Upcoming Events
Remembering those in Purgatory
During the Month of Remembrance, let us be diligent in prayer for the souls in Purgatory.
Sign up to participate in daily prayer from Nov 1st through Nov 30th.
Participants will read stories from Purgatory. The object is to understand and be reminded of the suffering endured in Purgatory and to ease that suffering for the Holy Souls through fervent prayer.
“It is therefore a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from sins.”
We will read Stories About Purgatory and What They Reveal: 30 Days for the Holy Souls by an Ursuline Nun of Sligo, Ireland. You will read about 4 pages a day. There are also prayers included for every day of the week.
Pamphlets will be available with daily prayers for anyone not wanting to purchase a book. Tan Books has available for purchase a printed and a digital copy of Stories About Purgatory and What They Reveal: 30 Days for the Holy Souls
Refer questions to Yvette at prolife@acchtx.com.
HISTORY | Msgr. Walsh died
Rev. Msgr. George T. Walsh was pastor of Annunciation for 20 years from 1914-1933.
He was our third pastor and first Houston Priest to be honored with the title of “Monsignor”.
He installed our marble communion rail, Picher Sons Opus #1206 Organ, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Chapel, and a heating system in our church.
He founded the Catholic Women’s Club of Houston, Third Order of St. Francis at Annunciation, San Jose Clinic, Garden of Gethsemane Cemetery on Market Street, and All Saints parish in the Heights.
Requiem aeternam dona ei, Domine, et lux perpetua luceat ei. Requiescat in pace. Amen.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
Thanksgiving Mass Schedule
There will only be 1 mass on Thursday 11/27 and Friday 11/28
Thursday, 11/27 at 8:00 am (Latin)
Friday, 11/28 at 6:30 am (English)
Please note that our Office Closed will be closed on Nov 27 and 28 for Thanksgiving. We will return on Dec 1 during our regular business hours of 9 am - 4 pm.
Advent Begins
Alma Redemptoris Mater
Mother Benign of Our Redeeming Lord
The Marian antiphon sung during Advent and Christmas season.
ALMA Redemptoris Mater, quae pervia caeli
Porta manes, et stella maris, succurre cadenti,
Surgere qui curat, populo: tu quae genuisti,
Natura mirante, tuum sanctum Genitorem
Virgo prius ac posterius, Gabrielis ab ore
Sumens illud Ave, peccatorum miserere.
MOTHER of Christ, hear thou thy people's cry
Star of the deep and Portal of the sky!
Mother of Him who thee made from nothing made.
Sinking we strive and call to thee for aid:
Oh, by what joy which Gabriel brought to thee,
Thou Virgin first and last, let us thy mercy see.
Christmas Flower collection begins
Help the Altar Society beautifully adorn the church with flowers to celebrate the birth of Our Lord! They will be collecting donations for Christmas Flowers after Mass.
Online: Visit giving.parishsoft.com/App/Giving/acchtx, and select "Christmas Flowers" in the dropdown menu.
By Mail: Send to PO Box 214, Houston TX 77001. Write "Christmas Flowers" in the memo line of the check.
Advent Music
J. S. Bach, Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme (Sleepers Awake) BWV 140
Text is taken from canticasacra.org
At Annunciation, our Sacred Music director, Catherine Schaefer, plays Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme during Advent. It is considered Advent music because its text and themes directly relate to the season's themes of preparation and the second coming of Christ. The cantata's central theme is the biblical Parable of the Ten Virgins, which connects to Advent's focus on being spiritually ready for the arrival of the bridegroom, Jesus.
This may be the best-known of all of Bach’s cantatas. Written for the 27th Sunday after Trinity (which is rarely observed, since it requires that the date of Easter be as early as possible), the text to Wachet auf develops the eschatological themes inspired by both the Gospel and Epistle reading for that Sunday.
The Epistle for Trinity 27 is 1 Thessalonians 5: 1-11, in which St. Paul urges his readers to be watchful and sober-minded, anticipating Christ’s return with the knowledge that “the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.”
