MQPTheEdge

Response to Viral Video

2012-02-10T11:42:00.001-08:00

Did you see Nightline last night and the Tacoma dude with the viral video about hating religion but loving Jesus? I noticed that overnight he changed the description of his video to say he hates "FALSE" religion. There are many great video responses defending a number of different religions (not just Christianity). Here's your Edge Youth Minister's new favorite:

Father Kevin will be preaching on the original viral video at all Sunday Masses this weekend.

Note: I chose not to post the "viral video" mentioned, simply because I don't want to further promulgate misinformation. I'd rather promote the truth. That said, Father Kevin will show a clip of it before he speaks about it on Sunday.

Mission Trip Video, Information, and more!

2012-01-31T11:00:00.000-08:00

Our 2012 Mission Trip to Forks will take place on August 5th - 12th. We will be posting registration forms here shortly. The cost is $270 per child and it includes transportation, all meals, lodging, and programs that tie our faith back to the work we'll be doing each day. Scholarships are available. Participants will be expected to help with one or two fundraisers designed to offset the chaperone expenses. If we earn more than enough, we will divide it evenly among the participants to drive down your total cost.

Below are some highlights from our mission trip in August, 2011, to give you a peek at what a mission trip looks like.

What an AMAZING week! We took 12 middle schoolers to Forks, WA to build Christian community, enhance Catholic identity, put our faith into action, and make new friends!! And by all accounts it was a great success! Below you will find links to videos and some written highlights from this week's experience. Enjoy!

One Week in Forks: August, 2011

Drum Circle

Celebrating God's Creation at Rialto Beach

Martin Luther King, Jr's Dream Lives On!

2012-01-30T14:02:00.001-08:00

200+ Jr. and Sr. High Students in Sammamish, WA can now say they met someone who was at Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I have a dream" speech - live and in person. It's now more real than ever to them, thanks to retired school principal, Eugene Cash. GREAT night! They learned how Martin Luther King, Jr's movement ties into our strong Catholic Social Teaching.

Thank you to Flocabulary for permission to use your "Let Freedom Ring" Music/Lyrics/Video for our highlights video below. Be sure to watch for some of the letters of gratitude from our youth.

We hope to put up a link to Gene's talk sometime this week. Stay tuned.

Treasures of the Translation Movie and Trivia Game Show!

2012-01-26T22:02:00.000-08:00

Watch this short trailer:

And get excited, because The Edge is planning to put on a "Treasures of the Translation" Movie and Trivia Game Show for the entire parish as a FUNdraiser to support our mission trip. Have fun learning about the new words we say at Mass, answer trivia questions, and win prizes! A fun afternoon for the whole family. Tentatively planned for February 25, 2012. Stay tuned for details.

Here is one example of the fine videos our talented youth have produced:

You're Invited: First Hand Account of Martin Luther King, Jr's "I Have a Dream" Speech

2012-01-20T04:44:00.000-08:00

A special night for Edge and LifeTeen youth groups. All parishioners are welcome to sit in on this special talk from 6:40 to 7:10 PM in the church. The youth groups will continue to meet until their normal 8:00 PM time.

A first-hand account of the speech that still challenges and shapes our nation, and our Catholic faith that calls us to rise to the challenge.

MQP Parishioner Gene Cash will share his personal experience as a young African American teenager seeing Martin Luther King, Jr. give his “I Have a Dream” speech in person in Washington, D.C.

Our Catholic Social Teaching teaches that human dignity can be protected and a healthy community can be achieved only if human rights are protected and responsibilities are met.

Girls Spa Day and Retreat Sign up today!

2012-01-12T13:36:00.000-08:00

All Edge and LifeTeen girls and their friends (grades 6 - 12) are invited to this Girls Spa Day and Retreat.

This is a time to shut out all the conflicting messages about what others say you should be, and enjoy the message God has for girls. Enjoy soothing paraffin (warm, fragrant wax that you dip your hands in. It feels really good!), a chair massage, and serve one another by giving/receiving mani/pedi’s. The rosary committee will guide you in creating a lovely rosary bracelet to take home. Lunch will be served, and we’ll end with a guided meditation that celebrates the girls that God made us to be, holding up Mary as our role model. Mary, Most Pure, Pray for us.

SPACE IS LIMITED. Sign up today! Click here for the sign up forms. They're do no later than Monday, 2/13 at 10 AM.

On a somewhat related note, check out this great column entitled "The Death of Pretty" - about the difference between aspiring to be "hot" vs. "pretty".

“Finding Kind” – Dealing with Mean Girls For parents and youth

2012-01-11T18:29:00.001-08:00

The Issaquah and Lake Washington School Districts are offering free screenings of “Finding Kind” open to the public (in most cases)* for grades 6 and up. This is not an endorsement, per se, but something we sense youth and parents will want to know about.

Thurs., 1/26 Smith Elementary 6:30 – 8:30 PM
Jan., 1/30 *Eastside Catholic families only
Tues., 1/31 Skyline High School 6:30 pm
Wed., 2/01 Issaquah High School 6:30 pm

Please check school websites for more info.
Or visit www.findingkind.com

For Middle Schoolers (6th - 8th grade) Only! Catholic Youth Rally, Saturday March 10th!

2012-01-11T14:11:00.000-08:00

Come and be inspired!

Explore God's plan for you!

Dance! Have fun!

"Rally was SO MUCH FUN! Sign me up NOW for next year!" - 7th grader at last year's rally

Check out the video below. Click here for more information and to sign up. Registration deadline is Sunday, February 12, 2012.

It's official. Local boy's survival is a miracle!

2011-12-21T10:24:00.000-08:00

Eleven-year-old Jake Finkbonner could be going to Edge if he lived close enough. He lives two hours north of us in Ferndale, WA. Yesterday, Jake received some attention from Pope Benedict XVI.

The boy's survival from flesh-eating bacteria has been deemed a miracle by the Pope. Click here to read the incredible story about the miracle attributed to Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha, who will become the first Native American Saint.

Interesting note, especially given that we just learned about relics ( see below this post) and in fact we have some relics available for viewing today (Wed., 12/21) in the chapel:

The boy "suddenly and unexpectedly took a turn for the better" on his 9th day of hospitalization, after a Tekakwitha relic was placed on his pillow next to his head.

Relics Available to View this Wednesday

2011-12-19T22:01:00.000-08:00

This Wednesday, December 21st, we will make the following available to parishioners near the statue of Mary during Eucharistic Adoration from 10 AM to 9 PM:

On December 4th our youth had the rare opportunity to touch some relics. One came to us at a perfect time, as it is a piece of veil that has been touched to a piece of the authentic "Sancta Camisia" - a cloak worn by our Blessed Mother!

What are relics? Click here to find out what our Catholic Catechism teaches us.

In the year 876 Charles the Bald - grandson of Charlemagne - celebrated his return from Jerusalem by presenting to the Cathedral at Chatres a piece of cloth that has been worn by the Virgin Mary at the birth of Jesus.

The Sancta Camisia has been certified by scientists as first century. Pilgrims still flock to kiss the glass of the holy cloth, and on feast days, the lame are carried in to light their candles before it.

The Sancta Camisia is the cloak of the Virgin Mary. Most Medieval sources state that it was worn by Mary when she gave birth to Christ. The cloak has survived many fires and was carried out three days after a cataclysmic fire by the Bishop of Chartes (in France) completely unharmed. This was taken as a sign that a new and beautiful cathedral should be built for the virgin.

The Holy Cloak has drawn many pilgrims to Chatres, including the English King Henry V. Click here to visit a Tufts University Page that shares more of the history behind this relic.

We also have a Holy Card with an icon of the Holy Family, that was touched to the First Class Relics of: St. Philomena, St. Lucy, St. Anthony, St. Colette, St. Therese the Little Flower, St. Dominic Savio, Holy House of Loreto, St. Pio, St. Theresa of Avila, St. Agatha, St. Barbara, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, St. Margaret, St. Dorothy, and St. Catherine.

What does our faith teach us about dealing with bullying?

2011-12-09T12:30:00.000-08:00

We recently surveyed our Edge youth on all sorts of things. One thing we learned is that about 90% of over 120 kids surveyed said bullying and peer pressure is the number one problem kids their age face today.

I will be posting some resources for parents and youth here throughout the week. If you have any resources you'd like to share, please email me.

Scripture Related to Bullying: Click here.

2011 research confirms bullying is more typically characterized as "social combat" -- jockeying for position on the social ladder. Click here to read about it.

Sexual Harassment pervasive in 7th - 12th grade according to recent survey. Click here for more info.

What would your child do if a bully strikes? Will anyone observed by Dateline's cameras strike back - or do the right thing to cope with the situation? Click here for a great video we'll be watching this Sunday.

One thing we all must do is stand up to bullying.

As I have been researching this topic, one common complaint I hear from students and adults, is that when they were continuously bullied... they told someone, but nobody did anything about it. Find someone who can help and support you, and demand something is done.

Let us pray for the bullies, the victims, and the bystanders. In most cases, that's all of us.

Loving and merciful Father, Please send us your Holy Spirit to help us confront bullying, and bring love and peace to the world. We ask this in Jesus' name, the Prince of Peace, Amen.

More on Bullying

2011-12-09T08:00:00.000-08:00

In the Gospel of John, Christ teaches His disciples a very important lesson when faced with the temptation to bully or hurt others.

Jesus decides to approach the situation in an unlikely manner: {The Pharisees} They said to him, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery. Now in the law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?”

