Worship

As you know, the Easter Vigil must begin in darkness. Click here for more information on why.

Based on sunset information from the U.S. Naval Observatory, Easter Vigil this year (April 3, 2010) in the Diocese of San José cannot begin any earlier than 8:00 p.m.

From the U.S. Naval Observatory Astronomical Applications Department, the following information is provided for San Jose, Santa Clara County, California (longitude W121.9, latitude N37.3):

Saturday
3 April 2010, Pacific Daylight Time Read more...

Dear Fathers. Liturgists, and Liturgical Ministers,

In consultation with the Santa Clara County Public Health Department, Bishop Patrick McGrath is happy to announce that we are able to remove the temporary adaptations begun last September during the concern with the H1N1 influenza virus, and we can now return to our normal liturgical practice at Mass. He asks that by the First Sunday of Lent or as soon as reasonably possible, you inform your community members and liturgical ministers so that we may again celebrate the Eucharist and other liturgies with full use of the signs, actions, and gestures that are part of the rites.

The importance of the Cup Read more...

As we continue through the winter cold and flu season on our way to the warmer days of spring, it's a good time to review some common sense liturgical practices and issues to help everyone stay healthy and to care for one another as we gather each week for Mass and other parish activities.

If you are sick, take care of yourself
Encourage those who are sick with a cold or the flu to care for the Body of Christ by first taking care of their own body. Reassure them that the obligation to participate in Mass is not required for those who are sick. In fact, the Church honors sickness and those who are sick with special rites and prayers and cares especially for those who are unable to come to Mass because of sickness. Read more...

This blessing by Diana Macalintal originally appeared in Today's Parish, Jan/Feb 2010. Permission is given to communities in the Diocese of San Jose to use, reprint, and distribute.

Blessing for Couples in Love

February 14, 2010, falls on a Sunday this year (Sixth Sunday of Ordinary Time). This rite might take place sometime that weekend. Couples who would like to be blessed are invited to stand.

Presider: (addressing the couples)

Dear friends, today we rejoice with you
in the love you share with one another.
Love is our calling, love is our life.
Because of love, all creation came to be. Read more...

In all the dioceses of the United States of America, January 22 (or January 23, when January 22 falls on a Sunday) shall be observed as a particular day of penance for violations to the dignity of the human person committed through acts of abortion, and of prayer for the full restoration of the legal guarantee of the right to life. (General Instruction of the Roman Missal, 373)

Let us pray that all may choose life.

Prayer Upon Discovering You’re Pregnant Read more...