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Parish Staff Parish Staff Parish Staff Parish Staff Phone: 610-269-8294 Fax: 610-269-2487 www.stjosephrc.org 460 Manor Avenue, Downingtown, PA 19335 Rev. Msgr. Joseph C. McLoone Pastor Rev. Anthony T. Rossi Parochial Vicar Rev. Matthew W. Guckin Resident Deacon Jim Bogdan Permanent Deacon Deacon Edward R. Schiappa Permanent Deacon Mr. Ken Chrusch Director of Youth Ministry Ms. Karen Dawson Parish Services Director/ Adult Faith Formation Coordinator Mrs. Roe DeRitis Parish Secretary Mrs. Jo-Ann Funkhouser Bookkeeper Mrs. Dodie Milano Receptionist Ms. Julie Wiant Business Manager Ms. Jeannine Zack Parish Secretary School School School School Phone: 610-269-8999 Fax: 610-269-2252 www.stjosephrc.org Sister Catherine Irene, I.H.M. Principal Sister Diane Licordare, I.H.M. Vice Principal Mrs. Julie Fitzgerald Secretary Parish Religious Education Program Parish Religious Education Program Parish Religious Education Program Parish Religious Education Program Phone: 610-873-8798 Fax: 610-873-5466 www.stjosephrc.org Mrs. Kathy Thomas Director of Religious Education Mrs. Mary Ann Korpics Assistant to the D.R.E. Convent Convent Convent Convent Sister Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary 484-593-4352 Celebration of the Eucharist Saturday: 5:00 p.m. Vigil Sunday: 6:00 a.m., 7:30 a.m., 9:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 noon, 4:00 p.m. Monday-Friday: 7:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. Holy Days of Obligation As Announced Reconciliation Saturday: 3:30 p.m. 4:30 p.m. Wednesdays: 6:30 a.m., 8:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Anointing of the Sick Any sick or hospitalized parishioner who is in need of the Sacrament of the Sick should contact the Parish Office. Perpetual Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament Holy Family Chapel in the Holy Family Center. Morning Prayer MondayFriday at 6:30 a.m. in Church. Devotions The Holy Rosary: Recited before the 9:00 a.m. Mass daily. Miraculous Medal Devotions: Every Tuesday after the 9 a.m. Mass. Novena to Saint Joseph: Every Wednesday after the 9 a.m. Mass. Litany to the Sacred Heart: First Friday of the month after the 9 a.m. Mass. First Saturday Devotions: The First Saturday of each month at 8:30 a.m. The First Sunday of Advent November 30, 2014

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Parish StaffParish StaffParish StaffParish Staff Phone: 610-269-8294 Fax: 610-269-2487

www.stjosephrc.org

460 Manor Avenue, Downingtown, PA 19335

Rev. Msgr. Joseph C. McLoone Pastor

Rev. Anthony T. Rossi Parochial Vicar

Rev. Matthew W. Guckin Resident

Deacon Jim Bogdan Permanent Deacon

Deacon Edward R. Schiappa Permanent Deacon

Mr. Ken Chrusch Director of Youth Ministry

Ms. Karen Dawson Parish Services Director/ Adult Faith Formation Coordinator

Mrs. Roe DeRitis Parish Secretary

Mrs. Jo-Ann Funkhouser Bookkeeper

Mrs. Dodie Milano Receptionist

Ms. Julie Wiant Business Manager

Ms. Jeannine Zack Parish Secretary

SchoolSchoolSchoolSchool Phone: 610-269-8999 Fax: 610-269-2252

www.stjosephrc.org

Sister Catherine Irene, I.H.M. Principal

Sister Diane Licordare, I.H.M. Vice Principal

Mrs. Julie Fitzgerald Secretary

Parish Religious Education ProgramParish Religious Education ProgramParish Religious Education ProgramParish Religious Education Program Phone: 610-873-8798 Fax: 610-873-5466

www.stjosephrc.org

Mrs. Kathy Thomas Director of Religious Education

Mrs. Mary Ann Korpics Assistant to the D.R.E.

ConventConventConventConvent Sister Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary

484-593-4352

Celebration of the Eucharist Saturday: 5:00 p.m. Vigil Sunday: 6:00 a.m., 7:30 a.m., 9:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 noon, 4:00 p.m.

