Advent… The shame and the scandal. That is how this weekend’s readings begin. Things are not well in the Holy Family. Joseph is considering divorcing Mary ’quietly’ because she is with child, and he is not the father. By divorcing her ’quietly’ he heaps the blame for the situation on himself. Rather than publically expose Mary as pregnant with a child who is not Joseph’s, he is going to ’divorce her’, and take upon himself the role of a “cad” who would abandon a pregnant fiancé. What a mess. Just think of all the hurt and anger all around, on all counts. And into this mess, comes the hand of God, in the form of religious imagination, a dream. In the dream, the angel says to Joseph that he must not fear, that God has his own hand in all this mess, and that to trust the love that he and Mary had for each other. Who would have thought it? Certainly, not Joseph. This week Advent draws out of us our own religious imagination, our dreams, our hopes, our desires. It calls us to believe that God has his hand in our lives too. That God has a plan for us. We must trust the love we have for God, and the love that God has for us. Happy Advent! A Gala To Remember! Thanks to all who made our recent Musical Gala, on December 8th, such a great success. The choir and musicians were all awesome, and the musical program delightful. It was a fitting celebration of the Second Sunday of Advent, the traditional feast day of the Immaculate Conception, and as a prelude to Christmas. It would have made a Grinch smile! Thanks to all who donated items to be raffled, who worked at selling raffle tickets, who decorated, set up, and cleaned up the Parish Life Center, and who made and served the good-goodie refreshments for the post concert party. Special thanks to our parish Music Director, Linda McKeague, who coordinated the entire event. It was a wonderful holiday celebration, and a gift given to our community. Thanks to all! Christmas Masses… A word to the wise: patience. At Christmas our parish church is filled with family members ‘home for the holidays’, and visitors from out of town. Sometimes we think that Evangelizing means ringing door bells, or preaching on a street corner. It more likely is being courteous to the stranger trying to navigate an unfamiliar and packed parking lot, or smiling welcome to the visitor sitting in “your” usual pew seat. If you are reading this, you are a regular at Mass here at St. Elizabeth Seton. I encourage all of us to go out of our way to effectively evangelize by being a warm, welcoming, and inviting congregation this Christmas

season. Others in our church have by harsh word and judgments, negative actions and serious errors driven away and alienated many good people. Hopefully none of us have been part of creating this problem of distancing others form the church and the Lord. But all of us can be a big part of the solution of ending this alienation, if we mindfully try to be welcoming and inviting to those who will choose to celebrate Christmas with us. If others see the Christ dwelling in our lives, they will be drawn to Him, whom we have come to know. Don’t be on your good behavior for Christmas. Be on your very best behavior. It is the gift we bring to Church for the King of Kings. Our Annual Financial Report… I have received positive feedback on the Annual Financial Report that we mailed to all parish families after Thanksgiving. People commented that the report was clear to read and to understand, and that it gave a good overview of the parish finances: the sources of income, the areas of expenses, the parish bank balances, and the parish and school building debt. We will continue to refine it a bit more in the coming years. Again I am very grateful to all our parishioners for their ongoing good stewardship and generosity to our parish mission in these tough economic times. But we do have an excellent parish mission here in passing on the faith to the next generation, and living the faith in this part of God’s kingdom. Our parish is worth the time, talent, and treasure that we give to it. I am also grateful to the ongoing efforts by staff members and the parish Finance Council to look at income and expenses and to carefully shepherd our financial resources. They are a prudent group. Some people also commented to me that they were very surprised that in my Christmas letter to our parishioners I did not ask for a specific sum from each family at Christmas. That sort of asking has never been my style. As you have seen, I try to let people know what our needs are, I articulate a vision and a direction our parish is moving towards, and I trust that people will do the best they can to support our parish mission. Then I will work to live within our means, and more importantly, our meaning.. Christmas Wishes... On behalf of all our parish priests, lay staff, and parish leadership I want to wish all of you a Blessed Christmas, and a Happy and Healthy New Year of 2014!

Keep Smiling...

CORCORAN’S CORNER

MASS INTENTIONS

We remember the sick, infirm, and those recommended to our prayers, that they may experience the healing power of Christ: Diane Brennan Richard Tropp Bob Szcinski Suzanne LaCosse Tony Garczynski Victoria Acosta And for our deceased: Helen Durante Patricia Borske Regina Billo “Heavenly Father, accept the prayers which we offer for them.”

PLEASE PRAY FOR

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS Page Three

Sat., Dec. 21 (5pm) Frank Stasic; Beverly Perkowski; Josephine Tarantino; Kathryn Stochy-Jaronczyk; Jean Lis Sunday, Dec. 22 (7:15am) Edwin and Anne Rybczyk; Jacob Fischer (8:30am) Evelyn Mniszewski; Stella Sanza; Fayett Franklin Talman (10am) Clara McMullen; Gregory Szyndrowski; Robert N. Roeper; Carl Demma; Lorimer Cruz; Joseph Ham; Robert Gugluizza; Roberta Mayhugh; Elizabeth Konieczny (11:30am) Ray and Corinne Gillis; Robert and Cecilia Zmuda; Don D’Ercole; Victoria Lukasiewciz; Matthew Kocher Mon., Dec. 23 (9am) Victorino and Jovita Daisey Legaspi; Dominic Russo; Victoria Lukasiewicz; Michael Mazur Family Tues., Dec. 24 (9am)Tony Demma; Michael Mazur; Lynn Ring; Ken Mazur and Family; Matthew Kocher; Richard Thiele; Maxine Tomasiewicz; Katherine Soprych (4pm, 6pm, 10pm) All Parishioners Wed., Dec. 25 (All Masses) All Parishioners Thurs., Dec. 26 (9am) Camille Rosiak; William Matles; Lucija Stasic Fri., Dec. 27 (9am) Patsy Esposito; Rolland Sprague; Jennifer Soprych; Stanley Lepak; Gerald Lynch

December 22, 2013

Congratulations to the following parents on the baptism of their child on Sunday, Dec. 15, 2013: Mason Jon, child of Nicholas Gorny and Ashley Keel

BAPTISMS

STEWARDSHIP

COLLECTION FOR 12-15-13: $31,224.60

KIDS' COLLECTION: $75.60

Thank you for your generosity.

