Upcoming Events
6-week Miscarriage Support Session | Jerome's Hope
The Jerome’s Hope ministry serves families following miscarriage or infant loss and following a prenatal diagnosis.
A support group for individuals and couples following miscarriage or infant loss.
The start date for the group has changed from January 14 to January 28. We wanted to give people more time to register after the holidays. These 6-week sessions are held virtually and meet weekly.
If you are interested, contact Julie from the Archdiocesan Pro-Life Office at 713.741.8728 or jdumalet@archgh.org for more information and to register
Flyer is not updated please disregard start date
Evangelization @ Discovery Green
St. Paul Street Evangelization
Happy 2026 Evangelists,
Welcome back!
Our St Paul Street Evangelization outreach schedule for January 2026:
Discovery Green (Crawford & McKinney St). We'll carpool from the Catholic Charismatic Center (CCC) to the Church of the Annunciation at 330p.
Saturday 1/17/26, 4-7p
Saturday 1/31/26, 4-7p
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/
Pre-Lent | Season of Septuagesima
The season of Septuagesima is a preparation for the season of Lent.
Sunday, Feb 1: Septuagesima Sunday
Sunday, Feb 8: Sexagesima Sunday
Sunday, Feb 15: Quinquagesima Sunday
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Current Practice
Begins on one’s 14th birthday
Ash Wednesday and Fridays of Lent
Obliges abstention from fleshmeat
The Discipline of 1962
Applies on one’s 7th birthday
Complete Abstinence: all Fridays of the year, Ash Wednesday, Holy Saturday,a nd the Vigi of Christmas
Partial Abstinence (meat and soup or gravy made from meat permitted once a day at the principal meal): all the days of Lent, the Ember Days of Wednesday and Saturday, and the Vigils of Pentecost and the Assumption
Abstinence from meat is dispensed on Holy Days of Obligation
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Current Practice
Applies to everyone aged 18 to 59, inclusive.
One full meal permitted and two other meals may be taken which, when combined, are less than a full meal
Ash Wednesday and Good Friday
The obligation to do penance is lifted on Fridays that are also celebrated as a solemnity.
The Discipline of 1962
Applies for those aged 21 to 59, inclusive.
Days of Lent from Ash Wednesday inclusive, Ember Days, and Vigils of Christmas, Pentecost, and the Assumption.
One full meal permitted and two other meals may be taken which, when combined, are less than a full meal.
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Current Practice
Applies to all the Faithful
Lent and Fridays outside of Lent
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
Candlemas | Presentation of the Lord & the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Mass schedule
6:30 am English
12:10 pm English
7:00 pm Latin with Blessing of Candles and Procession
One of the most ancient observances in the Christian calendar, this feast commemorates the day when Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem to be presented according to Jewish Law. We mark this day with a solemn blessing of candles and a procession. The presentation of Christ in the Temple forty days after his birth commemorates the entry of the 'True Light' into the world.
The Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary
In the Law of Moses, a woman who bore a son was ritually unclean for 40 days (Leviticus 12). Though the Blessed Mother had no sins to repent, she fulfilled the Law of Purification.
In Luke 2:24, St. Joseph offered two turtledoves or pigeons, as depicted in the painting below. The Holy Family could not afford a lamb, so they offered these for the purification ritual (Leviticus 12:8).
If, however, she cannot afford a lamb, she may take two turtledoves or two pigeons, the one for a burnt offering and the other for a purification offering. The priest shall make atonement for her, and thus she will again be clean.
The Presentation of the Temple by Philippe de Champaigne oil on canvas painting in 1648
Nunc Dimittis — The Canticle of Simeon
Found in St. Luke's Gospel (ii, 29-32), is the last in historical sequence of the three great Canticles of the New Testament, the other two being the Magnificat (Canticle of Mary) and the Benedictus (Canticle of Zachary).
The title is formed from the opening words in the Latin Vulgate, "Nunc dimittis servum tuum, Domine" etc.). ("Now thou dost dismiss thy servant, O Lord" etc.). The circumstances under which Simeon uttered his song-petition, thanksgiving, and prophecy.
Nunc dimittis servum tuum, Domine
Secundum verbum tuum in pace: Quia viderunt oculi mei
salutare tuum Quod parasti
ante faciem omnium populorum: Lumen ad revelationem gentium,
Et gloriam plebis tuae Israel.
Now dismiss Thy servant, O Lord,
in peace, according to Thy word:
For mine own eyes hath seen
Thy salvation, Which Thou hast prepared
in the sight of all the peoples,
A light to reveal Thee to the nations
and the glory of Thy people Israel.
If the Magi offered frankincense, gold, and myrhh, why couldn’t the Holy Family afford the lamb?
The visit of the wise men does not take place immediately following Jesus’s birth. In fact, the visit seems to have taken place a year or even two years after the birth of Jesus. Hence when Matthew gives his description of the wise men showing up in Bethlehem (see Mt 2:1-12), we need to understand that this is taking place a good while after the nativity, even though most of us tend to merge these events together in our imaginations!
As for the idea of Jesus already being one or two years-old when the wise men arrive, this is indirectly corroborated by the infamous edict of Herod, which only occurs after the wise men have visited: “[H]e sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under” (Mt 2:16).
Blessing of Throats on the Feast of St. Blaise
Mass schedule
6:30 am English
12:10 pm Latin
In the United States, the annual blessing of throats is a traditional sign of the struggle against illness in the life of the Christian.
The blessing is by touching the throat of each person with two candles blessed on Candlemas (the day before), which have been joined together in the form of a cross.
St. Blaise, Bishop of Sebaste in Armenia in the 4th century, was reputed to have miraculously cured a little boy who nearly died due to a fishbone lodged in his throat. Very little is known about his life. According to various accounts, he was a physician before becoming a bishop
From the eighth century, he has been invoked on behalf of the sick, especially those afflicted with illnesses of the throat.
"Suffering and illness have always been among the greatest problems that trouble the human spirit. Christians feel and experience pain as do all other people; yet their faith helps them to grasp more deeply the mystery of suffering and to bear their pain with greater courage. . . . Part of the plan laid out by God's providence is that we should fight strenuously against all sickness and carefully seek the blessings of good health, so that we may fulfill our role in human society and in the Church" (see Pastoral Care of the Sick: Rites of Anointing and Viaticum, nos. 1, 3).
"The blessing of the sick by ministers of the Church is a very ancient custom, rooted in imitation of Christ himself and his apostles" (see Rituale Romanum: De Benedictionibus, Chapter 2: "Blessing of the Sick," no. 1.).
Texas Education Freedom Accounts | Applications Open
Apply from Feb 4 - Mar 17
Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) - Choose Catholic Schools
You are encouraged to apply for TEFA to get $10,000 or more toward a Catholic School or $2000 for homeschool students.
Starting in the 2026 school year, Texas will launch a brand-new Texas Education Freedom Accounts program with up to $1 billion in funding to help families cover educational expenses for students in PreK through 12th grade.
TEFA funds can be used to pay for private school tuition, homeschool curriculum, tutoring, therapies, school lunch, transportation, school uniforms, technology (limited to 10% of funds received), and more.
You don't have to currently be in a Catholic school to apply. You can apply and then go to the school of your choice.
Online student applications open February 4, 2026 - March 17, 2026, on the Texas Education Freedom Accounts website educationfreedom.texas.gov
To learn more, visit choosecatholicschools.org/TEFA
Text is taken from choosecatholicschools.org/tefa
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Texas Education Freedom Accounts provide state funds that families can use for expenses such as private school tuition, homeschool curriculum, tutoring, therapies, lunch, transportation, technology, and more.
