St. Mel Parish News

The Lenten Journey - Christ's and Your

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:44:00 GMT

St. Mel Parish Mission
The Lenten Journey - Christ's and Yours

Presented by Fr. J. Patrick Foley, Ph.D.

March 22-25, 2010
7:00PM in the Church

Fr. Foley is a diocesan priest, ordained in 1973, and has served in a variety of settings (parish and campus ministry, administration, high school and college teacher). From early on he has been involved with directing retreats, parish missions, days of recollection, and similar events. Since 1995 these have been the focus of his ministry. He is typically "on the road" some forty or more weeks every year, visiting dioceses, religious communities and parishes across the country wherever he is invited. When he is not traveling, he is writing to reflect further upon the themes of spiritual formation and Christian life in our times. He also serves the Diocese of Reno, Nevada, as the Director of Ongoing Formation of Permanent Deacons. In addition to degrees in philosophy and theology, he earned an M.A. in speech and drama from The Catholic University of America, and an M.A. and Ph.D. in formative spirituality from Duquesne University. This wonderful education is one of many gifts with which God has blessed Fr. Foley, and which he is privileged to be able to bring to this ministry.

Monday evening (March 22) - "Into the Desert"
Tuesday evening (March 23) -"Baptism and Transfiguration - Aha!"
Wednesday evening (March 24) - "Passion: Now It Begins" followed by Our Lenten Communal Penance Service
Thursday evening (March 25) - "Dying and Rising: A New Heart"

Fr. Foley will be the homilist at all weekend Masses on March 20 & 21

Babysitting will be provided. Please email aconnors@stmel.org to make a reservation.

Message Of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI For Lent 2010

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:27:00 GMT

Thanks to Christ's action, we may enter into the "greatest" justice, which is that of love, the justice that recognizes itself in every case more a debtor than a creditor, because it has received more than could ever have been expected. Strengthened by this very experience, the Christian is moved to contribute to creating just societies, where all receive what is necessary to live according to the dignity proper to the human person and where justice is enlivened by love."

- Pope Benedict XVI's 2010
Lenten Message

Dear Parish Community of St. Mel!

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:27:00 GMT

Life is often described as a journey. On a journey we encounter peaks and valleys, so also life is filled with high and low points. It is helpful to view life that way, especially when we're facing low points. We have the assurance that "this too shall pass." This is also true for the high points. We may say to ourselves: "I don't want this to end." But it does. Life goes on and we must go on. Yet, if we let them, the memories of our high points give us hope and strength, especially when we face the low points.

The Apostles were also on a journey. This journey was a physical one; they were travelling with Jesus from Galilee to Jerusalem. But it was also a spiritual journey. They were getting to know who this Jesus was. At times they asked themselves, like when Jesus calmed the storm and the waves on the Sea of Galilee: "Who is this that even the wind and the waves obey him?" (Luke 8:25). And Jesus also asked them directly: "Who do you say that I am?" (Luke 9:20). Most of the time, they didn't seem to get it. And Jesus would be frustrated with them: "Have I been with you all this time and you still do not know me?" (John 14:9).

Today's Gospel (Luke 9:28-36) describes a high point on this journey for Jesus and His three closest Apostles. Jesus takes Peter, James and John literally to a high point on their journey. They ascend the Mount of the Transfiguration, Mount Tabor. It rises so steeply above the surrounding countryside that even today, tour busses cannot make it up the winding road. Pilgrims who want to get to the top must take a fleet of taxis, conveniently waiting for them at the bottom. But the trip is worth it, and one is rewarded with a beautiful view.

No doubt, Jesus and the three Apostles also enjoyed the view, but more importantly, this physical high point became a spiritual high point. As Jesus is transfigured before them they receive a glimpse of who Jesus really was and a preview of His resurrection. Moses and Elijah appeared: Jesus was the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. And they heard the voice of God proclaim: "This is my chosen Son, listen to him." The Apostles wanted to build tents; they wanted to stay on the mountain top. But Jesus resumed the journey, a journey that would end with His crucifixion and death. Yet this is precisely why they had experienced the Transfiguration in the first place. Jesus wanted to strengthen them for the scandal of the cross and their own future suffering. There were still many low points ahead, once they came down from the mountain top!

We too are on a journey. Just like with the Apostles, the spiritual aspect of this journey is to get to know Jesus better, in our high points and our low points. And this is precisely our task for Lent. Through prayer, penance, and acts of charity, we open ourselves up to the transforming power of God's grace. Yet today we don't have to climb to the top of Mount Tabor. In faith we acknowledge the presence of the Resurrected Jesus in our midst. To receive our Lord in Holy Communion is to be transformed into Him, slowly and imperceptibly, but really nevertheless. As St. Augustine so powerfully reminds us: "We become what we receive." So in this Eucharist let us make Peter's words our own: "Master, it is good that we are here."

