd Sundays Normally youth nights will be at The Annunciation House or St. Mary s Gym (6:45-8:00 pm). MS Youth Night - 2 nd and 4 th Sundays Our next MS night will be in January at 6:45-8:00 pm, St. Mary s Gym YDisciple Groups - when scheduled at homes (Parents, if you are interested in your child being in a YDisciple group, or call Michael Lammers, , mlammers@aquinashigh.org) Master s Table Soup Kitchen - Come Serve at the Master s Table Soup Kitchen To serve, please Belinda Youth Holy Hour - Every Thursday, 9:00-10:00 pm Come and spend some time with Jesus in the Eucharist. Pop in and spend 10 minutes or the whole hour with THE MAN - JESUS! Year of Mercy Ski for Life 2017 Sign Ups are Open All High School Students are invited to join us for the annual March/Ski for Life Trip. When: Thursday, January 26 - Sunday, January 29, 2017 Where: March for Life - Washington, DC; Winterplace Ski Resort - Ghent, WV Cost: $ for students who plan to ski at ski resort $ for students who want to join in on the trip, but will not be skiing ($100 non-refundable payment due to hold spot; Final payment due by 01/04/17). **Note: Teens can earn a $100 credit towards this trip if they sign up for a YDisciple group and attend/ participate in that group. Mr. Lammers for more details on YDisciple groups! Words for the Week Young people, the world offers you comfort, you were not made for comfort, you were made for greatness! ~ Pope Benedict IV December Schedule 12/22 White Elephant Christmas Party

9 St. Mary on the Hill December 18, 2016 DISCERNMENT RETREAT A Discernment Retreat for Catholic Men ages will be sponsored by the Little Ocmulgee State Park & Lodge 80 Live Oak Trail Helena, GA Noon Friday, December 30 th Saturday, December 31 st 2016 There is no cost Registration: Vocation Director Fr. Pablo at pmigone@ diosav.org or The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve. Matthew 20:28 ERIC GENUIS CONCERT Pianist Eric Genuis is coming to town again! Save the date for another inspiring piano performance at St Teresa of Avila Saturday,! Tickets are available now for sale. Delight a family member or friend with this GREAT STOCKING STUFFER!!! Contact Maura at to purchase. VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED TO: Provide comfort, companionship, and emotional support to hospice patients and families Relieve caregiver(s) for short periods of time Help with small chores ALLIANCE HOSPICE Allied Almost Christmas A-III adults. (R) Arrival A-III adults. (R) Bad Santa 2 O morally offensive (R) Believe A-I General Patronage (PG) Bleed for This O morally offensive (R) A-III adults. (PG-13) Denial A-III adults. (PG-13) Doctor Strange A-III adults. (PG-13) The Edge of Seventeen O morally offensive (R) Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them A-II adults and adolescents (PG-13) Hacksaw Ridge EVERYTHING YOU ARE The Catholic Diocese of Savannah presents Everything You Are Diocesan Youth Conference 2017 Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center Speakers & Music: Jackie Francois Angel & Bobby Angel COVENANT CARE ADOPTIONS Covenant Care Adoptions is an established, respected adoption ministry that has been Christian ministry, Covenant Care places children for adoption only in two-parent Christian homes. The ministry raises twothirds of its budget and is dependent on the generosity of church and individuals in our community. (800) HELP SPREAD the WORD Saint Paul Radio WKER 91.1 FM While we can not add days to life, we can add life to days. Being a Hospice Volunteer is one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have. Training provided. Call or to be a part of the Volunteer Team. For more information go to FREE SKIN CANCER SCREENING 1 in 5 Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime. Come get a free skin cancer screening today. Andrea Samaha, NP-C is offering free skin cancer screening at Harmonie Medical Dermatology through the end of the year. Call today to schedule an appointment: (706) VOCATIONS Did you know that there are still many counties in the United States that don t have a Catholic parish? Glenmary Home Missioners is hosting a Come and See Mission Trip at Holy Family Mission Parish in Blakely, GA on January It s for men ages It s free to at for more info. PRO-LIFE 9:00 am through 12:00 noon - At a Preferred Health Center, 2903 Professional Parkway, the West Augusta abortion clinic, for prayer and silent witness. Please contact George Vozniak at First Tuesday of each month - Pro-Life Rosary and Prayer - 11:30 am at the Preferred Health Center. Please contact Vern Simon at First Saturday of each month - Mass at Saint Mary on the Hill, 9:15 am, followed by a Pro-Life Rosary at Preferred Health Center (approximately 10:30 am) First and Third Fridays of each month - Crosswalk, a family pro-life gathering, from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm, at the Preferred Health Center. Please contact Gary Garner, at Second and Fourth Saturday of Each Month- Crosswalk, a family pro-life gathering from 9:00 am to 10:30 am at the Preferred Health Center. Please contact Gary Garner at Free Pregnancy Care Services Birthright National: Augusta Care Pregnancy Center: Care Net/Heartbeat Hotline: HELP Rachel s Vineyard: 877-HOPE-4-ME. MOVIE RATINGS The following movies have been evaluated by the Catholic News Service according to artistic merit and moral suitability. The reviews include the CNS rating and the Motion Picture Association of America rating. (see website Incarnate A-III adults. (PG-13) Inferno A-III adults. (PG-13) A-III adults. (PG-13) Keeping Up With the Joneses A-III adults. (PG-13) Loving A-II adults and adolescents (PG-13) Moana A-II adults and adolescents (PG) O morally offensive (R) A-III adults. (PG-13) Rules Don t Apply Shut In A-III adults. (PG-13) Trolls A-II adults and adolescents (PG)

10 Charles B. Lanier, Jr., CFP, CLU, ChFC Elizabeth Lanier McCormack, CRPS, ARM FINANCIAL AND INVESTMENT ADVI- SORS (706) Walton Way Extension First Community Bank Building, 3rd Floor Securities offered through 1st Global Capital Corp., Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through 1st Global Advisors, Inc. Martha Robertson c: Realtor, o: Peach Orchard Tire & Auto Care 2536 Peach Orchard Rd. Augusta peachorchardtireauto.com RICK KELLER - OWNER A Family Tradition Since Magnetics Banners Wood Signs Digital Printing THE FOOT AND ANKLE Dr. Kent Kronowski GROUP, P.C. Meeting All Your Podiatric Needs 1519 Laney Walker Blvd. Augusta 4434 Columbia Rd, Ste. 106 Martinez Elliott Sons Funeral Homes Observing Catholic Funeral Rituals and Traditions for Over One Hundred Years S. Herbert Elliott, Jr. 3rd Generation 2524 Lumpkin Rd. Augusta, GA Columbia Rd. Martinez, GA Se Habla Español John Goddard, General Manager Everlasting Granite & Marble Sales Office & Showroom 602 Monte Sano Ave., Augusta, GA Office: Markers Monuments Mausoleums Statuary Death Dates Cleaning Coping Crosses Owned & Operated by Gregg Craft: Developmental & Competitive Gymnastics, Tumbling, Preschool & Adaptive Gymnastics Lee W. Prather, Attorney At Law 3540 Wheeler Rd., Ste 514 Augusta, GA Bus: (706) Fax: (706) lprather@pratherlawgroup.com pratherlawgroup.com WILLS & TRUSTS REAL ESTATE LAW ESTATE PLANNING CORPORATIONS & LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANIES PROBATE Telephone: (706) Fax: (706) tfuller@fullerfrost.com Certified Public Accountants, P.C. R. THOMAS FULLER 3638 Walton Way Ext., Ste. 300 Augusta, GA Contact Gayle Wheeler to place an ad today! gwheeler@messnerpublications.com or (302) BRITTINGHAM DENTISTRY, LLC Family And Cosmetic Dentistry Kathy M. Brittingham, D.M.D. Michael A. Brittingham, D.M.D. New Patients Welcome Emergencies (706) Walton Way Ext. s THIS SPACE IS CHRISTINE & EVANS Attorneys at Law LET US PLACE YOUR AD HERE. Bobby L. Christine Charles E. Evans St. Teresa Aquinas 83 (706) Evans Town Center Blvd, Ste 501 Evans, Georgia JOHANNSEN SPORTING GOODS 3626 Walton Way Ext. Augusta, GA Phone: (706) orderrolypoly.com We Cater & Deliver a

