Second Sunday of Advent
Candle Name: Bethlehem or Preparation Candle
Candle Symbolizes: Peace
Reminds us: Joseph and Mary's journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem
God kept his promise of a Savior who would be born in Bethlehem. Preparation means to "get ready". Help us to be ready to welcome You, O God! (Luke 3:4-6)
"John the Baptist" (Alexandre Cabanel, 1849)
Dear Friends in Christ,
Our Archdiocese of Kingston is celebrating its 200th Anniversary, officially beginning on Monday, December 8, 2025 on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. But beginning this Sunday and for an entire year using the pew inserts, we'll pray the Anniversary Prayer together after the final blessing and before the St. Michael prayer, followed by the final blessing. Prayer cards for the personal use of the faithful will also be available, as well as a special liturgy guide that we'll make good use of through this anniversary year. Look for these resources when you come to Mass.
This Sunday, in lieu of a homily, I'll introduce the 200th year and give a bit of a sort of 'state of the parishes' update and try and propose a few ways in which this milestone can help inspire us all to deepen our faith, strengthen our unity and continue building vibrant parishes for generations to come.
Fr. Justin
PS - This Mon, Dec 8th, the Church celebrates the conception of Mary in the womb of her mother Anne – the Immaculate Conception, This is a day to celebrate God’s great love for Mary, and for all of us, in his power to save us from sin. I encourage you to attend a special evening Mass at SHJ at 7pm. Also, please read this beautiful and short essay.
The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary celebrates the conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the womb of her mother, St. Anne, free from original sin by virtue of the merits of her son Jesus. Monday, 8 December @ 10:30am at St. Mary's Cathedral in Kingston. I encourage and invite all parishioners to attend the Solemnity if possible. Given that this is an Archdiocesan celebration, we have been told to cancel our usual morning Mass (and Holy Hour). A collection will be accepted at the entrance of the cathedral where a monetary gift, food, or toiletry item may be donated to St. Mary’s Drop-In Centre, which serves many vulnerable people each day. Thank you for your kind generosity.
We are happy to bring to you the Fall 2025 edition of Journey, a special issue that opens the door to a momentous celebration — the 200th Anniversary of the Archdiocese of Kingston. As we approach this historic milestone, beginning on December 8, 2025, this edition invites you to reflect on two centuries of faith, service, and community. Centered on the inspiring theme from Philippians 3:10 — “To know Christ and the power of His resurrection” — we pray that the Holy Spirit will illuminate us and guide our Archdiocese into this third century. From Archbishop Mulhall’s message to the unveiling of the commemorative icon and stories of hope and heritage, this issue sets the tone for a year of grace and spiritual renewal. Join us as we look back with gratitude and forward with faith-filled anticipation.
Print copies of Journey, introducing the 200th anniversary them and outlining the program of celebration, are available in the narthex in limited number. You can also download your copy of Journey today.
Sacred Heart of Jesus
Weekly Schedule
"Saint Joseph" (Antoine Alexandre Morel, 1787)
2nd Sunday of Advent
Sat, Dec 6 @ 5pm
Pro Populo
2nd Sunday of Advent
Sun, Dec 7 @ 11am*
James Gray †
[req. Cornelius Quinlan]
*Jr. Liturgy
Lectors
5pm: Aahron Swart
11am: Maureen O'Connor
Sun, Dec 7 @ 12pm
Children's Christmas Pageant Rehearsal
Sun, Dec 7 @ 12pm
SHJ CWL Meeting
SHJ Hall
"Madonna and Child" (Franz Ittenbach, 1855)
The Immaculate Conception of the
Blessed Virgin Mary (S)
Mon, Dec 8 @ 7pm*
Helen Flynn Rodgers †
[req. John & Vicki Maloney]
*note the time change
Tues, Dec 9 @ 5pm*
Special Intentions
[req. The Clemens Family]
