Have you started your Christmas shopping yet? It’s not too early this year to start thinking about Christmas. Due to the extra preparations we have to make at the parish, we are already announcing our Christmas Eve and Christmas DayMass Schedule. The complete schedule is on the attachment.
You will notice that some Masses on Christmas Eve will be held in the church and the Parish Center as well as the covered court. Obviously, we are limited to 100 persons for each of these indoor Masses. We will use an online reservation system for these Masses (the same system our neighboring parishes have been using for all their Masses during these last several months). The system will begin accepting reservations on Monday, November 9 at 9:00 am. To access this reservation system for English Masses, go to https://englishchristmasmassreservation.eventbrite.com/
If you do not have access to the internet, call our parish office at 760-729-2866 (Mon-Fri, 8:30 am – 12:30 pm), or drop by the office during those times. Our staff can make the reservation for you.
These reservations are first come, first served. We are asking only parishioners to make reservations. We want to give our regular parishioners the first opportunity to sign up. You will be limited to six (6) persons per registration, but do not order six if you do not need them. We expect that reservations will reach capacity in a short time, so do not delay if you want to attend a Mass in the church or hall. Please be considerate of others and do not hoard or oversubscribe your reservation. Note that there will be no congregational singing inside.
There will be plenty of Masses celebrated on the covered court where no reservations are necessary. Also, there will be congregational singing of your favorite Christmas carols at our outdoor Masses. Likewise, I call your attention to the special Children and Families Mass that I will celebrate on Christmas Eve at 12:00 noon. I will be sharing more details about this special Mass when we are closer to Christmas. It will be geared to the young and the young-at-heart.
The weather forecast is predicting rain for this weekend. We will try to hold our Masses outdoors as usual unless it is actually raining at the time of the Mass. If it is raining, we can accommodate 100 people in the church. We also plan to use the parish center for an additional 100 persons. However, we do not have enough priests and other ministers to do that for every Mass (that would be 14 Masses!).
If you have concerns about your health and safety at an outdoor Mass in the inclement weather, take advantage of our online Masses this weekend. Thank you for your understanding.
Veterans Day
In observance of the Veterans Day holiday on Wednesday, November 11, we will use our holiday Mass schedule.
The only Mass will be at 9:00 am and we will honor and pray for our veterans.
General Absolution
General Absolution will be offered at all Masses on the weekend of November 14-15, since it is the second full weekend of the month.
During the season of Advent, General Absolution will be offered at all Masses on each of the four Sundays of Advent.
General absolution will continue to be available on Fridays at the beginning of the 7:00 and 8:00 am Masses.
Purgatory: What Does It Mean?
For Catholics, Purgatory is a period of purification after death.
When we die, our souls are judged immediately by Christ in what’s called the “Particular Judgment”:
Each [person] receives his eternal retribution in his immortal soul at the very moment of his death, in a particular judgment that refers his life to Christ: either entrance into the blessedness of heaven – through a purification or immediately – or immediate and everlasting damnation. (Catechism, 1022)
Purgatory is this period of purification before heaven. It’s not always well understood by today’s Catholics but Purgatory is still very much a part of Catholic doctrine.
It is not a “second chance”
Don’t think that Purgatory is anything like a “second chance” for those who have not won the reward of heaven!
During our human life, we either accept or reject God’s offer of divine grace. Once we die, our choice is definitive. We cannot change our mind after death. (Catechism, 1021)
Heaven and hell are real. They are part of a viewpoint that’s fully Catholic and Purgatory is simply a transitional state for those who have merited heaven but still have aspects of their souls that are not yet fully purified. Purgatory is where that purification happens after death.
The souls in Purgatory are assured of salvation. They’ve died in God’s grace and friendship, and will end up in heaven. But they’re not yet in a full state of holiness — the holiness that’s necessary to behold God “face to face” in heaven. (Catechism, 1030)
Basis in Scripture and Tradition
The Catholic Church is often accused of inventing the concept of Purgatory out of thin air. Not so!
You don’t hear about it from many who aren’t Catholic but Purgatory does have deep roots in Sacred Scripture as well as Catholic Tradition — the full, living faith of the Apostles as received from Christ.
First, it’s based on the ancient Jewish practice of prayer for the dead, as mentioned in Scripture: “Therefore [Judas Maccabeus] made atonement for the dead, that they might be delivered from their sin.” (2 Macc 12:46)
The early Christians continued this practice: “From the beginning the Church has honored the memory of the dead and offered prayers in suffrage for them, above all the Eucharistic sacrifice, so that, thus purified, they may attain the beatific vision of God.” (Catechism, 1032)
Inscriptions on the walls and tombs of the Catacombs testify to the belief of many early Catholics in Purgatory.
