MASS SCHEDULE: NEW!! Weekday Mass Schedule
M-T-Wed 8:00 am - Communion Service Th-F 8:00 am - Mass
SAT 4:30 pm SUN 8:30 & 10:30 am
Holy Days: 8:00 am and 7:00 pm. Always check the bulletin to confirm times.
Saturday morning Mass is celebrated on a rotating basis at
St. Ann (2nd & 4th Saturdays), Assumption (1st & 3rd Saturdays) and
St. Margaret Mary (5th Saturdays) at 8:30 am.
M-T-Wed 8:00 am - Communion Service Th-F 8:00 am - Mass
SAT 4:30 pm SUN 8:30 & 10:30 am
Holy Days: 8:00 am and 7:00 pm. Always check the bulletin to confirm times.
Saturday morning Mass is celebrated on a rotating basis at
St. Ann (2nd & 4th Saturdays), Assumption (1st & 3rd Saturdays) and
St. Margaret Mary (5th Saturdays) at 8:30 am.
Weekly Reflection for May 12, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Mother's Day
This Sunday is Mother’s Day. It is a day when we honor our mothers, grandmothers and all the motherly women who have crossed our paths in life. Memories of the many blessings we have enjoyed as a result of the unconditional love from them can be over whelming. This leads us to think of Mary, the Mother of God who raised and nourished Jesus from birth to adulthood. We read in John’s Gospel, 19:26,27;
As she stood at the foot of the cross and heard her son say, “Woman, behold your son” and then to John, he said, “Behold your mother.”
At that point, as Mary accepted John as her son, so she accepted each of us as her children. Mary is the spiritual mother of all of us and just as she offers a supreme model for all women as a way of life, so she also offers all men the opportunity to be her faithful sons.
During this Month of May which we have dedicated to Mary, it would be good to honor her in a special way. We have special prayers such as the Hail Mary, Angelus, Rosary (even if we only pray a decade or two at a time) and an all-time favorite, the Memorare: Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession, was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly to you, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To you I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in your mercy, hear and answer me. Amen.
Weekly Reflection for May 5, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Saint Jozef Damien de Veuster
of Molokai, SS.CC. (1840 – 1889)
Missionary to the lepers of Molokai, Hawaii
St. Damien of Molokai was born in Belgium in 1840 to a poor farmer and his wife. At the age of 13, he quit school to help his parents on the farm; when he was nineteen, he entered the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Damien's older brother, Pamphile, was also a priest in this congregation, and had offered his service to the care of the lepers on the Island of Molokai. When he fell ill and couldn't go to the mission, Damien volunteered to take his place.
The saint offered to stay in the leper colony permanently - he built schools, churches, hospitals and coffins. He was later joined in his work by the Franciscan Sisters of Syracuse, led by St. Marianne Cope. St. Damien contracted the disease himself, but continued to serve the mission until his death on April 15, 1889 at the age of 49, after serving 16 years among the lepers. He was buried in the local cemetery under the same Pandanus tree where he had first slept upon his arrival in Molokai.
His remains were exhumed in 1936 at the request of the Belgian Government and translated to a crypt of the Church of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts at Louvain. Damien is universally known for having freely shared the life of the lepers in quarantine on the Kalaupapa Peninsula of Molokai.
Information about the Year of Faith Saint of the Month is found on the US Conference of Catholic Bishops website.
Weekly Reflection for April 28, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Reflections on CCD 2012-13
Last Sunday, we had the closing of CCD for this year. Our group was small but they were faithful in attendance and wonderful in their
participation.
At this last class, we discussed what impressed us most in our weekly lessons. One third grader responded, “The greatest commandment” in which Jesus said, “You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul and all your mind. This is the greatest and first commandment. The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. The whole law and the prophets depend on these two commandments.” One other third grader said he learned more about the Ten Commandments. The rest of the class was tongue-tied.
We focused on the First Commandment which is: Thou shalt not have other gods before me. We talked about the “other gods” that tempt us: activities that keep us from Sunday Mass, desire for power, fame, money, expensive clothes and games. If we put these and other things before the God who made us and loves us, we are traveling down a dangerous road which will lead us to ignore the rest of the Commandments. We understand that perfect joy rests in being faithful to the teachings of Jesus.
We enjoyed special treats, and made a poster with our picture on it which is in the Holy Family Room. We promised to meet again next September.
Another very unique part of our group: A parent of children in the primary grades attended each of the sessions. One of the parents, Tony Lovins, acted as facilitator of the primary group while the upper grades met in another room. Kim Vogeler stated that she learned some things while she worked with her son, Josh. Sounds like we will repeat this parent and child program next year. It is like a community home school and works because there is a regular time to work with your child among friends. We hope more families will join us next year.
Weekly Reflection for April 21, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Saint Mark, the Evangelist
On Thursday, April 25, we celebrate the feast of St. Mark the Evangelist. The first reading for Mass on this day seems appropriate for our reflection. It is from 1Peter 5:5-11
Beloved: Clothe yourselves with humility in your dealings with one another, for: “God opposes the proud but bestows favor on the humble.”
So humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you. Be sober and vigilant. Your opponent the Devil is prowling around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in faith, knowing that your brothers and sisters throughout the world undergo the same sufferings. The God of all grace who called you to his eternal glory through Christ Jesus will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you after you have suffered a little. To him be dominion forever. Amen
Weekly Reflection for April 14, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Mystagogy
Now that the Easter Vigil is over and our recent RCIA elect are baptized, confirmed and in full communion with us, we enter into the period of Mystagogy which is the final step in the RCIA process. One definition of mystagogy is to “lead into the mysteries.” We focus on the meaning of the liturgy, which helps us to perceive the depths of what we do and what God does for us.
For those just baptized at the Easter Vigil, the period of mystagogy draws them deeper into the mystery of the sacraments they have received, especially the Eucharist they now take part in. The RCIA team meets with the “neophytes” on a regular basis to continue on the journey and to ascertain that these new members feel welcome as active members of the community and share in all the aspects of the parish community life. They will continue to grow in their knowledge and love of God, as will the rest of us. Getting to know God is a lifelong process for all of us.
Weekly Reflection for April 7, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
The Annunciation
Since March 25th came in Holy Week this year, we will celebrate the Annunciation of the Lord on Monday, April 8th. We will hear Luke tell of the visit of the Angel Gabriel to Mary in the town of Nazareth.
As Mary hears of God’s plan for her to conceive and bear a son by the power of the Most High who will be called the Son of God, she certainly had questions and concerns. However, she submitted to the will of God, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Thus, because of her faith and trust in the Lord, the journey began for our redemption and promise of eternal life.
Weekly Reflection for March 31, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Saint Mother Theodore Geurin, S.P.
The April saint for our Year of Faith is Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, S.P, missionary and foundress of the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. Theodore Guerin was born October 2, 1784 in Etables, France. At the age of ten, she received her First Holy Communion and announced to the parish priest that she would one day be a nun. At the age of 25, she fulfilled this statement, entering the order of the Sisters of Providence of Ruille-sur-Loir, whose mission it was to educate children and to care for the poor, sick and dying.
While serving at the convent, Theodore was asked to lead a small band of missionary sisters to Indiana in the United States of America. When the sisters arrived, there was only a log cabin with a porch that served as a chapel. Though her health was suffering, Theodore fell to this new task with a will. By the time she died in 1856, Mother Theodore had opened schools in Illinois and throughout Indiana. The sisters were well-established and respected.
Through illness, poverty and all manner of unwelcoming circumstances, she trusted in God’s providence and lived as a model of belief in his mercy. She was canonized in 2006, and is known as the patron saint of Indianapolis.
This is posted on the United States Conference of
Catholic Bishops website.
Weekly Reflection for March 24, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Holy Week
My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?
Philippians 2:6-11 Luke 22:14—23:56
In Matthew we hear the familiar words of the Passion story. Isaiah, in a reading about the suffering servant, declares, “The Lord is my help.” Jesus says the words of the psalm of the day, “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?” Paul tells us that Jesus was exalted by God and given the name above all other names.
Can I come to praise God even in my sufferings? The first step is to trust God. Trust is a decision. This week I will look at my life and decide where I need to trust God. I will make that decision and commitment, and make it again, and again, and again, as often and for as long as I need to for it to become a habitual way of thinking. Yes, the Lord is my help.
(Offered by Ministry Resource)
Weekly Reflection for March 17, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Fifth Sunday of Lent: Openness
The Lord has done great things for us: we are filled with joy.
Phillipians 3:8-14, John 8:1-11
Jesus enjoins the women in the Gospels, and us, "Do not sin anymore." Jesus asks her to change. Isaiah tells us that the Lord is doing something new. Paul declares that he has given up everything in order to be possessed by Christ.
What is keeping me from belonging entirely to Christ? What should I refrain from doing so that God can do something new in me? What stands in my way?
This week I will open myself to God's possibilities. I will take time to sit quietly and ask God what I need to do to achieve openness to God's plan. I will trust that the Lord will do great things for me and fill me with joy.
(Offered by Ministry Resources)
Weekly Reflection for March 10, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Year of Faith Saint for March:
Saint Katharine Drexel, S.B.S.
When she asked Pope Leo XIII to send more missionaries to
Wyoming, he asked her, "Why don't you become a missionary?" As a young, wealthy, educated girl from Philadelphia, this was hardly the expected lifestyle for young Katharine Drexel. But raised in a devout family with a deep sympathy for the poor, Katharine gave up everything to become a missionary to the Indians and African Americans. She founded schools in thirteen states for African Americans, forty mission centers and twenty-three rural schools. She also established fifty missions for Indians in sixteen different states. She died at the age of ninety-six and was canonized in the year 2000. This report is posted on the website of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. For more information, visit the website: www.usccb.org
Fourth Sunday of Lent: Reconciliation
The so-called prodigal son insulted his father and disgraced himself and his family. When he returned to ask for forgiveness, he found his father more than ready for reconciliation. His father came running to greet him offering complete forgiveness and reconciliation. God is like that. During the Our Father we pray that we may be forgiven as we forgive others. Is there someone to whom I need to be reconciled? This week, I will make the first steps to offer forgiveness and to seek reconciliation with someone from whom I feel estranged. I will model the welcoming forgiveness of God to them.
