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Tag: 2024

Around the Parish – October 6, 2024

Each October, the Church celebrates Respect Life Month, a time to reflect on the sanctity and dignity of every human life from conception to natural death. Respecting life goes beyond opposing abortion; it encompasses a profound reverence for all stages and conditions of life. This includes standing against the death penalty, rejecting physician-assisted suicide, and upholding the dignity of those in nursing homes and end-of-life care.

Respecting life also calls us to extend our hearts and hands to those who are struggling with homelessness, poverty, unemployment, and underemployment. It means providing loving support to women facing unexpected pregnancies, offering care and compassion to the sick and elderly, and advocating for policies that protect the most vulnerable among us.

We are deeply grateful to our parish community for your unwavering dedication and generosity in supporting our Sharing Shed food pantry and our Caring Closet for expectant and new mothers. Your kindness not only provides essential items but also offers hope and comfort to those in need. Your continued support embodies the true spirit of respecting life in all its stages.

As a community of faith, we are called to respond with love, respect, and mercy to those in need, to be a voice for the voiceless, and to see the face of Christ in every person. Let us renew our commitment this month to uphold and celebrate the gift of life, knowing that every person is created in the image and likeness of God. Together, let us be witnesses of God’s love and respect for all human life, especially those who are marginalized or struggling.

In this weekend’s bulletin is included a list of the 28 baskets for our Theme Basket Raffle at the Spaghetti Dinner. Thank you to all who donated some absolutely spectacular baskets for our raffle! In the coming days, we will be posting pictures of the baskets on our parish Facebook page! Make sure to like the page to get our updates! If you did not receive your tickets and wish to get a few, make sure to contact the parish office. Tickets will also be available at the Spaghetti Dinner either by cash or card.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

God gave each of us a finger print that no one else has; this is so we can leave our unique imprint on our loved ones and all others we encounter. We don’t inspire others by being perfect, we inspire them by how we creatively deal with our own imperfections. A moment of patience in a moment of anger saves 100 moments of regret.

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.

Around the Parish – September 29, 2024

Beginning next weekend, we will be updating our Parish Prayer Chain to be the Parish Prayer List. We want to be able to make sure we are praying for those who are in need. While we all need prayers each and every day, we want to make sure that our Parish Prayer List is dedicated to those who are in acute need of our prayers. Therefore, starting with next week’s bulletin, Sunday, October 6, we will start fresh. Everyone who is placed on the list will remain on for a total of 1 month (4 weeks). At that point, our staff will remove their name from the list. If the condition of the person worsens or they are still in need of prayers for acute situations, feel free to contact the office again and we will re-add them to the list for the next bulletin. We understand that there are people with chronic conditions in our world that need prayers, and we should always be praying for them, but we wish to keep our parish prayer list dedicated to those who are in immediate need of prayers. The deadline for the bulletin is Tuesday morning by 10am each week. To be included in our prayer list, call the parish office, or fill out the form:

If someone’s condition improves and you’d like to share a praise report for answered prayers, please let us know! These updates are a powerful reminder of the impact and importance of prayer, bringing hope to all who pray. Please also know of my ongoing prayers for you and your family.

One of the most meaningful ways to pray for someone is by having a Mass offered for their intentions. We are currently accepting more Mass intentions for our parish community and would greatly appreciate your requests. Masses can be offered for both the living and the deceased. To schedule a Mass or learn more, please contact the parish office. The suggested offering for a Mass is $10.

Starting on Monday, October 7, 2024, the parish office will only be open on Mondays by appointment. If you wish to make an appointment for any Monday meetings with parish staff, please contact the parish office by the Thursday before.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

Let’s not forget that when sometimes it seems like everything is falling apart, what is really happening is that God’s plan is getting things ready to fall into place. When we place our worries in God’s hands, He puts peace in our hearts. It is not our job to fix others, change others, or to judge others. It is our job to pray for others and be an inspiring example for them; but then, leave the rest 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.

