Saturday, December 31, 2022

Soul Health CXI

 

Soul Health CXI



Holiday Mass Schedule

Mary, Mother of God
**This Solemnity is a Holy Day of Obligation**
Saturday, December 31st:  4:30pm
Sunday, January 1st:  8:30am

Father Robert is celebrating a private Mass at 9:00am on Sunday, offered for the parishes of St Thomas More and St Willibrord. 


Annual Parishioners' Meeting:
Saturday, January 14th, 2023 at 3pm

If you are a frequent, regular mass attender, your participation is anticipated, as it is your commitment and input that will shape this critical discussion.

With the parish at a crossroads, the outcome of your participation may well determine the future of the parish and even whether we continue.

 
 

Dear Parishioners and Friends,

This weekend, we celebrate the great solemnity of Mary, Mother of God.  Of the many Marian Feasts in the liturgical calendar, this is the only one that is a Holy Day of Obligation in Canada.

Falling between the feasts of the Nativity and Epiphany, and also on the New Year, Pope Paul VI wrote in 1974 that this solemnity " ...is meant to commemorate the part played by Mary in this mystery of salvation. It is meant also to exalt the singular dignity which this mystery brings to the Holy Mother...through whom we were found worthy to receive the Author of life. It is likewise a fitting occasion for renewing adoration of the newborn Prince of Peace, for listening once more to the glad tidings of the angels, and for imploring from God, through the Queen of Peace, the supreme gift of peace."

Our lives can become truly magnificent and meaningful by saying yes to God's plans for us, as Mary did.  Let's start 2023 off on the right foot by following Our Lady's example in her love for Jesus, her openness to God's will, and her acceptance of the Holy Spirit's gifts as she took her rightful place in the Church.

 

 
Christmas Tidings from Father Robert
In case you missed last week's Special Edition with Father Robert's Christmas letter, you can read it here!

Regular Liturgy Schedule & Intentions, December 31 - January 6
Saturday, December 31:  For All Parishioners
Sunday, January 1: For All Parishioners
Tuesday, January 3 (The Most Holy Name of Jesus): Deceased Members of the Purcell & Gallagher Families by Their Estate
Thursday, January 5:  Brian Foran by His Wife Ann 

The Sanctuary Lamp
This week the Sanctuary Lamp is lit for Gerald C. Gummersell by his sister Allanna
 


Farewell to Benedict XVI
The Holy See Press Office confirms that Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI passed away on Saturday morning in his residence at the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery.  Please join us in praying for the repose of his soul, and read the highlights of his life and career in this article from The Catholic Register.
 



Thank you!
We wish to thank Fr. Lou Cerulli for celebrating our New Year’s Masses. 

We would also thank Fr George Zacharias for saying Mass this past Tuesday &Thursday.

Fr. Robert will be back for Mass next Thursday.

Magnificat Subscriptions for 2023
Parishioners who subscribe to the Magnificat are reminded that it is time to renew their subscription for $70.00, please contact the parish office.  We encourage our parishioners to take out a subscription which would begin in February of this wonderful publication which includes readings, reflections and prayers.

Increase your spiritual strength in 2023 with a daily dose of the Catechism
Following the huge success of "The Bible in a Year," Father Mike Schmitz is launching "The Catechism in a Year" in 2023.  With a new episode set to be released every day in 2023, this podcast is a deep dive into the the Catechism of the Catholic Church that complements the content of its predecessor. 

As Father Mike told Aleteia in a recent interview"The Bible in a Year was all about learning to see our lives through the lens of Scripture. With The Catechism in a Year, I hope that we will allow the truths of the Catholic faith to shape our lives. God’s story in our lives doesn’t end with the Bible, but God’s story continues with the Church, and the life of the Church."
 



Yours in Christ,
Father Robert Assaly+

Friday, December 23, 2022

Soul Health CX

 

Soul Health CX



Holiday Mass Schedule

Christmas
Saturday, December 24th:  Carols - 7:30pm -- Mass - 8:00pm
Sunday, December 25th:  Mass - 9:00am

Mary, Mother of God
**This Solemnity is a Holy Day of Obligation**
Saturday, December 31st:  4:30pm
Sunday, January 1st:  8:30am

 
Christmas Tidings from Father Robert
In case you missed yesterday's Soul Health: Special Edition with Father Robert's Christmas letter, you can read it here!

