Dear St. James Family,
Have you ever wondered about that Bible verse that says to think of others as better than yourself (Phil 2:3)? Aren’t we all equal? The great fourth century bishop and preacher St. Augustine said that “almost the whole of Christian teaching is humility.” Humility is the virtue that God finds irresistible in a person. I’ll be preaching on humility this Sunday. Come and learn about what this foundational virtue actually means and how to better live it out in your life.
Candlemas and Catered Meal is Only One Week Away! RSVP by Sunday!
This is a great opportunity to come and support St. James and cheer on this young, vibrant mission. We need your help. Also, I would encourage you to invite a friend or two to come and experience the sacred music, procession, and joyful liturgy of Candlemas and delicious meal to follow. RSVP soon as seating is limited. This Sunday is the RSVP deadline so that we can put in the food order. Ribs, chicken, and pulled pork are all on the menu along with various sides. There will also be mac and cheese and niblet corn which the kids especially like. Everything is being catered in from Publix. Get the full Candlemas details at the website. For more information on the food end of things contact cathymmessina@gmail.com.
Throat Blessings on the Eve of St. Blaise
Participate in the annual blessing of the throats, calling on the intercession of St. Blaise against diseases and ailments. It is a longstanding tradition to use blessed candles from Candlemas placed on each side of the neck while a short blessing is given. This custom is in remembrance of St. Blaise, a fourth century Christian physician, who became known for miraculously clearing the throat of a choking boy. By the sixth century St. Blaise’s intercession was being invoked in the east for illnesses related to the throat. By the ninth century, the saint was revered in Europe and went on to become one of the most popular saints in the Middle Ages. Stop by St. James on February 2, between 6:50 PM and 7:15 PM to receive your throat blessing.
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Catholic Beliefs Class: Mon, 7-9 PM, Jan 30, Feb 13, 20, 2023.
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Candlemas: Thursday, February 2, 5:30 PM. Catered Meal. RSVP by 1/29
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Throat Blessings: February 2, 6:50-7:15, following Candlemas
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Marriage Blessings: Sunday, February 12 after Mass. Recall your vows with your spouse
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Shrove Tuesday: February 21, 5:30 PM. Pancakes, Fun, Confessions.
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Ash Wednesday Mass: February 22, 5:30 PM Mass, 7 PM
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Ashes outside of Mass: February 22, 7:00 PM, shorter liturgy with ashes
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Penitential Procession: February 26, 10:15 AM 1st Sun. of Lent begins with Great Litany prayers
Check out All Upcoming Events at the Website
Why Unity is at the Heart of the Gospel – Listen to most recent homily
Are you one of those who think that the reason Jesus came to this earth was to forgive sins? There is a bigger reason why he came. Learn about what true unity looks like and how to begin working toward this unity.
Listen to this and my other homilies at StJamesCC.org/Homilies or by searching “Fr. Mayer’s Preaching & Teaching” wherever you get your podcasts
So long for Now
Blessings to you on this memorial of Saints Timothy and Titus, bishops. We remember these two men today because they were beloved spiritual sons of St. Paul and a reminder to all of us to invest in the young. Come on out this Sunday if you are able and cheer on the young mission of St. James! We need your help and support.
Faithfully, your pastor,
Father Mayer