Tag: Blooms & Bargains Bazaar

Around the Parish – April 28, 2024

Written by on April 27, 2024. Posted in Around the Parish, News.

This weekend is our last Faith Formation session for the 2023-24 school year. I want to thank all of our volunteers and teachers. Without their continued dedication and support, we would not be able to continue Faith Formation in our parish. Please thank them with me! This year, we were graced with the presence of Jonelle Haynie, Nelly Sosa, Matt & Hannah Hazi, Amy Oehlbeck, Linda Oliver, Rachael DeFiore, Katelyn Gable, Cindy Wilpula, and Greg Cummings.

Next Saturday, May 4, is Blooms & Bargains Bazaar. We need volunteers to help setup & organize items on Thurs., May 2 & Fri., May 3 at 10 AM & Sale Day Sat., May 4. Sign up sheets are at the church entrances .

NEXT Sunday, May 5, our Sunday Mass schedule is set to return to 8:00 am and 10:00 am. Don’t forget, and share with our family that join us for the summer months.

Consider joining us on Saturday mornings the next few weeks for coffee and conversation as we journey through preparation for Marian Consecration. This special form of prayer is a practice where individuals dedicate themselves entirely to Mary, the mother of Jesus. This consecration involves a period of preparation, typically lasting 33 days, during which participants engage in prayer, reflection, and study. The consecration culminates on a Marian feast day, in particular the celebration of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, patronal feast day of our parish, when individuals make a formal act of consecration, entrusting themselves entirely to Mary’s care and intercession. This practice is rooted in the belief that Mary is a powerful intercessor and mediator with her Son, Jesus, and that by consecrating oneself to her, individuals can grow closer to Christ and deepen their faith. Sign up forms are located at the doors of church.

In our bulletin this week, there are two advertisements for things coming up this summer. Please make sure to mark your calendars now for our Forty Hours celebration of the Holy Eucharist on Sunday June 9, Monday June 10, and Tuesday June 11. Newly ordained Deacon Michael Scanga, transitional deacon for the Diocese of Erie will be with us to preach on the Eucharist.

In July, we will be hosting Vacation Bible School on Mon. July 8 through Fri. July 12. More information is available on our website. Registration will be forthcoming in the next few weeks.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

We need to learn how to select our thoughts and attitudes the same way that we select our clothes each morning. You know you are in love when you cannot fall asleep because the reality is better than your dreams. When you’ve done something wrong, admit it. No one ever chocked to death by swallowing his/her pride.

Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy

0 Shares

Around the Parish – April 21, 2024

Written by on April 20, 2024. Posted in News, Around the Parish.

This Monday, our Confirmation Candidates will receive the sacrament at Saint Michael Church in Greenville. I want to thank Cindy Wilpula and Katie Gable for their continued dedication to our Confirmation students. Through their yes to serve our students, we are guaranteed that great love and care has been showered down upon our community. Please continue to pray for our young people, especially our freshmen and sophomores as they receive this special sacrament.

Make sure to join the Knights of Columbus today at the Pancake Breakfast in Gallagher Hall from after the 8:00am mass until 1:00pm. Please come and enjoy a wonderful breakfast. All proceeds benefit our parish. I thank my brother knights for their continued support of our parish.

Next Saturday, April 27, we will have a parish spring cleanup day. Many hands will make light work, so any help that you might be able to give on that day will be greatly appreciated. We will begin at 9:00 am and spend the morning around the parish campus to clean up our grounds. There are lists at the doors of church listing the different things we are looking to accomplish as we clean up our church grounds.

On Saturday, May 4, we have our Blooms and Bargains Bazaar. All donations can be dropped off at Gallagher Hall, but please contact the parish office to schedule a drop off time. The parish is unable to provide pickup of items.

In a few weeks on Sunday, May 5, our Sunday Mass schedule is set to return to 8:00 am and 10:00 am. Don’t forget, and share with our family that join us for the summer months.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

If our parish were a boat, it would be a canoe that makes no progress unless everyone paddles together and in the same direction. Family is family, whether it’s the one you start out with or the family you gain along the way. The same is true about a parish family. Sticking with your family is what makes it a family.

Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy

0 Shares

Around the Parish – April 14, 2024

Written by on April 13, 2024. Posted in News, Around the Parish.

I want to express my most sincere gratitude for everyone who has booth pledged and supported the Catholic Services Appeal. As you know, our parish assessment for this year is $49,845. This tithe from our parish to the diocese permits the Churches of Erie Diocese to continue to fulfill the Lord’s Command: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you.” (Mt 28:19) Every dollar collected over our assessment will remain in our parish. The monies that will remain in our parish will be used to repair the deteriorating window wells of the basement at the Office Building. Please do prayerfully consider supporting this obligation.

On this Monday, April 15 at 6:00pm, there will be a Blooms and Bargains Bazaar Meeting in the Parish Conference Room. Anyone that is able and interested in helping is asked to attend this meeting.

On this Tuesday, April 16 at 6:30pm, we will have our next VBS planning meeting. All who are interested in helping with our VBS in July are asked to attend.

Next Sunday, April 21, the Mercer Knights of Columbus will be hosting their Pancake Breakfast in Gallagher Hall from after the 8:00am mass until 1:00pm. Please come and enjoy a wonderful breakfast. All proceeds benefit our parish. I thank my brother knights for their continued support of our parish.

On Saturday, April 27, we will have a parish spring cleanup day. Many hands will make light work, so any help that you might be able to give on that day will be greatly appreciated. We will begin at 9:00 am and spend the morning around the parish campus to clean up our grounds.

On Saturday, May 4, we have our Blooms and Bargains Bazaar. All donations can be dropped off at Gallagher Hall, but please contact the parish office to schedule a drop off time. The parish is unable to provide pickup of items.

In just four weeks on Sunday, May 5, our Sunday Mass schedule is set to return to 8:00 am and 10:00 am. Don’t forget, and share with our family that join us for the summer months.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

Your day will generally go the way the corners of your mouth turn. Courage is never to let your actions be influenced by your fears. The rosary is a chain that links heaven and earth. One end of it is in your hand; the other in the hand of our Blessed Mother.

Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy

0 Shares

Around the Parish – April 7, 2024

Written by on April 6, 2024. Posted in News, Around the Parish.

Today is Divine Mercy Sunday. In celebration of this special conclusion of the Octave of Easter, we will have Adoration and the Sung Chaplet of Divine Mercy from 2:30pm until 3:30pm. I encourage everyone to join us during this special Holy Hour of prayer. Divine Mercy Sunday, established by Pope St. John Paul II in 2000, honors the devotion to God’s boundless mercy as revealed to Saint Faustina. The praying of the Divine Mercy Chaplet plays a central role, emphasizing repentance and trust in God’s mercy for all humanity.

There will be no daily masses this week, as I will be away all week. There will be mass at Beloved Disciple and St. Columbkille, so I encourage everyone to join their churches for mass this week for Daily Mass.

On this Monday, April 15, (this is listed differently in the paper bulletin. April 15 is the correct date) there will be a Blooms and Bargains Bazaar Meeting at 6pm in the Parish Conference Room. Anyone that is able and interested in helping is asked to attend this meeting.

On Tuesday, April 16 at 6:30pm, we will have our next VBS planning meeting. All who are interested in helping with our VBS in July are asked to attend.

In just about a month on Sunday, May 5, our Sunday Mass schedule is set to return to 8:00 am and 10:00 am. Don’t forget, and share with our family that join us for the summer months.

Here is a thought for the week ahead:

The secret to happiness is also the secret to a long and fulfilling life: Let every situation be what it is, instead of what you think it should be, and then make the best of it. Let God’s Grace empower you to grow through the difficulties you go through.

Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy

0 Shares

Around the Parish – March 31, 2024

Written by on March 30, 2024. Posted in News, Around the Parish.

Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia! Christ is Alive! What a joy it is to be able to have this wonderful word back in our liturgy. With the return of ‘Alleluia’, we also recognize the return of the beautiful flowers and decorations in our church. This is a sign of the coming beauty of Spring. Let’s just pray that the weather continues to cooperate. I am sure ready for warmer days!

