Nativity Catholic Church, Burke Virginia 30th Sunday of

Nativity Catholic Church, Burke Virginia 30th Sunday of Ordinary Time October 24th, 2021


“Master I want to see” - Mark 10:51

My dear parishioners,

The story of Bartimaeus is one of the most beautiful in the gospels. Jesus is making a long journey to Jerusalem and along the way his disciples follow him. He is the way!!!! The blind are taken up too. In this beautiful story it is remarkable how many times we hear the word “call”….. Bartimaeus every day waiting and hoping and calling out to Jesus. The disciples telling him to stop calling. Then Jesus says “call him over.” Then they say “he is calling you.” So hearing the word call reminds us of our vocation. The master is calling you.

Bartimaeus might have been physically blind, but he sees! He sees who Jesus is. He knows that Christ is passing by and calls out to him. He doesn't care that people are telling him that his quest is useless. He just calls out to Christ his simple request and he is rewarded. What do you want me to do for you? Jesus asks. The blind man shows us how to answer “I want to see.” He didn't say,.. “let me think about it, I'll get back to you tomorrow.” He knew immediately what he needed and with precision and passion said “I want to see.” I want to know your presence. I want to see my sins as they really are. I want to see the truth of the choices I face. I want healing from life's hurts. I want to see you for who you are.

Bartimaeus is given sight. And so are we. Do we live with hopes? Do we have hope for our ourselves and plans for our future? God does. And Bartimaeus did. So should we. I have great hopes for the parish of Nativity and it gives me great energy for the present. When Jesus calls we can go to him. When he asks what we want, we can tell him with precision. Let us live with hopes and trust in the Lord’s love and care for us.

Love and blessings,

Fr. Bob Cilinski Pastor

A Message from our Pastor Fr. Bob Cilinski

ALL SAINTS DAY The Solemnity of All Saints is on Monday, November 1

ALL SOULS DAY Tuesday, November 2nd

The Commemoration of all the Faithful Departed

Each year All Souls Day is a day of special prayer for all those who have died. We pray that those souls in need of perfection may swiftly pass through their purification and come into the presence of God. All Souls Day envelopes

will be available in the back of the church and parish office. It is with the grace of the Communion of Saints that we can have this special relationship of prayer with

those who have departed this life.

The Mass schedule is as follows: Tuesday, November 2

7:30AM, 12:00PM and 7:30PM Mass of Remembrance

MASS OF REMEMBRANCE Tuesday, November 2nd at 7:30PM

One of our most beloved traditions at Nativity Church occurs every year during the month of November. This is the month when the whole Church remembers those who have passed

from this world in hope of eternal life. At Nativity we celebrate a special Mass for those of our parish family

who have died in the past year.

We wish to invite your family and friends to this special Eucharist.

This special Mass will take place on Tuesday, November 2nd at 7:30pm. Please know that you are in our prayers and in the

prayers of the community of Nativity.

Love and blessings, Fr. Bob Cilinski, Pastor

MASS FOR ALL SOULS Please join the Most Rev. Michael F. Burbidge, Bishop of Arlington, at the Mass for the Commemoration of All the

Faithful Departed (All Souls' Day) on Tuesday, November 2, at 11:00am at Fairfax Memorial Park, 9900 Braddock Road, Fairfax. Bishop Burbidge will be the principal celebrant and homilist and will be joined by many of his brother priests in

this beautiful annual liturgy. A reception will follow. In the event of inclement weather the rain site will be

Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Annandale.


National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

in Washington, D.C. Pilgrimage

If you have never been to this shrine in DC, now is your opportunity. There will be a pilgrimage to the shrine on Saturday October 30th. Bishop Michael Burbidge invites you to join him at the diocesan Marian pilgrimage, an all-day event from 9:00am to 3:00pm. The day includes reception of the pilgrims, prayer, confessions, Holy hour reflection, a Eucha-ristic reflection by Fr. Stephen Vaccaro, lunch (bring our own lunch), time to explore this magnificent shrine dedicated to Mary and the day concludes with Mass (Bishop Burbidge is the main celebrant). For more details go to the website at: https://www.arlingtondiocese.org/2021/marian-pilgrimage Consider carpooling or make a reservation on the buses leaving from Nativity church. For details and register for the buses on the Nativity web site! Contact: Diane Fields, [email protected].

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FATHER CEDRIC WILSON

October 27th

The Nativity Parish Office is Seeking A part-time Weekend Receptionist

We need someone to answer calls/emails and attend to the front desk every Saturday from 2:00pm to 5:00pm.

Must be dependable and over 18 to apply. Please send your resume to Ann Benson, Office Manager at [email protected]. Spanish speaking a plus.

Prayer Before An Election

Lord God, as the election approaches, we seek to better understand the issues and concerns that confront our city/state/country, and how the Gospel compels us to respond as faithful citizens in our community. We ask for eyes that are free from blindness so that we might see each other as brothers and sisters, one and equal in dignity, especially those who are victims of abuse and violence, deceit and poverty. We ask for ears that will hear the cries of children unborn and those abandoned, Men and women oppressed because of race or creed, religion or gender. We ask for minds and hearts that are open to hearing the voice of leaders who will bring us closer to your Kingdom. We pray for discernment so that we may choose leaders who hear your Word, live your love, and keep in the ways of your truth as they follow in the steps of Jesus and his Apostles and guide us to your Kingdom of justice and peace. We ask this in the name of your Son Jesus Christ and through the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.


