St. Mel Parish News

Dear Parish Community of St. Mel!

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:37:00 GMT

In today's Gospel (Mark 1:29-39) Jesus cures Simon Peter's mother-in-law from a fever; one of many examples of Jesus' healing ministry. Almost from the beginning, Christians have imitated our Lord in an effort to alleviate the suffering of the sick. Hospitals and clinics have been a major part of the Church's ministry throughout the world. The same can be said of institutions performing other charitable work. These services for assistance have been open to all those in need, without any requirement of religious adherence. Nevertheless, they flow from the core of who we are as a Church. However, on Friday, January 20th, the United States Department of Health and Human Services announced its decision that Catholic Hospitals, Catholic Charities, and Catholic Colleges, are not religious institutions because they serve the general public. As a result, these institutions must provide health insurance coverage that makes birth control, sterilization, and even abortion causing drugs available to its employees free of charge. This is a grave violation of freedom of conscience and an unprecedented meddling of the United States Government in defining what constitutes religious practice. What follows is a press release on this subject:

"WASHINGTON-The Catholic bishops of the United States called "literally unconscionable" a decision by the Obama Administration to continue to demand that sterilization, abortions and contraception be included in virtually all health plans. Today's announcement means that this mandate and its very narrow exemption will not change at all; instead there will only be a delay in enforcement against some employers.

"In effect, the president is saying we have a year to figure out how to violate our consciences," said Cardinal-designate Timothy M. Dolan, archbishop of New York and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The cardinal-designate continued, "To force American citizens to choose between violating their consciences and forgoing their healthcare is literally unconscionable. It is as much an attack on access to health care as on religious freedom. Historically this represents a challenge and a compromise of our religious liberty."

The HHS rule requires that sterilization and contraception - including controversial abortions - be included among "preventive services" coverage in almost every healthcare plan available to Americans. "The government should not force Americans to act as if pregnancy is a disease to be prevented at all costs," added Cardinal-designate Dolan. At issue, the U.S. bishops and other religious leaders insist, is the survival of a cornerstone constitutionally protected freedom that ensures respect for the conscience of Catholics and all other Americans. "This is nothing less than a direct attack on religion and First Amendment rights," said Franciscan Sister Jane Marie Klein, chairperson of the board at Franciscan Alliance, Inc., a system of 13 Catholic hospitals. "I have hundreds of employees who will be upset and confused by this edict. I cannot understand it at all." Daughter of Charity Sister Carol Keehan, president and chief executive officer of the Catholic Health Association of the United States, voiced disappointment with the decision. Catholic hospitals serve one out of six people who seek hospital care annually. "This was a missed opportunity to be clear on appropriate conscience protection," Sister Keehan said. Cardinal-designate Dolan urged that the HHS mandate be overturned. "The Obama administration has now drawn an unprecedented line in the sand," he said. "The Catholic bishops are committed to working with our fellow Americans to reform the law and change this unjust regulation. We will continue to study all the implications of this troubling decision."

For more information, please consult Archbishop Gomez' column in "The Tidings" (Jan. 27, 2012). This is truly a time for prayer and action!

From Sister Marie Paul

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:26:00 GMT

At this time of the year, I am sure many of us can identify with this writer's thoughts on winter and can appreciate how God fits into everything!

"IN THE PART OF THE WORLD where I live, at this time of year the daylight hours are very short. In fact, when I'm not traveling and find myself working from my office, the sun has set when I pull into my garage. Frankly, this isn't my favorite time of year. I really enjoy being outdoors in the sunlight. . And yet I know that this time of year is a part of God's intended purpose. These days are necessary to create balance in my life, a rhythm that moves beyond the frenetic activity of long daylight hours into a hibernating time of darkness. "Then God said, 'Let there be light.' . And God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness."

When God speaks, God's voice balances the rhythm of our lives. Yes, the light is good. Times of activity and productivity form a vital part of making a life and a living. . However, the light is separate from the darkness. Just as music is a series of sounds and silence in rhythm, so our lives must be a series of light and darkness, activity and rest, work and sabbath.

Embrace this season of your life and God's created daily work-and-rest rhythm. Such percussive movement is a part of our purpose and God's plan. By Joey Faucette -From The Upper Room Disciplines 2012: A Book of Daily Devotions.

A Special Thank You to the following St. Mel Eagle Scouts

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:22:00 GMT

We would like to thank Chris Hamermesh, for organizing and cleaning the St. Mel shed. This massive undertaking was a project created and supervised by Chris. The Hamermesh family as well as Chris' boy scout troop spent an entire weekend on the project. We are very grateful for your effort.

Thanks to Terry McGaughey. A total of 167 man hours was spent on cleaning the Activity Center storage rooms. They have never looked so good. The McGaughey family along with their son Terry's boy scout troop did a terrific job. We really appreciate all you did.

A big hug and thank you to Chris and Terry for their dedication to our Parish. We have the best people here at St. Mel Parish.

Confirmation Parents and Candidates

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:10:00 GMT

As we begin 2012, there are several events to be noted in your calendar:

February 17-19: Year 2 candidates weekend retreat at Camp Gilmore in Calabasas. The bus will leave St. Mel at 6:15 pm on Friday and return at 2:00 pm on Sunday. February 25: Urban Plunge #2. Details to be announced.

The next class will be March 4. All sponsors are asked to attend this class. Year 1 sponsors will be blessed at Mass. If you have any questions, please contact Ella Sciarra: (818)340-6020, x1015, esciarra@stmel.org.

Les Dames de Saint Louis

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:04:00 GMT

Les Dames de Saint Louis cordially invite you to attend our annual luncheon on Sunday, February 19th, at 11 am at the Hyatt Westlake, 880 So. Westlake Blvd. Please note the new venue this year.

