Mass Intentions

Monday, December 29

      7:00 a.m.               T.R.  & Gertrude O’Farrell

      8:00 a.m.               Leroy Moore

Tuesday, December 30

      7:00 a.m.               Madaline & Peyton Carr

      8:00 a.m.               Joseph L. Mathias, Jr.

Wednesday, December 31

      7:00 a.m.               Marjorie B. Case

      8:00 a.m.               Herbert Sprankle

      4:30 p.m.               Viola Murphy

    11:30 p.m.               Int. of Mark Seibel

Thursday, January 1

      7:15 a.m.               Maureen Brothers

      9:15 a.m.               Mary Diane Reusing

    11:15 a.m.               Catherine Cole

Friday, January 2 (First Friday)      

      7:00 a.m.               Mr. & Mrs. C. Edward Cootes

      9:30 a.m.               Carlo Pepe

      7:00 p.m.               Reba Poole

Saturday, January 3

        8:00 a.m.               Chester Majchrzak

        5:00 p.m.               Vera & Girard Schwessinger

Sunday, January 4

      7:15 a.m.               Parishioners of St. John Parish

      9:15 a.m.               Steve McBeth

    11:15 a.m.               Maureen Brothers

      3:15 p.m.               Petyon & Madaline Carr

      6:00 p.m.               Willard Bland

 

 

From the Pastor

    As the calendar year comes to a close, so too does our parish’s Sesquicentennial Year. We began the year with an ambitious schedule of activities and events that included: the Inaugural Mass (January 5^th with Bishop Malooly), the Parish Lenten Mission (March 30^th to April 3^rd with Father John Murray), the 150^th Anniversary Gala (May 3^rd), the Knights of Columbus Golf Tournament (June 6^th), The St. John School Alumni Reunion (July 20^th), the Parish Picnic (August 9^th), the Musical Production of the “Three Marys,” (September 5,6,7,12 & 13), the Dedication of our New Church (October 26^th with Cardinal Keeler), the Pilgrimage to Rome (November 7 – 17), the publication of our Anniversary Book and Video (December 6^th) and the celebration of our closing Mass on the feast of St. John (December 27^th). Thanks to a tremendous amount of prayer, hard work, cooperation and participation…it was a year to remember! As the New Year begins, let us resolve to continue in prayer and to grow in holiness.  Thank you for all that you do.

 

                May God bless you,

   

 

 

Of Special Note

THE PARISH OFFICES will be closed on Thursday, January 1.

 

 

Solemnity of Mary Mother of God

Holy Day of Obligation

Wed., December 31 (Vigil)      4:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m.

Thursday, January 1                7:15 a.m., 9:15 a.m. and 11:15 am.

 

Liturgy & Worship

FIRST FRIDAY MASSES ... January 2

Masses will be at 7:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. (attended by St. John School), and 7:00 p.m. all Masses are in the church. First Friday Devotion… A traditional day to honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and to ask His mercy especially through confession. The devotion began with a private revelation from Jesus to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque during the 1600’s.

 

CHILDREN’S LITURGY ... Sunday, January 3

The 9:15 a.m. Mass will be a children’s liturgy.

 

PERPETUAL ADORATION of the BLESSED SACRAMENT:  We need your help with the following hours: Sundays – 2 & 9 a.m. and 3, 4, 5 & 6 p.m.; Mondays – 1 & 2 a.m.; Tuesdays – 12, 1, 3, & 8 a.m.; Wednesdays – 2, 3 & 7 a.m.; Thursdays – 2 & 3 a.m.; Fridays – 1, 2, 3 a.m. and 12 & 1 p.m.; and Saturdays – 12, 1, 2, & 3, a.m. and 12, 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 9 & 10 p.m. Please call the parish office if you can fill one hour.

 

We Pray …

MASS INTENTIONS are of such high volume that it occasionally becomes necessary to send them to missions who can respond to them in a timely fashion. The following intentions have recently been sent: Dominic Fornaro, John Ryan Strebe, Irvin Constantine, Jr., Int. of Truman Painton, (4 Masses), Louise Murdy, Ben Pena, Int. of Clark Brumbley (3 Masses), Int. of Alfred A. Perfett, Viola Martha Murphy (2 Masses), Robert Dormady, Tracey Shifflett, Al Bailey, Sr., Int. of Joseph & Marie Knight, Marie Miller, William George, Tony Bors, Joan Stockton, Janet Murphy, Int. of Ron Hurl, Int. of Patricia Brink, and Int. of Joan & Richard Seible.