Vania Arquilla James Ruggio Giovanni Annesley

WELCOME

Wafers are available in the Narthex this weekend! Dec. 21/22 Celebrate Christmas with Opl atek Oplatek, Christmas Wafers, will be avail-able for a free-will offering after all Masses this weekend for those wanting to participate in this centuries old custom. Oplatek, from Latin, Oblatum meaning Holy Bread, is our Christ-mas oblation. The Christmas wafer is reminis-cent of the word Bethlehem which means “House of Bread.” The breaking of bread is a sign of charity, unity, and friendship. Religious family customs bring the truths of Faith into the home. The thin wafer (unleavened bread) bearing the Christmas characters is broken by the head of the family and distributed to each member. With a simple prayer for God’s grace and for the welfare of the present/absent members of the family, the broken wafer pieces are distributed to each one at the table. While doing this, the leader kisses each family member and wishes them a joyful feast. The members, then, greet one another in the same way. The spiritual lesson in this age-old custom is the unity of the family.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION HOLIDAY CLOSURE

The St. Elizabeth Seton Parish Offices will be closed for the Christmas holiday

on Tuesday, Dec. 24th and reopen on Friday Dec. 27th.

The parish staff wishes all a Merry Christmas!

Congratulations to Todd and Gale Shafer who will celebrate their 45th Wedding Anniversary on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2013.

ANNIVERSARIES

WAITING IN JOYFUL HOPE A reflection by

Jay Cormier

T HE LAST WEEK OF ADVENT SHIFTS OUR FO-

CUS FROM THE PROMISE OF THE MESSIAH TO THE FULFILLMENT OF THAT PROMISE IN THE EVENTS SURROUNDING JESUS’ BIRTH. The gospel for the Fourth Sunday of Advent this year is Matthew’s version of Jesus’ birth at Beth-lehem. This is not Luke’s beloved story of a child born in a Bethlehem stable welcomed by humble shepherds and a choir of angels. Matthew’s story is much darker. In Matthew’s account, Jesus’ coming is a disgrace and a scandal; his birth is a source of humiliation, an embarrassment for his family.

T HE CARPENTER JOSEPH IS THE CENTRAL FIGURE IN MATTHEW’S STORY. In Matthew’s account, Joseph learns that his

fiancée is pregnant. Confused and hurt, Joseph an observant but compassionate Jew, does not wish to subject Mary to the full fury of Jewish law, so he plans to divorce her “quietly.” But an angel appears to Joseph in a dream and reveals that this Child is his people’s long-awaited Messiah. Because of his complete faith and trust in God’s

promise, Joseph ac-knowledges the Child and names him Jesus (“Savior,” “deliverer”) and becomes, in the eyes of the law, the “legal” father of Jesus. In Matthew’s gospel, Christ’s entry into human history begins with the compassion of Joseph the carpenter. Joseph puts aside his own

hurt and embarrassment and welcomes the Child as his own. God’s birth in our midst depends on human partners like Mary and Joseph who are wiling to believe the impossible, to claim the un-wanted, to love the helpless and neediest, to dare to hope in Emmanuel—”God is with us.”

A PPROACHING THE CHRISTMAS MYSTERY, we too must heed the angel’s invitation. In the ongoing story of Jesus’ presence

in the world, each of us must continually choose to receive him into our home and into our heart. Every one of us is called to be Joseph—to welcome God in our midst. In the mystery of Christmas, God’s yes — depends on our yes. • How can you take on the role of Joseph this Christmas by bringing the compassion and forgiveness of God into a difficult and strained situation?

Page Four FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS December 22, 2013

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT

What did you go out to the desert to see? Stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come.— MT. 24:42

O God, help us to build our family’s home on the compassion, faith, and trust of Joseph. In times of crisis and tension, bless our families

with the hope of your consolation and forgiveness; In times of joy and growth, bless us with a spirit of gratitude,

never forgetting that you are the Father of us all, the Giver of all that is good.

Does Advent trigger an awareness in me that God is calling me to broaden my vision

which includes the purpose of my life and even the very end of the world?

Page Five FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS December 22, 2013

Sharing Gifts On The Way To The Manger

Seton youth share an enactment of the Nativity for a Children’s Christmas Toy Drive on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2013 at the Cornerstone.

Over 50 children volunteered their time taking one hour shifts to portray the Nativity.

The live sheep, goat and Jerusalem donkey were on site and loved being welcomed by little visitors

A handmade crèche and manger was donated for the event to host the image of Jesus with Mary, Joseph, angels, shepherds, angels and kings. Symbols of gold, frankincense, and myrrh represented gifts of the Magi.

Sharing Gifts on the Way to the Manger On the First Sunday of Advent, Dec. 1st, families were invited to stop by the Cornerstone for hot chocolate and cookies after all Masses and witness the live enactment of the Nativity presented by the St. Elizabeth Seton Social Action Ministry, Seton Religious Education students and Cardinal Joseph Bernardin School stu-dents and volunteer high school students. The event was held as a toy drive fundraiser for the needy children served by Respond Now of Chicago Heights. Many came to witness the scene of Jesus in the manger, as well as the opportunity to pet and feed the animals of the Nativity: a sheep, goat and a Jerusalem donkey (whose named was derived because its natural cross design on its back). Thanks to all those who shared a new toy for the needy children of Respond Now. Special thanks to Elaine Pawlak for organizing the students, Dr. Tracy Frederick of Summit Animal Hospital for donating the animals. Nancy Budzinski for donating baby Jesus for the manger especially made by Walt Willie, the St. Elizabeth Seton Maintenance Dept. for “making room at the inn” to host the event. The hot chocolate was a gift from Joe and Katie Tucker and the delicious cookies were made with great love by parishioners and students. We were grateful to our Lord for the beautiful sunny day.

