In this Sunday's Gospel Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead, giving him the gift of life, and his family and community the gift of faith. When asked, Martha professes her belief that Jesus is the Christ.

What is the basis for our own faith in eternal life in Christ? Or, is our faith buried in a tomb of uncertainty or doubt – confused or challenged by others who do not believe? How might our faith be raised and restored in these Lenten days of fasting, alms-giving and prayer? Without faith, living the Christian life can seem foolish, burdensome or heavy. With faith, we become living witnesses to the resurrection, freely giving our lives, talents and gifts.
WE HAVE A NEW SCHEDULE FOR THE LENTEN MISSION AND AN ADDED WEDNESDAY NIGHT TALK. EVERYONE IS INVITED! BRING YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS !

This Sunday we Welcome Fr Paulson to Saint Francis of Assisi !
Fr. Paulson V. Veliyannoor visited us last year and gave an all day conference on Eucharist. He is a Claretian Missionary from India. He holds a doctorate in clinical psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute, California, He is currently engaged in administration, teaching, and research at Saint Claret College, Ziro (India), besides his preaching ministry. Father Paulson was the author of the reflections in the Bible Diary 2013. Father will offer a Sunday Lenten conference and a Monday thru Wednesday Morning Mission after our 8:30AM daily Mass and has added a Wednesday Evening Lenten Talk at 7:40PM in the Church

SUNDAY LENTEN CONFERENCE APRIL 6 from 3:30 TO 5PM in the church, followed by a coffee social.
The Lord’s Prayer: The Summary of the Gospel
One of the early Fathers of the Church, Tertullian of Carthage, called the Lord’s Prayer “the summary of the entire Gospel” and “the foundation of further desires.” Ever since the Lord taught his disciples how to pray, we, the Church, have been praying it every day. However, sometimes the prayer becomes so familiar that we fail to see what it actually contains. What do we mean when we pray the prayer Jesus taught us? The two-hour Sunday Conference will dwell on the richness and beauty of the prayer we cherish and pray most. A coffee social will follow.

MORNING LENTEN MISSION Following the 8:30AM Daily Mass on; Mon. April 7, Tues., April 8, Wed., April 9th.
Be Joyful Evangelizers of the Gospel
On the Feast of Christ, the King, 2013, our beloved Pope Francis gave us his apostolic exhortation “Evangelii Gaudium,” the Joy of the Gospel. During the Lenten Mission, we will reflect together as to how to be joyful evangelizers and share with others the joy that the Gospel brings. For this, we will draw from the exhortation as well as from the numerous teachings the Pope has been giving during his audiences and weekly angelus messages. Some of the themes we will dwell on will be: what is the Gospel and what does it invite us to do?; how do we proclaim the Gospel?; the social dimension of the Gospel; sacraments and the Gospel; and, how to be spirit-filled evangelizers. Hospitality will follow in the parish hall.

A SPECIAL ADDED EVENING TALK AT 7:40 PM IN THE CHURCH ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9TH

Bible Study on Monday night, April the 7th at 7:40PM with Jessie Romero

Parish Penance Service On Tuesday, April 8th starting at 6:30PM in the Church.

Blessings for Couples celebrating a wedding anniversary.
On the third Sunday of each Month we honor and pray for our couples celebrating wedding anniversaries. To sign up for the April blessing, Couples are encouraged to call the pastoral center at the beginning of the month.

Marriage Encounter —Come experience the life giving water of Christ at a Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend. The next weekends are in Ventura Apr 25-27 and in Chatsworth July 18-20; for more info. contact Ed and Jo Lara 818-848-6729

Stations of the Cross and a bowl of Soup—On Friday April 4th, we pray the Stations of the Cross at 6PM in the church, followed by a simple meal of soup in the parish hall. All are welcome! This is our last evening for Soup as Next week we have the sacrament of Confirmation.

The Knights of Columbus will be with us on the weekend of May 3rd and 4th recruiting Men to restart our council.

Michael A. Lara
Saint Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church "A rest stop for the Soul"
1048 W. Ventura Street Fillmore, CA. 93015

Telephone: (805) 524-1306 ext. 17 FAX: (805) 524-0784
Email: stfrancisoffice@sbcglobal.net

PAX ET BONUM!
Thank you for your message and for all that you do for Saint Francis of Assisi! God Bless

THOUSAND OAKS, CA - A prominent religious ethicist will speak at California Lutheran University’s Thousand Oaks campus and at its Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in Berkeley as part of a state tour dedicated to addressing social issues.

Larry Rasmussen, the Reinhold Niebuhr Professor Emeritus of Social Ethics at Union Theological Seminary in New York City and past president of the Society of Christian Ethics, will present “God, Water and Human Responsibility” at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 8, in CLU’s Samuelson Chapel. He will discuss “God, Ethics and the Anthropocene” at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 9, in the Chapel of the Cross at PLTS.

Rasmussen is the author of many books and articles, most recently “Earth Honoring Faith: Religious Ethics in a New Key.”

At CLU, he will explore whether water, the source and sustainer of life on the planet, is sacred. He will also discuss what that would mean for the western United States, where most inland water is dammed and diverted for human use.

Rasmussen’s PLTS talk will focus on what some geologists have christened the Anthropocene, the epoch dominated by human activities. This geological time division has not been officially adopted as the current age but it is moving toward a vote. Rasmussen will discuss what such an epoch would mean for how we conceive of God’s power and presence, or theology, and our power and presence, or ethics. After his PLTS talk, he will speak at a worship service at 11:30 a.m.