Around the Parish – September 22, 2024

Thank you to everyone who attended our planning meeting for our first annual spaghetti dinner. Excitement was in the air during the meeting as we come together to enjoy time together as a family to both raise money, but also joy, for our parish family. Part of the planning at our meeting was the discussion about dessert availability. To open the opportunity to allow for more people to help in ways that they are able to, we are taking donations of cakes like we used to do for our fish dinners. Sign up sheets will be at the entrances of church if you are able to lend us a hand and bake us a cake or two to offer for our desserts at the dinner!

Please help us spread the news about our upcoming spaghetti dinner. In the coming days, we will begin sending out tickets for our theme basket raffle. I am extremely appreciative for all those individuals and groups who have donated for these spectacular baskets for our raffle. These baskets will be the talk of the dinner, so make sure you get your tickets in as soon as possible! More tickets are always available by contacting the parish office, or by purchasing at the spaghetti dinner by either cash or card!

Don’t forget: help us prepare for the Spaghetti Dinner! Pre-order tickets on our website! You can find out more information here:

Or by scanning the QR code found in the flyer in this weekend’s bulletin. There is a Facebook event on our parish Facebook page. Please consider sharing this event with your friends and families! Reminder that tickets WILL be sold at the door for both cash and card! By pre-ordering, we are able to have a better idea of how many to prepare for!

Make sure to get your reservations in for our next bus trip to the casino! Our bus leaves on Thursday, October 3 at 9am, so contact Marge in the office to reserve your seat.

Snow is just around the corner, no matter how much we try to ignore it! We are desperately in need of someone to shovel our sidewalks. If you or someone you know is looking for some extra cash this winter, please have them contact us! This IS a PAYING position!

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

The key to being happy is knowing you have the power to choose what to accept and what to let go. Ultimately, it is not the things that we acquire in life that matter; rather, it is the hearts that we touch and strengthen that measure our success in life and family living. Just like our muscles, our faith is strengthened by use. Don’t do something permanently stupid just because you are temporarily upset. Who you are is entirely up to you.

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.

Around the Parish – September 15, 2024

This Thursday, September 19, we will have our next planning meeting for our Spaghetti Dinner at 6pm in Gallagher Hall. All are welcome as we continue to discuss and plan for our event. Please help us advertise for this event! Tickets are available for preorder on our website. To order your tickets, you can head over to the order page on our website:

Snow is just around the corner, no matter how much we try to ignore it! We are desperately in need of someone to shovel our sidewalks. If you or someone you know is looking for some extra cash this winter, please have them contact us! This IS a PAYING position!

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

One reason why we often resist change is because we focus on what we have to give up instead of what we have to gain. If we avoid conflict just to keep the peace, we risk starting a war within ourselves. Losers quit when they fail; winners fail until they succeed.

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.

Around the Parish – September 8, 2024

Last weekend at all the masses, we announced that we would be definitely holding a Spaghetti Dinner on Sunday, October 27 from noon until 4pm. Again, thanks goes out to the 41 people who signed up to volunteer, and especially to those who came to our planning meeting. At our planning meeting, a few ideas were discussed and planned. We decided to move our Theme Basket Raffle from Easter to be held at our Annual Spaghetti Dinner. With that, we are asking for donations of themed gift baskets. A flyer is included with today’s bulletin, and sign up sheets are available at the doors of church. Another idea that was proposed at the meeting was to sell advanced tickets both in person and online. With that, we will begin selling advanced sale tickets as soon as our website is setup to accept purchases. A final suggestion was to accept credit card purchases at the Spaghetti dinner. We are working with Square to provide this service to our patrons. This will allow for those of us who don’t carry cash to easily participate too! Our next planning meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 19 at 6pm in Gallagher Hall for anyone that is able to attend.

It may seem like a long time off, but already we are thinking about #iGiveCatholic! This year for #iGiveCatholic, we will be bringing some much needed improvements to Gallagher Hall. In a few short weeks, new windows and a new stage curtain will be installed in Gallagher Hall. To cover the costs of these updates, we will be utilizing #iGiveCatholic campaign. Any donation toward these updates will have plaques made in memory of, donated by, or in thanksgiving for and will be put either on/by the windows, or a plaque for the stage curtain by the curtain itself. More information is available on our website, and will become available in the coming weeks.

