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Saint James
Catholic Church
Established 1892
905 Park Avenue
Falls Church, VA 22046
703-532-8815
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We near the end of another Advent Season and with it, new beginnin gs take shape. Thanks to everyone who made this a wonderful Christmas. My brother priests and I are very appreciative of all your cards and gifts.
A New Year is upon us and I ask us all to rededicate ourselves to an active prayer life. Talking with God, spending some time in His presence, is the gift we can give ourselves every day. It is the one gift that grows over time; enriching our lives and those around us.
Know that you and your families are always in my prayers for a blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year.
In Christ,
Father Posey
PS: Don't forget to check out our new website: www.stjamescatholic.org
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IHMs Renew Vows
Last week, on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, our IHM Sisters renewed their vows during a School Mass. Our Pastor, Father Patrick Posey, spoke of their commitment to and love for our students. He thanked them for their years of service and had members of our children's choir present each of them with roses. The Sisters received warm applause and were treated to a reception after Mass by some of our parent volunteers.
Since 1923 the IHM Order has ministered to our students. We are grateful to them and pray God continues to bless them and their fellow religious who work to bring the Gospel message to all.
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New Parish Website: www.stjamescatholic.org
 It came! It finally came! And just like the Grinch says, "without boxes or bows... ribbons or tags!" Our new Parish website has been long in coming, but we went live last week.
Two years ago the school contracted with Silverpoint, Inc., a web designing company specializing in school websites. When we agreed to use their services, it was with the proviso that they assist us in building a new site for the Parish. After the school site was up last year, we began work on the Parish side.
"I have been more than pleased with the school site; it's informative, interactive and looks terrific," says Father Posey. "I am equally pleased with the Parish site. It was important to me that they share the same look and feel -- for we are one parish, Church and School. I hope you agree with me that the designers did a great job."
This long process could not have been accomplished without the help of our many "angels" who worked and collaborated these many months. "I have been sworn to secrecy," smiles Father Posey,"to not name names, but I can say publicly that I am extremely grateful to all who worked on this project. Your work brings Christ's message to a community beyond Park Avenue."
As we move through this digital age, it is imperative that our parish remain current in the latest modes of communication. The new site, Facebook and Twitter are all a means to spread a message of salvation.
Father Posey is quick to note, "while I cannot name those who actively worked on building this new site, I am allowed to, and indeed would be remiss if I did not, thank Bob Bean for his many years of managing our old site. Bob, as a volunteer, gave so much of his time and energy; and for that I am truly thankful."
We ask that you be patient in these coming months as we work through small details or kinks that may still be found on the new site. It remains a work in progress. More than anything, we hope you find the new site a welcome addition to your web browser! |
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 Park Avenue Profile: Father Joseph
As Father Joseph nears the end of his studies at Catholic University, we are faced with the unhappy prospect of his departure. While a firm date has not been set, we thought a reprise of our 2010 Parish Profile would be a good way for us to remember all that make Father Joseph such a kind and generous soul. We hope you enjoy it.
Have you ever met someone whose gentleness, whose very spirit is one of such serenity and peace that you cannot help but feel the calming sense of Christ?
That is Father Joseph Elamparayil.
Yet, don't assume that this gentleness passes for meekness, for it takes strength of character and spirit to travel thousands of miles from your home to a country so vastly different from your own experience.
Born in the small village of Ayamkudy, Kerala (in the southwest of India), Fr. Joseph was one of five children, the fourth of three brothers and a sister. "I was supposed to be the last," he chuckles. "I used to tease my younger brother all the time- I don't think he liked it." Father's siblings, as well as his mother and 10 nieces and nephews still reside in India. "My father passed away in 1992. I was very close to my father -- so much so that I used to tell everyone that it [was] my Dad who delivered me!"
"We had a lot of fun as children. We played games -- we slept in tents outside, ran around, it was great."
While 40% of the population is Roman Catholic, "my village was not so. I went to a Hindu-run school [as a child]. But Hindus are very tolerant people. I never felt different because I am Catholic." Yet, Father goes on to relate that his Diocese had many priests -- "we liked to call ourselves the Ireland of India!"
It was after high school that one of Father's uncles invited him to visit his Carmelite monastery. Fr. Joseph remembers both parents as very religious. "They were not very educated, but read the Bible a lot. They were very faithful people."
It was their example that stayed with Fr. Joseph and so it came as no surprise to them when he came to tell them about his budding vocation. As for many contemplating this step for Christ, it was a slow process for Fr. Joseph. "You know, at 15, you don't think a lot of becoming a priest."