MASS INTENTIONS

"We are God's People" 1 Peter 2:10

Monday October 25th 7:30 am † Flordeliza Zamora Celebrado

Tuesday October 26th 7:30 am † Edith Massaro 12:00 pm † Henry Di Stefano

Wednesday October 27th 7:30 am Special Int. for Brother Jeremy Hiers

(BHC) 10:00 am Parishioners

Thursday October 28th 7:30 am † Lila Mohler Mallette 12:00 pm † Jerome Wilhelm

Friday October 29th 7:30 am † Raymond Swider Sr. 9:00 am † Haydee DeCastro Gonzales

Saturday October 30th 9:00 am † Jackie Kruse 5:00 pm Special Int. for Chris Quan 7:00 pm † For the deceased Members of the Legion of Mary

Sunday October 31st 7:00 am All Souls Novena 9:00 am All Souls Novena 11:00 am All Souls Novena Private Parishioners 5:30 pm † Julie Glas

The priest schedule for Masses is found on our webpage: https://nativityburke.org/calendar/

In prayer, let us remember the sick and deceased of the parish.

Questions? Contact Ayse Kenner at [email protected].

“I would now like to say a special word to women who have had an abortion. The Church is aware of the many factors which may have influenced your decision, and she does not doubt that in many cases it was a painful and even shattering decision. The wound in your heart

may not yet have healed. …But do not give in to discouragement and do not lose hope. …The Father of mercies is ready to give you his forgiveness and his peace in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.” Pope Saint John Paul II, Evangelium vitae, no. 99. © 1995, Libreria

Editrice Vaticana. Used with permission. All rights reserved.

The Falls Church 40 Days For Life campaign continues through Sunday, October 31, 2021. 40 Days For Life is a focused Pro-Life effort that consists of 40 Days of Prayer and Fasting, Peaceful Vigil and Community Outreach.

Are you suffering from an abortion experience? PROJECT RACHEL offers spiritual and psychological healing. Call 703-276-0373 ([email protected]) for a referral for private, sensitive and confidential counseling and/or reconciliation. Project Rachel is a post-abortion healing program open to all and sponsored by the Catholic Diocese of Arlington.

Website: 40daysforlife.com/fallschurch.

Contact Rick Loffredo at 703-249-9492 or email

[email protected].

CHRISTMAS WREATH SALES

It is that time of year again! Nativity's Boy Scout Troop 1100 is selling Christmas wreaths to help fund their camping activities. All sales will be online and shipped directly to the buyer. Sales take place in October in order to be assured of on time delivery.

Please use this QR code to go directly to the sales page for Troop 1100 or go to: https://giftitforward.com and use fundraising code: TR1100VA001. Please contact troop [email protected] with any questions Thank you for your support & Merry Christmas!!

TODAY IS WORLD MISSION SUNDAY

THIS weekend we celebrate World Mission Sunday. Pope Francis invites the entire Church to support mission dioceses in Africa, Asia, the Pacific Islands, and parts of Latin America and Europe, where priests, religious and lay leaders serve the world’s most vulnerable communities.

Please keep the Pope’s missions in your prayers and be generous in this week’s collection for the Society for the Propagation of the Faith. Thank you!

Vocations are everybody's business!

Priests sustain us with the sacraments. Religious strengthen the Church with their prayers and their ministries. We need holy families to encourage openness to all vocations. What we need is a Culture of Vocations. Building a culture of vocations depends on all baptized Catholics. It depends on you.

The Diocese of Arlington has been blessed in recent years with many vocations. The number of diocesan seminarians is at its highest in decades, and dozens more women and men are in formation for the consecrated life. However, in order to serve the needs of the faithful, we still need more people to hear and respond to God's call.

How is God calling you to contribute your time, talents and treasure to build and sustain a culture of vocations here in our diocese?

https://40daysforlife.com/local-campaigns/falls-church/


For those new to an illuminated Rosary, here's a brief explanation of how it works:

• Each bead of the Rosary is represented by a colorful block placed on the floor in front of each participant. Every block lets the participant know what Prayer he/she must say.

• All participants will have a white candle with a protective skirt.

• The participant starting with the Apostle's Creed will have their candle lit prior to starting. Once done with their Prayer, he/she will light the next participant's candle, who will then proceed with their Prayer.

• Once we end with the Hail Holy Queen and the last Prayer, every bead of the Rosary shall be illuminated!

• We urge participants to say their prayer in a different language if they would like.


FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT THE VIRGINIA CATHOLIC

CONFERENCE WEBSITE AT:

https://vacatholic.org/action-center/catholics-vote-2021/

Voter Resources Available! Election Day is Tuesday, November 2. For resources to help you prepare, visit vacatholic.org and view a pre-election letter issued by Bishop Burbidge and Bishop Knestout and comparisons of the major-party candidates' positions in the races for governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general. Review these materials and share them with family and friends. Pray, form your consciences and vote!


NEED TO TALK? Catholic Charities provides quality mental health services &

counselors grounded in a Catholic understanding of the human person. During COVID “Nativity’s Counselor” Ms. Marguerite

Turner, MS, LPC is still counseling clients via secure video conferencing and is available to talk with any parishioners who

may be struggling through a HIPAA compliant website. Please contact Marguerite at

703-772-4751 or [email protected] to set up an appointment.

The Altar Flower Book is open and has a few dates left available. This is a thoughtful way to honor a loved one, living or

deceased. If you are interested, please call 703-455-2400 or stop by the parish office to sign up.

