NEW YORK — Many events and programs are being held this month at St. Francis of Assisi Church on West 31st Street here under the theme “we wait in joyful hope.”
A series of Advent scripture reflections takes place Monday evenings, 6-7 p.m., through Dec. 17. They are led by Joseph Nuzzi, pastoral associate at the church, who can be reached at jnuzzi@stfrancisnyc.org.
The parish also offers a program to help beat the holiday blues. It is being offered Dec. 12 from noon to 1:30 p.m. in San Damiano Hall at 127 West 31st Street. Facilitators are Maureen Hess, director of St. Francis Cares, and Julie Berwick, director of the church’s counseling center. They will discuss why the holidays can be emotionally-challenging, and offer ways to minimize stress and maximize well-being. Registration must be completed by Dec. 6.
Reservations are being accepted for the Dec. 15 Advent Day of Prayer led by Fr. Placid Stroik, OFM. Information is available by contacting ext. 311 in the church office.
An afternoon of Advent music and reflection, sponsored by the St. Francis music ministry, is scheduled for 3:00 on Dec. 16 in the upper church. Admission is free.
The midtown church is also offering traditional services in conjunction with Advent and Christmas. Information is available at 212-736-8500 and on the church’s Web site. A bookmark sized list of holiday services and Advent programs is available at the information desk in the parish office.
Recently-hung signs outside the St. Francis of Assisi buildings now guide visitors to the various rooms and facilities of the parish. They point out such locations as:
► St. Francis Center at 139 West 31st Street with the bookstore, adult education classes, and self-help group meetings
► St. Francis House at 135 West 31st Street with the parish office, information desk, Korean Ministry, Volunteer Ministry, St. Francis Cares, and Center for Franciscan Spirituality
► St. Francis Immigration Center on West 32nd Street
► St. Francis Counseling Center on West 32nd Street