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Homily – November 27, 2016

Sunday, November 27th, 2016

I have to tell you I always find Advent to be a bit of a depressing time. The too many overcast days, the darkness that comes with the early sunsets and the wars and destruction of ancient cultures and the gloom of the Advent readings at Mass all seem to be too heavy

For me another downer is the ramifications of the U.S. elections on our country. There has been a rash of acts of vandalism against Mosques and Synagogues and even some churches and a rise in hostility to refugees and new immigrants. The political climate seems to be bringing out the worst in some people with a rise in the fear of the foreigner. All this as we await the birth of the Prince of Peace.

The truth is Advent is about the coming of God into our lives as God came into the lives of God’s people time and again in the history of the Jewish people. Advent is about the coming of God into human history with the birth of Jesus, son of Mary, in Bethlehem of Judea. Most importantly Advent is about the coming of Jesus into our lives every day as he intrudes into our comfort zones of the way we live our lives and relate to others. The Advent of our God tries to shake us up and challenges us to put on our Lord Jesus Christ in our dealings with other people. Jesus calls us as he called the people of his own time to stay awake, be vigilant and receptive to his coming into our lives in the challenges and opportunities that come our way in the ordinary living of our ordinary lives.

Jesus calls you and he calls me to be more accepting and understanding of family members and friends who try our patience. Jesus wants you and he wants me to be understanding and more forgiving of family members and friends with whom we disagree. Jesus wants you and Jesus wants me to be more accepting of family members or friends whose faith convictions or faith indifferences upset and confuse us. Jesus wants you and he wants me to be more sensitive to and aware of the struggles of the men, women and children who depend on food banks and toy drives to get through this Christmas time. Jesus wants you and Jesus wants me to live lightly on the earth and appreciate the impact our consumerism has on Earth.

More importantly Jesus wants you and he wants me to be people of faith and hope. Dark as our personal situations may be, dark as the season may be, dark as our times may be, blighted as they are with senseless wars and the destruction of so many lives, there is a light at the end of the tunnel and the light is Christ, the light of the world challenging each of us to so let our lights shine before others that they may see our good works and give glory to God.

Advent calls us to walk in the light of the Lord, follow the teaching and example of Jesus and not be overcome by the darkness of the season nor the darkness of world events. There is a light at the end of the tunnel – and our light is Christ.

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Bulletin – November 27, 2016

Saturday, November 26th, 2016

FROM THE DESK OF FR. BRANDO

Vivian McDonough has recently retired from her role as Coordinator of the Lectors. On behalf of St. Gabriel’s Parish I would like to personally thank Vivian for her many years of valued service and dedication. Her guidance has enriched and enhanced the experience of all those lectors who have served with her.

I would also like to welcome Marie Deans as the new Coordinator. We wish her well.

“LEANING INTO THE LIGHT” ADVENT RETREAT

Preacher: Fr. Bob Joerger CP
Saturday, December 10th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
St. Gabriel’s Church

This week, we begin the season of Advent, a time to prepare ourselves for the celebration of Christmas. In Advent, we are called to stay awake as we keep vigil, with our eyes set on the light, and not let ourselves be too carried away by the unnecessary care and concerns of the Christmas Season. Please consider joining us for a few hours of quietude in prayer and reflection.

The preacher for our Advent Retreat this year will be Father Robert Joerger, CP. Father Bob is the Provincial of the Passionists of the St. Paul of the Cross Province. Many of you have met him when he last visited St. Gabriel’s. He has touched many hearts with his preaching.

The topic of our Advent Retreat is “Leaning into the Light”. It will be held on Saturday, December 10th from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at St. Gabriel’s Parish. Come and be prepared to be inspired and be challenged to a deeper relationship with God.

All are welcome. There is no cost to attend. However, donations will be gratefully accepted. For more information, please call the parish office at 416-221-8866, or email fatimalee@bellnet.ca The retreat will begin at 1:00 PM sharp. Please plan on arriving a little earlier.

“A CONVERSATION WITH FATHER BOB ON THE PASSIONIST CHARISM”

Saturday, December 10th from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM.

Gabriel Room

We as a parish have been blessed with the ministry of the Passionists priests for over six decades. Have you ever wondered what the Passionists are about? Do you want to find out more about their spirituality and their work? Is there any way we as lay persons can share in their spirituality and mission?