*note the time change
Tues, Dec 9 @ 6pm
Knights of Columbus #7301
Christmas Social
SHJ Hall
Wed, Dec 10 @ 9am
Intentions of Ryan / Ed Kekes
[req. Willie Kuttschrutter]
Wed, Dec 10 @ 9:30-10:30am
** Holy Hour! **
Thur, Dec 11 @ 9am
Glen & Carol Sweet †
[req. Carol Gillis & Family]
Fri, Dec 12 @ 12pm
SHJ School Xmas Luncheon
SHJ Hall
SHJ Hall
Our Lady of Guadalupe (F)
Fri, Dec 12 @ 9am
Shona (Burke) O'Neill †
[req. O'Neill Family]
Fri, Dec 12 @ 9:30-10:30am
** Holy Hour! **
Sacred Heart of Mary
Weekly Schedule
Sat, Dec 6 @ 11am*
Funeral Mass of Kevin Roy †
*followed by burial at SHM Cemetery & reception at O'Neill Parish Hall
"The Last Judgment" (Jan van Eyck, 1436–38)
2nd Sunday of Advent
Sun, Dec 7 @ 9am*
Gordon Sommerville †
[req. Mary Sommerville]
*Jr. Liturgy
Lector: Cathy Mouck
Wed, Dec 10 @ 9am
In Thanksgiving for our 40th Wedding Anniversary
[req. Brad & Cheryl Freeman]
Wed, Dec 10 @ 9:30-10:30am
** Holy Hour! **
Wed, Dec 10 @ 5pm
Combined SHM & SHJ Choir Practice
7-Day Votive Candle Offerings
SHJ CHURCH
OUR BLESSED MOTHER
Our Intentions
[req. Mark & Yvonne Leahy]
SACRED HEART OF JESUS
SHJ Parishioners
[req. Kathy Tilley]
ST. JOSEPH
[available]
ST. ANNE & OUR LADY
[available]
SHM CHURCH
SACRED HEART OF JESUS
For our beloved country Canada
[req. SHM CWL]
OUR BLESSED MOTHER
For ourselves, our children & grandchildren on our wedding anniversary
[req. Paul & Cathie Francis]
You can put your $10 7-Day Votive Offering in the filled-in pink envelope.
Any questions? Contact Pauline at the parish office @ 613.472.2220 or sacredheart.mm@archkingston.ca
NEXT SATURDAY MORNING
Candlelight "Rorate Caeli" Mass
A Votive Candlelight Mass of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Advent
Saturday, Dec 13th @ 6:30am
SHJ Church Marmora
(Tapers will be provided)
Light refreshment & snacks in SHJ Hall after Mass
Next Saturday, Dec 13th @ 6:30am at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, we will be having a Rorate Mass (Ordinary Form, English).
The “Rorate” Mass is an ancient Advent tradition that takes its name from the first word of the Introit: Rorate, caeli, desuper, et nubes pluant iustum, “Drop down dew, O heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain down righteousness.”
The Rorate Mass is lit only by candlelight. Because it is a votive Mass in Our Lady's honour, Marian vestments are worn instead of Advent violet. In the dimly lit setting, priests and faithful prepare to honour the Light of the world, who is soon to be born, and offer praise to God for the gift of Our Lady. As the Mass proceeds and sunrise approaches, the Church becomes progressively brighter, illumined by the sun as our Faith is illumined by Christ.
Holy Mother Church has given us the tradition of the Rorate Mass, on a Saturday of Our Lady, in the midst of Advent as an opportunity to contemplate the mystery of darkness and light. Outside, all the world lies in darkness while, inside, the candlelight leaps into the shadows and overpowers them.
We may feel like the darkness of sin and indifference, like the darkness of the troubles that plague our world, our nation, and our Church, threaten to overwhelm and destroy the Light of Christ.
We may feel like the darkness of sin and indifference, like the darkness of the troubles that plague our world, our nation, and our Church, threaten to overwhelm and destroy the Light of Christ.
“Rorate caeli” by William Byrd, 1605 | Performed by The Gesualdo Six, directed by Owain Park, 2020
But darkness does not overcome light. The light of just one candle is enough to dispel darkness. Imagine the power of the Light of the World!
The Rorate Mass is a visible, burning reminder to us that, by our prayers and offerings, we are to awake the dawn of Christ in our own lives. By vigilantly tending our own flames of faith, of prayer, and of penance, we burn out all inside of us that is not of Him. The candles on our altar, offered by our faithful, are a reminder to us that these spiritual flames are the only real weapons that have any power over the darkness.
