ST. THERESA CATHOLIC CHURCH DECEMBER 13, 2015

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT

S T . T H E R E S A P A R I S H A R C H D I O C E S E O F G A L V E S T O N — H O U S T O N

ST. THERESA CATHOLIC CHURCH 705 ST. THERESA BOULEVARD SUGAR LAND, TX 77498 281-494-1156

WWW.SUGARLANDCATHOLIC.COM

ST. THERESA CATHOLIC CHURCH DECEMBER 13, 2015

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CONFESSION

Saturday Sábado 3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.

Sunday Domingo 4:00 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.

Weekdays Entre Semana

Monday-Friday: after each Mass Tuesday & Thursday at 6:00 p.m.

WEEKDAYS ENTRE SEMANA

Monday—Friday 6:45 a.m., 8:30 a.m.

SATURDAY SÁBADO

8:30 a.m. 5:00 p.m. Anticipated Mass

SUNDAY DOMINGO

7:00 a.m., 8:00 a.m. (Español), 10:00 a.m., Noon,

2:00 p.m. (Español), 5:00 p.m.

MASS AND CONFESSION SCHEDULE

CONTENTS

Cardinal DiNardo.……………...………....…………

Ministerios en Español…….…..……….…...……….. Papa Francisco……..……...…………………………. Simbang Gabi……….. .…..……….…...……...…….. Announcements…………………………….………... Faith Formation/School...…………....……………… Mass Intentions……………………………………….. Weekly Schedule of Events………………………….. Sharing Sunday Gift Program…...……...…………... Sugar Canes…………………………….…....……….. Daily Scripture Readings……………...…..………… Advent Mission……..……………………………….. Parish contact information………………..............

www.SugarLandCatholic.com

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ST. THERESA CATHOLIC CHURCH DECEMBER 13, 2015

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CARDINAL DINARDO

ST. THERESA CATHOLIC CHURCH DECEMBER 13, 2015

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INSCRIPCIÓN EN LA PARROQUIA: Pase a la oficina parroquial de 8:00 a.m. a 5:00 p.m. de lunes a viernes o tomar una forma en el vestíbulo de la iglesia y entregársela a un ujier. GUARDERÍA: La guardería esta abierta durante la misa de 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m. y 12:00 p.m. No es necesaria reservación.

FORMACIÓN PARA LOS SACRAMENTOS

PREPARACIÓN DE BAUTISMO INFANTIL: A los padres se les pide que inscriban a su hijo(a) para el bautismo. Deben traer el certificado de nacimiento del niño a la oficina de la parroquia, y asistir a una clase pre-bautismal. Se anima a los padrinos asistir a la cla-se. Los padrinos deben de ser mayor de dieciséis (16) años, católicos practi-cantes, confirmados y si es casado, casado por la iglesia católica. Las clases se ofrecen el Segundo do-mingo de cada mes a las 3:15 p.m. en el Centro de Vida Familiar. A los pa-dres se les pide de favor que no lleven a sus hijos a la clase. Se les dará Cer-tificado de asistencia al final de la cla-se aquellos padres o padrinos que no bautizaran en Santa Teresa. Por favor llame a la oficina para inscribirse a la clase al 281-494-1156 y hable con Michelle Rodríguez. La Próxima clase es HOY 13 de diciembre a las 3:15 p.m. RICA-INICIACIÓN PARA ADULTOS: Eres adulto y aún no has recibido tus sacra-mentos? Para mas información clases de preparación para bautismo, comu-nión y confirmación por favor llame a la oficina parroquial al 281-494-1156. RICA PARA NIÑOS: El RICA para niños es para niños de siete años o mayores que no están bautizados o bautizados en otra fe. Por favor comuníquese a la oficina al 281-494-1156 para mas in-formación.

GRUPOS DE ORACIÓN Y APOSTOLADO

APOSTOLADO DE LA CRUZ: El grupo se reúne los martes a las 7:00 p.m., en el edificio de CCE. Para mayor Informa-ción por favor llame a Myrla Vanegas al 281-277-2730. CARISMÁTICO DE RENOVACIÓN: Se reú-ne en la capilla de la iglesia los Jueves de 7:00-9:00 p.m. a partir de el mes de Septiembre. Para mas información llame a Patria Herrero 281-277-2431. CATECISMO Y BIBLIA: Este grupo esta abierto a la comunidad, se reúne los domingos a las 6:30 pm. Para informa-ción: Ramel Ascencio 281-684-4235. CORO FRATERNIDAD DE LA SANTISIMA VIRGEN MARIA: El coro práctica los lu-nes a las 7:00 p.m. y cantan en la misa del domingo a las 8:00 a.m. o 2:00 p.m. Para mas información llame a Susan al 281-494-1156 ext. 261. ESTUDIO BÍBLICO: El Grupo se reúne los domingos después de Misa de 8:00 a.m. (los meses de Agosto a Mayo). Para mas información llame a el Sr. Larry Ponce de León, 281-250-9651

