Giving Tree Party: November 9th, 4-7 pm

Please come join the volunteers for the Giving Tree at a "Crafting Party" in the Saint Agnes Parish Center on Monday night, November 9th from 4-7 pm.  We will be working together to make the nearly 1,400 tags which must go on the tree, starting November 28th!

You will also get to meet your fellow volunteers, learn about how the Giving Tree with run, enjoy hot drinks and Christmas music!  Come join us and lend a hand!

You do NOT need to reply if you plan to come, but it will help with planning for drinks and volunteer communication.  If you are able to reply in time, please indicate your planned attendance by answering Question #2 on this quick form.

If you would like to bring an easy snack to share, please do!  Otherwise, food will not be provided.  Other things to bring:

• Brightly colored yarn that you may have and can donate to the project.
• Scissors
• Hole punches or decorative punches

Many thanks for your selflessness!  Children working with their parents, teens, and adults are welcome.

For more information, or to become involved, email Marianne Hudelson (SaintAgnesFamilies [at] gmail.com)

Wednesday: Explore Laudato Si!

Pope Francis certainly has the world's attention!  Continuing with our weekly excerpts of the pope's most recent encyclical, "Laudato Si" is posted here - so that we can all learn, digest, pray and discern one snippet at a time.  Come Holy Spirit, teach us and guide us, and may Your Will be done!

CHAPTER ONE

WHAT IS HAPPENING TO OUR COMMON HOME

17. Theological and philosophical reflections on the situation of humanity and the world can sound tiresome and abstract, unless they are grounded in a fresh analysis of our present situation, which is in many ways unprecedented in the history of humanity. So, before considering how faith brings new incentives and requirements with regard to the world of which we are a part, I will briefly turn to what is happening to our common home.

18. The continued acceleration of changes affecting humanity and the planet is coupled today with a more intensified pace of life and work which might be called “rapidification”. Although change is part of the working of complex systems, the speed with which human activity has developed contrasts with the naturally slow pace of biological evolution. Moreover, the goals of this rapid and constant change are not necessarily geared to the common good or to integral and sustainable human development. Change is something desirable, yet it becomes a source of anxiety when it causes harm to the world and to the quality of life of much of humanity.

19. Following a period of irrational confidence in progress and human abilities, some sectors of society are now adopting a more critical approach. We see increasing sensitivity to the environment and the need to protect nature, along with a growing concern, both genuine and distressing, for what is happening to our planet. Let us review, however cursorily, those questions which are troubling us today and which we can no longer sweep under the carpet. Our goal is not to amass information or to satisfy curiosity, but rather to become painfully aware, to dare to turn what is happening to the world into our own personal suffering and thus to discover what each of us can do about it.

I. POLLUTION AND CLIMATE CHANGE

Pollution, waste and the throwaway culture
20. Some forms of pollution are part of people’s daily experience. Exposure to atmospheric pollutants produces a broad spectrum of health hazards, especially for the poor, and causes millions of premature deaths. People take sick, for example, from breathing high levels of smoke from fuels used in cooking or heating. There is also pollution that affects everyone, caused by transport, industrial fumes, substances which contribute to the acidification of soil and water, fertilizers, insecticides, fungicides, herbicides and agrotoxins in general. Technology, which, linked to business interests, is presented as the only way of solving these problems, in fact proves incapable of seeing the mysterious network of relations between things and so sometimes solves one problem only to create others.

21. Account must also be taken of the pollution produced by residue, including dangerous waste present in different areas. Each year hundreds of millions of tons of waste are generated, much of it non-biodegradable, highly toxic and radioactive, from homes and businesses, from construction and demolition sites, from clinical, electronic and industrial sources. The earth, our home, is beginning to look more and more like an immense pile of filth. In many parts of the planet, the elderly lament that once beautiful landscapes are now covered with rubbish. Industrial waste and chemical products utilized in cities and agricultural areas can lead to bioaccumulation in the organisms of the local population, even when levels of toxins in those places are low. Frequently no measures are taken until after people’s health has been irreversibly affected.

22. These problems are closely linked to a throwaway culture which affects the excluded just as it quickly reduces things to rubbish. To cite one example, most of the paper we produce is thrown away and not recycled. It is hard for us to accept that the way natural ecosystems work is exemplary: plants synthesize nutrients which feed herbivores; these in turn become food for carnivores, which produce significant quantities of organic waste which give rise to new generations of plants. But our industrial system, at the end of its cycle of production and consumption, has not developed the capacity to absorb and reuse waste and by-products. We have not yet managed to adopt a circular model of production capable of preserving resources for present and future generations, while limiting as much as possible the use of non-renewable resources, moderating their consumption, maximizing their efficient use, reusing and recycling them. A serious consideration of this issue would be one way of counteracting the throwaway culture which affects the entire planet, but it must be said that only limited progress has been made in this regard.

