ST. THOMAS THE APOSTLE CATHOLIC CHURCH...2020/11/22 · enough. Jesus wants us to inherit the...
Transcript of ST. THOMAS THE APOSTLE CATHOLIC CHURCH...2020/11/22 · enough. Jesus wants us to inherit the...
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ST. THOMAS THE APOSTLE
CATHOLIC CHURCH
4100 South Coulter Street Amarillo, TX 79109
Our Lord, Jesus Christ, King of the Universe November 22, 2020
Church Phone: (806) 358-2461
Rectory Phone: (806) 353-1016
Fax: (806) 358-2529
Website: https://amarillo.church
Office Hours: (M-F) 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Diocese of Amarillo
Mass Times Saturday: 5:00 PM (Sunday Vigil Mass)
Sunday: 7:30, 9:00, and 11:15 AM
Monday & Tuesday: 6:00 PM
Wednesday thru Friday: 7:00 AM
Holy Days: (to be announced) Sacrament of Reconciliation Wednesday: 5:30-6:30 PM
Saturday: 3:30-4:30 PM
Other times by appointment
Sacrament of Baptism
Contact the Parish Office to schedule a date and
time. Parents and sponsors must attend a Baptism
class. One sponsor must be Catholic and at least
16 years of age.
Sacraments of 1st Reconciliation and 1st Communion
These sacraments combine into one sacramental
preparation program which takes two consecutive
years of religious education classes to complete.
Students must be at least in first grade to begin this
preparation.
Sacrament of Confirmation
This sacrament takes two consecutive years of faith
formation to complete. Students must be in at least
seventh grade before beginning this preparation.
Sacrament of Matrimony
Contact the Pastor at least six months before the
date of the wedding.
Sacrament of the Sick
Please notify the parish secretary of any sick or
elderly shut-ins and all those in the hospital.
The Rite of Christian Initiation
The program for adults (RCIA) is open to
non-Catholics who wish to learn more about the
Catholic faith and to Catholics who have not
celebrated the Sacraments. This process is offered
on an ongoing basis.
There Is Much to Be Done Growing up Catholic means I must have heard a million
times the passage in Matthew’s Gospel about how doing
things for the “least of these” means you have done them for
Jesus. Okay, that is an exaggeration to make a point. But it
has been a slogan for so many social justice activities, from
clothing and canned food drives, to letter writing campaigns
and peaceful protests.
Growing up I only knew how to help the least of these
through the school and church activities of the time. Today,
YouTube and GodTube are filled with videos of creative ways
people reach out to one another. Have you seen the one
about the pizza party for the homeless? How about the fake
lottery ticket or the house bought from online donations for a
poor man? There are even videos of people paying for the
car behind them at the drive-through! The awesome thing
about this is that it serves as a witness to others. It is not
boasting but instead sharing the Good News. Giving and
good stewardship can be contagious!
Our pastor has several times over the years handed out $10
bills to confirmation candidates and asked them to “pay it
forward.” They can keep the money or use it to make a dif-
ference in someone else’s life. One teen planted a garden
for an elderly woman. One bought ingredients for brownies
and sold them to give even more than $10 to charity. The
teens not only learned something about good stewardship in
the process, but also served as great examples to the parish
community.
As always, there is much to be done. The King is coming
soon! Let’s spread the news and some love at the same time! — Tracy Earl Welliver, MTS ©LPi
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Catholic Question
What is Eucharistic Adoration?
Question: What is Eucharistic Adoration?