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All Texas children can apply. Children are eligible to participate if they are U.S. citizens or lawfully present in the United States and are eligible to attend a Texas school district or open-enrollment charter school, or pre-K program, including children of a parent who is an active-duty member of the U.S. armed forces. The parent must be a Texas resident. All eligible children are not guaranteed funding.
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Standard awarded accounts could be funded $10, 474 per year
Students with disabilities could get up to $30,000 annually based on their IEPs done by their school districts
Homeschooled students may receive up to $2,000 per year
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Applications open February 4, 2026 - March 17, 2026, for funds that will be available for the 2026–27 school year at the Texas Education Freedom Accounts website.
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There are four categories of prioritization for applicants:
Students with a disability (defined by Texas Educ. Code Sec. 29.003) whose family income is at or below 500% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG)
Children whose family income is at or below 200% of the FPG
Children whose family income is between 201% and 500% of FPG
Everyone else, depending upon available funds. Students who move from public schools will be prioritized over currently enrolled private school students in this category only
For more eligibility information, please visit the Texas Education Freedom Accounts website
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The new Texas Education Freedom Accounts provide priority access to funds for children with special needs. To qualify for these funds, proof of eligibility to participate in a school district's special education program signed by one or more licensed professionals (licensed specialist in school psychology (LSSP)/school psychologist, educational diagnostician, or licensed or certified professional for a specific eligibility category) and an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) must be received before the application deadline for the TEFA. State law mandates that a public school district provide an IEP for any student seeking funding through the Texas Education Freedom Account, and the school district must finish the IEP in time for the student to apply for TEFA funds. (Education Code Sec. 29.3615)
Families may request evaluations from either the district that the child resides in or from the district where the private school is located.
Materials and evaluations done at the private school may be helpful for the district, so feel free to provide them.
The IEP does not have a time limit.
Out-of-state IEPs are acceptable.
To begin this process, visit: https://txcatholic.org/efa-how-to-get-an-iep-for-your-child/
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A private school is not subject to federal and state laws regarding the provision of educational services to a child with a disability in the same manner as a school district. Information regarding rights to which a child with a disability is entitled can be found at https://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/individuals-disabilities/idea
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Funds will be transferred into a Texas Education Freedom Account at predetermined intervals throughout the year. Families will then be able to approve payments from this account to cover certain education costs (private school tuition, homeschool curriculum, tutoring, therapies, lunch, transportation, technology, etc.) through approved vendors (educational institutions, education service providers, etc.)
Families do not have direct access to these funds, and the money cannot be withdrawn for cash.
If a child enrolls in the program after the beginning of the school year, the amount transferred is prorated based on the date of enrollment.
Any money remaining in a participating child’s account will be carried over to future years.
Funds in the account are not considered taxable income unless otherwise provided by federal or another state’s law.
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Parents must agree to:
Spend program money only for eligible expenses
Share the child's assessment results with Odyssey
Not sell an item purchased with program money and
Notify the Odyssey within 30 days of the child enrolling in public school, graduating from high school, or otherwise becoming ineligible to enroll in public school
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Approved educational expenses like:
Tuition and fees
Curriculum and learning materials
Private tutors and therapists
Transportation and meals
Technology (limited to 10% of funds)
NOT approved expenses:
Sports fees
Activity fees
Trip fees
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Learn about the advantages a Catholic education offers your child by downloading information on using Texas Education Freedom Account funds for your child’s education. Catholic School TEFA Information
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Texas Comptroller's webpage: Texas Education Freedom Accounts Program
The Comptroller's office has made it easy for different stakeholders to stay in the loop as implementation of the program progresses by setting up several email lists - click on the one(s) for which you wish to receive updates:
First Saturday Devotion
7:45 am Confession, 8 am Mass, 8:45 am Rosary.
Led by the Marian Daughters following Our Lady of Fatima’s call to prayer and sacrifice for reparation, conversion of sinners, and for peace in the world.
For those seeking membership in the Marian Daughters of Annunciation, email MarianDaughters@acchtx.org.
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Pray the Rosary every day for peace in the world
The consecration of Russia and each of us individually to Mary’s Immaculate Heart
Do our daily duties out of love, dedicating everything to God
Make reparation for sins against the Immaculate Heart of Mary by observing the “First Five Saturdays of Reparation”
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Go to Confession (on First Saturday or shortly before or after)
Receive Holy Communion
Say five decades of the Rosary
Keep me company for the quarter of an hour, meditating on the mysteries of the Rosary
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Our Lady says there are five kinds of offenses and blasphemies against the Immaculate Heart of Mary
Against the Immaculate Conception
Against her Virginity
Against her Divine Maternity and at the same time the refusal to recognize her as the Mother of all mankind
Implanting in the hearts of children indifference, disrespect, and hate for the Immaculate Mother
Offenses of those who directly outrage Her in her holy images
Understand the apparitions at Fatima
Our Lady of Fatima's Peace Plan From Heaven
The Memoir of Sr. Lucia (also known as Fatima in Sr. Lucia's Own Words)
The True Story of Fatima: A Complete Account of the Fatima Apparitions
Andrew Dinner | For High School Men Discerning Priesthood
Andrew Dinner is an evening of prayer, group sharing, and dinner with Fr. Felix, Very Rev. Eurel Manzano, Rector of St. Mary’s Seminary, and Fr. Richard McNeillie, Vocations Director. For young men ages 14 - 18. Optional - parents may attend.
For questions, contact the Office of Vocational Discernment at vocations@archgh.org or 713-652-8239
All Andrew Dinner Dates & Locations
Friday, January 23rd,
Holy Family Parish (Parish Life Center)
1525 25th Street
Galveston, TX
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Annunciation
1618 Texas Ave
Houston, TX 77003
Friday, February 20, 2026
St. Angela Merici
9009 Sienna Ranch Rd
Missouri City, TX 77003
Thursday, March 19, 2026
St. Theresa Catholic Church
705 St. Theresa Blvd
Sugar Land, TX 77498
Saturday, April 11, 2026
St. Laurence Catholic Church
3100 Sweetwater Blvd
Sugar Land, TX 77479
Meet Annunciation’s Seminarians
Orlando Herrera
Formation Stage: 2nd Configuration
Current Seminary: St. Mary's Seminary
Date of Birth: January 31
Philip Gardner
Formation Stage: College 1
Current Seminary: Holy Trinity Seminary
Date of Birth: February 2
Fr. Richard McNeillie - Vocation Director
Joelma Regis - Associate Director
Phillip Rivera - Administrative Assistant
Claire McMullin - Ministry Collaboration and Formation
Paz Marquez - Media and Events Coordinator
Ashley Jarrell - Parish Programs Manager
Holy Hour for Men | Holy League
5:30 am Adoration, confession, 6:30 am Mass, coffee and spiritual dialogue with Fr. Felix and Deacon Curtis at the Foley House.
Join us before work and invite other men to wield spiritual weapons and stand united against the forces of evil.
Learn more at holyleague.com.
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.”
As we begin the new year, Congress is again in debates on diminishing laws for the protection of the unborn. President Trump in an address (1:13:24 – 1:13:44) to House Republicans stated:
“Now you have to be a little flexible on hide. You know that you gotta be a little flexible. You gotta work something you've got to use. Ingenuity you gotta work. We're all big fans of everything. But you gotta be flexy, you have to have flexibility.”