Monday-Friday: 7:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m.

Holy Days of Obligation

As Announced

Reconciliation

Saturday: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Wednesdays: 6:30 a.m., 8:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Anointing of the Sick Any sick or hospitalized parishioner who is in need of the Sacrament of the Sick should contact the Parish Office.

Perpetual Adoration of the

Blessed Sacrament Holy Family Chapel in the Holy Family Center.

Morning Prayer Monday—Friday at 6:30 a.m. in Church.

Devotions The Holy Rosary: Recited before the 9:00 a.m. Mass daily.

Miraculous Medal Devotions: Every Tuesday after the 9 a.m. Mass.

Novena to Saint Joseph: Every Wednesday after the 9 a.m. Mass.

Litany to the Sacred Heart: First Friday of the month after the 9 a.m. Mass.

First Saturday Devotions: The First Saturday of each month at 8:30 a.m.

The First

Sunday of Advent

November 30,

2014

BAPTISMS

Due to an early bulletin deadline for Thanksgiving, the names of the children baptized on Sunday, November 23 and Sunday, November 30 will appear in the

Sunday, December 7 bulletin.

Parents of babies to be baptized are asked to please register for Pre-Jordan, a baptism preparation program at Saint Joseph Parish, recommended by the

Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

Our next available session is Saturday, December 13 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Registration information can be found on our website or in the brochures in the Saint Katharine Drexel Room. For more information, contact Karen Dawson at

610-269-8294 or [email protected].

MARRIAGE

Couples planning to marry are asked to meet with their parish priest as soon as possible after their engagement and to enroll in a marriage-prep program (Pre-

Cana) at least six months prior to the wedding.

Our next Pre-Cana weekend is April 17 and 18. Flyers are in the Saint Katharine Drexel Room, on the parish website at www.stjosephrc.org and in the parish office. For more information, contact Karen Dawson at 610-269-8294 or [email protected].

�those who are sick: Sylvia Anderson, Paul Barnhouse, Tony Bello, Mina Massimini Bender, Patrick Bonani, Page Brophy, Philomena Bruno, Nathaniel Burt, Allison Carcella, Caroline Casenta, Judy DiFonzo Cazillo, Anita Conant, John P. Conway, Baby Michael Corrigan, Jason Cozzone, John Cruice, Agnes Cunniffe, Dominic D’Antonio, Paul DiFonzo, Linton Dorfman, Evelyn Dulik, Lisa Esworthy, Brayden Ewell, Gladys Felice, Arnold Fernandes, Edward Fernandes, William Ferracone, Tom Fieweger, Faith Foley, Cathy Gold, Charles Gold, John Guttman, Phoebe Guyer, Cathie Harper, Ann Hauster, Cyn Hechinger, Doreen Hindo, Nick Inman, Kenny Klunk, Sr., Patricia Kundert, David Kurtz, Ann Lang, Robert Mancuso, Joseph Massaini, Nicholas Massari, The McBeth Family, Kathy McGroarty, Pat Melcher, Lynn Memola, Marena Marie Meyers, Guy Milbrandt, Xavier Miniaci, Bill Pashinski, Florence Popadick, Carol Purvis, Lynn Reily, Sue Rizzo, Christopher Sauk, Charles Scott, Margaret Shannon, Melissa Shellenberger, Laura Shorter, Edward Smith, Sister Mary Stanislaus, Tammy Strater, Hillary Taub and Ronald Grant Zimmerman.

...those who are serving our country: Sgt. Steve Anderson, Andrew Bowser, Scott Bradley, Captain Stephen M. Carroll, U.S. Army Medical Corps, Specialist Andrew Clauhs, Sarah Debarberie, Lt/Cpl. Shane Desiderio, Staff Sgt. Christopher Deutsch, Staff Sgt. Ian Deutsch, 1st Lt. Joseph DiBerardinis, Jennifer Dunn, 2nd. Lt. Mark Edwards, Spc. Sean Foreman, Danny Fuller, Jeffrey Fuller, 1st Lt. Matthew Glisson, Leslie Harkness, 1st Lt. Jonathan M. Harris, Brent Joshua Horrocks, LCPL. Steven Houser, Jacob Hudson, Zachary Kish, Christopher J. Korpics, Mark T. Korpics, Andy Landmesser, Major Paul D. Lang. PFC. Sgt. Christopher Madden, Spc. Nicholas Massari, Pvt. Francis Misantone, 2nd Lt. Ryan Misero, Lt. J.G. Brian Muka, Pvt. Ian Donoghue-Neider, Sgt. Bradley Panichelli, Alex Rozon, Vincent E. Short, III, John Stagliano, III, Ryan Strehl, Bryan Williams, Josh Woodward and Vincent Yarch.

