This Monday, October 9, is a national holiday of Columbus Day, and therefore our parish office will be closed. We hope all of our students and families who are off from school and work this Monday enjoy their extra day!
As mentioned in the bulletin last week, we will begin a seven week look at the different relics in our church. We are blessed to have seven different relics in our church, two of which are located inside the main altar of our church. This week, we take a look at Saint Maria Goretti.
A reminder to our parish families, all students and their families are invited to our annual trip to the Cool Springs Corn Maze. Lunch will be provided after the 11a mass. Transportation will not be provided, so all families will need to find their own transportation. The parish will pay for the students participating. To sign up, please visit the Faith Formation office or call the parish office by October 19.
Here’s a couple of thoughts for your week: Just because your life may not have turned out the way you’d planned, it doesn’t mean that it won’t turn out OK. It’s hard for a person to beat depression, but it’s even harder for depression to beat a person who never gives up. The most beautiful thing in the world is a smile that has struggled through tears. Today, you don’t need to have all the answers. You just need to know what to do next.
In the northern hemisphere, the arrival of fall heralds a profound transformation in the natural world. As the vibrant colors of summer give way to the warm and earthy hues of autumn, we are reminded of the cyclical nature of life and the inevitable passage of time. It is during this season that we are particularly attuned to the signs of death and decay that surround us. The once-lush foliage now falls to the ground, decaying and returning to the earth from which it came. The days grow shorter, and the chill in the air serves as a harbinger of the approaching winter.
In the Catholic Faith, this recognition of death and decay in the natural world is closely tied to the observance of All Saints Day on November 1st. All Saints Day is a time when Catholics honor and celebrate the lives of the saints, the holy men and women who have gone before us and serve as examples of faith and virtue. It is a day to remember those who have lived lives of great holiness and have now found eternal rest in the presence of God.
The connection between the changing seasons and All Saints Day lies in the symbolism of death and rebirth. Just as the fallen leaves will eventually give way to new growth in the spring, so too do the lives of the saints inspire us to strive for spiritual renewal and transformation. In the midst of the autumnal decay, we are reminded that death is not the end, but rather a transition to a new and eternal life. This season of reflection and remembrance encourages us to emulate the saints’ virtues, seeking to lead lives of faith, compassion, and service to others. In doing so, we hope to one day join the ranks of the saints in the heavenly kingdom, where the eternal spring of God’s love and grace knows no end.
In the Catholic Church, we hold the lives of the saints in high regard, so much so that we sometimes keep relics of saints. Relics hold a significant place in the Catholic Church as tangible connections to the lives of saints and the divine. These physical remains or objects associated with saints, such as bone fragments, clothing, or personal belongings, serve as powerful reminders of the faith’s rich history and the lives of those who have exemplified devotion.
In the next few weeks in our bulletin, we will be talking more about Saints and Relics as we prepare for the celebration of All Saints and All Souls. We will talk about the specific relics present here in our church for veneration, and the lives of those particular saints.
Here are a couple of thoughts for the week ahead: Never forget that walking away from something unhealthy is a very brave thing to do – even if you stumble a little on your way out the door. Stop beating yourself up. You are a work in progress, which means you get there a little at a time, not all at once.
As you may have already heard, this past Monday, September 18, my maternal Grandmother Mary Church passed into eternal life. I truly appreciate all of the prayers and continued support and understanding during this time. I spent the week with family and friends in Erie as we prepared for the funeral services.
An important bit of information that we should all be aware of: on Wednesday, October 4, 2023 at 2:18 PM, FEMA, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA). Why am I telling you about this? Because it has not been widely publicized, and it can and will have ramifications even in our area. This alert that will be sent out is called the “Presidential Alert.” Every television and radio station will play the normal alert. The major difference is that every cell phone will receive a special push notification with vibration and sound. Even if the phone does not have cell service, any cellular telephone turned on will receive this message. Every phone, even if on silent, will buzz and make noise. If you know someone who has a secondary phone, make sure to alert them of this. To prevent receiving this notification, the cell phone will need to be turned off at least 30 minutes before the alert is sent and remain off for at least four hours after the test is sent. The message that appears on their phones will read: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.” I share this with you so that when everyone’s phones goes off, you aren’t surprised! If for some reason the alert cannot go through on October 4, the makeup day for the alert is October 11.
On October 7 at noon in the upper parking lot at church, we will have a pet blessing. All pets are welcome for a quick blessing, but please make sure to leash your animals!
Don’t forget! The DME retreat is this November! All are welcome to register. More information is in today’s bulletin!
Here are a couple of thoughts for the week ahead: Challenges are what make life interesting; overcoming them is what makes life meaningful. Our lives are defined by opportunities, even the ones that we’ve missed. Excuses will always be there for you; opportunities won’t.
Join us this Thursday as we embark on a captivating journey into Bishop Robert Barron’s enlightening series, “The Mass.” We extend a warm invitation for you to participate in these enlightening sessions, held every Thursday from 6 pm to 8 pm, within the welcoming confines of our conference room, situated in the office building. Don’t worry if you didn’t register; it’s never too late to join us! Simply arrive at 6 pm this Thursday to be part of this transformative experience. Should you have any queries or require further information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our dedicated church office.
On the upcoming Wednesday, we will dispatch the Parish Census forms to your homes, ensuring that you have an opportunity to review the contact information we currently have on record for your family. We kindly request that you take a moment to verify and, if necessary, update any information contained therein before returning the completed forms to our parish office. Even if your information remains unchanged, we kindly ask that you confirm this by returning the forms marked “No change needed.” Please remember, failing to respond will indicate your desire to no longer be a registered member of our cherished church community.
While reviewing your information, we urge you to double and triple check email addresses and phone numbers. Recognizing the changing landscape of communication, we now also request your cell phone numbers in addition to home phone numbers.
In the context of the parish census, please make a note if an adult child has left your home. Each adult should be registered within their own household. If your adult child has moved away, encourage them to register at their local church where they regularly attend mass.
All completed parish census information must be returned to our parish office no later than Friday, October 20, 2023. You can conveniently submit your forms by placing them in the collection basket during mass or by mailing them to the parish office. Should you have any inquiries or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our parish office at your earliest convenience. Your prompt response and cooperation are greatly appreciated as we work together to strengthen our community.
Here are a couple of thoughts for the week ahead: Being challenged in life is inevitable; being defeated is optional. With faith, we can turn our wounds into wisdom. Often, through adversity we discover strength that we never knew we had.
Another year has gone by, and yet, every year we are always surprised with how fast time goes by. Tomorrow we remember again the attack on America. The remembrance of 9/11 is a solemn occasion that also carries a message of hope and resilience. On that tragic day, our world was shaken to its core, and we witnessed the worst of humanity’s cruelty. However, we also saw the best of humanity emerge in the form of countless acts of courage, compassion, and heroism. Firefighters, police officers, first responders, and ordinary citizens selflessly rushed to help those in need, showing the indomitable spirit of unity in the face of adversity. In the years that have passed, the scars from that day remain, but so does our commitment to never forget the lives lost and the lessons learned. The remembrance of 9/11 reminds us that even in our darkest hours, we can come together as a nation, support one another, and rebuild stronger than before. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a pledge to honor the memory of those we lost by continuing to strive for a more peaceful and just world.
On November 10, 11, and 12, The Divine Mercy Encounter Retreat Program will be hosting DME #106. In November of 2008, I participated in TEC 51, which is what DME is the spiritual successor of. This amazing weekend retreat lasts three days at Saint Joseph Church in Erie where participants encounter our Lord through His Invitation, Encounter, and Commissioning. Each day has a different focus: Friday is the Day of Invitation, focusing on how God is inviting us into relationship. Saturday is the Day of Encounter, where we encounter God through the sacraments, Adoration, and others. Sunday is the Day of Commission, where we as a community are empowered to evangelize and share our faith. The weekend includes talks, exposure to different types of prayer, Mass, community, and much more. The weekend runs from 10am on Friday to 5pm on Sunday, and retreat participants stay onsite for the weekend.
I look forward to this special weekend this November as I will be the main priest running the weekend with my home parish pastor, Father James McCormick. I encourage everyone to consider participating in this retreat! For more information visit https://divinemercyencounter.com
Here are a couple of thoughts for the week ahead: Archabbot Wimmer, the first abbot of Saint Vincent Monastery in Latrobe, PA had a motto of “Forward, always forward, everywhere forward!” This is an excellent motto for the spiritual life. Always look forward to the future with Christ, for He is already there, preparing for us the joys of Heaven.
The air is abuzz with anticipation as we gear up for the upcoming Second Annual Simply Sweets Fundraiser. Keep an eye on your mailboxes this week, for soon you’ll receive the forms that mark the commencement of this delectable endeavor. Join hands with us in support, ensuring those forms with payment find their way back to our parish office by October 9, 2023. Together, we can weave sweetness into our community initiatives. Thanks again to Mrs. Peck and her dedicated team for their outstanding contributions, crafting delectable treats that have become the cornerstone of this fundraiser’s success.
Today, following the 11 am mass, we extend an open invitation to all our students. Gather your cherished book bags and step into our sanctuary. Here, we’ll share a special book bag blessing, infusing the tools of knowledge with the spirit of learning given to us from God. Let this ritual guide you through the pages of wisdom that await.
Heartfelt gratitude flows to all who’ve embraced the convenience of Flocknote. If you’re yet to join this interconnected web, worry not. Registration details are still in this weekend’s bulletin and church entrances.
Our thoughts turn to the recent unveiling of the Diocese of Erie’s pastoral plan for Erie County. While our parish, county, and deanery remain unaffected, let’s embrace our fellow believers undergoing change. As we unite in prayer, let this serve as a reminder that change is inevitable. Yet, through proactive planning, we unlock potential for a brighter tomorrow. To explore these proposed changes, visit the Diocese’s website, and will be available on our parish website as well.
Pray for our students as well as their vocations. In a particular way, please pray for Parishioner Joseph Dumais who entered the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal in New York City this past week. It is a special joy for a parish to claim a man as he studies and discerns religious life and priesthood. Please continue to remember him in your prayers in a particular way as you pray for more vocations to come forth from our parish community.
Here are a couple of thoughts for the week ahead: Don’t ruin a good day by thinking about the possibility of a bad day in the future. Just enjoy the present moment. Scars tell where we have been. They do not have to dictate where we are going. No matter who gives up on you, don’t you ever give up on yourself or God.
Enclosed within this weekend’s bulletin, you’ll find instructions on how to enroll with Flocknote. I wholeheartedly encourage you to contemplate participating in Flocknote’s registration process. This communication channel will hold significant importance as we progress through the year. Our parish office will have the capacity to connect through both text and email, with text messaging proving invaluable for swiftly disseminating urgent updates, especially in times of emergencies.
With the approaching school year, please be aware that our Sunday Mass schedule will change. Starting the first Sunday of September, our Sunday morning Masses will return to 8 am and 11 am. We kindly ask for your help in spreading the word about this change.
We are excited to announce the upcoming launch of our Second Annual Simply Sweets Fundraiser, scheduled to commence this September. Anticipation is building as we prepare for another fantastic fundraising event this year. Our heartfelt gratitude extends to Mrs. Peck and her dedicated team for their outstanding contributions, crafting delectable treats that have become the cornerstone of this fundraiser’s success.
In an exciting first, we will be holding a special backpack blessing ceremony next Sunday, September 3 after the 11:00am mass for all those embarking on a fresh academic year or entering a new chapter in life. Whether you carry a book bag, a briefcase, a tool bag, or any symbol of your journey, you’re invited to join us as we mark the commencement of this significant new phase in our lives.
Here are a couple of thoughts for the week ahead: At any given moment you have the power to say: this is not how the story is going to end. Be proud of who you are, instead of ashamed of how someone else sees you. Don’t dwell on those who hold you down. Instead, cherish those who helped you up. If you need a confidence booster, then remind yourself of all the difficult things you’ve endured and overcome.
Our Faith Formation Schedule for this school year is in this weekend’s bulletin. This schedule is also available on our parish website. If any changes need to be made, we will make sure to send those updates home as well as change the website, post on social media, and try to update the bulletin. The bulletin due date is on Tuesday by 3pm, so if a change comes up after Tuesday end of day, we will not be able to make changes in the up-coming weekend’s bulletin.
With the approaching school year, please be aware that our Sunday Mass schedule will change. Starting the first Sunday of September, our Sunday morning Masses will return to 8 am and 11 am. We kindly ask for your help in spreading the word about this change.
This past week, we changed some light bulbs and fixed some light fixtures. You might need to bring some sunscreen! The church is so much brighter, and now it is easier to see. Thanks to Mr. Mike Shomin for all his work on our campus updating all the electric and making necessary upgrades!
Although no one wants to think about it, winter is just around the corner…not one of my favorite thoughts…BUT, with winter coming, we are in need of some help with the white stuff that comes with winter. We are in need of someone to shovel the sidewalks of church. If you are able and willing to assist us with this task, please contact the parish office as soon as possible!
On the organ, there are slips of paper in a basket. If there is a particular hymn or song that you might like Mr. Sankey to play before mass, feel free to fill out the form and leave it on the organ.
A heads up, Saint Anthony’s Rummage Sale is soon. Please help our neighbors in Farrell and let others know about their fundraiser:
Wed., Aug. 30 / 2pm to 5pm
Thurs., Aug. 31 / 9am to 2pm
Fri., Sept. 1 / 9am to 2pm
Sat., Sept. 2 / 9am to Noon
Here are a couple of thoughts for the week ahead: One day, if not already, your refusal to give up will inspire someone else. Faith and hope are two of the most powerful emotions a person can have. Combine them with determination and there’s no stopping you. In any given moment, we have two choices: to step forward into growth, or step backwards into safety. Stepping backwards may make us feel better in the short term, but stepping forwards will undoubtedly make us feel better in the long term.
A quick reminder that Tuesday, August 15, is a Holy Day of Obligation celebrating the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Mass will be held on both Monday, August 14, at 6pm, and Tuesday, August 15, at 8 am. Your presence at these special Masses is truly valued as we come together in faith and unity.
For families with children in Faith Formation, registration forms were mailed out recently. You can also find blank forms at the entrances of the Church and on our website. The deadline for returning the forms is Wednesday, August 16. While there is no cost for families to participate, any donations to support necessary materials are greatly appreciated.
With the approaching school year, please be aware that our Mass schedule will change. Starting the first Sunday of September, our Sunday morning Masses will return to 8 am and 11 am. We kindly ask for your help in spreading the word about this change.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Knights of Columbus for installing the new flagpole in front of the rectory. Additionally, an anonymous donor generously donated and coordinated the planting of three trees, enhancing the beauty of our church campus. Your contributions uplift our parish in meaningful ways.
We’re pleased to report that the rectory garage roof repairs are progressing well. Though the damage wasn’t as extensive as anticipated, a few minor repairs remain. We’re awaiting the final cost for these repairs. We sincerely thank everyone who has contributed with prayers and financial support, showing your dedication to maintaining our beloved parish.
Over the past several months, we have collected a bunch of orphaned umbrellas at the entrances of Church. If you think you may have abandoned an umbrella, feel free to look at the collection in the sacristy. I am always looking for a good umbrella, but I don’t think I need 20 all for myself!
Here are a couple of thoughts for the week ahead. With faith and God’s grace, let’s transform our set backs into bounce backs. Do not give the past the power to define your future. Perhaps the butterfly is proof that you can go through a great deal of darkness yet become something beautiful again. Be proud of who you are, instead of ashamed of how someone else sees you.
Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy
Registration forms for the 2023-24 school year have been mailed out this past week. We ask that you please return the completed forms to the parish office by Wednesday, August 16 so that we can purchase necessary materials. We are grateful for all our returning teachers, as well as a few new additions!
Continuing this year will be our monthly Family Day where we will have presentations and topics presented to the whole parish family. Classroom sessions are scheduled in-between the Sunday masses from 9:15am — 10:45am. Our schedule is available on our website and was mailed out to families with the registration form.
A reminder that Confirmation is being changed from Junior Year to Freshman Year. With this change, last year our Junior and Sophomore classes were confirmed. This year, our Freshman and Sophomore classes will be confirmed. All students in Ninth and Tenth Grade who wish to be confirmed must register and participate in all classes preceding our Confirmation Ceremony. Confirmation Ceremony is currently scheduled for our parish on Monday, April 22, 2024 at 7:00 pm at Saint Michael Church.
Any questions can be directed to Mr. Greg Cummings, Director of Faith Formation for Immaculate Heart at FaithFormation@ihmercer.org or calling the Parish Office.
As we journey through the liturgical year, we are reminded of the marvelous events that shape our faith and bring us closer to the Divine. This weekend, we have the joyous celebration of the Transfiguration of the Lord. On this sacred occasion, we commemorate the moment when Jesus revealed His divine glory to Peter, James, and John atop Mount Tabor. It serves as a profound reminder of His divine nature and the promise of eternal life.
In this world filled with uncertainty, the Transfiguration reminds us to seek God’s light amidst the darkness and to find strength and courage in His teachings. As we reflect on this significant event, let us be inspired to bring the light of Christ to others through acts of compassion, love, and understanding.
Mark your calendars and join us for our Annual Saint Hermenegild Mass and Picnic on Thursday, August 10, 2023. We will commence with Mass at 6:00 PM, where we’ll come together in prayer and unity. Following the Mass, we’ll head outside the church for a delightful picnic, cherishing moments of fellowship and camaraderie. We kindly request everyone to bring a dish to share and a chair to sit on.
Celebrate the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Monday, August 14 at 6:00 PM and Tuesday, August 15 at 8:00 AM. This revered occasion is a Holy Day of Obligation, calling us to gather in joyful prayer and thanksgiving as we honor Mary’s glorious assumption into Heaven. Let’s come together as a community, seeking her intercession and drawing inspiration from her unwavering faith.
This weekend’s bulletin holds exciting information about our Faith Formation program. We invite everyone to explore and participate in various opportunities for spiritual growth and education. Whether you are looking to deepen your understanding of Scripture, engage in meaningful discussions, or seek guidance on your faith journey, there’s something for everyone.
Here’s a couple of thoughts for your week: Success is peace of mind, which is a direct result of self- satisfaction in knowing you made the effort to become the best of which you are capable. Try not to become a person of success, but rather become a person of virtue.
Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy
Registration forms for the 2023-24 school year have been mailed out this past week. We ask that you please return the completed forms to the parish office by Wednesday, August 16 so that we can purchase necessary materials. We are grateful for all our returning teachers, as well as a few new additions!
Continuing this year will be our monthly Family Day where we will have presentations and topics presented to the whole parish family. Classroom sessions are scheduled in-between the Sunday masses from 9:15am — 10:45am. Our schedule is available on our website and was mailed out to families with the registration form.
A reminder that Confirmation is being changed from Junior Year to Freshman Year. With this change, last year our Junior and Sophomore classes were confirmed. This year, our Freshman and Sophomore classes will be confirmed. All students in Ninth and Tenth Grade who wish to be confirmed must register and participate in all classes preceding our Confirmation Ceremony. Confirmation Ceremony is currently scheduled for our parish on Monday, April 22, 2024 at 7:00 pm at Saint Michael Church.
Any questions can be directed to Mr. Greg Cummings, Director of Faith Formation for Immaculate Heart at FaithFormation@ihmercer.org or calling the Parish Office.