The House immediately surrendered the Hyde amendment 2 days with 17 House Republicans voting against Hyde protections voting against Hyde protections in H.R. 1834 Breaking the Gridlock Act. Trump also addressed in his speech (1:14:36 – 1:15:24) on January 6th IVF, stating:
“And the other thing is fertilization...I got a call from a very wonderful young senator from Alabama saying they had just lost a case. ... I said, explain the issue to me. And it was on IVF, the fertilization. A judge ruled against and said, all fertilization places have to be closed down, like immediately. It would have been a disaster. And fortunately, I picked it up. And we became we owned the issue. But now I understand they're trying to make a case on fertilization. You can't let them do that. Very important issue.”
While we need to be diligent in shaping prolife laws, we must also be more resolute in prayer, on our knees. We must make reparation for the sin of infant slaughter (abortion).
Join us this Tuesday in praying for the conversion of hearts and for all who seek to defend the sanctity of life and as David Bereit stated:
“...We believe that with God, all things are possible, far more than with man, far more than with politicians who are trying to keep their job over doing the right thing with God. All things are possible, so pray for our US. Senators to be strong, courageous and to hold the line. Pray for courage. Pray for clarity. Pray for conviction and pray that they do what it takes to protect women and children from the violence of abortion. Pray, fervently. "
Ash Wednesday | Lent Begins
When the Priest puts the holy emblem of penance upon you, accept, in a spirit of submission, the sentence of Death, which God himself pronounces against you:
Meménto, homo, quia pulvis es, et in púlverem revertéris!
Remember man, that thou art dust, and to dust thou shalt return!
Humble yourself, and remember what it was that brought the punishment of Death upon us: —man wished to be as a god, and preferred his own will to that of his Sovereign Master.
Reflect, too, on that long list of sins, which you have added to the sin of your First Parents, and adore the mercy of your God, who asks only one death for all these your transgressions.
The Liturgical Year by Dom Gueranger
Mass Schedule
6:30 am English with Distribution of Ashes
12:10 pm English with Distribution of Ashes
6:30 pm Latin with Distribution of Ashes
Ash Wednesday is a day of obligatory abstinence and fasting.
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Current Practice
Begins on one’s 14th birthday
Ash Wednesday and Fridays of Lent
Obliges abstention from fleshmeat
The Discipline of 1962
Applies on one’s 7th birthday
Complete Abstinence: all Fridays of the year, Ash Wednesday, Holy Saturday,a nd the Vigi of Christmas
Partial Abstinence (meat and soup or gravy made from meat permitted once a day at the principal meal): all the days of Lent, the Ember Days of Wednesday and Saturday, and the Vigils of Pentecost and the Assumption
Abstinence from meat is dispensed on Holy Days of Obligation
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Current Practice
Applies to everyone aged 18 to 59, inclusive.
One full meal permitted and two other meals may be taken which, when combined, are less than a full meal
Ash Wednesday and Good Friday
The obligation to do penance is lifted on Fridays that are also celebrated as a solemnity.
The Discipline of 1962
Applies for those aged 21 to 59, inclusive.
Days of Lent from Ash Wednesday inclusive, Ember Days, and Vigils of Christmas, Pentecost, and the Assumption.
One full meal permitted and two other meals may be taken which, when combined, are less than a full meal.
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Current Practice
Applies to all the Faithful
Lent and Fridays outside of Lent
Symbolism of Ashes
The Liturgical Year by Dom Gueranger
Symbol of humiliation and penance
Job, though a Gentile, sprinkled his flesh with ashes that, thus humbled, he might propitiate the divine mercy (Job 16:16)
The Royal Prophet… mingled Ashes with his bread, because of the divine anger and indignation (Psalm 101:10)
…how could [fallen man] more aptly express his contrite acceptance of the sentence, than by sprinkling himself with Ashes…, which is the dust of wood consumed by fire? This earnest acknowledgement of his being himself, but Dust and Ashes, is an act of humility.
An instrument of our sanctification
The Ashes are made from the Palms, which were blessed the previous Palm Sunday
The Blessing they are now to receive in this their new form, is given in order that they may be made more worthy of that mystery of contrition and humility, which they are intended to symbolize
The Priest… begs of God… that he would make them an instrument of our sanctification.
…the Priest sprinkles the ashes with holy water, and censes them.
Lent Begins
Our Lord Jesus Christ, directly after His baptism, prepared Himself for His public life and mission by a fast of forty days in the desert, which extends from Jericho to the Mountains of Judea.
Let us prepare ourselves by fast, prayers, and works of charity for the solemn Feast of Easter.
More learning
Dive into The Interior Life
What is the paschal mystery?
The Last Things: Death, Judgment, Heaven & Hell
Examination of Conscience
Confession Times
Preparation for Total Consecration to Jesus through Mary
Ad Jesum per Mariam
We will start the preparation for total consecration on February 20, ending on our patronal feast of the Annunciation on March 25.
What is total consecration?
Total consecration is not merely a prayer or a one-time act—it is a way of life.
Every day, waking up and completely giving oneself—body, soul, possessions, everything—to Mary so she can lead us more perfectly to her Son, Jesus Christ. It is an ongoing journey of spiritual renewal and conversion. It calls for daily commitment to perform all "our actions in Mary, with Mary, through Mary, and for Mary” (St. Louis de Montfort, True Devotion to Mary).
What is preparation for total consecration?
Because total consecration is a way of life, proper preparation is essential. The fundamental disposition required is humility.
“Those who desire to take up this special devotion should spend at least twelve days in emptying themselves of the spirit of the world, which is opposed to the spirit of Jesus, and then spend three weeks imbuing themselves with the spirit of Jesus through the most Blessed Virgin“ (St. Louis de Montfort, True Devotion to Mary).
Formulas for Preparation for Total Consecration
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St. Louis-Marie breaks the 33-day period of exercises days into sections, each section having its own prayers, and each particular day having its own brief readings with which to fill the mind for that day (the readings come from Sacred Scripture, "The Imitation of Christ," and "True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary").
Then follow 3 weeks, each week having a specific focus.
The first week focuses on offering up our prayers and devotions for the purpose of coming to understand ourselves and our sins; humility is the key, and the prayers the Litany of the Holy Ghost, the Litany of Loreto, and the Ave Maris Stella help us.
During the second week, we ask the Holy Ghost to help us better understand the Blessed Virgin; we pray the Litany of the Holy Ghost, the Litany of Loreto, the Ave Maris Stellis, the prayer to Mary by St. Louis-Marie, and 5 decades of the Holy Rosary each day for assistance.
During the third week, we seek to better understand Christ through meditation and the Litany of the Holy Ghost, the Ave Maris Stella, and the Litany of the Holy Name of Jesus, Montfort's prayer to Jesus, and the prayer O Jesus Living in Mary
Purchase Book - True Devotion to Mary with Preparation for Total Consecration
Covered in the book are topics such as:
The necessity of the Blessed Virgin and of devotion to her
The nature of perfect devotion to Mary
The effects of devotion to Mary
The practices of Marian devotion
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This booklet is written as a day-by-day guide to arrive at a very specific goal: your total consecration to the Immaculate. It was written as much as possible in the words and spirit of St. Maximilian M. Kolbe himself, as well as of other saints and holy persons who wrote about Our Lady and whose spirituality the saint recognized as his own.
Why do you need a daily guide to reach this goal? You know that at every period of its history, our world moves at a certain pace. In our times, it is a fast pace — so fast a pace that, in keeping up with it, you might be struggling to not forget your soul, its salvation and its sanctification. Hopefully, this little day-by-day guide will motivate you and help you to find time every day for your soul, even in the midst of the busyness of a fast-paced life like yours.
