The Carpenter. Our Vision

Transcription

1 The Carpenter December 4, 2016 The 2nd Sunday of Advent Our Vision Through our Baptism and Eucharist, we are called to love as Christ loves and serve as Christ serves. Our Mission In Jesus Christ, we will grow and flourish through Engaging, welcoming and building community Lifelong faith formation Social justice and service to others in need Engaging and understanding the energy and interests of our youth Prayer and worship that deepens our spiritual life Accountability in using our resources wisely so that we may live life abundantly! St. Joseph Catholic Church Libertyville, Illinois 1

2 GIVE COMFORT To live as a member of the Body of Christ means to have a willingness to embrace Father Trout is reaching out to parish families to find out if you have a unique Nativity Set or Crèche. If so, would you please take a photo of it and write up a short piece describing its history and background and its significance to you and your family? Please the photo and write-up to info@stjoseph-libertyville.org or drop them off at the parish office by December 15. Parish Advent Events Calendar 2016: St. Joseph Catholic Church Also accessible at December 4 2nd Sunday of Advent Children s Liturgy of the Word at 9:00 a.m. Mass. Tuesday, December 6 Advent Scripture Series, 7:00 p.m., KC Wednesday, December 7 Guild Housewalk (10 a.m.-8 p.m.), Boutique (9:30-3:30 p.m.) Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Mass of Anticipation 7:00 p.m. Thursday, December 8 Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a holy day of obligation. Masses at 6:30, 8:30 (School), Noon and 6:00 p.m. At 7:00 p.m., a presentation on our Madonna & Child painting, in Church after 6:00 p.m. Mass. Holy Hour for Vocations, 3:00-4:00 p.m., Church Saturday, December 10 Saturday Morning Live for men, 7:00 a.m., Koenig Center Reconciliation 11:00 a.m.-noon, Church Christmas Giving Tree Distribution Weekend in the school gym. Return Gifts to gym foyer between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. December 11 3rd Sunday of Advent Children s Liturgy of the Word at 9:00 a.m. Mass Christmas Giving Tree Distribution weekend in the school gym. Return Gifts to the gym foyer before 12:00 Noon. Teen Mass 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 13 Advent Scripture Series, 7:00 p.m., KC Thursday, December 15 Holy Hour for Vocations, 3:00-4:00 p.m., Church School Christmas Program, 7:00 p.m., Church Saturday, December 17 Saturday Morning Live for men, 7:00 a.m., Koenig Center Extended Advent Reconciliation, 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. and 6:00-7:00 p.m., Church December 18 4th Sunday of Advent Children s Liturgy of the Word at 9:00 a.m. Mass Tuesday, December 22 School Christmas Mass at the regular 8:30 a.m. Mass Saturday, December 24 Christmas Eve Liturgies 4:00 p.m. in Church (Contemporary Choir), 4:00 p.m. in Koenig Center (Children s Choir), 4:15 p.m. in Gym (Cantor with Traditional Music), 6:30 p.m. in Church (Teen Choir/Contemporary Music), 10:30 p.m. in Church (Traditional Choir). Carols for the City presented in Church at 4:00, 6:10 and 10:00 p.m. Sunday, December 25 Solemnity of Christmas Caroling begins 15 minutes before the start of each Mass. Mass times: 7:15 a.m. (Traditional), 9:00 a.m. (Contemporary), 10:45 a.m. (Traditional), 12:30 p.m. (Traditional) (No 10:45 a.m. Koenig Center Mass and no 5:00 p.m. Mass ) Friday, December 30 Feast of the Holy Family Regular weekday Mass schedule Saturday, December 31 Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God - 5:00 p.m. Mass of Anticipation Sunday, January 1 Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God-regular Sunday Mass schedule Saturday, January 7 Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord-regular 5:00 Mass of Anticipation Sunday, January 8 Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord-regular Sunday Mass schedule Monday, January 9 Feast of the Baptism of the Lord-regular weekday Mass schedule 2