He found, however, in that monastery a sense of peace and belonging. Carmelites, by their very charism, are a contemplative community, yet work vigorously as missionaries in more than 60 countries. Fr. Joseph remembers watching a movie about the missionary St. Damien of Molokai while in school. "The priest had it projected on the outside wall of the Church; we had no movie theaters. It was about a missionary, I wish I could remember the title, but it moved me so much. All I wanted to be after that was a missionary." After his ordination in 1996, Fr. Joseph worked for a number of years in Bangalore at the Carmelaram Theology College. "I wanted to eventually teach, so my superior sent me to Allentown, Pennsylvania to work in a parish and pursue my studies." Fr. Joseph recounts how warm and welcoming the people of his parish there, St. Jane Frances de Chantal, were to him upon his arrival. "I was so blessed with the people in Pennsylvania; they showed me such kindness and generosity." While he was only there for a year and a half, Fr. Joseph still keeps in contact with many of the parishioners there and often sees them. He laughs as he remembers the housekeeper in Allentown teaching him how to use the appliances. "It was there that I got my first car! The generosity of people, the kindness they show me is what makes me humble -- makes me want to serve them."
Unable to pursue the course of study he wished to, Fr. Joseph made his way down the 95 corridor to St. Frances in Purcellville. It was there that he met Fr. Posey and began his doctrinal studies in Systematic Theology at Catholic University. The people of Purcellville were equally supportive. "Oh, I got so many offers of help. Help with my Visa. Help with typing for my papers. Fr. Posey was so kind to me." "I've known Fr. Joseph for a long time," says Fr. Posey. "He is truly a blessing from God. His patience, his kindness to others is a prime example of the work of God. He also has a good sense of humor, which you need sometimes." One parishioner commented that to see Fr. Joseph on the altar is "to see Jesus. He is so serene. So joyful. You can't help but feel that joy and take it with you the rest of the day."
Now, Father can be seen throughout the parish. Hearing confessions of the students, saying Mass, assisting where needed. He can also be seen huddled before his computer, a different sort of altar to be sure. Anyone who has ever written a thesis can commiserate with Fr. Joseph. It is a monumental task. Fr. Joseph is writing on Cardinal John Henry Newman. "I am making progress" he exclaims. "I hope to be finished by 2011."
"We are so blessed here at St. James," says Fr. Joseph. "The combination of priests does not happen very often -- they are wonderful men and great to be around. The people here are wonderful, so very giving. I am very blessed." Fast forward to 2011: his thesis completed, Father awaits for direction from his order. He plans to return to India in the New Year. "I cannot tell you what a loss Father Joseph's departure will be to us at St. James and to me personally, " says Father Posey. "Father Joseph and I have worked together the better part of a decade. He is a wonderful priest and a great friend. You know, he has quite a following wherever he goes," Father laughs. For now, let's enjoy our time with Father Joseph and pray it takes a while for his orders to arrive! Please plan to join us for a thanksgiving celebration in honor of Father Joseph on Saturday, January 14th during the 5:00pm Mass. A reception will immediately follow in Heller Hall. |
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Bethlehem Revisited
 Last Friday we received an early Christmas present in the form of a wonderful rendition of the nativity story. Prior to that, Music Teacher Natalie Lauby led a large choir in festive songs. The children's clear voices began the evening in a most beautiful way.
 Parish children (from the School and PREP Program) brought to life the story of Christ's birth. The star of the show was, of course, Baby Jesus, played by ready-for-bedtime-Angela Salinetti. Although, the stable animals played by our youngest students, came very close to stealing the limelight.
It's a story we all know by heart, but every year Sister Joyce, our DRE, brings new life to it. Practicing for weeks before the show, the students performed well in their roles. Everyone was very impressed by Mary (aka Jazlyn Castro) who calmed a fussy "Jesus;" confidently rocking her back and forth until she fell asleep. She is now on the Salinetti's pay roll as Babysitter Extraordinaire!
Afterwards, Father Posey complimented our performers telling them that they showed what the true meaning of Christmas was: love and God's love for us. Many thanks must go to Sr. Joyce, Paula Conrad, Jeanne Trott, Marisol Valdez-Oscco and all the parents who made costumes, drove to practices and otherwise supported their children.
