TWO OF MY FAVORITES! Two of my favorite feast days come this week. The first is All Saints Day or, if you prefer the old English: All Hallows Day.
In the Book of Revelation, John, the visionary, sees a multitude of people standing before the Lord in heaven. These are the ones who share in the victory of Christ. Among those victorious ones are people we know: good and holy people, relatives and friends, who have died and are now with God.
Monday's Liturgies for the Feast of All Saints celebrate these folks, the good and holy folks who have gone before us and are now with the Lord. What I love about Monday's Liturgies is that they not only celebrate these folks who were important in our life - but the Liturgies also "connect" us to them!
If you would like to "connect" with these special folks in your life, I would invite you to join me for Liturgy at 9 am or 7 pm.
Tuesday is another of my favorite feasts, for many of the same reasons. All Souls Day is a day of prayer for all those who have died and are still on their way to God.
Catholics and Orthodox Christians believe that to enter into eternity with God after death we need to be completely like Christ. Since few of us are, one of our ancient beliefs is that, if we have tried to be faithful, God will prepare us for eternity by cleansing, purifying or perfecting us.
On All Souls Day we lift up to the Lord all those who have died, especially those we hold dear. And, like All Saints Day, the Liturgy connects us to them in a very special way.
While there will be two Liturgies on All Souls Day (9 am & 7 pm), the 7 pm on Tuesday evening will be a Memorial Mass for all those who have died this past year. CARE-GIVERS GROUP Marilyn, Maryetta, Dave and I have all had the experience of taking care of our parents. One of the more difficult aspects of the care giving is doing it "on our own". Yet mutual support can make this so much easier.
On Thursday, November 4, we are inviting all those who find themselves in that Care-Giver
role
to join us in the rectory basement meeting room. We would like to bring together those who are
taking care of aging parents, relatives and friends to share their experiences and helpful
information. If you have any questions or suggestions about our Care-Givers Group you are
welcome to talk to me or Arlene Callaghan (220-1693).
Fr. Dave Howell
Mon., Nov. 1; All Saints A feast of the highest rank in the Church, celebrated on the first of November with a vigil, an octave, and a position above any other substitute feast. The ceremonies conducted on this day are designed to honor All the saints of the Church, those formally declared and those as yet unknown. Pope Boniface IV (608-615) had instituted the feast to honor all of the saints, especially those not in the calendars. Pope Gregory III in 731 consecrated a chapel in St. Peter's Basilica, in the Vatican, to honor the saints.
Tues., Nov. 2; All Souls A feast day honoring all of the faithful departed. This feast dates back to the ninth century, although as early as the seventh century it was the custom in monasteries to set aside a day for prayers for the deceased. The feast was designed to aid the souls of the deceased that are not perfectly cleansed or have not fully atoned for sins committed on earth.
Please pray that the sick will respond to God's healing will, especially: Cheryl Franks, Ami Erickson, Bea, Mary, Susan, Fr. Dan Wunderlich, Richard Sixbery, Erik, Raynald Raymond, Pete, Al & Ann Polcyn, Sue Keough, Miriam Marker, Matt Even, Eileen Auld, Cornelius Smits, Keith Kovach, Ellen Colombo, Emerson Brown, Adeline Smith, Larry Cecil, Anna Cecil, Dottie King, Catherine Schumont, Ken Carson, Norman Moon, Shirley Brake, Keith Dunn, Karen (Pat Spindler's daughter), Laurie Deirlein, Ron Schaar, Jeannette Wood, Merle, Ed, Zora Kolef, Keith Freel, Tom Cavanaugh, Timothy Richards, Mary Kay Davis, Edith Reagan, Miren Mohrenweiser, Donovan, Jessie, Mary Swift, Valerie Black, Joanne Fournier, Jerry Bettens and Dennis.