3 Retirement Fund for Religious Please give to those who have given a lifetime. To donate: National Religious Retirement Office 3211 Fourth Street NE Washington DC Make your check payable to Retirement Fund for Religious. Or give at your local parish. Photos: (foreground) Sister Rita Polchin, SSCM, 87; (background) visit retiredreligious.org/2016photos for a list of names United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Photographer: Jim Judkis. Madonna with Child Presentation: Join us on December 8 at 7:00 p.m. following the 6:00 Mass In celebration of the Feast of The Immaculate Conception of The Blessed Virgin Mary on Thursday, December 8, we welcome Mr. Richard-Raymond Alasko to discuss the history and background of the Madonna with Child painting. Painted by the Florentine Master Francesco Del Rossi in the mid 1500 s, the Madonna with Child was donated to our parish 50 years ago by the Cuneo family in commemoration of our new church building. Mr. Alasko, based in Chicago, is a noted art appraiser, specializing in the valuation of fine and decorative art. He has been quoted in several prominent periodicals and featured on the National Geographic Channel s program, America s Lost Treasures. He is an active member of the American Society of Appraisers and served as the organization s international president from 1998 to Join us in the church after the 6:00 p.m. Mass (approximately 7:00 p.m.) for Mr. Alasko s brief presentation. Refreshments will be served in the Narthex afterwards. Community Building Women s Guild of St. Joseph Catholic Church Proudly Presents the 30th Annual Doorways to Christmas Housewalk Housewalk and Boutique, Wednesday, December 7 Christmas Housewalk. Tour five of Libertyville s loveliest homes fully decorated for the holidays. Home are open 10:00 a.m. 8:00 p.m. Housewalk tickets went on sale Monday, November 14 at St. Joseph Church Parish Office and at How Impressive! (326 North Milwaukee Avenue). Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 the day of the event. Any questions? Please contact Cristina Riggio, cristina_riggio@yahoo.com or Tiffany Olson, tiffanyrolson@yahoo.com. Christmas Boutique Stop by the Koenig Center for a little holiday shopping. Handmade gifts, jewelry, tote bags, accessories, painted canvases and much more will be featured at this year s Boutique. The Boutique will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and admission is free. Questions? Please contact Cristina Riggio, cristina_riggio@yahoo.com. Housewalk Luncheon & Trolley Tour, Wednesday, December 7, 11 a.m. 3 p.m. Spend a relaxing afternoon with friends as you enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. A trolley will pick you up from lunch and drive you to each of this year s beautiful homes. Tickets are $50 each with limited availability. Tickets include house tours, trolley transportation and lunch at Cafe Pomigliano. Any questions? Please contact Carolyn Husnick, husnick_carolyn@yahoo.com. There are limited tickets available for the Preview Night and Luncheon and Trolley Tour at the Parish Office. Proceeds from the Housewalk will benefit the following 501(c)(3) charities: Aid for Women of Northern Lake County, ACCW Scholarship Fund, Community Social Services (House of Peace), Franciscan House of Mary and Joseph, Infant, Inc., Maristella, SisterHouse, St. Joseph School and Religious Education, U.S.O. (No Dough Dinner), Women s Prison Retreat, Children s Oncology Services, Inc., PADS Lake County, Smile Train and The Lake County Haven. 3 This Wednesday!

4 Community Building St. Joe s is February 4, 2017 Registration begins Monday, December 19 on the parish website: If you want fun and a lot of laughs on a cold winter evening, then St. Joe s annual Trivia Night is for you! Thinking about coming? Here s what you need to know registration will be available in the December 18 and 25 Carpenters. Please note: due to space constraints, capacity is limited. To reserve your spot, please register early. Trivia Night Details: Other fun facts: Questions? Contact the Trivia Night Team via at stjosephtrivia@gmail.com. Mothers with Young Children Drop-In Playgroup: Please check for the latest details and information on BigTent about playgroup for this week! Mom s Night Out: We hope you can join us for our December Mom s Night Out on Thursday, December 8 at 7:30 p.m. We will be having a Favorite Things gift exchange. Be sure to check out details and RSVP on BigTent. December Faith Formation: Please join us for a Faith Formation meeting on Wednesday, December 14 at 7:30 p.m. All members are welcome! We will continue to talk about motherhood, marriage, and faith. We will be reading For the Love by Jen Hatmaker as a starting point for our discussion. Reading the book is not required to attend. RSVP and additional details on BigTent. MYC Retreat 2017: January 28, Be on the lookout for additional details on BigTent soon! and you can be as involved as you like. We d love to have you! Guild Circle News Ss. Mary and Martha Circle: Our Circle gathers together to read the scriptures for the coming weekend Mass. We are not a group of scripture scholars. We share how the message affects and is relevant in our everyday lives. We welcome you to join us for all sessions or drop in when you can. Gathering dates: Advent: Wednesdays, 1:30 to 3:00, St. Joseph Room, December 7, 14. Contact for more information: Lpopeck4@comcast.net. St. Rose Quilt Circle: Do you have an interest in sewing and quilting? Are you interested in sharing ideas and techniques? Are you looking for fellowship? If so, St. Rose Quilt Circle is for you! Join us on Monday, December 5 from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. in the Formation Center Room D. Whatever your skill level, come and create, learn and laugh with us! For further information, contact Cheryl Craig at ccraig3@swbell.net or Irish Set Dancing Every Wednesday Irish Set Dancing, similar to American Square Dancing, involves eight people dancing in a square or circle. It originated in Irish homes years back where Irish folk gathered to play music, tell stories and sing folk songs. It is great fun and a super aerobic workout. Our group at St. Joseph s that meets every Wednesday evening in St. Joseph School at 8:00 p.m. It is open to everyone and if you d like to join us call Nuala at or nualakav@sbcglobal.net. Slainte! 4

