Catechetical Ministry

Classes Resume Sunday, 1/2 and Tuesday 1/4

2010-12-23T13:41:00.000-08:00

Catechetical Classes resume for Preschool on Sunday, January 2.

Classes resume for grades 1-8 on Tuesday, January 4. Merry Christmas!

Advent Family Night

2010-11-05T10:28:00.000-07:00

We have another evening of Whole-Community Catechesis coming up on Tuesday, November 30, 6:30-8:30pm.

Come get in the spirit of Advent! The entire parish is welcome. We will learn about Advent, it's relationship to Christmas and our Liturical Year. We will make a keepsake ornament to adorm our trees. We will sing, clap, pray, and praise!

This event is part of Catechetical Ministry and all Catechetical students and their families are expected to attend. No Drop offs. If you need childcare for those under 3, please let me know by Nov. 15 so I can provide adequate staffing.

Family Night October 26, 6:30pm

2010-10-15T12:38:00.000-07:00

Celebrating the lives of the Saints..

and our own “Call to Holiness”

When: Tuesday, October 26, 6:30-8:30pm
Where: Becket Hall

We will begin with food and hospitality (something St. Thomas is very good at!) Next we will explore the lives of a few saints, discuss the theology behind the Communion of Saints, the feasts of All-Saints Day and All-Souls Day, the Hispanic customs of Dia de los Muertos. We will break into age groups for some in-depth discussion and hands-on activities, then rejoin and finish the evening with prayer.

RSVP: to Sherry at 364-8840 or cm@stcsj.org

Finally, you are invited to bring a memento/photo of your deceased loved ones. We will be creating an altar to remember those who have gone before us. It will remain up through Nov. 2, the Feast of All Souls. Please put your name on the item, so we can be sure it gets returned to you.

Upcoming Dates in Catechetical Ministry..

2010-08-25T10:02:00.000-07:00

September 21, 7pm (Tuesday): Mandatory All Parent/All Catechist Meeting. Come meet your child’s catechist and get an overview of our program this year. This meeting is for parents only, please contact Sherry if you need childcare. If you are going to miss the meeting, you may read the talking points here:

https://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hMTc0ODcxNzAtZGVkNC00NzFhLThkZTAtZWFjODJkYjBmMzUz&hl=en&authkey=CIi0v_EB

September 26, (Sunday): Early childhood classes begin for preschoolers during the 9am Mass.

September 28, (Tuesday): First day of classes.

Grades 1-4 meet at 4-5:15pm.

Grades 5-8 meet at 7-8:15pm.

October 3, Sunday, 12-4pm. Parish Fall Festival
click here for flyer:

https://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B6e2e4Z7SAORMTQyYjJkODUtYTlhNS00MDMyLWJiMDEtNDcwOTI3MWQzZWVl&hl=en

Registration for fall Catechetical classes

2010-08-17T12:31:00.000-07:00

Faith in God is the most important thing you can nurture in your child. Showing our child(ren) that God loves them unconditionally helps to build healthy, emotionally stable, well-grounded individuals. Together as the catholic faith community of St. Thomas, we can show our children that unconditional love God has for all of us. Together, we can teach our children how we pray, what we believe, and how we live our lives.

Registration for Catechetical and Sacrament preparation classes will take place after all masses the weekend of August 28-29, 2010. Registration materials will be mailed out to all families who were previously enrolled. If you are new to St. Thomas, you may pick up materials in the office after August 15.

Classes are held from late September through mid-May for the following age groups:

Preschool, ages 3-6: Sundays mornings during the 9am mass.
Grades 1-4: Tuesdays, 4-5:15pm.
Grades 5-8: Tuesdays, 7-8:15pm.
Children seeking the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist need to complete two years of preparation.
Grade 9: Confirmation preparation is also a two year process. Sundays, 10-11:15am January-May

For more information contact Sherry Scott, catechetical coordinator, at (408) 364-8840 or cm@stcsj.org.

Have a great Summer!

2010-08-04T12:34:00.000-07:00

"God, our Father, protect us as we travel and explore this summer. Keep our minds and our bodies healthy as we relax and rejuvenate after a busy school year. Help us to always walk as disciples of your Son, Jesus, whether at work or at play. Amen"

Catechetical Sunday, September 19

2010-08-04T09:58:00.001-07:00

This year's theme is Matrimony, Sacrament of Enduring Love. We will be commissioning our catechists at the 9am mass. We need a few more catechists for our Early Childhood program and as ministers of Children's Liturgy of the Word. The commitment is once per month. Training and support are provided. If you feel called to serve; to share your faith with the next generation, please contact Sherry at cm@stcsj.org

Fall Festival

2010-08-03T08:08:00.000-07:00

This year's fall festival is tentatively set for Sunday, October 3, 12-4pm. We will have our giant slide return along with all our great foods from last year, games, prizes, and raffle. Save the date! We are looking for volunteers to help with the planning and execution of this parish-wide event. Please contact Sherry to volunteer at cm@stcsj.org

Vacation Bible Camp

2010-06-03T10:23:00.000-07:00

Twenty-two kids from St.Thomas are going on a SonQuest! We will transform St. Thomas and Sacred Heart Parishes into a tropical rainforest for our weeklong camp. Lively music, bible stories, scripture memory verses, lots of fun games, crafts, yummy snacks and lunch await us as we go on a quest for Jesus. Nine teen counselors and sixteen adults from St. Thomas will assist them on their journey. Please keep us all in your prayers through Sunday, June 20. Camp runs from Monday-Friday, June 14-18 with a closing Mass at Sacred Heart on Sunday, June 20 at 5pm.

2010-05-15T21:50:00.000-07:00

Our Fruits of the Spirit Potluck Dinner is next Saturday evening, May 23 after the 5:15pm mass. Free tickets are available after all masses. (the tickets help us with headcount and seating) We will be having a talent show and a sing-a-long. If you or your families are interested in having an act in the talent show, please contact, Sherry at sscott@dsj.org.

2010-05-15T21:47:00.001-07:00

May is the month of Mary. We crowned Mary last weekend and presented flowers in her honor. Please continue to bring flowers to mass each weekend during May to keep the arrangements looking fresh throughout the month. This helps us to keep our flower budget down and also it brings a little bit of our homes (and gardens) into the church. You may add your flowers, just before each mass, to the vases at the foot of the statue of Mary. (Remember to shake the flowers upside down, to keep bugs out of the church!)