They said this to test him, so that they could have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and began to write on the ground with his finger. But when they continued asking him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her” (8: 4-11)

Our middle school youth are faced with countless situations, similar to this one in the Gospel of John, on a daily basis. While the topic may not directly deal with adultery, they still feel the constant pressure to join in on other forms of bullying whether at school with their classmates, in the classroom with their teachers, at home with their family members or in extracurricular activities with their peers. It is much easier to give into the pressure, but the purpose of Christ’s actions with the adulteress is to make us realize that we are all sinners in our own individual ways. Even though we may not have committed the same sin as the person on trial, none of us have a clean slate.

Instead of fueling the fires of hate and ridicule, Christ challenges us to stand up against the evil that tempts us to tear down others for our own enjoyment. In the face of His own pain, suffering and eventual death, Christ endured the extremes of bullying from all those around Him. He was publicly humiliated and ridiculed as He was spit on, tormented by name-calling and beaten. His suffering was on public display as He carried the cross to His own death. But through this agonizing torture, Christ loved his enemies. He knew that they did not fully understand their actions and were truly lacking God’s love in their lives. Instead of fighting back or tearing them down, He did the exact opposite. He forgave them. Just as in His famous Sermon on the Mount, Christ gives hope to all who suffer:

Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you (falsely) because of me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven. (Matthew 5:10-12)

No matter how you look at it, bullying is a difficult reality for everyone, especially in the lives of our middle school youth. We must remember to leave the judging to God, and the loving to us.

No good can ever come out of bullying others, regardless of the issue or circumstances. Only love can produce positive outcomes, and it is part of our baptismal call to pursue such a Christ-like way of life.

Source: LifeTeen, Inc.

Gifts to keep CHRIST in Christmas

2011-11-29T14:24:00.000-08:00

Many of us lament this time of year, that society has gotten away from the true meaning of Christmas. And yet, we still join in, rushing around to buy STUFF to put under the tree. A few of you asked me to offer some ideas that will not only help keep CHRIST in Christmas, but in many cases, make him a part of your daily lives all year long. So here goes...

Please email me if you have ideas to add/share, and I will update this idea list.

YOUCAT is short for Youth Catechism of the Catholic Church, which was launched on World Youth Day, 2011. Developed with the help of young Catholics and written for high-school age people and young adults, YOUCAT is an accessible, contemporary expression of the Catholic Faith. We recently surveyed our Edge youth and they have a lot of really good/deep questions about their faith. This is a guide that easily helps you find answers, if you can't wait until the next Edge night to address your questions. Click here to find it on Amazon.com. Also available en Español.

Fisher Price Little People Nativity Set
Finally! One the kids can actually touch and play with! It's $24.99 on Buy.com.

Inspirational sayings to stick on your wall. Remove whenever you like with ease. This one is on Amazon.com for $12.95. You can find all sorts of options at the Ben Franklin in Redmond

Search "vinyl wall quotes" and even stick in a word you'd like to pop up, such as Jesus, Faith, Love, etc.

We have some of these on our walls in the Edge room. Our youth actually put them on the walls, and many have commented on how cool they are.

Kids love this game! Why not throw a little faith into the mix with the Apples to Apples Bible Edition?! It's a big hit! Target.com has it for $20.79.

"Christmas... God's Gift for all Ages." sign for just $5.99.

Shop local. Creation Marketing is a local business that makes tshirts with Christian themes.

For more ideas, check out these websites:
http://www.dicksonsgiftshop.com/
http://www.dayspring.com/
http://www.autom.com/

Consider signing your family up to volunteer together to serve meals to people in need in Issaquah.
Moms and Dads: Consider signing up to help set up or clean up before/after one of our youth programs.

Consider This for Advent

2011-11-29T13:09:00.001-08:00

Film Production in Process!

2011-11-28T19:17:00.000-08:00

Our 6th - 8th graders are SERIOUS about making good films for you! We're working on creating films that explain parts of the new translation to the Roman Missal. We'll be shooting more video this weekend, and have a big viewing on January 8, 2012!

It will all make sense on January 8th. We promise.

Your Thanksgiving Inventory -- Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-21T14:48:00.000-08:00

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

The Edge Design Winner: Maia Nguyen!!!

2011-11-21T11:15:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Maia Nguyen on creating the winning tshirt design for the 2011 - 2012 Edge program year!

We had so many wonderful designs and everyone received a number a votes. You should all feel good about your efforts! We'll definitely make use of all of them in various ways over the year.

We hope to hand out the tshirts just in time for Christmas!

Remember: INSTEAD of Edge this Sunday, you're invited to bring your whole family to "MQP Nite" to make an Advent wreath, eat Christmas cookies and have fun from 2:45 - 4:45 on 11/27.

Voting this Sunday on New Edge Design!

2011-11-14T11:15:00.000-08:00

We had 27 entries that we'll be voting on this Sunday!

The deadline for entries was 10/30. Come and vote for your favorite Edge design!

Parents: RSVP for dinner/babysitting by Monday, 11/14

2011-11-08T10:35:00.000-08:00

Click here to view in a larger format.

Click here to RSVP by Monday, 11/14.

Jesus and Bullying Essay Contest: 500 words could equal $1000!

2011-11-03T18:51:00.000-07:00

Jesus and Bullying

Student Essay Contest sponsored by Maryknoll.

500 words could equal $1000!

Bullying is a serious problem among young people today. Tell a story of how you or someone you know experienced bullying. Then explain how you think Jesus would tell all those involved to handle the situation.

Prizes range from $150 to $1000 in two separate age groups: 6^th – 8^th grade, and 9^th – 12^th grade. Submit essays at www.maryknollsociety.org/essay. Deadline is Thursday, Dec. 1, 2011.

The Edge is hosting a night about “Jesus and Bullying” on Dec. 11. Please consider sharing your entry with Edge Youth Minister,Anne Royse Ginther, for possible inclusion in that special night.

Give it a shot. “You miss 100 percent of the shots you never take.” —Wayne Gretzky

Nov 13: "Finding True Happiness" Special Guest Speaker Sr. Miriam Heidland

2011-11-03T13:28:00.000-07:00

It's unanimous. Sister Miriam James Heidland is "One Nun Who's a Ton of Fun!"
Sister Miriam is a an energetic volleyball coach who is up on pop culture and on fire for our Lord! Sister Miriam is a sister of the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity (SOLT) serving at St. Alphonsus Church in Seattle. She is the Director for the Apostolic Novitiate and the co-host of a Catholic radio talk show. She played volleyball for the University of Nevada and has a degree in Communications and a minor in Journalism.

Last night she talked to our Edge youth about "Finding True Happiness."

Did you know that in the course of one year, the average teenager in the USA will have watched about 20,000 TV commercials?! Sister Miriam talked about how advertisers are trying really hard to get at the $208 BILLION dollars that teenagers spend every year. They think kids will just mindlessly buy whatever they're selling. Sister Miriam shared with us our faith's challenge to that!

Our Catechism teaches us that we are made in the image and likeness of God! We are NOT mindless sheep. We are part of God's family. And we have free will to choose for ourselves... to live in communion with our heavenly family.

The "YOUCAT" (Catechism of our Catholic Church written for youth, released in August, 2011) says: "God has placed in our hearts such an infinite desire for happiness that nothing can satisfy it but God himself. All earthly fulfillment gives us only a foretaste of eternal happiness. Above and beyond that, we should be drawn to God." (281)

So if you're stressed out with trying to fit in, or just having a bad day... take a little time alone in the quiet with God. Even two minutes. One of my favorite prayers comes from Samuel: "Speak Lord, your servant is listening." Then I just sit in the quiet and listen for what Jesus is trying to tell me. And whatever it is, it all comes down to one thing: Love. God loves us soooo much. He has a special plan for each of us. Turn off those 20,000 commercials, and listen to Him.

By the way, I HIGHLY recommend the new "YOUCAT"!! It is very well done. People of all ages will enjoy it! You could order it just in time for Christmas!

Click here to read about Sister Miriam in the Seattle Times.

Check out Sister Miriam's blog that often relates our Catholic faith to current events: www.soltsisters.blogspot.com

Evolution of a Peace Garden

2011-11-02T10:57:00.000-07:00

Tithing: A Bad Rap? FUNNY VIDEO with great message

2011-10-26T11:51:00.000-07:00

Forget the basket... giving has been made easier! Give online here.
"It's not how much we give, but how much we put into the giving." - Blessed Mother Theresa
Check out the abundant blessings that flowed through our parish last year below. A new video is coming soon! :)

Boat Cruise Highlights!

2011-10-21T23:53:00.000-07:00

Woo hoo! God gave us a great cruise with NO RAIN! We had a great time!
More highlights in short slideshow below. :)

Friends are one of God's great gifts!

Movie Night Parental Advisory

2011-10-18T12:39:00.000-07:00

This time of year, I like to counter all the movies out there with Halloween-themes by offering an Edge movie night that tells a true story of miracles.

On Sunday, October 30th, as part of a regular Edge night, we will be showing "The 13th Day", a story about Mary appearing to three children in Fatima, Portugal. In a world torn apart by persecution, war and oppression, these three were chosen to offer a message of hope to the world. On July 13, 1917, an estimated 70,000 people gathered around the children, and witnessed "The Miracle of the Sun".

PARENTAL ADVISORY: Below is a trailer that shows some of the most intense scenes in the movie. It's probably less intense than some of the Harry Potter movies our kids are used to, but that's pretend. This is real, and it could be a little too intense for some people, which is why the cautionary note. What I like about this movie is the heroic virtue displayed by the children who were only 7, 9, and 10 years old! They stand firm for their beliefs, and miracles happen. Now they're on their way to being canonized Saints! In fact, Jacinta, the 7 year old girl, is the youngest non-martyred child ever to be beatified. Please contact Anne Royse Ginther if you have questions about the movie: 425.391.1178, ext 129.