5 Community Building Senior Corner in memory of Helene Killackey ST. JOSEPH PARISH SPONSORED Coconate or tote bags, accessories, painted canvases and much more will be featured at this year s Boutique. The Boutique will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and admission is free. Lpopeck4@comcast.net. Faith Formation For all men who seek to hold Christmas well! The Men s Council of St. Joseph Parish in Libertyville invites you to join us this Advent for the 4 th edition of Saturday Morning Live, facilitated by Dr. Kevin Murphy. Get your heart back in shape for the Season of Christmas! Make this season more where it really counts! Men of all spirits and dispositions are welcome; whether you be a Grinch or a George Bailey. Take some time out on Saturday mornings! Working the heart of the matter! Join us at SML for Advent. Refresh, re-imagine, and engage with tidings of comfort and joy. December 10--Strange Stories, Spiritual Sight, and Blurred Guides December 17--The Magi Ride Again* (borrowed with permission from John Shea) Where: St. Joseph Parish, Koenig Center Doors open at 6:30 a.m. We have a hard start at 7:00 a.m. Hot coffee, donuts and fellowship, all for a one-time fee of $20. To pre-register, go to the Saint Joseph website or phone Walk-ins welcome. We hope to see you! 5 Advent Scripture Series with Fr. John Kartje Continues Tuesday During Advent, we reflect on the amazing truth that God became human. But why did the Incarnation have to be? And why did it happen when and in the way that it happened? The answers to these questions lie at the spiritual heart of the extraordinary, little-known biblical book, Letter to the Hebrews. Join Fr. Kartje as we explore the depth and meaning of the early Church s understanding of the priesthood of Jesus and how that priesthood calls us to a more authentic way of life today. The Letter to the Hebrews serves as the perfect spiritual guide to lead us through the Advent season and more deeply into the miracle that is Christmas. All are welcome to join us for the two remaining evenings of scripture and prayer on Tuesdays, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. December 6 in the Church, December 13 in the Koenig Center. Fr. Kartje is Rector and President of Mundelein Seminary/University of St. Mary of the Lake. He earned a doctorate in Biblical Studies from the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. Fr. Kartje is a highly respected preacher and teacher. Register today on the parish website: For questions or for more information, contact Jon Monroe at monroej@actualtech.com.

6 Faith Formation Pray for Vocations St. Joseph Catholic School Introduces Littlest Knights A parent/child program for 2 and 3 year olds that fosters social skills and language development through nursery rhymes, songs, interactive books, crafts and much more! Mrs. A parent/child Kris Beyer program will for 2 and be 3 teaching year olds that this fosters class. social skills and language development through nursery rhymes, songs, interactive books, crafts and much more! Tuesdays from 8:30-9:45 a.m. Tuesdays from 8:30am-9:45am Session 1 January 10 February 28 Session 1 January 10 February 28 Session 2 March 7 May 2 Session 2 March 7 May 2 Cost: $80 for 8 week session Cost: $80 for 8 week session Space is limited! To register, call Tracy Lombardo at or Space is limited! To register, call Tracy Lombardo at or tlombardo@sjslibertyville.org tlombardo@sjslibertyville.org. ***Children may be accompanied by a parent, grandparent, and/or caregiver ***Children may be accompanied by a parent, grandparent, and/or caregiver. The Archdiocese recommends that parishes provide for a holy hour to pray for priestly vocations. In support of this, the St. Joseph Vocation Committee and our Spiritual Formation Committee has scheduled a holy hour, with Eucharistic Adoration, to be held every Thursday from 3:00-4:00 p.m. in the church to offer prayers for priestly vocations. Thursdays have been chosen as an ideal day for having the prayer hour as it coincides with Holy Thursday and the institution of the priesthood at the Last Supper. If you are looking for a special action this year, what better way than a short visit on Thursday to pray for an increase in priestly vocations? If you are unable to join us, please keep vocations in your prayers. 6 Save The Date St. Joseph Catholic School Celebrates 90 Years of Educating Students in Mind, Body & Spirit Saturday, January 14, :00-11:00 p.m. Marriott Lincolnshire Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating St. Joseph Catholic School s 90 th Anniversary! The evening will include cocktails, a light dinner and entertainment featuring Stu the Piano Guy. FOR MORE INFORMATION: 90years@sjslibertyville.org or call Visit our Facebook page: Alumni of St. Joseph Catholic School, Libertyville RSVP and Ticket Sales will start in November