Next Sunday is Divine Mercy Sunday. Normally we have adoration and confessions on First Friday, but this month we will have adoration from 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm with the Sung Chaplet of Divine Mercy on Sunday, April 7. I encourage everyone to join us during this special Holy Hour of prayer. Divine Mercy Sunday, established by Pope St. John Paul II in 2000, honors the devotion to God’s boundless mercy as revealed to Saint Faustina. The praying of the Divine Mercy Chaplet plays a central role, emphasizing repentance and trust in God’s mercy for all humanity.

In just about a month on Sunday, May 5, our Sunday Mass schedule is set to return to 8:00 am and 10:00 am. Don’t forget, and share with our family that join us for the summer months.

On the following Saturday, we have our Blooms and Bargains Bazaar. All donations can be dropped off at Gallagher Hall, but please contact the parish office to schedule a drop off time. The parish is unable to provide pickup of items.

Here is a thought for the week ahead:

“O Jesus, I understand that Your mercy is beyond all imagining, and therefore I ask You to make my heart so big that there will be room in it for the needs of all the souls living on the face of the earth, so that each soul will be reflected in You, O Jesus.” – Saint Maria Faustina Kowalska

Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy

0 Shares

Around the Parish – March 24, 2024

Written by on March 23, 2024. Posted in News, Around the Parish.

Today, we celebrate Palm Sunday. This celebration begins our entrance into Holy Week. This next week is the highlight of our entire existence as Christians. This week, we celebrate the Mysteries of our Faith, beginning with the entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem with loud shouts of Hosanna! These same voices by Friday will be the voices calling for the crucifixion of Jesus. So much will happen in a week. I truly encourage you to enter deeply into the celebrations and the prayer that surrounds Holy Week.

This week, our parish schedule will be a bit different, as it is every year. I thank Father Ray Gramata for his help this weekend and next while I am at SCI Mercer celebrating mass. Father Ray will be the celebrant at this Sunday and next 11a mass. This Monday, while there is no mass here in our parish, I will be in Erie at the celebration of the Chrism mass. This special mass is where the Holy Oils we use in our sacraments are blessed and consecrated. If you have never participated in this special liturgy before, I encourage you to join us online via the Cathedral’s Facebook Page, or make the journey to the Cathedral in Erie. (I will do my best to share it via our Facebook page.)

On Tuesday and Wednesday, we will have our normal 8a masses in our parish. On Thursday, the only mass we are permitted to celebrate is the Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 7pm. This special mass is the beginning of the Holy Triduum, and is one continual celebration that starts with the celebration of this Holy Day and ends with the celebration of the Easter Vigil, which must start after sunset on Saturday night. Our celebration of the Lord’s Passion on Good Friday will be at 12:15pm. No celebration of the Holy Eucharist is permitted throughout the world on Good Friday. You will notice that we do not conclude with the sign of the cross on Holy Thursday, nor will we make the sign of the cross on Good Friday at the beginning or end of the liturgies; this is because it is one continual celebration showing forth the mysteries that occur from the celebration of the Last Supper through the celebration of the Great Resurrection of Our Lord. Our Easter Sunday Mass Schedule will be at 8am and 11am.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

The day you plant the seed is not the day you eat the fruit. Keep watering your dreams, hopes, and goals. Motivation gets you going; habit keeps you going. Don’t measure your progress using someone else’s ruler. Some things have to end so that better things can begin. Faith can move mountains; doubt and fear can create them.

Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy

0 Shares

Around the Parish – March 17, 2024

Written by on March 16, 2024. Posted in News, Around the Parish.

