Principals and DREs: Please alert your teachers of these Newsletters on the Media Center homepage at

www.mediacenter@scdiocese.org Perhaps share a hard copy of this letter. Thank you

This issue includes: 1) Roman Calendar of Saints for December; 2) Advent and Christmas Videos;

3) Advent/ /Christmas DVD Titles 4) NEW DVDs; 5) Printed Resources for Advent / Christmas for P – I.

6) Printed Resources for Advent / Christmas for JH – SH. 7) Books for Spirituality for Adult; 7) More DVDs for 12

12Christmas; 8) Printed Resources for Advent/ Christmas for P – A. 9) New DVDs Recently Purchased;

Note: The Media Center will be closed for the Christmas holidays on Wednesday December 24

through January 2nd, 2015 and will reopen on Monday January 5, 2015.

Roman Calendar Notes for December.

ADVENT: Advent has a two-fold character: as a season to prepare for Christmas when Christ’s first coming is

remembered; and a season when that remembrance directs the mind and heart to await Christ’s second coming at

the end of time. (GNLYC, 39) Yet we also celebrate Christ in the present time through the sacraments. The

official color for the season of Advent is violet or Roman purple. A communal celebration of the sacrament of

reconciliation is one way of assisting the people of God in preparing for the solemnity of the Nativity. Often there

is a temptation to anticipate the Christmas season during Advent. Each season has a specific character and should

be celebrated with their respective integrity intact. Gathering the school community in Morning Prayer one day

each week of Advent is appropriate. Provide families with prayer services such as blessing of the Advent wreath,

and the blessing of the Christmas tree, etc. Children enjoy creating and researching symbols for the Jesse Tree.

Encourage communal celebrations of reconciliation on the parish level. Prayer services on the last day of classes

before Christmas should be Advent in nature and not convey the message that the children have participated in a

Christmas Mass.

November 30 - First Sunday of Advent - Year B: Sunday Cycle: The Year of the Gospel of St. Mark – Discipleship

and Cycle I : Weekday cycle in Ordinary Time. Also the Feast of St. Andrew the Apostle.

December 03 - Feast of St. Francis Xavier, 1552. He was one of the founding Jesuits and is patron of foreign

missions.

December 04- Saint John Damascene, 749; priest, doctor of the Church; Last of the Greek Fathers; first of the

East to formulate a comprehensive synthesis of Christian dogma; defended veneration of icons;

composed hymns and preached many homilies in honor of the BVM, especially her assumption.

December 06 - St. Nicholas – 4th c; Nicholas was a bishop known for his charity and often gave gifts to people in

secret (popularized as Santa Claus). Speak to the children about outreach to the elderly and

homebound. Emphasize the rite of sending “to love and serve the Lord” in ritual catechesis.

NEWSLETTER DECEMBER 2014

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION MEDIA CENTER

1821 JACKSON STREET P.O. BOX 3379

SIOUX CITY, IOWA 51102

Tele: 712-233-7529 FAX 712-233-7598 EMAIL larrys@scdiocese.org

Roman Calendar Notes for December. (Continued)

December 07- Second Sunday of Advent

Feast of St. Ambrose – 397, As Bishop of Milan, he distinguished himself by his

service to the poor and teacher of the faithful. Declared one of the four great doctors

of the Church by Pope Boniface VIII in 1298.

December 08 - Immaculate Conception - This Marian feast is not an interruption of Advent but

rather a manifestation of what Advent means. Break open the Gospel reading of Luke

1:26-38. Patronal feast day of the U.S. and, though not this year, is usually a holy day of obligation.

Originating in the 7th c. Feast of the “Conception of Mary by St. Anne”.

December 09 - (St. Juan Diego) In 1531 Our Lady appeared four times to this native convert of Tepeyac, Mexico &

better known as the feast Our Lady of Guadalupe. Canonized in 2002.

December 11 –Saint Damascus I, 384; pope, preserved papal archives and was devoted to the relics and resting

places of the martyrs; first pope to speak of Rome as the “Apostolic See’.

December 12- Our Lady of Guadalupe – This Marian feast recalls the December 9, 1531 apparition of Mary at

the hill of Tepayac to the native convert, Juan Diego, and left him a picture of herself impressed

upon his cloak. Our Lady of Guadalupe is the Patroness of the Americas.

December 13 –St. Lucy – Virgin and martyr during the persecution of Diocletian in 304. Patroness of those with

diseases of the eye.

December 14- Third Sunday of Advent Traditionally known as Gaudate Sunday (meaning Rejoice) sets a tone of

joyful expectation for the Lord’s birth and Second Coming, as does the permitted use of rose

colored vestments and the rose colored candle of the Advent wreath.

St John of the Cross – Born around 1542, John became a Carmelite priest who persuaded St. Teresa

of Avila to lead a reform movement within the Carmelite Order. He is known for his self-denial and

love of the cross. He is renowned for his wisdom and sanctity; Known as the “Mystical Doctor”.

How can we reform our lives as we prepare for the coming of the Christ child?

