Halloween is over, the clocks have turned back, and the days are getting darker – that’s right people, winter is coming. Not surprisingly, this is one of the busiest seasons for St. Joe’s. Here are a few things you’ll need to know as we rush towards 2016:
- Supper Table & Women’s Centre Donations: Facing the cold of winter isn’t nearly as hard when you have the means to keep yourself warm and cook your family a hot meal. Unfortunately, that isn’t always an option for those who visit the Supper Table or Women’s Centre. Please keep them in mind as your children out-grow jackets and boots, you realize you have more mittens and hats than hands and heads, or find your pantry over-stocked during the holidays. Stay tuned for information on special donation requests and programs that will run throughout winter and Christmas.
- Advent Season: Though the Advent season is a few weeks away, it is still one of the most important times in the Catholic calendar. Join the Small Faith Sharing Group every Wednesday, beginning on November 18th, to study and discuss scriptures in anticipation of the Advent season. Visit the Welcome Desk for more information.
- Winter Parking: As most of us know, winter isn’t the ideal season for driving – or even parking. The parish parking lot often becomes difficult to navigate when snow covers the ground. Rest assured that our staff, as well as our new partners at Precise Parklink, will do our best to make the lot a safe and accessible place for parishioners and our clients. Parking, as it has always been, will remain a priority. Please be sure to respect other drivers and their ability to park.
- Annual St. Joe’s Christmas Pageant: Who doesn’t love a little holiday entertainment? If you’d rather take part than watch, there is plenty to do as we prepare for our Christmas (yes, Christmas) Pageant. There is plenty to do for those interested in acting, making costumes, and decorating. It’s a family affair as both children and adults can participate. Rehearsals start soon, so stay tuned to the bulletin for important dates and sign up at the Welcome Desk if you’re ready to take part.
- Christmas Concert: Staying on the theme of Christmas, the Parish Choir will be putting on a Christmas Concert on Dec. 20th at 3pm in the church. The afternoon will be full of both classic and liturgical carols, so prepare your voice because singing along is highly recommended in order to get the full Christmas experience. The concert is free, however any free-will donations will directly benefit the Supper Table. Non-perishable food items will be donated to the food bank.
That should keep you busy for a few months, right? Get ready for the winter chill, but more importantly, prepare for all of that the season has to offer and what you have to offer it. All too often, the year slips by without giving us a chance to embrace it. Stay tuned to the bulletin for more ways to spend your time and resources this winter and don’t be afraid to jump into a new opportunity to better your life and the lives of those around you. For instance, I’ll be at the office this winter, trying to thaw my hands from the winder wind by pouring coffee and sharing a smile with those left out in the cold. It’s worth your time to take a look around this winter.