Parents: You are more than welcome to join us! Please RSVP by Monday, October 24th for dinner if you'd like to join us for dinner between Mass and the movie. Free will donations $$ for your dinner is appreciated. Dinner space is limited, so make your reservation soon! :) **No younger siblings, please. We are currently working on getting help in the nursery as an option. We will post an update when we know whether it can be staffed.

The EDGE ALTERNATIVE! MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

2011-10-17T11:39:00.000-07:00

Friday evening, 11/04 and Saturday, 11/05

Instead of Edge on 11/06 (Mark your calendars! No Edge on 11/06), Edge families are invited to sign up for this neat family event with national speakers and entertainers at Holy Family parish in Kirkland.

Conference flier

Full Schedule of Events and Speakers

More Info

Interested in joining us for bowling and dinner after the event on Saturday? Email us by 10/17, let us know how many are coming, and we'll include you in the lanes reservation at Tech City Bowl in Kirkland.

Grace

2011-10-16T20:31:00.000-07:00

Tonight we talked about GRACE. Even though we’re all far from perfect, God gives us grace. He invites us to participate in His life. We are called to a life in Christ. Today. As we are. We don’t deserve it, but God offers it nonetheless.

"God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble." - James 1:6

Our Catholic Catechism teaches us Grace is “the free and undeserved help that God gives us to respond to his call to become children of God, adoptive sons (and daughters), partakers of the divine nature and of eternal life.” (ccc 1996)

Highlights from our evening with Thomas Awiapo- all the way from Ghana!

2011-10-10T10:17:00.000-07:00

It was SO GREAT to have Thomas Awiapo visit us all the way from Ghana!! He made a lasting impression on our youth.

"I will never take my family for granted."

"Because of you, I realize how grateful I am to have food and water."

"You inspired me to eat leftovers!" Check out our little online photo album with some highlights from last night.

Check out his story here:

Here are some cool ideas on how to help others: www.foodfast.org

Meet Our "Core Team" Volunteers

2011-09-14T11:00:00.000-07:00

These are the wonderful people who will welcome your kids into their small groups each week. The role of a small group leader is so important. For starters, our youth immediately have a place where they belong. They will be with their same* small group throughout the year. At Edge we'll be working to achieve the goals the US Conference of Catholic Bishops set forth for us:

1. Empower young people to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in our world today.
2. Draw young people to responsible participation in the life, mission, and work of the faith community.
3. Foster the personal and spiritual growth of each young person.

We are delighted to introduce you to the wonderful people who have answered God's call to share their time and talent with our 6th-8th graders. Please click a name to learn more about each person.

Please note: We will be sending a 2nd email out about small group assignments on Thursday, September 29th. Please watch for it.

Agustina
Anne (Pastoral Assistant for Youth Ministry)
Brian
Cate
Christian
Gary
Irma
Janine
Karina
Kris
Linda
Maria
Mary
Mauricio
Steve
Thom
Yolanda

ANNE - Your Edge Youth Ministry Leader

2011-09-13T11:54:00.000-07:00

I was born a "grotesque" orphan, adopted by a loving family. Middle child sandwiched between the biological children of my parents (Big sis, little brother). I now have twin daughters who will be in Edge this year. We're so excited!! I have worked with kids since I was a kid. In high school I was teaching religious ed to kindergartners. I've served on the pastoral council at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Excelsior, MN. I started a middle school youth group at St. Hubert's Catholic Church in Chanhassen, MN. And much, much more! I was a tv news reporter once upon a time, and a high tech executive recruiter for close to 20 years. I started a nonprofit in 2005 called RandomKid—where any random kid can solve real world problems. It has won World of Children's "Nobel Prize for Children" and was honored in October, 2010 for "The Caring Award"-- the brainchild of the Blessed Mother Teresa. The award comes on this, the year that marks her 100th birthday.

I moved from MN to IA to TX to WA in the span of 6 years, and have firmly planted my roots now here in WA. God called me to this work at Mary, Queen of Peace in late October, 2008, and I am humbled and so very grateful to have truly found my calling. I couldn't ask for anything better!

My favorite thing to do is help my daughters and young people like you come to fully realize just how much Jesus loves you. And to help you realize that God blessed us with the one and only YOU! He has an amazing, wonderful plan for you. I want you to know, experience and believe that with God, all things really are possible!

Janine

2011-09-12T23:54:00.000-07:00

I’ve been married for over 20 years and have two children, 13 and 17. I’ve lived in Virginia, Ohio, Texas, and Washington. I LOVE Seattle, but miss snowy winters, hot summers, and thunderstorms! I’ve been involved with kids in one way or another since I could babysit. I have a teaching background, and taught art as a volunteer for 7 years. My favorite thing to do with kids is to teach art. Most people say they’re not “good at art” – but really they just need to learn a few skills, just like any other endeavor. It’s wonderful to see the transformation in a child when they experience success creating their own masterpiece! I had wanted to volunteer at church, and also become more involved in my daughter’s faith formation as she entered middle school 2 years ago. On a fantastic youth group trip to downtown Seattle, Anne approached me about becoming part of the Edge Core Team. I gave it some thought and prayer and said, “yes!” It has been an incredible experience watching the kids in my group grow in confidence, wisdom, and faith. They started out as shy, quiet 6^th graders who were very uncomfortable with each other, but over time they’ve formed such a close bond with each other that they can be themselves – who God meant them to be! And “quiet” is not a word I’d use to describe them anymore. ;-) I’m so excited for this year – the kids are so fun to be around, always making me smile, and causing me to think about my own faith. It will be bittersweet, as it’s our last year together, but in the words of Dr. Seuss, “Don’t cry because it’s over; smile because it happened.”

Check out Janine's EXTREME SKIING skills! (This video was shown at the First Annual Edgy Awards in April, 2010)

Linda

2011-09-12T21:17:00.000-07:00

I’m really excited to be a part of EDGE this year as I continue to "pay it forward" as a volunteer in youth ministry. Growing up I was lucky to have some amazing adults in my life that were shining examples of Jesus' work and love. I started working with Youth Group when I was a youth leading various Junior and Senior Encounters at Bellarmine Prep and then continued volunteering as an "adult" mentor on subsequent retreats. Later on I became a teacher and I have been working with kids ever since. MQP volunteering includes teaching Faith Formation classes, CLW and now Edge. I was born and raised Catholic in Tacoma, WA. I attended Catholic schools through high school. I have always had a strong faith and feel comfortable sharing my faith with others. I am excited to be part of this ministry. There is nothing more important then spending time with children/young adults. I hope by sharing my gift of faith with our youth they will then ignite sparks in others in doing God's work and continue to “pay it forward”.

Cate

2011-09-12T20:59:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for the opportunity to share my faith with your children in Edge this year. My goal with your kids is to be as St. John the Baptist was: someone who says, “Behold the Lamb of God” and points to Christ.

A bit about myself: God has blessed me with a loving husband, Norman, and two, beautiful children, Olivia, 11 years old, and Ben, 7 years old. I am a native of Seattle (the Wallingford community) and have gone to school here all my life. For a brief period, we lived in Chicago and later returned to the Northwest to live here, in Sammamish, in 2004. Now, while juggling a solo law practice, I volunteer at Blackwell Elementary and Mary Queen of Peace as much as I can. I taught (and assisted with) catechism class, sang in our church’s 5:00 PM Saturday night choir and the Christmas choir –which was all so much fun! They were my small way of supporting our faith community.

Mauricio

2011-09-12T19:35:00.000-07:00

Hi, I’m originally from Colombia (South America) and I’ve been in the US with my family for almost 10 years (5 in Boston, 5 in Sammamish). My wife and I have 2 daughters (13 and 8) and a son (3) and the four of them make my live beautiful and a bit hectic too ;). Right now, all of us are working on a project to raise funds to feed people in East Africa, the project was born during a conversation at the dinner table, and so far with the help of our friends we have raised enough to feed 5000 people!

About a year ago I had the great experience of sharing my faith with 7^th and 8^th graders in Edge, and I’m looking forward to do it again this year. See you soon!

Agustina

2011-09-12T19:21:00.000-07:00

Did you ever notice how God is a God of surprises? You have something in mind but He happens to have a different plan, you may complain all you want at first but things end up being way better than your original idea. Sounds familiar? The Bible is full stories like that, and mine is no different. I once thought I was not “the marrying kind” until I met Gustavo, my wonderful husband of 14 years (you can see him drumming away at the Sunday evening mass). I once pictured myself as a high achieving professional travelling the worlds in business class. Instead, I have the privilege of being the stay-at-home mom of my adorable daughters Guiomar, a seventh grader at Inglewood Jr. High, and Bernarda, a rambunctious first grader at Margaret Mead Elementary. I was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and here I am, calling home the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Who knew?

My parents were not church goers at all, but they decided to send me to a Catholic school because of the strong academics. As it turned out, the academics were ok but it was sharing my days in a community of faith based in the Eucharist that changed my life forever. Since then I have been trying to share and spread the joy of knowing we are unconditionally loved by God in lots of different settings. I’ve been serving in several ministries here at Mary, Queen of Peace for the last three years (you may have seen me leading the little ones to Children’s Liturgy of the Word, or doing Bible stories at Bible camp), and now that one of my daughters is in middle school joining The Edge seemed only natural.

I look forward to sharing the Spirit-inspired, Eucharist-centered, fun-filled journey with all of you!

