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Around the Parish – May 10, 2026

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

Ascension Thursday – Holy Day of Obligation

Please note that Thursday, May 14, is the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord (Ascension Thursday), a Holy Day of Obligation, and all the faithful are required to attend Mass. We will celebrate Mass at Immaculate Heart of Mary at 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM, and at St. Columbkille at 12:00 Noon.

Basket Raffle Planning Meeting

All who would like to assist with the Basket Raffle for our upcoming Spaghetti Dinner are invited to a planning meeting on Thursday, May 21 at 6:00 PM in the parish conference room. Your help plays an important role in making this event a success, and all are welcome to participate.

Vacation Bible School

Vacation Bible School is just around the corner, and we are excited to once again offer this wonderful opportunity for our children to grow in faith, friendship, and fun! VBS is a great way for kids to encounter the love of Jesus in a joyful and engaging environment, with activities, music, crafts, and lessons that help bring our faith to life. We warmly invite all families to consider registering their children to take part in this special week.

Registration forms are available at the doors of the church, or you may register online at ihmercer.org/vbs. This year, there is a $10 registration fee per child to help cover the cost of materials and supplies. Please note that the registration deadline is June 25, 2026. We encourage you to sign up soon so we can prepare for all who plan to attend. We look forward to welcoming your children for a week filled with faith, joy, and community!

300 Club Tickets Available

Our 300 Club fundraiser is underway, and we need your help to make it a success! At this point, we have sold 168 tickets, but we need to reach all 300 in order for the fundraiser to be fully effective for our parish. This is a wonderful opportunity to support the mission of our parish while also having the chance to win throughout the duration of the club.

If you have not yet purchased your ticket, I encourage you to consider doing so soon. Your participation truly makes a difference and helps support the many needs of our parish community. Tickets are limited, and we would love to see all 300 filled. Thank you for your continued generosity and support of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish!

Here’s a few thoughts for your week ahead:

A peaceful life isn’t found in having everything under control, but in knowing what truly matters and giving your energy there. If something has been weighing on your mind, take one small step this week to address it. Progress, even slow, brings peace. Pay attention to the little things: a good conversation, a quiet moment, a simple act of kindness. These are often the best parts of our days.

Pax et Bonum,
Fr. Andy

The Power and Tradition of Mass Intentions

The Mass is considered the greatest prayer of intercession in the Church. This is because it is the perfect offering of Christ to the Father, making present the Paschal Mystery of His death and resurrection. Traditionally, a Priest may be requested to offer a Mass for a specific intention, even if the requester cannot be physically present.

Offering Masses for the Deceased:

Having a Mass offered for a deceased person is an ancient and commendable practice. A Mass is offered to pray for the departed, that they may find peace in heaven. Since each Mass holds infinite value, requesting one or several Masses is of tremendous benefit to the person prayed for, as well as their family, who can take comfort in knowing that their intention is united with the prayers of the Church.

The Mass: Center of Christian Life:

Every Mass is a precious gift from God. It is the center of the Church’s life, known as “the source and summit of the Christian life,” because in the celebration of the Mass, we are brought back to Jesus’ Last Supper, the first Mass. We consciously recall the love of God poured out for us through the life, death, and resurrection of His only Son, Jesus Christ. At each Mass, all the intentions of God’s people, both living and deceased, are included. As Pope Paul VI noted in his motu proprio “Firma in Traditione,” the faithful, moved by an ecclesial and religious sense, join their own sacrifices to the Eucharistic sacrifice, participating more intensely and supporting the Church’s needs, especially its ministers.

Requesting a Mass Intention:

Anyone may request a Mass Intention for a living person, a deceased person, members of a family, or a special intention appropriate to the celebration of the Eucharist, such as World Peace, Vocations, or Respect for Life. The Church allows only one intention per Mass.

Offering a Mass Stipend:

The normal stipend offering for a Mass is $10. However, a Mass Offering can be more or less than the suggested amount, depending on the financial position of the person requesting the Mass. Envelopes for Mass intention requests are available at the entrances of the church. These envelopes can be placed in the collection basket or returned to the parish office. The requester may also ask for a card to be sent to notify someone that a Mass Intention has been requested (one card per intention). Please note that the name of the person(s) requesting the Mass is not announced.

