December 2, 2025 -- 

For one day only, on Wednesday, Dec. 10, our parish will host the first-class relics of St. Anthony of Padua! (See below for the schedule.)

Friars from the Pontifical Basilica travel worldwide with the holy and first-class relics of beloved Saint Anthony. Over the past 10 years, Saint Anthony’s Friars have visited 249 parishes across 18 states in the U.S. They have preached and concelebrated at 458 Holy Masses in the U.S. When not on the road, these Holy Relics are housed at the Basilica of Saint Anthony in Padua, Italy.

Fr. Mario, the Friar traveling with the relics, will bring two reliquaries: One contains layers of skin of Saint Anthony’s cheek, while the other is free-standing one containing a fragment of the Saint’s floating rib. These two first-class relics were venerated by Pope Francis, Saint Mother Teresa, Saint John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI, and Servant of God, Sister Lucia of Fatima. 

"Our focus is in allowing your parishioners to venerate the relics," the friars wrote in an email to the parish. "We pass out prayer petitions and holy cards, as is the worldwide tradition, and people write their intentions to St Anthony before veneration. We provide the petition cards, pens and we also pass out lovely holy cards of Saint Anthony of Padua with a beautiful prayer. The tour ends back at the tomb of Saint Anthony in Padua, Italy, where Fr. Mario and the friars will gather and recite prayers for the saint's intercession on the petitions and intentions."

Please join us for one of the FOUR opportunities of veneration on December 10! 

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2 de diciembre de 2025 --

¡Solo por un día, el miércoles 10 de diciembre, nuestra parroquia acogerá las reliquias de primera clase de San Antonio de Padua! (Consulte el calendario más abajo).

Los frailes de la Basílica Pontificia viajan por todo el mundo con las reliquias sagradas y de primera clase del querido San Antonio. Durante los últimos 10 años, los frailes de San Antonio han visitado 249 parroquias en 18 estados de los Estados Unidos. Han predicado y concelebrado 458 misas en los Estados Unidos. Cuando no están de viaje, estas reliquias sagradas se conservan en la Basílica de San Antonio en Padua, Italia.

El padre Mario, el fraile que viaja con las reliquias, llevará dos relicarios: uno contiene capas de piel de la mejilla de San Antonio, mientras que el otro es independiente y contiene un fragmento de la costilla flotante del santo. Estas dos reliquias de primera clase fueron veneradas por el papa Francisco, Santa Madre Teresa, San Juan Pablo II, el papa Benedicto XVI y la Sierva de Dios, Sor Lucía de Fátima.

"Nuestro objetivo es permitir que los feligreses de su parroquia puedan venerar las reliquias," escribieron los frailes en un correo electrónico a la parroquia. "Repartimos peticiones de oración y estampas, como es tradición en todo el mundo, y la gente escribe sus intenciones a San Antonio antes de la veneración. Proporcionamos las tarjetas de petición, bolígrafos y también repartimos preciosas estampas de San Antonio de Padua con una hermosa oración. La visita termina de nuevo en la tumba de San Antonio en Padua, Italia, donde el P. Mario y los frailes se reunirán y recitarán oraciones para que el santo interceda por las peticiones e intenciones."

¡Únase a nosotros en una de las CUATRO oportunidades de veneración el 10 de diciembre!

December 2, 2025 --

See the flyer below for the full schedule of Masses (Holy Days of Obligation and other feasts) for the Advent and Christmas seasons and the New Year: 

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2 de diciembre de 2025 --

Consulte el folleto a continuación para ver el horario completo de las misas (en los días de precepto) para las temporadas de Adviento, Navidad y Año Nuevo:

November 24, 2025 -- 

Bishop Michael Martin, OFM Conv., of the Charlotte Diocese, has approved the ordinations to the Diaconate of three seminarians of St. Joseph College Seminary for Saturday, December 6, 2025 — and Immaculate Conception will be the host parish for the liturgy!

These ordinations are particularly special to our parish, as they will be the diaconate ordinations of Brother Daniel Chaves, Brother Juan Gonzalez, and Seminarian James Tweed. Both religious Brothers have served in many capacities at Immaculate Conception for two years, and James spent many years growing up in the parish and has served at IC several times when he is in town from his studies in major seminary in Ohio.

We are thankful and eager for this opportunity to host such a beautiful and significant milestone for each of these three men who have given their lives in service to God and to His Church. All parishioners are invited to take part in this liturgy on Dec. 6.

Please pray for these men in their vocations!

SCHEDULE FOR DECEMBER 4-6, 2025:

Thursday, Dec. 4:

• Holy Hour for Priests, Vocations (bilingual): 6:30 p.m., in the Main Church

Friday, Dec. 5:

• Holy Mass (Spanish): 6:30 p.m., Our Lady of Angels Chapel

 Saturday, Dec. 6:

• Liturgy of Ordination to the Diaconate (bilingual): 10 a.m., Immaculate Conception Catholic Church

Please note: The following are canceled on Dec. 6 due to the ordination Mass:  8:30 a.m. Mass, Confessions, First Saturday Rosary.

 
More information about Dec. 6:

• Doors to the Main church will open at 8 a.m. on December 6.
• Parking will be limited, with 2 parking lots (the St. Joseph Center lot and the side lot adjacent to it) blocked off for clergy and religious sisters coming from out of town for the Mass. Please consider carpooling with others to the Mass, to free up space.
• All other usual parking lots will be available, including the Bank of America lot (please do not block the ATM).
  • Consider also using the street parking along Buncombe Street as well as Bearcat Blvd. The city parking garage is also an option, located at 418 N. Church Street.
• Church pews will be marked as “reserved” for about 100 religious men and women anticipated to attend the Mass, as well as family of those being ordained.
• There will be a reception directly following Mass in the Immaculata gym with light food and refreshments. All are welcome to attend.

(Pictured from left to right: Br. Daniel Chaves, Br. Juan Gonzalez, Seminarian James Tweed.)

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24 de noviembre, 2025 -- 

El Obispo Michael Martin, OFM Conv., de la Diócesis de Charlotte, ha aprobado las ordenaciones diaconales de tres seminaristas del Seminario Mayor de San José para el 6 de diciembre, ¡y la parroquia de la Inmaculada Concepción será la anfitriona de la liturgia! Estas ordenaciones son particularmente especiales para nuestra parroquia, ya que serán las ordenaciones diaconales del Hermano Daniel Chaves, el Hermano Juan González y el seminarista James Tweed. Ambos hermanos religiosos han servido en numerosas funciones en la Inmaculada Concepción durante dos años, y James pasó muchos años de su infancia en la parroquia y ha servido en la Inmaculada Concepción varias veces cuando está de visita desde sus estudios en el seminario mayor en el orte del país.

Estamos agradecidos y entusiasmados por esta oportunidad de celebrar un hito tan hermoso y significativo para cada uno de estos tres hombres que entregaron su vida al servicio de Dios y de su Iglesia. Todos los feligreses están invitados a participar en esta liturgia el 6 de diciembre.

¡Por favor, oren por estos hombres en sus vocaciones!

HORARIO DEL 4 AL 6 DE DICIEMBRE:

 Jueves, Dec. 4:

• Hora Santa por Sacerdotes, Vocaciones (bilingüe): 6:30 p.m., en la Iglesia Principal

 Viernes, Dec. 5:

• Santa Misa (Español): 6:30 p.m., en la Capilla

 Sábado, Dec. 6:

• Liturgia de Ordinación de Diaconal: 10 a.m., Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
  • Aviso: Se cancelan los siguientes actos el 6 de diciembre debido a la Misa de ordenación: Misa de las 8:30 a.m., Confesiones, Rosario del Primer Sábado.