PREPARACION PARA EL MATRIMONIO EN ESPAÑOL: Las personas que deseen contraer matrimonio aquí en la Iglesia de Santa Teresa, Son invita-dos a asistir un seminario de prepara-ción matrimonial. Esto es obligatorio para comenzar el proceso de prepa-ración. Es para las parejas que no están casados y para las parejas que están casadas civilmente o que viven juntos. Por favor pre inscríbase lla-mando al 281-494-1156. El semina-rio se celebra cada otro mes, el se-gundo jueves de mes. El próximo seminario es el Jueves 14 de enero del 2016 en el Salón FLC-A. CATEQUESIS: Nuestro Catecismo en español se ofrece de Septiembre a Mayo, los domingos de 9:30 a 11:00 a.m. para grados de Kínder al 8 gra-do. Catequesis es un proceso conti-nuo de evangelización, educación, formación y conversión que dura toda la vida. Para mas información por favor llame a la oficina de Cate-quesis de lunes a viernes al 281-494-1156 de 8:00 a.m. a 4:30 p.m.

DOMINGO DE SACRAMENTOS: Para ni-ños que desean la formación para los Sacramentos de Primera Reconci-liación (confesión) y la Sagrada Co-munión. Esta clase es en conjunto con su catequesis. Los niños deben tener mínimo siete (7) años al comen-zó del año escolar. Las clases son un domingo al mes a la 1:00 p.m. La próxima clase será el domingo, 10 de enero del 2016 CATOLICISMO BASICO: Católico Básico es para padres de niño que asisten a catequesis por primera vez y desean prepararse para la formación de Sa-cramentos de Reconciliación y Co-munión. Esta clase es un martes al mes a las 7:00 p.m. en el Centro Co-munitario de la Parroquia. Esta clase es obligatoria para los padres sola-mente. La próxima clase es el Martes 12 de enero del 2016 a las 7:00 p.m.

SHARING SUNDAY PROGRAMA DE REGALOS DE NAVIDAD

Sharing Sunday es un ministerio que anualmente distribuye regalos a fami-lias necesitadas. Este programa es so-lamente para niños. Distribución de los regalos para las familias que se registraron será el 14, 15, y 16 de diciembre de 9am - 6pm.

Para mas informa-ción, llame a St. Vicente de Paul al 281-242-9149

ST. THERESA CATHOLIC CHURCH DECEMBER 13, 2015

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Invocando la ternura de Dios y a la Inmaculada, el Papa abrió la Puerta de la Misericordia en la Basílica de San Pedro

2015-12-08 Radio Vaticana

El Papa Francisco inauguró el Jubileo extraordinario de la Misericordia, convocado por él mismo, y abrió la Puerta Santa en el Atrio de la Basílica de San Pedro. Y, como se había anunciado, en el solemne rito de apertura estaba presente el Papa emérito Benedicto XVI, que aceptó la entrañable invitación de su sucesor y fue el primero en entrar por la Puerta Santa después del Papa Bergoglio.

8 de diciembre de 2015. Una vez más la fiesta litúrgica dedicada a María espejo de pureza, queda enlazada a la historia de la Iglesia universal, como ha querido el Santo Padre, señalando en la Bula Misericordiae Vultus que: «Dios no quiso dejar a la humanidad en soledad y a merced del mal. Por esto pensó y quiso a María santa e inmaculada en el amor (cfr Ef 1,4), para que fuese la Madre del Redentor del hombre». (MV n. 3)

¡Interceda por nosotros la Virgen Inmaculada! Rogó el Papa Bergoglio en su oración abriendo el año de gracia, con la alegría del Evangelio y pidiendo a Dios, que conceda «a todos los que cruzarán la Puerta de la Misericordia con el cora-zón arrepentido, renovado empeño y filial confianza», que experimenten su «ternura paternal y que reciban la gracia del perdón para testimoniar, con palabras y obras, el rostro de la misericordia, Jesucristo nuestro Señor».

