Volleyball at Christ the King this Thurs.

Hello brothers and sisters in Christ,

This Thurs. for Emmaus we will be playing volleyball at Christ the King (note location change). We will meet at 6:30pm to pray the rosary, and then we'll play v-ball from 7-??? The address at CTK is: 742 Arlington Rd. North. If you have any questions or get lost, please call me (Russ) at (352) 359-0629. Hope to see you there!

God Bless,

The Emmaus core team (Sean, Jen, Russ, and Adam)

Thurs: Christmas Carol Movie -not at St. Ephrems

We will not be having Emmaus at St. Ephrem's this Thursday, however, everyone is welcome to come over to my place to watch the Christmas Carol. We will watch the movie, eat fresh baked cookies, drink milk and eggnog, and have a great time. Be at my place at 7:15pm. Let me know if you are coming. Call me if you get lost - 904-307-0824. The Christmas Carol has many Christian themes and we can discuss them after the movie.

In Christ, Sean

john6bb@yahoo.com

Directions:

From St. Augustine or 95 south: Take the Southside Blvd. Exit 340, get on Southside blvd going south towards the Avenues Mall , make a U-turn at the first light (Square Lake Blvd.) to head north on Southside to Paradise Island Apartments. Turn right at the next light, which is Pardise Island. Go almost to the very back of the complex and turn left at a sign called "The Perserves". If you go to far you will dead end. Keep going, going over three speed bumps. After the third speed bump take a right at the next street. Go past the garbage cans and the mailboxes. I am in building 50. Apt 5004.

From 95 north: Take the Baymeadows rd. exit, go until you reach Southside blvd. Turn right onto Southside Blvd. going south towards the Avenues Mall , make a U-turn at the first light (Square Lake Blvd.) to head north on Southside to Paradise Island. Turn right at the next light, which is Pardise Island Apartments. Go almost to the very back of the complex and turn left at a sign called "The Perserves". If you go to far you will dead end. Keep going, going over three speed bumps. After the third speed bump take a right at the next street. Go past the garbage cans and the mailboxes. I am in building 50. Apt 5004.

Adoration and Confession with the CFR's this Thurs.!

Hello brothers and sisters,

This Thurs. for Emmaus we will join the Young Adult Retreat team for adoration and confession with the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal. It will be at St. Ephrem's in the Church from 7-9pm. Come prepare your heart for the coming of the Lord!

In Christ,

The Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Jen, Russ, and Adam)

This Thursday: Joyce Lombana Aragno on prayer

Hello dear brothers and sisters!

This Thursday at Emmaus, our speaker, Joyce Lombana Aragno, will discuss prayer and the essential role it plays in our relationship with Christ. We'll talk about practical ways to grow in holiness (don't we all need a little help here) and ways that we can center our lives and our focus this Advent and prepare for the coming of our Lord (both at Christmas and His ultimate coming...or our coming home). So invite a friend and come out...our Emmaus family isn't the same when you're not here, we need your prayers, insight, and love.

We also look forward to seeing everyone, new and old faces alike at our special Emmaus Christmas party this Saturday. It is sure to be another Emmaus family memory to cherish.

with love in Christ,

Jennifer, Adam, Russ, & Sean

Thurs: Advent Virtues - Fr.Chuwa

This Thursday Fr. Leonard Chuwa will be joining us to discuss how we can cultivate holy virtues during Advent. Fr. Chuwa is a very charismatic and passionate priest from Africa who loves to interact with folk. This will be a fun and interesting Emmaus. I look forward to seeing you. You may join us for the rosary at 7 or else come at 7:30 when we begin.

In Christ,

Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Adam, Jen, Russ, Buford)

http://emmauscya.blogspot.com/

Hey Everyone,

Just a friendly reminder that we are not meeting this Thursday. Have a Happy Thanksgiving! May God Bless you and your family. See you next week!

In Christ,

The Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Jen, Russ, and Adam)

Thurs: Holy Mass

This Thursday we will be celebrating Holy Mass with Fr. Ed Murphy. Confessions will be from 7:00 to 7:30 and Mass will begin at 7:30.

If you please bring pictures of Emmaus events you might have for the DVD I am making. I look foward to seeing you all. God Bless.

In Christ,

Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Jen, Russ, Adam)

http://emmauscya.blogspot.com/

Volleyball at Assumption This Thursday!

Hello brothers and sisters,

This Thurs. at Emmaus we will be meeting at Assumption in the Family Life Center/Gym to play some volleyball! We will meet a little earlier than usual at 6:30pm for Rosary, and then play from 7-9pm. Hope you are able to come join in the fun. Remember to try and bring a friend (and your "A" game!).

In JMJ,

The Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Jen, Russ, and Adam)

Thurs: The Beatitudes

This Thursday we will be looking at the most famous sermon in history, the Beatitudes. We will discuss each beatitude and see how they can apply to our lives. Bring your bible as we will look at Matthew 5:2-10 and Luke 6:20-26. Blessed are those who come to Emmaus! See you at 7 for the rosary or 7:30 for the discussion.

In Christ,

Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Jen, Russ, Adam)

http://emmauscya.blogspot.com/

Thurs: Ex-Satanist talks about his life and the occult

This Thursday we will be listening to Zachary King, former Satanist, discuss his conversion to Catholicism and the Occult. He was recently at the Mission with Fr. Crotty at Immaculate Conception Church. We will discuss his story and the evils of the occult after his talk. Rosary starts at 7 and the talk and fellowship at 7:30pm.

Invite your friends and those who do not know the truth of the Catholic Church and it teaching.

In Christ,

Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Russ, Jen, Adam)

Check out the bullet hole in the skull of the demon!

http://emmauscya.blogspot.com/

Thurs: Four Marks of the Church

This Thursday we will discuss the four marks of the Church, which are from the Nicene Creed that we pray every Sunday. They are "We believe in One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church". We will look at what it means for the church to be One. We will discuss what it means for the Church to be Holy. What does Catholic mean? Are we an Apostolic church? What does Apostolic mean? These four marks distinguish what the True church is and its function in the world.