If you are interested, please join us for a conversation with Father Bob, the Provincial of the St. Paul of the Cross Province of the Passionists. (The Province covers Canada, Eastern USA, Jamaica, W.I. and Haiti.) The meeting will be held on Saturday, December 10th from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM, in the Gabriel Room. This is an opportunity not to be missed. Please mark your calendars. If you plan to attend, please email fatimalee@bellnet.ca or call 416-221-8866.

ANNOUNCED MASSES

November 28th to December 3rd, 2016

MONDAY – DECEASED MEMBERS OF THE O’CONNELL FAMILY – Requested by Fergus & Mary Ann O’Connell
TUESDAY – ELIO RANCATI – Requested by his Family
WEDNESDAY – GIUSEPPINA SMERGILIO – Requested by Lina Giannotta
THURSDAY – JOSEPH NGUYEN – Requested by the Nguyen Family
FRIDAY – FRANCES MARION DESROCHES – Requested by Mark DesRoches
SATURDAY – GERALD HARQUAIL – Requested by Ginette Harquail

Christmas Schedule 2016

INDIVIDUAL ADVENT CONFESSIONS

Wednesday, December 7th:
3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
7:30 PM to 9:00 PM

MASSES

CHRISTMAS EVE – Saturday, December 24th
4:30 PM Vigil Mass – Carol Singing
7:00 PM Family Mass – Carol Singing
9:00 PM Adult Choir – Carol Singing
12:00 AM Midnight Mass – Contemporary Group
Office Open 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM

CHRISTMAS DAY – Sunday, December 25th
8:30 AM
10:30 AM
12:30 PM
Office Open 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM

BOXING DAY – Monday, December 26th
Office Closed
No 9:00 AM Mass

Tuesday, December 27th
Office Closed
No 9:00 AM Mass

NEW YEAR’S EVE – Saturday, December 31st
4:30 PM Mass
Vigil for Feast of Mary the Mother of God
Office Open 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM

NEW YEAR’S DAY – Sunday, January 1st
Feast of Mary the Mother of God
8:30 AM
10:30 AM
12:30 PM
Office Open 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM

Monday, January 2nd
Office Closed
No 9:00 Am Mass

CHILDREN’S CHOIR FAMILY MASS – CHRISTMAS EVE AT 7:00 PM

Rehearsal: Sunday, December 18th from 2:00 to 4:00 PM

Each year, young people, Grade 3 and up, form a special choir for the Family Mass on Christmas Eve. Children must be at the Church by 6:00 PM. One rehearsal, which is mandatory, will be held on Sunday, December 20th from 2:00 to 4:00 PM.

Please call Marilyn Calderone at 416-618-2041 for more information.

CHRISTMAS PAGEANT DRESS REHEARSAL

Sunday, December 18th from 4:00 to 6:00 PM

Each year a Nativity pageant takes place at the 7:00 PM Family Mass. S.K. to Grade 5 children are invited to participate in the pageant. The rehearsal will be held on Sunday, December 18th from 4:00 to 6:00 PM in the Church.

CHRISTMAS TOY DRIVE

Saturday, November 26th to Sunday, December 10th

We are having a Christmas Toy Drive again this year for the Catholic Children’s Aid Society. You can help by dropping off an unwrapped new toy for a child newborn to12 years old. Containers will be set up at the doors of the Church until Sunday, December 11th.

THE GIVING TREE

During Advent, the Society of St Vincent de Paul has a Giving Tree in the Gathering Space.

The tree is decorated with gift tags. Each tag has the gender and age of a child. We invite you to take a tag, buy a gift or a gift card of about $25.00 for that child and return the unwrapped gift, with the tag attached, to the box provided in the Gathering Space. If you are a knitter, there will be mitten tags. Please take one and return mitts to the box in the Gathering Space.

At this time of the year, we are also thinking of the young mothers and babies of Rosalie Hall. If you wish to help, you may choose a “Christmas Stocking” from the tree to purchase pyjamas or undershirts for babies ages 6 to 18 months.

Unwrapped Items with the original stocking tag attached can be left in the box provided near the “mitten” tree no later than December 11th. Toys for these little ones would also be appreciated.

For the Moms, we are suggesting gift cards from Tim Hortons, Walmart or MacDonald’s. These can be placed in the envelopes provided and brought to the Parish Office. Thank you for your generous support.

