Around the Parish – October 18, 2026
Published on October 17, 2026
One in Christ, United in Mission
This weekend the Church celebrates World Mission Sunday, and this year marks the 100th World Mission Day. The theme, “One in Christ, United in Mission,” reminds us that mission is not reserved only for priests, religious, or missionaries serving far away. Every baptized person shares in the mission of the Church.
That mission begins right where we are: welcoming others, inviting someone to Mass, teaching the faith, caring for those in need, and speaking joyfully about what Christ has done in our lives. Christ gathers us together so that he can send us out again.
A Monthly Hour with the Lord
Our extended Eucharistic Adoration will now take place every Third Friday, beginning after the 8:00 AM Mass and continuing until 7:00 PM.
I hope this becomes a regular part of the spiritual rhythm of our parish. Even if you cannot commit to the same hour every month, stop in when you are able. In the midst of busy lives, sometimes the greatest gift we can give the Lord—and ourselves—is simply a little quiet time in his presence.
Divine Mercy Encounter: Is God Calling You?
Divine Mercy Encounter will take place November 13–15 at St. Joseph Church in Erie. Remember: DME is not just for teenagers or young adults. It is open to anyone from 10th grade, or about age 15, through the end of life.
If you have been thinking about going, I encourage you to take that step. A retreat gives us time to step away from the routine of life, encounter the Lord more deeply, and allow him to renew us.
More information and registration can be found at divinemercyencounter.com
Mary, Mother of Life
October is Respect Life Month, and this year’s theme, “Mary, Mother of Life,” is especially fitting for our parish.
Respect for life must be more than something we believe; it must become something we live. Through Walking with Moms in Need, the Caring Closet, and so many quiet acts of generosity, we have opportunities to support mothers, fathers, children, families, and anyone who may be vulnerable or in need.
May Mary help us to recognize the dignity of every human life and respond generously.
Here are a few thoughts for your week ahead:
Sometimes the best conversations happen when there is no agenda. If you have been meaning to call someone, call them. There is something wonderful about a church that is quiet enough to hear yourself think. A kind word costs very little and can completely change someone’s day. Never underestimate the power of showing up.
Pax et Bonum,
Fr. Andy
The Power and Tradition of Mass Intentions
The Mass is considered the greatest prayer of intercession in the Church. This is because it is the perfect offering of Christ to the Father, making present the Paschal Mystery of His death and resurrection. Traditionally, a Priest may be requested to offer a Mass for a specific intention, even if the requester cannot be physically present.
Offering Masses for the Deceased:
Having a Mass offered for a deceased person is an ancient and commendable practice. A Mass is offered to pray for the departed, that they may find peace in heaven. Since each Mass holds infinite value, requesting one or several Masses is of tremendous benefit to the person prayed for, as well as their family, who can take comfort in knowing that their intention is united with the prayers of the Church.
The Mass: Center of Christian Life:
Every Mass is a precious gift from God. It is the center of the Church’s life, known as “the source and summit of the Christian life,” because in the celebration of the Mass, we are brought back to Jesus’ Last Supper, the first Mass. We consciously recall the love of God poured out for us through the life, death, and resurrection of His only Son, Jesus Christ. At each Mass, all the intentions of God’s people, both living and deceased, are included. As Pope Paul VI noted in his motu proprio “Firma in Traditione,” the faithful, moved by an ecclesial and religious sense, join their own sacrifices to the Eucharistic sacrifice, participating more intensely and supporting the Church’s needs, especially its ministers.
Requesting a Mass Intention:
Anyone may request a Mass Intention for a living person, a deceased person, members of a family, or a special intention appropriate to the celebration of the Eucharist, such as World Peace, Vocations, or Respect for Life. The Church allows only one intention per Mass.
Offering a Mass Stipend:
The normal stipend offering for a Mass is $10. However, a Mass Offering can be more or less than the suggested amount, depending on the financial position of the person requesting the Mass. Envelopes for Mass intention requests are available at the entrances of the church. These envelopes can be placed in the collection basket or returned to the parish office. The requester may also ask for a card to be sent to notify someone that a Mass Intention has been requested (one card per intention). Please note that the name of the person(s) requesting the Mass is not announced.
