St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church 1602 Thousand Oaks Drive - San Antonio, TX

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1 St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church 1602 Thousand Oaks Drive - San Antonio, TX Our Mission Statement: to spread the good news of Jesus Christ to all God s people by word and action. PARISH DIRECTORY PASTORAL OFFICE Pastor Rev. Msgr. Kevin Ryan Ext. 312 Pastoral Administrator Dot Hamlin Ext. 311 Development Director Pamela Raines Ext. 345 Development Asst. Laura Boren Ext. 344 Bookkeeper Rich Mazzara Ext. 319 Asst. Bookkeeper Brenda Houchens Ext. 313 Parish Data Services Zulaika L. Muñiz Ext. 327 Administrative Asst. Pat Flores Ext. 300 Deacon Gil Hernandez Deacon Raul Adam Deacon Steve Marques Deacon Larry Brisiel Deacon Hipolito Huerta LITURGY OFFICE Liturgy/Pastoral Care Robert Martinez Ext. 315 Liturgy Asst. Carroll Migura Ext. 307 Music Director Dolores Martinez Ext. 316 Music Director Asst. Gary Marks Ext. 330 Sunday Receptionist Kathleen Bedingfield Ext. 303 FAITH FORMATION/RELIGIOUS ED Director of Adult Faith Formation - Paul Vance Ext. 326 Christian Initiation Ministry (R.C.I.A.), Spiritual Direction, Quinceañeras - Anne Kemper Ext. 329 Faith Formation Elem. Admin Asst., Baptism & Childcare Coordinator Rita Cabello Ext. 320 Children s Ministry - Elizabeth Herring Ext. 324 YOUTH MINISTRY Director of HS Youth Ministry - Frank Peacher Ext. 334 Youth Admin. Asst. - Brenda Mireles Ext. 333 Middle School Youth Ministry -Zachary Hemmi Ext. 332 PRE-SCHOOL & DAYCARE OFFICES Co-Directors Kathy Glendening Ext. 321 Connie Magott Ext. 322 Administrative Asst. Kim Hicks Ext. 337 PHYSICAL PLANT Manager George Wetherill Ext. 318 Team Leader Juan Olivo Custodians Rosa Hernandez, Hector Rendon, Miguel Martinez, Jenny Alarcon CHURCH REGISTRATION Are you new in the parish? You are invited to register in the Pastoral Office, Monday-Thursday 9:00 5:00; Friday 8:00 4:00 (Closed 12:00-1:00 PM), or in the Pastoral Offices located in the church on Saturday or Sunday. Registration forms are also available on our website: Pastor: Rev. Msgr. Kevin E. Ryan PARISH OFFICE HOURS: MONDAY-THURSDAY 9:00 AM TO 5:00 PM FRIDAY 8:00 AM TO 4:00 PM (CLOSED FOR LUNCH FROM 12:00 1:00 PM MON.-FRI.) PHONE: FAX: FOR AFTER HOURS EMERGENCIES: PHONE AND FOLLOW ANSWERING MACHINE INSTRUCTIONS SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY MASS SCHEDULE: 8 AM, 10 AM, 12 PM 2 PM (SPANISH), 5 PM 8:15 AM & 6:30 PM 6:30 AM 6:30 AM & 8:15 AM 6:30 AM & 8:15 AM 8:15 AM 5 PM COMMUNION SERVICES: MONDAY 6:30 AM TUESDAY 8:15 AM FRIDAY 6:30 AM SATURDAY 7:30 AM RECONCILIATION SERVICES: SATURDAY 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM (OR BY APPOINTMENT ) A NEW ORDER ADORATION HOURS: TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, & THURSDAY 9:00 AM - *9:00 PM *(LAST HOUR OF ADORATION IS FROM 8-9PM) SACRAMENTAL PREPARATIONS: FOR INFORMATION ON PREPARING FOR THE SAC- RAMENTS OF BAPTISM, FIRST RECONCILIATION, FIRST EUCHARIST, OR CONFIRMATION, PLEASE CONTACT THE FAITH FORMATION OFFICE AT: , Ext ANOINTING OF THE SICK TO SCHEDULE AN ANOINTING, PLEASE CALL: , EXT. 315 OR EXT MATRIMONY: FOR INFORMATION ON PREPARATION FOR MATRIMONY, PLEASE CONTACT THE PASTORAL OFFICE AT: December 20, 2015 Fourth Sunday of Advent O, Little Town of Bethlehem. A Philadelphia clergyman named Phillips Brooks penned these popular words back in the mid-1800s, but the prophet Micah could have used them first. Micah knew that from small packages great treasures come. In today s first reading, he knew that from tiny Bethlehem would come the Lord. The writer in Hebrews explains that Christ came to us to do the will of God by establishing a new order and by becoming our perfect sacrifice. And Luke tells us that Elizabeth and John, the infant in her womb, understand that great and wondrous things are at hand with the coming of the Lord. This is the Fourth Sunday of Advent. Soon we celebrate anew the fruit of Mary s womb. As we are told in Hebrews, Jesus new order is being established even today. And as Micah proclaims, his greatness is reaching even now to the ends of the earth. Copyright J. S. Paluch Co.