DEVELOPMENT AND PEACE “AT THE HEART OF ACTION” CAMPAIGN

Weekend of December 3rd/4th

Following a very successful “Create a Climate of Change” Campaign last year in which many of you participated, this year Development and Peace is calling us to support small family farmers around the world and sustainable agriculture.

In the Global South, 85% of farmers live on small family farms. They produce 60% of the food consumed worldwide, while only occupying 20 to 30% of arable land. Farming provides the main source of income for the family.

If the family cannot farm, they cannot eat. Yet small family farms are suffering the most serious consequences of climate change. The farmers have very little resources at their disposal to face such impacts, though they are the ones who feed the world.

Action cards in support of small family farmers will be available in the Gathering Space from D&P members before and after each of the Masses next weekend, December 3rd/4th. These cards will be mailed to the Prime Minister to ask our government to put small family farmers at the heart of its policies to help the poorest countries. Please stop by and take a couple of minutes to sign these cards and support small family farmers.

SERAPHIM AND CHERUBIM CHORUS CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Friday, December 9th at 7:30 PM

St. Bonaventure Parish, 1300 Leslie Street

Christmas, Christmas time is near! Come join the Seraphim and Cherubim Chorus’ singing the Christmas songs you love as part of their That’s Christmas to Me! concert series. A mix of old favourites and twists on classics! Please join us at St. Bonaventure Parish on Friday, December 9th at 7:30 PM. Advanced tickets are available online at www.seraphimandcherubim.ca. Proceeds will go to the support of Camp Winston – camp for children with complex neurological disorders.

MOSAIC INTERFAITH ANNUAL PEACE MEAL

Sunday December 4th from 2:00 to 5:00 PM

Temple Har Zion, 7360 Bayview Ave.

MOSAIC Interfaith (of which St. Gabriel’s is a member) invites you to attend the annual Peace Meal on Sunday December 4th from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at Temple Har Zion.

Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner, Ontario Human Rights Commission will speak on “Creed and Human Rights: an evolving approach in an evolving world.” Inter-faith panelists will be Mary Jo Leddy, founder of Romero House for Refugees, Ihsaan Gardee, Executive Director of the National Council of Muslims and Pardeep Singh Nagra, Executive Director of the Sikh Heritage Museum & Manager Employment Equity TDSB.

Attendees are asked to bring a nut-free dish (and alcohol free) for the vegan supper – i.e. no meat, poultry, eggs, fish or dairy products. Please RSVP to Nora at 416-218-0680 by November 30th. For more information see poster on bulletin board.

VOCATION DISCERNMENT RETREAT

December 9th to 11th

Manresa Spiritual Renewal Centre, Pickering.

The Office of Vocations invites single Catholic men, 17 years and older to attend a Vocations Discernment Retreat from December 9th to 11th at Manresa Spiritual Renewal Centre, Pickering. The retreat starts on Friday at 7:00 PM. This is a good retreat for men who are at crossroads in discerning God’s desired Vocation for them. The retreat offers Guided reflections, Holy Mass, Adoration, confession and the assistance of a vocations team. The suggested donation of $150 will help cover costs. For more information, please contact Fr. Brando or call 416-968-0997 or email vocations@archtoronto.org.

FINANCE CORNER

Weekly Offertory
Our operating expenses average $14,550 per week.
Collection for last weekend:
Envelopes 377 $ 10,753
Loose Change 1,271
Weekly Portion of Pre-Authorized Giving 163 3,025
Total 540 $ 15,049

OFFERTORY ENVELOPES FOR 2017

The 2017 Offertory Boxed Envelopes are available in the Gathering Space. Please pick yours up as soon as possible.

Posted in Bulletin | Comments Off on Bulletin – November 27, 2016

Bulletin – November 20, 2016

Sunday, November 20th, 2016

“LEANING INTO THE LIGHT” ADVENT RETREAT

Preacher: Fr. Bob Joerger CP
Saturday, December 10th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
St. Gabriel’s Church

In a few weeks, we will begin the season of Advent, a time to prepare ourselves for the celebration of Christmas. In Advent, we are called to stay awake as we keep vigil, with our eyes set on the light, and not let ourselves be too carried away by the unnecessary care and concerns of the Christmas Season. Please consider joining us for a few hours of quietude in prayer and reflection.