It takes hours to set up all the candles in SHJ before Rorate. Hundreds of tiny, flickering flames set the altar and sanctuary aglow. But it is a joyful, spiritual labor, because their light in the darkness is a reminder of the Divine Flame that burns inside our hearts, even in a dark world. If you can help set up candles in the church on Friday December 12th, please speak with Fr. Justin, Fr. Price or contact the parish office.
Requesting Mass Intentions
To arrange to have a Mass celebrated, just contact our secretary Pauline Davis (613.472.2220 or SacredHeart.MM@archkingston.ca) or better yet, use the mass intention envelopes found in the vestibule, fill it out and put in the $20 offering and place it in the collection basket at Mass. We will do our best to have the Mass offered on the date requested.
By using the white Flower Sponsor envelopes (located in the narthex), a one time donation of $40 will provide flowers for the sanctuary and shrines, and you'll also get a Mass intention included in that. So a great deal if you think about it! The churches are beautifully decorated in large part to your flower donations. And when you see in the Flocknotes Masses being offered "For the X Family Intentions" - usually those are from the Family flower sponsor. Thanks to Shirley Gauvreau, Brenda Poirier, Iris Doyle & Joanne Forestell for always doing such a splendid arrangement of the flowers! Thank you for your support.
Season of Giving: This holiday season we thank everyone who has supported SHJ & SHM this past year with their time, talent and financial contributions, and look forward to support from all of our parishioners in the year ahead. If you need a convenient way to make regular offerings or if you plan to make an additional gift before the end of the year, we encourage you to check out our e-transfer option. As the pace of life speeds up, especially around the holidays, you may find electronic giving a most welcome way to make contributions. Giving to the offertory is convenient and easy with e-transfers. As you know, supporting the work of the Church with one’s financial resources is an essential and intrinsic part of Christian discipleship and stewardship. Thank you so much for your continued generosity in keeping SHM & SHJ a vibrant parish in the Archdiocese of Kingston.
shjpayments@gmail.com (SHJ)
shmpayments@gmail.com (SHM)
Confession Schedule this Week
Sat: 4-4:45pm
Sun: 8-8:45am & 10-10:45am
Mon: 8-8:45 & 9:45-10:15am
Tues: 8-8:45am
Wed: 8-8:45 & 9:45-10:15am
Thur: 8-8:45am
Fri: 8-8:45 & 9:45-10:15am
LOCAL ADVENT
CONFESSION SERVICES
St. Peter's, Trenton
Wed, Dec 10 @ 7pm
St. Gregory's, Picton
Fri, Dec 12 @ 6pm
St. Joseph's Belleville
Sun, Dec 14 @ 3pm
St. Mary's, Campbellford
Tues, Dec 16 @ 6:30pm
St. Charles Borromeo, Reid
Wed, Dec 17 @ 7pm
SHJ & SHM, Marmora
Thur, Dec 18 @ 6:30pm
St. Michael's, Belleville
Sun, Dec 21 @ 3:30pm
Anointing of the Sick
Those Catholics confronted with serious illness, chronic illness, or surgery are invited to request the Sacrament of Anointing by calling Fr. Justin for an appointment. We also now have a wonderful Pastoral Care team made up of generous parishioners who can bring Holy Communion to the sick and those confined to their own homes. Again, if you are someone or know of someone who would like to receive Sacraments at their home, please contact the office @ 613.472.2220 for more information.
Don't forget that great online faith resources are available to every member of our parish including books, movies, podcasts and more at Formed.org.To gain access to all of FORMED’s content, follow these simple steps:
Go to https://signup.formed.org/
Enter our parish’s postal code (K0K 2M0)
Enter your name and your email address.
At the entrance of our churches, you’ll find a box in which you can put non-perishable food items to be donated to the Food Bank. I encourage each family – weekly, if possible – to bring an item (make it part of your normal shopping routine) so we can donate them to those in need. This would be a practical way in which we can engage in almsgiving/charity, recalling our Lord's words from Matthew’s Gospel: “I was hungry and you fed me.” The following items are particularly welcome: baby & infant formula, pasta & sauces, personal hygiene items, whole grain cereals, canned vegetables & fruits, diapers, bathroom tissue, canned goods (beans, soups, stews) & peanut butter. Thank you for your continued generosity.