The Gospel reading — St. Matthew 25: 1-13 is the parable of the wise and foolish virgins, with its imagery of a coming Bridegroom and the command: “Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.”
The opening chorus to Wachet auf uses a text by Philipp Nicolai, which — in paraphrased form — is the first verse of our Advent hymn, “Wake, awake, for night is flying.”
Wake up, the voice calls us
of the watchmen high up on the battlements,
wake up, you city of Jerusalem!
This hour is called midnight;
they call us with a clear voice:
where are you, wise virgins?
Get up, the bridegroom comes;
Stand up, take your lamps!
Alleluia!
Make yourselves ready
for the wedding,
you must go to meet him!
Two of the movements in this cantata are duets between bass and soprano, representing the Bridegroom and the Bride, or Jesus and the Soul, in a musical exchange reminiscent of the Song of Songs. In the second of these duets, the two lovers sing, “Nothing shall divide our love.” Then the Bride sings, “I want to graze on heaven’s roses with you,” and the Bridegroom responds, “You will graze on heaven’s roses with me.” They conclude their song affirming: “There will be fullness of joy, there will be delight.”
The text for the entire cantata can be found here.
Kids’ Meals Thanksgiving Service Project
Between 9 & 11 am Masses
The Family Life Apostolate invites your family to assemble lunches for the Kids’ Meals nonprofit. They are a Houston-based organization that delivers over 8,300 meals per week to preschoolers facing food insecurity. Learn more at kidsmealsinc.org.
Children will decorate and fill bags with non-perishable lunch items.
Meet on the steps of the Foley House with your art supplies! Markers, crayons, stickers, etc. Please no glitter!
Suggested donation of $10 to cover the cost of food.
For more information, contact info@acchtx.org
Cor | Faith, Formation & Fraternity
Families need holy husbands and fathers. The world needs courageous men to witness to Jesus Christ.
Through Cor (Latin for “heart”), you will discover your call to holiness, your fatherly vocation, and brothers to support you in this mission.
Everything flows from the heart. Get the heart right, and you get the man right — a man of faith who will courageously live out the mission of God.
Starting at 7 pm with Food & Fellowship.
Men are invited to join us to pray the Holy Rosary and make an Act of Consecration to the Holy Family.
For those seeking membership in the Knights of Columbus Council 17060, please email our Grand Knight, Mike Stimac, at stimac73@yahoo.com.
Learn more about Cor - https://www.kofc.org/en/who-we-are/our-faith/cor.html
Conferral of the Relic of Blessed Karl of Austria
Ceremonial Unveiling of the First-Class Relic of Blessed Karl of Austria
December 2 • 6:30 pm Mass (Latin) • Reception
Join us for a historic and grace-filled evening as Annunciation unveils the only first-class relic of Blessed Karl of Austria in Houston—a gift formally authorized by the Gebetsliga, the sole institution entrusted with safeguarding and distributing his sacred relics.
First-class relics, taken from the earthly remains of a saint or blessed, are rare; the relics of Blessed Karl come only from his ribs and are given exclusively to churches erecting permanent shrines.
Princess Maria-Anna Galitzine (the granddaughter and direct descendant of Blessed Karl and Empress Zita) and her husband, Prince Piotr, will be present for this extraordinary moment in the life of our parish.
Following the 6:30 pm Latin Mass and ceremonial unveiling, all are invited to a reception in Foley House hosted by the Marian Daughters. Suzanne Pearson, the delegate and leader of the Gebetsliga (Emperor Karl League of Prayer), will be giving a short presentation.
Blessed Karl, a model husband, father, and Catholic statesman, is renowned for his heroic faith and virtue; we gather to honor him, seek his intercession, and pray for his canonization.
This event places Annunciation among a small number of churches in the United States entrusted with a permanent shrine to Blessed Karl—alongside St. John Cantius (Chicago), Mater Dei (Irving), and other distinguished parishes. Come and be part of this historic gift of grace for our city and Archdiocese.
