Christmas at St. Monica 2024
Christmas Eve Masses: Dec. 24
| 4 p.m. | ☆ | Church, Outdoors, & Livestream* |
| 6 p.m. | ☆ | Church |
| 8 p.m. | ☆ | Church |
| 10 p.m. | ☆ | Church & Livestream |
| Midnight | ☆ | Church & Livestream |
*Additional parking available 2–6 p.m. at SGI-USA Buddhist Center: 1212 7th St.
Christmas Day Masses: Dec. 25
| 7:30 a.m. | ☆ | Church |
| 9:30 a.m. | ☆ | Church & Livestream* |
| 11:30 a.m. | ☆ | Church & Livestream |
Christmas Offertory Gift
Christmas Livestream
? Why We Sing
When I was a boy growing up in a small town, I was as an altar server under a monsignor who, in many ways, reminds me of our own. One Sunday after Mass, he approached me with a gentle smile and asked, "Jeffrey, why don't you sing in Mass?" Feeling a bit self-conscious, I admitted, "Because I don't have a very good voice." With a twinkle in his eye, he replied, "Well then, if you feel God didn't give you a good voice, you should punish Him with it!"
I couldn't help but chuckle at the thought of "punishing" God with the very gift He had given me—my unique voice, as personal as a fingerprint. Yet, his words lingered in my heart. Years later, I recalled the wisdom of St. Augustine, who said, "To sing is to pray twice." I mused that perhaps if I didn't like my voice, singing might be like praying four times!
This reflection brings me to the readings for this Sunday, which speak profoundly about giving—not from our abundance, but from all we've got, even when we feel we have little to offer. In the first reading, we meet a widow who, despite having only a handful of flour and a little oil, shares her last meal with the prophet Elijah. Miraculously, her supplies never run out, symbolizing God's endless provision when we give selflessly.
In the Gospel, Jesus observes a poor widow placing two small coins into the treasury. He tells His disciples that she has given more than all the others because she offered all she had to live on. These widows didn't give from surplus; they gave from their scarcity, trusting entirely in God's providence.
Sometimes, participating in Mass feels similar. It's one thing to sing out when you're blessed with a beautiful voice—a gift that undoubtedly enhances our worship and inspires those around you. But how much more profound is it when we sing despite our insecurities, offering our voices to God just as they are? This act of faith mirrors the widows' offerings—a humble gift, rich in sincerity and love.
Psalm 98 tells us: "Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise." It doesn't say make a beautiful noise, or a perfect noise—joyful! God delights in the heartfelt praise of His people, no matter how it sounds to those in the pews around us.
So this Sunday, let us make a joyful noise—even if we don't feel joyful. Let us give from what we've got, even if it doesn't feel like we've got much to give. In this month of remembrance, let us join our voices—imperfect as they may be—with all those who have gone before us in their unending hymn of praise.
Jeffrey Bonilla
Director of Music
St. Monica Catholic Community
Msgr. Statement: Settlement 2024
The following statement from our Pastor, Msgr. Lloyd Torgerson will be presented at all Masses the weekend of Oct. 19–20, 2024.
The Archdiocese of Los Angeles has reached a settlement in the remaining cases brought forward after the statute of limitations was lifted in 2019. While this resolves the legal matters, we must recognize that the pain experienced by victims may never fully heal. We continue to pray for their healing and remain committed to offering them the support they need, including through the Archdiocese's Victims Assistance Ministry.
Please be assured that no funds from our parishes, schools, or diocesan campaigns, such as Together in Mission or Called to Renew, have been used for this settlement. St. Monica parish and school finances remain secure and focused on serving our community. Let us take hope in the lessons we’ve learned and continue to learn to protect those who are most vulnerable. For more information, including a letter from Archbishop Gomez, visit lacatholics.org/AB218.