December 16 to December 23 / “O Antiphons”

December 21 - Fourth Sunday of Advent

Saint Peter Canisius, priest, doctor of the Church, 1597; Dutch Jesuit catechist and

missionary; leading voice in the counter –reformation in Germany; founded

several colleges and authored the popular and enduring catechism, Institutiones Christiance

Pietatis; known as the “Second Apostles of Germany”

December 23 – St. John of Kanty – 1473; dean of philosophy and professor of theology at the University of

Kracow; noted for his austerity, humility, and charity toward the poor; patron of Poland.

December 24- Vigil of the Nativity of the Lord

December 25 The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas) – “Darkness is scattered for God’s grace

has been revealed in the birth of the Messiah.” Beginning of the Christmas

Season. The most important aspect of family celebration of the Nativity of the

Lord is the celebration of Christmas Mass. The Gloria, inspired by the angel’s

song at Christ’s birth, is an

important part of the Christmas liturgy.

December 26-Saint Stephen, c. 35, mentioned in Acts 6:5 as one of the first deacons and was

also one of the first Martyrs; one of the seven deacons of the Acts of the Apostles;

first disciple to be martyred

Roman Calendar Notes for December / January. (Continued)

December 27- Saint John, Apostle, Evangelist, c. 100 at Ephesus; son of Zebedee, brother of James; “disciple

whom Jesus loved”, authored three (?) letters, the book of Revelation, and the most spiritual of the

gospels; symbolized by the eagle.

December 28- The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. On this feast, a priest may wish to make use of the

Blessing of a Family as found in BB, nos. 62-67. Family life is rooted in the unconditional love of God

as witnessed by the Holy Family. The child Jesus and his parents are blessed by Simeon.

On this day when the Holy Innocents, Martyrs are traditionally remembered, see HB,

367, for special prayers for the innocents who have perished through abortion, starvation,

and war.

December 29- The Fifth Day Within the Octave of the Nativity of the Lord.

December 30- The Sixth Day Within the Octave of the Nativity of the Lord.

December 31 – The Seventh Day within the Octave of the Nativity of the Lord.

Saint Sylvester I, 335, pope; organized public worship and dedicated the Lateran Basilica; represented at

the Council of Nicea which condemned Arianism; one of the first non-martyrs to be venerated as a saint.

Januray 01- The Octave Day of the Nativity of the Lord: Solemnity of Mary, The Mother of God. Holy Day of

Obligation USA).

January 02 – Saints Basil the Great and Gregory of Nazianzen, bishops, doctors of the Church. Basil, 379, hermit

who became bishop of Caesarea, noted for his learning; foe of Arianism; source of Eucharistic Prayer

IV; considered one of the four great doctors of the Eastern Church. Gregory of Nazianzen, 389;

Patriarch of Constantinople; noted for his knowledge of sacred scripture.

January 03- The Most Holy Name of Jesus. Through the efforts of St. Bernadine of Siena, devotion to the Holy

Name of Jesus was promoted through the inscription of the monogram of the Holy name, IHS.

January 04 – The Epiphany of the Lord

Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, religious, 1821, raised Episcopalian; wife and mother of five children;

Foundress of the first congregation of women religious in USA, the Sisters of Charity, devoted to the

education of the poor and to teaching in parochial schools; first native born citizen canonized (1975)

January 05 – John Neumann, bishop 1960, missionary from Bohemia, bishop of Philadelphia; known for his holiness and

learning; promoter of parochial schools; first American bishop canonized (1977)

SEASON OF CHRISTMAS - “Next to the yearly celebration of the paschal mystery at Easter, the Church

considers nothing more important than the memorial of Christ’s birth and early

manifestations. This is the purpose of the season of Christmas.” (GNLYC, 32-33)

The celebration of Christmas extends inclusive to the Baptism of the Lord. Returning

to school during this Christmas time is the time for Christmas parties. The feast of

the Holy Family falls on the Sunday within the octave of Christmas. The “Blessing

of Families” can take place at the parish liturgy. Solemnity of Mary the Mother of

God is January 1. Epiphany of the Lord is January 6. The Baptism of the Lord

marks the end of Christmastime and also marks the first Sunday of Ordinary Time.

Children should take time to recount their own baptism.

May you and your families enjoy a blessed Advent and Joyous Christmas.

Peace…

Dcn. Larry Sitzman. Media Center Director

ADVENT / CHRISTMAS VIDEOS

In addition to the following video titles, please check the Media Center catalog or website for almost 100 video

titles for the season.