Regular Liturgy Schedule & Intentions, December 24 - December 30
Saturday, December 24:  For All Parishioners
Sunday, December 25: For All Parishioners
Tuesday, December 27 (St John the Apostle): John & Joan Purcell by Their Estate
Thursday, December 29:  Deceased Members of the Alguire & Robidoux Families by The Estate

The Sanctuary Lamp
This week the Sanctuary Lamp is lit for Diane Chesnel Cox by her husband Robert & Family
 

Thank you!
We wish to thank Fr Donbosco and Fr George for celebrating our weekday Masses this week. 

Please also join us in thanking Fr Lou Cerulli who will be celebrating our Christmas Masses this weekend, as Fr Robert continues to recover from COVID-19.  

Toys for the Christ Child
 Once again this year at Christmas, we encourage children to bring gifts to Jesus at the Crib.  This is an excellent opportunity for parents to teach their child a valuable lesson of sharing.  It would be appreciated if the gifts are marked boy or girl and the age.

Thursday, December 22, 2022

Soul Health: Special Edition

 

Soul Health:  Special Edition
 

Holiday Mass Schedule

Christmas
Saturday, December 24th:  Carols - 7:30pm;  Mass - 8:00pm
Sunday, December 25th:  Mass - 9:00am

Mary, Mother of God
**This Solemnity is a Holy Day of Obligation**
Saturday, December 31st:  4:30pm
Sunday, January 1st:  8:30am


 

Dear Parishioners and Friends,

“Rejoice! Emmanuel has come: God with us!”
 
During these 12 Holy Days of Christmas we may rejoice gathering with family, simply being with one another again bridging long distances.
 
Because I’m still recovering from COVID, I will not exactly be able to be with my primary family to celebrate Christmas – that is, at the altar with you, my beloved parishioners. I’m deeply grateful to Fr. Lou Cerulli for celebrating with you in my stead.
 
This prompts me to realize perhaps I have taken for granted the privilege of being together as Christian family on Christmas Eve. It’s only Thursday and I’m missing the masses already!
 
And it impresses upon me why Christmas happens at all: God so yearned out of pure love to be with us, whom He created out of pure love. So He sent His Son to humbly come among us in poverty and suffering, under military occupation, as Christ and Savior. He comes amidst fear and brokenness as the Prince of Peace, with the Angels choirs declaring, “Peace to be people of goodwill.”  What an amazing God! And then He invites us to extend His peace with our needy world.
 

A Christmas Gospel (Matthew 1:23) declares the fulfilment of that prophesied centuries earlier (Isaiah 7:14), “Behold. A virgin shall bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means, God with us.

My favorite icon is a representation based on this prophecy, depicting the very purpose of God with us. Jesus, the Word made flesh, comes in silence and humility with his right hand blessing from the womb all who are created through Him. Mary, Mother of the Church, obedient to the Father’s will, yearns for His visible coming at His birth.

Indeed God’s desire is mirrored in the deepest longing of the human heart, in all our joys and sorrows, in our celebrations and our brokenness to have God come to be with us.  It’s picked up in a translation of the popular Advent hymn ("Wake, O Wake!”, Wachet Auf, music by J.S. Bach), where Zion symbolizes Mary as the Church:

 

 


On Saturday I actually will be together with you:  fulfilled in communion, “Where in thy supper we may share,” through the Word made Flesh.  In the late afternoon I will privately offer Christmas mass with special intention for you, my family - for St. Thomas More and St. Willibrord. As I call Jesus down onto the altar, body, blood, soul and divinity, really present where he longs to be with us and for us, I anticipate hearing over my shoulder the angels choirs singing, “Heaven and earth are full of your glory.”

 
Emmanuel, God with us, is fulfilled at Christmas. In His goodness, Jesus extends His presence to us every Sunday mass. This Christmas, may you re-discover this yearning in your hearts, and find it fulfilled every mass. May Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh, thus constantly enrich, sustain and enliven you each Sunday in the mass and in every way, that you may be a witness of His peace to the world.
 