You can now also go online and reserve flowers on our website at: https://nativityburke.org/altar-flowers/

Love working with children? Want flexibility? Consider subbing for us …

We are in need of substitute teachers with the following minimum qualifications:

2-plus years of college

Ability to follow a lesson plan and give effective instructions in the absence of the teacher

Proficiency in maintaining effective classroom management skills

Successful completion of Virtus training

Successful background check

Adherence to COVID-19 Safety Protocols

To apply, email Rich Godwin at [email protected], or call him at (703) 455-2300, ext.146. Thank you!

You can now designate Nativity Church or Nativity School as the beneficiaries of your Amazon Smile! You can choose Nativity by going to: YOUR ACCOUNT, YOUR AMAZON SMILE and designating Nativity. Amazon then contributes a small percentage of each purchase to Nativity. For questions, please

National Vocations Awareness Week National Vocation Awareness Week will be celebrated in our country November 7-13, 2021. Please ask Our Lord for more

dedicated, holy priests, deacons, and consecrated men and women. May they be inspired by Jesus Christ, supported by

our faith community, and respond generously to God's gift of vocation.

St Andrew the Apostle Pipe Organ Concert

Ben LaPrairie, Associate Director of Music for the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC, will perform on Sunday, November 7 at 4:00 p.m. at St. Andrew the Apostle Church, 6720 Union Mill Road, Clifton. The St. Andrew pipe organ was installed in 2020. Dedicated to the Holy Archangels in 2021, this magnifi-cent organ is of French Romantic design with three manuals, 51 ranks and 2,891 pipes.

Come and experience the immensity and nobility of the "king of instruments." Free Admission. Donations gratefully accept-ed to benefit future events, either at the door or in advance at st-andrew.org. For more information about this event or the St. Andrew Concert Series, visit www.st-andrew.org or call 703-817-1770.


Diocese of Arlington Scholarship Foundation Give a child the gift of a Catholic education and receive most

of your donation back in federal and state tax savings! The Virginia Education Improvement Scholarships Tax Credit Program will award a 65% state tax credit for donations made

to the Diocese of Arlington Scholarship Foundation, which will, in turn, provide scholarships for new students wishing to attend our diocesan Catholic Schools. You do not have to itemize in

order to receive the 65% tax credit! Donations must be preauthorized in advance. Please call Jeanne Combos at

703-841-2764 (or email at [email protected]) or go online for more details and to download the preauthorization

request form at: https://www.arlingtondiocese.org/Scholarship-Foundation/

New group for widows "IN MARY’S FOOTSTEPS" We are forming a new group of faith and fellowship to focus on the continuing journey of widows. Meetings will be held once a month.

These will include prayers offered for our beloved husbands and an opportunity to talk about them and our needs going forward.

Contact Cat Sands at 703-455-2400 or [email protected] for more information.

Nativity Rosary Ministry: We are happy to invite you to join the Nativity Rosary Ministry

Cord Mission Rosaries: Come and learn to make cord mission rosaries. There are 2 classes in November 1) Nov 8, Monday in the Fr. Ready Room at Nativity at 10:00am. 2) Nov 21, Sunday at the Pohick Library at 2:00pm. There are many around the world who are blessed by the rosaries we make. Knotted Rosaries: Adrian will teach you how to make just Knotted Rosaries. The cord is knotted into the 59 beads of the rosary. These easily fold into a pocket and will not break. Once the barrel knot is mastered it is easy to make these rosaries which people love. Classes are Saturdays, Nov 6 and Nov 13 at 10:00am, at Nativity Church. Old or Broken Rosaries: If you do not want to make rosaries but want to help our ministry join us on Dec. 4th, Saturday, 10:00am at Nativity to help sort and clean the Old or Broken rosaries donated for the missions. We need your help! Please, join us for the class that interests you. Diane Fields: [email protected].


Fall Open House - St John Paul the Great Catholic High School on Sunday, October 24

Join Saint John Paul the Great Catholic High School for their Open House on Sunday, October 24 from 1-4pm! Learn what JP has to offer your child - robust academic programs including STEM, DE

courses and Bioethics, vibrant student life and House System, com-petitive athletics, faith community steeped in Dominican tradition, and more! To RSVP in advance (and to receive a JP gift!), please

use this link: https://jpthegreat.schooladminonline.com/portal/

BIBLE STUDIES AT NATIVITY PARISH

Tuesday morning Bible Study We meet from 10:00am to 11:30am in the Fr. Ready room. This year we are looking at the Gospel and readings for Sunday, seeking to find within something which touches our lives and /or the world around us. Contact Janet Hamrick [email protected] & Miya Johnson [email protected].

Tuesday evening Young Adult Bible Study 6 weeks with the Gospel of Mark. As we enter this Fall season, we're offering a new 6-week series where we'll encounter Jesus through the Gospel of Mark. We'll read three chapter of Mark each week and come together to talk about it. You can register to do this either over Zoom or at a local coffee shop or restaurant. Register at https://nativityburke.org/fall-ya-bible-study/ Contact Alison Fram at [email protected].

Tuesday & Thursday evenings & Wednesday mornings Walking With Purpose: Meeting in person. Walking with Purpose is a study program that aims to help bring women closer to Christ through Scripture. Meets weekly in person. Three different session times - Tuesday 7:00pm, Thursday 7:00pm and Wednesday 9:30am. Register at https://nativityburke.org/wwp/ or contact Jen No at [email protected].