Following the Thousand Oaks and Berkeley talks, Rasmussen and Sam Thomas, an associate professor of religion at CLU, will continue on to Sacramento and Davis to meet with lawmakers, activists, pastors and scholars.

The free talks and the tour are sponsored by the Segerhammar Center for Faith and Culture at CLU in conjunction with the Lutheran Office of Public Policy in California. The Segerhammar Center is dedicated to bringing academics, community members and people of different faiths together to address issues facing society today.

Samuelson Chapel is located at 165 Chapel Lane in Thousand Oaks. Chapel of the Cross is located at 2770 Marin Ave. in Berkeley.

For more information, contact Sam Thomas at sthomas@callutheran.edu or 805-493-3693.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO EVANGELIZE AND BRING PEOPLE TO CHURCH OR BRING BACK FALLEN AWAY CATHOLICS? COME TO SAINT FRANCIS ON SUNDAY MARCH 23RD Father Artur, has
invited Mr. Terry Barber as a guest speaker this Sunday from 3 to 4PM In the church, followed by a coffee social in the courtyard. Terry has 30 years experience in evangelization and has recently authored a book entitled, “How to Share Your Faith with Anyone-A practical manual for Catholic Evangelization”. The conference is free. If you wish to purchase a Book,
they will be available for around $17. Everyone is Invited. EVANGELIZE THIS LENT!

Catholic?

Ken Hensley a former protestant Minister and now a practicing Catholic and member of our parish family will offer a series of topics on how God nudged his heart to became a Catholic and how to better understand our Catholic faith. Ken’s talks are scheduled for Tuesdays at 7:40PM in the church

Congratulations to Don and Janice Schieferle who are celebrating 47 years of Marriage this Month. May this fine couple be filled with God’s Blessings and Grace. On the third Sunday of each Month we honor and pray for our couples celebrating wedding anniversaries. To sign up for the April blessing, Couples are encouraged to call the pastoral center at the beginning of the month.

Today’s gospel says, “Whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst; the water I shall give will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” Come experience the life giving water of Christ at a Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend. The next weekends are in Ventura Apr 25-27 and in Chatsworth July 18-20; for more info. contact Ed and Jo Lara 818-848-6729 or go online at www.twocanlove.org We help make good marriages better.

Stations of the Cross and a bowl of Soup—On Fridays during Lent we pray the Stations of the Cross at 6PM in the church, followed by a simple meal of soup in the parish hall. All are welcome! on April 11, we have confirmation.

The Knights of Columbus will be with us on the weekend of May 3rd and 4th recruiting Men to restart a council at Saint Francis of Assisi. All Catholic Men are encouraged by Fr. Art to join this wonderful organization.

All parish men are invited to go to Facebook and Like this page MEN living for Greatness— that has excellent tools and resources for living a life of greatness in their Catholic Faith. For internet users go to www.MenLivingForGreatness.com Men living for greatness, is continually coming out with
new tools and resources that are simple to use and extremely effective. Visit the site regularly. Enjoy !

On Sunday March 30th all are invited to our Parish Hall for a nice Breakfast of; Pancakes, link sausages,
scrambled eggs, coffee and juice. $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12. The family of Rosa Morales
will sponsor this event 4 times a year and all proceeds will go to the Parish. Thank you Morales Family !

An invitation to experience God’s Mercy and Forgiveness

LENTEN PENANCE SERVICE
As part of our Lenten journey, we invite you to join us for a special time of prayer,
reconciliation and healing. Individual confessions will be held. Come by yourself, come as a family, or invite a friend who has not experienced the Sacrament of Reconciliation in some time. Join us as we experience the gracious mercy of God!

TUESDAY, APRIL 8TH AT 6:30 PM

Welcome Fr Paulson !
Fr. Paulson V. Veliyannoor visited us last year and gave an all day conference on Eucharist. He is a Claretian Missionary from India. He holds a doctorate in clinical psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute, California, He is currently
engaged in administration, teaching, and research at Saint Claret College, Ziro (India), besides his preaching ministry. Father Paulson was the author of the reflections in the Bible Diary 2013. Father will offer a Sunday Lenten conference and a Monday thru Thursday Morning Mission after our 8:30AM daily Mass.

SUNDAY LENTEN CONFERENCE
APRIL 6 from 3:30 TO 5PM in the church
The Lord’s Prayer: The Summary of the Gospel
One of the early Fathers of the Church, Tertullian of Carthage, called the Lord’s Prayer “the summary of the entire Gospel” and “the foundation of further desires.” Ever since the Lord taught his disciples how to pray, we, the Church, have been praying it every day. However, sometimes the prayer becomes so familiar that we fail to see what it actually contains. What do we mean when we pray the prayer Jesus taught us? The two-hour Sunday Conference will dwell on the richness and beauty of the prayer we cherish and pray most. A coffee social will follow.

MORNING LENTEN MISSION
Following the 8:30AM Daily Mass on; -Monday, April 7, -Tuesday, April 8,
-Wednesday, April 9 & -Thursday, April, 10.

Be Joyful Evangelizers of the Gospel
On the Feast of Christ, the King, 2013, our beloved Pope Francis gave us his apostolic exhortation “Evangelii Gaudium,” the Joy of the Gospel. During the Lenten Mission, we will reflect together as to how to be joyful evangelizers and share with others the joy that the Gospel brings. For this, we will draw from the exhortation as well as from the numerous teachings the Pope has been giving during his audiences and weekly angelus messages. Some of the themes we will dwell on will be: what is the Gospel and what does it invite us to do?; how do we proclaim the Gospel?; the social dimension of the Gospel; sacraments and the Gospel; and, how to be spirit-filled evangelizers. Hospitality will follow in the parish hall.