(Used with permission of Ministry Resources)
Weekly Reflection for March 3, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Third Week of Lent: Repentance
God sent Moses to rescue God’s people in Egypt. The psalm reminds us that “God is kind and merciful,” and wants good for us. We must not desire that which is evil and not of God. Jesus urges us to repentance.
This week I will look at one fault I would like to correct and take steps to break that habit. To accomplish this, I will focus on building a good habit that is the opposite. I will be patient with myself because “The Lord is kind and merciful.” I will remind myself of that daily, repent my failures, and keep trying.
(Offered via Resource Publications for use in our bulletin)
Weekly Reflection for February 24, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Second Week of Lent: Imitation
Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18
Psalm 27:1, 7-9, 13-14
The Lord is my light and my salvation.
Philippians 3:17-4:1 Luke 9:28b-36
St Paul encourages us to stand firm in the Lord and to follow the example of Jesus. In the story of the Transfiguration, no less than God the Father, as a voice from a cloud, commands that we listen to Jesus.
Who is Jesus for me? Do I take him as a model for my actions and imitate him? Can others see Jesus in me? This week I will pay close attention to my actions, repeating the words of the psalm, “Lord, you are my light and my salvation,” and asking: Is this what you would have me do? Will others see your presence in my action?
Copied with permission
Weekly Reflection for February 17, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Be With Me, Lord
I was introduced to reflections for the Sunday readings for Lent and I have permission to share them with our faith community. So, this I will do for the Lenten season. There are bookmarks with this reflection in the rack as you enter the church off the parking lot. Take one if you like.
Reliance on God:
Deuteronomy 26:4-10
Psalm 91:1-2, 10-15
Be with me, Lord, when I am in trouble
Romans 10:8-13
Luke 4:1-13
The Israelites’ psychological backdrop was their salvation from slavery in Egypt. The psalm response reflects their cry, “Be with me, Lord, when I am in trouble.” Paul tells the Romans to call on the name of the Lord to be saved. Jesus in the desert, hungry, alone, and facing temptation, relied on God for strength.
Can I admit that I need God for my strength? What troubles might I need God’s help with right now? This week I will work on forming a habit of acknowledging my dependence on God and pray the psalm response daily: “Be with me, Lord, when I am in trouble.”
Weekly Reflection for February 10, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
World Day of the Sick
I was looking through the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops to see what they have to say about the World Day of the Sick which is Monday, February 11 and is celebrated annually on the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, this same day. It is comforting to know that the entire Church, including the Pope, will remember our sick in a special way on this day.
As I moved on to the Vatican website, I found Pope Benedict’s message to us for this year’s World Day of the Sick. Some excerpts from this: “You have been called by Christ and are his living and transparent image,” he said, quoting from a message delivered by fathers of the Second Vatican Council in 1965, “to the Poor, the Sick and the Suffering.” The Gospel of the Good Samaritan is just one of the many accounts that show how Jesus expected his disciples to be toward others, especially those in need, the pope said.
As we begin the Lenten season, we the sound of body and spirit can comfort the sick, being the Good Samaritan we are called to be while the sick, whose prayers are so pleasing to God, can lift up the healthy among us to God, praying that we are doing His will.
Weekly Reflection for February 3, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
St. Rose Duchesne
The Year of Faith saint for February is St. Rose Phillippine Duchesne who was born August 29, 1852 in Grenoble, France. She became a
novice in a contemplative order at age 18 but returned home during the French revolution to care for prisoners. Later, in 1804, she and her companions were received into the Society of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Fourteen years later she was sent to the Louisiana territory to help the bishop educate and evangelize the Indian and French children. She founded the first house of the Society of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in this new country. By 1828, she had founded six houses which were schools for young women from Kansas and Missouri. At age 72, she moved to help at a school for the Potawatomi at Sugar Creek Kansas.
It was a long held desire in her heart to serve the Indian people. Her long hours of contemplation earned her to be named Quah-kah-ka-num-ad, which means "Woman-Who-Prays-Always". After about a year, her poor health required her to return to St. Charles where she continued her special love for the missions and the Indian people in her contemplative life of prayer. She died at age 83 on November 18, 1852.
Weekly Reflection for January 27, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Rediscover Catholicism
Last Tuesday, we had our first gathering to discuss the Rediscover Catholicism book written by Matthew Kelly which was recommended to us by Archbishop Schnurr. One group met at 10:00 a.m. and the other met at 7:00 p.m. We watched a couple of messages from the Archdiocese via DVD and began to review and discuss the material on hand. It was agreed by both groups that they will meet on the third Tuesday of the month through August and follow the plan as noted in the St. Margaret Mary winter newsletter. It is not too late to join us. Just read Chapters 1 to 5 in the book and come to either the morning or evening session. We hope to maintain a time frame of one hour for these meetings.
The next meeting for our Tuesday groups is on February 19 in Room 20 of the Parish Center. Among the many advantages you will receive is that you will be called to “live with passion and purpose and become a better version of yourself” as you look to find the purpose God has for you on this earth. You can continue on a life long search to better know and love God who has such unconditional love for you.
