Since March, we all have discovered new ways to bring some semblance of normalcy to our everyday tasks. We work and learn from home. We use Zoom and other online video and streaming technology for work, schooling, holidays, Mass and much more.

Young adults within the Archdiocese of Philadelphia are using Zoom to journey through Advent together. Sponsored by the Office of Cultural Ministries, the Religious of the Assumption, St. Francis de Sales and St. Agatha-St. James Parishes in Philadelphia and the Penn Catholic Newman Community at the University of Pennsylvania, and with the help of spiritual guides and parish partners, participants are readying themselves for the birth of Christ and the Christmas season through weekly video chats. These chats include exploring scripture and take place on Wednesdays from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 

The Advent season looks much different this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Under social distancing guidelines, some are not comfortable attending Mass in person (in addition to limited capacity allowances) but want a new and innovative way to celebrate and reflect upon the Advent season.

In the Christmas season, young people are looking for guidance and connection to God and the opportunity to turn to spiritual leaders for inspiration and hope. 

Christmas is the perfect time to “[discover God in our own lives, and [be] able to continue nurturing that relationship with God,” said Brother Patrick Travers of the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae and director at the Penn Catholic Newman Community.

For those interested in journeying through the remainder of Advent, you do so by accessing Zoom and enter meeting ID number 899 9777 6073 and password ADVENT, or visit www.facebook.com/PCMRPhilly or www.facebook.com/HispanosPhilly.

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Those still looking to send the perfect Christmas card to their loved ones can look no further. Spread Christmas joy to friends and family near and far, and help your local community at the same time.

The Nutritional Development Services (NDS) within the Archdiocese of Philadelphia is offering their annual custom Christmas cards sold in packs of 10 or 20 for $15 and $25 respectively. The 5” x 7” cards are printed on high quality paper and come in eight different designs created by local artist Patty Smith. You also may choose variety packs if you like each design. Designs range from Nativity scenes to angels to Christmas trees with scripture verses and Catholic themes inside to wish everyone a Merry Christmas. 

All proceeds directly benefit NDS’s Community Food Program. This program provides support to the network of food pantries within the Philadelphia region, benefiting the community as a whole. 

Christmas may be rapidly approaching, but there is still time to support NDS and send Christmas cheer to everyone on your list. 

For more information or to purchase the NDS Alternative Christmas Cards, contact Denise Hopkins, Administrator, NDS Community Food Program at 215-895-3470 ext. 77823 or dhopkins@ndsarch.org. View the 2020 card collection here.

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Dear Parents,

​I am happy to tell you that GSC will return to "in person" instruction on Monday, December 7th.

If for some reason your child needs to remain virtual, please let the homeroom teacher know. I want to thank the teachers for ALL they have done this week to continue educating all of our children. I am sure it was not easy teaching in an empty classroom. However, it was good to see the children's smiling faces.
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Please continue to be vigilant in the DAILY screening your child/children. We need to work together to keep everyone safe and healthy. We are all happy about returning to school. However, we must continue all of our precautions and practices of social distancing. If we are going to remain open, we need to strictly follow the CDC guidelines.

May Jesus, our Good Shepherd, continue to protect us.

Gratefully,
Sister Helen