The bulletin for July 13, 2008 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

TWO UPCOMING HAITI IMMERSION TRIPS: (1) The Haitian Health Care Foundation (HHCF) is planning a Haiti Medical Professionals trip October 17-25, 2008. It will be an immersion experience for medical professionals designed to expose the participants to current HHCF programs and the Haitian medical system. Participants will visit multiple sites including the Zanmi Lasanté Sociomedical Complex in Cange, Haiti (www.pih.org). The deadline to register for this trip is August 15th. For information, contact Susan Pleasants at vabatt@aol.com. (2) Diocesan Haiti Immersion Retreat Applications are now being taken for the immersion retreat to Haiti, November 29 through December 6, 2008. This trip is designed to give individuals an opportunity to learn about Haiti's history, culture, economics, politics, and religion. This is not a tourist visit, but rather a pilgrimage and time to be open to the gifts of Haiti and God's transformation. For information, contact Patrice Schwermer at pschwermer@richmonddioces.org or at (804) 622-5129.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS: The next meeting of the Fr. Louis A. Rowen Council is Monday, July 21st at the Stone Chapel. Rosary is at 7:15 p.m., and the meeting will begin at 7:30 p.m. Future planning date of Monday, August 18th will be the installation of 2008-2009 Council officers, followed by a covered dish supper. Details to follow.

IMPACT: Before the Holy Comforter listening sessions can take place in August and September, we need a few people who are willing to facilitate one of the sessions. If you are interested, please call the parish office or email mcc310@embarqmail.com.

PANTRY: It's Reverse Collection time again. Since we will have NO government food to distribute until the middle of August, your support is critical. Please be as generous as possible.

CATHOLICISM 101: A study group on the Catechism of the Catholic Church with video presentations by Fr. John Corapi meets selected Saturdays at 10:00 a.m. in the Community Room of St. Thomas Aquinas Church. The next session is on 19 July "Christian Prayer II". Contact sackandpam@comcast.net.

CATECHISTS NEEDED: Christian Formation needs catechists for all programs--Child, Youth, and Adult. Catechists are needed to teach Kindergarten through RCIA level classes. Please contact Teresa Ritzert for more information. Classes will begin in August.

THE LORD NEEDS YOU: How can you do this? Become a Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. As individuals have left this ministry, the need for new ministers at all masses has become urgent. Training will be provided. PLEASE contact Margaret McElroy at 973-6429 or mdm1909@embarqmail.com.

---

This post is from the Holy Comforter Catholic Church eNewsletter which is sent out once a week via email. If you would like to subscribe to the eNewsletter, click here.

The bulletin for July 6, 2008 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO DO: Want to learn more about our Lord's Sacramental love for you? Join us for a small group on Tuesday afternoons at 4:00 p.m. from June 24th to August 26th at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Staunton, Virginia at Assisi Hall. Form more information, contact Heather Orwig at (540) 886-2262. Want more? Join us on Thursday afternoons also at Assisi Hall from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m., and we may make rosaries or write to soldiers or maybe we will cook for families in need. We look forward to seeing you.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS: The next meeting of the Fr. Louis A. Rowen Council is Monday, July 21st at the Stone Chapel. Rosary is at 7:15 p.m., and the meeting will begin at 7:30 p.m. Future planning date of Monday, August 18th will be the installation of 2008-2009 Council officers, followed by a covered dish supper. Details to follow.

IMPACT: When the IMPACT listening sessions begin later this summer, you will be asked two things: your ideas about the problems in this area and your intention to attend IMPACT's three major meetings--especially the Nehemiah Action next spring.

PANTRY: The July Reverse Collection will take place next weekend. There will be no government food available until the middle of August. Therefore, the generous support of the parish is critical.

CATECHISTS NEEDED: Christian Formation needs catechists for all programs--Child, Youth, and Adult. Catechists are needed to teach Kindergarten through RCIA level classes. Please contact Teresa Ritzert for more information. Classes will begin in August.

THE LORD NEEDS YOU: How can you do this? Become a Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. As individuals have left this ministry, the need for new ministers at all masses has become urgent. Training will be provided. PLEASE contact Margaret McElroy at 973-6429 or mdm1909@embarqmail.com.

PHILOSOPHY CLUB: The next meeting will be Sunday, July 13th from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in the lower level. Please read in preparation pages 42-75 of The Inward Morning by Henry Bugbee. For additional information contact Matt Starnowski at matt.starnowsi@gmail.com.

---

This post is from the Holy Comforter Catholic Church eNewsletter which is sent out once a week via email. If you would like to subscribe to the eNewsletter, click here.

The bulletin for June 29, 2008 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

PARISH OFFICE CLOSED: The Parish Office will be closed Friday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day.

