“Follow the saints because those who follow them will become saints.”
November 1
Solemnity of All Saints
(Holy Day of Obligation)
Evangelization News, Tips & Ideas
A 'Secret Weapon' of Evangelization
A nice evangelization tip from Aleteia's Casey Chalk:"...Knowledge of the saints can serve as an effective evangelization tool. When I lived in Thailand for three years, I worked in a particularly international office — I had coworkers who were nationals of just about every country in Southeast Asia. Reading my Magnificat every day, I noticed that many of the saints in the Church calendar, or even those mentioned in the daily short article on lesser-known saints, were of Southeast Asian origin. On November 24, the feast day for Andrew Dung-Lac and his companions, I approached my two non-Catholic Vietnamese coworkers..."
Read the full article
Welcome, Welcome, Welcome!
This past summer, three new religious communities made their home here in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. We rejoice in these signs of new life for our local Church! The new communities are:- Parish Visitors of Mary Immaculate: Sr. Mary Luchia, Sr. Susan Marie and Sr. Theresa Marie, PVMI, will make their home in the convent of Sacred Heart Parish in Clifton Heights. They will enact their charism of outreach to inactive Catholics at the partner parishes of Sacred Heart, Clifton Heights and St. Charles Borromeo, Drexel Hill, and at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.
- Dominican Friars of the Province of St. Joseph - Fr. George P. Schommer, O.P., is the new pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Philadelphia. With him are three other Dominican friars, Fr. Timothy, Fr. Giles and Fr. Edmund. Parish website
- Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter - Rev. Father Carl Gismondi, FSSP, has been appointed pastor of Saint Mary Quasi-Parish, Conshohocken. Mass will be celebrated at Saint Mary's daily in the Extraordinary Form (Latin Mass) in addition to daily Confessions. Parish website
Announcing the Extraordinary Year of Missions
October 21, World Mission Sunday, 2018, marked the beginning of the Extraordinary Year of Mission in Philadelphia. Pope Francis called for an “Extraordinary Missionary Month” to be celebrated in October, 2019 with the goal of fostering an increased awareness of our baptismal call to be missionary.In light of this request by the Holy Father, Archbishop Charles Chaput proclaimed an Extraordinary Year of Mission. The weekend of World Mission Sunday and the year is dedicated to the theme "Renew the Faithful’s Baptismal Call to be Missionary." To learn more about the Extraordinary Year, visit http://phillymissions.org/.
Office for the New Evangelization
Upcoming Events
Five Keys to Freedom:
Unlocking the Power of the Gospel in Your Life
Come learn about the Five Keys of Unbound, a simple process of prayer that will help you unleash the liberating power of the Gospel into your life and find greater freedom. This presentation is for everyone. It can be especially helpful for situations such as: relationship problems, habitual sin, chronic anger, fear, sadness, or other areas of life where you feel "stuck" and unable to move forward.
Speaker:
Meghan Cokeley, Director, Office for the New Evangelization & Archdiocesan Unbound Ministry, Archdiocese of Philadelphia
This free presentation is 2 hours including a break and time for Q&A. It will be offered at the following times/locations:
- Sat, Nov 17, 9am-12pm, St. Ignatius, Yardley (Bucks County)
- Mon, Dec 10, 5:30-9 PM (dinner included), Mother Boniface Spirituality Center, Philadelphia (Northeast Phila.)
- Sun, Feb 24, 2-4 PM, Our Lady of Peace, Milmont Park (Delaware County)
More info and RSVP:
Around the Archdiocese...
Below you will find great Catholic events taking place in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. If you would like to submit an event for inclusion in the newsletter, please email all pertinent information in the format used below to phillyevang@archphila.org for consideration. Events must be received by the 23rd of each month.
Wednesday, October 31, 2018, 7:00 PM
Event: Vigil of All Saints: Holy Hour with the Dominican Friars
Invite your friends to St. Patrick's this Halloween night! Adults, young adults, families all welcome! Eucharistic holy hour presided by the Dominican friars with readings from the saints, music, candlelight procession, and reflection given by Sr. Magnificat Rose of the Sisters of Life. Please consider bringing a snack or drink for the social afterward.
