Teaching your children how to use a moral compass
Dear Parents and Grandparents,
I remember going on a Boy Scout camping trip and my Dad was one of the fathers leading the trip. That weekend, we learned to use a compass; it was fascinating to figure out how to navigate using the four directions, the natural magnetic field and the north star at night. Only when I became an adult did I realize how much my parents and grandparents, by word and deed, taught me how to use a moral compass based on common sense and the Christian Faith.
By way of two recent conversations with members of Saint Anne’s, I sensed the Holy Spirit has prompted me to be more attentive to the moral aspect of parenting. One mother asked me to talk with her and her sons about God and evolution. Then a few days later, two grandparents expressed concern about their grandchildren’s well-being in terms of exposure to values in entertainment and media that are corrosive to the Christian faith.
I plan to host a conversation with interested parents and grandparents about practical ways to teach a spiritual and moral compass to our children. The topics explored will include: anxiety and violence; God the Creator and evolution; the Christian understanding of the body/soul; civility and political disagreement; any topics you choose. We will enjoy a conversation that is sensible, compassionate and practical. The emphasis is not public policy but moral formation. I imagine this to be an occasional series that meets according to participants’ convenience. Feel free to email me any suggested questions or topics.
Our first meeting will be Thursday, December 12 at 7 pm. Please email or call the Church office if you plan to attend.
It will be good to see you there!
Father Hastings

A prayer for Advent:
O Lord, Our God, help us to prepare for the coming of Christ, your Son.
When he comes, may he find us eagerly awaiting him in joyful prayer.
Send your blessing upon this table and all those who share in this meal.
This we ask through Christ, our Lord. Amen
- Brother Victor-Antoine d’Avila Latourrette author of Blessings of the Table.
I hope that you will use your Advent wreath and the prayer booklet as a mealtime blessing on Sunday evenings. It’s a great way to stay mindful of the true meaning of Christmas.
We had a great Youth Group meeting last month. Thank you to Duane Howard for leading the discussion about the Beatitudes. The kids also enjoyed pizza and a game.
Thanks to all who have helped get ready for the Thanksgiving Community Luncheon and also those who helped so much preparing for our Bake/Craft sale. The money we raise will be put towards transportation costs for our Youthworks Mission trip in June 2014. It is truly amazing what a community of Christians can do when we work together.
Looking forward to a very special Christmas Eve service with you and your families!
Have a blessed and joyous Christmas!
Youth Group - Saturday, December 7 @ 6:00 pm with Mr. Howard.

The choir is in full preparation mode for the upcoming Advent and Christmas seasons. Our hope is to continue to be an integral part of the service and contribute to your prayerfulness during the 10am service.

I would be remiss if I didn't continue to invite you to join us if you are so inclined. We can always use an additional voice and would welcome you with open arms for whatever time you have to offer.

Enjoy the seasons!
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