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Net Ministry Retreat at St. Julie's October 20!

Celebrate St. Francis of Assisi: A Patron Saint of Animals and the Environment St. Francis of Assisi is one of the most beloved figures in the history of the Catholic Church. Born in the 12th century in Italy, he left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire people today. He founded the men's Order of Friars Minor, the women's Order of St. Clare, and the Third Order of Saint Francis for those who sought to live lives of devotion but could not take on the itinerant lifestyle of a preacher. What makes St. Francis especially cherished is his deep love for the poor, his compassionate ministry to lepers, and his profound respect for all living creatures. He saw God’s reflection in every aspect of creation—most notably in animals, whom he affectionately called his "brothers and sisters." St. Francis' reverence for nature earned him the title of the Catholic Church's patron saint of animals and the environment. His legacy of caring for the world around him is still celebrated every year, particularly on his feast day, October 4th. The Blessing of Animals: A Tradition of Love and Respect One of the most cherished traditions on St. Francis' feast day is the blessing of animals. This practice stems from his famous Canticle of Creatures, a prayer that speaks of the beauty and sanctity of all living things. Every year, pet owners bring their beloved companions to be blessed, recognizing St. Francis’ special connection to the animal kingdom. The blessing honors the deep bond between humans and their pets and celebrates the role animals play in our lives. While you can participate in a formal blessing at your church, you can also bless your pets at home. A simple verbal blessing, accompanied by a sprinkling of holy water, can take place in your backyard, garden, or even inside your home. Here's a prayer you can use for your own pet blessing: Pet Blessing: Blessed are you, Lord God, maker of all living creatures. You called forth fish in the sea, birds in the air, and animals on the land. You inspired St. Francis to call all of them his brothers and sisters. We ask you to bless this pet. By the power of your love, enable it to live according to your plan. May we always praise you for all your beauty in creation. Blessed are you, Lord our God, in all your creatures! Amen. Join Us for the Annual Pet Blessing at St. Julie's! In honor of St. Francis, we invite you to bring your pets—whether they bark, purr, chirp, or hop ( please make sure your pet is secure with a leash or carrier)—to St. Julie’s on October 6 at 1:30 pm for our annual pet blessing. This special event allows us to give thanks for the animals in our lives and ask for God’s blessings on their health and well-being. We look forward to celebrating this joyful occasion with you and your pets. See you at St. Julie's!

Seasons of Hope 6 -week Christ-Centered Grief Support Whether it has been 6 months or 20 years, Come and be Comforted When: Six Consecutive Sundays 1:45 -3:15 pm Dates: Oct. 13, Oct. 20, Oct. 27 and Nov. 3, Nov. 10, Nov. 17 MUST be registered, limited space. Please call: Mary Loll 805 573 4975 or Pat Esseff 805 558 2205

Thank you to everyone who joined us at St. Julie Billiart Parish Center for the Eucharistic Revival event featuring the moving film "Alive: The Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist." We are profoundly grateful to Sister Nancy Usselmann, FSP, for providing an unforgettable experience that has enriched our community's faith and understanding. A special thanks to the Pauline Media Center for offering a selection of insightful books for further study and a delightful collection of children's books, all of which can be explored further at Pauline Store. Your presence and participation truly made this a memorable day of spiritual growth and fellowship.

Join St. Julie's free Catholic marriage workshop on April 20th & September 14th, 1-3 pm. Strengthen your union within the Catholic faith. Got Questions about the Sacrament of Marriage? This Workshop is for you!

Join St. Julie's in prayer to protect life. See how at www.respectlife.org/prayer-to-st-joseph.

Women in Conversation – ALL Women Are Welcome Come experience SJB hospitality. Our next gathering is Monday, April 15, 2024

Saint Julie’s NOURISH for Caregivers   Join us Saturday April 27th 1:00-2:30 p.m. in the Parish Library   Nourish is for anyone dealing with the challenges of caregiving, be it a family member or friend.  Nourish provides caregivers practical and emotional supports, shared experiences and useful tools, all with a Christ-centered. View. All are welcome. Questions: [email protected]    

Seasons of Hope is a 6-week facilitated faith-based support group for those grieving the loss of a loved one.  Each week we explore an aspect of grieving by encountering Jesus through a scripture passage, visual imagery, music, reflection, and small group sharing.  You grieve because you love. Space is limited! Register soon.

Join us for St. Julie's Passion Play this Good Friday, March 29! Seeking youth actors (5th-12th grade) for roles and extras. First rehearsal: March 11, 6PM, Parish Center. Be part of this meaningful tradition. I. Let's make it unforgettable!

Converting Conservatives: The Importance of Moral Consistency Dr. Richard DeClue Michael Knowles charges that political conservatives, who often style themselves as the morally superior party, are inconsistent with respect to certain political and moral stances and practices. If we can prudently and articulately point out the inconsistency in the application of moral principles within the conservative camp, we can highlight for many conservatives that—yet again—it is the Catholic Church that has remained consistent in her moral teachings. We Catholics would do well to learn the Church’s teaching on important moral issues and not fall into the temptation of becoming “cafeteria Catholics” of a different stripe.

Join us at St. Julie's Church in making a big difference this Lent! Discover how you can support local families through Ventura County Life Centers and embody the spirit of giving in our latest community initiative.

February 24 from 8 – 12:00 in the bloodmobiles.  Please sign-up online at donors.vitalant.org using the blood drive code: K8895 or call 877-25-VitalAll donors will receive a $10 gift card through the Vitalant Rewards Store

We invite you to a special meeting to learn more about our program and meet with Ian Perez,  Youth Minister: Date: February 4th, 2024 Time: 12pm to 1pm Note: Children are welcome to join! Your involvement in the High School Youth Ministry at St. Julie's can spark a meaningful change in the lives of our teens.

Join the Divine Mercy Group in the Parish Center this Sunday, February 4, at 3:00pm for prayer and reflection, Adoration, the Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Benediction.

Saint John Bosco: Mission to Love, on Formed.org! This inspiring movie portrays the life of Don Bosco(Feast Day Jan 31), a priest who dedicated himself to helping underprivileged youth in Turin, Italy.

Join us for The University Series during Lent 2024! Dive into seminars that blend faith with real-life topics like current events, moral issues, science, family, and more. Our interactive sessions include multimedia presentations and time for your questions.

Discover the rich details in Gentile da Fabriano's "Adoration of the Magi": exotic animals, ornate Magi garb, and a glimpse into Renaissance art. Open to explore! Includes a Family Fun Quest!