We are delighted to have obtained the date at the Hyatt and I'm happy to relate there will be ample parking. Luncheon tickets are $75.00, and all proceeds from the silent auction and raffle baskets support the Sisters of Saint Louis Retirement Fund.

For reservations please call Chris Osborn at (818) 703-5091.

St. Mel Golf Tournament

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 19:15:00 GMT

St. Mel is proud to announce the 1st Annual St. Mel Golf Tournament on March 12, 2012 at Woodland Hills Country Club. The event gives golfers from the St. Mel Community a chance to spend the day playing golf and to enjoy the evening with a dinner and small auction. All proceeds from the tournament and the auction will benefit the community.

Come join us and be part of this inaugural year for the tournament which is sure to be a tradition that lasts for many years to come. Non-golfers are welcome and encouraged to attend the dinner.

To register: go to www.GOLF4STMEL.com. Registration: Individual Golfer $195; Foursome $750; Dinner Only $60.

St. Mel Elementary School Year 2012-2013 Registration

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:32:00 GMT

New student registration at St. Mel Elementary School for Fall 2012 has begun.The office is open between the hours of 8 am until 3:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Applications may also be downloaded at the school website, www.stmel.org>.

Preschool Registration and Open House

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:30:00 GMT

If you are considering enrolling your child in our Preschool, now is the time to make an appointment for a Parent Orientation Tour. The tour is a necessary introduction for all parents and is the first step in the enrollment process. After the tour, parents may add their name to the mailing list to receive registration and enrollment information in February. Registered St. Mel parishioners have priority in this process. Please call the Preschool Office (340-3180) to make a tour appointment soon.

Dear Parish Community of St. Mel!

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 16:19:00 GMT

Christmas doesn't fall on a Sunday very often. But it did this year. Which gives me the opportunity to use this "Pastor's Corner" to wish all of you, and your loved ones, a very happy and blessed Christmas!

Most of us have exchanged Christmas greetings and presents with family, friends and neighbors. And by gathering together as a worshipping community, we have extended to all those present at our Christmas Masses our Christmas greeting and the gift of our presence to one another. The word Christmas comes from what we participated in today. We came to worship at the "Christ-Mass," the Eucharistic celebration of Christ's birth. And in coming together today, we accepted God's invitation to receive the greatest and original Christmas gift: Jesus Christ. It is this Gift which gives the true meaning to all our Christmas activities. God's Love is revealed in Jesus Christ who invites all of us to share that gift of love with one another. So as we continue to celebrate with family and friends we need to remember and share the deepest meaning of Christmas.

During these past few years, Christmas has been filled with serious challenges for many. People have lost jobs, homes, and the ability to make ends meet. While none of us wish to be in these challenging circumstances, these difficulties do provide us with an opportunity to focus on what really matters. Christmas is still Christmas, with or without presents, with or without parties. Christmas is God's Love revealed in Jesus Christ, received and shared by those who believe. In retrospect, I consider myself fortunate that my family experienced this important truth about Christmas while I was a child. In post World War II Europe, we celebrated many Christmases in a refugee camp with little more than the clothes we wore to protect us from the cold. But we had each other and we believed in Him whose birth we celebrated, and that was all we needed. During this Christmas Season, may God help us appreciate His Greatest Gift and help us share this Gift with one another!

Merry Christmas!

Christmass Blessings From Sister Marie Paul

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 16:10:00 GMT

Often in the last few weeks, I have heard the song "I'll be home for Christmas." For me the song has always conjured up images of childhood Christmases, welcoming relatives seen only occasionally, college students returning home for break, and the heartbreaking knowledge that some will be home "only in [their] dreams." This year, however, I have made it a point to meditate on some of the secular Christmas songs to seek a deeper meaning-because I believe that God speaks to us in many ways, even in those things that are not necessarily religious in intention. SO.. "I'll be home for Christmas" has taken on a new meaning for me. I ask myself, "Will I truly be home for Christ? Will I be home when he knocks at the door of my heart? Will Jesus be able to find a home in me? Can I say these words and really mean them, making them a kind of prayer, assuring my Jesus that I am ready to open my door? Or will he simply find a cluttered chaos obstructing the path between us?"

Can the Jesus of my faith really "count on me"? to be the best I can be, to welcome his coming not just on this one day of the year, but every day? Will my home/my heart be filled with "love light beams" that mirror the love and light that comes to us with the Incarnation?

As we celebrate the best Gift of all, we might think about "what I really want for Christmas," why we really "deck the halls" and "tell of Yuletide treasure" (and what is the real treasure?). When we sing about the "good tidings we bring to you and your kin" could we not think a bit more about what those good tidings are? And for all of us "kids from one to 92" (or more), when we look at our Christmas trees, perhaps we can consider the symbolism of the ever-green branches as the sign that a little baby is the source of our LIFE and HOPE and JOY and PEACE..

Merry Christmas! May your hearts sing with joy during this holy season!

Dear Parish Community of St. Mel!

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 11:07:00 GMT

As we come closer to Christmas, the readings for the Third Sunday of Advent present a definite emotional shift. From the somber emphasis on being prepared for the Lord's coming by reforming our lives found in the past two Sundays, today's theme is one of anticipation of Christmas joy. In the First Reading (Isaiah 61:1-2, 11-12) the prophet Isaiah proclaims: "I rejoice heartily in the Lord!" The Psalm Response taken from Mary's "Magnificat" (Luke 1:46-54) announces: "My spirit rejoices in God my Savior." And in the Second Reading (1 Thessalonians 5:16-24) St. Paul invites us: "Rejoice always!" The message is clear. But are we ready to accept it?

Traditionally, this Third Sunday of Advent is known as "Gaudete" Sunday, from the Latin word meaning "Rejoice." But the cynic in all of us might object: "What is there to be joyful about?" Many of us are in the midst of an anxiety producing pre-Christmas schedule of shopping, going to pre- Christmas gatherings, sending Christmas cards, and perhaps even making travel arrangements. But there are deeper reasons for concern. The continuing worldwide economic crisis is not just an item on the evening news. Many among us have been deeply impacted. So what's there to be joyful about?

