Announcements:

• For those that cannot attend Mass -A prayer for the Act of Spiritual Communion

  My Jesus, 
  I believe that You are present in the Most Holy Sacrament. 
  I love You above all things, 
  and I desire to receive You into my soul. 
  Since I cannot at this moment receive You sacramentally, 
  come at least spiritually into my heart. 
  I embrace You as if You were already there 
  and unite myself wholly to You. 
  Never permit me to be separated from You.

  Amen.

• Where to look in the BIBLE when you …

  – need rest and peace – Matthew 11: 28-30

  – worry – Matthew 6: 19-34

  – are lonely or fearful – Psalm 23

  – need peace of mind – John 14: 27, Philippians 4: 6-8

  – are disappointed by people – Psalm 27 

  – grow bitter or critical – 1 Corinthians 13

  – have sinned – Psalm 51, 1 John 1

  – are discouraged – Psalm 34

  – feel God seems far away – Psalm 139

  – think the world seems bigger than God – Psalm 90 

  – are sick – Psalm 41

  – feel sorrowful – John 14, Psalm 46

  – are in danger – Psalm 91

  – want courage – Joshua 1: 1-9

  – need assurance – Romans 8

  – forget your blessings – Psalm 103

  – are looking for joy – Colossians 3

  – leave home to travel – Psalm 121

  – think of investments – Mark 10: 17-31

  – need guidelines for living – Matthew 5-7, Romans 12 

  – need rules of conduct – Exodus 20: 1-17

  – need to know God’s will for your life – Proverbs 3: 1-6

• WHY DO WE CELEBRATE MASS?

       From the opening prayer to the closing prayer, the Mass is a memorial and sacrifice; one continual offering to our good and gracious God, by making present the redeeming passion and death of his Son Jesus Christ for the salvation of all humankind through his crucifixion.  We celebrate Mass to offer our praise and thanksgiving for our redemption.  At mass we pray and worship God together in a faith filled community, we hear God’s voice in the Scripture Readings, let the message of salvation enter us and we receive Jesus truly present among us in the Holy Eucharist.

       You may ask a priest to offer a Mass for several reasons: for example, in thanksgiving, for the intentions of another person (such as on a birthday, wedding anniversary), or, as is most common, for the repose of the soul of someone who has died.  Let us never forget the infinite value and graces that flow from the Sacrifice of the Mass.  Please contact the church office if you would like to have a Mass celebrated.

• Catholic Ministries Drive (CMD) begins this week!  Our parish goal for 2023 is $30,406. 

    The annual CMD directly supports 14 ministries through which people are accompanied in their journey (100% of your gift does directly to these ministries).  There are many gifted and generous laypersons in our diocese who share their time and talent to support our Catholic ministries.

    This year, more so than others, our world, our nation, our communities, our parishes, and our families need tangible expression of hope.

       Please reflect on Bishop mark’s invitation when it arrives.  Since our parish has the “YELLOW ENVELOPE” system, parishioners do not have to reply to the letter sent by the Diocese.  You may still continue to use our monthly CMD envelopes.  However, parishioners who prefer to donate online should use the system designed by the Diocese.   This year 2023 is a time for everyone to move as  TOGETHER WE SERVE!

• Baptism Class for expectant parents or parents are for both parents and godparents.  Please contact Sister Linda at 814-742-7894.

    Dates for the Baptism Class during 2023

              Tuesday, March 21^st at 6:30 pm

              Tuesday, June 13^th at 6:30 pm

              Tuesday, September 19^th at 6:30 pm

              Tuesday, November 14^th at 6:30 pm

• Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament will occur every Thursday after Mass from 8:30 am to 9:30 am.  If an event comes up on a Thursday, then Fr. Michael will repose the Blessed Sacrament at his discretion.  This is great opportunity for spiritual nourishment.  Come and spend an hour with Jesus!