Más información sobre el 6 de diciembre:

• Las puertas de la iglesia principal abrirán a las 8:00 a. m. el 6 de diciembre. El estacionamiento será limitado; dos estacionamientos (el del Centro San José y el contiguo) estarán reservados para el clero y las religiosas que vengan de fuera de la ciudad para la misa. Se ruega compartir coche para liberar espacio.
• Todos los demás estacionamientos habituales estarán disponibles, incluido el del Bank of America (por favor, no bloqueen el cajero automático). También pueden estacionar en la calle Buncombe y en Bearcat Blvd. El estacionamiento municipal, ubicado en 418 N. Church Street, es otra opción.
• Se reservarán bancas para los aproximadamente 100 religiosos y religiosas que se espera asistan a la misa, así como para los familiares de quienes serán ordenados.
• Tras la misa, se ofrecerá una recepción en el gimnasio de la Inmaculada con refrigerios. Todos son bienvenidos.

November 18, 2025 --

It is estimated that more than 4 million people flock to the tomb of Saint Charbel Makhlouf in Lebanon each year, with faith and hope in praying there and asking for the intercession of this “Miracle Monk,” who has 33,000 documented miracles attributed to his intercession. 

From Nov. 3-5, Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hendersonville experienced its own version of people coming in droves from all around the area – and even from across the state line – as the parish hosted the first-class relics of St. Charbel for those 2.5 days. It was the first time in nine years that the parish had hosted relics of a Saint, since those of St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta in December 2016, soon after she had been canonized.  

Five separate veneration events took place between those days, in which either Fr. Andres Gutierrez or Rebecca, one of the custodians of the relics, spoke about the life and miraculous intercession of St. Charbel. Those present then were able to be blessed by a priest with the blessed relic oil of St. Charbel, as well as venerate the relic of the Saint and six others present – including St. Teresa of Avila, St. Therese of Lisieux and St. John of the Cross.   

“The response has been overwhelming, and the visit of these precious relics has been an authentic moment of grace for the parish,” Fr. Andres said Friday, Nov. 7. “Having several veneration events at different times has been key in attracting a great number of faithful, and the great participation reflects in some way the enthusiasm with which the faith is lived for so many people.”   

The custodians said they sold out of the St. Charbel oil during or after most of the events that took place, and they shared that they, too, were surprised at the great response of the people in attending and participating in the veneration of the Miracle Monk in what they were told ahead of their arrival was a “smaller town of Hendersonville.” 

“I think people are in search of true heroes, real people they can look up to and learn from.  The Saints are the true heroes of our faith and, by extension, of how life should be lived here on Earth,” said Fr. Andres. “They ‘made it,’ and this fills our life with real hope for us to reach our heavenly homeland with the help of their powerful intercession and the example of their incredible lives.  St Charbel, for example, shows such a dedication and love of God above all things; there is an intensity there that is contagious, and it is obviously still at work in bringing people back to the faith, to the Church and to God.” 

In total, it is estimated that between 300-500 people attended each of the five veneration events.  

Fr. David O’Connor, who had been out of town Nov. 3-4, got back into town the very final night of veneration, which turned out to draw the greatest number of people.  

“It was a great show of faith and devotion from the people. There was an outpouring of grace,” Fr. David said. “I was very impressed by Rebecca’s talk and her emphasis on and balanced view of relics being in their proper place, giving them the joy and wonder without taking away from the Eucharist and the Mass.”  

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(Todas las citas textuales han sido traducidas y pueden no reflejar la cita original exacta.)

19 de Noviembre, 2025 -- 

Se estima que más de cuatro millones de personas acuden cada año a la tumba de San Charbel Makhlouf en Líbano, con fe y esperanza, para rezar allí y pedir la intercesión de este "Monje Milagroso", a quien se le atribuyen 33.000 milagros documentados.

Del 3 al 5 de noviembre, la Iglesia Católica de la Inmaculada Concepción en Hendersonville experimentó una afluencia masiva de fieles de toda la región, e incluso de otros estados, ya que la parroquia albergó las reliquias de primera clase de San Charbel durante esos dos días y medio. Era la primera vez en nueve años que la parroquia albergaba reliquias de un santo, desde las de Santa Madre Teresa de Calcuta en diciembre de 2016, poco después de su canonización.

Durante esos días se llevaron a cabo cinco actos de veneración, en los que el Padre Andrés Gutiérrez o Rebecca, una de las custodias de las reliquias, hablaron sobre la vida y la milagrosa intercesión de San Charbel. Los presentes pudieron recibir la bendición de un sacerdote con el óleo bendito de la reliquia de San Charbel, así como venerar la reliquia del santo y de otros seis presentes, entre ellos Santa Teresa de Ávila, Santa Teresa de Lisieux y San Juan de la Cruz.

“La respuesta ha sido abrumadora, y la visita de estas preciosas reliquias ha sido un auténtico momento de gracia para la parroquia,” dijo P. Andrés el viernes 7 de noviembre. “La realización de varios eventos de veneración en diferentes momentos ha sido clave para atraer a un gran número de fieles, y la gran participación refleja de alguna manera el entusiasmo con el que tantas personas viven su fe.”

Los custodios comentaron que se agotaron las existencias del aceite de San Charbel durante o después de la mayoría de los eventos, y compartieron que ellos también se sorprendieron por la gran acogida que tuvo la veneración del Monje Milagroso en lo que, según les habían dicho antes de su llegada, era un “pueblo más pequeño que Hendersonville”.

“Creo que la gente busca héroes verdaderos, personas reales a quienes admirar y de quienes aprender. Los santos son los verdaderos héroes de nuestra fe y, por extensión, de cómo se debe vivir la vida aquí en la Tierra,” dijo el padre Andrés. “Lo lograron, y esto llena nuestra vida de verdadera esperanza de alcanzar nuestra patria celestial con la ayuda de su poderosa intercesión y el ejemplo de sus vidas increíbles. San Charbel, por ejemplo, muestra tal dedicación y amor a Dios por encima de todo; hay en él una intensidad contagiosa, y obviamente sigue obrando para traer a la gente de vuelta a la fe, a la Iglesia y a Dios.”

En total, se estima que entre 300 y 500 personas asistieron a cada uno de los cinco actos de veneración.

Padre David O’Connor, quien había estado fuera de la ciudad del 3 al 4 de noviembre, regresó justo la última noche de veneración, que resultó ser la que atrajo a la mayor cantidad de personas.

“Fue una gran muestra de fe y devoción por parte de la gente. Hubo una efusión de gracia,” dijo P. David. “Me impresionó mucho la charla de Rebecca y su énfasis en una visión equilibrada de las reliquias en su lugar apropiado, brindándoles alegría y asombro sin restarles importancia a la Eucaristía y la Misa."

October 22, 2025 --

Have you heard of St. Charbel Makhlouf? More than 33,000 miracles have been recorded at his tomb and through his intercession, since his death in 1898! The parish of Immaculate Conception in Hendersonville will receive his first-class relics Nov. 3-5 for veneration! This will be the first time relics of a Saint will have visited the parish since December 2016 when Saint Mother Teresa's relics arrived.