Safeguard the Children—How Old Does a Child Need to Be in Order to Stay Alone? Do not assume that when your child understands what you are saying, he is ready to walk out the door by himself. Besides the fact that many states have laws against leaving children of certain ages alone (for example, younger than 12), experts say children should not be left by themselves until they are capable of fighting off an abductor or handling a crisis situation. Experts also say children do not have the mental maturity to cross busy streets by themselves until they are about 10 or 12 years old. Finally, parents who are certain their young children would never walk away with a stranger will be shocked to learn that studies show they probably will. Stay alert and vigilant, even if you believe your child is aware of possible dangers from others. For particular help, call the Archdiocese’s Victims Assistance
Ministry, (213) 637-7650.

Holyheroes.com A great website for kids of all ages. So many great Catholic teachings!

Michael A. Lara
Saint Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church "A rest stop for the Soul"
1048 W. Ventura Street Fillmore, CA. 93015

Telephone: (805) 524-1306 ext. 17 FAX: (805) 524-0784
Email: stfrancisoffice@sbcglobal.net

PAX ET BONUM!
Thank you for your message and for all that you do for Saint Francis of Assisi! God Bless

Stations of the Cross and a bowl of Soup
On Fridays during Lent we pray the Stations of the Cross at 6PM in the church, followed by a simple meal of soup in the parish hall. All are welcome! The soup kitchen will not meet on April 11, we have confirmation.

This Sunday Parishioners are invited to the courtyard for some fellowship time in the Come and pick up some Carne Asada Tacos or some Baked goods. All proceeds from this fundraiser go to the parish.

Safeguard the Children—Parents and teachers can prevent abusive behaviors. Children, in particular, may have difficulty channeling their feelings appropriately and can easily pick up negative or demeaning cues given by adults around them. Given the diversity of America’s schools, some students may become targets of hostility and blame. Bullying and harassment are never acceptable, but they can be especially damaging at this critical time in our nation’s history. Parents and school personnel need to be prepared to quickly and effectively prevent and stop abusive behaviors that are directed toward any students.
For a copy of the VIRTUS® article, “A National Tragedy: Promoting tolerance and peace in children,” email jvienna@la-archdiocese.org.

Holyheroes.com A great website for kids of all ages. So many great Catholic teachings!

St. John’s School of Theology and Seminary: Theology Day, “The Suffering Servant and Discipleship,” with
Fr. Michael Patella, O.S.B., Saturday, March 29, in Mission Hills next to the San Fernando Mission. Fr. Michael Patella, O.S.B., is Professor of New Testament at the School of Theology and Seminary at St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN, as well as seminary rector and director of its Holy Land Studies program. His areas of specialty as a New Testament scholar include Mark, Luke-Acts, and Paul. He will present “The Suffering Servant and Discipleship” on Saturday, March 29, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, at the San Fernando Regional Pastoral Office in Mission Hills. In this presentation, he will explore and discuss that when the earliest Christian missionaries went forth to proclaim the Good News of Christ, they did so by drawing on Sacred Scripture. Their Gospel proclamation of Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection was, for the early Church, the culmination of the Law, Prophets, and writings found within the Old Testament. This presentation is free and open to the public; however, registration is required. Registration can be made by calling (320) 363-3570. If you would like to carpool, please call Michael Lara at the Pastoral Center by April 24th.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO EVANGELIZE AND BRING PEOPLE TO CHURCH? COME TO SAINT FRANCIS ON SUNDAY MARCH 23RD To help get you started in your life of evangelization (or assist you if you are already active) Saint Francis will be bringing Mr. Terry Barber as a guest speaker on Sunday afternoon, March 23rd from 3 to 4PM in the church, followed by a coffee social in the courtyard. Terry has 30 years experience in evangelization and has recently authored a book entitled, “How to Share Your Faith with Anyone-A practical manual for Catholic Evangelization”. The conference is free. If you wish to purchase a Book, they will be available for around $17. Everyone is Invited. EVANGELIZE THIS LENT!

All parish men are invited to go to Facebook and Like this page MEN living for Greatness— that has excellent tools and resources for living a life of greatness in their Catholic Faith. For internet users go to www.MenLivingForGreatness.com Men living for greatness, is continually coming out with
new tools and resources that are simple to use and extremely effective. Visit the site regularly. Enjoy !

On Sunday March 30th all Parishioners are invited to our Parish Hall for a nice Breakfast of; Pancakes, link sausages, scrambled eggs, coffee and juice. $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12. The family of Rosa Morales will sponsor this event 4 times a year and all proceeds will go to the Parish. Thank you Morales Family !

Good Catholic reading is free and available at the pamphlet rack in the main entrance to the church. Start your Lenten journey learning more about your faith in short and easy pamphlet form that will inspire, inform, and help you to evangelize others. Wishing you a Holy and Blessed Lenten Season!

The Metropolitan Tribunal has an online course, “How to Navigate the Annulment Process,” for parishioners who may be considering approaching the Tribunal about a prior marriage. This short, online course (free and open to the public) will introduce people to the annulment process, in which people (already civilly divorced) approach the Marriage Tribunal and inquire about the possibility of receiving a declaration of nullity. Starting with a theological foundation for the Tribunal's ministry, this course will then explore the parts of a formal trial, introduce terms used, answer frequently-asked questions, and offer guidance for working with Tribunal staff who are assigned to the cases. It also includes a sample brief, so people can see the personal aspects of the final report. The Moodle software used for the creation of this course prefers the use of the Firefox browser. Google Chrome is also acceptable. It does not favor use of Internet Explorer. The course can be accessed at: http://archla.org/annulmentprocess

Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are days of fast and abstinence. Fridays during Lent are days of abstinence. What does it mean to fast? According to Canon Law, the law of fasting allows only one full meal and two small meals a day.