Location: St. Patrick Catholic Church, 242 S. 20th Street, Philadelphia
More info: View the flyer; This event is free - Please RSVP here
Friday, November 2, 2018 at 7:00 PM
Event: First Friday Holy Hour with the Sisters of Life
Beginning on November 2, Join us in consoling the Heart of Jesus with an evening of prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. The time of prayer will include recitation of the Divine Mercy Chaplet, Litany to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and silent prayer. The intention of the Holy Hour will be for all victims of abuse and in reparation for the sins, scandals, and the crisis in the Church.
Location: St. Malachy's Church at 1429 N. 11th Street, Philadelphia, 19122
Saturday, November 3, 2018, 9 AM - 3:30 PM
Event: Priesthood, Consecration, Marriage: Is Love Possible? A Symposium
In many respects, the Church and her members are now at a point of crisis. Yet, “crisis” (krisis) in its original meaning is a decisive “turning point” as well as a moment of clarification. It implies both the suffering and travail of the moment and the promise of a new birth. This symposium will address the question: Can we still live the priesthood, consecrated virginity, and marriage in fidelity and truthfulness? Read more...
Location: Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and the Family, Washington, D.C.
More info: Event website
Monday, November 5, 2018, 7 PM
Event: St. Martin de Porres Mass (Sponsored by the Office for Black Catholics)
Presider: Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap.
Homilist: Bishop Shelton Fabre, Bishop of Houma-Thibodaux
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia
More info: All are welcome to attend; Questions? Please call the Office for Black Catholics 215-587-3541. View the flyer here
Monday, November 5, 2018, 7:00 PM (Second talk in two-part series)
Event: Fortitude, not Frenzy: Demystifying the College Admissions Process
Join parents from across the diocese for an evening discussing the college admissions process. On Nov 5, we will have representatives from various colleges discuss finding a Catholic community in college.
Location: Martin Saints Classical High School at Holy Martyrs Parish, 120 Allison Road, Oreland, PA 19075
Speakers include: Fr Shaun Mahoney (Temple Newman Ctr), Dr. Daniel Cheely (Collegium Inst), Dr. Thomas Smith (Villanova), Monica Clarke (Regina Coeli/Christendom College).
Sponsored by: Martin Saints Classical High School, Oreland, PA
For more info: https://bit.ly/2ylyWDA
Thursday, November 8, 2018, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Event: Carl Sagan, the Vatican Astronomers, and the Search for Alien Life
Join The Collegium Institute and the Magi Project for an evening with Professor Jonathan Lunine as he shares his personal journey along the dual paths of an academic career in solar system physics to fulfil his childhood dream, and his unexpected spiritual journey to the Catholic faith. Reception to follow.
Location: Stietler Hall Room B6, University of Pennslyvania, 208 South 37th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Speakers include: Prof. Jonathan Lunine (Cornell University). Sponsored by: Collegium Institute, Magi Project, St. Agatha-St. James Newman Center, Drexel Newman Center, John Templeton Foundation, and PRRUCS
More Info: Register here and for more information!
November 9th, 2018 – 6-8pm
Event: Learn Natural Family Planning (NFP)
Engaged and married couples, as well as single women and men, are invited to learn about NFP. You will learn the signs of fertility of a woman's body and how to achieve or postpone pregnancy in this Church-approved method of family planning for married couples. NFP enhances the marriage vocation by fostering healthy and holy communication, mutual respect and selfless giving of spouses to one another. This date is for Class 1 of 3. Class 2 is December 14th and Class 3 is January 11th.
Location: Mother of Divine Providence Parish Offices, 333 Allendale Rd., King of Prussia
Speakers: Jim and Jen Volpe
To learn more: Registration is required: https://register.ccli.org/class_series/11307
November 10, 2018 - 6:30 pm - 10:30 pm
Event: Silent Auction benefiting "A Baby's Breath" Crisis Pregnancy Center
Are you looking for a fun night? Join us at the Crowne Plaza in King of Prussia for a delicious meal, drinks, and an incredible silent auction that benefits "A Baby's Breath" Crisis Pregnancy Centers!
