November 19, 2007   •   VOL. 45, NO. 20   •   Oakland, CA
 

Be informed Father Paul Schmidt, pastor at St. Joseph Parish in Pinole, will lead a workshop, Planning a Loved One’s Funeral, on Nov. 26 in the parish hall, 837 Tennent Ave. in Pinole, from 7 – 9 p.m. His presentation will cover the Vigil, Mass and Committal. Representatives from Holy Angels Funeral and Cremation Services and St. Mary’s Cemetery in Oakland will also speak and answer questions regarding what goes into arranging a funeral, and burial and cremation options. RSVP: Eduardo De Loa, (510) 223-1265 or eduardod@catholiccemeteries.org.

Guadalupe pilgrimage Catholics throughout the East Bay are invited to take part in the second diocesan pilgrimage held in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe on Dec. 8. Participants will gather at Oakland’s St. Louis Bertrand Church, located at 100th Ave. and International Blvd., at 9 a.m. to join a procession that will wind from the East Oakland parish to Lakeside Park, near the construction site of the new Cathedral of Christ the Light. At the park Bishop Allen Vigneron will lead the Liturgy of the Word, using scriptural readings for the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, celebrated on Dec. 12.

Advent/Christmas

Nov. 29, Dec. 6 and 13
Advent Thursday Evening Series. 6:30 p.m. registration, 7 – 9 p.m. at San Damiano Retreat Center, Danville. Emmanuel: Hope of the World with Chiara’s Lantern. Each evening will provide a welcoming God-centered environment to quiet the self, nourish the soul, and empower the spirit. $15 per evening. (925) 837-9141; www.sandamiano.org.

Friday, Nov. 30
St. Charles’ Community Advent Extravaganza. 7 – 9 p.m. at St. Charles Borromeo Parish, 1315 Lomitas Ave., Livermore. Come and sing Christmas songs, make Advent calendars, create Christmas cards, see a skit, and much more. Refreshments. Donations: socks, jackets, gloves, knit caps, and blankets to be distributed by members of the parish youth ministry group to the homeless in San Francisco. Julie, upcatholic@aol.com or (925) 447-4549.

Saturday, Dec. 1
A Renaissance Christmas. At Holy Names University, 3500 Mountain Blvd., Oakland. 5:30 p.m. dinner, Bay Vista Room; 8 p.m. concert, Regents’ Theatre in the Valley Center for the Performing Arts. Celebrate the holidays with a Renaissance dinner, followed by a holiday concert featuring the HNU music department, including the HNU Chamber Singers, Orchestra, and Prep Music Department. Dinner and Concert only: $10 general admission; $5 students and seniors; HNU students, faculty and staff, free. (510) 436-1405.

Monday, Dec. 3
Advent Movie and Popcorn Night. 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. in Borromeo Hall, St. Charles Parish, 1315 Lomitas Ave., Livermore. Come join us in the viewing of “The Nativity Story.” The movie is rated PG13. Julie, upcatholic@aol.com or (925) 447-4549.

Wednesday, Dec. 5
To See the World Through God’s Eyes: An Advent Day of Prayer. 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Jesuit Retreat Center of Los Altos. The first conference is at 10 a.m. Presented by Father Bernie Bush, S.J., a spiritual director, who worked for 15 years as a therapist for emotionally-troubled clergy and religious with the House of Affirmation in Montara, CA. This day of prayer will seek a deep internal experience of the Lord. Participants will spend time looking closely at the Holy Trinity, the Holy Family and themselves. Information/online registration: http://jrclosaltos.orgor (650) 948-4491.

Dec. 5, 12, 19
Advent Class: Forgive For Good. 7:30 – 9 p.m. at St. Elizabeth Seton, 4001 Stoneridge Dr., Pleasanton. This three-week course will help participants free themselves from grudges and grievances that siphon energies from the heart. Participants will learn five powerful spiritual practices from Dr. Fred Luskin’s book, “Forgive For Good.” Information: Jim Silva, director of adult formation, (925) 474-2783 or JimSilvaCCOP@gmail.com.

Dec. 6 and 8
The Forgotten Carols: Sung and Narrated by Glenn Yarbrough and the San Jose Symphonic Choir. 8 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Cathedral Basilica, 80 South Market St., San Jose. Tickets: $35 each. Order tickets online at www.glennyarbrough.com/San-Jose-Concert.htm or by mail from WebSavvy Consulting, 6074 Riding Court, San Jose, CA 95124. Information: (408) 269-4812.

