For more information on these and other parish events, please read the bulletin and check the web site (www.sjvroundrock.org).
·         First Friday Adoration and First Friday Sacred Heart Devotion are canceled for this weekend.
·         The second collection this weekend is for Debt Reduction.
·         Children’s Mass celebrated at 11:00 am on Sunday.
·         The feast of St. Blasé was Feb. 3 and the Blessing of the Throatshappens after all Masses this weekend.
·         We have an immediate need for aids and catechists. Please prayerfully consider serving as a catechist for the remainder of the year. Without parent/parishioner volunteers, RE classes cannot happen. Needed: an aid for the Sunday 4^th grade class; an aid for the Wednesday 4^th grade class; and a catechist for the Wednesday 5^th grade class.
·         Calling all Married Couples! - If you are celebrating a milestone anniversary (of your sacramental marriage) this year - 5, 10, 15....50, 60+ years of marriage this year - let us know! We'd like to recognize and congratulate you on World Marriage Sunday, February 13, 2010. Please stop by the table in the narthex this weekend and provide your anniversary information.
·         Together in God’s Image, a 4-session marriage preparation course will be held in St. Monica Hall at 7 pm on the 4 Saturdays of February, 2011. This course is one of the mandatory requirements for anyone desiring the Sacrament of Matrimony in the diocese of Austin. For registration and more information, please contact the parish office at 512-218-1183.
·         Six Dates for Catholic Couples begin February 19 at 6:45 pm. Subsequent “dates” are March 5 and 26, and April 2, 16, 30. Treat yourselves to six special evenings of “Together Time”. Child care is available for all dates. Please register before February 14 by contacting Bree Hodge (512-775-2733) or Greg Hodge (512-947-0794) or e-mailing marriageenrichment@sjvroundrock.org.
·         Super Bowl chickens can be picked up after Masses on Sunday.
·         "2011 Spring Fest-of-All is in dire need of help!!! Without you, the event will not take place!  Please pray and help us fill the coordinator positions.  Please contact Tom Gora - Tom_Gora@amat.com or 512-771-3915.  The date is set for May 22nd, 2011 and we are in desperate need of help!  Please look to the volunteer sign up sheet that can be found at http://www.sjvroundrock.org/index.cfm?load=page&page=368.  Even if you can just volunteer for an event please call.  Thank you and God Bless!!!"
·         Let us pray for our children who are making their “first confession” on Saturday morning. Thank you to all who helped with their preparation.

Last week I heard a priest describing the different names of love used in ancient Greece. The Greeks had 8 or 9 dif­ferent terms for love. He mentioned that our culture has lost sight of Christian love by only having one term. The word used in the Bible for Christian love is AGAPE. He went on to define agape as sacrificial love, a love so strong you are willing to sacrifice for another. This is the love that Christ teaches us. Christ sacrificed his own life for us.
Spouses know that they must each sacrifice for the other for a marriage to flourish. Parents know that they must put aside and sacrifice in order to provide for their children. Priests, religious and many in public service sacrifice their private lives for the sake of others.
As stewards we are called to sacrificial love as well. When we give of ourselves, our talents, our time and our treasure, we are called to share sacrificially. We are called to give our first and best to God and to give of ourselves for others as Christ gave for us. As we learn to love sacrifi­cially we are truly living an Attitude of Gratitude.