Msgr. Helmut Hefner
(2/28/10, 2nd Lent-C)

Life Teen

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:25:00 GMT

Fr. Norm Supancheck will be visiting our parish on Sunday, February 28th and celebrating our Sunday, 5pm Teen Mass. He is currently working with campus ministry at Bishop Alemany High School and is enthusiastic about working with our young people. Please come and join us in welcoming Fr. Norm to our parish.

February 28th-Life Night

Prayers For Priests

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:22:00 GMT

Please keep the following priests in your prayers:
2/28 Rev. Hugh Crowe
3/1 Rev. Alejandro Hernandez Palucha
3/2 Rev. Olin Mayfield
3/3 Rev. Gregory Elmer
3/4 Rev. Leo Dechcant
3/5 Rev. Paul Keller
3/6 Chor Bishop Joseph Younan

S.M.A.R.T. Auction

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:17:00 GMT

St. Mel Parish will hold its largest fundraiser of the year, our S.M.A.R.T. Auction on Saturday, April 24. The proceeds from our live and silent auction will help us to continue the Saint Mel Academic and ReligiousTradition.

We are reaching out to our community for its generous support. We are asking for any donation that you can provide such as in-kind services, retail and service items, gift certificates, or cash sponsorships. The funds raised at this event:

Help cover the operating expenses of our school.
Help provide the opportunity to offer our stu dents enrichment programs such as art, music, drama, and foreign language programs.
Enhance various ministries in the parish that benefit the west valley community.

Your contribution is tax-deductible. Donor forms are available at the church exits and in the Parish Center. For questions contact Kristi Abunassar at (818) 510- 2821/kristila2821@att.net or Joy Holland at (818) 340-6020 x1017/jholland@stmel.org.

Annual Boy Scout Spaghetti Dinner

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:16:00 GMT

Support Boy Scout troop 54 and have a great meal. Saturday, March 6 at 6 pm. Activity Center. Tickets $8.00 each, family five-pack $30.00. Tickets on sale at coffee and donuts after Sunday Masses.

Saint Mel Class of 1969 Reunion

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:14:00 GMT

The class of 1969 is planning a reunion for August 14, 2010. If you are a member of the class or if you know of someone from the class please send contact information to Brian McGinnis at bjmcginnis@msn.com or leave a message at 760-666-7417.

Preschool Registration Starting In March

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:13:00 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.

Virtus Training Class

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:12:00 GMT

Monday, March 8th 6-9 pm, Parish Center room 200. To register email Amber MacMiller at macmiller5@att.net or online at www.virtusonline.org.

First Communion News

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:12:00 GMT

Is your child preparing to receive First Holy Communion this coming spring? If so, then this parent meeting is for you! All parents of children preparing for the sacrament of Holy Communion in April or May 2010, must attend a mandatory parent meeting on Thursday evening, March 4th from 7- 8 pm, or Saturday morning March 6th, from 9:15-10:15 am in the activity center. All parents are invited, but at least one parent from each family must attend. These meetings are intended to assist all parents in preparing their children for the reception of the Eucharist for the very first time. Any questions? Please call Mrs. Pat Andre, Religious Education Coordinator, at 818 340-6020, ext. 1022.

Dear Parish Community of St. Mel!

Sun, 21 Feb 2010 02:17:00 GMT

In the Gospel for this First Sunday of Lent (Luke 4:1-13) we journey with Jesus into the desert for forty days. For Jesus, the forty days symbolizes the forty years that the chosen people spent in the desert on their way to the Promised Land. They were tested and often failed. Jesus is tested and prevails. For us, the forty days provides the length of our Lenten Season, a time when we are called by the Lord to deepen our faith. Jesus faced the three temptations that will determine what kind of Mes- siah He would be. He came to overcome the power of evil, so the devil tempted Him: "Command this stone to become bread." Would Jesus use His gifts for material benefits, for His own gratification? Jesus replied: "One does not live by bread alone." The devil offered Him all the power and glory of the world. Would Jesus use His gifts to obtain wealth and power, thus worshipping the devil by doing His bid- ding? Jesus answered: "You shall worship the Lord, your God, him alone shall you serve." Finally, the devil tempted Jesus to make a spec- tacular display. Would Jesus use His gifts to gain fame, to win the accolades of others? Jesus countered: "You shall not put the Lord, your God, to the test." By resisting these temptations Jesus chose to be a completely different Messiah than what was expected. He would not take the road of a political and military leader, who would amass great fortune, power and influence. Leaders like that have come and gone in world history, yet have not really changed anything. No, Jesus would touch the hearts and minds of people in an entirely new way. He would walk the road of compassion, sacrifice and redemption.

The temptations that Jesus faced in the desert are faced by all of us. Will we live our lives; will we use our gifts, for ourselves or according to God's plan, for others? The temptations to pursue self-gratification, wealth, power, or fame often prevail in our world. How do we face them? Under the guidance of God's grace, this Season of Lent invites us to repent, to "re-think" our lives. Have the temptations faced by Jesusmadeinroadsinourownlives? How can we draw strengthf romJ esus to overcome them?