-Msgr. Lloyd Torgerson
Behind the Scenes at St. Monica
How Your Support Makes It Happen
St. Monica is always alive with activity, much of which happens behind the scenes to ensure our parish remains a vibrant place of faith, service, and community. On any given day, our staff, volunteers, and ministries are hard at work, serving the needs of parishioners and the broader community. Here’s a glimpse into just a few of the many ways we bring our mission to life:
Last week at St. Monica, the spirit of service was in full swing. Our Loaves and Fishes Food Drive volunteers were busy sorting and packing donated groceries, ensuring local food banks could provide meals to families facing food insecurity. Meanwhile, the Green Team was planning an educational event focused on sustainable living practices, and our Film Club was finalizing details for their next community screening, promoting social justice through film. At the same time, the planning committee for our annual Thanksgiving Dinner & Clothing Boutique was coordinating hundreds of volunteers to serve meals and distribute warm clothing to those in need. These events don’t come together in just a few days—many require months of preparation and the dedication of volunteers who work diligently behind the scenes to make them a success. Through this ongoing commitment, we continue to serve and uplift our community.
These are just a few examples of what makes St. Monica a dynamic parish. Whether it's our outreach efforts, pastoral care, or spiritual formation programs, none of it would be possible without the support of our parish family.
Your generosity plays a crucial role in making all this happen. If you’d like to support the ongoing work of St. Monica through a recurring gift, one-time donation, or other options like stock or vehicle donations, we invite you to explore how you can make a difference at stmonica.net/give.
For more information or assistance with giving, contact Michelle Dao or Merrick Siebenaler at (310) 566-1552 or email .
Thank you for being part of our vibrant community and helping us serve with love!
Share Your Birthday Wishes for Msgr. Torgerson's 85th Birthday!
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Brothers and sisters of St. Monica,
We are excited to celebrate Msgr. Torgerson’s 85th birthday and invite you to join us in making this milestone extra special!
To gather your warm wishes and messages, we’ve created a Kudoboard—an online platform where everyone can easily contribute a personal note, a photo, or even a short video. Think of it as a virtual birthday card that allows all of us to share our love and appreciation with Msgr. Torgerson, no matter where we are.
How to Add Your Message:
- Click on the link: https://www.kudoboard.com/boards/WFDm7Kf4
- Choose “Add to Board”: You’ll see this option on the page. Click it to start adding your message.
- Write your note or upload a photo/video: Express your birthday wishes in words, or feel free to add a photo or a video if you’d like.
- Hit “Post”: Once you’re done, simply click the “Post” button, and your message will be added to the board.
Please take a moment to share your thoughts and memories. Let’s fill this Kudoboard with all the love and gratitude we have for Msgr. Torgerson on his special day—which will run as a slideshow at the reception following the 9:30 a.m. Mass this coming Sept. 1.
Thank you for being part of this heartfelt celebration!
Volunteers of the Year 2024
The David Hines Award
We are thrilled to introduce this year's Volunteer of the Year awardees: Carl Hajik, Thomas Hite, Roland Labana, Dan O’Brien & Julie Shavers, Joe Sterbinsky, and Diane Sweet. These remarkable individuals have profoundly impacted our St. Monica parish through their dedication and service. Their efforts, often behind the scenes, strengthen our community and embody the spirit of faith and generosity. We invite you to watch the presentation video to see their surprised reactions and read a brief paragraph highlighting the many ways they contribute to our parish life.
Meet the Awardees
Carl Hajik
Carl Hajik has been a cornerstone of our St. Monica community, serving in various ministries with great dedication. For over a decade, Carl has gracefully led the Thanksgiving Feast trash and recycling efforts while also contributing to the GLO LGBTQ+ Ministry, Music Ministry, and Entertainment Fellowship. A longstanding member of YMA, Carl’s kindness, generosity, and talent—both as a volunteer and as a painter—have left an indelible mark on our parish.
Thomas Hite
Thomas Hite has been a driving force behind the success of YMA and numerous other ministries at St. Monica. As a Core Team Lead and Advisor, Thomas played a pivotal role in revamping the Thanksgiving Clothing Boutique, ensuring it met the essential needs of our guests. His dedication to Catholic Social Teaching, organizational skills, and positivity have made him an invaluable leader and advocate within our community.
Roland Labana
Roland Labana’s leadership has been transformative for our parish. As Parish Council Chair, he introduced initiatives like “Coffee with the Council,” enhancing the council’s visibility and connection with parishioners. Roland also directs the Men’s Cornerstone ministry, where his servant leadership has fostered growth and camaraderie. Alongside his wife, Lisa, Roland serves in the Hospitality Ministry, consistently welcoming parishioners with warmth and dedication.