Location: Crowne Plaza in King of Prussia, PA
More Info: Tickets are $60 Individual or $120 a Couple. After Oct. 20th, ticket prices change to $70 Individual or $140 a Couple. Contact Kim Granito at kim@thegranitos.com for more information
Monthly on Sundays continuing November 11, 2018 - 5:30 - 6:30 pm
Event: Holy Hours of Reparation and Petition for the Scandals of the Catholic Church
All Catholics of the greater Philadelphia area are invited to attend a monthly holy hour of prayer before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament to ask for His mercy upon His Church in this moment of profound crisis. We come to make reparation for our own sins and those of our bishops and priests. We come also in confident hope that from Christ’s superabounding mercy will come the purification, healing and restoration of holiness for which we long.
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia
More info: View the flyer English / Español
Sunday, November 11, 2018, 3:00 – 4:30 PM
Event: Concert - Westminster Williamson Voices: The Dreams That Remain
Come and Experience Great Music in the Cathedral. Performing music drawn from spiritual imagery inspired by life and meditation. The program includes works by Rhineberger, Whitbourn, Ešenvalds, LaVoy, Relph, Gjiello, Ames, Scheibe, Palestrina and Chant Improvisation. The concert will feature two new works by Westminster Williamson Voices alumnus Thomas LaVoy: The Dreams That Remain and a work for baritone and choir commemorating the 100th Anniversary of World War I.
Pricing:Premium Reserved $35, General Admission $25, Student $15
Click here to Purchase tickets on Ticketleap
Click here to listen on youtube.
Monday, November 12, 2018 at 7:00 PM
Event: St. Charles Borromeo Seminary Philosophy Lecture: "Classical Theism and the Nature of God"
Abstract: The classical theism of Augustine, Anselm, Aquinas and other great theologians of the past ascribes certain distinctive attributes to God, such as simplicity, immutability, and eternity. These attributes have been controversial in more recent theology and philosophy of religion. Yet they follow unavoidably from the very arguments that lead us to knowledge of God's existence. In this talk I show why this is so, and respond to criticisms of classical theism raised by thinkers like Alvin Plantinga.
Presenter: Edward Feser, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Philosophy, Pasadena City College in Pasadena, California
Location: St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, Vianney Hall Auditorium
More info: RSVP HERE!
Event: St. Charles Borromeo Seminary Philosophy Lecture: "Classical Theism and the Nature of God"
Abstract: The classical theism of Augustine, Anselm, Aquinas and other great theologians of the past ascribes certain distinctive attributes to God, such as simplicity, immutability, and eternity. These attributes have been controversial in more recent theology and philosophy of religion. Yet they follow unavoidably from the very arguments that lead us to knowledge of God's existence. In this talk I show why this is so, and respond to criticisms of classical theism raised by thinkers like Alvin Plantinga.
Presenter: Edward Feser, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Philosophy, Pasadena City College in Pasadena, California
Location: St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, Vianney Hall Auditorium
More info: RSVP HERE!
Tuesday, November 13, 2018 11:00 am
Event: Share the Journey Pilgrimage
Join us for a pilgrimage in solidarity with refugees and migrants at Archdiocesan Pastoral Center. We will open with a brief prayer in the Ground Floor Auditorium at 11 AM and then walk down 17th Street to Race Street to 18th Street to Vine Street and back. In addition, a prayerful photo exhibit from the CRS Prayer Walk will be set up in the Auditorium from 10 am - 3 pm.
Location: Archdiocesan Pastoral Center, 222 N. 17th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
More information: View the flyer
Thursday, November 15, 2018, 6:45 PM - 8:15 PM
Event: The 177 Project: Adoration Across the Nation
This fall, the 177 Project is partnering with 22 different artists to bring an evening of Eucharistic Adoration and music to every single diocese in the US! On November 15th, Marie Miller will be at Epiphany of Our Lord in Plymouth Meeting, PA and we want you to join us. Tickets to the evening are completely free and you can get yours by visiting the177project.com. Can't wait to see you there!