The preacher for our Advent Retreat this year will be Father Robert Joerger, CP. Father Bob is the Provincial of the Passionists of the St. Paul of the Cross Province. Many of you have met him when he last visited St. Gabriel’s. He has touched many hearts with his preaching.

The topic of our Advent Retreat is “Leaning into the Light”. It will be held on Saturday, December 10th from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at St. Gabriel’s Parish. Come and be prepared to be inspired and be challenged to a deeper relationship with God.

All are welcome. There is no cost to attend. However, donations will be gratefully accepted. For more information, please call the parish office at 416-221-8866, or email fatimalee@bellnet.ca

The retreat will begin at 1:00 PM sharp. Please plan on arriving a little earlier.

“A CONVERSATION WITH FATHER BOB ON THE PASSIONIST CHARISM”

Saturday, December 10th from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM.

Gabriel Room

We as a parish have been blessed with the ministry of the Passionists priests for over six decades. Have you ever wondered what the Passionists are about? Do you want to find out more about their spirituality and their work?

If you are interested, please join us for a conversation with Father Bob, the Provincial Superior of the St. Paul of the Cross Province of the Passionists. (The Province covers Canada, Eastern USA, Jamaica, W.I. and Haiti.) The meeting will be held on Saturday, December 10th from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM, in the Gabriel Room.
This is an opportunity not to be missed. Please mark your calendars.

YOUTH GROUP WREATH RAFFLE

November 19th/20th

The youth group will be raffling off advent wreaths after all the Masses this weekend. They have been crafted by our very own youth group members. Raffle tickets are being sold in the gathering space.

CHOIR NEWS!

Tuesday, November 22nd from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM

On Tuesday, November 22nd from 7:30 to 9:00 PM the choir will be hosting a hymn sing. We will be focusing on new hymns for Advent and Christmas. Please join us for a good ol’ sing-a-long!

ANNOUNCED MASSES

November 21st to November 26th, 2016

MONDAY – ALBINO GERARDI – Requested by Stella & Isabel Luke
TUESDAY – FR. DON SANVIDO – Requested by Jeanne Robinson
WEDNESDAY – TULIO RAMIREZ – Requested by the Family
THURSDAY – PHILIP BRADLEY – Requested by Moira McCarthy & Bob Torpey
FRIDAY – DAVID SHELDRICK – Requested by Teresa Sheldrick
SATURDAY – DECEASED MEMBERS OF THE CHUCHRA & WROBEL FAMILIES – Requested by Jack & Wanda

CASSEROLES FOR THE GOOD SHEPHERD CENTRE

Your prepared casseroles (frozen please) will be collected at the Masses next weekend for delivery to the Good Shepherd Centre.

More volunteers are needed to help feed the hungry in our city. Please get a copy of a casserole recipe and a pan and give it a try. Three recipes are available on St. Gabriel’s web site. Printed copies of the recipes are also available in the Parish Office.

Please remember to mark the label on the pan lid with the name of the casserole. For more information, you may contact Irene Albrecht at 416 221-2791.

THE GIVING TREE

During Advent, the Society of St Vincent de Paul will have a Giving Tree in the Gathering Space.

The tree will be decorated with gift tags. Each tag will have the gender and age of a child. We invite you to take a tag, buy a gift or a gift card of about $25.00 for that child and return the unwrapped gift, with the tag attached, to the box provided in the Gathering Space. If you are a knitter, there will be mitten tags. Please take one and return mitts to the box in the Gathering Space.

At this time of the year, we are also thinking of the young mothers and babies of Rosalie Hall. If you wish to help, you may choose a “Christmas Stocking” from the tree to purchase pyjamas or undershirts for babies ages 6 to 18 months.

Unwrapped Items with the original stocking tag attached can be left in the box provided near the “mitten” tree no later than December 10th. Toys for these little ones would also be appreciated.

For the Moms, we are suggesting gift cards from Tim Hortons, Walmart or MacDonald’s. These can be placed in the envelopes provided and brought to the Parish Office. Thank you for your generous support.

CHRISTMAS TOY DRIVE

Saturday, November 26th to Sunday, December 10th

We are having a Christmas Toy Drive again this year for the Catholic Children’s Aid Society.

You can help by dropping off an unwrapped new toy for a child newborn to 12 years old.