2 READINGS & MASS INTENTIONS TODAY S READINGS SATURDAY, December 19 Jgs 13:2-7, 24-25a; Ps 71:3-4a, 5-6ab, 16-17; Lk 1:5-25 5:00 PM Melvin Ott Requested by Helen Ott SUNDAY, December 20 Mi 5:1-4a; Ps 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19; Heb 10:5-10; Lk 1: :00 AM Jean Walther Requested by Marian Waterhouse 10:00 AM Jose and Jovita Martinez Requested by Nora Gonzalez 12:00 PM Raul Guajardo Requested by Gracie Guajardo 2:00 PM Robert Flores, Jr. Requested by Pat Flores 5:00 PM Robert Stevens Requested by Jane and Rob Lewis MONDAY, December 21 Sg 2:8-14 or Zep 3:14-18a; Ps 33:2-3, 11-12, 20-21; Lk 1: :15 AM Anna Maria Contreras Requested by Norma Rodriguez 6:30 PM Ronald Gloyd Requested by St. Mark s Women s Guild TUESDAY, December 22 1 Sm 1:24-28; 1 Sm 2:1, 4-8abcd; Lk 1: :30 AM David Lawhon Requested by St. Mark s Women s Guild WEDNESDAY, December 23 Mal 3:1-4, 23-34; Ps 25:4-5ab, 8-10, 14; Lk 1: :30 AM St. Mark s Community 8:15 AM Jessica Ann Molina Requested by Frank Holzmann THURSDAY, December 24 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16; Ps 89:2-5, 27, 29; Lk 1: :00 PM Bob Kemper, Sr. and Bob Kemper, Jr. Requested by Anne Kemper 7:00 PM LeRoy Wessel and Tiffany Dearman Requested by Roy and Claudia Dearman 10:00 PM Patrick and Anne Ryan Request by Msgr. Kevin Ryan FRIDAY, December 25 Jer 23:5-8; Ps 72:1-2, 12-13, 18-19; Mt 1: :00 AM Christina Marques Requested by Marilyn and Steve Marques 12:00 PM Millie Castro Special Intention Requested by Ed and Carol Zoller SATURDAY, December 26 Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59; Ps 31:3cd-4, 6, 8ab, 16bc, 17; Mt 10: :00 PM Florence Mozel Requested by Bill and Barbara Cox SUNDAY, December 27 Sir 3:2-6, or 1 Sm 1:20-22, 24-28; Ps 128:1-5 or Ps 84:2-3, 5-6, 9-10; Col 3:12-21 [12-17] or 1 Jn 3:1-2, 21-24; Lk 2: :00 AM Robert Peak Requested by Patricia Peak 10:00 AM Anthony and Marlene Schneider Requested by Joan Mittelsteadt 12:00 PM Ledwig Family Requested by Kathleen Bendingfield 2:00 PM Bernard James Stronza Requested by Julieta Stronza 5:00 PM Msgr. Morgan Rowsome Requested by Jackie Ritter First Reading From you, Bethlehem, shall come forth one who is to be ruler in Israel. (Micah 5:1 4a). Psalm Lord, make us turn to you; let us see your face and we shall be saved (Psalm 80). Second Reading By Christ doing the will of God, we have been consecrated (Hebrews 10:5 10). Gospel Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb (Luke 1:39 45). WE PRAY FOR THE SICK OF OUR COMMUNITY Mary Jane Adame Maria Aguirre Steve Alaniz Diana Alvarez Angelina Arredondo Even J. Arredondo Victoria N. Arredondo Oscar Babiera Morris Ball Mary Beals Jean Bailey Bailey Barbeeg Elaine Bechen Milton Bixon Jake Bowers Cecilia Burks David Byers Carol Carter Hope Casias Josie Castillo Victor C. Colotla Joey Courtaway David Crumpler Liz Czervinske Michael Czervinske Geri Daniels Vivian Daniels Jeanne Daw Vincent Demmer Rosalie Dennis Clarrisa Diaz Linda Diaz Butch Drew Miguel Dublin Yolanda Edwards Vivian Ehlinger Renee Engelbrecht Jim Fay David Fischer Margaret Fitzgerald Thomas Fohn Matt Foley Ayden Frail Christian Franklin Valerie G. Franklin Nora Mae Fulmer Bertha Galan Simon Galan George Galvan Clara Garcia Enrique Garcia Gloria Garcia Gilbert Gauthreaux Corrine Greathouse Lucila Garcia Federico Garcia Maria Garcia Mina Mary Jane Garcia Becca Garza Emma Gilboux Vicki Goebel Nieves Gonzales Amanda Graham Michael Grosso Nancy Guerra Liz Harding Connie Harter Debra Harty Thomas Harty Robert Henderson Amparo Hernandez Elba Hernandez Feliz Hernandez Teresa Hernandez Robert Hernandez Victor Hernandez Tere Haring Dan Hogan Liam Hogan Matthew Holzer Liz Howard Doris Hoyt Elizabeth Huff Josephine Huizar Katy Johnston Lester Jung Al Keegan Stephanie Keegan Andrew Klauenberg Ehren Klauenberg Walter Kennedy Jackie Kennedy Cecelia Klemm Adele Kulawik Francis Kulawik Connie Kuykendall Jayven Leija Betty Lawrence Susan Lawrence Martha Lawrence Laura Olivia Lugo Henry Macina Jean Macina Ken Macinga Yvette Magee Debbie Malone Adriana Manzoni Brad Marbach Matthew Margotta Lori Martin Gloria Martinez Cindy McCarthy Nora McCarthy Maddie McClain Chris J. McConnell Mary Ellen McGinley Windy McMichael Connie McRae Saba Mebrahtu Helen Mercadante Alex Mireles Lani A. Mejia Greg Molina Hilde Moore Vickie Motherwell Mattie Neff Dottie Nickelson Phil Nickelson Peggy Hayes Obringer Noel Ordwig Mercedes Otero Helen Ott Sharron Otto Joseph Otto Stephen Podd Debbie Malone Lisa Perri-Molina Eva Quinones Craig Bubba Radick Richard Ramirez John