EPIPHANY OF THE LORD - The story of the Epiphany captures the imagination with its rich mixture of mystery and intrigue. Into the Holy Family's impoverished and temporary shelter came three Wise Men from the East dressed in majestic robes, and bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. They had traveled from unknown lands following a star, and had experienced the deviousness of King Herod before they were filled with delight in finding the newborn child. After paying homage they left for home by a different route.
The story of the Magi is so colorful that we may overlook its significance and fail to see its deeper meaning. The Wise Men represent all of us. Their journey through desert and mountain following a star reflects our search for a purpose and meaning in life that is not possible unless we are guided by faith, because faith enables us to see beneath the surface of appearances. At the center of it all is the innocence of the newborn child, surrounded by adoration, wonder, and mystery, who is able to stir the emotions, imaginations, and wills of all those drawn into His presence. The story is always relevant because God sees to it that people who really search will find Him. He will shed light into our darkness and make us new.

THE BRIDGEPORT CHORAL SOCIETY presents An Epiphany Concert: Music of the Christmas Season today, January 6, at 4:00 P.M. in our church. Donation at Door: $10.00

LECTURE SERIES  We are happy to announce a monthly lecture series to be held on the third Friday of every month at 7P.M. The first lecture will be held on January 18th and is entitled HEAVEN-HELL-PURGATORY: WHERE ARE YOU GOING? It will be given by Fr. Mike Yakaitis, Ph.D., from the University of Chicago. This is a very intriguing topic for many of us. Fr. Mike is an eloquent speaker, and you will also have a chance to ask questions. The lecture will be held in the Small Hall behind the church. Throughout the series we will be presenting various topics of concern in today's world, particularly regarding family life. Come and take advantage of this special event!

ST JEROME SCHOOL NEWS  "Catholic Schools Week" Coming in January !!!
This year's Catholic Schools Week theme is "Where Faith and Knowledge Meet". St. Jerome School certainly exemplifies that theme and we invite you to participate in our week long observance. Each day beginning on Sunday, January 27, 2002, our students, teachers, and volunteers will celebrate our school's meeting of faith and knowledge in our parish, community, and nation. Watch for details in the next few weeks. If you would like to help us celebrate, please call the school office. Volunteers are welcome!

CROATIAN ALMANAC 2002 presents stories of prominent personalities in the fields of science, business, religion, art, and politics. Based on extensive research by the Ethnic Institute in Chicago, a selection was made from among two and a half million American and Canadian Croats, and from the many compatriots who have departed from this life. This book can be purchased in our rectory for $15.00.

LUNCHEON IN OUR HALL Next Sunday, January 13, the MARIAN SOCIETY of our parish will serve a special meal in our hall at 12:30 P.M. All proceeds will go toward the restoration of our church, particularly the mosaics to be placed above the north and south front doors of the church. Donation is $10.00. All are welcome to come and enjoy this benefit dinner.

WORK TO BE DONE IN CHURCH
Tomorrow morning we will begin the renovation of our sanctuary. The floor will be done in marble by our parishioner Mr. Karlo Simatic. Thank you again for your generous contributions . We hope you will be pleased with the progress of this phase of our restoration.

BLESSING OF HOMES Our priests are available to bless homes. If you would like one of the priests to come to your home, please call the rectory to schedule a date and time for this beautiful Catholic tradition.

THE MAGI OR WISE MEN In ancient Iran--also known as Persia--a priest was called a "magus." The plural is "magi". The word "magic" comes from the same root. Magi were experts in astronomy. This was useful in determining the calendar, the end of winter, and the spring planting season. They believed that stars and other celestial objects actually influenced, rather than merely coincided with, earthly events. One, or possibly a series of omens, led them to believe that a royal prince had been born in Israel. They were sent as ambassadors to pay tribute to the newborn. The bible does not say how many Magi visited. It is assumed that there were three because of the number of gifts.

Thought of the Week
"The road to success is lined with many tempting parking places."