One starry night, so bright, the world was filled with love.
A wonderful sight, the light that shone from up above.
The angels proclaimed His holy name… King of Kings.
This is the story… the power and the glory.
Three wise men knelt to pray, a guiding star had led the way…
and there He lay born on Christmas day.
From Born on Christmas Day, written by Andes, Bryson, Buchanan
Just about a year ago, our journey together began in Charlestown, and I am so grateful to so many who give so much to our parish families, as now we rejoice in our Savior King born for us and look up and ahead to the coming year. We have already accomplished so much, with the incredible dedication of our staff, councils, priests, groups, and lots of individuals. We said goodbye to many, but also we also welcomed many to the family; we experienced changes, but grew stronger for what we have already shared, what we share now, and what awaits. We have faced challenges and face them now, but we’ve found and will continue to find ways to grow.
What’s ahead? Plenty! We’ll strengthen the bonds that bring us together, we’ll have adventures big and small, continue to learn about and deepen our faith, and take on opportunities to celebrate! I do hope if you’re new to St. Mary- St. Catherine or St. Francis de Sales Parishes, you’ll introduce yourself to us, or you’ll welcome a family member, friend, co-worker, or neighbor to join us. This is a time to look forward to what Christ is calling us to be, and to find ways to work together to bring it about.
Thanks to Sr. Nancy who prepared our beautiful Collaborative Advent prayer service on Dec. 12, to John & Tim, who shared their great talents, to Frs. Britto & Tony, who heard confessions with me, and everyone who came and prayed with us on the three Wednesdays of our preparations to meet our Savior.
The Breakfast with Santa celebration at Bishop Lawton Hall at St. Francis on Dec. 10 was a smashing success in so many ways, and I am so grateful to Sandy Taylor, Pauline O’Brien, Bunker Hill Associates, Kim & the Warren Tavern, Starbucks, City of Boston Credit Union, Muffin Town, Our DJ Smokey, the Big Guy (Santa), Donors, Volunteers & the KP staff and so many who made it all Merry and Bright! We’re hoping to build from this tremendous event to make St. Francis vibrant in every way!
I congratulate the winner of our St. Francis’ Bruins raffle, and after raising over $5000, I say a special thank you to Maria Leahy, who was the driving force in this endeavor! Thanks to Shaun Fisher, Painters Union DC35 and Chris Brennan, Paul Dodd, and our old friend and my classmate Fr. Paul Coughlin! Coming soon- there are stirrings about more hockey raffles involving signed hockey sweaters and maybe more in the spring… stay tuned!
Thanks very much to the Carr family and Carr Funeral Home who donated the beautiful and helpful calendars that will walk us through a very busy 2024!
On Tuesday, Jan. 9 at 6:30 pm, join us at Bishop Lawton Hall as we welcome Collette Tours (as seen on Wheel of Fortune they’re based right down Rte. 95 in Rhode Island) and learn all about the incredible trip to Italy we’re planning in October 2024! I’ve taken this trip before, and it’s a tremendous adventure!
Thanks very much to John and Lee and Shawn and everyone who helped us host the beautiful concert on Dec. 10 at St. Mary’s by the Spectrum Singers! Though the weather outside seemed like March, the inside was happily Christmas-like! The generous donations to Harvest on Vine were appreciated and added to the joyful atmosphere!
Coming in March… two very special evenings with a dynamic actor and dedicated Catholic who will light up St. Mary’s Church with three presentations: Monday evening, March 21: Signs! The Gospel of John and Tuesday evening, March 22: The Sermon on the Mount and Hollywood vs. Faith! Take everyone to this special evening with TV and film star Frank Runyeon, and be inspired, encouraged, and spellbound! Admission is a free will offering. Mark these dates on your shiny new calendar and
join us!
A Christmas Blessing for All of Our Parishioners
and Visitors,
and Their Loved Ones
May there be harmony in all your relationships. May sharp words, envious thoughts and hostile feelings be dissolved. May you give and receive love generously. May this love echo in your heart like the joy of church bells on a
clear December day. May each person who comes into your life be greeted as another Christ.
May the honor given the Babe of Bethlehem be that which you extend to every guest who enters your presence. May the hope of this Sacred Season settle in your soul. May it be a foundation of courage for you when times of distress occupy your inner land. May the wonder and awe that fills the eyes of children be awakened with you. May it lead you to renewed awareness and appreciation of whatever you too easily take for granted. May the bonds of love for one another be strengthened as you gather with your family and friends around the table of festivity and nourishment. May you daily open the gift of your life and be grateful for the hidden treasures it contains. May the coming year be one of good health for you. May you have energy and vitality. May you care well for your body, mind and spirit. May you keep your eye on the Star within you and trust this Luminescent Presence to guide and direct you each day. May you go often to the Bethlehem of your heart and visit the One who offers you peace. May you bring this peace into our world. – Joyce Rupp