If you are a part of a small group that meets on another day and time and want to take advantage of this program for your particular group, call the Faith Formation Office 729-0222 or email wmcglasson@fuse.net. We will give you the information you need. Also, copies of Rediscover Catholicism are available if you did not get one at Christmas Mass.
Weekly Reflection for January 20, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Pray for our Confirmandi
This Sunday, at the 10:30 Mass, we recognize and bless our candidates for Confirmation. They have begun the preparation for this Sacrament which they will receive April 9 at St. Peter in Chains Cathedral. At St. Margaret Mary, the preparation includes students age 12 or older. They participate in a faith formation program that includes participation by the parents/guardian and a Confirmation sponsor. For the candidates, Confirmation completes the reception of the Sacraments of Initiation which are Baptism, First Eucharist and Confirmation. While the parents/guardian and godparent spoke for them earlier in their life at their Baptism, they will now “confirm” this promise as they proclaim their faith, are anointed with Chrism and experience the laying on of hands by the bishop. Please keep them in your prayers.
Weekly Reflection for January 13, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Rite of Acceptance
RCIA: The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) is the process by which those who wish to join the Catholic faith community are
welcomed and introduced to the beliefs and practices of the Church. For those not yet baptized, this process leads to an Easter Vigil where they receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. Those who have been previously baptized in another Christian tradition are invited to participate fully in the Church through the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist.
This year, we have one inquirer for whom we have planned the Rite of Acceptance this Sunday at the 10:30 Mass. She will then enter into the Catechumenate for more studies where she and the RCIA team will meet weekly to help her discern her readiness for Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. We will keep you posted on our progress. Please keep her in your prayers.
Weekly Reflection for January 6, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, S.C. has been chosen for January in this Year of Faith. She was born Elizabeth Ann Bayley on August 28, 1774 in New York City. She practiced the Episcopalian faith, and married William Magee Seton at age 19. Together they had five children.
Inspired by the St. Vincent DePaul Society, Elizabeth helped organize the Ladies of Charity who visited the sick poor and helped them in any way they could. William suffered severe losses in his business and was forced into bankruptcy and then became ill and died leaving Elizabeth in poverty with the five children to raise alone.
Elizabeth had a great love of the Eucharist and eventually converted to Catholicism in 1805. With the support of the Sulpician Fathers she established St. Joseph Academy and Free School for Catholic girls, all while continuing to support her children. She later started a religious community dedicated to the care of children of the poor. The order was named the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph and Elizabeth was called Mother Seton. Many schools, hospitals, orphanages and elder care centers are the result of the work of Mother Seton and her followers, the Sisters of Charity, which is how we know them today.
Elizabeth died in 1841 at the age of 46 and was canonized September 14, 1975 by Pope Paul VI. She is the first native born citizen of the United States to be canonized.
Weekly Reflection for December 30, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
A Model Family
This Sunday we celebrate the feast of the Holy Family; Jesus, Mary and Joseph. They have provided a model family for us to imitate in our own lives. Mary was the loving mother who nurtured and cared for her son; Joseph, the protecting father, who provided for the family needs; Jesus, an obedient child who honored and respected his parents. We do not know a lot about their daily lives other than the trip by Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem to register, the birth of Jesus, presentation at the temple, the flight into Egypt, and the return to Nazareth where Jesus "grew and became strong, filled with wisdom" (Luke 2:40).
When the family went to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover, Jesus, age 12, did not join the group for the return home. When his parents realized this, they returned to Jerusalem to find him in the temple sitting among the teachers. He returned to Nazareth and "was obedient to them" (his parents) (Luke 2:51). "And Jesus increased in wisdom and years and in divine and human favor" (Luke 2:52).
It seems that we can relate to some of the experiences of their family life. They were faithful to their beliefs and practices. They had some frightening times, including a typical teen age failure to keep his parents informed of his whereabouts. They had good times and they enjoyed and celebrated the life given to them.
Weekly Reflection for December 23, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Our Gift of Faith
The New Evangelization that we are hearing and reading so much about begins with Pope Paul VI’s Encyclical, On Evangelization in the
Modern World,1975. This topic was much discussed by Pope John Paul II. Pope Benedict XVI, also seeing the need for this, called for an International Synod on the New Evangelization.
Now as we move through this Year of Faith, we will be reminded that, by our baptism, we are called to proclaim the Good News of Jesus. We strive to live a Christian life which can encourage those around us to do the same. As we grow in faith by our participation in Mass, personal prayer, acts of kindness, practicing the Greatest Commandment: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your being, with all your strength, and with all your mind and your neighbor as yourself,” (Luke 10:27) we will feel the call to share our faith with others.
As we work, study, play, entertain, visit friends, opportunities will present themselves for us to evangelize by the choices we make, how we treat others, the priorities we hold precious in our lives. God has blessed us with this gift of faith. Let’s nourish it and pass it on.
Weekly Reflection for December 16, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Forming Our Faith
In this "Year of Faith", our bishops, priests and faith leaders will offer many ways for us to enhance and support our relationship with God
and with each other. As we strive to be more welcoming to each other and to those who cross our paths, we will be offered opportunities to think about why we are here in this time and place and what specific plan God has for us individually and as a community.
