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Around the Parish – February 23, 2025

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

Greetings from the Eternal City!

As I continue my trip to Italy with my mom, please know that I am keeping you all in my prayers. I look forward to being back with you next weekend! A heartfelt thank-you to Father Ray for covering the parish in my absence.

Vacation Bible School Planning Begins!

The first Vacation Bible School preparation meeting is scheduled for this Wednesday, February 26, at 6:30 PM in the parish conference room. If you are able to help with this wonderful program, please join us! A special thanks to Mrs. Linda Oliver for her dedication in leading this effort.

24 Hours for the Lord – Sign Up for Adoration

Sign-ups for 24 Hours for the Lord remain available in the main vestibule. Please consider committing to one hour of Adoration to ensure that all 24 hours are covered in prayer before the Eucharist.

Special Praise & Worship Holy Hour – March 21 at 7 PM

As part of 24 Hours for the Lord, I invite you to a special Praise & Worship Holy Hour on Friday, March 21, at 7 PM in the church. Miss Gabrielle Herndon, Youth Minister for the Shenango Valley parishes, will lead us in music for this beautiful time of prayer and adoration.

These Praise & Worship Holy Hours are traveling to different churches in our area, and I am thrilled that our parish will be hosting one! Even if you’ve already signed up for an hour of adoration, I encourage you to join us for this powerful evening of prayer. Following the Holy Hour, we will gather in Gallagher Hall for refreshments and fellowship. I hope to see you there!

Lent is Almost Here!

Lent is quickly approaching! In just a week and a half, we will enter this sacred season with Ash Wednesday. Next weekend, more details about our Lenten parish schedule will be available in the bulletin. In the meantime, visit our parish website for up-to-date information on all our upcoming events.

Take a Bulletin Home!

There is so much valuable information in our bulletin each week! It takes me roughly eight hours to put everything together, and my hope is to provide both important parish news and spiritual insights—especially as we prepare for Lent. Please be sure to take a bulletin home with you!

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

To receive joy, we must first give it; to keep joy, we must share it. Let your joy be found in the journey—not in some distant goal. While we cannot cure the world of sorrows, we can choose to live in joy. Joy is not the absence of suffering but the presence of God. True happiness comes from the joy of deeds well done. The joy we experience has little to do with our circumstances and everything to do with where we set our hearts.  

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 – February 16, 2025

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

Blessings and Challenges: The Sermon on the Plain

This Sunday’s Gospel presents Luke’s version of the Beatitudes, commonly referred to as the Sermon on the Plain. Unlike Matthew’s more familiar account, Luke’s Beatitudes are direct and accompanied by corresponding “woes” that highlight the stark contrast between those who seek fulfillment in God and those who rely solely on worldly comforts. Jesus blesses the poor, the hungry, the sorrowful, and the persecuted—not because suffering itself is good, but because God promises to fill and redeem them. At the same time, He warns the rich, the satisfied, and the comfortable, cautioning against complacency and self-reliance that can lead us away from God. This Gospel challenges us to examine where we place our trust—do we cling to the fleeting security of this world, or do we seek the lasting joy found in Christ?

24 Hours for the Lord – Adoration Sign-Ups Available

We are still in need of adorers for our upcoming 24 Hours for the Lord Adoration. This is a beautiful opportunity to spend quiet time with Christ in the Blessed Sacrament. Please consider signing up for an hour—whether during the day or in the quiet of the night—so that we may ensure continuous prayer during this special time of grace.

Vigil Candle Price Adjustment

Beginning immediately, due to rising costs, the price of votive candles in the church will be adjusted. The votive candles in front of the Mary and St. Joseph altars will increase from $3 to $5 per candle, and the tea light candles by the Sacred Heart statue will increase from $0.25 to $0.50. This change is necessary to continue providing these sacramentals while covering the increased cost of supplies. Thank you for your understanding and for your continued devotion to this meaningful tradition of prayer and remembrance.

First VBS Planning Meeting – February 26

Our first Vacation Bible School planning meeting will take place on Wednesday, February 26 at 6:30 PM in the parish conference room. If you are interested in helping with VBS this summer—whether in teaching, crafts, music, or logistics—please join us for this important meeting!

A Pilgrimage to Rome and the Holy Doors

On Monday, February 17, my mother and I will be traveling to Rome for a few days. I want to assure you that I will be praying for all of you in a special way as I visit the Eternal City, especially at the tombs of the apostles and the great basilicas of our faith.