Containers will be set up at the doors of the Church from Saturday, November 26th until Sunday, December 10th

ATTENTION KNITTERS

Winter is coming and many Out of the Cold Shelters will open their doors at night during the winter months. Scarves for their clients will be most welcome.

I use a very simple pattern, knitting while I watch TV. If you are interested, I can meet with you at your convenience and show you the pattern. Please leave your name and phone number with the Parish Office and I’ll arrange a meeting. Mary Landry

MARRIAGE PREPARATION COURSE

St. Gabriel’s Parish
Weekend of April 21st, 22nd and 23rd, 2017

A Marriage Preparation course will be offered here at St. Gabriel’s the weekend of April 21st to 23rd, 2017. The course will be held Friday from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM.

For a registration package please email Marie Deans at deansm@sympatico.ca.

THEOLOGY ON TAP

Grief – What’s Love Got to Do With It?

Monday, November 21st at 7:00 PM

Duke of York Pub, 39 Prince Arthur Ave, Toronto

Want to discuss faith and justice topics relevant to your life? Want to meet other young adults who share these interests? Faith Connections invites young adults 19-39 to join us for evenings of thought-provoking theological discussions and presentations in a comfortable and relaxed setting.

Munchies will be provided. There is a cash bar. Come and bring a friend! The special guest will be Florence Loh, Manager of Programs and Services, Catholic Family Services of Toronto.

SERAPHIM AND CHERUBIM CHORUS CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Friday, December 9th at 7:30 PM

St. Bonaventure Parish, 1300 Leslie Street

Christmas, Christmas time is near! Come join the Seraphim and Cherubim Chorus’ singing the Christmas songs you love as part of their That’s Christmas to Me! concert series. A mix of old favourites and twists on classics! Please join us at St. Bonaventure Parish on Friday, December 9th at 7:30 PM. Advanced tickets are available online at www.seraphimandcherubim.ca. Proceeds will go to the support of Camp Winston – camp for children with complex neurological disorders.

MOSAIC INTERFAITH ANNUAL PEACE MEAL

Sunday December 4th from 2:00 to 5:00 PM

Temple Har Zion, 7360 Bayview Ave.

MOSAIC Interfaith (of which St. Gabriel’s is a member) invites you to attend the annual Peace Meal on Sunday December 4th from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at Temple Har Zion.

Renu Mandhane, Chief Commissioner, Ontario Human Rights Commission will speak on “Creed and Human Rights: an evolving approach in an evolving world.”

Inter-faith panelists will be Mary Jo Leddy, founder of Romero House for Refugees, Ihsaan Gardee, Executive Director of the National Council of Muslims and Pardeep Singh Nagra, Executive Director of the Sikh Heritage Museum & Manager Employment Equity TDSB.

Attendees are asked to bring a nut-free dish (and alcohol free) for the vegan supper – i.e. no meat, poultry, eggs, fish or dairy products. Please RSVP to Nora at 416-218-0680 by November 30th. For more information see poster on bulletin board.

VOCATION DISCERNMENT RETREAT

December 9th to 11th

Manresa Spiritual Renewal Centre, Pickering.

The Office of Vocations invites single Catholic men, 17 years and older to attend a Vocations Discernment Retreat from December 9th to 11th at Manresa Spiritual Renewal Centre, Pickering. The retreat starts on Friday at 7:00 PM. This is a good retreat for men who are at crossroads in discerning God’s desired Vocation for them. The retreat offers Guided reflections, Holy Mass, Adoration, confession and the assistance of a vocations team. The suggested donation of $150 will help cover costs. For more information, please contact Fr. Brando or call 416-968-0997 or email vocations@archtoronto.org.

FINANCE CORNER

Weekly Offertory

Our operating expenses average $14,550 per week.

Collection for last weekend:
Envelopes 369 $ 7,212
Loose Change 1050
Weekly Portion of Pre-Authorized Giving 163 3,025
Total 541 $ 11,287
Shepherd’s Trust $12,582

OFFERTORY ENVELOPES FOR 2017

The 2017 Offertory Boxed Envelopes will be available in the Gathering Space next weekend.

If you are new in the community and would like a box of envelopes, you may contact the Parish Office. Please print your name and address on your envelope so that your donation may be properly accredited to you. Please do not use envelopes from previous years since that envelope number may have been reassigned to another parishioner.

