St. Boniface Catholic
by Sue Beams

On December 30th, Holy Family Sunday, Fr. Eduardo told of his recent viewing of the movie "The Nativity." He said it was insightful to get a view of the environment and culture of the time. It also gave an idea of the reality of the lives of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. What a beautiful family! They are however, much more like your own family than you may think. They had suffering, scandal, stress, fear and pain. Rethink the nativity story: Mary endured the hardship of a long journey, on donkey, with child! And Joseph endured the stares and gossip of those who knew he was not the father of the babe Mary carried.

Think of the sorrow, anguish, and suffering at arriving in Bethlehem to find no room. And then, the joyous birth of Christ! The marvel of the shepherds who came to honor the newborn King and the majesty of the three Wise Men who arrived bearing precious gifts! The Holy Family lived a life of God. That is our challenge: To reflect upon the Holy Family, to draw near to God, to find our strength and help in Him. Compassion, forgiveness, kindness, gentleness, and patience are to be lived in our own families. Stress and irritations are no excuse for lashing out: Forgive as the Lord has forgiven you. Over all that you say and do, put on the love and peace of Christ and let that rule your heart. Whatever you do in word or deed, do in the name of Jesus Christ.

First Friday Adoration begins at 5pm on January 4, 2008 and Holy Mass will be offered at 6pm.

Continue to check your bulletin for Mass times, announcements, schedules, events.

We pray for the safe return of Fr. Jesse as he travels in the New Year.

As this year comes to a close, and a brand new year begins, it is fitting that thanks be given to God for all of His blessings. While it is true that some have had poor health, many have lost loved ones, others have seen sons and daughters leave to serve in the military, there have been many things to be joyous about, also.

Phyllis Wood did an outstanding job of recapping the year, thanking those who serve the Lord by serving at St. Boniface. There have been so many good times shared together. We are blessed to have a sound building in which to worship, we have a loving, caring Priest-in-charge in Fr. Jesse. We have the guidance in Fr. Eduardo who is filling in for Fr. Jesse. We have a multitude of good people who serve the church community in many capacities.

We have those who generously donate to the financial aid of St. Boniface. We have those who give of their time and talents to keep St. Boniface striving. And, we have the young people who are the future of St. Boniface. Yes, we are blessed! Thank you for all you do! May God bless each of you and bring you health and prosperity in the New Year.