For more information on these and other parish events, please read the bulletin and check the web site (www.sjvroundrock.org).
·         Welcome Back, Fr. Edwin! Fr. Edwin returns and celebrates Masses this weekend and will be back in the office on Tuesday, Feb. 1.
·         Calling all Married Couples! - If you are celebrating a milestone anniversary (of your sacramental marriage) this year - 5, 10, 15....50, 60+ years of marriage this year - let us know!  We'd like to recognize and congratulate you on World Marriage Sunday, February 13, 2010.  Please stop by the table in the narthex this weekend and provide your anniversary information.
·         Together in God’s Image, a 4-session marriage preparation course will be held in St. Monica Hall at 7 pm on the 4 Saturdays of February, 2011. This course is one of the mandatory requirements for anyone desiring the Sacrament of Matrimony in the diocese of Austin. For registration and more information, please contact the parish office at 512-218-1183.
·         Is God calling you to be a deacon? Men who are interested in learning more about becoming a permanent deacon are invited to one of the following informational sessions: Jan. 9 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish in Burnet, Jan. 16 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at San Jose Parish in Austin, Jan. 30 from 2 to 4 p.m. at St. Mary Parish in Caldwell, Feb. 13 from 2 to 4 p.m. at St. Helen Parish in Georgetown and Feb. 20 from 2 to 4 p.m. at St. Luke Parish in Temple. For more information, contact Deacon Tom Johnson (512-949-2418 or tom-johnson@austindiocese.org), Deacon Gene (dcngene@sjvroundrock.org), or Deacon Frank (dcnfrank@sjvroundrock.org).
·          “Men—there’s still time to join the more than four dozen men registered for That Man is You! modeled on some of the country’s leading men’s programs, That Man Is You! combines Scripture, solid secular research and a little fun to address the pressures and temptations facing men in our modern culture. An added bonus this spring will be a Lenten Journey of daily reflection and activities to prepare ourselves for the joys of Easter. The program starts this Tuesday morning, February 1 at 5:45 am in St. Monica’s Hall.   You can register at the door.  Please see the bulletin for more information.
·         Super Bowl Sunday – it’s not here, yet, but the SJV Knights of Columbus are taking orders this weekend for their famous super bowl chickens ($8 per chicken). Look for a Knight after each Mass this weekend! Proceeds benefit the seminarians from our parish and the Diocese of Austin.
·         2010 contribution statements are being sent via e-mail. If you do not receive a statement before Jan. 31, please contact the office with your e-mail address. You may also access your own contribution information in churchdb. Instructions are below:
·         How to access your information in churchdb:
1. Go to the St. John Vianney website http://www.sjvroundrock.org/
Click on ChurchDB on top left
Type in Username and Password
Click Login
(If you don’t know your Username and Password click on the Click Here button next to “Retrieve User ID or Password”. 
Type in your Email address (the one you gave to the SJV office) and your First Name.
Your Username and Password will be emailed to you.)
Once you have logged in, use the drop box on the left (if needed) to select Church Member: St. John Vianney Parish, Round Rock     
Click Proceed
A pop up box may appear, click YES
You are officially in the ChurchDB website!
2. On the left you will see Stewardship, click on it. Click on Treasure from the menu across the top. Click on details for 2010 and then Print Details Report.

   In today's Gospel we hear Jesus say, "Come after me and I will make you fishers of men."  And the response was, "At once they left their nets and followed him."
   The response of the Apostles was to follow first, knowing that they would be expected to do something later.  For the first three years after the call, the Apostles followed Him and learned from Him.  But, once He was gone, it was their trun to become "fishers of men."
   This pattern shows how our faith journey is to unfold.  First, we must hear His call.  Then, we must choose to follow.  Next, we learn our faith.  Finally, by living our faith, we call others to Christ.
   Stewardship is all about living our faith in a manner that calls others to Christ.  Through the joyful giving of time, talent, and treasure we show others what it means to follow Christ.  By demonstrating our Attitude of Gratitude, we become "fishers of men."

For more information on these and other parish events, please read the bulletin and check the web site (www.sjvroundrock.org).

·         Third Friday Adoration continues. Eucharistic Adoration is from 9 am on Friday (1/21) until 9 am on Saturday (1/22). The consistent belief of the Church is that Christ is present in the Eucharist; Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity. During adoration, the faithful may meditate, read the Scriptures, read spiritual books, spend some quiet time or pray in any manner that deepens their love for God.

·         Welcome Msgr. Joseph Deane who is celebrating Mass with us this weekend.

·         The second collection this weekend is the Black Bag collection for our Parish Social Ministry. Donations to the Black Bag fund all parish social ministry projects and activities. Your generosity is appreciated.

·         Help Stock the PSM Pantry - The Parish Social Ministry “Household/Personal Hygiene” Pantry is in need of your help! Please bring these items when you come to Mass this weekend according to the first letter of your last name: A-H: Laundry detergent (29 loads), bar soap, deodorant (men or women), baby powder; I-P:  Shampoo and conditioner, paper towels, dish detergent, baby body wash; O-Z:  Toothpaste, liquid cleaning products, baby wipes, baby shampoo. Thank you for your generosity in the name of the poor in our community.

·         Young Adults Book Study Please join the Young Adults Ministry for a book study on Rediscover Catholicism by Matthew Kelly. The book study will begin Tuesday, January 25th at 7pm in St. Monica's Hall. The book study group will meet on the 4th Tuesday of the month from January-April 2011. Please send an email to YoungAdults@sjvroundrock.org if you are interested in attending.

·         Together in God’s Image, a 4-session marriage preparation course will be held in St. Monica Hall at 7 pm on the 4 Saturdays of February, 2011. This course is one of the mandatory requirements for anyone desiring the Sacrament of Matrimony in the diocese of Austin. For registration and more information, please contact the parish office at 512-218-1183.

·         Is God calling you to be a deacon? Men who are interested in learning more about becoming a permanent deacon are invited to one of the following informational sessions: Jan. 9 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish in Burnet, Jan. 16 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at San Jose Parish in Austin, Jan. 30 from 2 to 4 p.m. at St. Mary Parish in Caldwell, Feb. 13 from 2 to 4 p.m. at St. Helen Parish in Georgetown and Feb. 20 from 2 to 4 p.m. at St. Luke Parish in Temple. For more information, contact Deacon Tom Johnson (512-949-2418 or tom-johnson@austindiocese.org), Deacon Gene (dcngene@sjvroundrock.org), or Deacon Frank (dcnfrank@sjvroundrock.org).