If you were one of the nearly 80 couples who participated in the Retreat for Married Couples last Sunday, I would appreciate knowing your reactions to the afternoon. Was it worthwhile? Would you like a follow up-if so what? The turnout was wonderful and Father's stew was terrific. A special thank you to everyone, especially the "E" Team who gave their time and energies to the day. Honorable mention goes to Sue Paielli and her crew who oversaw the day-care of forty or so young people for the five hour retreat.
Beginning November 8, we will be hosting a series of meetings called "Take a Second Look". Designed to meet the needs of those who have been away from active participation in the Catholic Church. These sessions offer an opportunity to examine the issues that may have caused the separation, as well as, update and renew one's relationship with the Church. If you have a family member or friend who might benefit from "Take A Second Look", please invite them to join us in the adult formation room at 7:30pm. For more information please call me at 229-8624.
Grief is a natural and normal reaction to loss, but sometimes the intensity of our emotions can seem overwhelming. A New Day is a series of eight meetings designed to increase our understanding of the stages of grief; offer some survival techniques; include prayer and Scripture reflections and provide an opportunity to meet with others who have experienced similar losses in their lives. Our sessions will begin Sunday, November 7, at 7:30pm in the rectory lower level. There is a cost of $10 for the New Day Journals. If you have any questions or want to register by phone, call me at 229-8624. A registration sheet is available in the gathering area.
If you are retired and interested in coming together with other members of the parish during
the day to share lunch and a favorite hobby, please consider joining us on Monday, November 15, in
the Social Hall to discuss the possibility of forming a group which would meet on a regular basis.
Katie Barazsu has offered to demonstrate gift wrapping at the first meeting which will begin about
12:15pm. Yours on the Journey, Marilyn
Marilyn
The children in the Penance program are asked to participate in the Rite of Acceptance on Sunday, November 7, at the 11:00 Liturgy.
The catechists are preparing for a wonderful evening on Monday, November 8, from 6-9:30
with sharing, sharing ways to enhance our teaching and reflecting and re-committing ourselves to
ministry. There is still time to register.
Sister Maryetta
Our meeting last weekend with Phil Leonard was wonderful. We sang, prayed, played, and laughed together with St. Pats' youth group. The focus was on the year Y2K and our belief as Catholics. It was an evening well spent.
Tonight there is no meeting. Many of our teens will be dressing up and going from house to house to gather candy. Just remember to be safe. Have fun, but be safe.
Our plans for the Hunger Awareness Retreat scheduled for December are underway. For 24 hours we gather together to fast with St. Pat's. Together we learn about hunger around the world and how we can make a difference. This year we will be going down to Gleaner's Food Bank in Detroit to help at their food pantry. It will be a very worthwhile 24 hours. If you have any questions about this event, please call me at the parish offices.
There are still some spaces available for for this years' Jamboree. This day-long event takes place November 6. We will travel with St. Pat's via bus. For more information and a registration form please call me at the offices.
The weekends of November 13, 20 and 27, the Sr. High youth of the parish will be selling Advent candles and wreaths.
Only ten spots are available for students to participate in serving dinner to the poor and hungry at the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, so I will need to know as soon as possible if you are interested. The date is Friday, November 12. We are scheduled to serve dinner from 4-6pm; however, we will need to leave about 3pm and return about 7:30. Neither Brighton nor Hartland school districts have school that day. Call me at the parish offices with any questions or to sign up.
The 6, 7, and 8 grade Religious Ed classes have been brainstorming for a name for their group
for the past 3 weeks. We have decided on a winning name and that is M.U.D - Magdalen's Unique
Disciples! The winning class is Mrs. Barker's 6 grade Religious Ed class, Congratulations!!
