Advent 2019
“Long lay the world in sin and error pining, 'til He appeared and the soul felt its worth.”
Evangelization News, Tips & Ideas
The Power of Priesthood video
We are blessed in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia with numerous examples of good and holy men, whom God has called to the priesthood. The Vocation Office for the Diocesan Priesthood, in partnership with Joyful Films, is excited to share a new video about one such priest whose compassion, understanding, and empathy characterize his ministry.Fr. Douglas McKay, was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia in 1982. Following various parish assignments, Fr. Doug founded Our House Ministries in the Grays Ferry section of Philadelphia in 1997 and currently still serves as Chaplain. As 'the living and transparent image of Christ the priest' (JPII), Fr. Doug uses the power of prayer and the sacraments in his outreach to those who are struggling with addiction.
We invite you to watch and see how Fr. Doug has received and transmitted the mercy, forgiveness, and love of God in his ministry.
Watch the video: https://heedthecall.org/powerofthepriesthood/
Society of Catholic Scientists
Did you know about this new Catholic organization? The Society of Catholic Scientists is an international lay organization founded in June of 2016 to foster fellowship among Catholic scientists and to witness to the harmony of faith and reason. The Society hopes to answer the call of Pope St. John Paul II that 'members of the Church who are active scientists' be of service to those who are attempting to 'integrate the worlds of science and religion in their own intellectual and spiritual lives.' The Society will do this through annual conferences, symposia and seminars, discussion groups, lectures, and other activities. In its first two years, the SCS grew to over 800 members. Over 120 scientists attended its 2018 conference, along with dozens of theologians, philosophers, and historians.To learn more about this new fruit of the Church, visit https://www.catholicscientists.org/
Another Awesome Way to Launch Evangelization in Your Parish!
Earlier this year, we shared with you about the evangelization ministry, Catholic Christian Outreach (CCO). The Office for the New Evangelization is working to bring this Canada-based ministry here to the Archdiocese as another option for launching a dynamic, evangelical movement in your parish. To learn more about CCO to assist with your discernment, check out these resources:- 30-minute introductory webinar by Meghan Cokeley, Director of the Office for the New Evangelization
- CCO's Parish Renewal webpage
- More information about CCO in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia
- Workshops by CCO on April 5 and 6, 2019
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:
- 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
- Tues, Mar 12, 7-9 PM, Visitation BVM, Norristown
- Tues, March 26, 7-9 PM, St. Genevieve, Flourtown
- Fri, May 24, 9:30-11:30 AM (Moms only), St. Pius X Moms Group, Broomall
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.
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, a simple process of prayer that will help set you free from spiritual obstacles and areas of your life where you are feeling stuck. This conference will equip you to cooperate with God as He sets you free and how you can bring this good news to others.
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, 10:00 AM-2:00 PM
Event: Help Clean the Sisters' New Convent!
Volunteers are needed to help clean the new convent of the Parish Visitors of Mary Immaculate, a new Religious Community coming to the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to do outreach to inactive Catholics. The Knights of Columbus recently completed the painting of the whole convent and now, before the convent is carpeted, it needs a thorough cleaning. No experience is needed!! Volunteers are asked to bring cleaning supplies—especially buckets, rags and cleaning products.
Location: Convent at Sacred Heart Parish, 301 Berkeley Street, Clifton Heights, PA 19018
More info: Families are welcome! Click here to let us know you are coming! Questions? Contact Fr. Gill at fr.dgill@archphila.org
Saturday, December 1, 2018, 8:30 AM - 8:00 PM (includes 3 Meals)
Event: RISE UP! A Revolutionary Retreat for Men 16 years and up, of all denominations seeking a deeper relationship with God and Family
As men, we recognize current challenges within and outside of the Catholic, the threat to marriage and family, and community. RISE UP! will be led by a retreat master who will speak from a uniquely masculine perspective about Satan’s strategy for destroying a man’s relationship with God. He will outline a battle plan to combat the effects of sin in the hearts and lives of men and their families providing the spiritual tools needed to be leaders in the fight to reclaim the culture from the evil one!
Retreat Master: Fr. Anthony J. Mastroeni, S. Th. D., J.D.