Dan O’Brien & Julie Shavers
Dan O’Brien and Julie Shavers are exemplary volunteers whose involvement spans countless aspects of parish life. Julie has been a key figure on the SMASH committee, the Parent Faith Sharing Group, and as a Room Parent, while Dan has served as PTC President, golf committee member, and auctioneer. Together, they have co-hosted SMASH and continually stepped up to welcome new families and support events, embodying the spirit of service and community.
Joe Sterbinsky
Joe Sterbinsky has dedicated himself to the spiritual formation of adults at St. Monica. As a longtime member of the RCIA team and leader of the Adult Confirmation program, Joe’s passion for teaching and sharing the Catholic faith has been a guiding light for many. His commitment extends beyond formal sessions, always offering extra time and resources to ensure participants feel supported and enriched in their faith journey.
Diane Sweet
Diane Sweet is the epitome of a selfless volunteer. She quietly ensures that essential tasks are completed across various ministries. From managing the Thanksgiving Dinner pie preparations to supporting Loaves & Fishes, Second Sundays, and Coffee and Donuts, Diane’s behind-the-scenes efforts are invaluable. Her willingness to help wherever needed, including providing transportation for elderly parishioners, reflects her deep compassion and commitment to serving others.
Letter from Deacon Kevin McCardle
Dear SMPREP Families,
A warm welcome to the families bringing over 150 newly enrolled students to Saint Monica Preparatory this year. I hope you find the SMPREP community to be a warm and welcoming one, and I hope the education your students receive exceeds your expectations.
To the returning families, welcome back. Thank you for your continued trust in and support of our school community.
We have been busy over the summer. When students arrive for the new school year, there will be several significant upgrades and improvements to the physical plant.
- The repairs to the main floor of the east wing of the upper school will be completed. It will be the newest that space has looked since the building opened in 1957. The classrooms have been refitted, the entryway has been remodeled, the faculty lounge was completely redone and the lockers along the main hallway have been replaced with benches – students hardly use lockers anymore, but they do look for places to sit down between classes. Plumbing was extended to the upper floor and sinks were installed in several classrooms to allow the science classes and labs that were in the Grand Pavilion last year to move to the east wing for the year ahead.
- The turf is being replaced and the schoolyard will be resurfaced. These are major but not very glamorous projects. The turf replacement is scheduled to be completed before students return; the resurfacing of the schoolyard should be completed early in the school year. There is a small task force looking at other beautification projects around the exterior of the campus.
- The gym floor was resurfaced and resealed. The new athletic logo graces the center floor.
- Digital signage is replacing the small billboard on 7th and Washington, and replacing the upper school signage on Lincoln. This is a project that required special permitting from the city; it has been in the works for years.
There are two major projects still in the planning stages:
- Sometime in the year ahead we will break ground on the auditorium project. The architectural plans have been submitted to the city for approval. That process is expected to take a few months to complete. Groundbreaking will follow shortly thereafter. We are looking for an alternative site for the spring musical.
- Repair and reconstruction of the basement of the east wing will get underway. We have been hampered in the process by our insurance company, but the logjam seems to have been broken. If there are no additional impediments, we should be back in the basement for the start of the 2025-26 school year.
I also want to take this opportunity to share my gratitude and my future plans.
In May of 2018, Monsignor asked if I would step in for one year as the interim president of the schools. The position had opened up unexpectedly, and I was in the process of retiring from UCLA. I agreed to step in for a year. That was six years ago. In that time we have been through a pandemic, a merger of the elementary and high schools, an enhanced effort to live out more fully our Catholic faith, an expansion of our experiential education program, a new partnership with Core Prep middle-school athletic programs, planning for the renovation of the auditorium, and a flood that took out two floors of the main upper-school building. While often challenging, these past six years have been enormously rewarding. It is now time for me to move on. In early June I let Monsignor and the School Board know that the 2024-25 school year will be my last as president. The Board will begin a search process for a new president soon and will keep you all informed as the search progresses.
