Each year, we do an important and required stewardship review for the past twelve months. Our annual “All In Report” is one that gives us a comprehensive but concise review of the year in every aspect of the parish: our ministries, our administration, our buildings, our finances.
The “All In Report” uses our Parish Mission statement as its framework: Worshipping God, Serving Others, Making Disciples. The Report is available to each parishioner either as a hard copy as you leave Mass and/or a link to it that will be sent to all parishioners via email. You will see reports on ministries that have been here at Saint Helen for a long time as well as some new ones that seek to respond to your needs and the Church’s call to live and proclaim the Gospel.
While the Report looks back, its focus is always on how to strengthen the faith of our parish community moving forward. I hope you will always share with me or a member of our staff how we can continue to offer opportunities to grow in our faith. Hence, the name “All In,” as it takes everyone in our community to make Saint Helen the alive and vibrant parish we desire.
Advent begins this Sunday, December 3, 2023. This will actually be one of the shortest Advents we will have as the Fourth Sunday of Advent falls on Christmas Eve. So let us make the most of what will really turn out to be only three weeks.
We will hold our Advent Wreath Making activity on December 3, 2023, between 11:00AM and 1:00PM (after the 10:00 and 12:00 Masses). Everyone is invited. This is an especially enjoyable event for families as it’s an activity that you can do together. However, if you cannot make it, Advent Wreath Kits will also be available as you leave Mass next weekend.
There is much symbolism in an Advent wreath. The circular shape and evergreens represent eternal life and faith. The candles placed on the wreath during Advent symbolize the light that Jesus brought to the world. The four candles of Advent represent the four Sundays of Advent and they symbolize hope, peace, joy and love.
Advent is all about reflecting on how we can prepare our hearts and home for the birth of Jesus. Let us remember through prayer, reflections, music and good deeds what the true meaning of Jesus’ birth is.
God Bless You All,
Msgr. Tom