YOUTH GROUP: The Holy Comforter Youth Group will meet Monday, June 30, from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. in the basement of the church to assemble Safe Birth Kits to be shipped to new mothers in Haiti. All high school students in the parish are invited to participate. Bring a snack to share, as well as a board game for afterwards. There is a sign-up sheet on the credenza. Please contact Suzanne Bailey (296-5033) for further information.

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO DO: Want to learn more about our Lord's Sacramental love for you? Join us for a small group on Tuesday afternoons at 4:00 p.m. from June 24th to August 26th at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Staunton, Virginia at Assisi Hall. Form more information, contact Heather Orwig at (540) 886-2262. Want more? Join us on Thursday afternoons also at Assisi Hall from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m., and we may make rosaries or write to soldiers or maybe we will cook for families in need. We look forward to seeing you.

CATECHISTS NEEDED: Christian Formation needs catechists for all programs--Child, Youth, and Adult. Catechists are needed to teach Kindergarten through RCIA level classes. Please contact Teresa Ritzert for more information. Classes will begin in August.

THE LORD NEEDS YOU: How can you do this? Become a Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. As individuals have left this ministry, the need for new ministers at all masses has become urgent. Training will be provided. PLEASE contact Margaret McElroy at 973-6429 or mdm1909@embarqmail.com.

PANTRY: In the past several weeks, we have seen an increase of people coming to us for food for the first time. These are people who have lost one job and have not yet found another. It is really heartbreaking when these people in need have children. Holy Comforter parishioners are generous supporters of our Outreach Program. Please keep up the good work.

PHILOSOPHY CLUB: The next meeting will be Sunday, July 13th from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in the lower level. Please read in preparation pages 42-75 of The Inward Morning by Henry Bugbee. For additional information contact Matt Starnowski at matt.starnowsi@gmail.com.

---

This post is from the Holy Comforter Catholic Church eNewsletter which is sent out once a week via email. If you would like to subscribe to the eNewsletter, click here.

The bulletin for April 6, 2008 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

PANTRY: The Holy Comforter pantry is able to purchase staple items from the Food Bank at a reduced price WHEN THERE IS FOOD TO PURCHASE. Recently, the Food Bank has been short of food. So we are asking the parish to pitch in. Beside the always need toilet articles, we also could use canned fruit and tuna fish. Thank you for your support.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION: Christian Formation classes are in DESPERATE need of volunteers to help set-up and break-down classes on Sunday mornings. It is a ten-minute commitment. Please sign-up in the Commons for any Sunday when you can spare a few minutes to help our youth and catechists. For more information, contact Teresa Ritzert.

PACEM: The PACEM season ended successfully on March 14. Seventy Holy Comforter parishioners served for a combined total of over 650 hours this season, with the "average" volunteer serving four shifts at the intake center. All volunteers are invited to attend PACEM's Volunteer Recognition and Awards Event on April 11, 6-8 p.m. Please RSVP to skipruns@earthlink.net indicating the number in your party. Please continue to remember our homeless guests in your prayers throughout the year, especially as temperatures remain cold. PACEM was able to provide some guests with sleeping bags and tents to help meet their physical needs until shelter re-opens next fall. PACEM is also in need of funding to continue is operations. Visit www.pacemshelter.org for more information.

---

This post is from the Holy Comforter Catholic Church eNewsletter which is sent out once a week via email. If you would like to subscribe to the eNewsletter, click here.

The bulletin for March 23, 2008 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

PANTRY: Most of us will be enjoying a special Easter dinner this weekend. Those who come to our pantry for food assistance may not fare so well. Recently we have been short of many items. We can purchase canned goods at the Food Bank at a reduced price, but we very much need the support of this parish for those very welcome toilet articles.

PASTORAL CARE MINISTRY: The Pastoral Care Committee wants to develop a program where Holy Comforter parishioners can demonstrate their giving spirit by ministering to each other. There are times when we can use extra help because of illness, having had surgery, or a child is born, for example. If you are able to prepare a meal or provide a ride, you qualify to be part of this giving ministry. We need a list of people who are available to help when one of our own is in need. The Lenten season is a a special time to consider what we can do to help our Holy Comforter family. A sign-up sheet will be on the table in the The Commons. Please sign up to make a meal, provide a ride, or help coordinate this program. There are no age or gender restrictions -- all are welcome to join this giving group. You will truly be spiritually rewarded.

FIRST EUCHARIST PREPARATION: First Eucharist Classes will begin on Saturday, April 5th at 9:30 a.m. For more information, contact Teresa Ritzert.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION: Christian Formation classes are in DESPERATE need of volunteers to help set-up and break-down classes on Sunday mornings. It is a ten-minute commitment. Please sign-up in the Commons for any Sunday when you can spare a few minutes to help our youth and catechists. For more information, contact Teresa Ritzert.

