Christmas Dinner this Sunday

Quick addition to our Christmas Dinner this Sunday:

Meet in the Church, the New Church, at 7:15 pm on Sunday Evening.  We will all attend a Baptism -- I know that for most of us attending a Baptism is generally a rushed and dynamic moment as one of our siblings or cousins is anxious (perhaps even a bit fussy) and another young and tiny relative is receiving the Sacrament. 

Well, as we anticipate the Feast of the Birth of Lord we will pause and pray, reflect, upon this wonderful sacrament of "birth" into new life.  And then... Of course... a wonderful meal!

See you in the Church at 7:15 pm on Sunday, December 22nd!

Fr. Wilke

Schedule for January 2014

Well, folks here it is... mark your calenders!

Sunday, January 5, 2014:  Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord: No Youth Group, enjoy the Magi’s Day of Christmas with your family!

Sunday, January 12, 2014: Feast of the Baptism of the Lord: 7:15-8:30 pm, meet in the Former Church; Prayer Service and Rosary… Snacks and fellowship afterwards

Sunday, January, 19, 2014: Youth Group Meeting 7:15-8:30 pm in  the Former Church; Encounter Program: for grades 6-8, and Small Group: grades 9-12.

Wednesday, January 22, 2014: March for Life, Washington D.C.: All High School Youth invited to attend as a group, grades 6-8 must attend with their parents.  More details to come!

Sunday, January, 26, 2014: Youth Group Meeting 7:15-8:30 pm in  the Former Church; T3: The Teen Timeline for grades 9-12, and Small Group: grades 6-8.

December Weather Update!

December Schedule Adjustments ... do to weather and such:

Sunday December 15th: Youth Group Meeting from 7:15-8:30, Former Church -- Encounter Program for grades 6 – 8 and small group for grades 9 – 12th.

Friday December 20th:  Christmas Magic “A Festival of Lights” at Rocky Ridge State Park or some other Christmas Lights in Hershey…we will leave at 6 pm in front of the Rectory. 

Sunday December 22nd:  Youth Group Christmas Party at 7:15-8:30, Former Church. 

  

Sunday December 29th:  FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY…NO YOUTH GROUP MEETING.

A Thoughtful Reflection on our Pope and Time Magazine...

Folks,

I am sharing this little video reflection by Fr. Robert Barron on Time Magazine's award to name Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, "Person of the Year" for 2013. 

Pope Francis at his Inaugural Mass

Fr. Barron is a very thoughtful priest who loves the Truth and the Church and, most importantly, he is man who loves the Lord with all his heart, all his soul, all his mind, and all his strength, and his neighbor as himself.

Fr. Robert Barron of Word on Fire Catholic Ministries

I hope Fr. Barron's reflection is helpful to you, a bit of insight into Pope Francis beyond the "nonsense" of some of what is said about Our Holy Father these days in the media.

May God continue to bless you abundantly,

Fr. W

Two Marian Celebrations in the Same Week!!!

 Happy Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe!

Today we celebrate the great appearance of Our Lady to Saint Juan Diego – today is a wonderful feast day, beginning of a great Evangelization and Conversion for millions, and the gift of a mystical image painted by the hand of God!

If you don’t know the story, look here for a nice summary and other information.

Here’s a great page on the truth about the Image of Our Lady… this is a great interactive page on the "Secrets" of the Image

Have a blessed Feast Day of Our Lady!

Fr. W

A Marian Snow Delay!

On this wonderful Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary let us pause for a moment and reflect upon the greatness of this celebration:

In 1854, Pope Pius IX solemnly proclaimed: 

“The most Blessed Virgin Mary, in the first instant of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege granted by almighty God, in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, the savior of the human race, was preserved free from all stain of original sin.”

The Most Blessed Virgin Mary's "yes" to the Archangel Gabriel at the Annunciation brought to fulfillment the singular grace and privilege of her Immaculate Conception.  May each one of us, through the intercession of the Mother of God, always say "yes" to God's plan in our life -- may we accept the great life of holiness that God has planned for us and become the saint that God desires us to become! 

For our continued mediation, take a look at Pope Francis' prayer: “Enkindle in all of us a renewed desire for holiness: may our words glow with the splendor of truth, may our works resound with the song of charity, may purity and chastity live in our bodies and in our hearts, may our lives express the presence of all the beauty of the gospel.” 

May you each have a safe and blessed Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God! 

O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee!