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A 33-day journey to Marian consecration with four giants of Marian spirituality: St. Louis de Montfort, St. Maximilian Kolbe, Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta, and Blessed Pope John Paul II.
Fr. Gaitley summarizes their teaching, making it easy to grasp, and simple enough to put into practice. More specifically, he weaves their thoughts into a user-friendly, do-it-yourself retreat that will bless even the busiest of people.
It is recommended to additionally read the “Secret of Mary” and “True Devotion to Mary” by St. Louis de Montfort.
Pray for Our Elect | Scrutinies
During these Sundays, the parish is invited to pray that the Elect may be strengthened by God’s grace, freed from sin, and drawn ever closer to Christ.
During the Rite of Election, the Church formally acknowledges the readiness of the catechumens to proceed to the next stages of initiation, namely the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. Those who participate in this rite are called the “Elect” from that point on.
This signifies that the Church has discerned the catechumens’ readiness and that they have indeed been chosen for initiation into the Catholic faith.
The Scrutinies are rites for self-searching and repentance, including prayers of exorcism, blessing, and intercessions. Each scrutiny uncovers, then heals all that is weak, defective, or sinful in the hearts of the Elect. At the same time, they affirm and strengthen all that is upright, strong, and good. The Scrutines immerse the Elect in the mystery of Christ.
Upcoming OCIA Rites at the 9:00 AM Mass
Rite of Election
First Sunday of Lent — February 22, 2026
First Scrutiny
Third Sunday of Lent — March 8, 2026Second Scrutiny
Fourth Sunday of Lent (Laetare Sunday) — March 15, 2026Third Scrutiny
Fifth Sunday of Lent — March 22, 2026
As we journey through Lent, please keep in prayer those who are preparing to enter the Church at Easter.
Ember Days in Lent
Schedule
Feb 25 – Ember Wednesday - 12:10 pm Mass (Latin)
Feb 27 – Ember Friday - 12:10 pm Mass (Latin)
Feb 28 – Ember Saturday - 8:00 am Mass (Latin)
The Ember Days consecrate the four seasons to God, reminding us of the good things of His creation.
Healing After Abortion | Rachel’s Vineyard
Rachel’s Vineyard is a Catholic, Scripture-based retreat that combines prayer, reflection, counseling, and sacramental Reconciliation for men and women suffering after abortion. All inquiries are strictly confidential.
For more information and to register, contact
Zulema
713-440-3445
zgonzalez@archgh.org
Cindy
713-825-0649
cindy@rvhouston.org
In collaboration with RV Houston, Inc.
Rosary Making Class
Discover the beauty of rosary-making through a hands-on workshop featuring several methods and styles. Whether you’re new or experienced, all are welcome.
Pre-class instructions and a materials list will be emailed in advance so participants can come prepared.
This workshop class is free, so please bring your own lunch or go out to a local restaurant.
Reflect on how the Rosary is a powerful Marian devotion and a school of prayer that leads us more deeply into the life of Christ. This workshop invites attendees not only to create a beautiful sacramental but also to grow in love for Our Lady and in the habit of contemplative prayer.
Rosaries may be made for personal use or as gifts for loved ones.
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
Solemnity of St. Joseph
Celebrate the Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Confessor, and Patron of the Universal Church
Mass schedule
6:30 am English
12:10 pm Latin
6:30 pm Latin
Consecration to St. Joseph Begins
We will start the preparation for total consecration on March 20 and end on May 1, the feast of St. Joseph the Worker.
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Consecrating means dedicating yourself to someone or something.
You will entrust yourself to St. Joseph and seek his fatherly guidance and protection, while meditating on his life and virtues.
St. Joseph is the
Foster Father of Jesus Christ,
Patron and Protector of the Universal Church,
Terror of Demons,
and Protector of Chastity
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God, in His loving design, invites and desires others to participate in His plan of salvation.
Just as consecration to the Blessed Virgin Mary does not diminish our relationship with Christ but rather perfects it, so too is devotion to St. Joseph.
St. Joseph is entirely devoted to Mary, his spouse, and to Jesus, his Son.
By consecrating yourself to St. Joseph, your love for both Mary and Jesus is not divided, but deepened and brought to greater perfection.
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Marian consecration is unique because:
Mary alone is Mother of God (Theotokos)
God chose her freely as the instrument of the Incarnation
She cooperated directly, maternally, and uniquely in salvation
Her mediation is ongoing and universal. She is your Mother.
The Church officially encourages entrustment to her in a way not done for any other saint
Solemnity of the Annunciation | Blessing & Rededication of the Pipe Organ
Schedule
6:30 am Mass English
12:10 pm Mass English or Latin
6:30 pm Blessing & Rededication of Pipe Organ with Preludes
7 pm Mass Latin
Reception in the Foley House after Mass
Palm Sunday | Procession & Blessing of Palms
Schedule
7 am Mass English
Palm Procession Begins at 8:45 am in the Plaza
9 am Mass English with Reading of the Passion
11 am Palm Procession in the Plaza followed by Latin Mass with chanting of the Passion
Holy Week
March 29 | Palm Sunday
7 am Mass English
Palm Procession Begins at 8:45 am in the Plaza
9 am Mass English with Reading of the Passion
11 am Palm Procession followed by Latin Mass with chanting of the Passion
March 30 | Holy Monday
6:30 am Mass English
12:10 pm Mass English
March 31 | Holy Tuesday
6:30 am Mass English
12:10 pm Mass Latin with Reading of the Passion of Mark
7:00 pm Chrism Mass at Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart
April 1 | Spy Wednesday
6:30 am Mass English
12:10 pm Mass English
7:00 pm Tenebrae Latin
April 2 | Maundy Thursday
7:00 pm Mass of the Lord’s Supper Latin
Concluding with Eucharistic Procession to the Altar of Repose, followed by adoration until midnight
April 3 | Good Friday
12 pm - 3 pm Tre Ore Devotions
Rosary, Stations of the Cross, Divine Mercy Chaplet
3:00 pm Passion Liturgy English
April 4 | Holy Saturday
8:30 pm English/Latin Easter Vigil Mass
Reception in Foley House & Plaza following Mass
More learning
What is the Paschal Mystery
The Last Things: Death, Judgment, Heaven & Hell
Examination
Easter Sunday & Octave
April 5 | Easter
7 am Mass English
9 am Mass English
11 am Mass Latin
Please note: there is no adoration following 11 am Mass due to travelling families. There is also no 5:30 pm Mass.
April 6 | Easter Tuesday
6:30 pm Latin Easter Tuesday Vespers followed by Reception in the Foley House
24-hour Adoration | Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children
The Church of the Annunciation will host 24 hours in Adoration of the Holy Eucharist in praying for the defense of the sanctity of life and an end to legalized abortion.
January 22nd 7am - January 23rd 7am
"In all the Dioceses of the United States of America, January 22 (or January 23, when January 22 falls on a Sunday) shall be observed as a particular day of prayer for the full restoration of the legal guarantee of the right to life and of penance for violations to the dignity of the human person committed through acts of abortion."
- USCCB Office of Pro-life Activities
Please signup for an hour or more to assist Annunciation as a parish in observing this day in prayer and offering penance for violations against the sanctity of life.
Note: Adoration will be cancelled if a minimum of 3 adorers is not met for each hour.
SIGNUP IS REQUIRED for safety team members and adorers.
Parking: Metered/street parking is free after 6p unless noted otherwise at the meter.
