Milestone Marriage Anniversaries will be celebrated on February 6, 2022, at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Burlington, with Bishop Coyne. Catholic married couples celebrating milestone anniversaries (e.g. 5, 10, 15, 20….55, 57) in 2022, who wish to be recognized at this Mass should contact Nicole Hamilton at nhamilton@vermontcatholic.or or 802-658-6110, ext. 1131 by Friday January 28, 2022. If you wish to be recognized locally you can request certificates signed by the Bishop which will be mailed to you. To request, please contact Nicole Hamilton.

O God, whose mighty Son was born in Bethlehem those days long ago, lead us to that same poor place, where Mary laid her tiny Child. And as we look on in wonder and praise, make us welcome Him in all new life, see Him in the poor, and care for His handiwork the earth, the sky and the sea. O God, bless us again in your great love. We pray for this through Christ our Lord. Amen

Parish Christmas Party, Sunday, December 19th, 3:00 PM, in the Julien Room. Games, songs, etc., and pizza sponsored by Catholic Financial Life, Chapter St. Jean.

The Advent candles represent Jesus coming as the light in darkness. One candle is lit each Sunday until all four candles are lit. As Christmas draws nearer, each candle brings a little more light into the darkness. First: The Candle of Hope – Purple Purple is the primary color associated with Advent. It symbolizes penance, preparation and sacrifice. During the first week of Advent, we look forward to Jesus’ coming with hope. Second: The Candle of Peace – Purple During the second week of Advent, we reflect on our lives and work on becoming better versions of ourselves in preparation for Jesus’ coming. Third: The Candle of Joy – Pink This candle symbolizes anticipation and rejoicing. During the third week of Advent, we are filled with joy for the near arrival of Jesus on Christmas day. Fourth: The Candle of Love – Purple During this final week of Advent we rejoice in the endless love that God has for us, which is made apparent in the birth of His Son. The Little Blue Advent and Christmas Season Books are here. Be sure to pick yours up. They may be found on the table in the lobby or the back of the church.

Helping aging religious. Elderly Catholic sisters, brothers, and religious order priests have offered their lives in service to others – educating the young, comforting the sick, and ministering to the less fortunate. Today, many are frail and need assistance. Your gift to the Retirement Fund for Religious helps furnish medications, nursing care, and more. Please give generously to today’s second collection.

Mass will be celebrated on Thanksgiving Day at St. Norbert’s at 8:30 AM. The Little Blue Advent and Christmas Season Books are here. Be sure to pick yours up. They may be found on the table in the lobby or the back of the church.

Catholic Financial Life Chapter St. Jean has received a $1,000 Match Fund check from Catholic Financial Life for its Ham Dinner, making a net profit of $2,093.35 to benefit Our Lady of Fatima. Thank you again to all who helped make the dinner a success.