St. Charbel, a Lebanese priest, monk, and hermit, is known for his deep holiness and the extraordinary miracles associated with his life and intercession. Born in 1828, he was drawn to silence, solitude, and prayer from a young age. After entering monastic life and becoming a priest, he eventually lived as a hermit in the mountains of Lebanon, dedicating himself entirely to the Eucharist and union with God. He was canonized in 1977 by Pope Paul VI.

At Immaculate Conception, there will be several opportunities for veneration as well as conferences given by priests, deacons or religious brothers over the course of the three days the relics will be there.

The custodians of the relics will put out a prayer box to gather prayer intentions from all the faithful who would like to put in a prayer request. This box will be taken to the tomb of St. Charbel in Lebanon at the end of the relics tour.

The custodians are also bringing with them relics of six other Saints with them for veneration! Please see the flyer for a schedule and more details: 

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22 de Octubre, 2025 --

¿Has oído hablar de San Charbel Makhlouf? ¡Desde su muerte en 1898 se han registrado más de 33 000 milagros en su tumba y por su intercesión! ¡La parroquia de la Inmaculada Concepción en Hendersonville recibirá sus reliquias de primera clase del 3 al 5 de noviembre para su veneración! Esta será la primera vez que las reliquias de un santo visiten la parroquia desde diciembre de 2016, cuando llegaron las reliquias de Santa Madre Teresa.

San Charbel, sacerdote, monje y ermitaño libanés, es conocido por su profunda santidad y los extraordinarios milagros asociados a su vida e intercesión. Nacido en 1828, desde joven se sintió atraído por el silencio, la soledad y la oración. Después de entrar en la vida monástica y convertirse en sacerdote, acabó viviendo como ermitaño en las montañas del Líbano, dedicándose por completo a la Eucaristía y a la unión con Dios. Fue canonizado en 1977 por el papa Pablo VI.

En la Inmaculada Concepción habrá varias oportunidades para la veneración, así como conferencias impartidas por sacerdotes, diáconos o hermanos religiosos durante los tres días que las reliquias estarán allí.

Los custodios de las reliquias colocarán una caja de oraciones para recoger las intenciones de todos los fieles que deseen presentar una petición de oración. Esta caja será llevada a la tumba de San Charbel en el Líbano al final de la gira de las reliquias.

¡Los custodios también traerán consigo reliquias de otros seis santos para su veneración! Consulte el folleto para conocer el programa y más detalles:

October 15, 2025 -- 

HENDERSONVILLE — Oktober Family Fest at Immaculata Catholic School entertained more than 1,000 people Saturday while remembering the devastation of Hurricane Helene that cancelled last year’s celebration.

The storm claimed lives, homes, and infrastructure. Immaculata transitioned into a relief distribution center that lasted for weeks during October 2024.

“We didn’t get to have last year’s Oktoberfest, but we still had a community event; it just looked a little different,” said ICS Principal Margaret Beale during a special ceremony at the festival.

During the ceremony midway through the day Saturday, those recognized for helping with the relief effort were:

• Dan Ward, director of Properties and Risk Management for the Diocese of Charlotte
• Dr. Gerry Carter, Catholic Charities chief executive officer, Diocese of Charlotte
• City of Hendersonville
• McNeely’s
• Missionaries of Charity sisters
• El Paso, Montano family
• Indian Aroma
• Camps Kahdalea and Chosatanga
• St. Margaret Mary Men’s Club in Slidell, Louisiana

“They helped people feel better and see Christ,” said ICS fourth grader Eleanor Angel of the recipients.

“The honor is Catholic Charities, the Diocese, and parishes to bring relief to this area that was devastated,” said Dr. Gerry Carter, Catholic Charities CEO for the Diocese of Charlotte. “A year later, it’s so moving.”

Oktober Family Fest is an annual fundraiser for the ICS campus. The eight-hour event offered everything from food to carnival rides to a silent auction. 

The Stipe Bros., a well-known band in the area, concluded the event with a two-hour performance. 

October 15, 2025 --

To mark the midpoint of the 40 Days for Life Fall Prayer Vigil here in the Western North Carolina area, the Asheville campaign for 40DFL is hosting a Sunset Peace Walk on Saturday, October 18, from 5:30-7 p.m. 

The sun is setting on abortion in this country, through our Blessed Mother, through Jesus Christ our Lord and through the peaceful, prayerful example of those who witness to the dignity of life.

Gather with us on Saturday, October 18, at the midpoint of our 40-day Fall Vigil for Life. 

This event will begin with Pro-Life speakers Terri Geraci, a longtime pro-life activist, & Dr. Bill Pincus, President of North Carolina Right to Life, and an opening prayer. Following the opening prayer, those gathered will take part in a candlelit peace walk along the perimeter of the abortion facility. The peace walk will be accompanied by periods of song and of silent prayer.

Dr. Bill Pincus, president of N.C. Right to Life, will speak on the most updated and staggering abortion statistics for our state, the dangers of the abortion pill, the need to get youth involved in the pro-life movement now more than ever, and more!

Save the date and find some friends who will join you on Oct. 18 from 5:30-7 p.m. outside the Planned Parenthood abortion facility (68 McDowell Street in Asheville) to pray and walk!

About 40 Days for Life:

Locally, for 12 hours per day for 40 days, from Sept. 24 to Nov. 2, people from across Western N.C. gather in peaceful prayer near the local abortion clinic, in Asheville. They have signed up for time slots -- and still more slots need to be filled! -- to be present, to witness, to pray for an end to abortion; to hold vigil for these 40 days. You can find information and sign up for time slots at: www.40daysforlife.com/asheville

What is 40 DFL?

40 Days for Life is an internationally coordinated 40-day campaign that aims to end abortion locally through 3 components: 

• Prayer and fasting
• Community outreach 
• Peaceful all-day vigil in front of abortion businesses

The impact: Since it was started in 2007, it has been reported by mothers who chose LIFE over abortion that the 40 DFL movement has saved the lives of 25,700 babies! In addition, 247 abortion workers have walked away from the industry, and 181 abortion centers have completely closed down.

Why this matters LOCALLY:

• North Carolina has the 2nd-highest percentage of out-of-state abortions performed in the country, and the Asheville Planned Parenthood clinic has become a haven for women to come from Georgia and South Carolina seeking abortions. 
• 46,000 abortions were performed in North Carolina in 2024; 36% of those were women from out-of-state. 

An Immaculate Conception parishioner, Shae Savoy (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.), is the Campaign Leader for the Fall Vigil here in the Asheville area. Reach out to her with any questions you may have!

Sept. 30, 2025 -- 

On the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, Saturday, Oct. 4, after the 8:30 a.m. Mass, Immaculate Conception parishioners (and anyone else!) are invited to bring their beloved pet animals to be blessed by Fr. David O'Connor. The Blessing of the Animals is a tradition carried out by many Catholic priests and deacons on the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi each year.

This year, the blessing will take place directly after the Saturday morning Mass. Parishioners can bring their animals to congregate under the portico/covered area near the main doors of the church to wait for Fr. David to come out to do the blessing, which will be at about 9:15 a.m. All animals must be contained or on leashes.

Please note that no animals will be allowed inside the church building. We look forward to seeing and meeting your beloved pets!

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El sábado 4 de octubre, después de la misa de las 8:30 a. m., en la festividad de San Francisco de Asís, se invita a los feligreses de la Inmaculada Concepción a traer a sus queridas mascotas para que el Padre David O'Connor las bendiga. La Bendición de Animales es una tradición que muchos sacerdotes católicos llevan a cabo cada año en la festividad de San Francisco de Asís.