I look forward to seeing you this Thursday. If you know someone struggling in there faith or is of another faith bring them this Thursday.

In Christ,
Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Jen, Russ)

Thurs. 10/14 - Holy Mass and Confession

Hello Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

This Thurs. at Emmaus we will be celebrating Holy Mass with Fr. Ed. He will be available for confession starting at 6:30pm while we pray the Rosary. Mass will begin at 7pm. We hope you will be able to join us! God Bless your day.

In Christ,

The Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Jen, and Russ)

PS- Don't forget about the mission continuing at Immaculate Conception tonight (Tues.) and concluding Wed. night from 7-9pm with Fr. Christopher Crotty, CPM (Fathers of Mercy). I had the pleasure of listening to his homily today at daily mass and also had the opportunity to speak with him afterward. Looking forward to it. -Russ

Thurs: Fruits of the Holy Spirit

This Thursday we will be having having a bible study on the fruits of the Holy Spirit.

So bring some fruit and your bible. Seriously! I am bringing my favorite fruit.

Try to come at early at 7 for the Rosary since it is the Feast of the Most Holy Rosary on Thursday.

In Christ,

Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Jen, Russ)

This Thursday - Game Night!

Hello dear brothers and sisters,

This Thursday at Emmaus we will be playing Catholic Cranium! Amanda and Justin Lang have done an excellent job putting together a fun Catholic version of the popular team game, Cranium. So come out and invite a friend to join us in some great fellowship as we also learn about our faith.

in Christ's love,

Russ, Sean, & Jennifer

"Were not our hearts burning [within us] while he spoke to us on the way and opened up the scriptures to us?" Luke 24:32 ...on the road to Emmaus

Thurs: Padre Pio Interview

This Thursday we have a great guest coming. I was able to get approval from God to have St. Padre Pio come down from Heaven and talk to us about his life and allow us to ask him questions. So come out this Thursday for An interview with a Saint. Bring questions to ask him.

I will be playing the role of St. Pio. I will also show you real footage of his life and we will even be able to pray with him. May the Lord bless you all.

In Christ,

Sean and the Emmaus Core Team (Jen, Russ).

Thurs: Sisters of the Home of the Mother and Meditation

This Thursday we will have the Sisters of the Home of the Mother giving a meditation.
Come out at 7:00pm for the rosary or 7:30pm for the meditation

Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Jen, Russ)

Thurs: Adoration

Hello brothers and sisters,

This week at Emmaus we will be having adoration of the blessed sacrament in the Church at 7:30pm. Come early for rosary at 7 if you can! God Bless your day!

In JMJ,

Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Jen, Russ, and Liz)

This Thursday - "Before I go" discussion :)

Hello dear brothers and sisters!

This Thursday at Emmaus we will have an opportunity to discuss and delve into some of the things of life that really matter. Peter Kreeft has a prfound little book entitled "Before I Go - Letters to Our Children About What Really Matters." If you are familiar with Peter Kreeft, he is not a "fluffy" guy - he has authored many great books including The Handbook of Christian Apologetics and Catholic Christianity - A Complete Catechism of Catholic Beliefs Based on the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Some of the short discussion topics in the book are light-hearted, some down right funny, and some speak to the depths of our souls - we'll take a look and have a chance to discuss some of each kind - some "faith stuff" and some practical "life stuff." I can't wait to see what everyone has to say. See you all Thursday at St. Ephraims!

with love,

Russ, Sean, Liz, Jen

Thur: Mary, Mediatrix of All Graces

There are many titles for our blessed mother but I only know one one that is debated more than any other and that is her title of Mary, Mediatrix of All Graces.

This Thursday Sean Wilcox will discuss what this title means for us and how many Saints have invoked her under that title. Sean knows a ton about Mary due to having lived as a friar in the Franciscan Friars of the Immaculate. In that relgious order the friars take an extra vow of consecration to Jesus through Mary. Sean learned a lot from the friars and now he can teach us.

Come on out for a great discussion on Mary and her role in our lives.

In Christ, Sean, Jen and Russ.

http://emmauscya.blogspot.com/

Volleyball at Assumption this Thurs.!

Hello brothers and sisters in Christ,

This Thurs. for Emmaus we will be meeting at Assumption (note location change) in the gym/family life center to play volleyball! We will be starting a little earlier than usual. Rosary is at 6:30pm and we will play from 7-9pm. Hope to see you all there, and remember to invite a friend!

God Bless,

The Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Jen, Liz, and Russ)

PS- In case you need directions, Assumption's address is: 2403 Atlantic Blvd.

PPS- Bring yo' "A" game!! :)

Thursday at Emmaus: Mass with Fr. Ed

Hi Emmaus Friends,
Please plan to come to mass at St. Ephrem's on Thursday. Our celebrant will be Fr. Ed Murphy. Starting at 7:00, we'll pray the rosary and Fr. Ed will be available to hear confessions. Mass will begin at 7:30.

Peace and blessings to everyone this week!

In Christ,

The Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Jennifer, Russ and Liz)

Fr. Zheler at Emmaus this Thursday!

Hello dear brothers and sisters,

This Thursday at Emmaus, Fr. Zheler will be our guest speaker and facilitator for our discussion on the topic of Vocation - in this case more of the focus will be more on marriage, but he/we will also touch on Priestly and Religious Vocations and the Universal Call to Holiness as well. So bring a friend and don't miss out on "family night" with your Emmaus family :) God loves YOU and so do we!

with love,

Liz, Russ, Sean, Jennifer


To maintain a joyful family requires much from both the parents and the children. Each member of the family has to become, in a special way, the servant of the others. John Paul II the Great

Notes on Redemptive Suffering

Hey all,

Our speaker from last Thurs., Gerald Lamb, has posted his notes on Redemptive Suffering to his blog. The link is: http://assentingcatholic.blogspot.com

May God bless you abundantly,

The Core Team (Sean, Jen, Liz, and Russ)

Important Novena to St.Philomena

As many of you may know St. Philomena is a patroness of Emmaus. She is a patron of young adults and is very dear to many of us. Her feast day is on the 11th of this month, therefore I encourage, everyone in Emmaus or who is a young adult to pray this novena together over the next 9 days for the intentions of the young adults in the diocese and for you own intention.

