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Tag: Confessions

Around the Parish – December 22, 2024

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

As we approach Christmas, I find it important to remind myself—and all of you—that we are still in the holy season of Advent. While the world around us seems fully immersed in Christmas, with decorations, music, and celebrations, Advent invites us to pause, reflect, and prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. There is still time to embrace this preparation, which is a comforting thought. Just as there is still time in these final days before Christmas, there is always time in our lives to return to Jesus, to allow His grace to work within us, and to open our hearts to conversion. My prayer for each of you is that these last few moments of Advent bring peace into your hearts and homes.

As we prepare for the joyful celebration of Christmas, I want to share our Mass schedule. On Christmas Eve, Mass will be celebrated at 5:00 PM and 9:00 PM, with beautiful Christmas music offered by our Music Ministry beginning 20 minutes before each Mass. On Christmas Day, we will celebrate Mass at 9:00 AM. I encourage you to arrive early and join in the music—it’s a wonderful way to prepare spiritually for the liturgy and to immerse yourself in the joy of Christ’s birth.

After the busyness of the Christmas celebrations, I will take a day to spend time with my family, so there will be no daily Mass on December 26. I appreciate your understanding as I enjoy this special time with loved ones.

This weekend, our parish has the honor of opening the Jubilee Year of Hope in a special way. The Vatican and our Diocese have invited every parish to mark the beginning of this Holy Year with a meaningful celebration. As we journey together throughout this Jubilee, I encourage you to visit our parish website, ihmercer.org/jubilee-2025, for updates and resources to help us deepen our faith and grow in hope during this extraordinary time of grace.

Finally, a reminder that Wednesday, January 1, is a Holy Day of Obligation as we celebrate the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God. We will have two Masses for this feast: a Vigil Mass on December 31 at 6:00 PM and Mass on January 1 at 9:00 AM. Let us begin the New Year by placing ourselves under Mary’s loving care and seeking her intercession for peace in our hearts and in the world.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

Focus on your potential, not your limitations. Sometimes, the best thing you can do for someone is to just listen. Never allow yourself to be a prisoner to the things you can’t change; rather, focus on what you can control: your love, your patience, your mercy with others. To make a difference, you don’t have to be rich, you simply have to care.

Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy

The Power and Tradition of Mass Intentions

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

Offering Masses for the Deceased:

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

The Mass: Center of Christian Life:

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

Requesting a Mass Intention:

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

Offering a Mass Stipend:

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

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Around the Parish – December 15, 2024

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

This Third Sunday of Advent, often called Gaudete Sunday, invites us to rejoice as the celebration of Christmas draws near. To help prepare our hearts, I encourage you to take advantage of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Our Parish Penance Service is today at 5 PM, and earlier this afternoon at 2 PM, a Penance Service will also be held at Beloved Disciple. If it’s been a while since your last confession or if you’re unsure where to begin, a helpful guide to going to confession and an examination of conscience can be found in this weekend’s bulletin. Please make every effort to attend one of these services and embrace the grace and mercy of this beautiful sacrament before Christmas.

I also want to take a moment to thank everyone who has supported our Nursing Home Gift Tree. Your generosity is truly appreciated, but we still have 18 gifts unaccounted for. If you have one of the remaining tags, please return the gift immediately. If for any reason you are unable to purchase the gift, I ask that you bring the tag back as soon as possible so we can ensure every resident receives a gift. Your help in completing this project is a true blessing and means so much to those we serve.

As we continue our Advent preparations, I’d like to remind you that Oplatki Christmas Wafers are available by the St. Joseph statue. This beautiful tradition invites families to share Christ’s love during their Christmas meal. The suggested donation is $4 per pack of four wafers, and they are available while supplies last.

Looking ahead, our parish office will be closed for the Christmas season beginning Friday, December 20, and will reopen for in-person business on Tuesday, January 7. During this time, we will continue to monitor phone messages and emails, so please don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s something you need. Thank you for your understanding as we take time to celebrate this joyful season with our families.

Our Christmas Mass Schedule is as follows: Christmas Eve, Tuesday, December 24, Masses will be at 5 PM and 9 PM. On Christmas Day, Wednesday, December 25, we will celebrate one Mass at 9 AM. Please make plans to join us as we celebrate the birth of our Savior. Additionally, as we approach the new year, I want to remind you that Wednesday, January 1, is a Holy Day of Obligation—the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God. We will celebrate Mass on Tuesday, December 31, at 6 PM and Wednesday, January 1, at 9 AM. What better way to begin the new year than by celebrating this special feast day and honoring our Blessed Mother?