ANNUAL DIOCESAN HAITI GATHERING: The Annual Diocesan Haiti Gathering is Saturday, April 5th at St. Thomas Aquinas from 8:45 a.m. until 4.00 p.m. All those involved in Haiti Twinning or interested in Haiti are welcome to join in a day of celebration, education, and networking. This year's focus is "A Spirituality of Global Solidarity". The registration fee of $20 includes breakfast, lunch, and handouts. To register, email mmainous@richmonddiocese.org or call (804) 622-5127.


CATHOLIC-JEWISH DIALOGUE: Holy Comforter is hosting the annual Catholic-Jewish Dialogue on Sunday, April 6th at 3:00 p.m. Volunteers are needed to help set up chairs, tables, and refreshments and to serve as greeters. Please sign up in the Commons or contact Teresa Ritzert.

---

This post is from the Holy Comforter Catholic Church eNewsletter which is sent out once a week via email. If you would like to subscribe to the eNewsletter, click here.

The bulletin for March 16, 2008 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

PANTRY: Once again this month, we asked for toilet articles in the Reverse Collection. We are the only pantry that has these articles, and they are much appreciated. We always try to include as a bare minimum, a bar of soap and a roll of toilet paper in each pantry bag. Other toilet articles are given out as they are requested, but no one should have to beg for soap and toilet paper. Since we distribute 250 bags a month, that is a lot of soap and toilet paper.

PASTORAL CARE MINISTRY: The Pastoral Care Committee wants to develop a program where Holy Comforter parishioners can demonstrate their giving spirit by ministering to each other. There are times when we can use extra help because of illness, having had surgery, or a child is born, for example. If you are able to prepare a meal or provide a ride, you qualify to be part of this giving ministry. We need a list of people who are available to help when one of our own is in need. The Lenten season is a a special time to consider what we can do to help our Holy Comforter family. A sign-up sheet will be on the table in the The Commons. Please sign up to make a meal, provide a ride, or help coordinate this program. There are no age or gender restrictions -- all are welcome to join this giving group. You will truly be spiritually rewarded.

FIRST EUCHARIST PREPARATION: First Eucharist Classes will begin on Saturday, April 5th at 9:30 a.m. For more information, contact Teresa Ritzert.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION: Christian Formation classes are in DESPERATE need of volunteers to help set-up and break-down classes on Sunday mornings. It is a ten-minute commitment. Please sign-up in the Commons for any Sunday when you can spare a few minutes to help our youth and catechists. For more information, contact Teresa Ritzert.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS: The next meeting will be held Monday, March 17th at the Stone Chapel next to the Church of the Incarnation which is located behind Toys 'R' Us on US 29 North off of Hillsdale Drive. Recitation of the Rosary will be at 7:15 p.m., and the meeting will begin at 7:30 p.m. If you are interested in joining the Knights, contact Joe Murray (971-2737), Tom O'Rourke (244-2852), or Jim Morrisard (973-6570).

---

This post is from the Holy Comforter Catholic Church eNewsletter which is sent out once a week via email. If you would like to subscribe to the eNewsletter, click here.

The bulletin for March 9, 2008 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

IMPACT: Help make a difference in our community by participating in the IMPACT Nehemiah Assembly scheduled for Monday, March 10th at 6:15 p.m. at U-Hall. At the assembly, we will continue to press for much needed change in two important areas--affordable housing and dental care.

PANTRY: It is Reverse Collection weekend again, and once again we are asking for toilet articles. Although we can purchase many staple groceries for very resaonable prices at the Food Bank, we are not able to purchase toilet articles there. People who come to us for groceries are very grateful when we can include toilet articles in their bags. Please continue with your generous support.

PASTORAL CARE MINISTRY: The Pastoral Care Committee wants to develop a program where Holy Comforter parishioners can demonstrate their giving spirit by ministering to each other. There are times when we can use extra help because of illness, having had surgery, or a child is born, for example. If you are able to prepare a meal or provide a ride, you qualify to be part of this giving ministry. We need a list of people who are available to help when one of our own is in need. The Lenten season is a a special time to consider what we can do to help our Holy Comforter family. A sign-up sheet will be on the table in the The Commons. Please sign up to make a meal, provide a ride, or help coordinate this program. There are no age or gender restrictions -- all are welcome to join this giving group. You will truly be spiritually rewarded.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS: Throughout Lent there is a weekly Stations of the Cross on Friday at 7:00 p.m. A Cross Bearer, two Candle Bearers, and two Readers are needed. Families are urged to volunteer. Training will be provided. Total time involved is less than one hour. Please sign up in the credenza.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION: The deadline to register for the 2008-2009 Christian Formation and Sacrament Prepartion Classes is April 1st. Registration by this date is vital for planning classes and ordering textbooks. Note that payment can be made in August. For more information, contact Teresa Ritzert.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION: Christian Formation classes are in DESPERATE need of volunteers to help set-up and break-down classes on Sunday mornings. It is a ten-minute commitment. Please sign-up in the Commons for any Sunday when you can spare a few minutes to help our youth and catechists. For more information, contact Teresa Ritzert.