PLEASE PRAY FOR: Please call the parish office (each month)

if you would like to add/remove someone’s name from these lists.

Today’s Readings Readings for the First Sunday of Advent

can be found at #859(B). SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29

5:00 PM Amina Valocchi

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30

6:00 AM For the Parishioners

7:30 AM Margaret Flynn

9:00 AM Erminia Zaccaria

10:30 AM Lori Becker 12:00 PM Joe & Danny Duffy 4:00 PM Nicholas L. LaPalombara

MONDAY, DECEMBER 1

7:00 AM Mary R. Mento

19:00 AM Sadie Keane

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2

7:00 AM Adam C. Erdman

9:00 AM Christel Kennedy

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3

7:00 AM Rose Ottaviano

9:00 AM Pete & Carrie Bonaduce

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4

7:00 AM Barbara G. Mento

(2nd Anniversary) 9:00 AM The McCormack Family

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5

7:00 AM Josephine Valentino

9:00 AM Joe Panichelli & Carmella DiCola

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6

8:00 AM For the Holy Souls in Purgatory

ANNOUNCED MASSES

NEXT WEEKEND

The Sanctuary Candle burns in memory of Mary R. Mento.

The Chapel Sanctuary Candle burns in memory of Roland Richard.

Rosemary Branigan, Katie Castaldi, Anna Delpaggio, Peg Flynn, Michael Miller, Ellen Porcelli,

Robert W. Reed, Sr. & John Rigolizzo

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6

5:00 PM Andrew Mento

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7

6:00 AM For the Parishioners

7:30 AM Luigi & Carmella Muzii 9:00 AM Eva M. Dougherty 10:30 AM For the members of the Saint Joseph Memorial Society

12:00 PM Swede Aver 4:00 PM Margaret “Peg” Flynn

November 30, 2014

Dear Friends,

This weekend we begin a new liturgical year for the Church with the First Sunday of Advent. Advent begins four Sundays prior to the Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord (Christmas), December 25th. The beginnings of things usually need some advance preparation, and the liturgical year is no different. One way to approach the beginnings of the Christian life is to look at Christ himself. Advent has a two-fold character: as a season to prepare for Christmas when Christ’s coming to us is remembered and as a season when that remembrance directs our minds and hearts to await Christ’s second coming at the end of time. Advent thus is a period of devout and joyful expectation. “Come, Lord Jesus!”

Part of waiting for the Lord’s coming includes being ready. This waiting and watching characterizes the spirituality of Advent. The readings, traditions, and rituals of this liturgical time help Catholics practice the art of joyful anticipation and holy patience. Sin and injustice weaken our readiness. They rob us of joy. Advents seeks to restore this joy by our acts of repentance. The Sunday readings of Advent include the stories of John the Baptist proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins and for one mightier who is coming and who will baptize with the Holy Spirit. To more fully prepare for the Messiah, we need to acknowledge our sins and ask for God’s forgiveness. Make sure you avail yourself of the many times the Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered and go to confession before Christmas. Part of that preparation involves a loving and honest acknowledgement of all that is unloving, unfaithful and unjust in our lives.

I hope and pray that you will not allow the Season of Advent to get lost in the busyness and commercialization of Christmas. Advent should serve as a prelude to the celebration of the infant birth of Christ. We need to be ready and prepared for many things but most importantly for the coming of Christ and nothing else!

I commend to you the fine practice here of the Advent Giving Tree. If you are able, please take a tag and return it with the requested gift. I am impressed by your spirit of always wanting to reach out and help others especially those in need at the holidays. Just as Christ came to give His life for us all, so we should imitate that self-giving love in how we approach others in this time of preparation for the ultimate gift- Jesus Christ.

