Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel
Offering only the Latin Tridentine Mass
282 Still River Rd • Still River, MA • 01467 • 1(978) 456-8877
Mass Times:
Monday - Saturday: 8:30 a.m.
Sunday: 7:30 (Low Mass) & 9:15 a.m. (High Mass)
Holy Days of Obligation: Please call.
Devotions:
Daily: Rosary and Benediction 5:00 pm
Thursday: Benediction & Miraculous Medal Novena 7:30 pm.
Sunday: Vespers & Benediction 5:00 pm. Compline 7:30 pm.
Confessions:
Saturday: 4:15 - 4:45
Weekdays: after Mass
December 2008
Dedicated to the Divine Infancy
Offering only the Latin Tridentine Mass
282 Still River Rd • Still River, MA • 01467 • 1(978) 456-8877
Mass Times:
Monday - Saturday: 8:30 a.m.
Sunday: 7:30 (Low Mass) & 9:15 a.m. (High Mass)
Holy Days of Obligation: Please call.
Devotions:
Daily: Rosary and Benediction 5:00 pm
Thursday: Benediction & Miraculous Medal Novena 7:30 pm.
Sunday: Vespers & Benediction 5:00 pm. Compline 7:30 pm.
Confessions:
Saturday: 4:15 - 4:45
Weekdays: after Mass
December 2008
Dedicated to the Divine Infancy
Let us picture to ourselves the holy grotto in which was accomplished that greatest of wonders, foretold to Eve after her fall, foretold to the Jews by a long succession of Prophets, foretold to the ancient heathen nations by the Sibyls, which is summed up in the words of the Gospel– And the Word was made Flesh, and dwelt amongst us. God became man, that He might make man God. Shine, O Bethlehem, for the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee: exult and rejoice, O Zion, for the pure Virgin glorifieth thee by her exalted Child-birth! Mary bends over the crib of her Divine Son as does the just man, Joseph, watching in silent adoration. True the angels herald their joyful song, but who else is there to adore? Only some shepherds and the dumb beasts. Here is the crib, containing Him Whom the Heavens cannot contain…and Holy Church invites all her children to come and adore. Saint Francis, one of her most obedient sons, shall be our model.
It was in the winter of 1220, that the seraphic Saint Francis expressed his ardent love for the Infant King by representing the Scene of the Nativity. Having first obtained the permission of the Holy See, Francis gathered his disciples and a number of poor shepherds on the mountains near Greccio. Here he built a stable, and getting an image of the Madonna and Child, placed them in the straw, among the animals which the shepherds had brought with them. Then the rude music of the shepherds pipes filled the air with their heartfelt songs of love and devotion.
Perhaps there was never so rude a representation of Bethlehem, or one so full of love, of this one during the Midnight Mass upon the wild mountains, near Greccio. At the Gospel the blessed Francis preached, but could scarcely contain himself from excess of love. The joy, the holy mirth of all, were indeed great, and none marvelled to see the saint rapt in ecstacy and holding in his arms the little Babe of Bethlehem, whom he so tenderly loved. After this event, he could scarcely speak of the Nativity without tears, and the practice of representing it became one of the peculiar devotions of his children, from whom it rapidly spread in all directions. If it is not our privilege to be able to pay a visit of devotion before a real crib, we at least can go in mind and spirit to the manger at Bethlehem, and there pour out our heart’s love to Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, in the presence of the Angels of the Nativity. Then we shall receive the Spirit of Heaven, we shall rejoice in the True Faith, by worshipping the Father, the Babe, and the Holy Spirit, Who have saved us. Be Thou, Holy Babe, exalted above the Heavens, and Thy Glory above all the earth. –Rev. M. McDonnell
It was in the winter of 1220, that the seraphic Saint Francis expressed his ardent love for the Infant King by representing the Scene of the Nativity. Having first obtained the permission of the Holy See, Francis gathered his disciples and a number of poor shepherds on the mountains near Greccio. Here he built a stable, and getting an image of the Madonna and Child, placed them in the straw, among the animals which the shepherds had brought with them. Then the rude music of the shepherds pipes filled the air with their heartfelt songs of love and devotion.