·         Attention Men of the Parish:  The spring session of That Man is You! begins in one week. It is a 13-week interactive Bible Study focused on the development of men in the modern world. It combines the best research from science with the teachings of the Catholic faith and the wisdom of the saints to develop the vision of authentic men capable of transforming society. The daily Lenten journey will focus on four organizing principles: Orientation towards self/others/God, daily spiritual exercises, daily offering, and, finally, each of the seven covenants of TMIY!   Sessions will be Tuesday mornings at 5:45 am in St. Monica’s Hall.   Contact Mark Xavier at mark@xaviermail.net or 512-426-3586 or Deacon Gene at dcngene@sjvroundrock.org.

·         The SJV Knights of Columbus are selling fajita tacos ($2 a taco) after the Sunday Masses. Proceeds will help the Knights fund more parish events as they continue to build community within our parish.

·         Super Bowl Sunday – it’s not here, yet, but the SJV Knights of Columbus are taking orders this weekend for their famous super bowl chickens ($8 per chicken). Look for a Knight after each Mass this weekend! Proceeds benefit the seminarians from our parish and the Diocese of Austin.

·         2010 contribution statements are being sent via e-mail. If you do not receive a statement before Jan. 31, please contact the office with your e-mail address.

Did you ever stop to consider, why are you here? Right her, right now. Why are you here at this point in your journey? God put you here for a reason, but do you know why? Is there something you are supposed to get from being here? Is there something you are supposed to do? Today's first reading said, "The LORD said to me' You are my servant, Israel, through whom I show my glory." "Now the LORD has spoken... it is too little, the LORD says, for you to be my servant, to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and restore the survivors of Israel; I will make you a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth. As a steward, we are first called to be servants of God, but just being a servant isn't enough. We are also supposed to be a light to those around us. This passage offers two measures for your Attitude of Gratitude. Am I a servant of God? Am I a light for others? First, think it through, then look for ways to make it happen.

For more information on these and other parish events, please read the bulletin and check the web site (www.sjvroundrock.org).
·         Welcome Fr. Brian McMaster, Vocation Director for the Diocese of Austin, who is celebrating Mass with us this weekend.
·         Youth Mass celebrated this Sunday at 11:00 am.
·         Vocations Pot Luckscheduled for this Sunday is cancelled.
·         St. Andrew's Ministry provides a fun way to meet other parishioners and welcome newcomers to the parish. If you enjoy meeting people and would like to get involved, please join us in the nursery on Sunday, January 16th following the 11:00 a.m. Mass.  Ministry members will be there to explain the various roles and provide training for the table leaders. Light refreshments will be served. If you have any questions, please contact Joann Benton at 512-244-6036.
·         Together in God’s Image, a 4-session marriage preparation course will be held in St. Monica Hall at 7 pm on the 4 Saturdays of February, 2011. This course is one of the mandatory requirements for anyone desiring the Sacrament of Matrimony in the diocese of Austin. For registration and more information, please contact the parish office at 512-218-1183.
·         Is God calling you to be a deacon? Men who are interested in learning more about becoming a permanent deacon are invited to one of the following informational sessions: Jan. 9 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish in Burnet, Jan. 16 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at San Jose Parish in Austin, Jan. 30 from 2 to 4 p.m. at St. Mary Parish in Caldwell, Feb. 13 from 2 to 4 p.m. at St. Helen Parish in Georgetown and Feb. 20 from 2 to 4 p.m. at St. Luke Parish in Temple. For more information, contact Deacon Tom Johnson (512-949-2418 or tom-johnson@austindiocese.org), Deacon Gene (dcngene@sjvroundrock.org), or Deacon Frank (dcnfrank@sjvroundrock.org).
·         Attention Men of the Parish:  The spring session of That Man is You! begins in two weeks. It is a 13- week interactive Bible Study focused on the development of men in the modern world. It combines the best research from science with the teachings of the Catholic faith and the wisdom of the saints to develop the vision of authentic men capable of transforming society.  We will also have a daily Lenten journey designed to help us attain a personal encounter with Jesus Christ so that He can transform our lives.   Sessions will be Tuesday mornings at 5:45 am in St. Monica’s Hall.   Contact Mark Xavier at mark@xaviermail.net or 512-426-3586or Deacon Gene at dcngene@sjvroundrock.org.
·         The SJV Knights of Columbus are selling fajita tacos ($2 a taco) after next weekend’s Sunday Masses. Proceeds will help the Knights fund more parish events as they continue to build community within our parish.
·         Super Bowl Sunday – it’s not here, yet, but the SJV Knights of Columbus are taking orders this weekend for their famous super bowl chickens ($8 per chicken). Look for a Knight after each Mass this weekend! Proceeds benefit the seminarians from our parish and the Diocese of Austin.