We are blessed to be a Stewardship parish. I once again want to thank everyone for their faithful stewardship of time, talent and treasure. Let us all continue to reach out and become a more welcoming parish. We all need to invite our family and friends to more active participation in the life of our parish. Together we can practice and live our faith as an expression of thanks for all that God has blessed us with. Please return your stewardship renewal form as soon as possible either by mail or by dropping it off in the offertory collection or at the office.

Saint Joseph, Pray for Us!

Monsignor McLooneMonsignor McLooneMonsignor McLooneMonsignor McLoone Pastor Pastor Pastor Pastor

A L e t t e r f r o m t h e P a s t o rA L e t t e r f r o m t h e P a s t o rA L e t t e r f r o m t h e P a s t o rA L e t t e r f r o m t h e P a s t o r

A Prayer for the World Meeting of Families

God and Father of us all, in Jesus, your Son and our Savior, you have made us your sons and daughters in the family of the Church.

May your grace and love help our families in every part of the world be united to one another in fidelity to the Gospel.

May the example of the Holy Family, with the aid of your Holy Spirit, guide all families, especially those most troubled, to be homes of communion and prayer and to always seek your truth and live in your love.

Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Jesus, Mary and Joseph, pray for us!

There will be a different theme each month leading up to the World Meeting of Families (September 2015) based on the 10

chapters of the Preparatory Catechesis “Love is Our Mission: The Family Fully Alive.”

December’s theme is The Mission of Love God works through us. We have a mission. We are in the world for a purpose - to receive God’s love and to show God’s love to others. God seeks to heal a broken universe. He asks us to be his witnesses and helpers in that work.

P a r i s h N e w sP a r i s h N e w sP a r i s h N e w sP a r i s h N e w s Rite of Acceptance

into the Order of Catechumens and Candidates This weekend at the 9:00 Mass, the parish community of Saint Joseph had the opportunity to witness our RCIA group come to Mass as a group and ask to be accepted into continuing study and preparation to be received into the Church. Our catechumens, those not yet baptized, are Christy Rose, Kim Smith, Stephanie Terry and her daughter Ellie. Our candidates, those already baptized and preparing to be welcomed into the full communion of the Catholic Church or complete reception of the Sacraments of Initiation, are: Jackie Butler, Katie DiRico, Shawn Doyle, Donna Euler, Kim Hogan, Erika Koelsch, Charlene May, Bob McBride, Kevin Rose, and Bob Swift. Please continue to pray for these wonderfully committed people with whom we are privileged to walk in faith each week.

Parish Registration

Sunday, December 7, at 10 a.m. Located in the Church, Saint John Neumann Room.

Letter from Archbishop Chaput

2nd Collection for the

Retirement Fund for the Religious. December 6 & 7.

Dear Friends in Christ,

Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, reminds all of us that the call to live out the Gospel message involves dedication, commitment and sacrifice. Of course, such evangelical witness is actualized as we unselfishly meet the needs of our brothers and sisters in our common human endeavors. Whether it is in education, caring for the sick, comforting the abandoned or in just uplifting one another with a sense of hope, all of this makes Jesus’ challenge a reality. Within our family of Christian faith, a compelling example has been provided to us by the ministry of our dedicated religious men and women, living out daily their baptismal and religious vocation in their respective congregations and communities.

Complementing the active apostolate, God’s saving grace is powerfully demonstrated by religious living in contemplative communities and by persons engaged in other forms of consecrated life. These individuals and groups with their intense spirituality and self-sacrifice present a fountain of vitality for all God’s people.

Each year the Retirement Fund for Religious Collection offers the faithful an opportunity both of appreciation for the service rendered over the years by our religious, and also of assistance for their present needs. Considering the median age of the religious in many communities and acknowledging the limitations of their financial resources, this yearly collection has become increasingly important and necessary. We recognize that our American Catholic Church owes a debt of sincere gratitude to our religious men and women for their manifold labors and success.

As Archbishop, I commend all of our consecrated religious to your prayerful remembrance, and I urge that you support most generously this Retirement Fund for Religious Collection, scheduled for December 6-7, 2014. May the Lord’s loving grace sustain us and grant us peace.