Weekly Digest

Welcome back, EVERYONE!
Here's the lineup for the week at the Parish:

• Tuesday - Family Playgroup (10:30 am), Choir Practice (7 pm), Fatima Apostolate (7 pm)
• Thursday - Saint Dymphna Society (6:30 pm), Arlington Catholic Women's Club Fundraiser (7:30 pm), Dad's Night Out (8:00 pm)
• Saturday - Confessions (3 pm)
• Sunday - ALL SAINTS DAY!! Children's Choir Practice and Mass (arrive 8:15 am), Coffee and Donuts (after 9 am Mass), Mass of Remembrance (12:00 noon Mass), Depart for 40 Days for Life Prayer (1:30 pm), Infant Baptisms (2 pm)

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Saint Agnes Family Playgroup - CHECK THE BLOG BEFORE YOU LEAVE!

The Saint Agnes Family group holds weekly Tuesday playgroups outdoors at nearby parks.  We start at 10:30 am (but sometimes moms run late).  You are welcome to join us! You can find the winter playgroup schedule here, or by clicking the link at the upper left of the blog home page.

This Tuesday, October 27th, we will meet at Dugger Park (2 Mystic River Rd.) in Medford. This shady, fenced park has play structures and a nice bike path, right next to the Mystic River.  Bring your own lunch or snack and join us!

**NOTE THAT our outdoor winter schedule is highly dependent on good weather. If the weather seems questionable, please check your email or the blog page before you leave for playgroup. In case of rain or weather below 30 degrees, playgroup will be cancelled for the day. Thanks!**

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Dad's Night Out
Once a month from 8:00 - 9:30 pm, Saint Agnes welcomes parish dads to gather at Fusion Taste Restaurant, around the corner from the church (303 Broadway, Arlington). This month, the Dad's Group will meet on Thursday, October 29th. We will discuss relevant topics of careers, family, or just to catch up with old friends and meet new ones. For the first half hour we'll formally discuss short readings of interest, then catch up over beverages and dinner for the remaining time. The topic for October's discussion will be: "Men and Church."  The link for the brief reading material is here.  Please come and join us, whether or not you have been able to read ahead. We look forward to meeting you!   If you have questions, please email Justin Quattrini (justin.quattrini [at] gmail.com).

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Saint Agnes Children's Choir

Are you children interested in singing in the Children's Choir at Saint Agnes?  The children sing about once per month, and the printable schedule is posted here.  Encouraging your kids to be involved in the Mass is a wonderful way to foster their joy!  It also (helps) them to pay attention and to make new friends at church.  Join us!

More information and schedules can be found at the Music Ministry Website, www.AgnesMusic.net, or by emailing Michael Vaughan (mrv2022 [at] gmail.com).

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Massachusetts Alliance to Stop Public Funding of Abortion
Did you know that your tax dollars are being used to pay for abortions in Massachusetts? Abortion kills an innocent human life, but we know we are called by God to protect His precious gift of life. Fortunately, there is something each of us can do to stop this. Volunteers throughout the state are collecting signatures on a petition to amend the state constitution so that taxpayer subsidized abortions are no longer a constitutional entitlement in Massachusetts. Stop and sign the petition, to amend the state constitution so that tax dollars no longer subsidize abortions in Massachusetts. You can also call 781-312-8755 or email StopPublicFundingofAbortion [at] gmail.com so we can get your signature.

40 Days for Life
Saint Agnes will be participating in the 40 Days for Life campaign in Boston, September 23rd-November 4th! 40 Days for Life is a community-based campaign that draws attention to the evils of abortion through the use of prayer and fasting, prayer vigil, and community outreach. 40 Days for Life takes a determined, peaceful approach to showing local communities the consequences of abortion in their own neighborhoods, for their own friends and families.

Please join Saint Agnes Parishioners for Life as we participate in 40 Days for Life this fall! Saint Agnes will be leading a rosary hour each Sunday afternoon from 2:00-3:00 pm at Planned Parenthood in Boston during the campaign starting Sunday, Septebmer 27th. For carpooling, we will meet at 1:30 pm in the public parking lot adjacent to Saint Agnes church. If you have any questions, please e-mail Eileen Cahill (SAParishforLife [at] gmail.com).