• Public way of the Cross  Parishioners are invited to walk the 1.25 mile Public Way of the Cross on Good Friday, April 7^th starting at 12 noon at the front sidewalk of St. Matthew Church and concluding at St. Matthew Church at 2 pm.  Fourteen stops and 14 clergy and lay speakers will guide our Lenten steps as we commemorate Jesus’ final hours and recall His agony in proving God’s eternal love for us.  Last year over 150 people joined in. Will you?

• Did you know 100% of your PA tax money can be sent to our local catholic school?   Look for brochures by the exit doors or contact RedefinED to enroll in EITC, a local company hired by the Diocese to manage enrollments, at 814-419-5505 or www.redefiningeducation.com. 

• Help support the Altoona-Johnstown Diocese commitment to the Diocese of Mandeville, Jamaica.  Easter Basket tickets will be available after Mass on Saturday and Sunday, as well as during our Lenten fish dinners.  The drawing will be held on Sunday, April 2^nd.  Tickets are $2.00 each or 3 for $5.00. 

• Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown is establishing a prayer ministry and we are seeking prayer partners.  Every Friday we pray for those who ask for special intentions, for the marginalized, the vulnerable and all clients seeking assistance from Catholic Charities. 

       Prayer is one of the gifts we can give to each other at no extra cost.  To request prayers, please visit our website:  www.catholiccharitiesaj.org.  

       For more information on how to participate and spend time in prayer for those in need, please contact Lisa Fellabaum, Outreach Liaison at 814-505-1106 or by email at lfellabaum@dioceseaj.org

• The Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel, Loretto will hold their annual Lenten Mission in Honor of Our Lady of Loretto on March 19-23, 2023.  The Mission opens Sunday, March 19 at 7 pm with prayers, homily and benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.  Confessions are offered at 6 pm,  Eucharistic Adoration at 6 pm, and Mass with mission prayers at 7 pm  Monday thru Thursday.

• Life in the Spirit Seminar  will be held on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at St. Mary Church, Hollidaysburg.  The retreat, which focuses on the power and presence of the Holy Spirit, will include dynamic spiritual teachings and testimonies by Fr. Nathan Malavolti, T.O.R., Fr. Alan Thomas, Andre McCarville, Fr. Brad Baldwin, T.O.R., and others.  It will also include celebration of mass, Spirit-filled praise and worship, and small group faith sharing.  Lunch and dinner is provided.  Adult $25 ($20 if registered by February 25^th).  Students are free of charge.  To register call 814-931-0192 or emailaurorares4@gmail.com Deadline is March 12^th.

• If you are a baptized adult Catholic needing the Sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Eucharist, please call Sue Burkholder at 814-684-0352.

• Looking for a rewarding career in a faith-filled environment?  Locations throughout the Altoona-Johnstown Diocese have current openings in a variety of fields.  For a complete listing  go to https://www.dioceseaj.org/employment  

• Parishioners are encouraged to recite the rosary daily, gather together in the church on Wednesday afternoons at 3:30, and come before the daily and weekend Masses for the recitation of the Rosary. This is a special way of praying for individual and special intentions in a group to provide you  comfort and support.

• Scholarship-  Any student from the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown who is attending or will attend Franciscan University of Steubenville is eligible to apply for the John Paul II Scholarship.  For more information about the St. Pope John Paul II Scholarship at www.franciscan.edu, call 800-783-6220, or email admissions@franciscan.edu

• Apply at Saint Joseph Academy  The Saint Joseph’s high school community and educational experience is strong, balanced, and most importantly, firmly founded in Jesus Christ. Applications are now being accepted at all grade levels. To learn more or begin the online application process go to www.stjoeacad.org. You may also contact Ms. Maryann Lingenfelter, Director of Admissions, at mlingenfelter@sjcacademy.org or 814-808-6118 to arrange a tour or discuss any questions you may have.  We are looking forward to having you as part of the Saint Joseph’s community!
  