Gratefully in the Lord Jesus Christ,

+Most Reverend Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap. +Most Reverend Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap. +Most Reverend Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap. +Most Reverend Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap.

Holiday Hope Chest Please consider donating like-new or new items to this community event. Chester County families in financial need will enjoy a day of free Holiday shopping due to your generosity.

The donation truck will be in the church parking lot 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 6

8:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, December 7

Children’s clothes and toys are the items in demand. Plush animals and adult clothes are not being accepted.

Be sure the items are in like-new and working condition. Please avoid excessively large or heavy items. 100% of the funds/goods collected directly assist Chester County families. Any questions: Call Duane or Patty Knecht at 610-

873-6120 or Email [email protected].

2014 Day of Sanctification for

Priests

The priests of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia assemble each year for a day of prayer and reflection on the Sacred Priesthood. This year our priests will gather with Archbishop Chaput at Saint Charles Seminary on Monday, December 1, for the 2014 Day of Sanctification for Priests. Please pray for all priests of the Archdiocese, especially this weekend and Monday, with the following prayer from the Roman Missal.

Lord our God, who in governing your people make use of the ministry of Priests,

grant to these men a persevering obedience to your will, so that by their ministry and life

they may gain glory for you in Christ. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy

Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

P a r i s h N e w sP a r i s h N e w sP a r i s h N e w sP a r i s h N e w s Christmas Flowers and Decorations

Remember your loved ones at Christmas! Donations will be accepted to help defray the cost of all our beautiful Christmas decorations in and around the church.

Bring the names of your loved ones and a donation to the parish office by Wednesday, December 10. We are asking a donation of $10 for each loved one being remembered.

The list of names will be published in the bulletin on December 21.

Names of deceased: (Please pr int clear ly to ensure the name is spelled correctly)

1.___________________________________________

2.___________________________________________

3.___________________________________________

4.___________________________________________

Substance Addiction Ministry Team

St. Joseph Parish is forming a new ministry to help people face the challenges that accompany addiction. The mission of the Substance Addiction Ministry Parish Team includes:

• Increasing awareness by aiding those affected by addiction through education about ministries and groups within the parish and the community at large.

• Providing a safe, confidential place for healing rooted in Catholic Spirituality and Faith Tradition.

A formation meeting for this new ministry will be held on Tuesday, December 9 from 7 to 9 p.m. in Room 3 of the Parish Meeting Center (behind the school).

Please join us if you would like to learn more about becoming part of this ministry and talk about ways to form and grow the ministry.

Luminaries that Last

Supplies are Limited! Order Now!

Order deadline is December 15. For your convenience orders may be picked up in the par ish office dur ing normal business hours beginning the week of December 15 through December 21.

If you have any questions, please contact Ken Chrusch at 610-269-8294 or [email protected].

I would like to purchase ___ boxes of 12 for $36 per box

Name______________________ Phone Number_____________ Email Address____________________

• Reusable throughout the year and easy to set up.

• Comes with LED tea light candles that flicker like real candles and burn for up to 100 hours.

• Can be weighted down with water if necessary.

• Stacks for easy storage. • Looks great and eliminates the mess/hassle of

paper bags, sand and real candles.

• Support St. Joseph Youth Ministry with your purchase.

Please Help the

Giving Tree Project! There are still tags on the tree, and, if you haven't participated yet, there is still time. Please take an ornament, purchase the gift, and return the gift under the tree by Wednesday, December 10. Make sure you pay attention to specific instructions on the tag like not wrapping certain gifts and adjusted due dates. If you have any questions, please call Nick at 610-308-1757. Once again, thank you for participating in this great project to help make sure everyone has a Merry Christmas!

Immaculate Conception of the

Blessed Virgin Mary

Monday, December 8

Holy Day of Obligation

Masses will take place at 7 AM, 9 AM, 12:05 PM, 7 PM

The Blessing of the Outdoor Nativity will take place

following the 7 PM Mass.

P a r i s h N e w sP a r i s h N e w sP a r i s h N e w sP a r i s h N e w s S AV E T H E

D AT E ! !

Breakfast with Santa

Saturday, December 20

Saint Joseph Cafeteria

Two Seatings at 8:30 a.m. & 9:30 a.m.