 

Liturgy of the Word

DAILY SCRIPTURE READINGS … December 29 – Jan. 4

Mon.:   1 Jn 2:3-11;   Ps 96:1-3,5-6;   Lk 2:22-35

Tues.:  1 Jn 2:12-17;   Ps 96:7-10;   Lk 2:36-40

Wed.:  1 Jn 2:18-21;   Ps 96:1-2,11-13;   Jn 1:1-18

Thurs.: Nm 6:22-27;   Ps 67:2-3,5-6,8;   Gal 4:4-7;   Lk 16-21

Fri.:      1 Jn 2:22-28;   Ps 98:1-4;   Jn 1:19-28

Sat.:      1 Jn 2:29-3:6;   Ps 98:1,3-6;   Jn 1:29-34

Sun.:     Is 60:1-6;   Ps 72:2,7-8,10-13;   Eph 3:2-3,5-6;    Mt 2:1-12

 

Stewardship

WEEKLY OFFERING for Weekend of December 21^st and 28^th will be included in the bulletin of January 11^th .

 

This year’s budget is based on a weekly offering of $24,500.00. Our current weekly average is $24,251.55. Thank you.

VISION 2003 CAMPAIGN UPDATE:

Total Pledged:    $    6,962,588          Goal:                       $    8,056,600.  

Paid to Date:             5,599,273          Pledged to date:         6,962,588

Balance:               $  1,363,315 Interest Earned:                         549,780.

                                                              Pledges needed:   $       544,232

Thank you to all parishioners who have made a pledge. Memorial opportunities are still available. Please call the parish office to make, renew or extend your pledge.

 

CHILDREN’S OFFERING ENVELOPES are available in the school and parish offices.

 

THAT SPECIAL TIME BETWEEN the Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year holidays is often a time of reflection back upon the blessings of last year… it is a time when individuals or families can determine whether we are able to make a year-end gift to a favorite charity or non-profit organization for the tax deduction opportunity it affords…Please remember St. John Church or School when formulating your year-end charitable gift contributions. Thank you.

 

School News

 

GROCERY CERTIFICATES Please support the school through purchasing gift cards for Kohl’s, Boscovs, and local grocery stores. There is no additional cost involved but the school makes 5% from all sales. They are available through the school office and before school.

 

PTF DANCE & SILENT AUCTION … Friday, April 23

Mark your calendars for this St. John PTF Annual event. Donations to the silent auction are needed including: time-shares, antiques, crafts, services, sports items or tickets, etc. Proceeds benefit the School and donations are tax deductible. For donations or info, contact Sheri at 410-833-6197 or Mary at 410-552-6689.

 

Religious Ed./Youth Activities

Religious Education Office: (410) 848-8443

 

THE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION STAFF would like to wish our students, teachers, assistants, office helpers and their families continued Blessings for the New Year. 

 

THERE WILL BE NO RELIGIOUS ED. CLASSES …

Tuesday, December 30, and Thursday January 1. Classes will resume on Tuesday, January 6 and Thursday, January 8. 

 

 

 

 

ANNUAL BIRTHDAY NIGHT … Sunday, January 4

Immediately after the 6:00 p.m. Mass, Life Teen will have a huge birthday party to celebrate everyone’s birthday. We will have a cake for every month of the year. Want to celebrate your birthday early? Now is the time. If you would like to donate a cake, please call Jordan in the Religious Ed. Office.

RISE UP! A Catholic Revolution: It is time to get your money together for Steubenville! We have three possible dates: June 25-27, July 9-11, or July 16-18. As always it is a lottery as to what date we will get. There is an initial deposit of $70 due by January 4, 2004. Deposits must be accompanied by an information form, which may be picked up in the parish center.

 

 

SPRING KICK-OFF … Sunday, January 11

From 7:15 to 9:00 p.m.

 

Outreach

* THE ST. VINCENT de PAUL SOCIETY *

The members of the St. Vincent de Paul Society would like to send the church community our warmest wishes for a Happy and Holy New Year. Thank you for the support you give us throughout the year.