• In the Altoona/Johnstown Diocese there are several men currently studying for the priesthood.  Please keep them in your prayers.
  • Deacon Brian Norris
  • Justin Treon
  • Jacob Gindhart
  • John Roy
  • Max Kroell

• St. Aloysius Church in Cresson, PA would like to extend an invitation to participate in the Praise and Worship prayer meetings on Tuesdays at 1:30 pm on Zoom with Father Bob Hilz, meeting ID# 6726349049 or dial 929-205-6099.

       If you are in need of counseling, Catholic Counselors of America LLC is open by appointment at St. Aloysius Faith Education and Community Center. By calling Leorosie Trexler at 814-505-7178.

       May God Our Father, through Our Lord Jesus Christ, bless you and your family, and may Our Blessed Mother Mary cover you in her mantle of protection!

• Cindy O’Connor of the Office of Child and Youth Protection office of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown has requested that we provide educational article each month provide by VIRTUS of The National Catholic Risk Retention Group, Inc.  This month’s article is Our Pledge to Protect Vulnerable Adults, by Judge Kate Huffman. This article is available in the vestibule and also on the parish website.

• The Family Life Office of the Altoona-Johnstown Diocese has a ministry, Heaven’s Treasure.  The ministry attempts to reach out to families who have experienced the loss of a child through miscarriage or early fetal death by providing them with spiritual tools to help them to grieve their child through the care of the Catholic Church.  Please call the office at 814-695-5579 or email familylife@dioceseaj.org for more information.
  

• MASS INTENTION SCHEDULING: Mass intentions will now be accepted.   Mass intention or requests will be  limited to 3 masses for each family per year (only one Mass can be for the weekend or Holy Day).    We schedule as we receive mass intentions and will do our best to honor your requests. Please keep in mind to be kind and considerate of others and this will allow as many as possible in our parish family to be able to request a celebration of Mass.  Remember that the value of a Mass is infinite no matter when it is celebrated.

• Please note that the annual collection of religious articles takes place once a year in February. You are asked to please keep items to exchange/donate until that time.  The gathering space is not a drop off for old or not used items throughout the year.  If an item is not blessed you may discard of it on your own.
• Try Catholic Radio – WJVM 90.3 FM the Voice of Divine Mercy
• PROJECT RACHEL:  Would you like to find peace in your heart with your aborted child, with God, with the Church?  Don’t be afraid, the door is open.  For women, men, anyone wounded by abortion.  Contact Project Rachel 814-884-8000.  ProjectRachel@dioceseaj.org.  All calls are confidential.
• AmazonSmile Foundation will donate 0.5% of eligible purchase to our parish.   Please go to the following link: https://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-1390606 and you can start helping our church in this very easy way.
• Please remember our local Tyrone Food Bank.  Canned soups, peanut butter, cereal, jelly, and personal care items are always needed.  The Food Bank requests that dates on all donations be current.  Expired items cannot be accepted.

  Prayer for Peace in Ukraine

       Bishop Mark is requesting that  the faithful throughout the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown to join him in praying for peace in Ukraine as Russian forces invade the Eastern European country.

       The Bishop stands united in prayer with Ukrainian Catholics in that troubled part of the world and with the local Ukrainian Catholic population here in Central Pennsylvania. During this difficult time, he is inviting everyone to join him in praying the following ancient prayer.

       We fly to Your patronage, O Virgin Mother of God. Despise not our prayers in our needs, but deliver us from all dangers, since you alone are pure and blessed. O most glorious Ever Virgin Mary, the Mother of Christ our God, accept our prayers and present them to Your Son and our God, that for the sake of You, He enlighten and save our souls.

  “This prayer is a unique part of the spiritual heritage of the Catholic and Orthodox Christians of the Ukraine, dating back to the 10th or 11th century. It is quite similar to the Memorare prayer that most of us learned as children. As we watch the unfolding developments from Ukraine, it is often difficult to process our thoughts and feelings. That’s where a prayer like this can bring calm to our disturbed minds and hearts, and especially to our world.”

