Week of October 30, 2005

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Dear Parishioner,

Our Parish Pastoral Council has been working over the last few years to raise our awareness of the growing shortage of priests and the ways this shortage may affect St. Noel. As you know, the number of priests in our diocese is dropping dramatically. Fewer seminarians and aging clergy will cut the number of available priests in half, if not more, within the next twenty years.

A task force has been working in our diocese over the last two years to address the problem. This month they have submitted a proposal to the bishop and he has been meeting with the priests of the diocese to encourage its adoption. The proposal directs all parishes of the diocese to cluster with neighboring parishes. Each parish is to submit a suggested clustering arrangement to the diocese. Clusters are to consist of 2 to 6 parishes with a minimum of 2,000 households among them. Once the clusters are approved and adopted their purpose will be to develop a five-to-ten-year plan to share resources. Such plans will encourage sharing whatever is practical and helpful. However, the chief motivating purpose for clustering is dealing with the priest shortage. Each cluster will be asked to develop a plan in which the cluster could function with one or two less priests as the impact of the shortage begins to take effect. At present the proposal calls for the clustering structure to be In place by the fall of 2006.

I have shared the clustering proposal with our staff and pastoral council. There is universal agreement that such an approach is the best option for addressing the inevitable consequences of fewer priests. Clustering, as it is being proposed, allows significant local input as to the formation of the clusters and the particular ways the resources of each parish will be allocated in the future. In other words, we at St. Noel will be able to influence directly the manner in which the priest shortage affects us. There is no doubt, however, that even with effective clustering, all of us will face changes in our parish life as the years unfold. These changes may include adjustments in our mass schedule, more pastoral services provided by a lay minister or deacon rather than a priest, and possibly the presence of a part-time pastor for our parish. Our survey at the beginning of this year indicated the preference of this parish to maintain a full-time pastor. It is my hope that I will be able to serve in that capacity for as long as it remains feasible. The good news is that clustering will provide for parishes which value the vitality of their parish life a means to keep that life strong. I believe St. Noel is such a community. Even though there will be challenges and changes ahead, I trust that with the commitment and involvement of our parishioners we will continue to thrive as a Catholic community.

The clustering proposal is not as yet adopted for our diocese. Some changes in its shape and implementation are likely. I will continue to keep you informed of all future developments.

As we continue to address the shortage of priests, it is important to remember that the Church has faced many challenges in its history. Our experience is that God remains faithful. I believe that God will not forget us. Please pray that the decisions which our diocese is now making might be guided by the Holy Spirit and lead us positively into the future.

Fr. George Smiga

FEAST OF ALL SAINTS – On Tuesday, November 1, 2005 we will celebrate the Feast of All Saints. Our Masses will be at Noon and 7:00 p.m.

ALL SOULS – On Wednesday, November 2 nd at 7:00 p.m., we will celebrate the Feast of All Souls. This is a yearly feast on which we join with fellow Catholics throughout the world to remember those who have died. Our faith tells us that death does not end our relationships with those we love. Rather, all of us, living and dead, are united in Christ and destined for eternal joy.

LECTORS, EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS, SACRISTANS- Sign ups for the Feast of All Saints and All Souls are on the bulletin board by the kitchenette. Please sign up if you are able to help.

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION – St. Noel is exploring the possibility of setting up specific times for quiet Eucharistic Adoration in our chapel. Would you like to be a part of the steering committee? Please call the parish office (440-946-0887)

ELECTION DAY – Please vote on November 8 th ! Please support Issue 6 which renews the .9 mill levy for mental health services in Lake County . Other statewide ballot initiatives are Issue 1 which pertains to the issuance of $2 billion in bonds for job creation and economic growth. Issues 2, 3, 4, and 5 are proposed Constitutional Amendments focusing on absentee voting, campaign finance, redistricting and reappointment and election oversight. For more information, visit www.ohiocathconf.com .

WORLD MISSION SUNDAY – Next weekend, November 5 th & 6 th , our ushers will be in the narthex to accept donations to World Mission Sunday, a Eucharistic celebration for all the missions of the world. The offerings are destined for a common fund of solidarity distributed in the Pope's name among the missions and missionaries of the world.

Catholic Update – entitled “Longing for Peace,” by Pat Fanning is available in the kiosk.

PLAYROOM - Does your little one get restless during Mass? The playroom can help. This is a safe, secure place for little ones up to age 4 to play during the 9:00 a.m. Mass. It is fully stocked with toys that small children enjoy and is staffed with parent volunteers. It is located in the lower level of the new wing. When you leave your child, you will be given a pager just in case we need to contact you during Mass. Please pick up a flyer in the kiosk for further information.

SOCIAL JUSTICE FUND – Our collection for our Social Justice Fund (formerly the Social Concerns Fund) will take place this weekend after all the liturgies. Our resources at this time are very low, as many of our major donations do not come in until the end of the year. If you can increase your contribution, even if only by a small amount, it would enable us to help a few more people with emergency needs for utilities, shelter, car repairs, etc. Thank you for your prayerful consideration of this request.