As we continue celebrating the Jubilee Year of Hope, one of the most profound traditions of a Jubilee is the Holy Door. Found in each of the four major basilicas of Rome, the Holy Door is normally sealed shut but is opened during a Jubilee Year as a sign of God’s mercy and the call to conversion. Pilgrims who pass through the Holy Door with a spirit of faith, repentance, and prayer receive a special plenary indulgence, a reminder that God’s grace is always open to us.

I hope to share pictures and updates on Facebook throughout the week, so I encourage you to follow along online! Please pray for safe travels, and be assured of my prayers for you as well.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

Our attitude and interactions are like price tags: they show how valuable we are. Success occurs when our goals are bigger than our excuses. Self discipline is the bridge between our goals and our accomplishments. Every kind action that we perform is a vote for the kind of person we wish to become. 

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 – February 9, 2025

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

24 Hours for the Lord: Eucharistic Adoration

Please consider signing up for an hour of Eucharistic Adoration as part of our celebration of 24 Hours for the Lord on March 21-22, 2025. There are still many available time slots, and all are encouraged to take part in this time of prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. Sign-ups are available online through the parish website or in the main vestibule of the church.

Summer Ministries Schedule

The summer ministry schedule (May–August 2025) will be prepared in the coming weeks. Current Eucharistic Ministers and Lectors registered on Ministry Scheduler Pro will receive an email requesting their availability for these months. Additional volunteers are always welcome for these ministries. Anyone interested in serving as a Lector or Eucharistic Minister should contact the parish office as soon as possible so that training sessions can be scheduled.

Nursing Home Visitation: More Ministers Needed

There is also a need for additional Eucharistic Ministers to visit local nursing homes. This is a meaningful way to bring the presence of Christ to those who are unable to attend Mass. Participation in this ministry does not require serving as a Eucharistic Minister at Mass, and training will be provided at a later date. Those interested should contact the parish office.

Vigil Candles

Beginning immediately, the price of devotional candles in the church will be adjusted due to rising costs. The votive candles in front of the Mary and St. Joseph altars will increase from $3 to $5 per candle, and the tea light candles by the Sacred Heart statue will increase from $0.25 to $0.50. This adjustment is necessary to continue providing these sacramentals while covering the increased cost of supplies. Thank you for your understanding and continued devotion to this meaningful tradition of prayer and remembrance.

Rosary

Just a quick note that on Wednesdays after Daily Mass, the Rosary will be said in Church. We encourage everyone to come and join us in this special prayer. The Rosary will continue to be prayed at 4:30pm on Saturday, before our 5pm vigil mass. Volunteers are needed as the Saturday Rosary Leader. If you wish to lead the rosary, please contact the parish office at your earliest convenience.

Vacation Bible School 2025

Looking ahead, Vacation Bible School is scheduled for July 14–18, 2025. Registration will open on March 1, 2025. This year’s theme is “Egypt: Joseph’s Journey from Prison to Palace”. More details will be shared in the coming weeks.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

No amount of guilt can change yesterday and no amount of anxiety can change the future. Let your faith empower you to be the kind of Christian that makes the sun shine brighter for all those you encounter. If you need a confidence booster, then remind yourself of all the difficult things you’ve endured and overcome.

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 – February 2, 2025

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

The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord

This Sunday, February 2, 2025, we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, also known as Candlemas. This feast commemorates the moment when Mary and Joseph presented Jesus in the temple, fulfilling the law of Moses. According to Jewish custom, every firstborn male was to be consecrated to the Lord, and the offering of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons was made in accordance with the law.

Simeon, inspired by the Holy Spirit, recognized Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah and proclaimed Him as the “light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory for your people Israel.” Likewise, the prophetess Anna, who had devoted her life to prayer and fasting in the temple, spoke of the child to all who awaited the redemption of Jerusalem. This profound moment reminds us that Christ is the fulfillment of God’s promises and the true light that dispels the darkness of sin and death.

In recognition of Christ as the light of the nations, we bless candles and hold them during the first part of Mass, symbolizing Christ as the true light who has come into the world. The lighted candles also serve as a reminder of our call to carry the light of Christ into our daily lives, shining His love to all those we encounter.

Candlemas Candles

Blessed candles are available for purchase by the Sacred Heart statue for $5 per box of two candles. These candles serve as a beautiful reminder of Christ’s presence in our lives and homes.