December 11 @ 4 pm Saint Mary Parish, Hollidaysburg

December 12 @ 7 pm Saint Matthew, Tyrone

                        @  7 pm Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Altoona

                        @ 7 pm St. Rose of Lima, Altoona, PA

December 14 @ 6 PM  Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, Altoona

December 15 @ 7 pm Most Holy Trinity, Huntingdon

December 18 @ 4 pm St. John  the Evangelist, Lakemont

December 19 @ 6 pm Our Lady of Victory,  State College

December 22 @ 5:30 PM Sacred Heart Parish, Altoona

Prayer for Peace in Ukraine

     Bishop Mark is requesting that  the faithful throughout the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown to join him in praying for peace in Ukraine as Russian forces invade the Eastern European country.

     The Bishop stands united in prayer with Ukrainian Catholics in that troubled part of the world and with the local Ukrainian Catholic population here in Central Pennsylvania. During this difficult time, he is inviting everyone to join him in praying the following ancient prayer.

     We fly to Your patronage, O Virgin Mother of God. Despise not our prayers in our needs, but deliver us from all dangers, since you alone are pure and blessed. O most glorious Ever Virgin Mary, the Mother of Christ our God, accept our prayers and present them to Your Son and our God, that for the sake of You, He enlighten and save our souls.

“This prayer is a unique part of the spiritual heritage of the Catholic and Orthodox Christians of the Ukraine, dating back to the 10th or 11th century. It is quite similar to the Memorare prayer that most of us learned as children. As we watch the unfolding developments from Ukraine, it is often difficult to process our thoughts and feelings. That’s where a prayer like this can bring calm to our disturbed minds and hearts, and especially to our world.”

Communal Reconciliation Services – During the season of Advent, Catholics are encouraged to seek God’s healing and forgiveness through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.  The following is a schedule of local Communal Penance Services.  Please go to the Diocese website for updates:  www.dioceseaj.org

December 4 @ 5 pm St. Joseph, Bellwood

• Prayer for Peace in Ukraine

       Bishop Mark is requesting that  the faithful throughout the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown to join him in praying for peace in Ukraine as Russian forces invade the Eastern European country.

       The Bishop stands united in prayer with Ukrainian Catholics in that troubled part of the world and with the local Ukrainian Catholic population here in Central Pennsylvania. During this difficult time, he is inviting everyone to join him in praying the following ancient prayer.

       We fly to Your patronage, O Virgin Mother of God. Despise not our prayers in our needs, but deliver us from all dangers, since you alone are pure and blessed. O most glorious Ever Virgin Mary, the Mother of Christ our God, accept our prayers and present them to Your Son and our God, that for the sake of You, He enlighten and save our souls.

  “This prayer is a unique part of the spiritual heritage of the Catholic and Orthodox Christians of the Ukraine, dating back to the 10th or 11th century. It is quite similar to the Memorare prayer that most of us learned as children. As we watch the unfolding developments from Ukraine, it is often difficult to process our thoughts and feelings. That’s where a prayer like this can bring calm to our disturbed minds and hearts, and especially to our world.”

• Communal Reconciliation Services – During the season of Advent, Catholics are encouraged to seek God’s healing and forgiveness through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.  The following is a schedule of local Communal Penance Services.  Please go to the Diocese website for updates:  www.dioceseaj.org

  December 4 @ 5 pm St. Joseph, Bellwood

  December 5 @ 7 pm, Penn State, Worship hall of Pasquerilla Center, State College

• December 6 @ 7 pm  Good Shepherd, Port Matilda

  December 9 @ 5:30 pm Our Lady of Lourdes, Altoona

  December 10 @ 10 am St. Theresa of the Child Jesus,                                                                                        Altoona

  December 11 @ 4 pm Saint Mary Parish, Hollidaysburg

  December 12 @ 7 pm Saint Matthew, Tyrone

                          @  7 pm Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Altoona

                          @ 7 pm St. Rose of Lima, Altoona, PA

  December 14 @ 6 PM  Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, Altoona