Emmanuel, God with us!! Glory to Him in the highest!


Yours in Christ, the new-born King,
Father Robert Assaly+

 

Friday, December 16, 2022

Soul Health CIX

 

Soul Health CIX
 

***The annual Parishioners' Meeting is postponed until January 14th 2023, as Fr Robert has tested positive for COVID-19***

If you are a frequent, regular mass attender, your participation is anticipated for the new meeting date, as it is your commitment and input that will shape this critical discussion.

With the parish at a crossroads, the outcome of your participation may well determine the future of the parish and even whether we continue.

 


Dear Parishioners and Friends,

The Gospel Reading for this Fourth Sunday of Advent focuses on Joseph learning of Mary’s pregnancy and being visited by the Angel of the Lord in a dream to direct him to not dismiss Mary, but to take her as his wife and her child as his own.  Although we’re told at the end of the Gospel Reading that Joseph awakens in full acceptance of God's will for him, it’s easy for us to wonder:  how did Joseph really feel?  After all, Joseph is spoken of in the New Testament, but isn’t actually recorded as speaking for himself in any part of Scripture. 

And so, what we know of the adoptive, earthly father of Jesus comes from what others have written about him and about the actions he took as the leader of the Holy Family.  Matthew tells us outright that Joseph was a righteous man, and we can glean from this Gospel Reading that prior to the Angel’s visit, Joseph had a great sense of compassion. He still held Mary in high enough regard to not dismiss her publicly and expose her to shame.  It certainly would have been easy enough for him to do so, and well within his right - but Joseph's desire to uphold Mary's dignity provided a window of opportunity for the Angel of the Lord to come to him.
 
From this one passage - essentially our introduction to him in Scripture - we see in Joseph an example of how we are called by God to hear His word, know His will, and act upon it in our lives. As Advent draws to a close and Jesus, our Emmanuel, draws ever closer to us, let us keep in mind that the faith, hope, and love of both Mary and Joseph played a vital role bridging the gap between God and humanity.   
 
If we make windows of opportunity for the Holy Spirit to come into our hearts by also striving to lead lives of faith, hope, and love, we too can discern the role we are meant to play in building up the Kingdom.  
 
 



Deacon Bernie is now at home and anticipates being with us on Christmas Eve.
 


Christmas Mass Schedule

Saturday, December 24th:  Carols - 7:30pm -- Mass - 8:00pm
Sunday, December 25th:  Mass - 9:00am

 
Regular Liturgy Schedule & Intentions, December 17-24
Saturday, December 17:  Anniversary of Wayne Warren by Bill & Denise
Sunday, December 18: For All Parishioners
Tuesday, December 20: Patricia McSharry by Anna Maria McSharry & Family
Thursday, December 22:  Patricia McSharry by Michael McSharry & Family


The Sanctuary Lamp
This week the Sanctuary Lamp is lit for Evelyn Gilchrist by Kathie & Tony Fargnoli

As our Mass intentions are booked far in advance, the Sanctuary Lamp can be lit in memory of your loved ones or for intentions.  The candle is lit for the week for a suggested offering of $20.00.  For more information and to book a specific week please contact the office.
 

Give the Gift of God's Word (and more!) with Magnificat
Free copies of the January 2023 edition of Magnificat are available for new subscribers or for you to put under the tree to start your loved ones off the incredible year-long journey of growing in faith, hope, and love with Magnificat.  Contact the parish office to get yours today!
 
If you’re looking for a faith-centered Christmas gift that keeps on giving, consider buying your loved ones (and yourself!) a yearly subscription to Magnificat - $70.00 for 14 issues.  Current subscribers can also renew their subscriptions for 2023 at this price.
 
Thank you!
We wish to thank Fr. Lou Cerulli for Celebrating Mass this weekend and Deacon Marco Argentino for assisting and preaching the Homily.

Thank you to Fr. George Zacharias, for saying Mass this past Thursday.
 