St. Philomena is a Saint who is little known but who was made a Saint because of the many miracles wrought by her intercession. She was called the "Wonder Worker of the Nineteenth Century" by Pope Gregory XVI. St. John Vianney, Curé of Ars, attributed every miracle in his ministry to St. Philomena’s intercession.

If you are struggling with having a child or you know someone with mental illness or that is sick or have any request at all pray this novena and trust in her intercession.

Patronage: against barrenness, against bodily ills, against infertility, against mental illness, against sickness, against sterility, babies, children, Children of Mary, desperate causes, forgotten causes, impossible causes, infants, lost causes, Living Rosary, newborns, orphans, poor people, priests, prisoners, sick people, students, test takers, toddlers, young people, and youth.

Copy and Print off the prayer in Word.

Novena Prayer to Saint Philomena. – Start on the 3rd –Tuesday- Ends on the 11th of August

Illustrious Virgin and Martyr, St. Philomena, behold me prostrate before the throne whereon it has pleased the Most Holy Trinity to set thee. Full of confidence in thy protection, I entreat thee to intercede for me with God. Ah! From the heights of heaven deign to cast a glance upon thy humble client. Spouse of Christ, sustain me in suffering, fortify me in temptation, protect me in the dangers surrounding me, and in particular..(mention your petition). Above all, assist me at the hour of my death. Amen.
St. Philomena, powerful with God. Pray for us.

I encourage you all to read about St. Philomena and have a devotion to her. Check out the websites below.
http://www.philomena.us/ , http://saints.sqpn.com/saint-philomena/

In Christ, Sean

http://emmauscya.blogspot.com/

P.S. On Thursday next week I will be bringing a second class relic from her for people to touch.

Emmaus This Thurs. -- Redemptive Suffering

REDEMPTIVE SUFFERING

Hello Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

This week at Emmaus our good friend Gerald Lamb will be speaking to us about Redemptive Suffering and its role in Spiritual Combat. Gerald has a Master's Degree in Theology from Franciscan University at Steubenville. It is sure to be a good talk, so come and learn about this important teaching of our faith! Rosary at 7pm, meeting at 7:30pm.

In Him,

Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Jen, Liz, and Russ)

This Thursday - James Beich on Evngelization and Missions!

Hello dear friends!

Have you ever felt like the Lord was calling you to do more for Him, but weren't quite sure what? It is so easy to "go with the flow", to not do anything too crazy, and before we know it, we're feeling and looking a little "slack in zeal" (Romans 12:11). But whether God is calling you to a land far away or to be a missionary to the people already around you, He IS calling you to live a life sold out and radically oriented toward loving HIM (and thus consequently, others)! This is the universal call to holiness. We are all called to love and to serve and share the Good News.

This week at Emmaus, our friend, James, will share his story - a story that includes God leading him to serve by doing missionary work in Africa! So come out for some great fellowship and discussion on how God is calling each of us to be His hands and feet (and words and heart and all those other cool body parts). I wonder if St. Therese were to have compared herself in this way instead of as a "little flower" what she would have chosen? Even an eyebrow or a toenail serve as an important part of the body and I am happy to be used in whatever small way He allows!

"There are no great things, only small things with great love"
"Let us always meet each other with a smile, for the smile is the beginning of love"
- Blessed Mother Teresa

with love (and a smile :)

The Emmaus Core Team
(Russ, Liz, Sean, Jennifer)

Thurs: Saints Behaving Badly

Do you think you are the worst sinner in the world? I think I am and could probably debate with you on the point. However, after researching some of the Saints lives I realized that I would come in second or third place.

Soooo..... This Thursday we will discuss some of the Saints who lead a very very sinful life but through God's grace converted and became Saints. We will look at Saints who were murderers, seducers, satanists, alcoholics, and much more and see how they changed there lives.

So come on out, be amazed at how LESS sinful you really are compared to these HEAVY sinners, and be inspired.

In Christ,

Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Liz, Jen, Russ)

http://emmauscya.blogspot.com

Emmaus this Thurs.

Hello all,

This week at Emmaus we will be having Mass with Fr. Lam. Come early for rosary at 6:30pm. Fr. Lam will be available for confession from 6:30-7pm. Mass is at 7pm.

See you then!

Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Jen, Liz, and Russ)

Dan Mull Speaking at Emmaus thus Thursday!

Hello dear friends!

Our dear friend, Dan Mull, will be speaking to us this Thursday at Emmaus - about what you might ask? To which I say, you know it will be good, so why don't you just come and find out! For those who are newer to Emmaus, Dan is a former Emmaus Core Team member and has a Masters in Pastoral Theology from Ave Maria. He teaches Religion at Bishop Snider High School and is married to the beautiful and lovely Ann Mull (affectionately known together as D'Ann). Dan and Ann actaully found their Vocation to each other at Emmaus (ahh, sigh, applause), so that is another cool piece of trivia about them :)

On another note, my awesome roommate sent me this neat You Tube link and I thought it was pretty cool. So if you need a hug and need to give some hugs - come out to Emmaus and give your brothers and sisters some huggage! Please know that if we haven't seen you for a while - we MISS you! (and you are far overdue for a hug!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=hN8CKwdosjE

hugs,

Jennifer, Sean, Liz, Russ

Thurs: Game -Heresy Jeopardy

How do you distingush between what is right and wrong or what is Truth and Heresy?