The expressions of joy mentioned above were not made because all was well with the world at the time in question. In fact, just the opposite was the case. What Isaiah, Mary, and St. Paul teach us is that real joy does not depend on external circumstances. Real Christian joy comes from the inside. It flows from the deep conviction of faith that God has not abandoned us. The joy proclaimed on this Third Sunday of Advent anticipates the joy of Christmas because in the Incarnation God has fashioned an unbreakable bond with humanity. Jesus Christ has come, not to take away our problems, but to teach us how to transcend them. If we look at our lives and this world of ours with eyes of faith, then we will recognize the presence of Jesus in the people we love, in the people to whom we reach out and who reach out to us. And this recognition will give us cause for rejoicing, not just on this Third Sunday of Advent and the Season of Christmas, but every day of our lives.

Congratulations

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 11:02:00 GMT

We welcome and congratulate our inquirers who took the next step in becoming Catholics last Sunday at our 11:00 liturgy!

Catechumens Tyler Leslie and Walter Siouty join Erica Sherman, Elizabeth Nguyen, and Jeff Stine in their journey toward Baptism.

Candidates Cameron Reagan and Katy Schraner join Dan King in their preparation for full communion with the Catholic Church.

All of us in RCIA formation ask for your continued prayerful support of those seeking an ever deeper relationship with our God.

Join the Christmas Eve Children's Choir

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 11:02:00 GMT

All children in grades 2 thru 8 are invited to be a part of the Christmas Eve Children's Choir for the 4:00pm Mass on Saturday, Dec. 24th. Children from the parish are invited to join and do not need to be members of the school choirs to participate. There will be one rehearsal on Thursday, Dec.ember 22nd from 9:30-11:00 am in the Parish Center and your child must be present at this rehearsal in order to participate on Christmas Eve. (Space is limited in the choir loft and attendance at the rehearsal enables us to plan accordingly.) The children will need to arrive at church at 3:00pm on Christmas Eve and will meet in the choir loft. If there are any questions about the Christmas Eve Children's Choir, please contact Mrs. Susie Penney (St. Mel School Choir Director) at spenney@stmel.org or Mr. Francesco Alleruzzo (St. Mel Parish Music Director) at falleruzzo@stmel.org.

We hope your children will be a part of this most lovely and special experience.

Simbang Gabi

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 10:47:00 GMT

The Filipino Community of St. Mel invites you to the Filipino Advent Tradition of Simbang Gabi. The ninth novena of Masses will be held on Friday, December 23 at 7 pm.

Please join us with our celebrant, Msgr. Helmut Hefner, as we teach the next generation about this beautiful Filipino tradition that places its focus on the preparation for our Lord's coming.

Reception follows at the St. Mel Activity Center with excellent Filipino food and entertainment.

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 16:31:00 GMT

A Holyday of Obligation

Thursday, December 8

Mass Schedule

Thursday, December 8
6:30, 8:10 am, 12 noon & 7 p

Madrigal Dinner

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 18:55:00 GMT

Saturday, December 10 and Sunday, December 11

What exactly IS a Madrigal Dinner?

English nobility welcomed Elizabeth I and her court to their homes, putting on a feast to celebrate the coming of Christmas. Here at St. Mel, the Queen and her court will visit O'Connor Castle for family-friendly entertainment, including food and drink, be ready for the Wassail toast, music: beautiful carols praising the birth of Jesus and featuring singers and ringers from our parish and children's choirs. All this is presented in costume and in a very Renaissance-like environment. To order your tickets, fill out the form in today's bulletin and return it to the Parish Center or go to www.stmelparish.org.

E-mail Francesco with any questions about the Madrigal Dinner or the Music Ministry in general: falleruzzo@stmelparish.org.

Adopt-A-Family

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 18:53:00 GMT

St. Vincent de Paul is again sponsoring the Adopt-A-Family Program which benefits over 120 families at the Guadalupe Center in Canoga Park. Participants in this year's program can make a suggested donation amount by signing up with St. Vincent de Paul members before and after each Mass through Saturday, December 3rd. Please open your hearts and adopt one of these deserving families. For more information, please call Kent Gairdner at (818) 999-0570.

The Giving Tree

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 18:53:00 GMT

The St. Vincent de Paul Conference of St. Mel is again sponsoring the "Giving Tree" this Christmas season. You are invited to take a gift tag, purchase an appropriate gift for the child whose age is specified on the tag and then return the UNWRAPPED gift with the tag attached and place it under the tree by December 15th. All the gifts will be distributed in our local community. Please pick up a gift tag from the tree in the front vestibule of the Church.

St. Mel School Annual Christmas Boutique

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 18:50:00 GMT

"A Winter Wonderland"

The Christmas Boutique is on December 4, 2011. Come and get some great Christmas shopping done for your family, teachers, kids, and friends.

Many vendors will be present. Also, 25% of your total sales will go towards St. Mel School. The boutique will be held today from 10am - 4 pm.

Coffee and donuts will be available out front of the Activity Center. Also stop by our Country Kitchen to pick up some yummy desserts to take home with you.

Dear Parish Community of St. Mel!

Sun, 20 Nov 2011 09:00:00 GMT

On this last Sunday of our year of worship we celebrate the Solemnity of Christ the King. Fittingly, today's Gospel (Matthew 25:31-46) presents us with a parable about the end of time in which Jesus appears as King and Judge of the universe. "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit upon his glorious throne and all the nations will be assembled before him." This is the scene of the Last Judgment where the just and unjust are separated, the final vindication for God's justice. And what are the criteria used for this separation? Simply put: did we love and care for each other or fail to do so? There is no demand for great and famous accomplishments, only to feed the hungry, give a drink to the thirsty, welcome the stranger, clothe the naked, care for those who are ill, visit those who are imprisoned. In our daily relationships we need to care for those in need. And the motivation goes to the very core of Christ's message: "whatever you did for one of the least brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." It is important for us to remember the deepest reason why we should reach out to those in need. When we help them, we help Jesus, our Savior and our King.

