It’s hard to believe, but the holidays are upon us.

A couple of weeks ago, I went to one of our local malls to buy a birthday gift. Christmas decorations were already up, Santa’s station was being set up, and there were many sales!

Please be remined that Christmas is not here yet!

Let’s slow down. First, we conclude the liturgical year with the Solemnity of Christ the King on Sunday, November 23rd, 2025. We will have a procession with the Blessed Sacrament following the 12:30 p.m. Mass. Please join us.

Next, we focus on Thanksgiving. There is so much for which to be thankful. We will have one Mass on Thanksgiving Day at 9:00 a.m. If you wish, bring the bread and wine to be served at your Thanksgiving meal to be blessed.

Following Thanksgiving, we begin the holy season of Advent, which prepares us for the birth of our Savior. 

When Advent ends, we begin the beautiful Christmas season, which goes through the Baptism of the Lord on January 11th, 2026.

We are a little way from Christmas proper, so let’s slow down and enjoy each day. Try not to get caught up in the holiday rush.  

Take care of yourselves and of each other. 

Know that I love and am grateful for the Saint Raymond community.

Peace,

Padre Mark Ruiz

(Thanksgiving Message, 2025)