THE CORNERSTONE
December 18, 2022
4th Sunday of Advent
THIS WEEK
Help us stuff stockings at Next Chapter for kids ages 4 months to 14 years.

Drop off donations by
December 18, 2022
Saint Patrick Catholic Church

Next Chapter provides a safe and supportive place for pregnant women, single mothers, and children experiencing homelessness in Pierce County while helping them address their barriers to housing. Next Chapter also provides education, opportunities, and tools for women to find permanent housing and achieve self-sufficiency. Learn more
Advent Reflection Series
Join your parish family for prayer and reflection this Advent. Together we reflect on the book Behold: A Guided Advent Journal for Prayer and Reflection by popular speaker Sr. Miriam James Heidland, SOLT.

Let the Holy Family be your light through Advent as you receive the healing power of Christ. Each week we spend time with a member of the Holy Family—Mary, Joseph, and the child Jesus—to experience the healing of motherhood, fatherhood, childhood, and family.

—FINAL NIGHT—
Saturday | 6 pm - 7 pm
following the 5:00 pm Mass at
&
refreshments served
Christmas Eve Pageant
Casting call for ages 5-12 for the 5 pm Vigil Mass on December 24 at Saint Patrick Catholic Church.

The children act out the Gospel story, lector, present the gifts and serve as greeters. Adult volunteers are needed too. Participation includes early seating for Mass. Saint Patrick Catholic School families also earn commitment hours for participating.

—Practice Schedule—
December 18 | 1 pm
December 22 | 5 pm
Saint Patrick Catholic Church

To sign up or learn more, email Regina Keller.
Contemplative Chant Mass
For a peaceful Advent celebration, join us on Sundays for a reverent, traditional Mass with chants of the propers of the Mass and Latin Mass parts at 7 pm at Saint Patrick Catholic Church.

No 7 pm Mass on December 25 and December 31.
Funeral
The funeral liturgy is a Catholic Mass, including the Communion Rite, with special prayers for the deceased, the family, and the community.

Funeral Mass
Dennis Schmidt
December 20 | 11 am
Saint Patrick Catholic Church

No 9 am Mass on December 20.
Altar Server Training
We've added another opportunity for CURRENT and NEW altar servers to get trained!

December 20 | 3:30 pm
Saint Patrick Catholic Church

Current altar servers who have yet to attend one of the trainings held in late November or early December must attend to learn new procedures.

If you attended a previous training and would like an opportunity to run through it again, please feel free to join us.

All students in grades 4-8 who are encouraged to attend to learn more.
Women & The Word
The Women and the Word small groups is using the Behold: A Guided Advent Journal for Prayer and Reflection by popular speaker Sr. Miriam James Heidland, SOLT during the Advent season.

Thursdays
7:00 am - 7:45 am
or
9:30 am - 10:15 am

Saint Patrick Catholic Church
Parish Center

Ladies of any age are welcome. Bring your coffee and join us as we reflect on God's Holy Word.
Decorate for Christmas
Let's decorate Saint Patrick Catholic Church for Christmas!

December 23 | 10 am
Saint Patrick Catholic Church

This is an excellent opportunity for middle schoolers to fulfill service hours and for Saint Patrick Catholic School families to earn volunteer commitment hours.

Email Laura Dougherty to let us know you can help.
Peace Light of Bethlehem
Next week, the Sanctuary candle at Saint Patrick Catholic Church will be lit from the eternal peace light. RJ Ryder, parishioner is bringing it to our parish!

Each year, a child is selected from Austria and brought to Bethlehem by Austrian airlines, to obtain the Peace Light flame. The flame of the Peace Light has burned continuously for over a thousand years and originated at the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, the site of Jesus' birth.

It is transferred lantern-to-lantern from Tel Aviv, to Austria, to New York City. Dedicated volunteers led by Catholic Scout Troops in New York meet, share, and move the flame from the Chapel at JFK airport New York across North America person-to-person, coast-to-coast. The Peace Light, symbolic of the Light of Christ, especially evident at Christmas, is meant to promote peace, harmony, and unity among all the people of the world. The Peace Light this year is being dedicated to peace in Ukraine.
Advent & Christmas Calendar
All are welcome to join the St. Peter Chanel Samoan community in celebration and prayer.