LOTTERY FOR TICKETS TO PAPAL MASS: The Diocese of Richmond will have 400 tickets available for the papal mass which will be celebrated by Pope Benedict XVI at the Washington Nationals Baseball Park on April 17, 2008 during his visit to the U.S. The tickets will be assigned by lottery.

To enter the lottery for the tickets visit the Diocese of Richmond Web site, print out and fill in the form available there, and send it in to the diocese. Those who are not able to access the form via the Web site, may request a form from the parish office.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS: The next meeting will be held Monday, March 17th at the Stone Chapel next to the Church of the Incarnation which is located behind Toys 'R' Us on US 29 North off of Hillsdale Drive. Recitation of the Rosary will be at 7:15 p.m., and the meeting will begin at 7:30 p.m. If you are interested in joining the Knights, contact Joe Murray (971-2737), Tom O'Rourke (244-2852), or Jim Morrisard (973-6570).

---

This post is from the Holy Comforter Catholic Church eNewsletter which is sent out once a week via email. If you would like to subscribe to the eNewsletter, click here.

The bulletin for March 2, 2008 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

PANTRY: In this prosperous area in the richest country in the world, there are many people who do not have enough in their pay check to cover all of their expenses and still buy food. So they come to us for help. Thanks to your generous support we are able to provide them with bags of nourishing food and toilet articles. Whatever you can donate will be gratefully received. Right now we especially need toothbrushes. Thank you.

PASTORAL CARE MINISTRY: The Pastoral Care Committee wants to develop a program where Holy Comforter parishioners can demonstrate their giving spirit by ministering to each other. There are times when we can use extra help because of illness, having had surgery, or a child is born, for example. If you are able to prepare a meal or provide a ride, you qualify to be part of this giving ministry. We need a list of people who are available to help when one of our own is in need. The Lenten season is a a special time to consider what we can do to help our Holy Comforter family. A sign-up sheet will be on the table in the The Commons. Please sign up to make a meal, provide a ride, or help coordinate this program. There are no age or gender restrictions -- all are welcome to join this giving group. You will truly be spiritually rewarded.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS: Throughout Lent there is a weekly Stations of the Cross on Friday at 7:00 p.m. A Cross Bearer, two Candle Bearers, and two Readers are needed. Families are urged to volunteer. Training will be provided. Total time involved is less than one hour. Please sign up in the credenza.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION: Christian Formation classes are in desperate need of volunteers to help set-up and break-down classes on Sunday mornings. It is a ten-minute commitment. Please sign-up in the Commons for any Sunday when you can spare a few minutes to help our youth and catechists. For more information, contact Teresa Ritzert.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION: Christian Formation classes are in desperate need of volunteers to help set-up and break-down classes on Sunday mornings. It is a ten-minute commitment. Please sign-up in the Commons for any Sunday when you can spare a few minutes to help our youth and catechists. If you are able to help, please contact Teresa Ritzert.

LOTTERY FOR TICKETS TO PAPAL MASS: The Diocese of Richmond will have 400 tickets available for the papal mass which will be celebrated by Pope Benedict XVI at the Washington Nationals Baseball Park on April 17, 2008 during his visit to the U.S. The tickets will be assigned by lottery.

To enter the lottery for the tickets visit the Diocese of Richmond Web site, print out and fill in the form available there, and send it in to the diocese. Those who are not able to access the form via the Web site, may request a form from the parish office.

PARISH SURVEY: A survey has been mailed to the homes of all registered parishioners. In the interest of trying to gain a more detailed understanding of the parishioners' opinions, it has been decided to use multiple, narrowly focused surveys rather than one large survey. The first survey which has been mailed focuses on the adult members of the parish. Please return your survey in the enclosed self-addressed envelope. Contact the parish office if you have not received your survey.

---

This post is from the Holy Comforter Catholic Church eNewsletter which is sent out once a week via email. If you would like to subscribe to the eNewsletter, click here.

The Holy Comforter parish Web site offers two eNewsletters. Subscribing to both only takes a few seconds, and, of course, they are both free.