Returning Old Palms

A friendly reminder that old palms can be returned to the baskets placed at the entrances of the church. The deadline for returning your palms is next Sunday, February 9. These palms will be burned and used for the ashes distributed on Ash Wednesday.

Eucharistic Adoration Sign-Ups

We invite you to sign up for Eucharistic Adoration, which will take place for 24 hours. We need at least two people per hour to ensure that our Lord is never left alone in the Blessed Sacrament. Sign-up sheets are available in the main vestibule of the church. Thank you to those who have already committed to spending time with our Lord in Adoration.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

Lessons in life will repeat until they are learned. You are the artist of your own life: make it beautiful. Prepare your child for the road ahead, not the road ahead for your child. Stress comes from trying to do it all on your own; peace comes from putting it all in God’s hands.

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 26

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

Proclaim a Year of Jubilee

In today’s Gospel, we hear Jesus boldly proclaim that He is the fulfillment of God’s promises, declaring: “to bring glad tidings to the poor, to proclaim liberty to captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, and to proclaim a year acceptable to the Lord.” This passage is rooted in the ancient tradition of the Jubilee Year, a time of renewal, restoration, and freedom outlined in the Old Testament. A Jubilee Year was a time when debts were forgiven, slaves were freed, and land was restored to its rightful owners. In the Church, the Jubilee Year is an opportunity to seek deeper conversion, reconciliation, and renewal of our faith. How fitting it is that we hear this message during our Jubilee Year of Hope! As we continue this year of grace, let us reflect on how we can experience the freedom and restoration that Christ offers us.

Eucharistic Adoration – 24 Hours for the Lord

More information is available in this weekend’s bulletin about Adoration, the Holy Eucharist, and our upcoming celebration of 24 Hours for the Lord. Sign-ups for Adoration are available both in the main vestibule of the church and online at ihmercer.org/24-hours. We encourage everyone to take part in this beautiful opportunity to spend time with Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.

Return Your Old Palms

As we prepare for Lent, please remember to bring your old palms back to church so they can be burned for Ash Wednesday. The deadline to return them is Sunday, February 9. A collection basket will be available in the vestibule for your convenience.

The Presentation of the Lord – Candlemas

Next Sunday, our church will celebrate The Presentation of the Lord, also known as Candlemas. At the beginning of each Mass, we will bless the candles that will be used in our church throughout the coming year. Everyone will have the opportunity to hold a candle at the beginning of Mass, with candles available at the doors of the church. It is a long-standing custom to bring special candles from home for this blessing, and we encourage you to do so. Additionally, special Candlemas Candles are available for purchase by the Sacred Heart statue, with a suggested donation of $5 per box of 2 candles.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

As difficult as things may be, remember that what you’re going through right now won’t last forever; trust that better days are ahead; storms don’t last forever.

Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy

The Real Presence Bulletin Insert Page 1
The Real Presence Bulletin Insert Page 2

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 19

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

“Do whatever He tells you.”

These words from Mary in this weekend’s Gospel are not just for the servants at the wedding in Cana—they are for all of us. Mary’s instruction is a timeless call to trust in Jesus and to follow Him completely. What is He asking you to do in your life today? What step of faith might He be inviting you to take? Trust that His plans will always lead to something far greater than we can imagine.

Mass Intentions Needed

Our Mass intention calendar has many openings, particularly for daily Masses. Having a Mass offered for the repose of a loved one’s soul or for someone’s special intentions is a profound act of charity. There is no greater gift we can give than the offering of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. If you would like to schedule a Mass intention, please contact the parish office.

Return Old Palms

Starting this weekend, receptacles will be placed at the entrances of the church to collect old palms. These palms will be burned to make the ashes we will use on Ash Wednesday. Please return your old palms by Sunday, February 9, 2025.

24 Hours for the Lord

As we look ahead to Lent, our parish will host 24 Hours for the Lord, a special opportunity for Eucharistic Adoration, beginning Friday, March 21, 2025, after the 8:00 AM Mass and continuing until Saturday, March 22, 2025, concluding with a special 8:00 AM Mass.

We need at least two adorers for each hour to ensure the Blessed Sacrament is never left alone. Sign-ups will begin next weekend, January 25-26. Please be generous with your time—if you spend even one hour with Him, I am confident He will bless you abundantly in return.