For questions and more information contact prolife@acchtx.org
A great prayer for life is urgently needed, a prayer which will rise up throughout the world. Through special initiatives and in daily prayer, may an impassioned plea rise to God, the Creator and lover of life, from every Christian community, from every group and association, from every family and from the heart of every believer.
Pope Saint John Paul II
Evangelium vitae
On January 22, 1973, the Supreme Court legalized abortion throughout the United States in its companion decisions Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton. Since that time, millions of children have lost their lives, and millions of women and families have been wounded by abortion.
On June 24, 2022, the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision overturned Roe v. Wade, and we praise God for the great opportunity state and federal legislators now have to protect pre-born children. While God, in His mercy, ended the nearly fifty-year nationwide regime of abortion on demand, right now state and federal laws, in many instances, are still hostile to pre-born children. So, great prayer and advocacy is very needed.
The General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM), no. 373, designates January 22 as a particular day of prayer and penance, called the "Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children”:
In all the Dioceses of the United States of America, January 22 (or January 23, when January 22 falls on a Sunday) shall be observed as a particular day of prayer for the full restoration of the legal guarantee of the right to life and of penance for violations to the dignity of the human person committed through acts of abortion.
9 Days for Life | Annual Novena for Life
9 Days for Life is an annual novena for the protection of human life. Each day’s intention is accompanied by a short reflection and suggested actions to help build a culture of life.
Sign up to receive the daily prayers via email or text message!
USCCB
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Intercession: May the tragic practice of abortion end.
Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be
Reflection: At every stage and in every circumstance, we are held in existence by God’s love. The presence of an illness, disability, or other challenging situation never diminishes the value of a human life. God does not call us to perfection of appearance or abilities, but to perfection in love. Christ invites us to embrace our own lives and the lives of others as true gifts.
Abortion tragically rejects the truth that every life is a good and perfect gift, deserving protection. This violent practice ends the life of a human being at its very beginning and horribly wounds all those involved. But Christ came that we “might have life and have it more abundantly” (John 10:10), taking on human flesh for the sake of our redemption. May our culture experience the power of God’s transforming love, that all eyes may be opened to the incredible beauty of every human life.
Acts of Reparation (Choose one.)
Take a break from television and movies today. Consider spending some of that time praying with today’s reflection.
Pray the short prayer “Every Life is Worth Living,” reflecting on the gift of human life. (The prayer is also available to order or download at usccb.org/worth-living.)
Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.
One Step Further
Abortion is frequently a topic in the news, political debates, and everyday conversations with family or friends. Because abortion can be a controversial and emotional issue in any arena, many of us may feel intimidated when the topic arises, not knowing what to say. “Another Look at Abortion” provides a basic overview and summarizes key points. This article will help you be better prepared to witness to the sanctity of human life: respectlife.org/another-look-at-abortion.
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Intercession: May every pregnant mother receive compassionate care and support as she nurtures the life in her womb.
Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be
Reflection: When the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, she opened her heart to receive his message that she would conceive the Son of God in her womb. As a young bride who had not yet lived with her husband, Mary knew that her pregnancy presented many challenges. Despite this knowledge, she faithfully responded, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38).
Like the Blessed Mother, women who unexpectedly become pregnant often face significant challenges. They, too, are called to place their trust in God and faithfully respond to His gift of new life. And we are called to walk with them in their time of need. As Jesus taught us, when we love and serve others, we are loving and serving Him.
May all expectant mothers be encouraged by Mary’s example and receive support and grace in lovingly welcoming their children into the world.
Acts of Reparation (Choose one.)
Pray for pregnant and parenting moms in need in your local community, and ask the Lord how you can help them by using your unique gifts. (You can sign up for monthly stories of how Catholics across the country are Walking with Moms in Need at walkingwithmoms.com/subscribe.)
Pray the Angelus today (usccb.org/angelus). You might also consider saying it every day for the next week—on awakening, at noon, or at 6 p.m. (or all three times).
Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.
One Step Further
When a woman is facing an unexpected pregnancy, the reaction of the first person she tells tends to set the tone for her decision-making. Pregnancy can be difficult and frightening, but no matter the circumstances, it’s important for an expectant mother to feel supported and loved. Read “10 Ways to Support Her When She’s Unexpectedly Expecting” (respectlife.org/support-her) for simple tips on how to provide loving, life-affirming support for a friend who is unexpectedly pregnant. Your support may be the only support she receives.
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Intercession: May every pregnant mother receive compassionate care and support as she nurtures the life in her womb.
Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be
Reflection
When the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, she opened her heart to receive his message that she would conceive the Son of God in her womb. As a young bride who had not yet lived with her husband, Mary knew that her pregnancy presented many challenges. Despite this knowledge, she faithfully responded, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38).
Like the Blessed Mother, women who unexpectedly become pregnant often face significant challenges. They, too, are called to place their trust in God and faithfully respond to His gift of new life. And we are called to walk with them in their time of need. As Jesus taught us, when we love and serve others, we are loving and serving Him.
May all expectant mothers be encouraged by Mary’s example and receive support and grace in lovingly welcoming their children into the world.
Acts of Reparation (Choose one.)
Pray for pregnant and parenting moms in need in your local community, and ask the Lord how you can help them by using your unique gifts. (You can sign up for monthly stories of how Catholics across the country are Walking with Moms in Need at walkingwithmoms.com/subscribe.)
Pray the Angelus today (usccb.org/angelus). You might also consider saying it every day for the next week—on awakening, at noon, or at 6 p.m. (or all three times).
Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.
One Step Further
When a woman is facing an unexpected pregnancy, the reaction of the first person she tells tends to set the tone for her decision-making. Pregnancy can be difficult and frightening, but no matter the circumstances, it’s important for an expectant mother to feel supported and loved. Read “10 Ways to Support Her When She’s Unexpectedly Expecting” (respectlife.org/support-her) for simple tips on how to provide loving, life-affirming support for a friend who is unexpectedly pregnant. Your support may be the only support she receives.
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Intercession: May every father of a preborn child lovingly support the mother of his child in welcoming new life.
Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be
Reflection
Fatherhood has its origins in God, who chose to reveal Himself to us as Our Father, sending his only Son for the sake of our salvation. Fathers therefore have a special role “in revealing and in reliving on earth the very fatherhood of God” (Familiaris consortio 25). Fathers are called to exhibit “generous responsibility for the life conceived under the heart of the mother” (FC 25). They are uniquely entrusted with the protection and defense of both mother and child and, in this way, in safeguarding the sanctity of human life.
As evidenced in our world today, the role of the father “is of unique and irreplaceable importance” (FC 25). Often women choose abortion because they do not have the support of the child’s father, or—even worse—the father of the child pressures her to make the decision to abort. At the same time, it is important to acknowledge with compassion that men can also be overwhelmed by an unexpected pregnancy and that society increasingly tells them that they should have no say in their children’s lives. In the face of these false messages, we pray that fathers of preborn children will find courage in the example of Saint Joseph—who embraced the role of father amid difficult circumstances—and offer loving, life-affirming support to the mothers of their children.
Acts of Reparation (Choose one.)
Give up sleeping on your pillow—or even your bed—tonight. Offer this small sacrifice for the intention that fathers of preborn children will courageously answer their call to support both mother and child.
Pray a decade of the Rosary for all fathers of preborn children, that through her intercession, Our Lady may inspire in them the virtues of Saint Joseph: usccb.org/how-to-pray-the-rosary.
Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.