Dec. 7 and 9
Amahld and the Night Visitors. At St. Augustine Church, 400 Alcatraz Ave., Oakland. Dec. 7: 8 p.m.; Dec. 9: 3 p.m. The parish will present this one-act opera by Gian-Carol Menotti. Admission is on a donation basis. Karen Miller, kmm8006@gmail.com.

Dec. 8
Advent Day of Reflection. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at St. Elizabeth Chapel, 4001 Stoneridge Dr., Pleasanton. Father Jim Sullivan, associate at Catholic Community of Pleasanton, and his mother, Sara Sullivan, are the presenters. Lunch will be provided. RSVP: (925) 474-2762 or jsullivan@catholicsofpleasanton.org.

A Musical Celebration for Christmas Featuring the Pacific Mozart Ensemble. 8 p.m. at St. Mary’s College Chapel, St. Mary’s College, 1928 St. Mary’s Road, Moraga. The vocal ensemble will perform works from Mozart to Stravinsky to Dave Brubeck. Directed by Lynne Morrow. Sponsor: The Committee for Lectures, Art and Music at St. Mary’s College. Suggested donation: $30 general; $25 seniors; $15 for SMC faculty/staff and non-SMC students; $2 for SMC students. (925) 631-4381 or go online to www.stmarys-ca.edu and slick on “The Arts.”

Dec. 8 and 9
Voices of Musica Sacra. Dec. 8: 8 p.m. at Santa Maria Church, 40 Santa Maria Way, Orinda; Dec. 9: 3 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 1924 Trinity Ave., Walnut Creek. “Caroling, Caroling,” a Christmas concert featuring the complete Carols of Alfred Burt, and works by Rutter, Biebl, Distler, Holst, and others. John Kendall Bailey, music director. Suggested donation: $20 adults, $15 students/seniors, children 5-12 free. Reception follows. www.vmschorus.org or (925) 944-5239.

Sunday, Dec. 9
Time Enough For Joy. 3:30 p.m. at St. Philip Neri Church, 3108 Van Buren St., Alameda. The three seasons of Christmas – Advent, Christmas and Epiphany – will be celebrated with seasonal music and traditional narratives set to music by artistic director Allen H. Simon. Tickets: $25 general, $20 student/senior, at the door. Discount for advance purchase. Groups rates also available, phone for details. 888-SDG-SONG or order online: www.SDGloria.org/tickets.php.

Saturday, Dec. 15
Sing-Along Messiah. 6:30 p.m. at St. David of Wales Church, 5641 Esmond Ave., Richmond. Featuring: St. David’s Festival Choir. Free admission; suggested donation $5 general, $10 family. (510) 237-1531 or www.saintdavidchoir.com.

Dec. 16 – 24
7th Annual Simbang Gabi Novena. Daily Mass at 5 a.m. at St. Patrick Church, 825 Seventh St., Rodeo. The Simbang Gabi, which is celebrated partly in Tagalog, is open to all. (510) 799-4406.

Simbang Gabi. 5:30 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 860 Oak Grove Road, Concord. The treasured Filipino Advent tradition includes Filipino Christmas carols and food every morning. Come all ye faithful.

Saturday, Dec. 22
Pasko, Pista at Papuri – A Filipino Christmas Celebration. 6 a.m. at the Old Mission Church, St. Joseph Parish, 43300 Mission Blvd., Fremont. Rekindle and experience the traditional Filipino holiday celebration by attending the Simbang Gabi (dawn Mass) and a “barrio fiesta” style reception immediately following the Mass. Information: http://paskopistaatpapuri.blogspot.comor Valerie Millares, (510) 366-0180, e-mail: paskopistaatpapuri@gmail.com.

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SPIRITUALITY

Nov. 21, 28, Dec. 5, 12
Christ the King Bible Study and Charismatic Prayer Meeting. 7:30 p.m. at 6 Saint Lawrence Court, Pleasant Hill. Share in charismatic praise, singing and openness to the gifts of God’s Spirit. Sponsor: Charismatic Catholic Renewal. (800) 474-6644.

Nov. 22, 29, Dec. 6
Chaplet of Divine Mercy Devotion. 6:30 – 8 p.m. at St. Anthony Church, 971 O’Hara Ave., Oakley. Includes study of the Holy Scripture. All are welcome. (925) 625-2109.

