Saint Mary of the Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

National Vocation Awareness Week coincides with the first year of preparation for our diocese’s 50^th anniversary jubilee. This year’s theme, “Do this in memory of me” (Lk 22:19), comes from Jesus’ words at the Last Supper when he instituted the Sacraments of the Eucharist and Holy Orders.

For me, and for all the priests of this great diocese, these words are a reminder that Jesus has called us to follow him as a priest, to re-present his sacrifice daily on the altar, and to feed the faithful with the Bread of Life, our necessary nourishment here on earth as we strive daily for holiness of life.

We know that Christ continues to call men to be ministers of the Church’s sacraments. We are blessed with 49 seminarians who are responding to that call, seeking to give their lives to make Christ present in the Eucharist.

Our diocese is also blessed to have almost 70 men and women in formation with religious orders throughout the world. These men and women, in addition to those already serving in our schools and hospitals and other apostolic works, give their lives in imitation of Christ, pursuing holiness and inspiring those around them to do the same.

In whatever path Our Lord has chosen for us, be it the priesthood, religious life, marriage, consecrated life, diaconate or the single life, we are called to become holy by setting aside time each day to be with Jesus in prayer, listening to him, learning from him and going forth to share his love with others.

Please join me this National Vocation Awareness Week as we pray particularly for priests, consecrated men and women, and married couples, that they remain steadfast in the promises and vows they made to God and to each other. We pray for those currently searching for their calling, that they be generous and courageous in following Christ. We pray for ourselves, that we, like Jesus, Mary and Joseph, give a more fervent “yes” each day to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Finally, we pray for our diocese as we embark upon this Year of the Eucharist in preparation for our Jubilee, that it be marked by an increase in vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life.

May God continue to bless you with abundant graces, as you follow his call in your life now and always.

In the United States, there are an estimated 19 million men and women who once wore the flag of freedom as members of the military. That is 1 in 10 adults! On Veterans Day each year, we honor their courage and service to protect and defend our rights and freedoms. Yet we should not limit such gratitude to that day alone.

Be sure, on Veterans Day and throughout the year, to express your deepest gratitude, prayers and appreciation to the veterans in your life. And ask them how they are doing. Many wounds lay under the surface, and your compassion and attentiveness could be a powerful reminder of Christ’s love for them.

We must also never forget the loving families who stand by their side, comforting them through tough times and painful experiences, and who eagerly awaited their return from overseas deployments. We assure them of our prayers.

Because of our veterans, we have the great privilege of being citizens of the United States of America, worshipping God without fear, and enjoying the freedoms safeguarded in the Constitution. We owe each of them a debt of gratitude. To all our veterans: Thank you.

Calling all 4th, 5th & Middle School Students:

Altar Server Training is Happening! Jesus wants to draw you closer to Him — Come serve at His altar!

Training will involve 4 sessions at St. Mary Church: Tuesday, November 9 4-7pm Tuesday, November 16 4-7pm Tuesday, November 23 4-7pm Tuesday, November 30 4-7pm

Installation Mass ALL NEW SERVERS MUST ATTEND Sunday, December 12 at 12:30pm

“Learning to serve at the altar opened my eyes and heart to the beauty of the Mass”

– Fr. Mosimann

To register, email stmaryfxbg@gmail.com Please include child’s name, age, grade, and contact name, phone, and email of parents

If you have any questions, please call 540-373-6491

Dear Folks,