A Note From Father Eickhoff
November 17, 2024
What was the biggest and largest, noteworthy event to occur this month?
The election, no.
The ordination of an Auxiliary Bishop for our diocese, no.
Rather it was the return of whole donuts to Hospitality Sunday this past weekend. When the announcement was made at the end of Masses on Sunday, November 10th that whole donuts were available there was a cheer throughout the church. A great many people went down to the hall to enjoy donuts and coffee or juice and to spend some time chatting with friends. It was good to see. The full-size donuts are back for good. And, the next time we have Hospitality Sunday there will be more chocolate donuts.
Next, I want to point out some upcoming events here at St. Anne Parish especially regarding the upcoming Season of Advent.
First off, many people strive to make a good confession during the Season of Advent as part of their spiritual preparations for celebrating Christmas. Confessions are heard every Wednesday evening between 7pm and 8pm and every Saturday afternoon between 3.30pm and 4.30pm. There will also be a special Advent Parish Confession service in which a large number of priests will be available to hear confessions on Sunday, December 8th beginning at 4pm.
Second, this Advent St. Anne Parish will hold Sunday Vespers at 6pm every Sunday during the Season of Advent. At Sunday Vespers the Blessed Sacrament will be exposed for adoration; evening prayer will be prayed in common (booklets will be provided); and there will be time for silent prayer. Coming to Vespers once, twice, or all four Sundays (as your schedule allows) is a great way to spiritually prepare for Christmas.
Third, the Thanksgiving Day Mass will be held at 9.30am. Please remember that a collection will be taken up that in our tradition here at St. Anne Parish will be given entirely to the St. Vincent de Paul Society chapter based in our parish for the support of those in need.
Finally, St. Anne Parish will host a special Christmas concert featuring Sarah Kroger on Saturday evening, December 14th. Sarah Kroger is a GMA Dove Award – nominated artist, songwriter, and worship leader. More details about the concert will be made available soon.
Yours in Christ,
Fr. Stephen Eickhoff
Pastor