What does it mean to abstain from meat? According to Canon Law, the law of abstinence forbids the use of meat. (this includes chicken) Roman Catholics who are 14 years of age and older are bound to abstain from meat. Disabled or feeble, pregnant women and nursing mothers are exempt.

Why should we fast? The earliest and most often cited purpose of fasting is penance, that is, atonement for sin. Through fasting we humble ourselves before God – setting aside that which sustains us and gives us pleasure – and turn ourselves toward our merciful Lord.

Families of Nazareth meet on Tuesday nights in room 4 from 7:30 to 8:30pm. For an evening of prayer and reflection, come join us. All are welcome!

Rachel's Vineyard Retreat weekend for Healing after Abortion
Rachel's Vineyard retreat is for men and women struggling with the emotional and spiritual pain of abortion. The retreat is designed to help participants work through repressed grief and anger in a safe, nonjudgmental setting and come to acceptance, healing, and hope for the future. Developed in the Roman Catholic Tradition, it utilizes spiritual exercises and rituals to help grieve the loss of unborn children and to accept God’s forgiveness. All inquiries and registrations are confidential. April 4-6, Duarte, CA Cost: $215. per person. For registration or more information please call: 866-272-2435

Saint Francis of Assisi Children's Ballet Folklorico (Mexican Folk Dance) - Our dance group is accepting new members from ages 8—up. Practice is on Sunday’s at 2PM in the church hall. For more information, contact Liz Hernandez at flwr2k@hotmail.com

Forty Days for Life ends on April 13. Please join us in prayer in front of Planned Parenthood from 7am-7pm. 7 days a week. You can go to www.40daysforlife.com/ventura website and sign up for a scheduled time. Also you can remember this cause in your daily sacrifices and prayers too.

2nd Sunday Children's Choir!!! Come make a joyful noise!!! It is never too late to join. Please
call Marie Alviz at 509-0467 if your children are interested in singing. We have a lot of fun singing and playing instruments together

CHILDREN’S MASS—Second Sunday of the month at the 9:15AM MASS
Our next Eucharist is on April 13, Palm Sunday. After Mass, everyone is invited to the courtyard for a coffee, hot chocolate and doughnut fundraiser, all proceeds go to the parish.

Children are on Spring Break from School No Catechism on March 18/19 & 25/26.

Parents If you missed the First communion meeting please call Michael at 524-1306

An invitation to experience God’s Mercy and Forgiveness

LENTEN PENANCE SERVICE
As part of our Lenten journey, we invite you to join us for a special time of prayer,
reconciliation and healing. Individual confessions will be held. Come by ourself, come as a family, or invite a friend who has not experienced the Sacrament of Reconciliation in some time. Join us as we experience the gracious mercy of God! TUESDAY, APRIL 8TH AT 6:3PM

Michael A. Lara
Saint Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church "A rest stop for the Soul"
1048 W. Ventura Street Fillmore, CA. 93015

Telephone: (805) 524-1306 ext. 17 FAX: (805) 524-0784
Email: stfrancisoffice@sbcglobal.net

PAX ET BONUM!
Thank you for your message and for all that you do for Saint Francis of Assisi! God Bless

This Sunday we are reminded how the Spirit led Jesus into the desert where he fasted for forty days and forty nights. Fasting can be a form of prayer as it focuses our attention on things that matter. What are the things we must personally focus upon during these Lenten days?

The devil tempts Jesus to doubt his relationship with God, to doubt God’s providence, and then to use his power to save himself. Jesus resists, but each one of us face temptations to mistrust our experience of God’s love in our lives or to lose sight of the common good. Our Lenten fasting and prayer offer an opportunity to refocus on the Word of God and resist temptations.

Here are some web sites for you to visit during Lent
pray.com.ua
loyolapress.com - A three minute invitation to have a retreat each day
americancatholic.org - A variety of Roman Catholic books to order, Lenten Reflections & lots of great info.

pray-as-you-go.org -A series of meditations in the Ignatian Traditions of Imaginative contemplation. These reflections provide you with an opportunity to encounter Jesus in a personal, unique way.

We have Daily Mass at Saint Francis in English Monday through Friday at 8:30AM and on Saturday Morning at 8AM followed by coffee and fellowship in the Parish Hall. Everyone is Welcome. Misa en Español durante la semana de lunes a viernes es a las 7PM.

On Tuesdays at 10AM in the Parish Hall we reach out to those in need by offering a large bag of fresh vegetables, bread and canned goods. Around 100 families come in each week for a bag. On the First Friday of the month at 12noon, food bags are given out through the food share truck. All are welcome !

SAINT FRANCIS YOUTH GROUP
Contact Vidal Morales at 524-4408

STATIONS OF THE CROSS
During the season of Lent we use the popular devotion of praying the Stations of the cross on the Fridays
of Lent. Each station is a meditation on Jesus' last walk along the Via Dolorosa towards Calvary . As a community we will gather in the church at 6PM each Friday of Lent to pray and walk the Stations of the Cross just as Jesus did. Last year 14 families donated the out door Stations of the Cross in our meditation Garden . In preparation for Lent 2014 we had L.E.D. lighting installed to illuminate each station and walkway for evening prayer. On the first Friday of Lent, March 7th we will turn on the new lights as we pray The outdoor Stations of the Cross at 6PM followed by a bowl of soup in the Parish Hall. All are welcome!