This past Sunday, March 10, I had the opportunity to see the movie “Cabrini.” While I found the movie as a wonderful image of a woman who was strong in her convictions, and I found the movie an inspiring story, I only have one critique, and it may be a large one. This opinion that I have on the movie is one that is shared by numerous Catholics, and it is the fact that there was very little mentioned in the movie about Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini’s conviction to the Catholic Faith. Anyone that reads any of her own writings, or any of the biographies on this spectacular saint show that she was a woman of deep faith. Her conviction to the Holy Eucharist and to the life in the Church is what kept her focused on her good works. Her good works, in and of themselves, are not what makes this holy woman so important in the life of the church and the life of our nation. Her conviction to Jesus Christ, to sharing His Good News with the world is what was her driving force.

With all of this said, I still encourage everyone to take an opportunity to see this movie. Saint Cabrini was a woman with great conviction to service, perseverance, and education. Most importantly, she is a woman of faith. May this great saint continue to intercede for our church and for all of our needs. (As a side note, there is a relic of Saint Cabrini in our church next to the tabernacle.) Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, pray for us!

With this image of so great a woman and Saint in the forefront of our mind, I am excited to announce the newest outreach ministry available in our church. We are a people of life, and as a people of life, we must support all in need. In our community, there is a great need for assistance of mothers. In our parish, we will be working in a new way with all mothers in need through a program started by the Sisters of Life and the USCCB called “Walking with Moms in Need.” Mrs. Barb Dumais has stepped up in our parish community, as well as our deanery, to lead this wonderful outreach ministry. Barb will be speaking at the end of the masses this weekend to introduce herself in her new capacity as the Director of Outreach Ministry and invite all interested in helping in this new ministry to an organizational meeting. Our first meeting is scheduled for this Wednesday, March 20 at 7pm in the parish conference room. Please email or call Barb to let her know if you are interested and/or if you are able to attend our meeting.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

The best apology is a changed behavior. Sometimes, we create our own heartache due to unrealistic expectations. The best lesson we can learn regarding relationships is this: don’t expect others to act or react as you would. You are not them and they are not you.

Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy

0 Shares

Around the Parish – March 10, 2024

Written by on March 9, 2024. Posted in News, Around the Parish.

This Friday is our Saint Patrick Day Bingo and Bake Sale! All baked goods donations can be dropped off in Gallagher Hall beginning on Thursday, March 14. All baked goods are asked to be delivered by noon on Friday, March 15. Doors open at 6pm, Early Bird starts at 7pm, and Regular games at 7:30 pm. Food and beverages will be available for purchase, as well as all of the great baked goods that our parish family made!

All donations for our rummage sale “Blooms and Bargains Bazaar” can be dropped off beginning Monday, March 18 in Gallagher Hall. Please contact the parish office before drop off. The parish is unable to provide pickup for items.

In the upcoming week within our deanery, the Lenten Penance Services will be taking place. I’d like to recommend that everyone seize the chance to participate in the sacrament of reconciliation before Easter arrives. It’s crucial for all of us to engage in this sacrament regularly. I advocate for monthly reception, like a monthly check-in for the soul. I am a big believer that this routine can significantly contribute to our spiritual well-being and growth. In addition to our Penance Services, the Sacrament of Reconciliation remains available every Friday during Lent from 6-7, every Saturday from 4-5, and always available by appointment.

Experience the rich tradition of the Pascha Basket in our Easter celebrations. On Holy Saturday, prepare a basket with Easter Bread symbolizing Christ’s body, dyed eggs for new life, meats, cheeses, and a candle for the light of Christ. Bring it to the church for a special blessing on Holy Saturday. Join us in the communal joy of Easter, sharing the blessed foods with family and friends. Embrace this ancient tradition as a symbol of resurrection and fellowship. Explore the full tradition in our special full-page ad. Let’s celebrate the joy of Easter together!

Join the 300 Club excitement! We still have a limited number of tickets available for purchase. Your support is crucial in reaching our goal to raise the necessary funds for our parish. Let’s work together to sell out all 300 tickets and make a significant impact!

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

Be someone who makes someone else look forward to tomorrow. We can’t force someone to hear a message they are not ready to receive, but never underestimate the power of planting a seed.

Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy

0 Shares

Around the Parish – March 3, 2024

Written by on March 2, 2024. Posted in News, Around the Parish.

