Be Alert! Advent has a common theme about being alert. What does this mean? It means that as followers of Jesus Christ, we are most concerned about loving God and loving people. We are invited to ask the Holy Spirit to help us not to lose our first love (cf. Revelations 2:4). The Holy Spirit is our interior teacher and Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to help us in our struggle to be good witnesses to Christ. Advent is a time for us to bring our broken relationships to the Lord and ask for His guidance and help in experiencing life in abundance. God is for us. Isn’t it a sad reality that so many people think God is indifferent to all of our struggles and suffering here on earth? How much more could God prove His love for us than in sending His only-begotten Son to be our Lord and Savior? When we love people we want to walk with them and share in their journey of life. This is exactly what Jesus does for us when we invite Him into our hearts. He accompanies us and helps us be responsible and accountable for our words and actions. We are all sinners and we fail to love God and love people. This is a simple truth and we can see evidence of this everyday. But hope is not lost. When we turn to Jesus and invite Him to open our hearts, we can be renewed in the gift of hope and find peace and joy in all the wonderful people and events God has provided for us. “We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). Being alert is not some dreadful commandment to make our lives more difficult or miserable. It is the opportunity to allow the Lord to help us experience more gratitude and love. Advent is all about being renewed in the gift of hope. “And hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the holy Spirit that has been given to us.” (Romans 5:5) I pray we will have a most beautiful and blessed Advent! in Christ, Fr. Jim Northrop Pastor

Thank you! As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, I just wanted to take the opportunity to say “thank you” to everyone in our parish family for your love and dedication to the Lord as we move forward with the Partners in the Gospel program. I know the changes we have had to make haven’t been easy but you are all demonstrating a sense of graciousness as we discern concern as we discern our future. I wish you all a most blessed Thanksgiving and safe travels for those traveling to be with family and friends. Special prayers for those of you who will gather for the first time without a loved one who has since passed away. Our nation has had the tradition of setting aside one day a year to give thanks for our blessings but we know as a followers of the Lord Jesus Christ that everyday is a day to give thanks because we are blessed in so many ways. in Christ, Fr. Jim (Pastor)

Dear Ladies! You’re warmly invited to our Women’s Group Christmas Party and Service Project, a festive evening to celebrate the season of giving and fellowship! Join us as we gather to support families in need through Vine Maple Place, a local organization in Maple Valley. Together, we’ll assemble 100 take-home meal kits—50 Spaghetti Meals and 50 Chicken Noodle Soup Meals—bringing warmth and nourishment to local families this holiday season. Event Details: Date: Wednesday, December 4, 2024 Time: 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM Location: St. Barbara Catholic Church Parish Hall Evening Highlights: Service Project: Help us assemble meal kits that will be distributed to families through Vine Maple Place. Prayer & Fellowship: We’ll come together in prayer for our community, sharing gratitude for the blessings of the season. Fun & Games: Enjoy festive games and laughter as we celebrate with one another. Treats & Mingling: Bring your favorite Christmas cookies or holiday treat to share (optional). We’ll provide tea, coffee, and holiday cheer! Here’s How You Can Participate: Donate Food Items: Check the list of ingredients and sign up (link below) to bring items for the meal kits. If you’re unable to attend but would still like to help, please arrange a drop-off or pickup with Emily ( emilysimburger@gmail.com or 701-330-5753). UPDATE!You can drop off items in classroom A in the basement of the church. Please be sure to place items in the provided bins under the table or bring items in a bag and place them on the table. When you drop items off please text me and let me know. Thank you so much. Join Us on Dec 4th: If you can make it, we’d love to see you there! Please RSVP using the link below so we can plan our setup, though last-minute drop-ins are always welcome. Bring a Treat to Share (Optional): Consider bringing your favorite holiday treat to share while we mingle and enjoy fellowship time. No sign up necessary. RSVP & Signup Link: https://grow.withlome.com/a/ce44e76b-8638-4e34-9723-04e76b7f919f Come for a joyful evening filled with fellowship, prayer, games, and the joy of giving. Thank you for helping make this season brighter for families in need! Blessings,Emily, Sarah, Riza and Kathy

Announcing the Launch of PREPARES at St. Barbara We are excited to announce the launch of the PREPARES program at St. Barbara Catholic Church! PREPARES (Pregnancy & Parenting Support) is an archdiocese initiative of the Catholic Church, dedicated to supporting vulnerable families from pregnancy through their child’s fifth birthday. At St. Barbara Catholic Church, we are committed to providing a nurturing and compassionate environment where families can receive emotional, material, and spiritual support. To learn more about PREPARES and how you can get involved, visit our PREPARES page https://www.stbarbarachurch.org/prepares Together, we can build a culture of life and support for families in need!