MONTHLY RETREAT - The next monthly retreat will be on Wednesday, November 2 nd from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Resurrection Room. The theme for the day will be “Creating A Journal of Celebration” facilitated by Stephanie Griffith. Please bring a pair of scissors – all other supplies will be provided. A suggested offering for lunch and supplies is $7.00.

CONFIRMATION – Any students in the third grade or above are invited to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation. (This is a separate preparation process from those candidates in second grade. Those preparing for First Communion and Confirmation together do not have to register again.) Students in grades 6-12 will register in January. Students in grades 3-5 may register with Marianne Slattery (440-946-1128 x 21). The first information/preparation session for grades 3-5 will be on Sunday, December 11 from 10:30 – noon . Parents are asked to attend with their child(ren). Please register for this session by Sunday, December 4 th .

ATTENTION LECTORS - The diocesan Office for Pastoral Liturgy is offering a workshop for lectors entitled “A Well-Trained Tongue” on Monday, November 14 th at St. Monica's Church in Garfield Hts. This is a wonderful opportunity for those looking to improve their skills in proclaiming God's Word. There is a $15 registration fee to cover the cost of your workbook. More information and registration forms can be picked up in the sacristy. St. Noel is willing to assume the $15.00 cost for any lector of St. Noel who wishes to attend. Please consider taking advantage of this great opportunity.

ADVENT TEA – This year's Advent Tea will be held on Sunday, December 4, 2005 at 2:00 p.m. in the parish hall. Prayer, music, conversation and a delicious luncheon will all be a part of the experience. The sign-up for the tea will be on the weekend of November 5 th and 6 th only, in the narthex after the 5:00 p.m and 9:00 a.m. Masses and before the 11:00 Mass . The cost of the Tea is $12.00 and payment must accompany your registration. No registrations or monies will be taken at the door. Any proceeds will benefit the St. Noel Social Justice Ministry Fund (formerly the Social Concerns Fund). We are looking forward to this wonderful event and hope that many women from the parish will be able to attend.

HOSTESSES NEEDED – Our yearly Advent Tea is a well attended and well appreciated event each year. However, it's success and especially the number of people we can accommodate is dependent upon women who are willing to act as a hostess for a table. The primary and most important role for a hostess is to be a person of hospitality, decorating is a much less significant concern – paper plates and a few candles are fine! If you want to learn more about what is involved and how to become a hostess, please call Linda Rini at 440-729-2777(daytime) .

THINKING OF CHRISTMAS? – Shop next weekend at the Buy Once, Give Twice boutique. This is a wonderful way to give to those on your Christmas list and to practice justice by supporting producers of fair trade products to organizations which address the needs of those who have less.

NEW PARENTS GROUP – To parents of children age 3 and under. Please remember that the New Parents Ministry meets every Monday from 9:30-11:00 a.m. for fellowship for parents and to allow for socialization of our young children. If you would like more information, or would like to join our group, please contact the parish office (440-946-0887).

CHRISTMAS PROJECT - Our annual service to neighbors in need will begin soon!! We are in need of sponsor families. Please call Anthony to learn more about sponsoring a family or to volunteer to help with the project. We have opportunities for everyone to help. Also, you can bring in your turkey donations anytime. The project donates a turkey to every family so we need a lot of birds! PRIME TIME will be collecting money at the end of November; your generosity is greatly appreciated. The Christmas Project cannot happen without YOU!!

MATTHEW KELLY – an internationally acclaimed speaker and best-selling author will be at the Church of St. Clare in Lyndhurst on November 10 th at 7:30pm. His presentation is perfect for teens and young adults. Call 449-4242 for more information.

SCHOLARSHIPS – Hey high school seniors! Check out these three scholarships: The volunteer department of UHHS Richmond Hts. Hospital awards a $500 scholarship each year to a student volunteer; La Roche College in Pittsburgh offers renewable $6,000 to Catholic students from the diocese of Cleveland; The John Paul II Cultural Center offers a $10,000 first place award in their annual essay contest. Deadlines are approaching. Check the kiosk or call Anthony for more information. More opportunities will be available in the future.

HAYRIDE – yee haw!! 9-12 graders … round up a permission slip online at www.stnoel.org and join the fun on Sunday, November 6 th beginning at 6:00pm at Patterson Fruit Farms. Dinner is included! Permission slips are due NOW.

JUNIOR HIGH YOUTH GROUP – our next meeting is Wednesday, November 2nd! THIS WEDNESDAY at 7:00!! Bring your bibles and we'll see you there!

PRIME TIME – Congratulations to our FRIGID PUTT PUTT winners: Ryan McKenna, Nick Razzante, Chris Myers and Jess Schaner. We had a great time. Turn in your Hayride permission slips ASAP – still need one? You can download it online at www.stnoel.org .

STEPHEN MINISTRY – applications for new Stephen Ministers are due November 6 th . We're praying for each of you! Call Anthony with questions.

