st. paul catholic church and preschool

†

Lord

our God,

We praise you

for the light of creation:

the sun, the moon,

and the stars of the night.

We praise you for the light of

Israel:

the Law, the prophets, & the

wisdom of the Scriptures.

We praise you for Jesus Christ,

your Son:

he is Emmanuel, God-with-us,

the Prince of Peace,

who $ills us with the wonder of

your love.

Lord God, let your blessing come

upon us as we illumine this tree.

May the light and cheer it gives

be a sign of the joy that $ills our

hearts.

May will who delight in this tree

come to the knowledge and joy

of salvation.

We ask this through Christ our

Lord.

Amen.

(Book of Blessings, 1004).

Sunday, January 1, 2017

Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God

St. Paul Catholic Church and Preschool www.StPaulChurch.com

12708 N Dale Mabry Hwy. Tampa, FL 33618 - 813-961-3023

"Formed by Word and Sacrament, we, the people of St. Paul Catholic Church,

are a Spirit-led, Eucharist-centered, vibrant multicultural Christian

community of faith, living our love for God and neighbor while growing

together as disciples of Christ."

We celebrate the installation of Bishop Parkes!

My dear friends, This is a historic week as we welcome Bishop Gregory L. Parkes as the fifth bishop of the Diocese of St. Petersburg. You are cordially invited to attend a celebration of Solemn Vespers on Tuesday at 7 pm at St. Timothy Catholic Church on 17512 Lakeshore Road in Lutz. On Wednesday, the installation will take place by Archbishop Thomas Wenski, Archbishop of Miami, in the presence of Archbishop Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States of America, on Wednesday in the Cathedral of St. Jude the Apostle in St. Petersburg at 2 pm. It can be viewed on podcast on dosp.org.

Our Diocese is the largest provider of social services in our area

Our Diocese was founded on 17 June 1968 and has quickly grown to one of the largest in the country, comprising 5 counties with almost 435,000 Catholics gathered in 81 parishes and missions. We are blest with 2 hospitals, 1 college, 6 high schools, 28 elementary schools, and 2 schools for students with special needs. We are the largest private provider of social services in our area with 7 health care centers, 10 homes for the aged, 14 daycare centers, 5 specialized homes and 67 special centers for social services. Each weekend Mass is offered in our diocese in about a dozen languages.

Bishop Gregory Parkes , a short biography

Bishop Parkes was born April 2, 1964 in Mineola, NY. He attended St. Rose of Lima School in Massapequa, NY, Massapequa High School and Daytona Beach Community College before earning a bachelor’s degree in finance from Florida State University. Prior to entering the seminary he worked in the banking industry in Tampa, Florida. He attended St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach, Florida from 1993-1996 and the Pontifical North American College in the Vatican City State from 1996-2000. He holds a Sacred Theology (S.T.B.) degree from the Pontifical Gregorian University (1998) and a Canon Law (J.C.L.) degree from the Pontifical Gregorian University (2000). He was ordained a priest of the Orlando diocese by Bishop Norbert Dorsey on June 26, 1999. He was consecrated bishop of Pensacola-Tallahassee on June 5, 2012. His episcopal motto is telling: “Nomini Tuo Da Gloriam” (“To Your Name, Give the Glory”).

May our prayers be with our new Bishop

Please join me in praying for our new Shepherd. May Bishop Parkes faithfully fulfill his episcopal motto as did our beloved Bishops Charles B. McLaughlin, W. Thomas Larkin, John C. Favalora, and Robert N. Lynch. May he lead us ever closer into the mystery of Christ’s love and mercy!

Growing together as disciples of Christ,

Fr. Bill Swengros, Pastor

Our Mission Statement

“Formed by Word and Sacrament, we, the people of St. Paul Catholic Church, are a

Spirit-led, Eucharist-centered, vibrant multicultural Christian community of faith,

living our love for God and neighbor while growing together as disciples of Christ."

Growing Together as disciples of Christ!

All are Welcome!