There is much reaching out to those in need going on here at St. Mel. We are very generous in supporting Guadalupe Center with its Christmas "Adopt a Family" and "Giving Tree" programs as well as the weekly food collections. We support Catholic Relief Services, especially in the Lenten "Operation Rice Bowl" (over $27,000 donated last Lent) and other emergency relief collections. We are generous in the many Archdiocesan sponsored collections throughout the year, including the Mission Cooperative Collection (almost $9,000 donated last August). And we are working hard to reach our goal of $97,470 for "Together in Mission." At times, we may feel overwhelmed and say: "Oh no, not another special collection!" But let's remember, according to today's Gospel, for Whom we are ultimately doing this! "Whatever you did for one of the least brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."

Today our parish rejoices in the ordination to the Diaconate of our seminarian Eben MacDonald this past Saturday, November 19th. Eben is completing his theological studies at St. John's Seminary in preparation for ordination to the priesthood next year. We congratulate Eben for his faithful response to God's call to ordained ministry in the Church!

Finally, today is the last Sunday when we will be celebrating the Eucharist using the "old" translation of the Roman Missal. This translation has served us well for almost 40 years of worship. Next Sunday, the First Sunday of Advent, will see the introduction of the new edition of the Roman Missal with its new translation. While we will be challenged to pay closer attention to some of the newly translated prayers, it is hoped that we will be able to get past some of the unfamiliar words to the deeper mystery that we celebrate: the saving presence among us of Jesus Christ!

Save the Date!

Sun, 20 Nov 2011 08:30:00 GMT

St. Mel Parish is hosting a blood drive on Wednesday, December 21st from 1:30 to 7:30 pm.

Please schedule an appointment to donate blood. Book your appointment ONLINE today by visiting: www.redcrossblood.org and enter your sponsor code: StMelWdHills or contact Sherry Nikirk at (818) 992-2005 with questions.

From Sister Marie Paul

Sun, 20 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

I am sure that many of you who read the bulletin faithfully have seen the blurbs about our coming Called & Gifted Workshop. And you possibly thought, "Oh that's nice. I hope they have a good turnout." ACTUALLY, this invitation is for YOU too! Each of us is called by God TODAY to be more than we were yesterday!

Recently I read the following (and thought immediately of Called and Gifted): ONE OF THE SIGNS that we've found our way to a core desire, something that God desires for us, is that in following it, we feed not only our own hunger but that of others as well. When we pursue God's longing for our life, it never serves only ourselves. Vocation is a word that gets at this idea. . Vocation isn't merely about what job we have but about who God has created us to be in this world. Vocation conveys the notion that God has designs on us and has placed us within this world to work for its flourishing in concert with our own. In writing about vocation, Frederick Buechner says, "The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world's deep hunger meet." -Jan Richardson "God has a longing for our life"..isn't that amazing! And VOCATION is not limited to priests and nuns.each of us has a vocation! And sometimes even a vocation within a vocation. I might be a mother and wife, and be called to use my gifts of wisdom, or understanding or mercy! God "has placed us within this world to work for its flourishing."- we are meant to serve! Many times, I hear people say disparingly of themselves, "Oh, but what can I do?"-and the Lord answers, "Plenty! Come and see!" Jan Richardson ends the passage quoted above with a BLESSING-which I extend to you today. Where the hunger of the world beyond you meets the hunger of the world within you: may you find yourself in this place.

Do consider Called and Gifted (January 20- 21, 2012) as an opportunity to renew yourself and become more aware of how God is calling and gifting you today!

2011 Together in Mission Campaign is Nearing Completion

Sun, 20 Nov 2011 07:00:00 GMT

The final billing reminder for the 2011 Together in Mission Campaign will be sent, in early December, to those who still have a balance due on their pledges. Our parishioners have already pledged $104,633 and we have received $92,082 in payments. This leaves $12,551 still outstanding in pledges. All funds received in excess of our parish goal will be rebated 100% back to our parish.

The 35 parishes and 53 schools that receive funding from this 2011 campaign are depending on the generosity of those who contribute in order to continue providing sacramental, ministerial and education services to those who live in the most financially disadvantaged areas of our Archdiocese. If you have a balance due on your pledge, please make every effort to pay it. If you have not already made a donation, please call Joy Holland at the Parish Center and arrange to make a contribution. The telephone number is (818) 340- 6020, ext. 1017.

In addition, the offertory collection at our Thanksgiving Day Mass will be designated for Together in Mission. Thank you to all who share their financial resources with the thousands of adults and children served by these parishes and schools which are financially supported by your generosity to the "Together in Mission" Campaign.

Pass the Turkey

Sun, 20 Nov 2011 06:30:00 GMT

Got a chance to get an extra free turkey at the market? "Pass the turkey" is collecting your extra frozen turkeys! Turkeys will be given to local residential charities in the West Valley, including Pacific Lodge Boys Home, Angel's Way, Guadalupe Center, Haven Hills, Valley Women?s Center and the Rotary Feed the Elderly at Thanksgiving. It's easy! Just drive through the front entrance to the Warner Center Marriott and hand your turkey to the bell captain.

Turkeys can be dropped off until November 22. You don't even need to get out of your car!

For more information call Mark Blackman at (818) 881-5000.

Compassion: Looking at our world-friends

Sun, 20 Nov 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Continuing our exploration of Karen Armstrong's book, "Twelve Steps To A Compassionate Life", the Group discussed friends and how our relationship with them affects our compassion.