Fr. Hao going to Holy Family Parish

2010-05-15T21:46:00.000-07:00

Fr. Hao announced last weekend that he has been assigned to Holy Family Parish starting on July 1, 2010. Fr. Mark Catalano will be coming on July 1 to be our new pastor. We have had a wonderful five years with Fr. Hao, and we will unwillingly let him go to his new assignment. Stay tuned for details on a reception to bid him farewell.

Do you have what it takes to be a catechist?

2010-05-15T21:45:00.000-07:00

We are always in need of new catechists. Please consider sharing your faith next year with the children and teens of our parish. You only need faith in Jesus and a willing heart. Training and support, (and a co-catechist) will be provided for you. Can you answer, "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening"?

2010-05-15T21:41:00.000-07:00

Our catechetical program cannot run without the dedication of many faithful catechists. I am truly honored and proud to work with so many wonderful and talented people. Please keep them in your prayers over the summer, that they be refreshed and renewed to continue again in their service in the fall.

I am most grateful to:
Early Childhood:
Nancy Sisneros, Coordinator
Delia Besio, Patricia Soraire

Grade 1:
Eva Rust, Lorene Hughes

Grade 2:
Vicki Schwoob

Grade 3/4:
Pat Arand, Kim Hanrahan

Grade 5:
Marie Beno, Pat Miller

Grade 6:
Sandra Tagatac, Kathy Quick, Kathy Foos

Grade 7:
Judy Machado, Leticia Tapia

Confirmation:
Kathy Small, Kathy Quick

One-to-one Catechesis:
Lucy Chai, Dolores Procaccio

May Crowning

2010-04-23T12:34:00.000-07:00

This year, on Mother’s Day (May 9), we will have a procession and ceremony to honor Mary as the Mother of God This will take place at the beginning of the 9am mass. If you would like to help with or participate in this ceremony, please contact Sherry in the parish office at 364-8840, or sscott@dsj.org.

All children in the parish (male and female) will be invited to participate. On that day, all are invited to bring flowers from your gardens to place in special vases at the foot of Mary’s statue. Children are asked to wear their Easter or First Communion clothes.

Spring Break for Public Schools

2010-04-09T17:33:00.000-07:00

Catechetical classes will not meet this Tuesday, April 13. We will resume class on Tuesday April 20.

There is no Early Childhood class or Confirmation class this weekend, April 11. The Early Childhood Program and Confirmation class will resume on Sunday, April 18.

Youth Choir

2010-04-09T16:32:00.000-07:00

The next Youth mass is May 2 at 11am. This is also First Communion Day for several of our young candidates. Choir rehearsals for this liturgy will be Tuesdays, April 20 and April 27 from 5:30-6:30pm. All youth of the parish ages 7-18 are invited to join us. Questions? Contact Pat Miller, mscoolmusic@gmail.com or Sherry Scott at sscott@dsj.org.

“Make a joyful noise unto the Lord!”

Alleluia! He is risen!

2010-04-09T14:41:00.001-07:00

Did you know that the early Christians greeted one another with this phrase during the Easter season?

"Alleluia! He is risen."

To which one would reply,"He is truly risen." or "He is risen indeed."

Now that Easter Sunday is over, how can we continue to celebrate the resurrection throughout these 50 days? Some ideas include receiving the Eucharist more often, using the Easter greeting above with one another, making hot cross buns or paschal bread for the family, performing random acts of kindness to a stranger.

Vacation Bible Camp

2010-04-09T14:37:00.000-07:00

We are busy making decorations for this summer's Vacation Bible Camp. The theme is SONQuest Rainforest and so we are making snakes, leopards, monkeys, and lots of other neat things found in the tropical rain forest. If you would like to come by and help us, we are working on Tuesdays at 4-5pm and also from 7-8pm. Our remaining decorating dates are: April 20, 27 and May 4 and 11. Teens can get service hour credit for helping out! If you would prefer to take things home to work on, please make arrangements with Sherry at 364-8840 or sscott@dsj.org.

Easter Egg Hunt

2010-04-09T14:35:00.000-07:00

Thank you! To the many anonymous donors of candy and plastic eggs for our Easter Egg Hunt last week. Praise be to God that the weather held, and the rain came after the eggs were found! This event would not have been possible with the help of: Tim Scott, Robert Scott, Ellen Scott, Madisen Lindsey, Rachel Moore, Sara Lennon, Katie DiLeo, Amanda Lavond, Jose Tapia, Augustin Tapia, Alberto Tapia, Kim Hanrahan, Isabelle Defrenne, Jackson Lennon, Luisa Lennon, and Maria Panelli.

Parish Reconciliation Service

2010-03-19T20:37:00.000-07:00

Thursday, March 25, 7pm. Parents, please bring your children and model the regular reception of this wonderful, healing sacrament. All Children who have made their First Reconciliation are encouraged to attend.

Monthly Food and Clothing Drive

2010-03-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

This weekend, March 20-21, is our Monthly Food and Clothing drive. Please remember to bring your items and place them at the foot of the altar during the Offeratory.

Emergency Housing Consortium is looking for new sheets (especially twin size) for four families who recently lost their homes due to fire. Please consider helping our neighbors in need.

Finally, Annette Hancock, from Emergency Housing Consortium, collected four fleece blankets that were made by CM. She also visited our 4pm classes on Tuesday to tell us more about EHC and what she does there. Here's a photo of the blankets made by our students.

Easter Egg Hunt

2010-03-19T20:18:00.000-07:00

Bring the kids and join us for our annual Easter Egg Hunt immediately following the 9am mass on Easter Sunday. Participants will gather in Becket Hall to await the start of the hunt. Staggered start time with younger participants starting first.

Please join us for mass at 9am, April 4, our children's choir will lead us in song.

Helpers are needed: We will be stuffing plastic eggs on Tuesday, March 30 during the 4pm and 7pm class times.

Also, helpers are needed the morning of the event to hide eggs and monitor the hunt. Teens are especially invited to help. Contact Sherry at cm@stcsj.org.

St. Patrick's Celebration

2010-02-26T16:02:00.000-08:00

Join us as we celebrate the patron saint of Ireland. Tickets are on sale after all masses. Purchase early, seating is limited to 125. A small number of take out orders will be available.

When: Saturday, March 13, 6:30pm

Where: Becket Hall

Tickets: $15/adults, $6 child under 12

Dinner provided by our Knights of Columbus and includes mouth-watering corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, vegetables, soda bread and an ice cream bar.

Live music and Irish dancers!

