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I would like to address a common question that gets asked somewhat frequently: Is it OK to bring food/drink into church? This question actually leads to another question: Is it OK to eat or drink before receiving Holy Communion? Let's break this down a bit and tackle each question individually.
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- Is it OK to bring food or drinks into church? The short answer is NO. It is considered disrespectful to bring food and/or drinks into church. The reason for such is that the church space is not a kitchen or dining room. It is a sacred space designated for the purpose of the worship of God. Eating and drinking in a church is disrespectful of the sacred nature of the church. Items such as coffee, tea, soda, etc should never be brought into church. There is one exception, however, with water - especially for the choir members/cantors. If water is needed, it ought to be in a designated water bottle.
- What about eating and drinking before Holy Communion? The Church teaches that the faithful who plan to receive Holy Communion are required to fast for 1 hour before receiving. What does that mean 'to fast'? It means no food or drink except water and/or medicine for the duration of 1 hour before Holy Communion. The reason for such a requirement hinges on piety. Just as food satisfies the body's need for life and strength, so the soul must hunger in the same way for God who sustains us and strengthens us in our fight against sin, evil and in our pursuit of virtue and holiness. Fasting before Holy Communion manifests this inner desire, this inner need and longing for God... that He is our true food.
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My canon law professor, an Irish Dominican priest, once said: "if you want to have a cappuccino before Mass, don't wear a watch!" In other words, he was saying "don't be overly scrupulous" but nevertheless, be attentive to these regulations. Both of these "rules" have a way of deepening our reverence in Mass, for the Holy Eucharist. Fasting, especially before Mass, can lead to a deeper love for Holy Communion and for God in our daily lives. They have a way of manifesting a deeper interior devotion and we ought not take them for granted.
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CCD: All CCD grades meet this Sunday February 6th. Grades 1-6 9-10:15am; Grades 7-10 5pm-7:30pm. There is Mass at 5pm which is open to all.
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Church Flowers: If you would like to take home a poinsetta, please feel free to do so - please leave the gold pot/plate and just take the flower.
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Year End Statements: If you would like a copy of your charitable giving to Holy Family Parish or St. Mark's, please call the office and a statement will be mailed to you.
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Coffee and Fellowship: Join us after the 8am and 10:30am Mass Sunday February 6th for pastries, coffee and fellowship - all are welcome!
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Dollars for Babies: The Alternatives Pregnancy Center is collecting donations in order to help women and families in crisis pregnancy situations. All proceeds go to help support families with basic needs such as formula and diapers. Baby bottles are located at the Sugarloaf St. entrance of the church. If you are able please take a bottle, fill it with coins/cash and return to the office by February 27, 2022.
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LOST AND FOUND: We have a pair of Rayban Sunglasses in the office as well as some gloves that have been found... if these items belong to you, please come and claim them.
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There is no new Coffee with FJ episode.
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See the link to previous episodes below!
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Support Holy Family
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when you shop at Amazon with Amazon Smile!
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Click the image below to set Holy Family as your charity!
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Holy Family Roman Catholic Church
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