Rev. Thomas J. Serafin, KCHS
Advent, 2022
Dear Members of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Church,
With all the craziness of life – and what seems will be our never-ending concerns over viruses, flus, and other diseases – and the vicious, vile, venomous verbiage we endure every election year – who does not desire a place where we can step out of the cesspool, catch our breath, and be fortified with heavenly help! And I firmly believe – and have devoted my life to the truth – that the Catholic Church uniquely offers this divine assistance to all who accept her and get active in her ministry.
Now, don’t accuse me, as the Apostles were once accused, of being ‘under the influence!’ After those once cowardly men received the Holy Spirit and courageously proclaimed the Gospel on Pentecost, their listeners “were all astounded and bewildered, and said to one another, ‘What does this mean?’ But others said, scoffing, ‘They have had too much new wine.’” [Acts 2:12-13] I can assure you: I am well aware of the imperfections of many Christians, even her ordained leaders like myself; but to discard the Greatest Gift of all: Jesus in the Sacraments – because the wrapping and box they come in are imperfect – is ludicrous! For as Saint Paul reminds us:
“For God who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ has shone in our hearts to bring to light the knowledge of the glory of God on the face of [Jesus] Christ. But we hold this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing power may be of God and not from us.” [2 Corinthians 4:6-7]
So, if you have yet to do so: come home to the Church for Christmas; get more involved if you’ve already returned; avail yourself to all the Church offers to her children to grow in holiness and hope. To purge your soul of sin, Confessions are on Sunday, December 11, from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm; several Priests, each seated in a separate room, will hear Confessions. There is no Penance Service, just come to the Parish Hall, take a number, wait for your turn, enjoy the sacred music and virtual Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, and be absolved of all your sins! You can find ‘How-To-Go-To-Confession’ guidelines and ‘Examinations of Conscience’ in our bulletin and on our website; email or call the Parish Office to have these sent to you.
Remember: the later Masses on Christmas EVE are less crowded, as is the earlier Christmas DAYMass. Join in helping to reflect Christ’s Light into our darkened, sin-sick world; an update on Parish activities, projects and financial accountability will be printed in the Christmas bulletin; thanks, in advance, for your continued generosity and support! With my prayers for a most Merry Christmas and a happy, holy New Year 2023, I am,
In His holy Name,
Rev. Thomas J. Serafin, KCHS
Pastor