Weekend Masses

Saturday Masses 8:30am Mass

(Morning Prayer and Benediction 8:10am)

Saturday Vigil Mass 5:30pm

Missa em Português: 7:30pm

Sunday Masses 7:30am, 9:00am, 10:45am,

12:30pm, 5:30pm Misa en Español: 2:00pm

Weekday Masses Monday to Friday

7:30am and 12:15pm

First Friday Mass 7:30pm

Saturday - 8:30am (Morning Prayer and Benediction 8:10am)

Reconciliation/Confession Saturdays 10:00am and

4:00pm or upon request

24 Hour Eucharistic Adoration

Every Wednesday 8am to 9pm

Every Friday 8:30am to Saturday 8:20am

Morning Prayer Monday - Friday 7:10am

Saturday 8:10am

Anointing of the Sick Every Second Saturday of the

Month at 8:30am

Church Office Address: 12708 N. Dale Mabry Hwy

Tampa, FL 33618-2802 813.961.3023

Fax 813.962.8780 Office Hours: 8:00 am to 4:00

pm, M-F www.StPaulChurch.com Email: ParishCommunications

@StPaulChurch.com

Our Pastor, Fr. Bill Swengros

Parish Upcoming Events

Santo Niño Invitation to all Children of St. Paul We would like to invite the children of the parish to draw a picture or write a poem/letter in honor of Santo Niño – the Holy Child. Accepting grades K-12 submissions before January 6, 2017. All chosen art work will be displayed in our website, bul-letin, monitor and our building display areas. Drop off submission to Parish Office or via email to [email protected]

Let’s encourage the devotion to the Holy Child in our children's heart. Viva Señor

Santo Niño! Pit Senyor!

List of Upcoming Events • 1/6-14 Santo Niño Novena 7 pm

• 1/14 Santo Niño Vigil & Procession

• 1/15 Santo Niño Sindulog in Family Center

• 1/28 The Four Signs Event with Dr. Allen Hunt

List of Upcoming Masses • 1/1 Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God

• 1/8 Epiphany of the Lord regular Mass times

• 1/15 Santo Niño Feast Day and Mass 4:30 pm

• 1/16 Martin Luther King Jr Day 7:30 am Mass

• 1/20 Our Lady of Good Health Mass 7:30 pm

St Paul Catholic Church @StPaulTampa,

@St.PaulCatholicChurch stpaultpa

“And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart” (Lk 2:19).

Welcome, Bienvenidos,

Bem-vindos to St. Paul!

Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God Saturday Vigil Masses

5:30 pm, 7:30 pm (em portugese) *Holy hour 10:30 pm

11:30 pm Sunday, January 1, 2017

7:30 am, 9 am, 10:45 am, 12:30 pm, 2 pm (en español) and 5:30 pm.

Novena to Santo Niño Friday,January6throughSaturday,January14

Each evening we will celebrate the Novena

beginning at 7pm. The Holy Mass will begin at 7:30

pm in honor of the Holy child followed by a

reception. All are welcome!

Vigil of Santo Niño Saturday,January14

7 pm Novena and

7:30 pm Holy Mass

Afterwards there will be a formal

Rosary procession. The evening

concludes with a reception.

1.28.17

Getyourtickets!

Www.StPaulChurch.com

All are invited to The Four Signs Event to be

held at St. Paul with guest speaker, Dr. Allen Hunt, from Dynamic Catholic held on Saturday, January 28 from 9 am to 1:30 pm. Tickets available at the parish office or online at www.stpaulchurch.com/139 or dynamiccatholic.com

Come Take a Look!Come Take a Look!Come Take a Look!Come Take a Look!

In preparation for registration of the 2017-

2018 school year we will be holding an

Open House on

Tuesday, January 31st, 9-11am or Wednesday, February 1st, 9-11am

and one session at 5 pm

Helping Our Toddlers, Developing Our Children’s

Skills is a 7-week parent behavioral training program offered through USF Health Pediatrics Designed to help parents and caregivers of children 1-7 years old understand and address challenging

behaviors: eating, going to bed, getting dressed, following directions, calming down, running errands with you, using words to communicate, etc. Upcoming Class: HOT DOCS at St. Paul Catholic

Preschool beginning Thursday, January 19, 2017

SpotsareVERYlimited!

Please contact our Preschool to reserve your spot.

Call (813) 264-3314 or email [email protected]

ExcellenceinCatholicpreschooleducationforover30years

St. Paul Preschool & Sacrament of Baptism

Infant Baptism ‘I baptize you in the name of the Father,

and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit’

The baptism of a child is a special cause for joy and celebration on the part of the Church, the whole community of faith! Baptism is a birth into the Christian community and is in every way as solemn and important as birth itself. It is an event that needs to be prepared for, and it can serve as a reminder to you about your own faith and what it means to you. If you have any questions regarding Infant Baptism, please contact Lizette Espel at (961-3023; [email protected])

Come and learn the Word of God!