One Step Further
Research continues to show that one of the top reasons a woman chooses abortion is due to a lack of financial resources. Read “Poverty and Abortion: A Vicious Cycle,” which explores the connections between abortion and poverty, and how the absence of fathers contributes to this ongoing cycle (respectlife.org/poverty-and-abortion).
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Intercession: May every pregnant mother choosing adoption receive grace and support in embracing this loving option.
Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be
Reflection
Mothers placing their children for adoption often face many challenges along the way. One of the greatest obstacles can be perceiving adoption as abandonment. But a mother who determines that making an adoption plan is best for her child isn’t deserting her child. Rather, she is following the example of Christ’s sacrificial love on the Cross in choosing a life-giving option that she has determined is ultimately in the best interest of her child, even at great cost to herself. The Letter to the Hebrews reminds us that, in the face of fears and trials, we can “hold fast to the hope that lies before us. This we have as an anchor of the soul, sure and firm” (Heb 6:18-19). We pray that each expectant mother will be filled with “the peace of God that surpasses all understanding” (Phil 4:7) as she decides which life-giving option is best for her child. Let us all cling fast to the anchor of hope, for we have received “a spirit of adoption, through which we cry, ‘Abba, Father!’” (Rom 8:15).
Acts of Reparation (Choose one.)
Do you have a sweet tooth? Or do you prefer salty snacks? Pick your favorite kind of treat, and give it up for the day.
Look up one of the Scripture passages from today’s reflection, and spend some time with it in prayer. What is the Lord saying to you?
Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.
One Step Further
“Accompanying Expectant Mothers Considering Adoption” suggests nine ways to offer ongoing support to a woman who is considering making an adoption plan for her preborn child (respectlife.org/mothers-considering-adoption). Many of the tips given are also helpful for supporting a friend who is experiencing a challenging or unexpected pregnancy, even if adoption has not been brought up. Supplemental resources regarding adoption can be found at usccb.org/adoption-resources.
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Intercession: May all who support or participate in abortion experience a conversion of heart to seek and receive the Lord’s boundless mercy.
Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be
Reflection
When God fashioned the human person in His own image and likeness, He destined us for eternal life with Himself. Yet because of the sin of our first parents, death entered the world. The book of Genesis recounts the first occasion in which a person takes the life of another, as Cain violently kills his brother Abel. This instance of brother rising up against brother “at the very dawn of history is thus a sad witness of how evil spreads with amazing speed” (Evangelium vitae 8).
Since this time, disregard for human life has continued to spread. When we, like Cain, allow sin to find a place in our hearts, we become blinded to the truth. Sometimes this blindness might be so deep that we fail to recognize the undeniable humanity of preborn children. We may even tragically believe the lie that abortion is an act of compassion. But we know that “life, especially human life, belongs only to God: for this reason whoever attacks human life, in some way attacks God himself” (EV 9). Let us pray that all who support abortion will encounter the transforming love of the Father and, with repentant hearts, seek His mercy.
Acts of Reparation (Choose one.)
Smile. Ask God today for the grace to be extra joyful and to share the light of Christ with those most in need of His love and mercy.
Make an act of faith, hope, or love (usccb.org/faith-hope-love).
Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.
One Step Further
Evangelium vitae (The Gospel of Life) was written to reaffirm the value and inviolability of every human life and to appeal to all people to respect, protect, love, and serve every human life. A brief summary highlights key themes and foundational teachings from the papal encyclical, exploring how the Church’s teachings regarding human life are at the heart of Jesus’ entire Gospel message (respectlife.org/gospel-of-life-summary).
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Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children
Intercession: May all preborn children be protected in law and welcomed in love.
Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be
Reflection
Today, we mourn the many children’s lives ended by abortion and remember in prayer those who suffer the aftermath. We pray that children in their mothers’ wombs would again be protected in law and do penance in reparation for abortions that have been committed in our world.
In his encyclical Evangelium vitae (The Gospel of Life), Pope John Paul II said, “may an impassioned plea rise to God, the Creator and lover of life, from every Christian community, from every group and association, from every family and from the heart of every believer” (EV 100). May that prayer arise in our hearts today and each day forward until every human being is protected in law and welcomed in love.
Acts of Reparation (Choose one.)
Fast from one meal today.
Offer this brief “Prayer for Life” for all preborn children whose lives are at risk. (The prayer is also available at usccb.org/prayer-for-life.)
Father and maker of all, you adorn all creation with splendor and beauty, and fashion human lives in your image and likeness. Awaken in every heart reverence for the work of your hands, and renew among your people a readiness to nurture and sustain your precious gift of life. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen
Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.
One Step Further
More women and girls consider abortion than we may realize. They are our relatives and friends, people who work with us or for us. Even if someone identifies as being pro-life, the shock of an unexpected pregnancy, the devastation of a difficult prenatal diagnosis, shame, pressures, or fears may influence her to consider abortion.
If someone shared with you that she was pregnant and hadn't ruled out having an abortion, would you know how to respond in a loving way that is life-affirming for both her and her baby? Learn about the four steps of the L.O.V.E. Approach™*: Listen and Learn, Open Options, Vision and Value, and Extend and Empower (respectlife.org/l-o-v-e).
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Intercession: May civic leaders work for the protection of all human life, in every stage and circumstance.
Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be
Reflection
The Declaration of Independence boldly affirms that first among our inalienable rights is the right to life, given to us by the Creator. Yet despite being so solemnly proclaimed, the right to life is today threatened and often denied, particularly at the moments when life is most fragile. Our laws should—first and foremost—protect life. Even with the overturning of Roe v. Wade, many states still do not recognize children in their mothers’ wombs as persons and still claim that abortion is a right. Further, many political leaders work actively to increase access to abortion. Some falsely describe it as health care and even as a basic human right. Laws and policies that legalize or promote an intrinsic evil like abortion violate the virtue of justice.
Those who work as public officials and civic leaders have a duty to serve the common good, and therefore have a profound obligation to safeguard this most fundamental right to life. Through our own prayer, witness, and civic participation, we can encourage our leaders to truly answer their call to protect the rights of all people. For “there can be no true democracy without a recognition of every person’s dignity and without respect for his or her rights” (Evangelium vitae 101).
Acts of Reparation (Choose one.)
Sacrifice some of your free time to do a small act of service, such as making breakfast for a family member, writing a note of encouragement to a coworker, or praying for the intentions of a friend.
Sometimes restrictions on religious freedom constrain our efforts to live out the Gospel of life. We must be free to live out our Catholic faith in the public square. Offer this Prayer for Religious Liberty, that Christians may always be free to respect, protect, and defend human life: usccb.org/prayer-for-religious-liberty.
Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.
One Step Further
When discussing the political responsibility of Catholics, the U.S. bishops have repeatedly affirmed, “the threat of abortion remains our pre-eminent priority.”1 Abortion directly attacks life itself, takes place within the sanctuary of the family, and destroys over a million lives annually in the United States. Learn more in “Priorities at the Polls”: respectlife.org/priorities-at-the-polls.
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Intercession: May all who defend life find strength and renewal in the Holy Spirit.
Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be
Reflection
God has carefully, tenderly created every person in His own image and likeness, to be in a loving relationship with Himself. From each tiny child knit within a mother’s womb, to every person approaching death, all are loved perfectly and completely by God: “It is therefore a service of love which we are all committed to ensure to our neighbor, that his or her life may be always defended and promoted, especially when it is weak or threatened [emphasis added]” (Evangelium vitae 77).
In a world in which those who are most vulnerable are so often overlooked and disregarded, Christ calls us to embrace and uphold the unconditional dignity of every human life. In answering this call, we help to build “a new culture of life, the fruit of the culture of truth and of love” (EV 77). May the Holy Spirit continually renew us as we strive to faithfully defend God’s gift of life.