Page Six FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS December 22, 2013

Journey with the Lord and let your heart hear God’s Words….

By Margie Guadagno St. Elizabeth Seton Pastoral Associate

When the disciples

met Jesus

on the road,

they were

disappointed

and sad.

He walked with them

and listened to

their story.

Then, by opening up

the Scriptures

He gave them hope!

He helped them see

that they were

not abandoned

or left orphaned,

that God

was with them

and would

always be part

of their journey.

The Road To EmmausThe Road To EmmausThe Road To Emmaus The Road To Emmaus The Road To EmmausThe Road To EmmausThe Road To Emmaus

God Is With Us

I T IS UNBELIEVABLE HOW MUCH NEW STUFF IS OUT THERE FOR BABIES! Since my youngest were born in 1979, I

haven’t had first-hand knowledge of what’s available for parents for a looooong time. And as a grandmother, I exercised my privilege to just purchase beautiful clothes and fun toys for all my grandchildren, so I never paid attention to the necessities needed to care for babies.

Watching my daughter gather together all the things required for her first child was a real eye opener for me!! Crib design is off the charts fabulous, as are dressers, hutches and changing tables. Bassinettes are almost passé as there is a plethora of styles of Pack N Plays. And car seats? Unbelievable. She bought a car seat that just snaps into a base in the car. In turn, it also snaps into the stroller!! And all I have to buy for MY car is the base and I can utilize her car seat.

But my absolute favorite item was the discovery of something called a mamaRoo! during a conversation with my daughter about where baby would sleep when she came home from the hospital, I asked about a bassinette. She replied, “Oh no, we have her in the mamaRoo next to our bed.” I said, “Oh no, poor baby!” (Little did I know.) She laughed and said to hang on. Within minutes I received a video clip on my phone of Arya being rocked to and fro in a cozy little seat. She just swayed in a gentle rhythm that mimicked the rocking motion she was used to when her mother was still carrying her!! Poor baby indeed!

Over these past several months I have been in awe of all the stuff that has accumulated in Mary’s apartment. What was once quite a spacious space, now feels as claustrophobic as a broom closet. How can one little baby create such chaos in a household!?! Well, I guess we’re not in Kansas anymore, Toto!!

W HAT A CONTRAST TO THE LIFE OF THE BABY WHOSE COMING WE CELEBRATE THIS WEEK.

Mary and Joseph were lucky to find shelter let alone accumulate all the fancy accoutrements we have for babies these days. It is a testament to the love that God has for us that he was willing to come among us in the humblest of ways in circumstances as lowly as he was born into.

When we consider the overwhelming love between God the Father and God the Son that led to the creation of our immense and beautiful cosmos, we can only be left speechless that God would even consider becoming one of us in the first place!! But God loves us that much. When it comes to providing accoutrements, we only have to look at the world/universe around us to see that God provides as generously for us, his children, as parents do today for their children. mamaRoo indeed!!!

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all of you a very blessed Christmas. As we celebrate the gift of

Emmanuel—God Is With Us—may we always live in a way that shows our gratitude that One as great as God chose us, loves us, and lives among us.

Be Still…Be Still…Be Still… A Call To Centering PrayerA Call To Centering PrayerA Call To Centering Prayer Wednesday, January 8th at 7pmWednesday, January 8th at 7pmWednesday, January 8th at 7pm

You are invited to join in an hour of quiet You are invited to join in an hour of quiet You are invited to join in an hour of quiet time and learn about Centering Prayer. time and learn about Centering Prayer. time and learn about Centering Prayer. The group meets the second Wednesday of The group meets the second Wednesday of The group meets the second Wednesday of each month in the Cornerstone building each month in the Cornerstone building each month in the Cornerstone building located on the corner of 167th St. and 94th located on the corner of 167th St. and 94th located on the corner of 167th St. and 94th Ave. Questions? Ave. Questions? Ave. Questions? Please call Marge at 708Please call Marge at 708Please call Marge at 708---460460460---5357.5357.5357.

"When Joseph awoke he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him..."

— Matthew 1:24-25

ARE YOU PRAYERFULLY VIGILANT ABOUT DISCOVERING YOUR VOCATION IN CHRIST? MIGHT HE BE INVITING YOU TO THE PRIEST-HOOD OR CONSECRATED LIFE? If you have ever considered a vocation to the priesthood, please contact Fr. Francis Bitterman, fbitter-man@archchicago.org or at 312-534-8298 at 312-534-8298 or www.ChicagoPriest.com. FOR INFORMATION ON RELIGIOUS LIFE contact Sr. Elyse Ramirez, OP at 312-534-5240 or eramirez@archchicago.org, and for the Per-manent Diaconate program contact Deacon Bob Puhala at 847-837-4562 or bpuhala@usml.edu.

PLEASE HELP! VOCATION CROSS

PARTICIPANTS ARE NEEDED! SIGN UP IN PARISH OFFICE

The Vocation Cross is presented on Wednesday at the 9am Mass. Participants pray daily for one

week and return the cross on Tuesday for the next participant. To sign up, please call 708-403-0101.

Holy Spirit, open the hearts and minds of young women and men so that a new flowering of holy vocations

may show forth the fidelity of your love, and all may know Christ, the true light of the world

to offer to every human being the sure hope of eternal life. Amen.

Parish Vocation News

Page Seven FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS April 28, 2013 September 29, 2013 April 28, 2013 December 22, 2013

Let Us PrepareLet Us PrepareLet Us Prepare Our HeartsOur HeartsOur Hearts

for the for the for the Coming of Coming of Coming of Our SaviorOur SaviorOur Savior

SIMBANG SIMBANG SIMBANG GABIGABIGABI

Simbang Gabi The Filipino community and the Office for Asian Catholics of the Archdiocese of Chicago cordially invites you and your relatives and friends to join them in their inter-parish celebration of Simbang Gabi, a novena of Masses in preparation for Christmas. Listed are local churches hosting Simbang Gabi. For a more complete list of participating churches throughout the Archdiocese please call 312-534-8328 or visit www.archchicago.org.