Visit www.stpaulcatholicpreschool.org

Merry Christmas Merry Christmas Merry Christmas Merry Christmas from our Nursery Team! from our Nursery Team! from our Nursery Team! from our Nursery Team! The Sunday Nursery will re-open on January 8th for the 9 am and 10:45 am Masses! The St. Paul P.U.P. (Parents Uninterrupted Prayer) Nursery is open for children ages 1-3, no pre-registration required! The newly renovated Nursery Room is located past the restrooms in the same Church building. We are blessed with wonderful Nursery Ministry Team Leaders, all who share their love and dedication in helping our families participate in Mass by taking care of their little ones. For the safety and well-being of your child, the Nursery Ministry is led by diocesan trained (Level II screened, safe environment certified) team leaders and volunteers and most are trained in Infant CPR and First Aid. For more information about the P.U.P. Nursery Ministry, please contact Lizette Espel [email protected] in the Parish Office.

Blessings from our CLW Team! This past Sunday the children learned about Our Lady of Guadalupe! CLW will resume on Sunday, January 8th. Children’s Liturgy of the Word (CLW) is an age-appropriate Liturgy of the Word offered for children age 4-6 during the 9 am Mass. Just before the Liturgy of the Word begins for the assembly, children are invited to go with the weekly leaders from the church to the Meeting Room located in the church building. During this special time, the volunteer catechist leads the children through prayers, songs and readings that are simplified for children. No pre-registration required!

H T DOCS

Liturgical Corner

Scenes from the Little White Box

“For Unto you is born this day in the city of

David, a SAVIOURSAVIOURSAVIOURSAVIOUR, which is

V{Ü|áà à{x _ÉÜwAV{Ü|áà à{x _ÉÜwAV{Ü|áà à{x _ÉÜwAV{Ü|áà à{x _ÉÜwA” EUCHARISTIC ADORATION:

WEDNESDAYS FROM 8:30am TO 9:00PM FRIDAYS FROM 8:30am to Saturdays at 8:30am

Please Pray for the Safety of Our Military ♦Hans C. Arcand, 2nd LT. USAF ♦Martin O. Reina, USCG ♦Nicholas Ringo, III US Navy ♦Michael Dunkelberger, Master Sargent, USAF ♦Christopher A. Garcia, Officer, U.S. Navy ♦Mathew M Colon, Sgt., US Army ♦Richard Majette, Captain, USMC ♦Katrina Monti, Captain, PA US Army ♦Jonathan Monti, Major, PA US Army ♦Richard Sison Jr, 2nd Lt., USAF ♦Matthew Mooney, Captain, USAF ♦Curtis Gardner, Sergeant, USAF ♦Adriana Trigg, USAF ♦Anthony Mazzie, US Army ♦Luis Luccani, PO, US Navy ♦Austin Jacob Ferlita, Pvt2s, US Army ♦Josh C. Seal, PO, US Navy ♦Corinna Fleischmann, CDR, USCG. ♦Morganne Oyler, US Navy ♦Sean C. Andino, Ensign, US Navy ♦Thomas Krasnicki, Lt, US Navy ♦Brett Smith, US Marine Corp. ♦Dominick J. Agnes III, Sgt, US Marine Corps To add a name to the list email [email protected].

Saints of God: Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton was born two years before the American Revolution and was raised in high society in New York. At 19, Elizabeth married the love of her live, William Seton and together they raised five children as well as their

younger siblings. When he fell ill with tuberculosis, they traveled to Italy for treatment. There they stayed with a wonderful Catholic family. After William’s death, she converted to the Catholic faith. Three basic points led her to her decision: belief in the Real Presence, devotion to the Blessed Mother and conviction that the Catholic Church led back to the apostles and to Christ. Many of her family and friends rejected her when she became a Catholic. To support her children, she opened the first Catholic school in Baltimore as well as the first orphanage. From the beginning, her group followed the lines of a religious community, which was officially founded as the Sisters of Charity in 1809. She returned home to the Lord in 1821 at the age of 46. Reflecting on her life, she once stated: “The first end I propose in our daily work is to do the will of God; secondly, to do it in the manner he wills it; and thirdly, to do it because it is his will.” “God has given me a great deal to do, and I have always and hope always to prefer his will. Mother Seton, pray for us! Pray for our children! Pray for our school! Her feast day is this Wednesday.


