Decoration Donations In the spirit of the holidays, we're also accepting donation envelopes for holiday church decorations. These envelopes can be found conveniently in your pews, offering you the opportunity to make a donation in honor or in memory of your loved ones. All honored loved ones will be acknowledged in the Parish Christmas Bulletin. Donations for holiday church decorations will be accepted until December 17th. Your generosity truly makes a difference, and we extend our heartfelt thanks for your support. Thank you for spreading joy and making a positive impact in our community.

2nd.Sunday of Advent Dec.10, 2023. Isaiah 40:1-5,9-11; 2Peter 3:8-14; Mark 1:1-8. A voice cries: "In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD, make straight his paths…”.                                                                                                                                                          A A Tale of Repentance. Not too many years ago, newspapers carried the story of Al Johnson, a Kansas man who repented of his sins and chose Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Remarkably, his newfound faith in Jesus Christ was so strong that, he confessed to a bank robbery he had participated in when he was nineteen years old. Because of the statute of limitations, Johnson could not be prosecuted for the offense. But because of his complete and total change of heart, he not only confessed his crime but voluntarily repaid his share of the stolen money! -- That’s repentance – metanoia -- the radical change of heart demanded by John the Baptist in today’s Gospel as he cries out: “Prepare the way of the Lord. Make straight his path. Every valley must be filled in, every mountain made low, and rough road made plain.” Life Message: Who then, is John the Baptist and what is the significance of his message for our lives? His life was fueled by one burning passion - to point others to Jesus Christ and to the coming of his kingdom. Hence, John’s ministry must be our task of being trailblazers, and through Christ, bring others closer to God, by “…creating the new heaven and new earth, in which righteousness dwells…” (2nd.reading). Parents, serve a very significant role as trailblazers, by setting an example for their children and serving as their first teachers in all things. Teachers, coaches, and those in positions of Authority like the government and the Church, play an important role, as youth look up to them as advisers and guides. Conclusion: Let us use these days of preparation for Christmas to ready ourselves for Christ’s daily coming and Second Coming, remembering that the Second Coming will occur for each one of us on the day of our death, or on the Day of the Lord, whichever comes first. Let’s therefore, step up to the plate, be accountable, and, like John the Baptist, blaze paths that will truly make our families, neighborhoods, nations, and churches better and more holy. A voice cries: "In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD, make straight his paths…”. Because of the statute of limitations, Johnson could not be prosecuted for the offense. But because of his complete and total change of heart, he not only confessed his crime but voluntarily repaid his share of the stolen money! -- That’s repentance – metanoia -- the radical change of heart demanded by John the Baptist in today’s Gospel as he cries out: “Prepare the way of the Lord. Make straight his path. Every valley must be filled in, every mountain made low, and rough road made plain.” Life Message: Who then, is John the Baptist and what is the significance of his message for our lives? His life was fueled by one burning passion - to point others to Jesus Christ and to the coming of his kingdom. Hence, John’s ministry must be our task of being trailblazers, and through Christ, bring others closer to God, by “…creating the new heaven and new earth, in which righteousness dwells…” (2nd.reading). Parents serve a very significant role as trailblazers, by setting an example for their children and serving as their first teachers in all things. Teachers, coaches, and those in positions of Authority like the government and the Church, play an important role, as youth look up to them as advisers and guides. Conclusion: Let us use these days of preparation for Christmas to ready ourselves for Christ’s daily coming and Second Coming, remembering that the Second Coming will occur for each one of us on the day of our death, or on the Day of the Lord, whichever comes first. Let’s therefore, step up to the plate, be accountable, and, like John the Baptist, blaze paths that will truly make our families, neighborhoods, nations, and churches better and more holy. A voice cries: "In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD, make straight his paths…”.

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION December 8, 2023. Gen 3:9-15; Eph.1:3-6, Luke1:26-38 Hail Mary, full of Grace… For with God Nothing Will Be Impossible Do you want to live a grace-filled life? The angel Gabriel salutes Mary as "full of grace". To become the mother of the Savior, Mary was enriched by God with gifts to enable her to assume this awesome role. In other words, "Being obedient she became the cause of salvation for herself and for the whole human race… Thus, Eve's knot of disobedience was untied by Mary's obedience. This means, what the virgin Eve bound through her disbelief, Mary loosened by her faith" (By Irenaeus, bishop of Lyons, 130-200 AD). Significance: What is the key that can unlock the power and grace of God's kingdom in our personal lives? Faith and obedience for sure! When Adam and Eve disobeyed God, they immediately experienced the consequence of their action - separation from the God who loved them. God in his mercy promised them a Redeemer who would pay the price for their sin and the sin of the world. We see the marvelous unfolding of God's plan of redemption in the events leading up to the Incarnation, the birth of the Messiah. Life Message: Mary's prompt response of "yes" to the divine message is a model of faith for all believers. That is to say, Mary believed God's promises even when they seemed impossible. She was full of grace because she trusted that what God said was true and would be fulfilled. She was willing and eager to do God's will, even if it seemed difficult or costly. Conclusion: Therefore, God gives us the grace to say "yes" to his will and to his transforming work in our lives. Moreover, God gives us grace and he expects us to respond with the same willingness, obedience, and heart-felt trust as Mary did. When God commands, he also gives the grace, strength, and means to respond. We can either yield to his grace or resist and go our own way. Do you believe in God's promises, and do you yield to his grace? Prayer: Heavenly Father, you offer us abundant grace, mercy, and forgiveness through your Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ. Help me to live a grace-filled life as Mary did by believing in your promises and by giving you my unqualified "yes" to your will and to your plan for my life.