Este año, los feligreses pueden traer a sus animales para que se reúnan bajo el pórtico/área cubierta cerca de la puerta principal de la iglesia y esperen a que el Padre David salga a realizar la bendición, que tendrá lugar alrededor de las 9:15 a. m. Todos los animales deben estar contenidos o atados con correa. No se permitirá el ingreso de animales a la iglesia. ¡Esperamos ver y conocer a sus queridas mascotas!

Sept. 24, 2025 --

A FREE SEMINAR: MAKING INFORMED FUNERAL DECISIONS TO PREPARE FOR A MEANINGFUL FAREWELL

Did you remember to put “Planning for a Funeral” on your To Do list? Probably not.  But the reality is that many of us probably should.

Therefore, you’re invited to join us for a free seminar on how to make informed funeral decisions.

Join us:

Wednesday, October 15, from 4-5 p.m.
Immaculata Catholic School gymnasium

This is not just a seminar on choosing Scripture readings or hymns to sing.  Instead, Fr. Andres Gutierrez, pastor of Immaculate Conception, and Amber Marsden, from Church Street Funeral and Cremation, will share how to:

• Plan for a Catholic funeral.
• Avoid being overwhelmed by choices and “sticker shock” during a highly emotional time.

Deacon Ken Henry, who has assisted hundreds of families with funeral planning in his home parish of 10,000 families in Houston, TX, will also share his Guide for Funeral Preparation.

While this is not the easiest subject for many people to consider, it is never too early to Prepare for a Meaningful Farewell.

Please RSVP to Diana Justice at 828-606-5264 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

August 17, 2025 -- In a letter to the entire parish of Immaculate Conception, the Steering Committee of the "Faith Endures Here" Interior Renovation Campaign announces a pivot in the campaign with the close of the active fundraising period at the end of August. 

Dear parishioners,

Over the last three-and-a-half months, Immaculate Conception parishioners have shown incredible generosity and response as the Faith Endures Here Interior Renovation Campaign was introduced and formally launched. In those three months, we as a parish reached more than 60% of our fundraising goal! This is the largest amount ever raised by this parish in any campaign, especially in such a short timeframe – and that, along with so many other aspects of this campaign, is something to celebrate!  

As we have arrived at the end of the fundraising phase, the campaign Steering Committee can project where we’ll land in terms of total budget available, which includes fundraising and parish reserves. The Diocese recommended that we take out a loan from them for a portion of the necessary funds. It was our original intention to follow this guidance, but through prayerful discussions and discernment, we have decided not to take out a loan. Although we have not raised enough to execute the original vision of both the downstairs and upstairs of our church building, we can still carry out the original intentions for the renovation project, to: 1) Bring a renewed and enduring beauty to our sacred space of worship in the Sanctuary, and 2) Offer purposeful and welcoming space for parishioners to cultivate faith through works carried out in our lower level. 

Thus, we are announcing we will now operate within a scaled-back budget that will work best for our parish – and with parishioner input. We will begin discussions with the Architect and Contractor to develop scaled-back options for both the Sanctuary and the lower level that are within our budget restraints. These discussions will include potentially scaling back certain elements to reduce costs and the possibility of making improvements in phases. We will be presenting these options to the parishioners via a simple survey and move forward with your input.

A beautiful video is now available on our parish YouTube channel and other digital media that the architect, Steve Baker, just completed of his inspiration and vision for the Sanctuary beautifications.  You can watch that video by clicking HERE. He will be visiting the parish on Sunday, August 24, during which time he will speak briefly before all the Masses and invite parishioners to participate in an informal Q&A after Masses in the St. Francis Room, complete with coffee and donuts.

This pivot in our Campaign will delay the start of the improvements to both levels, but the Steering Committee believes that this time of prayerful planning and listening will bring about the most impactful, beautiful, and inspiring results. We will continue to provide updates to parishioners as we work through the process with the architect and contractor.

May God bless you,

Your Campaign Steering Committee

August 17, 2025 --

Good news! Immaculate Conception Catholic Church has a Parish Council established as of the end of May.  Through this consultative instrument, “members of the parish council collaborate with the pastor in the building up of the Church and its sanctification" (Second Vatican Council, Lumen gentium n. 32).  As our parish continues to grow and thrive, this will be a valuable resource to ensure continued participation of the laity in the planning and direction of ministries and pastoral activities.  In accordance with Canon Law and Diocesan norms, the recently established Parish Council will assist the pastor, who presides the council, by investigating and weighing matters which bear on pastoral activity, and to formulate practical conclusions regarding them.

Thank you to each member of the Parish Council who has said “yes” to serving in this role as representatives of both our parishioners and our Catholic faith.

The members of the Council are:

Fr. Andres Gutierrez
Fr. David O’Connor
Sister Ana Restrepo
Bob Dylewski, Chairman
Bob Gray, Vice Chairman
Bertha Medina, Secretary
Mary Ann Dylewski
Mike Tanner
Mark Coughlin
Cathy Coughlin
Joan DeMadona
Ray Johnson
Nubia Guido
Margaret Beale

The Parish Council currently meets once per month. Please keep this group in your prayers for wisdom and guidance from the Holy Spirit as they work for the betterment of our parish and the salvation of souls!

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¡Buenas noticias! La Iglesia Católica de la Inmaculada Concepción cuenta con un Consejo Parroquial establecido a finales de mayo. Mediante este instrumento consultivo, «los miembros del consejo parroquial colaboran con el párroco en la edificación de la Iglesia y su santificación» (Concilio Vaticano II, Lumen gentium n. 32). A medida que nuestra parroquia continúa creciendo y prosperando, este será un recurso valioso para asegurar la participación continua de los laicos en la planificación y dirección de los ministerios y las actividades pastorales. De acuerdo con el Derecho Canónico y las normas diocesanas, el Consejo Parroquial recientemente establecido asistirá al párroco, quien lo preside, investigando y evaluando asuntos relacionados con la actividad pastoral, y formulando conclusiones prácticas al respecto.

Gracias a cada miembro del Consejo Parroquial que ha aceptado desempeñar este papel como representante tanto de nuestros feligreses como de nuestra fe católica.

Los miembros del Consejo son:

P. Andrés Gutiérrez
P. David O'Connor
Hermana Ana Restrepo
Bob Dylewski, Presidente
Bob Gray, Vice presidente
Bertha Medina, Secretaria
Mary Ann Dylewski
Mike Tanner
Mark Coughlin
Cathy Coughlin
Joan DeMadona
Ray Johnson
Nubia Guido
Margaret Beale

El Consejo Parroquial se reúne actualmente una vez al mes. Por favor, mantengan a este grupo en sus oraciones para que el Espíritu Santo les dé sabiduría y guía mientras trabajan por el bien de nuestra parroquia y la salvación de las almas.

