Mission Statement - We are a Catholic faith community that seeks to place God first, to know Him, and to grow in holiness together. We strive to live the Gospel through the

Eucharist, in our teaching and way of life.

Christi simus, non nostri. + We belong to Christ, not ourselves.

January 17, 2021—2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Parish Office 360-458-3031

Hours: Monday—Thursday 9AM-12PM; 12:30-2PM

parishoffice@saintcolumbanyelm.org www.saintcolumbanyelm.org

Mass Schedule Sunday: 10:30AM

Saturday Vigil: 5:00PM Daily Mass: Wednesdays 9:00AM Rosary is said 30min prior to each Mass

Sacraments Anointing of the Sick: By Appointment

Confession: Fridays 4:00—5:00PM

Faith Formation Offered Sundays before and after the 10:30AM Mass, depending on grade

RCIA: Tuesdays 6:30PM

Adult Education & Outreach Contact the parish office for more information

Bible Study Thursdays 6:30PM

Hispanic Prayer Group Tuesdays 6:00PM

Rosary Prayer Group Mondays 7:00PM

St. Columban Parish 506 First St. S, Yelm, WA 98597

St. Peter Mission 149 Keithahn St. S, Tenino, WA 98589

Mission Office 360-264-2124

Hours: Wednesdays & Fridays 10:30AM – 2PM

gaby@saintcolumbanyelm.org

Mass Schedule Sunday 8:00 AM

Rosary is said 30min prior to Mass

Sacraments Confession: Sunday 7:30 -7:45AM

Anointing of the Sick: by Appt.

Adult Education & Outreach Contact the mission office for more information

Bible Study Thursdays 10:00AM The church may be opened upon request during office hours for private prayer

For emergency assistance contact the Society of St. Vincent de Paul at 360-458-1904. Please leave your name, number, and details of your need.

Winter Clothes Closet Hours: Tuesdays & Thursdays 6:00PM—8:00PM

From a treatise On Virgins by Saint Ambrose, Bishop

Too young to be punished, yet old enough for a martyr's crown

Today is the birthday of a virgin; let us imitate her purity. It is the birthday of a martyr; let us offer ourselves in sacrifice. It is the birthday of Saint Agnes, who is said to have suffered martyrdom at the age of twelve. The cruelty that did not spare her youth shows all the more clearly the power of faith in finding one so young to bear it witness.

There was little or no room in that small body for a wound. Though she could scarcely receive the blow, she could rise superior to it. Girls of her age cannot bear even their parents’ frowns and, pricked by a needle, weep as for a serious wound. Yet she shows no fear of the blood-stained hands of her executioners. She stands undaunted by heavy, clanking chains. She offers her whole body to be put to the sword by fierce soldiers. She is too young to know of death, yet is ready to face it. Dragged against her will to the altars, she stretches out her hands to the Lord in the midst of the flames, making the triumphant sign of Christ the victor on the altars of sacrilege. She puts her neck and hands in iron chains, but no chain can hold fast her tiny limbs.

A new kind of martyrdom! Too young to be punished, yet old enough for a martyr’s crown; unfitted for the contest, yet effortless in victory, she shows herself a master in valor despite the handicap of youth. As a bride she would not be hastening to join her husband with the same joy she shows as a virgin on her way to punishment, crowned not with flowers but with holiness of life, adorned not with braided hair but with Christ himself.

In the midst of tears, she sheds no tears herself. The crowds marvel at her recklessness in throwing away her life untasted, as if she had already lived life to the full. All are amazed that one not yet of legal age can give her testimony to God. So she succeeds in convincing others of her testimony about God, though her testimony in human affairs could not yet be accepted. What is beyond the power of nature, they argue, must come from its creator.

What menaces there were from the executioner, to frighten her; what promises made, to win her over; what influential people desired her in marriage! She answered: “To hope that any other will please me does wrong to my Spouse. I will be his who first chose me for himself. Executioner, why do you delay? If eyes that I do not want can desire this body, then let it perish.” She stood still, she prayed, she offered her neck.

You could see fear in the eyes of the executioner, as if he were the one condemned; his right hand trembled, his face grew pale as he saw the girl’s peril, while she had no fear for herself. One victim, but a twin martyrdom, to modesty and to religion; Agnes preserved her virginity, and gained a martyr’s crown.