7 Faith Formation Apparition Hill: a Movie about Medjugorje Today From the acclaimed director of The Triumph comes a powerful new film that chronicles the incredible journey of seven strangers who embark across the globe to investigate one of the greatest mysteries of the modern era. Apparition Hill is an emotionally charged cinematic pilgrimage to the little-known village of Medjugorje nestled along the Croatian-Bosnia- Herzegovina borders. The feature-length documentary is being shown in select theaters through our Grassroots Partnership Program. Discover the shared miracle as two atheists, a skeptic, two terminally ill patients, a widower, and a recovering addict learn about life...and what comes after it. Sunday, December 4, 4:00 p.m. at Fox Lake Theater, 115 Towne Centre Lane, Fox Lake IL. Tickets - $10 with sales to benefit WSFI 88.5 FM Catholic Radio. Order your tickets on-line at www. org/events-tickets/ can also contact j35bob@aol.com for more information. Religious Education giving Family Activities sent in an on November 23 and bring to December sessions to receive a surprise! Traditional Religious Education sessions will resume. Faith Weaving Religious Education sessions. Traditional Religious Education sessions. Prayer & Worship All Souls Day Photographs All of the pictures from the display in the Narthex during the month of November have been removed. If you indicated that you wanted your picture returned and have not been contacted, please call Debbie Larker at to make arrangements. Thank you, the St. Joseph Bereavement Ministry. The Memory of Loved Ones to Create our Gift Garden Central to the Christmas Season is the giving and receiving of gifts. Gifts speak to the love that we have for one another. We are a gift to others. Others are or have been a gift to us. This Christmas Season, as a way to remember those who have been a gift to us, you are invited to contribute towards the flowers that will grace our worship space during the Christmas Season. This might be in memory of a deceased loved one, someone who encouraged you in faith, or a friend or relative who gifted you with their guidance or their encouragement. Through these memorials the Christmas flowers will not just be decoration but a true garden of gifts representing those who have blessed our lives. Envelopes for this can be found on the tables in the back of church and are in your envelope packets. Simply fill one out with your contribution and drop it in the collection basket or send it to the parish office. During the Christmas Season the names of those remembered in our Gift Garden will be published in the Carpenter. May the beauty of our worship space this Christmas Season truly reflect the beauty of those lives that have touched our hearts and blessed our lives! 7 Children s Liturgy of the Word (CLW) Children in grades 1-5 are invited to join us for Children s Liturgy of the Word every Sunday during Advent starting Sunday, November 27 and ending Sunday, December 18. CLW is an opportunity to experience the Gospel using ageappropriate readings, songs, skits, and activities. Father dismisses the children during the 9:00 mass, and we proceed to the Koenig Center for our session. Parents are welcome and invited to come along with their child(ren). Please join us in preparing for Jesus birth during the Advent Season. We look forward to your participation. Please contact Janet Ritter at for more information.