11 CASELLA EYE CENTER Eye Exams Treatment of Eye Disease Spectacles & Contact Lenses DR. THOMAS V. CASELLA DR. BENJAMIN P. CASELLA O p t o m e t r i s t s Phone: Fax: (706) Broad Street, Augusta, GA eyecare@casellaeyecenter.com Serving Augusta since 1948 s $5 PITA EVERYDAY 2-5 PM in store only Free Kids Pita Sat & Sun with any Reg price Combo 10% of Your Purchase to Saint Mary every month and 10% of your Catering order 4336 Washington Rd Evans, GA Phone # Open daily 9am-9pm we deliver within 5 miles Five Pitas Mini Free Estimates SALES OPPORTUNITY FULL TIME CAREER POSITION Messner Publications is seeking motivated sales professionals to sell advertising in church bulletins. Excellent communication & customer service skills required. Call Or Scottm@MessnerPublications.com Rick s Paint & Body Shop Expert Body Work Rusty & Trisha Campbell (24 Hrs.) Westover Memorial Park A Non-Profit Organization AUGUSTA S FINEST - SERVING THE AREA SINCE SINCE 1912 J. TERRY BENTLEY Sales Consultant Office: (706) Wrecker Service 251 Bobby Jones Expressway Martinez, GA THIS SPACE IS STEPHEN H. HAGLER, LLC ATTORNEY AT LAW 4024 Washington Road MANER Builders Supply Co. Matt Klimas - Sales THE FRAME SHOPPE & gallery Custom Framing & Original Art 1542 Walton Way Augusta, Georgia Ed Durant Todd Torchia - Managing Partner/ Your St. Mary s Family Attorney Brandon K. Dial Wills / Probate Auto Injuries Family Law Business Formation Discount for Fellow s Frank Gibbs, Jr. Jim Hudson Lexus / New & Used Sales 3410 Washington Road Martinez, Georgia (706) (706) Cell FGibbs@JimHudson.com Johnson, Laschober & Associates, P.C. Donald Thorstad Professional Engineer (706) ENGINEERS ARCHITECTS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS Dr. Judson S. Hickey Periodontist Good Health Starts With Your Mouth! 2315-B Central Ave. Augusta, GA Messner Publications For Advertising Information Call LET US PLACE YOUR AD HERE. Owner: Abe Newton () 1809 Wylds Road Augusta, GA Office: or Cell: monromoving@gmail.com Agent for Allied Van Lines WM. J. HEFFERNAN & CO Auto, Home & Business Insurance 1228 Reynolds Street Richard & Marie Capps s CAPPS INSURANCE AGENCY, INC Auto, Home & Business Insurance 1254 Broad Street Richard Capps Jr. Stephen Capps Promotional Products Screen Printing - Embroidery - Ad Specialty Philip Kelly Buck Tinley Laura Coble s b

12 Jamey Dansby Realtor Office: Cell: (706) (706) Deans Bridge Road 1/2 Mile From Exit 5B (BJ Expy) LANDRUM SUPPLY CO. Kitchen and Bath Showroom 1440 Reynolds Street Augusta, GA Telephone: (706) Fax: (706) Mary Landrum Showroom Manager ~ ~ J. PATRICK CLAIBORNE ATTORNEY AT LAW Family Law-All Issues Wills - Probate - Estates Corporate & Business 3527 Wheeler Rd., Suite 403 The FirstBank Building PARISHIONER RICHARDS BODY WORKS, INC. Expert Auto Body Repairing & Painting Phone (706) Pat Richards Fifth Street, Augusta, GA Vice President Experienced. Knowledgeable. Trustworthy. JAMES C. FOLK Attorney At Law Real Estate Closings Refinances Wills & Probate Corporations 3714 Executive Center Dr. Martinez, GA (706) Quality Insurance Restoration 2112 Highland Ave. Augusta, Georgia (706) Fax (706) Ralph and Joe Bowles, s Barrett Family, s 2701 Washington Rd. (National Hills) toast WINE AND BEVERAGE Fury s Ferry by Publix TOAST(8627) Barretts, s Charles Bit Brittingham 4th Generation Master Plumber Serving the CSRA (706) REMODELING & REPAIRS Medical Care Surgery Boarding Mon-Fri 8:00AM-6:00PM Sat 8:00AM-Noon Appointments available Ian Scholer, DVM 505 Greenbrier Avenue David Tribby, DVM Evans, GA Mark Tribby, DVM s Debbie Douglas Hudson REALTOR VICE PRESIDENT PARISHIONER Meeting your needs with consideration, integrity & experience dhudson@blanchardandcalhoun.com PLUMBING - HEATING - AIR CONDITIONING Larry Babbitt - - Lee Babbitt Phone Come Hungry. Leave Fulfilled edgarsgrille.com Sun Brunch 10:30-2:00 Mon-Sat Lunch 11:00-2:00 Mon-Sat Dinner 4:30-Close D&M Htg. & Air, Inc. Doug Wilson