We would like to thank everyone who has continued to contribute to the ongoing expenses of San Antonio Church by mailing in their weekly envelopes or by contributing electronically utilizing WeShare . The buttons at the bottom of this post allow you to make online donations directly to the listed account for San Antonio Church.
Weekly Bulletin May 16, 2021
by Terrie Evans
On this 7th Sunday of Easter, we recall The Ascension of the Lord with the observance traditionally celebrated on Thursday, May 13th. The Roman Catholic Church does not consider the feast as a public holiday; but the Vatican has given permission to move it on the Sunday before Pentecost, encouraging Christians to observe this important feast. The Ascension commemorates the Christian belief of the going up to heaven forty days after his resurrection. In Latin, Ascensio refers to Christ being raised up by his own powers, in the Catholic Church this day is ranked as a Solemnity and a Holy Day of Obligation. The Ascension shows us He exists in corporal form with the Father outside time and space, thus this concluding work of redemption and the pledge of our own eventual ascension into heaven.
The Western Church started commemorating the Ascension on the 40th day of Easter as early as the 4th Century. At that time the feast was celebrated with plays, candlelit processions with a banner of a Lion (Christ) carried in front of one showing a Dragon (Devil). It is a tradition in some churches to celebrate with the blessings of first fruits as a thanksgiving for our Lord blessing us with produce, as processions with banners decorating the church with the blessed fruits being consumed after the liturgy. May 16th is also the Feast of St. Brendan the Navigator recalling his 9th Century Voyage to the Isle of Blessed as he searched for the Garden of Eden. Also known as one of the 12 Apostles of Ireland, St. Brendan’s achievements are displayed in a large stained glass window at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis.
A Prayer for The Ascension: “Almighty God, whose blessed Son Our Savior Jesus Christ ascended far above all heaves, that he might fill all things: Mercifully give us faith to perceive that according to his promise abide with his Church on earth, even unto the end of the world; through the same thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”
After Mass on this Sunday we will offer blessed prayer squares to take home. These knitted squares were donated by Donna (D’Angelo) Smith as a small way to let someone know that God cares for them. As the knitters cast their stiches, they recited a short prayer that would be felt by the donor of the square. As their busy hands worked with the yarn they prayed: “Lord keep my hands and heart focused on whoever receives this prayer square, that they know You love them and care for them and all their concerns. Amen.” All the parishioners from San Antonio Church appreciate this kind and thoughtful gesture from Donna, her family and friends.