  December 15 @ 7 pm Most Holy Trinity, Huntingdon

  December 18 @ 4 pm St. John  the Evangelist, Lakemont

  December 19 @ 6 pm Our Lady of Victory,  State College

  December 22 @ 5:30 PM Sacred Heart Parish, Altoona

• GIVE BACK THROUGH #IGIVECATHOLIC!
  Thank you to all who contributed online and through the regular collection for a total of $475.00.  There is still time to donate towards helping to defray the cost of winter utilities just place your donation in an envelope in the weekend collection basket.    FYI the cost of snow removal has increased over 70% from last year due to rising costs of fuel etc.   

• 2022 Pro-Life Christmas Cards can be ordered through the Blair County Chapter of Citizens Concerned for Human Life.  Cost of the cards are $8.00 per pkg. of 11 cards  A poster is in the vestibule with an example of the cards.  To order call Pat at 814-946-0681. 

• St. Mary & St. Michael Nativity Festival is being offered as a gift to the Hollidaysburg parish communities including all in the surrounding community area.  This festival encourages attendees to reflect on the humble birth and life of Jesus Christ, Our Savior, and is a two-day, self-guided, FREE public event.  It will feature magnificently crafted nativity sets, including the historic nativity sets from both parishes.  Loaned by parishioners and friends, these works reflect the culture and perspective of artists around the world.  This amazing event will be held in the St. Mary social hall (312 Clark St. Hollidaysburg)  on Saturday, Dec. 17^th from 3 pm to 7 pm and on Sunday, December 18^th from 8:30 am to 6 pm.  A free Christmas Concert by the Altoona Community Band will be held at St. Mary Church at 3 pm on Sunday.

• ANGEL TREE FOR CATHOLIC CHARITIES:  All wrapped/bagged “Angel Gifts” are due under the Gathering Space tree by Sunday, December 11^th.  Please remember to enclose clothing gift receipts inside your package and to place the “coded angel” on top of your package.  Gift cards should be placed in the box in the parish office near the door.  Thank you for your generosity.

• Catholic Daughters of the Americas will be selling poinsettias and Christmas wreaths after all Masses the weekends of Dec. 10/11 and Dec. 17/18.  Flowers are provided by Rozick’s Greenhouse.  The poinsettia flower was been used as a Christmas symbol since the 17^th century when Franciscan friars in Mexico included the plant in their Christmas celebrations.  The star-shaped leaf pattern is said to symbolize the Star of Bethlehem, and the red color the blood sacrifice of Jesus’s crucifixion. 

• Retirement Fund for Religious.  This special collection will assist with retirement-funding shortages. Your gift helps to provide medications, nursing care, and more for the many Religious men and women who reside in the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown and their religious communities.  Please prayerfully consider this collection which will be featured the weekend of December 10/11, 2022.

•  Knights of Columbus will be selling Basket of Cheer raffle tickets. Chances are $2.00 each or 3 for $5.00.  All monies raised with go toward the Sister Karen Endowment Fund.  Drawing is December 28^th.

• REMINDER:  Christmas altar flower requests are due Sunday, December 11^th.  Please place your requests in the collection or bring to the parish office.  Extra forms are available in the gathering space.

• RICA (Right of Christian Initiation for Adults)  If you or someone you know are interested in learning more about our Catholic Faith, please contact  Sue Burkholder at 814-684-0352

  • Catholic Daughters of the Americas 
  • BASKET RAFFLE IS UNDERWAY! There are an amazing variety of Baskets to choose from this year with something for everyone of all ages. Tickets are 7 for $5.00 and are available through Sunday, November 20^t.

• Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown is establishing a prayer ministry and we are seeking prayer partners.  Every Friday we pray for those who ask for special intentions, for the marginalized, the vulnerable and all clients seeking assistance from Catholic Charities. 