Location: Epiphany of Our Lord Church, 3050 Walton Road, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
More Information: Visit the177project.com for free tickets!
Thursday, November 15, 2018, 5:30 PM
Event: Gold Mass for Catholic Scientists, Feast of St. Albert the Great
Join Collegium Institute, The Magi Project, and the Society of Catholic Scientists for a special Mass to bless Catholic Scientists. We will be joined by Fr. Thomas Davenport O.P. as a guest homilist who studied physics at the California Institute of Technology and went on to earn his PhD in physics from Stanford University before following his vocation to be a Dominican priest. Reception to Follow.
Location: Saint Agatha Saint James Catholic Church, 3728 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
More Info: To RSVP visit here
Thursday, November 15, 2018 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Event: Workshop for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
A workshop of formation and training for those who will be serving as an Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in the Cathedral Chapel
More Information: Visit their website for more information.
Thursday, November 15, 2018, 7:00 PM
Event: P:3 Prayer, Penance, Pub Young Adult Night
Join other young adults for an evening of Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, the Sacrament of Confession, a Spiritual reflection, and fun at a local bar.
Location: St. Agnes Parish, West Chester, PA
Speakers include: Rev. Mr. David O'Brien and St. Charles Seminarian Marco Casanova
To learn more: Visit the website: https://www.saintagnesparish.org/events/p3-young-adult-night
Friday, November 16, 2018, 12:00-1:30 PM
Event: The Legacies of Oscar Romero
Archbishop Oscar Romero’s courageous defense of the oppressed and his assassination while in the midst of saying Mass are imprinted on our collective memories, sacred and secular. In light of Archbishop Romero’s canonization, join the Collegium Institute and PRRUCS as we inquire into the meaning of his life and death. Lunch will be provided for this event
Speakers include: Prof. Edgardo Colon-Emeric (Duke Divinity School), will offer the keynote address, with comments from Prof. Ann Farnsworth-Alvear (University of Pennsylvania) and Prof. F. C. Bauerschmidt (Loyola University Maryland).
Location: Bodek Lounge, Houston Hall, University of Pennsylvania, 3417 Spruce St #307, Philadelphia, PA 19104
To RSVP visit: https://bit.ly/2Q8iIEh
Saturday, November 17, 2018, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Event: Unbound: Freedom in Christ Conference
Come learn about Unbound and Heart of the Father Ministry at this Conference! Learn about the five keys to free your heart to the Gospel of the Lord and let the light of Christ within!
Location: Cornerstone Christian Fellowship, 426 W. Gay Street, West Chester, PA
More Info: Visit their website for a schedule of the day, registration, lodging options, and more! Email info@heartofthefather.com for more questions.
Saturday, November 17, 2018, 9 AM - 12 PM
Event: Five Keys to Freedom: Unlocking the Power of the Gospel in Your Life
Come learn about the Five Keys of Unbound, a simple process of prayer that will help you find greater freedom from the things that bind you. This presentation is for everyone. It can be especially helpful for situations such as marital/family discord, habitual sin, chronic anger, fear, sadness, or other areas of life where you feel "stuck" and unable to move forward.
Speaker: Meghan Cokeley, Director, Office for the New Evangelization & Archdiocesan Unbound Ministry, Archdiocese of Philadelphia
Location: St. Ignatius Parish, Yardley, PA
More information: This free presentation consists of 2 talks including a break and time for Q&A. View the flyer or RSVP online here
Saturday, November 17, 2018 – 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Event: Catholic Social Teaching: Jesus’ Call and Our Response
This workshop will explore the Seven Themes of Catholic Social Teaching
from an understanding of sacred scripture and the teachings of the Church documents. Practical application with connection to one’s faith life will be part of the afternoon session.
