Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, When health restrictions are eased and we are able to start gathering together again, it is important for all of us to understand that things probably won’t immediately go back to the way they used to be. Diocesan guidelines for our parishes and diocesan activities will continue to be responsive to what health experts and government officials indicate. These guidelines will also be responsive to the collective wisdom of representatives from our Presbyterate, California Catholic Conference and Bishops of California… Specifics of when public Mass and others sacraments will resume and how they will be celebrated are being presently examined. We will be communicating these changes in more detail to you, as time approaches, but you can anticipate that: Attendance may be limited at any given Mass or Service. A general dispensation from the Sunday obligation may probably continue for all (but especially for those in the most vulnerable groups, as in the elderly, compromised immune systems, etc.). Social distancing will probably continue (e.g. omission of Holy Communion from the Chalice, only Holy Communion to be offered on the hand). These changes will continue to evolve over time. We will keep you informed: please know we are sincerely thankful for your patience and understanding as we prepare for this next phase. The well-being of you and your families continues to be our top priority. You remain in my prayers. Your brother in Christ, +Most Reverend Daniel E. Garcia
For all mothers and women: that through the intercession of the Mother of God, the Lord will bless them and reward them for their sacrifice and love. Happy Mothers’ Day!
March 17, 2020 Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, After consultation with our presbyterate council and listening to our government and public health officials regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19), effective today, March 17, 2020 through April 12, 2020 (Easter Sunday), I am suspending the celebration of all public (Sunday and daily) masses in all counties of the Diocese of Monterey. I make these changes for the sake not only of the health and safety of our parishioners, but for the sake of the common good of all society. Please keep in mind these changes are temporary and I invite you to embrace this sacrifice of our treasured Eucharistic celebrations as a Lenten penitential sacrifice of the Catholic people for the sake of all, in charity, to slow and eliminate this virus, as a threat to the life of all our people… St Junípero Serra and Our Lady of Bethlehem, pray for us! Your brother in Christ, +Most Reverend Daniel E. Garcia Bishop of Monterey
AMA 2020 Today, we unite with Christ with our Catholic brothers and sisters throughout the Diocese of Monterey to consider our gifts to the 2020 Annual Ministry Appeal. This is an opportunity for us to be good stewards of God’s gifts, as we Grow in Faith, sharing with other Catholics, our treasure and our blessings. Acting together, rooted and grounded in love, we support the ministries that no single individual or parish can offer by themselves. Your gift IS a gift. Every gift, regardless of size, is vital to the success of the 2020 Annual Ministry Appeal. You can also give securely online at www.dioceseofmonterey.org/giving.
The program of making packages for the Military last Sunday was very good; we made more than 190 packages thanks to the great generosity of all of you working together. It was a symbol of Christian unity and the sensitivity of men and women in our country for troops away from family and the nation. Thank You!!! Pray for all the militaries!
Come celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with us! Sunday, March 22nd from 11am – 2pm. We will have appetizers, corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, fruit, and something for vegetarians as well. Also included are fabulous desserts, beer and wine. There will be music, whiskey tasting and 50/50 raffle. As this is a fundraiser for the young family group we are asking for a donation of $15 per person or $30 per family. Sometimes money is tight so even if you cannot donate that amount, any amount or nothing is also fine, just come and enjoy! More than money we want to raise our children in a community, the more the merrier! If you wish to donate you can pay at the door or see us after mass. Also, if you would like to bring a homemade dessert, we would love it!
CARE PACKAGES FOR OUR TROOPS – SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2020 Once again we will join with The Mountain Bible Church to put Jesus’ love and mercy into practice with small practical gifts of encouragement to our men and women serving in the military overseas. A detailed list of suggested items to purchase and donate will be available as the date approaches. This is also proven to be a great event to invite your non-church neighbors who have a heart to do well.
Tuesday February 25, 2020 “Men’s Club Parish Mardi Gras Party” “FAT TUESDAY CELEBRATION” The social will be from 6:00 to 6:45 and after Dinner. “Martes de Carnaval” Before Lent “Begins”!!! WELCOME EVERY ONE!!!
BABY BOTTLE – THANK YOU! Our deepest thanks from Birthright of San Jose to all the generous people of Christ Child for your continued support of our work. In October we raised over $1500 with the baby bottle campaign alone and another $442 with the Respect Life 2nd collection. With your help we have helped homeless pregnant women this year to find shelter and many others to receive the material and emotional help they need to feel they can choose life.