 

CARROLL TRANSIT SYSTEM will provide a bus for those who need transportation to area Sunday church services on the 1^st and 3^rd Sundays each month. Cost is $2 per person each way (within a 5 miles radius). Call 410-875-5555 by Thursday prior.

 

activities in Our Parish

AND SESQUICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION EVENTS

 

WELCOME HOME to the CATHOLIC FAITH! On Monday, December 29^th, at 7:00 p.m. in the church, St. John welcomes all those who are “Seeking a Home” in the Catholic Church,  “Coming Home” to their Catholic Faith, or wanting to learn more about our faith. Topics include: “Coming Back to the Sacraments, Annulments, Q&A about what Catholics believe and why. It’s also an opportunity for church tours. Tell a neighbor or family member.

 

WELCOMING SESSION & REGISTRATION … Sun. Jan. 4

If you are interested in becoming a member of St. John Parish or just interested in knowing how to get involved in the parish, you are invited to attend a Welcoming Session being held from 8:30 – 9:00 a.m. or 10:30 – 11:00 a.m.

 

HOW TO REGISTER at this PARISH: All new parishioners who wish to register at the parish are invited to receive a welcoming packet from either the Parish Office, Ushers, School, Religious Education, or Baptism Preparation Class. The welcoming packet will invite you to a “Welcoming and Registration Sunday” which will be held every 1^st Sunday of the month, from 8:30 – 9:00 a.m. or 10:30 – 11:00 a.m. At that time, interested parishioners can meet some of our parish priests and parishioners, hear about various programs, receive coupons for free Knights of Columbus breakfasts, and receive a more personal welcome into this very large and faith-filled parish. If you are interested in registering or becoming involved with this process, contact Fr. Leo in the parish office.

 

ST. JOHN LADIES’ SODALITY ... Sunday, January 4

Sodality meets for the 9:15 a.m. Mass, followed by the meeting in the parish center. All ladies of the parish are invited. For information, call Deana at 410-876-1007.

HEALTH CARE MINISTRY … Wednesday, January 5

The next monthly meeting will begin with quiet prayer in the Chapel at 1:00 p.m., followed by a meeting in the parish center. All parishioners are invited to join us. 

 

STAND VOLUNTEER PRESENTATION … Mon., January 5

From 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. in the old church. All parish volunteers who have not been to a STAND presentation must attend this session. For info, contact George Hinkel at the parish office ext. 249.

 

OUTREACH COMMITTEE MEETING … Mon., January 5

At 3:30 p.m. in the parish center Room A. New members are welcome! For more information, please call Anne Nevin at 410-876-1027.

 

LITURGICAL MINISTERS RETREAT … Saturday, Jan. 17

At Carroll Community College, registration at 8:00 a.m. The retreat will begin with Mass at 8:30 a.m. and conclude at approximately 2:30 p.m. Please reserve this date on your calendar (snow date will be January 24). The following Liturgical Ministers should attend: ·Lectors ·Ushers ·Eucharistic Ministers ·Music Ministers ·Children’s Liturgy ·Children’s Liturgy of the Word ·Art & Environment ·Liturgy Committee Members.

 

LES MISERABLES … Saturday, April 17

Due to some cancellations, there are still 6 tickets left for the play, Tickets are $73.00 including the bus from St. John’s to the Hippodrome theatre in Baltimore. Also, Fr. Brian will hold a one- hour talk about the play/music sometime in the Spring. Date to be announced. For information, call Mary Masimore at 410 857-0526.

 

150^th ANNIVERSARY KEEPSAKES AVAILABLE to benefit our Church Building Fund! ■ The Wine Glass bears a satin-etched image of our Sesquicentennial logo, costs $5. ■ The 6” square Ceramic Tile shows a gold metallic representation of our Sesquicentennial logo and detailed images of the three churches. Cost is $10. Both may be purchased in the parish office, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, while supplies last.

 

150^th ANNIVERSARY BOOK & VIDEO are available for pick-up and sale at the Parish Office, Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. To make arrangements for evening pick-up, call Sue Ripper at 410-876-3472 or ext. 217 in the parish office. Books are $20, Videos/DVDs are $15. Buy the set for $30 and save! A limited number are still available.

 

150^th ANNIVERSARY SWEATSHIRTS: Sizes available: youth small through adult 3x. For information, contact Jean at 410-848-8654 or Mary Agnes at 410-876-1307.