Well this Thursday we are playing the most famously fun Heresy Jeopardy.

In this game we will learn the types of heresies that have confronted the Church and I, Sean Trebek, will test your faith skills in the Emmaus Inquisition. If you fail then you will be forced to eat flaming marshmallows. Muwah Hahaha. Just kidding.

It will be fun and I am sure you will find it fascinating and will learn a lot about the heresies that have attacked the Catholic Church.

We start at 7:30 or 7 if you want to come for the rosary.

In Christ,

Emmaus Core Team - Sean, Liz, Jen, Russ

http://emmauscya.blogspot.com/

Thurs: Bible Alone or Not

OR NOT
Have you ever had someone tell you they will not believe in the authority of the Church because they only believe in the authority of the Bible? Or how about " If it is not in the bible then I don't believe it"?

Well this Thursday we are going to have a debate between Bible Only-Sean aka Bibleman vs. Catholic Truth-Matt aka Truthman. In this debate you will learn how to defend your faith against those who do not believe in the authority of the Church and learn why we believe in the Bible's authority, the tradition of the Church, and the Church's authority to interpret the bible.

Bring your own questions as well for Sean and Matt to answer.

In Christ,

Emmaus Core Team (Liz, Sean, Russ, Jen)

http://emmauscya.blogspot.com/

Thursday: Mass & Dinner at St. Ephrem's

Hi Emmaus friends,

This Thursday, spiritual director, Fr. Ed Murphy, will celebrate mass with us at St. Ephrem’s. We’ve asked Fr. Ed to say the mass for Paul’s father. Please plan to come to offer prayers and support and allow the Lord to heal our community’s heavy hearts.

Again, we'll start earlier than usual: meet at 6:30 p.m. to pray the rosary and Fr. Ed will be available to hear confessions. Mass will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Remember that if you come to Mass after the Gospel you must not receive communion so please get there on time. Also remember the hour fast before Mass.

But that’s not all…Thursday is the first-ever Emmaus Talk & Taco Night. After mass, we’ll go to the hall for a discussion with Fr. Ed and dinner brought to you by the Core Team. Come early and come hungry.

Peace and blessings, The Emmaus Core Team (Jennifer, Sean, Russ and Liz)

Thurs: Serving our Diocean Priests with a Concert

Hello dear brothers and sisters!
This Thursday for Emmaus we have the privilege of serving for a very special event in our diocese - the "Songs of Praise" concert to honor our beloved priests in our diocese! Proceeds from this concert will benefit the Priest Retirement Fund and Lumen Entertainment's Value of Life project. (Check out Lumen's website for more info on the Value of Life project - there are even clips of the animation there - it's really neat) http://www.lumen.tv/songsofpraise.html

We will help in whatever capacity needed including ticket sales/will call, directional needs (outside and inside - pointing the way to go), and general rovers assisting priests and other VIPs. There will be some hor d'oeurves, but no formal dinner, so it would be wise to eat beforehand if possible. We have 10 confirmed to make it, but we really need at least 5 more, so please let me know if you haven't already if you will be able to help.

So here's the scoop:
When: Thursday, June 3rd

Time: 5PM is desired, but we really need people by 5:30 at the latest (The concert will last until 9pm, but if you are only able to serve from 5-7, that will work too)

Where: UNF Lazzara Theatre (If you enter on UNF Drive from the Town Center, go straight through the first traffic light. Lazzara Theatre is behind the parking garage on your right and is part of the Fine Arts Center. Note: This is the same location where some of us saw "The Human Experience" put on by Focus ...it is NOT the same location at the WHC Celebration of Life)

Attire: White shirts/black pants or skirts

Cost: There is no cost because we are volunteers; however, if you are able, we certainly encourage anyone who is able to contribute to these two wonderful causes. Note, we will also be able to enjoy a wonderful concert, so it would be a good opportunity to show our appreciation and support as well. Good stewardship is an act of love and thanksgiving for our Church and the Body of Christ that actually helps us to grow in love as we sacrifice and serve with our time, talent, AND treasure.

Why: So many reasons - we love our priests who bring us Christ, we want to support Lumen and help spread the word about the dignity of every human life, we are called to serve and pray that in doing so Christ will fashion us more in his image and soften our hearts to fill them with love, and ... we desire to help our friend, Alex, whose family is suffering from the loss of his brother, in whatever small ways we can.

If you have any questions, I (Jennifer) can be reached at (904) 347-5873.
with love,
Liz, Sean, Russ, Jennifer

Mon: Emmaus Memorial Day Beach Party

It's time for the Emmaus Annual Memorial Day Beach Celebration on May 31st. We will be gathering from 12 - Sunset for food and beach games so bring beach chairs, umbrella's, beach toys (such as volleyballs, footballs, skim boards, boogie boards, and anything else you can think of).

We will be meeting at Atlantic Beach at 10th st close to the Atlantic Beach Pier. You can park at 901 Ocean Blvd. Atlantic Beach. Park away from the condos in the first lot on your left as you enter the condominium complex. There is ample parking spaces there. 10th Street & Ocean Blvd is the public beach access with showers at the ocean too! There is also some public parking here, probably about 8-10 spots.

If you have any questions please contact Sean at 904-307-0824 or john6bb@yahoo.com

I look forward to seeing everyone on Monday May 31, 2010!

What to bring:

Food: If your first name begins with:(A-G) bring drinks (soda, water, Gatorade, juice) (H-P) bring dessert or snacks (cookies, chips and dip, fruit or veggie trays, crackers and cheese, etc.(R-Z) bring a main dish or side dish (chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, mac and cheese, green beans, baked beans, casseroles, buns, ketchup, mustard, mayo, etc.)If someone wants to bring a table, umbrellas, canopy, and such that would be awesome as well.Please list what you are bringing when you reply

Directions to the beach are below. Look for Emmaus signs.