Toys for the Christ Child
 Once again this year at Christmas, we encourage children to bring gifts to Jesus at the Crib.  This is an excellent opportunity for parents to teach their child a valuable lesson of sharing.  It would be appreciated if the gifts are marked boy or girl and the age.
 
Support one of our parish's oldest traditions: The St Thomas More Christmas Baskets
For over 50 years, our parish has supported families in need in our community through Christmas Baskets.  This year, Trish (who has been leading the project for 30 years!) projects that over 40 families will benefit from our efforts. 

This is the final weekend of the Annual Food Drive!

Parishioners wishing to make a donation towards the cost of meat and perishable items may place their donation in the St. Vincent de Paul Boxes. 

Thank you to all parishioners who made their donation using the Feast of St. Andrew envelope, your generosity totaled $1,720 .00 in Memory of Fr. George Oakes.


Envelopes for 2023
The 2023 sets of Church Offering Envelopes will be available beginning next weekend.  Envelopes are in alphabetical order.

Parishioners who had a number between 102-110 have been assigned a new number.  Parishioners wishing to use envelopes for the first time may pick up a set this weekend on the table marked M-Z.  Please leave your name, address and phone number on the sheet of paper next to the number you take.

New Sunday Missals for 2023 now available
We have some copies of the Living with Christ Sunday Missals which are available on the shelves at the back of the church.  The cost is $7.00.
 
St Willibrord:  The Christmas Baskets Project
The Christmas Baskets Project at St. Willibrord’s Parish is a 100% volunteer-powered mobilization that helps provide food and Christmas cheer to 200 families in Verdun.  Click here for more information!


Coffee Break Catechesis
Reflect more upon this weekend's upcoming readings with Jeff Cavins,
 whose prolific Biblical scholarship and work with Ascension Press has helped countless individuals encounter the Word of God in meaningful, profound ways.
 


Beyond Verdun
  • St Francis of Assisi made an appearance at last week's COP15 March for Biodiversity and Human Rights - get the full scoop here!
  • To build fellowship and overcome social isolation, the Choir of Saint Donat created a community initiative to bring people together through music. Let’s Sing Christmas Songs at Church is the first fruit of their labours - watch it here.
Put Your Faith, Hope, and Love into Action!
  • The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund
    • The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund was established to accept donations from 73 Catholic entities across the country, and to advance healing and reconciliation initiatives.  It seeks to support projects that are determined locally, in collaboration with First Nations, Métis and Inuit partners.  Learn more and support this Catholic commitment to healing and reconciliation at https://www.irfund.ca/
  • CAPP-Canada
    • CAPP was founded by Pope St. John Paul II to advance the principles of the social doctrine of the Church: the dignity of the human person, solidarity and subsidiarity.  Learn more at https://www.cappcanada.ca/ and watch the replay of September's virtual launch of CAPP-Canada at https://www.cappcanada.ca/launch
  • Catholic Action Montreal
    • Motivated by our faith, Catholic Action Montreal empowers its community through a network of gifted individuals, partners, and organizations, enabling them to respond to an expressed need, resulting in profound changes in the community.  Learn more and get involved at https://catholicaction.ca/



Yours in Christ,
Father Robert Assaly+

Thursday, December 15, 2022

Soul Health: Special Edition

 

Soul Health:  Special Edition
 

The Annual Parishioners' Meeting scheduled for Saturday, December 17th at 3:00pm has been postponed until Saturday, January 14th, as Father Robert has tested positive for COVID-19.


Mass will be celebrated this weekend by Father Lou Cerulli, assisted by Deacon Marco Argentino.

Saturday, December 10, 2022

Soul Health CVII

 

Soul Health CVII
 

***There will be the annual meeting of parishioners at
3pm on Saturday, December 17***

If you are a frequent, regular mass attender, your participation is anticipated, as it is your commitment and input that will shape this critical discussion.

With the parish at a crossroads, the outcome of your participation may well determine the future of the parish and even whether we continue.

 


Dear Parishioners and Friends,


The Third Sunday of Advent is known as Gaudete Sunday and takes its name from the Latin version of the Entrance Antiphon used on this Sunday:  “Gaudete in Domino semper” - “rejoice in the Lord always.”  
 