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 AGAIN 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! This IS a paying position!

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible. Say something positive, and you’ll see something positive. You do not find the happy life. You make it. The joy of life is becoming a person you are proud of. Tough times don’t last. Tough people 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.

Around the Parish – September 1, 2024

This weekend, we are hosting a ministry fair with refreshments in Gallagher Hall. This is an opportunity to see what sorts of ministries we have available in our church and consider participating in some of the great ways we work together as a church family. Included at our ministry fair, we will be doing a book bag blessing for all students and teachers as they head back to school for a new year.

Next weekend, we have our first class of Faith Formation for the 2024-25 school year. All classes for our youth are held in the second floor of the parish center. This year, we are also offering classes for our adults during the same time. Each weekend between the 8a and 11a mass, we will be watching Season 3 and Season 4 of The Chosen with opportunities for discussion. This will take place in Gallagher Hall starting Sept. 8 Weekend. A thank you goes out to Cindy Wilpula for leading this opportunity.

It may seem like a long time off, but already we are thinking about #iGiveCatholic! This year for #iGiveCatholic, we will be bringing some much needed improvements to Gallagher Hall. In a few short weeks, new windows and a new stage curtain will be installed in Gallagher Hall. To cover the costs of these updates, we will be utilizing #iGiveCatholic campaign. Any donation toward these updates will have plaques made in memory of, donated by, or in thanksgiving for and will be put either on/by the windows, or a plaque for the stage curtain by the curtain itself. More information is available on our website, and will become available in the coming weeks.

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 AGAIN 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! This IS a paying position!

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

Six ways to stay faith filled and positive: 1. Have faith in God’s plan. 2. Put it in God’s hands.
3. Practice gratitude daily. 4. Focus on helping others. 5. Surround yourself with laughter, or create it. 6. Lastly, don’t let things fester, talk things out; words are unnecessary when your actions speak the truth.

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.

Around the Parish – August 25, 2024

Thank you to all who have signed up to volunteer for the Spaghetti Dinner. A Spaghetti Dinner Planning Meeting is scheduled for this Thursday, August 29, at 6pm in the Parish Conference Room. Please plan on attending if you are able to help us with the planning process. If you haven’t signed up to help yet, it’s not too late! We will need help with the event, so please consider signing up!

Next Weekend, August 31 & September 1, we will be hosting a ministry fair with refreshments in Gallagher Hall. This is an opportunity to see what sorts of ministries we have available in our church and consider participating in some of the great ways we work together as a church family.

Next Sunday, our Sunday Mass Schedule will return to 8am and 11am. Please mark your calendar!

It may seem like a long time off, but already we are thinking about #iGiveCatholic! This year for #iGiveCatholic, we will be bringing some much needed improvements to Gallagher Hall. In a few short weeks, new windows and a new stage curtain will be installed in Gallagher Hall. To cover the costs of these updates, we will be utilizing #iGiveCatholic campaign. Any donation toward these updates will have plaques made in memory of, donated by, or in thanksgiving for and will be put either on/by the windows, or a plaque for the stage curtain by the curtain itself. More information is available on our website, and will become available in the coming weeks.

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 AGAIN 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! This IS a paying position!

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

Optimism won’t change the situation; but optimism will change how the situation feels. By doing what you love, you awake and inspire the hearts of others. You can be a good person with a kind heart and still say no.

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.

Around the Parish – August 18, 2024

This Monday and Tuesday, August 19-20, our upper parking lot will undergo milling and resurfacing. As a result, the blacktop will be completely off-limits for the entire week. Please refrain from parking or walking on the lot during this time. If you need to contact the office, kindly do so via phone or email throughout the week. We anticipate reopening the parking lot in time for the weekend Masses, pending the final approval. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Sweet on their 60 wedding anniversary and Mr. & Mrs. Sajewski on their 40 wedding anniversary. They participated in the special Diocesan Wedding Anniversary mass at Beloved Disciple Church.