Feast of St. Nicholas Festival after Mass & Rosary
Begin the morning with 8:00 am Latin Mass in honor of St. Nicholas, the beloved bishop known for his generosity and kindness.
After Mass, families are invited to a St. Nicholas Celebration in the Foley House — a morning filled with cheer! Enjoy breakfast treats, crafts and goodies, and photos with St. Nicholas.
At 9:45 am, gather for Story Time with Fr. Felix.
Christmas Play Practices | God’s Love Revealed
The Church of the Annunciation children’s Christmas play, “God’s Love Revealed” will be performed at 4 pm on Christmas Eve by the children of Annunciation.
Mini practices are held between 9 and 11 am Sunday Masses in the Foley House starting Oct 26 until Dec 21 (except Thanksgiving weekend).
Major practices are on Nov 16 and Dec 6 and it is held from 11:00 am -1 pm in the church
Practices
Nov 2 (Mini)
Nov 9 (Mini)
Nov 15 (Major )
Nov 16 (Mini)
Dec 6 (Major)
Dec 7 (Mini )
Dec 14 (Mini)
Volunteers are needed for helping with sets and props and costuming.
They must complete Archdiocesan Safe Environment training - archgh.org/ocyp
Email any questions to seahouse1@att.net.
Blessing Table
On the first Sunday of each month, bring your beloved devotional items, such as rosaries, crucifixes, medals, and statues to be blessed after the 9 & 11 am Masses! Leave your items on the Blessing Table in the narthex when you arrive.
Please note
Father will not bless oil
Bagged items are okay
Please label your items
Immaculate Conception Mass & Dinner | Holyday of Obligation
We celebrate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, a Holy Day of Obligation, on December 8. The obligation to attend Mass is never abrogated.
In 1854, Pope Pius IX declared the dogma of the Immaculate Conception:
The Most Holy Virgin Mary was, in the very first moment of her conception, by a unique gift of grace and privilege of Almighty God and in view of the merits of Jesus Christ the Redeemer of mankind, preserved free from all stains of original sin. (Ineffabilis Deus, Apostolic Constitution of Pope Pius IX on the Immaculate Conception).
Mass Times
6:30 am English
12:10 English
7 pm Latin
You are invited to a joyful dinner Reception following the evening Mass hosted by the Marian Daughters in the Foley House.
Holy Hour for Men | Holy League
5:30 am Adoration, confession, 6:30 am Mass, coffee and spiritual dialogue with Deacon Curtis at the Foley House.
The Holy League formed during the 1571 Battle of Lepanto, when Pope St. Pius V united Christian forces through prayer. Today, Cardinal Burke calls on men to wield spiritual weapons and stand united against the forces of evil.
Learn more at holyleague.com.
Rorate Mass
6:30 am (Latin). A Rorate Caeli Mass is traditionally celebrated just before dawn in Advent as a devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Mass is only lit by candles, representing Mary’s role in bringing the Light of the World into the darkness of the world. If timed correctly, by the end of Mass, the entire church is filled with light from the sun. This speaks of the general theme of Advent, a time of expectation eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Son of God, the Light of the World.
The Mass receives its name from the first words of the Entrance Antiphon, “Rorate caeli desuper, et nubes pluant iustum” (“Drop down dew, ye heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain the Just One,” Isaiah 45:8).
Rorate cæli desuper et nubes pluant iustum: aperiatur terra et germinet Salvatorem. Cæli enarrant gloriam Dei: Et opera manuum ejus annuntiat firmamentum Dei. Gloria Patri et Filio et Spiritui Sancto sicut erat in principio, et nunc et semper, et in sæcula sæculorum. Amen.
Let dew fall from the heavens above and let clouds rain down justice; let the earth open and bring forth a Savior. The heavens declare the glory of God, And the firmament shows forth his handiwork. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit as it was in the beginning, is now, and forever will be. Amen.