       Prayer is one of the gifts we can give to each other at no extra cost.  To request prayers, please visit our website:  www.catholiccharitiesaj.org.  

       For more information on how to participate and spend time in prayer for those in need, please contact Lisa Fellabaum, Outreach Liaison at 814-505-1106 or by email at lfellabaum@dioceseaj.org

• Parishioners are encouraged to recite the rosary daily, gather together in the church on Wednesday afternoons at 3:30, and come before the daily and weekend Masses for the recitation of the Rosary. This is a special way of praying for individual and special intentions in a group to provide you  comfort and support.

• Catholic Ministries Drive parish goal for 2022 is $32,779. 

    The annual CMD directly supports 14 ministries through which people are accompanied in their journey (100% of your gift does directly to these ministries).  There are many gifted and generous laypersons in our diocese who share their time and talent to support our Catholic ministries.

    This year, more so than others, our world, our nation, our communities, our parishes, and our families need tangible expression of hope.  This year 2022 is a time for everyone to move FORWARD IN FAITH!

        All contributions received beyond our parish target will be used to assist in Harkin’s Hall roof replacement.

•  Scholarship-  Any student from the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown who is attending or will attend Franciscan University of Steubenville is eligible to apply for the John Paul II Scholarship.  For more information about the St. Pope John Paul II Scholarship at www.franciscan.edu, call 800-783-6220, or email admissions@franciscan.edu

• Apply now at Saint Joseph Academy  The Saint Joseph’s high school community and educational experience is strong, balanced, and most importantly, firmly founded in Jesus Christ. Applications are now being accepted at all grade levels. To learn more or begin the online application process go to www.stjoeacad.org. You may also contact Ms. Maryann Lingenfelter, Director of Admissions, at mlingenfelter@sjcacademy.org or 814-808-6118 to arrange a tour or discuss any questions you may have.  We are looking forward to having you as part of the Saint Joseph’s community!
  

• In the Altoona/Johnstown Diocese there are several men currently studying for the priesthood.  Please keep them in your prayers.
  • Deacon Brian Norris
  • Justin Treon
  • Jacob Gindhart
  • John Roy
  • Max Kroell

• St. Aloysius Church in Cresson, PA would like to extend an invitation to participate in the Praise and Worship prayer meetings on Tuesdays at 1:30 pm on Zoom with Father Bob Hilz, meeting ID# 6726349049 or dial 929-205-6099.

       If you are in need of counseling, Catholic Counselors of America LLC is open by appointment at St. Aloysius Faith Education and Community Center. By calling Leorosie Trexler at 814-505-7178.

       May God Our Father, through Our Lord Jesus Christ, bless you and your family, and may Our Blessed Mother Mary cover you in her mantle of protection!

• Cindy O’Connor of the Office of Child and Youth Protection office of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown has requested that we provide educational article each month provide by VIRTUS of The National Catholic Risk Retention Group, Inc.  This month’s article is Our Pledge to Protect Vulnerable Adults, by Judge Kate Huffman. This article is available in the vestibule and also on the parish website.

• The Family Life Office of the Altoona-Johnstown Diocese has a ministry, Heaven’s Treasure.  The ministry attempts to reach out to families who have experienced the loss of a child through miscarriage or early fetal death by providing them with spiritual tools to help them to grieve their child through the care of the Catholic Church.  Please call the office at 814-695-5579 or email familylife@dioceseaj.org for more information.
  

• MASS INTENTION SCHEDULING: Mass intentions will now be accepted.   Mass intention or requests will be  limited to 3 masses for each family per year (only one Mass can be for the weekend or Holy Day).    We schedule as we receive mass intentions and will do our best to honor your requests. Please keep in mind to be kind and considerate of others and this will allow as many as possible in our parish family to be able to request a celebration of Mass.  Remember that the value of a Mass is infinite no matter when it is celebrated.