 

ALTAR SOCIETY of ST. JOHN is in need of several more people willing to donate some of their time on Fridays to help clean the church. For more information, please contact Pat Mueller at 410-876-2596.

 

THE HISPANIC MINISTRY is looking for Eucharistic Ministers, Altar Servers, and parishioners to assist in other ways for the 3:15 p.m. Spanish Mass, and with the Spanish-speaking community. You need not be fluent in Spanish. For more information, call Denise Diegel at 410-876-0860.

JUNIOR LEGION OF MARY … Friday afternoon at 3:00

All Catholics under the age of 18 are eligible to join. We make rosaries for missions, assist at Religious Ed., visit nursing homes, and distribute holy cards and medals. If you would like your child to grow closer to Jesus and Mary, come join us. For information, call Patty Spaar at 410-861-8510.

 

MEMORIAL BRICKS: We will have a 3^rd opportunity to purchase a memorial brick. 4 x 8 brick forms are available in the parish office. A limited number of 8 x 8 bricks will be available, call Kathy Duex for an 8 x 8 form at 410-848-4469. Bricks are $75 for 4 x 8 and $150 for an 8 x 8.

 

NEW BEGINNINGS is held in the parish center on the 1^st and 3^rd Thursdays each month from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. to provide separated or divorced people a forum to exchange experiences, ideas and opinions. For info, call Janelynn Moore at 410-848-8741.

 

RCIA II: If you or anyone you know is interested in becoming Catholic, we will be offering a program on Monday nights beginning in February. Sessions will help prepare those attending, to understand the Catholic Faith, and assist them in making the decision to join our Church. Anyone who has been baptized may join. For more information, please call Paul Gallagher in the Religious Ed. Office.

 

TOGETHER we can MAKE IT is an 8-10 week support group with a limited number of participants for those recently separated or divorced. For Info, call Janelynn Moore at 410-848-8741.

 

THREE MARY'S AUDIO CD'S: Excellent quality. A limited number are available. The cost is $14. For information, call Jeanne 410-751-6106. 

 

SUNDAY NURSERY for 1-5 year olds will be held in the St. Matthew room of the school during the 9:15 and 11:15 a.m. Masses. For info, contact Peggy Rager at 410-848-0790.

 

At Other Parishes

CHRISTMAS CONCERT … Sunday, January 4

At Knott Auditorium, Mount Saint Mary’s College in Emmitsburg. Featuring International Irish Tenor Mark Forrest, sponsored by Our Father’s Divine Work. Tickets are $25.00 per person. For information, call 410-239-7847.

 

DELONE HIGH PLACEMENT TEST … Sat., January 17

For eighth graders who do not attend PA area schools. If you are interested in pursuing an education at Delone Catholic as a ninth grader, you must take the placement test. Call Sister Maria at 717-637-5969 to register.

 

Vocations/Archdiocese

TRAVELING CHALICE PROGRAM: Each week a St. John family receives the chalice and the commission at Mass to pray for an increase in the priestly and religious vocations during that week. Sign up now to have your family receive the chalice. For information, call Ms. Hopkins at 410-857-5487.

 

CATHOLIC CHARITIES ANSWERS for the AGING is a free and confidential information and referral service for older adults, their families and/or caregivers. When you call, a referral counselor/specialist will listen to your questions or concerns and can help identify options and make referrals to appropriate agencies. If you are feeling overwhelmed at the prospect of trying to find the right service, call 410-646-0100 or 1-888-507-7587.

 

Reminders

THE DEADLINE for BULLETIN ANNOUNCEMENTS is 12:00 noon on the Monday before the weekend in which the announcement is to appear… All announcements are requested in writing. You may submit bulletin notices via e-mail to bulletin@sjwest.org. Special Note: Bulletins through January 4^th are completed and printed. Next available bulletin will be for January 11^th.

 

OUR 2004 PARISH CALENDARS displaying beautiful Catholic art may be delayed in arrival. They will be distributed, one calendar per family, after the weekend Masses as soon as they arrive. Thank you for your patience.

 

HOLY COMMUNION will be brought to you during Mass if you are unable to come to the altar. Please inform an usher.

 

LARGE‑PRINT MISSALETTES are available for use at weekend Masses. Please see an usher before Mass.