The words of the Apostles in the New Testament also clearly tell us about being “tested by fire” (1 Pet 1:7). St. Paul warns us that if someone builds on the true foundation of Christ but doesn’t take care to build well, “the person will be saved, but only as through fire” (1 Cor 3:15).
Finally, the Catechism quotes St. Gregory the Great:
“As for certain lesser faults, we must believe that, before the Final Judgment, there is a purifying fire. He who is truth says that whoever utters blasphemy against the Holy Spirit will be pardoned neither in this age nor in the age to come. From this sentence we understand that certain offenses can be forgiven in this age, but certain others in the age to come.” (Catechism, 1031)
Purgatory: part of the Good News
Part of the faith of Catholics is that Purgatory is a good thing! Purgatory reveals the depth of God’s mercy: even those who are not yet perfect can attain the fullness of heaven. For Catholics Purgatory helps us hope in perfection even when we can’t completely achieve it in this life.
Sing Gently
Many of you enjoy the virtual choirs that have been popping up on the internet. This video will tell how they began long before the covid-19 pandemic.
More Ministers Needed
As we continue to gather for the celebration of Mass every week, we find ourselves in desperate need of additional liturgical ministers. In particular, we need Ministers of Holy Communion and Ministers of Hospitality. We do not currently have enough of these ministers for all of our Masses. As we begin to think about Christmas, the need for these ministries will be critical.
This beautiful and moving musical version of the Our Father (Lord’s Prayer) sung by Andrea Bocelli was sent in by a parishioner. Thank You.
Diaper Collection for Birth Choice
The Catholic Bishops Conference through their Office for Pro-Life Activities is encouraging Catholic parishes to explore ways to help mothers who are struggling during their pregnancy. The project is called Walking with Moms in Need. One way to support Moms in difficult situations is to support a local pregnancy center.
Our Knights of Columbus have come up with an activity that gives each of us an opportunity to make a small contribution to this project. On November 15 and 16 (all Masses on both days) the Knights will be collecting diapers that will be donated to Birth Choice of San Marcos. Once again the Knights will station themselves at the north side of the Parish Center (same place that the food drive was). All you need to do is drive up and one of the Knights will take your donated diapers from your car.
Thank you for supporting women who have made a difficult choice.
"Catholic Trivia”... not because they are trivial but because these might be things that not everyone knows. Test your knowledge by reading the five questions, remember your answers (or jot them down), then click the link below to find the answers.
Which famous saint is known as the Angelic Doctor?
On what gospel parable are the Corporal Works of Mercy based?
Which 20th century pope lowered the age for reception of Holy Communion?
Who was the first American-born bishop?
Pope Francis just created 13 new cardinals. Who is the one American in this group?
Our parish is blessed by so many kind and generous people. Even in the midst of the ever-changing circumstances of parish life during a pandemic, many of our parishioners have continued to send or bring their contributions to the parish. Many have begun using Online Giving. I am so grateful that so many people have continued to contribute. It has been very helpful to the financial situation of the parish. While our income is down significantly, the generosity shown by so many has enabled us to maintain the parish complex, keep current with our bills, and pay our dedicated staff. Thank you all, very much!
Even as Masses are being celebrated outside on the school grounds, there will be specially marked baskets on the tables near the entrance to the field into which you can place your offerings. Of course, you can continue to mail us your contribution or drop it off at the office (8:30 am – 12:30 pm). Online giving remains a good option as well. Thank you for supporting your parish.
If you have other members of your family or your friends who would like to be on our email list, just let me know or write to Mary McLain at mmclain@stpatrickcarlsbad.comWe will be pleased to add them.
We have opened a YouTube channel where we have daily and Sunday Masses as well as Fr. Ron's new Bible Study posted for the parish called St Patrick Church Carlsbad that you can subscribe to.
Jesus tells the parable of the wise and foolish virgins, teaching his disciples the importance of being prepared to receive the Kingdom of Heaven.
Background on the Gospel Reading
In this week’s Gospel, Jesus talks about what it means to be prepared to receive the Kingdom of Heaven. This week’s reading follows a series of warnings and predictions by Jesus about the coming of the Son of Man. Jesus wants his disciples to understand that the exact day and time cannot be predicted. He teaches the disciples that they must remain vigilant so that they will not be caught unprepared.
When thinking about the parable of the wise and foolish virgins, it is important to consider the first-century wedding traditions of Palestine. Scholars tell us that it was the custom of the day for young maidens—friends and family members of the bride—to meet the bridegroom when he came to bring his bride to her new home.
As with many of Jesus’ parables, several levels of interpretation are possible. In last week’s Gospel,we heard Jesus warn against following the example of the Pharisees and scribes. If read in the context of early Christianity’s struggle to define itself against Pharisaic Judaism, this parable is a continuing critique of Judaism. It suggests that the Jewish leaders were like the foolish virgins, unprepared to meet Jesus, the bridegroom of Israel.
