News - November 2024

Jim’s story exemplifies how one person’s vision and dedication can transform a community. Diablo Magazine features Jim in its December issue, and he will be celebrated at the Threads of Hope recognition ceremony on December 12, 2024, at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek. For over 40 years, Jim has dedicated himself to improving the lives of Contra Costa County’s most vulnerable residents. Read more through the link.

Read the latest newsletter from the African American Pastoral Center

Bishop Michael C. Barber, SJ, has granted Father Brandon Macadaeg a leave for personal reasons as rector of the Cathedral of Christ the Light. The Bishop has appointed Father Stephen A. Barber, SJ as Interim Parochial Administrator of Cathedral of Christ the Light Parish, St. Leo the Great Parish and St. Patrick, West Oakland Parish, effective Nov. 15, 2024. Father Barber has full authority for all administrative and pastoral duties in the three parishes of the Cathedral cluster.

As Catholics, we are called to lives that bring Christ’s hope, mercy and care to all. This year’s Gift of Giving highlights how some organizations in the Diocese of Oakland provide the corporal and spiritual works of mercy to all in alameda and contra costa counties. Some of these need gift cards; some need socks. All can use our prayer and concern. As J.C. Orton of Night on the Streets – Catholic Worker said, “The greatest gift one can give is the gift of presence.

All eligible employees are encouraged to complete the enrollment process online using the MyEnroll System. Your 2024 FSA elections will not carry over into 2025, you must re-enroll during Open Enrollment. FSA elections go into effect on January 1, 2025, and end December 31, 2025. This Open Enrollment is ONLY for the Flexible Spending Account benefit. No other benefits changes may be done at during this time.

The Bishop’s Ministry Appeal supports the many ministries, programs and services provided by the Diocese, which benefit all of our parishes. The ministries are our faith in motion, a testament to the difference we can make together when we all contribute to the betterment of our community. Hear directly from those who know first hand the impact of your gift. If you have not made a donation to the Bishop’s Ministries Appeal yet, please do so today. We are so close to reaching our goal!

All eligible employees are encouraged to complete the enrollment process online using the MyEnroll System. Your 2024 FSA elections will not carry over into 2025, you must re-enroll during Open Enrollment. FSA elections go into effect on January 1, 2025, and end December 31, 2025. This Open Enrollment is ONLY for the Flexible Spending Account benefit. No other benefits changes may be done at during this time. Flexible Spending Account Open Enrollment ends on 12/3/2024, so don’t miss out!”

Join the Saint David Community for Breakfast with Santa! Bring the whole family for a festive morning filled with delicious food, holiday cheer, and fun activities; get an early start on your Christmas shopping with local vendors, and enjoy crafts, music, and more. Sunday, December 8, 2024, 9am-1pm. Purchase tickets through the link.

On Dec. 8, the diocese will take up a special collection to support our retired religious. The attached bilingual flyer provides facts regarding the needs of our retired religious. Resources to promote the appeal are available at retiredreligious.org. Details through the link.

Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Open Enrollment is coming soon! It will start on November 19 and end on December 3, 2024. Your 2024 FSA election will not carry over into 2025, you must re-enroll during Open Enrollment. FSA elections go into effect on January 1, 2025. This Open Enrollment is ONLY for the Flexible Spending Account benefit. No other benefits changes may be done at during this time. Please see the Site Administrator / Bookkeeper at your location for more information about the Flexible Spending Account

Building on the deep faith of black Catholics, under the leadership of the African American Pastoral Council (AAPC), local Catholics, young and not so young, are part of the movement to pray for and celebrate Father Augustus Tolton and other black Catholics from the United States who have open causes for canonization. Read about the extraordinary journey of the Saintly Six.

The Office of Worship shares the Liturgical Observances for the Diocese of Oakland for 2024-2025 in both English and Spanish. This document is meant to supplement the official Ordo published by Paulist Press.