This is a fundraiser to benefit Catechetical Ministry. In addition, the seminarians of our diocese will be our guests for the evening. Let's give them a hearty St. Thomas welcome and also encourage them in their vocation of service to the local church.

Vacation Bible Camp

2010-02-26T15:30:00.000-08:00

We invite you to go on an adventure with us to SonQuest Rain Forest where we will "Follow Jesus on a life-changing adventure!"

Register online at www.sacredheartsaratoga.org
Hurry! Registration closes April 3!

When: M-F, June 14-18, 2010

Time: 8:45am-12noon

Or: 8:45am-3:00pm (full day option)

Where: Sacred Heart Parish

Cost: $65 half day

Or: $110 full day (includes catered lunch)

Scholarships available for St. Thomas families

Co-Sponsored by: St. Thomas and Sacred Heart Parishes

We need Adult and Teen (grades 7-12) volunteers to help.

Questions? want to volunteer?

Please contact Sherry at (408)364-8840 or sscott@dsj.org

"It's the most fun week of the summer," quote from a satisfied camper.

Classes resume this Sunday/Tuesday

2010-02-20T10:19:00.001-08:00

Confirmation and Early Childhood classes resume tomorrow, Sunday, Feb 21.

CM classes for grades 1-7 resume on Tuesday, February 23.

There is Youth Choir practice in the church on Tuesday from 5:30-6:30.

Volunteers are needed to burn and label CD's for this years Vacation Bible Camp this Tuesday, Feb.23 from 4-5pm and from 7-8pm.

Lenten Outreach

2010-02-19T13:45:00.001-08:00

This Lent, Catechetical Ministry will be collecting food items for our local families. Each week, please help your child to bring the in requested items. Spend some time talking with your child about the fact that many people go to bed hungry each night. Pray together that the food you offer along with many others can make a difference in the lives of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

1. Week of February 21 and 23: Bring in Breakfast items. (box cereal, oatmeal, cream of wheat..)

2.Week of February 28 and March 2: Bring in lunch items. (cans of soup, box of crackers, peanut butter, cans of fruit...)

3.Week of March 7 and 9: Bring in dinner items (bag of rice, bags or cans on beans, meal in a can, stews...)

4.Week of March 14 and 16: Bring in staples. (TP, tissues, flour, sugar, cake mixes...)

5.Week of March 21 and 23: Any of the above.

Don't forget to pray!

Monthly Food and Clothing Drive, February 20-21

2010-02-19T13:42:00.000-08:00

This weekend is our monthly food and clothing drive. Please bring gently used clothing (especially BLANKETS) and non-perishable food items (no glass containers) to mass this weekend. Bring your items forward during Offeratory.

No classes on Sunday or Tuesday, Feb 14 and 16

2010-02-12T18:45:00.000-08:00

Just a friendly reminder that we do not have Early Childhood classes, confirmation or Children's Liturgy this Sunday. Also, there are no CM classes on Tuesday, Feb. 16.

Enjoy your break from school and Happy Valentine's Day!

Lenten Soup Supper and Stations of the Cross

2010-02-12T13:32:00.000-08:00

Our Lenten Soup Supper and Stations of the Cross is coming up on Friday, February 26, from 6:30-8:30pm.

This is part of Catechetical Ministry and I expect all families to participate. Please email to let me know if you can bring a "meatless" soup or bread to share.

Even if you cannot bring anything, I really want all children in CM to attend with their parents.

The Stations of the Cross will be lead by our students.

Station 1: Pontius Pilate- Michael Machado
Station 2: Barabbus- open
Station 3: King Herod-Jason Panelli
Station 4: Mary, Mother of Jesus-Cassandra Moreno
Station 5: Simon of Cyrene-Jeremy Panelli
Station 6: Veronica-Sara Machado
Station 7: Caiaphas-Daniel Machado
Station 8: a Woman of Jerusalem-open
Station 9: Longinus, a soldier-Thomas DiLeo
Station 10: Thief who was not sorry-open
Station 11: Dismas, the sorry thief-Augustin Tapia
Station 12: Mary Magdalene-Megan Lavond
Station 13: Salome-Ally Dagdagan
Station 14: Nicodemas-Jackson Lennon

Most students have received their scripts. If you have not received your script, let me know and I will email it to you. Please arrive by 6pm the day of so we can go over your speaking part and set you up with a costume/prop. If your plans change and you cannot commit to being in the stations, please let me know in advance so I can reassign your part. sscott@dsj.org

If you have an idea for a costume/prop for them, if you have something at home, like a garland, play sword, crown, veil, cloth, etc. Let me know, it makes it fun when the kids take ownership for their costume/prop. Just one simple item that represents the character is all that is needed. I can get things if you draw a complete blank.

Ash Wednesday, Lent Begins

2010-02-12T12:18:00.000-08:00

The 40 days of Lent begin next week with the celebration of Ash Wednesday, February 17. Masses are at 8:30am and 7pm. Please bring your children to mass. Lent is a very special time of year, a time to be reflective, and to take inventory of our spiritual lives. We can model this for even our youngest children.

What are the three things that Catholics do during Lent?

1. We pray. We recognize our need for God in our lives, and we try to be more attentive to putting God first on a daily basis. Daily Mass, Prayer services, praying the rosary as a family, Lexio Divina (using scripture as a starting point to prayer) are just some of the ways we can pray during Lent. Taking a walk, observing the spring emerging around us can give us time to be with our Creator. Quiet time is wonderful time to spend with God. No words are needed. Quiet time is one of the best things we can give to our children in this fast-paced, electronic media driven world. We, and our children, need to seek a balance and regular time away from all that. Consider turning off the TV, computer and other noise makers in your home. Seek some quiet and solitude for yourselves and for your children. See you can let God in to rejuvenate you, like the fresh buds in the spring.

1. We fast. We sharpen our senses and our appreciation for things when we show restraint. Giving up a particular food, the more we like the particular food, the more we get to practice self-control. Self-control and moderation are two key aspects of living a balanced and peaceful life. Being able to make do with what you have, to have appreciation for what is around you, and not always looking at what others have is the key to the happiness God wants for us. Practicing our faith, means practicing being prudent, living with less, postponing our gratification. Do we really need it all NOW! What about NOW? Will it ever be enough? What is it that truly makes us happy? For me and for Catholic Christians, it is a relationship with God. And so, to remind ourselves of that, we fast.

Fasting can also be about giving up things which keep us from God. One of my favorites that a friend once told me is that her adolescents were giving up "put-downs" for Lent. In case you're not sure what that means, they were going to stop putting each other down with unkind remarks.