Answer: The practice of Eucharistic Adoration is a centuries old ritual
and falls within a broader category of devotions and rituals
that are associated with the Sacrament of the Eucharist. In a
particular way, Eucharistic Adoration is an extension of the
worship and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament that occurs
in every Mass. In a long-standing practice, a period of Eucharistic
Adoration often ends with “benediction,” the blessing
of the faith with the Blessed Sacrament. Several parishes throughout the United States have
introduced the practice of perpetual Eucharistic Adoration,
while other communities have the custom of shorter periods
of Eucharistic Adoration. Care should always be taken that
these periods of adoration respect the instructions outlined
in Holy Communion and Worship of the Eucharist Outside of
Mass, the liturgical book that gives the instructions for the
proper celebration of Eucharistic Adoration. Although adoration of the Blessed Sacrament can never
take the place of Eucharistic Communion, many Catholics
find great comfort and consolation in their prayers before
the Eucharist enshrined in the tabernacle or when it is
exposed in the monstrance (both are equally valid, as the
Christ is not more present in one than in the other). But when
we consider our eucharistic devotions, it is always important
to remember the fundamental connection these acts of
devotion have the celebration of the Eucharist in the Mass
and reception of Christ in Communion. ©LPi
PLEASE KEEP THE FOLLOWING PEOPLE IN YOUR PRAYERS:
OUR SICK AND HOMEBOUND:
Kate Schmidt, Ben Canales, Steve Chontos, Glenda
Fassauer, Braxton Sandoval, Cheryle Wayne, Jerry Stone,
Jerry Terry, Esther York, Mike O’Neill, Emile Jones, Madeline
Arrott, Betty Cutting, Judy Allen, Jordan Barrientez,
Paul Kiefer, JoAnn Mercer, John (Jack) Hoben, LaRuth
Haverfield, Richard Herbsleb, James Rhodes, Rod Lancour,
Jack Turner, Ray Ramirez, C. D. Williams, Kim Zinsmeyer,
Margaret Herring, Carol Olivas, Jac DeMont, Marilyn Carr,
Glenda Gerber, Erminia Wiggs, Cecilia Gleason, Jeannine
Bellinghausen, Madeline Ryberg, Tom Leezer, Steven Torres,
Marisa Delgado, Rhonnie Kaplan, Gerald Lis, Alicia Gurney,
Elsie Wieck
OUR SERVICE MEN & WOMEN:
Sheldon Fowler, A. J. Serafin, Lee Wingfield, Sean Callahan,
Bryan Revell, John Nussbaum, Rachel Nussbaum, Matt
Nussbaum, Christopher Schrock, David Oviedo Cantu,
Jacob Bitonel, Jason Freeby, Jacob Tumbelson, Swasey &
Jena Brown, Cody Keesee, Justin Spencer, Ryan Huseman,
Ethan Thomas Weaver, Toby Bitonel, Jeremiah Tumbleson,
Jarred Romero, William Weinheimer, Trevor Bunkers, Chase
Logan.
Sunday, November 22:
Ez 34:11-12, 15-17/1 Cor 15:20-26, 28/Mt 25:31-46 Monday, November 23:
Rv 14:1-3, 4b-5/Lk 21:1-4
Tuesday, November 24:
Rv 14:14-19/Lk 21:5-11 Wednesday, November 25:
Rv 15:1-4/Lk 21:12-19 Thursday, November 26:
Rv 18:1-2, 21-23/ 19:1-3, 9a/Lk 21:20-28 Friday, November 27:
Rv 20:1-4, 11—21:2/Lk 21:29-33 Saturday, November 28:
Is 63:16b-17, 19b; 64:2-7/1 Cor 1:3-9/Mk 13:33-37
Sunday, November 29:
Is 63:16b-17, 19b; 64:2-7/1 Cor 1:3-9/Mk 13:33-37
Daily Scripture Readings
“...whatever you did for one of the least of my brothers, you did for me.” ~MATTHEW 25:40 Most of us are generous when it’s convenient for us. We are generous when we have the time or the money. But, generosity is the opposite of that. It means giving of one’s time, money, compassion, forgiveness or mercy when it’s not convenient; when it’s not on our schedule, but on the other person’s schedule. ~archstl.org
A Loving Tribute
Stewardship
The fresh flowers this week are
in loving memory of
David & Roberta Van Vickle
donated by Robert, Andrew, Lisa & Tina
INSPIRING THANKSGIVING QUOTE
“O God, grant that whatever good things
I have, I may share generously with those who
have not, and whatever good things
I do not have, I may request humbly
from those who do.”