Después de pedir la apertura de la Puerta Santa, que como señaló el Obispo de Roma representa a Cristo - que en el min-isterio de la Iglesia nos introduce en el consolador misterio del amor de Dios, que abraza a la humanidad entera – el San-to Padre se detuvo en oración en el umbral, para luego, acompañado por el canto del Te Deum entrar a través de ella y llegar hasta la Tumba del Apóstol Pedro, el Altar de la Confesión. Y encabezó a Cardenales, Obispos y representantes de sacerdotes, religiosos, religiosas y laicos que cruzaron la Puerta Santa dirigiéndose luego en procesión, con el himno del Año Santo de la Misericordia, hasta la tumba del Apóstol Pedro para el rito final de la Santa Misa

Como también escribió el Papa Francisco, el Año jubilar de la Misericordia, se concluirá en la solemnidad litúrgica de Jesucristo Rey del Universo, el 20 de noviembre de 2016, cerrando la Puerta Santa y encomendando «la vida de la Iglesia, la humanidad entera y el inmenso cosmos a la Señoría de Cristo, esperando que derrame su misericordia como el rocío de la mañana para una fecunda historia, todavía por construir con el compromiso de todos en el próximo futuro». Oración del Papa Francisco ante la Puerta Santa de la Basílica de San Pedro: Oh Dios, que revelas tu omnipotencia sobre todo con la misericordia y el perdón, dónanos vivir un año de gracia, tiempo propicio para amarte a Ti y a los hermanos en la alegría del Evangelio. Sigue efundiendo sobre nosotros tu Santo Es-píritu, para que no nos cansemos de dirigir con confianza la mirada a aquel que hemos traspasado, a tu Hijo hecho hom-bre, rostro resplandeciente de tu infinita misericordia, refugio seguro para todos nosotros pecadores, necesitados de perdón y de paz, de la verdad que libera y salva. Él es la Puerta, a través de la cual venimos a ti, manantial inextinguible de consolación para todos, belleza que no conoce ocaso, alegría perfecta en la vida sin fin. Interceda por nosotros la Vir-gen Inmaculada, primer y resplandeciente fruto de la victoria pascual, aurora luminosa de los cielos nuevos y de la tierra nueva, puerto feliz de nuestra peregrinación terrenal. A ti, Padre Santo, a tu Hijo, nuestro Redentor, al Espíritu Santo, el Consolador, todo honor y gloria en los siglos de los siglos».

ST. THERESA CATHOLIC CHURCH DECEMBER 13, 2015

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EVERYONE IS INVITED! Come join us in celebrating

f|ÅutÇz Ztu| at Saint Theresa Catholic Church – Sugar Land A traditional FILIPINO MASS honoring the

BLESSED VIRGIN MARY in anticipation of CHRISTMAS

Saturday, December 19, 2015 7:00 PM Mass (English/Tagalog)

Main Celebrant: Rev. Eurel Manzano Rev. Greg Mirto, concelebrant & Rev. Mr. Glenn Haller, assisting

RECEPTION in the COMMUNITY CENTER (immediately after Mass)

Festivities include the following highlights:

EVERYONE WELCOME – FREE ADMISSION Families are invited to bring a dish for sharing

Sponsored By: The Holy Trinity Prayer Group & The Samahang Filipino @ St. Theresa

To help, for more details or to donate, please call:

Ninfa Alcantara (281) 265-1048 ~ Oliva Aurelio (281) 568-0451 ~ Rodrigo & Mercy Barrey (281) 491-8222 ~ Bella Castro (713) 303-4209 ~ Jim & Linda Claire (832) 603-0993 ~ Rudy Cruz (281) 565-0554 ~ Lucy DeVilla (832) 754-4100 ~ Tony & Divine Diza (281) 980-8543 ~ Bong & Nida Dumantay (832) 613-5672 ~ Christine Gimotea (281) 794-6755 ~ Lou Gomez (281) 935-3607 ~ Helen Mattern (713) 829-4909 ~ Deacon Glen & Aurora Haller (281)980-9883 ~ Eugenia Miller (281) 498-2361 ~ Ra-mon & Tessie Paguio (832) 868-8954 ~ Rick & Rhodora Quiam (281) 565-3763 ~ Vic & Angelina Sarmiento (281) 416-9700 ~

Dan & Amy Sison (281) 980-7967 ~ Alynn Vivares (281) 302-6228 ~ Eduardo & Mely Silverio (832) 495-5306 ~ Gilda Tu-mang (832) 495-5306 ~ Trudy Swanson (832) 620-7657 ~ Dr. Mercedes Sulit (281) 988-9194 ~

Glenn & Gladys Zamora (281) 530-6558

Caroling

A buffet of Filipino dishes, delicacies & desserts

Display of colorful “parols”*

(*some for sale)

Picture taking with Santa Claus**

(**bring your own camera)

Door prizes and Christmas giveaways

Dance the night away!