Margaret Callaghan
Margaret Callaghan
III. David Weitzel & Janet Katona
Fiscal Year runs from July 1, 1999 - June 30, 2000
Total income for the week of October 23/24, 1999:
Approximately 1356 people contributed:
Using Stewardship envelopes..............$ 13,709.00
Loose collection.........................$ 851.00
Building Fund Pledge payments............$ 2,730.00
Other....................................$ 150.00
Total receipts...........................$ 17,440.00
Weekly expenses..........................$ 16,682.00
+/- for week.............................$ + 758.00
+/- year-to-date.........................$ +5,222.00
Thank you for your Gifts
Sacrifical Giving Presently we have 775 families registered in the parish and 247 families have made
their stewardship commitment. If you have not returned your commitment card, please pray about
the sacrifical giving you will be making weekly/monthly and return the card either by mail or the
collection basket on Sunday.
The Finance Council
The Finance Council
Habitat for Humanity quilt is in the Adult Formation room. All quilters are encouraged to come and work on it. Time is running out. Any questions contact Marilyn (810) 229-8624.
VOLUNTEER NEEDED to take over the leadership of the Coffee & Donut Ministry here at SMM. This is a very important ministry. Any questions or if you would be willing to take over this ministry please call Joanne Pasienza 220-0491 or Dave Scharf 229-8624.
The Book of Remembrance will be displayed in the gathering space during the month of November. If you have a loved one that you would like remembered in prayer throughout the month, please list their name in the book.
On Tuesday, November 2, at 7:00 p.m. We invite all parishioners to attend, but especially those who have lost a family member or friend within the last year. If you cannot attend, please submit names of family and friends who have died this year to the office for inclusion in the prayers.
All Euchre Players A Euchre Card Party will be held at St. Mary Magdalen on Saturday, Nov.13 promptly at 7pm and ending around 10pm. Single Adults or couples-you don't need a partner to participate. Refreshment/beverages will be provided. Please sign the sheet in the gathering area if you will be attending or contact Paul Schifko (810) 632-5546 after 6pm. The Community Life Team (Fun & Games)
ALL SOULS DAY MEMORIAL MASS will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 1, at 7:00 p.m. We invite all parishioners to attend, but especially those who have lost a family member or friend within the last year. If you cannot attend, please submit names of family and friends who have died this year to the office for inclusion in the prayers.
Catholic Book Store will be here on Saturday and Sunday, November 6 and 7, with a display of Books, Bibles, Religious Articles, Cassettes, etc. Please stop after Mass and pay them a visit. They will be glad to assist you in any way they can.
THANK YOU.....Steve Assenmacher for calling and "instructing" at our Hoe Down last Saturday and the Community Life Committee for organizing the event. It was a fun evening for everyone who attend.
The Art & Environment Team is in need of bales of straw, bundles of corn stalks, pumpkins, gourds, squash, Indian corn, and mums. If you can donate any of these items for the harvest environment of the church, contact Diane Kubus (248)889-8855.
FLOAT UPDATE: Come be part of the fun! Many hands are still needed to work on our float entry for the "Fantasy of Lights Parade" on November 26. No special skills required. The Barn will be open every evening. Come as often as your schedule will allow. Bring the whole family and staple guns if you have them.Still needed Lights, especially white, and farm-type animals that would walk in the parade with our float. Contact Barb Colley, 227-7108, or Laurie Cooper (248)328-0338 for more information.
Catholic Book Store will be here next Saturday and Sunday with a display of Books, Bibles, Religious Articles, Cassettes, etc. Stop after Mass and browse. They will assist you in any way they can.
(A care-givers group is starting at SMM. Read on to discover John Callaghan's memories as a care-giver.) Early in 1998, my wife's dad came to live with us. It was about the time of his 83rd birthday. At first I had mixed emotions, knowing that this was going to change our lifestyle. On the up side, he was always a joy to be around because of his keen sense of humor and his zest for napping. The professionals had warned us that caring for an elderly family member in our home was a bad idea. It was one of the most rewarding things I've ever done, from the obvious like getting to know Jake better to the deeper things, like being able to do for Jake what I was never able to do for my own dad his final year.