            Today we celebrate the Solemnity of the Epiphany.  This is the day that the magi came to Jesus bearing gifts.  These were the first Gentiles that recognized the manifestation of God in Christ.
            One often wonders why the wise men chose to give Christ gold, frankincense and myrrh.  One explanation was that the magi were possible sorcerers in their own land.  These elements were used in their practice of magic.  By giving these gifts to the Christ child, they were renouncing their old ways and giving their gifts to God.
            These travelers exemplified the Christian steward.  They were on a journey to find God, and when they found Him, they were willing to share their most valued possessions in service to Him.
            As we enter the New Year, and as you look for ways to show your Attitude of Gratitude, consider those elements which you hold precious in your life and consider how you can offer them as a gift to God.

     Have you ever wondered why God would have His Son, born in a cave which was used as a stable, at a time of word-of-mouth communication and in a region which has been torn by violence since the days of Abraham?
     With a reflection on history, I'm not sure that there is another time in history when the miracle of Christ would have had the same effect.
     It seems to me that the one thinng that existed then that may be in short supply today is faith.  Just consider that the Apostles and earliest Christians were each willing to die rather than deny their faith that Jesus is the Son of God.  That is an incredibly strong statement of faith.
     Today we celebrate the birth of Christ.  No other day is more apporpriate to consider the strength of one's faith.  Here is a question for today, "Would I sacrifice my life rather than deny my faith?"
     Today, recommit yourself to live out your faith with an Attitude of Gratitude . . . for the gift of Christ in the world.

     This has been an interesting work week in that it has been our "annual food-drive challenge'. Each site in our company competes to raise the most pounds per person for the local food pantry.
     An interesting pattern has developed, in that the winners each year seem to come from the sites least likely to win. The winning site has historically been the one with the few­est high income employees.
     The pattern is that those most likely to be charitable are the ones who recognize the need for individuals to care for and support each other. Those less likely to give are the ones who look to "Big Brother" the government or even the Church to care for the needy.
     There is a saying that charity begins at home, it is in the family that we learn to care for one another. But we are all God's family. So this Advent, show your Attitude of Grati­tude. Find a way to share your blessings with someone in need.

For more information on these and other parish events, please read the bulletin and check the web site (www.sjvroundrock.org).
·         The second collection this weekend is for the Parish Social Ministry Black Bag. These funds help provide assistance to those in our community who are less fortunate.
·         Today begins the last Friday Adoration of the calendar year. It is always nice to have several adorers during each hour. "...Come, long-expected Jesus. Excite in me the joy and love and peace it is right to bring to the manger of my Lord.”
·         Aaron, the Allergic Shepherd visits SJV tonight, at 7 pm in the church. Our very own Sanctuary Singers (Children’s Choir) bring us a Christmas musical sure to be fun for the entire family!
·         Middle School Youth Group tonight at 7pm, meet in the church for the Christmas musical then head over the St. Monica’s Hall for an ornament exchange and making star ornaments. We will have closing prayer at 8:30, but people are welcomed to stay until 9pm to finish the ornaments.  Please bring a wrapped Christmas ornament for the exchange.
·         Children’s Christmas Party from 10am to 11:30am Saturday morning in St. Monica’s Hall. Come join us for crafts, stories, and Christmas fun and fellowship. This event is hosted by the Saint John Vianney young Adults ministry.
·         Youth Mass celebrated this Sunday at 11:00 a.m. Fr. Edwin would like the youth to bring your hand made star ornaments to the Youth Mass on December 19 so you can help him decorate the tree in the church.
·         Advent Penance Service – Monday, Dec. 20, 7 pm. Several priests will be available for confessions.
·         Mass Schedule for Upcoming Feasts - The Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord
                        Christmas Eve, Friday, December 24, 5 p.m. (Children’s Mass), 8 p.m., and
                        12 a.m. Midnight Mass
                        Christmas Day, Saturday, December 25, 10:00 a.m.
 
                        The Feast of the Holy Family
                        Saturday, December 25, 5:30 p.m.
                        Sunday, December 26, 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
 
                        The Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
                        Friday, December 31, 7p.m. Mass followed by Holy Hour (8-9 p.m.)
                        Saturday, January 1, 10 a.m.
 