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Around the Parish – May 3, 2026

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

Deacon Edgar’s Anniversary Mass

At all the masses last weekend, I mentioned that this year, our Deacon Edgar Gonzalez is celebrating 20 years as a deacon. Originally from the Cleveland Diocese, he will be honored at their ordination anniversary mass this Tuesday, May 5, 2026. The mass will take place at Saint Basil the Great Parish, 8700 Brecksville Road, Brecksville, Ohio at 6:00 PM. All are welcome to attend. As always, please congratulate our deacon on his anniversary! We are truly blessed to have him here in our parish!

Basket Raffle Planning Meeting

All who would like to assist with the Basket Raffle for our upcoming Spaghetti Dinner are invited to a planning meeting on Thursday, May 21 at 6:00 PM in the parish conference room. Your help plays an important role in making this event a success, and all are welcome to participate.

Life in the Spirit Seminar

This Thursday night begins our Life in the Spirit Seminar. Even if you were unable to attend the informational meeting this past Thursday, you are still more than welcome to participate! Please make sure to register ASAP so that we can adequately prepare for all those attending.

300 Club Tickets Available

Our 300 Club fundraiser is underway, and we need your help to make it a success! At this point, we have sold about 100 tickets, but we need to reach all 300 in order for the fundraiser to be fully effective for our parish. This is a wonderful opportunity to support the mission of our parish while also having the chance to win throughout the duration of the club.

If you have not yet purchased your ticket, I encourage you to consider doing so soon. Your participation truly makes a difference and helps support the many needs of our parish community. Tickets are limited, and we would love to see all 300 filled. Thank you for your continued generosity and support of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish!

Sharing Shed

I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their continued participation in our parish Sharing Shed, from the volunteers who maintain the shed, to those who donate food, thank you! We are in need of some food items in the immediate future. Any help you might be able to give, I would greatly appreciate it!.

Here’s a few thoughts for your week ahead:

You can’t make a cloudy day sunny, but you can decide to make it a good day after all. You can’t go back and start a new beginning, but you can start today and make a new ending. Learn to stand by and observe. Not everything needs a reaction. Don’t be afraid to start over; you might live the new chapter ever more.

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 – April 26, 2026

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

Summer Mass Schedule Begins May 3

Next Sunday marks the return of our Summer Sunday Mass Schedule. From May through the last Sunday of August, Sunday Masses will be celebrated at 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM. We will return to our regular schedule of 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM beginning Sunday, September 6, 2026.

Basket Raffle Planning Meeting

All who would like to assist with the Basket Raffle for our upcoming Spaghetti Dinner are invited to a planning meeting on Thursday, May 21 at 6:00 PM in the parish conference room. Your help plays an important role in making this event a success, and all are welcome to participate.

Life in the Spirit Seminar

Our informational meeting for the Life in the Spirit Seminar will be held this Thursday, April 30 at 7:00 PM in Gallagher Hall. The Life in the Spirit Seminar is an opportunity for spiritual renewal—a time to reflect more deeply on God’s love, the gift of salvation in Jesus Christ, and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. Through talks, prayer, and fellowship, participants are invited into a deeper relationship with God and a greater openness to His presence in their lives. This seminar is not only for those who feel firmly rooted in their faith. It is also for those who are searching, longing, or quietly asking God for something more. If you have been waiting for a sign from God, consider this your invitation. Come and allow the Holy Spirit to work in your life in a new and powerful way.

Click Here for More Information on the Life in the Spirit Seminar

300 Club Tickets Available

Our 300 Club fundraiser is underway, and we need your help to make it a success! At this point, we have sold about 100 tickets, but we need to reach all 300 in order for the fundraiser to be fully effective for our parish. This is a wonderful opportunity to support the mission of our parish while also having the chance to win throughout the duration of the club. If you have not yet purchased your ticket, I encourage you to consider doing so soon. Your participation truly makes a difference and helps support the many needs of our parish community. Tickets are limited, and we would love to see all 300 filled. Thank you for your continued generosity and support of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish!