And so this Season invites us to PRAYER. We can turn off the television or computer and make time for our relationship with God to deep- en. We are also invited to do PENANCE. Some form of fasting may be beneficial. But fasting goes beyond certain foods or drinks. Can we fast from criticizing others, from being negative, from always wanting to have the last word? Finally, acts of CHARITY are also rec- ommended. In addition to monetary gifts and learning about the needs of others (e.g. participating in Operation Rice Bowl) can we re- solve to be more positive, more affirming toward one another? Can showing kindness become our Lenten motto? These traditional Lenten practices are sure antidotes against the aforementioned temptations because they turn us away from ourselves. They re-direct us toward God and one another. May we open ourselves to the abundance of God's grace available during this Holy Season so that we can journey with Jesus toward His victory over sin and death!

Pastor's Corner

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 02:41:00 GMT

Dear Parish Community of St. Mel!

The earthquake disaster in Haiti has mobilized individuals, churches, institutions and nations in an effort to rescue and support the survivors and to begin the rebuilding process. We are told that this will require a long-term commitment of the world community to succeed. Information is printed in this bulletin on how we can continue to help alleviate the tremendous suffering of the Haitian people by donating to Catholic Relief Services. In the midst of this devastation, it is also encouraging to witness the outstanding response of so many individuals and organizations. The saying that a crisis brings out the best in people has again been verified.

This great outpouring of compassion gives us hope that humanity may yet, albeit ever so slowly, be learning the lesson of today's Second Reading (1 Corinthians 12:12ff). St. Paul speaks about our interdependence and interconnectedness by using the analogy of the body. But it is not just "a body" in general of which St. Paul speaks, it is the Body of Christ to which we have been joined and through which we are connected. Where did St. Paul get this idea? Scripture scholars point to St. Paul's own experience when, still known as Saul, he was on the road to Damascus with authorization to arrest the followers of Jesus. The Acts of the Apostles gives us an account of his experience. "On his journey, as he was nearing Damascus, a light from the sky suddenly flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him: 'Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?' He said, 'Who are you, sir?' The reply came, 'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting'" (Acts 9:3-5). This identification of Jesus with His followers stayed with St. Paul for the rest of his life and greatly influenced his teaching. No doubt St. Paul was also aware of Jesus' saying: "Whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine, you did for me" (Matthew 25:40). The lesson is clear: everyone is important, everyone has a role, we all need each other, and we all have a stake in each other's welfare.

The Church is the Body of Christ extended through space and time and communicated to others. This image invites us to demonstrate mutual caring, unity, and peace. While this caring and unity must be found first of all in the members of the Church, it is also an invitation for all humanity. For us, the invitation is also a challenge: what kind of example have we given, in our parish, in our community? The Eucharist, first and foremost, is our celebration of the Church as the Body of Christ. In this celebration, "we become what we receive" (St. Augustine). May this truth of our faith transform our hearts and our actions to be the Body of Christ for others! As we prayed in our Opening Prayer: "All-powerful and ever-living God, direct your love that is within us, that our efforts in the name of your Son may bring mankind to unity and peace."

Msgr. Helmut Hefner

A Message From Sr. Marie Paul

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 02:40:00 GMT

"[Christ] left you an example.that you would follow in his steps" (I Peter 2:21).

A prince had a crooked back that kept him from being the kind of prince he wanted to be. One day the king had a sculptor make a statue that portrayed the prince with a straight back. He placed it in the garden. When the prince saw it, he meditated on it and desired to be like it. Soon people began to say, "The prince's back is getting straighter." When the prince heard this, he began to spend hours meditating on the statue. Then one day he stood as straight as the statue.

This story is a parable of you and me. God sent us Jesus to show us how we can become who we are meant to be..

Bereavement Support Group meets every Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. in the Adult Room of the Activity Center. For information on support groups for adults, children or teens, please call the Parish Center, ext. 3012 (message) or extension 1018 (Sister Marie Paul).

Thank you Fr. Ben

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 02:35:00 GMT

Please join us as we say thank you to Fr. Ben Anthony for his priestly ministry here at St. Mel Parish on Sunday, January 24th at the 11 am Mass followed by a reception in the Activity Center.

Life Teen

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 02:32:00 GMT

Looking for new volunteers to help with our Life Teen Life Nights. We have a great group of teens who meet on the 3rd and 4th Sunday of every month and we are in need of great Catholic adult examples to draw them closer to Christ. If you feel you can be a good steward and share your gifts with the teens, please contact Cheyenne Vasquez at cvasquez@stmel.org.