The importance of joy in Christian discipleship is tremendous enough that homilists, catechists, and theologians alike take great care to make a distinction between mere happiness and true joy.  In a nutshell, while happiness is fleeting and dependent on external circumstances, joy is enduring and is born from the grace of God within us. 
 
As put by Saint Josemaria Escriva, Christian joy “comes from the abandonment of everything and the abandonment of yourself into the loving arms of our Father.”  And yet, it can be hard for us to abandon ourselves to God, especially if all we do is show up to Mass once a week.
 
Christian joy is born from the knowledge and understanding that we are children of God, which we glean from cultivating our faith and nurturing our hope.  If we want our faith and hope to be strong enough to bear the fruit of joy, we must make tremendous efforts in our practice of discipleship, especially in building up our parish through fellowship and service to one another. 
 
As we light the rose candle and rejoice in the Lord’s coming ever closer, let us also open our hearts to allow the Holy Spirit to fill us with the courage we need to take a leap of faith into deeper discipleship - especially as we prepare for our upcoming parishioners’ meeting. 
 



Deacon Bernie expects to be home in a few days.
Pray that he be well enough to be here at the altar on Christmas Eve.

 



Christmas Mass Schedule 

Saturday, December 24th:  Carols - 7:30pm |  Mass - 8:00pm
Sunday, December 25th:  Mass - 9:00am

 
Regular Liturgy Schedule & Intentions, December 10-16
Saturday, December 10:  Nick & Irene Vocino by Their Family
Sunday, December 11: For All Parishioners
Tuesday, December 13 (St Lucy): Intentions of Maria Olaguera & Victor Olaguera Jr on the occasion of their birthdays by Their Family
Thursday, December 14:  Anniversary of Gino Giordani by His Wife & Family

The Sanctuary Lamp
This week the Sanctuary Lamp is lit for Hazel Boyce by Kathie & Tony Fargnoli

As our Mass intentions are booked far in advance, the Sanctuary Lamp can be lit in memory of your loved ones or for intentions.  The candle is lit for the week for a suggested offering of $20.00.  For more information and to book a specific week please contact the office.

Include Confession in your Advent plans!
Father Robert is available for confessions before the Saturday Mass starting at 4:00pm. You can also call the parish office to book an appointment.

Parishioners are also invited to St Ignatius of Loyola Parish in NDG on December 14 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. for In the Quiet,  a beautiful evening of live music, time with Jesus, and the option to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Several priests, including Father Robert, will be available to hear confessions, and the evening will wrap up with some festive snacks and refreshments.      
 


Support one of our parish's oldest traditions: The St Thomas More Christmas Baskets
For over 50 years, our parish has supported families in need in our community through Christmas Baskets.  This year, Trish (who has been leading the project for 30 years!) projects that over 40 families will benefit from our efforts. 

The Annual Canned Goods Collection used to fill the Christmas Baskets is now underway, and continues until the weekend of December 17-18!

We invite you to make contributions of canned goods and non-perishable food items, and we especially need the appropriate foods associated with meals during the Christmas Season (example: canned fruits and puddings, cookies and treats for children). 

Parishioners wishing to make a monetary donation towards the meat and perishable items are asked to place their offering in the St. Vincent de Paul Boxes on the walls at the back of the church.

Give the Gift of God's Word (and more!) with Magnificat
We have free copies of January Magnificat that can be put under the tree for those interested in buying a one year subscription (14 issues) as a gift for a loved one (or yourself)! 

Envelopes for 2023
The 2023 sets of Church Offering Envelopes will be available beginning next weekend.  Envelopes are in alphabetical order.

Parishioners who had a number between 102-110 have been assigned a new number.  Parishioners wishing to use envelopes for the first time may pick up a set this weekend on the table marked M-Z.  Please leave your name, address and phone number on the sheet of paper next to the number you take.

New Sunday Missals for 2023 now available
We have some copies of the Living with Christ Sunday Missals which are available on the shelves at the back of the church.  The cost is $7.00.
 
St Willibrord:  The Christmas Baskets Project
The Christmas Baskets Project at St. Willibrord’s Parish is a 100% volunteer-powered mobilization that helps provide food and Christmas cheer to 200 families in Verdun.  Click here for more information about drop-in days coming up over the next two weekends!
 