Next weekend, I will be away for my cousin’s wedding in Buffalo. Father Ray will be with us next weekend for all the masses. Please make him feel welcome!

As I mentioned last weekend at all the masses, we are considering holding a spaghetti dinner on Sunday, October 27. To be able to have this dinner, we will need committed volunteers, especially with the events of the day. Once we collect all the data for volunteers, we will make a determination if we can go forward, and then we will schedule a meeting to make plans. Please consider signing up to help by either signing up at the entrances of church, or by contacting the office as soon as possible.

On Saturday and Sunday, August 31 & September 1, we will be hosting a ministry fair with refreshments in Gallagher Hall. This is an opportunity to see what sorts of ministries we have available in our church and consider participating in some of the great ways we work together as a church family. More information will be shared over the coming weeks, so look for updates soon!

With the school year on the horizon, our Sunday Mass Schedule will return to 8am and 11am on Sunday September 1. Please mark your calendar!

In this weekend’s bulletin is the Faith Formation Schedule for the year. Please make note of the Family Faith Formation days where the whole parish is invited to participate. I hope to see you there.

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 AGAIN 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! This IS a paying position!

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

May your home always be too small to hold all of your friends. If you want to fly, give God everything that weighs your heart down.

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.

Around the Parish – August 11, 2024

This week, I will be in Erie for a few days of rest and work at moms house, and therefore there will be no daily mass here at Immaculate Heart on Monday-Wednesday morning. While at home in Erie, I will be participating in Saint James Parish 40 Hours celebration. Saint James in my home parish in Erie, and so Father McCormick and Deacon Scanga invited me to join them as the parish celebrates the Eucharist. If you wish to join, more information can be found on the parish website of Saint James, https://saintjamesrcc.org.

Noted in this weekend’s bulletin is that we have as a parish community pledged over our assessed amount for the Catholic Services Appeal. Any monies raised over the assessed amount remain in our parish to cover the costs of different projects. Our project that the funds were to go toward this year was the repairs of the window wells and outside stairwell at the office building. As always, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your continued support and generosity. Through your diligence in prayer and support, we will get to be known throughout the diocese as the gem that everyone is envious of!

This Thursday, August 15 is a Holy Day of Obligation for the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Masses at Immaculate Heart of Mary will be at 8am and 6pm.

On Saturday and Sunday, August 31 & September 1, we will be hosting a ministry fair with refreshments in Gallagher Hall. This is an opportunity to see what sorts of ministries we have available in our church and consider participating in some of the great ways we work together as a church family. More information will be shared over the coming weeks, so look for updates soon!

With the school year on the horizon, our Sunday Mass Schedule will return to 8am and 11am on Sunday September 1. Please mark your calendar!

Please continue to pray and consider a donation for the parking lot resurfacing. We need to have the lot finished before winter, as it is a detriment to our community. Thank you for your continued support toward the normal maintenance of our church!

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

We can’t cure the world of sorrows, but we can choose to power through them and share joy. The miracle is not that I finished, it is that I had the courage to start. Our lives are so much brighter when we focus on who and what truly matters. If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you.

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.

Around the Parish – August 4, 2024

Thank you to everyone who came out to our St. Hermenegild Mass. Even though it was a very warm night, we had a wonderful time.

This week, there is no mass on Tuesday. There is a special gathering for priests on Tuesday in Erie, and so I will be in Erie for the day. Our normal schedule for mass will resume on Wednesday.

Next Thursday, August 15 is a Holy Day of Obligation for the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Masses at Immaculate Heart of Mary will be at 8am and 6pm on Thursday, August 15.

Please continue to pray and consider a donation for the parking lot resurfacing. We need to have the lot finished before winter, as it is a detriment to our community. Thank you for your continued support toward the normal maintenance of our church!

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

Remember, success is not only about where you end up, but also about the obstacles you conquer along the way. Don’t watch the clock; do what it does: keep going! Rock bottom can become the solid foundation on which to rebuild one’s life. Turn your wounds into wisdom.

 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.