• Please note that the annual collection of religious articles takes place once a year in February. You are asked to please keep items to exchange/donate until that time.  The gathering space is not a drop off for old or not used items throughout the year.  If an item is not blessed you may discard of it on your own.
• Try Catholic Radio – WJVM 90.3 FM the Voice of Divine Mercy
• PROJECT RACHEL:  Would you like to find peace in your heart with your aborted child, with God, with the Church?  Don’t be afraid, the door is open.  For women, men, anyone wounded by abortion.  Contact Project Rachel 814-884-8000.  ProjectRachel@dioceseaj.org.  All calls are confidential.
• AmazonSmile Foundation will donate 0.5% of eligible purchase to our parish.   Please go to the following link: https://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-1390606 and you can start helping our church in this very easy way.
• Please remember our local Tyrone Food Bank.  Canned soups, peanut butter, cereal, jelly, and personal care items are always needed.  The Food Bank requests that dates on all donations be current.  Expired items cannot be accepted.

FAMILIES NEEDED FOR ADVENT WREATH – CANDLE LIGHTING! In two weeks we will begin the new church (liturgical) year and our four-week period of preparation for the joyous celebration of Christmas.  We are asking our parish families to participate in the Advent wreath candle lighting at the start of each of our Advent weekend Masses.  A sign-up list for this can be found in the vestibule.  Please participate and sign up today!

2022 Pro-Life Christmas Cards can be ordered through the Blair County Chapter of Citizens Concerned for Human Life.  Cost of the cards are $8.00 per pkg. of 11 cards  A poster is in the vestibule with an example of the cards.  To order call Pat at 814-946-0681. 

St. Mary & St. Michael Nativity Festival is being offered as a gift to the Hollidaysburg parish communities including all in the surrounding community area.  This festival encourages attendees to reflect on the humble birth and life of Jesus Christ, Our Savior, and is a two-day, self-guided, FREE public event.  It will feature magnificently crafted nativity sets, including the historic nativity sets from both parishes.  Loaned by parishioners and friends, these works reflect the culture and perspective of artists around the world.  This amazing event will be held in the St. Mary social hall (312 Clark St. Hollidaysburg)  on Saturday, Dec. 17^th from 3 pm to 7 pm and on Sunday, December 18^th from 8:30 am to 6 pm.  A free Christmas Concert by the Altoona Community Band will be held at St. Mary Church at 3 pm on Sunday.

ANGEL TREE FOR CATHOLIC CHARITIES:  All wrapped/bagged “Angel Gifts” are due under the Gathering Space tree by Sunday, December 11^th.  Please remember to enclose clothing gift receipts inside your package and to place the “coded angel” on top of your package.  Gift cards should be placed in the box in the parish office near the door.  Thank you for your generosity.

Catholic Daughters of the Americas will be selling poinsettias and Christmas wreaths after all Masses the weekends of Dec. 10/11 and Dec. 17/18.  Flowers are provided by Rozick’s Greenhouse.  The poinsettia flower was been used as a Christmas symbol since the 17^th century when Franciscan friars in Mexico included the plant in their Christmas celebrations.  The star-shaped leaf pattern is said to symbolize the Star of Bethlehem, and the red color the blood sacrifice of Jesus’s crucifixion. 

Retirement Fund for Religious.  This special collection will assist with retirement-funding shortages. Your gift helps to provide medications, nursing care, and more for the many Religious men and women who reside in the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown and their religious communities.  Please prayerfully consider this collection which will be featured the weekend of December 10/11, 2022.

 Knights of Columbus will be selling Basket of Cheer raffle tickets. Chances are $2.00 each or 3 for $5.00.  All monies raised with go toward the Sister Karen Endowment Fund.  Drawing is December 28^th.

REMINDER:  Christmas altar flower requests are due Sunday, December 11^th.  Please place your requests in the collection or bring to the parish office.  Extra forms are available in the gathering space.