Mark your calendars! It's time to celebrate the holiday season together at the All Parish Potluck Christmas Party. Join us on December 17th at 5:30 pm in the Parish Hall for an evening filled with festive cheer. Everyone, regardless of age, is invited to partake in the merriment! Get ready for an enjoyable time with activities like cookie decorating and trivia. To make the gathering even more delightful, we encourage you to contribute by bringing a food item, whether it's a main dish, side dish, or dessert, to share with the community. We look forward to seeing you there as we come together to create lasting memories and spread the joy of the season!

December 3, 2023 1st. Sunday of Advent: Is 63:16b-17, 19b; 64:2-7; 1 Cor 1:3-9; Mk 13:33-37. Introduction: The common theme of today’s readings is that vigilant service prepares us for the coming of Christ as our Savior at Christmas and as our Judge and Lord at the end of the world. The reason the liturgical year ends and begins with the same theme is clear: if we have already embraced Jesus in his first coming, we will have no fear of his second coming. Thus, Advent is the season of special preparation for, and expectation of, the coming of Christ. It encourages us to examine our lives, to reflect on our need for God to enter our lives, and to prepare earnestly for, and eagerly await, the coming of Christ. He will come to us in the celebration of the Incarnation, in His continual coming in our daily living, and in His final coming as our Lord to judge us all and to renew the Father’s creation. Life Message: “Ready or not, here I come.” When you were a child, did you play the game, “Hide and Seek”? If you did, you would remember that the person who was "it" closed his eyes while the rest went to hide. To give them time to hide, the child started counting: 5, 10, 15, 20 and up to 100. Then he would say, "Ready or not, here I come!" The point of the game was to hide oneself so well that the leader could not find you, for if he found you, and beat you back to the goal, you had to be "it" the next go-around. The secret of the game was preparing oneself against being found and caught. With excitement we heard the words, "Ready or not -- here I come!" -- In today's Gospel lesson Jesus is saying to the world, "Ready or not -- here I come." In chapter 13 of Mark, Jesus tells us that he will be returning to the earth "with great power and glory." As in the game, this is not a game, there is counting and an accounting going on right now. It is a countdown before the blast of his appearance on earth again, this time to judge the world and to gather his faithful to himself. Conclusion: Therefore, using apocalyptic images, the Gospel urges the elect to be alert for the return of Christ because no one except the Father knows the day or the hour of the Lord’s return. Consequently, Jesus summarizes the complexities of Christian living in two imperatives: "Take heed!" (Be on guard) and "Watch!" (Be alert, stay awake, and don’t grow careless). In short, our life on earth is to be one of productive service, uninfluenced by a supervisor's presence or seeming absence. That’s why in the 2nd. reading, St. Paul fervently prays for the reconversion of Christians in Corinth, and indeed all Christians, who have misused our gifts and charisms and remain ill-prepared for Christ’s Second Coming. For, as the gatekeepers and the household servants we are expected to be ever vigilant, because our master is sure to return, but though the time is uncertain, the reward or punishment is sure and certain.