Reichensperger Lucy Respondek Mary Louise Rieber Robert Riojas Gloria Ritter Antonio Rodriguez Lorena Rodriguez Ramon Rodriguez M.W. Rollin Patricia Rowsome Benjamin Roy Frank Samas Kathleen Sanchez Olivia Sandoval Lynn Paris Schlundt Ray Schmitz Donnie Schwirtlich Roger Seguin Olivia Selena Robert Silva Joe Slaven Lois Solinski Mary Ann Sperry James Spruel Janet Spruel Jenkins Felton Stalling Sharon Stellges Clarene Szczech Jim Taylor Pat Tollette Amy Tschirhart Sharon Tschirhart Bob Underwood Joe Urbina Matthew Vasquez Linda Vasquez Delma Vela Hazel Villa Joy Votion Faye Wagner Sam Watson Christy Wheeler Pat Whitley Jan Williams Michael Wilson Susan Winter Delfino Yebra Claude Zaiontz Laurie Zaiontz Jose Zamora FairlieZwartjes We offer our prayers and sympathy to our parishioners who have experienced a death in their family. Colette Faucher If you wish to be added to or removed from the prayer list, please contact the pastoral office at (210 ) Thank you.

3 TREASURES FROM OUR TRADITION Many of our most treasured traditions link the liturgy of the church with the hearth of the home. The food on the table at certain feasts and fasts helps to extend the mystery into everyday life. Tonight, for example, many families of Italian heritage, especially those with links to the south of Italy, will settle down to the Feast of the Seven Fishes, or La Vigilia. It is a command performance for the whole family, as the saying goes: Natale con I tuui, Pasqua conchi vuoi, or Christmas with your family, Easter with whomever you wish. Seven different fish, some say one for each day of Mary and Joseph s journey to JUBILEE YEAR OF MERCY December 20, 2015 Fourth Sunday of Advent Bethlehem, others say one for each sacrament, or one for each day of creation, are served. Eel and shrimp, lobster and crab, calamari, pasta with clam sauce, flounder and hake all abound, but most especially baccala, dried salted cod. Why? Many say that it is a way to pay homage to the beasts of the stable who witnessed the holy birth and relinquished their manger to make way for God. Tonight, if someone asks you to pass the shrimp, you ll be able to shed a little light on a menu that is a delicious treasure in our tradition! Rev. James Field, Copyright J. S. Paluch Co. Once one chooses to be a disciple of Christ, Stewardship is not an option. Fourth Sunday of Advent In proclaiming the Jubilee Year of Mercy, Pope Francis proclaimed his desire that this Holy Year be steeped in mercy, as we disciples go out to every man and woman, bringing the balm of mercy to believers and those far away, as a sign that the Kingdom of God is already present in our midst! (Misericordiae Vultus, 5). In her visitation of Elizabeth, Mary beautifully presents just such an image. Despite the perils of her pregnancy, not to mention her preoccupations as a young unwed mother, Mary instantly, unselfishly, goes out of herself, hastening far and over dangerous terrain, to bring the balm of God s tender mercy in assistance rendered to her older relative. Since baptism and the Eucharist have made us, in a way, bearers of the living Christ within as Mary was, such selfless going out of ourselves to be of loving service to others in mercy should especially mark our Christmas season this Jubilee Year. Peter Scagnelli, Copyright J. S. Paluch Co., Inc. Papal quotes Copyright 2015, Libreria Editrice Vaticana. Used with permission. He shall be peace! The prophets delivered a message of a kingdom of peace to the people of God. The Israelites had experienced peace when the Lord was with them and turmoil when they lived without God. We likewise experience frustration rather than joy when we choose the pleasures of the world over the glory of the Kingdom of Heaven. The Letter to the Hebrews tells us that the will of God should be our objective. The Virgin Mary, our model of stewardship, gave her full acceptance to God of the gift offered to her, bearing a son who would be our Savior. May we follow Mary in her response to the Lord: I come to do your will. THIS WEEK AT ST. MARK S Good Morning Monday s Alcoholic Anonymous CYO Basketball Greenwood Sports Men s ACTS Mtg. Monday Night Prayer Group Arts and Environment Basketball CYO Basketball Practice Boy Scout Troops 500 Eucharistic Adoration Centering Prayer Group OLOG Meeting XLT CYO Basketball Practice Basketball Practice Women of Mercy Prayer Group Boy Scouts Troop 500 CHRISTMAS DAY Offices closed Mass times: 10am, 12pm Monday, December 21 CH #202 CH #201 Gym Gym-West Campus Aquinas Hall Various Rooms Tuesday, December 22 Gym-West Campus Gym Brotherhood Chapel of the Reservation CH#206 Day Chapel Thursday, December 24 CHRISTMAS EVE Offices closed Mass times: 4pm, 7pm, 10pm Friday, December 25 Second Collection Assumption Seminary No activities scheduled BOW Catechumenate Wednesday, December 23 Gym Gym-West Campus Matthew and Mark Rosary Saturday, December 26 Sunday, December 27 Second Collection Organ Fund Shalom #3 New Legacy