8 Prayer & Worship Bringing Communion to Your Loved One at Home With the days getting colder and the streets getting icy, there may be a time your loved one is unable to maneuver the inclement weather. Our trained Ministers of Care would love to make a home visit to bring them Holy Communion. Please contact the Parish Office ( ) or Arlyss Lasecki ( ) or Judy Salzman ( ) to arrange for a Home Visit with Communion. Mass Intentions Monday December 5 6:30 Frank Snyder and Ed & Evelyn Lobus 8:30 Margaret Hunn and Annette Pavaglio Tuesday December 6 6:30 John Schiel and Joy & Bob Giljohann 8:30 Mary R. Lockowitz and Helen Monahan Wednesday December 7 6:30 Parishioners 8:30 Anna May & Russell Downing and Ann Panico Thursday December 8 6:30 Eli Lavoie and Ann Moylett 8:30 Matthew Finegan and James Fleming Friday December 9 6:30 Brooke Brereton 8:30 Jeremiah & Luella McMahon and Allen McCormick Saturday December 10 8:30 Otto Bruggenthies and Edward Bontkowski Sunday All parishioners Worship Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities Accessible Washrooms, west side of narthex Hearing Loop for persons with hearing aids Assisted Hearing Devices in sacristy for persons with difficulty hearing Accessible, powered door at east end of narthex Ramped north entrances to narthex Accessible Ramp on east side of sanctuary Pew Accessibility on east front side section Pew Accessibility on east front of center section Padded Pew last row, far southeast corner of church Accessible parking spaces north of church along Maple Avenue. Schedules Sunday Masses 5:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday 7:15, 9:00, 10:45 a.m. (10:45 in Church and in Koenig Center), 12:30, 5:00 p.m. Prearranged Baptisms at 1:45 p.m. Saturday Masses 8:30 a.m. (Second Saturdays-Sacrament of Healing at Mass) Weekday Masses 6:30 and 8:30 a.m. or as scheduled. Holy Day Masses: 6:30, 8:30 a.m., Noon, 7:00 p.m. Reconciliation Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon or by appointment. Baptisms Avery Ann Connolly, daughter of Cathy (Eyre) and Steven Connolly Maxwell Emil Laabs, son of Amanda (Hutton) and Neal Laabs Austin Fitzgerald Mack, son of Jill (Soyka) and Joshua Mack Jack Joseph Enapay Folliard, son of Bridget (Nora) and Dennis Folliard Senn Alan Soldwedel, Jr., son of Sara (Daly) and Senn Soldwedel In Memory Please pray for the souls of: Jim Dorow Maddy McInerney Josephine Loksa Janet Jacob 8 Please Pray for the Sick Bill Sparer Alvaro Cuellar Leslie Heatherman Andy Strelec Pat Saviano Roz Camardella Mary T. Jordan Mario Lenzini Maria E. Coton Brett Becker Kevin Scanlan Peter Sylvester Aidan Kirkpatrick Diane LaCrosse Bridget Shiel Micah Peckels Quirk After 4 weeks, please notify the parish office if your loved one is still in need of our prayers. Presiders/Deacons Saturday, December 10 5:00 Fr. Trout Sunday, December 11 7:15 Fr. Trout 9:00 Fr. Luboyera Homilist: Deacon Orlando 10:45 Fr. Hennessey Deacon Tiemeier 10:45 KC Fr. Luboyera Homilist: Deacon Orlando 12:30 Fr. Le Deacon Tiemeier 5:00 Fr. Le

9 Youth Next Teen Mass on December 11 Sunday, November 13, was our second Teen Mass. This special Mass was ministered by our teens for teens and the parish. We had an incredible amount of support with over 850 attending this Mass. The teens participated in the entire Mass including the Music Ministry. Additionally, we welcomed those 7th graders who are preparing for the Sacrament of Confirmation in 2018 they made their commitment to their journey towards their Confirmation day. We will host a Teen Mass the second Sunday of every month. Mark your calendar for our next Teen Mass on Sunday, December 11 at 5:00 p.m. This is an exciting opportunity to see how God is working in the lives of our youth. All are welcome to come join us for worship and high-schoolers are invited to a short gathering afterward from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the Teen Space known as Souled Out, in the shopping plaza south of the church (enter from the rear parking lot). After Confirmation this winter, 8th graders will also be welcome to join the after-mass gatherings. Social Justice & Service Buy a Christmas Tree and Feed a Family during Christmas, Easter & Thanksgiving The Saint Joseph Knights of Columbus Council 3674 are selling Christmas Trees to raise money to feed those families in need during Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter. Please visit us at the Marytown s east parking lot and buy your tree (1600 W. Park Avenue, Libertyville). We are open through Saturday, December 17. We accept cash or checks only. Weekday hours are from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Weekend hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thanks, and we hope to see you there! Knights of Columbus Gather to Prepare Food Baskets Members of the Knights of Columbus Cardinal Stritch Council #3674 and helpers gathered in the Formation Center to prepare Thanksgiving food baskets for the St. Joseph Food Pantry. Money for the food baskets is raised by selling Christmas trees from the Knights through December 17. Thank you. Most Blessed Trinity Parish, Waukegan: Fundraiser on February 25, 2017 Celebrate the Good Samaritans Teacher, what must I do? And who is my neighbor? (Luke 10:29) SAVE THE DATE: February 25, 6-10 p.m. Serving the people of God! All are welcome! 9

