This weekend we celebrate the Solemnity of Christ the King. This solemnity was established by Pope Pius XI in 1925, an observance celebrating an aspect of Jesus’ identity rather than of his life. The readings this weekend use images of God and Christ as shepherd and King of all creation.
 
In our first reading from the Book of Samuel, we read how all the tribes of Israel come to David. They know without a doubt that God has chosen him to be their King and shepherd. Dave was anointed to succeed Saul as king and lead them out to battle and bring them back in triumph. In the Second Reading from Paul to the Colossians we read how Paul gives thanks for the gift of salvation and offers a hymn of praise to the Lord.
 
In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus is mocked by the rulers and soldiers and a crucified criminal. They taunt him and refer him as the “King of the Jews.”
 
On this final day of the Liturgical Year, and prepare for the month of December and the Season of Advent, and also the final five weeks before we officially merge into one Catholic Parish family, let us use our Baptismal calling and gifts to continue building his kingdom here on earth. Our King of the Universe feeds us with his body, blood, soul, and divinity. 
   
2020 Mass Intentions This year because of the merger we will open our books for 2020 Mass Intentions next weekend: Saturday, November 30, from 5 pm to 7 pm, and Sunday, December 1, from 7:30 am to 12:30 pm in the St. Bede Activity Room. We have a special flyer available to make reservations for one Daily and one Sunday Mass (per family) at all three of our campuses. Please be patient with this new sign up system. We appreciate your understanding.
 
Thanksgiving Day Mass - Thursday, November 22,      9 am - St. James
**Please note we are having one Mass on Thanksgiving Day. As we will soon become one parish family, what a great day to come together and give thanks for Gods blessings and breaking bread as one unified family**
 
The parish offices will be closed Thursday, November 28, through Monday, December 2.  All three parish offices will reopen on Tuesday, December 3.
 
Fair Trade Sale Join us next Saturday, November 30, after the Saturday afternoon Masses, and Sunday, December 2, after all the Masses in the St. Bede School Cafeteria (below the church) for a Fair Trade Sale!  There will be several vendors with handmade goods from various countries. These items make great stocking stuffers to help’s support a great cause by helping the vendors and helping with Partners in Progress Missions. It’s a great way to get ahead of your Christmas shopping, plus help others!
 
Feast of the Immaculate Conception Not a Holy Day of Obligation Because December 8 falls on a Sunday this year, we will celebrate the Second Sunday of Advent. The Feast of the Immaculate Conception will be transferred to Monday, December 9,  and this year, it is NOT A HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION. We will have the regular Monday morning Mass at 9 am.
 
Light is On For You: On Wednesday, December 11, from 6 pm to 9 pm parishes throughout the Diocese of Pittsburgh will be open for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. St. Bede Church will be open for private confession for our grouping.
 
Looking Ahead - Christmas Mass Schedule
 
Christmas Eve - Tuesday, December 24
4 pm - St. Bede
4 pm - St. James
10 pm - St. Bede
 
Christmas Day - Wednesday, December 25
9 am - St. Bede
10 am - St. James
11 am - St. Charles Lwanga, Mother of Good Counsel
 
Birthday Reflection As I celebrate my 49^th Birthday this weekend, Sunday, November 24, I pause and give thanks for the gift of life. Also Happy Birthday to Fr. David Taylor, celebrating his birthday this Monday, November 25 ^th!
 
Happy 150^th Anniversary! This weekend we are celebrating the 150 ^th Anniversary of St. James Parish! Proud of our past, hopeful for our future!
 
Welcome Home A special welcome to Daniel Tapia-Jimenez, and Marisella Rodriguez who recently registered at CCEEP.
 
Second Collection this weekend is for the Retirement Fund for Religious please be as generous as possible.
 
Something to Think About…