Sunday, January 24th Life Night in the Activity Center Sunday, January 31st Bowling Life Night (Permission Slip Required)

Divine Mercy

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 02:31:00 GMT

Keith Moore, singer, song writer and story teller, Wednesday, January 27, 6:30pm. Keith will be telling his story of conversion to Catholicism. Some call him an "earthy mystic". One can hear the influence of St. John of the Cross. He sings for those of us who struggle in this journey of faith. He has played all over the country and world the past two years. From the Catholic Underground in New York City and Scranton PA, to leading the music for a Jeff Cavins led pilgrimage to Turkey and Greece, to Steubenville for a "Defending the Faith Conference", EWTN's "Dana and Friends" and "The Journey Home" with Marcus Grodi. His live show is intimate, candid, and entertaining. People often leave his show feeling as if the show was for them alone.

Prayers For Priests

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 02:28:00 GMT

Please keep the following priests in your prayers:

1/24 Rev. Eleutherius Winance
1/25 Rev.Robert Pfisterer
1/26 Rev. Antonio Marti
1/27 Rev. Ermete Nazzani
1/28 Rev. Aelred Niespolo
1/29 Rev. Brian Henden
1/30 Rev. Arogyraj Kolandaira

Life & Dignity Sunday

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 02:26:00 GMT

Today is Life & Dignity Sunday please complete a Network registration card.

Ministry Fair January 30 & 31

Next weekend, stop by the auditorium after Mass to discover the many opportunities to use your gifts in service to our parish community. Representatives of the following ministries will be present to answer your questions: Eucharistic ministry at Mass and Eucharistic ministry to the Sick and Homebound, Music Ministry, Ushers and Greeters, Confirmation and Lifeteen. See the flyer inserted in today's bulletin.

Save The Date

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 02:24:00 GMT

Our Gala Event the S.M.A.R.T. Auction is going to be held on Saturday, April 24 in the Activity Center. More information to follow.

Preschool Registration Starting In March

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 02:20:00 GMT

Preschool's Parenting Class

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 02:18:00 GMT

Phyllis Schneider, director of our preschool, will be teaching a parent education series called Systematic Training for Effective Parenting (STEP) for parents of young children. Children under eight years of age can have challenging behavior that parents can deal with effectively when they have information and strategies. This free six week course will begin Wednesday, February 3 at 9:15 am in the Activity Center. These classes will be open to parents of St. Mel Preschoolers and members of the parish. Call Phyllis at the Preschool for details (340-3180).

St. Mel Elementary School Year 2010-2011 Registration

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 02:17:00 GMT

New student registration at St. Mel Elementary School for Fall 2010 will be held
according to the following guidelines:

Applications are now available in the grade school between the hours of 8 am until
3:30 pm. Applications may also be downloaded at the school website
www.stmel.org. The completed application, with appropriate documentation must
be returned to the school office no later than Friday, February 12, 2010.

Kindergarten:

Child must be baptized.
Students applying for Kindergarten at St. Mel School must be five years
of age on or before September 1, 2010.
A readiness assessment interview will be given to all kindergarten
applicants - date to be advised.

Grades 1-8:

Child must be baptized.
Students applying for first grade at St. Mel School should be six years of
age on or before September 1, 2010.
Entrance tests for grades 1-8 will be held on Saturday, February 20,
2010, from 9 - 11 am. A completed application must be on file in the
school office before testing.

Come Find Out What We're All About At Our Open House On
Sunday, January 31, 2010 from 12 noon until 2 pm.

Visit our classrooms and see what our wonderful students are learning and able to
do. Families interested in applying for admission are encouraged to attend.

Father - Daughter Valentine Dance

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 02:03:00 GMT

January 30, 2010 7:00 - 9:30 p.m. St. Mel Activity Center 20870 Ventura Boulevard $18.00 per person whfatherdaughterdance.com

Purchase tickets in advance as they will not be sold at the door. Tickets available at the St. Mel Parish Center or Franklin's Hardware at 21936 Ventura Boulevard.

Haiti Earthquake Response

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 18:05:00 GMT

Catholic Relief Services (CRS), the official international humanitarian agency of the US Catholic church, has made an initial commitment of 5 million dollars for immediate use in the relief effort.

CRS is geared up for a major emergency response to this severe disaster. They are mobilizing food and gearing up their emergency capacity, and deploying prepositioned emergency shelter and hygiene kits in Haiti, as well as bringing supplies in from the neighboring Dominican Republic.

How to help:
We encourage contributions directly to CRS.

Donate via phone:	1-877-HELP-CRS
Donate online:	www.crs.org
Write a check:	Catholic Relief Services PO Box 17090 Baltimore, MD 21203-7090 In the memo portion of check please write: Haiti Earthquake
Phone text:	Please text RELIEF to 30644 and follow the instructions.