Coffee Break Catechesis
In honor of the Immaculate Conception, which we celebrated on December 8th this past week, spend your coffee break with Fr Mike Schmitz to learn more about Our Lady and what it means when we call her "Immaculate Mary."


Beyond Verdun
  • To build fellowship and overcome social isolation, the Choir of Saint Donat created a community initiative to bring people together through music. Let’s Sing Christmas Songs at Church is the first fruit of their labours - watch it here.
Put Your Faith, Hope, and Love into Action!
  • The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund
    • The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund was established to accept donations from 73 Catholic entities across the country, and to advance healing and reconciliation initiatives.  It seeks to support projects that are determined locally, in collaboration with First Nations, Métis and Inuit partners.  Learn more and support this Catholic commitment to healing and reconciliation at https://www.irfund.ca/
  • CAPP-Canada
    • CAPP was founded by Pope St. John Paul II to advance the principles of the social doctrine of the Church: the dignity of the human person, solidarity and subsidiarity.  Learn more at https://www.cappcanada.ca/ and watch the replay of September's virtual launch of CAPP-Canada at https://www.cappcanada.ca/launch
  • Catholic Action Montreal
    • Motivated by our faith, Catholic Action Montreal empowers its community through a network of gifted individuals, partners, and organizations, enabling them to respond to an expressed need, resulting in profound changes in the community.  Learn more and get involved at https://catholicaction.ca/



Yours in Christ,
Father Robert Assaly+

Friday, December 2, 2022

Soul Health CVII

 

Soul Health CVII


***There will be a meeting of ALL parishioners at
3pm on Saturday, December 17***

Your participation is expected as the outcome of the meeting may well determine the future of the parish and even whether we continue.
Further details in this weekend's in the homily.

 



Dear Parishioners and Friends,

This weekend, the Second reading and the Gospel remind us of the importance of understanding and using our spiritual inheritance – more specifically, of understanding that Scripture is an integral part of our lives as Christians, and using our faith and hope to fuel our missionary work of spreading the message of Christ.

St Paul tells us:  “Whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.”  Our spiritual health and strength are reliant upon God's Word, as well as our understanding that the promises of the Old Testament were fulfilled by what is written in the New Testament.  The Gospel of Matthew this weekend even demonstrates this when we are introduced to John the Baptist:  “This is the one of whom the Prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, ‘The voice of one crying out in the wilderness:  prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.’” 

Today, part of preparing the way of the Lord is our mission to make new disciples.  “As it is written,” St Paul reminds us, “‘Therefore I will confess your name among the Gentiles, and sing praises to your name.’”  While it was John the Baptist of whom Isaiah spoke, Paul knew that the mission to prepare the way of the Lord was not the sole responsibility of John the Baptist.  It is the responsibility of everyone who inherits salvation through the waters of Baptism and through the sacrifice of the Cross.
 
With that in mind, what can we do this Advent to prepare ourselves?  How can we invest our spiritual inheritance of the Word of God along with our time, talent, and treasure so that our parish fulfils its purpose and mission at this critical juncture?
 



Deacon Bernie is recovering well at a rehab centre in NDG.
He asks for our prayers that he be well enough to be here at the altar Christmas Eve.

 


Regular Liturgy Schedule & Intentions, December 3 - 9
Saturday, December 3:  Mrs. Irene Flockhart by Her Daughters
Sunday, December 4: For All Parishioners
Tuesday, December 6 (St Nicholas):  For the Intentions of Dominic Michael, Victoria, George, and Jasper by Their Aunts & Uncles     
Thursday, December 8 (The Immaculate Conception):  Anniversary of Fr. Joe Cameron by Paul Moreau

Booking Mass Intentions
St. Willibrord Parish has a morning Mass on Wednesday at 9am with availability for intentions.  St Thomas More Parishioners wishing to book this particular Mass may call the St. Willibrord Office at 514-769-9678. 