Something Missing? There are a number of couples in our parish who are living in irregular marriages or marriages which have not been blessed in the Church. Remember, it is not

sufficient for Catholics to be civilly married or married in a non-Catholic church. For validity, Catholics must be married in a ceremony recognized by the Church. Don’t wait. We’re here to help! If nether of you was previously divorced, contact Maria at the parish office to have your marriage convalidated. It is very easy and won’t take much of your time. If you or your spouse were previously divorced, contact Fr Bill at the Parish Office to start the “annulment” process so that, hopefully, your present marriage can be convalidated (961-3023). Let us help you!

First FridayDevotions: This Friday is the

%irst Friday of the month, a beautiful

opportunity to develop your relationship with

God. This is a good time to examine your

conscience and participate in the Sacrament of

Reconciliation. In addition to our normal Friday daily

Masses, we offer a special Friday Mass at 7:30 pm in

commemoration of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. We also

offer Eucharistic Adoration after the 7:30 am Mass

through to our Saturday 8:30 am Mass. Please come

and bring a friend!

Reflections on Scripture

I. Numbers 6:22-27. Famous Priestly Blessing Reflection. Aaron and his sons were the official Priests of the Hebrews. This is one of the few cases in the Old Testament where God tells His priests how to pray. Thus, it is one of the most commonly heard prayers that is applicable both to Jews and Christians. Note that the prayer asks God to “keep” His people; the Hebrew word expressing this means “to preserve,” to keep safe. And having His face “shine” implies “make light,” as the sun does. And finally, to be gracious means to offer benefits, as a patron does to his client. Thus, the essence of the prayer is to beg that God behaves as a powerful patron to His people; to preserve, enlighten and offer benefits.

II. Galatians 4:4-7. A Central

Issue for Us Gentiles.

Reflection. First, recall that this was written sometime in the early 50s CE, perhaps only thirty years after Jesus’ death. Second, the context has to do with who the descendants of Abraham actually are. God had promised benefits to all of “Abraham’s Seed” in Gen. 22:17-18, “ I will bless you abundantly and make your descendants as countless as the stars of the sky and the sands of the seashore; your descendants shall take possession of the gates of their enemies, and in your descendants all the nations of the earth shall find blessing-- all this because you obeyed my command.'' St. Paul insists that these blessings accrue to the followers of Jesus Christ, and that we can consider ourselves heirs of Abraham, and heirs to the Promise. This becomes our validation as being part of the “People of God,” who before St. Paul were Jews only.

III. Luke 2:16-21. Jesus Born of

Law-Observant Jews.

Reflection: First, we note that Luke

has shepherds (not Kings) visit the Christ-child; these were those who occupied the lowest economic stratum of Israelite society. It was to the poor that the Good News was announced by the Angels in previous verses; but note that the shepherds then were themselves the first evangelists, telling others of what they had seen. Second, we note that Mary and Joseph fulfilled the Mosaic obligation of having Jesus circumcised on the eighth day, and that he was given the name the angel had announced (Luke 1:31). St. Luke provides us early in his Gospel of two points that he will develop as the narrative proceeds: a) there is always a “preferential option for the poor;” and b) there is far less animosity towards Pharisees and those who specialize in the interpretation of the Mosaic Law than in Matthew. Jesus came from a good Jewish family.

By Jack Conroy, Ph.D.

Due to copyright restrictions, we cannot print

the Scriptures before the re$lections of Mr.

Conroy. The Scripture for today’s liturgy can

be found in Today’s Missal or in our website ”

Give a faith-filled gift to the faithful men in your life! Christmas is the time of Hope. Hope born in a manger, destined to be our Saviour and bring man closer in union with God. This

Christmas give the gift that has the same promise to bring your men closer to God.