4 St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church 1602 Thousand Oaks Dr. San Antonio, TX (210) Schedule of Liturgies 2015 Advent & Christmas Seasons SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 Mass of Anointing of the Sick MASS 10:30 AM WEDNESDAYS, DECEMBER 2 & 9 Evening Prayer 7 PM, DAY CHAPEL MONDAY, DECEMBER 7 TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8 FEAST OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION VIGIL MASS (MONDAY) 7 PM MASS (TUESDAY) 6:30 AM 8:15 AM 7 PM SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CELEBRATION LAS MAÑANITAS & ROSARY ROSARY 6 AM MASS 6:30 AM COMMUNION SERVICE 8:15 AM MASS WITH RE-ENACTMENT 5 PM SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 LAS POSADAS GUADALUPE ROOM (WEST CAMPUS) 3 PM WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 PARISH RECONCILIATION SERVICES WEDNESDAY 7 PM SATURDAY 9 AM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24 Christmas Eve MASS 4 PM 7 PM 10 PM FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25 Solemnity of Christmas MASS 10 AM & 12 NOON THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31 NEW YEAR S EVE VIGIL VIGIL MASS 5 PM FRIDAY, JANUARY 1 SOLEMNITY OF MARY, MOTHER OF GOD (NEW YEAR S DAY) HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION MASS 10 AM & 12 NOON

5 WALK WHERE THE MASTER WALKED Join Msgr. Kevin Ryan as we walk where the Master walked. We depart on May 1, 2016 for this 12 day pilgrimage. Price includes round-trip airfare, insurance, hotel, breakfast & dinner daily, entry fees, private airconditioned bus, taxes, security fees and fuel surcharges. Cash price per person double occupancy is only $3,450. Deposit of $300 due by Dec. 15. Balance is due by Jan. 26, Escorted by John and Barbara Thabet of Accent Travel Agency, Inc. For more info, call (210) SACRAMENT OF THE ANOINTING OF THE SICK The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is celebrated on the first Monday after the 6:30pm Mass, the second Wednesday after the 8:15am Mass, and the third Thursday after the 8:15am Mass. For more information please call Robert Martinez or Carroll Migura in the pastoral office at (210) Weekly Holy Rosary St. Mark s prays the Rosary every Saturday before the 5:00pm Mass, and before the 8:00am Mass on Sunday. Parishioners are encouraged to come and pray the Mysteries and honor our Mother Mary. The Rosary begins at 4:25pm on Saturday and 7:30am on Sunday in the Sanctuary. Come pray the Rosary. WORSHIP AND WORD Meditation on "Be merciful, just as [also] your Father is merciful. Stop judging and you will not be judged. Stop condemning and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven. Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap. For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you." Lk 6:36-38; MV, nos This scripture passage is used by Pope Francis in his Bull of Indiction of the Jubilee of Mercy, Misericordiae vultus (MV). Prayer for Our Troops Lord, hold these loved ones in your loving hands, protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. Give them courage, hope, and strength. May they ever experience your firm support, gentle love, and compassionate healing. We ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Amen. Eucharistic Adoration Tuesday - 9am - *9pm Wednesday - 9am - *9pm Thursday - 9am - *9pm *Last hour of Adoration is from 8pm- 9pm For more information, please contact: Julie Kristie Sandy CENTERING PRAYER GROUP The focus of centering prayer is the deepening of our relationship with the living Christ. It is an exercise of letting go. Centering Prayer Group meets every Tuesday from 11am to 12pm in the library. All are welcome to come and see what centering prayer is about. For more information, contact Jo Ann at (210) Adoramus Te Christe Prayer Group My soul magnifies the Lord. Our contemplative prayer group meets every Thursday from 7pm-8:30pm in the. We do Centering Prayer and then discuss a form of contemplative prayer practiced by such masters as Saints Benedict, John of the Cross, Teresa of Avila, and Ignatius Loyola. The group has responsibility praying for parish ministries, and conducting a Contemplative Retreat once a year for the Parish. For more information, contact Stan Harmen at (210)