Fr. Wilke

No Youth Group Tonight

Ice Tonight = No Youth Group Tonight.

Be safe and stay home.

Fr. W

Rain! Rain! Go away!

Okay, team... here's some sad news -- its going to be raining and downright miserable this Friday Night for planned our adventure to York to see Christmas Magic at Rocky Ridge Park... 

Here's the thing: Christmas Lights deserve an evening with hint of snow on the horizon or at least a clear, crisp night for full illuminating effect - trust me, I have seen lots of lights.  The rain is practically unjust.

So we are POSTPONING Friday's Trip to Christmas Magic for 2 weeks (to Friday, December 20th). More details as we get closer.

If the weather is less than good that night, we will definitely go to see the lights in Hershey and have a great time!  I know this is our second adjustment to the schedule... but never fear - Sunday is still our regular meeting with Encounter and small group for our High School friends.

Take good care,

Fr. W

Meeting this Sunday, December 1st!

Hello Folks,

Meeting this week, Special Advent Prayer Service with Deacon Wrabel - devotion to the Most Holy Eucharist and the Most Holy Rosary... then some Cookies!  This program is for all grades, meet in the Former Church at 7:15 pm - 8:30 pm... we will walk back and forth to the Daily Mass Chapel.

Get Advent started off right - pray in the Presence of the Lord!

(Sadly, I have to be away this week - but I leave you with Deacon Wrabel who is very honored to be with you all!)

God Bless,

Fr. W

Happy Thanksgiving!

As we prepare to enjoy Thanksgiving and begin Advent, I wanted to express my thanks for all of you, know of my prayers for you and how grateful I am for your enthusiasm; as well as my anticipation of our time together, I am looking forward to this December schedule and coming to know the Lord with you more as we anticipate Christmas!

Today, I would like to share with all of you some of the wisdom of Pope Francis, from World Youth Day Rio 2013, directed especially to Youth:

§        “Jesus is calling you to be a disciple with a mission! … Careful, though! Jesus did not say: ‘If you would like to, if you have the time,’ but: ‘Go!’”  (Homily at closing Mass)
 

§        “The Church needs you, your enthusiasm, your creativity and the joy that is so characteristic of you. … Do you know what the best tool is for evangelizing the young? Another young person. This is the path to follow!” (Homily at closing Mass)
 

§        “Bringing the Gospel is bringing God’s power to pluck up and break down evil and violence … selfishness, intolerance and hatred, so as to build a new world. Jesus Christ is counting on you! The Church is counting on you! The Pope is counting on you!” (Homily at closing Mass)
 

§        On marriage in the face of a culture that thinks a lifelong commitment is “out of fashion”:  “Be revolutionaries. ... Yes, I am asking you to rebel against this culture that sees everything as temporal and ultimately thinks you are incapable of responsibility, incapable of true love. I am confident in you, and I pray for you. Have the coverage to swim against the tide!” (Speech to volunteers)
 

§        On vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life:  “I will never forget that day, Sept. 21 – I was 17 years old – when, after stopping in the Church of San José de Flores to go to confession, I first heard God calling me. Do not be afraid of what God asks of you! It is worth saying ‘Yes’ to God. In him we find joy!” (Speech to volunteers)

I hope your Thanksgiving Holiday is safe and full of joy!

May God continue to bless you abundantly,

Fr. W

Youth Group meeting this week is our Movie Night!

Just a reminder... our Youth Group meeting this week is our Movie Night!

Our movie will be "Forever Strong" -- its about 2 hours... so Parents, there's plenty of room in the back of the room, feel free to stay... or ... arrive at about 9:10 pm, thanks!

( Note, the two scenes that are "iffy" will be omitted. ** Note it is rated PG-13 and A-II ** -- Catholic News Services commentary: http://www.catholicnews.com/data/movies/08mv152.htm )

God Bless,

Fr. Wilke

Schedule for the next few weeks…

Sunday November 24th: Youth Group Movie Night from 7:15-8:30/45, Former Church. (Parents Most Welcome to Join us!!!)

Sunday December 1st:  Contemporary Youth Choir sings at the 6 pm Mass.  Youth Group Meeting from 7:15-8:30, Former Church  -- Advent Prayer Service in the chapel following Mass.  Snacks and refreshments will follow in the former Church.

Friday December 6th:  The Feast of Saint Nicholas.  Christmas Magic “A Festival of Lights” at Rocky Ridge State Park…we will leave at 6 pm in front of the Rectory. 

