The Novena for Our Lady of Guadalupe begins on Thursday, December 3rd. Click the image to see the Novena prayers.

My Fellow Parishioners:

This past year, the St. Mel parish has faced and overcome countless challenges related to the Pandemic of 2020.  Through God’s grace and the tireless devotion of our Deacons, lay leaders and many volunteers, we have re-imagined our faith environment in innovative ways no one ever thought possible. Faith in action is abundant at St. Mel in Fair Oaks. 

Together we have endured county health protocols that continue to change how we are able to worship.  We will continue to live-stream our weekday and Sunday Masses. Our students have returned to school full-time.  Our parish communication system has been significantly enhanced.  We have even enjoyed watching over 1000 followers join us on Facebook. We have connected with parishioners through phone calls and emails.  Even though our parish ministries have been restrained by the pandemic, they continue to find ways to further their mission. We have also seen renewed commitment to establish new ministries, such as the Hospitality and Men’s Rosary Group. 

The pandemic has significantly impacted our weekly offerings, and we have responded by reducing expenses accordingly.  Without your support, we could have never made it this far.  There is still more to do.  Now is the time to build our vibrant community in order for us to continue to deliver an impactful faith-filled experiences. With Giving Tuesday coming up soon after Thanksgiving, we would like to try something new.    Before starting your Cyber Monday holiday shopping, please prayerfully consider a special donation to our parish on or before Giving Tuesday, December 1.  Your contribution will be used to maintain the operations of our parish.  The donations received from this effort will be placed into our building and maintenance fund.  These funds are used for projects such as our newly repaved parking lot and the continuing necessary up keep of our beautiful campus.  

The power of giving in America on Giving Tuesday became a significant phenomenon in its inaugural year of 2019. Any amount you may choose to give in 2020, would be appreciated. You can give in the follow ways:

• Faith Direct, our online giving platform. Just click here     
• Mail a Check to the office 4748 Pennsylvania Ave, Fair Oaks, CA 95628
• Deposit a check in the vestibule offertory box. Indicate your donation is for Giving Tuesday
• Call the Office at 916-967-1229 and you can charge it on your credit card

I am deeply grateful for your ongoing support. Together, let us continue to pray for those who have faithfully departed, for the recovery of those who are sick, for the health of our caregivers and first responders, for an easing of anxiety caused by the pandemic, and for hope and peace in the days ahead.  As we endure these challenging times, let us take comfort in the words of Jesus, as he reminds us: “and behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.” (Matt: 28:20.)

Please be assured of my prayers for you and God Bless your family and loved ones.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Father Aldrin

ST. MEL SCHOOL SEE'S CANDY FUNDRAISER 

St. Mel School needs your sweet support!  We are selling yummy See's Candies for our Winter fundraiser. Sales are from November 16th through December 4th.

You may order online by clicking here to pick and choose your favorites. PayPal or Credit Cards are accepted.  Orders are shipped as soon as they are placed – standard shipping rates apply.  It's that easy!

For those who need assistance ordering online, please contact Melanie Dunn at 916-213-4750 and she will be happy to further assist you in getting an order placed.