In his book, "Becoming Friends", Paul Wadell states that friendship is one of the greatest gifts of life. "Without friendship our lives would be impossibly impoverished. Our friends shape our character. They influence our values and perceptions. They challenge us, they teach us not to take ourselves too seriously and they give us hope." If we accept what Wadell says, it follows that friends also influence the role compassion plays in our lives. If we have compassionate friends, it will encourage us to be more compassionate. If our friends talk about ways in which they have expressed compassion, then it is likely that we will think more about how we express compassion. If compassion is never discussed, then we are less likely to think about it and less and less likely to be compassionate.

Sometimes we are called to be compassionate to relatives and friends and that is easy to do because we can "relate" to those people. Those who cry out more often for our compassion are the disadvantaged-those who are poor, those who come from other cultures and/or races. Research shows that we have difficulty in having empathy for people who we see as "different from us". Without empathy there can be no compassion. Our friends often can be the ones who introduce us to people who are poor, of a different race or from a different culture. It is through friends that we develop an understanding of how people in other cultures live. When we get to know people who are different we begin to see how much of God's people have in common. Friends can play an important role in helping us to relate to people we see as being "different."

Our next meeting is scheduled for December 3 after the 8:00 am Mass. Please join us for coffee, bagels and doughnuts and then group discussions until 10:00am.

For more information about the Men's Group, please call John O'Sullivan at (818) 710-9030.

Pastor's Corner

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 17:37:00 GMT

Dear Parish Community of St. Mel!

How well do we use our gifts and talents? This is the question asked of us in today's Gospel (Matthew 25:14-30). The "Parable of the Talents" as this gospel passage is called has been frequently misinterpreted. In any parable, one does not have to apply every part of the story, only the main point. And what is the main point of today's parable? God is the giver of gifts, and God expects us to use those gifts. But God is not interested in the results, but rather in the effort. The man in the story who was afraid to use his "talent" thought only of his own safety. His fear prevented him from making any effort with the result that he lost what he had. The more we use our gifts, the more they will increase. But if we don't use them, we will lose them.

Taking this parable in the broader context of the New Testament it is clear that God's gifts are not given to us simply for our own benefit. God's generosity must be replicated in our own lives. We begin with our grateful acknowledgement of the gifts we have been given. We then go about developing these gifts and commit ourselves to share them with others. This is also the message of today's First Reading from the Book of Proverbs (31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31) in which the "worthy wife" is praised because, among other things, "she reaches out her hand to the poor and extends her arms to the needy."

Today's observance of Stewardship Sunday flows from the message found in today's Gospel and First Reading. We are invited to use our gifts of time, talent, and treasure for our parish community. On this Stewardship Sunday, let me first say thank you to all those who have accepted this invitation. Those of you who give of your time, talent, and treasure make it possible for St. Mel Parish to fulfill its mission. We would not be a parish community without you! Thank you and may God reward your generosity!

Last Sunday and today, you have heard explanations of the revised translations of our Mass texts from Fr. Lima and me during the homily time at Mass. This coming week, Fr. Lima and Sr. Marie Paul will present a deeper explanation on Tuesday, November 15th and Wednesday, November 16th at 7 pm in the Auditorium. The same presentation will be given at two different days to facilitate your attendance. I encourage you to participate!

Roman Missal Changes

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 17:34:00 GMT

Would you like to learn more about the upcoming changes to the Liturgy? You will have two opportunites to hear from Fr. Lima and Sr. Marie Paul. Join us Tuesday, November 15 or Wednesday, November 16 at 7 pm in the Auditorium.

Annual Christmas Boutique and Luncheon

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 17:31:00 GMT

"A WinterWonderland" - Save the Date

Join us for a special holiday event, The St. Mel Annual Christmas Boutique and Luncheon. The boutique and luncheon will be held on Sunday, December 4th (boutique 10- 4-pm and luncheon 12-2 pm) in the O'Connor Activity Center. Be sure to join us after the 9 and 11 am Mass on Sunday for this memorable tradition! Blessings. Tell and invite all your friends.

At the Christmas luncheon, we started a fun new tradition, and that is to have people decorate the luncheon tables. If you are creative and interested in decorating a table at the Christmas luncheon we would love to have you. Prizes will be given to the best decorated tables. Fliers are available in the Parish Center. If you have any questions, please contact Michelle Norman at michelle.norman@yahoo.com

Dear Parish Community of St. Mel!

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 08:30:00 GMT

Regardless of the state of the economy there is a question that has challenged human beings from the very beginning: how do we treat those who live on the margins of society? This was an issue for the Israelites even before they became a nation; it was a challenge at the time of Jesus; it is a question being asked today. "How do we treat those who live on the margins of society?" Today's First Reading (Exodus 22:20-26) comes from the second book of the Bible. The Book of Exodus recounts the liberation of the People of Israel from slavery in Egypt and the long journey through the desert toward the Promised Land. Today's reading is part of the first rendition of the giving of the Law of the Covenant to Moses on Mount Sinai. Moses received the Ten Commandments, recounted in Chapter 20, and then follow a number of additional commandments that can be seen as a further explanation of what these Ten Commandments mean. At the time of Moses, those who lived on the margins were the aliens, the widows, the orphans, and the poor. In the First Reading God is very clear on how they should be treated: "You shall not molest or oppress the alien, for you were once alien yourselves in the land of Egypt.You shall not wrong any widow or orphan.if you lend money to one of your poor neighbors. you shall not act like an extortioner." It is clear on whose side God is on and the seriousness attached to these commandments.