Posted in Bulletin | Comments Off on Bulletin – November 20, 2016

Homily – November 13, 2016

Sunday, November 13th, 2016

I think that when we Catholics hear the word ‘church’ we think of a building. What might come to mind is a picture of St. Peter’s in Rome with its massive dome that dominates the city of Rome. But as you know the church is all about people. As I mentioned before we were church long before we had buildings. But we do get tied up in buildings, especially our cathedrals.

Just supposing years from now, maybe a few hundred years from now, you were a visitor to Rome and the must see tourist cite is the ruins of St. Peters. Just as today people visit the ruins of the Roman Forum, the heart of the ancient Roman Empire. This once beautiful church, the pride and joy of Catholics around the world is now reduced to a pile of rubble. Did the life and faith of the people of God die when this building was destroyed by whatever means. No, the life of our church went on.

In today’s gospel we hear of people boasting about the beauty of the Temple with its precious stones and expensive gifts dedicated to God. It must have been a beautiful structure. But Jesus throws cold water on their enthusiasm, ‘The days will come when not one stone will be left upon another. All will be thrown down.’ The men and women who heard these words couldn’t believe them. The temple, God’s own house will last forever. It was built on the site of Solomon’s temple built centuries before. That temple was destroyed by the Babylonians then rebuilt by the Jewish people who came back from exile in Babylon. During his reign King Herod started adding to this second Temple wanting to make it more impressive. He meant his restoration and enhancement of God’s house to be a memorial to him. But 70 years after the death of Jesus the Romans came and reduced the temple to ruins and left not one stone upon another as the Roman punished the Jewish people who revolted against them.

Important though it was to Jewish faith and ritual celebrations the faith and observance of the Jewish people did not die, it just took on another way of expressing itself. It thrives today.

If every church in the world was left with not one stone upon another our Christian faith would survived, kept alive by good people like yourselves who strive to live out your faith in God, your faith in God’s Son, Jesus the Christ. Good people like you who know that we did not choose God but that before the world began God Choose us in Christ to be God’s adopted sons and daughters. Good people like you who believe that God sent his son into the world not to condemn us but that through Jesus we might be saved. Our Christian faith survives in and through good people like you who try to love and forgive family members and neighbours and fellow workers as Christ loves and forgives you.

This has happened before. Portuguese missionaries brought Christianity to Japan in the 16th century. The Christian community thrived for about 50 years until Christianity was outlawed and a great persecution followed. A good number of the people went underground and practice their faith in secret. In 1837 freedom of religion was restored and missionaries returned. They were surprised when after a few years they were approached by some people who asked the missionaries these questions; do you believe the Pope is the head of the church and do you believe Mary is the Mother of God?

When the missionaries said ‘yes’ to these people, they said ‘we too are Christians.’ These good people became known as the hidden Christians of Japan. In those many years of hiding they camouflaged their statues of Mary and the saints to look like Buddhists god and goddesses. Because of what we might call ‘inbreeding’ and because they were cut off from the universal church, some of the truths and practises of the faith became distorted but they still saw themselves as real Christian Catholics and many were gradually brought back to the church. The original hidden Christians have pretty well died out. But those dedicated good people kept the faith alive.

If the time comes when in the present reality of our church ‘one stone is not left upon another the church will survive because each Christian is, as St. Peter teaches, like a living stone built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood. St. Paul tells us that the foundation of this spiritual structure is the teachings of the apostles and prophets with Jesus Christ as our corner stone. It is Jesus Christ who holds the spiritual structure together so that we can grow into a holy temple in the Lord, a dwelling place for our God.

As we continue to celebrate this Mass, as living stones of this spiritual structure, we pray that each one of us, through the work we do, the prayers we pray and the service we give, always do our part, by God’s grace to be true living stones in the structure of the church.

Posted in Homily | Comments Off on Homily – November 13, 2016

Bulletin – November 13, 2016

Saturday, November 12th, 2016

“LEANING INTO THE LIGHT” ADVENT RETREAT

Preacher: Fr. Bob Joerger CP
Saturday, December 10th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
St. Gabriel’s Church

In a few weeks, we will begin the season of Advent, a time to prepare ourselves for the celebration of Christmas. In Advent, we are called to stay awake as we keep vigil, with our eyes set on the light, and not let ourselves be too carried away by the unnecessary care and concerns of the Christmas Season. Please consider joining us for a few hours of quietude in prayer and reflection.

