Jesus asks his cousin John the Baptist to do something that doesn’t make sense in John’s eyes: baptize Jesus. Baptism was a sign of someone acknowledging their need for repentance, and repentance implies sin and imperfection. Jesus, of course, was perfect with no sin, hence he had no need to repent and no need to be baptized. John resists at first. “I need to be baptized by you, and yet you are coming to me?” he says. Jesus responds: “Allow it now, for thus it is fitting for

The CRUX Retreat is a powerful overnight experience designed to help teens grow in faith, friendship, and confidence in who they are as sons and daughters of God.

Thanks to SPC Parishioners for your support of Pack 24’s Popcorn sale and Troop 24’s Wreath Sale. We’ve had another successful year because of your support. Thanks again.

THAT MAN IS YOU (TMIY) brings men together to grow as leaders in our families and communities.

Saint Paul in his letter to the Ephesians, our second reading today on this Feast of the Epiphany, says this: “The mystery was made known to me by revelation” (Ephesians 3:3).

We are looking for volunteers to welcome new parishioners to St. Paul of the Cross Church. New Parishioner registration by volunteers is held typically on the first Sunday of each month at the Parish Life Center. Help us demonstrate the spirit of our vibrant parish. Please call Maria Mehl at 847.823.0930 for more information.

The season of Advent, the sense of anticipation and preparation for the coming arrival of the Christ child took on another dimension this year in my family.

Boys and girls ages 9–14 are invited to compete in this annual Free Throw Championship. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m., followed by warm-ups, competition, and an awards ceremony. Questions? Contact Dan Joyce at (773) 320-1157.

Please note: there will be no 6:25 a.m. daily Mass and no 8:00 a.m. daily Confessions on Wednesday, December 24th and Friday, December 26th. There will be the 8:30 a.m. daily Mass both of those days.

Not too long ago I read a beautiful reflection on St. Joseph by a Carmelite sister. She compared Joseph to a pine cone.

Our 4th event for young adults is back by popular demand. Tuesday, January 13 from 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Our 8th graders are coming to the close of their Catechesis lessons. This year, they have written saint papers, participated in a retreat, and completed many hours of service.

I love the fact that Saint Matthew includes in his Gospel this scene of John the Baptist doubting whether Jesus was indeed the Messiah.

SPC School will dismiss for Christmas break on Friday, December 19. We wish all students a strong finish to the semester and extend a warm welcome home to our college students.

Our 8th graders will spend the afternoon preparing spiritually for the Sacrament of Confirmation. Please keep them in your prayers as they deepen their relationship with Christ.

Please join us for our next book meeting where we will discuss The Sympathizer, by Viet Thanh Nguyen. All are welcome

I am delighted to rejoin St. Paul of the Cross, the parish and school that shaped my childhood and remained the standard by which I measured every church throughout my life. Returning in 2024 felt like coming home, and I am grateful to once again be part of this faith community I have always loved.

We will have a Family Mass this Sunday, December 14th, at 10:30 a.m. in the Holy Family Chapel. All are welcome.

A couple weeks ago I gave a homily, “Church History Part III: The Church in America.” I’d like to repeat some of that here, for the Catholic Church in America embodies the line from Isaiah in our first reading this weekend: “a shoot shall sprout from the stump.” Catholicism in America was a shoot that has become a blossom.

Join fellow young adults for a faith-filled day of prayer, great speakers, and more at St. Paul of the Cross. Light breakfast & lunch included.