Solemnity of CHRIST THE KING Nov.26, 2023. Ezek. 34:11-12, 15-17; I Cor 15:20-26, 28; Mt 25:31-46. “Christus vincit! Christus regnat! Christus imperat! Christ conquers! Christ rules! Christ reigns!” Introduction: Today’s Scripture Readings revolve around the Last Judgment scene coming in glory and power. It was Pope Pius XI who brought the Feast of Jesus Christ the King into the liturgy in 1925 to bring Christ as Ruler, and Christian values, back into lives of Christians, into society, and into politics. In short, this feast challenges us to see Christ the King in everyone, especially those whom our society considers the least important, and to treat each person with the same love, mercy, and compassion Jesus showed. Lesson: Today’s Gospel describes Christ the King coming in Heavenly glory to judge us, based on how we have shared our love and blessings with others through genuine acts of charity in our lives. Jesus is present to us now, not only as our Good Shepherd leading, feeding, and healing his sheep, but also as dwelling in those for whom we care. By analogy, in the parable of the separation of the sheep from the goats at the Last Judgment, every person to whom we give ourselves, "whether hungry, thirsty or a stranger, naked, sick or in prison," is revealed to us as having been the risen Jesus. Ultimately, our reward or punishment depends on how we have recognized and treated this risen Jesus in the needy. Conclusion: We need to fight against the enemies of Christ’s Kingdom: Terrorism has affected the entire world, including Christ’s Kingdom on earth. These terrorists are people who slaughter the unborn; engage in a frontal attack on the modern family through provocative television shows, movies, music, and pornography; eradicate any recognition of God from public display and public schools. The battlefield is the heart, the home, the school, the place of employment, the neighborhood, and the parish. Consequently, to ensure that Jesus is always the King of our hearts, we need to make a permanent, total commitment to Him and to live out that commitment with the necessary sacrifices, conviction, hard work, and daily, serious prayer. Let’s prayer, therefore, that we the faithful would gain strength and courage from the celebration of the feast, so that Christ will continue to reign in our hearts, minds, wills, and bodies, as our King. "To Him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by His Blood and made us a Kingdom, priests for His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen" (Rev. 1:5b-6). Christus vincit! Christus regnat! Christus imperat! Christ conquers! Christ rules! Christ reigns!

"Prayer joined to sacrifice constitutes the most powerful force in human history" Pope John Paul II Divine Mercy Chaplet: Every Wednesday following 9 am Mass (Historic Chapel) First Friday's: Sacred Heart Devotion/Anointing of sick/Adoration (9 am Historic Chapel) Pray the Rosary: First Sundays following the 9:00 am Mass (Main Church)

Tables with nativity figures will be displayed in the narthex during the weekends of: November 11th & 12th November 18th & 19th Please feel free to adopt any figures to incorporate in your home nativity settings.

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time November 19, 2023: Prv 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31; I Thes 5:1-6; Mt 25:14-30 "Well done, my good and faithful servant!... Come and share the joy of your master” This penultimate Sunday of the liturgical year reminds us not only of the end of the liturgical year but also of the end of all things and of the preparations we need to make to reach Heaven. The main theme of the three readings is an invitation to live in such a way that we make the best use of the talents God has given us, so that at the hour of our death Our Lord will say: “Well done, my good and faithful servant!... Come and share the joy of your master” Mt 25: 21). In the parable of the talents this week, Jesus gives a stern warning: discipleship does not promise complete safety. On the contrary, true disciples are called to take risks and venture beyond the known and the secure, trusting in His grace. Hence Jesus challenges us to ask the questions: Are we using our talents and gifts primarily to serve God, and neighbor, and so do God’s will? In short, the parable of the talents challenges us to do something positive, constructive and life-affirming with our talents here and now. Make Hay while the sun shines!! Life Message: In the New Testament times, people were more concerned with "times and seasons" of Christ’s second coming than with living their Faith. Paul assured his readers that it was foolish to worry about the "day of the Lord" (v 2). Instead of expecting an imminent Parousia, Christians should always "stay alert and sober,” (v 6), doing their duties faithfully. “We belong neither to darkness nor to night; therefore, let us not be asleep like the rest, but awake and sober!” (vs 5-6). Indeed, most of us are clearly very gifted with valuable abilities, and so we should be always willing to share our talents in creative worship in the Church and innovative educational events in Sunday School. We can fulfill needs we will find right in our parish: feeding the hungry, visiting the sick or the elderly, Vacation Bible Schools, homeless, and welcoming strangers in our midst. Conclusion: In the 2nd reading, Paul means that our wholehearted dedication to the responsibilities of Christian living will earn for us the Lord's praise at the Final Judgment. Then, he reminds us that the children of light are destined not for wrath but for salvation when the Lord comes. Moreover, he warns us that the Day of the Lord will come "like a thief in the night" (v 4), when we least expect it. Thus, we should keep awake and be sober, encouraging and building each other up as we wait for the “Day of the Lord.” Only those who live each day to the fullest will be ready when Jesus' special Day arrives. We should, therefore, step out, with confidence, believing that every God-given gift we have is going to be exceedingly useful and fruitful!