Sunday December 8th: Youth Group Meeting from 7:15-8:30, Former Church -- Encounter Program for grades 6 – 8 and small group for grades 9 – 12th.

Sunday December 15th: Youth Group Meeting from 7:15-8:30, Former Church -- T3: The Teen Timeline for grades 9 – 12 and small group for grades 6 – 8th. 

Sunday December 22nd:  Youth Group Christmas Party at 7:15-8:30, Former Church. 

  

Sunday December 29th:  FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY…NO YOUTH GROUP MEETING.

Youth Group this Sunday!

Reminder!

This Sunday (November 17th): 6 pm Practice for the Contemporary Youth Choir followed by meeting.

Youth Group Meeting at 7:15 – T3: The Teen Timeline for grades 9 – 12; Small group for grades 6-8

See you there,

Fr. W

Go out into the Deep! Duc in Altum!

Go out into the Deep! Duc in Altum!

 As we continue our thoughts together, I want to encourage all of you to take Jesus Christ at his word - trust in Him - and confidently live as ones who have been transformed by knowing and loving Him!  Spend time today, and every day, with the Sacred Scriptures (the US Bishops have the daily readings on their webpage: click the calendar and read! ) as well as time with the Most Holy Eucharist ( our Church is open all day long, to stop in for a visit with Jesus! ). Perhaps even just review our posts from last week... on the call of Peter...

I am looking forward to catching up with all of you again this Sunday Evening!  Each one of us is called to become a saint in our very moment - in Harrisburg, Colonial Park, Central Dauphin High School... at Holy Name of Jesus Parish!  Don't be afraid to be inspired by Jesus Christ and the many saints who encountered Jesus and were forever changed by Him... don't be afraid to become a saint today!

 I pray that each of you will encounter Jesus Christ today - and be forever changed!

Yours in Christ,

Fr. W


"Faith is first and foremost a personal, intimate encounter with Jesus, it is having an experience of his closeness, his friendship and his love. It is in this way that we learn to know him ever better, to love him and to follow him more and more. May this happen to each one of us!" 

Pope Benedict XVI
General Audience, 21 October 2009

A word on “duc in altum”…

I posted with such haste earlier this week I forgot to note why I got started thinking about that phrase from the Gospel (Luke 5: 1-11): duc in altum – Go out into the depths!

Last Sunday, our Youth Contemporary Choir officially began with a wonderful start at the 6 pm Mass… of course, I was sneaking around to hear our friends singing (as I was unlocking in the Old Church and turning on a few lights for the meeting) and was thinking about that darkened stain glass window in the Choir Loft.  I thought to myself… I don’t recall that window… I wonder what that window depicts… and so… I found a little flyer-thing on the stain glass windows of our Church… and there it was: duc in altum – the very moment in the Gospel when Jesus calls Simon (aka: Peter) to be his disciple after the great catch of fish!

Anyway, my thought on that passage is still posted below, with the link to a nice little video for your musing… but here is what our Church program insightfully offers on the Rose Window in our Choir Loft:

The Rose Window – The Call of Peter

Before Peter was head of the Church, he was a simple fisherman named Simon.  This window depicts Jesus Speaking with Simon and his brother Andrew as described in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 5:1-10.  Jesus tells Simon to put out in the deep and let their net for a catch.  At first, Simon resists Jesus’ word, but he eventually listens.  The fishermen make miraculous catch that nearly breaks their nets.  They needed the help of others to haul in an abundance of fish that fills two boats.  In the window, we See Simon’s hand placed upon his chest as he humbles himself before the Lord Jesus, saying to him, “Depart from me, I am a sinful man.”  Peter then receives the call as Jesus responds to him, “Do not be afraid; henceforth you will be a fisher of men.”  At this word, Simon leaves everything and follows Jesus.

(From “A Pilgrimage of Light: The Stained Glass Windows of Holy Name of Jesus Parish”)

In that one paragraph we receive a brilliant insight into the beauty both the Gospel and our Rose Window – we can reflect anew upon the life Jesus Christ… and thus I offered a few of my thoughts in my post from the other day… I hope this little extra insight into the Gospel and our wonderful stained glass window in the Choir Loft helps you to follow the Lord more authentically today. 

Let’s keep one another in prayer!