Saturday, Dec. 21st 7:00pm St. Stephen Church (708-342-4200) 17500 S. 84th Ave., Tinley Park

Sunday, Dec. 22nd 7:30pm St. Anthony Church (815-469-3750) 7659 W. Sauk Trail, Frankfort

Monday, Dec. 23rd St. Albert Church (7:00pm) (708-423-6060) 5555 W. State Rd., Burbank Celebrant: Bishop Andrew Wypych

Queen of All Saints Basilica (6:30pm) (773-736-6060) 6280 N. Sauganash Ave., Chicago Celebrant: His Eminence Francis Cardinal George Concelebrant: Bishop Francis Kane

December 22, 2013 FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS Page Eight

CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FROM FRANCIS CARDINAL GEORGE

Page Nine FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS December 22, 2013

“Come, let us adore Him.”“Come, let us adore Him.”“Come, let us adore Him.”

Individual ReconciliationIndividual ReconciliationIndividual Reconciliation Saturday, December 21stSaturday, December 21stSaturday, December 21st

4:154:154:15---4:45 pm4:45 pm4:45 pm

CHRISTMAS ANDCHRISTMAS ANDCHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S EVE MASSESNEW YEAR’S EVE MASSESNEW YEAR’S EVE MASSES

CHRISTMAS EVECHRISTMAS EVECHRISTMAS EVE Tuesday, December 24thTuesday, December 24thTuesday, December 24th

4:00 pm and 6:00 pm4:00 pm and 6:00 pm4:00 pm and 6:00 pm 10:00 pm with Adult Choir10:00 pm with Adult Choir10:00 pm with Adult Choir (carols begin at 9:30 pm) (carols begin at 9:30 pm) (carols begin at 9:30 pm)

CHRISTMAS DAYCHRISTMAS DAYCHRISTMAS DAY Wednesday, December 25thWednesday, December 25thWednesday, December 25th 7:15, 8:30, 10:00, 11:30 am7:15, 8:30, 10:00, 11:30 am7:15, 8:30, 10:00, 11:30 am

NEW YEAR'S EVENEW YEAR'S EVENEW YEAR'S EVE Tuesday, December 31stTuesday, December 31stTuesday, December 31st

5:00 pm5:00 pm5:00 pm

NEW YEAR'S DAYNEW YEAR'S DAYNEW YEAR'S DAY Wednesday, January 1stWednesday, January 1stWednesday, January 1st

10:00 am10:00 am10:00 am

“Come, let us adore Him.”“Come, let us adore Him.”“Come, let us adore Him.”

Individual ReconciliationIndividual ReconciliationIndividual Reconciliation Saturday, December 21stSaturday, December 21stSaturday, December 21st

4:154:154:15---4:45 pm4:45 pm4:45 pm

Page Ten FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS December 22, 2013

SECOND READING

Reflections for Feast of the Holy Family

Dec. 29, 2013

According to the Gospels, the Holy Family lived through times of danger, fear, and uncertainty. But with a strong faithfulness, they endured, did God's will, and continue to be an example for all Christian households.

FINDING THE CERTAINTY IN LIFE'S UNCERTAINTIES

In this episode, we see how God protects the Holy Family from persecution by the evil King Herod. We know from history that Herod was an especially cruel and paranoid king. It would have been entirely within his character for him to kill any rival to the throne. The Holy

Family is led by Joseph into exile in Egypt. There was an extensive Jewish population in northern Egypt. Therefore, it would have been logical for the Holy Family to flee there. Once again, Matthew shows us how Jesus is the fulfillment of everything that was predicted by the prophets concerning the Messiah. Herod the Great died in 4 BC (Jesus was probably born around 6 BC — the monk who invented our calendar intended Jesus to be born in the year zero but made a miscalculation). We know that Herod's son Archelaus was, if pos-sible, even more cruel than his father. He was deposed by the Romans for that tendency in 6 AD.

GOSPEL Take the child and His mother, and flee to Egypt (Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23).

Joseph receives angelic instruction in a dream: first to flee to Bethlehem for Egypt to escape King Herod's murderous plans and later to return from Egypt once King Herod has died. In ad-dition to paralleling events in the life of Moses, this story confronts us with the precarious and dangerous situation into which Jesus was born. From the moment of Christ's entry into our world, the powers that be, seek to take His life. The danger in which the child Jesus finds him-self drives home for us the way in which God, in the Incarnation, identifies with our human con-dition. Many families today live in precarious and dangerous situations. Many have to flee their homes, never knowing whether they will be able to return. Some are simply victims of circum-stance; others are paying the price of one or more family members standing up for justice. Whatever the reason for their hardship, in Jesus Christ God becomes one with them. Mat-thew's story of the Holy Family reminds us that holiness does not ensure that one's life will never contain uncertainty. Indeed, if we take the Holy Family as our model, then it seems that holiness—whole-hearted dedication to God's will for the world—is likely to make one's life more uncertain, not less. Yet doing the will of God is of such surpassing worth that we should be willing to embrace such uncertainty for its sake.

Readings for the Week December 23-28 Mon.: 1 Jn 2:12-17; Lk 2:36-40 Tues.: 1 Jn 2:18-21; Jn 1:1-18 Wed.: Nm 6:22-27; Gal 4:4-7; Lk 2:16-21 Thur.: 1 Jn 2:22-28; Jn 1:19-28 Fri.: 1 Jn 2:29 -- 3:6; Jn 1:29-34 Sat.: 1 Jn 3:7-10; Jn 1:35-42 REFLECTION

Those who fear the Lord honor their parents (Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14). Sirach was written late in the Old Testament. Jewish society was strongly influenced by Greek culture. A Greek ideal was to live an ordered life that would give public witness to the values that were the core of one's beliefs. The author of Sirach combines this ideal with the traditional respect for parents and family

founded in faith. Together they produce a beautiful appeal to treat one's parents with great respect. Although this portrait is ideal-ized, it shows signs of realism and acknowl-edges that a situation might arise when one's parents are no longer mentally alert. Even so, care for parents is a sacred responsibility.