Nov 12, 2023: Wisd. 6:12-16; 1Thess.4:13-14; Matt. 25:1-13. 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time “What good is a lifejacket left on the shore when the boat is sinking”? Are you missing out on what's most important in life? Being unprepared can lead to unnecessary trouble and even disaster! “What good is a lifejacket left on the shore when the boat is sinking”? Jesus' story of ten single ladies waiting for a wedding procession in the middle of the night seems strange to most westerners today. But Jesus' audience knew all too well how easily this could happen to them. Significance: Wedding customs in ancient Palestine required extra vigilance and preparation for everyone involved. The bride and groom customarily celebrated for a whole week with their family and friends, after which, the groom, in company with his friends, would come at his discretion and get his bride and bring her to their new home. Mind you, to show up for a wedding party without proper attire and travel arrangements is like trying to get into a special event today that requires a prearranged permit or reservation! And you just don't get in without the proper pass! Furthermore, once they arrived and closed the doors, no one else could be admitted. Life Message: The consequences of being unprepared to meet the Lord: Jesus warns us that there are consequences for being unprepared. There are certain things you cannot obtain at the last moment. For example, students cannot prepare for their exams when the day of testing is already upon them. A person cannot get the right kind of character, strength, and skill required for a task at hand, unless they already possess it, such as a captain with courage and nautical skills who must steer a ship through a dangerous storm at sea. By the way, have you ever run out of gas? It would appear that every year at least a half million people call for help because they have run out of gas. Besides flat tires, dead batteries, and misplaced keys, running out of gas ranks right up there in the reasons why people call for roadside service. -- One might understand this happened a generation ago, when gas gauges were not entirely accurate, and when all the warning lights of our day were non-existent. But now we have warning messages that our fuel is running low, indicating also how many estimated miles of driving we have left. And so, one must say that most people who run out of fuel are “without excuse.” Conclusion: When the Lord Jesus comes to lead you to his heavenly banquet will you be ready to hear his voice and follow? Our eternal welfare depends on our hearing, and many have trained themselves to not hear. We will surely not be prepared to meet the Lord, face to face, when he calls us on the day of judgment, unless we listen to him today. Thus, through the parable of the ten virgins, Jesus warns us to be ever prepared for the end of our lives. Thus, the Lord invites us to feast at his heavenly banquet table. Are you ready? Hence, “What good is a lifejacket left on the shore, when the boat is already sinking”? “Therefore, stay awake and be ready, for you know neither the day nor the hour.”

Fall Faith Formation is now open for registration. Classes begin the first week of October Register HERE Sunday School: Day: Sundays Time: 10:00 AM during Mass Age Group: Prek through 2nd grade children Description: Join us as we embark on an enriching journey to explore God's message through captivating Bible stories, heartfelt prayers, enjoyable games, creative crafts, and uplifting songs. Elementary Program: Day: Thursdays Time: 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM Age Group: 3rd through 5th graders Description: Delve deeper into the Christian faith using the well-structured Word of Life curriculum from the esteemed Augustine Institute. A spiritually enlightening experience awaits your children! First Communion Preparation: Day: Sundays Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM Age Group: 2nd through 5th graders Prerequisites: One year of prior faith formation participation either at St. Barbara's or another parish. Description: We are excited to offer First Communion preparation with the engaging and inspiring Renewed and Received curriculum from Ascension Press. It's a special milestone in your child's spiritual journey. Confirmation Program: Day: Sundays Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Age Group: 6th to 11th graders Description: Encourage your teenagers to embrace their faith through thought-provoking presentations and meaningful small group discussions. Our Confirmation program is designed to challenge and deepen their understanding of our Roman Catholic Christianity. We are dedicated to providing a nurturing and enlightening environment for all participants. Join us as we embark on an incredible voyage of spiritual growth and discovery! For any inquiries or registration, please contact Allison via email allison@stbarbarachurch.org We welcome and greatly appreciate the support of dedicated volunteers to make our programs even more impactful and successful. If you have a passion for nurturing young hearts and minds in their faith journey, we invite you to join our team of volunteers. As a volunteer, you will have the opportunity to inspire and guide the next generation, fostering a sense of community and spiritual growth. Whether you have experience in teaching, leading activities, or simply a willingness to lend a helping hand, your contributions will be valued and cherished. If you are unable to volunteer, consider supporting our faith building mission by purchasing an item from our Amazon Gift Registry HERE To become a part of this rewarding experience, please reach out to Allison, at allison@stbarbarachurch.org or visit our church office during regular hours. Together, let's create a meaningful and transformative experience for the children and youth in our congregation!

It's that time of year once again! Our 2023 program will run Saturday, November 25th - Sunday, December 10th. Bring some holiday cheer to those in need this Christmas season. Please consider selecting a tag from the trees located in the church's main entrance and the side entrance. Bring your unwrapped gifts with the tag attached to St. Barbara Church and place them under the tree in the main entrance no later than Sunday, December 10th. Deb Melton deb-melton@hotmail.com Liz Anderson mewja@comcast.net In partnership with Maple Valley Food Bank, Black Diamond Food Bank, and Fountain Court Senior Living & Foster Champs.