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Small Groups

In the coming year, the Outreach committee will endeavor to create, organize, and structure small faith-sharing groups at Saint Agnes. The concept is for each group of 7-10 people to be self-contained and self-directing, while maintaining connectivity to leadership of the parish. Those who are interested will be able to join a group at periodic intervals during the year.

If you are interested in leading such a group, please create a concept for your group: you can pick your own topic, meeting time and location, and whether your group will be men, women, or co-ed. Let's start the discussion! Please email Marianne Hudelson (SaintAgnesFamilies [at] gmail.com) with your ideas if you are able to lead. Many thanks!

SVDeP & Parish Ministry Fair this weekend

Don't forget there is a lot happening at church this weekend!  There is clothing collection for Society of Saint Vincent DePaul, the Lectors' Meet-and-Greet, Coffee and Donuts at 10:00 am, and the Parish Ministry Far.  Come join us and discover where God might be calling you to use your gifts!

Wednesday: Explore Laudato Si!

Pope Francis certainly has the world's attention!  Continuing with our weekly excerpts of the pope's most recent encyclical, "Laudato Si" is posted here - so that we can all learn, digest, pray and discern one snippet at a time.  Come Holy Spirit, teach us and guide us, and may Your Will be done!

My appeal
13. The urgent challenge to protect our common home includes a concern to bring the whole human family together to seek a sustainable and integral development, for we know that things can change. The Creator does not abandon us; he never forsakes his loving plan or repents of having created us. Humanity still has the ability to work together in building our common home. Here I want to recognize, encourage and thank all those striving in countless ways to guarantee the protection of the home which we share. Particular appreciation is owed to those who tirelessly seek to resolve the tragic effects of environmental degradation on the lives of the world’s poorest. Young people demand change. They wonder how anyone can claim to be building a better future without thinking of the environmental crisis and the sufferings of the excluded.

14. I urgently appeal, then, for a new dialogue about how we are shaping the future of our planet. We need a conversation which includes everyone, since the environmental challenge we are undergoing, and its human roots, concern and affect us all. The worldwide ecological movement has already made considerable progress and led to the establishment of numerous organizations committed to raising awareness of these challenges. Regrettably, many efforts to seek concrete solutions to the environmental crisis have proved ineffective, not only because of powerful opposition but also because of a more general lack of interest. Obstructionist attitudes, even on the part of believers, can range from denial of the problem to indifference, nonchalant resignation or blind confidence in technical solutions. We require a new and universal solidarity. As the bishops of Southern Africa have stated: “Everyone’s talents and involvement are needed to redress the damage caused by human abuse of God’s creation”. [22] All of us can cooperate as instruments of God for the care of creation, each according to his or her own culture, experience, involvements and talents.

15. It is my hope that this Encyclical Letter, which is now added to the body of the Church’s social teaching, can help us to acknowledge the appeal, immensity and urgency of the challenge we face. I will begin by briefly reviewing several aspects of the present ecological crisis, with the aim of drawing on the results of the best scientific research available today, letting them touch us deeply and provide a concrete foundation for the ethical and spiritual itinerary that follows. I will then consider some principles drawn from the Judaeo-Christian tradition which can render our commitment to the environment more coherent. I will then attempt to get to the roots of the present situation, so as to consider not only its symptoms but also its deepest causes. This will help to provide an approach to ecology which respects our unique place as human beings in this world and our relationship to our surroundings. In light of this reflection, I will advance some broader proposals for dialogue and action which would involve each of us as individuals, and also affect international policy. Finally, convinced as I am that change is impossible without motivation and a process of education, I will offer some inspired guidelines for human development to be found in the treasure of Christian spiritual experience.

16. Although each chapter will have its own subject and specific approach, it will also take up and re-examine important questions previously dealt with. This is particularly the case with a number of themes which will reappear as the Encyclical unfolds. As examples, I will point to the intimate relationship between the poor and the fragility of the planet, the conviction that everything in the world is connected, the critique of new paradigms and forms of power derived from technology, the call to seek other ways of understanding the economy and progress, the value proper to each creature, the human meaning of ecology, the need for forthright and honest debate, the serious responsibility of international and local policy, the throwaway culture and the proposal of a new lifestyle. These questions will not be dealt with once and for all, but reframed and enriched again and again.