Thom

2011-09-12T16:28:00.000-07:00

I am married with three wonderful children including a senior at Skyline High School, a 7th grader at BLMS and a 2nd grader at Challenger Elementary. I am an Asset Manager and really enjoy all the different aspects of what I do. We have been parishioners of Mary, Queen of Peace since we moved to the Plateau back in 1993. I have been on the Finance Council of MQP for over ten years and been involved with the middle schoolers for six years.

Being one of eight kids has its perks. You are never lonely and you find ways to get along even though we didn’t always agree. Consequently, I am so very blessed having the many wonderful opportunities to share with these kids all the great experiences we have in life, both good and bad, and the teaching moments with God in our lives. I couldn’t ask for more in being around kids of all ages – newborn and high school and consider myself exceptionally fortunate.

Check out Thom (along with Father Kevin, Anne, and Edge volunteers Mauricio and Soledad) in the MQP rendition of "The Christmas Story" shown at "The Edgy Awards" last spring:

Kris

2011-09-12T14:31:00.000-07:00

You'll probably see emails me from time to time, because I work with Anne, Stephen, and Anita at MQP, handling the youth ministry and confirmation administration. Married with three children. I was married at MQP by Fr. Paul Dalton. I like to travel and work in the yard. I like to be with my family but get tired of asking them to pick up their messes. Matt Maher and Chris Tomlin are my favorite Christian musicians. I have been involved with youth ministry at MQP for the past 6 years. I have worked with both Edge and Life Teen. I have also taught Sunday school and Sacramental prep classes at MQP. enjoy working with the teens. I like to be present with my own kids as they take this next step in their faith journey and my daughter is beginning the process with fall with Edge. I would like to help the kids find a way to connect with the Catholic church and realize that it is not boring. I am a cradle Catholic. I stepped away from the church during college, but was called back in my early 20s. I feel deeply connected to God and the Church, but wish I took more time to read the Bible and learn more.

Karina

2011-09-12T14:25:00.000-07:00

I am a teacher and have taught 1st and 4th grades for many years. Currently I am teaching 1st graders and I am so happy to get to work with young people. I am passionate about making a difference in the lives of others through education, friendship, mentoring, having a positive attitude, and being a good role model. This year I am joining EDGE to be closer to my daughter, who will be in the program too, and to become closer to God. I am thankful for my three incredible kids, Kylie, Mitchell, and Kristen. Kylie’s studying at Gonzaga University, Mitchell is at Eastside Catholic, and Kristen is starting 6th grade at Stella Schola. In my free time I enjoy the simple things, like taking long walks with my kids and our dog, spending time with my family, and reading. In the summertime, my favorite things are resting in my hammock, enjoying the sunshine, and swimming. Now that school is back in session, I am excited for the year ahead and I am eager to work with our 6th-8th grade EDGEsters!

Brian

2011-09-12T13:56:00.000-07:00

A little about me...I am from the San Francisco Bay Area originally but I moved to the Seattle when I was 14 years old. I graduated from Eastside Catholic as one of the first graduating classes (dating myself, you can guess) and went to New Mexico State University. I love my family -- my beautiful wife and my 3 children, ages 12, 10, and 7, plus our dog, cat and two fish . We have lived in Sammamish for 9 years. I done many things in my career including working with my dad in the fashion industry, spending several years in the classroom with 4th and 5th graders and working in the educational software business. I am now a Mr. Mom being the full time manager our household. I love sports and living and active lifestyle including golf, tennis, boating, snow skiing, exercise, cooking and gardening. I really look forward to leading a small group with EDGE again this year!

Maria

2011-09-12T11:42:00.000-07:00

Bienvenidos! I am Maria Zambrano and I feel blessed to join the supportive and caring Edge team at Mary Queen of Peace. I have been in the education field for the past 20 years. For as long as I can remember, I've been passionate about teaching children. As a Christian mother of two wonderful girls, I firmly believe that the most important and powerful education I can give them, is the knowledge of God, who is their Heavenly Father.

My favorite bible verse is Matthew 6:28,30 ("Learn from the way the wild flowers grow. They do not work or spin, yet they are more beautiful than a king in his finest clothes. If God so cares for the flowers of the field, which bloom for just one day, how much more will your heavenly Father provide for you?").

I look forward to meeting you.

Christian

2011-09-12T11:27:00.000-07:00

Hello. I'm Christian Cary. This starts my 3rd year on the Edge core team (plus many Sundays as a substitute last year). Now that my youngest is of middle school age, I'm in once more. I love spending time with kids this age, as their minds are just beginning to wake up to the world around them, and they ask important questions that bring them into a more mature and profound spirituality; yet they are still kids, who are just plain fun to be around.

I was baptized Greek Orthodox, spent many years in the Congregational church, and the last 11 years at MQP (I learned from Father Paul Dalton that Greek Orthodox and the Catholic church are so closely linked - like the Star Alliance of denominations -- who knew?!)*

I moved to the Northwest from San Jose in 1999 to take a job as product manager managing Philips portable heart defibrillators, or AEDs (check out two of them in the MQP foyer). Managing a life-saving medical device business is probably about the best job there is.

I have a wife of 20 great years, Anne, and 3 wonderful kids, Alison, 18, who just started her Freshman year at Gonzaga, Lucas 15, Sophomore at Eastlake, and Holly, 11, 6th grader at Christa McAuliffe. We also have a goofball dog, Mickey, a truculent old cat, Coby, and ???? month old Hamster, Bella.

I like to paint, ski, camp, do home projects, work on 2 '68 Mustangs when I can, and probably the most fulfilling, share my faith with your children - and their's with me.

----

*More info on the Greek Orthodox/Catholic connection

“As our dialogue completes its thirty-fifth year, the members of the Orthodox-Catholic Consultation in North America take this opportunity to reaffirm the importance of the ecumenical commitment and witness of our churches. We especially reaffirm the significance of theological dialogue between the Orthodox and Catholic churches, which seeks the restoration of full communion based upon the profession of the apostolic faith, and expressed in eucharistic sharing and concelebration.

“We are convinced that a unique relationship exists between our churches in spite of our division. This relationship is rooted in the fact that we continue to proclaim and to share the essential elements of the apostolic faith. Over the years, our own discussions in North America and our Agreed Statements on such critical topics as the Eucharist, the Church, the Pastoral Office, and Baptism bear witness to this affirmation. It is for this very reason that in recent times the Catholic and Orthodox churches have been described as ‘sister churches.’”

From:

The North American Orthodox-Catholic Theological Consultation, “Sharing the Ministry of Reconciliation: Statement on the Orthodox-Catholic Dialogue and the Ecumenical Movement.” Brookline, Massachusetts. June 1, 2000.

Yolanda

2011-09-12T11:26:00.000-07:00

My name is Yolanda Acosta I'm originally from Santa Marta, Colombia but I have lived all around the world including Panama, Netherlands, Florida and I have lived in Washington for 10 years. I'm the eldest of 3 and, I have one sister and one brother. I have a wonderful husband and 2 boys a, 3 year old and a 11 month old. I love hiking, reading, cooking (no baking), and spending time with family and friends.

Gary

2011-09-12T11:09:00.000-07:00

Born in Dublin Ireland, Moved to Australia when I was 27, met my wife there and happily married to Sabrina, originally from San Jose. I have 3 citizenships, Irish, Australian and recently became a US Citizen and see myself a bit of a traveler. I have 2 wonderful children, plus part ownership of 2 kitties, a fish and a friendly dog. So, a busy house.

I love to play sports and enjoy football (soccer!) golf, basketball and baseball. I formed a soccer team a few years ago called the “Grumpy Old Men” and have enjoyed get grumpier and grumpier every season. I hope not to bring grumpiness to our year together.

I really enjoyed being part of the Children’s Liturgy ministry a couple of years ago and have gotten closer and closer to God as I have grown older and older. I also work in Healthcare which means I witness a lot of illness and see Gods work in the healing process too.

My wish is have a stronger faith as I journey with Edge for the coming year.

With much anticipation for the coming year

Irma

2011-09-12T10:52:00.000-07:00

Just after I graduated from pharmacy school, my husband and I started teaching preschool Sunday School in California. We loved the kids and the fellowship with the other teachers. Ten years later in Pennsylvania, when my children were attending Vacation Bible Schools at other churches, I started and led the week of summer camp at our parish. When we moved here in 2001, I was a youth group leader for a small group for about 6 years and active in bringing the Lifeteen program to our parish. Then, I switched to Faith Formation teaching with my youngest and taught about 3 years in her class. Now that my youngest is in middle school, I am back with the Edge, excited to be a small group leader. I love the fellowship, strength, and growth I receive when I am working with our teens to help them develop a deeper relationship with the Lord.

Mary

2011-09-12T10:44:00.000-07:00

I am a single mom of 12 year old twins – Taylor and Emilee who are now 7^th graders at Pine Lake Middle School (where does the time go?). I have lived in the Pacific NW since 1983 (Air Force brat – born in Italy and lived all over!). My girls were born in Bellevue and we have lived in Sammamish since 2004 and love the area! We have a beautiful Havenese dog named Max and 2 cats, Bella and Ella. I have worked in the Information Technology field for 20 years with 6 of those years being an IT Trainer.

In our spare time we like to hike, swim, go to movies, and spend time with friends but most of all TRAVEL – we have been to Australia, Mexico, Honduras, Canada and various places in the US (horseback riding on a dude ranch, visiting family in Utah and Florida as well as anything to do with Disney).

I LOVE learning and sharing my knowledge with others and am looking forward to working with your children in the role of team lead. I have previously assisted as well as taught Faith Formation classes at MQP for both 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd grade as well at both the 1^st Communion and Reconciliation classes and am really looking forward to getting involved again. Faith is an important part of my life and sharing that faith is important to me.