Thursday evening Bible Study Meeting virtually. On September 16, we began a study of the Book of Daniel, using commentary by Scott Hahn and web sources. Daniel tells of the trials and triumphs of Daniel and his three companions (e.g., Daniel in the Lion’s Den) and includes a series of visions promising deliverance and glory in the days to come. Meets each Thursday from 7:30pm – 9:00pm via Zoom (at least until January). Contact Deacon Dick Kelly at [email protected]. Friday morning Women’s Bible Study. Join us this year for Isaiah (Oct 22 – Feb 18) and in the spring Revelation (Mar 11- May 6). Meetings are Friday mornings 9:30am to 11:30am via Zoom. Every 5th meeting will be in-person at Nativity for a social and guest speaker. Register at: https://nativityburke.org/womens-bible-study-registration/. Contact: Diane Fields [email protected].

Saturday morning That Man Is You: Meeting in person. A men's program that combines Scripture with the best research from science in an engaging interactive program that addresses the pressures and temptations facing Catholic men in our modern culture. Meets each Saturday 6:50am - 8:00am in the Fr. Ready room. Contact Tim Yeager [email protected] or Bob Sands at [email protected].

Saturday morning Men’s Prayer and Reflection Group: Meeting virtually/in person. Men of all ages – Join us in read-ing and reflecting on Sunday scriptures and discussing how it relates to our lives and helps us become better Catholic husbands, dads, family members and friends. We meet Satur-days from 8:00am – 9:00am virtually and in-person in the Training/Cry Room at the back of church. Drop-ins are always welcome! Contact Rick Loffredo, [email protected].

Young Adult Ministry Serving people ages 21-39; nativityburke.org/youngadult

Cook and deliver breakfast at Christ House Join us as we cook and deliver breakfast for the 8 residents at Christ House. Led by Grace and Kathleen, we love this opportunity to feed the residents! Delivery is by 8:00am on Saturdays; Nov. 20, Dec. 18, Jan. 15. Contact Alison for details!

CSC Basketball - We host pick-up basketball games in our gym (Fr. Martin Center) from 8:30-10:30pm each Thursday. Open to people in their 20s and 30s of all skill levels.

Join us as a greeter or usher at Mass! - Fr. Bob invites young adults to join us in greeting people before Mass or assisting as an usher. It's the practice of offering hospitality to our parish-ioners and visitors as they enter the doors of Nativity. Let Alison know if you’re able to come a little early to Mass and to serve to the parish in this way!

College Ministry Serving people ages 18-21; nativityburke.org/college

“College Coffee Ministry” As we keep all college students in our prayers who have gone

off to school for the semester, we always love to stay connect-ed with any 18-21 year olds who stay in the area!

We often meet students at De Clieu, Gathering Grounds, or any other favorite coffee shops to hear how you’re doing and talk about how we can support you in your faith. Text Alison, our director, to meet up- 703-577-5329.

Save the date - College Pre-Thanksgiving Flag Football Game: Wednesday, Nov. 25, 11:00am-1:00pm on the back field. We LOVE to reconnect with college students who are coming home before Thanksgiving and have some friendly competition in a flag football game.

Young Family Ministry Connecting families with children Newborn to Elementary;

nativityburke.org/young-family-ministry/

There are MANY families with young children at Nativity. We love that this ministry helps to connect families - Moms be-friend other moms, young children make their first “Church friends,” and dads befriend other dads.

Join us for a family GAME DAY on Saturday, Nov. 6, from 2:00pm-5:30pm on the back field behind Nativity’s Fr. Martin Center (Gym). We’ll play games that even little kids can join in (like kickball or touch football) and the wonderful Knights of our parish will grill hotdogs and hamburgers, too. To rsvp, email [email protected].



Join the Knights! Interested in growing as a Catholic gentleman? Then join the Knights of Columbus and learn how to do so through the principles of Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism. Contact Deputy Grand Knight Brother Tom Siepmann at [email protected] or Grand Knight David Zivich at [email protected] with any questions. Better yet, join the Knights ONLINE! Go to kofc.org and click on “JOIN” in the upper right. Complete form and indicate Council 7992 as council you wish to join as an Online Member. It’s quick and easy, and you will be contacted after successful enrollment. You have waited long enough! Grow in faith and join our brotherhood! Membership fees are waived for new members if you join before 31 December, 2021.

Council Meeting: Our regular business meetings are the first and third Tuesdays of the month. Rosary will be at 7:15 PM with business meeting following at 7:30 PM. Meetings are now in person in the Nativity school cafeteria, with the option to attend virtually as well. (Check the Council’s Facebook page for more information: facebook.com/KofC7992).

Name Tag Assistance: If you have not received a name tag, please provide your name to Warden Chris Odell at [email protected] so he can place the order.

Food for Others: Consider joining our ministry to provide food to families in our immediate area. We need volunteers to help with our Thursday and Friday food distributions. The Thursday distribution leaves Burke around 4:45pm to pick up food from the Food for Others warehouse to distribute food in Seven Corners. The Friday distribution picks up from the warehouse and delivers to Springfield. It should require no more than an hour of your time on Friday evenings and limited to once a month based on the current number of volunteers in rotation. If you are interested in helping deliver on Thursday, contact PGK Mark Sawyer at [email protected]. If you are interested in helping deliver on Friday, contact Br. Matt Stockburger at [email protected].

Sunday Mass Coffee and Cookies: We are providing coffee and cookies to parishioners following Sunday morning Masses. To volunteer go to SUG at: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0D4EACAC29A2F58-mass1

Keep Christ in Christmas (KCIC) Nativity Displays: Brother Bob Colella will lead our KCIC program once again this year. The Nativity displays are hand crafted by Brother Bob’s skilled team of elves. For more information on ordering your KCIC Nativity display, please send an e-mail to [email protected], and we will email you a copy of the online form.