A special thank you to everyone that contributed to the second collections and donations to Father Max and his Dominican confreres. Because of your continued generosity, we raised a total of $1,296.00. Thank you again for both your generosity and your participation in our parish mission.

It might seem impossible, but next week, Daylight Savings Time begins. Make sure you spring ahead next Sunday morning at 2am! Otherwise, you will be late to mass!

Spring is just around the corner, and therefore, Easter is as well! We are still in need of lottery tickets for the Easter Basket Raffle. If you are able to donate, please send in your unscratched tickets to the office as soon as possible.

As spring unfolds its vibrant colors, it’s the perfect season to embark on a refreshing cleaning journey! As you bid farewell to the remnants of winter and embrace a lighter atmosphere, consider contributing to the upcoming Bargains & Blooms Bazaar. We invite you to generously donate gently-used pre-loved items that you no longer need. Help us create a collection of treasures by offering items such as quality furniture, gently-used clothing, and other cherished belongings. Your generous contributions will not only declutter your space but also find new homes and bring joy to others. Let’s make this spring a time of sharing and rejuvenation

Get ready for a Shamrockin’ Celebration! In just about a week and a half, our eagerly awaited Saint Patrick’s Day Bingo and Bake Sale will unfold, and we’re counting on your enthusiasm to make it a spectacular event once again! Last year’s turnout and participation were amazing, with everyone raving about the fantastic time they had. Let’s keep the tradition alive and make this year’s celebration even more memorable! We are reaching out to the heart of our community – YOU! Volunteers are needed to ensure the success of this joyful gathering. Your help can make a significant difference in creating an atmosphere filled with laughter and camaraderie. And calling all master bakers! Our parish is home to the BEST bakers, and we know you’re eager to showcase your talents! We are still in need of delicious baked goods to sweeten the festivities. Whether it’s your famous Irish soda bread or a delightful green-themed treat, we invite you to contribute and share the joy of your culinary creations. Let’s join hands and create lasting memories at our Saint Patrick’s Day Bingo and Bake Sale. Your support and participation will undoubtedly make this event a shining success! See you there, and may the luck of the Irish be with us all!

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

A wasted day is one where we only thought about how someone else could change; a good day is one when we become part of the solution. Faith is our greatest gift; sharing it with others is our greatest responsibility.

Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy

0 Shares

Around the Parish – February 25, 2024

Written by on February 24, 2024. Posted in News, Around the Parish.

I extend my sincere thanks to each of you for making our Parish Lenten Mission an exceptional three-day experience. Your enthusiastic participation, commitment to growth, and shared moments of prayer created an atmosphere filled with learning and unity. Together, we embraced the true spirit of Lent, fostering a sense of renewal and deepening our connections within the parish. Your presence made these days truly special, and I am grateful for the collective journey we undertook.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Father Maximilian Maria Jaskowak for his inspirational leadership during our Parish Lenten Mission. Father Maximilian’s profound insights, engaging sermons, and unwavering commitment to guiding us on our spiritual journey were instrumental in making these three days truly transformative. His wisdom and compassionate presence enriched our collective experience, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and minds. We are blessed to have had him as our guide, and we extend our sincere appreciation for his dedication to nurturing our faith community.

As we gear up for the upcoming Blooms and Bargains Bazaar, here’s a friendly reminder to keep us in mind during your spring cleaning endeavors. As you sift through your closets and tidy up your living spaces, consider setting aside any gently used items and potted plants that could find new homes at our event. Your contributions will not only help you declutter but will also add to the success of our community sale.

Join us for the Saint Patrick’s Day Bingo and Bake Sale on Friday, March 15! We’re seeking volunteers and bakers to make this event a hit. If you love baking or can spare some time, your help will add sweetness to our celebration. Contribute to the festive spirit and community bonding by being a part of this memorable day. Signup on the sheets at the entrances to Church. Let’s create a delicious and unforgettable Saint Patrick’s Day together!

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

Never let the things you want cause you to neglect the things you have. We need patience; all things are difficult before they become easy. Parish volunteers don’t necessarily have the time; they just have their heart in the right place.

Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy

0 Shares