Subscribe to the Weekly Newsletter
The first subscription is for the weekly eNewsletter. Each week the eNewsletter arrives in your email inbox on Friday morning. The information in the eNewsletter includes:

• The upcoming week's liturgy schedule.
• Highlights from next Sunday's bulletin.
• Next Sunday's parish bulletin attached as a PDF file.
• Prayer intentions for the month.
• Devotions for the current liturgical season.
• An excerpt from the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
• A short article on Church history.
• The Web link of the week.

For more information, including how to subscribe to the weekly eNewsletter, click here.

Subscribe to the Blog
The second email subscription available is for this Blog. By subscribing to the Blog, you will receive via email all of the information that is posted on the Blog. Each morning an email will be sent to you which includes all of the information which was posted on the Blog on the previous day. If no entries were made the previous day, an email is not sent. To subscribe to the Blog, simply click here and follow the directions to complete your subscription.

All email addresses are kept in the utmost privacy and only used to send the newsletter or the Blog posts.

The bulletin for February 24, 2008 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

PANTRY: Many people "give up" things of Lent, and they are often things we do not want to have in our lives anyway: smoking, drinking, chocolate, dessert, etc. If we give up those things for 40 days, we will be healthier, but will the world be a better place? Suppose this year, we add something. Add a few items to the weekly grocery cart for the Pantry. You can still give up those negatives that plague your life, but you will also be adding positives to the lives of others.

PORTRAIT APPOINTMENTS: Scheduled portrait appointments continue this week, February 25 - March 1. Portraits are taken at the white Carriage House of First Presbyterian Church on 522 Park Street. Please keep your appointment. If you must cancel call 975-5995.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS: Throughout Lent there is a weekly Stations of the Cross on Friday at 7:00 p.m. A Cross Bearer, two Candle Bearers, and two Readers are needed. Families are urged to volunteer. Training will be provided. Total time involved is less than one hour. Please sign up in the credenza.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION: Christian Formation classes are in desperate need of volunteers to help set-up and break-down classes on Sunday mornings. It is a ten-minute commitment. Please sign-up in the Commons for any Sunday when you can spare a few minutes to help our youth and catechists.

HAITI TWINNING UPDATE: A Haiti Twinning meeting will be held at 1:00 p.m. this Sunday, February 24th in the fellowship hall downstairs. Come hear the latest news from our parishoners who travelled to our twin parish, St. Michael's in Haiti. Also, learn more about what you can do to help. The committee is still looking for people who would be willing to sponsor students at the St. Michael's school for only $10 per month.

PARISH SURVEY: A survey has been mailed to the homes of all registered parishoners. In the interest of trying to gain a more detailed understanding of the parishoners' opinions, it has been decided to use multiple, narrowly focused surveys rather than one large survey. The first survey which has been mailed focuses on the adult members of the parish. Please return your survey in the enclosed self-addressed envelope. Contact the parish office if you have not received your survey.

---

This post is from the Holy Comforter Catholic Church eNewsletter which is sent out once a week via email. If you would like to subscribe to the eNewsletter, click here.

The Holy Comforter parish Web site offers two eNewsletters. Subscribing to both only takes a few seconds, and, of course, they are both free.

Subscribe to the Weekly Newsletter
The first subscription is for the weekly eNewsletter. Each week the eNewsletter arrives in your email inbox on Friday morning. The information in the eNewsletter includes:

• The upcoming week's liturgy schedule.
• Highlights from next Sunday's bulletin.
• Next Sunday's parish bulletin attached as a PDF file.
• Prayer intentions for the month.
• Devotions for the current liturgical season.
• An excerpt from the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
• A short article on Church history.
• The Web link of the week.

For more information, including how to subscribe to the weekly eNewsletter, click here.

Subscribe to the Blog
The second email subscription available is for this Blog. By subscribing to the Blog, you will receive via email all of the information that is posted on the Blog. Each morning an email will be sent to you which includes all of the information which was posted on the Blog on the previous day. If no entries were made the previous day, an email is not sent. To subscribe to the Blog, simply click here and follow the directions to complete your subscription.

All email addresses are kept in the utmost privacy and only used to send the newsletter or the Blog posts.

The bulletin for February 17, 2008 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

PANTRY: Many people "give up" things of Lent, and they are often things we do not want to have in our lives anyway: smoking, drinking, chocolate, dessert, etc. If we give up those things for 40 days, we will be healthier, but will the world be a better place? Suppose this year, we add something. Add a few items to the weekly grocery cart for the Pantry. You can still give up those negatives that plague your life, but you will also be adding positives to the lives of others.