Saturday, Dec. 1
Day of Prayer: “Incarnation: The Call to Forgiveness.” 8:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 860 Oak Grove Road, Concord. Beginning with Eucharist, participants will use Scripture, theological discussion, guided meditation, journaling and faith sharing to develop hearts that are ready to receive and offer forgiveness following the example of the loving Savior. $20 fee (or whatever you can afford) includes breakfast and lunch. Information/registration: Carmen, (925) 944-5970 or cascholl@astound.net.

Monday, Dec. 10
Healing Mass. 7:30 p.m. at St. Edward Church, 5788 Thornton Ave., Newark. Bert/Norma, Abba Father Prayer Group, (510) 793-1750. Every second Monday.

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EUCHARIST ADORATION

Daily
6 a.m. – 8 p.m. at Mary’s House Chapel, 1850 Church Lane, San Pablo. (510) 236-0383.

24 hours a day, at Divine Mercy Center and Perpetual Adoration Chapel, 11152 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. (510) 412-4715.

Mondays, Wednesdays
12:45 – 6:30 p.m. at St. Elizabeth Seton Church, 4001 Stoneridge Dr., Pleasanton.

Tuesdays
8 a.m. – 8 p.m. in Mary’s Chapel at St. Jarlath Church, 2620 Pleasant St., Oakland.

Thursdays, Fridays
7 a.m. – 9 p.m. at St. Mary Church, 2039 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Walnut Creek.

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RETREATS

Nov. 23 – 25
Recovery Retreat: Life Is In Session – Go For It! At San Damiano Retreat Center, Danville. Facilitator: Sister Briegeen Moore, OSC. This week is about dealing with life on life’s terms with courage, enthusiasm, and gratitude. $205 private room/$175 shared room. (925) 837-9141; www.sandamiano.org.

Nov. 30 – Dec. 2
Walking on the Water. At the Jesuit Retreat Center of Los Altos. A retreat by and for young adults, ages 20 – 40. Presenters: Mary Jansen, director of the Office of Young Adult Ministry and Campus Ministry for the Archdiocese of San Francisco, and Father Thomas J. Carroll, S.J., a former teacher at Loyola High School in Los Angeles. Online registration at www.jrclosaltos.org or (650) 948-4491.

Dec. 27 – Jan. 1
New Year’s Eve Meditation Retreat. At Mercy Center, 2300 Adeline Dr. Burlingame. This retreat will provide the opportunity to enter deeply into a meditative experience of silence, self-discovery and community. Daily periods of meditation and silence. Presenter: Gregory Mayers, CSsR., a Redemptorist priest who has been leading contemplation workshops for over 30 years. $365/$325 commuter. Information/online registration: www.mercy-center.org.

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LECTURES

Sunday, Nov. 25
Know Your Faith! 7 p.m. at St. Joseph Church, 837 Tennent Ave., Pinole. Tim Staples, a well-known speaker and Catholic convert, will present “The Power and Impact a Well-Informed Catholic Can Have on Society” in which he explains why it is vital that the average Catholic understands his faith and has the ability to explain and defend it to the lesser informed. LaRae Buxa, (510) 724-6219.

Nov. 28 – 29
Reclaiming Fatherhood: A Conference on Men and Abortion. 9 a.m. at St. Mary’s Cathedral, 1111 Gough St., San Francisco. This is the first conference to focus on the effects of abortion on men. Organized by the National Office of Post-Abortion Reconciliation and Healing. All clergy and ecclesial ministers are encouraged to attend. $250 registration fee. Limited scholarships available. Information: www.menandabortion.info or Colleen Knutsen, cknutsen@oakdiocese.org.

Monday, Dec. 3
Life in Occupied Bethlehem. 7 p.m. at Newman Hall/Holy Spirit Parish, 2700 Dwight Way, Berkeley. Claire Anastas will speak about life in the walled-in town of Bethlehem and share the impact of occupation upon the daily life of Christian and Muslim inhabitants of Bethlehem. Anastas will also have traditional crafts from Bethlehem available for purchase. Mary, (510) 912-1823.