A Hobo’s Christmas vc 2778 93 minutes. (I-A)

Advent: Celebrating The Season vc 2685 (I-JH)

Advent With St. Nicholas: Customs From Around The World vc 2514 I-JH

Angel’s Advent Lesson, The vc 1990 P-I

Bedbug Bible Gang: Christmas Show, The vc 2749 EC-P

Best Christmas Pageant Ever vc 1189 P-A

ADVENT / CHRISTMAS VIDEOS (Continued)

Candy Maker’s Christmas vc 2380 P-I

Celebrating the Church Year For Children: Advent vc 1458 P-I

Christmas Box, The vc 2110 JH-A

Crippled Lamb, The vc 2508 EC-P

First Christmas, The vc 2379 EC-A

Christmas Gift, A vc 1094 P-A

First Christmas Crib: A Story of St Francis of Assisi vc 2211 I-A

Gift: A Christmas Story For Young Children, The vc 2509 EC-P

Holydays & Holidays: The Ordinary Fir Tree vc 2681 12 minute long. (EC-I)

Holidays For Children: Christmas vc 2619 25 minutes long (I)

Jacob’s Gift vc 2507 I-JH

Jay Jay The Jet Plane: Christmas Adventures vc 2703 30 minutes long. (EC)

Keeper of the Peace: A Christmas Story vc 2831 JH-A

Legend Of Candy Cane vc 2779 42 minutes (P-I)

Little Shepherd vc 2780 25 minutes. (EC-P)

Madeline’s Christmas vc 2210 P-I

Mary Had A Baby, Amen vc 1802 EC-P

Nestor: The Long-eared Christmas Donkey vc 1809 EC-P

Other Wise Man, The vc 1092 I-A

Rough Edges vc 1804 I-A

The Bedbug Gang: Christmas Show vc 2749 27 minutes long. (EC-P)

The Littlest Angel vc 2644 24 minutes long. (EC-P)

The Nativity: A Video Translation of Luke 2, 1-21 vc 2741 10 minutes (SH-A)

The Clown of God vc 2606 10 minutes long. (EC-P)

The Storyteller’s Café: The Gift vc 2781 30 minutes (EC-I)

The Timepiece vc 2777 91 minutes (P-I)

Veggie Tales: The Toy That Saved Christmas vc 2137 EC-P

Please check our on-line catalogue at www.mediacenter.scdiocese.org for a summary of the film and time length.

ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS DVD TITLES

Advent and Christmas Journey, An ( On 2 DVDs) dv 61247 SH-A

Advent Calendar: A Christmas Countdown dv 61644 P-A

Advent: Preparing For Christ, Cycle B dv 62035 A

Advent With St. Nicholoas dv 61563 P-I

Angel’s Advent Lesson, The dv 61249 P-I

Bedbug Bible Gang: Christmas Show, The dv 61047 EC-P

Best Christmas Pageant Ever dv 61059 P-A

Bible Animated Classics: The King Is Born dv 61064 P-I

Brother Francis: The King Is Born - What Christmas Is All About dv 62021 P-I

Bugtime Adventures: Joy to the World- The Christmas Story dv 61267 P-I

Celebrating the Seasons of Advent and Lent dv 61282 I-JH

Charlie Bown Christmas, A dv 61480 EC-A

Christmas Angel dv 61650 I-A

Christmas Blessing, The dv 61283 JH-A

Christmas Box, The/ The Timepiece, A dv 61284 JH-A

Christmas Carol, A (1951 Version On 2 DVDs) dv 61285 JH-A

Christmas Carol, A (1981 Version) dv 61286 JH-A

Christmas Child: A Max Lucado Story dv 61287 JH-A

Christmas Choir, The dv 61578 JH-A

Christmas Hope dv 61651 I-A

Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey, The dv 61579 JH-A

Christmas Shoes, The dv 61074 P-A

Clown of God, The / Charlie Needs a Cloak / Strega Nona dv 61580 EC-P

Crippled Lamb, The dv 61283 EC-P

First Christmas, The/ The Chimes/A Christmas Gift dv 61109 EC-A

Following Jesus Through the Church Year dv 61298 P-I

Fourth Wise Man, The dv 61115 JH-A (English & Spanish)

Gift of Love, The dv 61308 SH-A

Go Look in the Manger / The Candy Maker’s Christmas dv 61123 P-I

Hermie and Friends: A Fruitcake Christmas dv 61129 EC-P

Holy Heroes: Jesse Tree Activity DVD – dv 61945 P-I

Incarnation: Keeping God In the Flesh, The dv 61847 SH-A

It’s A Wonderful Life dv 61582 JH-A

Jacob’s Gift dv 1133 I-JH

Juggler of Notre Dame dv 61136 JH-A

Just In Time For Christmas dv 61785 I-A

Keeping Incarnate The Paschal Mystery dv 61848 SH-A

Legend Of Candy Cane, The dv 61142 P-I

Life of Jesus dv 61526 P-I

ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS DVD TITLES (Continued) Little Drummer Boy dv 61148 EC-I (Engish and Spanish)

Littlest Angel, The dv 61147. (EC-P)

Little Shepherd dv 61149. EC-P (Engish and Spanish)

Micah’s Christmas Treasure dv 61583 P-A

Mister Scrooge To See You! Dv 62028 JH-A

My Christmas Soldier dv 61584 JH-A

Mystery of the Three Kings: One of the Greatest Stories of Christmas dv 61854 JH-A