Praise and Worship Adoration

Also on Friday, March 21, at 7:00 PM, we will host a special Praise and Worship Eucharistic Adoration. This experience will include music, moments of vocal praise, and quiet prayer. It is a powerful way to connect with God and deepen your relationship with Him.

Over the next few weeks, our bulletin will include reflections and materials about Eucharistic Adoration and its importance in our spiritual lives. I encourage you to take time to read and pray with these resources.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

Don’t close the book when negative things happen in your life; just turn the page and begin a new chapter. Remember, even your worst day has only 24 hours. When you choose to forgive, you heal and when you let go, you grow.

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 12, 2025

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

As we celebrate the Baptism of the Lord today, we hear the voice of the Father proclaiming Jesus as His beloved Son. In this profound moment, the Father calls out to reveal to the world that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and the fulfillment of all the promises of the Old Testament. This event not only inaugurates Jesus’ public ministry but also reminds us of our own baptism, through which we are called into the family of God and sent forth as disciples.

This reflection ties beautifully to our Jubilee Year of Hope. Just as Jesus’ baptism marked the beginning of His mission, so too does our own baptism initiate us into a life of hope and purpose, grounded in the love and mercy of God. This Jubilee invites us to renew our commitment to our baptismal call and to share the hope of Christ with all we encounter.

Today’s celebration also marks the conclusion of the Christmas Season in the modern Church calendar. However, in the older liturgical calendar, the Christmas season extended until the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord on February 2. This feast, also known as Candlemas, commemorates the presentation of the child Jesus in the temple and the proclamation of Simeon, who called Him “a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory for your people Israel.” Candlemas holds a special place in the Church’s tradition as a feast of light and hope, a celebration of Christ’s presence as the Light of the World.

In honor of this tradition, our poinsettias will remain in the church through February 2, helping to extend the beauty and joy of the Christmas season a little longer. Let us carry forward the light of Christ in our lives, inspired by the profound mysteries we celebrate in this holy season.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

Today will never come again: be a blessing, be a friend, encourage someone, take time to care, let your words heal and not wound. The best kind of love is when you have no expectations. True love does not come by finding the perfect person, but by learning to see an imperfect person perfectly.

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 5, 2025

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

The Feast of the Epiphany is a day of revelation and wonder—a time to reflect on the manifestation of Christ to all nations, symbolized by the visit of the Magi. As the Magi followed the star, they found not only a child but the hope of salvation for the entire world. This feast is a powerful reminder of God’s universal call to hope and redemption, a fitting connection to the Jubilee Year of Hope that we celebrate this year.

The Magi’s journey to Bethlehem is a journey of hope. They were seekers, following a divine sign that promised something extraordinary. Despite the uncertainties and dangers of the road, their hope drove them forward, trusting that the star would lead them to the fulfillment of God’s promise. In a similar way, we are invited to embark on a journey of hope during this Jubilee Year. Life’s path often leads us through challenges and uncertainties, but our faith assures us that God’s light will guide us to the ultimate fulfillment of His promises.

The gifts of the Magi—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—carry profound meaning. Gold symbolizes the kingship of Christ, frankincense His divinity, and myrrh His suffering and death. These gifts remind us that hope in Christ is not naive optimism; it acknowledges the reality of life’s struggles and the transformative power of God’s love through them. In this Jubilee Year of Hope, we are called to offer our own “gifts” to Christ—our trust, our service, and our commitment to bringing His light to others, especially those who find themselves in darkness.

The story of the Magi also highlights the universality of God’s salvation. The Magi, as representatives of the Gentile world, show us that Christ’s birth is not just for one nation or people but for all humanity. This truth aligns beautifully with the theme of hope. No one is beyond the reach of God’s grace, and no situation is too bleak for His redemption. The Jubilee Year of Hope encourages us to embrace this universal call by fostering unity, reconciliation, and mercy in our lives and communities.

Epiphany reminds us that God’s light is for everyone. Just as the star guided the Magi, God’s light guides us today through the teachings of the Church, the sacraments, and the witness of faithful believers. In this Jubilee Year, we are invited to be bearers of that light, helping others to see the hope that comes from a relationship with Christ. Whether it is through acts of kindness, sharing our faith, or simply being present to those in need, we can reflect the light of Christ to a world longing for hope.