                        The Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord
                        Saturday, January 1, 5:30 p.m.
                        Sunday, January 2, 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
·         Christmas Raffle for 50” color HD TV! Tickets are $20 and available after all Masses and in the office. The proceeds will be used for charity and for church beautification.
·         All children are invited to make a star ornament for our tree. The star ornament should be hand/homemade, between 6 and 12 inches in size, and can include a picture of you and/or your family or someone you want to bring to Jesus. Look for a special table in the narthex where you can leave your ornament.
·         Help us get our family faith home ready for the birth of Jesus. Join us tomorrow, beginning at noon, to decorate our sanctuary. Be a part of the preparations and help put up the tree, the nativity, the wreaths, banners, candles, greenery, lights and other decorations.
·         The second collection next weekend is for Family and Pro-Life Activities in the Diocese of Austin.
·         Together in God’s Image, a 4-session marriage preparation course will be held in St. Monica Hall at 7 pm on the 4 Saturdays of February, 2011. This course is one of the mandatory requirements for anyone desiring the Sacrament of Matrimony in the diocese of Austin. For registration and more information, please contact the parish office at 512-218-1183.

            Have you noticed it?  It is as if the tone of the world has begun to change in preparation for Christmas.  In Advent, there is an outpouring of charity, and the joy that comes from helping those in need.  Many of us experience the joy of spending time with those we love.
            Last year as we introduced the stewardship model, we discussed joy as an outcome of stewardship.  During Advent we witness first-hand how society can change and experience the joy of Christ.
            On the third Sunday of Advent, the rose color reminds us to rejoice at the coming of Christ.  During Advent, and especially on “joyful” Sunday we should consider, why is this time of year different?
            Society changes during this time of year because of an outpouring of love.  Consider how you can show your Attitude of Gratitude by sharing the love of Christ and living the joy of Advent, throughout the year.

SJV Weekly Announcements
For more information on these and other parish events, please read the bulletin and check the web site (www.sjvroundrock.org).
·         Welcome Reception for New Comers will be after the 11:00 Mass on Sunday. Please meet Fr. Edwin in the church.
·         This weekend’s second collection is for senior religious. Your tax-deductible donation to the Retirement Fund for Religious supports the day-to-day care of thousands of elder sisters, brothers, and religious order priests. Please Share in the Care and give generously to this week’s second collection.
·         Commissioning of SJV Evangelization Committee at 11 am Mass this Sunday. As Catholics, if Eucharist is what we are called to BE, then ‘Evangelization’ is what we are called to DO. In order to help us carry out our mission to grow in, give witness to, and share the Gospel of Jesus Christ and enable us to be REACHING HANDS of Christ, the SJV Evangelization Committee is being commissioned. Our prayers and congratulations!
·         Advent Penance Service – Monday, Dec. 20, 7 pm.
·         Mass Schedule for Upcoming Feasts - The Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord
                        Christmas Eve, Friday, December 24, 5 p.m. (Children’s Mass), 8 p.m., and
                        12 a.m. Midnight Mass
                        Christmas Day, Saturday, December 25, 10:00 a.m.
 
                        The Feast of the Holy Family
                        Saturday, December 25, 5:30 p.m.
                        Sunday, December 26, 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
 
                        The Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
                        Friday, December 31, 7p.m. Mass followed by Holy Hour (8-9 p.m.)
                        Saturday, January 1, 10 a.m.
 
                        The Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord
                        Saturday, January 1, 5:30 p.m.
                        Sunday, January 2, 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
·         Christmas Raffle for 50” color HD TV!Tickets are $20 and available after all Masses and in the office. The proceeds will be used for charity and for church beautification.
·         Angel Tree – More tags are on the angel tree. The SJV Young Adults, with the help of parishioners, are providing needed items to groups such as the homeless, children in the hospital, maternity homes, and orphanages. Please stop by the angel tree in the narthex!
·         All children are invited to make a star ornament for our tree. The star ornament should be hand/homemade, between 6 and 12 inches in size, and can include a picture of you and/or your family or someone you want to bring to Jesus. Look for a special table in the narthex where you can leave your ornament. Youth of the parish are also asked to make star ornaments but Fr. Edwin would like you to bring your ornaments to the Youth Mass on December 19 so you can help him decorate the tree in the church.
·         Help us get our family faith home ready for the birth of Jesus. Join us on December 18, beginning at noon, to decorate our sanctuary. Be a part of the preparations and help put up the tree, the nativity, the wreaths, banners, candles, greenery, lights and other decorations.
·         Aaron, the Allergic Shepherd visits SJV on Friday, December 17, at 7 pm in the church. Our very own Sanctuary Singers (Children’s Choir) bring us a Christmas musical sure to be fun for the entire family!
·         Children’s Christmas Party on December 18 – hosted by the SJV Young Adults. Join us for faith, fun, crafts and games!
·         2011 Spring “Fest-of-All”planning begins Tuesday, December 14 at 7 pm in the St. Lawrence Room. A volunteer sign up sheet can be found at http://www.sjvroundrock.org/index.cfm?load=page&page=368.