A Message From Fr. Ben

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 17:46:00 GMT

Some journeys we choose, some journeys choose us. If this is true, my time is ready for my next journey back to India. On July 4, 2004, I came to the Los Angeles Archdiocese and served at St. John Vianney Church in Hacienda Heights for my first two years; I even celebrated the Spanish Mass in that community. Serving almost three and a half years here at St. Mel gave me another great opportunity to learn new visions and high technology and witness growing stewardship in the people of God. I enjoyed my priestly collegiality staying with Msgr. Tim Nichols, Msgr. Loftus and now with Msgr. Helmut Hefner and Fr. Larry Neumeier. Celebrating school Masses and youth Masses was a joy and a challenge. I followed the simple method of communicating with you all my own experiences and stories I cherished from my childhood. Both parishes gave me an opportunity to share my thoughts in bible study groups, book clubs and other various groups. I learned a lot being with you all about American history, culture, tradition and your faith dimensions. I thank you all for your encouragements and support in my priestly ministry. India is a welcoming country. I will be there to welcome you all.

E-amil: apfabeno@yahoo.com

Fr. Ben's address in India will be:
155/156 L.I.G.
Housing Unit,
Vannarpet Coonoor,
Nilgiris. 643102, India

Pastor's Corner

Sun, 10 Jan 2010 00:03:00 GMT

Dear Parish Community of St. Mel!

Our lives are full of transitions. We change jobs or schools. We move from one neighborhood to another. Sometimes these transitions are so profound that they impact not only what we do, but who we are. They become turning points in our lives. Marriage, ordination or religious profession, or a conversion experience, are examples of such turning points. When we have gone through such a turning point we realize that we will never be the same, that this experience has a lasting impact on our lives.

Today's Feast of the Baptism of the Lord provides us with a liturgical transition between the Christmas Season and what is known as "Ordinary Time" (a liturgical season with no particular emphasis). But this Feast is actually a celebration of an important turning point in the life of Jesus. The first 30 years of the life of Jesus are relatively unknown, except for the events surrounding and immediately following His birth, and the one incident when Jesus was left behind in the Temple of Jerusalem at the age of twelve. But now Jesus comes to be baptized by John at the Jordan. This event has profound personal significance for Jesus. It marks the beginning of His public ministry. By submitting to John's "Baptism of Repentance," Jesus expresses His solidarity with sinful humanity which He would redeem through the cross. Most importantly, Jesus also has an intense experience of His Father's love expressed in the words: "You are my beloved Son, with you I am well pleased" (Luke 3:22). It is this ever-present realization of His Father's love for Him that provides the foundation for Jesus' life, and the source of all His strength.

This Feast also has an important application for us. As we celebrate the Baptism of the Lord, we are invited to reflect on an important turning point in our lives, our own baptism. While some of us may actually remember this event, most of us were too young. But the significance of our own baptism has life-changing implications. Our baptism expresses our "incorporation" in Christ. We have become members of His Body and sharers in His Life. The words Jesus heard at His baptism were also meant for us. God is telling us: "You are my beloved." We are beloved sons and daughters of God, brothers and sisters in Christ. Do we really believe this truth? Are we willing to let this truth live in us during this year? May this Feast help us to believe in God's ever-present love for us and may this love be the foundation of our lives!

Msgr. Helmut Hefner

Prayers For Priests

Sat, 09 Jan 2010 23:58:00 GMT

Please keep the following priests in your prayers:
1/10 Rev. Miguel Plascencia
1/11 Rev. Alexander Lewis
1/12 Rev. Jerome O'Mahony
1/13 Rev. Ignatius Millitello
1/14 Rev. Aelred Niespolo
1/15 Rev. Larry Neumeier
1/16 Rev. Msgr. Cyril Navin

Save The Date

Sat, 09 Jan 2010 23:57:00 GMT

Our Gala Event, the S.M.A.R.T. Auction is going to be held on Saturday, April 24 in the Activity Center. More information to follow.

Life & Dignity Sunday Set For January 23/24, 2010

Sat, 09 Jan 2010 23:54:00 GMT

At the request of Bishop Gerald Wilkerson, all parishes in the San Fernando region will be focusing attention on our civic responsibilities by inviting interested parishioners to register for a newly created Catholic Legislative Network. It has been described as a "Voice for Life and Dignity in California." Next weekend there will be a one-page explanation of the Network and Life & Dignity Sunday in our parish bulletin. Please read it and then carefully and prayerfully consider registering for the Catholic Legislative Network on January 23/24.

Archdiocesan Respect Life Mass

Sat, 09 Jan 2010 23:52:00 GMT

Mark the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision with a special liturgy that affirms the sanctity of all human life. Saturday, January 23, 2010 at 6 pm. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, 555 W. Temple Street, Los Angeles.

Dear Parish Community of St. Mel!

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 01:45:00 GMT

The story of the wise men in today's Gospel (Matt. 2:1-12) has been an inspiration to the artistic imagination for almost 2000 years. Countless pictures have been painted showing the wise men on their journey or presenting their gifts to the child Jesus. Songs have been written and movies produced. Numerous poems, short stories, and novels have depicted the wise men's journey or related themes. One of those is the story called "The Other Wise Man" by Henry Van Dyke that has also been made into a movie. The story is about a fourth wise man who was supposed to accompany the other three on their journey to search for the newborn King. In the story, the name of this fourth wise man was Artaban.

