St. Nicholas (Feast Day December 6)

March 15, 270 – December 6, 343

Nicholas was the fourth-century bishop of Myra, a city in Lycia, a province of Asia Minor. The best-known story about Nicholas concerns his charity toward a poor man who could not provide dowries for his three daughters of marriageable age. To help the family, Nicholas secretly tossed a bag of gold through the poor man’s window on three separate occasions, thus enabling the daughters to be married. Over the centuries, this particular legend evolved into the custom of gift-giving on the saint’s feast. In English-speaking countries, St. Nicholas became Santa Claus by a twist of the tongue—further expanding the example of generosity portrayed by this holy bishop.

·   What does it mean to “keep watch” for Jesus?

·      Why do you think Jesus doesn’t tell us when the end of the world will be?

·      What has Jesus put his servants in charge of?

·      St. Nicholas was known for his generosity. Why is it important to be generous with others?

New Year Resolutions of Faith

Advent begins a new year in the life of the Catholic Church. Come together to create a list of resolutions your family can work toward during this coming liturgical year. It may include committing to time to pray individually and as a family, going to confession regularly, and doing a work of kindness as a family for those in need. Post this list on your refrigerator (or somewhere visible to everyone) to remind yourself to do these things this coming year!

Leftover Stuffed Peppers

Watch your leftovers transform into something entirely new!

2 cups leftover roasted turkey or chicken (finely chopped or ground in a food processor)

2 Tbsp taco seasoning

½ cup water

1 can black beans

½ cup cooked brown rice

2 cups leftover stuffing

4 bell peppers

1 cup stock, vegetable or chicken

2 cups shredded cheese

In a large bowl, combine meat, taco seasoning, water, and black beans. Stir in rice and stuffing. Cut peppers length wise and remove ribs and seeds. Place peppers in slow cooker facing upwards. Fill the peppers with meat mixture. Pour the stock in the bottom of the slow cooker. Cook on high 3 hours. The peppers should be soft when they are done. Sprinkle with cheese before serving.

Advent Prayer

The candles of the Advent wreath give us light to watch for Jesus. After it gets dark, light the first candle on your family’s Advent wreath and pray this prayer.

Heavenly Father, your son, Jesus, is your greatest gift to us, a great sign of your love. Guide us as we strive to walk in that love together as a family this Advent. As we prepare our hearts for Christmas, bring us closer to each other and to your Son. Give us the grace and strength we need every day. Help us to always trust in you. Come, Lord Jesus, lead all people closer to you. Come and dispel the darkness of our world with the light of your love. Amen.

Look for the advent wreath in your church. How many candles were lit today?

Adopt a family in need for Christmas. Prepare gifts of food, clothing, and toys to make their Christmas season special.

On December 8th, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. On this day, the Church celebrates that Mary was conceived without original sin, thus preparing her to be the Mother of God. (CCC 490 - 492) It is a Holy Day of Obligation.