10 Social Justice & Service The Annunciation + 8 months A life celebrated from the moment of conception Eight months ago, March 25, we celebrated the Annunciation, when Mary learned that she would conceive a child and name him Jesus. At eight months in the womb, Jesus was like most babies: about eighteen inches in length, roughly five-to-six pounds in weight and kicking to get out into the world. Except, this baby was fully human AND fully divine, bearing the eternal Father s love into a very broken world. We have moved into Advent. We recall the events that led up to Jesus birth even as we prepare for his second coming at the end of time. How is the Kingdom of God showing up in our lives today? How are we being invited to shape ourselves in Jesus image? What opportunities are we being given to make his Kingdom accessible to others? It is the perfect time to reflect on and minister to the vulnerable and needy around us, especially every child in the womb. Each carries renewed hope for realizing the Kingdom of God, its love and compassion, its mercy and forgiveness, in the world. To fulfill that hope, each child depends on our protection and on our commitment to seed that Kingdom in each infant s life. This week, we will take a moment to recognize and honor Mary in a special way. We will celebrate her Immaculate Conception on Thursday, December 8. The Church has elevated the occasion to a Holy Day of Obligation, teaching that Mary was given a special grace at her conception, freedom from original sin. This gift marked her as the one chosen to bear the Son of God, reinforcing the value of every human life from conception, of the potential contribution each has to make in the world. Pray that, through our collective actions, all will come to honor and nurture every human life, regardless of stage of development or standing in society. And, especially in this Advent and Christmas season, pray that every individual experiences God s joy and peace. St. Joseph Employment Ministry to Meet on December 7 Transitions, even positive ones, can be highly stressful, both to us as individuals who are most directly affected, as well as to our family and friends. Unemployment or underemployment are particularly difficult, since they touch so many aspects of our life, and they certainly affect those who are closest to us. If you are in the midst of job, career, or any other disruptive life change, you may find our next meeting very helpful. Dr. Kevin Murphy, an executive coach and professional trainer from our community, will present Managing Emotions and Relationships During Times of Change to help us better understand these challenges and to deal with them more effectively. We meet from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at the Formation Center (112 N. Milwaukee, Libertyville 60048), Room C. Please enter from the rear of the building. All are welcome! The St. Joseph Employment Ministry assists the unemployed and under-employed in the pursuit of personally and professionally fulfilling work. Anyone with a job to fill or an interest in assisting job-seekers is also invited to attend. Meetings are held on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month. If you have questions, please contact John Jennings at jfjennings@ comcast.net. Employers are invited to post open positions with us by sending an to: StJosephEmploymentMinistry@ yahoogroups.com. Word of Life Pope Francis invites us to understand more deeply our relationships with God, one another, and the rest of creation, and to live accordingly. Everything is connected, he reminds us. (LS 91). Serene Attentiveness to God s Creation, USCCB Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities Green Tip of the Week HOW ABOUT A LIVE TREE THIS CHRISTMAS? Although plastic Christmas trees are reusable from year to year, real trees are the more sustainable choice. Plastic trees are made of petroleum products (PVC), and use up resources in both the manufacture and shipping. Discarded artificial trees are then sent to landfills, where their plastic content makes them last forever. Live trees are a renewable resource grown on tree farms that are replanted regularly. They contribute to air quality while growing, and almost ninety percent are recycled into mulch. Live trees also smell like Christmas! After Christmas make sure you take advantage of the community chipping service. 10

11 Social Justice & Service A Christmas Gift for Huaro, Peru December 11, :00pm - 3:30pm Saint Joseph Catholic Church, 121 E. Maple Avenue Libertyville, IL Click for Directions Over the last three years, St. Joseph parishioners have provided funding to the St. Joseph/Jesuit partnership project in Huaro, Peru. Thanks to you, the children are being fed in the cafeteria, they are being tutored in the library, family counseling is available, and we see hope in their eyes commitment to these children, and the Jesuits who care for them, has been life-changing. This holiday season The International Sharing Ministry continues its support for the children in Peru by giving them the gift of play. Because there are no parks in Huaro and the rainy season in Peru extends from October to March, the children have great difficulty playing outside. With our help, the Jesuits are building a lighted, secure, concrete sports field that will allow the children the opportunity to socialize, exercise and just be kids even amidst the harsh realities of extreme poverty. Our St. Joseph sports field project will serve the entire Huaro community and will be an all-year-around safe place for the children to play soccer and other sports. Help us give the gift of play by picking up one of the Giving Tree Tags in the back of the church marked Jesuit International Ministry or make donations to St. Joseph Church with Peru Sports Field in the memo line. 11 -