Here’s a few thoughts for your week ahead:

Perhaps this is the week to say “yes” to something God has been placing on your heart. Whether it is attending an event, reaching out to someone, or simply spending more time in prayer, trust that God is already at work. Our role is simply to respond.

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 – April 19, 2026

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

Sacred Saturday – April 25, 2026

Mark your calendars for our upcoming Sacred Saturday on April 25. The morning begins with Mass at 9:00 AM, followed by breakfast and a meaningful time of reflection and conversation. These gatherings continue to be a beautiful way to deepen our faith while enjoying fellowship with one another. If you plan to attend, please register so we can prepare accordingly for breakfast.

Spaghetti Dinner – September 27, 2026

While fall may still feel a long way off, preparations are already underway for one of our favorite parish traditions. This year’s Spaghetti Dinner will be held on Sunday, September 27. We have scheduled it a bit earlier this year to better fit with other local events. Be sure to keep the date in mind!

Basket Raffle Planning Meeting

The success of our Basket Raffle depends on the generosity and creativity of our parish community. A planning meeting will be held on Thursday, May 21 at 6:00 PM in the parish conference room. All who are willing to help are warmly invited to attend. Your involvement truly helps make this event a success.

Summer Mass Schedule Begins May 3

As we approach the summer months, please note that our Sunday Mass schedule will change beginning May 3. The 11:00 AM Mass will move to 10:00 AM, while all other Mass times will remain unchanged. Thank you for keeping this adjustment in mind as we transition into our summer schedule.

Life in the Spirit Seminar

On May 7-9, our parish will be hosting a Life in the Spirit Seminar. The Life in the Spirit Seminar is designed to help participants encounter God’s love in a personal way, grow in prayer, and become more open to the gifts and power of the Holy Spirit in everyday life. Whether you are feeling spiritually dry, seeking renewal, or simply longing for a deeper relationship with the Lord, this seminar is for you.

The Life in the Spirit Seminar is a time of renewal in which participants are invited to reflect on God’s love, the gift of salvation in Jesus Christ, and the transforming presence of the Holy Spirit. Through talks, prayer, and community, the seminar offers a meaningful opportunity to grow in faith and experience a deeper openness to God’s action in your life.

This is not only for those who feel strongly rooted in their faith. It is also for those who may be searching, longing, or asking God for something more.

There will be an informational meeting for more information in preparation for the seminar on Thursday, April 30, 2026 at 7pm in Gallagher Hall. All are invited and encouraged to attend to ask any questions about what this seminar will entail.

Perhaps you have been waiting for a sign from God. This is it.

If you have been longing for a deeper sense of peace, purpose, faith, or renewal, I invite you to come. The Lord desires to meet you right where you are and draw you closer to Himself. This seminar is an opportunity to say yes to that invitation.

I hope you will join us and allow the Holy Spirit to work in your life in a new and powerful way.

Click Here for More Information on the Life in the Spirit Seminar

Here’s a few thoughts for your week ahead:

Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat. Very often a change within self is needed more than a change of scenery. Someone is sitting in the shade today because some kind soul planted a tree a long time ago. We must be willing to let go of the life we planned to embrace the life that is waiting for us.

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 – April 12, 2026

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

Divine Mercy Sunday

This Sunday we celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday, a beautiful reminder of the inexhaustible love and mercy of Jesus Christ. Flowing from the heart of Easter, this feast invites us to trust more deeply in the Lord’s mercy and to extend that same mercy to others. I warmly invite you to join us in the church at 3:00 PM for Adoration as we pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet together at the Hour of Mercy. Following the Chaplet, we will continue in prayer with praise and worship music. This is a powerful moment of grace in the life of the Church. Consider bringing a family member or friend with you as we turn together to the Lord who never tires of loving and forgiving us.

Sacred Saturday – April 25, 2026

Our next Sacred Saturday is just around the corner! Join us on Saturday, April 25, beginning with Mass at 9:00 AM, followed by breakfast and a time of reflection and discussion. These mornings are a wonderful opportunity to grow in faith and fellowship. Please be sure to register so we can adequately prepare for breakfast.

Spaghetti Dinner – September 27, 2026

It may seem early to think about fall, but good planning helps make our events a success. This year’s Spaghetti Dinner will take place on Sunday, September 27. We have moved it a bit earlier on the calendar to better accommodate other events in the area. Be sure to mark your calendars!