Weekly Digest

Welcome back, EVERYONE!
Here's the lineup for the week at the Parish:

• Tuesday - Family Playgroup (10:30 am), Sodality of Our Lady Annual Banquet (3 pm), Choir Practice (7 pm), Fatima Apostolate (7 pm)
• Wednesday - Women's Bible Study (7:30 pm)
• Friday - Saint Agnes School Monster Mash (6:00 pm)
• Saturday - PARISH MINISTRY FAIR (after all Masses in ACHS Library), Confessions (3 pm)
• Sunday - PARISH MINISTRY FAIR (after all Masses in ACHS Library), Lector Meet-and-Greet (9:00 am), Coffee and Donuts (after 9 am Mass), Adult Choir (10:30 am Mass), Depart for 40 Days for Life Prayer (1:30 pm)

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Saint Agnes Family Playgroup - CHECK THE BLOG BEFORE YOU LEAVE!

The Saint Agnes Family group holds weekly Tuesday playgroups outdoors at nearby parks.  We start at 10:30 am (but sometimes moms run late).  You are welcome to join us! You can find the winter playgroup schedule here, or by clicking the link at the upper left of the blog home page.

This Tuesday, October 20th, we will meet at Crosby Park (81 Oxford St.) in Arlington. This fenced park has play structures and swings, as well as a big soccer field and a pavement area for scooters or bikes.  Bring your own lunch or snack and join us!

**NOTE THAT our outdoor winter schedule is highly dependent on good weather. If the weather seems questionable, please check your email or the blog page before you leave for playgroup. In case of rain or weather below 30 degrees, playgroup will be cancelled for the day. Thanks!**

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Massachusetts Alliance to Stop Public Funding of Abortion
Did you know that your tax dollars are being used to pay for abortions in Massachusetts? Abortion kills an innocent human life, but we know we are called by God to protect His precious gift of life. Fortunately, there is something each of us can do to stop this. Volunteers throughout the state are collecting signatures on a petition to amend the state constitution so that taxpayer subsidized abortions are no longer a constitutional entitlement in Massachusetts. Stop and sign the petition, to amend the state constitution so that tax dollars no longer subsidize abortions in Massachusetts. You can also call 781-312-8755 or email StopPublicFundingofAbortion [at] gmail.com so we can get your signature.

40 Days for Life
Saint Agnes will be participating in the 40 Days for Life campaign in Boston, September 23rd-November 4th! 40 Days for Life is a community-based campaign that draws attention to the evils of abortion through the use of prayer and fasting, prayer vigil, and community outreach. 40 Days for Life takes a determined, peaceful approach to showing local communities the consequences of abortion in their own neighborhoods, for their own friends and families.

Please join Saint Agnes Parishioners for Life as we participate in 40 Days for Life this fall! Saint Agnes will be leading a rosary hour each Sunday afternoon from 2:00-3:00 pm at Planned Parenthood in Boston during the campaign starting Sunday, Septebmer 27th. For carpooling, we will meet at 1:30 pm in the public parking lot adjacent to Saint Agnes church. If you have any questions, please e-mail Eileen Cahill (SAParishforLife [at] gmail.com).

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Small Groups

In the coming year, the Outreach committee will endeavor to create, organize, and structure small faith-sharing groups at Saint Agnes. The concept is for each group of 7-10 people to be self-contained and self-directing, while maintaining connectivity to leadership of the parish. Those who are interested will be able to join a group at periodic intervals, for example, at the Parish Ministry fair upcoming in October.

If you are interested in leading such a group, please create a concept for your group: you can pick your own topic, meeting time and location, and whether your group will be men, women, or co-ed. Let's start the discussion! Please email Marianne Hudelson (SaintAgnesFamilies@gmail.com) with your ideas if you are able to lead. Many thanks!

DC March for Life in January - Plan Now!

Do you have a child or young adult in your family who has a passion for defending life?
We are called to witness to the dignity of the human person.
We can build our faith through the encouragement of others,
and we can give the gift of hope to those around us, too!

The Archdiocese of Boston is forming groups now to attend the 43rd Annual March for Life in Washington DC.
This year, the march will take place on
Friday, January 22, 2016.

Trips are geared for:
Middle school, High school, Young Adult, and Families.

If you would like to learn more, or sign up, please visit:
http://www.bostoncatholic.org/WitnessToLife/

Weekly Digest

Welcome back, EVERYONE!
Here's the lineup for the week at the Parish:

• Tuesday - Choir Practice (7 pm), Fatima Apostolate (7 pm)
• Thursday - Mom's Night Out (7:30 pm)
• Saturday - Confessions (3 pm)
• Sunday - First Communion Parent Meeting (after 9 am Mass), Adult Choir (10:30 am Mass), Arlington Catholic HS Open House (1 pm), Depart for 40 Days for Life Prayer (1:30 pm)
• Monday - Make-Up First Communion Parent Meeting (7:15 pm)

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Saint Agnes Family Playgroup
There is no playgroup this week, due to Columbus Day holiday and family travels.  We are taking a one-week break, and will begin our Winter Schedule on October 20th.  You can find the winter playgroup schedule here, or by clicking the link at the top, left of the blog home page.  Playgroup begins at 10:30 (moms sometimes run late), and we meet UNLESS it is raining or colder than 30 degrees.  See you next week!