—MASS TIMES—
Christmas Eve
December 24 | 8:00 pm

Christmas Day
December 25 | 12:00 pm

Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
December 31 | 8:00 pm
LITURGY


—Mass Times—

Saturday Vigil Mass
5:00 PM

Sunday Mass
9:00 am | 11:00 am | 7:00 pm

Daily Mass
Tuesday - Friday | 9:00 am

—Confessions—
Saturday | 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
starting at 3:00 pm during Advent

—Office Hours—
Tuesday - Thursday
9:30 am - 3:30 pm


—Mass Times—

Saturday Vigil Mass
5:00 pm

Sunday Mass
10:00 am

Mass in Samoan
12:00 pm | 2nd & 4th Sunday

Daily Mass
Monday | Thursday | Friday | 9:00 am
Wednesday | 5:00 pm

—Confessions—
Saturday | 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
starting at 3:00 pm during Advent

—Office Hours—
Monday - Friday
8:00 am - 3:00 pm
ALWAYS scroll to the bottom of The Cornerstone [you might need to click view the entire message if the email was clipped] or view it as a webpage in the browser to stay informed about important news, events, and programs. You'll know you've reached the bottom of this edition when you see our photo highlight.
—at Holy Cross Catholic Church—
No Mass
9 am on December 26, 2022

—at Saint Patrick Catholic Church—
No Mass
  • 9 am on December 20, 2022
  • 11 am on December 25, 2022
  • 7 pm on December 25, 2022
  • 7 pm on January 1, 2023
  • 9 am on January 26, 2023
1st Friday Mass
Let's gather to pray together at Mass on the first Friday of each month, through April, except February.

Jan 6 — Mar 3 — April 7
If you attend the 9 am daily mass on Fridays, please join us at 11 am.

Lunch for seniors follows Mass in the Church Hall sponsored by the Health Ministry.

Lunches on Senior First Friday explore the cuisines of different countries each month and honor a Saint from that country.

Volunteers are needed to help serve the themed lunches. To volunteer or if you need a ride to Mass, call 253-274-4109 or email Garry FitzGerald at [email protected]. Share
SACRAMENTS
Baptisms
Logan James Lawless-London, the son of Kailey Lawless and Eric London, was baptized at Saint Patrick Catholic Church on December 10, 2022. His godparents (and grandparents), James and Sharon Lawless, Logan's big sister, aunts, uncles, and extended family were present.
Lucca Cristine Sundita, the daughter of Cristina and Alexander, was baptized at Saint Patrick Catholic Church on December 10, 2022. His godmother, Vanessa Maree Sundita, Lucca's big brother, Mica, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and extended family were present.

Deacon Steve Cano officiated both Baptisms.

Email Meg Hannan, Faith Formation Coordinator, or call 253-274-4112 to learn more about preparing for the sacrament of Baptism.
Sacrament of Reconciliation
Raeghan B. and John V. from Holy Cross Parish and Jacob D. from Saint Patrick Parish received their First Reconciliation with Fr. David Mulholland at Saint Patrick Catholic Church on December 10, 2022.

Please keep these children in prayer as they continue their sacramental preparation for their First Holy Communion in April 2023.

The sacrament of Reconciliation is available starting at 3 pm on Saturday, December 17, at Holy Cross Catholic Church and Saint Patrick Catholic Church. This will be the last opportunity for Reconciliation in Advent unless you already have an appointment.
Christian Initiation
Are you interested in joining the Catholic Church? Or know someone who is?

Are you a Catholic who would like to learn more about your faith? Join us for Christian Initiation classes (formerly known as RCIA).

Sundays
10:15 am - 11:45 am
or
Wednesdays
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

St. Patrick Catholic Church
Parish Center
Email Meg Hannan, Faith Formation Coordinator, or call 253-274-4112 to learn more.
FAITH FORMATION
Bible Study
Join Deacon Bill Eckert in a bible study on the Gospel according to Matthew. You'll get an overview of the Church’s approach to scripture and interpretation. Bring your bible.

Tuesdays
—NEW TIME—
3:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Parish Hall
The Catechism in a Year
We're is excited to invite our parishioners and friends to join us in listening to “The Catechism in a Year” podcast, starting January 1st! This 365-day podcast will explain the Catholic Church's teachings in a prayerful, engaging, and approachable way with Fr. Mike Schmitz.

You can listen while driving to work, going on your daily walk, drinking your morning coffee, or however you like! We support you on your “Catechism in a Year” journey.

Find it on any podcast app, on YouTube, or just by clicking this link!
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS)
CGS is a Montessori-based approach to faith formation where children ages 3-12 are formed in the Catholic faith in a sacred space called the ‘atrium.

In the atrium, during the season of Advent, the children work with the Infancy Narratives or stories that focus on the birth and infancy of Jesus:
  • The Annunciation of the Angel to Mary The Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth (pictured above)
  • The Birth of Jesus and the Adoration of the Shepherds
  • The Presentation in the Temple
  • The Adoration of the Magi

To learn more about CGS at St. Patrick Catholic Church, visit the atrium, serve or train as a catechist, email Kim Ward, CGS Coordinator, or call 253-274-4108. 