Watch the bulletin for more details. Sponsored by the Saint Joseph Squires.

1 Enrollment code: ALLBF6AD3239

2. Go to www.ShopWithScrip.com and click on “Not a

Member?” (under Member’s Login)

3. Follow the four simple steps and click “I Accept.”

4. Enter your enrollment code and click “Join.”

5. Sign up for PrestoPay. A banner will appear after you have logged in that tells you that you do not have a PrestoPay account. You must then select “click here” to

initiate an account.

6. You will need to enter the required banking information

and click “Next” to submit.

7. GLSC will verify the account within one to two business days. You will then receive a code which must be verified

by calling Jo-Ann Funkhouser at 610-269-8294.

8. While GLSC offers an option to pay by check, we do not offer this option. Online Manna ordering is by

PrestoPay only – you must establish a PrestoPay account

in order to receive your Manna orders.

9. Orders received before Monday at 11 a.m. will be

available Thursday after 1 p.m.

SIGN UP FOR SHOPWITHSCRIP!

Follow these steps:

Start Your Christmas Shopping Today! Start Your Christmas Shopping Today! Start Your Christmas Shopping Today! Start Your Christmas Shopping Today! Is someone you know hard to buy for? Do your friends and family prefer gift cards?

Do you not have the time to shop for presents this year?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, sign up for ShopwithSrip.com!

Shopwithscrip.com allows a percentage of your order (different stores give different percentages) to go to Saint Joseph

parish or if you have a child in Saint Joseph School, the parish shares the percentage with you and you receive a tuition

credit! There is no limit to the number of family members that can sign up and contribute to the same child/children!

• ScripNow - allows you to print gift cards depending on the store.

• Reload Cards - Certain stores allow you to reload money right to the gift card! This is perfect when you need gas or

groceries!

2014 Saint Joseph Lottery Winners

Due to an early publication deadline for Thanksgiving, the

winners for the weeks of November 16 and 23 will be listed

in the December 7 bulletin.

Sweepstakes Calendars for 2015

are on sale now!

Proceeds this year will go towards the purchase of a stained-glass window for our church. Calendars cost $100. If you would like, you can reserve a number now for

$50. The balance of $50 must be paid in full by December 30 to be eligible for January 1, 2015 drawing. Drawings are based on the Pennsylvania daily number. You do not need to watch the drawing. Checks are sent weekly to the winners.

If you have any questions, please call Joan Angiulo at 610-

486-6552 or email [email protected]

Religious Education News Contact the PREP Office at 610-873-8798.

P.R.E.P. Save the Date

Alternate Sacrament Parent Forum Evening

Thursday, January 8, 2015

7:00 p.m. in the Daily Mass Chapel This evening is for those who could not be with us

on September 27.

Collection and Poor Box Totals

Due to an early publication deadline for Thanksgiving, the Collection Total and Poor Box Total for November 23 & 30 will be listed in the Sunday, December 7 bulletin. The December Poor Box and Children’s Envelope Collection will go to the Lord’s Pantry.

Children’s Envelopes Envelopes for our young stewards can be found in the Saint Katharine Drexel Room in Church and at the Parish Office. These envelopes are a great way to teach our young parishioners the meaning of Stewardship.

S t e w a r d s h i pS t e w a r d s h i pS t e w a r d s h i pS t e w a r d s h i p

Volunteer with

Project Linus

Involves knitting or crocheting blankets/quilts for critically ill children and distributing them to hospitals in our area. Want to help? Donate a blanket to your local Project Linus. Blankets must be new, handmade and washable. Call Shirley Miller at 610-269-4702. Please do not bring the blankets to the parish office or church.

Good Works Partner Churches Partnering with Good Works, Inc. of Chester County, this ministry helps homeowners living in substandard housing by working hands-on and side-by-side with them once a month to make their homes warmer, safer, and drier. Its mission is to extend God's love and replace hopelessness with the hope of Jesus Christ. Since starting this ministry in 2001, parishioners have completed more than 55 homes. For more info, e-mail [email protected].

Helping Other People Everyday (H.O.P.E.)

Rides require 48 hours notice.

HOPE provides rides to doctors’ appointments, the grocery store, the pharmacy, and other necessary errands.