Here's a friendly reminder that

Mom's-Night-Out  is THURSDAY, October 15th at 7:30 pm

We are changing it up this month and getting out on the town! We will meet for light food and drinks at Acitron Mexican Restaurant at 7:30 pm (473 Massachusetts Ave., Arlington). We will get together to chat without kids, perhaps form new friendships to support us in prayer. Andria Quattrini (617-960-7975) will be there to meet you!  Please also invite a friend!

We will kick it off at 7:30 pm.

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Massachusetts Alliance to Stop Public Funding of Abortion
Did you know that your tax dollars are being used to pay for abortions in Massachusetts? Abortion kills an innocent human life, but we know we are called by God to protect His precious gift of life. Fortunately, there is something each of us can do to stop this. Volunteers throughout the state are collecting signatures on a petition to amend the state constitution so that taxpayer subsidized abortions are no longer a constitutional entitlement in Massachusetts. Stop and sign the petition, to amend the state constitution so that tax dollars no longer subsidize abortions in Massachusetts. You can also call 781-312-8755 or email StopPublicFundingofAbortion [at] gmail.com so we can get your signature.

40 Days for Life
Saint Agnes will be participating in the 40 Days for Life campaign in Boston, September 23rd-November 4th! 40 Days for Life is a community-based campaign that draws attention to the evils of abortion through the use of prayer and fasting, prayer vigil, and community outreach. 40 Days for Life takes a determined, peaceful approach to showing local communities the consequences of abortion in their own neighborhoods, for their own friends and families.

Please join Saint Agnes Parishioners for Life as we participate in 40 Days for Life this fall! Saint Agnes will be leading a rosary hour each Sunday afternoon from 2:00-3:00 pm at Planned Parenthood in Boston during the campaign starting Sunday, Septebmer 27th. For carpooling, we will meet at 1:30 pm in the public parking lot adjacent to Saint Agnes church. If you have any questions, please e-mail Eileen Cahill (SAParishforLife [at] gmail.com).

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Small Groups

In the coming year, the Outreach committee will endeavor to create, organize, and structure small faith-sharing groups at Saint Agnes. The concept is for each group of 7-10 people to be self-contained and self-directing, while maintaining connectivity to leadership of the parish. Those who are interested will be able to join a group at periodic intervals, for example, at the Parish Ministry fair upcoming in October.

If you are interested in leading such a group, please create a concept for your group: you can pick your own topic, meeting time and location, and whether your group will be men, women, or co-ed. Let's start the discussion! Please email Marianne Hudelson (SaintAgnesFamilies@gmail.com) with your ideas if you are able to lead. Many thanks!

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FALL 2015 REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR OUR WONDERFUL PARISH SCHOOLS!
FIDELITY HOUSE - Preschool and Pre-K
SAINT AGNES GRAMMAR SCHOOL - Pre-K through Grade 8
ARLINGTON CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
Links to these websites are located at the top right-hand of the blog page.
When you invest and involve your family here, you can participate
in the evangelical mission and service of these community resources,
which are offered by - and in the long tradition of - our very own Catholic Church.
Financial Aid is available. WOW!

40 Days for Life & Respect Life at Saint Agnes

40 Days for Life
Saint Agnes will be participating in the 40 Days for Life campaign in Boston, September 23rd-November 4th! 40 Days for Life is a community-based campaign that draws attention to the evils of abortion through the use of prayer and fasting, prayer vigil, and community outreach. 40 Days for Life takes a determined, peaceful approach to showing local communities the consequences of abortion in their own neighborhoods, for their own friends and families.

Please join Saint Agnes Parishioners for Life as we participate in 40 Days for Life this fall! Saint Agnes will be leading a rosary hour each Sunday afternoon from 2:00-3:00 pm at Planned Parenthood in Boston during the campaign starting Sunday, Septebmer 27th. For carpooling, we will meet at 1:30 pm in the public parking lot adjacent to Saint Agnes Church. If you have any questions, please e-mail Eileen Cahill (SAParishforLife [at] gmail.com).

How can we be PRO-life every day?

By maintaining a positive attitude towards others,

appreciating the unique person that God has created in each individual,

reaching out in kindness and compassion,

praying for the unborn, disabled and elderly,

and giving alms to the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable in our society.