12 Social Justice & Service CAREER RESOURCE CENTER 40 E. Old Mill Road Lake Forest, IL Dear Fr. Trout: On behalf of Career Resource Center, the Board of Directors, our volunteers, staff, and most importantly, our job candidates, I would like to thank you for making a difference by your recent donation of $1,000. This funding will make a significant impact on our ability to provide critical reemployment assistance to the unemployed and underemployed. The renewed partnership we have forged with St. Joseph Church is extremely valued. It allows us to keep our services at the professional level for which we have become known. In addition to assisting individuals in the mechanics of a successful job search, we have always placed a strong emphasis on providing the motivational and emotional support required by our clients during this extremely stressful phase of transition. It is gratifying to know that our mission is supported by you and St. Joseph s. Thanks again. We are extremely grateful for your support. Accountability Stay Connected! We have options for everyone! Website: facebook.com/stjosephlibertyville Newsletter: sign up here Sign up to receive occasional s from St. Joe s. We currently send an out twice a month. Stewardship of Treasure Weekly Offering for November 13, 2016 Current Year Last Year Week Year to Date Week Year to Date Weekend Offering $29,971 $472,077 $24,516 $469,619 Electronic Giving $35,181 $301,391 $31,433 $298,194 Total Collection $65,151 $773,468 $55,949 $767,813 Budget for Collection $41,000 $820,000 Difference $24,151 $(46,532) St. Joseph Parish is grateful to those who give generously on the weekends and monthly through our automatic contribution program. Thank you to those who regularly and generously give of their treasure as well as those who give of their time and talent to support the work our parish does in the name of Jesus Christ. Learn more at Thoughts on Giving Therefore, every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. (Matthew 3:10) Do you bear good fruit for Christ? Or, do you spend your time, talent and treasure constantly acquiring more toys, clutter and junk? Our time, our talent and our treasure are gifts that God has given us. What we do with them is our gift back to God. What gifts are you planning to give to the Lord during this upcoming Christmas season? Etcetera Carmel Catholic High School Entrance Exam The Entrance Exam for the Class of 2021 will take place on Saturday, January 14 at 8:00 a.m. The fee is $25 (checks payable to Carmel Catholic High School). In addition to the fee, eighth graders should also bring several #2 pencils. There is no preregistration available for the test. Free bus transportation is available from area parishes and schools. Families are encouraged to visit our website, for additional information regarding the Entrance Exam, including the bus schedule. If there are special circumstances that prevent a student from taking the Entrance Exam on January 14 or if you have additional questions, please contact Mr. Brian Stith, Director of Admissions, at or by Bstith@ carmelhs.org. 12 God Bless, Jan Cline Leahy, Executive Director

13 St. Joseph Catholic Church 121 E. Maple Avenue, Libertyville, Illinois Phone Fax Parish Office hours: Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Saturday - 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. info@stjoseph-libertyville.org Website Rev. John Trout, Pastor jtrout@stjoseph-libertyville.org Rev. Joseph Nhat Le, Associate Pastor nle@stjoseph-libertyville.org Rev. Martin Luboyera, Resident Rev. John Hennessey, Pastor Emeritus jhennessey@stjoseph-libertyville.org Deacons George Kashmar, Dennis Mudd, David Tiemeier Pastoral Staff Mrs. Mary Causey - Director of Social Justice and Service , mcausey@stjoseph-libertyville.org Mrs. Ann Harmon - Parish Office Manager , aharmon@stjoseph-libertyville.org Mr. Dan Harris, Facilities Manager , dharris@stjoseph-libertyville.org Deacon George Kashmar, Pastoral Director of Ministries , gkashmar@stjoseph-libertyville.org Mrs. Kelly McMahon, Director of Technology , kmcmahon@stjoseph-libertyville.org Mrs. Anne Phoenix - Principal, St. Joseph School , aphoenix@stjoseph-libertyville.org Mrs. Anna Roeser, Director of Administration , aroeser@stjoseph-libertyville.org Mrs. Lynne Strutzel, Interim Director of Faith Formation , lstrutzel@stjoseph-libertyville.org Mr. Ron Vanasdlen, MAM, Director of Music , rvanasdlen@stjoseph-libertyville.org Parish Pastoral Council the PPC at info@stjoseph-libertyville.org. Members of the Parish Pastoral Council: Fr. John Trout Michael Knight Jon Monroe Mike Mulligan Kathleen O Connor (Chair) Megan Pavelske Gerry Salzman Janine Wilson Parish Finance Council Fr. John Trout Jim Groth Sheila Johnson Ryan Kasten Bob Killackey Brian Savage Tom Sear (Chair) Bulletin Submissions Submit Carpenter articles to Marie Tuohy (marietuohy@sbcglobal.net) after approval by your Pastoral Staff Lead. Articles must be received by Noon on the Monday before issue date. New Parishioners Welcome! Please stop or call the parish office weekdays from 9:00 to 4:00 p.m. or download registration form on-line at Announcements at Mass Due to Sandra Jimenez by Noon on Mondays, sjimenez@stjoseph-libertyville.org. Guideline: brief 2-3 sentences. Accessibility If you have a disability and require special accommodations at a parish event, please call the parish office. Ministry of Care, Sacrament of the Sick The Sacrament of the Sick is celebrated at 8:30 a.m. Mass on the 2nd Saturday of each month, or by arrangement. Contact the parish office if seriously ill, hospitalized, or homebound. A Minister of Care is available to bring Communion. Guide to Funeral Planning Please call the parish office for assistance from a Bereavement Minister and a funeral planning guide. Stay Connected Website: Facebook: facebook.com/stjosephlibertyville Matrimony Congratulations! Please contact the parish office as soon as you are engaged. 6 months is usually required for marriage preparation. Infant Baptism As an expectant parent, you are invited to the Pre-Baptismal Session 3 months prior to birth; 6:00 p.m. the 2nd Monday of every other month. Next session: January 9 in church narthex (5:30 p.m. this month only.) Baptism for School-Aged Children Preparation classes for parents and children begin in September. Call for information and registration. Sacrament of Penance Celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday mornings or by arrangement. Office Hours & Evening Access The Parish Office and Ministry Center at 121 E. Maple Avenue is open 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:00 a.m.-noon on Saturday. The front door of the P.O.M. Center has a keypad for entry into its vestibule area. Anyone hosting a scheduled meeting in the evening or on a weekend is asked to pick up the key for the space they need before 4:30 p.m. (Mon.-Fri.) or by 12:00 Noon on Saturday (for weekend meetings) if you cannot make it by 4:30 (M-F) or by Noon Saturday, please call the office, , before 4:30 (M-F) or Noon Saturday to reserve your key and to get the access code for the ves- it from, NOT in the slot to the left of the door. 13