Steve

2011-09-12T09:33:00.000-07:00

Steve grew up locally in Bellevue, WA, the 8th of 9 children (5 boys, 4 girls). He has been married to his wife, Karen for 14 years and together they have 3 daughters (ages 12, 9, and 7). Over the years, Steve has taught swim lessons, coached waterpolo, soccer and softball. For the past 20 years, he has been singing with the Maureen Still Christian Band.

Steve says: “I would like to be involved with my middle school daughter as she moves into the Edge program and develops a closer relationship with God. I have always enjoyed teaching children about the faith."

"I have been Catholic my whole life. I am a spiritual person. My Catholic faith has always been important to me, but really began to grow after traveling to Rome in 1992 with my choir from St. Louise, singing for Pope John Paul II and seeing the history and wonder of the church. At that point, I said to myself ‘I always want to be this close to God’. As part of that goal, I went on a Cursillo weekend in 1994 which was an amazing experience and helped give me the framework for my spirituality. Since then, I have strived to remain close through frequent prayer, study and conversation with others around me about God and the church."

"I'm looking forward to sharing my faith with the youth of the parish and helping guide them in a closer relationship with God. Through the challenge of this sharing I look forward to increasing my own faith and growing in my relationship with God.”

Karina

2011-09-12T08:15:00.000-07:00

What is God's plan for you?

2011-09-07T21:26:00.000-07:00

God has given you hints on what His plan is for you. He has given you gifts. The things that come naturally to you.

Honor God with your lives. Use your God given gifts.

The important thing to remember: "God's will never contradicts God's word." So if you want to be a super duper athlete to be rich and famous... and you're putting fame over God. Well, that's idolatry. That's not going to work out so well.

Use your gifts for His glory, not yours, and you'll be amazed at what happens!

Be yourself. Be the best YOU, you can be. If you try to be like anyone else, you'll always be second best.

Discover God's great plan for YOU!!! :)

Recently, we held a "Strengths Explorer" retreat for 6th-8th graders. Each person completed an online assessment, and then received a personalized report that highlighted their top 3 themes out of a possible 10. Check out the "Prezi" below to learn more about the themes.
To view the presentation below:
First click on the PLAY arrow at bottom, and then put your cursor anywhere on the frame below, and click at your own pace to move through the presentation.

Strengths Explorer Themes on Prezi

To learn more about "Strengths Explorer" click here. We'll be offering this program again from a faith-based perspective sometime in early 2012. Please email us if you'd like to be contacted when the dates are announced. Thanks.

Our Mission Trip Priest has Died

2011-08-31T12:18:00.000-07:00

Father Patrick O'Hogan was the pastor at St. Anne's in Forks, WA, where our Edge youth group has gone on a mission trip for the past three years. Father Patrick left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. He was ordained a priest just two years ago (June 13, 2009). We celebrated Mass with him every day the first week of this month. He died suddenly on Monday. The kids, other adult leaders and I all enjoyed him so much. He's very funny, while remaining serious and devout in his faith. He will be greatly missed, and yet, we now have a wonderful advocate in heaven. Rest in peace, Father Patrick.

His funeral is this Friday, September 2nd in Olympia. More information may be found here.

Mission Trip Video Highlights

2011-08-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

To view the presentation below:
First click on the PLAY arrow at bottom, and then put your cursor anywhere on the frame below, and click at your own pace to move through the presentation.

The comments below come straight from the middle schoolers (+ 1 adult written in orange) who were on the mission trip. Enjoy.

Be sure to "stay tuned" after the credits for some funny outtakes.

Celebrating God's Creation at the Beach

2011-08-08T11:36:00.000-07:00

Celebrating God's Creation at the Beach
Thursday night we went to Rialto beach where Father Patrick O'Hogan celebrated Mass. You'll see some quotes from St. Francis of Assisi's "Canticle of Brother Sun" mixed in the video. St. Francis of Assisi is the patron Saint of animals and ecology. For the whole song, please visit this link.

Drum Circle

2011-08-08T07:30:00.000-07:00

The Quileute Tribe in La Push invited us into their community on Wednesday evening. They really made us feel like we were are a part of their family. This ties in with one of the themes of Catholic Social Teaching: Call to Family, Community, and Participation The person is not only sacred but also social. How we organize our society -- in economics and politics, in law and policy -- directly affects human dignity and the capacity of individuals to grow in community. Marriage and the family are the central social institutions that must be supported and strengthened, not undermined. We believe people have a right and a duty to participate in society, seeking together the common good and well-being of all, especially the poor and vulnerable. Source: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Check out the Quiluete Tribe website for more information on their rich history and culture.

Peace Garden

2011-08-08T07:25:00.000-07:00

MQP's "The Edge" is collaborating with MQP's Garden Ministry to "Sow Seeds of Peace" and "Weed Out Hate".

On Good Friday, we planted a peace garden in a little bed in the north parking lot. We'll be taking photos of the progress throughout the summer, and you can see beginnings of something beautiful in our short slide show below.

Please consider signing up to take a few minutes before or after church one weekend-- alone, or with your family, to weed and water our precious garden.

Click on the button to see the open spots and claim your weekend. You'll find instructions on the page.

Exploring Your God Given Strengths FAQ

2011-07-28T10:48:00.000-07:00

We have a really neat retreat planned for 6th-8th graders and their parents on Sunday, August 28th.

Information and registration forms are here. Forms are due August 12th.

We will update this page with answers to Frequently Asked Questions throughout the registration and assessment process.

Please send any questions to karen.hauser@mqp.org.

St. Catherine of Sienna said, "Be who God meant you to be, and you will set the world on fire." But how do you figure out what God means for you to be? Sign up for to find out.

Here's a neat column about "Tending Our Talents."

How do you figure out what STRENGTHS God gave you?

2011-07-25T14:21:00.000-07:00

St. Catherine of Sienna said, “Be who God meant you to be, and you will set the world on fire.” But how do you figure out what God means for you to be?

One way is to do a fun “personality profile” online quiz developed by experts at Gallup (most known for the polls and statistics). Based on decades of research, this program helps students discover their talents — the ways in which they naturally think, feel, and behave — giving them the confidence to excel in their areas of natural God-given ability.

This strengths-based model can:

· help students think about their talents and how to use them in class and in everyday life.

· encourage students to focus on what they do right, rather than what they do wrong.

· help students approach school achievement by thinking about their strengths, not their weaknesses.

· help students understand and appreciate one another’s talents and, in doing so, help them build and

strengthen relationships.

· assist educators in understanding what motivates their students, resulting in more personalized

instruction.

How it works:

· Register for the program and retreat by Friday, August 12th. Cost for materials = $20
(note: registration forms are currently available in church office and vestibule. They should be available online here by late Tuesday, 7/26)

· You will receive a unique access code just for you within 5 business days.

· Take the online assessment at www.strengthsexplorer.com by Friday, August 19th in order to participate in the workshop just a short time later.

· Email us your results, the top three themes of your strengths.

· Come with a parent (or both parents) to the retreat on August 28th.

At the Retreat:

The Edge (6th-8th grade) Youth Minister Anne Royse Ginther and Pastoral Assistant for Stewardship Kathi Rowley will help the youth and their parents dig deeper into what this all means from a faith-based perspective, and have fun while doing it. Parents will have the opportunity to affirm their kids’ strengths.

“Our whole family participated in this, and we loved it! We gained such insight on ourselves and each other. It has really helped me as a parent be tuned into my children’s strengths and affirm them every day.” - MQP Parishioner Laura Wilson.

Registration Deadline: August 12th. Assessment results deadline to attend workshop: August 19th.

Please contact Anne Royse Ginther or Kathi Rowley for more information. 425.391.1178

Click here for the registration form.

Register for Faith Formation / Youth Groups by August 1 for early bird discount!

2011-07-20T09:50:00.000-07:00

Register for Faith Formation classes by August 1 to get your early bird discount!

PreK through grade 5

6^th grade through 12^th grade

Click here to learn about the important role parents may play in their child's faith formation.

JELL-O Fest! What Shapes You?

2011-07-20T09:25:00.000-07:00

A special thanks to everyone who was flexible to flip flop our JELL-O fest and retreat days, so that we could make the most out of the weather changes. Friday was DEFINITELY a better day to have a JELL-O fest! Enjoy the video.

Congratulations Brigid for winning the art contest!

2011-07-18T09:50:00.000-07:00

Brigid S. is setting the world on fire with her artwork! She is the winner of the art contest. We will be featuring her artwork to promote our upcoming Strengths Explorer workshop on August 28th.

Thank you to all those who entered their beautiful artwork! We will feature all of your art in various places to promote this neat event. We are blessed to have so many talented artists in our parish!

Hanging at MQP Retreat Style

2011-07-18T09:28:00.000-07:00

EDGE-stravaganza on Thursday took us indoors because of the cold, rainy weather.

The High School Youth Minister, Stephen O'Sullivan talked about how God blessed us with special gifts and charisms. Everybody is a special piece of God's puzzle, and it's important that each of us plays our part.

Anne talked about spending time with Jesus all the time. "I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing." John 15:5 We talked about how all this week, we were staying connected to Jesus... and how we can keep doing this even after EDGE-stravaganza. Ask your child which branch below is likely to grow the most fruit. Or better yet, look at a bunch of grapes at home, and notice the connection from the bunch with the most fruit. The more we stay connected to Jesus, the more amazing things can happen!

We played lots of games (this one is pictured in the slide show-- lots of fun!) and had lots of fun.

Thanks again to all the parents who were flexible to flip flop the driving/chaperoning for Thurs/Friday due to weather.