August 1, 2025 --

Hear it straight from them: Immaculate Conception High Schoolers share testimonies of how GOD touched them during experiences at Steubenville Atlanta Life Teen Youth Conference July 11-13

"When I signed up to go on this retreat, I thought I was just going to go and come back the same without having learned anything. But that wasn’t the case. I experienced the most beautiful thing anybody could ever experience and I’ll never forget it. It was Saturday night when we were sitting there all together waiting for Adoration to start. During that moment, I felt nervous, anxious, sad, and I was in pain because of my sprained ankle. I was trying to prepare myself for what was going to happen. I asked God “what do you want from me?” and sat in silence, thinking. Once the priest stepped foot inside of the room with the host, I felt the presence of God and started to cry and worship. I then proceeded to pray and ask for forgiveness. I worshipped like never before. I cried like never before. I prayed like never before. I felt at peace. I then went back to my spot and closed my eyes again, and I saw a line of the people and things that had hurt me, regrets I had, and mistakes from the past that I wasn’t able to let go of. And beside it was a hole which was the disposal. The line kept getting bigger and I felt anxious; then Jesus proceeded and asked “are you ready?” I didn’t see His face, I just heard His voice. I said “yes” and EVERYTHING fell into it. I felt relieved and healed. It was such an incredible feeling because I had never been able to let go and feel free. Then I was praying and preaching when I hear “Reckless Love” started to play and I fell down to my knees. This song has such a special meaning because it was my friend Kyleigh’s favorite song. I closed my eyes and cried there for a good minute before I see her smiling at me and telling me she’s proud and happy that I’m letting the Lord into my life. I start crying even more because I tell her that I miss her and that I love her and that I hope she’s doing good in Heaven. The song continued and I had never missed her so much like I did that night. I’m so grateful I was able to go because I really needed to grow my relationship with God and this helped me. I’m going to continue praying for my relationship with Him. I would always run away and would never be happy but now I realized that He’s the ONE and ONLY solution. As I grow older, I come to realize that God only wants the best for us. He doesn’t give us a battle we can’t get through because we are His strong soldiers. I encourage more young teens to consider going to Steubenville if you have the chance, and, trust me, you won’t regret it.

 —Kaylee, first year at Steubenville Atlanta
Chosen Scripture: “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?" (Isaiah 43:18-19)

"There was a time in my life where I felt abandoned by God, I grew angry towards Him and the world. When I went to my first Steubenville conference, I realized that He was behind me the whole time, I just never took the time to turn around and face Him. I know that in today’s world it maybe “cringe” or weird to be one of those “church people,” but trust me, when you step foot in there, you realize that there are so many people like you that have been craving God’s love. It may be scary to face so many emotions and feelings you’ve been suppressing for so long, but the peace you feel spiritually and even physically is so worth it. This year, I found myself observing my peers, and I was moved to tears because it’s truly so beautiful to see people like me surrender and humble themselves upon our Savior. I don’t know what their story is or the type of pain they’ve been carrying, but what I do know is that our generation needs the Lord. You could literally see people smiling through their tears. You who are reading this, you are not alone. There is someone out there named Jesus who has been cheering for you since you were in your mother’s womb, and He’s waiting for you to open your heart for Him." 

 —Shayla, 2nd year at Steubenville Atlanta
 Chosen Scripture: “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3)

Escúchalo directamente de ellos: Los jovenes de la Inmaculada Concepción comparten testimonios de cómo DIOS los tocó durante sus experiencias en la Conferencia Steubenville Atlanta Life Teen del 11 al 13 de julio

“Hubo un momento en mi vida en el que me sentí abandonada por Dios, me enfadé con él y con el mundo. Cuando fui a mi primera conferencia, me di cuenta de que él estaba detrás de mí todo el tiempo, simplemente nunca me tomé el tiempo de darme la vuelta y enfrentarlo. Sé que en el mundo de hoy puede ser "penoso" o raro ser una de esas "personas de la iglesia", pero confía en mí, cuando pones un pie allí te das cuenta de que hay tanta gente como tú que ha estado anhelando el amor de Dios. Puede ser aterrador enfrentar tantas emociones y sentimientos que has estado reprimiendo durante tanto tiempo, pero la paz que sientes espiritual e incluso físicamente vale la pena. Este año me encontré observando a mis compañeros y me conmovió hasta las lágrimas porque es realmente tan hermoso ver a personas como yo rendirse y humillarse ante nuestro Salvador. No sé cuál es su historia o el tipo de dolor que han estado cargando, pero lo que sí sé es que la juventud necesita al Señor, literalmente podrías ver a la gente sonriendo a través de sus lágrimas. Y tú que estás leyendo esto, no estás solo, hay alguien ahí fuera llamado Jesús que te ha estado echando porras desde que estabas en el útero de tu madre y está esperando que le abras tu corazón.”

— Shayla, Segundo año en Steubenville Atlanta
“Él cura a los de corazón roto y venda sus heridas.” (Salmo 147:3)

“Me encanta y quisiera que mas jovenes puedan vivir esto, es una bendición poderlo hacer. Todas las actividades, que nos dan en este retiro, están llenas de las diferentes maneras de como enriquecer nuestra fe y relación con nuestro señor. Está hecho para los jovenes. Me enseñó que la fe no siempre tiene que ser algo serio. Tenemos que reconocer que Dios quiere ser nuestro amigo y podemos tener conversaciones con el como si lo fuera. Dios toca nuestros corazones en diferentes maneras, el solo nos quiere dar su amor incondicional. También poder ver como los corazones de otros jovenes se abren durante solo 3 días es muy hermoso. Algo que nunca me voy a olvidar es la platica que tuve con el sacerdote después de mi confesión. Me dio consejos de como traer a Dios a mi vida cada día. Me siento muy feliz poder encontrar a Dios y profundizar nuestra relación. Estoy llena de su amor, de paz, y muy emocionada de poder compartir eso con los demás!”

— Arianna, Segundo año en Steubenville Atlanta 

July 30, 2025 -- 

We kicked off the Faith Endures Here Interior Renovation Campaign in May, and we have reached nearly 60% of our fundraising goal of $2.9 million! To read more about the purpose, heart and intention behind this campaign and renovation, click HERE. 

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Question: With $1.2 million left to raise to meet the fundraising goal, how will that be possible for our parish?

Answer: There is much to be thankful for, to God, the Giver of all good things! With just over a month more to reach our fundraising goal of $2.9 million for the renovation of our sanctuary and downstairs meeting spaces, $1.2 million can seem daunting. However, when considering less than 10% of Immaculate Conception parishioners account for the total $1.7 million raised thus far, we press on with great hope and expectant trust in the Lord to provide the remainder of what is needed!

As with the life of any major fundraising campaign, the “heavy lifting” naturally takes place at the beginning of the fundraising with advanced giving. It has been incredible to see the generosity of so many advanced gifts donors who established a solid foundation for this campaign.

Now, the opportunity is at hand for the rest of the parish faithful to prayerfully consider a 1-, 2- or 3-year pledge. Pledges allow donors to give more than what is possible through the usual one-time gifts. It could mean foregoing two usual weekly visits to the coffee shop each month for a time, or sacrificing just one weekly Friday or Saturday night pizza dinner for the family and instead offering that monthly sum to the campaign. Whatever the amount, the ultimate hope is that one’s gift requires some sacrifice on the part of the giver.

“When you give to him, give freely and not with ill will; for the LORD, your God, will bless you for this in all your works and undertakings.” (Deuteronomy 15:10)

We have over 2,000 registered families and households, which means there are about 1,800 families who have not yet pledged their support of the renovation, beautification and modernization of our church building. This presents most of us with an opportunity in this last month of fundraising as we push forward to attain a goal that will yield significant and lasting impacts for everyone who walks through the doors of the sanctuary and the doors of the St. Francis Room and surrounding meeting spaces. (The Charlotte diocese has extended our active fundraising efforts through the end of August.) It is an opportunity to give to the Lord, who has been so generous with each of us. Jesus Himself said through parables and teachings many times that it is not the amount, but it is the posture of the heart — humble, trusting and charitable — that God desires.