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BULLETIN ANNOUNCEMENTS: Submissions to the bulle-tin are due on the Friday (10 days) before the Sunday of publication. Send bulletin notices to Rosa Michel at rosa@sugarlandcatholic.com or FAX: 281-242-1393. E-BLAST: Visit our parish website and click on the link to sign up for our bi-monthly e-blast. Every two weeks, an e-mail will be sent directly to your computer or smart phone with updated information about parish schedules, events, and more. Sign up today! GABRIEL PROJECT: Gabriel Project is seeking monetary or material donations for our pregnant women. Contact Pina @ 281-650-1225/ sttheresa.prolife@gmail.com MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER: Are you looking for a new way to let your spouse know you love them in the midst of your jobs, carpooling the kids, and trying to keep up with your house, pool, and yard? Tell him or her they're still #1 in your life... share a Worldwide Marriage En-counter Weekend with each other. Contact Brian & Ti-na Little at 281-773-4014 or online www.houstonme.org. DEACON FRANK CROMER MEN’S PRAYER BREAKFAST: Join the men of St. Theresa at the monthly "Breakfast and Prayer before Business," Leader: Deacon Don Sen-ger. Wednesday, January 13, 2016 at 6:45 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. in the Youth Family Life Center, Room A. Continental breakfast and sharing the Word among friends. It’s inspirational and interesting. There’s no need to call. Simply show up and bring a friend. MONTHLY PRO-LIFE ROSARY: The first Sunday of each month we pray the Rosary to end abortion. On Sunday, January 3, 2016 we will pray the Rosary at 6:30 a.m. inside the Church and after the 10:00 a.m. Mass in front of the Right to Life Monument. NURSERY: The nursery is open during the 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m. & Noon Sunday Mass. Children from 18 months to 4 years of age are welcome. No reservation is necessary. For more information contact Andrea Ram-sey at 281-545-2771. RACHEL PROJECT: If you are grieving from a past abor-tion, Contact your diocesan Project Rachel Ministry for confidential help. Dr. Marcella Colbert 713-741-8728.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

CHRISTMAS MASS SCHEDULE

Thursday, December 24, 2015

Christmas Eve Masses

5:00 p.m. Vigil Mass of Christmas

7:00 p.m. Vigil Mass of Christmas

9:00 p.m. Misa de Noche Buena

Midnight Mass of Christmas 12:00 Midnight Solemn Mass

Christmas Day, Friday, December 25, 2015 Mass Schedule

10:00 a.m. & 12:00 Noon

2:00 p.m. Misa en Español

ST. THERESA NURSERY: The nursery will be closed Sunday, December 27 and Sunday, January 3, 2016. Marry Christmas and a Happy New Year! For more information contact Andrea Ramsey at: 281-545-2771.

ST. THERESA CATHOLIC CHURCH DECEMBER 13, 2015

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YOUTH

Is God calling you to something more? Come explore the Catholic Church!

If you are seventeen years of age or older and: unbaptized; baptized in another faith expression; or a baptized Catholic who has never received your First Ho-ly Communion, then the RCIA is for you! The next Inquiry gathering will be Wednesday, December 16, 2015 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the Family Life Center. These informal gatherings are structured to answer your questions about the Catholic Church.

Contact Lynda Knoche at 281-342-6937 or by e-mail: lynda@sugarlandcatholic.com.

If you, your child or someone you know is between the ages of seven and six-teen, not baptized or baptized in another faith expression, we have an RCIA process suited to your age group. Inquiry sessions every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Please schedule an appointment with Paul Stoessel 281-494-1156 or e-mail paul@sugarlandcatholic.com prior to attending your first session.