Responding to the needs of those who live on the margins can be very complicated, or at least we make it so. We tell ourselves that there are so many things to consider. We need to examine all the ramifications of our actions, whether political, economic, or personal. In the meantime very little if anything gets done. And the past few years have seen a great increase of those forced to live on the margins. The Pharisees at the time of Jesus had an elaborate system of prioritizing the hundreds of commandments found in the Mosaic Law. And in the process they overlooked what was at the very core. In today's Gospel (Matthew 22:34-40) Jesus reminds His listeners and us as to what is most important: "You shall love the Lord your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. And you shall love your neighbor as yourself." Loving God and neighbor is at the very core of our Judeo-Christian system of values. If this deep truth does not flow into action, then we will lose our way. We pray that today's Readings will help us rediscover what we are about.

As we continue our preparation for implementing the new translation of the Roman Missal, this Sunday's bulletin insert encourages us to be open to the changes that are coming. It is important to always keep in mind what is at the core of our celebration: Christ's saving death and resurrection. We need to recognize that the changes in the translation are intended to help us get to what is most important.

Called & Gifted

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 07:30:00 GMT

All of us go through various transitions in life.at work or changing jobs, when children are growing up or even leave home, experiencing personal challenges. Knowing what gifts God has given you to offer other people can help you to discern His will for your life-and provide you with direction when you make choices.

On Friday, January 20, 7-9:30 pm, and Saturday, January 21, 9:30 am-4:00 pm, St. Mel Parish is sponsoring a teaching team from the Catherine of Siena Institute in Colorado Springs to offer a program called the Called & Gifted Workshop. The Workshop is about discerning our gifts for the sake of discovering God's will for our lives. Everyone is invited to participate.

There is no charge for registered St. Mel Parishioners. More information will be forthcoming.

Personal Faith Formation

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 07:00:00 GMT

If you have access to EWTN, you might be interested in a series the station is carrying on CATHOLICISM by Fr. Robert Barron. Clips on the internet demonstrate that the material is presented in a very engaging manner as Fr. Barron talks about what it means to be Catholic and how Catholicism is expressed in our global Church. Ten topics are presented on November 16-18 in the evening.

For more information go to CatholicismSeries.com

Mass for the Sick

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 06:30:00 GMT

Is your heart heavy over a sick friend or family member? Do you wish you could do something to help? You can lift your friend or family member to the Lord in prayer.

On Saturday, November 5, the first Saturday of the month, we at St. Mel Parish will dedicate the 8:00 morning mass to praying for the sick through the special intercession of Mary, Health of the Sick. The Mass will be offered for all the sick in our parish, among our families and friends, and all those we, the parishioners, bring to prayer.

We invite you to come together to pray for the sick-those you know, those you have heard about, those you don't know-in a community celebration of liturgy.

St. Mel School Halloween Haunt October 28 - 30

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 06:00:00 GMT

St. Mel School is having its annual Halloween Carnival October 28-30, 2011. We would like to invite all parishioners to come support our parish school and enjoy this fun tradition. There will be food, drinks, music, games and rides for the whole family to enjoy. This year the carnival has been extended to Sunday October 30th. We recognize this will be an inconvenience for those attempting to park for Mass and we apologize in advance. We have endeavored to minimize the hassle by providing the following parking options:

Saturday October 29th and Sunday October 30th 5:00 pm Masses
There will be limited parking in front of the parish center for the handicapped and elderly only. Free parking will be available in the covered parking garage at the brick office building on the corner of Kelvin and Ventura (20750 Ventura Blvd.) Enter on Kelvin - the gates to the garage will be open.

Sunday October 30th morning Masses
There will be limited parking in front of the Parish Center for the handicapped and elderly only. There should be plenty of street parking on Serrania and De Soto. The school gates will be open for easier access to the church.Free parking will also be available in the covered parking garage at the brick office building on the corner of Kelvin and Ventura (20750 Ventura Blvd.) Enter on Kelvin - the gates to the garage will be open.We truly appreciate your patience and support of the carnival. This is one of only two fundraisers for the school and its success is vital to the school's budget. As an added thank you to our parishioners, we will be passing out drink coupons after all the masses the weekend of carnival good for one beer or glass of wine for those 21 and older or one water. Please come help us celebrate as a community and meet your fellow parishioners.

Parish Offertory Commitment Program

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 05:30:00 GMT

Many of you turned in your commitment cards last weekend during Mass. Thank you for your commitment to share your gifts of treasure with our parish. If you were not prepared to make your commitment last week, it is not too late. You may bring your card to Mass next weekend, drop it off in the Parish Center or mail it in using the return envelope provided to you. If you no longer have your card or did not receive one in the mail, they are available at the church exits and in the Parish Center. Your participation in this program is vital to its success. May God bless you and our Parish.

All Saints Day, November 1

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Tuesday, November 1, is All Saints' Day and a Holyday of Obligation. The Mass Schedule will be 6:30 and 8:10 am, 12 noon and 7:00 pm. Please note there will be no confessions or Vigil Mass on October 31 due to Halloween.

First Reconciliation Parent Meeting

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 16:01:00 GMT

Are you ready to accompany your child on their faith journey towards First Reconciliation? All parents of students who are preparing to receive the sacrament of Reconciliation for the very first time at St. Mel Parish in 2012, are asked to attend a mandatory meeting on Thursday evening, November 3rd at 7pm, or Saturday morning, November 5th at 9:15am in the parish auditorium. At least one parent from each family must attend one of the two meetings in order for his/her child to receive the sacrament of Reconciliation at St. Mel Parish in 2012. Both meetings will be held in the auditorium. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Pat Andre in the Office of Religious Education at 818 340-6020, ext. 1022.

Let the children come to me.

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 16:00:00 GMT

Are you considering having your child baptized into the Catholic faith? If so, St. Mel Parish can help you prepare for that very special sacramental occasion. In order to have your child baptized at St. Mel Parish, parents must be registered members of the parish. Parents and godparents must also attend one baptism preparation class which will be held at St. Mel's on Monday evening, November 7th, from 7-9pm. There will be no baptism preparation class in December. The next class will be held in the new year on Monday, January 9th.

