The letter stresses the importance of human rights. It addresses the relationship between individuals and the state. It speaks of equality among nations. And it presents the need for greater relationships between all nations. It called for groups of states to assist other states, especially those in trouble. But most importantly, it called for an end to the nuclear arms race - for disarmament.
Last month, Catholic Charities was notified that it will receive a grant for the 46th year, the latest being worth $638,961. The program is for people aged 55 and older. Almost 90 percent of the grant, which originally came from the U.S. Department of Labor, will provide temporary employment to low-income older adults living in Worcester and Franklin counties.
Marybeth Hay, director of catechesis at St. Mary Parish and Our Lady of the Valley Regional School in Uxbridge, organized people from different places in packing shoeboxes of Christmas gifts for children in developing countries through Box of Joy, a ministry of Cross Catholic Outreach, based in Boca Raton, Florida.
The Advent-Christmas season is a time of joy, peace, and celebration, but it can also be a time of sadness, loneliness, and grief for many people. The memories of past Christmases, whether happy or painful, can stir up emotions that are hard to cope with. But such memories can also be a source of healing for us and for others.
Sister of St. Joseph Claire Belforti (formerly Sister Grace Edward), 94, a member of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Springfield, died in Framingham on Nov. 24.
Clinton’s Women of Grace group will meet 10 a.m.-noon, Dec. 8, in St. John’s parish hall, 80 Union St., Room 11. Contact: Carole Zupicich at carolezup@yahoo.com to signup. Walk-ins always welcome!
Immaculate Conception Parish, 353 Grove St., will host a monthly holy hour, 7-8 p.m., to pray for priests, on the second Friday of the month, consisting of adoration, a short reflection, the rosary, silent prayer and benediction. Please join us for this important act of service and prayer for our priests.
Back to Basics Narcotics Anonymous Support group for those attempting to recover from drugs meets 7-8 p.m., Fridays at Our Lady of Lourdes Chruch in the parish hall, 1290 Grafton St. National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
St Joseph Parish will hold its Christmas Bazaar in the church hall, 10 H Putnam Road, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 9, featuring food, baked goods, crafters, raffles, theme baskets, kids' corner, music and Martha’s closet. Santa will be in attendance. Admission and parking are free.
The New 2 You Thrift Shop & Furniture Gallery will hold its Holiday Bazaar 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 9, St. Joseph's Campus, 759 Main St., featuring caroling, food, raffles, kids crafts and games, amazing buys and a chance to win a holiday centerpiece. Visit with Mr. & Mrs. Claus 11 a.m.-1 p.m. CLICK FOR DETAILS.
All are invited to attend the monthly meeting, 9-111 a.m. every second Saturday at St. Anne Church, 20 Boston Road. Contact Patrick O’Donnell, SFO at sfostanne.minister@aol.com or 857-540-4008. CLICK FOR MORE.
St. Peter Parish will hold an Advent Day of Reflection, The Beatitudes in the Gospel of St. Matthew, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 9, in- the parish hall, 39 Church Ave. The day will include two reflection sessions, Mass, lunch, and a prayer service. All are welcome to attend! Call the parish office 508-234-2156 or email parishoffice@stpeterrockdale.org to register by Thursday, Dec.7. No fee but donations will be accepted.