3. We give alms. We can't show our love for God by buying or making God a birthday present. But we can show God our love by loving his children. Almsgiving is all about doing what Jesus would do if He were still walking on this earth. As disciples of Jesus, we continue his work. We do it out of gratitude and also because of our discipleship, we have been sent. There are oh so many ways that we can do this that we may feel overwhelmed. One of the biggest ways we do this as a parish community at St. Thomas is through the monthly food and clothing drive.

Social Justice-Kairos Ministry

2010-02-12T12:13:00.000-08:00

This weekend some of our St. Thomas parishioners will be reaching out to the imprisoned as part of the Kairos ministry. Our 3rd/4th and 6th graders made cut-out hands with inspiring messages to go into the prison this weekend. Please remember these women who will be ministered to this weekend as well as for the team of volunteers.

Note from Nidia Martinez, a volunteer from St. Thomas

Hello Everyone, this is a gentle reminder for those who will be praying for the Residents of FCI Dublin Prison and for the outside team of 42 ladies. Kairos weekend will start tomorrow Friday 12th at 5:00 pm and will finish at 5:00 pm on Monday 15th.

May God Blessed you all.

Love,
Nidia

Volunteers needed!!

2010-01-30T20:43:00.000-08:00

Can you help with any of the following projects at St. Thomas? if so, please email Sherry at sscott@dsj.org

"No-Sew" Blankets, outreach project for EHC

A few of the CM classes are going to make "no-sew blankets" for Emergency Housing Consortium. I need a few parents to stay during the 4 and 7pm class times This week and next to prep and cut fleece. Also, if any parents would like to donate fleece (Hancock fabrics has loads of it) one blanket takes 2 yards each of 2 coordinating colors of fleece (usually one solid and one print) Stop by and take a look when you drop off on Tuesday!

Lenten Soup Supper and Stations of the Cross

Friday, Feb. 26, 6-8pm. I am looking for folks to help to organize this event. It starts with a potluck soup and bread dinner followed by the students leading us in Stations of the Cross. We have a planning meeting set for Tuesday, Feb. 9 at 7:15pm in Becket Hall.

St. Patrick's Celebration

Saturday, March 13, 6:15-9:30pm. First planning meeting is Tuesday, Feb. 16. 7:15pm in Becket Hall. We need folks to organize volunteers to serve food and drink, coordinate with our Irish Dance troup, sell tickets and decorate the hall. If you can help, please email me. Many hands make light work!

Vacation Bible Camp

We will be teaming up with our neighbor parish, Sacred Heart to put on SonQuest Rainforest the week of June 14-18. This event takes months of planning. Our task for February is to duplicate and label all of the music CDs that will be given out to campers when they register. This event is perfect for teens or the young at heart. A CD burning and labeling party will be held at St. Thomas on Tuesday, Feb. 23 during the 4 and 7pm class times.

2010-01-12T11:24:00.000-08:00

Monthly Food & Clothing Drive, this weekend
Jan 16 & 17.

1) Non-perishable food need for our families in need. Please do not bring food with expired labels.

2) Clothing will be donated to Sacred Heart Community Services

3) Toiletries, NEW SOCKS – High Demand!, underwear, blankets, etc. will be donated to Emergency Housing Corsortium.

Thank you for your continued support of our brothers and sisters in need!

Eucharistic Adoration and Benediction

2010-01-10T13:15:00.000-08:00

This Tuesday, January 12, we will begin catechetical classes with Eucharistic Adoration and Benediction.

Parents are encouraged to stay and pray with us in the church. Drop your students off in your child's classroom (attendance will be taken) then proceed to the church. You child will gather with their class and process in to church with their catechist.

Do you know what this is a photo of? It is a monstrance. It is used to display the Blessed Sacrament (consecrated host) for public viewing and adoration. (Think: demonstrate, it means to show)

There are many forms of prayer. We hope to introduce your child to many of them this year. As we pray and meditate on the Blessed Sacrament, we rejoice in Jesus' gift of himself to us. The Emmanuel that we just finished celebrating at Christmas is ever present to us in the Eucharist. Alleluia!

2010-01-08T14:40:00.000-08:00

Youth Choir
St. Thomas of Canterbury
Rehearsal Schedule
(all rehearsals are on Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30pm in the church-all are welcome)

January 26
February 2
Mass: February 7, 11am

February 23
March 2
Mass: March 7, 11am

March 23
March 30
Mass: April 4, 9:00am!!

April 20
April 27
Mass: May 2, 11am

2009-12-29T11:04:00.000-08:00

Thank you.. to all who helped to put on our Children’s Choir and Pageant this year!

Choir members were

Isabelle, Victoria, Iris, Zade, Cydney, Vanessa, Isabelle, Stevie, Madisen.

Thank you to our musicians, Xander Sporck, Jose Tapia, Zaira Lobo, and Patricia Miller.

Thank you to all the children and parents who participated in the pageant, shuttling children to rehearsals, and helping with costumes and keeping order: Charlee Elerath, Kathy Quick and Kim Hanrahan.

Angels: Iris, Stevie, Cydney, Vanessa, Isabelle, Isabelle, Antonella.

Shepherds: Chase, Hugo, Zade and Ulyesses.
Angel of the Lord: Victoria.
Joseph: Jordan.
Mary: Megan.
Seamstress: NancyLindsey.

2009-12-29T10:02:00.000-08:00

Come Celebrate the Feast of
St. Thomas of Canterbury

Please join us for mass at 7pm on tonight Tuesday, December 29 to celebrate the patron saint of our parish, St. Thomas Becket (aka St. Thomas of Canterbury). After mass, we will have popcorn and hot drinks. We will watch a short video and Fr. Hao will lead us in a discussion of the life of this brave saint. This event is appropriate for adults and children alike so bring your families.

All children are invited to bring one thing they received for Christmas to "Show and Tell".

No RSVP necessary, but call Sherry if you wish to help with food or drink for this event. (408) 364-8840 or sscott@dsj.org

2009-12-16T16:19:00.000-08:00

Monthly Food and Clothing Drive is this Sunday, December 20. Please bring your items and present them during the offeratory at any mass this weekend. Emergency Housing Consortium is still in great need of blankets.

Giving Tree gifts due this Friday, December 18. Please bring your giving tree gifts to the parish office by Friday, 2pm. Every ornament was taken from the tree. What a testament to the generosity of our faith community!

