Rector: the Rev. Msgr. W. Ronald Jameson

Attendance: about 75

Service Length: 30 minutes

Sample Worshipper Dress: black dress, black shawl, and black boots

Opportunistic Seasonal Beggars:2

Congregational Fervor

Jesus might have said, “Wherever two or three are gathered in my name, I am among them” (Matthew 18:20), but the 15 people who initially turned out for a recent midday-Monday Mass might have had trouble drawing the Lord’s attention—especially in a building the size of Saint Matthew’s. The crowd thickened, however, as the fast-moving service progressed. Eventually some 75 lunch-hour worshippers helped fill out the vacant pews.HHHHH

Food for the Soul

The Monday Mass lasted only 30 minutes, thanks in no small part to Jameson’s hit-and-run weekday homily. The Monsignor quickly drew the congregation’s attention to the coming Christmas holiday, called for good will toward man, and tied things up with a snappy kicker. “In these final days of Advent, have a blessed Advent season,” advised Jameson. HHHHH

Food for the Body

No food or beverage was available after the Monday-afternoon service. A parish secretary reports there’s no regular post-service nourishment on Sundays, either.HHHHH

Overall Worship Power

Feeling guilty about anything? In case there’s something you’d like to get off your chest in preparation for the Savior’s birthday, Saint Matthew has beefed up its confession schedule for the Advent season. Three priests will be on hand daily from 11 a.m. to noon until Dec. 22 to perform the Sacrament of Reconciliation.HHHHH