In order to enrich our liturgy and reduce the number of announcements after Mass, here are some of the important announcements for this week. For more information please read the bulletin and check the web site (www.sjvroundrock.org).
·         Debt Reduction Sunday – This weekend the second collection is for debt reduction. Please prayerfully consider a $20 contribution. With help from the entire parish, we have paid off one loan and we can do it again! With a little extra from all, we can make a big impact.
·         Catechists Needed: We have a great need for several more Catechists and aides: We need an aide for the 5^th grade Wednesday class, we need an aide for the 4^th grade Sunday class, as well as a lead Catechist for the 1^st grade Sunday class. Please call Jenny if you are interested in helping out: 637-0875.
·         Date #10 of the 10 Great Dates Series is Saturday, Nov. 13 after the 5:30 pm Mass.
·         Coffee and Donuts this weekend (weather permitting)!
·         Welcome To SJV!  The Newcomers Welcome Reception is Sunday after the 11:00 Mass. Look out for our new members and make them feel at home.
·         Middle and High School Youth Fun For Fall – Sunday November 14 from 7:15-8:15pm. All SJV youth are invited to come celebrate the season with a s’more celebration immediately following RE classes.  We’ll have the fires roaring and are asking donations of the following items to complete the festivities.  Please send the items with your students at the beginning of RE class on November 14. 6th and 7th graders – Graham Crackers, 8th and 9th graders – Hershey’s Chocolate Bars, 10th-12th graders – Bags of Large Size Marshmallows. We also are still in need of a few portable fireplaces to borrow and some adult hands to help out that evening.  Please contact Angie Cahue-Kosacek at angieck@austin.rr.com or visit the online signup http://www.signupgenius.com/go/sjvyouth if you can help out.
·         Next weekend we take up the collection for the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD). CCHD was founded 40 years ago by the bishops of the United States when they realized that the lives of those in need would not improve until the systems and policies that keep people in poverty were changed. For 40 years, CCHD has funded community groups that seek justice and create lasting change.
·         Sunday, November 21 –The Knights of Columbus are selling sausage wraps ($2) after the Sunday Masses. Proceeds will help the Knights fund more parish events as they continue to build community within our parish. You will also be able to buy your holiday nuts from the 4^th degree Knights after all Masses next weekend, to support the diocesan fund for seminarians.
·         Look forward to the Ziegler Religious Books and Articles sales in our parish on December 4-5.
·         Don’t forget to return your baby banks.

In order to enrich our liturgy and reduce the number of announcements after Mass, here are some of the important announcements for this week. For more information please read the bulletin and check the web site (www.sjvroundrock.org).
·         The Black Bag collection to support our Social Ministry is this weekend.
·         Friday, October 29 - Journey of Hope: From 7:00-9:00 pm in the Day Chapel the Journey "Storytellers" will share with us out of their own suffering how they have discovered that revenge in the form of the death penalty is not a path to healing but only to greater suffering. They will also bring us ways to think about alternatives to the death penalty. Some of the "storytellers" are members of the victim's family, the accused family, or the exonerated family. You are welcome for this evening of HOPE!
·         Middle School youth!Join us this evening, October 29^th, from 6:30-8:30pm for an evening of fellowship and fun! We will be meeting in St. Monica’s Hall to celebrate all saints/ all souls with pizza, pumpkin carving and cake decorating. We will also join the rosary at 7:00pm in the Marian garden. Come dressed as your favorite saint; bring your favorite cake decorating topping, and a Halloween-themed snack to share…Bring a friend too!
·         Please remember that there is no RE this Sunday, October 31, or Wednesday, November 3.
·         “Last Two Days” of the October Rosary in the Marian Garden at 7 pm today and Sunday. If you or your family would like to lead a decade, you are welcome to sign up at the special table in the narthex.
·         “Baby Banks” –Please turn in your banks this weekend. Look for the collection basket in the narthex. The proceeds will benefit the Gabriel Project and women in crisis pregnancies.
·         All Souls Day Memorial Mass at St. John Vianney 7:00 pm, Tuesday, November 2 Memorial Mass candles ($5) are available after Masses this weekend. These candles can be personalized with the name of the deceased and if you bring your candle(s) to the All Souls Mass, it will burn in a special place during the Mass to honor your loved one(s).
·         Catholic Services Appeal - This annual diocesan collection will be conducted next weekend, Nov. 6-7. Once a year, our bishop asks each of us to make a commitment to support the work of our diocesan programs and ministries. This effort is a means by which we can all work together to care for the Church by sharing the gifts God has granted us. Please experience the joy of giving and join us as we work to continue God’s work of spirituality, charity and education.
·         Do you have or know of someone who has a business?  Then consider advertising in our church bulletin.  Personal ads such as "Pray for Peace, Pray for Vocations, In memory of a Loved One" are also available.  Trinity Publications Representative, Javier Aguilera, will be in our parish, Nov. 2-5 to assist those wanting to renew or place an ad in our weekly bulletin.  The business ads start at $5.29 per week ($275 per year), and the personal ads start at $3.46 per week ($180 per year).  The ads run per year, but could be paid and changed 3 times during the year.  Your continued support of these ads enables our bulletin to be published at no cost to our parish.  Please consider helping the parish by advertising in the weekly bulletin and call the parish office at 218-1183 or Javier at 694-4989 if interested.
·         It’s time to re-stripe the church parking lot.  Do you have any ideas? If so, please contact the SJV office at 218-1183 or business@sjvroundrock.org.