October 24th – Illuminated Rosary: October is the month of the Rosary. It is thus fitting that we celebrate the Most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary by hosting our yearly Illuminated Rosary on Sunday, 24th October at 7:00 PM. ALL members of Nativity Parish are invited. This event is an outstanding family event and a great way to close out a month dedicated to Respecting Life and the Most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Please join us!!

Follow Bishop Burbidge on Twitter! Bishop Burbidge has over 17,000 followers on Twitter! His daily reflections and posts are popular and insightful. Follow him @BishopBurbidge.

Interested in advertising in the bulletin? Call Rick Cortez at 412-292-0132

e-mail: [email protected]

A Message from the Nativity Creation Care Ministry

Our readings today highlight the plight of the people of God. They cry out to the Lord who hears them and promises comfort. The message of Pope Francis in Laudato Si’ is also a cry to the Lord. He is distressed by the destruction of the earth and the condition of the poor, but he is convinced that the generosity and solidarity of people can and will win out. The pope highlights the growing awareness that the earth is our common homeland, and of the concern for the common good. This should inspire all to live in harmony, to make sacrifices for our sisters and brothers, and to rebuild the home that God has given us. Our faith, and the faith of so many other believers throughout the world, should be a catalyst to help us confront the problems that afflict God's creation to resolve them for the benefit of all. Creation Care Ministry members enjoyed chatting with many parishioners at the Ministry Fair last weekend. If you missed the Fair, we welcome your interest in Laudato Si, Caring for Creation and Caring for the Poor. Email us at [email protected]. Our next initiative is the Fair Trade Sale over Thanksgiving weekend—we welcome your help in assisting shoppers or as a shopper yourself. Details soon.

Tilt the scales, O God of the mustard seed: That the poor shall see justice. Share the feast, O God of Eden's abundant garden: That each crop may fetch a fair price. Upset the tables, O God of the upside-down Kingdom: That the least can benefit from their trade.

(Excerpted in part from catholicclimatecovenant.org and stjosephsprepschool.co.uk Fair Trade Prayer)

Struggling with addiction in the family? Both the afflicted and affected don't need to be alone. There are many resources available including AA, NA,

Alanon, Calix and a diocesan chaplain. Call the HELPLINE (970) 989-2670) for support.

This is NOT LIMITED to addicts, anybody that would like to speak with a priest or a friend in Christ May call!

Discount Courses Available through Catholic Distance University

Join the inspiring instructors at Catholic Distance University for a faith-filled journey of discovery. Enroll in an online independ-ent study course of your choice and study anytime, anywhere!

For a full list of courses, browse our catalog at www.cdu.catalog.instructure.com/. Use Promo Code

CDU15ARLINGTON when registering to qualify for the $30 rate.



Bishop Burbidge Celebrates Nativity’s Blessings

Today Bishop Burbidge visited Nativity and its students, to spread his message of celebration, concern, and confidence. He first spoke to us from the altar, explaining that all life and God’s love are great causes for celebration, encouraging us to

deepen our faith to discover our joy. He pointed to the concern he has seen us show for those living around the

world, and reminded us to offer peace and comfort inside our own families -- and to our friends -- as well.

With confidence, he spoke of the plans that God has for each one of us, and of His love, and of the faith we have in

ourselves, in God, and in one another. After Mass, Bishop Burbidge visited every classroom to talk

with students, to ask and answer lots of questions, and to pray. After, he dismissed the students to enjoy the afternoon

and met with the teachers and staff for lunch.

nativityschool.org

NATIVITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL A Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

Before participating in any youth ministry events, please register your child on the parish website. The 2021-2022 registration

form includes medical and covid waivers required by the diocese. Please direct all questions to Rebecca Judge,

Director of Youth Ministry ([email protected]).

Calendar Updates:

LifeTeen | Grades 9-12 | Weekly on Sundays, 6:30-8:30pm Schedule: November 7, 14, & 21 in the Fr. Martin Center (Gym)

Join us for a potluck dinner at 6:30pm, followed by an evening of faith-sharing and fellowship.

Edge | Grades 6-8 | Twice a month on Sundays, 3:30-5:00pm Schedule: November 7 & 21 in the Father Martin Center (Gym)

Come for an afternoon of fun as we explore topics like faith, prayer, and Christian living.

High School Small Groups | Grades 9-12 | This fall, we will be exploring the book of Psalms.

Join us for an evening of prayer and small group discussion. Please register on the parish website.

Next meeting: October 25, 7:00pm-8:30pm in the Gym

Youth Ministry - Ongoing Needs

Meal Donations: One essential aspect of youth ministry at Nativity is gathering the teens to break bread together in community. To sustain the dinners, we are looking for parish-ioners to provide a meal for our Sunday High School LifeTeen gatherings. Your meal donation will ease the burden on our parents and will allow our adult volunteers to engage in relational ministry with the teens. Please consider supporting our ministry by signing up on our website to provide a meal.

Core Team Volunteers: We are in the process of building up our Core Team of adult volunteers. Currently, we are in most need of volunteers for our middle school program, Edge. All adults - including young adults - who have a passion for ministering to our youth are invited to consider joining this ministry. *You do not need to have a teen in the program to join the Core Team.* For more information, contact Rebecca Judge or see the parish website for details.