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

When it comes to life, the critical thing is whether you take things for granted or you take them with gratitude. Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out. One of the most sincere forms of respect is listening to what another person has to say. Life becomes so much easier when you “accept” an apology that you never got.

Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy

The Power and Tradition of Mass Intentions

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

Offering Masses for the Deceased:

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

The Mass: Center of Christian Life:

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

Requesting a Mass Intention:

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

Offering a Mass Stipend:

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

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Around the Parish – December 8, 2024

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

This Sunday, our parish is hosting the annual Cookie Walk and Soup Sale in Gallagher Hall from 9:00 AM to 12:20 PM. It’s a wonderful opportunity to stock up on homemade cookies and delicious soups for the season. As part of the event, we’ll also be raffling off two lottery Christmas trees, with extra tickets available for purchase during the sale. Be sure to stop by and join in the festive fun!

I want to express my deep gratitude to everyone who participated in #iGiveCatholic this year. While we are unable to share the final totals due to the bulletin deadlines, please know how much I appreciate your generosity and support. Your kindness is a true blessing to our parish community.

As we continue through this season of Advent, please remember that this Monday, December 9, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This is a Holy Day of Obligation, and Masses will be offered at 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Let us come together to honor our Blessed Mother on her special day.

In preparation for Christmas, Oplatki Christmas Wafers are available by the St. Joseph statue. These wafers are a beautiful tradition of sharing Christ’s love at the family table. The suggested donation is $4 for a pack of four wafers, and they are available while supplies last.

Looking ahead to next Sunday, we will hold our Parish Penance Service at 5:00 PM. This is a wonderful opportunity to prepare your heart for the coming of Christ, with five priests available to hear confessions. If you’re unable to attend, Adoration and Confessions will also be available on the next two Fridays of Advent. I encourage everyone to take advantage of these opportunities to encounter God’s mercy and love.

We still have 19 gifts missing from the Nursing Home Gift Tree: 15 from QLS, 3 from Avalon, and 1 from Greystone. If you have one of these tags, please return it as soon as possible. If purchasing the gift is no longer possible, please bring the tag back so we can ensure every resident receives their gift. Your assistance in completing this effort is greatly appreciated.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

Let’s remember that happiness keeps us sweet; trials keep us strong; sorrows keep us human; failures keep us humble; and God’s grace keeps us going. Let God’s promises shine on your problems. Keep going. You might almost be where you want to go, and not even know it.

Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy

The Power and Tradition of Mass Intentions

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

Offering Masses for the Deceased:

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

The Mass: Center of Christian Life:

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

Requesting a Mass Intention:

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

Offering a Mass Stipend:

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

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Around the Parish – December 1, 2024

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

Today marks the First Sunday of Advent, the beginning of a new liturgical year and a sacred time of preparation for the coming of Christ at Christmas. I encourage you to embrace the spirit of Advent by deepening your relationship with the Lord. One of the best ways to do this is through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Our parish Advent Penance Services are listed in the bulletin. Additionally, on the three Fridays of Advent, we will have Eucharistic Adoration and Confessions from 6:00–7:00 PM. I hope you will take advantage of these opportunities to prepare your heart for the joy of Christmas.

This Tuesday, December 3, is Giving Tuesday and the conclusion of #iGiveCatholic. If you haven’t yet donated, I kindly ask you to consider giving a dollar or two before the campaign ends at midnight. Every gift, no matter the size, helps us continue to serve our parish and community. Thank you to everyone who has already contributed! Updated totals can be found on our giving page: erie.igivecatholic.org/organizations/immaculate-heart-of-mary-parish-mercer.

A quick note regarding the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception: Since December 8 falls on a Sunday this year, the celebration is transferred to Monday, December 9. Masses for this Holy Day of Obligation will be at 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM on Monday. Please join us as we honor our Blessed Mother under the title of her Immaculate Conception, patroness of our parish and our nation.

Thank you to everyone who has signed up to contribute to our Cookie Walk and Soup Sale! If you’re donating cookies or soup, please bring your items to Gallagher Hall on Friday or Saturday morning after 9:00 AM. Your generosity helps make this event a beloved parish tradition and supports our ministry efforts.

Oplatki Christmas Wafers are available by the St. Joseph Statue. The suggested donation is $4 for pack of 4 wafers.

Finally, a reminder that Poinsettia Order Forms are due today. If you need another form, they are available at the church entrances. We will be placing the order tomorrow and cannot accept additional requests after today.

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

To make a difference in someone’s life, you don’t have to be brilliant, rich, beautiful, or perfect; you just have to care. Happy people focus on what they have. Unhappy people focus on what is missing. Life is a succession of lessons which must be lived to be understood. A successful family is not a rich family but rather because they support one another.

