One of the emerging forms of liturgical leadership is that of hospitality. Historically the Catholic Church and the Mass were more internal and personal forms of faith. In the post-Vatican II church and with the new evangelization we are called to recognize Christ in others (parishioners and particularly strangers and those on the peripheries of society). While we are all called to be welcoming, (something we will be working on more as a parish) we have particular people who have taken on this charism. + Una de las formas emergentes de liderazgo litúrgico es la hospitalidad. Históricamente, la Iglesia Católica y la Misa eran formas de fe más internas y personales. En la iglesia post-Vaticano II y con la nueva evangelización estamos llamados a reconocer a Cristo en los demás (feligreses y particularmente en los extraños y en las periferias de la sociedad). Si bien todos estamos llamados a ser acogedores (algo en lo que trabajaremos más como parroquia), tenemos personas particulares que han asumido este carisma. READ MORE

One of the best names for a liturgical minister is that of Sacristan. Originally the person responsible for the sacristy-usually a distinct space set aside for preparing for Mass that holds liturgical items and elements. Historically Sacristans have been an important office (sometimes called doorkeepers) who would be responsible for all elements of church upkeep (materials and building). + Uno de los mejores nombres para un ministro litúrgico es el de Sacristán. Originalmente la persona responsable de la sacristía, generalmente un espacio distinto reservado para la preparación de la Misa que contiene artículos y elementos litúrgicos. Históricamente, los sacristanes han sido una oficina importante (a veces llamados porteros) que serían responsables de todos los elementos del mantenimiento de la iglesia (materiales y construcción).

Usually December 8th we celebrate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. Which happens to be the patronal feast of the United States of America (she is also the patron of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Italy, Korea, Nicaragua, Paraguay, the Philippines, Spain, Uruguay, and Portugal. If it weren’t already a solemnity universally, it would be elevated to be so since she is our nation’s patron. This year however we celebrate on December 9th, and it retains its status as a Holy Day Obligation (when Catholics are obliged to attend Mass). Usually, when Holy Days occur on Mondays they aren’t obligatory. So why do we have all of the special circumstances this year? Sundays in Advent are of a higher rank and cannot be modified for any reason. Since they outrank Immaculate Conception, it is moved to the next possible date. The Vatican clarified this year that in these circumstances the obligation is retained. I sincerely hope this year we will turn to our Lady (our patron) in prayer for our nation in this time of division and transition. May we remain faithful and trust in the Lord. READ MORE