Saturday, January 22nd, is the 49th observance of the DAY OF PRAYER FOR LIFE. We have two groups from our parish, the youth and adults, participating in the March for Life in Washington, D.C. We pray for safe travel and for God’s blessings on all Pro Life efforts.

Pope Francis has named the Third Sunday of Ordinary Time as Word of God Sunday. Of course God’s Word has always had a special significance in the life of Christian people. In history, however, it was the Protestant traditions that were recognized as giving “The Word” more priority. Catholics have come a long way with bible study groups and an overall appreciation of God’s Word in the bible. To highlight the treasure of the bible, we will offer a blessing of your bibles at our Masses this weekend. You are invited to bring your bible along with you to Mass for this blessing. Those joining us through live stream at home will be invited to hold their bible during the blessings.

This bulletin has information for student registration for our Preschool and Kindergarten. (See link below) Sending your children to our Catholic Elementary School is a valuable gift. Granted, Catholic Schools involve tuition, but there is assistance available. This bulletin has an announcement: SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE.

One unified online application is available at TTEF-STL.org for all scholarships funded by the Today and Tomorrow Educational Foundation (TTEF), the Roman Catholic Foundation of Eastern Missouri, and the Office of Catholic Education and Formation.

Just a reminder about the value of supporting your parish, and all special collections, through electronic giving called Faith Direct. Electronic giving is convenient for many people, allowing use of your credit card and support of your parish even when you’re away. Research indicates many people no longer wish to carry cash or write checks, but primarily use credit or debit cards. Research also shows even loyal parish contributors do miss many Sundays or special collections when away from the parish. So you can see the benefit of a parish using Faith Direct. Go to faithdirect.net and use our parish code MO843 to sign up for electronic giving.

The Strategic Planning Initiative of the Archdiocese called ALL THINGS NEW officially begins Tuesday, January 25th, but will kick-off next weekend. We’ll have a letter from the Archbishop to be read in all the parishes and a special prayer for the initiative. The goal is not only the best use of buildings and staff for the future, but a renewal of the Catholic Church in St. Louis. Every Catholic will eventually be offered a voice by completing a survey. We trust God’s Word from Revelation 21: 5…”Behold, I make all things new!”

God bless you!