Coffee & Donuts - You are invited to join us for coffee and donuts in the Social Hall following the 10am Mass this morning.
Workshop Today - If you would like to sing at Mass, you are invited and encouraged to attend an engaging 30-minute workshop after the 10am Mass next Sunday, January 28 to learn the what/when/how to participate. Workshop will be held in Classroom One and led by Music Director Patrick Torsell. In the coming months, we will gradually introduce congregational singing of appropriate responses and chants during Sung Masses.
Building Fund Collection - Today we will have a second collection for our Building Fund. Please use the Building Fund envelope you received in the mail, or pick up one from the back of the church. This fund supports our general facility needs.
Vespers Tonight - Vespers and Exposition with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament will be tonight from 5:30pm–6:30pm. Sheets will be provided for all to follow along.
Candlemas, Friday, February 2nd - Mass Schedule for Feast of the Purification:
The annual blessing of candles and procession will take place before the evening Mass only. We will bless the candles which will be used throughout the entire liturgical year. You are encouraged to bring your own candles that you will use for personal devotions to be blessed as well. Either drop them off on Sunday, January 28, or bring them Friday evening prior to the Mass (arrive no later than 15 minutes prior to Mass). Be sure to label candles with your name.
St. Blaise Throat Blessing - On Saturday, February 3rd, after Mass the blessing of throats will be given.
Epiphany Water - Epiphany water is still available in the Holy Water canister beside the Baptistry gate and in the container near the St. Joseph’s altar.
Blessing of Sacramentals - Procedure - Those with objects which they would like blessed should drop them off in the sacristy. Be sure that your name is attached to your item and clearly visible. Any items dropped off will be blessed by the following Sunday, and a note will be attached to verify this.
Adult Convert / Confirmation Class - Our next class will be on Thursday, February 1 at 7pm. All are welcome to attend. Access via the alley door on Buttonwood St.
Bishop Gainer Visit - 100th Anniversary of St Lawrence - On Tuesday, April 24, at 7pm Bishop Gainer will offer a Pontifical High Mass celebrating the 100th anniversary of the dedication of St. Lawrence Church in April of 1918. More details about this Mass and 100th anniversary celebration will be coming.
Pilgrimage to France - Fr. Huang, FSSP will be leading a 9-day pilgrimage May 22 - 30, 2018. This includes a stay at the traditional Benedictine Fontgombault Abbey, visits to Nevers and Ars to see the incorrupt remains of St. Bernadette and St. John Vianney, a stay in the Alps at La Salette where Our Lady appeared to shepherd children and Paray-le-Monial, where the Our Lord appeared to St. Margaret Mary. For more information contact: www.oc-travel.com/info@oc-travel.com/1-800-675-9088
The St. Lawrence Altar
The main altar and the two side altars were meticulously carved in Italy using Cenere marble. The sculptures in the niches on the altar were also done in Italy. They represent, from left to right:
St. Lawrence - Martyr & Deacon.
St. Anthony of Padua - Franciscan preacher and teacher.
St. Agnes - Young martyr whose likeness also appears on the choir loft railing by the bell tower.
St. John the Baptist - Herald of Jesus Christ.
St. Aloysius - Jesuit and patron of the young.
St. Helena - Discoverer of the Holy Cross.
St. Clare - Co-foundress of the Poor Clares.
St. Stephen - First Martyr.