Saturday, Dec. 8
God’s Action in Nature’s World. 1 – 5 p.m. in Richard S. Dinner Board Room, Flora Hamson Hewlett Library, 2400 Ridge Road, Berkeley. A conference sponsored by the Graduate Theological Union and The Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences featuring Robert John Russell, professor of theology and science in residence at the GTU and founder and director of The Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences (CTNS), a GTU affiliate. (510) 848-8152 or www.ctns.org.

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sOCIALS

Saturday, Nov. 24
The Meridians 23rd Annual Sport Collectors Show. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Ryan-O’Donnell Church Hall, St. Leander Parish, 575 W. Estudillo Ave., San Leandro. A variety of vintage sports memorabilia (1880 – 2007) will be for sale. Door prizes will be given away. Admission: $3 general; free for those under five or over 65. Proceeds will benefit St. Leander Parish as well as local charities. Mark, (510) 538-6245.

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support groups

Saturday, Dec. 1
No More Secrets – Monthly Support Group for Survivors of Clergy Sexual Abuse. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Holy Names University, Brennan Hall, Room 77, 3500 Mountain Blvd., Oakland. Survivors and their families are welcomed and encouraged to join the group, which is facilitated by a licensed psychotherapist. Claire Jeanette, facilitator, (510) 843-6971.

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Social Justice

Tuesday, Nov. 27
Morality of War and Peace in Iraq. 7 p.m. in the Taube Conference Center, Notre Dame de Namur University, 1500 Ralston Ave., Belmont. Msgr. Robert McElroy, author of “Morality and American Foreign Policy: The Role of Ethics in International Affairs,” will address the topic. The lecture is free and open to the community. Information: Sister Roseanne Murphy, (650) 508-3551.

Wednesday, Nov. 28
Called from Worship into Service. 7 – 9 p.m. in the auditorium of the Dominicans of Mission San Jose, 43326 Mission Blvd., Fremont. Cynthia Ney, in partial fulfillment of a Master of Arts degree on lay pastoral ministry from Holy Names University in Oakland, will facilitate a discussion on social justice issues that challenge society today. How do we respond in light of our faith and move into action? (510) 754-1273.

Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 11, 20
Maryknoll Center Movie Nights. 7 p.m. at 16300 Foothill Blvd., San Leandro. Nov. 29: “Global Banquet,” a look at corporate profits gained at the expense of small farmers in the U.S. and developing nations; Dec. 6: “My Americas: Our Lady of Guadalupe (Mexico)” Will be shown first in English and then in Spanish, 24 min. each; Dec. 11: “Christmas Around the World at the Maryknoll Center,” Massa at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner and program; Dec. 20: “An African Christmas,” see Christmas with the people of Bumi village in Tanzania. (510) 276-5021 or www.maryknoll.us.

Friday, Nov. 30
Movie and Pizza Night. 7 – 8:30 p.m. in Stack Hall at Our Lady of Grace Parish, 3433 Somerset Ave., Castro Valley. Enjoy pizza while watching the entertaining, yet provocative film, The Corporation, an acclaimed documentary that explores the nature and spectacular rise of the most pervasive institution of our time. Pizza, salad and drinks will be provided. Sponsor: OLG’s Pax Christi/Social Justice group. Dennise, (510) 538-6071.

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Reunions

Saturday, Dec. 1
St. Mary’s High School, Berkeley, Class of 1967 Reunion. 6 p.m. on campus. Reservations and information: Joanne Marchetti Howe, (510) 559- 6227 or jhowe@stmchs.org by Nov. 23.

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Schools

Thursday, Nov. 29
Winter Festival of the Arts. 7 p.m. at gymnasium, St. Joseph Notre Dame High School, 1011 Chestnut St., Alameda. Students will exhibit and perform their creative work. Free admission. Refreshments will be served.

Nov. 30, Dec. 1
St. Elizabeth High School Adaptation of the “Wizard of Oz.” Doors open at 7 p.m., show begins at 7:30 p.m. in St. Elizabeth High School Theater, 1530 34th Ave., Oakland. A cast of nearly 20 students is hard at work preparing for what promises to be a lively production of a timeless tale. (510) 532-8947.

Thursday, Dec. 6
Kindergarten Information Night. 6:30 – 8 p.m. in the kindergarten room, St. Joseph Elementary School, 1920 San Antonio, Alameda. (Access via Lafayette St.) Meet the Kindergarten teacher, principal and board members and see the newly remodeled classroom, Question/answer session will follow. Application packets will be available. Refreshments. RSVP recommended: (510) 522-4457.

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