Nativity: Art and Spirit of the Creche dv 61585 JH-A

Nativity Story, The dv 61327 JH-A

Nicholas, The Boy Who Became Santa dv 61165 EC-I

One Special Night dv 61329 JH-A

Perfect Gift, The dv 61667 I-A

Prince of Peace: The Christmas Story dv 61179 EC-I

Red Boots For Christmas dv 61381

Scrooge dv 61586 JH-A

Silent Night dv 61358 JH-ASt. Francis: Troubadour of God’s Peace dv 61597 JH-A

Star of Bethlehem dv 61596 JH-A

Story of the Nativity, The dv 61362 SH-A

Story of the Selfish Giant: A Christmas Parable, The dv 61204

Three Christmas Classics: Christmas Is, The City That Forgot About God, Stableboy’s Christmas

dv 61208 P-A

Veggie Tales: Saint Nicholas as a Story of Joyful Giving dv 61674 P-I

Veggie Tales: The Little Drummer Boy dv 61978 P-I

Veggie Tales: The Star that Saved Christmas / The Toy That Saved Christmas dv 61474 EC-P

Veggie Tales: The Toy That Saved Christmas dv 61474 EC-P

We Are Catholic: Christmas Special dv 61676 EC-I

Please check our on-line catalogue at www.mediacenter.scdiocese.org for a summary of the film and time length

NEW DVDS . . . For Christmas and More

CHRISTMAS CANDLE, THE DV 62135

Vision Video 2013 (I-A)

From bestselling author, Max Lucado, comes The

Christmas Candle, a timeless holiday film for the entire

family. Deep in the heart of the English countryside lies an

enchanting village of Gladbury. Legend has it every 25

years an angel visits the village candle maker and touches a

single candle. Whoever lights this candle receives a miracle

on Christmas Eve. But in 1890, at the dawn of the electric age, this century’s oldest legend may come to an end.

When David Richmond, a progressive young minister, arrives in Gladbury, the villagers discover a new formula

for miracles: good deeds and acts of kindness. While David’s quest to modernize Gladbury sets him at odds with

the old world candle maker, he finds an unlikely ally in the lovely skeptic, Emily Barstow. Now the fiery candle

maker must fight to preserve the legacy of the Christmas candle. But when the candle goes missing, the miraculous

and human collide in the most astonishing Christmas the village of Gladbury has ever seen. 100 min.

CHRISTMAS GRACE DV 62136

Videro Vision 2013 (I-A)

Christmas Grace tells the story of two rival toy store owners over several Christmas

seasons. One of them is Gary a young toy store owner who runs an honest business and

has a good relationship with his customers. Everything is running smoothly for Gary

until he hears of a new bigger store opening up across the street from him. The owner of

the larger company Jim Tollman is a ruthless businessman who will stop at nothing to

grow his business and eliminate his competition. Since his most immediate competition

happens to be Gary’s store, he sets his target on him. As the story unfolds, it becomes

very clear that God is at work in the lives of these two men and God’s Grace and

Providence work out in ways neither one of them could have imagined. 138 minutes.

GIMME SHELTER DV 62137

Ignastius Press 2013 JH-A A troubled teenager flees life from her abusive mother,

setting out on a journey to find her father, whom she’s

never known. Gimme Shelter tells the extraordinary and

courageous true story of one girl’s fight against the odds

to find hope, redemption, and a family to call her own.

101 minutes

MARY OF NAZARETH DV 62138

Video Vision 2013 JH-A

Mary of Nazareth is an epic new motion picture on the life of Mary, mother of Christ from her childhood through

the Resurrection of Jesus. Filmed in Europe with outstanding cinematography, a strong cast, and a majestic music

score, this is a film that will inspire. Actress Alissa Jung gives a

beautiful compelling and inspired portrayal of Mary. The film

vividly captures the essence of Mary’s profound faith and trust in

God amidst the great mysteries that she lived with as the Mother

of the Messiah, her compassionate humanity and concern for

others, and the deep love that she and Jesus shared for one

another. This movie underscores her special role in God’s plan for

our redemption, her unique relationship with Christ, and the

tremendous suffering that she endured in union with his passion

and death, as well as her serene joy at his resurrection. This

movie is on two Discs and is 153 minutes in length.

PROMISE: BIRTH OF THE MESSIAH – THE ANIMATED MUSICAL, THE DV 62139

Ignatius Press 2014

In ancient Israel, during the days of King Herod, a young couple’s world is turned upside down

when the prophecy of a long-awaited deliverer unfolds upon their lives. They must trust in God’s

promise in the midst of rising challenges and their faithfulness is rewarded as they witness the

most surprising and glorious event of all human history – the promise fulfilled in the birth of the

Messiah. 45 minutes

SILENT NIGHT: THE POWERFUL TRUE STORY BEHIND THE MOST POPULAR CAROL OF ALL

TIME DV 62140

Vision Video 2012 JH-A

When Joseph Mohr is assigned in 1818 to be the new assistant priest in Oberndorf, a small Austrian town near

Salzburg, the young man is full of ideals. However, his passion to bring the church closer to the common people

sets him on a collision course with his superior, Father Noestler. When

Joseph organizes a church choir that includes outcasts from the local tavern

and performs in German instead of the traditional Latin, Father Noestler

threatens him with disciplinary action. The night before Christmas, Joseph

has to decide if he will accept defeat and leave Oberndorf or embrace the true

significance of the holy night when Christ is born.