As Artaban prepared for his journey, he took with him a bag of precious stones to give to the baby King. But on his way to join the others, he came across a poor person whom he helped by giving him one of the precious stones. This delayed him just long enough to miss his rendezvous with the others. Artaban tried to catch up but constantly ran into people who needed help. Since he always stopped to help them he eventually gave away all his precious stones. And of course, he never caught up with the other wise men.

By the time the story ends, Artaban is old and poor. He never realized his dream to see the King of Kings. One day Artaban was in Jerusalem and the city was buzzing with excitement. The authorities were about to execute the "King of the Jews." When Artaban caught sight of him he realized that this was the one he had been searching for all his life. He was heartbroken that he could do nothing to help the King. Then something remarkable happened. He heard the King's voice saying to him: "Don't be heartbroken, Artaban. You've been helping me all your life. When I was hungry, you gave me food. When I was thirsty, you gave me drink. When I was naked, you clothed me. When I was a stranger, you took me in."

Today's Feast of the Epiphany is the oldest of our Christmas celebrations. It celebrates the manifestation of the Word made Flesh to all the nations. It is also an invitation to us to reflect on what gifts we can present to the newborn King. We can never kneel before the child Jesus and present our gifts like the wise men in today's Gospel. But we, like Artaban in the aforementioned story, can demonstrate our love by caring for one another, especially those most in need. May we learn this lesson well in the New Year!

Msgr. Helmut Hefner

Thank You Fr. Ben!

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 01:42:00 GMT

Please join us as we say thank you to Fr. Ben Anthony for his priestly ministry here at St. Mel Parish on Sunday, January 24th at the 11 am Mass followed by a reception in the Activity Center.

Prayers For Priests

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 01:40:00 GMT

Please keep the following priests in your prayers:
1/3 Rev. Luis Valbuena
1/4 Rev. Christopher Thiel
1/5 Rev. Thomas Batsis
1/6 Rev. Francis Bui
1/7 Rev. John Murray
1/8 Rev. Kevin Larkin
1/9 Rev. Sean Cronin

Christmas Mass Schedule and Music

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 03:05:00 GMT

December 24, Christmas Eve, Thursday

Venue: The Church
Time                    Music
4:00 pm               Children's Choir/Children's Bell Choir
6:00 pm               Cantor/Organ
11:00 pm             11 am Sunday Choir/Bells
(Christmas Carols beginning at 10:30 pm)

December 24, Christmas Eve, Thursday
Venue: Activity Center
Time Music
4:00 pm 5 pm Life Teen Band

December 25, Christmas Day, Friday
Venue: The Church
Time                    Music
8:00 am               7:15 am Cantor/Organ
10:00 am             9 am Sunday Choir
12:00 noon          11 am Sunday Choir/Bells

Pastor's Corner

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 21:11:00 GMT

Dear Parish Community of St. Mel!

What matters to this world of ours? With rare exceptions, the criteria held up by our media are to have fame, fortune, power. And there is a fixation on those who possess one or more of them. And we see, hear, or read stories about those individuals, especially if their behavior has become less than exemplary. We gloat over their mistakes and sins, all the while wishing we had what they have. Yet, if history has taught us anything it is that fame is fleeting, fortune is tenuous, and power is temporary. So the thoughtful observer must ask, is that all there is? Should fame, fortune, power really be our goals to be pursued at all cost?

By contrast, in today's Gospel (Luke 1:39-45) we meet two expectant mothers, by the world's standards, without fame, fortune, or power. Being expectant mothers is special enough, yet there is more. Elizabeth, "in her old age," after years of waiting and giving up, at least her husband Zechariah did, is now in her sixth month of pregnancy. As St. Luke's Gospel recounted earlier, some extraordinary divine intervention has been at work. And then there is Mary, probably still a teenager, given in marriage to Joseph, but not yet living with him, carrying a child not conceived through the ordinary human process, but by the power of God's Spirit.

And in all this wonder and mystery, life goes on. Mary's older relative, Elizabeth, needs help in the last months of her pregnancy. So Mary sets out, from Nazareth in Galilee, to the hill country in Judea, a lengthy and arduous journey that Mary would repeat less than nine months later. The two women meet and Elizabeth exclaims: "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.!" These words complete what Mary heard at the Annunciation: "Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you."

With all the great themes of Advent, on this fourth and last Sunday of Advent, we focus on Mary and the child in her womb. We arrive at what really matters. And what really matters is the answer to the question: "Where is God?" God is here, in this child. God is among us if we open ourselves in faith to the mystery of the Incarnation. Fame, fortune, power are nothing in comparison with what unfolds for us in the wonder of Christmas! And may this wonder and mystery fill your hearts with peace, love, and joy!