Our Lady of Guadalupe | Mass, Procession, Mural Dedication, and Dinner Reception
Mass Times
6:30 am
12:10 pm
6:30 pm (Latin) with Candlelit Procession
Dedication of mural of Our Lady of Guadalupe
8 pm Enchilada Dinner Reception in the Foley House hosted by the Marian Daughters
The Knights of Columbus, Council 17060, will dedicate a new permanent mural of Our Lady of Guadalupe, offering a focal point for prayer and unity in our parish. The mural will be unveiled and blessed on December 12, 2025, after the 6:30 pm Mass, and all are invited to attend. This gift to the parish brings the message and protection of Our Lady of Guadalupe—patroness of the Americas—closer to all who seek her intercession.
The devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe dates back to the 16th century, when Juan Diego received a vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Tepeyac Hill, outside of Mexico City. Now, nearly 500 years later, the faithful around the world look to Mary under this title as patroness of the Americas and of the unborn, asking for protection and guidance.
"Hear me and understand well, my son the least,
that nothing should frighten or grieve you.
Let not your heart be disturbed.
Do not fear that sickness, nor any other sickness or anguish.
Am I not here, who is your Mother?
Are you not under my protection?
Am I not your health?
Are you not happily within my fold?
What else do you wish?
Do not grieve nor be disturbed by anything."
—Our Lady to Juan Diego
Evangelization @ Discovery Green | Christmas Flea Market & Ice Skating
St. Paul Street Evangelization
Discovery Green will be the site of a Christmas Flea Market and Ice Skating (where the Bumper Boats were) later this month and into December on Saturday evenings. We plan our outreaches there on
Sat 11/15, 5p-8p
Sat 12/13, 5p-8p
Sat 12/20, 5p-8p
This will be FUN!!
Email questions to Deacon Bogdanoff at alexabogdanoff@gmail.com.
RSVP to Dcn Bogdanoff so you can be notified of any updates.
Learn more about Discovery Green and their events - https://www.discoverygreen.com/
Gaudete Sunday Vespers | Wine & Cheese Reception
On the Second Sunday of the month, we offer the opportunity to celebrate Solemn Chanted Vespers (Evening Prayer of the Liturgy of the Hours), combined with the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament.
Join the universal Church in reflecting and giving thanks to Almighty God as the day comes to an end.
Following, the Marian Daughters will host a wine and cheese reception at the Foley House.
Rejoice!
Gaudete Sunday, the third Sunday of Advent, takes its name from the first word of the Mass Introit: “Gaudete in Domino semper…” (“Rejoice in the Lord always”). Marking a pause in Advent’s penitential tone, it highlights the nearness of the Lord’s coming with signs of joy in the liturgy, including rose vestments and constant Alleluias. This is to emphasize the joy of the coming Redemption.
The prayers and readings proclaim that Christ is close at hand, urging the faithful to rejoice, give thanks, and prepare their hearts to meet the Savior.
The Nocturn lessons from the Prophecy of Isaias describe the Lord's coming and the blessings that will result from it
In the Mass, the Introit "Gaudete in Domino semper" strikes the same note.
The antiphons at Vespers re-echo the prophetic promises.
The Epistle again incites us to rejoicing, and bids us prepare to meet the coming Saviour with prayers and supplication and thanksgiving.
The Gospel, the words of St. John the Baptist, warns us that the Lamb of God is even now in our midst, though we appear to know Him not.
Gaudete Sunday is further marked by a new Invitatory, the Church no longer inviting the faithful to adore merely "The Lord who is to come", but calling upon them to worship and hail with joy "The Lord who is now nigh and close at hand".
Veteran Visit | Knights of Columbus
Visit hospitalized Vets and pray with them at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center
Mass in the Chapel at 11 am
For those seeking membership in the Knights of Columbus Council 17060, email Mike Stimac at stimac73@yahoo.com.
Learn more at annunciationcc.org/apostolate/knights.
Christmas Crèche Set Up | Help the Camaras
Please help the Camaras with our Christmas Crèche setup!
Your work helps our parish share the joy of Christ’s birth with all who visit, creating a space that draws hearts to the mystery of the Incarnation.