*From South of Jacksonville:*North I-95 to J. Turner Butler exit East (to beaches)*Exit right onto Hodges Blvd. going North through Beach Blvd. intersection to Atlantic Blvd.*East/right on Atlantic Blvd. and go over the Intercoastal Bridge*North/Left onto Sherry Dr. (look for the Radio shack on the left) * Right onto 7th st.* Left onto Ocean Blvd.* Go up to 10th st and park away from the condos in the first lot on your left as you enter the condominium complex at 901 Ocean Blvd.

From North of Jacksonville:* South I-95 to 9-A exit (past airport)* Over Dame's Point Bridge* East/left on Atlantic Blvd. and go over the Intercoastal Bridge*North/Left onto Sherry Dr. (look for the Radio shack on the left) * Right onto 7th st.* Left onto Ocean Blvd.* Go up to 10th st and park away from the condos in the first lot on your left as you enter the condominium complex at 901 Ocean Blvd.

God Bless,Sean

Thursday: Come early for mass!

Hello Emmaus friends,
This Thursday, we are blessed to have our spiritual director, Fr. Ed Murphy, celebrate mass with us at St. Ephrem’s church.

The church will be in use at 8:00 p.m. for devotions, so we’ll start at little earlier than usual: meet at 6:30 p.m. to pray the rosary and Fr. Ed will be available to hear confessions. Mass will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Christ's peace and blessings to you all this week,
The Emmaus Core Team (Jennifer, Sean, Russ and Liz)

Tues Movie: Solanus Casey- Modern Prophet

This Tuesday I will be showing a documentary on Venerable Solanus Casey. If you are interested in watching this short movie about his life then let me know. Solanus Casey was a man much like Padre Pio with many gifts of the Holy Spirit. www.solanuscasey.org Sean

Directions:

From St. Augustine or 95 south: Take the Southside Blvd. Exit 340, get on Southside blvd going south towards the Avenues Mall , make a U-turn at the first light (Square Lake Blvd.) to head north on Southside to Paradise Island Apartments. Turn right at the next light, which is Pardise Island. Go almost to the very back of the complex and turn left at a sign called "The Perserves". If you go to far you will dead end. Keep going, going over three speed bumps. After the third speed bump take a right at the next street. Go past the garbage cans and the mailboxes. I am in building 50. Apt 5004.

From 95 north: Take the Baymeadows rd. exit, go until you reach Southside blvd. Turn right onto Southside Blvd. going south towards the Avenues Mall , make a U-turn at the first light (Square Lake Blvd.) to head north on Southside to Paradise Island. Turn right at the next light, which is Pardise Island Apartments. Go almost to the very back of the complex and turn left at a sign called "The Perserves". If you go to far you will dead end. Keep going, going over three speed bumps. After the third speed bump take a right at the next street. Go past the garbage cans and the mailboxes. I am in building 50. Apt 5004.

Thurs: Marine Chaplain Fr. Ron Camarda

This Thursday we are having a special guest, Fr. Ron Camarda. Father Ron Camarda was recalled to Active Duty to serve with the Marines during the Battle for Fallujah, Iraq (2004). At Bravo Surgical (Marine equivalent to a M.A.S.H. unit) he received over 1500 casualties and 81 deaths. When he returned home he found his work was not done and he began to minister to the widows and families hurt by the war. He has written a book called Tear in the Desert and has been featured on EWTN. His priestly anniversary is this wednesday so pray for him.

We will meet at 7:00 for a rosary and begin at 7:30pm. Invite a friend to come out.

http://www.tearinthedesert.com/

In Christ,

Sean, Liz, Jen, Russ

http://emmauscya.blogspot.com

Women's Help Center Celebration of Life - This Thursday!

Hello dear brothers and sisters!

This Thursday in lieu of our regular Emmaus meeting, we will be serving at the annual Women's Help Center Celebration of Life. Even if you did not RSVP earlier, please come out to help. We need LOTs of volunteers to man the registration tables, help with the silent auction, and generally help in any way needed. They will also provide dinner for us (and it will be lots of fun!)

Please note ** attire needs to be white shirts/blouses and black pants or skirts so that people will easily be able to recognize us.

Location is at the University Center at UNF (1200 Alumni Drive, Jax, FL). You will want to go as if you are going to Emmaus at St. Ephrem's and enter UNF from the back, off of Kernan Road. From Kernan turn onto Alumni Drive and the University Center will be on your left (there is a sign).

Time - very important - if you can be there at 4pm to help, we would GREATLY appreciate your help - there is lots to do! For those who cannot be there at 4PM, please try to be there by 5:30 (we will go over the instructions for how we will handle registration at 5:30 and need at least 15 people at this time). It is very important that we are able to get people registered and through the lines very quickly.

I am thrilled that we are able to help this wonderful organization that is on the front lines of saving babies every day. The dollars raised at this function translate into real tangible help for people who are hurting and really do help save the lives of beautiful little children, our brothers and sisters. If you have any questions, feel free to give me a call (904 347 5873 - Jennifer)

with love,

Sean, Liz, and Jen

http://www.pregnancyjacksonville.com/

"Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you ... " Jeremiah 1:5

Tues: Fatima 13th Day Movie night

I will be showing the recently released movie about the Apparition of Mary in Fatima called The 13th Day:The True Story of Fatima this Tuesday in commemoration of the event on May 13th. If you are interested in coming to watch the movie please let me know, john6bb@yahoo.com . I will start the movie at 7:30pm.

Synopsis: This moving drama relates the true story of three Portuguese children who were reportedly visited by Our Lady in 1917. The cousins received visitations for five months, during which they were told of upcoming world events and asked to pray for peace. Although they were threatened with torture, the pious children never abandoned their prayers and shared their story with thousands of believers, who witnessed the promised Miracle of the Sun.