One program, Christ at the Center, has a home edition of prayers and reflections for the Advent / Christmas season. Copies of this were available at out Pastoral Region Advent Penance Service last Tuesday. There are copies in the bookrack in the vestibule off the parking lot entrance. Get your family and friends together for a discussion of the Reading for the Sunday, ponder the reflection and consider how you apply all this in your life.
At the bottom of the Gospel Reading’s page, there is a web site describing the poverty of the people in Kenya. The following is from this page. In Meru, Kenya thousands of orphans and abandoned children live in unspeakable conditions on the streets, the victims of gross poverty and the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The Children’s Village is the inspiration of Fr. Francis Limo Riwa who in 1999 began to rescue orphaned and abandoned street children. Today the Children’s Village is home, family and school to more than 750 children, living on two campuses: the St. Clare Girls’ Centre and St. Francis Boys’ Home. Fr. Riwa answered God’s call in his time and place.
Weekly Reflection for December 9, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Our Lady of Guadalupe
On December 9, 1531, a 57-year-old Aztec, Juan Diego, saw the Blessed Mother on a hill in Mexico City. She told Juan to have a church built in her honor. When Juan went to ask Bishop Zumarraga about this, the bishop did not understand the Indian dialect—and he did not believe in the vision Juan described. Three days later, on December 12, Mary appeared again to Juan Diego, and this time she gave him a sign for the bishop. “Take these roses to the bishop,” she said, as she arranged in his cloak beautiful roses she had Juan Diego pick from the hillside although it was winter. When he was admitted into the bishop's room, Juan Diego opened his cloak, and out dropped the roses. On the cloak there remained an image of Mary as she had appeared to Juan Diego. Mary appeared to Juan Diego dressed as an Aztec woman to show her love & compassion to an oppressed group of people. Mary had heard the prayers & pain of these people, and she came to give them hope. Mary's visit to Guadalupe is a reminder that God will remember his mercy for all people. People honor Our Lady of Guadalupe because they recognize her motherly concern for them. She is Patroness of the Americas. Her feast day is December 14.
Reprinted with permission from Loyola Press.
Weekly Reflection for December 2, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Saint John Neumann
When I offered St. Frances Xavier Cabrini in one of my articles last month, I was not aware of the fact that she is honored during the Year
of Faith for the month of November. For the month of December, we have St. John Neumann, born in Bohemia March 28, 1811. John was denied ordination because there was an over-abundance of priests in Europe. He eventually traveled all the way from Bohemia to New York City where there was a shortage of priests and he was ordained on June 25, 1836 and then assigned to upper New York until 1842. He then joined the Redemptorists and was assigned to Baltimore MD. He became an American citizen February 10, 1848.
After his ordination as bishop in 1852, he was assigned to Philadelphia where he became the founder of the first diocesan Catholic School system, going from only two schools to one hundred. He is also credited with establishing a Diocesan schedule for 40 Hours Devotion. He established the Third Order of Sisters of St. Francis in 1854.
He was a humble man, and worked tirelessly to visit homes and teach wherever people gathered. He was fluent in Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch and Gaelic. His ability to relate to others enabled him to pastor his flock in a wonderful and loving way. He died of a stroke on January 5, 1860. He was canonized by Pope Paul VI in 1977.
Weekly Reflection for November 25, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
We Belong Together
I read an article in the November issue of the Liguorian written by Dr. Timothy Mullner titled We Belong Together. He remembers the days
of his childhood when his parents greeted people who knocked on the door with, “Hi, how are you. Do you need something to eat?” He remembers the hospitality of those days flooded with visits to each other’s homes, school activities and Catholic life.
It was certainly simpler than the times in which we now live. There were no cell phones, no texting, and no internet with all of its social media. People actually spoke face to face, visited and supported each other. Catholics attended Sunday Mass, cherished the Eucharist because they believed that by receiving Holy Communion, they were called to become what they received. This gave them the desire, will and strength to be a community of believers who understand and cherish this wonderful gift of faith.
I will try to get copies of this article for anyone who would like to read the entire thing or you can borrow my copy of the Liguorian.
Weekly Reflection for November 18, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Year of Faith at St.MM
As we continue to avail ourselves of the many offerings from the Vatican and our Archdiocese offices during this Year of Faith, we consider the Advent/Christmas Evangelization (ACE) which is presented to us from Archbishop Schnurr. We will have many ways to consider this call to evangelization and renewal of our personal faith life during this coming year. We will hear a message from the Archbishop, himself, next weekend. By our baptism we are called to evangelize and live the Christian life.
Life will be very busy here at St. Margaret Mary in the coming months and we need everyone’s help. Most of us have a relative, friend or neighbor who, for whatever reason, does not join us on a regular basis for Sunday Mass. When the opportunity presents itself, you can offer encouragement and an invitation to them to join us on Sundays and to attend our other parish gatherings. Then pray for them, and ourselves, that Christ will be first in our lives as we enter into a spirit of renewal in this upcoming year and for years to come.