Safe Environment Training can be completed at https://www.archgh.org/ocyp. If you are unsure of your Safe Environment completion date, please email administration@acchtx.org.
Email sign up and questions to Mary Camara at seahouse1@att.net.
Christmas Creche Set Up
Sat, Dec 20 - Load, move and unload the statues and wood infrastructure from Cathedral Centre to Annunciation (Heavy lifting Adults/Teens)
Sat, Dec 20 - Start creche construction (Heavy lifting & power tools - Adults/Teens)
Sat, Dec 20 - Assist with set-up and organizing materials (Kid-friendly / Families welcome)
Sat, Dec 20 - Hang lights and attach paper (Kid-friendly / Families welcome)
Christmas Creche Breakdown
Date TBD - Jan 2026 - Disassemble creche after 8 am Mass (Heavy lifting - Adults/Teens)
Date TBD - Jan 2026 - Remove paper and lights (Kid-friendly / Families welcome)
Date TBD - Jan 2026 - Stuff crates with pillows and plastic bubble wrap (Kid-friendly / Families welcome)
Date TBD - Jan 2026 - Return pieces back to the Cathedral Centre (Heavy lifting – Adults/Teens)
Mass & Rosary Procession in Downtown
Join us in honoring Our Blessed Mother and giving public witness to our faith at our Mass and Rosary Procession in downtown Houston on the third Saturdays of the month. Free rosaries and miraculous medals will be given along the way.
Schedule
8 am Mass
8:45 am Rosary Procession at Discovery Green Park
9 am light breakfast and fellowship at Foley House
Invite your family and friends — all are welcome!
God's Love Revealed | Children's Christmas Play
Children’s Christmas play, 4 pm on Christmas Eve in the church.
Children’s Choir directed by Catherine Schaefer.
Following are Christmas Carols at 5 pm and Christmas Vigil Mass at 5:30 pm
Solemn Chanted Vespers
On the Second Sunday of the month, we offer the opportunity to celebrate Vespers (Evening Prayer of the Liturgy of the Hours), combined with the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament.
Join the universal Church in reflecting and giving thanks to Almighty God as the day comes to an end.
Blessed Karl Symposium
About
The symposium is an family-friendly event for anyone wanting to learn about Blessed Karl or deepen their devotion. Explore his life, legacy, and spirituality through talks and discussions. Whether new or devoted, connect with a community united by faith.
The Blessed Karl von Habsburg Symposium will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers who will illuminate the life and enduring faith, strength, and joy of Blessed Karl. An additional part includes an address on Servant of God, empress and queen Zita, Karl’s beloved wife, and their courtship and marriage
Scholars, theologians, clergy, and laymen of all ages and walks of life will explore Karl’s profound commitment to Catholic values, his role in European history, and the spiritual legacy he left behind. Personal testimonies and historical analyses will provide attendees with an in-depth understanding of his moral courage and dedication to the Church.
Dallas police security will be present.
Speakers
Princess Maria-Anna von Habsburg Galitzine
Granddaughter of Blessed Karl & Servant of God Zita
Topic - Blessed Karl, Emperor of Peace
A very intimate look, by his own granddaughter, into a family man who stressed what he called “the blessing of peace” in politics, community, in the church, and in his marriage and even with his children.
Right Reverend Dom Philip Anderson O.S.B.
Abbot of Benedictine Abbey of Our Lady of Clear Creek, Oklahoma
Topic - “An Imperial Contemplative”
Ambassador Archduke Eduard von Habsburg
Hungary’s Ambassador to the Holy See and great-great-great grandson of Kaiser Franz Joseph, predecessor of Blessed Karl
Topic - “Blessed Karl as father of nations”
What does it mean to have a political leader that truly respects his peoples?