PRINTED RESOURCES FOR ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS FOR PRIMARY- INTERMEDIATE

Absolutely Advent: Day By Day To Christmas pr 30985

Jean Larkin provides this valuable day-by-day Advent resource for the primary grades. 32 pages

Absolutely Advent: Getting Ready For Christmas pr 30986

Jean Larkin provides this valuable day-by-day Advent resource for the intermediate grades. 32

pages

Advent ABCs: Primary Level pr 30239

This resource contains reproducible activities for the Advent season. The author gives special instructions for use

with simple, average, and advanced skill levels. This book can be used as a coloring book, an activity book to

make Advent decorations, or an activity book to make an Advent chain. 32 pages

Advent & Lent Activities For Children pr 30137

In this fascinating collection, Sheila Kelly and Sheila Geraghy explore many of the customs and traditions

surrounding the seasons of Advent and Lent. The authors look at customs and tradition in the following way:

“Origin” traces where a particular custom or tradition may have started. “Connection” looks at the central theme of

each custom or tradition through the eyes of faith. “Extension” brings the customs or traditions alive with ideas for

activities that can be easily recreated in the home or classroom. 115 pages

Advent & Lent Activities For Children: Camels. Carols, Crosses, and Crowns pr 30206

Authors Sheila Kielly and Sheila Geraghty look at customs and traditions in the following way: “Origin” traces

where the custom or tradition may have started. “Connection” looks at a central theme of each custom through the

eyes of faith. “Extension” brings the customs or tradition alive with ideas for activities that can easily be recreated

in home or classroom. 112 pages

Advent Stories and Activities: Meeting Jesus Through The Jesse Tree pr 30209

Anne E. Neuberger introduces the Advent tradition of keeping a Jesse Tree. This creative resource offers 24

ancient stories and symbols (from creation to the nativity) to mark the days before Christmas for children of all

ages. 83 pages

Celebrating The Liturgical Year: Special Seasons: Special Feasts pr 30223

This set of reproducible handouts for intermediate grades highlights the Church’s rich liturgical cycle, emphasizing

major feast and seasons and special saint’s days. Contents include Triduum Quiz, Patron Saints Scavenger Hunt,

Our Church Year, The Spirit Comes, A Different Kind of King, Name That Saint, and many more.

PRINTED RESOURCES FOR ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS FOR PRIMARY- INTERMEDIATE

My Catholic School Activity Book pr 31012

This resource by Jennifer Galvin provides activities for major holidays found in parochial school calendars.

Children ages 6-9 will learn Catholic traditions of saint's days and holy days, as well as discover a firm spirituality

beneath secular holidays - all while having fun every day. 32 pages.

My Christmas Activity Book pr 30287

This resource by Carolyn Owens is packed with reproducible delightful activities to help children ages 4 to 7

celebrate the true focus of Christmas - the birth of Jesus. 32 pages

PRINTED RESOURCES FOR ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS FOR JUNIOR AND SENOR HIGH

From Advent To Christ The King: Following The Liturgical Year pr 31499

These reproducible activities help junior high students understand that their Church also has an annual cycle, how

the recurring seasons and feasts of the liturgical year are reminders of their Catholic heritage. 25 pages

Holiday And Seasonal Ideas For Ministry With Young Teens pr 31644

This resource, by Carole Goodwin and Marilyn Kielbasa, includes a collection of twenty-seven strategies to help

young adolescents mark significant time in the liturgy and secular calendars. The collection includes prayer ideas,

service projects, social activities, learning activities about church life and practice, strategies for outreach to the

parish community, and discussion-starters that focus on celebrations, commemorations, and cultural observances.

136 pages

Keeping Time: Praying Advent Throughout The School Day pr 32006

There is a rhythm to life. The Genesis promise of breathing in and breathing out is brought to life in the way our

Church celebrates the seasons of the year and in the way we move through our days. This book by Sandra Iwanski

is designed to help your school year recognize that rhythm in the prayer life of your students and faculty. In this

book you will find prayers that are easy to follow and that allows your students to begin each hour of the school

day in prayer that celebrates the season of Advent. 56 pages

Catholic Customs & Traditions: A Popular Guide pr 31639

Here is a book that belongs in every Catholic home, parish, and school library. Greg Dues traces the vast riches of

the traditions, customs, and ritual practices that make up the Roman Catholic experience. He also covers practical

areas such as sacraments and sacramentals, ordinary time, the sanctoral cycle, and the Sunday assembly. Each

topic is presented in a clear and engaging manner with plenty of historical background and theological grounding.

A comprehensive index rounds out the usefulness of this timely book. 199 pages

PRINTED RESOURCES FOR ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS FOR JUNIOR AND SENOR HIGH

(Continued)

Journey Of Faith For Advent And Christmas – Leader’s Guide pr 32475

This leader's Guide for Journey of Faith for Advent and Christmas has eight faith sessions, as well as extended

activities, to help young people (ages 10 through 13) enter fully into the expectation and joy of the Advent and

Christmas seasons. In addition to its fully developed sessions, this guide has strategies for encouraging real

participation in the liturgical and community life of the parish as it ritualizes and celebrates Advent and Christmas.