Perhaps there was never so rude a representation of Bethlehem, or one so full of love, of this one during the Midnight Mass upon the wild mountains, near Greccio. At the Gospel the blessed Francis preached, but could scarcely contain himself from excess of love. The joy, the holy mirth of all, were indeed great, and none marvelled to see the saint rapt in ecstacy and holding in his arms the little Babe of Bethlehem, whom he so tenderly loved. After this event, he could scarcely speak of the Nativity without tears, and the practice of representing it became one of the peculiar devotions of his children, from whom it rapidly spread in all directions. If it is not our privilege to be able to pay a visit of devotion before a real crib, we at least can go in mind and spirit to the manger at Bethlehem, and there pour out our heart’s love to Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, in the presence of the Angels of the Nativity. Then we shall receive the Spirit of Heaven, we shall rejoice in the True Faith, by worshipping the Father, the Babe, and the Holy Spirit, Who have saved us. Be Thou, Holy Babe, exalted above the Heavens, and Thy Glory above all the earth. –Rev. M. McDonnell
During this Advent… be sure to build your Spiritual Christmas Crib!
(See day-by-day instructions at the bottom of this page!)
(See day-by-day instructions at the bottom of this page!)
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3RD – Saint Francis Xavier. Did you know that Saint Francis Xavier, the great missionary, had little children help him when he first began his missionary toil? At Goa, where he started to convert pagans, he would go through the streets ringing a bell and calling the children. They came in crowds and were taught catechism, prayers and songs. Then returning home, they would beg their parents to come. Thus the children were Saint Francis’ greatest apostles!
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6TH – Saint Nicholas of Bari is the model for a compassionate life by his example of generosity to those in need, especially children. Throughout the centuries this day has always been a day celebrated by the giving of small gifts, to help preserve a Christmas focus on the Christ Child. First Saturday.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7TH – 2ND SUNDAY IN ADVENT. Saint Ambrose.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 8TH – THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION. God had thought of Mary from all eternity. Since He had chosen her to be the Mother of the Incarnate Word, He willed her to be immaculate from the first instant of her conception. By this magnificent grace granted to her, let us ask for purity of heart and freedom from all stain of sin, that we may more perfectly follow our Immaculate Mother! HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION. Mass at 8:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. NO SCHOOL.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12TH – Our Lady of Guadalupe, the well known image still seen on Juan Diego’s tilma in Mexico, is loved as the Queen of the Americas and Patroness of the Unborn. Pray to her to end Abortion!
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13TH – Saint Lucy obtained a cure for her mother at the tomb of Saint Agatha, and in gratitude, distributed all her wealth to the poor and consecrated her virginity to Christ. Denounced as a Christian, she was tortured by having her eyes plucked out… but they were miraculously restored. For this reason she is invoked as the patroness against eye trouble and is often pictured holding a dish on which rest two eyes.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14TH – GAUDETE SUNDAY. Saints Nicasius and Eutropia.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16TH – Saint Ananias, Azarius and Misael (the three men in the fiery furnace.) The Novena for Christmas begins today!
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18TH – Expectation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Now that Christmas is so very near, you must have something to present at the Crib. Nothing would so please the Baby Christ as the soul of some stray sheep of His flock brought back to the stable by your prayers.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20TH – Saint Dominic of Silos. EMBER DAY. Get in the Christmas spirit!! Join us tonight for IHM School’s Annual Christmas Program and Concert! All are welcome to enjoy the show! Free admittance… so bring all your friends and relatives! 7:30 pm. at Nashoba High Auditorium.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21ST – 4TH SUNDAY IN ADVENT. Saint Thomas.