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 – November 24, 2024

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

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Family Faith Formation session with Fr. Scott Jabo last Sunday. Together, we reflected on the vital importance of vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life. Each of us has a unique calling within the Church, and it is our duty to discern and embrace God’s plan for our lives. Vocations arise from our families and are nurtured by encouragement and prayer. Priests and religious do not simply appear; they are formed within our communities. Let us continue to pray fervently that more young men and women from our parish may hear and respond to God’s call to these special roles.

As we approach #iGiveCatholic on Giving Tuesday, December 3, I want to express my deep gratitude for your unwavering support. Thanks to your generosity, we are now just $4,818 away from our $20,000 goal. If you have not yet contributed, please consider making a donation. Each gift moves us closer to our goal and qualifies for special incentives on Giving Tuesday. There is also a leaderboard on the #iGiveCatholic website for the Diocese of Erie. Seeing Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish at the top would showcase the dedication and generosity of our community throughout the 13 counties of the Diocese. Thank you again for your continued support—together, we can achieve remarkable things!

The women of the Walking with Purpose Bible Study invite you to join them in praying the rosary on Friday, December 6, at 5pm in the church, preceding our adoration and confessions. Please mark your calendars and join us.

This weekend’s bulletin includes the schedule of Advent Reconciliation times offered throughout our deanery, alongside regular parish schedules for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. As we prepare for Christmas, I encourage everyone to seize the grace-filled opportunity to receive this sacrament. Whether it has been a month, a year, or even a decade since your last confession, please come. Do not let fear or hesitation hold you back—Christ welcomes you with open arms, offering forgiveness, healing, and peace. This sacrament can bring profound peace as we journey together toward the Coming of Jesus Christ.

This week, as we celebrate Thanksgiving, we pause to give thanks to God for the blessings He has bestowed upon us. Please note our adjusted schedule: Mass will be celebrated Monday through Thursday at 8am. There will be no Mass on Friday, November 29, as I will be celebrating with family. Additionally, our parish office will be closed this week and will reopen for in-person business on Tuesday, December 3. Wishing everyone a blessed and joyful Thanksgiving!

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

There are three C’s in life: choice, chance, and change. You must make the choice to take the chance if you want anything in life to change for the better.

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 17, 2024

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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

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Around the Parish – March 10, 2024

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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

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Around the Parish – March 3, 2024

Written by on . Posted in Around the Parish, News.

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

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Around the Parish – February 25, 2024

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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

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Around the Parish – February 18, 2024

Written by on . Posted in Around the Parish, News.

Fr. Maximilian Maria Jaskowak O.P., a native of Beloved Disciple Parish in Grove City
Fr. Maximilian Maria Jaskowak O.P.

Join us this Monday, February 19, as we begin our  Parish Lenten Mission led by Fr. Maximilian Maria Jaskowak O.P., a native of Beloved Disciple Parish in Grove City, Pennsylvania. Fr. Max, ordained in May of 2022, holds a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology, a Masters of Divinity, and a Licentiate in Sacred Theology from the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, DC. He completed his Licentiate in Sacred Theology in the spring of 2023 and is currently a faculty member at the School of Theology at Saint Mary Seminary in Baltimore, MD, specializing in moral theology with courses in Medical Ethics, Catholic Social Ethics, Marriage, Sexuality, and Celibacy.

Father Max and I spent three years together while studying Philosophy at Gannon University and Saint Mark Seminary. I am very excited to have Father Max be with us as we begin our Lent this year.

Each night, the Sacrament of Reconciliation is available. Father Max and I will be hearing confessions in both of the confessionals. I will be in my regular confessional and Father Max will be in the confessional by the organ. As we begin the Season of Lent, I want to encourage everyone to take the opportunity to receive this important sacrament. During the mission, which can be thought of like a mini retreat, we will have the opportunity to hear from Father Max on the Eucharist each night during Adoration.

On Wednesday night, we will celebrate a special mass together under the patronage of Saint Joseph with special blessings with the Oil of Saint Joseph. Let us pray together as we begin the Lenten Journey to the Cross that we might come closer to Jesus’ presence I the Holy Eucharist.

A flyer for these three nights, as well as the Lenten Calendar for 2024 can be found in this weekend’s bulletin. Please make sure to take a copy home to reference throughout these weeks of preparation for Easter!

Here are a few thoughts for the week ahead:

For others, be the attitude you want to be around. It is good to be blessed; it is better to be a blessing to others. May every sunrise bring you hope; may every sunset bring you peace.

Pax et Bonum, Fr. Andy

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