Thanks to everyone who assisted with Santa on the Bayou. Although the weather was not the best, we were still able to bring the Christmas spirit to many, including over 1000 adults and 500 children who received toys. Besides the toys and shoes, food, entertainment and the living nativity scene were wonderful. Indeed, “Jesus is the reason for the season”, and what a privilege it was to be HIS instruments in sharing the gifs that we had received.

The festive season of Christmas will conclude with the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. Jesus’ baptism is a significant moment in his public ministry. As we celebrate this feast we recall our own baptism and renew our baptismal commitment. It is fitting that this feast marks the beginning of National Vocation Awareness Week.

The second collection on Christmas is to help defray the cost of Seminary Formation for those studying to be diocesan priests here in our Archdiocese. We currently have 21 men studying for the Archdiocese at Notre Dame Seminary, The North American College and St. Joseph Seminary College. Your financial generosity and continued prayers are appreciated.

The Knights of Rummel Council #5747 are pleased to announce the distribution of “A Knight’s Gift” to children of St. Bernard Parish. On December 20th at 2:00 p.m. the Knights will distribute gifts from the Grand Ballroom of the Frederick Sigur Civic Center located at 8201 W. Judge Perez Drive, Chalmette, Louisiana. Grand Knight Larry Gonzales and committee chairman Cisco Gonzales stated “we’ll give every child a gift until we run out of gifts.” All children attending who would like to receive a gift must have a parent or guardian present and have in their possession a current pictured I.D. with proof of St. Bernard Parish residency. Gonzales further stated “this is a wonderful time of year and we hope to spread the cheer to those who may not have a gift waiting under a Christmas Tree.” Snacks and soda will be free.

The 2010 Mass Intention Book is open and accepting requests. Mass intentions can be for the living or deceased, usually on the occasion of a birth, death or anniversary. Suggested donation is $5 per Mass. The Sanctuary and Marian Candles are also available and burn for an entire week. Suggested donation is $10. Please call the parish office or complete an envelope request located in the back of church.

With the new Mass schedule, many asked about their financial ontributions. Regardless of what Mass you attend, donations will be credited according to the envelope you use. Envelopes can be found in the back of Church. Loose donations will be credited to the church where it is received.

Numbered Box Envelopes for the 2010 year are also available in the back of church.

With Christmas less than 2 weeks away, donations are being accepted to help defray the cost of flowers and decorations. Consider making a donation in memory or honor of a loved one. Please complete the enclosed form or pick one up on the back table. Names will be listed in the Christmas bulletin.