Dr. Marcellino D’Ambrosio
Executive Producer of new film “Triumph ot the Heart”
Topic - Blessed Karl, St. Joseph, and the Beatitudes: Meekness as characteristic of the successful father and leader
Eric Sammons
Editor-in-Chief of Crisis Magazine
Topic - Blessed Karl as an apostle of peace
Archduke Paul von Habsburg
Son of Ambassador Archduke Eduard von Habsburg and great(4th) grandson of Kaiser Franz Joseph
Topic - Absolute reliance on God that Bl. Karl shows through his life
Father Joseph Matlak
Byzantine Catholic Priest & Professor of Theology at the Benedictine Belmont Abbey College
Topic - Our Desire for a King: The Witnesses of Ancient Israel and Blessed Karl
Suzanne Pearson
Delegate and leader of the Gebetsliga (Emperor Karl League of Prayer)
Topic - Emperor Karl’s Heroic Virtue
Dr. Niall Buckley
Professor of History, St. Thomas Catholic University
Topic - Blessed Karl and the Unified Civitas: A Catholic Habsburg Response to Revolutionary Political Violence 1911-1922
David Ross, Founder & MC of the Blessed Karl Symposium
Christ the King | Eucharistic Procession | Plenary Indulgence
Join us for a beautiful, solemn Eucharistic public outdoor procession flowing out of the 11 am Mass in observance of Christ the King
Plenary Indulgence
Requirements for Obtaining a Plenary Indulgence on the Feast of Christ the King:
Publicly recite the prayer, "Most Sweet Jesus, Redeemer – Act of Dedication of the Human Race to Jesus Christ King."
Say one "Our Father" and the "Apostles Creed" in the visit to the church.
Say one "Our Father" and one "Hail Mary" for the Pope’s intentions
Worthily receive Holy Communion (ideally on the same day)
Make a sacramental confession within 8 days before or after the Feast of Christ the King.
For a plenary indulgence, be free from all attachment to sin, even venial sin (or the indulgence is partial, not plenary).
Iesu dulcissime, Redemptor | Act of Dedication of the Human Race to Jesus Christ King
Most sweet Jesus, Redeemer of the human race, look down upon us humbly prostrate before you. We are yours, and yours we wish to be; but to be more surely united with you, behold each one of us freely consecrates himself today to your Most Sacred Heart. Many indeed have never known you; many, too, despising your precepts, have rejected you. Have mercy on them all, most merciful Jesus, and draw them to your Sacred Heart. Be King, O Lord, not only of the faithful who have never forsaken you, but also of the prodigal children who have abandoned you; grant that they may quickly return to their Father's house, lest they die of wretchedness and hunger. Be King of those who are deceived by erroneous opinions, or whom discord keeps aloof, and call them back to the harbor of truth and the unity of faith, so that soon there may be but one flock and one Shepherd. Grant, O Lord, to your Church assurance of freedom and immunity from harm; give tranquility of order to all nations; make the earth resound from pole to pole with one cry: Praise to the divine Heart that wrought our salvation; to it be glory and honor for ever. Amen
Landscaping Apostolate (moved due to pilgrimage)
Typically on the second Saturday of the month.
Join us on November 22 after the 8 am Mass to help provide a beautiful community space for our parish family. Anyone who has a green thumb or just enjoy being outdoors and gardening is welcome to join - no experience necessary! Email any questions to info@acchtx.org.
Project Mercy | Pro-Life Mass & Devotions
We unite in prayer on the third Tuesday of the month for Project Mercy to atone for the sin against abortion and pray for the conversion of hearts. We also pray for those who fight to end abortion.
Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
Holy Rosary
Confession
Benediction
Holy Mass
Divine Mercy Chaplet & Litany for the Unborn
“It is only through prayer that we change the world for Christ.”
Fr. Felix's Pilgrimage to Rome & the Holy Land
Please say a prayer for Fr. Felix and the pilgrims!
All Souls' Day
Mass Times
Nov 2, regular Sunday schedule
Nov 3, 7 pm Latin Mass.