For the week of 12/1,

Please call Janine Lill at 610-269-3055 or Karen McManus at 610-269-6979.

For the week of 12/8,

Please call Helen Lyons at 610-873-8041.

Hope is in great need

of additional drivers and coordinators.

To volunteer to drive, please contact Helen Lyons at 610-873-8041 or

[email protected].

December Mercy

Hospice Schedule Group 3 - Old Fashion Beef Stew

Group 4 - American Chop Suey

Please call Gail for more info at 610-269-9574.

The First Sunday of Advent provides an opportunity for us to begin again and to prepare ourselves anew for the coming of Jesus Christ. It is a time of waiting and expectation, of anticipation and preparation. We can use the coming weeks for personal prayer, growth and change in the way we live. Anticipating the Nativity of Jesus, we can dedicate special time toward considering our relationship with him.

As we recall previous Advents, we remember those who inspired us through their faith and actions. We too can be memorable mentors and models to others through our demonstrations of discipleship and stewardship.

New Online

Electronic Giving If you need a convenient way to make recurring contributions or plan to make an additional gift before the end of the year, we encourage you to check out our new electronic giving options. As the pace of life speeds up, you may find electronic giving a most welcome way to make contributions. To set up a recurring giving schedule or a one-time donation, visit us online at http://

stjosephrc.org and locate the Online Giving button which can be found under the RESOURCES tab “Give to St. Joseph Parish.” If you are already enrolled in our electronic giving and need to make changes to your contributions or update your banking or credit card information, you can complete them online as well. Or if it’s easier, complete a paper authorization form and return it to the church office. Please contact Jo-Ann Funkhouser if you have any questions or need assistance enrolling.

Thank you for your generosity and support!

St.JosephYouthMinistryNewsKAIROS 2014

December 11 through December 14

Saint Mary of Providence Center, Elverson, PA For: High School Juniors & Seniors

Cost: $235, includes bus transportation & accommodations

For info contact Elizabeth Riordan at 215-857-3760 or Ken Chrusch 610-906-7100

Annual Christmas Caroling & Bingo at

the Coatesville Veterans Hospital

What grades are invited? 7th – 12th graders

When: Wednesday, December 10

What time: 6:15 p.m. bus departure What to bring? A bingo gift (ex. nonperishable snacks or

toiletries. No mouth wash or cologne). Contact Ken Chrusch for more details.

P a r i s h G r o u p sP a r i s h G r o u p sP a r i s h G r o u p sP a r i s h G r o u p s

The next King’s Men meeting will take place on Thursday, December 4 at 8:00 p.m. in the Par ish Meeting Center .

We would like to encourage all men 18+ to attend this speaker event. Light refreshments will be served. Enjoy authentic fellowship, engage in learning and lively spiritual discussion and be challenged to live a more integrated and full Christian life! Contact Bill Reagan at [email protected].

Family Potluck Dinner

and Prayer Your entire family is welcome to attend St. Joseph’s monthly Family Potluck Dinner & Prayer Evening on Saturday, December 6 following the 5 p.m. Mass!

Celebrate Mass Share a meal

Pray a decade of the rosary

On your way into Mass, bring your dish and serving utensil into the cafeteria (using the right-most doors along the front of the school). What Can You Bring? Crock pot or covered dish to share, large salad, rolls and butter, or desserts! We will have prayer cards and extra rosaries. For more information, contact Patty and Scott Millward at [email protected]. Thank you!

Children’s

Liturgy of the Word

Our Children’s Liturgy of the Word takes place every Sunday during our 9 a.m. Mass. Just prior to the First Reading, children in 1st through 3rd grade will be

called forth to gather in the front of the altar. They will receive a blessing, then proceed with an adult leader to the chapel. There, they will hear approved versions of the readings for the Mass at a level they better understand and trained leaders will invite them to share their reflections on the Gospel. The children will be escorted back into church to join their families for the Liturgy of the Eucharist. If you have questions or would like to become involved in this program, please contact Kathy Thomas at [email protected].

Let the little

children come to

me!

Walking with Purpose

All Women are Invited!

Wednesdays 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. or Sundays 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Where the condition of the heart is more important

than the condition of the road.

Questions? Contact Laura White at 610.787.9100 or [email protected] or www.walkingwithpurpose.com

Charismatic Prayer Group

Our charismatic prayer group meets on Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.