RICA (Right of Christian Initiation for Adults)  If you or someone you know are interested in learning more about our Catholic Faith, please contact  Sue Burkholder at 814-684-0352

• Catholic Daughters of the Americas 
• BASKET RAFFLE IS UNDERWAY! There are an amazing variety of Baskets to choose from this year with something for everyone of all ages. Tickets are 7 for $5.00 and are available through Sunday, November 20^t.

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown is establishing a prayer ministry and we are seeking prayer partners.  Every Friday we pray for those who ask for special intentions, for the marginalized, the vulnerable and all clients seeking assistance from Catholic Charities. 

     Prayer is one of the gifts we can give to each other at no extra cost.  To request prayers, please visit our website:  www.catholiccharitiesaj.org.  

     For more information on how to participate and spend time in prayer for those in need, please contact Lisa Fellabaum, Outreach Liaison at 814-505-1106 or by email at lfellabaum@dioceseaj.org

Parishioners are encouraged to recite the rosary daily, gather together in the church on Wednesday afternoons at 3:30, and come before the daily and weekend Masses for the recitation of the Rosary. This is a special way of praying for individual and special intentions in a group to provide you  comfort and support.

Catholic Ministries Drive parish goal for 2022 is $32,779. 

  The annual CMD directly supports 14 ministries through which people are accompanied in their journey (100% of your gift does directly to these ministries).  There are many gifted and generous laypersons in our diocese who share their time and talent to support our Catholic ministries.

  This year, more so than others, our world, our nation, our communities, our parishes, and our families need tangible expression of hope.  This year 2022 is a time for everyone to move FORWARD IN FAITH!

      All contributions received beyond our parish target will be used to assist in Harkin’s Hall roof replacement.

 Scholarship-  Any student from the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown who is attending or will attend Franciscan University of Steubenville is eligible to apply for the John Paul II Scholarship.  For more information about the St. Pope John Paul II Scholarship at www.franciscan.edu, call 800-783-6220, or email admissions@franciscan.edu

Apply now at Saint Joseph Academy  The Saint Joseph’s high school community and educational experience is strong, balanced, and most importantly, firmly founded in Jesus Christ. Applications are now being accepted at all grade levels. To learn more or begin the online application process go to www.stjoeacad.org. You may also contact Ms. Maryann Lingenfelter, Director of Admissions, at mlingenfelter@sjcacademy.org or 814-808-6118 to arrange a tour or discuss any questions you may have.  We are looking forward to having you as part of the Saint Joseph’s community!

• Deacon Brian Norris
• Justin Treon
• Jacob Gindhart
• John Roy
• Max Kroell

St. Aloysius Church in Cresson, PA would like to extend an invitation to participate in the Praise and Worship prayer meetings on Tuesdays at 1:30 pm on Zoom with Father Bob Hilz, meeting ID# 6726349049 or dial 929-205-6099.

     If you are in need of counseling, Catholic Counselors of America LLC is open by appointment at St. Aloysius Faith Education and Community Center. By calling Leorosie Trexler at 814-505-7178.

     May God Our Father, through Our Lord Jesus Christ, bless you and your family, and may Our Blessed Mother Mary cover you in her mantle of protection!

The Family Life Office of the Altoona-Johnstown Diocese has a ministry, Heaven’s Treasure.  The ministry attempts to reach out to families who have experienced the loss of a child through miscarriage or early fetal death by providing them with spiritual tools to help them to grieve their child through the care of the Catholic Church.  Please call the office at 814-695-5579 or email familylife@dioceseaj.org for more information.

MASS INTENTION SCHEDULING: Mass intentions will now be accepted.   Mass intention or requests will be  limited to 3 masses for each family per year (only one Mass can be for the weekend or Holy Day).    We schedule as we receive mass intentions and will do our best to honor your requests. Please keep in mind to be kind and considerate of others and this will allow as many as possible in our parish family to be able to request a celebration of Mass.  Remember that the value of a Mass is infinite no matter when it is celebrated.