THIS LENT WOULD YOU LIKE TO EVANGELIZE AND BRING PEOPLE TO CHURCH OR BRING BACK FALLEN AWAY CATHOLICS BACK HOME? COME TO SAINT FRANCIS ON SUNDAY MARCH 23RD - To help get you started in your life of evangelization (or assist you if you are already active) Saint Francis will be bringing Mr. Terry Barber as a guest speaker on Sunday afternoon, March 23rd from 3 to 4PM in the church, followed by a coffee social in the courtyard. Terry has 30 years experience in evangelization and has recently authored a book entitled, “How to Share Your Faith with Anyone-A practical manual for Catholic Evangelization”. The conference is free. If you wish to purchase a Book, they will be available for around $17. Everyone is Invited. EVANGELIZE THIS LENT!

All parish men are invited to go to Facebook and Like this page MEN living for Greatness— that has excellent tools and resources for living a life of greatness in their Catholic Faith. For internet users go to www.MenLivingForGreatness.com Men living for greatness, is continually coming out with new tools and resources that are simple to use and extremely effective. Visit the site regularly. Enjoy !

OUR CHILDRENS MASS IS CELEBRATED EVERY SECOND SUNDAY OF THE MONTH AT THE 9:15AM MASS After Mass, everyone is invited to the courtyard for fellowship. We will have Irish music and a dancer or two. A coffee, hot chocolate and doughnut fundraiser will be served and all proceeds go to the parish.

On Sunday March 30th all are invited to our Breakfast in the Parish Hall. The family of Rosa Morales will sponsor this event 4 times a year and all proceeds will go to the Parish.

Good Catholic reading is free and available at the pamphlet rack in the main entrance to the church.
Start your Lenten journey learning more about your faith in short and easy pamphlet form that will inspire, inform, and help you to evangelize others. Wishing you a Holy and Blessed Lenten Season!

Gift Store News we are open on Sundays from 10AM to 3PM and Monday thru Saturday during our Pastoral Center Office Hours, listed on the cover of the bulletin. Come in and visit !

Families of Nazareth meet on Tuesday nights in room 4 from 7:30 to 8:30pm. For an evening of prayer and reflection, come join us. All are welcome!

Holyheros.com great website for kids of all ages. So many great Catholic teachings!

Forty Days for Life begins March 5, through April 13. Please join us in prayer in front of Planned Parenthood from 7am-7pm. 7 days a week. You can go to www.40daysforlife.com/ventura website and sign up for a scheduled time. Also you can remember this cause in your daily sacrifices and prayers too.

2nd Sunday Children's Choir!!! Come make a joyful noise!!! It is never too late to join. Please call Marie Alviz at 509-0467 if your children are interested in singing. We have a lot
of fun singing and playing instruments together

Rachel's Vineyard Retreat weekend for Healing after Abortion
Rachel's Vineyard retreat is for men and women struggling with the emotional and spiritual pain of abortion. The retreat is designed to help participants work through repressed grief and anger in a safe, nonjudgmental setting and come to acceptance, healing, and hope for the future. Developed in the Roman Catholic Tradition, it utilizes spiritual exercises and rituals to help grieve the loss of unborn children and to accept God’s forgiveness. All inquiries and registrations are confidential. April 4-6, Duarte , CA Cost: $215. per person. For registration or more information please call: 866-272-2435

Michael A. Lara
Saint Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church "A rest stop for the Soul"
1048 W. Ventura Street Fillmore, CA. 93015

Telephone: (805) 524-1306 ext. 17 FAX: (805) 524-0784
Email: stfrancisoffice@sbcglobal.net

PAX ET BONUM!
Thank you for your message and for all that you do for Saint Francis of Assisi! God Bless

Troops based at the Kadena Air Base in Japan know how to party. On Saturday, six gay and straight service members applied some of their finest makeup and lip synced to "I Wanna Dance with Somebody" in what is believed to be first drag queen and king show on an American military base. The show was thrown in support for the base's recently formed OutServe-SLDN chapter, a nonprofit advocacy group for the army's LGBT community.

Navy Lt. Marissa Greene told Stars and Stripes she only... http://theweek.com/article/index/257285/speedreads-gay-and-lesbian-troop...

We begin the Holy season of Lent with the imposition of Ash on our fore heads as the following words are spoken to us, Repent and believe in the Gospel. This invitation to Change, is what Lent is all about and what we are called to do. Take some time before Ash Wednesday and let God talk to you, let him speak to you about what's going on in YOUR life that needs some change that will allow the Gospel to live and be proclaimed through YOU!

ASH WEDNESDAY SCHEDULE- MARCH 5TH

8:30AM English Daily Mass
Imposition of Ashes 12noon & from 3:00 PM until 8PM

On Ash Wednesday adults fast by eating only 1 meal & 2 smaller meals. We also abstain from chicken and meat on Ash Wednedsay, Good Friday and every Friday of Lent.