91 pages

Journey Of Faith For Advent And Christmas – Student Book pr 32476

This book in the Journey of Faith series will be your companion as you journey through the seasons of Advent and

Christmas. The eight faith sessions, as well as extended activities, are designed to help young people (ages 10

through 13) enter fully into the expectation and joy of the Advent and Christmas seasons. This time will remind

you of two important journeys: Mary and Joseph's trip to Bethlehem and the Magi's to visit Mary and Joseph after

Jesus' birth. Their journeys remind us that God is always with us, always guiding us, and always caring about us.

God being with you is the most important thing you can take with you on your Advent journey. 40 pages

BOOKS ON SPIRITUALITY FOR ADULTS

Coming Of Christ In Advent, A pr 2084

This resource contains "Essays on the Gospel Narratives Preparing for the Birth of Jesus (Matthew 1 and Luke 1)

by Scripture scholar Fr. Raymond E. Brown, S.S. The first chapter of Matthew's Gospel and the first chapter of

Luke's Gospel contain the annunciation of Jesus' forth-coming birth. Traditionally they

are read during Advent as a way of preparing for Christmas. Here Father Brown reflects not only on those

annunciations but also on the beautiful canticles or hymns the Magnificat and the Benedictus. 74 pages.

Great Themes of Scripture: Old Testament, The pr 32081

This resource by Rev. Richard Rohr and Joseph Martos offers newcomers to the Hebrew Scriptures a "feel" for

their overall religious themes. But for all readers, this book uniquely sounds the call of the Lord and invites

response in a way that will touch lives as deeply as the original talks. 131 pages.

Saint Paul The Apostle for Every Day pr 32552

Published to coincide with the "Year of St. Paul" announced by Pope Benedict XVI, Rev. Michael Kerrigan, CSP

offers a daily scripture verse for reflection, based on the writings of St. Paul and on events narrated in the Acts of

the Apostles. 109 pages

The Climate Of Monastic Prayer pr 32571

"The most important need in the Christian world today is this inner truth nourished by this spirit of contemplation:

the praise and love of God, the longing for the coming of Christ, the thirst for the manifestation of God's glory, his

truth, his justice, his kingdom in the world. These are all characteristically "contemplative" and eschatological

aspirations of the Christian heart, and they are the very essence of monastic prayer." - Thomas Merton. 154 pages.

Drinking From The Hidden Fountain: A Patristic Breviary: Ancient Wisdom For Today’s World pr 32572

By presenting insights of the Church Fathers for meditation each day, arranged by topic each month, this little

volume offers an introduction both to the Fathers and to monastic prayerful reading. 447 pages

The Hermitage Within pr 32575

This treasured contemplative classic takes readers on an inner journey along biblical pathways and urges them to

seek and to reach out to God. "Not everyone, obviously, can and should live as a monk or hermit. But no Christian

can do without an inner hermitage in which to meet his God." 113 pages.

Seeking God: The Way of St. Benedict pr 32581

Esther de Waal reminds us that Benedictine spirituality is grounded in the idea that God's presence is everywhere,

and that it is our job to seek it out, remembering that the material and the spiritual are not distinct and separate

realms, but that even our most ordinary work "is to be a constant reminder of the reality of the Incarnation." To

live in the holistic manner envisioned by St. Benedict, de Waal says, is to live knowing that God does not demand

the unusual, spectacular, the heroic," but rather that I do the most ordinary, often dreary and humdrum things that

face me each day with a loving openness that will allow them to become my own immediate way to God." 163

pages

MORE DVDs FOR CHRISTMAS

The following DVD titles are now available. We also purchased second copies of some of our more

popular Christmas DVDs. Please remember to order early to avoid disappointment.

CHRISTMAS CHOIR, THE - DV 61578

Based on a true story, The Christmas Choir is the inspiring account of how one man can make a

remarkable difference simply by giving of himself. Workaholic accountant Peter Andrews (Jason Gedrick)

has overlooked Christmas, friends and even his fiancé for far too long. As a result, his life begins to fall

apart. But a chance encounter with a homeless man named Bob (Tyrone Benskin) changes everything and

inspires Peter to start a choir at a local homeless shelter. With the help of the unconventional Sister Agatha

(Rhea Perlman) and his newfound friends at the shelter, Peter learns that Christmas is not a season but a

state of mind, and that everyone deserves a second chance at life and love. JH-A 84 min.

CHRISTMAS MIRACLE OF JONATHAN TOOMEY, THE - DV 61579

This live-action feature, based on one of America’s most loved children’s books, is now a must-see family

movie experience. Oscar’s nominee Tom Berenger stars as a recluse with a secret past until a widowed

mother (Jody Richardson) and her young son move into town and commission the ill-tempered

woodcarver to create a replica of a nativity set given to the boy by his dead father. The commission takes

their relationship to unexpected places as the young boy makes greater and more difficult demands of the

woodcarver’s ability, and as Christmas approaches, the three of them struggle to come to terms with each

other, their painful memories, and the process of putting their unhappiness behind them. A story of love,

redemption and above all, hope, makes this program a holiday classic for years to come. JH-A 91 minutes.