The Feast Day of St. Agnes, Virgin and Martyr is January 21

Financial Stewardship

St. Columban St. Peter

Weekly Goal $5,762 $712

Jan 10th $3,013 $621

PARISH OFFICE: (360) 458-3031

Fr. Dean Mbuzi, Priest Administrator Ext.6 frdean@saintcolumbanyelm.org

Patricia Selsor, Bookkeeper Ext.2 pat@saintcolumbanyelm.org

Katie Hennigan, Faith Formation Ext. 3 katie@saintcolumbanyelm.org

Chad Lucero, Youth Ministry & Confirmation Ext.4 chad@saintcolumbanyelm.org

Jennifer Langham Liturgy & Admin Support Ext. 5 jennifer@saintcolumbanyelm.org

Chris Bixby, Director of Music chrisb@saintcolumbanyelm.org

Steven Slater, St. Columban Custodian steven@saintcolumbanyelm.org

ST. PETER OFFICE: (360) 264-2124

Gaby Makinster, St. Peter Admin gaby@saintcolumbanyelm.org

Welcome! Please contact the

office to register as a parishioner, for questions about any announcement,

how to prepare for a sacrament, schedule a funeral or Mass Intention or

to update your contact information.

For daily Mass readings and Event Calendar please see our Monthly Insert, found in the narthex and on our website.

Daily Masses & Confession will be

announced for the month of

January

In Our Prayers

Alternative Confession Times

St. Michael’s: Saturdays 2-4pm

Sacred Heart: Saturdays 3-4PM

Loving God, we join with others of

your people here asking you to

hold in Your hands Joseph

Waters, Jess & Jessica Nash, Ray

Wilson, Paul Hennigan, Colleen

Pallet, and all those in harm’s way.

Rest in Peace: George (Chip) Beusch, Jose Luis Fregoso

www.saintcolumbanyelm.org

SAINT COLUMBAN PASTORAL COUNCIL

Judith Cusick (Chairperson),

Sheila Johnson, Jerome Didier,

Joseph Judge, Dennis Stumpf

parishoffice@saintcolumbanyelm.org

SAINT PETER ADVISORY COMMISSION

Sherry Bachmann (Chairperson),

Marilyn Ritter, Bernie Schwarz,

Bob Bacon, Diane Weston,

stpeteradvisory@saintcolumbanyelm.org

Pax et bonum, Fr. Dean.

Thanks to our advertisers listed on the back of this bulletin! They make this publication available to the Parish at no cost to us.

Faith Formation All Masses will resume with modifications, see below for details

Knights of Columbus No events currently scheduled

Women’s Club Coffee Hour and all other events suspended until further notice.

MASS RESERVATIONS In obedience to the COVID Safety Guidelines from the Archdiocese, public Mass at our parish has resumed with the following safety measures in place.

Masks will be required. Those with a medical exemption will be seated according to Archdiocesan guidelines.

Attendance will be limited to 90 people per Mass at St. Columban and 40 people per Mass at St. Peter.

The cry room at St. Columban is limited to one family per Mass and will be reserved on a first come-first served basis.

Reservations at St. Columban: call the parish office at 360-458-3031 ext. 5

Reservations at St. Peter: call the mission office at 360-264-2124

If you are unable to call during office hours, please leave your name, phone number, and how many will be in your party and we will call you back to confirm your reservation.

Please note that leaving a voicemail does not confirm your reservation

Important Things to Remember

Only persons who are under the same reservation will be seated together.

Please arrive at least 20 minutes early for Mass. You will be checked in by a Greeter and then seated by an Usher. Seating is first come, first –served.

We recommend you bring your own missal with you for the readings as they will not be provided.

Please do not sing along with the Cantor in accordance with COVID-19 guidelines.

Bonus Bulletin Content!

To save on printing, some extra bulletin

content will now be exclusively found in the

online edition of our bulletin, which is also

emailed weekly to parishioners.

Sign up at

flocknote.com/saintcolumbanyelm or visit our

website saintcolumbanyelm.org

January 19th Our Desire & Capacity for God

Tuesdays at 6:30PM in the Religious Ed Bldg. Rm. 103

Also available via Zoom

For the last several years, a group of parishioners from Saint Columban has attended the March for Life at Saint Michael’s in Olympia. The March always takes place on

the anniversary of the passing of Roe v. Wade on January 22, 1973 which federally legalized abortion. As of right now, there will be no official March for Life walk from Saint Michael to the capitol building due to COVID-19 restrictions. More information to follow.