6 LIVE IN HIS LOVE As we continue to prepare our hearts for the coming of the Christ-child at Christmas let us live in his love in all we do, especially in our marriage relationship. The next Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend is January For more information call Rob & Cris Johnson at or apply online at An Advent Prayer May the God of peace make us completely holy. May God keep us blameless in spirit, soul and body for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Forever faithful is the One who calls us God our Father! Expectant, let us live in joyful hope for the revelation of the glory of our God and Savior, Christ Jesus! To him be glory forever! Come, Lord Jesus! Your grace be with us all. The Work of Mary (known as the Focolare) Spirituality of Unity, based on living Jesus' prayer in our daily lives. One way this is done is by putting the Gospel into practice one verse at a time. This is done by living a verse of scripture given monthly in the Word of Life and sharing its impact on one's life. There is a Word of Life monthly meeting, open to all desiring spirituality based on the Gospel message. Meetings are held on the 3rd Sunday of every month from 3-5pm in the Guadalupe Room. Please contact: Kay Parker at (210) , Jim Lee at (210) , or Nick Young at (210) WORSHIP AND WORD Wings and Beyond is a ministry of spiritual healing for widowed, separated or divorced parishioners. This ministry facilitates a gathering and sharing of those who wish to participate in healing through prayers, support and fellowship with other people of our Catholic Community who wish to move BEYOND their circumstances. This is a confidential group that provides a framework to participate and appraise their circumstances, consider the challenges they face and move on with their lives. We meet once a month on the second Friday, at St Mark Evangelist Catholic Church in the Matthew Mark Room at 6:30pm. We include a social dimension to the care and healing process of our meetings. We strive to bond our friendships and usually end our meetings with snacks, board games and small talk. This meeting is always open and everyone is encouraged to attend. Please call Charlene at or Mary Lou at for information. THURSDAY MORNING SMALL FAITH GROUP Are you prepared when you come to Mass each Sunday? Have you read the scriptures that are to be covered, and reflected on, during the Homily? Most Likely.NOT. Come join our Small Faith Group. When: Every Thursday Time: 9:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. Where: Matthew/Mark Room Why: To read the scriptures for the following Sunday, and to discuss and reflect on what they mean to us. To socialize and make new friends. To celebrate birthdays and special occasions. To offer help, encouragement, and support. Supplies: At Home With The Word booklet and Prepare the Word monthly pamphlet. For more information call Bob Moore at or Velma Spruel-Williams at SENIORS 50+ WE WANT YOU!! The St. Mark's Young at Heart Senior's Group is looking for new members to join us every 2nd and 4th Monday for food, fun, and fellowship. Come to Shalom (back of gym) for a BYO lunch at 11:30 a.m. Then, share in a very short meeting for prayers for ailing or needy family and friends. Game time (bingo, dominoes, cards, Tripoli, and more) begins shortly after noon and ends by 2:30 p.m. We all take turns providing snacks (sweet, salty, or healthy) on a rotating member roster. Friendly volunteers make reminder calls prior to each get together. Yearly dues are "senior rates"...only $10! Sound good? Come for a trial visit or two before joining. Invite a friend (doesn't have to belong to our parish) who is also 50+ or come on your own to see what you've been missing! For more information, please contact Jo Ann Wetherill at (210) Knights of Columbus Council