In the chapter preceding this parable, however, Jesus warns about the destruction of Jerusalem, the tribulation of the end times, and the coming of the Son of Man. When read in this context, today’s parable is a warning to the Christian community to remain vigilant and prepared to receive Jesus, the Son of Man who will return at the end of time. This interpretation is supported by the reference to the delay of the bridegroom. The Christian community for whom Matthew wrote this Gospel was coming to terms with the realization that the promise of Jesus’ return would not be fulfilled within their lifetimes. The question remains for us to ask ourselves, Are we ready to receive Jesus? Will we be prepared to receive him?
Applications for the Christmas Food Baskets are now being accepted for individuals and families who need a little extra help this Christmas. Please call the parish office at, 760-729-2866 for more details. Registration deadline is Friday, November 20. This program benefits parish families in need. All applicant information is strictly confidential.
Canastas de Navidad
Ya viene la Navidad. Si te encuentras necesitado, desempleado y no tendrás los recursos para proveer la cena de Navidad para tu familia, estaremos tomando aplicaciones por teléfono o en persona en la oficina parroquial. Fecha límite para apuntarse será el viernes 20 de noviembre. Este programa es solamente para los miembros más necesitados de esta parroquia. Oficina parroquial 760-729-2866.
Todos deseamos sentir la presencia de Dios en nuestra vida cotidiana, de sentirnos seguros que Dios conoce nuestras preocupaciones y desafíos y que pronto contestará nuestras oraciones. Y si no son contestadas pronto nos frustramos y desánimos. Hermanas y hermanos, estemos seguros de que si escucha lo que le pedimos y que El esta presente en cada paso de nuestras vidas. Sigue dándole tiempo a Dios en reflexión, meditación, y silencio, y te darás cuenta cuanto te ama y te llena de bendiciones. Empujen los botones de abajo y permitan que el Señor los vea y fortalezca.
You may still register your children online at www.stpatrickcarlsbad.com. The registration form gives you choices to sign up for a weekly class time. Currently, there are no in person weekly classes. We hold in person family events at those class times every three weeks with a devotion, and to hand out the materials for the at home learning as well as resources for the season of the church year. Catechists are assigned to accompany the families with the at home-learning.
Reflection: Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
Jesus makes it clear that the joys of heaven are not a given, nor do we have to earn them. Rather we must be ready and present. Sometimes we meet Christ when we least expect it. How can you be open and attentive to see Christ in your daily life?
Lord, give us the grace to be prepared to see you in all the ways that you are present.
Halloween Candy Drive
Last chance to drop off candy donations for the House of the Poor is this week by November 12. The parish office is open between 8:30am – 12:30pm. Or email us to arrange for a different drop off time. Thank you for your generosity! “There are concrete ways of teaching love. When these children grow up, they will know what it means to give.” St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta.
Litany of Gifts
Your family might not be able to celebrate Thanksgiving in the same way as in the past but you will connect with people you care about; you will enjoy delicious food, and can give thanks with a grateful heart.
As a family make a litany of gifts: use a regular size lined piece of paper. Draw a vertical line down the middle. Make one column a list of persons for whom you are grateful or that gave you cause to say “thank you”. Make the other column a list of things, places, and events for which you give thanks. Each horizontal line counts for a day.
Have each family member write one entry in each column every day or when you meet for faith sharing. As the list grows you will create a family litany of gifts, a catalogue of the ways God has come into your life. At Thanksgiving dinner (and whenever you need a boost of gratitude) read over the list and add a Hail Mary or Our Father. This exercise in appreciation what is present will help entering God’s presence to your lives.
Please contact the Office for Religious Education & Family Ministry with questions and for information at MDornisch@stpatrickcarlsbad.com or 760-729-8442.
MENTAL HEALTH CORNER
LIVE A STRESS-FREE LIFE
Part I
The year 2020 has been busy and overwhelming for most of us. We were forced to adapt ourselves in many ways and to learn new things, including the use of technology. Some of us have even faced or still facing financial difficulties as a result of losing our jobs. Our physical and mental health may be compromised due to stress and difficulties. According to neuropsychologist Rick Hanson, Ph.D. “Stress triggers the release of the hormone cortisol, which can damage our brains and weaken our cardiovascular and immune systems over time”. What can we do to alleviate some of the stress? How can we continue to enjoy the many blessings we receive despite the tension of our problems? It is very important to prevent stress from taking over our lives for long. The following are a few tips that we can try to lift our spirits and lower our stress levels.
Dig in the dirt: It is believed that gardening reduces the stress level as a result of the exposure to a bacterium (M. vaccae) found in the soil. A Dutch study published in the Journal of Health Psychology showed a link between the bacterium and the increase of serotonin levels in our brains, meaning, less anxiety, and better concentration. Scientists believe gardeners may inhale this bacterium while digging in the soil.