Inspiration from St. Teresa of Calcutta Dear Parish Family, At one of our recent prayer meetings, someone shared a beautiful reflection from St. Teresa of Calcutta. Thinking about how moved I was by this reflection, I wanted to share some inspiration this great saint gave us in the hopes to encourage you as we continue to serve the Lord. St. Teresa often spoke of the need to love with "small things with great love" . She reminded us that holiness is not found in grand gestures or in extraordinary acts, but in the everyday ways we show kindness, patience, and generosity. Her words continue to challenge us to seek God in the hidden, humble places of our daily lives: "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love". In a world that often values success, achievement, and recognition, St. Teresa teaches us that true greatness lies in the little things. Whether it’s offering a smile to a stranger, holding the door open for someone, or taking time to listen to a friend in need, these are the small acts that carry the heart of Christ. It’s through these small, daily moments of love that we encounter God and transform the world around us. Another powerful thought she shared was: “If you can't feed a hundred people, then feed just one.” St. Teresa understood the power of individual action. She knew that one person can make a difference, even if it seems small. This is especially true in our Christian calling to serve others. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the vast needs of the world and the many issues that seem beyond our control. But St. Teresa’s message is simple: start where you are, with what you have, and do what you can. You may not be able to change the world all at once, but by helping one person at a time, you are bringing the light of Christ to someone in need. St. Teresa also deeply believed in the importance of seeing Jesus in every person, especially those who are suffering. She said: "Each one of them is Jesus in disguise." This powerful reminder calls us to look beyond outward appearances and see the face of Christ in every person we encounter. Whether it’s the homeless person on the street, the elderly neighbor who feels forgotten, or the child who needs our attention, St. Teresa encourages us to see them through the eyes of love and compassion. In our own lives, we can reflect on how we see and serve others. Do we look with compassion, or are we quick to judge? Are we willing to put aside our own convenience to reach out to someone in need? Finally, St. Teresa had an unwavering trust in God’s providence. She once said: “God doesn’t call us to be successful, but to be faithful.” In our own journey of faith, it’s easy to become discouraged when we don’t see immediate results or recognition for our efforts. But St. Teresa reminds us that our calling is not to be successful by the world’s standards but to be faithful to the love and service we are called to give. When we do our part with love, God will take care of the rest. As we continue our journey of faith, let us take time to reflect on the wisdom of St. Mother Teresa and allow her words to inspire us. Let us strive to do small things with great love, to serve others with compassion, and to trust in God’s plan for our lives. May we be open to seeing the face of Christ in every person we meet and respond to the call to love and serve in His name. In Christ’s Peace, Fr. James Northrop

Trusting in God Leads to Generous Hearts My dad loved to teach and was always trying creative ways to motivate his students to learn. He felt a bit sad when he had to give up teaching to become a principal in order to earn more money for our family. One day, he was called to substitute as a catechist for one of our CCD classes in the parish. The first reading about Elijah and the widow of Zarephath reminds me of the lesson he taught about the importance of thinking of others and not just our own needs. My father bought cookies for the class but deliberately had only half as many cookies as there were students. He passed them out and then apologized for not having enough for everyone. He was testing the students to see if they would break their cookies in half to share with the remaining students who didn’t get one. He noted that no one shared but quickly gobbled up their cookies, even though they saw that half the students didn’t receive one. He then taught a lesson about looking around and seeing other people rather than just being selfish and thinking of our own needs. I jokingly asked my dad if he were in the same situation whether he would have shared his cookie with someone else. I didn’t get a response. Later on, his mother (Grandma Esther) made a funny comment to me about how my dad was honest as the day was long. She said she could put a $10 bill on a counter and he wouldn’t touch it. However, a slice of pie on the counter was a whole different story. Every day, there are people in the world guided by the Holy Spirit who believe in the goodness and generosity of God and aren’t afraid to “share their bread with the hungry” (cf. Isaiah 58:10) because they know that God will take care of them. In a world that so often fosters selfishness, the Lord invites us to be mindful of how blessed we are and to look around and see who is on the margins and whose needs are not being met. Let us all pray for greater sensitivity to the poor and needy around us and trust that God will give us all that we need to advance the Kingdom of God.

