Greetings Brothers,

A blessed Advent to you. As we approach Christmas I hope you and your families will remember the reason for the season. Joy and blessings to all.

I remember when I was a child, my parents and I went to Midnight Mass. The tree had been decorated, but there were no gifts under the tree, but when we returned home after Mass it was obvious to me that Santa Claus had been there while we were away. It wasn't until years later that I realized my parents had asked a neighbour to place the gifts under the tree in our absence. I think about that every year, fondly remembering my parents, thankful for their love and ingenuity.

One of the most beautiful aspects of Christmas is that we get together with our families, visit friends whom we don't often see, renew acquaintances and share our generosity with others. Charities rely on our help even more so in this time of year.

Remember to keep Christ in Christmas. Be proud to say “Merry Christmas”. Forget the “happy holidays” and PLEASE don't write Xmas instead of Christmas.  As Knights of Columbus we should all be leaders in preserving the Christian and Catholic traditions that we grew up with.

The annual Seniors' Social is scheduled for Saturday, December 3^rd following 5 pm Mass.  A huge thank you to Brother Arnold Lorenz for his hard work in organizing the event, and to Jeannette Liber, Louise Schurman, Bev Cleave, Evelyn McQuaid and Pat Choma who volunteered to prepare the meal. Without the help of these ladies the event just would not happen. Also many thanks to the Brother Knights who helped set up the hall, assisted in the kitchen, served and did the cleanup afterwards. Your help is very much appreciated.

A few months ago Council approved the purchase of ceremonial sashes. They have been ordered, so very soon you'll see Knights wearing the sashes for Church events. The sashes will give us a visibility that we haven't had until now.

Once again I send out a plea for help in selling Charities Appeal tickets. (Notice a trend here?) Last year our Council came second in sales in State, but we should be first as we are the largest Council. Now is a good time to take books to help us achieve our goals.  Thanks once again to those who have stepped up to the plate and sold books.

Finally, best wishes to all of you for a very merry Christmas, a blessed Christmas surrounded by friends and family, and a safe and happy New Year 2012.

Vivat Jesus

Al Girard, Grand Knight, Father Bonner Council 7599