Early Christians felt it essential to live at peace with one another so pagans could see how virtuous their calling was and be led to conversion. This is why they were to live in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, etc. Christ was to guide their hearts. This is as important today. We hear of people who go to Mass but do not live their faith on an everyday basis, especially in the way they

treat their own family. We cannot hope to live our Christian calling if we are not filled with a sense of gratitude. It is the virtue that reminds us how much we depend upon the Lord. None of us are truly self-sufficient. We are encouraged toward continuous expressions of gratitude toward the Lord, for all that we have, for everything that we have comes from the Lord.

Family life in the Lord (Colossians 3:12-21).

FIRST READING

Page Ten THIRTY SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME November 10, 2013 December 22, 2013 FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS Page Eleven

Christmas Cards for Seminarians Each year young men from various Latin American countries and Poland say goodbye to their family, their home, and their country to serve the Chicago Archdiocese. They enter Casa Jesus or Bishop Abramowicz Seminary, two houses of discernment/formation. During the one-year program, aspirants study English at the University of Illinois in Chicago, do community service, and serve in pastoral functions at various churches in the Chicago area. At the end of the one-year pro-gram they hope to gain acceptance to Mundelein Seminary or St. Joseph’s Seminary, based on their potential as a priest in the Chicago diocesan system. The Christmas Holidays are particularly difficult for these young men who are far from home surrounded by a very different culture. A Christmas Card or a simple note welcoming these young men and thanking them would help to bring them support and encouragement. You may send a card to one or several of these young men. If you cannot send a card, kindly remember them in your prayers.

Both Houses are located at 750 N. Wabash, Chicago, IL 60611

Casa Jesus: Jesus Eduardo Davalos Lopez

Juan Ramon Duran Gomez Marco Antonio Franco Luna

Diego Garcia Sainz Monico Fernando Heredia Esquivel Jhon Edison Maldonado Mosquera

Martin Renato Marulanda Cortes Robinson Ortiz Hernandez

Carlos Andres Rivero Murcia Jorge Armando Rodriguez Gomez

Santiago Rodriquez Henao

Bishop Abramowicz Seminary: Bartosz Jankowski

Piotr Klewek Jakub Rosinski

St. Christopher Annual Christmas Concert You are invited to an Annual Christmas Concert on Sun-day, Dec. 29th at 3pm at St. Christopher Church, 147th and Keeler, Midlothian. Choirs and Chamber Orchestra directed by Phil and Amy Switalski. Join the St. Christopher Travelers and Friends on their many trips. Visit www.philnamymusic.com or call 708-687-3302 for all scheduled trips and details.

SACRED SPACE GROUP

JANUARY MEETING

January 6th 9:30am

in the Cornerstone

January 7th 7pm

in the Parish Conference Room

Christmas Flower Memorial Gift

If you plan on using the Christmas Flower envelope found in your monthly packet of envelopes, or if you already sent in a flower memorial gift, please fill out the form below so we can publish the names of your loved one(s) in the bulletin after Christmas.

Given in Memory of _________________________________________

_________________________________________

__________________________________________

Given by ________________________

________________________ Please place in collection basket. Thank you.

December 22, 2013 Page Twelve FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS

Mary Did You Know Concert and Gala December 8, 2013 Thank you to the wonderful parish of St. Elizabeth Seton , community and businesses for their support of the Seton Music Program. The Christmas Concert and Gala were a huge success due to your generosity. The choirs, dancers and instrumentalists gave a spectacular performance and the free Gala was enjoyed by all. Special thanks Mary Vlaming and Maryola Ward, volunteers and those who supported our raffle. This event continues to provide our beautiful liturgical music throughout the year.

Page Ten THIRTY SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME November 10, 2013 December 22, 2013 FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS Page Thirteen

Welcome, O Child of Bethlehem! Fill our empty hearts with your Father’s peace: the peace that heals, that comforts, that lifts up, that unites. And may your spirit make us

ministers of that peace, enabling us to become God’s “people of good will”— a people dedicated to building your reign of compassion, justice, and peace for all people, in all seasons.

T HREE REGIMENTS—ONE FRENCH, ONE SCOTTISH, AND ONE GERMAN—had been locked in battle for weeks in the dirty dark trenches along a French hillside. On Christmas Eve, a truce was called. As the night began, a German soldier sang “Silent Night” for his comrades—from the other side of the battle

field, two Scottish bagpipes picked up the accompaniment; then the pipers began to play “Adeste Fidelis,” and the tenor started to sing along with them. Soon soldiers from each side peered over “No Man’s Land” and cautiously approached one another. Slowly, tentatively, the troops laid down their weapons.

The story of this remarkable cease-fire is beautifully told in the 2006 French film Joyeuz Noel.

T HE TROOPS EXCHANGED PHOTOGRAPHS OF THEIR WIVES AND GIRLFRIENDS and shared precious bits of chocolate and champagne. A priest from the Scottish regiment offered Mass in the cold field and all three regiments joined in prayer. On Christmas Day, the two sides happily skirmished in a soccer

game. French, Scot, and German soldiers then helped one another bury their dead comrades whose corpses had been rotting between the lines. But when the war resumed late on Christmas, the three sides could no longer draw weapons against the others. They were no longer enemies—Christmas had transformed them into fellow fathers and sons and farmers and artists and clerks.

T HE DAWNING OF CHRIST ILLUMINATES OUR PERSPECTIVE OF THE WORLD AND OF ONE ANOTHER. In his light, we recognize one another as brothers and sisters and sons and daughters of his heavenly Fa-ther. The coming of Christ transforms the hopeless and cynical winter landscape into a new spring-

time when peace is not only possible but imperative.

A S JESUS IS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD, SO IT IS WITH US. If the darkness is not to overcome the light, then we ourselves must be that light, revealing God’s truth and glory. This gospel seems to lack the imaginative details of other Christmas gospels. At the same time it announces what no one could

imagine: “From (God’s ) fullness we have all received.” Because we have been graced, we ourselves are the light of the world. We ourselves—by our goodness and truth—announce to the whole world that the Word made flesh dwells among us.