~St. Thomas Aquinas
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OUR LORD, JESUS CHRIST, KING OF THE UNIVERSE
Many Americans are fascinated with England’s monarchy. For
many different reasons, we are drawn to the regal pageantry and all
of the protocols associated with royal lifestyles. What’s most amaz-
ing is that for all of the media attention focused on the comings and
goings of English royalty, they really have very little effect on the
day to day dealings of their country. Thoughts and images of kings
and queens are often centered on this story book understanding of
who and what they are. We associate protocols, etiquette, and
proper words and actions to how we approach members of a royal
family. These tools serve the necessary purpose of keeping them
isolated, enthroned, and at a distance. There is something attractive
about being an observer of ritual, pomp, and circumstance. It’s al-
most theatrical.
Is this how we see Jesus Christ, too? We often behave as if Christ
is an isolated, enthroned, royal, and even ineffective king. Jesus
wants nothing to do with having the status of an earthly king. Jesus
also does not want to be watched, observed, or set apart. He wants
to get down and dirty with the very stuff of life especially the poor,
marginalized, confused, hurting, lost, broken, imprisoned, and for-
gotten ones. Jesus is the king who turns the tables on us and wants
not only our attention but our engagement and conversion. He
wants us to get dirty too.
How we treat other people is at the heart of Christ’s kingdom.
“Whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine, you did for
me.” At different times in our lives we are all counted among the
“least” ones. We may not be physically poor, but we can easily
become emotionally and spiritually poor. We may not be
marginalized as many physically are, cast aside because they
have too many needs or don’t quite fit in. But who hasn’t experi-
enced isolation, loneliness, inner turmoil, angst, heartache, or loss?
Almost every human being has experienced brokenness at one
point or another, or will most definitely at some future point, facing
discouragement, fear, insecurity. People are thirsty for more than
water. We are imprisoned by our prejudices, misconceived notions
and ideas, self-focused obsessions and ideologies. There is a lot of
pain and many least ones around us. Stop, look and listen. This is
what Christ the King is asking us to do. Look deeply into the eyes
and soul of your sisters and brothers, all of them, and see Christ
himself.
Being a spectator and observing all of the pageantry isn’t
enough. Jesus wants us to inherit the kingdom and live the kingdom.
It is built on the blocks of love, mercy, compassion, hope, faith, and
blessing. It engages those who want it, changes and informs minds,
inspires and transforms hearts, converts and renews souls, and sets
things right. There is such a great need around us. Are you ready
and willing to do whatever you can to serve in God’s kingdom?
©LPi
GETTING MARRIED? If you are getting married sometime this year, NFP is a mandatory requirement in the Diocese of Amarillo for couples seeking the sacrament of matrimony. For more information and class schedules near you, please visit the website, www.amarillodiocese.org/nfp.
Holy Cross Catholic Academy Sacrament Information
If you are new parents and/or first- time sponsors, you are required to attend a Baptism class before the reception of the sacrament. Please call the parish office, 358-2461, to register for the next scheduled class.
St. Mary’s Cathedral, 1200 S. Washington, St., welcomes
Dominican priest, Father Brian Thomas Becket Mullady ,for an
Advent Mission -”Healing & Forgiveness.” This virtual mission
will be presented on Tues., Dec. 1, & Wed., Dec. 2, beginning at
7:00 p.m. Rev. Tony Neusch will lead a Prayer Service on
Thurs., Dec. 3, at 7:00 p.m. The public is invited to attend, but
for those who wish to view Father Mullady’s presentation at home,
the talks will be live streamed on the cathedral’s website,
stmarysamarillo.com.