Please direct all questions to Rebecca Judge, Director of Youth Ministry ([email protected])

WorkCamp Information Meeting November 14, 2:00-4:00pm in the Cafeteria

Diocesan WorkCamp returns! If you plan to participate in WorkCamp 2022 (June 18-24) or are interested in hearing more about the experience, you are invited to attend this

information meeting. All interested parents, teens, contractors, and adult volunteers are welcome.

ECHO’s Fall Yard Sale will be held on Saturday, Octo-ber 29 from 8:00 am until noon in the gym of St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 7600 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield. Proceeds benefit Ecumenical

http://www.nativityburke.org/nativityschool/





¡OJO CON LA MIOPIA ESPIRITUAL! Domingo XXX

Javier Leoz

Qué duro resulta cuando, nuestras vidas y nuestros sufrimientos, son indiferentes a los demás. A nadie nos gusta ser un cero a la iz-quierda. Pero, sobre todo, es en los momentos de dolor, en la noche oscura, en las horas amargas cuando más echamos en falta cual-quiera que esté a nuestro lado. Un amigo que, escuchando nuestros lamentos o siendo consciente de nuestra situación personal, nos de un poco de luz y abra delante de nosotros un horizonte de felicidad. Con razón, no sé quién, llegó afirmar: “es mejor que te odien a que te castiguen con la indiferencia. Entre otras cosas porque, el odio, está más cerca del amor”. 1.Bartimeo tuvo esa suerte. Sabía de las andanzas de Jesús. De su gran obra y de su mano milagrosa. Era un marginado. De esos que, a la sociedad de aquel momento, interesaba poco o nada. Entre otras cosas porque, la enfermedad, era un signo de maldición. Y ,cuando Jesús pasa, aquel que era ciego grita: “ten compasión de mí”. Al principio, como tantas veces hacemos nosotros con los demás, Jesús hace oídos sordos. Pero, Bartimeo, insiste: “ten compasión de mí”. Muchos lo intentaron silenciar. Como, muchos medios de comunicación, instituciones de nuestros tiempos, intentan aplacar las voces que hablan de Dios o ridiculizar las súplicas de los que quieren llegarse hasta el Señor. Pero, Bartimeo, logró captar la atención del gran Sanador y Salvador: JESUCRISTO. Supo aprovechar la ocasión y no la dejó pasar de largo. Tenía todo en su contra y saltó de la oscuridad a la luz, de la noche absurda al día lleno de luz. ¿Pudo alcanzar algo más grande Bartimeo? ¿Por supuesto que sí! Lo que ofreció a Jesús de antemano: su fe. Tenía fe en Aquel que transitaba por ese lugar. Supo brincar sonoramente por encima de inconvenientes y hacerse oir en medio de la muchedumbre. Bartimeo, en el fondo, representa a todo hombre, a todo ser humano que busca a Dios en medio de la marabunta. Re-presenta al desahuciado que se siente desamparado, oprimido o marginado. 2.¿Quién de los que estamos aquí no hemos tenido alguna experiencia de Dios? ¿Quién de los que estamos en esta Eucaristía no he-mos pasado de la mentira a la verdad, de la tristeza a la alegría o del llanto al gozo cuando nos hemos encomendado a Jesús? Nadie, amigos, puede apagar el fuego que llevamos dentro. El “ten compasión” de Bartimeo, ha de repiquetear con especial fuerza en la realidad que nos toca vivir. Entre otras cosas porque, nuestros ojos, llevan gafas que distorsionan la realidad: nos hacen consentir malo como bueno; el aborto como derecho; la eutanasia como un gran logro o mil experimentos científicos como signo de los nuevos tiempos. No es buena la miopía espiritual. Aquella que nos empuja exclusivamente a lo efímero y nos previene o ciega contra lo eterno. No es positiva esa miopía espiritual que nos hace defender la humanidad de una forma sesgada e interesada, de aquella otra lucha humanitaria que quiere ser para todos justa, íntegra y basada en valores cristianos. Algunos nos dirán ¡de qué vais vosotros! ¡El Señor os ha abandonado! ¡Estáis ciegos o vivís engañados! Ojala, también nosotros, podamos responder: sólo sé…que antes no veía, y ahora veo; las cosas más claras, mi vida más resuelta, mi fe más profunda y mis ideales más cristianos. Que este domingo, además, nos haga abrir bien los ojos ante tantos “bartimeos” que nos dicen “tened compasión de nosotros”. Perso-nas que viven inmersas en la duda. Hombre y mujeres desconcertados y apabullados por el ambiente dominante. Cristianos que se han cansado de esperar y han desertado del camino de Jesús. Gargantas que han cambiado el “ten compasión de mí, Señor” por el “aléjate de mí, Seño porque veo por mí mismo”. Que lejos de vivir de espalda a las situaciones de dolor y de prueba que viven tantos hermanos nuestros, podamos responderles con

toda la fuerza de nuestra fe: “Qué quieres que haga por ti?”