“Living The Faith” 7th Annual Tampa Bay Men’s Conference Featuring Dr Scott Hahn, Fr Bill Casey, and Artie Boyle

Saturday, February 18th, beginning at 6:30 am, Higgins Hall St Lawrence Catholic Church, 5225 N. Himes Ave, Tampa

Tickets include lunch and free parking

Cost is $40 for Dad or a Father/Son ticket for $40

For tickets or more information visit www.suncoastcatholicministries.com e-mail [email protected]

Christmas at St. Paul Parish!


8

St. Paul Faith Formation St. Paul Faith Formation St. Paul Faith Formation St. Paul Faith Formation We are ro�ed in Faith and growing in grace

We know that as parents, your role is primary in the education of the faith to your child. Here at St. Paul we supplement what you are already doing! We thank you for making weekly Mass assistance your priority! This is most important in the formation of your child. We are now approaching many wonderful event in our parish: retreats, preparation for First Holy Communion and Confirmation. We would love to have you be a part of these preparations. Do you feel called to help? Please call our office for information on how you can be a part of the Sacrament preparation in our parish today! 813-961-3023. Special Needs Faith Formation Classes-If you are interested in helping us share our faith with children who have special needs, we would love to talk to you! Currently, we are organizing a team of people who are willing to plan and train for this important need in our community. Please call or email us! Faith Formation catechist-If you are willing to share your faith on a Sunday afternoon or a weeknight with the children, please contact our Faith Formation office. We have some families who may be turned away because our classes are full and we must open new classrooms! Please contact us today! Front door Greeter- If you prefer not to teach, perhaps you would consider being a greeter on Sunday mornings during the Faith Formation class times. This person helps direct traffic as people come dropping off and picking up their kids. A special perk of this role is that you get to meet many of the awesome families we have coming each Sunday. Being bilingual is a plus!

Dates to remember: Classes resume on Jan 8th-11th.

IMPORTANT First Communion Parent Meeting for those

whose child is receiving First Communion in May 2017

Monday, Jan. 23 4:30pm in the Church

Or Tuesday, Jan 24, 6:15pm in the Church Rite of Enrollment for First Communion at all Masses

weekend of Feb. 4/Feb. 5

Registration for next year begins weekend of Feb. 11-

12th. Enjoy “Early bird” tuition discount and

convenience of reserving your spot for next year!

It is not too late to inquire about Faith Formation!

813-961-3023

These pictures came from one of our Faith Formation

Catechists who wanted to share with us all what they had

made in their class. She added: "I for sure want to keep

helping out in Faith Formation" Thank you Melanie for your

commitment to this rewarding ministry!

May God bless all our catechists as they

continue to share their faith with all our

families in the New Year!


Series after the break— UNSETTLED This series explores the universal call to holi-ness and the Church’s permanent vocations, matrimony, religious life, and the priesthood, through the stories of the lives of saints.

Information and Registration

coming in January! Mark it

down!

Homeless

City

Feb. 25-26

Steubenville Florida

We are working hard on preparing our teens for the

Sacrament of Confirmation! Our workshops are coming

fast. January 21st and February 11th from 9am

through the 5:30 Mass. There will be great teaching,

small group discussion, fun and games, and time to

grow together in our journey. Remember to invite your

sponsor. If they are unable to attend a parent or stand

in needs to attend. Do not forget to work on the forms

that need to be turned in.

Be on the lookout

for

Middle

School

fellow-

ship nights and re-

treat! Coming in

the Spring a time

to come together

for our Edge Min-

istry to support

community outside

the Faith For-

mation classroom.

February 10th.

All fathers and daughters

welcome, no age limit! Join

us for dinner and of course

dancing.

Adult Faith Formation

Looking Ahead! •January 8; Santo

Niño - January 154:30 pm •January 28 - The Four Signs Event with Allen Hunt

•February 18 - Suncoast Men’s Conference •February 28 - Multicultural Fest 6:30 pm •March 1 - Ash Wednesday •March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Fish Fry •April 7 Last Fish Fry 5-7 pm

Ask It Basket: “I’m a college student. How

can I stay connected with God?” Great question - and very profound. I encourage you

simply to talk to Him every day. It is also a great idea to read the Bible every day. Get involved in Church ... be a lector, a Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, Minister of Hospitality or join the music ministry. Fr. Stephan is also starting a new young adult group. It is a great way to meet new people and simply hang out. (If you have a question for the Ask It Basket, please contact [email protected]).