“Whatever you did for the least of these, you did for Me.”Matthew 25:40

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LOCAL Natural Family Planning

Attention Married Couples!  Would you like…

• a natural, hormone-free way to postpone pregnancy?
• to start a family or have another child?
• to improve communication with your spouse?
• to learn more about church teaching on "the Theology of the Body?"
• to understand why the Bishops were so unsettled by the HHS mandate?

Natural Family Planning (NFP) is an organic, chemical-free method that is just as effective as the Pill at postponing pregnancy and nearly twice as effective as IVF for achieving pregnancy. The divorce rate among couples that practice NFP is less than 2%.

Want to learn more? Josh and Meredith Phelps are certified teachers of a 3-class NFP series, offered in our locale!  For sign-ups, details, or questions about dates, please email Meredith.Phelps [at] gmail.com.

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Project Rachel
Project Rachel is a confidential Catholic outreach ministry offering healing, compassion and hope to women and men hurting from an abortion experience. People are available to listen, to answer questions, to pray for you, and to help in any way. Project Rachel can help begin the experience of forgiveness, freedom and peace waiting for you in the tender embrace of God’s love and mercy. The phone number for Project Rachel is 508-651-3100, email is help [at] ProjectRachelBoston.com, and the website is www.ProjectRachelBoston.com.  All inquiries are confidential.

“All life has inestimable value even the weakest and most vulnerable, the sick, the old, the unborn and the poor, are masterpieces of God’s creation, made in his own image, destined to live forever, and deserving of the utmost reverence and respect.”

-Pope Francis-

Wednesday: Explore Laudato Si!

Pope Francis certainly has the world's attention!  Continuing with our weekly excerpts of the pope's most recent encyclical, "Laudato Si" is posted here - so that we can all learn, digest, pray and discern one snippet at a time.  Come Holy Spirit, teach us and guide us, and may Your Will be done!

United by the same concern
7. These statements of the Popes echo the reflections of numerous scientists, philosophers, theologians and civic groups, all of which have enriched the Church’s thinking on these questions. Outside the Catholic Church, other Churches and Christian communities – and other religions as well – have expressed deep concern and offered valuable reflections on issues which all of us find disturbing. To give just one striking example, I would mention the statements made by the beloved Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, with whom we share the hope of full ecclesial communion.

8. Patriarch Bartholomew has spoken in particular of the need for each of us to repent of the ways we have harmed the planet, for “inasmuch as we all generate small ecological damage”, we are called to acknowledge “our contribution, smaller or greater, to the disfigurement and destruction of creation”.[14] He has repeatedly stated this firmly and persuasively, challenging us to acknowledge our sins against creation: “For human beings… to destroy the biological diversity of God’s creation; for human beings to degrade the integrity of the earth by causing changes in its climate, by stripping the earth of its natural forests or destroying its wetlands; for human beings to contaminate the earth’s waters, its land, its air, and its life – these are sins”.[15] For “to commit a crime against the natural world is a sin against ourselves and a sin against God”.[16]

9. At the same time, Bartholomew has drawn attention to the ethical and spiritual roots of environmental problems, which require that we look for solutions not only in technology but in a change of humanity; otherwise we would be dealing merely with symptoms. He asks us to replace consumption with sacrifice, greed with generosity, wastefulness with a spirit of sharing, an asceticism which “entails learning to give, and not simply to give up. It is a way of loving, of moving gradually away from what I want to what God’s world needs. It is liberation from fear, greed and compulsion”.[17] As Christians, we are also called “to accept the world as a sacrament of communion, as a way of sharing with God and our neighbours on a global scale. It is our humble conviction that the divine and the human meet in the slightest detail in the seamless garment of God’s creation, in the last speck of dust of our planet”.[18]

Saint Francis of Assisi
10. I do not want to write this Encyclical without turning to that attractive and compelling figure, whose name I took as my guide and inspiration when I was elected Bishop of Rome. I believe that Saint Francis is the example par excellence of care for the vulnerable and of an integral ecology lived out joyfully and authentically. He is the patron saint of all who study and work in the area of ecology, and he is also much loved by non-Christians. He was particularly concerned for God’s creation and for the poor and outcast. He loved, and was deeply loved for his joy, his generous self-giving, his openheartedness. He was a mystic and a pilgrim who lived in simplicity and in wonderful harmony with God, with others, with nature and with himself. He shows us just how inseparable the bond is between concern for nature, justice for the poor, commitment to society, and interior peace.