Belief in the inherent dignity of each human life from the moment of conception until natural death is the most fundamental principle of our moral teaching as Catholics. This same principle also drives our care for the most vulnerable in our communities, our respect for and protection of religious freedom, and our focus on the basic human right of education to realize our full human potential. There will be a series of inserts for the month of January detailing the below graphic. For more information, visit https://www.wacatholics.org/what-we-do/issues#

Together Strong: Life Unites.

3 Year Goal for St. Columban: $307, 368

As of: January 7, 2021

Total Pledged: $164,000 53% of Goal

Number of Families Participating: 292 Potential Share: $24,600

3 Year Goal for St. Peter: $54,327

As of: January 7, 2021

Total Pledged: $105,000 193% of Goal

Number of Families Participating: 45 Potential Share: $43,350

Thank You for Pledging Your Support!

CHILDREN’S PRAYERS

Over the course of the

Christmas break, 6

children prayed a total of

188 prayers. PARENTS: Don’t forget to

have your children return their prayer

charts!

For the LORD, your God, is the God of

gods, the Lord of lords, the great God,

mighty and awesome, who has no

favorites, accepts no bribes, who executes

justice for the orphan and the widow, and

loves the resident alien, giving them food

and clothing. -Deuteronomy 10:17

Washington State March for Life

Hello Pro-Life Washington! Happy New Year!

After an incredibly complicated process, much discernment, and deep prayer, we are grateful to announce that

this year we will have our first (and hopefully only) virtual March for Life in Washington!

We have taken a lot of factors into consideration and were waiting on clarity for how the legislative session

would unfold. This year's legislative session will be virtual so we will be meeting legislators exactly where they

are-- which is the point of the March for Life. Without lawmakers there, the Capitol Campus is closed for

business, so gathering there does not meet our essential goals. But we can still share our message!

Our mission has always been clear. We mark the anniversary of Roe vs. Wade and bring Washingtonians to the

State Capitol to let their legislators know that they are pro-life. Since legislators will be doing their work from

their home districts (right in your neighborhoods!) we encourage you to reach out to them electronically or to

meet with them in their district offices, if they are available to meet in person. We'll provide information in the

coming days on how to be most impactful!

This year's March for Life will allow every Washingtonian to join in the cause-- from wherever they are! We

will be sure to provide talking points for important topics in this legislative session and action items for

everyone. Please join us online https://www.facebook.com/WashingtonStateMarchforLife on Friday, January

22, 2021. This will be the culmination of a WEEK FOR LIFE on our Facebook page.

The Saints and the EucharistHow beautiful is the Mass, especially when celebrated in a cathedral filled like ours on Sundays, or even when celebrated simply in village chapels with people full of faith, who know that Christ, the King of Glory, Eternal Priest, is gathering together all that we bring him from the week: sorrows, failures, hopes, plans, joys, sadness, pain! How many things each one of you, brothers and sisters, brings to your Sunday Mass! And the Eternal Priest gathers them in his hands and by means of the human priest who celebrates lifts them up to the Father.

For ReflectionWhat do I bring to the altar

today? What joys or sorrows, what

successes or failures, can I offer to

God in love and thanksgiving?

Do I have the courage to ask

God to transform my life as he

transforms the bread and wine into

the Body and Blood of Christ?

When the Church celebrates the Eucharist, it is not the bread and wine alone that are transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ. We must be transformed as well. When

we present our gifts of bread and wine, along with any collection, we symbolically place ourselves upon the altar, that we may become (along with the bread and wine) the Body of Christ. When we receive the Body and Blood of Christ, we become what we receive — we are incorporated into Christ’s Body. St. Augustine said to his congrega-tion, “So, if you want to understand the body of Christ, listen to the apostle telling the faithful, You, though, are the body of Christ and its members (1 Corinthians 12:27). If it is you that are the Body of Christ and its members, it is the mystery meaning you that has been placed on the Lord’s table; what you receive is the mystery that means you.” And to be Christ’s Body is to carry on the mission of Christ in the world. This mission at its core is to proclaim the Word of Christ, to celebrate his sacraments, and to extend his love through lives of charity.

Archbishop Paul D. Etienne The Work of Redemption: Eucharistic Belief and Practice in the Archdiocese of SeattleRead the whole pastoral letter at NWCatholic.org

And to be Christ’s Body is to carry on the mission of Christ in the world.

#YearoftheEucharistSeattle

St. Oscar Romero (1917-1980)

Who Are You?January 17, 2021

2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

At Home withWe discover our deepest identity through our relationship with Jesus.

Let’s help our children spend some time with him and discover their deepest identity.