Service at the Cathedral

2011-07-14T01:17:00.000-07:00

Enjoy!

EDGE-stravaganza Day Two: Endurance @ Rattlesnake Ridge!

2011-07-12T19:35:00.000-07:00

We hiked 2.2 miles straight into the clouds. And then God parted the clouds giving us glorious views! Another 2.2 miles down and we refreshed ourselves at Rattlesnake Lake. The rain didn't start until we were ready to leave. A perfect day. Please watch this with your child and congratulate him or her on such a great accomplishment!

EDGE-stravaganza Day One: Depend On God!

2011-07-11T19:15:00.001-07:00

And now for your viewing pleasure, we have the extended version (3 minutes) and the short version (30 seconds).

Enjoy!

EDGE-stravaganza participant families should have received an email from Anne this evening with info about tomorrow. If you didn't please call Anne's cell 612-210-9952. If you're kids are wondering what it might be like, please take a look at highlights from last year. Everyone had an awe-inspiring, downright good time!!! :)

Looking forward to a great day!! :)

How is a dog like God? Check it out:

Welcome Father Armando Guzman!

2011-07-10T16:21:00.000-07:00

Mary, Queen of Peace, Catholic Community welcomes Father Armando Guzman! We're so excited to have him here!

Father Kevin used to be a clown, and Father Armando was a mime! They could put on quite a show at the parish carnival on August 21st! Although I'm not sure we could talk them out of retirement. :)

Visit Father Armando's website, and learn all about the many strengths he's bringing to MQP: www.armandoarts.com.

Pictured from left to right: Pastoral Assistant for Stewardship, Kathi Rowley, Father Armando Guzman, Pastoral Assistant for Youth Ministry, Anne Royse Ginther, and Father Kevin Duggan.

Art Contest: Set the World on Fire!

2011-07-03T14:47:00.000-07:00

St. Catherine of Sienna said, "Be who God meant you to be, and you will set the world on fire." On August 28th, we are offering a neat opportunity for 6th-8th graders to explore their God-given strengths, and parents to join in affirming those strengths.

We want to use some 6th-8th grader strengths to create the artwork to advertise this neat event!

What does a picture of "setting the world on fire" St. Catherine style, look like to you?

Deadline: Monday, July 11th, 2011

Prize: Two movie tickets to any Regal Cinema (Redmond/Issaquah)

Judging: The artwork will be judged on the following:

Conveys the idea of the gifts of the Holy Spirit "setting the world on fire."
Please either email edge@mqp.org a high-res image of your own creation, or draw something on 8 1/2 X 11 unlined paper (Note that marker tends to work best) and drop it by the parish office.
Judges shall be a combination of MQP office staff and youth participating in EDGE-stravaganza.

Any youth who submits artwork may not participate as a judge.

Announcing the winner: We will announce the winner right here on this blog no later than Wednesday, July 13, 2011.

Catholic Canines Unite!

2011-06-28T11:51:00.000-07:00

All MQP Parishioners are invited to bring their dogs as we UNLEASH the fun at Marymoor Dog Park on Monday, July 11th.

Meet us in "the center ring" (big open round area with wood chips, several benches and big rocks in a circle) between 10 and 10:15.

Contact Anne Royse Ginther if you have questions:
612-210-9952 mobile

Fun slideshow highlights from last year here.

Make JELL-O for JESUS! Seriously.

2011-06-28T10:54:00.000-07:00

This is a great opportunity to do a service activity with your whole family, and have fun while doing it!

We need a WHOLE BUNCH of SUGAR FREE JELL-O for our 2nd annual JELL-O fest @ EDGE-stravaganza. (The topic: What’s shaping you?)

It can be in a pan, cupcake molds, and any shapes you care to make!

PLEASE let us know if we can count on your donation, it will help us with planning immensely.

Drop off Jell-O during church office hours anytime before Thursday, 7/14. Leave your name on any containers you’d like returned.

Please contact Anne Royse Ginther to let her know you’ll be helping: 425-391-1178, ext 129 or edge@mqp.org

Happy Birthday, CHURCH! :)

2011-06-10T12:35:00.000-07:00

Come celebrate the church's birthday this weekend, and ask the Holy Spirit to fill you up! Thanks to the Catholic Young Adult Ministry Association for sharing this with me. :)

PLEASE watch this video... and consider....

2011-05-31T23:09:00.000-07:00

What role do you wish FAITH to play in your child's life?

Here's an interesting article on How to Build a Strong Catholic Family. Note: We hope to be offering the "Strong Catholic Families" workshop at MQP soon. Email Anne if you're interested.

It's not a surprise that research shows that today's teenagers tend to follow their parent's faith. Please consider sharing your faith, by sharing your time as an Edge small group leader. You don't need to have all the answers. You just need to be welcoming and have a desire to bring our youth closer to Christ. We will give you the tools to help create a environment where the kids can feel comfortable growing and sharing in their faith.

You may just find that you will receive even more than you give. "“I get so much out of volunteering for this program every week. I’m growing in my faith right along with the kids.” - Edge Volunteer Yolanda Acosta-Bigsby

Watch this video below, visit this link and consider whether God is calling you to share of your time with MQP in this way.

Imagine driving home with your child after each Edge night, and really being able to spend a few quality minutes about what's really important in life.

Please contact Edge Youth Minister (grades 6-8) Anne Royse Ginther to learn more about it and consider volunteering. 425.391.1178, ext 129

"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6

EDGE-stravaganza July 11-15, 2011

2011-05-30T14:15:00.000-07:00

Back by popular demand: EDGE-stravaganza! A great way to get to know other EDGE kids before the fall kick-off! Open to all incoming 6th-8th graders! Bring your friends!

CLICK HERE to download a flier and registration form. Space fills up fast! Priority given to kids whose parent(s) can chaperone/drive at least one of the days.

Registration Deadline is June 27th.

Chaperone/Driver DISCOUNT: 20% off for each day a parent/guardian volunteers, volunteer the whole week and get a child in for free! Space is limited. Priority given to kids' who have a parent driver/chaperone/volunteer.

Beyond the discount... you will get so much more out of this. Spending time with your child and others having A LOT OF FUN in a faith filled environment. We had tremendous feedback from the parents who joined us last year. Hope you'll consider it! :)

Monday: Marymoor Dog Park

Tuesday: Rattlesnake Ridge

Wedensday: St. James Cathedral

Thursday: Beaver Lake Park

Friday: Hangin' at MQP Retreat Style

The EDGY Awards ROCKED!

2011-05-20T14:31:00.000-07:00

The Second Annual EDGY'S played to a sold out crowd!!! Thanks to all who volunteered to make it a night to a remember, and to all who came and supported our mission trip.

Our program may have wrapped for the season, but I hope to see all of you at church every week. Exercise your faith! Come to church on a weekly basis. Don't let your faith atrophy. Bulk up on Jesus! :) See you soon!

"St. Diego" - An Edgy Award Winning Film

2011-05-15T21:08:00.000-07:00

I wasn't sure it would be possible to top last year's EDGY's... but these 6th-8th graders and their AMAZING leaders, along with countless volunteers did it!! WOW! It was a SOLD OUT SHOW!

I will post highlights and updates over the coming week. But for now, sit back, and enjoy the EDGY Award winning film, "St. Diego"

Get the HOTTEST Ticket in Town! EDGY AWARDS MAY 15!

2011-05-13T18:30:00.000-07:00

The EDGY AWARDS! THIS SUNDAY May 15
6:15 – 8:00 pm
Red carpet entrance. Award winning moments. Great food. Great films. Great cause: Edge Mission Trip!
Tickets at the door = $10 per person, $25 per family
A Film Festival of creations by our 6th-8th graders.

The forecast is for rain, but our EDGEEZ are going to need their movie star sunglasses to make their way on the red carpet through the sea of paparazzi this Sunday!

Where else can you buy your family a nice sit-down meal for $25? AND… be entertained in a MAJOR WAY by 6^th-8^th graders who poured their creativity into making some very creative films that relate to their faith?!

No where but Mary, Queen of Peace, folks. This is it!

See below for more information... including a sneak peek at some films that are already getting a lot of buzz!!

PAPPARAZZI! Family and friends are highly encouraged to bring a camera and line up on either side of the Red Carpet for when our youth make their entrance!

Will my child win an award? We are the Body of Christ. Every person played an important role in The Edge throughout the year. All kids registered with the Edge will walk home with a trophy.

What's the attire? Some people get dressed up FOR REAL, and some people get dressed up FOR FUN! Check out the video above to get some ideas of what people wore last year. Throw on some sunglasses, bling, and get ready to have fun! Just keep it modest and church-event appropriate (no mean slogans, etc. on your shirts).

More EDGY Awards Buzz!

2011-05-13T12:35:00.000-07:00

Some people were worried that certain people wouldn't be in videos because they weren't here the evening the videos were filmed. ANNETASTIC Productions was lucky enough to get a sneak peek at what one group was up to, away from the glare of the lights at Edge. And now we share it with you:

The weather forcast is for RAIN on Sunday, but you'll need to bring your sunglasses to get through all the flashing paparrazi on the red carpet at the EDGY's! See you after the 6 pm Mass!
If you didn't purchase advance tickets, you may buy them at the door for $10 per person, $25 per family. All the proceeds will support our summer mission trip to Forks, Washington. See you at the show!

EDGY AWARDS BUZZ!

2011-05-13T10:43:00.000-07:00

We were fortunate to get an interview with EDGY AWARD Winning Director, Richard Spielberg Kossik. Judging by what he had to say, his latest film "Rhinos of Zeon" is sure to win lots of awards on Sunday. Take a look.