We are truly blessed to have the gift of faith which needs constant nourishing to bring us as close to God as we can be.
Weekly Reflection for November 11, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini
November 13 is the feast day of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini. She was born on July 15, 1850 in Italy. While working in an orphanage in Italy, she began an order of the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart. She dreamed of going to China but Pope Leo XIII told her she needed to go west. Mother Frances Cabrini arrived in New York with six other sisters in 1889. After finding so many boys and girls whose parents had died, she sought permission from the Archbishop to start an orphanage.
She had complete trust in God always trusting the food and shelter would be provided for her sisters and the children. She is responsible for inspiring the building of many schools, hospitals and orphanages.
Mother Cabrini traveled back and forth from the United States to Italy, her homeland. While working to establish more schools, orphanages and hospitals in the United States, she returned to Italy to oversee the training of novices and to identify leaders within her community. In 1909, she took the oath of allegiance to the United States, becoming a citizen of this country. She traveled all over the United States and South America, offering help and advice in establishing various institutions. She was a friend of three popes and very influential and successful in the many ventures of her life. Her particular passion was for young children and people in need.
A sudden heart attack ended her life on December 22, 1917. She was canonized on July 7, 1946 making her the first American citizen to be proclaimed a saint. She is the patron saint of immigrants.
Weekly Reflection for November 4, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Saint Luke
As we enter into the month of November, we find just three more Sundays in this liturgical year. On December 2, we begin a new
liturgical year with the season of Advent. This also begins Year C of our three year cycle with most Gospel readings coming from Luke during this time.
Luke traveled with St. Paul and was his loyal friend. He knew Peter and other leaders of the early church. He was well educated, a physician by trade and well-traveled. He was a Greek, not a Jew. His Gospel is the longest. Added to that, he is given credit for writing the Acts of the Apostles. With his physician background, we can expect to hear even more of the compassion, mercy and healing powers of Jesus during this Year C. St. Luke died sometime around 84 AD. His feast day is October 18.
Weekly Reflection for October 21, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Serve Others and Be Great!
This week, we have readings that are very encouraging. Isaiah in his prophetic way reminds us of Jesus whose suffering and death bore the guilt of our sins, justified us and assured us of eternal life. Paul tells us to approach the throne of God for mercy and the grace we need for timely help. Then we can strive to live a life pleasing to Him. We get some direction from Jesus in today’s Gospel.
Jesus tells us that in order to be great, we must be a servant to others. Some ways of serving others is by following the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy. The following is my break down of these guidelines:
• We offer food, drink, clothes and other necessities to those in need. • We help the homeless find shelter, visit the sick, support the prison ministry, reverence the lives of those who have died and support the grieving families and friends.
• We evangelize our family, friends and neighbors, offer a listening ear and support to those in doubt, befriend and give hope to those who have lost their way on their journey of faith, bear wrongs patiently, forgive offenses willingly, comfort the sick, pray for the living and the dead.
If you check out our parish ministries, you will find parishioners who focus on one or more of these works. If you join just one of them, you will be a servant indeed and your reward will be in the grace you experience by your action. If you need help in identifying any of these, I will be happy to direct you. Call 729-0222 or email me at wmcglasson@fuse.net
We follow Jesus who came not to be served but to serve.
Weekly Reflection for October 14, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Feast of our Patroness
October 16 is the feast of Saint Margaret Mary, the patron saint of our parish. She was born in France in 1647 to Claude and Philiberte
Alacoque who were righteous people of modest means. Saint Margaret Mary had a great love for the Blessed Sacrament from an early age. In her young life, she suffered a paralysis which confined her to bed for a period of four years. Her devotion to the Blessed Virgin is credited with her restoration to health after that time. In her youth, she spent a few years working with the poor and enjoying a social life. At age 24 she entered the Visitation Convent at Paray. She had many visions which gave her direction at various stages of her life and led to a devotion to the Sacred Heart. She established the practice of receiving Holy Communion on the first Friday of the month, something that is still honored by many of us. She suffered many illnesses in her lifetime with cures attributed to her devotion to Christ. She died October 17, 1690 and was canonized by Pope Benedict XV in 1920. St. Margaret Mary Parish was established this same year with the first Mass being celebrated by Fr. Joseph Albers on December 5, 1920.
The Twelve Promises, made through St. Margaret Mary to families who honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus...
1. I will give them all the graces necessary for their state of life.
2. I will establish peace in their families.
3. I will bless every house in which the picture of My Heart shall be exposed and honored.
4. I will console them in all their difficulties.
5. I will be their refuge during life and especially at the hour of death.
6. I will shed abundant blessing upon all their undertakings.
7. Sinners shall find in My Heart a fountain and boundless ocean of mercy.
8. Tepid souls shall become fervent.
9. Fervent souls shall rise speedily to great perfection.
10. I will give to priests the power of touching the hardest hearts.
11. Those who propagate this devotion shall have their names written in My Heart never to be blotted out.
12. I promise thee, in the excessive mercy of My Heart, that My all-powerful love will grant to all who communicate on the first Friday of the month for nine consecutive months, the grace of final penitence; they shall not die in My displeasure nor without their sacraments; My Divine Heart shall be safe refuge in this last moment.