The Church is a wise mother. She recognizes that grief is a process. Her liturgy accompanies her children in their grief and prays for the dead for a reason. There’s the blessing and reception of a body, a vigil in the presence of the body, a Funeral Mass, the Final Commendation, the burial service, Masses traditionally offered on important days after death, and the Commemoration of All Souls.
The Church wants us to deal with the reality of death so we can understand the hope that belongs to the Christian. But more and more our increasingly secularized culture is becoming detached from the reality of death, and paradoxically, more hopeless. A culture of death which turns a blind eye to abortion, euthanasia, and genocide wants to ignore death and pretend it doesn’t exist. And, so more and more families refuse to go through the Church’s way of death that leads to life. They will wait until the last minute to call the priest for Last Rites (if they call him at all). Then, they say totally bizarre things like, “We don’t want a full Mass.” What does that even mean, LOL!? They don’t want to come to church. They want what little of a funeral there is to be celebrated only at their convenience, with as little expense and bother as possible. (And then they wonder why they have mental health issues related to it all).
The Church wants us to deal with the reality of death so we can understand the hope that belongs to the Christian. But more and more our increasingly secularized culture is becoming detached from the reality of death, and paradoxically, more hopeless. A culture of death which turns a blind eye to abortion, euthanasia, and genocide wants to ignore death and pretend it doesn’t exist. And, so more and more families refuse to go through the Church’s way of death that leads to life. They will wait until the last minute to call the priest for Last Rites (if they call him at all). Then, they say totally bizarre things like, “We don’t want a full Mass.” What does that even mean, LOL!? They don’t want to come to church. They want what little of a funeral there is to be celebrated only at their convenience, with as little expense and bother as possible. (And then they wonder why they have mental health issues related to it all).
Please don’t wait to get your affairs in order. Start planning your full funeral rites, and finance their reality now. You may only see the worth of all of this for your loved ones left behind from your throne with Jesus in heaven, but trust me, you will. Don’t leave it to anyone else (especially your children if they are not practising the faith).
It saddens me to see a devout Catholic laid to rest without the full complement of Catholic ritual, because that worship has an incredible ability to heal and to inspire when done right. And remember: all the sappy sentimental stuff - for the love of God, please leave it for the reception. That’s not what Mass is about. Don’t try to force onto the worship of God anything that isn’t already a part of it. All of that stuff has a place, but it’s outside of Mass.
Below is an excellent message that Fr. Raymond de Souza, who wrote to his parishioners at Holy Cross Parish in Kemptville. I fully endorse it.
Links, Recommendations & Random Thoughts
Inspiring!
- This past week in Turkey and Lebanon, the Holy Father confirmed us in the faith, repeatedly insisting that redemption comes to us through Jesus Christ, the incarnate Son of God, and that in him and in him alone is the source of salvation. Moreover, he repeatedly warned against the dangers of contemporary Arianism. Pope Leo XIV said:
- “There is, however, another challenge, which I would define as a “return of Arianism,” present in today’s culture and sometimes even among believers themselves, when Jesus is viewed with human admiration, even with a religious spirit, but without truly considering him as the living and true God present among us. His being God, Lord of history, is thus obscured, and we limit ourselves to considering him a historical figure, a wise teacher, a prophet who fought for justice, but nothing more. Nicaea reminds us: Christ Jesus is not a figure of the past; he is the Son of God present among us who guides history toward the future that God has promised us.”
- And later,
- “This question particularly challenges Christians, who risk reducing Jesus Christ to a kind of charismatic leader or superman, a misrepresentation that ultimately leads to sadness and confusion. By denying Christ’s divinity, Arius reduced him to a mere intermediary between God and human beings, ignoring the reality of the Incarnation, so that the divine and the human remained irremediably separated. But if God did not become man, how can mortals share in his immortal life? This was at stake at Nicaea and it is at stake today: faith in the God who, in Jesus Christ, became like us so that we might “participate in the divine nature.”