CLOWN OF GOD, THE / CHARLIE NEEDS A CLOAK / STREGA NONA – DV 61580

This DVD includes three film titles. The Clown of God is the reason this DVD was purchased. The

Clown of God is about a young boy who joins a group of wandering entertainers with his juggling. Time

goes on and the boy grows older. As the juggler gets older, his juggling ability is lessened and he decides to

go home by journeying to the monastery where he can live out his days. Once there, he arrives in time for

the celebration of the birthday of the Christ child. As a gift, the juggler performs for the child, who is seen

in a picture on the lap of his mother. The child appears sad to the juggler, and the juggler is determined to

make him happy. When the juggler finishes his performance, his heart stops beating. The brothers who

come and find him discover that the Christ child is now pictured with a smiling face, holding one of the

juggler’s golden balls. (Animated - 10 min. – EC-P) Charlie Needs A Cloak: When Charlie’s old cloak

become torn and tattered, he spins a new one showing how cloth is made from wool. (Animated - EC-P - 8

minutes) Strega Nona: Big Anthony finds himself knee-deep-in trouble – and pasta – when he uses Strega

Nona’s magic pasta POT without her permission. (Animated EC-P - 9 minutes)

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE - DV 61582

No one is born to be a failure. No one is poor who has friends. Simple thoughts that were

the inspiration for one of the richest, most uplifting, most beloved American films ever

made. Frank Capra's classic tale of George Bailey and his Christmas Eve visit with a

guardian angel was nominated for five Oscars, including Best Picture. Stars include James

Stewart and Donna Reed. (B & W) JH-A 130 minutes.

BROTHER FRANCIS: THE KING IS BORN – WHAT CHRISTMAS IS ALL ABOUT DV 2021

Vision Video 2013 P-I

This Brother Francis film recounts the moving and life-changing story of the birth of God’s Son,

whose humble beginnings would alter the future of mankind. Celebrate the true meaning of

Christmas with Brother Francis in this heart-warming and inspirational episode. “The Christmas

Story” is an animated presentation of the many wonderful events that led up to the birth of Jesus.

“What is Christmas?” is a catchy, visualized song that reminds us of who Christmas is really all

about. “Away in a Manger “ and “Silent Night” are two traditional songs that continue to inspire

praise and thankfulness for the coming of our Lord. This is presented in English and Spanish audio

and is accompanied by an activity/coloring book. 25 minutes.

MICAH’S CHRISTMAS TREASURE - DV 61583

Micah, a poor shepherd boy, makes a wonderful discovery amidst the tumult and uncertainty of ancient

Israel at the time of Christ’s birth. After Roman tax collectors punish their family for being unable to pay

their taxes, young Micah and his sister, Rachel, set out to acquire the treasure that will save their home.

Their quest takes them on an adventure that puts them in the middle of one of history’s greatest moments.

Micah and Rachel meet strange characters and witness unusual events at they follow a brilliant star to

Bethlehem. Soon they are caught up in the drama that surrounds the tiny town as angels, kings and

shepherds report the arrival of a treasure beyond Micah’s wildest dreams. Then Micah is faced with the

most important decision of his life. Will he trade information about the whereabouts of a special baby in

exchange for the riches he has longed for? Or will he find a treasure of greater value than gold? 54

minutes. P-A

MY CHRISTMAS SOLDIER - DV 61584

On Christmas Eve, 1943 a small Georgia town struggles with the rationing and sacrifices of America at war.

Christmas is no exception as 11-year-old Gordy (Aidan Rogers) and his sister Priscilla (Emily Jordan) sense

a fear in the train station where they await their father’s homecoming. Propaganda posters and tense adult

talk drive home the evil of the enemy. When a train loaded with German POW prisoners arrives in the

station, Gordy’s curiosity is stronger than his fear. He dares to approach the prison train and makes contact

with a young German soldier named Hans (Silvio Wolf Busch). Through the courage to trust and the song

“Silent Night”, friends and foes learn the true meaning of “Peace on Earth. Goodwill Towards Men”, and

hearts are forever changed. This film is based on true events. 30 minutes. JH-A

NATIVITY: ART AND SPIRIT OF THE CRÈCHE - DV 61585

Here is an uplifting and fascinating Christmas special. After the cross, the Nativity scene is Christianity’s

most recognized symbol. Its history, art, and spirituality have been embraced by cultures around the world

for nearly two thousand years. This program unites theologians and collectors with an astonishing and

beautiful array of nativity scenes collected from across the globe. 30 minutes. JH-A

SCROOGE - DV 61586

This 1935 black and white British film version of Charles Dickens’ holiday

classic stars Sir Seymour Hicks as the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, who scoffs at

the yuletide spirit around him. But on Christmas Eve, he embarks on a journey

led by three spirits who convince him to mend his ways and embrace the joys of

Christmas. This was the first feature-length film version of the story in sound.