MIERCOLES DE CENIZA - Marzo 5

7AM Misa en Español Al Medio Dia Servicio
De las 3PM hasta las 8PM se dara ceniza continuamente

Here are some web sites for you to visit during Lent
pray.com.ua
loyolapress.com - A three minute invitation to have a retreat each day
americancatholic.org - A variety of Roman Catholic books to order, Lenten Reflections & lots of great info.

pray-as-you-go.org -A series of meditations in the Ignatian Traditions of Imaginative contemplation. These reflections provide you with an opportunity to encounter Jesus in a personal, unique way.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS
During the season of Lent we use the popular devotion of praying the Stations of the cross on the Fridays of Lent. Each station is a meditation on Jesus' last walk along the Via Dolorosa towards Calvary. As a community we will gather in the church at 6PM each Friday of Lent to pray and walk the Stations of the Cross just as Jesus did. Last year 14 families donated the out door Stations of the Cross in our meditation Garden. In preparation for Lent 2014 we had L.E.D. lighting installed to illuminate each station and walkway for evening prayer. On the first Friday of Lent, March 7th we will turn on the new lights as we pray The outdoor Stations of the Cross at 6PM. All are welcome.

FIRST MONDAY BIBLE STUDY AT 7:40PM IN THE CHURCH, MARCH 3RD
This popular bible study will look at Why Lent is 40 days and how that number is a traditional number of discipline, devotion and preparation in the bible. Moses stayed on the Mountain for 40 days (Ex 24:18 and 34:28) Nineveh was given fort days to repent (Jonas 3:4) Jesus spent forty days praying and fasting (Matthew 4:2) Following the bible study we will have a coffee social in the Parish hall. Bring a desert to share

Good Catholic reading is free and available at the pamphlet rack in the main entrance to the church.
Start your Lenten journey learning more about your faith in short and easy pamphlet form that will
inspire, inform, and help you to evangelize others. Wishing you a Holy and Blessed Lenten Season!

Families of Nazareth meet on Tuesday nights in room 4 from 7:30 to 8:30pm. For an evening of prayer and reflection, come join us. All are welcome!

Rachel's Vineyard Retreat weekend for Healing after Abortion
Rachel's Vineyard retreat is for men and women struggling with the emotional and spiritual pain of abortion. The retreat is designed to help participants work through repressed grief and anger in a safe, nonjudgmental setting and come to acceptance, healing, and hope for the future. Developed in the Roman Catholic Tradition, it utilizes spiritual exercises and rituals to help grieve the loss of unborn children and to accept God’s forgiveness. All inquiries and registrations are confidential. April 4-6, Duarte, CA Cost: $215. per person. For registration or more information please call: 866-272-2435

Holyheros.com great website for kids of all ages. So many great Catholic teachings!

Saint Francis of Assisi Academy- is now
accepting applications for the upcoming school year 2014/2015 This is a Pre– K program (must be 4yrs. by December 31st del 2014). Program is from 8:30am to 11:30am From September 2014 to Mid June 2015 For applications or more information please come to the Parochial Center, or call Maggie at 805-524-1306

Forty Days for Life begins March 5, through April 13. Please join us in prayer in front of Planned Parenthood from 7am-7pm. 7 days a week. You can go to www.40daysforlife.com/ventura website and sign up for a scheduled time. Also you can remember this cause in your daily sacrifices and prayers too.

2nd Sunday Children's Choir!!! Come make a joyful noise!!! It is never too late to join. Please call Marie Alviz at 509-0467 if your children are interested in singing. We have a lot
of fun singing and playing instruments together

2014 TOGETHER IN MISSION CAMPAIGN:
March 1—2 Commitment weekend (in pew)
March 8—9 Follow-Up Weekend

As part of the Annual Catholic Appeal, Together in Mission provides substantial financial support to 37 parishes and 56 schools in our Archdiocese. Your gift enables us to provide essential resources and ministries that enrich parish life, strengthen families, advance Church leadership and inspire and educate future generations of our faith.

Saint Francis Gift Store is open every Sunday from 10AM to 3PM and on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10AM to 1PM and 2PM to 8PM and On Fridays from 10AM to 1PM. We have a lot of religious art and beautiful jewelry, devotional books and bibles. Come in and Visit!

The Blackwood Legacy Quartet, direct from Nashville, will be presenting aspecial concert event in our community in January. Boasting an unbroken lineage to the Dove and Grammy-award winningBlackwood Brothers, the Mansion Recordsartistslink the best of Southern Gospel’s traditional sound with today’s newer Country gospel and worship music.The Blackwood LegacyQuartet will be in concert onSunday, February 9, 11 am, atthe First Baptist Church in Fillmore.Admissionis free and an offeringwill be received.

TheBlackwood Legacy Quartet has an all-star line-up. Lead singerDaniel Childsis the great grandson to Blackwood Brothers founding father, Roy Blackwood. Spokane native Luke Yatessings baritone with the group, and is also an award-winning pianist. Tenorsinger Paul Secord, formerly a featured singer for Disney World,is one of the most talented in Gospel Music today.Group owner and bass singer, Rick Price, was originally a protégée of the late Cecil Blackwood. He began his 35-year career singing with the Blackwood Brothers in 1977, and was eventually inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame with the legendary group.Performing since 2001, The Blackwood Legacy Quartet was signed to Mansion Records in 2010, and continues the grand tradition of gospel music, performing nearly 250 dates annually nationwide.

The First Baptist Church is located 1057 First Street. For more informationyou can call the church at 805-512-3217, visit the group's website at TheBlackwoodLegacy.com, or find the quartet on Facebook.

Written by by Kristan Hawkins

What can I say that hasn’t already been said about today?

Yesterday evening, I was sitting in my living room working while watching my sons play. I began to think about what my life would have been without them. How different I would be. How their lives have already made this world a different place since they were born. How much I would hurt if I had chosen abortion.