Weekly Reflection for October 7, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Like a Child
In the midst of our readings this week, Mark writes that Jesus expresses his love of children, stating that “the kingdom of God
belongs to such as these” and advises us to “accept the kingdom of God like a child” as he embraces and blesses them. Like children, we offer ourselves in total dependence upon and obedience to the Gospel. Matthew has a similar story of Jesus calling us to become like children, to be humble. Matthew 18:4-5. As we accept this call to obedience and humility, our lives become more orderly and peaceful and we can be sure that the God who loves us and calls us to be with him eternally will be with us always and in all ways during our life on this earth.
Weekly Reflection for September 30, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Remembering Francis of Assisi
On Thursday, October 4, we celebrate the feast of St. Francis of Assisi. He was born in Italy in 1181 and died in 1226. His father was
wealthy and young Francis enjoyed the good things of life. As a young soldier, he had a change of heart and returned back to Assisi. He gave up his lavish lifestyle, and began to live in poverty, begging with beggars. As he preached on the streets, he attracted many followers and eventually founded the men’s Franciscan Order, later the women’s Order of St. Clare and eventually the Third order of St. Francis (for lay people), now called the Secular Order of St. Francis.
Although he was a great leader and a holy man, he was never ordained as a priest. He is given credit for the first Christmas manger scene. He is well known, and admired even among other faiths. His love and respect for nature has earned him a special place in the hearts of ecologists. He was a joyful person even though he suffered many illnesses and sorrows in his lifetime. He bore the wounds of Christ on his hands (the stigmata) which bound his devotion to Jesus even closer. A couple of familiar hymns that reflect his life are: Canticle of the Sun and the Prayer of St. Francis which starts with “Make me a Channel of Your Peace...” Many men and women continue to follow his way of life even today in the Franciscan orders for priests and brothers, consecrated women and lay people. He is remembered as a peace maker, comforter, and a true servant of humanity and of God.
Weekly Reflection for September 23, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Honoring Our Catechists
Last weekend we honored our catechists, those who teach and proclaim the faith in various ways. They may be preparing a couple for marriage, teaching in Vacation Bible School, CCD, CLOW, RCIA, or be part of the Faith Formation Team or Youth Ministry. Those involved with our children are supporting the parents and guardians who are the primary catechists of their children. As we blessed and recognized the catechists, we also blessed the parents and guardians for their very important part in this endeavor. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, older siblings and our own faith community can have a positive influence and a support in this endeavor. We offered a prayer card and spiritual book to the catechists in thanksgiving for their efforts. There is also a prayer card for the parents and guardians. If you did not pick one up at the entrances, last week-end, you can find one in the shelves at the church entrance by the tabernacle and parish office doors off the parking lot. Please take one. Remember, a very important part of teaching is in the example we give. Children tend to mimic the adults they admire for good or bad.
Weekly Reflection for September 16, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Recognizing Our Jewish Roots
This Sunday evening begins the celebration of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year which is observed for a two day period remembering the creation of Adam & Eve. It recognizes the special relationship between God and humanity and our dependence on God as our creator.
God also depends on humanity to make his presence known and felt in the world. The shofar, ram’s horn, is sounded and is also a call to repentance as we recognize man’s first sin and his repentance. Ten days follow which ends with Yom Kippur on September 26, the Day of Atonement and is the major fast of the year at which time Jews seek forgiveness from anyone they have wronged.
These high holy days are very important to the Jewish faith and are surrounded with many rituals, prayers and special gatherings. It is easy to see some resemblance to our Christian faith and practices as we take note of the Jewish religion into which Jesus was born and in which we have roots.
Weekly Reflection for September 9, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
September Starts It All
September brings us back from summer celebrations and times of relaxation to a call to get back to the mainstream of our life. School has started. Programs, information sessions, meetings and other activities in the community, parish and our home are calling us.
At St. Margaret Mary, some of our time will focus on the Year of Faith, ACE and VIRTUS. We want to welcome Catholics who have not been with us lately to come back and be a part of our community. We also welcome anyone who wonders what we are all about to come to an RCIA inquiry session.
We will introduce the recently implemented Protecting God’s Children program. CCD classes and CLOW begin this month. We have meetings scheduled for parents and students regarding Sacraments of Initiation. We honor our parishioners who have shared their faith in various ways on Catechetical Sunday. We remember Mary’s birthday on September 8th.
Do you know what all the above acronyms mean? Watch the upcoming bulletins. Reference will certainly be made to them over the next few weeks. Try to make room in your life for at least some of our fall activities. Read the bulletin; check us out on our website and Facebook. There is a lot going on in our community life and we need everyone to help keep us going. Call the Parish Office 521-7387 and you will be directed to someone to give you more information on your area of interest.
Weekly Reflection for September 2, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Be Doers of the Word
This week, James tells us to, “be doers of the Word, not hearers only.” Our personal prayers, times of reflection, Mass attendance, etc. should naturally lead us to the Greatest Commandment, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind....You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 22: 38-39.