Also, visit the national CGS Association website and the local consortium website, The Sheepfold, to learn more and watch a video for a glimpse into atrium life.
FORMED
Catholic faith content on-demand. Get thousands of movies, programs, audio, and books instantly.

Check it out. It's free— as our gift to you. FORMED is available on your desktop, phone, tablet, and laptop. For access to all FORMED content, follow these simple steps:
  1. Go to signup.formed.org
  2. Enter zip code 98403
  3. Enter your name and email

You can get the free FORMED app for your phone or another mobile device by searching FORMED in the app store.
EUCHARISTIC ADORATION
Eucharistic Adoration
Rest in the presence of Jesus in the Eucharist! It'll change your life. All are welcome. Signs up are required.

—CHAPEL at Holy Cross—
Perpetual Adoration 24/7
To sign up:

—St. Patrick—
Eucharistic Adoration
Mondays | 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm
To sign up go to
Holy Hour for Life
Join us for Adoration, prayer, and confessions. All are welcome. Sign-ups are not required.

Every 1st Friday
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm

—save the dates—
January 6, February 3, March 3, May 5, Jun 2, July 7, August 4
STEWARDSHIP
We are very grateful to the many parishioners who have returned a Treasure Commitment Card to the parish. Your generosity supports the mission and the many ministries at our parishes. We thank you for your excellent Stewardship of all that God has given you.

You can make your stewardship pledge by clicking on the button below. It will take you to a Seattle Archdiocese pledge form, where you'll select your parish from the drop-down box. Whether you're, using Online Giving, electronic fund transfer (EFT), or envelopes at Mass, we ask all parishioners to return a 2023 Stewardship of Treasure pledge card.
Year-End Giving
Do you have a gift you want to be credited to the 2022 calendar year for tax purposes?

If you're considering year-end stock donation, initiate your donations now. It takes several business days for companies to transfer stocks and the holidays add more time.

All gifts must be received or postmarked by December 31. Non-stock donations can be made online via Online Giving using the parish giving links below.

Are you 70½ or older? 
Consider making a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) from your IRA. Contact your IRA plan administrator for more information on IRA fund transfers.
Weekly Offertory
Online Giving is a way to support our continued mission. It is time to unite to keep our faith to offer hope and healing to those around us. Online Giving allows you to make donations, payments, and pledges via your mobile phone, smart device, or computer to your parish. Your gift benefits sacramental preparation, liturgical programs, and religious education.

Prayerfully consider making a recurring weekly or monthly donation to the parish collection by creating an account. Thank you for your investment and continued support of our parishes!
Weekly Collection Needed
$19,712
12/11/22 Collection
$28,234
Needed Year to Date
$473,078
Actual Year to Date
$488,039
Weekly Collection Needed
$5,674
12/11/22 Collection
$9,471
Needed Year to Date
$136,176
Actual Year to Date
$170,682
CCS Appeal for the Poor
The Catholic Community Services of Western Washington Appeal for the Poor Campaign kicked off last weekend. CCS/CHS is our local Catholic Charities, serving over 77,000 Western Washingtonians across 180 programs annually.

We encourage you to review their highlights from this year and prayerfully consider how you might join the thousands of volunteers and staff this year in supporting our neighbors in need through prayer, advocacy, volunteerism, or a generous donation.

If you have already made your gift, thank you! If you have yet to make your gift, know that no matter the amount, it will help extend hands of hope this holiday season. Learn more
MINISTRIES
Knights of Columbus
The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic fraternal benefit society founded in 1882. Today, it is the world's largest Catholic fraternal service organization
.
Council 809
—December—
Knight Tidings Newsletter

Knight of the Month
Chris Constantine

Family of the Month
Andrew & Betsy Boileau

—save the dates—
Pancake Breakfast
9 am - 11 am
January 29, 2023
April 30, 2023
July 30, 2023

—standing meetings—
Meetings are held at 6:30 pm in the Church Hall at St. Patrick Catholic Church or virtually via Go to Meeting.

ROSARY
2nd Thursday of the month
except April, July & August

OFFICER PLANNING MEETING
3rd Tuesday of the month

MEMBERSHIP MEETING & SOCIAL
4th Tuesday of the month

To learn more, call 253-380-4000 or email the Knights. Follow on Facebook.
Holy Cross Sale
Save the dates for upcoming sales. Friday and Saturdays 10 am - 4 pm with a $5 bag sale on Saturday from 2 pm - 4 pm.