R.C.I.A. NR.C.I.A. NEWSEWS

During the CCE school year (Sept. —May), classes are offered at the follow-ing times: Preschool CCE is in rooms B3 – B5 during the Sunday 10:00 a.m. Mass. Kindergarten CCE is available on Sun-days at 10:00 a.m. or Mondays at 4:15 p.m. Elementary CCE is on Mondays and Tuesdays at 4:15 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. Children are asked to go directly to the classrooms. Sacrament Sunday is for all children in formation to receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion. Any questions to Paul Stoessel, Direc-tor of Elementary CCE at paul@sugarlandcatholic.com or at 281-830-3804. The next Sacrament Sunday class is January 10, 2016 at 1:00 PM. Catholic 101 is for all parents of first-year CCE children who are preparing for Sacrament of Reconciliation and First Communion. This is for parents only. Children are invited to attend CCE during this time. The next class will be on Tuesday, January 12, 2016 at 7:00 p.m.

ELMENTARY

FAITH FORMATION

ST. THERESA YOUTH MINISTRY

No High School Faith Formation until Sunday, January 10, 2016.

For more information about Youth Ministry Faith Formation. please call 281-494-1156 and speak to Joseph or Meghan. Joseph Mastrangelo, Director of Youth Ministry joseph@ sugarlandcatholic.com or Meghan Anderson, Asst. Coordina-tor of Youth Ministry meghan@ sugarlandcatholic.com

MIDDLE SCHOOL MIDDLE SCHOOL

Middle School Faith Formation (CCE) meets on Sundays or Mondays 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Please contact Roland Millare at roland@sugarlandcatholic.com for more information.

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MASS SCHEDULE Monday, December 14, 2015 St. John of the Cross 6:45 a.m. Laura Mae Davidson 8:30 a.m. Ana Nguyen Tuesday, December 15 Advent Weekday 6:45 a.m. Joanne Cummings 8:30 a.m. Margaret Burt

Wednesday, December 16 Advent Weekday 6:45 a.m. David & Geordie 8:30 a.m. Ernestina Ubiera Thursday, December 17 Advent Weekday 6:45 a.m. Sister Rose Mary & Fr. Joseph Manikath 8:30 a.m. John Heitman & Elvin Kocich Friday, December 18 Advent Weekday 6:45 a.m. Charles W. Bubela 8:30 a.m. Altamirano Family

Saturday, December 19 Our Lady of Guadalupe 8:30 a.m. Lay Carmelites 11:00 a.m. Parish Family 5:00 p.m. Johnny Heitman 7:00 p.m. Simbang Gabi Sunday, December 20 Fourth Sunday of Advent 7:00 a.m. K. J. Z. T. Society 8:00 a.m. Francisco Carrizales 10:00 a.m. Maria & Elizabeth Bui 12:00 p.m. Bryant Parker 2:00 p.m. Fred Mora 5:00 p.m. Parish Family One may request Mass intentions by visiting the parish office during regular business hours. Mass intentions are available two (2) months in advance only.

PARISH EVENTS

Monday, December 14, 2015 9:00 a.m. Sharing Sunday Distribution 9:00 a.m. Learn English Ministry, Rm. B-1 6:30 p.m. Taller Oracion y Vida, FLC-B 7:00 p.m. Men’s Prayer Group, Rm 1 7:00 p.m. Ensayo para Coro Fraternidad Tuesday, December 15 9:00 a.m. Sharing Sunday Distribution 9:00 a.m. Learn English Ministry, Rm. B-1 6:30 p.m. Bereavement Grp. Mtg., FLC-A 6:30 p.m. Franciscanos de Maria, Rm 5 7:00 p.m. Holy Trinity Prayer, Chapel Wednesday, December 16 9:00 a.m. Sharing Sunday Distribution 9:00 a.m. Learn English Ministry, Rm. B-1 11:30 a.m. Sugar Canes, CC 5:30 p.m. Legion of Mary Prayer Mtg. 5:30 p.m. St. Theresa String Orchestra Rehearsal, Music Room 7:00 p.m. Divine Mercy Cenacle, FLC-B 7:30 p.m. AA Español, Rm B-5 7:30 p.m. Adult Choir Rehearsal Thursday, December 17 9:00 a.m. Learn English Ministry, Rm. B-1 9:30 a.m. Rosary Group, Rm 6 4:30 p.m. Flos Cantum (Children’s choir) 7:00 p.m. Encuentro Matrimonial, Rm 6 Friday, December 18 7:30 p.m. AA Español, Rm B-5 Saturday, December 19 9:00 a.m. Learn English Ministry, Rm. B-1 9:00 a.m. Carmelites Community Mt. 9:30 a.m. Legion of Mary Prayer Mtg. 10:30 a.m. Rosary Group, Rm 6 Sunday, December 20 9:30 a.m. Catecsimo en Español 9:30 a.m. RCIA Catechumens, FLC 9:30 a.m. RICA para Niños, Rm 1/7 6:30 p.m. Catecismo y Biblia, B-1/7