Using your imagination, in what concrete ways can Christmas ‘peace” transform your perspective and outlook?

THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD

“Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

LK 2:14

IT HAPPENED ON CHRISTMAS EVE 1914 DURING THE FIRST WORLD WAR...

December 22, 2013 FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS April 28, 2013 September 29, 2013 April 28, 2013 Page Fourteen

Page Fifteen FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS April 28, 2013 September 29, 2013 April 28, 2013 December 22, 2013

Sharing Christmas with St. Procopius

It is an annual tradition at St. Elizabeth Seton, to anticipate the announcement each Advent of the distribution of names for family members of St. Procopius, our sharing parish, and include them on our Christmas shopping list. The St. Elizabeth Seton Social Action Ministry seeks volunteers to assist sorting the hundreds of beautifully wrapped gifts brought into our parish office. The gifts shared for mothers, fathers, and children will be bagged into individual family names and loaded in a truck to be delivered to waiting volunteers from St. Procopius. This year over 250 gifts plus several gift certificates were given. Thank you to Doug Benker, our St. Procopius parish liaison for organizing this event. Thank you to the volunteers who helped assist. And especially, a big thank you to all who selected a name and shared a Christmas gift for this favored event.

Do you recognize this box? It is the Saint Vincent DePaul Society Offering Box

You are invited to give a monetary gift or Jewel food certificates which will go toward providing a better Christmas for families in our community.

SVDP Christmas Collection For your convenience, SVDP boxes are located at all the entrances of our church. We depend solely on the contributions placed in the donation boxes. SVDP members would like to thank all who contributed to the Thanksgiving collection—and to those who use the SVDP boxes at each entrance. All monies donated go directly to those in need. We service clients within our parish boundaries with emergency assistance for utilities, rent, security de-posits, food, clothing, medical, dental, eye care and occasionally gasoline to get to a job site. As calls come throughout the year we look to your generos-ity and sense of sharing and justice to assist these people. It is your good-ness that makes our work possible.

May God continue to bless you.

Volunteers carry gifts that were piled high in the parish offices and organize them by family name.

Social Action Ministry members Sue Rosinski and Janie Kokotan Krauss check the gift list — twice!

St. Procopius’ Fr. Pat, office manager Sylvia, Fr. Sean, and a young volunteer helped unload our delivery truck.

December 22, 2013 FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS Page Sixteen

Will You Spend an Hour with Jesus? St. George Parish, 6707 W 175th St., Tinley Park, is blessed to offer the opportunity for private prayer with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament present on the altar. Since 1994 Holy Family Chapel has been open al-most continuously with the Blessed Sacrament ex-posed in a monstrance. There are 168 hours/wk and each hour needs at least one person (preferably two or more) who pray during that hour each week (or arrange for someone to take their place). Would you be willing to spend an hour with Jesus eachl? Please select any hour that fits your schedule. If possible, consider one of the following open hours: Sunday: Noon; Thursday: 1pm; Friday: 2am, 10am or 1pm; Saturday: Noon, 9pm. Please call Bill Beckman at 708-429-2762 for information or to arrange an hour.

Families Anonymous If your life has gone astray due to living with someone who has a substance abuse problem, consider attending Families Anonymous on Mondays from 7-8:30pm at Palos Hospital, 123rd and 80th Ave., Palos Heights (Ambulatory Care Center, Rm. 1). For information call Warren, 708-429-2507 or Therese at 708-269-9853.

Alcoholics Anonymous If you have a problem with alcohol and feel a sincere desire to stop drinking, you are welcome to attend a meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) in the St. Elizabeth Seton Church Hall on Thursdays from 7:30-8:45pm. Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other so that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover. The only requirement is a sincere desire to stop drinkingg.

Donations to Support Women and Children in Crisis

Bring your gently used men’s, women’s and children’s coats, new and gently used children’s winter clothing and toys to Neat Repeats Resale. Donations ac-cepted daily at either store: Worth, 7026 W. 111th St., 708-361-6860; or Orland Park: 9028 W. 159th St., 708-364-7605. Your donations make a difference in the lives of women and children in your own commu-nity. All sales at Neat Repeats benefit the clients served by the Crisis Center for South Suburbia, a non-profit community organization that provides emer-gency shelter and other services for individuals and families victimized by domestic violence.

Men’s Club Donuts with Santa

The St. Elizabeth Seton Men’s Club invited Santa to stop down in out parish hall on Sunday, Dec. 8th after all the Masses for a special visit with Seton pa-rishioners. Donuts, coffee, juice, candy canes and good cheer was shared by the Men’s Club. All children (and priests!) who sat with Santa received a photo. Fr. Bill Corcoran (top left) and Fr. Bill Gubbins (bottom, left) made sure to greet Santa and share with him that St. Elizabeth Seton and Cardinal Bernardin School have the very best kids in town!

Available in the church office.

December 22, 2013 FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS Page Seventeen

UPCOMING EVENT

Seniors of Seton

SNOW BALL AT GAELIC PARK Thursday, January 23, 2014

Lunch w/choice of pork or chicken at Gaelic Park with entertainment for $28. Doors open at 11:30am. Lunch served at 12pm. Make your reservations at the January meeting or call Phyllis at 708-478-0471.

MARCUS THEATER IN ORLAND PARK

Saturday, February 8, 2014 At the Marcus Theater broadcast LIVE in HD from the Metropolitan Opera in New York “RUSALKA”

A fairytale with princes, princesses, water nymphs, witches and gnomes. View the performance up close and personal as though you are right on stage. Subtitles help you follow the story. Experience The Met and not only see backstage interviews with the principles but see how the tremendous sets are changed during intermissions. Re-nowned Soprano, Renee Fleming sings the title role of the water nymph Rusalka. Doors open 11:30am; ends at 4:55pm. Price $22. Make your reservations at the January meeting or call Phyllis (708-478-0471). Reservation dead-line (with payment) by Monday, Jan 23.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all from Seniors of Seton!