Let me close with a word of thanks. When the school trip to Kenya got canceled (which Ms. Young and I were scheduled to chaperone), I went instead on an 8-day Ignatian silent retreat. It was a beautiful time of silence and prayer, a time to reflect quietly on the year just past and to plan with hope for the year ahead. Each day while on retreat I would reflect on a different gospel passage to see where God was speaking to me. I liken the method of prayer to visualizing a scene and then inserting yourself into it in some role. You and the students played a part in one such visualization.
As many of the returning families know, I was diagnosed with and treated for cancer this past February. The surgery was a complete success; no further treatment was suggested. The gospel passage I reflected on as I contemplated that was Mark 2:1-12. A group of people carry their paralyzed friend to see Jesus. Unable to get through the front door because of the crowds, they take their friend onto the roof, tear a hole in the roof, and lower him into the room with Jesus. The gospel says that Jesus was “moved by their faith” (emphasis added). Jesus forgave the man his sins and then healed him of his paralysis.
I make no claims of any miracle in what happened to me, but your prayers and the prayers of the students lifted me up and lowered me through the roof to an encounter with Jesus. One of my more amusing visualizations involved the students in the lower grades (think TK through third) carrying my stretcher, being encouraged and instructed by their teachers. The children did not drop me, though they struggled mightily.
I cannot thank you all enough for your prayers.
There is much work remaining on all of the initiatives mentioned above plus several more, and I remain fully dedicated to the task at hand for the year ahead. Enjoy the rest of your summer.
Peace,
Kevin McCardle
Msgr. Torgerson Health Update: June 17, 2024
Msgr. Torgerson is under the excellent care of Saint John's Hospital once more as his medical team continues to monitor and adjust his treatments. While there are no emergent conditions, his ongoing care requires close supervision to ensure the best possible outcomes and they anticipate an estimated 1-2 nights.
Know that he is still in his normal spirits and we'll keep you updated as we learn more.
? MEDIA AS A GIFT OF MINISTRY Event!
Join Fr. David Guffey, C.S.C., and Fr. Willy Raymond, C.S.C. for coffee and conversation on Sunday, May 19 after the 11:30 a.m. Mass. Father David will discuss unlocking hearts to God with two new series, The Carpenter and Chime Travelers, followed by a book signing with Fr. Willy! A message from Fr. Willy:
Dear Friends,
I am eager to see you all and Monsignor again soon during my visit to St. Monica on Sunday, May 19. I am delighted to share that after the 11:30 a.m. Mass that day, Father David Guffey and I will co-host a gathering to celebrate “Media as a Gift of Ministry” featuring the work of the award-winning team led by Father David at Family Theater Productions and my recently published book, The Family That Prays Together Stays Together. As the Second Vatican Council pronounced that ‘media are gifts from God” both Father David, his team and I are committed to creating content that uplifts families, and inspires their hope and desire to grow in holiness. My recently published book The Family That Prays Together Stays Together is a Father Peyton-inspired family guide to the Rosary. Books will be available for a signing at the Grand Pavilion reception on May 19. They will also be available for purchase beforehand at Holy Grounds.
In Jesus living through Mary,
Father Willy Raymond, C.S.C.
? Grand Pavilion
? Sunday, May 19
⌚ 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Announcements
Mass
Mon–Fri, 7:00 am - Church
Mon–Fri, 12:10 pm - Church & Livestream
Sat, 8:00 am - Church & Livestream
Sat, 5:30 pm - Church
Sun, 7:30 am - Church
Sun, 9:30 am - Church & Livestream
Sun, 11:30 am - Church
Sun, 5:30 pm - Church & Livestream
Outdoor seating is available at all weekend Masses.
Confession
Mon–Fri. 5:30–6 pm
Sat, 4:30–5:00 pm
There are no confessions on secular holidays or other observances when the parish is closed.
Holy Days & Holidays
Holy Days: additional Vigil and evening Masses, 6:30 p.m.
Holidays: single Mass, 9:30 am with no confessions
Eucharistic Adoration
First & Third Fridays: 7:30–8:30 a.m. & 7–8 p.m. · Church
Second & Fourth Sundays: Noon–3 p.m. · Chapel
contact us
St. Monica Catholic Community
725 California Avenue
Santa Monica, CA 90403
310-566-1500 Contact Us
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