In the traditional calendar, All Souls’ Day is postponed to Monday, Nov 3 because Nov 2 falls on a Sunday. Our beloved dead should be remembered and prayed for. On this day, during our visits to their graves, we spruce up their resting sites, sprinkling them with holy water, leaving votive candles, and adorning them with flowers. This is also a good day to also tell your children stories about their ancestors
Plenary Indulgence for the Holy Souls in Purgatory
A plenary indulgence, applicable only to the souls in purgatory, is granted to the faithful who: on any and each day from Nov 1 to 8,
devoutly visit a cemetery and pray, if only mentally, for the departed on All Souls’ Day
devoutly visit a church or an oratory and recite the Our Father and the Creed.
To obtain the plenary indulgence, in addition to the prescribed act, the usual conditions must also be met:
receiving Holy Communion
receiving the sacrament of confession
praying for the intentions of the Holy Father
complete detachment from sin, even venial sin.
All Saints' Day | Family Festival
Celebrate All Saints’ Day by going to Mass and our Family Festival!
Fun for the whole family!
Join our Saint Parade & Costume Contest — come dressed as your favorite saint (kids and adults)
Schedule
8 am Mass & First Saturday Devotions (English)
9:30 am Mass (Latin)
Festival - 11 am - 1:30 pm
Guardians of Purity: Confidently Teach Sex Education to Your Kids
A Talk by Dr. John Bertini, MD, FACS
Consecrated to St. Joseph
“One hour with Dr. Bertini and I finally felt confident having these conversations with my kids.”
Are You the First to Teach Your Child About Their Sexuality?
In today’s culture, your child is learning about sex whether you’re ready or not. And often, the first voice they hear—online, at school, from peers—sets the tone.
If you're not the one guiding them, someone else will.
Even faithful Catholic parents and educators often know Church teaching but feel unequipped to explain it, especially when it comes to tough topics like LGBTQ+, pornography, or abortion. Many didn’t receive this kind of formation themselves.
That’s why we’ve invited Dr. John Bertini, a Catholic physician and grandfather, to walk with you.
Meet Your Guide
Dr. John Bertini, MD, FACS
A physician for over 40 years, Dr. Bertini combines medical knowledge, faithful Catholic teaching, and real-world experience as a parent and grandparent.
After years of seeing the spiritual and emotional consequences of poor formation, he became an advocate for age-appropriate, truth-filled education rooted in the dignity of the human person.
This Talk is for You If You Are
✔ A Catholic parent wanting to raise children confident in their identity and values
✔ A grandparent hoping to lovingly support and influence the next generation
✔ A Catholic educator or catechist looking for faithful, practical ways to address tough questions
You’ll Walk Away With:
✔ A plan to lead your child’s education on sexuality—not just react to it
✔ The confidence to discuss the Church’s teachings on LGBTQ+, pornography, gender, abortion, and marriage
✔ Tools to build trust with your child and create a safe, open relationship
✔ A better understanding of what your child is up against in today’s world
✔ Insight into how to form your child’s Catholic identity and self-worth
✔ Answers to your own questions and concerns
You are your child’s first and most important teacher. This talk will help you act like it—with love, clarity, and courage.
What We'll Cover
How to form a comprehensive and age-appropriate plan
What the Church teaches—and how to say it clearly
How to stay ahead of culture, not just react to it
Trusted resources and next steps
How to ask for grace, strength, and courage in your vocation as a parent
What Others Are Saying
“Thank you for addressing what most people are afraid to even bring up.”
“I learned things I didn’t realize my kids were already being exposed to.”
“Your tips on when and how to talk to my kids made all the difference.”
Your Child Needs You First
✔ Before the internet, their friends, or school shape their understanding
✔ Before confusion sets in about their identity and self-worth
✔ Before their questions go unanswered or misdirected
Give your child a Catholic foundation for sexuality that honors their body, soul, and dignity.
Sign Up for This Talk
Don't wait. Your children—and their future—are worth the investment.
About Dr. John Bertini
Catholic Physician, Grandfather, and Advocate for Virtuous Formation
Dr. Bertini is a native of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston and has practiced urology for over 35 years. A graduate of Trinity University and the UT Medical School at Houston, he’s also a father of four and a proud grandfather. His mission: to help Catholic families reclaim the education of their children—before the world gets to them first.