SUNDAY OFFERTORY December 6, 2015 $ 36,128 Online Giving $ 6,319 Total $ 42,446

DIOCESAN SERVICES FUND 2015

Totals as of December 6, 2015

Goal $ 199,000 Pledged $ 164,490 Payments $ 155,905 Payments Due $ 43,095

487 Participants

*Please note that the financial figures of the 2006 Capital Campaign will no longer be published. Feel free to contact the church office with any questions in this regard or to request an update.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Visit our parish website and click on the link to sign up for our bi-monthly e-blast. Every two weeks, an e-mail

will be sent directly to your computer or smart phone with updated infor-

mation about parish schedules, events, and more.

Sign up today!

www.SugarLandCatholic.com

ST. THERESA CATHOLIC CHURCH DECEMBER 13, 2015

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PRAYER BEFORE MASS Almighty and ever-living God, I approach the sacra-ment of Your only-begotten Son Our Lord Jesus Christ. I come sick to the doctor of life, unclean to the fountain of mercy, blind to the radiance of eter-nal light, and poor and needy to the Lord of heaven and earth. Lord, in your great generosity, heal my sickness, wash away my defilement, enlighten my blindness, enrich my poverty, and clothe my naked-ness. May I receive the bread of angels, the King of kings and Lord of lords, with humble reverence, with the purity and faith, the repentance and love, and the determined purpose that will help to bring me to sal-vation. May I receive the sacrament of the Lord's Body and Blood, and its reality and power. Kind God, may I receive the Body of Your only-begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, born from the womb of the Virgin Mary, and so be received into His mystical body and numbered among His members. Loving Father, as on my earthly pilgrimage I now receive Your beloved Son under the veil of a sacrament, may I one day see him face to face in glory, who lives and reigns with You for ever. Amen.

Saint Thomas Aquinas

THANKSGIVING AFTER MASS I thank you, holy Lord, almighty Father, eternal God, who deigned to feast me, sinful and unworthy serv-ant, with the precious body and blood of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, not for any merit of mine, but only because of your merciful goodness. And I pray that this Holy Communion, far from condemning me to punishment, may bring about my pardon and sal-vation, encompassing me with the armor of faith and the shield of a good will. By it let my vices be done away, all lustful desires extinguished. May it advance me in charity, patience, humility, obedience, and every other virtue. Let it be strong defense against the wiles of all my enemies, visible and invisible, allay-ing for me every disturbance of flesh and spirit, bind-ing me firmly to you, the one true God, and bringing my last hour to a happy close. I pray, too, that it may be your pleasure to call my sinful self one day to that banquet, wonderful past all telling, where you, with your Son and the Holy Spirit, feast your saints with the vision of yourself, who are true light, the fulfill-ment of all desires, the joy that knows no ending, gladness unalloyed, and perfect bliss: through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

Saint Thomas Aquinas

MONTHLY MASSES AT CARE-GIVING FACILITIES Masses in December 2015

These masses are being celebrated by the priests from St. Theresa at the following care-giving facilities.

Wednesday, December 16 at 10:00 a.m. at Atria, 1401 Soldiers Field

Monday, December 21 at 12:00 noon at St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital, 1317 Lake Point Parkway

SHARING SUNDAY Christmas Gift Program

SCHEDULE 2015

December 12, 2015 - Sharing Sunday Bring gifts to mass

December 13, 2015 - Sharing Sunday Bring gifts to masses

December 14, 2015 - Distribution of Gifts Distribution 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

December 15, 2015 - Distribution of Gifts Distribution 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. December 16, 2015 - Distribution of Gifts Distribution 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Please contact Belinda at 832-248-4995 for volunteer information.

ST. THERESA CATHOLIC CHURCH DECEMBER 13, 2015

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SUGAR CANES

The Sugar Canes regular monthly meeting is this Wednesday, December 16, 2015. We meet at our Parish Community Center at 11:30 a.m. We welcome and invite all guests and newcomers, age 50 +, to attend our monthly meetings the third Wednesday each month - same place - same time. Instead of our usual brown bag lunch, we will enjoy a catered Christmas meal. Cost—$11 per person. Coffee, Ice Tea, Water and Desserts are provided. Merry Christmas and Happy Healthy New Year to our Priests, Deacons and Parish Family.