May the Lord continue to bless you abundantly,

Fr. W

duc in altum

“Go out into the depths!” Our Lord, Jesus Christ, invites us to trust him and follow him to abundant life – a life full of joy!  Don’t be afraid to welcome Jesus into your life, to invite him into your meals and snacks, into what you read and watch (even on YouTube or even late-night TV!), into your quick drive to work or school, or into your friendships – Jesus wants to be there with you and Jesus wants to fill your heart with joy!

Today, I would like to offer a little reflection and a video… First, a reading from the Gospel, Luke 5: 1-11:

While the crowd was pressing in on Jesus and listening to the word of God, he was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret.  He saw two boats there alongside the lake; the fishermen had disembarked and were washing their nets.  Getting into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, he asked him to put out a short distance from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat.  After he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch.” Simon said in reply, “Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing, but at your command I will lower the nets.” When they had done this, they caught a great number of fish and their nets were tearing.  They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come to help them. They came and filled both boats so that they were in danger of sinking.  When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at the knees of Jesus and said, “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.”  For astonishment at the catch of fish they had made seized him and all those with him, and likewise James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners of Simon. Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.”When they brought their boats to the shore, they left everything and followed him.

Notice how Jesus just invades the life of Simon (aka: Peter), how he transforms even the ordinary life of a fisherman with his abundant grace! Jesus wants to transform our life – even if we are like Simon, an ordinary person.  It is in the Ordinary that Jesus wants to be with each of us… which reminds me of one of my favorite “blesseds” (a “saint-to-be”): Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati.  Check out this video on the Gospel we just read and this great witness of the faith: Pier Giorgio Frassati: A commentary by Fr. Barron

It was great to see so many of you last night at Youth Group!  Let's keep one another in prayer, as we accept Jesus into our ordinary daily life... take up the invitation of Jesus to each of us: Go out into the depths! 

Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati, pray for us!

In His Name,

Fr. W

Schedule for the next two weeks - T3 & Encounter!

Schedule for the next two weeks:

Sunday November 3^rd:  Contemporary Youth Choir sings at the 6 pm Mass.  Followed by meeting: T3: The Teen Timeline for grades 9 – 12 and small group for grades 6 – 8.

Sunday November 10^th:  Practice for Youth Contemporary Choir at 6 pm followed by meeting at 7:15 pm.  Encounter Program for grades 6 – 8 and small group for grades 9 – 12. 

Looking forward to seeing all of you!

Fr. W

This Friday, November 1st : All Saints Day!

Just a reminder that this Friday is All Saints Day – a day to celebrate all the Saints of the Church and when we are asked to attend Mass! (It’s a Holy Day of Obligation… so, go to Mass!)

We got lots of options for attending Mass for All Saints Day:

Thursday, Oct. 31^st at 5:30 pm

Friday, Nov. 1^st at 6:30 am, 8:30 am, 12 Noon, 7:00 pm.

If for some reason these times don’t work for you, or you will be out of town – never fear, there are lots of Catholic Churches all over… check out www.hbgdiocese.org or www.MassTimes.org to get yourself to Mass for All Saints Day!

Let us all rejoice in the Lord,

as we celebrate the feast day in honor of all the Saints,

at whose festival the Angels rejoice

and praise the Son of God.

May all the Saints intercede for us!

Fr. W

Youth Group Tomorrow

Reminder tomorrow Evening is Youth Group!

Youth Contemporary Choir Practice at 6pm with meeting at 7:15pm…Encounter Program for students in grades 6 – 8 and small group for grades 9 -12.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Fr. W

Quick Schedule Change!

Quick Schedule Change!

Friends, we have to make a quick change to the schedule... unfortunately, the Corn Maze trip this week is not going to be able to happen.  Sorry we didn't get this notice out sooner - being only a few days in here at Holy Name I am just processing the calenders and schedules a little late in the week... don't worry though, we will do another trip soon - maybe ice skating around Christmas??? any interest? or other suggestions?

As I look at the rest of this year's schedule, Fr. Carroll has lots of great events planned for all of us and I hope to add a few along the way!  Besides, adding Ice Skating around Christmas, perhaps we can jump in some cars and join in the Fan the Fire retreat day at St. Joseph, York in a few weeks!  Lets keep our eyes and hears open to see where the Holy Spirit is calling us to continue to encounter Jesus Christ!

Today, let's offer a quick prayer to the Blessed Mother for each other - that each of us may grow in the virtue we most need!  (Click for a great link to a wonderful Marian Prayer)

God Bless,

Fr. W

He first found his own brother, Simon, and told him, “We have found the Messiah!”