- “This question particularly challenges Christians, who risk reducing Jesus Christ to a kind of charismatic leader or superman, a misrepresentation that ultimately leads to sadness and confusion. By denying Christ’s divinity, Arius reduced him to a mere intermediary between God and human beings, ignoring the reality of the Incarnation, so that the divine and the human remained irremediably separated. But if God did not become man, how can mortals share in his immortal life? This was at stake at Nicaea and it is at stake today: faith in the God who, in Jesus Christ, became like us so that we might “participate in the divine nature.”
- (And if you haven't read last week's Apostolic Letter from Pope Leo on the occasion of the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, I highly recommend it. It's (relatively) short and easy to read, but very rich.)
- Advent prepares us for the birth of our Savior and his Second Coming at the end of time. We remember and celebrate these things each year in the weeks before Christmas. If Jesus Christ is who he said he is – the Son of God; God’s Word made flesh for our salvation – then his birth is the decisive event in human history; the central truth of creation. Nothing is more important.
The catechists and many priests of the Archdiocese had a wonderful workshop with the Archbishop at St. Paul the Apostle parish in Kingston this past Saturday.
- Heart-warming!
- For our Mother!
- "Losing my parents wasn’t just a reminder that I will die and be forgotten. It also started that very process. When they died, they took to the grave some of the stories and memories they had of my early childhood. Things that only they remembered." - You'll want to read this.
- I could watch this all day....
- An excellent and beautifully illustrated point. Thank you Jim Griepsma for sharing.
- I really enjoyed celebrating the Masses for the Dead for our deceased relatives and friends, and also praying for the Poor Souls in Purgatory throughout November. I look forward to doing that again next year with all of you. Let's never have those in purgatory far from our thoughts and resolve to try and obtain as many indulgences as possible for their swift release.
- If you're available to help set up candles in the church this Fri, Dec 12 to prepare for Saturday morning's Rorate Mass, please speak with Fr. Justin or contact the parish office 613.472.2220
- Someone asked me to pick up some magnets from the pilgrimage shrines, which I did, but I can't for the life of me remember who it was that asked me! If it was you, let me know, lol.
- BABMINELLI SUNDAY: Bring Your Baby Jesus with you to Mass next weeeknd. The 3rd Sunday of Advent (Gaudete Sunday) has for many years been the day when the children of Rome bring the figurines of Baby Jesus from their family cribs to St. Peter’s Square to be blessed by the Pope during the Angelus. The day is affectionately known as “Bambinelli Sunday.” Instituted by Pope Saint John Paul II during his Papacy, the tradition has continued and has grown in popularity across the universal Church. Children are invited to wrap the blessed figurines in Christmas wrapping when they return home, and to place them under the tree, to be opened as the first gift of Christmas; thus encouraging young children to make the connection between the gifts they receive on Christmas Day and the greatest gift that any of us can receive, Jesus; and the connection between the Nativity set at home and the local Church where they worship each weekend.
- Blessing of Expectant Mothers: On Gaudete Sunday, December 14th, all expectant mothers are invited to receive a special blessing at the Sunday Masses. Everyone should try and wear pink (rose). Please let Fr. Justin know if you'd like this blessing in advance.
- In only 19 days we will celebrate the birth of the Messiah, and in anticipation, the world is in a frenzy, shopping, decorating and feasting. But these things do not prepare us to stand at the Christmas Crib with joy. Only the forgiveness of our sins can do that. So to prepare for the birth of the Messiah, let us go to confession and receive the mercy of God. That is how we prepare the way of the Lord. Confession before Christmas is encouraged in Catholicism to purify the soul and embrace the spiritual renewal symbolized by Our Lord's birth. It allows believers to reflect, seek forgiveness, and reconcile with God, fostering a deeper connection to the essence of Christmas. By acknowledging shortcomings and receiving absolution, one enters the season with a cleansed spirit, ready to embrace the significance of Christ’s arrival. It embodies the spirit of repentance and prepares the heart to fully appreciate the transformative message of hope, love, and redemption that Christmas represents, fostering a meaningful and spiritually fulfilling celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. While we offer confessions every day and upon request, we'll still have a special Advent Penitential Liturgy on Thur, Dec 18 @ 6:30pm @ SHJ. So come, reconnect with grace Himself. Confession heals and brings peace. So embrace forgiveness and renew your spirit.