Hosted by the Church of the Annunciation
As Houston’s mother church, we’ve been forming faithful Catholics for over 156 years. With beautiful liturgy and solid teaching, we remain committed to proclaiming the Gospel and equipping families to live it at home.
HISTORY: the first Catholic Church built in Houston burned down and was never rebuilt
The first Catholic Church built in Houston, the old German Language St. Vincent de Paul burned down October 15, 1894. It was never rebuilt. The parishioners transferred to Annunciation.
Casting for Christmas Children's Play | God’s Love Revealed
The Church of the Annunciation children’s Christmas play, “God’s Love Revealed” will be performed at 4 pm on Christmas Eve by the children of Annunciation.
Tryouts
Open to children ages 4-17 years
Oct 12, 19, 28
After the 9 am Mass
In the Foley House
Mini practices are held between 9 and 11 am Sunday Masses in the Foley House
Major practices are held 10:30 am -12 pm in the church
Practices
Nov 2 (Mini)
Nov 9 (Mini)
Nov 15 (Major )
Nov 16 (Mini)
Dec 6 (Major)
Dec 7 (Mini )
Dec 14 (Mini)
Volunteers are needed for helping with sets and props and costuming.
They must complete Archdiocesan Safe Environment training - archgh.org/ocyp
Stewardship Fair
Where is God calling you to serve?
After all weekend Masses
Discover the many ways to grow in faith and serve at Annunciation! Our Stewardship Fair brings together all of our parish apostolates in one place, giving you the chance to meet leaders, learn about opportunities, and find where your talents and interests can make a difference.
Whether you feel called to prayer, service, hospitality, or hands-on projects, there’s a place for you. Stop by, explore, and see how you can share your time and talent in building up our parish family.
The full Stewardship Fair will take place after the 9 and 11 am Masses.
For those attending other Mass times (Saturday 5:30 pm, 7 am and 5:30 pm Sunday), our Communications & Events Coordinator will have a table out in the courtyard.
Blessing of Rosaries
After the 9 and 11 am Masses
In honor of Our Lady of the Rosary, you are invited to hold your rosaries around the Blessing Table in the narthex (back of the church) after Mass to have them blessed.
Blessing of Animals | St. Francis
On the Feast of St. Francis at 8:45 am (after 8 am Mass), you are welcome to bring your furry, feathered, & scaled friends or a picture of them for a special blessing by Fr. Felix in the courtyard.
This event is open to the public!
Pet Owner Guidelines
For the safety and comfort of all, pets must remain leashed or under their owner’s care at all times.
Please bring supplies to clean up after them, and note that animals are not permitted inside the church.
Feast of Sts. Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, Archangels
Feast of the Archangels | Feast of St. Michael, traditional | Pray for Law Enforcement
Mass
6:30 am
12:10 pm
6:30 pm (Latin)
Join us in prayer for all law enforcement, military, and armed forces, entrusting them to the care of St. Michael the Archangel.
“O Glorious Archangel St. Michael, Prince of the heavenly host, be our defense in the terrible warfare which we carry on against principalities and powers, against the rulers of this world of darkness, spirits of evil...”
Exaltation of the Cross | Blessing of Crosses after Masses
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
HISTORY: Anniversary of Dedication of the Church of the Annunciation
Anniversary of the Dedication of the Church of the Annunciation September 10, 1871 by Rev. Claude Marie Dubuis, D.D. 1862-1892
The first baptism also happensed this day; Emma Theresa Maria Annunciata Will Duvernoy, on September 10
Plenary Indulgence can be obtained according to the Manual of Indulgences
A plenary indulgence is granted to the faithful who visit, and there devoutly recite an Our Father and the Creed, a church on the day of its dedication
In addition the faithful must
have complete detachment from sin
have sacramentally confessed their sins within a period of 8 days
go to Mass & receive the Holy Eucharist
pray for the intentions of the Supreme Pontiff
Blessing of Seeds and Seedlings
Leave your seeds and seedlings at the Blessing Table in the narthex at the back.