Employment Opportunity
The faculty, staff and students from Holy Cross Catholic Academy would like to wish everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving celebration. God our creator, your gifts to us are countless
and your goodness without limit. As we come in thanksgiving, teach us to use wisely the riches of land and seas and all the blessings which come from you. Grant us hearts that know the needs of others that we may give as freely as we have received from you. Amen
Meditation
THE DIOCESE OF AMARILLO is accepting applications for the position of Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The CFO is responsible for providing, developing and maintaining financial accountability standards and ethics for all diocesan matters. The CFO directs, manages and supervises the financial operations of the Pastoral Center in conjunction with the Bishop. The CFO manages the diocesan assets and advises management in financial operations. Applicant must be licensed as a Certified Public Accountant or have compatible experience. Familiarity with diocesan financial operations is preferred, but other accounting experience will be considered. Experience as a chief finance officer or other high-level accounting or finance position is a plus. The position requires excellent communication and organizational skills. Applicants should have proficiency with information technology, including knowledge of spreadsheet, database, and accounting computer applications. For a full job description, please visit our the diocese website at www.amarillodiocese.org/finance. Resumes will be accepted until August 31, 2020 and should be sent to: Dcn. Phil Whitson Diocese of Amarillo P. O. Box 5644 Amarillo, TX 79117 or [email protected].
Advent Mission
THANKSGIVING DAY IS THURS., NOV. 26;
MASS WILL BE CELEBRATED AT 10:00 A.M.
BRING THE BREAD & WINE YOU WILL BE SERVING
AT YOUR MEAL FOR A SPECIAL BLESSING.
PARISH OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED
THURS., NOV. 26, & FRI., NOV. 27.
THE STAFF WISHES EACH OF YOU
A SAFE & HEALTHY THANKSGIVING!
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ST. THOMAS THE APOSTLE PARISH STAFF
Pastor ……………………………………………..…..Rev. John Valdez
Deacon ………………………………….…….……….Blaine Westlake
Deacon …………………………………………….……..Phillip Whitson
Deacon…………………………………………………….....Mark White
Deacon …………………………………………….…...…..Darryl Dixon
Retired Deacon ……………………………….……..Terry Pevehouse
Retired Deacon………………………………………..……..Jim Brown
Music Director/Organist/Choir Master……...….……..Jim Gardner
Children/Youth Choir Director………………….….Mykel Byersmith
Religious Ed & Adult Faith Formation Director…...……Kerry Acker
Youth Director……………………………………...Andrew Neighbors
Parish Secretary ……………………………………….…....Rita Walker
Facility Administrator ……………………………….…….Bryan Webb
Parish Bookkeeper …………………………..…..….Virginia Christian
Parish Life Coordinator ………………………..….……….Julie Jones
Ministry Assistant ……………………..…….… .Dayamin Winchester
Music Secretary ………………………..….…….....……Judith Tucker
Music/RE Assistant ..……………………..…..…..….Stephanie Kelley
Facility Assistant …………………………..…..….…......Glen Starcher
Custodian ……………………………………….…….Mark Ebenkamp
Custodian ………………………………………….……....Curtis Zeissel
Liturgical Environmentalist………………………….……..Julie Pierce
Mass Intentions
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23
9:00 AM +John C. Tobias by Fran Tobias Robbins TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24
9:00 AM Spec. Int. of Gilda Galdo by Genevieve Sinclair WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25
9:00 AM +Julia Pena by the Pena Family THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26 - THANKSGIVING DAY
10:00 AM +Pete Aboytes by Rudy & Vickey Velez
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27 NO MASS
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28
5:00 PM +Victor Blick by Joe & Kathy Hart SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29
7:00 AM
MEMBERS OF THE PARISH FAMILY
9:00 AM
+Darlene Lopez by Dolores Hernandez
11:15 AM
+Warren J. Slaton by His Family
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Religious Education & RCIA
RE NEWS *We are seeking more people to volunteer to sub for in-person Sunday religious education classes. If you would be hoping to helping in this way, please contact Kerry in the RE office! *1st parent meetings will be families who have children in RCIC II and 1st Communion II. Options for meetings will be sent out via Flocknote and will require sign up to make sure we can space participants adequately. November 18 (virtual), November 19 (in-person), or November 22 (in-person). *Confirmation II families will have meeting options beginning in Dec. Sign ups are sent out via email/flocknote groups. Please sign up for Dec. 2 (virtual); Dec. 3 (in-person); or Dec. 6 (in-person). *Calendars for the RE year were sent to family emails and placed on our website. Our next weekend off is November 26 for Thursday classes and November 29 for Sunday classes. *The Diocese of Amarillo has adopted the Virtus program, Protecting God’s Children, for the training of adults working with minors. Registration for Virtus training must be done online in advance of the scheduled training. To register go to www.virtus.org and follow the instructions. From that site you will be able to register for any session offered in the diocese. If you have questions, please call Ann Lueb at the parish office.