In order to enrich our liturgy and reduce the number of announcements after Mass, here are some of the important announcements for this week. For more information please read the bulletin and check the web site (www.sjvroundrock.org).
 
·         The Second Collection this weekend is for World Mission Sunday. Our Lord, before returning to the Father, promised His followers the Holy Spirit and charged them with being His “witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). On World Mission Sunday, the Catholics of the world unite at Mass to recommit ourselves to this baptismal vocation to be missionaries. As we pray and respond here at home, we are replicating what is also taking place in every parish and chapel in every corner of the globe. Your generosity through the Society for the Propagation of the Faith will reach those who await the Good News of Jesus, who long to experience His hope and love. Please be as generous as you can.
·         The Black Bag collection to support our Social Ministry is next weekend, Oct. 30-31.
·         Sunday, October 24 –The Knights of Columbus are selling sausage wraps ($2) after the Sunday Masses. Proceeds will help the Knights fund more parish events as they continue to build community within our parish.
·         “Living Rosary” on Sunday at ourMarian Garden. Would like to “be a bead” and lead one of the prayers? Please contact Kathy Helms (business@sjvroundrock.org).
·         Religious Education classesmeet this Sunday and the following Wednesday.
·         Family Life Committee Parenting Programsbegin on Sunday!  Be sure to register, by emailing familylife@sjvroundrock.org , so we can have enough materials on hand.  “Common Sense Parenting” will be conducted from 9:30-10:30am, in St. James Room & “Parenting Your Teen” will be held from 6pm-7:15pm, in St. James Room.  The cost of the program is $10/family and will meet 4 times this fall.
·         Help Stock the PSM Pantry - The Parish Social Ministry “Household/Personal Hygiene” Pantry is in need of your help! Please bring these items when you come to Mass this weekend according to the first letter of your last name: A-H: Laundry detergent (29 loads), bar soap, deodorant (men or women), baby powder; I-P:  Shampoo and conditioner, paper towels, dish detergent, baby body wash; O-Z:  Toothpaste, liquid cleaning products, baby wipes, baby shampoo. Thank you for your generosity in the name of the poor in our community.
·         Friday, October 29 - Journey of Hope: From 7:00-9:00 pm the Journey "Storytellers" will share with us out of their own suffering how they have discovered that revenge in the form of the death penalty is not a path to healing but only to greater suffering. They will also bring us ways to think about alternatives to the death penalty. Some of the "storytellers" are members of the victim's family, the accused family, or the exonerated family. You are welcome for this evening of HOPE!
·         “Parish Family Rosary”during the month of October is prayed in the Marian Garden at 7 p.m. on Sundays-Fridays. On Saturdays, the Rosary is prayed at 5 p.m. in the church. All are welcome! Families are encouraged to sign up to lead a decade of the Rosary one evening. A sign up sheet is in the narthex. This is the last week.
·         “Baby Banks” –A few more baby banks are left in the narthex. Please pick up a box, fill it, and turn it in on October 31. The proceeds will benefit the Gabriel Project and women in crisis pregnancies.
·         All Souls Day Memorial Mass at St. John Vianney 7:00 pm, Tuesday, November 2 Memorial Mass candles ($5) are available after the Sunday Masses this weekend and after all Masses next weekend. These candles can be personalized with the name of the deceased and if you bring your candle(s) to the All Souls Mass, it will burn in a special place during the Mass to honor your loved one(s).
A big “thank you” to Mr. and Mrs. Keith Copeland,chairpersons of the Big Event 2010, and the whole team and all volunteers, donors, and participants for a very successful and enjoyable celebration of “community is unity” last Sunday. A review meeting is planned for Tuesday, Oct. 26, at 7 pm in the St. Lawrence Room.