Basket Raffle Planning Meeting

Our Basket Raffle is an important part of the Spaghetti Dinner, and we are grateful for all who help make it possible. A planning meeting will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 6:00 PM in the parish conference room. If you are able to assist in any way, please plan to attend. Your help makes a great difference!

Summer Mass Schedule Begins May 3

A reminder that our Sunday Mass schedule will shift to our summer time beginning Sunday, May 3. The 11:00 AM Mass will move to 10:00 AM. All other Mass times remain the same. Please make note of this change as we move into the summer months.

Thank You to the Knights

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Knights of Columbus for hosting our Saint Patrick’s Day Bingo. Their generosity, organization, and spirit of service made the evening both enjoyable and successful for our parish community. Thanks also to all who participated and supported the accompanying bake sale. Together, we raised $1,921.65, and we are truly grateful for the continued support of our parish events.

New Priest Assigned to Mercer Area

I am grateful to announce that Bishop Persico has appointed Fr. William Barron as Sacramental Assistant to the following parishes in Mercer County:

  • Beloved Disciple, Grove City
  • Good Shepherd, West Middlesex
  • Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mercer
  • Notre Dame, Hermitage
  • Our Lady of Fatima, Farrell
  • St. Bartholomew, Sharpsville
  • St. Columbkille, Stoneboro
  • St. Michael, Greenville

In this assignment he will support the pastors of the area by helping to provide sacramental assistance and other priestly ministry as needed. This role is intended to strengthen the ministry of the local church by ensuring that priests have support when they are ill, away, or in need of assistance. It is not intended to create additional Mass times or to change parish leadership.

He will reside in the rectory of Good Shepherd Parish, and his duties will be coordinated by the local Dean, Father Andrew Boyd. This appointment became effective on April 6, 2026, and continues until July 31, 2027.

Please join me in welcoming Fr. Bill to Mercer County and to our parish!

Here’s a few thoughts for your week ahead:

Give your best energy to the people who matter most, and remember that a small act of kindness can change someone’s whole day.

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 – April 5, 2026

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

Alleluia! He is risen!

On this most sacred day, we proclaim with joy the truth that stands at the very heart of our faith: Jesus Christ is alive. The tomb is empty. Death has been defeated. What once seemed like the end has become a new beginning. The Resurrection is not only the victory of Christ, it is the promise of new life for each one of us.

Throughout Lent, we have walked with the Lord through the desert, through sacrifice, repentance, and renewal. We have stood at the foot of the Cross on Good Friday, witnessing the depth of God’s love poured out for us. And now, on Easter morning, we stand before the empty tomb and hear the words that change everything: “He is not here. He has been raised.”

This changes everything.

The Resurrection means that sin does not have the final word. It means that no failure defines us forever. It means that even in our darkest moments, God is at work bringing about something new. The power of Easter is not just something we celebrate once a year. It is a reality meant to transform the way we live every single day.

How often do we find ourselves living as if the tomb is still sealed? We carry burdens, regrets, fears, and doubts. We settle into patterns of discouragement or routine. Yet the risen Christ comes to meet us precisely there. He calls us out of whatever tomb we have allowed ourselves to remain in. He invites us into freedom, into hope, into life.

Easter is an invitation.

It is an invitation to begin again. To return to prayer. To rediscover the grace of the sacraments. To renew our relationship with the Lord who never stops seeking us. No matter how far we may have wandered, no matter how long it has been, the risen Christ stands before us with mercy and love, calling us by name.

At the same time, Easter is also a mission.

If Christ is truly risen, then our lives must reflect that truth. We are called to be witnesses of the Resurrection in a world that desperately needs hope. This means choosing love when it is difficult. Offering forgiveness when it is undeserved. Standing firm in faith when it is challenged. Bringing light into places of darkness. Living not for ourselves alone, but for Christ and for one another.

In our families, in our parish, and in our community, we are called to be people of the Resurrection. People whose lives proclaim that Christ is alive. People whose joy is rooted not in circumstances, but in the unshakable truth that God has conquered death.