Information 281-491-4027. God Bless.

Q & A

What does RCIA stand for? The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. There is a lot in a name.

Rite=RCIA is not an educational program or a set of classes. Rather it is a process of entering into the Pas-chal Mystery of Jesus Christ. We are formed by the lit-urgy. It leads us to conversion.

Christian=RCIA is about evangelization, about becom-ing disciples of Jesus Christ in the Catholic tradition. The rite is structured for the unbaptized person who wishes to become a baptized Christian.

Initiation= through the celebration of the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist, the elect receive pardon from their sins and are admitted into the people of God. They are graced with adoption as children of God, sealed with the Holy Spirit and share in the Eu-charistic sacrifice and meal.

Adults=For the RCIA, an adult is anyone who has reached the age of reason. That’s usually around the age of seven. An adult is one who is capable of receiv-ing and nurturing a personal faith and recognizing an obligation to do good and avoid evil.

Have a question about RCIA? Email: lynda@sugarlandcatholic.com

Many individuals in the Sugar Land and Missouri City area have received correspondence from a Reverend/Pastor Phillip An-drews at “The Soci-ety of the Eucharist

Anglican Catholic Fellowship.” Please note that this is NOT a Catholic organ-ization, nor is Pastor Andrews a Cath-olic priest. Their services are NOT Masses and do NOT fulfill the Sunday obligation.

NOT

A

CATHOLIC

PRIEST

ST. THERESA NURSERY

The Nursery is in need of a loving and nur-turing child care worker to help once a month. We need extra hands on the first Wednesday of the month from 9:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. If you are interested, please con-tact Andrea Ramsey at 281-725-0127.

ST. THERESA CATHOLIC CHURCH DECEMBER 13, 2015

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WELCOME TO OUR NEW PARISHIONERS Bienvenidos a nuestra comunidad

Ms. Duong Pham Mr. Josue gonzalez & Mrs. Yamy Lainez and Family Mrs. Claire Melodia Mr. Ravi Kadupukotla & Mrs. Jaya Vuddanti and Family Mr. Victor Jimenez & Ms. Yesica Villalobos and Family Mrs. Nathalie Puche and Family Mr. Jesse Gonzalez and Family Mr. & Mrs. Alejandro Alvarez and Family Mrs. Eloisa Gorrosquieta and Family Mr. & Mrs. Brian Dufour and Family Ms. Julie Medrano and Family PARISH REGISTRATION: We kindly request that all families of our parish be registered before registering for CCE or sacramental preparation classes. Registration and change forms are available in the vestibule of the church and in the parish office. To update your parish infor-mation, please call the parish office from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday. BAPTISM PREPARATION FOR INFANTS: Parents are asked to register their child for Baptism, to bring a copy of the child’s birth certificate to the parish office, and to attend a pre-Baptism class. Godparents are encouraged to at-tend class. Godparents must be at least sixteen years of age, practicing Catholics, Confirmed, and if married, married through the Church. Classes are offered the first Friday of every other month, 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. in the Family Life Center. Parents are kindly asked not to bring their children to the class. Certificates of attendance for the baptism preparation are provided at the end of the class for those who are not baptizing at St. Theresa Church. Please call the office to register for the class at 281-494-1156, Ext. 228. The next class will be on Friday, February 5, 2016. MARRIAGE PREPARATION: Those who wish to be married at St. Theresa Church are asked to attend a marriage preparation seminar. The seminar is held every other month on the second Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. Please pre-register by calling 281-494-1156. The next seminar will be Tuesday, February 9, 2016.

WEEKLY READINGS

December 14 through December 20, 2015 Monday: Nm 24:2-7, 15-17a; Mt 21:23-27 Tuesday: Zep 3:1-2, 9-13, Mt 21:28-32 Wednesday: Is 45:6c-8, 18, 21c-25; Lk 7:18b-23 Thursday: Gn 49:2, 8-10; Mt 1:1-17 Friday: Jer 23:5-8; Mt 1:18-25 Saturday: Jgs 13:2-7, 24-25a; LK 1:5-25 Sunday: Mi 5:1-4a; Ps 80; Heb 10:5-10; Lk 1:39-45 Third Sunday of Advent: Zep 3:14-18a; Is 12; Phil 4:4-7; Lk 3:10-18