ARCHDIOCESE OF SEATTLE

ReadTake time to read and reflect

on the Scriptures for this day.

Don’t have access to a Bible? Visit www.usccb.org/bible/readings

or download an app such as Laudate or iBreviary to access the

Mass readings.

In Sunday’s Gospel reading, Simon follows his brother Andrew to meet Jesus. After Simon chooses to follow Jesus, Jesus looks at him and says, “You are Simon the son of John; you will be called Peter.” In this moment, Jesus defines Peter's identity.

Part of Peter’s identity is formed by his history: brother of Andrew, son of John, Jewish, a man living in first Century Israel. These things shape who Simon is as he stands before Jesus.

When Jesus gives Simon a new name, he reveals an even deeper part of his identity. Jesus tells Peter, “You are Peter and upon this ‘rock’ I will build my church.” (Matthew 16:18)

Jesus knows our deepest identity, and he reveals that identity to us as we grow closer to him.

1 Samuel 3:3b-10, 19

Speak, for your servant is listening.

Psalm 40:2, 4, 7-8, 8-9, 10

Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.

1 Corinthians 6:13c-15a, 17-20

Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit.

John 1:35-42

Jesus looked at Simon and said “You will be called Peter.” Conversa

For more resources, visit us online at:https://marriagefamilylife.seattlearchdiocese.org/athomewithfaith

At Home withFaithARCHDIOCESE OF SEATTLE

TalkDo these four things to help your child claim their identity:

• Tell them about things you received from your parents when you were their age. When I was young, I learned that my grandparents edited a newspaper, and that both of my parents also enjoyed writing. This helped me discover that I liked to write, too.

• Let them know they are wonderfully made. It’s very easy for children to feel self-conscious about how they look. Let them know that they are beautiful as they are. I remember being encouraged when my father told me “Thanks for helping me port that canoe. You’re pretty strong!”

• Ask them what they think are important things about themselves. Encourage them to remember good things about themselves. Point some out if they need help.

• Tell them Jesus has a plan for them. Maybe share a story like St. Francis of Assisi and encourage them to ask Jesus in prayer what he would like them to do. Be ready if they ask you about what you think Jesus calls you to do.

Here are some reflection questions to help you have Great Conversations with

the whole family.

Some parts of our identity are chosen by us: what we wear, what we read or listen to, what we choose to do as a profession. Other parts are given to us: how we look, where we are born, our family background, our talents. As parents, we help our children discover their identity. We can learn about how to do this from Jesus’ example in this weekend’s Gospel.

In his conversation with Simon, Jesus reminds him that he is the son of John. As parents, we can help our children feel secure in their identity as part of the family. Through our love and affection, we help them realize that they are wonderfully made.

We can also help our children understand that another part of their identity comes from Jesus. Like Peter, Jesus invites us to help him increase the beauty, truth and goodness of creation. The best way for our children to discover this part of their identity (their vocation) is to talk with Jesus.

What do you want me to do?

A young Francis Bernadone spent many hours in an abandoned chapel in Assisi looking at a crucifix like the one pictured to the left and asking, “What do you want me to do?” When God answered “Repair my Church which is falling in ruins,” Francis found his vocation and it changed his life.

For more resources, visit us online at:

https://marriagefamilylife.seattlearchdiocese.org/athomewithfaith

9DaysforLife.com3 WAYS TO JOIN

9 Days for Life is a novena for the protecon of human life. Each day’s intenon is accompanied by a short reflecon and suggested acons to help build a culture of life. Join today at www.9daysforlife.com!

JANUARY 21-29, 2021

PRAY TO PROTECT HUMAN LIFE!

Image: A mosaic of Our Lady of Guadalupe decorates a side altar in the Church of Santa Maria della Famiglia at the Vacan. Dec. 15. (CNS photo/Paul Haring.)

If you or someone you know has been abused by a member of the clergy, please report the abuse to law enforcement. You may also contact your local Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator.

DAY ONE January 21, 2021

INTERCESSION May the tragic practice of abortion end.

PRAYERS Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be

REFLECTION At every stage and in every circumstance, we are held in existence by God’s love. The presence of an illness, disability, or other challenging situation never diminishes the value of a human life. God does not call us to perfection of appearance or abilities, but to perfection in love. Christ invites us to embrace our own lives and the lives of others as true gifts.

Abortion tragically rejects the truth that every life is a good and perfect gift, deserving protection. This violent practice ends the life of a human being at its very beginning and horribly wounds all those involved. But Christ came that we “might have life and have it more abundantly” (John 10:10), taking on human flesh for the sake of our redemption. May our culture experience the power of God’s transforming love, that all eyes may be opened to the incredible beauty of every human life.

