The selection of today’s Gospel is from the early part of John’s gospel, and it begins with two disciples who were walking with John the Baptist, and John the Baptist sees Jesus walking and he points to him and he says, Behold the LAMB of God.
Now, one might wonder, why would he use that phrase? Well, I think part of it is understanding the gospel of John. The Gospel of John is written probably somewhere in the neighborhood of 100 to 110 A.D. But John writes something before that, which is of critical importance in being able to understand John’s gospel, and that is the Book of Revelation, which is a vision that John has as he’s on one of the islands, the island of Patmos.
The celebration of the Epiphany is really all about traditions. We have different traditions that we celebrate today. So in many cultures, today would be Three Kings Day, really the day of gift giving. But on this day, the church also announces for us the feasts that are approaching. And so listen attentively. Know my dearest brothers and sisters by the gift of God’s mercy, as we have rejoiced at the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.
The Gather 3rd Edition Hymnal/Missals are available for use in the church – they are at the ends of the pews. Please return the missals to the end of the pew after Mass. Instructions on how to use the hymnal missal are available here: https://www.stcharlesbklyn.org/hymnal-missal/ .
Today’s readings are also available to read online at the USCCB website https://bible.usccb.org .
Christmas Gifts for Children There is still time to contribute to the gift card drive. For the sixth year, we are working with HeartShare St. Vincent’s Services to provide gift cards for young people leaving foster care. This is especially important for those who have children themselves. You can give online, stcharlesbklyn.org/christmaschildren, or drop off a check in the collection box or with the rectory by Monday, December 18. Thank you to everyone who contributed to date. Through your generosity, we have exceeded the amount raised last year.
Since 1997, HeartShare St. Vincent’s Services has been providing educational and financial support to college students placed in foster care through our American Dream Program. Over the years, ADP has evolved into a comprehensive coaching program that now serves over 204 youth between the ages of 5 and 26. It offers one-on-one trauma-informed coaching, tutoring, college success support, career exploration and development, and assistance with securing housing.
The gift cards provided by St. Charles Borromeo for the past few years have been given to the older youth who are in college, or a post-secondary program, as a holiday gift.
Christmas Flower Memorials This Christmas season, we will decorate the church with due joyousness and memorialize loved ones with flowers. The flowers are a sign of our joy in the birth of Christ our Savior.
To memorialize a loved one with flowers for the Church: go to stcharlesbklyn.org/christmasflowers or use the envelopes available in the back of the church.
Christmas Gift to the Parish We will ask for your support of our annual Christmas donation that goes to support the activities of St. Charles, and St. Charles only. You can donate online at https://stcharlesbklyn.weshareonline.org/ParishChristmasGift, via the envelopes in the back of the church, or in your own envelope marked “Christmas Gift to the Parish”.
Your financial support makes a difference. Your generous sacrifice will help us to continue bringing the light of Christ to Brooklyn Heights and beyond.
Wishing everyone a most blessed Christmastide. We are grateful to celebrate Christmas together as a parish family.
Christmas Collection for Catholic Charities Bishop Brennan invites all to join him in this year’s Annual Catholic Charities Collection. The collection takes place at all Christmas Masses. Please return the special Catholic Charities envelope from your envelope packet with your gift or in your own blank envelope marked for “Catholic Charities”.
When you contribute to Catholic Charities Brooklyn & Queens, you make a difference in the lives of many, very grateful neighbors.
This collection supports programs and services provided by Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens that have literally transformed the lives of so many of our neighbors. Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens sponsors many programs and services for children and youth, adults and seniors, the mentally ill, the hungry, and the homeless. In addition, Catholic Charities is one of the largest faith-based providers of affordable housing in the country providing housing units for seniors, families, formerly homeless, and veterans.
What I am about to tell you is going to absolute shock you. I know, I know. Well, it’s really not all that shocking, but I thought I’d just start that way. I have been told on more than one occasion that I have attitude. Can you believe that? Me? I am sweetness and light. However, I have been told that I have had attitude and I’m not going to say that it was Phil Murray who has told me this.