11. Francis helps us to see that an integral ecology calls for openness to categories which transcend the language of mathematics and biology, and take us to the heart of what it is to be human. Just as happens when we fall in love with someone, whenever he would gaze at the sun, the moon or the smallest of animals, he burst into song, drawing all other creatures into his praise. He communed with all creation, even preaching to the flowers, inviting them “to praise the Lord, just as if they were endowed with reason”.[19] His response to the world around him was so much more than intellectual appreciation or economic calculus, for to him each and every creature was a sister united to him by bonds of affection. That is why he felt called to care for all that exists. His disciple Saint Bonaventure tells us that, “from a reflection on the primary source of all things, filled with even more abundant piety, he would call creatures, no matter how small, by the name of ‘brother’ or ‘sister’”.[20] Such a conviction cannot be written off as naive romanticism, for it affects the choices which determine our behaviour. If we approach nature and the environment without this openness to awe and wonder, if we no longer speak the language of fraternity and beauty in our relationship with the world, our attitude will be that of masters, consumers, ruthless exploiters, unable to set limits on their immediate needs. By contrast, if we feel intimately united with all that exists, then sobriety and care will well up spontaneously. The poverty and austerity of Saint Francis were no mere veneer of asceticism, but something much more radical: a refusal to turn reality into an object simply to be used and controlled.

12. What is more, Saint Francis, faithful to Scripture, invites us to see nature as a magnificent book in which God speaks to us and grants us a glimpse of his infinite beauty and goodness. “Through the greatness and the beauty of creatures one comes to know by analogy their maker” (Wis 13:5); indeed, “his eternal power and divinity have been made known through his works since the creation of the world” (Rom 1:20). For this reason, Francis asked that part of the friary garden always be left untouched, so that wild flowers and herbs could grow there, and those who saw them could raise their minds to God, the Creator of such beauty.[21]Rather than a problem to be solved, the world is a joyful mystery to be contemplated with gladness and praise.

Weekly Digest

Welcome back, EVERYONE!
Here's the lineup for the week at the Parish:

• Tuesday - Family Playgroup (10:30 am), Baptism Catechesis (7 pm), "Life Events" Parent Presentation (7 pm), Choir Practice (7 pm), Fatima Apostolate (7 pm)
• Wednesday - Women's Bible Study (7:30 pm)
• Friday - Prep for Boston Sock Exchange (7 pm)
• Saturday - Virtus Training (9:30 am), Boston Sock Exchange (11 am @ Park Street T-stop), Confessions (3 pm)
• Sunday - Coffee and Donuts (after 9 am Mass), Adult Choir (10:30 am Mass), Depart for 40 Days for Life Prayer (1:30 pm)
• Monday - Respect Life Meeting (7 am)d

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Saint Agnes Family Playgroup - CHECK THE BLOG BEFORE YOU LEAVE!

The Saint Agnes Family group holds weekly Tuesday playgroups outdoors at nearby parks.  We start at 10:30 am (but sometimes moms run late).  You are welcome to join us! To print a written schedule of our summer playgroup locations, please click here. To see a map of our summer park schedule, please click here.

This Tuesday, October 6th, we will meet at Spy Pond Playground (40 Pond Lane) in Arlington. This fenced park has shade, play structures and swings, and is next to the bikepath for a good autumn walk.  Bring your own lunch or snack and join us!

**NOTE THAT our outdoor summer schedule is highly dependent on good weather. If the weather seems questionable, please check your email or the blog page before you leave for playgroup. In case of rain, playgroup will be cancelled for the day. Thanks!**

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Have you had a new baby? We wish you many heartfelt congratulations!

Don't forget that baptisms for babies at Saint Agnes are held on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month at 2:00 pm. You must attend Baptismal Catechesis prior to having your child baptized.

Baptism Catechesis occurs on the first Tuesday of the month (tonight). The briefing session begins at 7:00 pm in the Saint Agnes Parish Center at 51 Medford St., Arlington. The meeting usually lasts under an hour.

If you would like to learn a little more about Christian baptism and why the Catholic Church encourages infants to be baptized, you can read about it here.

Baptism is the sacrament of faith. But faith needs the community of believers. It is only within the faith of the Church that each of the faithful can believe. The faith required for Baptism is not a perfect and mature faith, but a beginning that is called to develop. The catechumen or the Godparent is asked: “What do you ask of God’s Church?” The response is: “Faith!” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, #1253)

Parenting is certainly not an easy task: it is filled with difficult decisions, personal setbacks and growth, expanding relationships, disagreements, love, AND forgiveness. We offer you our support and encouragement along this journey, and we invite you warmly into our parish and Christian life!