Parents' Night Out: Pizza, Fun & More for Your Little Ones! Need a break? Let us take care of the kids while you enjoy a well-deserved evening off! 🎉 On Saturday, November 2nd, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM we're hosting a Parents' Night Out at St. Barbara Parish Hall! Your kids will have a blast with pizza, games, a fun project, and a movie—all in the company of friends! A $5 suggested donation is appreciated but not required to participate. We just want your kids to have a great time while you recharge! Be sure to RSVP by October 26th to secure a spot! Sign Up Here We can't wait to see your little ones for a night of fun while you take a well-deserved breather! ✨

Remember The Goodness of God Last night during our Thursday evening Prayer Meeting, the Lord definitely directed our attention towards the importance of being grateful and remembering the goodness of God. As we navigate the challenges of life, it is essential to take a moment to pause and reflect on the goodness of God. In times of uncertainty or difficulty, remembering His blessings can provide us with strength, hope, and renewed faith. Scripture invites us to reflect on God’s goodness regularly. The Psalms are filled with praises of His faithfulness and love. Psalm 100 reminds us to “enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise.” This call to gratitude is more than a simple acknowledgment; it is an invitation to cultivate a heart that recognizes God’s active presence in our lives. One of the most profound aspects of God’s goodness is His unwavering mercy. Each day offers us a fresh start, reminding us that no matter our shortcomings, God is always ready to welcome us back with open arms. This mercy is not only for us but extends to everyone, reminding us to practice compassion and forgiveness in our own lives. Moreover, God’s goodness is often revealed through the people and experiences around us. In moments of kindness, love, and support from family, friends, and our faith community, we catch glimpses of His grace. By fostering relationships rooted in love and service, we can be instruments of God’s goodness in the lives of others. Reflecting on the beauty of creation is another powerful way to remember God’s goodness. Whether it’s a breathtaking sunset, the laughter of a child, or the simple joy of a shared meal, these moments remind us of the Creator’s generous heart. Taking time to appreciate the world around us helps us to cultivate a spirit of gratitude. As we go about our days, let us consciously remember to celebrate God’s goodness. Through prayer, acts of kindness, and a spirit of thankfulness, we can not only strengthen our own faith but also inspire others to recognize the blessings in their lives. In every season, let us hold fast to the truth that God is good, and His love endures forever. Have a blessed week and let’s pray a greater sense of gratitude in our lives even as we face daily challenges. We are blessed. in Christ, Fr. Jim

Join Us at St. Barbara’s Winter Wonderland Bazaar 2024! A Day of Local Artistry, Shopping, Food, and Community Fun. We are excited to welcome you to the St. Barbara’s Winter Wonderland Bazaar  on Saturday, October 26th, 2024 , from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM , at St. Barbara Catholic Church Parish Hall . This event promises a festive day filled with unique handcrafted items, delicious treats, and fun for the whole family! What You Can Look Forward To: Handmade Goods:  Browse a variety of locally crafted treasures, perfect for gifts or a special find for yourself. Baked Goods Sale:  Satisfy your sweet tooth with homemade baked goods prepared by our community. Lunch by the Knights of Columbus:  Hungry? The Knights of Columbus will be selling lunch to keep you fueled for a day of shopping and fun. Raffle Prizes:  Enter our raffle for a chance to win unique items. Family-Friendly Atmosphere:  Enjoy the festive holiday vibe with something for everyone to enjoy! We’re excited to showcase a fantastic lineup of artisans offering a wide range of handmade products. Event Details: Date:  Saturday, October 26th, 2024 Time:  9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Location:  St. Barbara Catholic Church Parish Hall 32416 6th Ave., Black Diamond, WA 98010 Admission:  Free to attend! This is the perfect opportunity to shop locally, indulge in baked goods, grab lunch, and spend a fun-filled day with friends and family. We can’t wait to see you there!