In Christ, Sean

Directions:

From St. Augustine or 95 south: Take the Southside Blvd. Exit 340, get on Southside blvd going south towards the Avenues Mall , make a U-turn at the first light (Square Lake Blvd.) to head north on Southside to Paradise Island Apartments. Turn right at the next light, which is Pardise Island. Go almost to the very back of the complex and turn left at a sign called "The Perserves". If you go to far you will dead end. Keep going, going over three speed bumps. After the third speed bump take a right at the next street. Go past the garbage cans and the mailboxes. I am in building 50. Apt 5004. Look for the Emmaus signs.

From 95 north: Take the Baymeadows rd. exit, go until you reach Southside blvd. Turn right onto Southside Blvd. going south towards the Avenues Mall , make a U-turn at the first light (Square Lake Blvd.) to head north on Southside to Paradise Island. Turn right at the next light, which is Pardise Island Apartments. Go almost to the very back of the complex and turn left at a sign called "The Perserves". If you go to far you will dead end. Keep going, going over three speed bumps. After the third speed bump take a right at the next street. Go past the garbage cans and the mailboxes. I am in building 50. Apt 5004. Look for the Emmaus signs.

Sat: Party for Seminarian Adam/ Ice Cream Social

This Saturday, 15th, we will be doing a community service project at the Ceder Hills Nursing Home from 2:45- 4:30pm (directions below) followed by a celebration party for Adam Kerach for him going to seminary for the diocese. The party for Adam will start at 6:30 at the Olive Garden near the Avenues. After dinner we will go to my apartment for some games (directions to my apartment will be given at Olive Garden or via e-mail later in the week).

You don't have to know Adam to come to the party just come out for fellowship and fun.

Olive Garden: 10144 Phillips hwy Jacksonville, FL 32256
Cedar Hills Nursing Homes: 2061 Hyde Park Rd Jacksonville, FL 32210 (904)786-7331

In Christ ,

Sean - 307-0824, john6bb@yahoo.com

Saturday, May 8: Cinco de Mayo beach party!

Hi Friends,

Surf's up dudes and dudettes! That means it's time to celebrate the 5th Annual Cinco de Mayo Beach Fiesta!

Come out to start the party at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 8 at the St. Augustine Beach Pier and Pavilion (directions below). We’ll have lots of time for fun in the sun! If you have a grill and can come early to set up, that's great.

Please bring some food and drinks to share:
Last name A-G: drinks and cups
Last name H-P: snack, desserts or sides and plates
Last name R-Z: hamburgers, hotdogs and buns

Don’t forget sunscreen, towels, volleyballs, footballs and frisbees, and bring your family and friends to join in the fun!

Directions to the St. Augustine Beach Pier from Jacksonville:
Take I-95 South to S.R. 207 (exit #311)
Turn LEFT, heading North on S.R. 207 for about 4 miles
Turn RIGHT, heading East on S.R. 312
Stay on 312 to cross over the bridge into St. Augustine beach.
312 becomes A1A. You’ll see the beach on your left.
The pier, pavilion and volleyball courts are next to a big parking lot and fire station.

Saturday May 8: Mass of Priestly Ordination

Hi friends,
We have a weekend full of blessings and celebration in our diocese! On Saturday, May 8 Deacon Sal DiFazio will be ordained into the priesthood at the Cathedral Basilica. The ordination mass begins at 10:30 a.m.

Anyone who would like to go, let’s plan to meet at 10:15 outside in the little garden area on the east side of the Cathedral (on the right side if you’re facing the Cathedral from the gazebo in the downtown square).

And don’t worry about playing volleyball in your church clothes—everyone’s welcome to come to Liz’s place after mass to get ready for the beach!

Thursday at Emmaus: Fr. Wade discussion, part 2

Hello dear friends!

Back by popular demand, we will continue our discussion from last week about "The Ten Commandments of a Husband and Father" and "The Ten Commandments of a Wife and Mother" - so much good stuff to talk about to help us help each other prepare for our Vocations! Of course, for those who believe the Lord is calling you to a Vocation to the Priesthood or Religious Life, there really are so many parallels - so this discussion is for everyone! If you'd like to review and print the cliff notes from last week here is a link to Fr. Wade's profile on the Fathers of Mercy website (scroll down to the bottom for the Ten Commandments):

http://www.fathersofmercy.com/our_apostolates/missionaries/menezes

Many blessings and hugs to all!

with love,

Jennifer

Thurs: Angels and Demons

No, we are not watching the evil movie by Dan Brown called Angels and Demons we are discussing real beings called Angels. This Thursday I will show you the theology behind Angels and Demons. We will look at the Scripture and the Saints writings and discover who these celestial beings are and why God created them. We will answer questions like:

Do angels real exist? Are there evil angels and why? What is the purpose for angels? Can angels influence my free will? Can demons really kill me? Who are my guardian angels? All these questions and more will be answered Thursday night. So bring a friend and get ready to learn about the beauty of Gods creations.

We begin at 7:30pm or if you want to jon us for the rosary then come at 7:00pm.

In Christ,

Sean, Liz, Jen

http://emmauscya.blogspot.com/

Thurs: Resurrection Movie and Bible Study

This Thursday we will be watching a short video on the Resurrection of Jesus and discuss some of the bible passages about the resurrection. We will also dive into what it would have been like during those 49 days of Jesus' apperance to his disciples.

So come out at 7:30pm or 7 for the rosary and bring your bible.

In Christ,

Sean, Liz, Jen

Tues- Christian movie night

I will be showing the movie called The Final Inquiry Tuesday evening for those who want to come. I did not show it last Wednesday due to no one coming. So I figured i give it one more shot.
The movie will start this Tuesday at 7:30 at my apartment. Come out and enjoy fellowship and and a great Christian movie. Directions below.