Location: St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, 4050 Durham Road, Ottsville, PA 18942
Registration: Cost is $45.00 now thru Nov. 14th, after which $55.00.
For more information: Visit our website www.riseupmenofgod.com
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: View their flyer for registration, schedule, and more!
Tuesday, December 4, 11, & 18, 9:15 AM - 10:30 AM
Event: The Liturgy
Advent series on the Liturgy, detailing the history and development of the Roman Rite. Tuesdays of Advent following the 8:30 Mass. Refreshments will be served.
Presenter: Father Jason Kulczynski, Pastor, Holy Martyrs
Location: Holy Martyrs Catholic Church, 120 Allison Road, Oreland, PA
More info: holymartyrsservices@gmail.com
Thursday, December 6, 2018, 9 AM-4 PM
Event: Advent Day of Reflection for Those in Consecrated Life
Consecrated men and woman of the Archdiocese are invited to a day of retreat preparing for the Incarnation. The day will include two conferences, Confessions, the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and a Holy Hour in the Cathedral Chapel.
Speaker: Fr. Christopher Moriconi, Priest Secretary to Archbishop Chaput
Location: Archdiocesan Pastoral Center Auditorium, 222 N 17th Street, Philadelphia
More info: View the flyer; Please RSVP to Sr. Gabrielle Mary at sr.gbraccio@archphila.org.
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
Sunday, December 9, 2018, 1:00 PM
Event: Open House and Christmas Concert
Please mark your calendars and plan to attend our annual Open House and Christmas Concert, featuring our seminarian choir. The Open House and seminary tours begin at 1:00 p.m. and the concert begins at 4:00 p.m. in our St. Martin of Tours chapel.
Location: Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, 100 East Wynnewood Road, Wynnewood, PA 19096
More information: Visit the website
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
Wednesday, December 12, 2018, 7 PM
Event: Sung Mass in the Traditional Latin Rite for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia
More info: View the flyer
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
Monthly on Sundays continuing December 16, 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
Tuesday, January 1, 2019, 12 Midnight
Event: Midnight Mass for New Year's and the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God (holy day of obligation)
The Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul invites you to celebrate the New Year and the feast of Our Lady at Midnight Mass. This Solemn Mass will take place in the Cathedral Chapel.
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia
More info: Visit the website http://cathedralphila.org/christmas/
Thursday, January 10, 2019 at 7pm
Event: St. Genevieve Parish Pro-Life Lecture
The pro-life community rightfully focuses on Roe v. Wade. But whether Roe is reversed or not, our pro-life goal won’t be achieved unless we convert the culture, the work primarily of the laity. The lecture will focus on the role of the laity & offer suggestions on the ways we can best work to convert the culture, especially on life issues.
Speaker: Marie Joseph, Founding Executive Director of Legacy of Life Foundation & Women’s Crisis Pregnancy Centers.
Location: St. Genevieve Parish Church, 1225 Bethlehem Pike, Flourtown, PA 19031
To Learn More Contact: St. Genevieve Rectory-215-836-2828 or rectory@stgensparish.com.
Saturday, January 12, 2019, 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
Event for Women: 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/
Monday, January 14, 2019 - Friday, January 18, 2019
Event: The Church is a Field Hospital: Catholic Priest Retreat for Training in Unbound
Learn a simple, personal way to pray with your parishioners to be free of their burdens. At the retreat, receive your own personal ministry and connect with other priests who use or want to use Unbound in pastoral care.
Location: Sacred Heart Retreat House / 920 E. Alhambra Road, Alhambra, CA 91801
More Information: Register Online or by Phone (610-952-3019 Ext. 1). Visit their flyer
Friday- Sunday, February 8-10, 2019
Event: Retrouvaille for Stressed or Troubled Marriages
A healing program that offers a welcoming and loving space to married couples who have been living with the misery of a failing marriage. Retrouvaille offers hope that it is not too late for a different and better marriage.
Location: Malvern Retreat House, McShain-Horstmann Family Life Center, 315 S. Warren Avenue Malvern, PA 19355
More Information: Visit the website
- 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 23 & 30, 2019 - Unbound Basic Ministry Training, Narberth, PAMarch 31, 2019 - Dynamic Catholic Event - Find Your Greatness, Manyunk
April 5 & 6, 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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