PORTRAIT APPOINTMENTS: The scheduled portrait appointments are this week, February 18 - 23. Portraits are taken at the white Carriage House of First Presbyterian Church on 522 Park Street. Please keep your appointment. If you must cancel call 975-5995.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS: Throughout Lent there is a weekly Stations of the Cross on Friday at 7:00 p.m. A Cross Bearer, two Candle Bearers, and two Readers are needed. Families are urged to volunteer. Training will be provided. Total time involved is less than one hour. Please sign up in the credenza.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION: Christian Formation classes are in desperate need of volunteers to help set-up and break-down classes on Sunday mornings. It is a ten-minute commitment. Please sign-up in the Commons for any Sunday when you can spare a few minutes to help our youth and catechists.

PARISH SURVEY: A survey has been mailed to the homes of all registered parishoners. In the interest of trying to gain a more detailed understanding of the parishoners' opinions, it has been decided to use multiple, narrowly focused surveys rather than one large survey. The first survey which has been mailed focuses on the adult members of the parish. Please return your survey in the enclosed self-addressed envelope. Contact the parish office if you have not already received your survey.

---

This post is from the Holy Comforter Catholic Church Bulletin Newsletter which is sent out once a week via email. If you would like to subscribe to the Newsletter, click here.

The bulletin for February 10, 2008 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

PANTRY: It is reverse collection time again. Please purchase as many items from the list as you can afford. There are many people in this area who depend on us to supplement their food budgets. Thank you for your continuing support.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION: Christian Formation classes are in desperate need of volunteers to help set-up and break-down classes on Sunday mornings. It is a ten-minute commitment. Please sign-up in the Commons for any Sunday when you can spare a few minutes to help our youth and catechists.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS: Throughout Lent there is a weekly Stations of the Cross on Friday at 7:00 p.m. A Cross Bearer, two Candle Bearers, and two Readers are needed. Families are urged to volunteer. Training will be provided. Total time involved is less than one hour. Please sign up in the credenza.

IMPACT: The recent efforts of IMPACT have included researching options to help provide both dental care and affordable housing for those who earn less than $20,000 per year. At the Rally scheduled for February 11th at 6:30 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, we will learn what solutions will be proposed by IMPACT. Please plan to attend the Rally and the Nehemiah Assembly which will be held at U-Hall on March 10th at 6:00 p.m.

PORTRAIT APPOINTMENTS: The scheduled portrait appointments begin next week, February 18 - 23. Portraits are taken at the white Carriage House of First Presbyterian Church on 522 Park Street. Please keep your appointment. If you must cancel call 975-5995.

---

This post is from the Holy Comforter Catholic Church Bulletin Newsletter which is sent out once a week via email. If you would like to subscribe to the Newsletter, click here.

The bulletin for January 27, 2008 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

PANTRY: People who come to us for help in order to supplement their food supplies are especially grateful that we also provide toiletries. Many toiletries cannot be obtain via food stamps or through other food pantries. Next time that you go to the grocery store, please buy toilet paper, soap, deodorant, tooth paste, tooth brushes, lotion, and shampoo for the food pantry. You can be sure that quite a few people will be grateful that you did.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION: Christian Formation classes are in desperate need of volunteers to help set-up and break-down classes on Sunday mornings. It is a ten-minute commitment. Please sign-up in the Commons for any Sunday when you can spare a few minutes to help our youth and catechists.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS: A Memorial Mass for the deceased Brothers of Father Lewis A. Rowen Council 3670 will be held on Saturday, February 9th at 9 a.m. at Holy Comforter. Families are encouraged and urged to attend. Coffee and danishes will be provided. Call Jim Morrisard at 973- 6570 if transportation is needed.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS: The weekly Stations of the Cross begins on Friday, February 15th at 7:00 p.m. A Cross Bearer, two Candle Bearers, and two Readers are needed. Families are urged to volunteer. Training will be provided. Total time involved is less than one hour. Please sign up in the credenza.

IMPACT: The recent efforts of IMPACT have included researching options to help provide both dental care and affordable housing for those who earn less than $20,000 per year. At the Rally scheduled for February 11th at 6:30 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, we will learn what solutions will be proposed by IMPACT. Please plan to attend the Rally and the Nehemiah Assembly which will be held at U-Hall on March 10th at 6:00 p.m.

APPOINTMENTS FOR PARISH DIRECTORY PORTRAITS: At the moment, all time slots for portrait appointments are filled. However, there could be cancellations, and there is a possibility that more appointment times will be added. Check the appointment Web site by clicking here. Also, check in the News section for updates or send an e-mail to to request to be added to a waiting list.

To read the entire parish bulletin for January 27, 2008, view the attached PDF file or click here.

---

This post is from the Holy Comforter Catholic Church Bulletin Newsletter which is sent out once a week via email. If you would like to subscribe to the Newsletter, click here.

