Dear Community of Saint Mark,

I have said it before and I will say it again, "I love this time of the year." As the holidays begin and we approach the solemn holyday of Christmas people become more generous with their kindness, love, and generosity towards others. This time of the year brings out the best in people. Wouldn't it be wonderful if the spirit of Christmas lasted throughout the year?

Our community here at Saint Marks continues to strive to serve you as best as we can. It is important to note that I said "our community." There is no way that I, and the other priests, alone could serve you as best as we can without the generosity of so many of you. Our primary time together is at our Liturgies, especially on Sundays. I have personally always tried to give you the best especially on Sundays. Our Liturgies should reflect our desire to be welcoming, joyful, participatory and prayerful. One of my personal interests is music. We are blessed to have so many wonderful volunteers to "make a joyful sound unto the Lord." We are also fortunate to be able to enhance our volunteers with hired professionals to lead, direct and support our program and community with their musical talents. Several new musicians have been added over the last couple of years. They have made an incredible and positive impact on our Liturgies both at our English and Spanish Masses. Their work is evident especially when the community responds to their leadership and talent by a fuller response from our congregation. I hope that you will leave our Liturgies inspired and thus serve the Lord through the next week energized to make a positive difference wherever you might be.

Christmas is quickly approaching and already our ministries are working hard to prepare wonderful celebrations including our Music Ministries. They, together with all of our other ministries, programs, outreaches, as well as everyday financial concerns, need your support. Even with our troubled economy you have been wonderful to St. Marks this past year. I pray that you will be able to continue your incredible support of our parish in a special way this Christmas and throughout the next year. In a particular way your generosity will allow us to continue to maintain the quality of our music ministry and retain our hired musicians.

May the soon to be born Prince of Peace, and the entire Holy Family, watch over you and all your loved ones this Christmas and throughout the New Year.

Wishing you all a very Blessed Christmas and a wonderful New Year,

Father Michael Rocha

Pastor

(In preparation for Christmas)

Christmas Eve, Thursday, December 24, 2009

Christmas Day, Friday, December 25, 2009