Msgr. Helmut Hefner

A Message From Sr. Marie Paul

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 21:09:00 GMT

A Hasidic story tells of a little boy playing hide-andseek with his friends. For some unknown reason the others stopped playing while he was still hiding. He began to cry. His grandfather came to comfort him. After learning what had happened he said: " Don't cry. Maybe you can learn something from this. Life is sometimes like the same game with God.only it is God who is crying. God is waiting to be found, but many of us have gone in search of other things."

In this time of Advent, we wait. We wait for many things, but most importantly we wait for a renewed awareness of God's life active in our own. We wait for the simplicity of a child to be reborn in us. We wait to receive the gift of generosity shown by gentle shepherds and faith-filled wise men. We wait for the goodness and provident care of God to be revealed in our daily lives. God is also waiting.for us. God is waiting for us to get our priorities in order, to seek him with all our hearts, to love him as he loves us. What are we waiting for..?

As this Advent season comes to an end with the beginning of the Christmas season, we pray for all of our needs and intentions through Mary's intercession. She teaches us what it means to wait patiently, to trust in God's promises, and to seek God in our every day life.

Bereavement Support Group meets every Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. in the Adult Room of the Activity Center. We know that the holiday times can be especially difficult for those who have lost loved ones and would like to provide some assistance in dealing with your loss.

Stewards In Action

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 21:08:00 GMT

When we first told Ellie Maat we wanted her to be "Steward of the Week" she said, "Oh, there are others who are more deserving than I am." Ellie has been a parishioner for over twenty years. She was married for fifty years and has two daughters, one lives here and the other lives in Northern California. Ellie is a retired nurse so she has been involved with our health fairs and blood drives. She is a Eucharistic Minister. Ellie says she is honored to be an EM, considers it a blessing and is happy to be part of that ministry. She plays the hand bells because she likes it! Ellie works at the Parish Center front desk every Wednesday and enjoys being part of the community. She is looking forward to her trip to Kenya in February. Thank you Ellie for being a steward of the St. Mel Parish community.

A Women's Day of Recollection with Sr. Marie Paul

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 21:06:00 GMT

We would like to thank Sr. Marie Paul for giving us a most inspiring day with our Blessed Mother. God's abundant blessings to you! A big THANK YOU goes to the following angel helpers: Msgr. Hefner, for your constant guidance and prayers; Mary Beth Giordano, for your sincere effort of personally inviting the school moms; Barbara Hurt, for being the best supporter and for taking care of the coffee and overseeing the breakfast table. Kathleen McGuffin and Lynda Kenworthy, for promoting the event to the Adult Group and the Small Faith Group, respectively. Mary Sherman, for the last-minute valuable help in name tags and registration.Kerry Edwards & Claudia Blache for your e-mail promotions.Joy Holland, Rosemary McLarty and Arlene Connors- you are a joy to work with. Betty Peikert & Berna McConnellogue, for your unwavering support; Pat Garlington, for sharing with us your beautiful image of our Blessed Mother and adorning her with such beautiful flowers. Srini Perera, for the pretty centerpieces. Susie Penny and Jason Black for such heavenly voices. Joe DiBlasi, for playing the guitar so beautifully during our coffee and registration.Rachel Rodney, Nola Calderon, Tita Toralba and school moms Mary Greenstein, Maral Chorbajian, Lisa DiBlasi and Lori Blackwell for all your help and generosity. Most importantly we thank our Blessed Mother for gathering us all in prayer. May we carry the gifts of our Recollection Day with us throughout the New Year and always.

Shop On Line For St. Mel

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 21:02:00 GMT

At this special time of the year many of us would like to give more but are restrained due to our own economic situations. You can GIVE MORE without spending money. Simply use "GOODSEARCH.COM" as your search engine. Goodsearch.com is a search engine powered by Yahoo and every time you search or shop online you can generate money for St. Mel. Goodsearch.com is set up to give 50% of the advertising revenues it receives to a list of non-profit organizations. St. Mel is already on the list. Over 8 billion dollars a year is generated by advertising revenues on search engines. Imagine how much just a small percentage of this amount directed to St. Mel could do? Goodsearch.com has a shopping mall where every purchase you make results in a donation to St. Mel anywhere from 3% up to 20% of the sale. The search engine is easy to use and it costs you no money. It is powered by Yahoo so your search results can be relied upon. On the home page you will be asked "Who Do You Shop For?" Click St. Mel on the list and that is it. Why would anyone who knows about this not do it? Know that when you search, surf and shop you are contributing to St. Mel and polishing your halos! "Give and it shall be given".

Life Teen News

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 21:00:00 GMT

Teen Ice Skating Night-To Be Determined VOTE ONLINE for what day you'd like to attend at www. stmelyouth.org. 12/20- Christmas Life Night after 5pm Mass.

12/24-Christmas Eve Life Teen Mass at 4pm in the Activity Center. Bring your families and join us for a wonderful Christmas Celebration!

*If you are interested in joining us for the Christmas Eve Mass as a singer please let us know at cvasquez@stmel.org ASAP.