LECTURAS SEMANAL

14 de diciembre al 20 de diciembre del 2015 Lunes: Is 35:1-10; Lc 5, 17-26 Martes: Gn 3:9-15, 20; Sal 97; Ef 1:3-6, 11-12; Lc 1:26-38 Miércoles: Is 40:25-31; Mt 11:28-30 Jueves: Is 41:13-20; Mt 11:11-15 Viernes: Is 48:17-19; Mt 11:16-19 Sábado: Za 2:14-17; Lc 1:26-38 Domingo: Sof 3:14-18; Salmo 12; Flp 4:4-7 Lc 3:10-18 Tercer Domingo de Adviento: Sof 3:14-18; Salmo 12; Flp 4:4-7; Lc 3:10-18

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ST. THERESA CATHOLIC CHURCH DECEMBER 13, 2015

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ADVENT MISSION

ST. THERESA CATHOLIC CHURCH DECEMBER 13, 2015

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PRAYER FOR THE SICK Omnipotent and eternal God, the everlasting Salvation of those who believe, hear us on behalf of Thy sick servant, N., for whom we beg the aid of Thy loving mercy, that, with his bodily health restored, he may give thanks to Thee in Thy church. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Fr. Roy Oggero Margarita Iglesias Rafael Gijon Dr. Albert Romano Betty Goehring Dorothy Raska Cathy See Carlos Trejos Bill Murray Virginia Siwa Gloria Ortiz Maria Ewah Maria Pimentel Martha Kocich Ilse Viteri Adela Cuate Adalberta M. De Tristan Bernice Guess Edgar J. Schlabach JoAnn Duncan Linda Patin Rufus Segura Joseph Stovall Robert Byrd Ann Neslony Priscilla Ruiz Julian Villarreal Anola Lee Cynthia Cantu Theresa Ebarb John Hallberg Terri Giaimis Pamela Montferrand Carol Ann Barley Larry Klaus Janie Segura Nicole Loper Karen Cromer Linda Kasper Sara Aguirre Alfaro Martin (Marty) Stieb Myriam Chavez Evelyn Bartos John Arroyo Peter Bohmer Kathleen Melancon Brandon Vos Matt Pici

Charlie Craig Larry Duran Fred Stratton Jose Reymond Jaimes Larry Loper Marilyn Nelson Carolyn M. Norwood Elmo Ordeneaux Jeannine Scates Mydra Pitre Gwen Salisbury Frances Scott Mary Camacho Martha Gonzalez Richard & Lillie Beserra Mami Lopez Matthew Cortes Darlene Marshall Danny Terral Patricia Shannon Regina Vogt Daniele Smith June & Wilma Narvacan Lucy Laurents Richard Harnois Deacon Don Senger Bolivia Schlabech Amalia Ponce DeLeon Margarita M. de Padilla Diane Krall Mary Bates Dolores Heitman Kevin Cisneros Sal Salinas Jorge Medina JoAnne Henry Ron Zucker Juanita I Muniz Balvino Renoj Charlie McDonald Chris Cromer Jewel Truong Paula Johnson Bob Sullivent Bob Roberts Hilda Santibañez Ashley Santibanez Mary Cook

PRAYER FOR THE FAITHFUL DEPARTED Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen. May their souls, and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen. We remember with gratitude, and pray for God’s mercy upon: Donald Mattern, Maria Reyes, Fr. Robert Ritz, Susan Link, Manuel Rangel Jr., Rosie Janssen, Teresita Batista, Antonio Guerrero, Lucille Ligotino, Jo Ann Castille, David Estes, Bruce Buckles, Albert Edward Ewer, Johnny Heitman, LauraMae Davidson, Albert Toncrey, Jan Karwowski, Evelyn Haller, Janie Arias, Martin Villarreal, Guadalupe Rodriguez, Deb-orah Foltyn Geno, Elvin Kocich, Kevin Hinguillo; Kien Hong Phan, Deacon Frank Cromer, Jill Cutway

St. Joseph, Patron of a holy death, pray for us!

PRAYER REQUESTS

ST. THERESA CATHOLIC CHURCH DECEMBER 13, 2015

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St. Theresa Catholic Church 705 St. Theresa Boulevard Sugar Land, Texas 77498

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4).

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT

O God, who see how your people

faithfully await the feast

of the Lord’s Nativity,

enable us, we pray,

to attain the joys of so great a salvation

and to celebrate them always

with solemn worship and glad rejoicing.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,

who lives and reigns with you

in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

one God, for ever and ever. Amen.