This goal will only be realized if we all, as parishioners of our beautiful parish, prayerfully and sacrificially give from the blessings God has given to each of us.

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For those still prayerfully considering their contribution to our parish’s renovation, you can easily make your pledge online and set up recurring payments at your convenience by clicking HERE.

Also know there are pledge cards available on a small stand located to the left just as you enter the main church. They are also available in the church office. The church staff is available to answer any questions parishioners may have regarding the campaign and contributions, including IRA donations and stock donations. May the Lord Jesus Christ be glorified in this campaign and in the interior renovation to come!

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30 de julio de 2025 --

En mayo lanzamos la Campaña "La Fe Perdura Aquí" (Faith Endures Here) para la renovación interior, ¡y ya hemos alcanzado casi el 60% de nuestro objetivo de recaudación de fondos de $2,9 millones! Para obtener más información sobre el propósito, el espíritu y la intención detrás de esta campaña y renovación, haga clic AQUÍ.

Pregunta: Aún necesitamos recaudar $1.2 millones para alcanzar la meta de nuestra campaña.

¿Cómo será posible para nuestra parroquia?

Respuesta: ¡Hay mucho que agradecer a Dios, el Dador de todo lo bueno! Con poco más de un mes para alcanzar nuestra meta de recaudación de $2.9 millones para la renovación de nuestro santuario y los espacios de reunión de la planta baja, $1.2 millones puede parecer abrumador. Sin embargo, considerando que menos del 10% de los feligreses de la Inmaculada Concepción representan el total de $1.7 millones recaudados hasta la fecha, seguimos adelante con gran esperanza y confiando en que el Señor proveerá el resto de lo que se necesita.

Como en cualquier campaña importante de recaudación de fondos, el trabajo pesado se realiza naturalmente al principio, con las donaciones anticipadas. Ha sido increíble ver la generosidad de tantos donantes que sentaron las bases de esta campaña.

Ahora, el resto de los fieles de la parroquia tienen la oportunidad de considerar con oración una promesa de donación de uno, dos o tres años. Las promesas permiten a los donantes donar más de lo que es posible con las donaciones únicas habituales. Podría significar renunciar a las visitas semanales a la cafetería cada mes por un tiempo, o sacrificar esa pizza familiar de los viernes o sábados por la noche y, en cambio, donar esa suma a la campaña mensualmente. Sea cual sea la cantidad, lo ideal es que la donación requiera algún sacrificio por parte del donante. “Cuando le des algo, lo harás de buena gana. Así el Señor te bendecirá en todas tus obras y en todas las empresas que realices.”  (Deuteronomio 15, 10.)

Contamos con casi 2000 familias y hogares registrados, lo que significa que hay alrededor de 1700 familias que aún no se han comprometido en corresponsabilidad a apoyar la renovación, el embellecimiento y la modernización de nuestra iglesia. Esto nos presenta a la mayoría de nosotros una oportunidad en este último mes de recaudación de fondos, mientras avanzamos hacia una meta que tendrá un gran impacto para todos los que entren por las puertas del santuario, la Sala San Francisco y los espacios de reunión circundantes. (La diócesis de Charlotte ha extendido nuestros esfuerzos activos de recaudación de fondos hasta finales de agosto). Es una oportunidad para dar al Señor, quien ha sido tan generoso con cada uno de nosotros. Jesús mismo dijo muchas veces mediante parábolas y enseñanzas que no es la cantidad, sino la actitud del corazón —humilde, confiado y caritativo— lo que Dios ve.

Esta meta sólo se logrará si todos, como feligreses de nuestra hermosa parroquia, damos con oración y sacrificio de las bendiciones que Dios nos ha dado a cada uno de nosotros. 

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Para aquellos que aún están considerando en oración su contribución a la renovación de nuestra parroquia, pueden hacer fácilmente su promesa de donación en línea y configurar pagos recurrentes a su conveniencia haciendo clic AQUÍ.

También hay tarjetas de compromiso disponibles en un pequeño expositor situado a la izquierda nada más entrar en la iglesia principal. También están disponibles en la oficina de la iglesia. El personal de la iglesia está a su disposición para responder a cualquier pregunta que los feligreses puedan tener sobre la campaña y las contribuciones, incluidas las donaciones de cuentas IRA y de acciones. ¡Que el Señor Jesucristo sea glorificado en esta campaña y en la renovación interior que está por venir!

July 31, 2025 --

Exciting news! We have a new bilingual t-shirt design this year for the Eucharistic Congress, which includes our parish name and city! Anyone can purchase these t-shirts, whether they plan to attend the Congress or not (which is Sept. 5-6 in Charlotte). The shirts exclusively for Immaculate Conception parishioners have a simple design that gives honor to both our Eucharistic Lord Jesus as well as our parish patroness, the Immaculate Conception. 

We are excited to share these shirts with parishioners! If you are interested, make sure to bring cash or check either for after Masses the weekends of August 9-10 and 16-17 OR you can come by the church office during normal business hours to purchase a shirt (or 5!). The cost for each shirt will be $12. We have limited quantities of each size, but we will have Youth sizes Small through Large, and Adult sizes Small through XL, with a handful of XXL.

Please note that we cannot accept debit or credit card payments. 
Checks can be made out to Immaculate Conception Church, with "parish t-shirt" and quantity in the memo line.

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¡Noticias emocionantes! Este año tenemos un nuevo diseño bilingüe de camisetas para el Congreso Eucarístico, que incluye el nombre de nuestra parroquia y nuestra ciudad. Cualquiera puede comprar estas camisetas, tanto si tiene previsto asistir al Congreso como si no (que se celebrará los días 5 y 6 de septiembre en Charlotte). Las camisetas, exclusivas para los feligreses de la parroquia de la Inmaculada Concepción, tienen un diseño sencillo que rinde homenaje tanto a nuestro Señor Jesús Eucarístico como a la patrona de nuestra parroquia, la Inmaculada Concepción.

¡Estamos encantados de compartir estas camisetas con los feligreses! Si está interesado, asegúrese de traer dinero en efectivo o un cheque después de las misas de los fines de semana del 9 al 10 y del 16 al 17 de agosto, O BIEN puede pasar por la oficina de la iglesia durante el horario habitual para comprar una camiseta (¡o cinco!). El precio de cada camiseta es de 12 dólares. Tenemos cantidades limitadas de cada talla, pero dispondremos de tallas juveniles de la S a la L, y tallas adultas de la S a la XL, con algunas XXL.

Tenga en cuenta que no aceptamos pagos con tarjeta de débito o crédito.
Los cheques pueden hacerse a nombre de Immaculate Conception Church, indicando "camiseta de la parroquia" y la cantidad en el concepto.

July 30, 2025 -- 
**Please note, the church office will be closed August 15 for the Holy Day of Obligation.

The worldwide Catholic Church each year observes August 15 for the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, commemorating when she was assumed body and soul into Heaven. This marks one of 10 Holy Days of Obligation other than Sundays for the Catholic faithful each year. At Immaculate Conception, Masses will be at the following times:

Thursday, Aug. 14:

• Bilingual Vigil Mass, 6:30 p.m.

 Friday, Aug. 15:

• 12:10 p.m. Mass in English
• 6:30 p.m. Mass in Spanish

 On Nov. 1, 1950, Pope Pius XII proclaimed Our Blessed Mother’s Assumption as an official Dogma of the Catholic Church.