The real difficult time came when Jake's health deteriorated to the point that he needed full-time professional care. This time was so trying for me because I felt I needed to stay out of the decision-making, yet be highly supportive. I knew in my own mind that, for Jake's well being and safety, he needed to be admitted to a long term care facility. I had to support Arlene's decision, but without appearing to push for that decision. After much searching and evaluating Arlene was able to locate a wonderful facility where Jake moved, only spending six weeks before succumbing to a weak heart and a stronger will to join his wife of 54 years.
Though not for everyone, it was a lesson, a blessing and a wonderfully fulfilling year for us. I only hope Jake got as much out of his time with us as I did with him.
The Book of Remembrance will be displayed in the gathering space during the month of November. If you have a loved one that you would like remembered in prayer throughout the month, please list their name in the book.
All Souls Day-MEMORIAL MASS will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 2, at 7:00pm. We invite all parishioners to attend, but especially those who have lost a family member or friend within the last year. If you cannot attend, please submit names of family and friends who have died this year to the office for inclusion in the prayers.
Thank you for your generosity Last Sunday our parishioners contributed $1,302 for the missionary work of the Church. Our offering through the Propagation of the Faith will be a great help for the needs of missions around the world and in our country, enabling millions to be enriched by the message of Christ and to experience what it means to be loved by Christ.
Please continue to pray for all who serve in the Missions. We benefit greatly from their prayers.
50+ Livingston County Area Catholic Council on Aging will have a meeting Wednesday, October 24, at St. Pat's in Brighton from 10:00 to 12:00 noon. All 50+ Catholics are invited to attend. For more information call Cynthia Gagnier, 227-2151.
Each of us who is baptized shares in Jesus' mission to all nations and peoples. Today, with Catholics throughout the world, we are called to offer our special prayers and generous financial support, through the Propagation of the Faith, for the worldwide mission of Jesus.
We help mission priests, sisters, brothers, lay catechists, mission seminarians and Religious novices through our giving. They reach people in remote villages and city barrios, children, the elderly, refugees, the sick, orphans, the poorest of the world. They offer them the Good News of Jesus and they are good news as, in His name, they nourish spirits, teach young minds, heal the sick and strive for justice.
Please be as generous as possible. What we offer today will help missions around the world and here in the United States. And, please, pray every day for missionaries and for those they serve.
Retreat - What can I do with my life? This retreat weekend being offered at Weber Center in Adrian will give single women, ages 18-45 a chance to connect with others, who like themselves, are exploring all aspects of religious life. It will be held Nov. 12-14. For reservations or to receive additional information call Sr.Joann Plumpe,OP(517) 266-3533.
All Euchre Players A Euchre Card Party will be held at St. Mary Magdalen on Saturday, Nov.13 promptly at 7pm and ending around 10pm. Single Adults or couples you don't need a partner to participate. In order to plan accordingly please sign the sheet in the gathering area or contact Paul Schifko (810)632-5546 after 6pm. The Community Life Team (Fun & Games)
Ministers of Prayer Schedule:
Sunday, Oct. 31 Jack Hornsberger
Monday, Nov. 1 Sue Weir, Mary Ellen Magon
Tuesday, Nov. 2 Sue Monroe, Synthia Bisoski
Wednesday, Nov. 3 Lynn Gentner, Lisa Arthur
Thursday, Nov. 4 Ken Gentner, Josie Doucette
Friday, Nov. 5 Mary Ziel, Jan Altermatt
Saturday, Nov. 6 Beth Monte, Janice Cherry
Prayer Intercessions may be filled out each weekend and placed in the basket located between the inside glass doors in our Gathering Area.
Before each weekend Liturgy begins, there is a three minute explanation of a segment of the Mass. This column offers additional information.