Then, I thought of the more than 55,000,000 lives that have been taken in the U.S. since 1973, and I became overwhelmed at the tragedy. Tragedy for the babies, their mothers, their fathers, families, and us.

Who is our nation... http://www.lifenews.com/2013/01/22/i-am-overwhelmed-by-55-million-babies...

Posted: January 17, 2014

On Friday the U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and Treasury appealed Thomas Aquinas College’s recent victory over the HHS Contraceptive Mandate in the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia.

The three federal agencies are seeking to overturn Judge Amy Jackson’s December 20, 2013, ruling, which held that the HHS Mandate violated the College’s religious liberties under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. As part of that ruling, Judge Jackson had issued a permanent injunction protecting the College from the federal policy requiring all employers to provide contraceptive, abortifacient, and sterilization coverage to their employees.

Although Judge Jackson’s injunction is now in jeopardy, it remains in effect pending the outcome of the appeal. For the time being, the College may continue providing comprehensive health insurance in accordance with Catholic teaching.

“We are disappointed that the government has appealed Judge Jackson’s ruling, again placing the College’s religious freedom in doubt,” says President Michael F. McLean. “We ask that all of the College’s friends and supporters continue to pray that we will be successful in securing our religious liberties.”

http://www.thomasaquinas.edu/news/government-appeals-college-victory-ove...

Beginning February 2, 2014, Trinity Church, Fillmore, will host a level I adult formation course of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a Christian education method for children that is grounded in scriptural and liturgical study, framed by Montessori principles of education. The children hear the Gospel through the use of sensory rich materials, and in working with these materials, they are taught deep truth by the Holy Spirit.

The adult's role is to prepare the sacred space, which is a place of community and worship rather than a classroom for academic study, and to become a co-wonderer with the children at the mysteries of God. This method is used by many denominations throughout the world.

Come and see how Catechesis of the Good Shepherd can be a blessing to you, your children or grandchildren, and your church. For more information about this course, or to see the program in action, please call Trinity Church, 805 524-1910

10AM to 2:30PM in the Parish Hall

Did you know that the first Nativity scene was created by our very own Saint Francis. He used a cave in the mountains of his village, brought in animals and created a manger for baby Jesus that the priest used for an Altar. Our main purpose by displaying our Nativity Scenes is to remind people that the true meaning of Christmas is the birth of our Lord Jesus.

If you would like to reserve a spot to display your Nativity scene, Please call Oralia at: 794-1900. Set up is between 7 & 8 AM In the parish hall. Please pick up your Nativity scene at: 2:30 PM. Everyone is invited to this Advent Extravaganza.

This Sunday evening December 15, at 5 PM, the Chancel Choir of the Bardsdale United Methodist Church will present its annual Christmas Vespers Program in the Sanctuary of the historic church.

This gift to the community came into being in the 1950s under the direction of John Brothers, Choir Director Emeritus, and has continued through the decades since thanks to former director Bill Bartels and current director Marsha Porter.

The musical program tells the story of Christmas from the prophecy to the visit of the magi in both vocal and instrumental arrangements. The Chancel Choir and organist Dennis Prichard will be joined by guest singers and musicians to fill your hearts with the sounds of the season during this superb event.

There will be light refreshments in the Narthex following the program. Bring a friend and be filled with Christmas.

The church is located at 1498 Bardsdale Avenue, a short drive to the country.

Did you know that the first Nativity scene was created by our very own Saint Francis. He used a cave in the mountains of his village, brought in animals and created a manger for baby Jesus that the priest used for an Altar. Our main purpose by displaying our Nativity Scenes is to remind people what the true meaning of Christmas is the birth of our Lord Jesus.

If you would like to reserve a spot to display your Nativity scene, Please call Oralia at: 794-1900. Set up is between 7 & 8 AM In the parish hall. Please pick up your Nativity scene at: 2:30 PM. Everyone is invited to this Advent Extravaganza.

Michael A. Lara
Saint Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church "A rest stop for the Soul"
1048 W. Ventura Street Fillmore, CA. 93015

Telephone: (805) 524-1306 ext. 17 FAX: (805) 524-0784
Email: stfrancisoffice@sbcglobal.net

That hope is deceitful which hopes to be saved amid the occasions of sin. St. Augustine

Written by Robert Spencer

"The Prophet wrote the (marriage contract) with Aisha while she was six years old and consummated his marriage with her while she was nine years old and she remained with him for nine years (i.e. till his death)" (Bukhari 7.62.88).

Do the human rights of this girl matter? Or would caring about her be "Islamophobic"?

"Child marriage: Minor girl ‘sold’ to suitor," by Aushique Shaikh for the Express Tribune, October 21 (thanks to The Religion of Peace):

A nine year old girl, W*, was married to 35-year old Zahid Zardari on Thursday, after the groom reportedly paid Rs1.5 million to her family.

That's around $14,000.

W* is a resident... http://www.jihadwatch.org/2013/10/pakistan-nine-year-old-girl-sold-in-ma...

Ched Myers

THOUSAND OAKS, CA - An internationally renowned peace and justice activist from Oak View will talk about contemporary anarchism and the church on Wednesday, Nov. 6, at California Lutheran University.

Activist theologian Ched Myers will present a vision of Christian discipleship and community that opens alternative paths to justice and equality during a presentation titled “Radical Christianity: Contemporary Anarchism and the Church” at 7 p.m. in Samuelson Chapel.