He first found his own brother, Simon, and told him, “We have found the Messiah!” (John 1:41)

It is with the joy of encountering Jesus Christ that I great all of you at Holy Name of Jesus Parish!  Just as the Gospels continuously affirm, in finding Jesus Christ we find our purpose in life and our hearts are filled with joy.  Our Lord affirms that our discipleship, our commitment to follow Jesus, is to fill our hearts with joy: “If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.  I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete” (John 15: 10-11).

As I walk with you, taking the shepherd’s staff from Father Carroll, I believe firmly that as our faithfulness to Jesus Christ grows so will our joy!  I am looking forward to experiencing the joyful community of Holy Name of Jesus, especially with all of you our young men and women of the parish.  Over the next several weeks we will have many chances to get to know one another and, more importantly, to more fully know Jesus Christ!

Each of us is called, like St. Andrew the Apostle, to share our joy from encountering Jesus Christ with others - just as occurred in our passage from Sacred Scripture records.  We are called to allow the experience  the joy of Christ, to change the way that we live and how we live with others!  This week, take a moment to think about how you have meet Jesus - who is Jesus? how do I know Jesus? who have I invited to meet Jesus?  (For some fuel to inspire your thought, take a closer look at the encounter of the first disciples with Jesus: John 1:35-51 - just scroll down and take a read!)

Rest assured that each of you remain in my prayers: that you will be kept safe from all harm and continue to grow in virtue and love of the Lord!  Please, keep me in your prayers as well!

May the Lord continue to generously bless each of you!

Fr. Wilke

Don't forget...NO MEETING THIS SUNDAY...FATHER C IS ON VACATION...PLUS...check out this new exciting purchase.

Just a reminder everyone...there will be NO MEETING this Sunday September 15th for I will be on vacation.  Please pray for my safe travel...and some nice weather as I make my way up to Cooperstown New York and Boston Massachusetts.    

Also as I have mentioned during the summer I made a few key purchases with an Nintendo Wii system, several new board games to go along with the movie screen and projector I purchased last year.  Today as I was out shopping I purchased a Karaoke System to go along with our activities.  The Karaoke System can be used during game nights and perhaps we could look at doing a Karaoke competition in the near future.  

Here is the new purchase...looking forward to getting some good use out of it!  

Here I am testing to make sure it works...yes I am singing...singing to Joe Diffie's, John Deere Green!  Yes I am a country boy at heart!

Fr. C.

Don't Forget...there is NO MEETING this Sunday for Labor Day Weekend!!!

Please remember we WILL NOT be meeting this Sunday September 1st for it is Labor Day Weekend. However we will be meeting after the Sunday Evening Mass on Sunday September 8th in the chapel to have a Holy Hour in honor of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.  We will be praying a rosary in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament.  Please consider joining us as we sit in the presence of the Lord as He takes delight in us as we take a moment to honor His and our Mother as we celebrate her birthday.    

Of course it wouldn't be much of a celebration if we didn't have some cake to go with it.  So please join us after the Holy Hour for cake in the former Church following the Holy Hour!!!  

Encounter and T: The Teen Timeline...exciting times for our parish youth group

As I have mentioned in previous blog posts, sent in mass emails, posted on the three bulletin boards at the Church and will soon be announced in the parish bulletins we are introducing two exciting bible study programs to our Youth Group this year and that is the Encounter: Experiencing God in the Everyday for our middle school program grades 6-8 and T3: The Teen Timeline for our students in high school.  

Each bible study program will meet once a month during our weekly Youth Group meeting.  Both programs will help our young people deepen their understanding of the bible at their level.  These awesome programs are produced by Ascension Press and the DVD program is hosted by Mark Hart known affectionately by many as "The Bible Geek."  

I would like to encourage our young people in the parish to register by emailing hnjyouth.hbg@gmail.com for the particular program according to their grade level.  This will help me in facilitating in ordering workbooks for the upcoming year.  

Remember our youth group meets regularly on Sunday's throughout the year.  Please keep checking the blog for updates and times of when and where we will meet.  Students in grades 6 - 12 are most certainly invited to invite any of their friends to attend any meeting.  

Sincerely,

Fr. C.  

A BIG THANKS!!!!