RCIA NEWS
**Want to know more about becoming Catholic? Please con-tact Kerry Acker! We also prepare adults 17 and older for the Sacrament of Confirmation through this class.
Contact Kerry Acker DRE at [email protected] or
806.358.2461, Ext. 106, for more info on RCIA or Religious Education.
Daily Prayer This Week
This week we might be inspired by the gospels to ask God to help us be attentive for the signs of God's presence in our lives each day.
We can ask Jesus to help us open our hearts and be more generous in our daily lives. Inspired by the poor widow, we can ask ourselves, in faith, "How willing am I to share? Do I give from my surplus or is it a real sacrifice?" Are we generous with our time and talents? Perhaps we spend too much time at the computer or at work or in various other projects, neglecting our family or other relationships. Are there places where we could give more of ourselves to peo-ple who need us?
When Jesus speaks of the "tribulations" that are ahead for all Christians, this might prompt me to ask myself how willing I am to live my faith courageously. Caring for the poor, seeking justice and self-giving love are basic ele-ments of following Jesus, but they are not valued by our culture. Am I willing to face the objections of family and friends for being so "counter-cultural" in following the gos-pel?
Perhaps we are distracted by the pressures of daily life, or as Jesus says so aptly, we allow our hearts to grow drowsy from "carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise...." What is it in our lives that keeps us from recognizing God's Kingdom here on earth? Maybe we abuse alcohol, are greedy, or know deep inside there is a basic selfishness we don't even want to recognize in ourselves. We can only rely on Jesus for an "awakeness" that will help us to see ourselves as Jesus sees us, with love and forgiveness. Taken from the "Weekly Guide for Daily Prayer" on the Creighton Uni-versity's Online Ministries web site: http://www.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/online.html Used with permission.
Adult Faith Formation
St. Thomas the Apostle Youth
Keep up with what is going on at St. Thomas by signing
up for Flocknote at www.amarillo.church and like us
and follow our latest news and updates on Facebook at www.facebook.com/amarillo.church
Staying Informed
S.T.A.Y. gatherings are going strong! Look on our website for dates and times. The most up-to-date information will be on our REMIND. Youth are required to have temperature taken, sign that they do not have symptoms, and wear a mask. For those who do not drive, parents will need to escort children to a volunteer just inside the Dwelling entrance for temperature checks. Children who fail the temperature check will leave with their parents. If children have any symptoms, contact with anyone with symptoms, or are on school-quarantine, then please keep them at home. Let's work together to keep everyone safe! For more information, contact Andrew Neighbors, Youth Director, at [email protected].
NEED MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE PARISH?
Visit our website at www.amarillo.church Daily Mass Mon. thru Fri., is at 9:00 a.m.;
doors open at 8:15 a.m.; enter Entrance B; Weekend Liturgies: Sat., 5:00 p.m., & Sun., 7:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m. & 11:15 a.m., (11:15 a.m., is live-streamed) enter Entrance A or B. Face covering required at all Liturgies. Confessions are heard on Sat., 3:30-4:30 p.m., in the Parlor. Enter Entrance B.
Face covering required.
CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF THE TEXAS PANHANDLE
Drop-Off Food Drive which was
held at St. Thomas on Wed., Oct. 14, & Sat., Oct. 17,
resulted in food donations totaling $2,474.81.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROSITY!