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Around the Parish – January 18, 2026

Written by Very Rev. Fr. Andrew M. Boyd, V.F. on . Posted in News, Around the Parish.

Continued Maintenance

On December 30, 2025, we discovered a water leak in the rectory originating near the boiler room, caused by plumbing from the bathrooms on the upper floors. Once the leak was identified, the water was shut off immediately to prevent further damage. Unfortunately, the issue had already affected more than just the plumbing, it also impacted the boiler itself.

Because of the cold temperatures at the time, the boiler was temporarily restored so that heat could remain on in the building. However, we were advised that replacement would be the best long-term solution, since parts for this particular boiler system are becoming increasingly difficult to find.

After notifying our insurance company, we were instructed to bring in a professional remediation team due to concerns about possible mold. When the plumber opened the wall in the first-floor bathrooms, significant black mold was discovered inside. The remediation company promptly removed the affected wall sections, which included portions of two bathrooms on the first floor of the rectory.

While this situation was certainly unexpected, it is a blessing that it was discovered when it was, and that it can now be properly addressed. We have been informed that insurance will cover the full scope of necessary repairs, including a new boiler and complete restoration of the first-floor bathrooms. Although this project came as a surprise, it is an important and necessary step to ensure the rectory remains safe, healthy, and structurally sound moving forward. Our buildings have served the parish faithfully for many years, and as they now approach 75 years in age, occasional repairs and unexpected projects are sometimes part of responsible stewardship as we care for the spaces that support our parish life and mission. We are grateful that the cost of this repair is being covered, and we appreciate everyone’s patience and prayers as this work progresses.

A few thoughts for your week:

This weekend’s readings remind us that a good life is built on small, steady choices. It’s easy to think we need a dramatic plan or a major change to become better people, but Scripture points us to something simpler: showing up, being faithful, and doing what’s right in front of us. “Here I am, Lord,” can also mean: I’m present today, I’m going to do the next right thing, and I’m going to try again even if yesterday didn’t go well. In the Gospel, John the Baptist doesn’t make life about himself, he points to Jesus. That’s a great challenge for the week: in conversation, at work, and at home, can we become the kind of person who brings peace instead of tension, encouragement instead of criticism, and hope instead of negativity? Holiness often looks like ordinary maturity: staying calm, listening well, keeping your word, being patient, and treating people with kindness, even when you’re tired.

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.

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Around the Parish – January 11, 2026

Written by Very Rev. Fr. Andrew M. Boyd, V.F. on . Posted in News, Around the Parish.

The Baptism of the Lord

The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord brings the Christmas season to a quiet but powerful close. After the light of the manger and the glory of the star, we find Jesus standing in the waters of the Jordan—shoulder to shoulder with sinners, waiting in line with those seeking repentance. It is a striking and almost unsettling image. The sinless Son of God does not remain apart. He steps directly into the mess of human life.

Jesus does not need baptism, yet He chooses it. In doing so, He reveals something essential about who He is and how God works. Christ does not save us from a distance. He enters fully into our reality. In the Jordan River, He sanctifies the waters—and through them, all of creation—by His presence. From that moment on, water will never be just water again. It becomes a place of encounter, cleansing, and new birth.

As Jesus rises from the water, the heavens open, the Spirit descends, and the Father’s voice is heard: “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” This moment is not only a revelation of who Jesus is, but also a glimpse of who we are called to be. At our own baptism, those same heavens were opened for us. The same Spirit was given to us. And the same Father claimed us as His beloved sons and daughters.

The Baptism of the Lord reminds us that baptism is not merely a past event or a box checked long ago. It is an identity we live every day. To be baptized is to belong to Christ, to be marked by His love, and to be sent into the world as His presence. Baptism commissions us to live differently—to reject sin, to choose light over darkness, and to love as Christ loves.

As we move into Ordinary Time, this feast invites us to remember the extraordinary gift we carry. We are not alone. We are not abandoned. We are baptized—claimed by God, filled with the Spirit, and called to walk as children of light. The same Lord who stood in the Jordan stands with us still, reminding us who we are and whose we are.

A few thoughts for your week:

As a new week begins, it can be helpful to focus on what is right in front of us rather than everything at once. Break larger tasks into smaller steps, take one day at a time, and give yourself permission to slow down when needed. Consistency matters more than perfection, and steady effort often brings more peace than rushing from one obligation to the next.

This week, be mindful of how you treat both others and yourself. A kind word, a moment of patience, or choosing to listen rather than react can make a real difference in daily interactions. At the same time, remember that rest is not wasted time. Making space for balance—between work, responsibilities, and rest—helps us show up more present, focused, and generous in all that we do.

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.

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Around the Parish – January 4, 2026

Written by Very Rev. Fr. Andrew M. Boyd, V.F. on . Posted in News, Around the Parish.

The Epiphany of the Lord

Today we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord—the great moment when Christ is revealed not only to Israel, but to the whole world. In the visit of the Magi, we see seekers who follow the light they are given and are led to Christ Himself. Epiphany reminds us that Jesus is not meant to be hidden or kept to ourselves; He is a gift to be shared. As we begin this new year, may we, like the Magi, be attentive to God’s guidance, generous in our response, and willing to offer our lives as gifts to the Lord who has first revealed Himself to us.

And They’ll Know We are Christians by Our LOVE

This weekend marks the first combined bulletin for Immaculate Heart of Mary and St. Columbkille. While times of change can feel uncertain, this is also a moment filled with promise and possibility. Together, our two parish communities bring a richness of faith, history, and generosity that can strengthen our witness to the Gospel. Thank you for your patience, your openness, and your understanding as we begin this new chapter. We are not simply merging schedules or announcements; we are coming together as one family of believers, united in Christ and called to walk forward in hope.

Mass Schedule Changes

I am deeply grateful for your continued understanding and flexibility as the new Mass schedule takes effect at both Immaculate Heart and St. Columbkille. Adjusting routines is never easy, but these changes are made with prayer, care, and a desire to serve our shared parish family well. As we grow together, let us remember that the family that prays together truly does stay together. Thank you for your generosity of spirit and your commitment to worship, community, and one another as we move forward together in faith.

A few thoughts for your week:

As you enter this week, let the spirit of the Epiphany shape your outlook. God is still revealing Himself, often quietly, often unexpectedly, to those who are willing to look for His light. Pay attention to the moments that draw your heart toward hope, generosity, and trust; they may be gentle invitations from the Lord guiding your next steps.

Like the Magi, do not be afraid to move forward even when the road feels unfamiliar. Faith often requires us to step out without seeing the whole picture, trusting that God is already at work ahead of us. This week, allow yourself to believe that something good is unfolding, even if it is not yet fully clear.

Finally, remember that every encounter, every conversation, every small act of kindness, can become an epiphany, a moment where Christ is made known through you. Walk into this week with confidence and expectation, trusting that God has great things in store and that His light will continue to guide you forward.

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.

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Around the Parish – December 28, 2025

Written by Very Rev. Fr. Andrew M. Boyd, V.F. on . Posted in News, Around the Parish.

O Most Holy Family, Pray for Us!

This The Feast of the Holy Family reminds us that God chose to enter the world not in isolation, but at the heart of a family. Mary, Joseph, and Jesus lived a life that was at once ordinary and extraordinary: ordinary in the daily rhythms of work, prayer, meals, and relationships; extraordinary because God Himself was present in their home. This feast invites us to see our own families—whatever their shape, size, or story—as places where God desires to dwell. Holiness is not reserved for perfect people or perfect households; holiness is what happens when we invite Christ into the very real, imperfect moments of daily life.

In the Gospel, we see the Holy Family navigating joys and trials—traveling long distances, facing uncertainty, protecting each other, and remaining faithful in everything. Their example reminds us that family life is a vocation, one that calls for patience, sacrifice, forgiveness, and love that endures through difficulty. When we honor the Feast of the Holy Family, we are reminded that God blesses the ordinary routines of our homes and transforms them through grace. Even the hidden years of Jesus’ life—those quiet decades in Nazareth—were filled with purpose. So too are the hidden acts of love lived within our own households.

This weekend is an opportunity to pray for our families, especially those facing hardship, distance, or division. We entrust all our loved ones to the care of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, asking for healing where there is hurt, strength where there is struggle, and deeper unity where there is separation. The Holy Family stands with us as companions and intercessors. They know what it means to live faithfully in a world marked by uncertainty, and they show us how to let God’s love shape our relationships.

As we look toward the new year, may this feast encourage us to renew our commitment to building homes rooted in prayer, patience, and peace. Whether you live alone, with children, with aging parents, or in a blended family—God desires to meet you there. Invite Him into the ordinary moments: at the table, in conversation, during disagreements, in celebrations, and in silence. May our parish family, too, reflect the unity and tenderness of the Holy Family, becoming a place where all find belonging, encouragement, and the presence of Christ..

A few thoughts for your week:

As we honor the Holy Family, take a moment each day to invite Christ into the ordinary rhythms of your home and heart. Choose one small action to strengthen the bonds of family—a kind word, a moment of forgiveness, a shared prayer. Ask Jesus, Mary, and Joseph to walk with you in the places where life feels stretched or weary, and look for God’s quiet presence in the hidden moments that often go unnoticed. When you feel rushed, choose patience; when annoyed, choose charity; and when overwhelmed, choose gratitude. May this week draw you closer to the peace and unity God desires for every family.

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.

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Around the Parish – December 25, 2025

Written by Very Rev. Fr. Andrew M. Boyd, V.F. on . Posted in News, Around the Parish.

What Does It Mean to Call Him the Christ?

Every Christmas we greet one another with the joyful news: “Christ is born!” But have you ever paused to consider what it really means to call Jesus the Christ? We say it so easily that the weight of the title can slip past us unnoticed. “Christ” is not Jesus’ last name—it is His identity. His mission. His kingship.

The word Christos means the Anointed One, the One God promised through the prophets and longed for by generation after generation of Israel. When someone in the Old Testament was anointed, it meant that God had chosen them for a sacred task: prophets were anointed to speak God’s word, priests to offer sacrifice, and kings to shepherd the people in God’s name. To call Jesus the Christ is to recognize Him as the fulfillment of every one of those hopes: the true Prophet, the eternal High Priest, and the King whose reign brings mercy, justice, and peace.

Christmas invites us to see this clearly—not through grand displays of earthly power, but through the humility of Bethlehem. Our King comes to us quietly, without armies or splendor, wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger. Yet this is precisely how God chooses to reveal His heart: a kingship defined not by domination but by compassion; not by force, but by love.

As we celebrate Christmas this year, I encourage you to take a moment and ask: What does it mean in my own life to worship Jesus as the Christ—as my King?

Perhaps it means offering Him the gift of your attention in prayer.
Perhaps it means surrendering a burden you’ve been carrying alone.

Perhaps it means choosing mercy in a place where resentment has taken root. Perhaps it means letting Him reign in a part of your life where you’ve kept Him at a distance.

Worshiping Jesus as the Christ doesn’t require dramatic gestures. It begins in the small, quiet places where we allow Him to be Lord—where we let His peace guide us, His mercy heal us, and His truth shape the way we live.

As we prepare to come together for the liturgy of Christmas, my hope is that this reflection opens your heart to encounter the Child of Bethlehem not simply as a baby in a manger, but as the Christ, the One who comes to reign in love.
May we welcome Him with joy, and may His presence bring peace to your home and to all those you love.

Merry Christmas, and may Christ the King be born anew in your heart.

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.

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Around the Parish – December 21, 2025

Written by Very Rev. Fr. Andrew M. Boyd, V.F. on . Posted in Around the Parish, News.

The Wreath is Aglow!

This As we arrive at the Fourth Sunday of Advent, the nearness of Christmas becomes unmistakable. The Church invites us to pause in these final days—not to rush, but to let the mystery of the Incarnation take root in our hearts. In the Gospel we meet Saint Joseph, whose silent trust becomes a model for us. Faced with uncertainty, he welcomes God’s plan and, in doing so, welcomes Christ Himself. His quiet “yes” reminds us that opening our hearts to God’s will allows Christ to enter our lives more deeply.

These last Advent days encourage us to ask where the Lord is inviting us to make room for Him. Perhaps it’s in a relationship needing healing, a habit that needs changing, or a place in our lives where we’ve hesitated to let God in. Rather than adding more to an already full season, Advent calls us to surrender a bit of control and welcome Emmanuel—God-with-us. A few moments of quiet prayer, a visit to the church, or time before the nativity can help us prepare to receive Jesus with renewed faith and joy this Christmas..

Christmas Mass Schedule

Celebrate the Nativity of the Lord with us:

Christmas Eve:

5:00 PM & 9:00 PM

Christmas Day:

9:00 AM

New Year’s Day Masses

As we begin the new year with the Mother of God, Masses will be offered on:

December 31 at 6:00 PM

January 1 at 9:00 AM

Let us entrust the coming year to Mary’s care as she leads us ever closer to her Son.

Sacred Saturday in January

Be sure to sign up for our next Sacred Saturday with Paco Gavrilides, a gifted and dynamic Catholic evangelist. Paco will join us to speak on evangelization in the modern world. More details can be found in this weekend’s bulletin.

A few thoughts for your week:

As we await Christmas just a few days away, let your heart slow down—Christ comes not because we finish everything, but because He loves us. Make room for a moment of wonder and allow God to speak in the quiet. Carry Joseph’s trust with you when stress rises, and let a simple visit to the nativity soften your heart. Choose one small act of mercy this week so someone else may experience Christ’s love. Seek joy intentionally, remembering that Emmanuel—God with us—is present in every task, burden, and blessing of these final Advent days.

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.

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A Letter to the Parishioners of St. Columbkille Parish in Stoneboro, PA

Written by Very Rev. Fr. Andrew M. Boyd, V.F. on . Posted in News, Parish News, Diocese News, Around the Parish.

December 19, 2025

This letter is addressed to the parishioners of St. Columbkille Parish, Stoneboro, and is to be read to the parishioners at all Masses December 20-21, 2025

Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

As you know, Father Robert Manning retired for medical reasons, effective November 30.  He served the parish generously and kindly for many years and I wrote to him expressing my gratitude. I have appointed Father Andrew Boyd as Pastor of St. Columbkille, effective December 16.  Father Boyd will continue as Pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Mercer, and as the Dean of the Greenville Deanery. 

Because of Father Boyd’s multiple duties, as well as the demands on our retired priests, we need to adjust the Mass schedules for both St. Columbkille Parish and Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish.  The new schedule for the parishes will be:

  • St. Columbkille will have an anticipated Mass on Saturdays at 6:00pm.  We are not able to provide a priest for Sunday morning Mass in the current circumstances.
  • Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish will adjust its schedule so that Father Boyd is able to fulfill his new duties.  The Masses at IHM will be on Saturday at 4:00pm, and on Sunday at 8:00am, and 11:00am.

This Mass schedule will become effective Saturday, January 3, 2026, and is for a six-month trial period, at which time it will be reviewed.

I am aware that this adjustment may cause some inconvenience at first, but I ask you to support Father Boyd and continue to pray for an increase of vocations.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

+Lawrence T. Persico

The Most Reverend Lawrence T. Persico, JCL

Bishop of Erie

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Around the Parish – December 14, 2025

Written by Very Rev. Fr. Andrew M. Boyd, V.F. on . Posted in News, Around the Parish.

Rejoice! Gaudete!

This weekend we celebrate Gaudete Sunday, the Third Sunday of Advent—a day marked by joy as we draw closer to the celebration of the Lord’s Nativity.

The rose candle on our Advent wreath reminds us that even in the quiet waiting of this season, God is already at work, drawing near to us with His grace. May this week be a time to pause, breathe, and allow renewed hope to take root in our hearts.

Parish Penance Service

This Sunday afternoon, December 14 at 2:00 PM, we will hold our Parish Penance Service here in church. Six priests will be available to hear confessions. I warmly invite you to take part in this beautiful sacrament of mercy as we prepare our hearts for Christmas.

Christmas Mass Schedule

Celebrate the Nativity of the Lord with us:

Christmas Eve:

5:00 PM & 9:00 PM

Christmas Day:

9:00 AM

New Year’s Day Masses

As we begin the new year with the Mother of God, Masses will be offered on:

December 31 at 6:00 PM

January 1 at 9:00 AM

Let us entrust the coming year to Mary’s care as she leads us ever closer to her Son.

Sacred Saturday in January

Be sure to sign up for our next Sacred Saturday with Paco Gavrilides, a gifted and dynamic Catholic evangelist. Paco will join us to speak on evangelization in the modern world. More details can be found in this weekend’s bulletin.

A few thoughts for your week:

Gaudete Sunday reminds us that joy is not something we wait for—it is something God plants in us even now. Take a moment this week to notice where joy quietly appears in your life: a small act of kindness, a moment of stillness, an unexpected grace. God is nearer than we think.

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.

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Around the Parish – December 7, 2025

Written by Very Rev. Fr. Andrew M. Boyd, V.F. on . Posted in News, Around the Parish.

Prepare the Way of the Lord

As we enter the Second Sunday of Advent, the Church invites us to lean more deeply into the call of preparation. Last week we lifted our eyes in hope to Christ’s coming; this week, we hear the Gospel urging us to prepare the way of the Lord—not only outwardly, but in the quiet places of our hearts. Advent is far more than a countdown to Christmas; it is a season of awakening, repentance, and renewed desire for the Savior who draws near. May these days help us clear away spiritual clutter and open ourselves to the peace only Christ can bring.

To better prepare ourselves for Christmas, we will have Adoration and Confessions these next two Fridays, Friday, December 12 and Friday, December 19 from 6pm until 7pm. Please make an effort to join us in this special time of prayer to prepare our souls for Christmas!

Immaculate Conception Masses

This Monday, December 8, is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, a Holy Day of Obligation. Masses at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish will be celebrated at:

· 8:00 AM

· 6:00 PM

As we honor Mary, conceived without sin, we ask her maternal intercession to guide us deeper into the mystery of Advent!

Parish Penance Service

Our Parish Penance Service will take place on Sunday, December 14 at 2:00 PM here at Immaculate Heart.
Beginning this year, we are partnering with Beloved Disciple Parish—we will host the Advent service, and they will host the Lenten service.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is one of the most beautiful ways to prepare our hearts for Christmas. Please make time to receive the Lord’s mercy before the celebration of His birth!

Christmas Mass Schedule

Our Celebrate the Nativity of the Lord with us:

Christmas Eve:

5:00 PM & 9:00 PM

Christmas Day:

9:00 AM

New Year’s Day Masses

As we begin the new year with the Mother of God, Masses will be offered on:

December 31 at 6:00 PM

January 1 at 9:00 AM

Let us entrust the coming year to Mary’s care as she leads us ever closer to her Son.

A few thoughts for your week:

Let God slow you down. Advent reminds us that holiness isn’t found in rushing but in resting in the Lord. Take one moment each day to breathe deeply and welcome Christ into the quiet.

Make room for grace. John the Baptist calls us to prepare the way—sometimes that means clearing out attitudes, habits, or worries that keep us from peace. What needs to be set aside so Christ can enter?

Choose small kindnesses. Advent hearts are generous hearts. A gentle word, a patient answer, a thoughtful gesture—these are the little candles that brighten the world.

Don’t wait for Christmas to turn back to God. His mercy is already here. This week, take a step toward reconciliation—spiritually, with others, or in prayer.

Let hope guide you. Hope is not wishful thinking; it is the confident expectation that God is at work. Trust that He is preparing something good in you this Advent.

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.

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Around the Parish – November 30, 2025

Written by Very Rev. Fr. Andrew M. Boyd, V.F. on . Posted in News, Around the Parish.

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel

This weekend we enter a brand-new liturgical year, beginning with the First Sunday of Advent. Advent is a season of longing, watching, and hopeful expectation. The readings this week invite us to “stay awake” and to be ready for the coming of the Lord—not in fear, but in joyful anticipation. Isaiah gives us a beautiful vision of the nations streaming toward the mountain of the Lord, seeking peace and unity. Saint Paul urges us to “throw off the works of darkness” and live as children of the light. And Jesus reminds us that His coming is certain, even if the day and the hour are unknown. Advent calls us to slow down, look within, and let Christ reshape our hearts so that we may welcome Him with renewed faith.

As we light the first candle of the Advent wreath, we begin a journey of hope. This is a season meant to awaken us spiritually—an invitation to prepare room for Christ in our lives in practical and intentional ways. We prepare not just for the celebration of His birth at Christmas, but for His presence in our daily lives and His return in glory. Over the next four weeks, consider what small steps you can take to draw closer to the Lord: carving out quiet moments of prayer, returning to the Sacrament of Reconciliation, or offering acts of charity and kindness. May this Advent be a time of grace for our parish family, a time of renewed hope, and a time to lift our eyes toward the One who comes to save us..

Cookie Walk and Soup Sale

Soup containers remain available for pickup today  in the main vestibule of church for all those who are making soup. Soups and cookies can be dropped off in Gallagher Hall THIS FRIDAY from 9am-6pm and THIS SATURDAY from 9am-12pm. If you have any questions, please leave a message at the parish office!

Special CPR & AED Training

We are blessed to share that our parish has received two Automated External Defibrillator (AED) units through a generous grant. To ensure that we are fully prepared to use them in an emergency, we will be hosting a special CPR/AED training session on Wednesday, December 10 at 6:00 PM in Gallagher Hall.

This training is open to all parishioners, especially those involved in parish ministries, hospitality, or anyone who wants to be ready to help in a moment of need. To best accommodate everyone, we ask that you RSVP as soon as possible, so we can plan appropriately for the session.

Thank you for helping us make our parish a safer and more prepared community.

A few thoughts for your week:

As Advent reminds us that even the smallest light can break through the deepest darkness. Be that light for someone this week. Hope is not something we wait to feel;
it’s something we choose to practice.
Let hope guide your steps each day. This season invites us to slow down.
Peace doesn’t come from a quiet world, but from a quiet heart. God often arrives in the ordinary—
a gentle word, a simple kindness,
a moment of stillness. Be watching for Him. You don’t need to be perfect to welcome Christ. You just need to be willing. A willing heart is where grace begins.

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.

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