Today's readings begin with a few verses from the book of Job. First, Job complains that his nights drag on endlessly. Then, worse yet, "My days are swifter than a weaver's shuttle; / they come to an end without hope" (Job 7:6). Not exactly encouraging, these lamentations, not when taken alone. Most of us have been there, though, and the antidote is the "good news" that Paul found so compelling that "an obligation has been imposed on me, and woe to me if I do not preach it!" (1 Corinthians 9:16). Paul felt driven to announce the gospel to as many people as possible, "to save at least some" (9:22). This good news is the mystery of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, who lifted Simon Peter's mother-in-law from her sickbed with a mere touch of his hand. "The whole town was gathered at the door. He cured many who were sick with various diseases, and he drove out many demons" (Mark 1:33-34)). Our woes and demons are as real as Job's, and Jesus is our savior. Copyright (c) J. S. Paluch Co.

February 2nd is the feast of the Presentation of the Lord in the Temple. On that day we celebrate the event where Jesus’ parents present him to God. Simeon foretells that He is light to the Gentiles and the glory for Israel. On that day candles are blessed to commemorate the coming of glorious light. The commemoration of St. Blaise (healer) follows the next day when the newly blessed candles are used to bless throats. This tradition continues at St. James in the three masses celebrated on February 3rd where we seek divine protection upon our throats (voices) that we may use them to bring honor and glory to the Word made Flesh. Throats will be blessed at the 6:45am, 9:00am and 7:00pm Masses.

Deacon Robert Sabatelle returned to our Lord on January 13, 2012. Fondly known as “Deacon Robert,” he has been a part of our parish family for so long. Well known as a physician and parishioner, he was ordained to the diaconate for the Church of Pittsburgh on June 26, 1999. Bishop Wuerl assigned him to diaconal service at the hospital and within St. James Parish, and more recently to St. Margaret Mary Parish in Moon Township. Both he and his wife, Ann Marie would have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 30th. Our hearts go out to the entire Sabatelle family. With his passing from this life, we can now be assured that he will be watching over us from heaven! ‘We love you Robert—you made Christ real to us’…….Fr. Dan

This week I received notice that I have come to the end of my 6 year term as pastor. I have requested a second term from Bishop Zubik. He will base his decision on the needs of the diocese and parish. As a priest ends his term of office, the Clergy Office conducts a Periodic Review from parishioners and staff to assist him as he gets ready to begin a new assignment.

2011 END OF YEAR PARISHIONER STATEMENTS - Each year we MAIL an annual report of parishioner contributions. Our goal is to have the report to you by January 31. Please watch your mail for them.