We would be remiss if we did not also thank Nancy Fishenden and members of the Hospitality Committee who provided a terrific reception after the show. |
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DFE Update
 Over the past several months, faculty, administration and staff have been working diligently on their individual DFE reports. Seven areas for self-study were established: Leadership, Curriculum, Personnel, Services, Faith & Community, Governance/Finance, Demographics and Facilities. All committees are in the process of finalizing draft reports. The entire committee has their next monthly meeting on January 18th. Drafts will begin to be ratified beginning then, with all drafts ratified by March.
As we mentioned last month, various members of the DFE committee are working concurrently with the School's Strategic Planning Committee. In addition, Caroline Murn, the Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee, meets regularly with the DFE Chair, third grade teacher Mrs. Deirdre Prahm, to ensure communication and collaboration when determining goals.
"I am grateful to everyone who continues to work on this important endeavor," says Sr. Nancy. "They will have a well-deserved Christmas break!" |
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Legacy of St. James Campaign Update
Please note that for tax purposes, all gifts must be received prior to December 31, 2011. Tax statements will once again be mailed in January. Many thanks to all our donors who continue to make regular pledge payments.
In January, we will provide a re-cap for the first six months of Fiscal 2012.
If you have questions, or would like to make a gift to the Campaign, please contact Christine Hughes at:
advancement@stjamescatholic.org. Thank you.
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Signing up with Faith Direct will make pledge payments simple! Go to our website, www.FaithDirect.net to log on. Our log in number is VA50. Please remember to note "St. James Legacy Campaign" on your check or memo line.
Please take advantage of the PINK Campaign Envelopes in your monthly offertory packet to make your pledge payments. Simply place your payment in the basket at Mass. Again, please remember to note that your donation is for the Campaign to avoid confusion in recording.
We thank everyone for their commitment to this effort. If you have questions or concerns regarding your pledge, please contact Christine Kurtzke Hughes in the rectory at 703-532-8815 or email her at advancement@stjamescatholic.org |
 Saint James School
Ah, the sounds of Christmas. Voices raised in joyful celebration of the birth of Christ. And Christmas break!!
The students are ready for Santa's visit, but in the meantime, it's been business as usual.
Congratulations to our eighth grader Eddie Donnellan who won our Geography Bee last week. Eddie will participate in the State Bee in a few months time. Eddie's parents can now donate their GPS as Eddie will lead them where they need to go.
During Advent, students collected various needed items for Christ House. The week of December 4th was "We Care Week," which supports Catholic Charities. The National Junior Honor Society collected $1 donations with a Dress Down Day for the flood victims in Pennsylvania and Virginia.
FUTURE ROCKETS COME TO CAMPUS
Last week students from Columbia Baptist and St. Joseph's Pre-schools came to see a dress rehearsal of our Kindergarten and First Grade Christmas Pageant. The students came with their teachers and parents. The children from St. Joseph's were escorted by our current Fifth graders who will be their Prayer Partners when they come to St James as Kindergartners.
The children were treated to a small reception afterwards with each student getting a brand new St. James pencil to take home. This is but one of many ways our school reaches out to potential students. "It was a great success," says Sister Nancy. "Our big kids got to shine for the younger children and those from the Pre-schools got a first hand look at our campus."
TEACHERS GIVING BACK
 Once again during their Secret Santa Week, our teachers collected stuffed animals for the Toys for Tots Program. Always a favorite, it's a great way for our faculty to be involved in our community. Sister Nancy is very grateful "for the outpouring of support this initiative has every year. We are very blessed with our faculty."
MORE ROCKETS SHINE!
Charlie Fidler Named Concertmaster
 Senior violin player Charlie Fidler (pictured left) was honored at the recent Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors' Association (VBODA) District XII Orchestra auditions, by being named Concertmaster. This is the title given to the principal violinist of an orchestra. More than 80 violin players from public and private schools in the district performed scales, orchestral excerpts and sight reading for a panel of judges.
Fidler, along with the rest of the District XII Orchestra, will rehearse and perform at an event scheduled for the weekend of January 6-7 at Herndon High School
Congratualtions also to Claire Crutchfield and Mark Hilliard who will represent Bishop O'Connell at the District XII Chorus. Hundreds of students from both public and private schools audtioned for this presitgious group.
The above is courtesy of Bishop O'Connell
Please send your good news about your Rocket Alum to Chris Hughes at advancement@stjamescatholic.org We love celebrating all our kids!
From everyone at 830 W. Broad Street:
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
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Ministry Updates
PARISH RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAM (PREP)
Students in PREP are participating in a collection for the Holy Childhood Association during Advent, ending on January 1st. Thank you to our students and their parents for their generosity.