7 A.C.T.S. OUTREACH WOMEN'S A.C.T.S. Prayer Group Meeting All ACTS Sisters are invited to gather for Prayer and Fellowship the first Saturday of each month. Please bring your Gentle Spirits, Kind Hearts, and Beautiful Voices. Returning Sisters, remember to bring your Blessings Journal. For more information, please contact: Dahlia Wednesday Night Men s ACTS Prayer Meeting Join us every Wednesday night at 7:30pm, in Room 201 of Christopher Hall for music, prayer, and spiritual reflection. All men are welcome No need to have attended an A.C.T.S. retreat This is your invitation to come and see what it is all about No RSVP needed! If you bring your Bible and your rosary, we ll bring fellowship, friendship, and hospitality. See you there this Wednesday! Like a shepherd he feeds his flock; in his arms he gathers the lambs IS 40: 11 St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church Men s ACTS Retreat January 7-10, 2016 Join us and discover a new dimension to your faith. Retreat Director: Leo Forget Leo Forget: ( ) Mike Pattillo: or Ken Kurburski Society of St. Vincent de Paul Fourth Sunday of Advent: Jesus was born during the night of the year when darkness is the longest. The Savior of the world comes for the people in dark places. The real, lasting, and deep joy is that the Light shines there. Through your gift to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Light has shown, bringing real, lasting and deep joy to the hearts of the poor who live in dark places in our streets and neighborhoods. The pantry is in need of these items: *Shampoo *Bath Soap* *Dish Soap *Tooth Paste* Sugar* St. Mark s Criminal Justice Ministry Monthly Meetings 2nd Tuesday Rm 201 Christopher Hall If you re looking for a way to serve your fellow man, if you re just curious, come; all are welcome. Retreats, Visitation, RCIA, Bible Study, Compassion, Communication, Spirituality, Assistance, Prayer, Communion Services, Support. For information contact Gerald Gaenslen ; ggaenslen@gmail.com Bill Schott ; wr.schott@att.net Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for these least brothers of mine, you did for me. Matt. 25 People ask what TIFA is? We know what you are going through. Most of us have been where you are now, overwhelmed by all that is happening and fearful for the safety of our loved ones... shock, despair, confusion. Losing someone to the system is very like a death. We grieve the loss of that person in our daily lives, and we grieve the loss of all our hopes and dreams for a future with that loved one. You do not have to go through this alone. We provide support, education, and advocacy for our members through monthly chapter meetings Texas wide, quarterly newsletters, and access to the executive director of TIFA. Our Mission is breaking the cycle of crime by strengthening families through support, education, and advocacy. We hold our monthly meetings in the Matthew/Mark room every third Thursday. If you have any questions, contact Lucia Hamilton by calling (915) , texting (210) , or ing QuigtarS@yahoo.com. We have been there. We can help! Weekly AA Meeting Schedule Monday and Thursday (Women Only - Closed Book Study): 12:00 pm in Christopher Hall in Room 201. For further information, call Terri at or the AA

8 The St. Vincent de Paul Society is once again sponsoring St. Mark s Annual Giving Tree. Ornaments were placed on the trees located in the gathering space and both side entrances on Thanksgiving weekend. The children s ornaments will contain a child s age and gender, and the senior s ornaments will be designated by gender and size. Please select an ornament and return an UNWRAPPED present under the tree. Gift cards and donations for City Public Service gift certificates will be gratefully accepted. If making a financial donation, please note Giving Tree in the memo line. For further information, or to volunteer, please contact Rosemary Bailey at (210) We thank you in advance for your kindness, thoughtfulness and continued generosity. May God continue to bless you and your family this coming Christmas season, as we join together in helping other families celebrate the birth of His Son, Jesus Christ. Elderly to Spiritual Elder Course What is the purpose of my life? Where did I come from? Why am I here? Where am I going? Those of us who are older (55 and up) have even more time to contemplate these questions than ever before. This 7-week course will challenge all participants to gracefully embrace the aging process and learn to be a person of wisdom for the generations to follow. We will learn to value the history of our lives as well as look forward to a happy, fruitful future by learning from Hebrew, Christian and other Traditions ways to effect positive transitions in our lives. We will meet Wednesday mornings from 10:30-12:30 in Shalom. The donation is $45. The sessions begin January 6, For details, questions, and to register call Linda Baksic at (210) COMMUNITY AND SERVICE ST. MARK THE EVANGELIST CATHOLIC CHURCH AND A great team! Starting our 21 st home together #build for better Key Dates: Jan. 2 & 3 Project info & volunteer signup Feb. 26 Construction begins Apr. 30 Dedication For more information, contact: Bill or Kathy Faucher (210) or Bill.Faucher@gmail.com For fundraising questions, contact: Sam or Bev Szalwinski (210)