I just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone for coming out last evening for our annual kick off the year cookout.  It was great to see everyone and I hope everyone had a great time.  Also a big thank you also to all our volunteers, and those who brought food.  I would be unable to do all of this without you.

Last evening, everyone in attendance received a schedule of events through the month of December. I will post a listing of those events below.  And I will do my best to keep this blog updated with reminders.  Youth Group usually meets in the former Church at 7:15pm on Sundays unless noted otherwise...

August 2013

Sunday August 18^th:  Safe Environment Program for grades 9 -12 at 7:15pm in the former Church

Sunday August 25^th:  Game Night for everyone in grades 6 -12 at 7:15pm in the former Church

September 2013

Sunday September 1^st:  NO MEETING…LABOR DAY WEEKEND

Sunday September 8^th:  Holy Hour in honor of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary with recitation of the Rosary in the chapel (note location) following the 6pm evening Mass.  Birthday cake and refreshments to follow in the former Church

Sunday September 15^th:  NO MEETING…Father C is on vacation.

Sunday September 22^nd:  Encounter Program for students in grades 6 – 8^th…small group for students in grades 9 -12^th.

Sunday September 29^th:  Chicken BBQ Fundraiser after the Morning Masses.  First Practice for the Youth Contemporary Choir at 6pm followed by meeting at 7:15pm…T3:  The Teen Timeline for students in grades 9 -12 and small group for grades 6-8^th.

October 2013

Saturday October 5^th:  Rosary in the Chapel following the 5pm Mass for the intention of the respect of all human life, followed by Pizza and the movie “Meant to Be: A Right to Life Parable.”  The movie is NR but Dove Approved for ages 12+

Sunday October 6^th:  Practice for the Youth Contemporary Choir at 6pm with meeting at 7:15pm.  Campfire (Weather Permitting) Come prepared to roast marshmallows and tell stories.

Saturday October 12^th:  Corn Maze in Lancaster County.  We will leave immediately following the 5pm Mass from the chapel lot. 

Sunday October 13^th:  NO YOUTH CONTEMPORARY CHOIR PRACTICE OR MEETING.

Sunday October 20^th:  Youth Contemporary Choir Practice at 6pm with meeting at 7:15pm…Encounter Program for students in grades 6 – 8 and small group for grades 9 -12.

Sunday October 27^th:  Youth Contemporary Choir Practice at 6pm with meeting at 7:15pm…T3: The Teen Timeline for grades 9 -12 and small group for grades 6 – 8^th.  

November 2013

Sunday November 3^rd:  Contemporary Youth Choir sings at the 6pm Mass.  Meeting:  The Faithful Traveler:  National Shrine of Saint Rita Cascia followed by games and snacks.

Sunday November 10^th:  Practice for Youth Contemporary Choir at 6pm followed by meeting at 7:15pm.  Encounter Program for grades 6 – 8 and small group for grades 9 – 12. 

Sunday November 17^th:  Practice for Youth Contemporary Choir at 6pm followed by meeting at 7:15pm.  T3: The Teen Timeline for grades 9 – 12 and small group for grades 6 -8^th. 

Sunday November 24^th:  Practice for Youth Contemporary Choir at 6pm followed by meeting at 7:00pm (Note Time).  Movie Night:  The Ultimate Gift.  Meeting will end around 9pm.

December 2013

Sunday December 1^st:  Contemporary Youth Choir sings at the 6pm Mass.  Advent Prayer Service in the chapel following Mass.  Snacks and refreshments will follow in the former Church.

Friday December 6^th:  The Feast of Saint Nicholas.  Christmas Magic “A Festival of Lights” at Rocky Ridge State Park…we will leave at 6pm in front of the Rectory. 

Sunday December 8^th:  Practice for the Contemporary Youth Choir followed by meeting.  Encounter Program for grades 6 – 8 and small group for grades 9 – 12^th.

Sunday December 15^th:  Practice for the Contemporary Youth Choir followed by meeting.  T3: The Teen Timeline for grades 9 – 12 and small group for grades 6 – 8^th. 

Sunday December 22^nd:  Practice for the Youth Contemporary Choir at 6pm followed by the Youth Group Christmas Party at 7pm.  Please come to enjoy a nice ham dinner, entertainment provided by our contemporary youth choir and a movie in the former Church at 8:15pm. 

Sunday December 29^th:  FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY…NO PRACTICE FOR THE YOUTH CONTEMOPORARY CHOIR OR YOUTH GROUP MEETING.