Deo Gratias: Please join me in thanking everyone

who has made this Advent and Christmas celebrations so absolutely amazing! May God bless you all. Also, thank you to all who shared bulletins from your travels. This week we received them from Australia, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Florida. May God bless you!

On a Lighter Note: On New Year's Eve, Daniel

was in no shape to drive, so he sensibly left his

van in the car park and walked home. As he was

wobbling along, he was stopped by a policeman. 'What

are you doing out here at four o'clock in the morning?'

asked the police of%icer. 'I'm on my way to a lecture,'

answered Roger. 'And who on earth, in their right mind,

is going to give a lecture at this time on New Year's Eve?'

enquired the constable sarcastically. 'My wife,' slurred

Daniel grimly.

Are you as smart as a 5th grader? What is a

diocese?

A A portion of the people of God which entrusted for pastoral care to a bishop. As a rule, it is limited to a definite territory so that it comprises all the faithful that inhabit that area.

He calls us to go out and to share the Good News. On our parish survey in September, a number of parishioners

suggested that more activities and services which we have tried to implement. For instance, we sent out mailers to every registered member of our parish inviting them to participate in our parish activities for Advent and Christmas. We also sent postcards to everyone who has moved into our area. We have been also inviting parishioners to join us in upcoming events. Lastly, we have been very active on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram. You can help by continuing to share the good news about how God is working at St. Paul! – Fr. Bill

as

Lower your Income Taxes and Support St.

Paul Catholic Church! Congress has brought back the “charitable IRA rollover.” Each year through the 31st of December, anyone

70½ or older can make a transfer tax-free from their IRAs to eligible charities

like St. Paul Catholic Church. Any amounts distributed DIRECTLY to St Paul by your IRA administrator will not be included in your taxable income and will count towards this year’s required minimum distribution. So for maximum tax savings, you might want to look at this opportunity before taking your 2016 required

minimum distribution. But remember: St Paul must receive your gift by December 31 2016, in order to qualify for the tax-free rollover. Interested? Please email Michael Maloney at [email protected] or call him at 813-961-3023. If you are too young to take advantage of this now, you can still name St. Paul as a beneficiary of your

IRA making use of your beneficiary designation form. After your lifetime, these assets will pass completely tax-free to St. Paul to ensure that our parish life and ministries continue to grow and flourish.

Living Faith: In today’s Gospel, the

shepherds left the Holy Family and

shared what they experienced with

others. How can you share how you experienced God

today with others?

First Aid: The church’s First Aid kit and

AED are located in the minister’s room. The Parish Center has a First Aid kit in the kitchen and the AED is located by the bathrooms.

The Family Center First Aid kit and AED are in the kitchen. If you use them, please let a staff person know so that they can be stocked and secured. It will also help us to ensure that our church is always a safe environment. Thank you.

Weekly Offertory Sunday, December 18, 2016

Offertory: $ 28,093 Online Giving: $ 4,850 Attendance: 3,434 Envelopes: 837

Thank you for your Generosity!

Eachnewyearbringsusnewopportunitiesto

knowHimmore,towalkinfaith,andgrowby

Hisgrace.AtSt.Paul’sweareblessedwith

manyministriesthatserveGodandhispeople.

MakeyourNewYearsresolutiononethatyou

cankeepandwillstrengthenyourrelationship

withGodandHisSon.

Community Building American Heritage Girls Brazilian Community Coffee and Donuts Council of Catholic Women Couples for Christ Diálogo Matrimonial en español Filipino Ministry Hispanic Community Indian Community Knights of Columbus Rosary Makers St. Paul Active Retired Seniors Special Events Vocations Welcoming Ministry Community Serving Alcoholics Anonymous Building Committee Citizenship Instruction Communications Ministry English as a Second Language Finance Council Front Desk Helping hands Legal Consultation Money Counters Partners in Prayer Pastoral Council Shawls of Hope Telephone Ministry Liturgical Ministries Altar Servers Arts & Environment Candle Ministry

Eucharistic Adoration Eucharistic Ministers to the Sick / Nursing Homes Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC) Funeral Ministry Lectors Music Ministry