Thank you for helping us help Japan!

2011-04-27T11:15:00.000-07:00

Middle-schoolers in “The Edge” youth group at Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church are helping survivors of the recent disasters in Japan. These area 6th-8th graders created 372 individual gift packs with socks and messages of comfort translated into Japanese by parishioners. They also made 77 origami paper cranes, taking advantage of a program by Carter’s Clothing that will donate one article of clothing with every paper crane made for a child in Japan. The youth did all of this in partnership with “Socks for Japan” and look forward to receiving messages back from children in the hardest hit areas.

THANK YOU TO ALL PARISHIONERS WHO DONATED socks, crayons, money and time!

We packed them on 5/10/11, and they went out with a large shipment on Good Friday.

We also colleced $85 specifically for Catholic Relief Services Disaster Relief-- earmarked for Japan.

Bieber Fame Gets in the Way...

2011-04-14T21:48:00.001-07:00

Whether you're a fan or not, by now you've at least HEARD of Justin Bieber. I watched a little story on Good Morning America about him this morning with interest.

You see JB is in Israel for a concert, and he REALLY wants to walk in the footsteps of Jesus. And visit the places Jesus visited. Unfortunately, he's too famous. There are too many paparazzi, and it's unsafe.

Bummer for the Biebs. And bummer for us. JB has to stay cooped up in his hotel. Yeah, it's probably a gazillion dollar suite... but when you're the Biebs, you've seen one mega buck suite, you've seen 'em all. How many chances do you get to walk in the Holy Land? Bummer for us... the general public... because it might have been refreshing to see a mega-celebrity show an earnest interest in wanting to connect with Jesus in some way.

Which got me thinking. How to console JB? I was reminded of my once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to go to Rio de Janeiro last May. I was invited to speak at the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations Peace Forum. More than anything else, I wanted to see the world famous "Christ the Redeemer" statue-- now considered to be one of the new "Seven Wonders of the World."

I got to Rio, and everything seemed to be going wrong. My hotel reservation was non-existent, the city was sold out (with 3000 heads of state, of course it was), and I don't speak Portuguese. No matter. I was in RIO! I was going to see Christ the Redeemer!!!! As I started to get my first tiny glimpse, I thought... "Hmm... He looks a little... rectangular." And then I realized... He was covered in scaffolding.

I had been traveling for nearly 24 hours nonstop. I didn’t have a hotel. And my view of Jesus was obstructed. I laughed and cried at the same time. There HAS to be meaning here. Jesus, what is the silver lining? What do you want me to know?

As all the beautiful scenery blew past my taxi window… I heard a whisper from Mathew Chapter 28: “I am with you always,” Jesus said. Indeed He is. I found Him in the streets of SAARA – a community where Palestinians and Israelis run businesses side by side peacefully. I found Him in the eyes of so many lovely people from all over the world who are working very hard for peace. He is with us always.

I guess the next time I see Justin, I’ll give him a consoling pat on the back. Yeah, sometimes fame has a big price to pay... and it stinks that he’s so close to where Jesus walked, and yet so far away. But here’s the thing. He’s still in Israel. SO CLOSE to the very spot where Jesus rode into town on a donkey-- something we'll hear in the Gospel this Sunday (Palm Sunday). While JB’s there he can look for Jesus in the faces of the guys carrying his luggage, or the people hookin’ him up with some tasty morsels (I wonder if JB will try some Matzo Ball Soup while he’s there?) And take in the people. And remember what Jesus said,

“I am with you always.” –Mathew 28:20

How to Make a Cross Out of Your Palm

2011-04-14T09:46:00.000-07:00

Reflection on Palm Sunday:

"For 20 years, thanks to Pope John Paul II, Palm Sunday has become in a special way a day for youth - the day on which all young people across the world go to meet Christ, eager to accompany him to their cities and their countries, so that he may be among us and establish his peace in the world. However, if we want to encounter Jesus and then to walk with him on his path, we must ask: on what path does he want to lead us? What do we expect of him? What does he expect of us?" - HIS HOLINESS BENEDICT XVI Click here for more of his homily given on Palm Sunday, 2006

EDGY Award Nominee: "Get The Light!"

2011-04-08T10:19:00.001-07:00

This is just a sample of what you have to look forward to at the 2nd Annual EDGY AWARDS!!! SAVE THE DATE! SUNDAY, MAY 15 6 TO 8 PM!

Let's See "Soul Surfer" This Saturday! TIME CHANGE!

2011-04-04T10:02:00.000-07:00

Saturday, April 9- Redmond Bella Bottega Theater Meet in lobby at 1:05 pm (this is a change from previously mentioned 1:15, as the movie time changed since first making the announcement). Parents: Please come into lobby to sign permission slip (or email Anne to get an advance copy-- note- I will have limited to no email access on Sat.). *RSVP to edge@mqp.org. It is SUPER helpful to know who’s coming, so that if anything changes, we can reach out to you! We’ll also give you more instructions on pickup time, permissions, etc
A natural talent in the sport of surfing, teenager Bethany Hamilton (Anna Sophia Robb) finds her life changed forever after losing an arm in a shark attack. Bolstered by the love of her parents (Dennis Quaid, Helen Hunt), Bethany refuses to give up , and plans to return to competition, though questions about her future continue to trouble her. Seeing the devastation in Thailand wrought by the 2004 tsunami, Bethany discovers a greater purpose in life: to make a difference in the lives of others.

Service Project: Sow Seeds of Peace & Weed Out Hate!

2011-03-31T14:29:00.001-07:00

Friday, April 22nd

4:00 to 5:00 PM

all Edge youth are invited to

Sow the Seeds of Peace!

on the north side of the front parking lot.

It’s Good Friday AND Earth Day.

We’ll be planting Sunflower “Peace” Seeds at Mary, Queen of Peace. And create a plan to weed the garden and weed out hate at the same time.

Please help us plan. Rather than “just showing up” it helps us a lot to know if you’re coming. Please email edge@mqp.org or call Anne at 425-391-1178 to let us know if you plan to come. Thanks.

Background:

Almost 50 years ago after Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his “I Have a Dream” speech to the nation, much of his “promised land” vision has come to fruition. Unfortunately, there are still persistent weed seeds of hate that remain embedded in our collective consciousness, hindering our success as individuals and as a society. As we plant the sunflowers, we'll talk about the parable of the sower (see video below), and talk about the importance of planting in good soil. Then we'll talk about how we're going to weed. When learning how to extract a single weed by hand, roots and all, we'll talk about how to apply that same idea to weeding out hate. http://www.weedouthate.org/

MQP at the SAMMIs!!!

2011-03-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

Just some of the many in the MQP Cheering Section at the 10th annual SAMMI Awards!

SIX parishioners were honoree/ finalists for three different awards (more info on earlier post below)! And we had winners in all three categories!

A big shout out of congrats to Jovahn C. (Edge) and Josue L. (LifeTeen) for winning top honors.

Congratulations to all!

March 20th Topic: Being Heroes to the Hopeless

2011-03-11T14:03:00.000-08:00

By now most of us have heard the tragic news about a 12-year-old girl from our area who took her life. On March 20th we want to educate our 6th-8th graders on how to help friends who are sad, and how to know when it's time to get others to help.

Perhaps it is timely that at our last Edge night we talked about how precious life is at every stage. On Sunday, March 20th, we'll talk to our 6th-8th graders what our faith calls us to do when we see someone who is sad, and we'll have the clinical director from Crosspath Counseling give the kids real tips they can use to help others.

Parents are welcome to attend. When the kids go to their regular small-group discussions, the parents are welcome to stay in the main room and discuss with one another, and/or ask questions of the clinic director. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please RSVP by Friday, March 18th at noon to let us know if you plan to join us for dinner on the 20th (immediately following Mass), so that we can have enough food to go around. Please bring $5 to offset the cost of food. Otherwise, you're welcome to come at 6:30 pm as the night begins.

Adult Volunteers Needed!

2011-03-11T12:33:00.000-08:00

Drivers/Chaperones needed for the Edge Mission Trip to Forks from 7/31 to 8/05 (or even for a few days). It’s a rewarding experience to watch our youth transform in service to others over the course of a week. Come and experience your own transformation. We can’t do it without you. Please contact Anne @ 425-391-1178 for more information, and visit this link to see videos and highlights from previous years.

Need a Mood Boost? Come to the SAMMIs!

2011-03-11T11:41:00.000-08:00

Looking for a way to lift your spirits? Come to the 10th annual SAMMI Awards! SAMMI stands for “Sammamish Acknowledging Magnificent Moments of Inspiration" -- the awards were created after September 11, 2001, when many of us were feeling the need for some good news and inspiration.

This year, Mary, Queen of Peace has SIX parishioners who are finalists!

Show your support, and be inspired! It’s free!

THIS Friday, March 18 at 7 pm (doors open at 5:30 pm)
Eastridge Church
24205 SE Issaquah Fall City Rd., Issaquah, WA

The nominees are:

Edge 6th grader Guiomar Basualdo
Edge 6th grader Jovahn Cruz
Life Teen senior, Josue Lopez
Carol Stamper (parishioner)
Anne Royse Ginther (Edge Youth Minister)
Stephen O’Sullivan (Life Teen Youth Minister)

Check out this article that came out today about Jovahn, Guiomar, and the 3rd Trevor Price Award finalist!

Congratulations to all!

We're an Award Winning Youth Group!