Join Us for St. Barbara's Oktoberfest Auction! Get ready for an unforgettable evening filled with excitement, great food, and community spirit at St. Barbara’s Oktoberfest Auction! Mark your calendars for... Saturday, October 19th, 2024, at 6 PM , and be part of a night that’s sure to make a difference. CLICK HERE TO VIEW Auction Item Descriptions Ticket Sales Start Soon! Tickets go on sale starting Saturday, September 14th, and can be purchased between weekend Masses in the narthex. We’re offering two fantastic ticket options: - Single Ticket: $45 per person - Full Table Ticket Package: $400 for a table of 8, including 2 complimentary bottles of wine, a great deal for a night out with friends or family! What to Expect This year’s Oktoberfest Auction will be packed with fun activities like: - Dessert Dash : Race to claim your favorite dessert! - Silent Auction & Live Auction : Bid on incredible items and experiences. - Raise the Paddle : An opportunity to directly support St. Barbara’s mission. All proceeds from the evening will go directly to St. Barbara Church, ensuring we can continue to provide a welcoming and beautiful space for worship and community. Your generosity will help us preserve our parish for generations to come—let’s come together to make a real impact! Delicious Food by EJ's Catering We are excited to partner with EJ's Catering from Black Diamond, known for their delectable dishes and seasonal specialties. You can expect a feast filled with hearty, delicious flavors that perfectly complement the Oktoberfest vibe. Plus, we’ll have a paid bar with a selection of beer and wine to complete your evening. Stay tuned for the auction catalog , which will be available soon to preview all the fantastic items up for bid. We can’t wait to see you there! Let’s make this Oktoberfest Auction a night to remember, filled with laughter, great company, and meaningful support for our beloved church. Can’t Buy Tickets in Person? If you’re unable to purchase your tickets in person, don’t worry! Contact Sarah Midles for ticket purchases or any questions you may have. Email: sarahmidles@gmail.com Phone: (425) 205-1849 We can’t wait to see you there!

Transitions Dear Parish Family, Fall is in the air and just as nature transitions to adjust to the colder weather, we too transition to try and make the best of the challenges we face each and everyday as the People of God and as a parish family. When we began our journey of faith as a parish family on July 1st, I told you that we were going to try a weekend Mass schedule and then reevaluate it in around three months. Fr. Woodland and I have been doing the best we can to accommodate the situation of pastoring three different parishes with the current Mass schedule. In order to better serve our parish family, I am changing the weekend Mass schedule beginning the first weekend of November (November 2-3) which also coincides with the ending of daylight savings time. Here is the newly revised Mass schedule which will being on the weekend of November 2-3, 2024. Saturday Vigil: St. Aloysius: 4:00 pm Sacred Heart: moves to 5:30 pm (change) St. Barbara: moves to 5:00 pm (change) Sunday Morning: St. Aloysius: 11:00 am Sacred Heart: 9:00 am (English) 12:00 pm (Spanish) St. Barbara: 8:00 am & 10:00 am Confessions will be offered at St. Aloysius as usual at 3PM and now there will be no Saturday confessions at Sacred Heart parish on Saturdays but there will be confessions at St. Barbara parish at 4PM on Saturdays. Please continue to keep our parish family in your prayers as we continue our journey of faith together. in Christ, Fr. James Northrop Pastor

Project Rachel   Dear Parish Family,   In our ongoing mission to support one another through life's challenges, we want to highlight an invaluable resource within our community: Project Rachel Ministry. This ministry offers hope and healing to individuals who have experienced the pain of abortion.   Project Rachel is a confidential and compassionate outreach that recognizes the profound emotional and spiritual impact that abortion can have. It provides a safe space for those seeking to process their feelings, find forgiveness, and rediscover peace. The ministry offers one-on-one counseling, support groups, and spiritual resources tailored to individual needs.   If you or someone you know is struggling with the aftermath of abortion, we encourage you to reach out. No one should walk this journey alone, and Project Rachel is here to walk with you, offering understanding and support every step of the way.   I began helping with Project Rachel around 24 years ago and have witnessed beautiful healing and hope within this ministry. You don’t have to be Catholic to participate. We just want people to know the love and mercy of God. Men are also invited to participate.   For more information or to schedule a confidential conversation, please call (206) 920-6413 and for Spanish (206) 450-7814.   In Christ's love,Fr. James NorthropPastor