Our new youth group office/storage space

Summer vacation is  wrapping up and yesterday I spent the later part of the morning/afternoon clearing out the old music ministers office in the former Church and set it up as our new youth room/storage area in the former Church.  During the summer I purchased 10 floor cushions and 8 folding camping chairs with drink holders and a place to put our plates.  Also I purchased a series of board games and a Nintendo Wii for our game nights.  Don't forget our annual kickoff cookout will be next Wednesday at 7pm behind the rectory.  If you can join us to send me an email by Monday or call the parish office.  

Fr. C.

HOLY NAME OF JESUS YOUTH GROUP NEWS!!!

New exciting Bible Study Programs...formation of a new Youth Contemporary Choir!

Encounter:  Experiencing God in the Everyday Bible Study Program from Ascension Press is specifically geared to students in grades 6 - 8th and presents the bible in an exciting new way.

T3:  The Teen Timeline is program geared towards older teenagers and is designed to show them the big picture of God's plan through the Sacred Scriptures.

In addition to these exciting new programs we are establishing a new Youth Contemporary Choir open to students in grades 8 -12 which will begin practicing on Sunday September 29th in the Former Church.

Our parish youth group usually meets regularly on Sunday nights at 7:15 in the former Church...although on some weekends the dates, times, locations may change.

Other activities you can look forward to throughout the year...

• Corn Maze (October)
• Snow tubing (February)
• March for Life (open to students 9 - 12)
• Game Nights...new board games have been purchased along with a Nintendo Wii.  
• Movie Nights
• Day Trips
• And much more...

Of course there will be opportunity throughout the year for Spiritual Growth.  

Join us Sunday September 8th in the chapel following the 6pm Mass for a Holy Hour in Honor of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.  There is no better way to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary then spending time with her Son.  Following the Holy Hour which will include the recitation of the Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary we will have cake and refreshments in the former Church as we celebrate her birthday.  

Holy Name of Jesus Youth Group 2013-2014 Kickoff the year cookout...and other notes!!!

On Wednesday August 14th at 7pm behind the rectory we will be having our annual kickoff the year cookout.  Families are invited.  If you are planning on attending please let me know by Monday August 12th so I can gauge how much food to purchase for the evening.

You may also want to mark your calendars that Wednesday August 14th at 5:30pm there will be Mass for the Vigil of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.  I mention this as a convenient option for you and your families to attend Mass for the Holy Day and make your way over for dinner.

Other August activities...

Sunday August 18th at 7:15pm in the former Church:  Presentation for those in grades 9 through 12 for the Safe Environment Protection

Sunday August 25th at 7:15pm Game Night for grades 6 through 12 in the former Church...make up presentation for those in grades 9 through 12 for the Safe Environment Program.

There will be NO MEETING on Sunday September 1st since that is Labor Day weekend.  Enjoy your time with your families.

Please Note:  A more detailed schedule will be passed out to those in attendance at the cookout on August 14th.

Youth Group Movie Night and Divine Mercy Sunday

This coming Saturday April 6th at 6:30 we will be viewing the movie Pope John Paul II in the former Church.  We will be serving Pizza for dinner so if your planning on attending please let me know by Friday.  Please be advised the movie is 3 hours long so it will be wrapping up between 9:45 and 10PM.

On Sunday at 3PM in the Main Church we will be having a special service in commemoration for Divine Mercy Sunday.  You are all welcome to attend!!!

Fr. C.

Email Notifications

I have been asking around and some have been missing some of the emails from our new youth group email account.  Please make sure you add hnjyouth.hbg@gmail.com to your contacts.  A concern I have is that they might be heading to your spam folders.  Of course please make sure you check out our youth group blog for upcoming events.

Just a reminder this Friday at 7:30 we will be viewing the film "The Mighty Macs."  Please consider also bringing a friend.  It is a great movie!  Hope to see you there!!!

Fr. C.

Tuesday March 12th...the Conclave Begins

Beginning on Tuesday March 12 the cardinals will gather in the Sistine Chapel in Rome to elect the successor to His Holiness Benedict XVI.

What is required...

For a candidate to be elected he must receive two thirds majority.  If the cardinals fail to elect a new pope on a vote they will burn the ballets and black smoke will come out of the chimney.

