Flocknote

Dear St. Charles Parishioners,

I have been at Saint Charles Borromeo for about a year. People routinely ask: How are you? How do you like it here? Are you feeling at home here? Etc. I would like to share some of my impressions.

The parishioners of Saint Charles exhibit many remarkable qualities that contribute to a vibrant and spiritually enriching community. One of the most striking features is the energy with which all participate in the Holy Mass. Loud and heartfelt responses during the liturgy are a clear expression of their devotion and commitment to worship. This collective enthusiasm not only uplifts the celebrant but also enhances the sacredness of the Mass, drawing everyone present into a deeper encounter with God. Praise and worship, expressed through song and prayer, resonates throughout the church and fills the space with a palpable sense of reverence and joy.

Participation in the Rosary Crusade was inspiring. Families brought their children to experience the community praying of the rosary; youth and members of RCIA (we have around thirteen persons), too, had an opportunity to join the Rosary Crusade. We may say, “A Church that prays together grows together!” It is truly an experience of storming heaven with our prayers.

Another noteworthy aspect of our parish community is the level of active involvement in various ministries. Many parishioners are not just passive attendees but are deeply engaged in serving the church in different capacities. Whether it’s through liturgical roles, community outreach, or social concerns, there are always willing hands to help and contribute. This spirit of volunteerism speaks to the strong sense of stewardship and responsibility that exists within the congregation. The social concerns ministry, in particular, is a testament to their dedication to living out the Gospel call to serve others, especially the marginalized and those in need.

Additionally, the parish is blessed with a lively and joyful atmosphere. There’s a noticeable sense of cheerfulness among the members, which creates an inviting and welcoming environment for newcomers and long-time parishioners alike. This positivity fosters a sense of belonging and community, making the church not just a place of worship but a true home for its members. The joy that radiates from the congregation is infectious, contributing to a vibrant parish life that is filled with both spiritual and social activities.

We have a beautiful choir featuring adults, youth and children. It is a blending of age and wisdom, innocence and passion filling our Church with harmonious voices. The radiant faces of our children and youth light up as they sing in perfect unison, creating an uplifting and joyful atmosphere. The purity of their voices and heartfelt performance moves us, leaving a lasting impression of hope and unity...a promise of a faith filled tomorrow!

There is something for everyone in our Church!

Overall, the positive energy in this church is undeniable. The combination of active participation in the Mass, strong involvement in ministries, and a joyful, welcoming spirit makes this parish a shining example of a faith community that is alive and thriving. The parishioners, through their dedication and cheerfulness, embody the love of Christ, making the church a place where faith is not only practiced but also celebrated with enthusiasm and sincerity.

At the same time, we have some challenges that need to be addressed gradually: Our immediate concern is the financial crunch we are experiencing. We have been running a deficit budget since the year 2020 except for 2021. We are operating in the red!

In 2020, the deficit was (-$17,154), 2021 surplus (+$182,701), 2022 (-$14,240), 2023 (-$54,555). The current year, 2024, is also headed for a deficit.

We need to address this situation to move forward as a healthy community and experience all the benefits that the Church has to offer.

Post-Covid Holy Mass attendance has not returned to where it was before Covid; this is true for most Churches. Our attendance has remained quite steady with some increase.

Members of our finance council will soon update us about our financial situation and invite all to participate (each according to your ability) in supporting our Church.

Thank you for your generosity and care for our parish and faith family!

Blessings,

- - Father Augustine Joseph

Friday, November 8:
- Hygiene Project 8:00 a.m. (Hall)
- Mass 8:30 a.m. (Church/Livestream)
- Altar Server Pizza Party and Training 6:00 p.m. (Hall)
Saturday, November 9:
- Hygiene Project 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. (Pope)
- WINGS RETREAT: Speaker - Kathy Roberts 9:00 - 3:00 p.m. (Hall)
- Reconciliation 4:00 - 4:30 p.m. (Church)
- Vigil Mass 5:00 p.m. (Church)
Sunday, November 10: Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
- Mass 7:30 a.m. (Church)
- Family Mass & CLW - 9:30 a.m. (Church/Livestream)
- Pre-School/Tiny Treasures 9:30 a.m. (Dominic)
- Youth Confirmation Year 2 Class 9:30 a.m. (Pope)
- Youth Mass 11:30 a.m. (Church)
- Baptism Class 1:00 p.m. (Church)
- SPECIAL PRESENTATION - All are Welcome to Attend:
" Breaking Bad: Brain Hacks for Living Free from Addictions"
3:00 - 4:00 p.m. (Church)
Monday, November 11:
Veterans Day - Parish Office Closed
Livermore Schools Non-Student Day
- Mass 8:30 a.m. (Chapel/Livestream)
- Christian Meditation 5:30 p.m. (Ignatius)
- Men of Faith Dinner Meeting 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. (Hall)
Tuesday, November 12:
- Mass 8:30 a.m. (Chapel/Livestream)
- Liturgy Committee Meeting 4:00 p.m. (Pope)
- Faith Formation (1st - 5th Grade) 6:15 p.m. (Hall)
Wednesday, November 13:
- Mass 8:30 a.m. (Chapel/Livestream)
- Funeral/Reception 10:30 a.m. (Church/Hall)
- Giving Tree Set-Up 11:15 a.m. (Church)
- Faith Formation (Kindergarten-5th Grade) 4:00 p.m. (Hall)
- Adult Choir Rehearsal 6:30 p.m. (Church)
- Middle School Youth Ministry 7:00 p.m. (Hall)
- RCIA 7:00 p.m. (Pope)
Thursday, November 14:
VBS 2025- Dine Out Virtual Fundraiser: Panda Express
- Mass 8:30 a.m. (Church)
- WINGS (Women in God's Spirit) 9:30 a.m. (Hall)
- Faith Formation (Kindergarten-5th Grade) 3:30 p.m. (Hall)
- Scout Troop Meeting 5:45 p.m. (Pope)
- Family Rosary Prayer 7:00 p.m. (Chapel)
- Scout Troop Meeting 7:00 p.m. (Pope)