Historically in the U.S., people of faith have been on the forefront of struggles for social change, according to Myers, a fifth-generation Californian. In this generation, this has included movements for civil rights, labor solidarity, immigrant and refugee rights, and disarmament. Today, Myers says, we need to animate a new generation of ecumenical leadership committed both to the Gospel and to social change.

Over the past three decades, Myers has been an activist, writer, community builder and popular educator in response to what he describes as “the discipleship call.” He has worked with many peace and justice organizations and movements, including the American Friends Service Committee and the Pacific Concerns Resource Center.

He is author of four books, co-author of five and co-editor of two. He also has published two dozen chapters in collections and more than 100 articles in both scholarly journals and popular magazines.

Myers travels throughout North America and abroad giving seminars and retreats, teaching, preaching and facilitating gatherings. He is particularly committed to faith-based peace and justice efforts such as Christian Peacemaker Teams, Borderlinks, and the Catholic Worker movement, Witness for Peace. In 2007, he helped establish the Bartimaeus Institute in Oak View to provide opportunities for interactive study of scripture and social justice.

Myers holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from the University of California, Berkeley and a master’s in New Testament studies from the Graduate Theological Union. He has served as adjunct faculty at Memphis Theological Seminary, Fuller Theological Seminary and Claremont School of Theology, where he was the 1998-99 Fellow in Urban Theology.

The chapel is located south of Olsen Road near Campus Drive on the Thousand Oaks campus.

CLU’s Center for Equality and Justice (CEJ), Campus Ministry and religion department are sponsoring the free presentation. For more information, contact the CEJ at cej@callutheran.edu or 805-493-3694.

This Saturday, October 5, beginning at 8 am, the Bardsdale United Methodist Church is having its semi-annual yard sale, hosted by the United Methodist Women.

Besides the usual bargains you'll find in clothing, tools, books, household items, kitchenware and bric-a-brac, there are tables of seasonal decorations to get you ready for the holidays. There is also a boutique room for the finer items.

The sale ends promptly at 12 noon so don't delay. The church is located at 1498 Bardsdale Avenue.

Proceeds from this sale enables Bardsdale's UMW to fund many ministry projects including the assisting of our neighbors in need here in Fillmore.

The Bardsdale Church Rummage Sale, hosted by the United Methodist Women, will be held Saturday, October 5th, from 8 AM until noon in the parking lot and LeBard Hall of the church.

This semi-annual event provides shoppers with the opportunity to find great deals on a variety of items ranging from the practical to the eclectic.

Please mark your calendars and spend your first October Saturday morning treasure hunting in Bardsdale.
The church is located at 1498 Bardsdale Avenue.

Sunday, October 6, 2013 at 6:00 p.m..
Hosted by Faith Community Church of Fillmore
Located at 461 Central Avenue, Fillmore, CA 93015.

Through all its varied ensembles, the School of Music seeks excellence in performance, which in turn honors God. The WOMEN'S CHOIR is one of four choirs offered at CBU, consisting of approximately 88 young ladies, directed by Mrs. Dawn Gilmore. The ensemble provides a fresh and exciting approach to music in a variety of styles. They combine musical variety with a high level of performance in their ministry.

Auditions will also be held for CBU scholarship opportunities, following the service for all High School juniors, seniors, and Junior College students interested in pursuing music at a 4-year university.

For information regarding the concert, please call the church office at (805) 524-5564 or the School of Music office at (951) 343-4949 or (800) 782-3382, ext. 4949, toll free.

Founded in 1950, California Baptist University is affiliated with the California Southern Baptist Convention and is fully accredited. CBU is the only Southern Baptist college or university on the West Coast. Our 131-acre campus reflects the Southern California environment, with towering palm trees, mission-style buildings, and a spectacular view of the nearby San Bernardino Mountains. More than 6,000 students attend CBU, coming to Riverside from more than 40 states and 30 countries, instructed by 100% Christian
faculty and staff, in 150 undergraduate majors and concentrations, and 33 graduate majors and credentials. Located 60 miles east of Los Angeles, Riverside is a community of 240,000. Rich in its own culture and history, Riverside is also close to remarkable cultural and recreational opportunities. California Baptist University has been named a 2012-2013 "College of Distinction", one of about 200 institutions nationally to make the list, and 2103 U.S. News & World Report Best Regional University.

For more information about the university, send a letter to the office of Admissions, 8432 Magnolia Avenue, Riverside, CA 92504. You may also call (800) 782-3382, or
access the CBU website at www.calbaptist.edu/music. Visit www.calbaptist.edu/musictv to view video footage of our music groups.

Nunez Family Bret, Melissa, Garrett, Cathy and Brittaney and Shel Rollo
Enlarge Photo

Mark and Elyse Patierno, David Reinders, Grant and Cheryl Wade.
Enlarge Photo

In 1993 a small group of people had a vision for Fillmore's first Christian private school. Mark and Cheryl Wade were the visionaries, Tracy Hackney was the Treasurer and Martha Richardson was the first teacher, at Fillmore Christian Academy.

It started with ten students, in multi-grades, in one classroom, at the Richardson's home. Later, the school moved to the Faith Community Church on D Street and lastly, in 1994, to the Central Avenue facility. Over the years the enrollment increased as did the number of teachers and other staff members. During the past 20 years, we have had about 40 staff members and over 400 students in grades K-8.

Last Saturday, September 21, 2013 staff, students and parents gathered together to celebrate 20 years of Fillmore Christian Academy. It was a time for reminiscing and remembering the past, but also a time to look forward to the future. It was most of all, a time to celebrate God's faithfulness and guidance in all he has accomplished and will accomplish through this humble little school.