As part of our preparations for the celebration of Jesus' birth, we can remember that even if we don't have all of the fancy cars and clothes as our neighbors, there is always someone who has less that we. Let us put the faith that we celebrate each week at mass into practice by imitating Jesus' care and concern for others. We believe that we are the Body of Christ in the world, let's show that in our actions.

2009-12-15T10:45:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to the following parishioners who received their First Reconciliation this past Saturday!

Cynthia, Isabelle, Cydney, Vanessa, Philip, Kiele, Stevie, Gabby, and Haley.

Please continue to pray for them as they now turn their attention toward preparing for First Holy Communion.

2009-12-15T10:43:00.000-08:00

Confirmation classes for our five candidates for confirmation in May of 2010 will begin on Sunday, January 10, 2010 at 10-11:15am in the Thomas room. Please pray for Amanda Lavond, Katie DiLeo, Rachel Moore, Samantha Supan, and Sara Lennon as well as their catechists, Kathy Small and Kathy Quick as they begin their immediate preparation for confirmation.

2009-12-15T10:40:00.001-08:00

Catechetical Ministry

There will be no CM classes on Tuesday, December 22 and Tuesday, December 29. Classes resume on Tuesday, January 5, 2010.

There will be no preschool classes or Children's Liturgy of the Word on Sunday, December 27 and January 3. Preschool and Children' Liturgy will resume on Sunday, January 10, 2010.

2009-12-15T10:37:00.000-08:00

Youth Choir

Please note: We've added another rehearsal and extended the times!

Two remaining rehearsals are:
Monday, December 21, 1-2:30pm and
Tuesday, 5:30-7:00pm.
All children ages 7-18 are welcome to join us. Questions? Sherry Scott sscott@dsj.org

Christmas Eve Gospel Dramatization

Final rehearsal for the Christmas Eve pageant is Tuesday, Decmber 22, 5:30-7pm in the church. Please note that we have extended the time 1/2 hour.

Upcoming rehearsals

2009-12-12T20:44:00.000-08:00

The reconciliation service this morning was prayerful and also joyful. Congratulations to our nine students who received the sacrament for the very first time. It was warm and friendly in the church this morning in stark contrast to the gloomy clouds and pouring rain outside.

I am emailing to invite all of our parish children to participate in the Christmas Eve Mass at 5pm. We would like to have a large choir and also a pageant full of angels, shepherds, Mary and Joseph. We also need our teens to sign up to be readers. If you are interested, please contact me.

Choir and pageant practice is this Tuesday, December 15 and next Tuesday, December 22 from 5:30-6:30pm.

The 15th is the last day of CM class for 2009. We will reconvene on January 5, 2010.

2009-12-10T09:24:00.000-08:00

Saturday, December 12, 9:30am

is our Parish Reconciliation Service

This is also the first reconciliation for nine of our young parishioners: Cynthia, Isabelle, Cydney, Vanessa, Philip, Kiele, Stevie, Gabby, and Haley.

We are talking in class alot about preparing for the celebration of the birth of Jesus. The students repeatedly mention cleaning up their rooms and cleaning the house in preparation for Christmas.

One of the best ways to prepare our hearts is to celebrate the sacrament of Reconciliation. It's sort of like a house cleaning of our souls, or taking a spiritual inventory. It can help us to recognize those areas in our lives where we need to do something better.. or maybe stop doing something that is harmful to ourselves or others.

I strongly encourage every family to take advantage of this opportunity on Saturday. In addtition, it is very important for us to show our support and congratulate our nine students. Our older students can model, by their example, that regular celebration of the sacrament of Reconciliation is key to a healthy spiritual life.

One of the biggest draws of the Catholic faith, in my opinion, is the belief in a merciful God. What a wonderful thing we celebrate this Saturday! Come and be a part of it.

2009-12-10T09:23:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, Dec. 8 is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. This is the day when we celebrate that Mary was conceived without original sin. We will celebrate with mass at 4pm and again at 7pm. This is a holy day of obligation. Parents may pick up their students from the classrooms after mass. If you have students attending at both 4pm and 7pm, the entire family need only attend one of the masses.

Did you know that if tomorrow is the celebration of Mary's conception, then her birthday is celebrated on September 8? Many Catholics confuse the Feast of the Immaculate Conception with the Annunciation. The Annunciation is when the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would bear God's son. The Annunciation is celebrated on March 24. The birth of Jesus is December 25. (Just a little Catholic trivia for you.)

2009-11-23T16:12:00.000-08:00

Youth Choir Rehearsals this month:
Tuesdays, December 1, 8, 15 and 22, 5:30-6:30pm in the church.
All children ages 7-18 are welcome to join us. Questions? Sherry Scott sscott@dsj.org.
---------------------------------------------
Christmas Eve Gospel Dramatization

Any students interested in being part of the Christmas Eve Pageant, please come to a rehearsal on December 8, 5:30-6:30pm in the church. Parts will be given out at that time for the pageant. There will be a dress rehearsal on Dec 22, 5:30-6:30pm. You may also contact Sherry at sscott@dsj.org

Coming Up in December...

2009-11-23T15:28:00.000-08:00

Giving Tree Parish Outreach Program
Runs from Nov 28 to Dec 18
Choose an ornament from the tree in the church.
Buy a gift for one of our families in need.
Return it to the tree wrapped with ornament by the due date.
Questions? Contact Sherry sscott@dsj.org

Parent’s Night Out
Friday, Dec 4, 6-9pm
Our treat to you. Drop your child off in Becket Hall for an evening of games and movie, while you shop, wrap or otherwise prepare for the season. Donations gratefully accepted.
A service to CM families, benefiting CM families. Please RSVP to Sherry by Dec 2 so we can plan for this event. sscott@dsj.org

Advent Morning of Prayer
(Adults/Teens only)
Saturday, Dec 5, 9-11:30am

Youth Mass (with choir)
Sunday, Dec 6, 11am

Nativity Display
Saturday and Sunday, December 5-6, after all masses
Come and see the wide variety of nativity displays from our parishioners. If you have a Nativity Scene which you would like to show during our display, please contact Carol Reiss or call the parish office, 378-1595.

Feast of the Immaculate Conception
Tuesday, Dec 8, masses at 4pm and 7pm
(students are dropped off for class as usual, parents are encouraged to stay for mass)

Parish Reconciliation/
First Reconciliation Service
All CM families are encouraged to attend
Saturday, Dec 12, 9:30am

Youth Ministry Christmas Caroling
Friday, Dec 18, time TBD
All ages are welcome to come caroling with our teens. We will also come to your house if you live nearby and give us your address.