Peregrinacion Mariana bienal diocesana al Santuario Nacional de la Inmaculada Concepcion Saturday, October 30, 2021

"San José, Guardián del Cuerpo de Cristo" Mons. Michael Burbidge, Obispo de Arlington, los invita a unirse a él para conmemorar el "Año de San José" en la peregrinación Mar-iana bienal diocesana al Santuario Nacional de la Inmaculada Concepción en Washington, D.C. el sábado 30 de octubre. El tema de la peregrinación de este año es "San José, Guardián del Cuerpo de Cristo", mientras nos reunimos en oración como una familia diocesana dentro del Santuario dedicado a su esposa y nuestra Madre. ¡Todos están bienvenidos y animados a asistir a este evento gratuito! Muchas parroquias están organizando grupos para asistir juntos, así que comuníquese con la oficina de su parroquia para obtener más información. Los peregrinos individuales y las familias son bien-venidos a participar por su cuenta y no es necesario registrarse para asistir. Las opciones de “almuerzo en caja” estarán disponibles en el Santuario (aproximadamente $10 cada una), pero se anima a los pere-grinos a traer su propio almuerzo en bolsas. El Santuario es accesible para sillas de ruedas y habrá interpretación de señas en ASL para sordos. Para obtener más información sobre el Santuario, no dude en visitar su sitio web (https://www.nationalshrine.org/). Actualmente el Santuario Nacional de la Inmaculada Concepción requiere el uso de máscaras, para todos los visitantes. Por favor Volver a consultar aqui los dias previos a la peregrinación para conocer las actualizaciones de los requisitos de COVID en el Santuario.

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APRENDE TU FE Confiar en la Providencia de Dios. Reflex-iones para el cristiano de hoy Muchos hombres y mujeres ya no piensan en la providencia divina. No creen que Dios está activo en el mundo y en la historia. Por: P. Fernando Pascual LC | Fuente: Catholic.net El mundo está lleno de emergencias: en la economía y en la polí-tica, en la familia y en la educación, en el clima y en la agricul-tura. Emergencias y más emergencias, incluso en el propio ho-gar: no hay dinero para llegar a final de mes, o ya no queda aceite en el coche... Ante tantas emergencias, hay que ponerse a trabajar. No tiene sentido sentarse pasivamente ante lo que ocurre, ni vivir en que-jas amargas. Dios nos ha dado una mente para pensar y ver de frente los problemas, y una voluntad para decidir: ¡manos a la obra! Pero por más que nos lancemos frenéticamente a arreglar el mundo cercano o el mundo lejano, por más que luchemos para frenar el calentamiento global o la corrupción local de los políti-cos, no podemos olvidar una de las enseñanzas fundamentales de la Biblia: “Si el Señor no construye la casa, en vano se afanan los constructores; si el Señor no guarda la ciudad, en vano vigi-lan los centinelas” (Sal 127,1). Por eso, a la hora de afrontar tantos problemas, urgentes, dramát-icos, necesitamos primero rezar para analizarlos correctamente, para tener un corazón prudente y decidido, y para alcanzar la necesaria fortaleza que nos permita romper miedos y ponernos a trabajar. Luego, necesitamos recordar que los resultados no están en nuestras manos. Hay cosas que haremos mejor, otras habrá que corregirlas de inmediato. Pero una mejora en el mundo, un avance del bien, sólo será posible desde la acción de Dios. Muchos hombres y mujeres de nuestro tiempo ya no piensan en la providencia divina. No creen que Dios, realmente, está activo en el mundo y en la historia. En realidad, sólo tiene sentido el esfuerzo por el bien y la justicia desde la esperanza, desde la certeza, de que Dios existe y actúa continuamente. Dios es un Padre, y un Padre vela por sus hijos. Da la lluvia y el sol, protege y levanta. Cura y perdona. Camina a nuestro lado. También cuando decidimos alejarnos y pecamos, sabe esperar y ofrece señales para que volvamos a Él. Sólo cuando nos dejemos abrazar por Dios y confiemos, descu-briremos lo mucho que hizo en el pasado y lo mucho que hace en el presente. Mejor aún: seremos capaces de reconocer que ya hizo lo único importante: darnos a su Hijo, fundar su Iglesia, ofrecernos el Reino, abrirnos las puertas del cielo. Todo lo demás pasa. Solo el Amor queda. La providencia es el modo concreto con el que el Amor interviene, a veces de modo sorprendente, en este mundo de hijos necesitados de una es-peranza, una misericordia y un consuelo que sólo puede venir de un Padre bueno y cariñoso.

NO PASES DE LARGO, SEÑOR Javier Leoz

Que temo quedarme en la oscuridad,

cuando sé que Tú eres el Señor de la luz perpetua que me pierdo mucho, si Tú no estás,

y tan sólo gano encerrarme en mi mismo. Necesito que te detengas, Señor;

Tú sabes que mi voz no siempre es escuchada Que mi vida es indiferente a muchas personas

Que valgo poco o nada y que, en muchos momentos, prefiero la tiniebla a la luz.

¿Te detendrás, Señor? ¿Me concederás un minuto de tu eterno tiempo?

¿Me hablarás con palabras de amor? ¿Me enseñarás el sendero que lleva a tu presencia?

¡NO PASES DE LARGO, SEÑOR!

Me pondré en pie, para que veas Gritaré, para que me escuches

Insistiré, para que me respondas Hace tiempo, Señor, que me siento así:

Buscándote para hablarte de lo mío Preguntando por Ti, para saber más de Ti

Queriendo salir de muchos rincones oscuros Queriendo ver, con los ojos del Evangelio

¡NO PASES DE LARGO, SEÑOR!

Acércate y, pronto sabrás, que soy un pobre hombre Que, creyendo ver, me falta descubrir lo más importante Que, pensando en todo, a veces se me escapa lo esencial

Que, creyendo amar, lo hago a mi manera Que, estando seguro de mi mismo, soy barco a la deriva

Por eso, como Bartimeo, Señor, te digo:

¡TEN COMPASION DE MI! Ten un poco de pasión por mi vida

para que sea un poco más radiante y sencilla iluminada por la verdad y asentada en la justicia

Ten un poco de pasión por mi alma, Señor, y desaparezca de ella todo pliegue o arruga Ten un poco de pasión por mi voz, Señor, y que sea fuerte y firme para proclamar

que, sólo Tú Señor, eres quien atiende a la humanidad quien escucha a la humanidad

como Dios manda

Amén.


