Pope Francis has begun a multi-year process for the entire church, what he has called “a synod on synodality.” In his talks and in the preparatory documents, he has explained the unusual term “synodality” very simply by retrieving its Greek roots. “Synodality,” as he describes it, is being syn-hodos, on the road together. The Holy Father wants this vision of the church being on the road or journey together to come alive.

I recently read an article by Louis J. Cameli in America Magazine titled, “Is Pope Francis’ Synod on Synodality bound to disappoint—or will it renew the church?” He writes, “When I first heard about synodality, the concept held a strong appeal for me. I saw it moving the church beyond the usual and tired constructs of institution, organization and bureaucracy. I saw it underscoring an experience of church that included a greater sense of community and connection in the unfolding of history… Then I began to have questions and hesitations.” Cameli speaks for a lot of folks who are skeptical of the success of Francis’ vision for the church on many multiple fronts.

And that is the reason why we are trying to do our best here at St. Stephen and CTK, to offer as many listening sessions as possible and invite as many parishioners as possible. You can make a difference by inviting folks that you know, especially those who are disenchanted with the catholic church and have stayed away for years. Then, let us know those who are interested. If a bishop or a pastor wants to better know his flock, it is necessary to understand how non-practicing Catholics perceive the Church.

The three principle words for the synod—communion, participation, mission—should be borne in mind as we take on this project with devotion and commitment. If we are to bring the gospel energies to the world in need, then we must be together, in communion, and be clear about our identity in Jesus Christ. Positively, the synodal consultations can demonstrate a willingness to listen, introduce a broad cross-section of Catholics to one another, build some bonds of social cohesion and trust, and we can hear the Lord together regardless of our differences. Thank you for your participation, your passion is good for our church.

Synodality is not so much an event or a slogan as a style and a way of being by which the Church lives out her mission in the world. The mission of the Church requires the entire People of God to be on a journey together, with each member playing his or her crucial role, united with each other. A synodal Church walks forward in communion to pursue a common mission through the participation of each and every one of her members. Read More

If you did not receive an email statement and would like your statement sent to you via email, send a request to office@ctkph.org requesting we email your 2021 statement to you.  Our new system will automatically keep your email address up to date for the newsletter once we have them correct in both systems. Thank you!

If you are interested in your child attending CTK for the 2022-2023 school year, the admissions portal on the school's website is open by clicking here.

will celebrate it’s 10th year May 1st, 2022. 

We’re so proud of the women at CTK and our community who continue their work in making dresses and shorts available to the most disadvantaged here in the U.S. and worldwide. We’re also proud of those who donate fabric, sewing machines and, of course, your dollars to our efforts. Everyone is invited to join us on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays each month in the Monsignor Wade Hall. For more information, please call Carol Vogl at (925) 288-0488.

New socks for homeless men and women are needed for the distribution bags.

Jesus came to inaugurate a new age in which he revealed a God who became present and reconciled people through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Read More

The approaching 49th anniversary of Roe v. Wade comes at a historic moment. The nation stands on the precipice of potentially overturning Roe v. Wade. At the same time, the Governor and state legislators have issued calls to make California a “sanctuary” destination for women seeking abortions from in and out of state. Read More

Links to our services (live or archived) can be found at ctkph.org

Sacrament of Reconciliation - Private Confessions every Saturday from 3pm to 3:30pm, in the church.

Drive-Thru Holy Communion - Every Sunday 11:30am to 12 noon, in front of the church.

Thursday Mass - 6pm - Honoring our Mother of Perpetual Help, Rosary begins at 5:40pm, in the church. Worship Aide Here

Holy Rosary - Livestreamed on Facebook at 5:40pm, Monday - Friday