Synopsis:In 35 A.D., following the crucifixion of Christ, earthquakes tear apart the Roman Empire and the sky turns black midday. Emperor Tiberius (Max von Sydow) calls upon investigator Tauro (Daniele Liotti) to determine the cause of this sudden upheaval. Tauro interviews treacherous governor Pontius Pilate, an insane man named Judas and poor fisherman Simon Peter and soon discovers that the strange phenomena may be linked to Christ's execution.

In Christ,Sean

Thurs: Volleyball at Christ the King Parish

Happy Easter! Christ is risen indeed and the Easter season has just begun - so let's celebrate! This Thursday for Emmaus we will NOT meet at St. Ephrem's, but instead will be playing volleyball at Christ the King. So bring your A game, a friend, and a few bucks for pizza as we celebrate Easter, all birthdays for the last quarter AND the birthday of Emmaus (at least the Emmaus story as it will be part of the daily readings this week!)

Christ the King Catholic Church
742 Arlington Road NorthJacksonville, FL 32211

with love in Christ,

Liz, Sean, and Jennifer

Thurs, Fri, Sat- Holy Week

Hello dear brothers and sisters!
We will not meet this Thursday at St. Ephrem's but instead please join us this Triduum (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday together).

Holy Thursday - The celebration of the Last Supper, the Institution of the Eucharist/First Mass, and the Institution of the Priesthood

4/1/10 - 6:00PM - at Christ the King.
Christ the King
742 Arlington Road North, Jacksonville, FL 32211

We decided to change the "official" location for us to attend Holy Thursday Mass from Assumption to Christ the King because our good Emmaus friend, Adam Kersch, will be officially recognized as they will announce his acceptance as a seminarian for our diocese and we want to be there to support him! Praise God! Adam, you and your vocation are in our prayers. Please continue to pray for us on your journey as well! How cool (and appropriate) for this to be announced during the Mass that celebrates the institution of the Priesthood.

Good Friday - The Memorial of the Death of our Lord

4/2/10 Noon ~3PM @ Immaculate Conception Parish
Immaculate Conception
121 East Duval StreetJacksonville, FL 32202

The Memorial of the Death of our Lord:
Confession, Stations of the Cross, Communion Service, Veneration of the Cross, Reflections on the 7 Last Words of Christ, Divine Mercy Chaplet

Holy Saturday - The Easter Vigil Mass:

4/3/10 8PM @ The Cathedral in St. Augustine
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
38 Cathedral Place St Augustine, FL 32084

The Easter Vigil Mass:
The Easter Celebration begins at this Mass! We all process in with candles and listen to the scripture readings that tell the story of salvation history. Brand new "baby" Catholics will join us for the first time at the table of the Lord as they receive the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation (candidates) and some also baptism (catechumens).

Because parking is always a challenge in downtown St. Augustine, carpooling and getting there early are highly recommended. Likely there will also be a group outing for a late night breakfast (as we also "break" our Lenten "fasts") somewhere local and celebrate His Resurrection! If you will be out of town visiting family for Easter or are unable to join us for any reason, on behalf of Emmaus, we wish you a most blessed and joyous Holy Week and Easter.

with love,
Sean, Liz, and Jennifer

Thurs- Lenten Improv Skits

This Thursday we will be having some funny and enlighting skits about lent. We will discuss almsgiving, fasting, and prayer but in skit form. Come out and participate in the skits and discussion.

See you Thursday!

In Christ,

Emmaus Core Team

http://emmauscya.blogspot.com/

Let's journey through Tridium together

Hello dear brothers and sisters!

Several people have already asked me, so mark you calendars to celebrate Holy Week together. There may be more details to follow, but this is what we know so far ...

Holy Thursday - 4/1 7:00 PM @ Assumption Parish

The celebration of the Last Supper, the Institution of the Eucharist/First Mass, and the Institution of the Priesthood

Good Friday - 4/2 Noon ~3PM @ Immaculate Conception Parish

The Memorial of the Death of our Lord

Confession, Stations of the Cross, Communion Service, Veneration of the Cross, Reflections on the 7 Last Words of Christ, Divine Mercy Chaplet

Holy Saturday 4/3 8PM @ The Cathedral in St. Augustine

The Easter Vigil Mass

I believe this actually starts at 8:30, but you will want to get there early for the procession from darkness to light

The Easter Celebration begins at this Mass! We all process in with candles and listen to the scripture readings that tell the story of salvation history. Brand new "baby" Catholics will join us for the first time at the table of the Lord as they receive the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation (candidates) and some also baptism (catechumens).

More details to follow, but we will likely have a grand celebration together following this joy-filled Mass, so that we can celebrate Easter together as the Body of Christ that we are!

with love,

Sean, Liz, and Jennifer

Sat- 7 Last words of Christ and Pillars of Joy Music

This Saturday come out for a lenten reflection on the 7 last words of Christ. The last seven words of Christ are words or phrases that we can cling to not only during the season of Lent, but every day of our lives. Come reflect and meditate on these powerful words with us. Deacon John will begin the evening with exposition of the most blessed sacrament. Music and meditation will be lead by Bart Price and the Pillars of Joy. This will be a special evening as our beloved Joy Pichardo will be be with us for the first time in three years.

Date and Time: Saturday March 20th at 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Assumption Catholic Church (near Bishop Kenny High School)

The 7 last words are:
Father forgive them...- Luke 23:34
Today you will be with me in paradise- Luke 23:43
Woman behold your son - John 19:26-27
My God my God why have you forsaken me - Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34
I thirst - John 19:28
It is finished - John 19:30
Father into your hands I commend my spirit - Luke 23:46

In Christ, Sean

Thurs- 40 Days for Life Prayer Vigil

This Thursday we will be standing vigil and praying for an end to abortion at A Jacksonville Women's Health Center (AJAX), 4131 University Blvd. S., Jacksonville, FL. Come out and stand for life.