As we celebrate this Easter, I encourage you not to let this grace pass by. Let it take root in your heart. Let it shape your priorities, your relationships, and your daily life. Allow the risen Christ to renew you from within.

May the joy of Easter fill your hearts and your homes. May the peace of the risen Lord remain with you in the days ahead. And may you always know that Christ walks with you, leading you from death to life.

A blessed and joyful Easter to you and your family.

Alleluia! He is truly risen!

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 – March 29, 2026

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

From Hosanna to the Cross

Today we enter into the most sacred week of the year. Palm Sunday begins with joy, with celebration, with shouts of “Hosanna!” as Jesus enters Jerusalem. The people lay down palms and cloaks, welcoming Him as a king.

And yet, within minutes, the tone of the Mass shifts dramatically.

We move from triumph to suffering. From praise to rejection. From “Hosanna!” to “Crucify Him!”

Palm Sunday places before us a powerful and uncomfortable truth. The same crowd that welcomed Jesus would soon turn against Him. The same voices that praised Him would later condemn Him.

It is easy to look at that crowd and wonder how such a thing could happen. How could they change so quickly? How could they fail to recognize who stood before them?

But Palm Sunday is not just about them. It is about us.

How often do we welcome Christ when it is convenient, when it fits our expectations, when it brings us comfort? And how often do we turn away when following Him becomes difficult, when His teachings challenge us, or when the Cross appears in our lives?

Palm Sunday invites us to examine our own hearts.

Are we faithful only in moments of joy, or are we willing to walk with Christ even to Calvary? Do we follow Him only when it is easy, or do we remain with Him when the road becomes difficult?

The beauty of this day is that it does not end with failure. Even though the crowd turns, even though the disciples scatter, Jesus remains faithful. He continues forward. He embraces the Cross freely, out of love for us.

This is the beginning of Holy Week. It is not just a series of events to remember. It is a journey to enter.

We are invited to walk with Christ through these sacred days:

  • to sit with Him at the Last Supper on Holy Thursday
  • to stand at the foot of the Cross on Good Friday
  • to wait in hope at the tomb on Holy Saturday
  • and ultimately, to rejoice in the victory of Easter.

Do not let this week pass like any other.

Make time for prayer. Attend the liturgies of the Triduum. Enter into the mystery. Allow the Lord to draw you deeper into His love.

This week has the power to change us, if we allow it.

Let us not remain at a distance. Let us not be part of the crowd that comes and goes. Instead, let us be disciples who stay, who walk with Christ, and who trust that beyond the Cross lies the glory of the Resurrection.

Hosanna in the highest.

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 – March 22, 2026

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

Apostolic

Each Sunday at Mass we proclaim in the Nicene Creed that we believe in “one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church.” Over the past few weeks we have reflected on these marks of the Church. Today we consider the final one: apostolic.

To say that the Church is apostolic means that she is founded upon the Apostles, the men chosen and sent by Jesus Christ to preach the Gospel to the world. The word itself comes from the Greek apostolos, meaning “one who is sent.”

After His resurrection, Jesus entrusted His mission to the Apostles. He commanded them to preach, to baptize, to forgive sins, and to celebrate the Eucharist. They were not only witnesses to Christ’s life, death, and resurrection, but also the foundation upon which the Church would be built.

This apostolic foundation continues in the Church today through what we call apostolic succession. The authority and mission entrusted to the Apostles did not end with their deaths. Instead, the Apostles passed on their leadership by laying hands on those who would succeed them. Those successors are the bishops of the Church.

Because of this, the Church today remains directly connected to the Apostles. Our bishops stand in that same line of succession, and through them the Church continues to teach, sanctify, and shepherd God’s people.

This also reminds us that the faith we profess is not something invented in modern times. The teachings of the Church are the same faith that was handed down by the Apostles themselves. When we listen to the Church’s teaching, we are hearing the faith that traces its roots all the way back to those first disciples who walked with Jesus.

But the Church is not only built on the Apostles, she is also sent like the Apostles. Every Christian shares in this apostolic mission. Through our baptism, we too are sent into the world to witness to Christ through our words, our actions, and our lives.

So when we profess that the Church is apostolic, we are declaring two things: that the Church remains firmly rooted in the teaching and authority of the Apostles, and that we ourselves are sent to continue their mission.