Please join us in the chapel as we deepen our prayer life, deepen our relationship with the Lord, and worship as a community.

For more information, please call Joe McCahon at 610-716-

3084.

Prime Timers Tickets are on sale for the December 10 Christmas Luncheon to be held at The Downingtown Country Club at 12 noon. The cost is $26.00 with your choice of beef, chicken or fish. There will be a special visitor and Christmas music; remember to wear something red! Please contact Debbie Hastings at 610-873-9977 to purchase your ticket.

Mark your calendar for our January 7 meeting. We will be playing bingo so you do not have to bring anything but yourself! Prizes will be purchased by the board activity committee. This is a different Bingo so come join us. There is no cost to play and refreshments will be served. Hopefully the weather will be snow free!

L o c a l N e w sL o c a l N e w sL o c a l N e w sL o c a l N e w s CYACC

Are You a Young Adult in Chester County?

If you're a Catholic adult in your 20s or 30s, we want to meet you! Catholic Young Adults of Chester County (CYACC - pronounced "kayak") exists to offer you social, spiritual, and service opportunities. Check us out on Facebook,

at www.cyacc.org, or request more info by emailing [email protected].

Archdiocese of

Philadelphia News

Archbishop's Lecture Series Thursday, December 11 at 7 p.m.

Speaker Professor David L. Schindler

Topic Theology of the Body, the Gender

Distinction and Religious Freedom A lecture that examines how our understanding of what it means to be male and female directly impacts a society, its understanding of God, and the meaning of

human freedom.

Location

St. Charles Borromeo Seminary.

More info

http://www.phillyevang.org/lectures/

Listen to Archbishop Chaput’s

Sunday Homilies Online!

You can listen to Archbishop Chaput’s Sunday Homilies anytime at http://archphila.org/archbishopchaput/homilies/index.htm.

The Archbishop’s homilies are also available as Podcasts on iTunes.

Advent Retreat Day for Women Journey with Mary

Begin preparations for Christmas with the story of Mary as you take time to pray with God’s presence in your own story. This day is designed for Catholic women of all ages seeking to enter into the season of Advent more reflectively. The day includes Mass and Lunch.

Sunday, December 7 from 9 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. Provincialate of the Sisters of the Holy Redeemer

521 Moredon Road, Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006 Space is limited – RSVP by December 5. Free will offering gratefully accepted.

Sponsored by the Sisters of the Holy Redeemer. For more information please contact Sr. Ana Dura, CSR or Sr. Katharina Maria at 215-914-4109 or email [email protected]. Please visit www.sistersholyredeemer.org for info.

Celebrate Christmas with the Seminarians St. Charles Borromeo Seminary is combining its annual Open House and Christmas Concert events on Sunday, December 7.

Tours of the Seminary begin at 1 p.m. with the last tour beginning at 3 p.m. Seminarians will guide visitors through the historic buildings to view sacred art, common areas and Christmas crèches on display in the Ryan Memorial Library featuring dozens of Nativity scenes from around the world.

The Christmas concert begins at 4 p.m. and will feature the musicians and choir of Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary. The entire day is free and open to the public. For more information visit www.scs.edu

Advent Retreat Day for Women IHM Spirituality Center, 1140 King Rd, Immaculata, PA 19345

“Discovering the Shape of Your Emptiness: Encountering Christ Within”

December 10, 2014 from 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Presenter: Jeannine Peters

For info and/or registration, contact Sister Barbara Cook at 610-647-4136 or visit www.ihmimmaculata.org.

Bishop Shanahan Book Fair

at Barnes and Noble Barnes and Noble Bookstore at Main Street at Exton is sponsoring a 3-day Book Fair supporting Bishop Shanahan High School on Friday, December 5 through Sunday, December 7. A percentage of all purchases, with the exception of gift cards, benefits Bishop Shanahan. This includes the NOOK, music, DVD’s, café items, and the gift section. At checkout, please mention Bishop Shanahan High School and/or give voucher #11419843 to the cashier.

If you cannot visit the store that weekend, you can shop online at BN.COM/bookfairs from December 5 through December 12. Thank you for your support of Bishop Shanahan High School while shopping!