Upcoming baptisms will be celebrated at 1pm on Sundays, November 13th and 20th, and Sunday, December 18th only due to the celebration of Christmas. Baptisms in January will be celebrated on Sundays, January 15th and 22nd. For more information, or to set up an appointment, please contact Pat Andre in the parish center at 818 340-6020, ext. 1022.

Dear Parish Community of St. Mel!

Sun, 09 Oct 2011 08:30:00 GMT

People gathering together at a banquet is one of the enduring images used in the Bible. This tells us something important about God and what God has in mind for us. God wants all of humanity to realize that we are called to gather together in the abundance of life. And when we come together as a human family, when we are willing to share what we have, when we celebrate the gift of human life, then the world can truly be a banquet for us all.

And beyond the banquet of our natural life to which God has called us in this world, there is an invitation to the banquet of eternal life that God extends to us. In this banquet, we draw near not only to each other, but draw near to God. In the First Reading (Isaiah 25:6-10) we see described the "Messianic Banquet," the time of fulfillment not just for the People of Israel, but for all people of the earth. This is what God wants for humanity for all eternity.

The Gospel (Matthew 22:1-14) continues the image of a banquet. This time it's a wedding banquet, the greatest and best of celebrations at Jesus' time and perhaps in our time as well. A wedding banquet is a celebration of life, of love, and of hope for the future. Specifically, this wedding banquet celebrates God uniting Himself in love with His People. The message is clear: Israel had originally accepted God's invitation, but now refuses to come to the celebration. Gentiles and fallen away Jews come in Israel's place. But there is a curious ending. A guest has arrived "not dressed in a wedding garment." The king deals harshly with this guest. But Jesus is not concerned about clothes; instead, it is the person's disposition that matters. To accept the invitation to enter God's Kingdom requires a change, a conversion. We cannot come on our own terms.

There is good news in all this. No matter what the circumstances of our lives, we are invited to enter into a personal relationship with our God. This relationship provides us with riches beyond measure, much more than the world can offer us. We pray today that all of us might have the wisdom and courage to accept this invitation!

As part of our preparation for using the new translation for our Mass prayers, beginning on the First Sunday of Advent, our bulletin insert describes the parts of the Mass. While the Mass is one unified act of worship, it consists of many parts, each with its own purpose and meaning. Following the image of the banquet in today's scripture readings, it is important for us to know the parts of "the banquet of Christ's Sacrifice," which is the Mass.

How Do You Think Of God? Bike Trip (A parable)

Sun, 09 Oct 2011 07:30:00 GMT

I used to see God as my judge, keeping track of the things I did wrong. He was out there. I recognized His picture when I saw it, but I didn't really know Him.

But later on when I met Jesus, it seemed as though life were rather like a bike, but it was a tandem bike, and I noticed that Christ was in the back helping me pedal. I don't know just when it was He suggested we change places, but life has not been the same since I took the back seat to Jesus, my Lord. Christ makes life exciting. When I had control, I knew the way. It was rather boring, but predictable. It was the shortest distance between two points.

But when Jesus took the lead, He knew delightful long cuts, up mountains, and through rocky places and at breakneck speeds; it was all I could do to hang on!!! Even though it looked like madness, He said "Pedal!" I was worried and was anxious and asked, "Where are You taking me?" He laughed and didn't answer, and I started to learn to trust. And when I'd say, "I'm scared," He'd lean back and touch my hand.

He took me to people with gifts that I needed, gifts of healing, acceptance and joy. They gave me their gifts to take on my journey, our journey, my Lord's and mine. And we were off again. He said: "Give the gifts away; they're extra baggage, too much weight!" So I did, to the people we met, and I found that in giving I received, and still our burden was light.

I did not trust Him, at first, in control of my life. I thought He'd wreck it, but He knows bike secrets, knows how to make it bend to take sharp corners, jump to clear high rocks, fly to shorten scary passages. And I am learning to simply pedal in the strangest places, and I'm beginning to enjoy the view and the cool breeze on my face with my delightful constant companion, Jesus Christ.

And when I'm sure I just can't do any more, He just smiles and says . . . "Pedal!" (Author Unknown)

Parish Mailing to Arrive This Week

Sun, 09 Oct 2011 07:00:00 GMT

This week you will receive a mailing from your parish. It is very important to the future of the parish that you and your family take time to review, understand and through prayer, define the commitment each of us should make to support our parish. This mailing provides important information on the current levels of giving by our parishioners and includes the annual parish financial report.

An Annual Commitment Contribution Plan from each parishioner has kept many parishes from financial crisis and here, at St. Mel, it made a difference - reversing a downward trend in collections. Now, we are challenged to maintain the upward trend in order to promote our mission.

During the week ahead, and in a spirit of gratitude for the gifts you have received from the Lord, please prayerfully consider your family's Financial Commitment to share your gifts with our parish.

We ask that you complete and return your Commitment Card at the Masses the weekend of October 15 and 16. Regardless of whether you give monthly, quarterly, etc., please indicate the amount that your Commitment Gift represents on a weekly basis. If you have not used envelopes or checks in the past, please begin to do so. It is very important for us to know how many members of our parish are actively involved in offering their financial support. We are hopeful that on October 23, 2011 we can all begin giving our new weekly commitment.

May God guide your decisions and bless you for your generosity.

Activists Launch Speaker Series

Sun, 09 Oct 2011 06:30:00 GMT

On October 12, the Justice and Peace Council begins this year's SPEAKER SERIES with two outstanding activists in the Restorative Justice movement.

Gloria Killian, after serving 17 � years for a crime she did not commit, has been active in advocating for women in the prison system.
Jeanne Pieper is an accomplished author of "The Catholic Woman: Difficult Choices in a Modern World", a parishioner of St. Anastasia Church in Los Angeles and an activist in prison ministry since the early 90s.
http://justiceandpeace.stmelparish. org/documents/jPieperStory.pdf recent story of her involvement appeared this summer in The Tidings.