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16 Breaking Open the Word A Journey to Discipleship Jesus Companions Us Through Scripture 1. Proclaim God s Word. Choose someone to read the Scripture. After reading, there is silence from the group in reverence. 2. Invite Response. Invite individuals to respond to a word, phrase or passage that strikes them in some way. 3. Praise God. After a period of response, close by leading the group in praise of God by praying together the Glory Be. Next Sunday s Gospel Matthew 11: 2-11 Leader: A reading from the Holy Gospel according to Matthew Response: Glory to You, O Lord When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ, he sent his disciples to Jesus with this question, Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another? Jesus said to them in reply, Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news reclaimed to them. And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me. As they were going off, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John, What did you go out to the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind? Then what did you go out to see? Someone dressed in fine clothing? Those who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces. Then why did you go out? To see a one about whom it is written: Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way before you. Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. Reflection As we move deeper into the Advent season, our lives often become more hectic and stressed as we celebrate with friends, shop for gifts and prepare to spend the holidays with family. We might even find ourselves dreading yet another holiday party or a trip to the mall. Next Sunday s scripture readings provide us with an alternate setting the desert. We know that for both John the Baptist and Jesus the desert was a place of solitude where they could pray and contemplate God s will for their lives. While the desert can be a place of tranquility and unique beauty which refreshes the soul, it can also be a physically hostile ing and promise of new life that John the Baptist foretold. They went out empty and came home filled with enthusiasm for the Good News that was to follow. It is important for us to keep the image of the desert in mind as we confront the stress of the coming holiday season. During Advent, we should empty ourselves of all that keeps us locked in our old ways and keeps us from being open to the new and more vibrant life that Christ s coming promises. We are encouraged to make time to find a deserted spot where we can be alone with God and seek to understand all the ways He loves us and cares for us. Whether it s in a quiet corner of your home or in front of the Blessed Sacrament, consider spending an hour of peace and tranquility in your own personal desert spot for every hour you spend stressing out in a shopping center or at an office party. If you seek peace and joy spend more time where you are sure to find it. For further reflection on John the Baptist as a Model for Advent Preparation, see the Catechism of the Catholic Church paragraph 524; and on the New Life in Christ, paragraphs Reflection Questions 1. God alone can truly fill our emptiness and bring us peace. What might I do to place myself in His loving and peaceful presence more frequently? 2. What do I need to empty myself of so that I might be more open to becoming more active in the pursuit of my Catholic faith and my life in Christ? 3. In the birth of Christ we celebrate the possibility of new life for ourselves and all of God s children. Specifically, where might I be a better sign of this promise of new life? How can I do that? Readings for the Week Monday: Is 35:1-10; Ps 85:9ab, 10-14; Lk 5:17-26 Tuesday: Is 40:1-11; Ps 96:1-3, 10ac, 11-13; Mt 18:12-14 St. Nicholas Wednesday: Is 40:25-31; Ps 103:1-4, 8, 10; Mt 11:28-30 St. Ambrose Thursday: Gn 3:9-15, 20; Ps 98:1-4; Eph 1:3-6, 11-12; Lk 1:26-38 The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Friday: Is 48:17-19; Ps 1:1-4, 6; Mt 11:16-19 St. Juan Diego Saturday: Sir 48:1-4, 9-11; Ps 80:2ac, 3b, 15-16, 18-19; Mt 17:9a, Sunday: Is 35:1-6a, 10; Ps 146:6-10; Jas 5:7-10; Mt 16 11:2-11