ALTAR SERVERS – We are in need of servers at all our Liturgies. Both children (4 th grade and older) and adults are welcome to serve. Please call Anthony for more information. This is a wonderful opportunity for parents and children to serve together!

ARE YOU IN YOUR 20's or 30's? – Do you want to learn more about your Catholic faith through reflection and faith sharing? Then join the Diocesan Office of Youth & Young Adult Ministry and St. Noel Church for our six-week Young Adult Faith Formation Series beginning Monday, November 7 th at St. Noel. For more information contact Paul Kelly (216-334-1261 x28) or Anthony (946-1128). To register contact Debbi Cerbus (440-516-0321) debcerb@hotmail.com . Pick up a brochure in the kiosk or download one at: http://www.stnoel.org/pg/Young%20Adults.htm .

NOEL MOVERS – Did you know the Noel Movers are totally self-supported?? You can help us stay on the road with your donation. We're also in the market for a new(er) truck and more storage space. Call Anthony if you can help. We're in need of a recliner or lift-chair , an apartment-size washer/dryer unit, mattresses, etc. in good condition? Call the Noel Movers to arrange pickup (946-1128 x20).

WOMEN'S FELLOWSHIP & BIBLE STUDY – Women of all ages are invited to join our study group on Tuesdays from 9:30-11 a.m. We meet on the lower level each week to discuss our Bible study (we are starting a new book on Acts) and enjoy the fellowship of other Christian women. We encourage you to join our growing group and look forward to seeing you. Please contact Roseanne Madeja at 440-946-6318 or Anthony Camino at 440-946-1128 x20 for more information.

PARISH HISTORY BOOK – The 25 th Anniversary Parish Commemorative Book will be published in both a soft bound and hard-bound edition. The soft bound edition will be mailed to each parish household. The hard bound edition will include a foil-stampled cover and is included with a cornerstone sponsorship. Sponsorship cards are available in the kiosk. For further information, contact Chris Roach at 440-356-1124.

BABY-SITTERS NEEDED – If you would be interested in baby-sitting on Tuesday mornings from 9:15 to 11:15 during the Women's Fellowship and Bible Study, please call Anthony at 440-946-1128 x20.

ST. NOEL FELLOWSHIP - The activities for the month of October are as follows: October 27 th – we will celebrate anniversaries and birthdays. Please bring a food item for the food bank; November 3 rd – Bingo; November 10 th – Guest speaker, Rebecca McFarland from the Euclid Library; November 17 th – Luncheon consisting of appetizers at 12:00; 12:30 luncheon - Menu: roast turkey, dressing, sweet potato, California blend vegetables, rolls & butter, pumpkin pie, coffee and tea. Music by Goldentones orchestra. Cost is $12.00. Please contact Eleanor Hlabse, no later than November 14 th - Please bring a food item for the food bank; November 24 th Thanksgiving, No Meeting. All meetings are held at Noon every Thursday in the small hall and everyone is welcome. Parishioners (55 and over) are invited to join the St. Noel Fellowship group. Come and meet new people and enjoy the fellowship.

ENTERTAINMENT BOOKS 2006 – are available in the church office or by calling Paul Garbo at 942-4884. Cost is $25 until December 1 st . After that date, the cost will be $30. All proceeds benefit Mentally Handicapped Children. Books are also available from Lake County Right To Life (440-255-5257).

ST. NOEL PARISH HALL – If your family, friends or maybe the company you work for are looking for a nice place to hold a wedding, birthday party, baby shower or a holiday party, please recommend St. Noel Parish Hall. We can accommodate any group of 50-500. There are still openings in November and December. We are also taking reservations for any dates in 2006 and 2007. Select dates will fill up quickly. You can check availability by calling the hall office at 440-946-6635. Also mark your calendars for March 18 th , 2006, Shout will be back at St. Noel Parish Hall.

SCHOOL OPEN HOUSES – Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School Placement/Scholarship tests Saturday, October 15, Saturday, November 12 th and Saturday, January 7 th . All will begin at 8:00 a.m.; Notre Dame Cathedral Latin – Sunday, November 6, 2005 from 12:00-3:00 p.m. Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin will be hosting their annual Placement/Scholarship Exams on the following dates: Saturday, November 19 from 8:30-11:30 a.m. and 1:00-4:00 p.m. and Saturday, December 3 rd from 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. The exam is for students who will be entering grade 9 in the fall of 2006. There is a $15 fee. Call the school for further details 440--286-6226; Lake Catholic 's Admissions Open House on Wednesday, November 2 nd from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m ; R egina High School Placement/Scholarship exams take place on Saturday, November 5 th from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and Saturday, November 19 th from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The test is for 8 th grade girls entering the 9 th grade in 2006. To register call 216-382-2110 x 249. Gilmour Academy admissions open house, Sunday, November 13, 2005 11:00 a.m.

CASINO NIGHT – ALL SAINTS SCHOOL – All Saints School is sponsoring a Casino Night fundraiser on November 12 th . The cost is $25 per person and open to everyone. Registration forms are available in the kiosk.

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