SAINT OF THE WEEK

BLESSED JACOPONE

DA TODI d. 1306

JACOMO, OR JAMES, WAS BORN A NOBLE MEMBER OF THE BENEDETTI FAMILY IN THE NORTHERN ITALIAN CITY OF TODI. He became a successful lawyer and married a pious, generous lady named Vanna. His young wife took it upon herself to do penance for the worldly excesses of her husband. One day Vanna, at the insistence of Jacomo, attended a public tournament. She was sitting in the stands with the other noble ladies when the stands col-lapsed. Vanna was killed. Her shaken husband was even more disturbed when he realized that the penitential girdle she wore was for his sinfulness. On the spot, he vowed to radically change his life. He divided his possessions among the poor and entered the Secular Franciscan Order (once known as the Third Order). Often dressed in penitential rags, he was mocked as a fool and called Jacopone, or "Crazy Jim," by his former associates. The name became dear to him. After 10 years of such humiliation, Jacopone asked to be a member of the Order of Friars Minor (First Order). Because of his reputation, his request was initially refused. He com-posed a beautiful poem on the vanities of the world, an act that eventually led to his admission into the Order in 1278. He continued to lead a life of strict penance, declining to be ordained a priest. Meanwhile he was writing popular hymns in the vernacular. Jacopone suddenly found himself a leader in a disturbing religious movement among the Franciscans. The Spirituals, as they were called, wanted a return to the strict poverty of Francis. They had on their side two cardinals of the Church and Pope Celestine V. These two cardinals, though, op-posed Celestine’s successor, Boniface VIII. At the age of 68, Jacopone was excommunicated and imprisoned. Although he acknowledged his mistake, Jacopone was not absolved and released until Benedict XI became pope five years later. He had accepted his imprisonment as penance. He spent the final three years of his life more spiritual than ever, weeping "because Love is not loved." During this time he wrote the famous Latin hymn, Stabat Mater. On Christmas Eve in 1306 Jacopone felt that his end was near. He was in a convent of the Poor Clares with his friend, Blessed John of La Verna. Like Francis, Jacopone welcomed "Sister Death" with one of his favorite songs. It is said that he finished the song and died as the priest intoned the Gloria from the midnight Mass at Christmas. From the time of his death, Brother Jacopone has been venerated as a saint.

Only $20! Golden Opportunities Coupon books offer local restaurants offering discounts of 50% off or 2-for-1. In addition, great savings at movies, grocery stores, sporting events, and more! Many coupons valid once a month! Cash or check accepted to: Seniors of Seton

(SOS).

Makes a great Christmas gift!

2014 Golden Opportunities Book

December 22, 2013 Page Eighteen FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS

HOPE Employment Support Ministry kicks off 9th year of service with a Special Mass!

Tuesday – January 7, 2014

The HOPE (Helpful Outreach for People seeking Employment) Employment Support Ministry meets at Saint Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church, located at 9300 W. 167th Street, Orland Hills, IL. We meet the first Tuesday of every month at 7:00pm in the Parish Hall and our sessions are open to all faiths and denominations. We meet to offer support, fellowship, guidance and information for the employed, unemployed, or those in Career Transition. HOPE Ministry leaders review & critique resumes; offer job search and interview tips; and pass along job leads. Many times we also provide a guest speaker to support those in transition. To help kick off the 9th year of service to the community St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church will cele-brate a Mass on the evening of Tuesday, January 7, 2014 at 7:00pm. HOPE invites people of all faiths to join us for this Mass. The Mass is intended to be a shared prayer for support and inspiration in the job search; in gratitude for blessings received; and for the hope of blessings forthcoming. Whether you are employed or unemployed, all are most welcome, including spouses and children, as they are part of everyone’s support group. We especially encourage Alumni of the HOPE program to attend and share their experiences. Immediately following Mass, a Networking Reception will follow in the lower level Parish Hall, where we normally hold our meetings. Employers: Please forward your job leads to Tom.McMahon23@comcast.net for no cost distribution to our members.

Start the New Year off right with some HOPE and a Mass on Tuesday, January 7th @ 7:00pm…

because everyone could use a little HOPE! In addition to our HOPE Meetings at St. Elizabeth Seton Church, we also host meetings the 3rd Thurs-day of every month, 7:00pm, at Our Lady of the Woods Church in Orland Park (10731 W. 131st St.).

S A V E T H E D A T E!

O P E N H O U S E

COME AND VISIT YOUR PARISH SCHOOL!

Sunday, January 26, 2014

1:00pm -- 3:00pm

3-year-old Pre-K through 8th Grade 3- and 4-year old Pre-K Presentation at 1:15pm

Kindergarten Presentation at 1:45pm

Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Catholic School 9250 West 167th Street, Orland Hills, IL 60487

is a Nationally Recognized Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

For more information, visit www.cjbschool.org

or email Cynthia Devlin at cdevlin@cjbschool.org or telephone 708-403-6525, extension 127

Cardinal Bernardin Preschoolers Share Mittens for the Military CJB’s four-year-old Pre-K students took part in their traditional “Mittens for the Military” Christ-mas project. The students colored a pair of pa-per mittens, signed their name on the back, and then cut them out. With the help of their teach-ers, Mrs. O’ Toole and Mrs. Rachanski, the mit-tens were tied around a package of Skittles. Finally, each student placed their mitten-and Skittles surprises inside of a box headed for Af-ghanistan. This year, the mittens are being sent to Brandyn Clancy who is currently serving in the Air Force and is stationed in Afghanistan. Mrs. O’Toole and Mrs. Rachanski explained to the students how soldiers keep us safe and that some-times in order to keep us safe here in the United States, they have to be far away from their own families. They explained how Brandyn would not be able to be with his family on Christmas … and that he would not even have any ornaments to hang up. The students were very excited to color the paper mitten ornaments and even more excited when they found out the mittens would be “holding” Skittles! Everyone is hoping the troops will receive our package in time for Christmas. They know Brandyn will enjoy passing out little mit-tens to his friends serving with him.”