Speakers include: Sister Laura Downing, I.H.M., Immaculata University, Amy Stoner LSW and Ed Lis MA, Catholic Social Services, Peter Marks, Former Labor Official UFCW, Father Jack Deegan, O.S.A, Chris McNallly, Attorney
Location: Saint Gabriel Parish Gym 2917 Dickinson Street, Philadelphia, PA
To register email saintgabrielpm@gmail.com or call St. Gabriel Parish at 215-463-4060 by November 12th to reserve you space. Lunch will be provided; Free will donation
Sunday, November 18, 2018, 11 AM Solemn Mass
Event: Mass for the Installation of the Tomb of Saint Katharine Drexel (Learn more)
Celebrant: Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap.
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia
More info: Visit the website; There will be no tickets for this celebration. Everyone is welcome.
Sunday, November 18, 2018, 4:30 PM
Event: Stand Up for Life Dinner
Join the Pro-Life Union and more than 1,200 Friends and Fellow supporters for a special evening in Center City, Philadelphia! Our 37th Annual Stand Up for Life Dinner will be an evening for looking toward the future.
Location: 201 Hotel Sheraton, 17th & Race Streets, Philadelphia 19103
Keynote Speaker: Sister Grace Dominic, Sisters of Life
To learn more: Visit the website, RSVP and register here
Thursday, November 22, 2018
Event: Free Thanksgiving Meal at Nativity of Our Lord Parish
Families, couples and individuals who do not have family nearby to share a Thanksgiving meal with are most welcome to join us at Nativity of Our Lord Parish.
More Information: Please call to make reservations no later than November 12th: 215-675-1925. Dinner is served at 2:00 pm, please arrive by 1:45 pm.
Location: Nativity of Our Lord Parish, Community Center, 605 West Street Rd., Warminster, PA
Sunday, November 25 at 6:30 pm
Event: Sermon on the Mount followed by Hollywood vs. Faith, a Frank Runyeon Production.
Frank Runyeon is an award-winning actor who has been on numerous television shows. Having experienced a deep conversion to Christianity, he now travels all over the country with his powerful performances based on the Gospels. Please join us as we prepare for a meaningful Advent by experiencing Christ’s teaching in a whole new way. A free will offering will be taken up at the end of the show.
Location: Saints Peter and Paul Church; 1325 East Boot Road; West Chester, PA
For more information, email jmagee@sspeterandpaulrc.org or call 610-692-2216.
Thursday, November 29, 2018, 6:00 PM-7:30 PM
Event: The Future of the Church: Synod, Scandal, and Solace
Join the Catholic Women's Forum on November 29 for an honest, constructive conversation—in the spirit of the late, great Kate O’Beirne—about where the Church is now and what lies ahead. This moderated panel discussion features the perspectives of a leading Church scholar, a monsignor (and seminary rector), and a young woman whose pre-Synod insights helped shape the bishops’ reflections. Prepare to be challenged—and renewed in faith!
Location: The Mayflower Hotel, 1127 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington DC 20036
More Info: Register here or check out their website for more!
Friday, November 30 - Saturday, December 1, 2018
Event: Unbound: Freedom in Christ Conference
Come learn about Unbound and Heart of the Father Ministry at this Conference! Learn about the five keys to free your heart to the Gospel of the Lord and let the light of Christ within! This conference will equip you to cooperate with God as He sets you free.
Location: Saint Mary, Mother of God Church, 19 Cherry Tree Farm Road, Middletown, NJ 07748
More Info: Visit the website for a schedule, registration, map, and more!
Saturday, December 1, 2018, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Event: A Silent Advent Retreat
Come renew your commitment to Christ this advent season! The retreat will begin with mass and continue with Eucharistic Adoration, Confession, Rosary, Continental Breakfast, Lunch, a Blessing of Articles, and more!
Location: Carmel of St. Joseph and St. Anne, 66th and Old York Road, Philadelphia, PA, 19126
More Information: Visit their flyer for registration, schedule, and more!