2009-11-23T15:18:00.000-08:00

Need a break?

Want to find time to pray in your busy workweek?

Check out these two websites from Loyola Press. (Loyola Press is the publisher of our catechetical textbook series.)

"Finding God" daily 3 minute retreat

http://www.loyolapress.com/3-minute-retreats-daily-online-prayer.htm

Sunday Connection (This site gives you the readings for Sunday mass. It helps you to prepare for full, conscious and active participation during the Liturgy.)

http://www.loyolapress.com/sunday-connection.htm

Advent Family Workshop Photos

2009-11-23T14:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, we praised Jesus in song as we celebrated the feast of Christ the King. We shared a meal together and we made a countdown to Christmas calendar for use in our homes during the season of Advent.

This wonderful event could not have taken place without the generous support of many. For coodinating and serving the breakfast, I thank Marika Harkins and Lucy Chai. For leading us in song, I thank Luisa, Mark and Jackson Lennon. For sewing, ironing, and a multitude of cutting, I am very grateful to Nancy Lindsey, Diana Valdez, Marisa and Kiele Pozas, Diane Dalton, Kim Hanrahan, Carol Reiss, and Brenda Osborne. For set up and clean up, I thank Vicki Schwoob Ralene Wasielewski and Luisa Lennon.

All of the food for breakfast was donated by: Sandra Tagatac, Delia Besio, Kathy Quick, Kathy Foos, Ralene Wasielewski, Vicki Schwoob, David Silva, Marianne Etzel, Leticia Tapia, Maria Panelli, and Ying Holden.

2009-11-16T10:14:00.000-08:00

Youth Ministry Retreat

Our teens really enjoyed the retreat this past weekend. It was all about music! We focused on the Psalms as the music of the Bible. We rocked, rapped, did a country line dance and so much more! "Shimmy!"

My favorite part was the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. It was inspiring to me to be part of so large a group; to pray and meditate in front of the Monstrance, in the candlelit semidarkness.

2009-11-13T11:12:00.000-08:00

The annual Faith Formation Conference is one week away!!!
Don’t miss this inspirational gathering. It is a time to connect with other ministers from five dioceses, to learn and be nourished to serve the Lord. For online registration and more information click http://sitekreator.com/faithformation/main_page.html This event is open to catechists, liturgical ministers and any adult who wishes to strengthen their faith. We will be carpooling to and from St. Thomas for this two day event which is held at the Santa Clara Convention Center. Can only attend one day? That's OK.

We look forward to seeing you there!!!!

Reconciliation Workshop

2009-11-09T21:16:00.001-08:00

Our workshop on Saturday was a time to reflect on what we are learning about the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Our students also made a beautiful clothes pin crucifix, do you know the difference between a cross and a crucifix?

Parent Helpers Needed

2009-11-09T21:12:00.000-08:00

on Tuesday, November 10, during class times. I need a few parents to cut out handprints for the Kairos ministry. Also, I need a few parents to sort t-shirts for our Youth Retreat this weekend.

Monthly Food and Clothing Drive

2009-11-09T21:08:00.000-08:00

This weekend after all masses. This is a great way to live out the corporal works of mercy and model that for your children.

You may also drop off non-perishable foods and new and gently used blankets and clothing on Tuesday during classes.

Pat Arand needs a few helpers on Sunday at noon to sort food. (the teens who usually help are on retreat) If can help out for an hour, please email me at sscott@dsj.org

2009-11-06T17:00:00.000-08:00

Advent Family Workshop

Thank you to all who have already signed up! All are welcome to come enjoy fellowship with your St. Thomas community while we reflect together on the meaning of Advent with fun music, games, and yummy continental breakfast. We will make the Countdown to Advent calendar you see here.

Day: Sunday, November 22
Time: 10:00am-12noon
Place: Becket Hall

Kindly RSVP by Tuesday November 18 to Sherry Scott at:

(408) 973-1098 or sscott@dsj.org with your family name and number of adults and kids attending. We want to make sure we have enough crafts and food for all.

2009-10-29T11:16:00.000-07:00

Youth Weekend Retreat coming up.

The Youth Ministry team will take several of our teens on a weekend retreat, Nov 14-15. We ask the community to pray for us as we go off together to pray and to listen to God speaking to us, away from the busy-ness of our lives.

2009-10-29T10:13:00.000-07:00

Fall Festival a success!

Many, many thanks to all who helped to make our First Fall Festival a success! The weather couldn't have been more perfect. Everywhere I looked people seemed to be truly enjoying themselves. We are blessed to be part of such a collaborative community of faith.

I am collecting feedback from the event, so please email your comments, both what to keep and what to improve upon, to sscott@dsj.org

This event would not have been possible without the help of the following parishioners:

In the kitchen: Marika Harkins, Joan and Greg Sease, their son, daughter and their 3 grandchildren, Bill McPeak, Mike Froess, Maria Etheridge, Mary de Leo, Lucy Chai, Hedwig Harkins, Lorene and Roger Hughes, Sue and Jackie Winklebleck, Ziggy Freslassie, John Cruickshank, Ken and Margaret Shieck,

With the drinks: Frank and Becky Muller and John and Edith Cruikshank.
Setup/tear down/facilities: Alan Welch.
Silent Auction coordinator: Kathy Quick.
Music and announcements: Luisa Lennon.
Pumpkin Walk: Hank, Vicki, Jessica and Kenny Schwoob, Leticia Tapia, Alicia Dagdagan, Samantha Supan.
Ticket Sales: Pat Arand.

Games: Rocky Tilney, Kathy Foos, David Silva.

Shifts: Curtis, Nancy and Madison Lindsey, Joe, Mary, Katie and Thomas DiLeo, Doug and Anne Moe, Ying, Matt, James and Joshua Holden, Rocky Tilney, David Silva, Delia Besio, John Ordona, Capella Kerst, Marina Valdez, Meg Alduino, Ralene Wasielewski, Antonella Biondi, Sara Machado, Jeremy Panelli, Kim Hanrahan, Steve Salcido, and the students from Canyon Heights Academy: Alexandra, Emika Lewis, Josh Parker, Joel Parker, and Carbel.

Food contributors: Lorene Hughes, Cynthia Ruiz, Rosemarie Luck, Meg Bullock, Amy Trayer, Donna Poppenhagen, Ralene Wasielewski, Eleanor Licup, Patricia Soraire, Maria Panelli, Betty Theresi, Jo Ann McPeak, Diane Dalton, Evan Rust, Delia Besio, Mary DiLeo, Corina Martin.