REMEMBER THAT CLASSES WILL RESUME JANUARY 3rd. Merry Christmas!
Don't forget our Monthly Food Distribution: Friday, January 6th in Heller Hall. Questions? Contact Janet Qualters at 703-573-9170.
Mother's Group Meetings next month:
January 5th: Evening Meeting: Unplugging your family from today's technology
The NURSERY will be closed December 25th and
January 1st
YOUTH MINISTRY
 Em Anderson's Cookies and Milk Outreach to our Diocesan High Schools was so successful she was honored recently by the Diocese. Em is pictured here with the Diocesan Director of Youth Ministry, Kevin Bohli. 8,000 cookies were distributed to our high schoolers in an effort to highlight Youth Ministry activities. Thank you Em for all your hard work. Em is now thinking of taking on the Girl Scouts for Best Cookie Distributor. We're just kidding; we love our Thin Mints.
There's just a few days left until Christmas, but check out Em's Advent Blog: www.rendyourheartnotyourgarment.blogspot.com
Take a few moments from your busy day to read and come closer to God during this busy season.
 Fourteen teens joined in the fun of ice skating at the Sculpture Garden earlier this month. It was the first part of our all day Christmaspoolza, including ice skating, cookie decorating and a Christmas movie. 6 Alumni joined the other teens in the day of fun as well.
 Each year the diocese allows for youth ministries across the diocese to select a volunteer of the year. This year, St. James Youth Ministry selected Irene Viorritto as our volunteer of the year. Irene helps with our girls club, weekly at our Sunday Sessions and in any way Em can dream up. She is Em's right hand girl and has a heart for young people. Irene is a greatly loved volunteer and we are thrilled to honor her as she journeys with the young people of St. James! Thanks Irene!
There will be NO SUNDAY NIGHT SESSION on December 25th and January 1st. Mellow Monday takes a day off on the 26th. Sunday Night Session returns January 8th from 4:00-6:00pm.
If you are interested in one of the summer workcamp experiences, the deadline has passed. However, please contact Em (eanderson@stjamescatholic.org) as there still may be room.
Merry Christmas! |
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Upcoming Events |
Christmas Mass & Confession Schedule
Confessions:
Wednesday, December 21st: 7:00pm
Saturday, December 24th: 10:00am-12Noon
Masses
Saturday, December 24th Christmas Eve
5:00pm (Children's); 7:00, 9:00pm and 12 Midnight
Sunday, December 25th, Christmas Day
7:30, 9:00 and 10:30am; 12 Noon; 2:30pm (Spanish); 7:00pm
New Year's Eve
Saturday, December 31st: 5:00pm
Sunday, January 1st New Year's Day
7:30, 9:00; 10:30am and 12 Noon; 2:30 (Spanish); 7:00pm
RCIA Classes
Monday Evenings 7:30-9:00pm
Knecht Conference Room
School Resumes and PREP Classes Resume
Tuesday, January 3rd
Social Outreach Food Distribution
Friday, January 6th, 7:00pm
Heller Hall
St. James Mother's Group
EveningMeeting
Thursday, January 5th, 7:30-9:00pm
Knecht Conference Room
Thanksgiving Celebration for Father Joseph
Saturday, January 14th, 5:00pm Mass
Reception following in Heller Hall
Youth Ministry Deanery I Lockout
Saturday through Sunday, January 14-15th, 9:00pm-7:00am
St. Phillips Church
Life is Very Good Youth Rally
Sunday, January 22nd
March for Life
Monday, January 23rd
Catholic Schools Week
January 29th through February 3rd
St. James School Open House
Tuesday, January 31st
9:00-11:00am
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"For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace."
(Isaiah 9:5) | |
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Contact Information
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St. James Catholic Church
905 Park Avenue Falls Church, VA 22046
Phone: 703-532-8815 Office hours:
Monday-Friday 9am-9pm; Saturday 9am-6pm
Reverend Patrick Posey, Pastor
Please see our website: www.stjamescatholic.org
Saint James Catholic School
830 Broad Street Falls Church, VA 22046
Phone: 703-533-1182 Office Hours:
Monday-Friday 8am-4pm
Sister Nancy Kindelan, IHM, Principal
Please see our website: www.saintjamesschool.org
Religious Education
830 Broad Street Falls Church, VA 22046
Phone: 703-533-1182 (ext. 104)
Monday-Friday 9:30am -2:30pm
Sister Joyce Bell, IHM, Director
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