Viernes por la noche Estudio Bíblico: El estudio bíblico en español “Little Rock” es un programa que ayudara a au-mentar tu fe. Este ministerio está en nuestra parroquia de

Natividad desde 2014, alentando a los fieles a tener una mejor visión de la Iglesia Católica y crear en ellos un interés mas pro-

fundo en las sagradas Escrituras. Horario: Viernes de 7:00-9:00 pm.

Desde Septiembre 24, 2021 a Junio 3, 2022. Lugar: Salón Fr. Ready. Este ciclo estaremos estudiando: El

evangelio según San Juan y las Cartas. Contactarse:

Elba Pfeifer [email protected]

APRENDE TU FE A las fuentes del cristianismo Reflexiones para el cristiano de hoy Cada bautizado, en cualquier lugar del mundo, está a prueba como oro en el crisol. Por: P. Fernando Pascual LC | Fuente: Catholic.net Durante el mes de Octubre, Mes del Rosario, en esta sección, meditaremos cada día un misterio, y así poder "guardar y meditar en nuestro corazón" la Vida de Jesús. -------------------------------- A lo largo de los siglos ha habido hombres y mujeres deseosos de volver a las fuentes del cristianismo. ¿Por qué? Porque la experi-encia cristiana puede quedar oscurecida y adulterada entre las mil mareas que surgen en las diferentes épocas de la historia. Además, cada corazón descubre dentro de sí las fuerzas del hombre viejo, ese modo de pensar y de comportarse que no nace de la nueva vida en Cristo, sino de las pasiones y de la mentalidad de este mundo. Esas fuerzas son capaces de anular aspectos esencial-es de la fe católica. Cristo había indicado con palabras claras cuáles son las exigencias del Evangelio: hay que renunciar a la propia vida (cf. Mt 16,24-26), no volver la vista atrás (cf. Lc 9.62), y dejarlo todo por el Reino de los cielos (cf. Mt 13,44-48). San Pablo reprochaba a algunos de los primeros cristianos por haber abandonado a Cristo para volver a actuar según la carne: “¡Oh insensatos gálatas! ¿Quién os fascinó a vosotros, a cuyos ojos fue presentado Jesucristo crucificado? Quiero saber de vosotros una sola cosa: ¿recibisteis el Espíritu por las obras de la ley o por la fe en la predicación? ¿Tan insensatos sois? Comenzando por el espíritu, ¿termináis ahora en la carne?” (Ga 3,1‑3). San Pedro dirige palabras apasionadas a quienes, tras haber iniciado el buen camino, vuelven a las malas acciones de la vida pasa-da: “Porque si, después de haberse alejado de la impureza del mundo por el conocimiento de nuestro Señor y Salvador Jesucristo, se enredan nuevamente en ella y son vencidos, su postrera situación resulta peor que la primera. Pues más les hubiera valido no haber conocido el camino de la justicia que, una vez conocido, volverse atrás del santo precepto que le fue transmitido. Les ha sucedido lo de aquel proverbio tan cierto: «el perro vuelve a su vómito» y «la puerca lavada, a revolcarse en el cieno»” (2Pe 2,20‑22). Lo que denuncia la Biblia vale para cada generación humana. Cada bautizado, en cualquier lugar del mundo, está a prueba como oro en el crisol (cf. Sb 3,6). Necesita vivir íntimamente unido a Cristo, en el Espíritu Santo, como parte de la Iglesia, para resistir las terribles asechanzas de Satanás (cf. 1Pe 5,8-9). De ahí nace el deseo de estar cerca de la fuente, del manantial de aguas vivas, que viene de Cristo y se recibe en el Espíritu Santo (cf. Jn 4,10-14; Jn 7,37-39). Sólo así es posible un cristianismo auténtico, limpio, purificado, que va contra corriente y que resiste a las embestidas de un mundo que odia a los creyentes (cf. Jn 15,18-19). Volver a Cristo, escuchar su invitación: “convertíos y creed en el Evangelio” (Mc 1,15). Ese es el camino de la renovación auténti-ca, la que necesita cada bautizado que desea seguir al Maestro, que trabaja por ser piedra viva de la Iglesia, que suplica la gracia de las gracias: ser acogido por la misericordia que nos salva, conservar encendida la llama de la fe hasta la muerte, mientras espera el regreso definitivo del Señor: “¡Ven, Señor Jesús!” (Ap 22,20).

Especialista en Medios Sociales y Digitales La Oficina del Apostolado Hispano - ofrece la siguiente oportuni-dad de empleo para Especialista en Medios Sociales y Digitales.

La Oficina del Apostolado Hispano ayuda a los párrocos en su mis-ión de evangelizar y apoyar las necesidades pastorales de las co-

munidades culturalmente diversas de católicos de habla hispana en sus comunidades e integrarlos en la vida de sus parroquias. El Espe-cialista en Medios Digitales y Sociales apoya la misión de la Ofici-

na del Apostolado Hispano haciendo uso de la creación y dis-tribución de contenido social y digital. El candidato debe ser un

católico activo y practicante y tener más de 3 años de experiencia en comunicaciones digitales y redes sociales. Debe ser bilingüe (español / inglés). Para obtener más información y poder aplicar

visite: https: /www.arlingtondiocese.org/employmentopportunities/.





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