9 COMMUNITY AND SERVICE Bible Study James: Pearls for Wise Living Starting January 5, 2016, we will begin the study of James. Although James is a brief letter, its wisdom speaks directly to everyday living. James will challenge you with the question: Is your life real? He constantly pleads for authenticity encouraging the reader to seek a faith that expresses itself in action. Truly, James is the finest book to study during this Year of Mercy in which Pope Francis proclaims: It is absolutely essential for the Church and for the credibility of her message that she herself live and testify to mercy (Misericordiae Vultus). Join us starting January 5, 2016 to learn more about how to live this authentic life. The study meets every Tuesday morning and evening. Contact Sheryl Parker for morning classes (9:00-11:00) at (210) and Carolyn Hrncir for evening classes (6:30-8:45) at (210) Babysitting is provided. Discover the Epic Story of The Early Church! Discover the first 500 years of Church history! Epic: The Early Church will lead you through a powerful, fast paced journey from the lives of the apostles through the rise and fall of Constantine. You will meet courageous saints, eloquent theologians, ruthless emperors and heroic martyrs. This 10 Part study features dynamic DVD presentations with Church history professor Steve Weidenkopf, and student materials including a full color workbook, timeline chart and bookmark. Don't miss this opportunity to take part in a compelling and inspiring learning experience that is sure to draw you closer to Christ through a deeper understanding of His Church! Registration is after all Masses on December 13. Classes begin January 8. If you cannot register at that time, call Don Cosgrove at (210) or cosgrovedon@msn.com End of Year Giving St. Mark s Capital Campaign As you reflect on your year-end tax planning, we ask that you consider making use of the income tax charitable deduction. Your 2015 year-end gift to St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church not only may reduce your income tax bill, it will provide St. Mark s with the support it needs to reach its capital campaign goal. Make your gift before December 31 to be eligible for a 2015 deduction. You may make a contribution by sending a check through the mail, in person at the pastoral office, or online through WeShare at Eligibility Requirements & Instructions To be eligible to apply for a $1,000 scholarship, you must be: A high school senior. Registered at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church. Plan to attend a certified college or vocational school in Involved in St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church or other church related activities. This scholarship is based on merit and service emphasizing church activities. Students may find the application form, full guidelines, and essay topics on the St. Mark website. The deadline for your submission of a fully completed application with a well thought out, typed essay is Friday, February 5, 2016 at 12 noon in the Pastoral Office. LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. St. Mark the Evangelist Women s Guild & Knights of Columbus # Scholarship For more information, please contact Deacon Steve Marques at (210) or Denise Wayman at (210) Do you have your Keep Christ in Christmas car magnet yet? The Columbian Squires are selling Keep Christ in Christmas car magnets for $5 each. To purchase a magnet, call John Thabet at (210)

10 20 de diciembre de 2015 Cuarto Domingo de Adviento UN ORDEN NUEVO Oh, pequeña aldea de Belén ; un clérigo de Filadelfia llamado Phillips Brooks escribió este popular villancico a mediados de los 1800, pero el profeta Miqueas hubiera podido hacerlo primero. Miqueas sabía que el tesoro grande viene en estuche pequeño. En la primera lectura de hoy, él sabía que del pueblito de Belén vendría el Señor. El escritor de la carta a los hebreos explica que Cristo vino a nosotros para hacer la voluntad de Dios de establecer un nuevo orden y ser un sacrificio perfecto. Y Lucas nos dice que Isabel y Juan, el pequeño en sus entrañas, comprenden que grandes maravillas han llegado con la venida del Señor. Este es el Cuarto Domingo de Adviento. Mañana celebramos de nuevo el fruto de tu vientre, María. Como se nos dice en Hebreos, el nuevo orden de Jesús se está creando hoy mismo. Y como proclama