IHM School Christmas Break: December 22nd–January 2nd
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24TH – CHRISTMAS EVE. Saints Adam and Eve. The liturgical texts of today express wholehearted confidence in the imminent coming of the Redeemer. There is much joyous expectation. Don’t forget that all we do today is done in preparation for the coming of the Christ Child. Our real happiness tomorrow will be measured, not by the gifts we have given and received, but by what we have done to make our poor hearts a fit abode for the Divine Infant. First Mass of Christmas at 12:00 Midnight.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25TH – THE NATIVITY of OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. Today the Church celebrates the Saviour’s birth with unrestrained joy. The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.The most holy feast of Christmas is sanctified by a Midnight Mass, recalling the temporal birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ. The early dawn is sanctified by the Mass of the Shepherds (8:00 a.m.), bringing to mind the birth of Christ in our souls by grace. Then the Third Mass (10:00 a.m.) in the full light of day reminds us of the eternal birth of the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity from all eternity in the Bosom of the Eternal Father.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26TH – Saint Stephen, the first martyr to shed his blood for Christ, prayed this prayer as he was being stoned to death: “Lord, lay not this sin to their charge.”
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 27TH – Saint John the Evangelist, the “Beloved Disciple,” was the only Apostle not to abandon Our Lord on Calvary; for this reason he was given the blessing to care for the Blessed Mother, after Our Lord’s ascension. John’s pure life kept him very close to Jesus and Mary in years to come.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28TH – SUNDAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF CHRISTMAS. The Holy Innocents. Sacrificed by a wicked monarch, these innocent lives bear witness to Christ Who was persecuted from the time of His birth by a world which would not receive Him. Let us make a special visit to the Blessed Sacrament today and ask the Holy Innocents to make our love for the Divine Child simple and childlike and strong in making sacrifices.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31ST – Saint Catherine Laboure. In 1830 Our Lady appeared to Saint Catherine and gave her the inspiration for the Miraculous Medal, a very powerful sacramental, which many Catholics wear today. Miraculous Medal gift boxes are available at the gift shop… help spread devotion to Our Blessed Mother by giving them as gifts! Feast day of Sr. Katherine Maria, MICM.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 1ST 2009– THE CIRCUMCISION OF OUR LORD. Holy Day of Obligation… Masses at 7:30 a.m. and 9:15 a.m.
Christmas Gifts
…Nativity scenes, statues, pictures, Christmas cards,
rosaries, medals, books, music, videos…
Gifts for everyone on your list! Stop by…or shop online!
Saint Benedict Center Gift Shop!
Christmas Prayers:…Nativity scenes, statues, pictures, Christmas cards,
rosaries, medals, books, music, videos…
Gifts for everyone on your list! Stop by…or shop online!
Saint Benedict Center Gift Shop!
The Unfailing Christmas Prayer
Beginning on St. Andrew the Apostle’s feast day, November 30, the following beautiful prayer is traditionally recited fifteen times a day until Christmas.
Hail and blessed be the hour and moment in which the Son of God was born of the most pure Virgin Mary, at midnight, in Bethlehem, in the piercing cold.
In that hour vouchsafe, O my God, to hear my prayer and grant my desires, through the merits of Our Saviour Jesus Christ, and of His blessed Mother. Amen.
Beginning on St. Andrew the Apostle’s feast day, November 30, the following beautiful prayer is traditionally recited fifteen times a day until Christmas.
Hail and blessed be the hour and moment in which the Son of God was born of the most pure Virgin Mary, at midnight, in Bethlehem, in the piercing cold.
In that hour vouchsafe, O my God, to hear my prayer and grant my desires, through the merits of Our Saviour Jesus Christ, and of His blessed Mother. Amen.
During This Advent…Build a
Spiritual Christmas Crib
DEC.1 - THE STABLE…Frequently during the day offer your heart to the little Infant Jesus. Ask Him to make it His home. Sweet Jesus, take my heart and make it meek and pure.
DEC.2 - THE ROOF…See that the roof of the stable is in good condition, so that the Infant Jesus is protected from rain and snow. This you will do by carefully avoiding every uncharitable remark. Jesus, teach me to love my neighbor as myself.
DEC.3 - CREVICES…Carefully stop every crevice in the walls of the stable, so that the wind and cold may not enter there. Guard your senses against temptations. Guard especially your ears against sinful conversations. Jesus, help me to keep temptations out of my heart.
DEC.4 - COBWEBS…Clean the cobwebs from your spiritual crib. Diligently remove from your heart every inordinate desire of being praised. Renew this intention at least three times today. My Jesus, I want to please You in all I do today.