- PS - Parents: confessions will not be heard at the school so it will be, as a duty flowing from your choice to have your children baptized, your responsibility to bring your children to confession. Please prepare them at home and instill into them a holy reverence for the sacred encounter with Jesus in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
- Fr. Justin's Xmas Gift Recommendations for Kids/Grand kids
- Book light for reading in bed
- The Story of All Stories: A Story Bible for Young Catholics (hearing so many amazing things about this beautifully illustrated story bible!)
REMINDER
SHJ Cemetery Board Announcement
In keeping with our peaceful and tranquil cemetery, the SHJ Cemetery Board requests that:
SHJ Cemetery Board Announcement
In keeping with our peaceful and tranquil cemetery, the SHJ Cemetery Board requests that:
- All flowers be placed on the monument
- No planting of flowers or shrubs
- All dogs must be on leash
- One solar light per monument
- All flowers must be removed on or before Nov 1st
- All winter decorations be removed on or before Apr 1st
Thank you for your cooperation!
- Bob Vesterfelt, cemetery chairman, would like to take this opportunity to thank the board members and Knights of Columbus for the support they’ve given him during his convalescing from surgery. A special thank you to Dale Clemens, Rory Craig, Bob Murphy, Garry Poirier and Sharon Vesterfelt.
- Just a reminder to try not to rest your snowy/salty shoes shoes on our pew kneelers...they get quite dirty and hard to clean. Also, upon leaving your pews, it would be swell if you could put the kneelers in the upright position.
- We have only had a few people who gave us any photos from parish and family events at SHM & SHJ over the many decades for the 200 anniversary. Please check your albums and submit them as we hope to put together a nice collage, etc.
- Many thanks in particular to Bob Murphy of SHJ's property committee for doing a tonne of repairs in the church and rectory this past week, including installing new blinds, fixing light fixtures, fire alarms, and working to correct our wonky church furnace.
- SHM Parish Family Breakfast, next Sun, Dec 14 @10am! Everyone is invited to join us after mass for a delicious breakfast of scrambled eggs, sausage, hash browns and toast. What a great start to the second week of Advent! Spending time with your parish family and friends with good food, faith and fellowship.
- On Thurs, Dec. 18th, SHM CWL will be preparing and delivering baskets to their homebound friends. If you are able, please join us in the parish hall at 10am.
- Year End & Christmas Giving: Our Parishes are hoping to undertake renovations to enhance the beauty of our churches. While your contributions have been instrumental to support necessary enhancements, our operational expenses continue to grow. For your donations to be credited towards your 2025 tax receipt, they need to be received by December 31, 2025.
- Donations made at the Mass on December 31 will be considered 2025 donations; however, cheques dated 2026 will be recorded for the 2026 Tax Year.
- Donations made at the New Year’s Day Mass on January 1 will be considered 2026 donations.
- Donations may be made by e-transfer at any time. Make your donation prior to midnight December 31 for it to be counted for the 2025 Tax Year.
- For Christmas giving, I recommend faithful Catholics give to worthy organizations for the poor and suffering around the world that are faithful to Catholic teaching.
Mass Times for
Christmas and New Year’s
Christmas (The Nativity of the Lord) and New Year’s Day (Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God) are Holy Days of Obligation for Catholics. Several Masses have been planned to accommodate your schedule.
The Nativity of the Lord
Wednesday, December 24 (Christmas Eve)
4:30pm | Children's Xmas Pageant | SHJ Marmora | 5pm | Xmas Mass | SHJ Marmora |
7pm | Carols | SHM Madoc | Carols at 7pm)
7:30pm | Xmas Mass | SHM Madoc |
Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day)
10am | SHJ Marmora |
Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God
Wednesday, December 31 (New Year's Eve)
4:30pm | SHJ Madoc |
Thursday, January 1 (New Year's Day)
10am | SHJ Marmora |
SHJ Parishioners - please be generous in your use of the blue Restoration Fund offertory envelope found in your boxes this weekend, Dec 6-7.