A little bit of exercise: Just two minutes of exercise is enough to change your mood, as long as you raise your heart rate, says John Ratey, M.D., a Harvard Medical School professor. “Anything from squats to jumping jacks supplies a surge of neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin – the same targets as antidepressants,” he says.
Breathing out: Deep breathing is crucial to feeling calm, but the most important part of it is breathing out. “When you elongate your exhalations, you spark your parasympathetic nervous system, which slows down your heart rate.” Says Hanson, So, three-times deep breathing is powerful if you make exhalations twice as long as your inhalations.
Bite chocolate: According to a study by the Johns Hopkins University found that the taste of sweetness on your tongue causes a surge of feel-good endorphins, and a study by the American Chemical Society, found that eating a mere 1.4 ounces of dark chocolate daily lowers the levels of stress hormones. The key is to limit yourself to just a few bites since the sugar in chocolate can cause a crash later.
Listening to the experts and doing a little for ourselves will pay off over time. By adopting these tips and transforming them into positive habits, you will gain mental clarity and live with more satisfaction.
Lorena Ramirez
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LA ESQUINA DE LA SALUD MENTAL
VIVE UNA VIDA SIN ESTRÉS –
Parte I
El año 2020 ha sido ajetreado y abrumador para la mayoría de nosotros. Nos vimos obligados a adaptarnos de muchas maneras y a aprender cosas nuevas, incluyendo el uso de la tecnología. Algunos de nosotros incluso hemos enfrentado o todavía enfrentamos dificultades financieras como resultado de la pérdida del empleo. Nuestra salud física y mental se ha visto en riesgo debido al estrés y las dificultades. Según el neuropsicólogo Rick Hanson, PhD. “El estrés desencadena la liberación de la hormona cortisol, que con el tiempo puede dañar nuestro cerebro y debilitar nuestro sistema cardiovascular e inmunológico”. ¿Qué podemos hacer para aliviar un poco el estrés? ¿Cómo podemos seguir disfrutando de las muchas bendiciones que recibimos a pesar de la tensión de nuestros problemas? Es muy importante evitar que el estrés se apodere de nuestras vidas durante un largo período. Los siguientes son algunos consejos que podemos intentar para levantarnos el ánimo y reducir nuestros niveles de estrés.
• Cavar en la tierra: se cree que la jardinería reduce el nivel de estrés como resultado de la exposición a una bacteria (M. vaccae) que se encuentra en el suelo. Un estudio Holandés publicado en el Journal of Health Psychology mostró un vínculo entre la bacteria y el aumento de los niveles de serotonina en nuestro cerebro, lo que significa menos ansiedad y mejor concentración. Los científicos creen que los jardineros pueden inhalar esta bacteria mientras excavan en el suelo.
•Un poco de ejercicio: solo dos minutos de ejercicio son suficientes para cambiar su estado de ánimo, siempre que aumente su frecuencia cardíaca, dice John Ratey, M.D., profesor de la Escuela de Medicina de Harvard. "Cualquier cosa, desde las sentadillas hasta los saltos, proporciona una oleada de neurotransmisores, como la norepinefrina, la dopamina y la serotonina, los mismos objetivos que los antidepresivos", dijo.
•Exhalar: La respiración profunda es crucial para sentirse tranquilo, pero la parte más importante es exhalar. "Cuando alargas tus exhalaciones, enciendes tu sistema nervioso parasimpático, que reduce tu frecuencia cardíaca" dice Hanson, Entonces, respirar profundamente tres veces es poderoso si haces exhalaciones dos veces más largas que tus inhalaciones.
• Muerde chocolate: según un estudio de la Universidad Johns Hopkins encontró que el sabor dulce en la lengua provoca una oleada de endorfinas que te hacen sentir bien, y un estudio de la Sociedad Química Estadounidense descubrió que comer solo 1.4 onzas de chocolate amargo diariamente reduce los niveles de hormonas del estrés. La clave es limitarse a unos pocos bocados, ya que el azúcar del chocolate puede provocar un colapso más adelante.
Escuchar a los expertos y hacer algo por nosotros mismos dará sus frutos con el tiempo. Al adoptar estos consejos y transformarlos en hábitos positivos, ganarás claridad mental y vivirás con más satisfacción.
Our parish offices are open, Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 12:30pm.
During this time of inactivity, we will use our parish email system to communicate with parishioners to offer spiritual reflections and make announcements.
In case of an emergency, you can always reach us by phone. We will be checking regularly for messages and respond as soon as possible. If need be, the answering service can get in touch with one of our priests quickly- 760-729-2866.
If you know someone who does not receive our emails, please forward this to them, or have them reply to this message.
To email a priest at St. Patrick Church click the link below:
