Dear Friends,

Christmas Greetings from Chicago!  Though very busy, this is my favorite time of the year.  I hope you had an enjoyable Thanksgiving with family and friends.  We had a wonderful Thanksgiving prayer service and brunch for 530 neighbors on the Saturday before Thanksgiving.  Everyone, including over 200 volunteers, had a great time.  As they left, each family received a turkey and all of the trimmings for a Thanksgiving feast! 

We are now busy preparing our annual Christmas festivities for the neighborhood including Nativity scenes, delicious food and incredible gifts.  Please visit our web page (www.missionola.com) for details on the various celebrations as well as pictures of events held throughout the year.

The Mission continues to sponsor community dinners.  About twice a month, 150 neighbors come over for a brief prayer service in the Church followed by a delicious dinner in the Church basement.  It is wonderful to see the neighbors getting to know each other better and enjoying each others company.  This has been another wonderful opportunity to build up the neighborhood.

Our little Franciscan community here continues to thrive.   On September 23, Kevin Earleywine was received as a postulant (beginner).  Sr. Jess became a novice when she received the habit and veil on October 4, the Feast of St. Francis.   I enjoy working with such a wonderful and dedicated group of young Franciscans!!  There are now 8 of us here at the Mission.  Please continue to pray for more wonderful vocations such as the ones the Lord has been sending our way.

We continue to help over 700 families a month with food, clothing and household goods.  Our retreat and volunteer programs keep us busy with hospitality in the former convent. The various youth programs at Kelly Hall have waiting lists.  I am proud that our kids are all at or above grade level.  This is a necessary step to keeping them in school and out of gangs and drugs in a neighborhood that has a 68% High School dropout rate.

To do this necessary work, we need and appreciate your help. If you are able to make a donation to assist please donating online HERE or sending a check made out to Mission of Our Lady of the Angels to 3808 W. Iowa St, Chicago 60651.  During this Holy Season be assured of remembrance in Daily prayers and Masses.  If you have any special intentions please contact me.  May God Bless you and your loved ones with a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

With Love and Prayer,