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December 22, 2013 FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT/CHRISTMAS Page Twenty One

Pastoral Staff Rev. William T. Corcoran, Ph.D, Pastor Rev. Stanislaw Kuca, Associate Pastor Rev. William Gubbins, Resident Priest Rev. William T. O’Mara, Pastor Emeritus Margie Guadagno, Pastoral Associate Deacon: Frank (Betty) Gildea Deacon: Joseph (Nancy) Bishop

Liturgy Staff Claudia Nolan, Director of Liturgy Music Staff Linda McKeague, Director of Music

Parish Office Staff Donna Stolinski, Business Manager Darlene Raila, Parish Publications Joan Nemec, Morning Receptionist Karen Mirecki, Afternoon Receptionist

Religious Education Staff Elaine Pawlak, Coordinator Diana Barracca, Administration

Branches Youth Program Bruce Hall, Coordinator Rick Vlaming, Coordinator Rick Wojcik, Coordinator

Athletics Bob Myjak, Director

Maintenance Staff Raymond Yanowsky, Director of Maintenance Carlos Juarez, CJB Maintenance Coordinator Frank Siwiec, Staff Marie Makuch, Staff Joseph Shake, Staff Michael Makuch, Staff Mark Siwiec, Staff

REGULAR MASS SCHEDULE Monday-Friday 9:00 am Saturday 5:00 pm

Sunday 7:15, 8:30, 10:00, 11:30am

St. Elizabeth Seton Church 9300 W. 167th Street Orland Hills, IL 60487

Parish Office: 708-403-0101 WEBSITE: WWW.STESETON.COM Religious Education: 708-403-0137

PARISH OFFICE HOURS: MONDAY-WEDNESDAY: 8:30AM-8:30PM, THURSDAY-FRIDAY: 8:30AM-4:30PM SATURDAY: 1PM-6PM -SUNDAY: 8AM-1PM

Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Catholic School 708-403-6525 Principal, Mary Iannucilli Administrative Assistant, Cindy Labriola Devlin

12-28 & 12-29 5:00PM 7:15AM 8:30AM 10:00AM 11:30AM GREETERS R. Coe

S. Klean W. Krol J. Schman R. Sharp M. Taska L. Stolinski

C. Chor L.McGhee S. McGhee D. Skrzypiec B. Tenuta A. Shemanske B. Shemanske G. Staszewski P. Staszewski

K. Fox M. Fox D. Gurka M. Gurka P. Gurka M. Gurka J. Klomes J. Klomes L. Klomes M. Klomes A. McCoy

R. Chehy A. Gent P. Havlin B. Krueger S. Lorenz N. Lorenz J. Moran D. Weber

R. Andrews M. Broderick M. Gniady K. Ivancich B. Ivancich S. Klean M. McMahon B. Wojewnik

LECTORS K. McSwain M. Ward

K. Oliver C. Bannon D. Roti

D. O'Connor M. Eisenberg

G. Rekar M. O'Sullivan

ALTAR SERVERS

M. Perillo N. Zufan S. Gaspardo

A. Cachey J. Laxamana L. Fitzgerald

C. Grebenor M. DeHaan T. Quinlan

M. Dougherty A. Hoelzel H. Gacek

J. Jaeger G. Kozel T. Jaeger

EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS

D. Pott AJ Kunde B. McMahon J. Murphy D. Cristofaro B. Cristofaro J. Connelly M. Abbatemarco S. Abbatemarco R. Piorkowski B. Raymond M. Miller

A. Weishaar C. Nolan J. Dickover J. Kenney M. Fundator L. Skrzypiec

J. Klomes T. Leeson M. Galka T. Krull P. Skowronek C. Kirk T. Cohoon S. Hall J. Juds L. Lopina C. Hayward M. Bekta

J. Federico T. Federico M. Gabrione L. Gent P. Hartz J. Kokotan-Krauss B. Hansen D. Pacholski J. Eisenberg C. Davis R. Grill S. Michalek E. O'Connor

R. Dollah S. Villegas T. Wolski A. Talley G. Talley M. Merino M. Schmidt D. Sigourney K. James M. O'Connor

Attention All Ministers!

Ministers schedules available at: www.steseton.com Then visit: Music and Liturgy

ST. ELIZABETH SETON PARISH INFORMATION Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered on Saturday, between 4:15-4:45pm.

Sacrament of Baptism is celebrated twice monthly at 1pm. Reserve your time by calling the Pastoral Center early. We are limited to six children per Sunday.

Baptismal Couples preparing for the birth of their child should contact the Pastoral Center to register for a one night seminar, focusing on a parent’s role in his/her child’s faith development. This session is mandatory prior to the Baptism.

Anointing of the Sick is available in the Church every Monday after the 9am Mass. For those who are ill or facing hospitalization, it is appropriate to receive the sacrament once every six months. Please call the Pastoral Center for more information.

Ministry of Care is available to give Communion to the housebound, to visit and pray for hospitalized and/or to arrange for the Anointing of the Sick. Please call the Pastoral Center for assistance.

In the Hospital? Because of HIPAA Privacy regulations hospitals can no longer contact the parish regarding your hospitalization. It is the responsibility of you or a family member to notify our parish. We desire to offer whatever spiritual support we can. Please call the Pastoral Center.

Sacrament of Marriage Couples planning to marry are encouraged to make arrangements at least six months in advance.

Wedding Workshops are offered throughout the year. They provide engaged couples with guidelines and suggestions for the celebration of the Sacrament of Marriage. The workshop covers topics ranging from readings and music to flowers and video taping.

Adult Choir sings at all 10am Sunday Masses, as well as at a number of special liturgies.

Moving? Please call the office at 708-403-0101.

HELP IS A PHONE CALL AWAY: DOMESTIC ABUSE 24-HOUR HOTLINE: 708-429-SAFE

CRISIS PREGNANCY HOTLINE: 888-4-HOPE-4-1 HURTING FROM AN ABORTION?: 888-456-HOPE