Just two more Sundays and we begin the season of Advent. During these final weeks of Ordinary Time, we have an opportunity to reflect on the liturgical year coming to a close. Perhaps our reflection will encourage us to give thanks to God for all the graces and blessings we have received.  This reflection could also invite us to ask God for forgiveness for times, talents, and treasures misused. May these two weeks lead us through our communal and personal prayer to trust and hope in God’s loving care.
 
In that spirit, I invite you to come and join us for Adoration on Wednesday evening from 6 to 7 pm and to Thanksgiving Day Mass on Thursday morning at 9 am at St. Clare. Our School Mass will be held Tuesday morning November 20 ^th. at 8:15 am due to the Thanksgiving holiday. Tuesday evening Mass will be held as scheduled.  Wednesday Mass will be at 8:15am. The parish office will be closed Thursday and there will be no evening Faith Formation.
 
An opportunity to serve - Bringing Holy Communion to those who are unable to attend services in the church is a beautiful ministry.  It connects people to their faith in the most personal way by receiving the Eucharist and it gives them a sense of belonging.  If you would like to participate in this ministry please call the parish office.  It is a simple yet powerful witness to our faith.
 
With heartfelt gratitude, thank you to the Knights of Columbus for the great Vocation Dinner they provided last Saturday. Thanks to all who were able to join us in prayer and support of our Seminarians. Thank you to the Bereavement Ministry for your Friday night’s celebration of memories, love and life with our bereaved families. Thank you to the Hospitality Ministry for the welcome celebration of our new parishioners on Saturday. And finally, thank you in advance for your support this weekend of the Michigan Charities Collection.
 
On a personal note, I will be celebrating this weekend’s Masses with special gratitude for each of you as this weekend marks six years since my arrival to St. Clare. I hope and pray that we have grown in faith and become – at least a bit – holier and joyful in our love for God and others