ACTS OF REPARATION (choose one) • Take a break from television and movies today. Consider

spending some of that time praying with today’s reflection.

• Pray the short prayer “Every Life is Worth Living,” reflecting on the gift of human life. (The prayer is also available to order or download at usccb.org/worth-living.)

• Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.

ONE STEP FURTHER

Abortion is frequently a topic in the news, political debates, and everyday conversations with family or friends. Because abortion can be a controversial and emotional issue in any arena, many of us may feel intimidated when the topic arises, not knowing what to say. Another Look at Abortion provides a basic overview and summarizes key points. This article will help you be better prepared to witness to the sanctity of human life: respectlife.org/another-look-at-abortion.

Image: A mosaic of Our Lady of Guadalupe decorates a side altar in the Church of Santa Maria della Famiglia at the Vatican. Dec. 15. (CNS photo/Paul Haring.)

NABRE © 2010 CCD. Used with permission. Copyright © 2020, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, D.C. All rights reserved.

Grant us the humility to accept help when we are in need, and teach us to be merciful to all. Through our words and actions, may others encounter the outstretched hands of Your mercy. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the precious gift of life. Help us to cherish and protect this gift, even in the midst of fear, pain, and suffering. Give us love for all people, especially the most vulnerable, and help us bear witness to the truth that every life is worth living.

If you or someone you know has been abused by a member of the clergy, please report the abuse to law enforcement. You may also contact your local Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator.

DAY TWO January 22, 2021

Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children

INTERCESSION May all unborn children be protected in law and welcomed in love.

PRAYERS Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be

REFLECTION Today, on this 48th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, we mourn the many children’s lives ended by abortion and remember in prayer those who suffer the aftermath. The Church comes together today to pray for the protection of all unborn children and to make reparation for abortion, trusting that the Lord hears our prayers.

The importance of prayer is reflected in Evangelium vitae (100), which says, “A great prayer for life is urgently needed, a prayer which will rise up throughout the world. Through special initiatives and in daily prayer, may an impassioned plea rise to God, the Creator and lover of life, from every Christian community, from every group and association, from every family and from the heart of every believer” (Evangelium vitae 100). May that prayer arise in our hearts today and each day forward until every human being is protected in law and welcomed in love.

ACTS OF REPARATION (choose one) • Fast from one meal today.

• Offer this brief “Prayer for Life” for all unborn children whose lives are at risk. (The prayer is also available at usccb.org/prayer-for-life.)

• Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.

ONE STEP FURTHER

More women and girls consider abortion than we may realize. They are our relatives and friends, people who work with us or for us. Even if someone identifies as being pro-life, the shock of an unexpected pregnancy, the devastation of a difficult prenatal diagnosis, shame, pressures, or fears may influence her to consider abortion.

If someone shared with you that she was pregnant and hadn't ruled out having an abortion, would you know how to respond in a loving way that is life-affirming for both her and her baby? Learn about the four steps of the L.O.V.E. Approach™*: Listen and Learn, Open Options, Vision and Value, and Extend and Empower (respectlife.org/l-o-v-e). *The L.O.V.E. Approach™ is trademarked by Heartbeat International, Inc. and may not be adapted or modified. The L.O.V.E. Approach™ is used in “What to Do When a Friend Is Considering Abortion” with permission from Heartbeat International, Inc.

Evangelium vitae (The Gospel of Life), no. 100 © 1995, Libreria Editrice Vaticana. Used with permission. All rights reserved. Copyright © 2020, USCCB, Washington, DC. All rights reserved.

nurture and sustain your precious gift of life. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen

Father and maker of all, you adorn all creation with splendor and beauty, and fashion human lives in your image and likeness. Awaken in every heart reverence for the work of your hands, and renew among your people a readiness to

DID YOU KNOW ? In the Catholic Church in the United States, January 22nd is designated as a particular day of prayer and penance, called the “Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children.” As Catholics, we are called to observe this day through the penitential practices of prayer, fasting, and/or giving alms.

More Information: usccb.org/january-22

If you or someone you know has been abused by a member of the clergy, please report the abuse to law enforcement. You may also contact your local Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator.

DAY THREE January 23, 2021

INTERCESSION May every expectant mother receive compassionate care and support as she nurtures the life in her womb.