As we celebrate Epiphany, let us reflect on the ways we can live out the call of the Jubilee Year of Hope. Are we willing to follow the star, even when the road is uncertain? Are we prepared to offer our gifts to Christ, trusting that He will transform them for His glory? Are we ready to share His light and hope with others, especially those who may feel forgotten or unloved?

The journey of the Magi ended in the presence of Christ, the source of all hope. As we continue our journey through this Jubilee Year, let us keep our eyes fixed on Him, the Light of the World, trusting that He will lead us to the fullness of His promise. May the hope of Epiphany fill our hearts and inspire us to be messengers of His light and love in the year ahead.

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 29, 2024

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

As we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family, we pause to reflect on the extraordinary example of love, faith, and unity set by Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Though their lives were marked by challenges—from the humble birth in a stable to the flight into Egypt—they remained steadfast in their trust in God and in their love for one another.

In our chaotic and fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the imperfections and struggles within our own families. Yet, the Holy Family reminds us that holiness is not about perfection but about perseverance in love and faith. No family is without its difficulties, but when we strive to live with the same trust in God, sacrificial love, and mutual support that the Holy Family embodied, we can make our homes a reflection of God’s grace.

This message is especially timely as we continue to celebrate the Jubilee Year of Hope. This special year is an invitation to renew our trust in God’s promises and to embrace the hope that flows from His love. Just as the Holy Family found hope in the midst of trials, we are called to do the same in our own lives. Whether through acts of service, moments of prayer, or simply choosing to forgive and love, let us be bearers of hope in our families and communities.

As we approach the New Year, we also prepare to honor Mary, the Mother of God, on January 1, a Holy Day of Obligation. Masses will be celebrated on Tuesday at 6:00 PM and Wednesday at 9:00 AM. Let us begin the year by entrusting ourselves and our families to Mary’s intercession, asking her to guide us closer to her Son.

Please note that there will be no First Friday Adoration on January 3. Regular First Friday Adoration will resume in February.

May this season of joy bring you peace, and may the New Year be filled with God’s abundant blessings. Let us continue to pray for one another as we journey together in hope and faith.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

If you focus on the hurt, you will continue to suffer; if you focus on the lesson, you will continue to grow. Friendship is a cozy shelter from life’s rainy days. Family is not always about blood; more often than not, it is about who is willing to hold your hand when you need it the most. The best kind of love is one lived with no expectations, but rather the continued willingness to give without limits.

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, 2024

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

As we gather to celebrate the birth of our Savior at this most holy time, our hearts turn to the humble shepherds in the fields near Bethlehem. I cannot help but think of my favorite Christmas tradition: watching A Charlie Brown Christmas. Every year, I get goosebumps when little Linus steps onto the stage, clutching his blanket, and proclaims with such hope and trust the very words of scripture that we hear in tonight’s Gospel: “Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Christ and Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11) These words, so simply and beautifully spoken by Linus, capture the meaning of Christmas in a way that is timeless and profound.

Imagine the hope that must have surged within the shepherds as they heard the angel’s words and saw the heavenly host praising God. In a world often marked by uncertainty and hardship, these shepherds were entrusted with the most astonishing news humanity had ever received. Emmanuel, God-with-us, had come. The hope they experienced was not fleeting; it was a hope grounded in the fulfillment of God’s promise to His people.

This hope continues to resonate through the ages, calling us to trust in God’s enduring presence among us. As Pope Benedict XVI once wrote, “The one who has hope lives differently; the one who hopes has been granted the gift of a new life.” And as Pope Francis has reminded us, hope is not passive; it is “a door that opens onto the future…an anchor we throw to the other shore.” Hope requires trust that God is indeed with us, even amid life’s challenges and uncertainties.

In this Jubilee Year of Hope, we are invited to embrace the same hope that animated the shepherds that first Christmas night. Just as they journeyed to see the Christ Child and left glorifying and praising God, we too are called to encounter Jesus anew and to proclaim His love and mercy to a world in need. The presence of Christ in the Eucharist, in the Church, and in our daily lives is the ultimate sign that God is faithful to His promise: He is Emmanuel, God with us.

Let this Christmas be a time when we open our hearts to the hope that Christ brings. May we, like the shepherds, be moved to action, sharing the good news of God’s love and drawing others into the joy of knowing Christ. And as we journey through this Jubilee Year, may the hope of Christmas inspire us to trust more deeply in God’s providence and to be bearers of His light to the world.

From all of us at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, may you and your loved ones have a blessed and hope-filled Christmas.

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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