The Church is apostolic because she remains faithful to what the Apostles handed on, and because Christ still sends His people into the world today.

Thoughts for your week ahead

Give your spouse and loved ones the best of you, not simply what is left of you. God will always be a faithful Father. Our call is to be faithful sons and daughters. Faith does not mean having all the answers, but trusting that God is with us, that He will have the final word, and that good will ultimately triumph over evil. When we live with that trust, peace begins to fill 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 – March 15, 2026

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

Catholic

Over these Sundays of Lent, we have been reflecting on the words in the Creed where I deliberately slow down:

“I believe in one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church.”

This week, we reflect on the word catholic.

This word is often misunderstood. Some think it simply means Roman Catholic, as if it were just a name or a label. But the word catholic means something much deeper.

It means universal.

It means that the Church is not limited to one place, one culture, one language, or one moment in history. The Church exists throughout the world. At every hour of the day, the Mass is being offered somewhere. The same faith is being professed. The same sacraments are being celebrated.

What we do here each Sunday connects us to something far greater than ourselves.

It connects us to the entire world.

It connects us to every generation that has come before us.

It connects us to the saints.

The faith we live is not something that was invented recently. It is not something that changes with opinion or popularity. It has been handed down, protected, and preserved.

This is what it means to be catholic.

It also means that the Church is for everyone.

Christ did not come for a small group of people. He came for the world. The doors of the Church are open to every person. Every background. Every nation. Every sinner seeking mercy.

To be catholic is to recognize that we belong to a family much larger than ourselves.

When I slow down at that word catholic, it is a reminder that the faith I live is not mine to redefine. It is mine to receive. It is mine to live. And it is mine to share.

Especially during Lent, we are reminded that our faith is not meant to remain private. It is meant to shape how we live. How we love. How we forgive. How we witness to others.

Because to be catholic is not simply to belong.

It is to participate.

It is to carry forward what has been given to us.

It is to live in communion with Christ and His Church.

Thoughts for your week ahead

Never forget that you are part of something greater than yourself. Your faith connects you not only to God, but to countless others who walk the same journey. Take comfort in knowing you do not walk alone. At the same time, recognize that your life is meant to be a witness to others. The kindness you show, the patience you practice, and the faith you live may be the very thing that helps someone else draw closer to God. .

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 – March 8, 2026

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

Holy

Over these Sundays of Lent, we have been reflecting on the words in the Creed where I deliberately slow down:

“I believe in one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church.”

This week, we consider the word holy.

This word can be confusing, because when we look at the Church, we see people. And people are not perfect. We see weaknesses. We see failures. We see sin. And yet, every Sunday, we stand and profess that the Church is holy.

How can this be?

The Church is holy not because her members are perfect.

The Church is holy because her Lord is holy.

The Church is holy because she is the Body of Christ. She is holy because Christ continues to live and act through her. She is holy because He has given her the sacraments, which heal us, strengthen us, and make us holy.

Holiness is not something we create. It is something we receive.

And Lent is the season when we are reminded of that most clearly.

Lent calls us to conversion. It calls us to look honestly at our lives and to recognize where we have fallen short. Not so that we become discouraged, but so that we can be renewed. So that we can be restored. So that we can become who we were created to be.

The holiness of the Church does not come from the perfection of her people. It comes from the mercy of Christ.

Each time someone goes to confession, the holiness of the Church is made visible.

Each time someone forgives another person, the holiness of the Church is made visible.

Each time someone chooses prayer, chooses charity, chooses faith, the holiness of the Church is made visible.

When I slow down at that word holy, it is a reminder that holiness is not just something we admire in others. It is something we are called to live.

Holiness is not reserved for saints in stained glass windows.

It is the calling of every baptized person.

It is your calling.

And Lent is the time to begin again.

Thoughts for your week ahead

Holiness begins in the ordinary moments of life. It begins when we choose to do what is right even when it is difficult. It grows when we turn back to God after we have fallen. Never be discouraged by your weaknesses. Instead, let them remind you of your need for God’s grace. The Lord does not call us because we are already holy. He calls us so that we may become holy, one day at a time.

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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