Do you realize that the family is the cornerstone of soci­ety? In Catholic theology the human family is to be a reflec­tion of the Trinity. However, many of the ills in society stem from problems within the family.
A high divorce rate, too many single parent, violent or dysfunctional families all have a bearing on the individual role in society. Science has proven there are direct correla­tions between poor family life and individual tendencies to­ward substance abuse, violence, prison or psychological illness.
The Church has recognized the state of the modern fam­ily and has developed a series of ministries to strengthen family life. Here at SJV, family life ministries include young adult and marriage preparation programs which provide a solid foundation for family life. Classes on parenting skills, "Ten Great Dates" and other programs help strengthen fam­ily growth. There are also support groups and programs for grieving or divorced families or marriages in crisis.
Rudy and Katrina Villarreal lead the Family Life Commit­tee. If your family needs help or if you wish to show your Attitude of Gratitude by assisting other families, contact Rudy or Katrina at 512-402-8055.

End of Life Decisions

 
More than 80% of the 2 million people who die in the USA each year die in some kind of institution:
     Hospital                               Emergency room                      
     Nursing homes                      Critical care units
 
Who makes the medical decision when your loved one can’t? How do you know what decision to make? Is it the right moral decision?
 
We have a duty to “preserve” life. Though the duty is not absolute for we may reject life-”prolonging” procedures that are deemed insufficiently beneficial or excessively burdensome to the patient, Catholics and Catholic institutions are not morally obligated to pursue that procedure.
 
What does this language mean?

• “Ordinary” (proportionate) care is basic care which all humans need to live: hydration, nutrition and shelter
• “Extraordinary” (disproportionate) care are medical devices, interventions for maintaining organs’ function, ventilation, dialysis, heart/lung machines.
• Palliate Care: medical care that is used to control a patient’s pain level. It neither prolongs life nor causes death.
• Hospice Care: a coordinated program of palliative and supportive services provided to dying persons or people with incurable diseases and their families.

 
When is it ACCEPTABLE to withhold extraordinary treatment?

• Patient is terminal
• Death is imminent and unavoidable
• Burdens outweigh the benefits to the patient
• Nutrition and hydration are not morally obligatory when it brings no comfort to the patient who is imminently dying and when the body can not assimilate it.

Advance Directive
Living Will:

• Signed statement that attempts to predict your preferences in future medical situations that you cannot foresee.

Medical Power of Attorney:

• Person (agent) to make health care decisions for the person who executes it when that person is certified by the doctor as being unable to make their own health care decisions.

Do Not Resuscitate:

• Directive to EMS and other health care providers not to resuscitate outside of a hospital setting.

(Sources: Diocese of Austin; Usccb Directives; Texas Catholic Conference)
 
Do not Resuscitate, Medical Power of Attorney forms MUST be from the State of Texas

Death Penalty

 
Increasing reliance on the death penalty diminishes us and is a sign of growing disrespect for human life. We cannot overcome crime by simply executing criminals, nor can we restore the lives of the innocent by ending the lives of those convicted of their murders. The death penalty offers the tragic illusion that we can defend life by taking life.
Those who commit terrible, violent crimes must be incarcerated, both as just punishment and in order to protect society.  The Bishops of Texas stand in solidarity with victims and their loved ones.
·          However, when it comes to matters of life and death, morality and a common sense call for justice, mercy, and for careful safeguards.
·          Showing mercy does not mean neglecting the administration of justice but it does mean exhibiting compassion toward all of our brothers and sisters, and providing them with an opportunity for atonement and rehabilitation.
·          The criminal justice system should work to foster a justice that focuses on reconciliation, and if possible, encourages the re-integration of the condemned person into society. (Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops www.TXcatholic.org)
 
Catholic Social Teaching:

• Each of us is called to respect the life and dignity of every human being.
• We must recognize that dignity is a gift from God and not something that is earned or lost through behavior.
• Christ calls us to protect life, practice mercy and reject vengeance.
• Jesus reminds us in (Jn 8:1-11) to be cautious in judging others and to have hope in the possibility of reform and redemption as in the case of refusing to stone the woman for adultery.
• The pursuit of the common good is linked directly to the defense of human life.

(A Culture of Life and the Death Penalty; USCCB, 2005)
 
One the Respect Life table in the Narthex is some facts and resources on the death penalty.

Dignity of All Life

Psalm 146:
 
Antiphon: All of my life, I will praise God.
 
Praise the Lord, O my soul;
I will praise the Lord all my life:
I will sing praise to my God while I live.
 
                Put not your trust in prices,
                In man, in whom there is no salvation.
                When his spirit departs he returns to earth;
                On that day his plans perish.
 
                Happy he whose help is the God of Jacob,
                Whose hope is in the Lord, his God,
                Who made heaven and earth,
                The sea and all that is in them;
 
                Who keeps faith forever,
                Secures justice for the oppressed,
                Gives good to the hungry.
 
                The Lord sets captives free;
                The Lord gives sight to the blind.
                The Lord raises up those that were bowed down;
                The Lord loves the just.
 
                The Lord protects strangers;
                The fatherless and the widow he sustains,
                But the way of the wicked he thwarts.
 
                The Lord shall reign forever;
                Your God, O Zion, through all generations.
                Alleluia.