In the early celebrations of the Eucharist, it seems that the Liturgy ended with the distribution of communion. The need for a definite conclusion soon became evident to all, and a simple dismissal. In both the east and west this simple conclusion tended to expand. The reformed Liturgy of 1570 called for a veneration of the altar, a greeting, a dismissal, a prayer preceding the blessing, the blessing itself, and finally another Gospel reading which was always the first chapter of John. In 1884, Pope Leo XIII prescribed the addition of three Hail Marys and then the Hail, Holy Queen. In this century, Pope Pius XI added the Prayer to St. Michael which was prayed for the conversion of Russia. The reform of the Liturgy greatly simplified these concluding rites and gave us a more logical and clearer end to the Liturgy.
Announcements have long been an unofficial part of the Liturgy, but frequently occurred in different places. In the papal Liturgies of the seventh century, these were done immediately after the pope had received communion and before the clergy and people received. The archdeacon would announce the time and location of the next papal Mass at this point because those not receiving communion usually left at this point. The usual place for the announcements was either before or after the sermon, a custom which remained until recently. The New Order of the Mass officially established a place for any necessary announcements, specifying the conclusion of the Liturgy of the Eucharist, which is a more logical and less obtrusive position.
There is a nationwide ministry available to traveling Catholics providing free information on the location of the nearest church and times of Masses on weekends and holy days. This service is available to all parishes by calling 1-800-627-7846 or checking the internet at www.masstimes.org.
Sunday, October 31
Mal 1:14b - 2:2b,8-10/1 Thes 2:7b-9,13/Mt 23:1-12
Monday, Novenber 1 All Saints
Rv 7:2-4,9-14/1 Jn 3:1-3/Mt 5:1-12a
9:00 a.m. People of St. Mary Magdalen
7:00 p.m. People of St. Mary Magdalen
Tuesday, Novenber 2 All Souls
Dn 12:2-3/Rom 6:3-9/Jn 6:37-40
9:00 a.m. +All Deceased Family & Friends
7:00 p.m. +All Deceased Family & Friends
Wednesday, Novenber 3
Rom 13:8-10/Lk 14:25-33
7:00 p.m. +Larry Shahinian
Thursday, Novenber 4 Charles Borromeo, bishop
Rom 14:7-12/Lk 15:1-10
9:00 a.m. +Richard Waldeck
Friday, Novenber 5
Rom 15:14-21/Lk 16:1-8
9:00 a.m. +Mary Lang
Saturday, Novenber 6
Rom 16:3-9,16,22-27/Lk 16:9-15
Sunday, Novenber 7
Wis 6:12-16/1 Thes 4:13-18/Mt 25:1-13
4:30 (Vigil) +Fern C. Schwab
9:00 a.m. St. Mary Magdalen Parishioners
11:00 a.m. +Mildred Radke
Monday, Novenber 1
NO ACTIVITIES PLANNED
Tuesday, Novenber 2
7:00 p.m. BeFrienders (Rectory LL)
7:30 p.m. Inquiry (Adult Formation)
Wednesday, Novenber 3
9:30 a.m. M.O.M.S. (Adult Formation)
6:30 p.m. Religious Education
7:30 p.m. Youth Group Leadership(Youth Rm)
7:30 p.m. Worship (Conference Room)
Thursday, Novenber 4
6:30 p.m. Scripture Rosary
6:30 p.m. Religious Education
7:30 p.m. Music Ministry (Church)
7:30 p.m. RCIA Team (Adult Formation)
7:30 p.m. Care-Givers Group (Rectory LL)
Friday, Novenber 5
NO ACTIVITIES PLANNED
Saturday, Novenber 6
5:30 p.m. Book Fair (Social Hall)
High School Jamboree in Lansing
Sunday, Novenber 7
9-12:30 Book Fair (Social Hall)
9:45 New Member Meeting
9:30, 11, 5:45 Religious Education
11:00 Rite of Acceptance - First Penance
12:30 p.m. Baptism
7:00 p.m. Youth Group
7:30 p.m. Grief Support (Rectory LL)
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