The bulletin for January 20, 2008 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

PANTRY: Many people made generous donations to the food pantry during the Christmas season. But hunger doesn't end with the holidays. The pantry once again has some scarce areas. In this month's Reverse Collection we are asking for vegetarian beans, 15 oz. canned vegetables, and cereal. Please keep the food pantry in mind when you go grocery shopping.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION: Christian Formation classes are in desperate need of volunteers to help set-up and break-down classes on Sunday mornings. It is a ten-minute commitment. Please sign-up in the Commons for any Sunday when you can spare a few minutes to help our youth and catechists.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS: The next meeting will be held Monday January 21, 2008, at the Stone Chapel next to the Church of Incarnation. Stone Chapel is located behind Toys 'R' Us on US 29 North off Hillsdale Drive. Recitation of the Rosary will be at 7:15 PM and the meeting will begin at 7:30 PM. If you are interested in joining the Knights, contact Joe Murray (971-2737), Tom O'Rourke (244 2852 ), or Jim Morrisard (973- 6570).

MARCH FOR LIFE: On Tuesday, January 22nd a bus will go to DC for the MARCH FOR LIFE. The bus will leave the Church of the Incarnation at 8 AM and return at 6 PM. Cost is $15 adults/$10 children. Wear clothing according to the weather and bring drink and food. E-mail Diane G-Baltz at cvillerespectlife@gmail.com for more info or to sign up.

SCHEDULE YOUR TIME TO HAVE YOUR PICTURE TAKEN: Remember to sign up for your free portrait photograph which will be included in the 2008 Holy Comforter Parish Directory. Pictures will be taken at the Carriage House of the First Presbyterian Church located at 522 Park Street (opposite Parkway Street). Parking is available in the Carriage House Lot. To sign up for an appointment, click here or contact Bob or Betty Spann via email at bespann@earthlink.net or by calling 975-5995.

To read the entire parish bulletin for January 20, 2008, view the attached PDF file or click here.

---

This post is from the Holy Comforter Catholic Church Bulletin Newsletter which is sent out once a week via email. If you would like to subscribe to the Newsletter, click here.

The bulletin for October 21, 2007 is now available. Click here to view it.

If you would like to receive the parish bulletin via email, click here.

The bulletin for October 14, 2007 is now available. Click here to view it.

If you would like to receive the parish bulletin via email, click here.

The bulletin for October 7, 2007 is now available. Click here to view it.

If you would like to receive the parish bulletin via email, click here.

The bulletin for September 16, 2007 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

If you would like to receive the parish bulletin via email, click here.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION: Catechists are still needed for a number of teaching positions. Please see the bulletin for more details about how you can help with passing on our Catholic Faith. For more information about volunteering, contact Teresa Ritzert, Coordinator of Religious Education, by calling 295-6559 or via email at tritzert@holycomforterparish.org.

WORSHIP: Greeters are needed for the 5:00 PM Saturday mass and the 8:30 AM Sunday mass. Training is provided. For more information, call Jim Morrisard at 973-6570 or, call the parish office at 295-7185.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS: The next meeting of the Knights of Columbus will be Monday, September 17th at the Stone Chapel on the grounds of the Church of the Incarnation (located behind Toys 'R' Us on Route 29). The recitation of the Rosary will be at 7:15 PM followed by the business meeting at 7:30 PM. Plan to come and bring a brother Knight. NOTE: If you are interested in becoming a knight or learning more about the Knights of Columbus, call Jim Morrisard, Tom O'Rourke, or Joe Murray.

BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP: The continuing discussion of Pope Benedict's book, Jesus of Nazareth, will meet Friday, September 21st at 2 PM at Barbara Morin's house. New members are invited. Call 973-7721 for directions and/or any additional information.

HAITIAN RETREATS: Two diocesan immersion retreats to Haiti are being planned for 2007/2008. The trips are designed for individuals to be immersed into Haiti by giving them the opportunity to learn about its history, culture, economics, politics and religion and to begin establishing relationships with the people of Haiti. Taking this trip to Haiti is not a tourist visit but rather it is a pilgrimage. It is the carving out in our lives a holy space and time to be open to the gifts of Haiti and the transformation of God. The first trip will be Dec. 1-9 2007 and the second will be July 12 - 19 2008. For an application and more information please call or email Patrice Schwermer at 804-622-5129 or pschwermer@richmonddiocese.org

FOOD PANTRY: The monthly food collection will resume in October. In the meantime, please continue to be generous and drop off non-perishable food and toilet articles to help those in our community who are in need.

If you signed up to receive the weekly bulletin email and you are no longer receiving it, it might be because your email is rejecting the weekly bulletin email.