Acts of Reparation (Choose one.)
Do you love your cup of coffee? Abstain from caffeine today, or try your coffee black.
“Unplug” for some time today, and reflect on how God may be asking you to help build a culture of life in your home, workplace, or Church community.
Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.
One Step Further
Watching the news and reading headlines, we may often feel helpless in the face of heartbreaking lack of respect for human life. When our efforts to make a difference feel small, it’s important to remember that changing the culture is a process of conversion that begins in our own hearts. It includes a willingness to be instructed by the Holy Spirit and a desire to be close to Jesus—the source of joy and love. “How to Build a Culture of Life” briefly explains where to start: respectlife.org/culture-of-life.
Human Trafficking Night of Awareness
Join Christ the Redeemer for an important Night of Awareness. The faith-based national non-profit, Street Grace, will teach us how to recognize warning signs of child sexual abuse and exploitation, report suspicious activity and get involved. In addition to representatives from Street Grace, you will hear from Commissioner Ramsey, local law enforcement, and a survivor.
Registration is encouraged. Register HERE.
Human Trafficking is an offense against the fundamental dignity of the human person.
January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
"Human Trafficking is modern-day slavery and involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to obtain labor or commercial sex. Every year, millions of men, women, and children are trafficked in countries around the world. This serious crime is not just a problem in other countries – it is also happening in the United States in urban, suburban, and rural areas. "
Blue Campaign
You can view events and learning resources from the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services here.
Feast of the Holy Family Solemn Chanted Vespers
Feast of the Holy Family on Jan 11
This is a Feast that seeks to portray the Holy Family of Nazareth as the “true model of life” from which our families can draw inspiration and know where to find help and comfort. Read the full article on Vatican News
On the Second Sunday of the month, we offer the opportunity to celebrate 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.
7 am Mass Access Notice | Houston Marathon
Downtown road closures related to the Houston Marathon events may cause minor traffic delays for the 7 am Mass. However, parish parking will remain open, available, and free to parishioners and visitors. Please download and print the parking access pass so you can be let into the parking garage on Sunday from 5:30 am to 8:30 am.
The parish parking garage will be open prior to all Mass times. We have also secured Parking Garage Patrol.
To the 7 am Mass, please allow a little extra travel time, put the provided parking pass on your dashboard, and we look forward to welcoming you.
Christmas Crèche Breakdown | Help the Camaras
Please help the Camaras with our Christmas Crèche breakdown!
Safe Environment Training can be completed at archgh.org/ocyp. You may also check and download your certificates at this link.
Email sign up and questions to Mary Camara at seahouse1@att.net.
Hope you are all enjoying the beautiful Christmas Octave!
January 3: following 1st Saturday devotions. (approx 9:30am) Epiphany will be celebrated Jan. 4th and Jan. 6th. This means that the statues of the shepherds must be moved out and the wise men put in on Jan. 3rd. We need strong men to help move the heavy statues and help cleaning out the 'cave' and repacking the shepherds, cow, donkey, and sheep. Power tool for screwing the tops/sides of the crates will be helpful.
January 10: following 8am Mass (approx 8:45am) and later 1:30pm (following a noon wedding)
The morning shift (8:45-11:30am) will require strong men who can help move the heavy statues out of the creche and repack them in their crates. Some cleanup and dismantling of the INSIDE of the cave will be done also, if time permits.
We could use another crew (1:30 - 3:30pm ) to finish dismantling the paper/chicken wire, wooden platform, storing the wood and wire, moving the Blessed Mother back into place...and cleanup before the 5:30pm Vigil Mass.
January 16: 8:00am We need some strong men to help load the creche (statue crates, wooden platform pieces, etc.) into the U-Haul and unload them at the Cathedral Centre loading dock and store them in the room there.
Please email sign up (and time(s) if appropriate) to seahouse1@att.net so we can make sure we have enough people to complete these tasks on time (or possibly even early if there are enough people).
Thanks,
Mike and Mary Camara
Landscaping Apostolate
On second Saturdays of the month, join us 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.
Epiphany of the Lord | Chalking the Door | Blessing of Epiphany Water
Schedule
Sun, Jan 4
Regular Sunday Schedule
Blessing Table after 9 and 11 am Masses
Mon, Jan 5
7 pm Blessing of Epiphany Water followed by Benediction
Please label your salt and/or water
Tues, Jan 6
7 pm Epiphany Mass (Latin)
Wine, cheese, and treats reception hosted by the Marian Daughters in the Foley House
The garage rollup door will close at 11 pm. You may park on the street if you would like to continue conversing at the parish.
Blessing of Epiphany Water
Please bring water jugs with mouth openings wide enough to put in exorcised salt.
The Roman Ritual provides a strong blessing of Epiphany water that casts out all evil spirits, emphasizing the symbolism of water as a cleansing agent. Read article on Aleteia
Bless Your Home with Epiphany Chalk
20 + C + M + B + 26
“20” and “26” represent the New Year
The “+” signs represent the cross
C, M, B stands for the names of the Magi (Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar) and a Latin blessing, Christus Mansionem Benedicat (Christ bless this house).
The Epiphany House Blessing is an ancient tradition deeply tied to the Exodus Passover that places God at the entrance of your home and your entire family under His protection.
A household member can lead this beautiful blessing that brings many graces and protection against spiritual enemies. We will have kits for each family to take home with chalk blessed by Father Felix.
“...Take some of the blood [of the lamb], and put it on the two doorposts and the lintel of the houses in which they eat them. They shall eat the flesh that night, roasted; with unleavened bread and bitter herbs they shall eat it ... The blood shall be a sign for you, upon the houses where you are; and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague shall fall upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt.” Exodus 12:1-13
Personet Hodie
"La Marche des Rois"
French Epiphany Carol
The melody comes from an old war song about the great royal French general Turenne
Mary, Mother of God | Holyday of Obligation
Having just celebrated the Nativity, the Church concludes the octave of Christmas by honoring Mary under her greatest title, Mater Dei — the Mother of God. Upon the fact of her divine Motherhood depend all her dignities and prerogatives. The Christmas octave will close with a day honoring Mary as the Mother of God. “This celebration... is meant to commemorate the part played by Mary in this mystery of salvation.”
Mass Schedule
Dec 31st: 5:30 pm Vigil
Jan 1st: 7 am
Jan 1st: 9 am
Jan 1st: 11 am (Latin)
Veni Creator at the principal Masses
Te Deum & Veni Creator | Plenary Indulgence
Te Deum | Plenary Indulgence for December 31
Te Deum is a traditional hymn of joy and thanksgiving. A plenary indulgence is granted if the hymn is recited publicly on the last day of the year to give thanks to Almighty God for the benefits received in the year. To obtain the indulgence, the faithful must perform the indulgenced work; 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.
"O God, we praise Thee, and acknowledge Thee to be the supreme Lord
Everlasting Father, all the earth worships Thee..."
Veni, Creator Spiritus | Plenary Indulgence for January 1
A plenary indulgence is granted if the hymn is recited on the first of January. Veni, Creator Spiritus is recited and sung by the faithful all over the world at the start of important undertakings, such as the beginning of a school year, at conventions, missions, retreats, and on many similar occasions. To obtain the indulgence, the faithful must perform the indulgenced work; 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.
"Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest, and in our souls take up Thy rest; come with Thy grace and heavenly aid to fill the hearts which Thou hast made..."