Underwriting: three anonymous contributors.

To wrap up, our silent auction took in $808, and a preliminary look at our numbers shows that we profited $1,700, all of which will go towards our catechetical programs.

2009-10-27T23:40:00.000-07:00

Youth Mass
Sunday, November 1, 11am

Our second Youth Mass is this coming Sunday. Choir members, be at the church by 10:30am.

If you have a child who would like to participate in the Youth Masses as a greeter, usher, reader or choir member, please contact Sherry at sscott@dsj.org

The next Youth mass will be on December 6, at 11am.

The next choir rehearsals will be on Tuesday, Nov. 10 and 17, from 5:30-6:30pm.

2009-10-27T23:28:00.001-07:00

Advent Family Breakfast

Sunday, November 22, 10-12noon, Becket Hall

The entire parish family is welcome to join the catechetical ministry in celebrating and preparing for the season of Advent. We will enjoy a continental breakfast after the 9am mass while we share our knowledge and experiences of the season and brainstorm ways to celebrate the true meaning of Advent/Christmas. Families will create an advent keepsake to treasure!

This event is part of the catechetical program, meaning, CM families are expected to attend.

Please RSVP to Sherry by Nov 17.

2009-10-27T23:15:00.000-07:00

Faith Formation Conference, " The word of God, coming to life", is coming to the Santa Clara Convention Center, November 20-21.

Register by Friday, October 30. Let's get a large group of catechists and volunteers and carpool from St. Thomas to and from the event on Friday and Saturday. If you have work commitments or family commitments, you may sign up for just one of the days. For more information or to register online go to: http://www.dsj.org/education/catechetical-ministry/faith-formation-conference

It's a great way to get some continuing formation whether you are a beginning catechist or a seasoned veteran.

RSVP carpools to Sherry at sscott@dsj.org

2009-10-27T22:59:00.000-07:00

Bible Presentation Ceremony
Tuesday, November 3, 7pm, Becket Hall

For 5th and 6th grade CM students and their families. Parents of 5th and 6th grade CM students: please plan to attend. You will be presenting a bible to your student. The ceremony will take about 30 minutes. rsvp to Sherry at sscott@dsj.org

2009-10-27T22:32:00.000-07:00

Tips for preventing the spread of the H1N1 flu virus.

In addition to the prevention guidelines we are following at mass ( http://www.dsj.org/about-us/bishops/bishops-statements/adaptations-of-liturgical-norms-in-response-to-a-request-from-th), we are also taking precautions when we gather for catechetical classes. (http://www.dsj.org/education/catechetical-ministry/pandemic-catechetical-plan)

I'd like to point out a few of the measures we have taken at St. Thomas to prevent the spread of the H1N1 flu virus. First, we are asking the students to wash their hands when arriving at St. Thomas and just before they have snack. Second, we are preparing our snack in individual containers. Third, we are wiping down tables and chairs between the 4pm and 7pm sessions. Fourth, we have segregated the students' writing and craft supplies in individual, labeled containers.

If your student is running a fever, or is sick, do not send them to class. The child must be without a fever, unassisted by fever reducing medication, for 24 hours before they can return to class.

Here is some advice from the CDC: exerpt from http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/general_info.htm

What You Can Do to Stay Healthy
Get vaccinated. Vaccination is the best protection we have against flu. Seasonal flu vaccine is available now and initial doses of 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine also are available, with additional doses available later this year.
Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
Take everyday actions to stay healthy.
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread that way.
Stay home if you get sick. CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
Find healthy ways to deal with stress and anxiety.
Stay informed.
Call 1-800-CDC-INFO for more information.

2009-10-27T22:24:00.000-07:00

Our 2010 Parish Photo Directory needs YOU!

Lifetouch is photographing our parish families all this week. If you have not yet signed up for your photo session, you may do so at our website at www.stcsj.org There are still some slots available. We want all of our families to be included in our photo directory.

When talking to the CM students about it tonight, one of our catechists explained that our directory is like a family photo album. Everyone from our parish family needs to be included in it. If you have recently had a professional portrait taken of your family, you may give us a copy to be included rather than have another photo taken.

2009-10-15T10:40:00.000-07:00

Monthly Food and Clothing Drive

at all of the masses this weekend, Oct. 17-18. What a great way to unstuff those closets and get the children involved in generous giving. Bring your items to the altar during the Presentation of the Gifts at any mass this weekend.

2009-10-14T23:20:00.001-07:00

Fall Festival is coming to St. Thomas!

Mark your calendars for our parish-wide festival on Saturday, October 24, from 11am-4pm.

We will have an inflatable slide for the kids, plenty of games and prizes, face painting and a pumpkin walk. We have hamburgers, hotdogs, homemade chili, homemade pies and cupcakes.

Each class is contributing a theme basket to the silent auction. Don't have time to purchase an item for the class basket, you can donate $5-10 and a volunteer will make the purchases for you. Please bring your item or cash donation to class on Tuesday.

Tickets for the festival will go on sale this weekend, (Oct. 17-18) after all the masses. Tickets will also be on sale in the office during business hours (9-2pm M-F) and before and after CM classes on Tuesday, Oct 20.

Wristbands $10 in advance, $12 at the door (includes unlimited slide and games and two chances at the Pumpkin walk)

Tickets are 6 for $5 in advance and $1 each at the door. Tickets are good for food and drinks.

We still need volunteers to work the games during the event, if you haven't signed up yet, please contact Sherry.

2009-10-14T23:05:00.000-07:00

Youth Choir

Do you play an instrument? Do you like to sing? Then sign up for our Youth Choir. The youth choir will practice twice/month from 5:30-6:30pm on Tuesdays. The Youth Choir will sing at the 11:00am mass on the first Sunday of each month, except for January. Also, on Easter Sunday they will sing at 9am instead of 11:00am.

Practices are:

October 20 and 27 for Mass on November 1

November 10, 17 and December 1 for Mass on December 6

December 8, 15 and 22 for Christmas Eve Mass on December 24, 5pm

No mass in January

January 26 and February 2 for Mass on February 7

February 22 and March 2 for Mass on March 7

Maarch 23 and 30 for Easter Sunday Mass at 9am, April 4

April 20 and 27 for Mass on May 2 (First Holy Communion)

Click here to download a flyer and sign up form:
http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hZGU4M2M1NGItYjE5ZS00YjU5LWFmOGMtOTA5MDRmMGY2Nzcy&hl=en

2009-10-14T23:02:00.000-07:00

Catechetical Ministry Calendar 2009-2010

View our calender here.

