Finally, Christmas! I pray that everyone who celebrates Christmas has a truly blessed experience and is able to not only celebrate the birth of the Lord but also draw closer to His love in the new year! Please check out all the events listed below as well as other happenings at Sacred Heart by following us on Facebook, Sacred Heart Suffield CT or our website http://www.sacredheartct.com.
At Sacred Heart Parish, the build up to Christmas began on December 26, 2023 (at least for the pastor). This month we hold a series of liturgies, celebrations and of course charitable events. The month starts right off with the Koledy Polish Christmas Carols with music provided by local musicians sharing the history and joy of traditional Polish carols. The event is free and open to everyone. It will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 4 in the church beginning at 10:15 a.m.. More singing of religious and secular Christmas music will take place on Sunday, Dec. 8th beginning at 5:15 p.m. in the church followed by the Blessing of the Outdoor Nativity and the Lighting of the Christmas Tree. A reception, hosted by the Knights of Columbus will follow in Fr. Ted Hall and rumors abound that Santa himself will be there as well!
Throughout the month our Human Needs Committee will be collecting food for Christmas baskets as well as gift items for our neighbors in need, as we do our best to share the love of the Christmas season.
Our Come Home for Christmas program begins with the first Sunday of Advent, Dec. 1, and runs right through Christmas as we pray for our family and friends who are away from the faith for whatever reason, to come home and hopefully remain with us. Names or initials are written on stars which will adorn the Christmas trees in the sanctuary and each person is remembered in our prayers throughout the season.
Sometimes, the homecoming sparks a desire for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. During the Advent season, confessions will be heard every Saturday from 2:30-3:30 p.m. as well as Monday mornings from 8:30 a.m. until 9 a.m. as well as Monday, Dec. 16 at 7-8 p.m. Confessions can also be scheduled by appointment by calling 860-668-4246.
The Masses for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day will be at 4 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. on Christmas Eve. The choir will offer Christmas music beginning at 10 p.m. Christmas Eve. Christmas Day Mass will be at 10 a.m.
We will be ringing in the New Year with a vigil Mass on New Year’s Eve at 4 p.m. and New Year’s Day at 9 a.m.
However you and your loved ones celebrate the Christmas Season, may you be blessed with peace and joy throughout the New Year!