Sacristans Ushers (Hospitality) Ministries of Mercy Bereavement Support Group Counseling Services Divorced & Separated Support Group Healing Ministry Human Trafficking (SOS) In the Wildflowers In Between Jobs Support Mental Health Support Migrant Farm Workers Natural Family Planning Panama Mission Respect Life St. Vincent de Paul Society Prayer Groups Amor de Jesus Prayer Group Cursillo en español Divine Mercy Cenacles La Familia Madres y Padres en

español Legion of Mary en español Nuestro Fiat Our Mother of Mercy Spiritual Motherhood for Priests Faith Formation Adult Continuing Education

Baptism Preparation Bible Study—English Bible Study en español Catholics Coming Home Faith Formation Catechists Marriage Preparation Preschool RCIA—Adults and Children Women of Grace Young Adults Jr. High Youth Ministry-Edge Senior High Youth Ministry-Rock

For more information, pick up a St. Paul Resource Directory in

the Narthex or office, go to www.stpaulchurch.com or call

Nancy at 961-3023.

May your year be blessed in the Lord.

Stewardship a Way of Life Page 11


Prayer for the Beginning of A New Year

Gracious and Loving God,

The old year has passed and a new year begun.

We thank you for Your active presence in our busy lives,

for the opportunities given, and for blessings received.

As we embrace a new year, Breathe freely through us

And renew our spirits With fresh resolve and purpose.

Give us the grace to be good stewards.

Of all that You have entrusted to us

And to serve You with Generous, compassionate

And loving hearts. Bless our days ahead.

Give us the courage to be faith-

ful. And show us how to

proclaim the Good News of Your Son, Jesus Christ

who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit,

One God forever and ever.

Amen.

Sign up for Online giving! It’s simple

and convenient. Go to: StPaulChurch.com

for more info on how to sign up.

Mass Intentions

Faith in Action: Mary is the perfect role model for living a stewardship lifestyle. She listened to God and said "yes" to His invitation to be the Holy Mother of His son. She also trusted in the God's providence on a daily basis. As we start a new year, take time every day to listen to how God is calling you; trust that He has a better plan for you than you could ever imagine.

Mass Intentions for the Week of January 1st Saturday, December 31, 2016

5:30pm Pilar Suarez + 7:30 pm Mr. and Mrs. Michael Biel + 11:30 pm St. Paul Parishioners (int.) Sunday, January 1, 2017 – Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God

7:30 am Marie Bobak (int.)

9:00 am William Tapella + 10:45 am Bertha Kissane + 12:30 pm Fr. Bill Swengros (int.) 2:00 pm Matilde Arboleda + 5:30 pm St. Paul Parishioners (int.) Monday, January 2, 2017 - Sts. Basil and Gregory

7:30 am Peter Rock + 12:15 pm James G. Geis + Tuesday, January 3, 2017 - The Most Holy Name of Jesus

7:30 am Evelyn Trepagnier + 12:15 pm Ashley Zimmerman + Wednesday, January 4, 2017 - St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

7:30 am Consecrated Life and Priestly Vocations (int.) 12:15 pm Martin Butler (int.) Thursday, January 5, 2017 - St. John Neumann

7:30 am Jim Kohl + 12:15 pm Tony Orozco (int.) Friday, January 6, 2017 - St. Andre Bessette

7:30 am Barbara A. Murphy + 12:15 pm Luis Rodriguez + 7:30 pm Anselinia Foglia + Saturday, January 7, 2017 – St. Raymond of Penyafort

8:30 am Hazel Townsend + 5:30 pm Mary Helen Fernandez + 7:30 pm St. Paul Parishioners (int.) Sunday, January 8, 2017 – Feast of the Epiphany of our Lord

7:30 am Marie Mannozzi +

9:00 am Bob Silah + 10:45 am Patrick Joseph Beatty + 12:30 pm Jose Quintas + 2:00 pm Trinidad Henao (int.) 5:30 pm Robert Bryan +

Readings for the Week of January 1st

Sunday: Nm 6:22-27 / Gal 4:4-7 / Lk 2:16-21

Monday: 1 Jn 2:22-28 / Jn 1:19-28

Tuesday: 1 Jn 2:29—3:6 / Jn 1:29-34 Wednesday: 1 Jn 3:7-10 / Jn 1:35-42

Thursday: 1 Jn 3:11-21 / Jn 1:43-51

Friday: 1 Jn 5:5-13 / Mk 1:7-11

Saturday: 1 Jn 5:14-21 / Jn 2:1-11

Sunday: Is 60:1-6 / Eph 3:2-3a, 5-6 / Mt 2:1-12

We want to celebrate! Are you or a

fellow parishioner celebrating a special milestone such as a birthday,

anniversary, graduation, or other special event? Are you expecting a child or preparing to move? Please call Louise at the parish office and let us know! We would like to remember you in our prayers and invite you to bring up the gifts at the Sunday Mass. Let your parish family be a part of your celebration!