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hYjE5MDlmMTQtMDk2NC00ODVmLWIwODMtYWI5ZTBjZDRmMzk3&hl=en

2009-10-14T22:54:00.000-07:00

VIRTUS Safe Environment workshops

Our Safe-Environment workshops are almost completed. This year we completed lessons 5 and 6 from the VIRTUS manual. The children in grades 3/4 and up wrote letters to their parents explaining what they have learned about staying safe. The letters will be mailed out shortly.

Click here to read a letter from Sherry about the Safe Environment Program.

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hYTQ0MjVmYzctMzRjZC00NmI1LThlYjYtZjBlN2Y4MzM2NGJj&hl=en

Your child's participation in the Safe Environment program is not mandatory. If you would like to opt-out of the Safe Environment workshop, please click here to print the Opt-Out form.

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hYWIwZTY1ZWItOGIxYy00MWE0LWJjZjYtMTNjZDMxMzgwODMy&hl=en

2009-10-14T22:45:00.000-07:00

Lesson Schedules by class:

If your student is going to miss a class, you will need to read the material with them at home. Here are our lesson plans by grade level so you know which lesson we are covering each week.

First year class
http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hODNiOWFiNzItMzliMC00NTQwLTg3YTQtNzUzOTY4MDZmNzZk&hl=en

Second year class

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hYmY1OGI4MTEtMjhlNC00YzI1LTk3NDgtYWRiMDAwMDdlMzRk&hl=en

Third/Fourth grade class

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hNzFjOTUyYmQtMzY1MC00OGQ2LWI3MzktM2NlNzZlZTAzNzQ1&hl=en

Fifth grade class

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hOWUzYjliNWYtYzg5Yy00Mzg2LWFmZTktZWZkMGM3ZTQ5Y2Y3&hl=en

Sixth grade class

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hNjYxODcwOGQtYTk3ZS00N2FjLWFiYzQtNTVmNzQ5Y2Y4ZTc5&hl=en

Seventh grade class

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hNzI2YjZkMjAtZmQ2Mi00NjczLTg3YjMtODI0ZDNlNTU2NTcw&hl=en

2009-10-08T18:42:00.000-07:00

Our Youth Ministry team is planning a Retreat for highschoolers. The retreat date is November 14-15. We will spend the weekend at Camp Redwood Glen in the beautiful Santa Cruz mountains. Permission forms are due to the parish office by October 18.

For more information/retreat fees see our flyer:

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hYzNkNTJhMjktNzc0NS00MjcwLTkwZTEtMDkxZTBlYWQ5NGZh&hl=en

For our permission form:

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hMmIwOWIzMGQtZWQwNC00ZjgyLWI2MTktYTAxZDA2MWE5ZDFk&hl=en

2009-10-08T18:28:00.000-07:00

Click here to access our CM forms and documents:

Family Handbook

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hNGQ1MTNjZTItZjI4OC00YmM1LWEyY2MtMmRiOTg5MmU4MWJh&hl=en

Registration 2009-2010

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hMWQwYTgxYTYtYTIzYS00N2VmLTllZTMtZDFlYjRlMDlkOGM1&hl=en

Emergency Form

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hNDA5OGQ0NDUtZjM0ZS00MzE2LTg5MTQtODdiY2Q3NjQyMWRh&hl=en

Volunteer Form

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B3vdg1COCS0hZGJkYjk0ZmUtYjJhMy00MGQwLWJjNjEtNjljODljZjc0NzRh&hl=en

2009-10-08T17:59:00.000-07:00

Sessions and Times

Preschool through Kindergarten (3, 4 and 5-year-olds). During 9 am Mass each Sunday October-June
Grades 1 through 4. Tuesdays, 4:00 - 5:15 pm
Grades 5 through 8. Tuesdays, 7:00 - 8:15 pm

Family Gatherings. This is part of the Catechetical Program. For 2009 we have two Family Gatherings.
o Advent Family Workshop, Sunday, November 22, 12-2pm
o Lenten Soup Supper and Stations, Friday, February 26, 2010, 6- 8:30pm

Youth Ministry
which is separate from Catechetical Ministry but a mandatory experience before entering Confirmation Preparation Program. Youth ministry is to help young people discover their Catholic identity and to call them to an active life in the Christian family. To accomplish this, it is necessary to recognize youth as "CHURCH" and to welcome their rich and spiritual style of expressing their faith. High School (grades 9-12) meets two Saturday evenings/month at 6:30 pm.

Liturgy of the Word for Children
serves grades 1 through 6. Children are invited to celebrate the Word of God at the 9 am Sunday Mass in a manner understandable to their age level. The children meet with adult and teen leaders after the Opening Prayer and return to the regular Mass at the Presentation of the Gifts.

2009-10-08T17:56:00.000-07:00

Catechetical Ministry

“Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Mt19:14

Philosophy

Catechetical Ministry is a share in Jesus’ own mission of proclaiming the Reign of God. Catechesis is that activity which enables faith to become living, conscious, and active through the light of instruction — especially sharing God's Word in Scripture and sharing the tradition of the Catholic Church. Catechesis is a life-long process for each individual as well as the work of the entire Catholic Christian community.

The Church teaches that the primary responsibility for the spiritual growth and development of children rests first and foremost with their parents. Parents may share this responsibility with others, but they do not relinquish it.

The Church assists parents in passing on their faith through the ministry of catechesis. Catechists echo the Catholic faith in a way that those being catechized (children, youth, and adults) can understand. Catechists must do more than merely teach about their faith. They help children/youth build and strengthen their relationship with Jesus and the Church. Catechists do this by proclaiming the Word, building a sense of community, which leads to prayer and worship, encouraging loving service to others, and living lives as examples to others.

Our catechists are all volunteers, from many walks of life. They are people who have answered a call to minister to our children/youth and who have prepared themselves in a variety of ways to serve as catechists. Above all, they are people for whom faith is important enough to share.

The catechetical process seeks to open children/youth to the discovery of the goodness and beauty of God as reflected in their world, and help them to experience this world within the Catholic Christian community. It seeks to help them grow further in their faith, their understanding of our Catholic tradition, our unity in Christ, and the many gifts of the Holy Spirit.

The goals of the Catechetical Ministry Program at St. Thomas of Canterbury are:

I. Ongoing conversion to Jesus Christ

II. Full participation in the life of the Catholic Church