To correct this, you should add the email address subscribe.news@holycomforter.org to the list of accepted email addresses in your email. This is the email address from which the weekly bulletin emails are sent. Once you add this email address to the list of accepted email addresses, your email should stop rejecting the weekly bulletin emails.

If you have any questions, send an email to subscribe.news@holycomforter.org.

For information on how to receive the bulletin via email, click here.

The bulletin for September 9, 2007 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

If you would like to receive the parish bulletin via email, click here.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION: Catechists are still needed for a number of teaching positions. Please see the bulletin for more details about how you can help with passing on our Catholic Faith. For more information about volunteering, contact Teresa Ritzert, Coordinator of Religious Education, by calling 295-6559 or via email at tritzert@holycomforterparish.org.

WORSHIP: Greeters are needed for the 5:00 PM Saturday mass and the 8:30 AM Sunday mass. Training is provided. For more information, call Jim Morrisard at 973-6570 or, call the parish office at 295-7185.

JUSTICE & PEACE: Two IMPACT Listening Sessions will take place this weekend: Saturday, September 8th at 4 p.m. and Sunday, September 9th at 9:30 a.m. The sessions are held at the parish and will finish in time for Mass. Please participate in one of the fall Listening Sessions. It is through the input of members that we determine which justice issues will be addressed in the 2007-08 season.

CATHOLIC MOMS UNITED IN PRAYER: A prayer group of mothers meets once a week from 11 a.m. to noon on Wednesdays to pray for spouses, children, church, and community. The group uses the rosary and Holy Scripture as guides. If you are interested in being part of this support group, please contact Mary Fran Higginbotham @ 296-1390 or higgyshome@earthlink.net.

HAITIAN RETREATS: Two diocesan immersion retreats to Haiti are being planned for 2007/2008. The trips are designed for individuals to be immersed into Haiti by giving them the opportunity to learn about its history, culture, economics, politics and religion and to begin establishing relationships with the people of Haiti. Taking this trip to Haiti is not a tourist visit but rather it is a pilgrimage. It is the carving out in our lives a holy space and time to be open to the gifts of Haiti and the transformation of God. The first trip will be Dec. 1-9 2007 and the second will be July 12 - 19 2008. For an application and more information please call or email Patrice Schwermer at 804-622-5129 or pschwermer@richmonddiocese.org

FOOD PANTRY: The monthly food collection will resume in October. In the meantime, please continue to be generous and drop off non-perishable food and toilet articles to help those in our community who are in need.

The bulletin for September 2, 2007 is available by clicking here to view it.

Listed below are a few of the items from this week's bulletin. See the bulletin for more details and to read all of the announcements.

If you would like to receive the parish bulletin via email, click here.

PASTORAL CARE MINISTRY: As part of the the diocese initiative to assist parishes in improving their efforts to include parishioners with disabilities, impairments, and handicaps in parish activities, a questionnaire will be distributed at all masses this weekend, September 1st and 2nd. Our Parish Disability Advocate George Kelly will also speak at all masses to give more information about the survey. Please take the time to complete the questionnaire in order to assist the parish in this important area of pastoral care ministry.

CHRISTIAN FORMATION: Catechists are still needed for a number of teaching positions. Please see the bulletin for more details about how you can help with passing on our Catholic Faith. For more information about volunteering, contact Teresa Ritzert, Coordinator of Religious Education, by calling 295-6559 or via email at tritzert@holycomforterparish.org.

WORSHIP: Greeters are needed for the 5:00 PM Saturday mass and the 8:30 AM Sunday mass. Training is provided. For more information, call Jim Morrisard at 973-6570 or, call the parish office at 295-7185.

PRO-LIFE: Join Charlottesville Christians to witness to the
sanctity of life in a groundbreaking campaign: 40 Days for Life. All our welcome to participate in this ecumenical campaign of prayer, fasting, and action. To learn more, come to a meeting on Tuesday, September 4 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Thomas Aquinas.

For more information, please contact Diane at cvillerespectlife@gmail.com or by calling 760-2916. For information online, visit the 40 Days for Life Blog by clicking here.

JUSTICE & PEACE: The Haiti Committee will be showing a film this Sunday, September 2nd, between the 8:30 AM and 11:00 AM masses. The film includes highlights from the most recent trip to Saltadere, our twin parish in Haiti. It features the dedication of the new buildings at St. Michel's School. These buildings were supported by donations from Holy Comforter parish. The film also includes interviews and information about Haiti.

The film will be shown downstairs, and light refreshments will be provided. Child sponsors and anyone interested in traveling to Haiti are encouraged to attend.

FOOD PANTRY: The monthl