The preacher for our Advent Retreat this year will be Father Robert Joerger, CP. Father Bob is the Provincial of the Passionists of the St. Paul of the Cross Province. Many of you have met him when he last visited St. Gabriel’s. He has touched many hearts with his preaching.

The topic of our Advent Retreat is “Leaning into the Light”. It will be held on Saturday, December 10th from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at St. Gabriel’s Parish. Come and be prepared to be inspired and be challenged to a deeper relationship with God.

All are welcome. There is no cost to attend. However, donations will be gratefully accepted. For more information, please call the parish office at 416-221-8866, or email fatimalee@bellnet.ca

The retreat will begin at 1:00 PM sharp. Please plan on arriving a little earlier.

“A CONVERSATION WITH FATHER BOB ON THE PASSIONIST CHARISM”

Saturday, December 10th from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM.

Gabriel Room

We as a parish have been blessed with the ministry of the Passionists priests for over six decades. Have you ever wondered what the Passionists are about? Do you want to find out more about their spirituality and their work?

If you are interested, please join us for a conversation with Father Bob, the Provincial Superior of the St. Paul of the Cross Province of the Passionists. (The Province covers Canada, Eastern USA, Jamaica, W.I. and Haiti.) The meeting will be held on Saturday, December 10th from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM, in the Gabriel Room.

This is an opportunity not to be missed. Please mark your calendars.

YOUTH GROUP WREATH RAFFLE

Weekend of November 19th/20th

The youth group will be raffling off advent wreaths after all the Masses next weekend. They have been crafted by our very own youth group members. Raffle tickets will be sold in the gathering space.

CHOIR NEWS!

Tuesday, November 22nd from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM

On Tuesday, November 22nd from 7:30 to 9:00 PM the choir will be hosting a hymn sing. We will be focusing on new hymns for Advent and Christmas. Please join us for a good ol’ sing-a-long!

MEETING FOR FIRST RECONCILIATION

Wednesday, November 16th at 7:30 PM

St. Gabriel’s Church, Gabriel Room

On Wednesday, November 16th at 7:30 PM there will be a meeting in the Gabriel Room for parents of children who will be receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time.

CONFIRMATION ENROLLMENT CEREMONY

Sunday, November 20th at the 12:30 PM Mass

The Confirmation Enrollment Ceremony for all Confirmation candidates will be held on Sunday, November 20th at the 12:30 PM Mass. All Confirmation candidates must attend.

Candidates are reminded to submit their letters requesting Confirmation to Fr. Brando through the Parish Office by this Sunday, November 13th.

ANNOUNCED MASSES

November 14th to November 19th, 2016

MONDAY – MAURO FIONDI – Requested by the Benito Fiondi
TUESDAY – TAM WAI-YENG – Requested by Angela Wong
WEDNESDAY – MARGARET ALLORE & BERTHA RICKETTS – Requested by the Family
THURSDAY – FR. ADRIAN LEE – Requested by Jeanne Robinson
FRIDAY – EDWIN PINTO – Requested by Anne Pinto
SATURDAY – PATRICK McGROARTY – Requested by Bill & Carolyn Markle

SHEPHERD’S TRUST COLLECTION

This Weekend, November 12th/13th

As members of our Catholic community, we regularly benefit from the tireless service of our priests. In this Jubilee Year of Mercy, we remember how they have been tangible instruments of the Lord’s mercy in our lives. Called by God and ordained to care for His people, our priests serve our families, in churches, schools, hospitals, nursing homes, missions and on the streets. The Shepherds’ Trust ensures our priests can live their retirement years with dignity.

The Shepherds’ Trust collection will take place in all parishes in the Archdiocese this weekend, November 12th/13th. Envelopes are in the pews.

This fund does more than just support our priests in their retirement years; it represents a very tangible gesture of thanks for the blessings we have received. Your generosity
is greatly appreciated.

ATTENTION KNITTERS

Winter is coming and many Out of the Cold Shelters will open their doors at night during the winter months. Scarves for their clients will be most welcome.