Enchanting Rhine

Cruise

November 24-December

2, 2017

With Guest Speaker

Sister Theresa Betz

To obtain a brochure

please contact Sister Theresa at 961-3023;

[email protected]

Respecting All Life from Conception to Natural Death Happy New Year to our St. Paul Parish Family! The Respect Life Ministry is gearing up for another busy year. We meet the 4th Tuesday of each month and new members are always welcome! If you are interested in joining or learning more about our ministry,please contact Jackie at [email protected].

St. Vincent De Paul Pantry Hours Monday & Thursday 9 am -12 pm

Assistance Line: 813-264-3325

Yes, the new year is here--we don't want to be living in the streets and neither do our clients--please help us with your dollars so we can help them with their rent.

Outreach Ministries and Community Events

NOW ALSO ON WEDNESDAYS Legal Consultation Services Referral

service on Mondays and Wednesdays by appointment.

Please call 264-3307.

Counseling Services

offered by Dr. Pat

Berne. Please call to make an appointment

813-961-3023

Is your marriage in

trouble? Have the

holidays added additional stress to your relationship? Are

you thinking of calling it quits? Sadly, the first Monday of

the new year is known as “Divorce Day,” as there is

typically a 25% spike in divorce filings right after the

holidays. If this is you, consider another option. Instead

of splitting up, you can find help and hope to restore your

marriage and the love you once had. Retrouvaille is a

program to help heal and support married couples

experiencing difficulties, couples broken, lonely and

hurting. It’s also for couples who have separated or

divorced and want to try again. Our next program begins

February 10-12, 2017. For more information, visit

www.HelpOurMarriage.com, or call 813-906-7705. All

contacts and names held in strictest confidence.

Spiritual Mothers Prayer Group meets every Thursday after the 12:15 pm. Come and pray for all of our Priests!

St. Paul Panama Mission Please mark your calendars for our next meeting dates: Wednesday, January 4, 6 pm

Monday, January 23rd, 6 pm; Wednesday, February 1st, 6 pm. For more information,

contact us at [email protected]

Adult Faith Formation Sessions with Fr. Bob Mark your calendar with the following dates for the

upcoming Faith Formation Sessions January 3, January 17,

January 31, and February 7, 2017.

Please meet at the Church at 7 pm


SOS Human Trafficking Ministry will be holding its next meeting on Thursday, January 12, 2017 at 7 pm in the Parish Center Room C. For more information or how to get

involved please email [email protected]

St. Paul Active Retired Seniors—SPARS Please note that our January 4, 2017 luncheon are cancelled. We will start meeting up again on January 18,2017.

Wishing all of you a very blessed New Year 2017!Wishing all of you a very blessed New Year 2017!Wishing all of you a very blessed New Year 2017!Wishing all of you a very blessed New Year 2017!

An Evening for Your MarriageAn Evening for Your MarriageAn Evening for Your MarriageAn Evening for Your Marriage

Enjoy a night of fun, laughter, and home cooking while hearing a marriage story that should have been doomed to failure yet will warm your heart. Parishioners Philip and Melissa Mayer, will be sharing the story of their marriage from pre-marital dating

mishaps to the dark struggles of depression and near marital separation to their entrance into the Catholic Church and discovery of the true beauty and richness of what it means to live out this this high calling of Holy Matrimony. This event, which is being organized by Teams of Our Lady, a movement of marital spirituality active in our parish, will take place at St. Timothy (17512 Lakeshore Rd, Lutz) on Saturday evening January 7 following the 5:30 PM Mass. Dinner will be organized via potluck (everyone is asked to bring a dish) so please RSVP by January 5 so that we know how many tables to set up and, if needed, to request child care: [email protected] or 407-738-9057.

St. Paul Divorced and Separated Support Group Providing caring support for both women and men experiencing separation or divorce. Meets every Friday at 7:30 pm in the Parish Center C. For more information please contact Dom Henke at 813-205-1735.

st. paul catholic church and preschool

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