Parish Center Holiday Schedule

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 20:59:00 GMT

The Parish Center will be closed Thursday, December 24 and Friday, December 25 in observance of the Christmas Holiday.

Prayers For Priests

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 20:58:00 GMT

Please keep the following priests in your prayers:
12/20 Rev. Stephen Cooley
12/21 Rev. Donatus Ekenachi
12/22 Rev. George Da Roza
12/23 Rev. Benny George
12/24 Rev. Gerard Dunne
12/25 Rev. Joaquin Haefeli
12/26 Rev. Euben Capacillo

Bulletin Submissions

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 20:55:00 GMT

Due to the Christmas Season articles for the January 3rd bulletin are due no later than Monday, December 21st. Sorry for the inconvenience.

"Deck The Halls With Children's Voices..." - Christmas Eve Singers Needed!

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 19:25:00 GMT

All children grades 2-8 are invited to sing at the 4:00 pm Mass on Christmas Eve. They make the Christmas Mass so beautiful. Children do not need to be in the school choirs to participate, but there is a mandatory rehearsal on Wed 12/23 from 9:30-11:00. Due to space restrictions in the choir area, your child will not be able to sing at Mass unless they attend the Wed rehearsal. No exceptions. Contact Susie Penney (spenney@stmel.org) if there are any questions.

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 02:58:00 GMT

Tuesday, December 8 is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception - A Holy Day of Obligation. Mass schedule: Monday 7 pm vigil, Tuesday 6:30, 8:10 am, 12 noon & 7 pm

Pastor's Corner

Sun, 06 Dec 2009 02:55:00 GMT

Dear Parish Community of St. Mel

An old Monsignor (not this one) writing about stories suitable for homilies tells about an incident that happened in his home state of Kansas many years ago, before the availability of snow-mobiles. A fierce winter storm blanketed a small Kansas town with two feet of snow, and drifts over six feet! John and Kathy Lang lived at the outskirts of town and Kathy was about to give birth. There was no way for the town doctor, who lived in the center of town, to get to the Lang's home to assist at the birth. So John called his neighbors with the urgent request: "Can you help the doc get through?" In no time, from all directions, the neighbors came with shovels and plows. They worked with all their might and in about two hours were able to clear enough snow for the doctor to get through, just in time to deliver the baby!

In today's Gospel (Luke 3:1-6) we also hear an urgent call: "Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight His paths." And we are called to this task in preparation for the birth of a child. Jesus, whose birth we celebrate in just a few weeks, needs to be born again into our hearts and lives, and through us shared with the world. It is not piles of snow that need to be removed, but piles of thoughtlessness, piles of neglect, piles of sins; all the things that make it difficult and often impossible for Jesus to come into our hearts. In preparation for Christmas our lives must reflect what Christmas means. We need to be kind to one another, reach out to the needy, go out of our way to comfort one another, be more appreciative, and strive to reflect that deep joy which is at the heart of the Christmas Season.

Of course, we have to deal with the considerable material preparations for Christmas. And these difficult times can make our material preparations even more challenging. There are the gifts, the cards, the decorations, the parties, the food, the planning for family gatherings. All these, if done in the right spirit, can help. But we must also be careful that the busyness of this Season does not become an obstacle that gets in the way! And should some of these preparations get in the way, then we need to decide, as individuals and families, on what is most important: our love and caring for one another, and take it from there! The Second Reading for today's Mass (Philippians 1:4-6, 8-11) gives us a prayer that St. Paul spoke for his congregation at Philippi. We can make the words of this prayer our own as we pray for each other during this busy, but wonderful Advent Season: "And this is my prayer: that your love may increase ever more and more in knowledge and every kind of perception, to discern what is of value, so that you may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with fruits of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ for the praise and glory of God!"

This coming Tuesday we celebrate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. May Mary teach us what is most important for this Advent Season! May her openness to God's will and her willingness to live her life according to God's plan help us this Christmas to bring Jesus into a world that need Him so desperately!

Msgr. Helmut Hefner

St. Vincent de Paul Food Collection Next Weekend

Sun, 06 Dec 2009 02:53:00 GMT

We will be holding our monthly food drive. Please bring your donations of food to the tent by the Parish Center.

Teen Life

Sun, 06 Dec 2009 02:51:00 GMT

December 6th-Confirmation Class Come join us after 5pm Mass to go Christmas Caroling! Service hours will be given!

December 13th-No Confirmation Class
December 20th-Life Teen Life Night
December 24th-4 p.m. Teen Mass in Activity Center

Prayers For Priests

Sun, 06 Dec 2009 02:50:00 GMT

Please keep the following priests in your prayers:
12/6 Rev. Paul Hruby
12/7 Rev. Gregory Dongkore
12/8 Rev. Robert Milbauer
12/9 Rev. Donald Talbolt
12/10 Rev. Emmanuel Banico
12/11 Rev. Ramiro Chan
12/12 Rev. Stephen Conserva