I use a very simple pattern, knitting while I watch TV. If you are interested, I can meet with you at your convenience and show you the pattern. Please leave your name and phone number with the Parish Office and I’ll arrange a meeting. Mary Landry

JUST COFFEE

Fair trade organic coffees will be on sale after all the Masses next weekend.

Regular ground coffee: $5.50
Decaffeinated: $6
Whole Beans: $5.50
Chocolate Bars: $4.50 incl. taxes
Hot Chocolate and Cocoa: $5.00
Teas: $4.25

CHRISTMAS TOY DRIVE

Saturday, November 26th to Sunday, December 10th

We are having a Christmas Toy Drive again this year for the Catholic Children’s Aid Society.
You can help by dropping off an unwrapped new toy for a child 0 to 12 years old.

Containers will be set up at the doors of the Church from Saturday, November 26th until Sunday, December 10th.

THE GIVING TREE

During Advent, the Society of St Vincent de Paul will have a Giving Tree in the Gathering Space.

The tree will be decorated with gift tags. Each tag will have the gender and age of a child. We invite you to take a tag, buy a gift or a gift card of about $25.00 for that child and return the unwrapped gift, with the tag attached, to the box provided in the Gathering Space. If you are a knitter, there will be mitten tags. Please take one and return mitts to the box in the Gathering Space.

At this time of the year, we are also thinking of the young mothers and babies of Rosalie Hall. If you wish to help, you may choose a “Christmas Stocking” from the tree to purchase pyjamas or undershirts, for babies ages 6 to 18 months.

Unwrapped Items with the original stocking tag attached can be left in the box provided near the “mitten” tree no later than December 10th. Toys for these little ones would also be appreciated.

For the Moms, we are suggesting gift cards from Shopper’s Drug Mart, Tim Hortons, Walmart or MacDonald’s. These can be placed in the envelopes provided and brought to the Parish Office. Thank you for your generous support.

MILK BAG WORKSHOP

Wednesday, November 16th from 1:00 to 3:00 PM

Gabriel Room

The next Milk Bag workshop led by Sharon Gusz will be held in the Gabriel room on Wednesday, November 16th from 1:00 to 3:00 PM. No experience needed! All are welcome!

MUSIC AT TIMES OF LOSS

November 16th at 7:00 PM

Blessed Trinity Parish Hall 3220 Bayview Avenue

Music speaks to the heart. At times when words are difficult, music can help to evoke expressions of consolation, joy, and sorrow. Come and explore the role of music at times of loss with speaker Connie Price on Wednesday, November 16th, at 7:00 PM at Blessed Trinity Parish Hall,

For more information, contact Terry McDermott, RN, Parish Nurse. at 416-226-0262 ext. 8 or by email at btparishnurse@gmail.com.

BENEFIT CONCERT TO END ABUSE TO WOMEN AND GIRLS

Wednesday, November 23, 2016
Hugh’s Room, 2261 Dundas St West

Catholic Family Services of Toronto presents a Benefit Concert to End Abuse to Women and Girls. Join us at Hugh’s Room, 2261 Dundas St West, for a concert featuring Enrico Galante and Friends on Wednesday, November 23rd. Doors open at 6:00 PM. Enjoy live music, good food and a silent auction all for a good cause.

Tickets can be purchased in advance at Hugh’s Room (416-531-6604) for $40 or $45 at the door. All proceeds go to Catholic Family Services of Toronto’s Women Abuse Programs.

MARRIAGE PREPARATION COURSE

Weekend of April 21st, 22nd and 23rd, 2017
St. Gabriel’s Parish

A Marriage Preparation course will be offered here at St. Gabriel’s the weekend of April 21st to 23rd, 2017. The course will be held Friday from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM. For a registration package please email Marie Deans at deansm@sympatico.ca.

FINANCE CORNER

Weekly Offertory

Our operating expenses average $14,550 per week.

Collection for last weekend:
Envelopes 378 $ 7,990
Loose Change 1,001
Weekly Portion of Pre-Authorized Giving 163 3,025
Total 541 $ 12,016

If you are new in the community please print your name and address on your envelope so that your donation may be properly accredited to you.

Please do not use envelopes from previous years since that envelope number may have been reassigned to another parishioner.

If you are moving out of the Parish or have changed your address, please contact the Parish Office at 416-221-8866 so that we can update our records. Thank you.

Posted in Bulletin | Comments Off on Bulletin – November 13, 2016

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