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Boston Sock Exchange

This Saturday, October 10th is the Boston Sock Exchange at 11:00 am at the Park Street T-Stop.  This ministry helps the homeless men and women of Boston, by distributing gifts of sandwiches and clothes near the Park Street T-Stop on the second Saturday of the month. Prep and packaging for the day is held in the parish center on Friday night, October 9th at 7:00 pm. Help and/or donations is a wonderful way to put your faith in action!  For more information, see the calendar to the right, or email Sheila O'Brien (ObriensMo [at] hotmail.com).

The Boston Sock Exchange is currently in need of small 8 oz. bottled water, SOCKS, and men's and women's fall/winter clothes.  We also need rain gear: ponchos and umbrellas.  Thank you!

"One of the greatest diseases is to be nobody to anyone." -Mother Teresa-

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Massachusetts Alliance to Stop Public Funding of Abortion
Did you know that your tax dollars are being used to pay for abortions in Massachusetts? Abortion kills an innocent human life, but we know we are called by God to protect His precious gift of life. Fortunately, there is something each of us can do to stop this. Volunteers throughout the state are collecting signatures on a petition to amend the state constitution so that taxpayer subsidized abortions are no longer a constitutional entitlement in Massachusetts. Stop and sign the petition, to amend the state constitution so that tax dollars no longer subsidize abortions in Massachusetts. You can also call 781-312-8755 or email StopPublicFundingofAbortion [at] gmail.com so we can get your signature.

40 Days for Life
Saint Agnes will be participating in the 40 Days for Life campaign in Boston, September 23rd-November 4th! 40 Days for Life is a community-based campaign that draws attention to the evils of abortion through the use of prayer and fasting, prayer vigil, and community outreach. 40 Days for Life takes a determined, peaceful approach to showing local communities the consequences of abortion in their own neighborhoods, for their own friends and families.

Please join Saint Agnes Parishioners for Life as we participate in 40 Days for Life this fall! Saint Agnes will be leading a rosary hour each Sunday afternoon from 2:00-3:00 pm at Planned Parenthood in Boston during the campaign starting Sunday, Septebmer 27th. For carpooling, we will meet at 1:30 pm in the public parking lot adjacent to Saint Agnes church. If you have any questions, please e-mail Eileen Cahill (SAParishforLife [at] gmail.com).

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Small Groups

In the coming year, the Outreach committee will endeavor to create, organize, and structure small faith-sharing groups at Saint Agnes. The concept is for each group of 7-10 people to be self-contained and self-directing, while maintaining connectivity to leadership of the parish. Those who are interested will be able to join a group at periodic intervals, for example, at the Parish Ministry fair upcoming in October.

If you are interested in leading such a group, please create a concept for your group: you can pick your own topic, meeting time and location, and whether your group will be men, women, or co-ed. Let's start the discussion! Please email Marianne Hudelson (SaintAgnesFamilies@gmail.com) with your ideas if you are able to lead. Many thanks!

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FALL 2015 REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR OUR WONDERFUL PARISH SCHOOLS!
FIDELITY HOUSE - Preschool and Pre-K
SAINT AGNES GRAMMAR SCHOOL - Pre-K through Grade 8
ARLINGTON CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
Links to these websites are located at the top right-hand of the blog page.
When you invest and involve your family here, you can participate
in the evangelical mission and service of these community resources,
which are offered by - and in the long tradition of - our very own Catholic Church.
Financial Aid is available. WOW!

Monday in Boston: Visit relics of Saint Maria Goretti

Do you have a special devotion to Saint Maria Goretti? Would you like to begin the journey of learning more about her?

From September to November of 2015, the major relics of Saint Maria Goretti will make a pilgrimage to the United States. Named the "Pilgrimage of Mercy," it is the first time that her body will travel to the USA.

Best of all, the relics of Maria Goretti will be in Boston this very Monday, at the cathedral downtown.  Details below:

Monday, October 5th

Cathedral of the Holy Cross

1400 Washington Street

Boston

617-542-5682

• Public veneration of Saint Maria Goretti begins after the 9:00 am Mass
• Solemn Mass celebrated in Maria Goretti’s honor at 11:00 am
• Public veneration ends at 7:00 pm

Grab a friend and head downtown this Monday.  You can make a new friend too - one in the communion of saints, the Church Victorious - Saint Maria Goretti!

You can learn more about Saint Maria Goretti, and her life of of mercy and forgiveness here: http://mariagoretti.com/

You can also read about why Catholics venerate relics of the saints by clicking here.