PRAYERS Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be

REFLECTION When the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, she opened her heart to receive his message that she would conceive the Son of God in her womb. As a young, betrothed, but unmarried, woman, Mary knew that her pregnancy presented many challenges. Despite this knowledge, she faithfully responded, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38).

Like the Blessed Mother, women who unexpectedly become pregnant often face significant challenges. They, too, are called to place their trust in God and faithfully respond to His gift of new life. And we are called to walk with them in their time of need. As Jesus taught us, when we love and serve others, we are loving and serving Him.

May all expectant mothers be encouraged by Mary’s example and receive support and grace in lovingly welcoming their children into the world.

ACTS OF REPARATION (choose one) • Sign up to pray for and serve expectant mothers in need

in your community through a parish-based program called Walking with Moms in Need (walkingwithmoms.com/pledge).

• Pray the Angelus today (usccb.org/angelus). You might also consider saying it every day for the next week—on awakening, at noon, or at 6 p.m. (or all three times).

• Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.

ONE STEP FURTHER

When a woman is facing an unexpected pregnancy, the reaction of the first person she tells tends to set the tone for her decision-making. Pregnancy can be difficult and frightening, but no matter the circumstances, it’s important for an expectant mother to feel supported and loved. Read 10 Ways to Support Her When She’s Unexpectedly Expecting (respectlife.org/support-her) for simple tips on how to provide loving, life-affirming support for a friend who is unexpectedly pregnant. Your support may be the only support she receives.

Image: A mosaic of Our Lady of Guadalupe decorates a side altar in the Church of Santa Maria della Famiglia at the Vatican. Dec. 15. (CNS photo/Paul Haring.)

NABRE © 2010 CCD. Used with permission. Copyright © 2020, USCCB, Washington, DC. All rights reserved.

SAINT OF THE WEEK

Saint Sebastian D I E D C . 2 8 8

F E A S T D AY: J A N U A R Y 2 0

A ccording to the many legends surrounding Sebastian, he was born in Gaul and raised in Milan. Though

a Christian, he joined the imperial army at Rome about 283. He made converts of officials and jailers, effected cures and urged Christian prisoners to stay strong in their faith. He was named captain of the praetorian guards, but the emperor, upon finding out that he was a Christian, ordered his execution. Shot with arrows and left for dead, Sebastian survived and was nursed back to life. Later, he denounced the emperor for his cruelty to Christians, and the emperor had him beaten to death. A favorite subject of Renaissance artists, Sebastian is the patron saint of archers, soldiers and athletes.

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S P

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Copyright © 2020, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. CatholicCurrent

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021

READINGS FOR THE WEEK OF JANUARY 17, 2021SUN 1/17 1 Sm 3:3b-10, 19/Ps 40:2, 4, 7-8, 8-9, 10 [8a, 9a]/1 Cor 6:13c-15a,

17-20/Jn 1:35-42

MON 1/18 Heb 5:1-10/Ps 110:1, 2, 3, 4 [4b]/Mk 2:18-22

TUE 1/19 Heb 6:10-20/Ps 111:1-2, 4-5, 9 and 10c [5]/Mk 2:23-28

WED 1/20 Heb 7:1-3, 15-17/Ps 110:1, 2, 3, 4 [4b]/Mk 3:1-6

THR 1/21 Heb 7:25—8:6/Ps 40:7-8a, 8b-9, 10, 17 [8a and 9a]/Mk 3:7-12

FRI 1/22 Heb 8:6-13/Ps 85:8 and 10, 11-12, 13-14 [11a]/Mk 3:13-19

SAT 1/23 Heb 9:2-3, 11-14/Ps 47:2-3, 6-7, 8-9 [6]/Mk 3:20-21

SUN 1/24 Jon 3:1-5, 10/Ps 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9 [4a]/1 Cor 7:29-31/Mk 1:14-20

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021 | 2ND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

LIVE THE LITURGY Inspiration for the week

We have often heard it said that God is always calling but we are not always listening. It is not only that we are not listening, but that we are not familiar enough with God to even recognize that it is God who is calling! We can easily mistake God’s voice for someone or something else and miss some profound opportunities for connection. We have to train our minds, hearts, and souls to specifically listen for the voice of God. It is a voice that draws us to deeper places, leading us to moments of grace and more profound God awareness. To look at Jesus and be able to say, “Behold, the Lamb of God,” means that I know something special about this person whom others know as simply a man. I will become more attentive and receptive when he says, “Come, and you will see.” I may even be more willing to set aside what I am doing and actually go.

The time is always right to do what

is right.

— DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

©LPi

OBSERVANCES FOR THE WEEK OF JANUARY 17, 2021

Sunday: 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Monday: January 18-25 is the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity; Martin Luther King Day

Wednesday: St. Fabian, Pope and Martyr; St. Sebastian, Martyr

Thursday: St. Agnes, Virgin and Martyr

Friday: Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children

Saturday: St. Vincent, Deacon and Martyr; St. Marianne Cope, Virgin; BVM

Sunday: 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

©LPi

WEEKLY PRAYER

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021 | 2ND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

FIRST READING When Samuel went to sleep in his place,

the LORD came and revealed his presence, calling out as before, “Samuel, Samuel!”

Samuel answered, “Speak, for you servant is listening.” (1 Sm 3:9-10)

PSALMHere am I, Lord; I come to do your will. (Ps 40)

SECOND READINGDo you not know that your bodies are

members of Christ?But whoever is joined to the Lord

becomes one Spirit with him. (1 Cor 6:15, 17)

GOSPELSo they went and saw where Jesus was staying,

and they stayed with him that day. (Jn 1:39)

Excerpts from the Lectionary for Mass ©2001, 1998, 1970 CCD. The English translation of Psalm Responses from Lectionary for Mass © 1969, 1981, 1997, International Commission on English in the

Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved.

GOSPEL MEDITATION Encourage Deeper Understanding of ScriptureOur faith is not just about ideas. It’s really about having an encounter with God and, in particular, the Risen Christ! Once we give ourselves over to the notion of God’s presence, we have to train ourselves to listen for God’s voice and be attentive to God’s call. Having companions on our faith journeys is so incredibly important as they can help us fine-tune our listening skills and discern God’s voice from others we may be hearing. Faith is all about having these profound encounters not only with God but with our brothers and sisters, and creation itself. Anyone or anything that is alive with God’s presence becomes an occasion for God to speak and call us to deeper graces and experiences. “Come, and you will see.”

The example and teaching of Jesus, the lives of the saints, those living among us and those glorified in heaven, and the wonder and beauty of creation can all serve to help us listen more clearly and assist in positioning ourselves for this profound God meeting. It is an encounter that can quickly and easily lead to a friendship and intimate intertwining of our souls to their Maker, making a claim on us like no other. Then, the Word of God moves from being just a body of ideas to something we simply accept and do. The person of Jesus Christ swiftly moves from being just a good prophet in word and deed to the incarnate presence of God Himself, the Lamb of God. The voice leads us to the Person behind it.

The Gospel is hard to follow. We can intellectually debate whether what Jesus said is really what we are asked to do. The Gospel ideas do not always make sense in our practical, secular world. The person of God always does. We can debate the practicality and sense of ideas and doing so often keeps the more difficult ones at a safe distance away from us. Jesus said to love our enemy, but we really don’t need to do that, our minds try to convince us. It just doesn’t make sense. Yet, if we are truly in love with the God who is behind the voice of those words, they make perfect sense. Our deep and intimate love of this God would even find us laying down our lives for Him if necessary. Speak Lord, your servant is listening.©LPi

©LPi

WORSHIP & MEDITATION

WHY DO WE DO THAT? Catholic Life Explained:

Question:Why do parishes have the Blessed Sacrament

in a separate room?

Answer:While many Catholics of a certain age have memories of the Blessed Sacrament being housed in the tabernacle on the high altar of the church, many parishes in the decades since the Second Vatican Council have chosen to build a separate space — a reservation chapel — where the Blessed Sacrament is kept. Although this practice is not universal, it is in keeping with the guidance offered by the US Bishops in their document Built of Living Stones (see nos 77-78). The goal is to create a space that is separated from the nave and sanctuary, but which is “integrally connected with the church” which can foster “reverence and can provide the quiet and focus needed for personal prayer.” This can be especially important for communities that have continuous eucharistic adoration, allowing people to come and pray in a space separate from the normal activities of parish life. The practice of reserving the Eucharist in a separate space — or in a dignified location away from the altar where Mass is celebrated — is that it emphasizes the importance of the liturgy itself, which is the “source and summit” of the life of the Church. As with many things in the Church, the practice of placing the tabernacle in the sanctuary or in a separate chapel is not universal (as can be seen in visits to historic churches in Rome and other places). The important thing is that as communities question where to place the tabernacle, they listen to the voice of the Church, explore the ancient and varied liturgical tradition of the Church, consider the needs and life of the community, and also take into account the architecture and limits of the spaces they might already have.