 “For which reason, after we have poured forth prayers of supplication again and again to God, and have invoked the light of the Spirit of Truth, for the glory of Almighty God who has lavished his special affection upon the Virgin Mary, for the honor of her Son, the immortal King of the Ages and the Victor over sin and death, for the increase of the glory of that same august Mother, and for the joy and exultation of the entire Church; by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, of the Blessed Apostles Peter and Paul, and by our own authority, we pronounce, declare, and define it to be a divinely revealed dogma: that the Immaculate Mother of God, the ever Virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory" (Pius XII; Munificentissimus Deus, 1 November 1950). 

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30 de julio de 2025 --

La Iglesia católica de todo el mundo celebra cada año el 15 de agosto la solemnidad de la Asunción de la Santísima Virgen María, conmemorando el momento en que fue asumida en cuerpo y alma al cielo. Esta es una de las diez fiestas de precepto, además de los domingos, que los fieles católicos deben celebrar cada año. En la parroquia de la Inmaculada Concepción, las misas se celebrarán en los siguientes horarios:

Jueves, 14 de agosto:

• Misa vigilia bilingüe, 6:30 p. m.

Viernes, 15 de agosto:

• 12:10 p. m. Misa en inglés
• 6:30 p. m. Misa en español

El 1 de noviembre de 1950, el papa Pío XII proclamó la Asunción de Nuestra Señora como dogma oficial de la Iglesia católica.

(traducido) "Por esta razón, después de haber elevado repetidamente nuestras súplicas a Dios y haber invocado la luz del Espíritu de la Verdad, por la gloria de Dios Todopoderoso, que ha derramado su especial afecto sobre la Virgen María, por el honor de su Hijo, el Rey inmortal de los siglos y Vencedor del pecado y de la muerte, por el aumento de la gloria de esa misma augusta Madre, y por la alegría y el júbilo de toda la Iglesia; por la autoridad de nuestro Señor Jesucristo, de los santos apóstoles Pedro y Pablo, y por nuestra propia autoridad, pronunciamos, declaramos y definimos como dogma divinamente revelado: que la Inmaculada Madre de Dios, la siempre Virgen María, habiendo completado el curso de su vida terrenal, fue asumida en cuerpo y alma a la gloria celestial" (Pío XII; Munificentissimus Deus, 1 de noviembre de 1950).

July 30, 2025 --

Totus Tuus, a Latin phrase meaning “totally yours,” was the motto of Pope John Paul II. Taken from St. Louis de Montfort’s “True Devotion to Mary,” it signifies the missionaries’ desire to give themselves entirely to Jesus Christ with the help of His Mother. It also expresses their effort to give their all to every young person they encounter. Through the teams’ example of joy and service, young people see that these men and women are on fire with the Catholic faith and long for the same thing in their lives.

Five summer missionaries sent from the Charlotte diocese arrived Sunday, June 20, to Immaculate Conception ready to dive in for a full five days to share their love of the Catholic faith with a vast age range of children during the Totus Tuus Summer Faith Formation Program. Totus Tuus is a summer Catholic faith formation program for kids and teens that shares the Catholic faith through evangelization, catechesis, witness and worship.

Taken from the Totus Tuus website:

"“The mission of Totus Tuus is to inspire in young people a true longing for holiness, a deep desire for daily conversion, and an openness to their vocation by constantly challenging them to give themselves entirely to Christ through Mary and by continually strengthening their prayer lives in imitation of Her.”

From the outset, the college-aged missionaries engaged the kids on a personal level and with fun, keeping them laughing with silly dances, icebreakers, games and skits. The missionaries also brought sound theology during classes, with this year’s Totus Tuus (“Totally Yours” in Latin) theme being a deeper dive into the Joyful Mysteries of the Holy Rosary, as well as the seven Sacraments. The children participated in Mass during the day, keeping in focus that the center of the Faith is the Eucharist. 

The missionaries, who have been traveling to parishes across the diocese all summer, taught 1st-6th graders during the day until 2:30 p.m., then had a shorter break before reconvening at the church again to host the evening program for kids in rising 7th-12th grades.

Each day after learning about the day’s Joyful Mystery of the Rosary, the children prayed a decade of the Rosary together.

In the evenings, there were many breakout sessions with small groups to do deeper dives into the topics of the day as they directly pertain to teenagers. The teens also spent time in Adoration before the Lord Jesus in the Eucharist.

Thank you to Bridget, Lionel, Grace, Benjamin and Lily for coming to spend time with our children, to teach them, to show them the love of God and to witness the Faith to them!

30 de julio de 2025 --

Cinco misioneros de verano enviados por la diócesis de Charlotte llegaron el domingo 20 de junio a Immaculate Conception, listos para sumergirse durante cinco días completos en el programa de formación en la fe Totus Tuus Summer Faith Formation Program, con el fin de compartir su amor por la fe católica con niños de todas las edades. Totus Tuus es un programa de formación en la fe católica para niños y adolescentes que comparte la fe católica a través de la evangelización, la catequesis, el testimonio y el culto.

Tomado de la página web de Totus Tuus (traducido):

"La misión de Totus Tuus es inspirar en los jóvenes un verdadero anhelo de santidad, un profundo deseo de conversión diaria y una apertura a su vocación, desafiándolos constantemente a entregarse por completo a Cristo a través de María y fortaleciendo continuamente su vida de oración a imitación de Ella."

Desde el principio, los misioneros universitarios se relacionaron con los niños a nivel personal y de forma divertida, haciéndoles reír con bailes divertidos, juegos para romper el hielo, juegos y sketches. Los misioneros también aportaron una sólida teología durante las clases, siendo el tema de Totus Tuus («Totalmente tuyo» en latín) de este año una inmersión más profunda en los Misterios Gozosos del Santo Rosario, así como en los siete sacramentos. Los niños participaron en la misa durante el día, manteniendo el enfoque en que el centro de la fe es la Eucaristía.

Los misioneros, que han estado viajando por las parroquias de la diócesis durante todo el verano, enseñaron a los alumnos de 1.º a 6.º grado durante el día hasta las 2:30 p. m., luego tuvieron un breve descanso antes de reunirse nuevamente en la iglesia para organizar el programa nocturno para los niños que cursarán 7.º a 12.º grado.

Cada día, después de aprender sobre el Misterio Gozoso del Rosario, los niños rezaban juntos una decena del Rosario.

Por las tardes, se celebraron numerosas sesiones en pequeños grupos para profundizar en los temas del día, ya que estaban directamente relacionados con los adolescentes. Los jóvenes también dedicaron tiempo a la adoración ante el Señor Jesús en la Eucaristía.

¡Gracias a Bridget, Lionel, Grace, Benjamin y Lily por venir a pasar tiempo con nuestros hijos, enseñarles, mostrarles el amor de Dios y darles testimonio de la fe!

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June 25, 2025 --

On June 9, 2025, the main church of Immaculate Conception was filled to standing room only as 107 teenagers received the Sacrament of Confirmation. It was the day after Pentecost Sunday, and the Holy Spirit continued to move!

Charlotte Diocese Bishop Michael Martin celebrated the Confirmation Mass, which was his first Mass at the parish since he was named bishop just a year prior. Four other priests concelebrated the Mass — Pastor Fr. Andres Gutierrez, Fr. Nohe Torres, Fr. Alfonso Gamez and Fr. Miguel Sanchez, who is priest secretary to Bishop Martin — and Immaculate Conception’s two deacons, Rev. Sigfrido Della Valle and Rev. Ken Henry, also served the Mass.

