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The image of a wedding is frequently used throughout the Old Testament to describe God’s relationship with his Chosen People, Israel, such as in our First Reading today (Isaiah 62:1-5). Though Israel was often unfaithful, God always took her back, forgave her, and turned her sadness into joy. As she awaited the coming of the Messiah, Israel’s hopes were expressed in terms of a wedding – a time of great rejoicing and celebration. Like abundant wine, God’s blessings would be poured out on his people in full measure.

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, and the official end to the Church’s observance of the Christmas season. After Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River, he was praying when Heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in the form of a dove; and a voice came from the heavens declaring, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” (Luke 3:22). God the Father favored his Son, Jesus. Rightfully so, since Jesus is the only-begotten Son of God. He is God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, as our Nicene Creed boldly proclaims. If we have any doubt regarding how God felt about his Son or the importance of his mission, the Gospels make it clear for us. The descending of the Holy Spirit upon Jesus in the form of a dove after his baptism was significant for two reasons: (1) it was a clear sign that Jesus was the promised Messiah anointed with the Holy Spirit, and (2) the Holy Spirit gave Jesus strength to fulfill his saving mission.

Fr. Daniel’s last day with us is January 16. Until the new priest, Fr. Chris Hallada, arrives in February we will adjust our weekday Mass schedule as follows: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday: 6:30 AM Communion Service and 8:15 AM Mass. Wednesday: 6:30 AM & 8:15 AM Mass.

Fr. John and I would like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation for the many acts of kindness that we have received in the past few weeks. I am humbled by the thoughtfulness of so many people who sent cards, or brought over homemade cookies and other gifts. A special “thank-you” also to all those who donated baby diapers and baby clothing to our “Giving Tree” to support Birthright in their mission to provide for mothers who are in need of assistance. May the Lord’s blessing be upon you throughout the new year.

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Take a moment to look around the church some time. You will see families of all sizes, shapes, and descriptions. Some are the biological variety, with a dad and mom and children of different ages. Some may be blended or adopted, foster families or families with only one parent in the home. Sometimes it is grandparents who open their homes to their grandchildren, or siblings who share an apartment and function as a family. Maybe the time has come for an elderly relative to move into your home.

Fr. John Daniel has served as Vicar General for the Archdiocese of Santa Fe for the past 3 ½ years. During that time, he has been in residence at the rectory of Our Lady of Fatima and assisted with Masses and Confessions here in our parish. Fr. John has accepted a new assignment as Pastor at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Los Alamos effective Wednesday, January 16th. We thank Fr. John for his sacramental ministry at Our Lady of Fatima and offer our best wishes for him in his new assignment. ​​​​​​​Please join us for a farewell reception with light refreshments on Sunday, January 13 from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM in Fatima-Gallagher Hall.

Christmas is nearly here!. It may be a very busy time for you, but please take the time to read the first two chapters of the Gospel of Luke. You will hear about Elizabeth, her husband Zechariah, the angel Gabriel, Mary and Joseph and the events surrounding the birth of Jesus. If you do this, you will likely be better prepared to celebrate with joy the birth of our Savior this Christmas.

Today, the Third Sunday of Advent, is known as “Gaudete Sunday” and is marked by a rose colored candle on the Advent wreath. The use of the rose-colored candle rather than a purple one symbolizes “the light at the end of the tunnel” so to speak – that Christmas is getting nearer. The Latin word gaudete means “rejoice” and is taken from Philippians 4:4 in which Saint Paul declares: “Rejoice in the Lord always! I say it again, rejoice!” The title “Gaudete Sunday” thus refers to the joy that we feel as Advent is half over and Christmas is drawing near. The season of Advent is one of preparation and anticipation. Today, as the celebration of the Birth of the Lord approaches, we are filled with joy.

Saturday, December 22nd 8:30 AM. Everyone is invited to come and help.

Beginning on January 16, 2019 the Adult Faith Formation Groups will begin a study of the book “Signs of Life” by Dr. Scott Hahn. After completing this book, the Adult Faith Formation groups will begin a study of the book “Into His Likeness” by Dr. Edward Sri. The Adult Faith Formation groups meet at Fatima-Gallagher Hall. One group meets Wednesday evenings from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM. A second group meets on Thursday mornings from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM. If you are not already a participant in these groups but would like to be, please contact the Parish Office.

In addition to our normal time for Confessions from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM on Saturdays, Confession will also be available on Tuesday, December 18th from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, and from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Please make time to go to Confession before Christmas!

Many of us may be living lives that are full but not fulfilling. We may be overwhelmed with responsibilities and worries, consumed by busyness, clutter, or demands being made upon us. What we really long for is peace, wholeness, and simplicity. We are in a holy season that unfortunately has been overrun by consumerism. Many people will be stressing out trying to come up with the perfect gift for the person who already has too much “stuff” to begin with. Indeed, many people feel trapped by possessions, time, and work. The more possessions they have, the less time they have for themselves and others because of the pressure to get even more or “better” possessions. This might be a good time to take a few moments of silence and reflection, and ask ourselves if this is what we really want to keep on doing?

Have you ever wondered about the end of the world? The end of the world is a fascination shared by many people. Predictions about how and when the world might end are commonplace. In today’s Gospel, even Jesus offers a scenario as to how the world might end. He tells his disciples that the sun, moon and stars will change; the seas will roar; and the heavens will be shaken. He warns that when all this happens the end is near, and then cautions his listeners to remain alert and vigilant, steadfast in faith and persistent in strength.

​​​​​​​Tryouts will take place on Sunday, December 2 at 1:30 PM in Fatima-Gallagher Hall. All children are invited to join us.

Our Lady of Fatima Parish will be hosting a free Christmas Concert performed by the Madrigal Singers of Albuquerque. The concert will be at 3:00 PM on Sunday, December 2nd in the church. Refreshments will be served in Fatima-Gallagher Hall after the concert. All are welcome!

Today’s Solemnity of Christ the King always takes place on the last Sunday in Ordinary Time just before the beginning of Advent and the start of a new liturgical year. In Advent, we prepare for the two comings of Christ - as a baby in Bethlehem over 2000 years ago, and his return as a King in glory at the end of time. Today’s celebration of the Kingship of Jesus prepares us for both comings of the Christ.

The 2019 Parish Calendars will be available after all Masses on the First Sunday of Advent (December 2nd). The calendars are offered to our parishioners free of charge while they last, but we ask that you please limit yourselves to one calendar per household for the first weekend so that all families have an opportunity to have a calendar. 

Saturday, December 8th is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary and is a Holy Day of Obligation. A Vigil Mass will be offered on Friday, December 7th at 6:30 PM. Masses will also be offered on Saturday, December 8th at 7:30 AM and 10:00 AM.

Nominees must be registered members of Our Lady of Fatima Parish and at least 16 years of age. If you would like to nominate a parishioner (or yourself) for election, please call the Parish Office at 265-5868 or stop in and fill out a form. Nominations must be received in the Parish Office by 4:00 PM on Monday, December 3, 2018.

No mixing, pouring, measuring or baking required; A heartfelt donation is all that’s desired. We will save you the calories and the guilt . . . honey. The Women’s Guild is just trying to raise some money! For what you would pay to make it or bake it, Instead, just send a few bucks, or a check, And we’ll take it!! You can mail your donation or drop it off in the parish office, or place it in the Sunday Collection. Your generous donation helps us support parish functions.