Make Christmas Beautiful at SHM & SHM by Dressing up our Churches: Christmas Flower Memorials:
SHJ & SHM parishioners are encouraged to participate in helping to decorate our churches for the Christmas liturgies. Each year we set up a Christmas Flower Fund for that purpose. If you wish to honour a loved one, living or deceased, please print your Name & Envelope # on the Christmas Flower Envelopes (which you will find in the pews or at the entrance of the church starting this weekend, Nov 29-30). On the back of the envelope, please print clearly the names of those whom you wish to honour. These names will be printed in the Christmas service leaflet on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The deadline for the Xmas flower envelopes is Sun, Dec 21st. Thank you for your cooperation and support!
The First Sunday in Advent in 2025 was November 30. Due to the rising costs for our parishes, I encourage parishioners to add an extra $5 to their collection to help offset this considerable expense. Most churches don't have missals in their pews, but it's nice and welcoming to have. If you'd like your own copy, there are a few available for purchase in the narthex, but please do not remove the missals from the pews. As you know, these handy paperback books contain the readings and prayers for all Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation throughout the liturgical year, as well as some hymns, reflections, and more.
Many will be warm this winter, thanks to the generosity of SHM and SHJ parishioners. Grace Inn, volunteers were amazed and grateful to receive such a large donation. A full carload was delivered to help those in need. Thank you for caring! ~ SHM CWL
Christmas Eve Carols & Pageant
Wed, Dec 24th @ 4:30pm
(Christmas Eve Mass @ 5pm)
SHJ Parish
- All ages are welcome to participate.
- We need narrators and readers as well as the "Nativity Cast!"
- If you have youth interested in participating please call Diane Smith @ 613.473.4115
- We are so excited to be able to reenact this wonderful Gospel!
- First practice is after the 11am on Sun, Nov 30 @ SHJ.
Preparing for 2026 Church Envelopes: Envelopes are being prepared in the parish office at this time. If you have moved recently and/or have not updated your information from the past, please provide our secretary Pauline Davis with your updated info - this is especially important so that you may receive your tax receipts. (613.472.2220 or sacredheart.mm@archkingston.ca If you do not currently use Sunday offertory envelopes, please consider doing so. New parishioners requesting envelopes can speak to Fr. Justin or Pauline
Yesterday, Fr. Price was welcomed back to our old parish St. Francis Xavier in Brockville to help kick off their own 200th Anniversary celebrations. It was a nice homecoming for Father, and he offered a talk on the history of St. FX.
Congratulations to Debbie Wood (President of SHM CWL) on hosting anenjoyable SHM CWL Advent social and dinner last night. Donna Murphy as usual provided a delicious turkey dinner and Cathy Massey read a fun poem (The Night Before Advent) before the enjoyable evening was capped off with trivia and some hymns from our choir. Thank you for the leftovers!
Sacred Heart of Mary CWL 2026 Membership Drive
Would you like to join women of all ages from across Canada in an organization that can foster and celebrate your Catholic Faith?
We invite you to join or renew your membership in this wonderful organization that promotes faith, service and social justice. Our Mission statement: "The Catholic Women's League of Canada calls its members to grow in faith and to witness to the love of God through ministry and service."
2026 Membership cost remains at $35. Please place your membership in the designated box at the entrance of SHM Church. Come and join us!
- I want to express the heartfelt thanks of our entire SHM parish family to Charlotte Lahey, who is retiring from our Parish Screening Committee after many years of faithful and dedicated service. Charlotte has been a quiet but indispensable guardian of our parish’s ministry of safety and welcome. With patience and genuine care, she helped ensure that every volunteer who serves our children, youth, and vulnerable adults was properly screened and formed according to the high standards required by the Archdiocese and expected by all of us. Her attention to detail, her respect for confidentiality, and her warm encouragement to new volunteers have made an enormous difference in the life of our parish. A special word of appreciation also goes to Karen Nickle (SHM) and Cathy Mouck (SHM) and Maureen O'Connor (SHJ), who continue to serve so generously on the Screening Committee. Their commitment and cheerful spirit make it possible for our ministries to flourish safely. Karen, Cathy & Marureen, please know how deeply grateful we are for everything you do.
The Economic Development Committee for the Municipality of Marmora and Lake has launched a new program whose purpose is connecting newcomers, prospective residents, and not-so-new folks to resources in the community. They have a team of knowledgeable people who will provide information and help people feel at home here.
"Our whole civilization is indeed very like the Titanic; alike in its power and its impotence, its security and its insecurity."