©LPi

©LPi

©LPi SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021 | 2ND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

PLEASE CONSIDER ONLINE GIVINGOur parish is grateful for your continued support. Thank you!

EVERYDAY STEWARDSHIP Recognize God In Your Ordinary MomentsChrist Is Anything but Ordinary

We’re about to dive headlong into week two of Ordinary Time, and we need to admit, after the hustle and bustle of the holidays, things are indeed looking more ... ordinary, at least in our spiritual lives.

The transcendent highs of the Christmas season are flatlining a bit and the vivid imagery of the Nativity scene has faded. The solemn anticipation of the Advent season is by now a distant memory.

Are you bored yet?

Here’s a secret: I think that Ordinary Time can actually be quite extraordinary, if we’re really living out our baptismal call.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus point-blank asks Andrew, who is following him after hearing John the Baptist’s testimony: “What are you looking for?” He’s asking us the same question.

What are you looking for? Why are you following me? Is it for the Christmas cookies and the Advent carols? Is it for the King’s Cake on the Epiphany? Is it for the feeling we get on Christmas when we just know God has done a wondrous thing?

None of those things are bad, but they are not what Andrew was looking for, and they were not what Christ promised him when he said, “Come, and you will see.” Andrew was looking for the Messiah — the One who makes even Ordinary Time extraordinary. The One who can sanctify the longest and dullest of to-do lists, on the longest and dullest of days. The One whose peace can reign in our homes on January 25, not just December 25.

Remember what you are looking for. Come, and you will see.

— Tracy Earl Welliver, MTS

LITURGICAL LIFE

RESPONDINGCallto the

SUPPORT OUR LOCAL ADVERTISERSOur advertisers need your help during these difficult times!

Please show your support for your parish by also supporting our advertisers. We wouldn’t be able to bring you our bulletin every week without them, and right now they need your help more than ever. Please encourage and remind others to show their support and shop local during these hard times!

©LPiSUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021 | 2ND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

QUESTIONS OF THE WEEK Invite Parishioners to Reflect and Respond to Scripture

First ReadingEli was the priest of the temple in Shiloh. He raised Samuel and helped Samuel to hear God’s voice in his life. Who have you taught to hear God’s voice?

Second ReadingPaul taught the Corinthians that believers should “glorify God in your body” by avoiding immorality. What do you think is needed to live a good, moral life?

Gospel ReadingIn John’s account of the call of the first disciples, Jesus poses the question, “What are you looking for?” In your own spiritual journey, how do you know you have found Jesus?

Jesus turned and saw them

following him and said

to them, “What are you

looking for?” They said

to him, “Rabbi”—which

translated means Teacher—

“where are you staying?”

He said to them, “Come,

and you will see.”

– Jn 1:38-39aExcerpts from the Lectionary for Mass

©2001, 1998, 1970 CCD

LITURGICAL LIFE

©LPi SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021 | 2ND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

LITURGICAL LIFEJohn was

standing with

two of his

disciples, and

as he watched

Jesus walk by, he

said, “Behold,

the Lamb of

God.” The two

disciples heard

what he said and

followed Jesus.

- Jn 1:35-37

Excerpts from the Lectionary for Mass ©2001, 1998, 1970 CCD.

3 EASY STEPS To Keeping Yourself & Others Healthy!We are cautioned to be especially careful during the Coronavirus outbreak. Here are some simple ways to keep sickness away.

Wash Your Hands Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds using soap and water. If you can’t wash your hands, use hand sanitizer frequently.

Don’t Touch Your Face Especially around the eyes, nose and mouth. If you must sneeze, use a tissue or your arm.

Keep Your Distance Practice social distancing during this epidemic and stay away from large groups. Instead, call, email or check up on family and friends using social media.

©LPiSUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2021 | 2ND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

KIDS CORNER

SHARING THE GOSPELMexican families share a

special treat called a Kings’ Cake on January 6th. Hidden

inside the cake is one tiny little doll shaped like the baby Jesus. If you find Jesus in your piece of cake, you tell everyone. In today’s Gospel, Andrew met

Jesus for the first time. Andrew was so excited to find the

Savior, he ran to tell his brother he had found Jesus.

PRAYERJesus, help me tell my family

and friends about you.

MISSION FOR THE WEEK

Ask your family if you could include Kings’ Cake

in your holiday celebrations next year.

READ THE GOSPEL AND COMPLETE A

PUZZLE!

Fit this Gospel message into the empty squares.