However, if a cardinal receives the two thirds majority needed to win election he is approached and asked if he accepts election.  If he doesn't except then the ballets are burned, and they go through the process again.  But if he accepts, at that moment the cardinal becomes the Holy Father and is asked what name he wishes to take.  At that moment he is led into the room of tears and puts on the white cassock and vestments we have become accustomed to seeing.  In the meantime the ballets are burned with a chemical causing white smoke to signal to the world "Habemus Papam" we have a pope.

Once the cardinals greet the new Holy Father, the pope is formally introduced to the faithful from the balcony of Saint Peter's Basilica.

I invite you the next couple days to stay turned to the television for updates as the events in Rome unfold, but most importantly I invite you to pray for the Cardinals that they may be guided by the Holy Spirit as they prepare to elect a new Holy Father!!!

Father C.

Snow Day...an Note From Father C.

I am sure most of you are enjoying the "snow day" this morning, although at the time of this writing there is no snow outside.  Just a reminder that this Saturday we are having a movie night in the Former Church at 6:30.  Please email me (hnjyouth.hbg@gmail.com) by Saturday Morning at 10AM at the latest if you are planning to attend.  I need a count for food.

Also I want to invite you and your families to participate in the Soup and Scripture held on Wednesday Evenings at 5:30 in our Parish Social Hall.  The past couple Wednesday's I have been impressed with the attendance.  It is a great opportunity to come together to eat a bowl of soup and to break open the word of God.  There is no cost for this, however they are taking up a free-will offering to benefit our parish's Saint Vincent DePaul Society.

Finally on Friday March 15th when we have our second movie night I invited you and your families to consider supporting our Parish's Knights of Columbus Fish Fry that evening for dinner.  The Knights do a lot for our parish and stand ready to support us in our ministry.  I kindly ask that you and your families consider supporting them in their ministry to our parish on Friday's during the Lenten Season.

God Bless!!!

Fr. C.

Let us pray for His Holiness Benedict XVI

Today let us remember in our prayer His Holiness Benedict XVI as he retires to a life of prayer.  Yesterday at his final general audience he said, "He belongs always and forever to everyone, to the whole church."  As he promises to pray for us may we continue to pray for him.

At 2PM today his resignation takes effect, let us take a moment today to remember him in our prayers and to pray for the College of Cardinals as they gather in Rome in the coming week as they are guided by the Holy Spirit to elect his successor.  

Up Coming Events...

March 2013 Schedule

On Saturday March 9th...the High School Youth group will be viewing the movie "Fireproof" in the Old Church at 6:30PM.  Members of the 6 through 8th youth group are welcome to attend...just please let me know.  For parents the film is rated PG and for more on the movie please check out the website...

http://www.fireproofthemovie.com/


On Sunday March 10 the Youth Group 6 through 8 will be watching "The Faithful Traveler" in the Old Church at 7PM.  Following you will have an opportunity for fellowship, games and snacks.


On Friday March 15 at 7:30 (Note the change of date and time from your original schedule) the 6 through 8th Youth Group will be watching the film "The Mighty Macs" in the Old Church at 7:30PM.  Members of the Youth Group in grades 9 through 12 are welcome to attend.  For parents the film is rated G and for more information on this film please check out the website...

  http://www.sonypictures.com/homevideo/themightymacs/

Also on March 15th I would encourage you to support our Knights of Columbus Council by supporting the Fish Fry in the Social Hall.  They serve dinner from 4:45 to 7:00PM.  Please consider supporting them for they offer plenty of assistance to many of our youth organizations in the parish.  Also at 7PM in the Church we have Stations of the Cross. Please consider dining, praying, and staying to watch this family film.  

Holy Week...I would like to extend an invitation to the members of our Youth Group to attend some of the services during Holy Week.  Here is our parish schedule during Holy Week.

March 27th:  On Tuesday of Holy Week at 7PM we will be having our Parish Penance Service.  Many priests from the surrounding area will be present to hear confessions that evening.  

March 29th:  Morning Prayer will be prayed at 8:30AM.  The Mass of the Lord's Super will be at 7PM.

March 30th:  Morning Prayer will be prayed at 8:30AM.  Living Stations will be at 11AM.  The Liturgy of the Lord's Passion will be at 3PM.  Stations will be prayed at 7PM with confessions being offered during that time as well.

March 31st:  Morning Prayer will be prayed at 8:30AM.  Confessions will be heard from 11AM to Noon.  At Noon we will be have the blessing of food.  Finally at 8PM we will celebrate the Easter Vigil.