Words of encouragement from Pope Francis: “Advent is a journey towards Bethlehem. May we be drawn by the Light of God made man.” Like us on Facebook. www.stjoepittsfield. Pope Francis has dedicated the New Year to St Joseph, the Patron of the Universal Church. This is the 150th anniversary of this special title of St Joseph. A special prayer will be said every Wednesday for the coming year. A green candle will burn each week in his honor. In addition to the Sanctuary (red) candle, the St. Joseph Candle may be reserved for your intention. A donation of $7.00 is requested. Christmas Flowers: If you wish to donate to the flowers for Christmas, please send us the name of your loved ones. A Mass will be offered for those intentions. In addition to our live-streamed Christmas Day Mass at 9am, Ch. 22 will broadcast Christmas Mass from St Michael's Cathedral celebrated by our new bishop, Bishop William Byrne. We can safely seat 125 parishioners at each Mass. especially at Christmas I would encourage you to come early. When we reach that number the doors will be closed. At this time of year, we receive and welcome many guests at St Joseph's. We hope you feel well received and welcomed. Thank you for worshiping with us. How about starting the New Year with on-line-giving. It's very easy to start. Thank you for your consideration. Check out our parish app. MyParish app.com Please remember all the sick and those living alone.