The Sanctuary Lamp
This week the Sanctuary Lamp is lit for Albert Landry by Caroline & Peter 

As our Mass intentions are booked far in advance, the Sanctuary Lamp can be lit in memory of your loved ones or for intentions.  The candle is lit for the week for a suggested offering of $20.00.  For more information and to book a specific week please contact the office.

Include Confession in your Advent plans!
Father Robert is available for confessions before the Saturday Mass starting at 4:00pm. You can also call the parish office to book an appointment.

Parishioners are also invited to St Ignatius of Loyola Parish in NDG on December 14 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. for In the Quiet,  a beautiful evening of live music, time with Jesus, and the option to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Several priests, including Father Robert, will be available to hear confessions, and the evening will wrap up with some festive snacks and refreshments.
 


50/50:  A Message of Thanks
The winning ticket of the November Draw was bought by a parishioner from Notre Dame de La Garde Parish, who donated the winnings to St. Thomas More Parish.  We thank this person for their generosity!   Also thank you to everyone who bought tickets in support of the parish.         
 


Support one of our parish's oldest traditions: The St Thomas More Christmas Baskets
For over 50 years, our parish has supported families in need in our community through Christmas Baskets.  This year, Trish (who has been leading the project for 30 years!) projects that over 40 families will benefit from our efforts. 

The Annual Canned Goods Collection used to fill the Christmas Baskets is now underway, and continues until the weekend of December 17-18!

We invite you to make contributions of canned goods and non-perishable food items, and we especially need the appropriate foods associated with meals during the Christmas Season (example: canned fruits and puddings, cookies and treats for children). 

Parishioners wishing to make a monetary donation towards the meat and perishable items are asked to place their offering in the St. Vincent de Paul Boxes on the walls at the back of the church.

Envelopes for 2023
The 2023 sets of Church Offering Envelopes will be available beginning next weekend.  Envelopes are in alphabetical order.

Parishioners who had a number between 102-110 have been assigned a new number.  

Parishioners wishing to use envelopes for the first time may pick up a set this weekend on the table marked M-Z.  Please leave your name, address and phone number on the sheet of paper next to the number you take.

New Sunday Missals for 2023 now available
 We have some copies of the Living with Christ Sunday Missals which are available on the shelves at the back of the church.  The cost is $7.00.
 
St Willibrord:  The Christmas Baskets Project
The Christmas Baskets Project at St. Willibrord’s Parish is a 100% volunteer-powered mobilization that helps provide food and Christmas cheer to 200 families in Verdun.  

Financial contributions to the Christmas Baskets Project can be made online.  You can also contact thechristmasbaskets@gmail.com to receive a needs list of non-perishable food items and toys, and also to learn more about how you can get involved as a volunteer on drop-in weekends, packing day, and delivery day! 
 


Coffee Break Catechesis
You might be convinced you're not a missionary because you weren't called on mission like our young friends in CCO -- but part of the beauty of the Church is that no two missionary disciples are the same or called to mission in the same way.  Fr Mike explains this using the examples of St Francis Xavier and St Therese of Lisieux in this week's video.


Beyond Verdun
  • Bishop Barron defends the sacredness and integrity of marriage and calls upon all Catholics to do the same - read more here.

Put Your Faith, Hope, and Love into Action!
  • The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund
    • The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund was established to accept donations from 73 Catholic entities across the country, and to advance healing and reconciliation initiatives.  It seeks to support projects that are determined locally, in collaboration with First Nations, Métis and Inuit partners.  Learn more and support this Catholic commitment to healing and reconciliation at https://www.irfund.ca/
  • CAPP-Canada
    • CAPP was founded by Pope St. John Paul II to advance the principles of the social doctrine of the Church: the dignity of the human person, solidarity and subsidiarity.  Learn more at https://www.cappcanada.ca/ and watch the replay of September's virtual launch of CAPP-Canada at https://www.cappcanada.ca/launch
  • Catholic Action Montreal
    • Motivated by our faith, Catholic Action Montreal empowers its community through a network of gifted individuals, partners, and organizations, enabling them to respond to an expressed need, resulting in profound changes in the community.  Learn more and get involved at https://catholicaction.ca/



Yours in Christ,
Father Robert Assaly+