Miqueas, su grandeza llega ahora mismo hasta los confines de la tierra. Copyright J. S. Paluch Co. Tradiciones de Nuestra Fe Esta semana recordamos a los niños judíos que fueron asesinados por orden del Rey Herodes en Belén. Esa tragedia que ocurrió cuando el viejo y celoso rey se enteró del nacimiento de un nuevo rey de los judíos. Él mandó a matar a todo niño que tuviera menos de dos años. El llanto de las familias que perdieron sus pobres inocentes se ha convertido en risas en varios países latinoamericanos. El 28 de diciembre en muchas partes es conmemorado como el día de los inocentes que viene siendo el April Fools Day de Latinoamérica. En ese día se hacen bromas para burlarse de los amigos. Si la broma funciona al pobre que fue engañado se le llama inocente. La inocencia normalmente se atribuye a los niños o a los ingenuos, pero en si la inocencia es una virtud cristiana, de los que hemos sido perdonados por Cristo. Esta inocencia no es ingenuidad mas bien es la candidez, simplicidad y generosidad de una persona que conoce bien lo duro que es la vida y aún así mantiene la esperanza. -Fray Gilberto Cavazos-Glz, OFM, Copyright J. S. Paluch Co. Primera lectura De ti, Belén, saldrá el que será el jefe de Israel (Miqueas 5:1-4a). Salmo Señor, muéstranos tu favor y sálvanos (Salmo 80 [79]). Segunda lectura Al hacer Cristo la voluntad del Padre, es decir, al ofrecerse él mismo, hemos sido consagrados (Hebreos 10:5-10). Evangelio Bendita eres entre las mujeres, y bendito es el fruto de tu vientre (Lucas 1:39-45). Lecturas de La Semana Lunes: Cant 2:8-14 or Sof 3:14-18a; Sal 33 (32):2-3, 11-12, 20-21; Lc 1:39-45 Martes: 1 Sm 1:24-28; 1 Sm 2:1, 4-8abcd; Lc 1:46-56 Miércoles: Mal 3:1-4, 23-34; Sal 25 (24):4-5ab, 8-10, 14; Lc 1:57-66 Jueves: 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16; Sal 89 (88):2-5, 27, 29; Lc 1:67-79 Viernes: Vigilia: Is 62:1-5; Sal 89 (88):4-5, 16-17, 27, 29; Hch 13:16-17, 22-25; Mt 1:1-25 [18-25] Aurora: Is 62:11-12; Sal 97 (96):1, 6, 11-12; Tit 3:4-7; Lc 2:15-20 Día: Is 52:7-10; Sal 98 (97):1-6; Heb 1:1-6; Jn 1:1-18 [1-5, 9-14] Sábado: Lecturas de Hoy Hch 6:8-10; 7:54-59; Sal 31 (30):3cd-4, 6, 8ab, 16bc, 17; Mt 10:17-22 Domingo: Sir 3:2-6, o 1 Sm 1:20-22, 24-28; Sal 128 (127:1-5 o Sal 84 (83):2-3, 5-6, 9-10; La Alegria del Evangelio: La fe obra en el amor El será paz! Los profetas le llevaron un mensaje acerca de un reino de paz a la gente de Dios. Los Israelitas experimentaron de esa paz cuando el Señor estaba con ellos y pesadumbre cuando ellos vivieron alejados de Él. Así nosotros experimentamos frustración en lugar de gozo cuando escogemos los placeres mundanos en vez de la Gloria del Reino del Cielo. La carta a los Hebreos nos dice que el designio de Dios debe de ser nuestro objetivo. La Virgen María, nuestro principal modelo de discipulado, aceptó completamente a Dios cuando le fue ofrecido el regalo de llevar en sus entrañas un hijo que sería nuestro Salvador. Que sigamos a María en su respuesta al Señor: Vengo a cumplir con tu designio. Oracion de Papa Francisco para Jubileo de Misericordia Haz que cada uno de nosotros escuche como propia la palabra que dijiste a la samaritana: Si conocieras el don de Dios! Tú eres el rostro visible del Padre invisible, del Dios que manifiesta su omnipotencia sobre todo con el perdón y la misericordia: haz que, en el mundo, la Iglesia sea el rostro visible de Ti, su Señor, resucitado y glorioso. Tú has querido que también tus ministros fueran revestidos de debilidad para que sientan sincera compasión por los que se encuentran en la ignorancia o en el error: Señor Jesucristo, tú nos has enseñado a ser misericordiosos como el Padre del cielo, y nos has dicho que quien te ve, lo ve también a Él. Muéstranos tu rostro y obtendremos la salvación. Tu mirada llena de amor liberó a Zaqueo y a Mateo de la esclavitud del dinero; a la adúltera y a la Magdalena del buscar la felicidad solamente en una creatura; hizo llorar a Pedro luego de la traición, y aseguró el Paraíso al ladrón arrepentido. haz que quien se acerque a uno de ellos se sienta esperado, amado y perdonado por Dios. Manda tu Espíritu y conságranos a todos con su unción para que el Jubileo de la Misericordia sea un año de gracia del Señor y tu Iglesia pueda, con renovado entusiasmo, llevar la Buena Nueva a los pobres proclamar la libertad a los prisioneros y oprimidos y restituir la vista a los ciegos. Te lo pedimos por intercesión de María, Madre de la Misericordia, a ti que vives y reinas con el Padre y el Espíritu Santo por los siglos de los siglos. Amén.