December 8, 2018, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Event: "Dare to Prepare" Advent Retreat for Teen Girls
Young Women of Grace is hosting an Advent retreat for teen girls ages 12+. The day features a continental breakfast after Mass, pizza for lunch, social time, games, lots of Christmas treats and a very special Christmas craft. Author Susan Brinkmann, OCDS will give two presentations on the critical role women play in the world today through the gift of their feminine genius, and how to welcome Emmanuel by learning to practice the presence of God. A local youth minister will also address the girls on the importance of respecting themselves in their dress and in how they relate to themselves and others. Cost is just $30 per girl.
More Information: Visit the "Events" Page at www.womenofgrace.com for more information.
Location: St. Joseph's Church in Coopersburg, PA
December 9, 2018, 3:00 -4:30 PM
Event: Christmas Concert at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter & Paul
Our annual Christmas celebration is back and better than ever. Cathedral Music Director Charlene Angelini leads an uplifting program of beautiful carols and the traditional music of Christmas, performed by the combined forces of the Cathedral Choir and the choirs of the Philadelphia Archdiocese. Resounding brass add to the spectacle as voices rise in celebration of the festive season!
Location: The Basilica of SS. Peter & Paul, 1723 Race St. Philadelphia, PA 19103.
Parking: Complimentary Parking available, GPS address:222 N. 17thSt. Philadelphia, PA 19103
To purchase tickets: visit cathedralphilaconcerts.org
Monday, December 10, 2018, 5:30 - 9:00 PM
Event: Five Keys to Freedom: Unlocking the Power of the Gospel in Your Life
Come learn about the Five Keys of Unbound, a simple process of prayer that will help you find greater freedom from the things that bind you. This presentation is for everyone. It can be especially helpful for situations such as marital/family discord, habitual sin, chronic anger, fear, sadness, or other areas of life where you feel "stuck" and unable to move forward.
Speaker: Meghan Cokeley, Director, Office for the New Evangelization & Archdiocesan Unbound Ministry, Archdiocese of Philadelphia
Location: Mother Boniface Spirituality Center, Northeast Philadelphia
More information: This free presentation includes an optional dinner followed by 2 talks including a break and time for Q&A. View the flyer or RSVP online here
December 15, 2018, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Event: "Dare to Prepare" Advent Retreat for Teen Girls
Young Women of Grace is hosting an Advent retreat for teen girls ages 12+. The day features a continental breakfast after Mass, pizza for lunch, social time, games, lots of Christmas treats and a very special Christmas craft. Author Susan Brinkmann, OCDS will give two presentations on the critical role women play in the world today through the gift of their feminine genius, and how to welcome Emmanuel by learning to practice the presence of God. A local youth minister will also address the girls on the importance of respecting themselves in their dress and in how they relate to themselves and others. Cost is just $30 per girl.
More Information: Visit the "Events" Page at www.womenofgrace.com for more information.
Location: St. Agnes Church in Sellersville, PA
Saturday, January 12, 2019, 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
Event: A Day of Healing with You are Made New Ministry
Do you struggle with anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, self-doubt, self-criticism? Come! Let the Lord meet you right where you are and guide you forward. Retreat activities include inspiring talks, community-building, healing prayer, personal reflection, music and more. This is a wonderful opportunity for any woman seeking healing and freedom from adverse patterns or habits - of body, mind, and emotion – in order to live fully in the love and freedom that the Lord desires for us.
Facilitators: De Yarrison, CPCC and Fr. Stephen DeLacy
Location: Pope John Paul II High School, Royersford PA
Learn more & Register: https://youaremadenew.com/healing-retreats/
- Hope in Christ: Spiritual Support for Addiction webpage: archphila.org/hope
LOOKING AHEAD...
March 9, 2019 - Man-Up Philly Men's Conference, Aston, PA
March 31, 2019 - Dynamic Catholic Event - Find Your Greatness, ManyunkApril 4 & 5, 2019 - CCO Workshop & Facilitator Trainings
SUPPORT OUR MISSION! Consider making a donation to the New Evangelization Fund: Igniting the Faithful, Seeking the Lost. Your donation will go directly to supporting the work of the Office for the New Evangelization in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Click here to DONATE.
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