Sowers of Justice&
CHRISTMAS FOOD ASSISTANCE
In the past we have provided food baskets for members of our community who have difficulty providing a complete Christmas meal.  Last year we changed to providing food coupons to local stores so that families could choose their own menu consistent with their own traditions.  Again this year we will provide food coupons to anyone in need of help for Christmas.  If you, or a family you know, are in need of this help, please call Judy at the parish office, 651-633-8333 between the hours of 9:00am--12:00 noon, Monday through Friday only.  If you are requesting a certificate for someone else, please ask their permission before calling.  All requests are confidential.  Deadline for requests in Monday, December 20.  Certificates may be picked up on Tuesday, December 21.

MARTIN LUTHER KING CONVOCATION
All are invited to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Convocation to be held on Saturday morning, January 15 at St. Alphonsus Church.  The event will celebrate the life and teaching of Dr. King in prayer, music and reflection.  It is also the occasion of the initial covenanting of a new religious coalition to be called ISIAIH which covers the whole metro region.  This coalition consists of over 70 congregations of many different denominations from throughout the greater metropolitan area coming together to define issues of social justice based on our religious beliefs and how we can make our faith statement regarding them to the larger community.  Information on at least four issue areas currently facing the area will be presented along with an opportunity to join in follow up research and action on these issues.  Watch for further details.

MAKARIA CIRCLE OF STRENGTH
The holidays can put an extra tension on many families.  In a family with domestic abuse where the abuser tries to gain power and control, the family can have an especially hard time with the preparations and celebration of Christmas.  The security and peace can be broken for children and they can become isolated.  It is estimated that two million children in the U.S. are abused each year by a parent.  Alcohol is implicated in some of this violence.  Experts advise people who are being hurt in their homes to avoid isolation, because it increases the risk of abuse.  Anyone who knows someone, child or adult, who is being abused has an obligation to help.  That is why we have the Makaria Circle of Strength Peer Ministry at St. John's.  Peer Ministers will lend a compassionate listening ear and help you get the community help you need.  And you will have the prayers of your faith community to support you.  You can access this help by calling Deacon Joe Kenney at the parish center (651) 633-8333.