DEC.5 - FENCE…Build a fence about the crib of your heart by keeping a strict watch over your eyes, especially at prayer. Sweet Jesus, I long to see You.
DEC. 6 - MANGER…Fix the best and warmest corner of your heart for the manger of Jesus. You will do so by abstaining from what you like most in the line of comfort and amusement. Mary, use these sacrifices to prepare my heart for Jesus in Holy Communion.
DEC.7 - HAY…Supply the manger of your heart with hay, by overcoming all feelings of pride, anger or envy. Jesus, teach me to know and correct my greatest sins.
DEC.8 - SOFT STRAW…Also provide your manger with soft straw by performing little acts of mortification; for instance, bear the cold without complaints; or sit and stand erect. Dear Jesus, Who suffered so much for me, let me suffer for love of You.
DEC.9 - SWADDLING CLOTHES…Prepare these for the Divine Infant by folding your hands when you pray, and praying slowly and thoughtfully. Jesus, let me love you more and more.
DEC.10 - BLANKETS…Provide the manger of your with soft, warm blankets. Avoid harsh and angry words; be kind and gentle to all. Jesus, help me to be meek and humble like You.
DEC.11 - FUEL…Bring fuel to the crib of Jesus. Give up your own will; obey your elders cheerfully and promptly. Jesus, let me do Your will in all things.
DEC.12 - WATER…Bring fresh, clean water to the crib. Avoid every untruthful word and every deceitful act. Dearest Mary, obtain for me true contrition for my sins.
DEC.13 - PROVISIONS…Bring a supply of food to the crib. Deprive yourself of some food at mealtime or candy as a treat. Jesus, be my strength and nourishment.
DEC.14 - LIGHT…See that the crib has sufficient light. Be neat and orderly about your person; keep everything in its place in your room. Jesus, be the life and light of my soul.
DEC.15 - FIRE …Take care to have the crib of your heart warmed by a cozy fire. Be grateful to God for the love He has shown us in becoming man; behave with grateful respect towards your parents and relatives. Jesus, how can I return Your love; how can I show my gratitude to You?
DEC.16 - THE OX…Lead the ox to the crib. Obey cheerfully without making excuses and without asking “why.” I will obey for love of You, Jesus.
DEC.17 - THE DONKEY…Bring the donkey to the crib. Offer to the Divine Infant your bodily strength; use it in the service of others. Jesus, accept my service of love; I offer it for those who do not love You.
DEC.18 - GIFTS…Gather some presents for the Divine Infant and His Blessed Mother. Give alms for the poor and say an extra decade of the rosary. Come, Jesus, to accept my gifts and to take possession of my heart.
DEC.19 - LAMBS…Strive to bring some little lambs, meek and patient. Do not murmur or complain. Jesus, meek and humble of heart, make my heart like Yours.
DEC.20 - SHEPHERDS…Invite the shepherds to pay homage to our newborn King. Imitate their watchfulness; stress in your speech and thoughts the idea that Christmas is important because Jesus will be born again in you. Jesus, teach me to love You above all things.
DEC.21 - THE KEY…Provide the stable with a key to keep out thieves. Exclude from your heart every sinful thought, every rash judgment. Dear Jesus, close my heart to all that hurts You.
DEC.22 - ANGELS…Invite the angels to adore God with you. Cheerfully obey the inspirations of your guardian angel and of your conscience. Holy Guardian Angel, never let me forget that you are with me always.
DEC.23 - ST. JOSEPH…Accompany Saint Joseph from door to door. Learn from him silently and patiently to bear refusals and disappointments. Open wide your heart and beg him to enter with the Blessed Virgin Mary. Saint Joseph, help me to prepare for a worthy Christmas Communion.
DEC.24 - THE BLESSED VIRGIN…Go meet your Blessed Mother. Lead her to the manger of your heart and beg her to lay the Divine Infant in it. Shorten your chats and telephone conversations and spend more time today thinking of Jesus and Mary and Joseph.
Come, dear Jesus, come; my heart belongs to You.
Have a Merry Christmas… and a Happy New Year!
Have a Merry Christmas… and a Happy New Year!