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 read Men of the Word.
For those seeking membership in the Knights of Columbus Council 17060, please email our Grand Knight, Mike Stimac, at stimac73@yahoo.com.
Blessing of Wine on the Feast of St. John the Evangelist
Blessing of Wine for the Feast of St. John the Evangelist after 8:00 am Mass. Please label your bottles of wine, and leaving them in a bag is okay.
Why bless wine for the feast of St. John?
From Aleteia - Original article
Legend of the Poison
The tradition is based on a legend surrounding the life of St. John. One day John was challenged by his enemies to drink a cup of wine filled with poison. The accounts of the legend differ as to what happens next. John either drank the wine and did not suffer any ill effect or he blessed the wine and the poison rose from the cup in the form of a serpent. In either case, John was not harmed by the wine and his enemies were confounded.
In memory of this event the Church has a special blessing of wine that can be found in the Roman Ritual. The blessing refers to the legend and also refer to the wine’s medicinal qualities. The blessing is centuries old and wine used to be a remedy for certain ailments.
It may not be a bad idea to have your wine blessed if you are planning an upcoming New Year’s Eve party, invoking God’s graces upon all those who drink it.
God's Love Revealed | Children's Christmas Play
You are invited to the children’s Christmas play “God’s Love Revealed” next on Christmas Eve at 4pm in the church. Children’s Choir directed by Catherine Schaefer. Followed by Christmas Carols at 5 pm and Christmas Vigil Mass at 5:30 pm
St. Andrew Advent Novena Ends
Join the Marian Daughters in praying this novena to St. Andrew! We begin the novena on the feast of St. Andrew on November 30 and conclude on Christmas Eve. Tradition holds that we pray the novena 15 times daily for a particular intention.
St. Andrew Novena Prayer
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, I beseech Thee, O my God, to hear my prayer and grant my desires through the merits of Our Savior Jesus Christ, and of His blessed Mother. Amen.
Name any intentions or other prayers you wish to share with God.
Why St. Andrew is the Perfect Advent Saint
St. Andrew was eagerly waiting for the Messiah and when he found him, took others to see him! Read the article on Aleteia
Christmas Eve and Day Schedule | Holyday of Obligation
Christmas Eve | December 24
6:30 am Mass
4 pm Children’s Christmas Play
5 pm Christmas Carols
5:30 pm Christmas Vigil
The Nativity of Jesus Christ | December 25 | Holyday of Obligation
Dec 24 - 11:15 pm Christmas Carols
12 am Midnight Mass (Latin) with highest solemnity and procession with baby Jesus
7 am Mass (English)
9 am Mass (English)
11 am Sung Mass (Latin)
Puer natus est nobis,
et filius datus est nobis :
cuius imperium super humerum eius :
et vocabitur nomen eius, magni consilii angelus.
Cantate Domino canticum novum :
quia mirabilia fecit.
A child is born to us,
and a Son is given to us:
Whose government is upon His shoulder:
and His Name shall be called, the Angel of Great Counsel.
Sing ye to the Lord a new canticle:
because He hath done wonderful things
Young Adults Winter Potluck | Hot Cocoa, Music, & S’mores
Young adults are invited to join us for the AYA Winter Social in the Annunciation plaza—a festive evening of s’mores, hot cocoa, music, and great conversation. With string lights and a fire setting a warm, peaceful atmosphere, this is a perfect chance to slow down, meet other young adults, and enjoy fellowship during a busy season. All young adults are welcome—come be part of a joyful and growing community at Annunciation. Potluck - please bring a dinner dish!
Send any questions to Annunciation Young Adults Leader, PJ Nicart, at 956.295.0074 or nicartp@gmail.com.
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
We have had many positive comments in the past:
We need more people like you getting out and praying in public!
What a breath of fresh air having people praying peacefully!
It's nice to see people praying in public - our country really needs it right now!
Invite your family and friends — all are welcome!
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 archgh.org/ocyp. You may also check and download your certificates at this link.
Email sign up and questions to Mary Camara at seahouse1@att.net.
Transport Creche
Friday, December 19th, Mike wants to meet helpers at the Cathedral Centre. It is at Jefferson at San Jacinto. The parking lot is on Jefferson next to the building. The creche storage is in the basement and we access it through the loading dock. Mike has rented a U-Haul (with an appliance dolly to facilitate moving the statues). The creche items will be unloaded at the Church with the statues placed in the choir access vestibule and the wooden pieces placed in the Reconciliation room near St. Joseph's altar.
Gloves are helpful as the wooden crates the statues are packed in are rough plywood.
Setup Creche
Saturday, December 20th, we will meet around 9am - following 8am Mass. The platform for the creche takes about an hour to put together (cordless drill with Philips head screw driver bit helpful). St. Joseph's altar statue is covered with a blue/gray cloth. The frame for the creche and roof (including the chicken wire) take about another hour. So 9-11am this work will be the main focus.
Smaller tasks can be done during this time, also: opening the crates (lambs, donkey, cow, shepherds - 2 crates, Blessed Mother with manger); placing the long wooden dowel through the top of the green curtain; testing the lights to eliminate strands that have broken light bulbs; etc. Drill with screw driver heads will make the crate opening much easier.
Attaching the chicken wire is easier with a power stapler (3/8 inch staples). Attaching lights (zip ties) and "rock colored"paper (regular stapler) do not require a lot of muscle. Adding moss to crevices comes next. This takes about 2 hours (11am-2pm - lunch break at noon).
Placing the statues in the creche does require strength as they must be lifted about 3 ft up onto the creche platform. 2-3pm
Curtain is placed to cover nativity scene until Christmas Eve and cleanup should be completed by 4pm so that area is ready for the Vigil Mass.
Times are approximate. Thanks for helping,
Mike and Mary Camara
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)
Ember Days in Advent
Schedule
Dec 17 – Ember Wednesday - 12:10 pm Mass (Latin)
Dec 19 – Ember Friday - 12:10 pm Mass (Latin)
Dec 20 – Ember Saturday - 8:00 am Mass (Latin)
The Advent Ember Days thank God for blessings obtained during the past year and to implore further graces for the new season. The Ember Days consecrate the four seasons to God, reminding us of the good things of His creation.
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".
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, is gifting a new, permanent mural of Our Lady of Guadalupe, bringing the message and protection of Our Lady of Guadalupe closer to all who seek her intercession. Fr. Felix will dedicate the mural after the 6:30 pm mass. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.
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
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.
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.
For those who attend the Sunday 5:30 pm Mass: We have two separate and distinct obligations to attend Mass:
Sunday, December 7th, the Second Sunday of Advent
Monday, December 8th, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, which is our national patronal Feast Day and a holy day of obligation.
Please plan to attend Mass on both Sunday, December 7th (or the Saturday evening vigil) and on Monday, December 8th.
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.
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.
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 emperor, 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 parishes. Come and be part of this historic gift of grace for our city and Archdiocese.
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
Advent Begins
Seasons that prepare us for great feast days. Advent also includes an element of penance in the sense of preparing, quieting, and disciplining our hearts for the full joy of Christmas.
Alma Redemptoris Mater
O Loving Mother of our Redeemer
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.
O loving Mother of our Redeemer, gate of heaven, star of the sea,
Hasten to aid thy fallen people who strive to rise once more.
Thou who brought forth thy holy Creator, all creation wond'ring,
Yet remainest ever Virgin, taking from Gabriel's lips
that joyful "Hail!": be merciful to us sinners.
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
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.
Text is taken from canticasacra.org
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.
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.
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.