78 minutes. JH-A

The True Light that

Gives Light to All

has Come into

the World. JOHN 1:9

PRINTED RESOURCES FOR ADVENT / CHRISTMAS – PRIMARY TO ADULT

ABSOLUTELY ADVENT: DAY BY DAY TO CHRISTMAS 2009 – pr 32725.03

Jean Larkin provides this valuable day-by-day Advent resource for intermediate grades. Pflaum Publishing. 40 pages I

ABSOLUTELY ADVENT: GETTING READY FOR CHRISTMAS 2006 – pr 32726

Jean Larkin provides this valuable day-by-day Advent resource for intermediate grades. Pflaum Publishing 40 pages I

JESUS IS COMING: THOUGHTS, PRAYERS & ACTIVITIES – pr 32727

Mary Kathleen Glavich, SND provides day-by-day activities and prayers for intermediate grade children. 30 pages P-I

ADVENT IS FOR CHILDREN: STORIES, ACTIVITIES, PRAYERS – pr 32728

This resource by Julie Kelemen offers basic information in an interesting, enjoyable tale. Young children will learn about

many important Advent topics and people. Liguori Publications 61 pages I

EVERY DAY OF ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS: A BOOK OF ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN – pr 32740

This resource offers little ones a variety of activities as they prepare for the coming of the Christ child. Liguori

Publications 31 pages. P

CATCH-UP TIME FOR OUR SOULS: DAILY REFLECTIONS & PRAYERS – ADVENT 2009 – pr 32747

Rev. James Field provides a short scripture meditation for each day of the Advent season. Twenty-Third Publications 29

pages. A

PRINTED RESOURCES FOR ADVENT / CHRISTMAS – PRIMARY TO

ADULT (Continued)

DAYBREAKS: DAILY REFLECTIONS FOR ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS – pr 32748

Rev. Kenneth G. Davis, OFM provides reflections for Advent through the celebration of the Epiphany. Liguori

Publications 47 pages. A

DAILY REFLECTIONS FOR ADVENT & CHRISTMAS: WAITING IN JOYFUL HOPE 2009-10 – 32749

Bishop Robert Morneau once again helps us pause and prepare spiritually for the coming of Christ. During the

especially busy Advent and Christmas seasons, this little treasure offers down-to-earth and yet deeply meaningful

reflections that bring prayer and Scripture into everyday life in a thought-provoking and lasting way. Through

Morneau’s insightful reflections on Scripture readings from daily Mass, readers will grow in their understanding of the

Word of God. Liturgical Press 112 pages. A

ESSENTIAL ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS HANDBOOK: A DAILY COMPANION, THE – pr 32750

This handbook provides everything Catholics need for a richer experience of the Advent and Christmas seasons. It is

divided into sections for saints, prayers, practices, and essays. Whether readers wish to follow a traditional,

contemporary, or family program of devotion and prayer for Advent and Christmas, this comprehensive resource will be

a treasured guidebook for years to come. Liguori Publications. 272 pages A

A JOYFUL JOURNEY: DAILY MEDITATIONS, ACTIVITIES, & PRAYERS 32751

Paige Byrne Shortal provides a resource for families in his short meditation, activity and prayer for each day of Advent.

Twenty-Third Publications 28 pages P-A

LIVING ADVENT: A DAILY JOURNEY TO THE LECTIONARY – CYCLE C – pr 32752

This resource by Julia Dugger provides commentaries on all Sunday readings and weekday gospels for Advent. It is

excellent for both groups and individuals. Liguori Publications 64 pages. A

MARY’S SONG: REFLECTIONS, CHALLENGES, PRAYERS – ADVENT 2009 – pr 32753

In this little resource Bill Huebsch provides a scripture meditation, “take action” suggestion and prayer for each day of

the Advent season. Twenty-Third Publications 28 pages. A

MEETING CHRIST AT BROADWAY AND BETHLEHEM: DAY BY DAY THROUGH ADVENT – pr 32754

Beloved spiritual writer Edward Hayes understands that when the season of Advent is upon us, the exuberant glitter of

Christmas on Broadway, at the mall, and in our streets often conflicts with our desire to contemplate the manger in

Bethlehem. Hays helps us appreciate the mystery that Advent underlines – Christ is present in our joy and in our longing

as we celebrate His coming now, and in the world to come. Ave Maria Press. 30 pages. A

PRINTED RESOURCES FOR ADVENT / CHRISTMAS – PRIMARY TO ADULT (Continued)

PREPARING FOR CHRISTMAS WITH POPE BENEDICT XVI: AN ADVENT NOVENA – pr 32755

This novena allows readers to join in prayer with the Holy Father in preparation for the birth of Christ. Each of the nine

days contains readings and prayers from scripture as well as various writings of Pope Benedict XVI. Ave Maria Press.

59 pages A

SACRED SPACE FOR ADVENT AND THE CHRISTMAS SEASON 2009-2010 – pr 32756

Celebrate the season with renewed spiritual growth and inspiration from this valuable resource. Discover the rich,

distinctive prayer method that has made Sacred Space beloved around the world. Ave Maria Press 89 pages. A