The weekend Masses of Dec. 25-26 will be the feast of the Holy Family, Jesus, Mary and Joseph.  Our thinking must not limit the Holy Family to only three people.  Mary and Joseph had parents who are the grandparents of Jesus.  In the genealogy of Jesus in the gospels of Matthew and Luke we learn the name of Joseph's father, Jesus' grandfather.  In an extra biblical book called the Protoevangelium we learn the names of Mary's parents, Anne and Joachim.  In this same book we learn that Joseph was married before and his wife died.  They had children which could account for the Bible speaking of the brothers and sisters of the Lord.  So like most of us, we do have extended families and that is more evident during Christmas time.  Whatever was the Jewish cultural way of family celebrations, I am sure that Jesus participated in all of them.  The Holy Family is much bigger than we thought.

Another word of thanks goes out to all those who brought in socks and many other needed items for the homeless in our area.  We will probably not see the immediate results of our generosity but with the confidence in and trust of St. Mary's Center on San Pablo Ave. we can be assured that all our donations will be put to good use.  Don't forget that with the donation of socks we save "soles."   

Last Sunday we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the ordination to the priesthood of Fr. Bill.  Besides the wonderful celebration of the Eucharist there was a great luncheon in the cafeteria during which many words of appreciation were expressed to Fr. Bill.  Also many members gave cards and gifts to Fr. Bill.  Fr. Bill was overwhelmed.  He would like to express his deepest gratitude and appreciation for all the work that was done to pull off this luncheon and all the generosity of the people of Sacred Heart.  Even though Fr. Bill knew about the "surprise" celebration, it was a great surprise at the Mass and at the luncheon.  Words can not express the depth of gratitude that he feels.  MANY, MANY THANKS.  He hopes to express to as many members as possible a personal thanks to each of you.  

Recruitment Family Coordinator for the Lumen Christi Academies Schools (Diocese of Oakland). For more information, visit the diocesan website at www.oakdiocese.org/employment-opportunities or contact Gloria Espinosa at the diocesan Department of Human Resources at 510-267-8359.

Ceasefire Walks are actively preventing homicides and gun violence through Ceasefire, a partnership with other faith communities and the City of Oakland. They begin with prayer and followed by a walk and reflection.  The next walk is Friday, December 17: St. Benedict Catholic Church - 2245 82nd Ave., Oakland. For more information, visit: https://diocese.org/ceasefire-walks-for-peace

The Philippine community of our diocese is sponsoring a special celebration of Simbang Gabi on Tuesday, Dec. 14th with a special Mass with the Bishop at our cathedral. All are invited to join our Philippine sisters and brothers for this celebration of their national religious heritage.

Each year in December our country takes a collection for the religious of our church. The lives of many, many Catholics have been influenced by the nuns, brothers and religious priests. Since many of the religious orders are older now, they need our help more than ever. Collection envelopes are in the back of church for the collection next weekend, Dec. 11-12. Please be as generous as you can.

On Wednesday, Dec. 8th, we will celebrate the feast of the Immaculate Conception, a holy day in our tradition. Masses will be at 8 AM and 7 PM. Mary under the title of the Immaculate Conception is the patroness of the United States. Come and celebrate this important day with us.