2011-03-11T11:11:00.000-08:00

Olivia G. and Guiomar B. accepted the Youth Service Award from Archbishop Sartain, on behalf of The Edge's work in moving a pregnancy crisis center in Forks last fall. Congratulations Edgeez! :)

Rally was AWESOME! SO MUCH FUN! Those who attended have already signed up for next year! :)

Remember-- No Edge this Sunday. We'll see you on the 20th.

Spa Day & Rally Permission slips due!

2011-02-11T11:22:00.000-08:00

You may download the forms under the "Links" section on your right.

Super Bowl Service Scores

2011-02-08T10:02:00.000-08:00

We'll have reports from the field posted later this week. Thank you everyone who participated in making this a SUPER Sunday of Service!

By the way, YES! If you helped on Sunday, you may receive credit toward service hours for school, etc. See Anne for details.

Rally! Permission Slips Due 2/14!

2011-02-04T14:41:00.000-08:00

Catholic Youth Rally!
Sat. March 5 8:30AM-10:15PM
6th-8th graders are invited to join thousands of Catholic kids from all around the NW for an inspiring day that ends with a dance!
Visit links to your right for registration form and more information.

Bring Your Best Game This Sunday!

2011-02-02T11:24:00.000-08:00

This Sunday is The Edge Super Bowl of Service Sunday!

Please bring any of the following to donate toward our service projects:

Clothing (it's helpful if you bring the adult clothing separated from that of kids)
Nonperishable food for the Issaquah Food Bank
Stuff for care packages for our troops (click here for ideas)

We'll be sorting, packing, painting, writing... we'll be Christ In Action! We may even post some reports from the field and some great new commercials for your viewing pleasure next week.

Bring your best game!

Contact edge@mqp.org if you have questions, etc.'

REMINDER: Several permission slips are due a week from this Sunday! See links at right.

Edgy goes Disney!

2011-02-01T11:22:00.000-08:00

Watch Disney XD's "I'm in the Band" this Monday for one of our own to make his Disney Debut!

Congratulations Tristan!

Preferential Treatment for the Poor and Vulnerable

2011-01-31T10:31:00.000-08:00

Last night Mr. Rick Kossik shared some shocking statistics with our youth:

Out of the 2.2 billion children in the world, 1 billion live in poverty.

ONE in every FOUR kids in the USA lives in poverty.

By some estimates, it would cost $28 billion dollars per year to provide basic education, water/sanitation, and basic health and nutrition for all of the world's poor.

Compare that to what we spend each year on the following:

Ice cream = $20 billion

Cosmetics = $22 billion

Consumer Electronices = $100 billion

Fast food = $110 billion

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Here's a link to a thought provoking discussion on this topic from the US Conference of Catholic Bishops.

THIS SUNDAY, Feb 6: Please bring some non-perishable food items to donate to the Issaquah Food Bank!

Hey Edgeez!! Thanks for helping MQP's Human Concerns Committee pack gifts of food for the Issaquah Food Bank! As a parish we packaged almost 1600 pounds of food (EDGE did 400 lbs) and the food bank was very grateful for the donation.

MAJOR Public Speaking Opportunity for our Edge kids!

2011-01-24T13:17:00.000-08:00

The Seattle Archdiocese is hosting a HUGE Catholic Youth Rally for 6th-9th graders again this year. THOUSANDS of Catholic youth groups from all around the Northwest come to this event.

This year's event is on Saturday, March 5th. It's a day-long event at Highline Community College in Des Moines, WA with lots of great, inspiring things going on, and it ends with a Mass celebrated by our new Archibishop Sartain, followed by a dance!

The event planners are looking for 6th-9th graders who could give a speech to all the attendees! Last year, our own Edgee-- Cris F. gave the keynote speech! You may watch it here:

http://mqptheedge.blogspot.com/2010/03/mqps-edge-honored-at-catholic-youth.html

This year's theme they'd like speakers to cover:

The Quest! The theme for the 2011 Junior High Rally asks us to begin a Quest for Christ. We seek Christ in all things we do and set forth on a mission to find and serve him in our lives. As a youth keynote, your job is to share a brief, three minute testimony on how you have personally been called to seek Christ, or how Christ has helped you in your times of “facing your dragon”.

If you are interested. Please email Anne and I'll send you some more information, and ideas to get you started.

IMPORTANT NOTE: They'd like a video of you speaking by February 1. While that's just around the corner, I know we can do it! If you'd like to give a speech, please contact me right away. I'm happy to help you write it, refine it, video tape it, and get it to the decision makers. Cris and I turned it around really fast last year, and I know we can do it again this year.

This is a GREAT RESUME BUILDER! If you want to be an actor, public speaker, etc.-- this is a chance-of-a-lifetime opportunity! Let me know!

And to the rest of you: Please pray for those who are interested, that the Holy Spirit guides them, and helps them grow and learn from this experience. Thank you!

Edge This Sunday + Mission Trip Info NEXT Sunday!

2011-01-21T16:58:00.000-08:00

THIS SUNDAY I have a skit that needs just TWO people: A Carnival Ring Leader (“Step right up!” sound like this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddeYnQRZz78 but with a different script I will email you) , and a “customer”.

Please let me know if you’re interested! Once the spots are posted, I will let you know RIGHT HERE on our blog! Both roles have been filled. This Sunday’s topic: St. Catherine of Sienna: Your Heart’s Desire

Next week: Parents are invited to stay after Mass for 5-10 minutes to watch a short video and get information about our Mission Trip to Forks, WA that will take place 7/31 – 8/5.

Our “Edgeez” will be put to work after dinner to pack 100s of pounds of food for the Issaquah Food Bank, before we head down for a discussion on Catholic Social Teaching’s Option for the Poor & Vulnerable.

Be sure to check out our REVISED calendar here. We’ll have permission slips for Spa Day available in the vestibule this weekend, and online soon.

"Lead Me" Music video by Santus Real

2011-01-15T09:18:00.000-08:00

This is a beautiful music video dedicated to families, and anyone feeling lost or alone.
If your browser isn't showing you the video below, please try this Youtube link.

"I am with you always." - Mathew 28

Check out "The Interview with God" link at right for more inspiration. Pick up your Bible. God has a special message for you.

Start now!

2011-01-14T12:30:00.000-08:00

I was praying before the tabernacle today, and I opened my Bible randomly to this:

"If you wait until the wind and the weather are just right, you will never plant anything and never harvest anything." - Ecclesiastes 11:4

I think God wants me to share this with all of you. Is there something you've been thinking about doing or trying, but you just keep putting it off? Maybe NOW is the time!

Shortly after that, Ecclesiastes says:

"Young people, enjoy your youth. Be happy while you are still young. Do what you want to do, and follow your heart's desire. But remember that God is going to judge you for whatever you do."

It's more encouragement to do it now... whatever "it" is... but to always keep God in your heart, and do what is right. I'm a big believer that if you do everything for and with God, He will surely bless you abundantly.

Make this Monday a day "ON"! Check out this Issaquah Press article for ideas on things to do in service to our community.

Remember: No Edge or LifeTeen this Sunday. Please check our updated calendar for changes and new events coming up!

What would you do if you knew God has your back?

2011-01-06T09:55:00.000-08:00

“What would you do if you knew you could not fail?” – A good question. Last week in Edge we came up with an even better question: “What would you do if you knew God has your back?”

The 1st question leaves it all up to you. The 2nd leaves it up to God. If you know God is sending you blessings to help you on your way--even during those tough times & hard work, there's a sense that you must do it for Him, after all, He got you this far.

Four days following that Edge night, there was a man who made national news. He went from being a homeless addict to sitting on the set of the Today Show with numerous job offers. When Matt Lauer asked him “Are you emotionally ready to do the right thing with this second chance?”; The man said indeed he is… because this time, he knows God has his back. Watch the fun, inspiring video.

Searching for an Epiphany

2010-12-30T14:24:00.000-08:00

Imagine the birth of Jesus through Joseph’s eyes. An angel told him in a dream to marry his betrothed, that her son was conceived by the Holy Spirit, and would be Emmanuel—God with us. With great faith, Joseph did as he was instructed. Mary gave birth. Sometime later, in their humble surroundings, as if out of nowhere, three wise men arrived from a long journey and bowed down to the baby. They brought him gifts. And perhaps one of those gifts was that of an epiphany: A revelation to everyone, including Joseph who made a great journey of faith, that this baby really IS the son of the Most High, sent here for all of us-- Jews and Gentiles alike.

Reflect: As we look forward to the new year, what is God calling us to do as a journey of faith? And how does He reveal himself to us?

Lord Jesus—Loving father, Prince of Peace...
As we look to a new year ahead, we ask You to be our guide.
Be that star in the sky as You were to the wise men over 2000 years ago.
Bring us into Your Light. Help keep our path to You well lit, and keep our eyes open to see where You are guiding us. For we know that everything good comes from You. If we stay on Your path, we will surely have a good and blessed year to look forward to. We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Why did Father Kevin Chalk the Door?

2010-12-30T02:55:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered what the chalk markings above our church doors mean? Father Kevin just changed them, and there will be a big blessing this weekend. You may read more about this tradition here.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-23T11:10:00.000-08:00

Please watch this 4 min 20 sec video, and be inspired by all that our parish community does to give back to God, Who gave us His only son.

You may also view it on a bigger screen here on Youtube, and share the link with your Facebook friends and more! :)

Advent Videos brought to you by Edgeez!

2010-12-07T14:39:00.000-08:00

Come to our big MOVIE NIGHT this Saturday to see these and some other fun film shorts before the main event!

The above video is by music by Jumpin' Janine Productions and the Amazing Threes...
Music by Trans Siberian Orchestra

The above video is brought to you by Group Four Productions
Music thanks to "Advent Conspiracy"