—2023 sales—
March 3 & 4
June 2 & 3
September 1 & 2
December 1 & 2

Sale Preparation
Volunteers are needed to prep for upcoming sales!

Tuesdays
10 am - 2 pm 
Rummage Hall
SCHOOL
2023 REACH AUCTION
Join us to celebrate our 130-year legacy of Catholic Education at our 48th Annual R.E.A.C.H. Auction on March 18, 2023.

Our goal is to engage alums, celebrate enrolled families, cherish parishioners, introduce our school to prospective families and raise $400,000 to support operating costs, tuition aid, and ongoing building needs. There are many ways to show your support!

TICKETS
Tickets are available until sold out. The event will sell out. Please secure your tickets early!

RAFFLE
Enter for a chance to win cash or tuition toward any school preschool to graduate school in the US. Download raffle form.

PROCUREMENT
Purchase items from our Amazon Wish list and send them directly to the school. Experiences, get-aways, and tickets to sports events are also great items to donate.

SPONSORSHIP
Sponsorship opportunities from $250 to $15,000 are available through February 1, 2023. Learn more about how sponsorship benefits your company while helping us enable us to underwrite a portion of the auction and allow more event revenue directly to educate the students.

If you have questions, ideas to share, or need support, email our auction chairs, Wynter Dait and Christy Johnson, at [email protected].
Tuition Affordability
It's our goal that no child be denied the opportunity to attend St. Patrick Catholic School because their family can't afford it. We are committed to doing all we can by offering fair and substantial tuition assistance packages.

The tuition assistance application and supporting documents for the 2023-2024 academic year must be submitted by January 6, 2023.

For more information, visit
To schedule a tour
YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS
High School Youth Ministry
Youth Ministry creates experiences for young people with one goal in mind: to help people grow in relationship with Jesus and each other.
Jesus and each other
High School Youth Group is focused on small group discussions for students in grades 9-12. The evening includes food and fellowship and ends with Adoration.

2nd & 3rd Thursday
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
St. Patrick Catholic Church
Parish Center

—save the dates—
January 12 & 19, February 9 & 16, March 9 & 16, April 13 & 20, May 11 & 18, June 8 & 15

To learn more, email Cory Monaghan, High School Youth Ministry, at [email protected]
Mass Consumption
Delve into the Word and faith share while discussing the daily readings. All young adults are welcome.

Mondays
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
St. Patrick Catholic Church
Parish Center

PRAYER
Men's Prayer Group
Men of all ages gather to read the day's scripture and a reflection from Word Among Us.

Fridays
6:45 am - 7:30 am
St. Patrick Catholic Church
Church Hall

They also read and discuss books focused on faith. Past reads include Weight of Glory by CS Lewis, Mercy: What Every Catholic Should Know by Daniel Moloney and He Leadeth Me by Fr. Walter Ciszek, which was highly recommended by Fr. David. Share
December 20
No 9 am Mass
 
December 21 | 9 am
for the repose of the soul of 
Gary Johnson
 
December 22 | 9 am 
for the repose of the soul of 
Pamela Koehler
 
December 23 | 9 am
for the repose of the soul of   
Gina Slavich
 
December 24 | 5 pm & 9 pm
December 25 | Midnight & 9 am
for the people of the parish
December 19 | 9 am
for the intentions of  
Doug Robertson
 
December 21 | 5 pm
for the intentions of   
Keith Klappmeyer
 
December 22 | 9 am
for the intentions of  
Isabel Cooke 
 
December 23 | 9 am
for the repose of the soul of   
Milica Yerkovich 
 
December 24 | 5 pm
December 25 | 10 am 
for the people of the parish
We pray for our sick,
Georgeann Cukjati, Debbie Rupert, Ann Kormos,  Doug Jones, Jocelyn Jamora, Joe Olivadoti, Toni Mineo, Cap Pearson, Cassie Charnota, Patricia Smurro, Andre Franco, Michelle Devettori, Janet McIntyre, Norm Christenson, and Barbara Hernandez   

We pray for our dead,
Dennis Schmidt, Linda Campbell, Kathy Silva, and Carolyn Kurriger
PHOTO HIGHLIGHT
On the third Sunday of Advent—Gaudete Sunday, parishioners at Saint Patrick Catholic Church enjoyed a pancake breakfast hosted by the Knights of Columbus Tacoma Council 809 featuring a special guest appearance by Santa Claus! Thank you to Chris Schneider and his family for sharing their fantastic model train display with all the young (and young at heart). View more photos
How to Reach Us
Email [email protected] or leave a voicemail at 253-383-2783. Messages are checked daily and routed to the appropriate staff person. If you need the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, call 253-383-2783, extension 4102, and leave a message.