To read further information on both speakers go to: http://justiceandpeace.stmelparish.org.

Don't miss this great opportunity: Wednesday, October 12, 7:30 pm, St. Mel Auditorium. BE THERE AND BE INFORMED!

Women's Spirituality Group

Sun, 09 Oct 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Women of St. Mel Parish are invited to "dance" with a monthly women's spirituality group, using spiritual writer Joyce Rupp's reflection book entitled "May I have this Dance?"

It's never too late to join! The next session will be held on Saturday, Oct. 15, 8:00-11:00 a.m. in the teen room (near the activity center) following the 8:00 Mass for a continental breakfast and reflection. If you are interested in joining this group at this time, please contact Sister Marie Paul, at (818) 340-6020, ext. 1018 or e-mail: smpgrech@stmel.org.

Confirmation Registration is going on now!

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 17:30:00 GMT

Confirmation Registration is going on now! All teens wishing to enroll in the sacramental classes may come to the Parish Center to pick up a registration packet. All who have completed Year 1 need to register again for Year 2. In order for us to process all paperwork for the upcoming year, prepare the classes, assign small groups and recruit and train enough facilitators, the deadline for registration is Thursday, September 15. You can mail or deliver the forms to the Parish Center.

The Confirmation Parent Orientation will be held on Sunday, September 25th, from 6:15 pm - 7:30 pm in the Activity Center following the 5 pm evening Mass.

Confirmation Classes are held on the 1st and 2nd Sunday of the Month, October-May, from 3 pm-6:15 pm, including 5 pm Mass, followed by an optional dinner. The Confirmation program is a two year process for all high school students. There is an annual fee of $225 that is due at the time of registration. Confirmation Student Orientation will be held Sunday, October 2nd from 3 pm-6:15 pm.

With the growing number of teens enrolling in our program, we are looking for energetic adults who can help facilitate small groups. If you feel called to sharing your gifts, please feel free to contact us for more information. For any questions, please contact the Confirmation Liaison, Ella SciarrSciarra, at (818) 340-6020, x 1015 or e-mail esciarra@stmel.org.

Download Confirmation Program Packet

Time to Register for 2011 - 2012 Religious Education!

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 17:30:00 GMT

Time to Register for 2011 - 2012 Religious Education!

Registration forms for children, ages 2-14 for the 2011-2012 Religious Education Classes are available in the Parish Center. PLEASE FILL OUT THE FORMS COMPLETELY, ONE FOR EACH CHILD BEING REGISTERED. If you registered last year, we still require that you complete a new form for this year. Two-year old children must be two by September 1.

Parents of new applicants for grades 1 through 8 must provide a copy of your child's baptismal certificate with this registration form unless your child was baptized at St. Mel. The copy of the baptismal certificate must be provided prior to the first day of class.

ANNUAL FEES ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1 CHILD $75.00
2 CHILDREN $125.00
3 CHILDREN $150.00

If the cost of providing religious education for your child is an issue for your family in these difficult economic times, please call Pat Andre at (818) 340-6020, ext. 1022 to arrange an individual payment plan.

CLASSES BEGIN OCTOBER 1st and 2nd

Download Registration Form.

HELP IS ALWAYS NEEDED. PLEASE CONSIDER SHARING YOUR FAITH WITH OUR PARISH CHILDREN. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY.JUST A GOOD HEART! TRAINING PROVIDED.

Multimedia Ministry

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 17:27:00 GMT

Do you enjoy the use of multimedia at our liturgies? Do you have any experience with or the desire to learn how to operate the multimedia equipment? Do you have organizational skills? Do you have a desire to serve your parish community? If the answers to these questions is "Yes!' then you may want to consider becoming the Multimedia Ministry Coordinator. Please contact Rosemary McLarty at rmclarty@stmel.org if you are interested in learning more about this important ministry.

Divine Mercy

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 17:25:00 GMT

Wednesday, October 19, Mass & Healing Service, Fr. Bill Delaney at 6:30 pm; Wednesday, November 9, Mass & Healing Service, Fr. John Hampsch at 6:30 pm; Wednesday, December 14, Fr. Paul Henson, O. Carm., Mass & Healing Service at 6:30 pm. Information call: Claudia (818) 342-6626 e-mail: divinemercyclaudia@earthlink.net website: apostlesofdivinemercy.org Worldwide Marriage Encounter

Respect Life Hour

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 17:24:00 GMT

Please join us in prayer every First Friday from 11 am until 12 noon for the conversion of hearts against abortion, Pro-Life Holy Hour.

Angels Way Bake Sale

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 17:23:00 GMT

Please join us on Sunday, October 2, for the Angels Way/Respect Life monthly bake sale. We'll be available after the morning Masses with homemade baked goods. With your purchases you support the special blessing that Angels Way is to our community. If you would like to participate by baking, telephoning or working at the bake sale, please call Angels Way at (818) 346-2229.

Baptism in Faith

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 17:22:00 GMT

Are you thinking of having a child baptized at St. Mel? The sacrament of Baptism is typically celebrated here on the third and fourth Sundays of each month at 1:00 pm. Parents and godparents must attend one class in order to fulfill one of the parish requirements for baptism preparation. Please contact Pat Andre at (818) 340-6020, ext 1022 or pandre@stmel.org for more information or to make an appointment to have your child baptized.

Society of St. Vincent de Paul

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 18:48:00 GMT

Bundle Sunday is on September 25. Bring your donations to the parish parking lot between the hours of 8:30 am and 1:30 pm. Please help them in their endless efforts to assist the needy. They are in great need of furniture and large appliances. Call them for pick up of any heavy items at (323) 224-6280 or (800) 97-HELP-1.