Parishioners, please continue to pray for this very large class of teens who have now been sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit! Five other confirmation candidates will be confirmed at a later date, as they were out of the country on a school trip when the Confirmation Mass took place.

🔥Come, Holy Spirit! 🕊

(Group photos taken by Molina Vision Media; other photos taken by parish staff.) 

(SEE MORE PHOTOS BELOW)

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El 9 de junio de 2025, la iglesia principal de la Inmaculada Concepción se llenó hasta la bandera cuando 107 adolescentes recibieron el Sacramento de la Confirmación. Era el día después del domingo de Pentecostés, ¡y el Espíritu Santo seguía moviéndose!

El Obispo de la Diócesis de Charlotte, Michael Martin, celebró la Misa de Confirmación, que fue su primera Misa en la parroquia desde que fue nombrado obispo apenas un año antes. Otros cuatro sacerdotes concelebraron la Misa - el Párroco P. Andrés Gutiérrez, el P. Nohe Torres, el P. Alfonso Gámez y el P. Miguel Sánchez, que es sacerdote secretario del Obispo Martin - y los dos diáconos de la Inmaculada Concepción, el Rev. Sigfrido Della Valle y el Rev. Ken Henry, también sirvieron la Misa.

Feligreses, por favor continúen rezando por esta gran clase de adolescentes que han sido sellados con el don del Espíritu Santo. Otros cinco candidatos a la confirmación serán confirmados en una fecha posterior, ya que estaban fuera del país en un viaje escolar cuando la Misa de Confirmación se llevó a cabo. 

🔥¡Ven, Espíritu Santo! 🕊

(Fotos de grupo tomadas por Molina Vision Media; otras fotos tomadas por el personal de la parroquia.) 

June 10, 2025 --

Immaculate Conception pastor Fr. Andres Gutierrez will be directing a silent weekend retreat in English during the holiday weekend, July 4-6, 2025 (Friday-Sunday). 

Parishioners and those from other nearby parishes are invited to register now at this link.

The focus of the retreat will be on the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola. These exercises, guided by Fr. Andres, aim to deepen one's relationship with God through prayer, reflection, and discernment. Retreatants will be able to take what they learn at the retreat with them for the rest of their lives! 

The retreat will take place at the Catholic Conference Center, located in Hickory, N.C. (1551 Trinity Lane). The cost for the retreat is $250, which covers room and board as well as all meals. A $100 deposit is due to the church office at the time of registration to reserve one's spot, as the number of spots is limited. For those not local to the Hendersonville area, a check can be mailed to the office at this address:

Immaculate Conception
attn: Silent Retreat
611 N Church St., Suite 101
Hendersonville, N.C. 28792

Questions can be emailed to Fr. Andres at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

June 2, 2025 --

During Pentecost weekend, which is June 7-8, and including the Monday after (June 9), there are two additional Holy Masses scheduled. 

On Saturday, June 7, 2025, the Solemn Extended Vigil of Pentecost (bilingual) will be celebrated, beginning at 6 p.m. After Mass, beginning around 7:45 p.m., there will be a special Holy Hour, with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, chanted vespers, and Benediction. 

Then, on Monday, June 9, nearly 115 teenagers who have been preparing all  year will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation during a Mass concelebrated by Charlotte Diocese Bishop Michael Martin and Fr. Andres Gutierrez, the pastor of Immaculate Conception. All parishioners are welcome to come and take part, as this will be Bishop Martin's first Mass celebrated at the parish since his ordination on May 30, 2024. He has made several visits to Immaculata Catholic School, especially in the wake of the devastation from Hurricane Helene, but this will be his first official visit to our parish. 

**Please note that these Masses are in addition to, and not in lieu of, the regularly scheduled weekend Masses. We will still have the 4 p.m. Mass on Saturday evening (June 7), as well as the four usual Masses on Sunday (8 a.m., 10 a.m., 12 p.m., and 1:45 p.m. in Spanish).

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June 2, 2025 --

Parishioners and visitors, get ready for the annual and much-anticipated Rummage Sale, organized and put on every year at our parish by the Women's Guild! It is set for Thursday-Saturday, June 12-14, 2025, at the Immaculata Catholic School gymnasium, located across from the church at 711 Buncombe Street. 

The hours for the 3-day sale will be:

• Thursday, June 12: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 
• Friday, June 13: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Saturday, June 14: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

The Women's Guild is working to rebrand it to "Not Just A Rummage Sale," in order to draw attention to the fact that patrons who come to shop the sale actually don't have to do much rummaging at all, thanks to the pristine organization and attention to detail by our Women's Guild members, who begin collecting items many months in advance. Well-labeled and separated items make the sale an enjoyable experience for all who attend!

This year, the Women's Guild leadership notes that there is an exceptional amount of very nice and good-quality furniture, including outdoor/patio furniture, that will be for sale.

Other categories of items that will be for sale include: 

• Furniture
• accessories
• handbags
• luggage
• baskets
• electronics
• electrical devices and tools
• frames
• framed art
• rugs
• garden items
• home décor items
• jewelry
• kitchen items
• toys
• puzzles
• games
• office supplies
• baby clothing for up to 2 years old
• sheets
• blankets
• towels
• tablecloths 

Be sure to make plans to check out this sale, which is one of the Women's Guild's largest fundraisers of the year, benefiting local charities supported by the Guild!

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 Español:

Feligreses y visitantes, prepárense para la anual y muy esperada venta de artículos usados, organizada y realizada cada año en nuestra parroquia por el Gremio de Mujeres. Se celebrará del jueves al sábado, del 12 al 14 de junio de 2025, en el gimnasio de la Immaculata Catholic School, situado frente a la iglesia, en el 711 de Buncombe Street. 

El horario de la venta de 3 días será:

Jueves 12 de junio: de 9 a.m. a 4 p.m. 
Viernes 13 de junio: de 9 a.m. a 4 p.m.
Sábado 14 de junio: de 9a.m. a 1 p.m.

El Gremio de Mujeres está trabajando para rebautizarlo como "No es sólo una venta de artículos", con el fin de llamar la atención sobre el hecho de que los clientes que vienen a comprar a la venta en realidad no tienen que rebuscar mucho, gracias a la organización impecable y la atención al detalle de nuestros miembros del Gremio de Mujeres, que comienzan a recoger artículos con muchos meses de antelación. Los artículos bien etiquetados y separados hacen que la venta sea una experiencia agradable para todos los asistentes.

Este año, la dirección de la Women's Guild señala que habrá una cantidad excepcional de muebles muy bonitos y de buena calidad, incluidos muebles de exterior/patio, que estarán a la venta.

Otras categorías de artículos que estarán a la venta incluyen:

• Muebles
• accesorios
• bolsos
• equipaje
• cestas
• electrónica
• aparatos eléctricos y herramientas
• marcos
• arte enmarcado
• alfombras
• artículos de jardín
• artículos de decoración
• joyas
• artículos de cocina
• juguetes
• rompecabezas
  juegos
• material de oficina
• ropa de bebé hasta 2 años
• sábanas
• mantas
• toallas
• manteles

Asegúrese de hacer planes para asistir a esta venta, que es una de las mayores recaudaciones de fondos del Gremio de Mujeres del año, en beneficio de organizaciones benéficas locales apoyadas por el Gremio.