We will start at 7:00PM and end at 8:00. Afterwards we will go to get something to eat.

To get more information, or to volunteer to help you can call 904/214-4908, e-mail tsmaha@bellsouth.net or visit http://www.40daysforlife.com/jacksonville

In Christ,

Sean, Jen, Liz.

http://emmauscya.blogspot.com

Thurs - Adoration of Jesus

This Thursday we will be having Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. We will pray the rosary and have some lenten reflections from the Saints. This is strickly Adoration. There will not be any Sacrament of Confession. We will begin the Rosary at 7:00.

In Christ,

Sean, Liz, Jen

http://emmauscya.blogspot.com/

The Universal Call to Holiness- Different Location

This Thursday at Emmaus, we'll be meeting at :
ASSUMPTION Parish
2403 Atlantic Boulevard Jacksonville, FL 32207-3595(904) 398-1963

The speaker for the Lenten Mission is Fr. Wade Menezes of the Fathers of Mercy. http://www.fathersofmercy.com/. You might recongnize him from EWTN. Let's all try to sit together, maybe somewhat towards the front on the lefthand side. So if you get there early, try to save a few seats.

Here is the schedule:

Thurs, Mar 4 , 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Confessions
7 - 8 p.m. Mercy Lived: The Universal Call to Holiness

8:15 p.m. - Confessions till all who want have confessed

Reception follows in Jordan Hall

with love,
Liz, Jen, Sean

Sun- CYA Soccer Cup 2PM

Are you ready for the Catholic Young Adult Soccer Cup 2010? The game will be at Treaty Park in St. Augustine FL. We will also have a cook out afterwards so bring side dishes and water/gatorade.

Car pool from St. Ephrems at 12:30Pm.

Time: 2:00PM

Directions:
Take 95 South to Exit 311 to and take 207. Go left onto 207 N and make a right onto Wildwood Dr.
The Park is on the right . 1595 Wildwood Dr. St. Augustine 32086

In Christ, Sean

Thurs- Lenten Scavenger Hunt and Prizes

This Thursday we are doing something I have not done in a long time. We are having a Lenten Scavenger Hunt. In this hunt you will get into teams and try to find certain items within the allotted time. Each item will have a certain amount of points. Whoever gets the most points wins. The rules of the games and the items will be given to each team at Emmaus. I look forward to seeing you there. I have the most unusual Lenten items to gather. Be there at 7:30 for the games or 7 if you want to pray the rosary.

Prizes will go to whoever wins.

In Christ,
Emmaus Core Team (Liz, Jen, Sean)

http://emmauscya.blogspot.com

Ice Skating and Cracker Barrel

This Saturday night let's enjoy the winter and go ice skating. At 6:00 meet at the Cracker Barrel off of JTB and 95 for dinner. Then after we are done eating we will head over to the Jacksonville Ice & Sportsplex Ice Rink around 8.

Directions to the Ice Rink: 3605 Philips Highway Jacksonville, FL 32207

Cost: $10 to skate including rentals.

In Christ, Sean

The Human Experience Movie

This FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2010 @ 7:30 PM , the showing of the movie The Human Experience will be shown at UNF. Many of you know of Grassroots Films and the powerful work they have produced such as Fishers of Men. Thanks to a generous benefactor, Fraternus has invited Grassroots to the UNF Theater February 19th to feature their latest movie, "The Human Experience". Following the movie several of the actors will speak of the personal experiences they faced while shooting the film.

Here is the link to the trailer: http://www.grassrootsfilms.com/thehumanexperience/
The FRATERNUS website: http://www.fraternus.net/

Cost: The tickets are $2 pre-sale, $4 at the door and a love offering for Fraternus will be collected as well.

Location: University of North Florida Lazzara Performance Hall1 UNF Drive Jacksonville, FL 32224

For more information, contact Tommy VanHorn - Phone: (904)217-7094

In Christ,
Sean

Thurs- Do we need miracles to believe?

Miracles?

This Thursday for Emmaus we will watch a short documentary about some actual miracles that have occured in Christians lives. Some of the things we will discuss are: Do we need miracles to be Christians? Do miracles really happen or are they just unexplainable chances? Do miracles still happen today or was that just in the time of the Apostles? Then we will discuss some of the miracles of Jesus. We will also be praying for miracles in our lives at the end of Emmaus.

So come out and see a miracle happen in your life!

In Christ,

Emmaus Core Team (Sean, Liz, Jen, Jeff, Joe)

http://emmauscya.blogspot.com/

Tues Theology on Tap- Pagan Rock Star turned Christian Solider

This Tuesday is the third and final Theology on Tap featuring Rock Singer and now Christian Sal Solo. Come out and listen to Sal talk about his conversion and his past life in the British rock band Classix Nouveaux . Be there for food, fellowship and fun.

http://www.salsolo.com/Home.html

Address: Mudville Grille 3105 Beach Blvd. Jax Fl 32207 (where Beach Blvd. and Atlantic Beach meet)
Time: 6:30-9pm
Cost: $5

In Christ, Sean Smith

Monday Mardi Gras Movie Night

Hey guys, this Monday I am throwing a Mardi Gras/Movie Night at my apartment. The Party/Movie Night will be at 7:00PM. We will have fun watching someone very funny, Tim Hawkins. We will eat pizza and have fresh baked cookies. E-mail or call me if you are coming. Tim Hawkins is a Christian comedian who just recently performed at the Jan 2010 FOCUS conference. We will watch his DVD called "I'm No Rockstar". Don't watch his stuff on the internet save your laughs for Tuesday.

My new address is 8787 Southside Blvd. Apt 5004. Jax, Fl 32256. I live in the apartment complex Paradise Island. It is near the Avenues Mall and Borders. Call me at 307-0824 or send me an e-mail if you need help getting there. Directions are below. http://www.timhawkins.net/

In Christ,Sean