As we read and hear the Word of God each week, we can apply this call from Jesus to not only keep the Commandments but to recognize the afflictions and needs of those around us and to lovingly offer them friendship and assistance in their time of need. Need some ideas? Check St. Vincent DePaul Society, the Archdiocese Social Action, pay attention to your friend, neighbor, family member. I bet someone you know could use your ear to listen, a lawn mowed, a trip to the store, etc., etc.
Weekly Reflection for August 26, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
St. John the Baptist
On Wednesday of this week, we remember the Passion of St. John the Baptist. This cousin of Jesus, six months older than him, spent his life preaching and calling people to prepare the way of the Lord. He is considered the forerunner and precursor of Jesus. He spent his time in the desert and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Jesus, himself, was baptized by John at which time God the Father revealed to all present that Jesus is the Son of God.
On the feast day of this Wednesday, we recall the story of John’s allegiance to God and His Commandments when he said to Herod that it was not lawful for him to marry his brother’s wife. While Herod was fearful of John, his unlawful wife, Herodias held a grudge against John. She had her opportunity to take out her revenge when Herod promised her daughter that he would give her whatever she asked as a reward for her performance of a dance. The daughter asked her mother, Herodias, what she should request and the response was the head of John the Baptist who was in prison at that time. Herod felt he could not refuse since he made the promise in the presence of his guests. Thus John was beheaded and his head was placed on a silver platter and given to the girl who gave it to her mother.
Isn’t it interesting that Herod felt compelled to honor Herodias’s daughter’s request that he knew was wrong, and could not bring himself to do the right thing; deny her request and tell her to ask for something else, all because he did not want to look bad in the presence of his friends? This gives us pause for thought on how we handle decisions in our life. Do we back off or do things to impress others even when we know it is wrong in the eyes of God?
Weekly Reflection for August 19, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Spread the Good News of the Lord
This weekend it seems to me that, in the Book of Wisdom, we are invited to understand the will of God. In the gospel, Jesus tells
us that he is the living bread which will give us eternal life. What an appropriate time to think of our own journey of faith, focusing on the meaning of these words and reflecting on the wonderful gift of the Eucharist.
It is also a great time to do some evangelization. Do you know anyone who seems to be searching for a meaning in life, who wonders about the God we worship? Would you consider taking the time to speak with this person (friend, relative or neighbor)? Would you take time to explain your joy of being a part of our Catholic community? Invite this person to look into the inquiry sessions of the Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA) (no strings attached). If, after hearing our story, the individual wants to continue to study more, he/she can continue as long as he/she likes. If eventually there is a desire for Baptism (if not already baptized) and communion with our church, we can all celebrate at an Easter Vigil when new members are baptized and make a profession of faith.
Remember, you are called by your baptism to spread the good news. If someone you know wants more information on RCIA, ask him/her to call me at 729-0222 or email me at wmcglasson@fuse.net.
Weekly Reflection for August 12, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Saint Maximilian Kolbe, Imitator of God
We read Paul’s letter this weekend that calls us to be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love. We then think of St. Maximilian
Kolbe whose feast day is this Tuesday, August 14th. Maximilian, a Franciscan priest was born in Poland January 8, 1894. He is well known for the shelter he gave thousands of Christian and Jews during the Second World War. He was eventually arrested and sent to prison, then to Auschwitz. He secretly ministered to the prisoners and sometimes went without food as he waited until last to eat. When ten men were chosen to die by starvation in an underground pit in retaliation for one prisoner escaping, Fr. Kolbe stepped forward and offered to take the place of a man who had a wife and children waiting for his return from the war. Fr. Kolbe spent his time with the nine other men leading them in song and prayer. After two weeks, Fr. Kolbe was the only one still alive and he was executed by an injection and his body was burned with the other prisoners. The man he saved eventually returned to his wife and children. What a timely example for this reading of Paul who calls us to be kind to one another and compassionate. Fr. Kolbe was canonized in 1982.
Weekly Reflection for August 5, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Our Trip to the Basilica
On Thursday, July 26, the feast of St. Joachim and St. Anne, who are honored as the parents of the Blessed Virgin, a small group of
parishioners, young and old, visited St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption. We attended the 9:30 am Mass and then toured the Basilica.
The exterior is magnificent, reminding us of Notre Dame. The Stations are in mosaic art. The shrines, devotional spots and organs add a sacred ambiance to the church. At the Mass, we noticed a little more conservative slant with no holding hands during the Our Father and no hand shake of peace.
The homily reflected the feast day and we enjoyed hearing the background that identifies St. Joachim and St. Anne as the parents of Mary. Even though we know very little of Mary’s childhood, we do know these parents were exceptional and we honor them as holy parents. They were also the grandparents of Jesus. What an awesome privilege!
A brochure is on display at the PYO board for your review. By the way, if the Pope comes to visit us in Cincinnati, he will stay at this Basilica in Covington. You should visit it when you have the opportunity.
Weekly Reflection for July 29, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
One Body, One Spirit
As I read Paul’s reference to one body and one Spirit in today’s reading, I looked further in his letter where he refers to the body of Christ into which we should grow in every way (verse 15). We are all one body with Christ as the head.
Paul calls us to live worthy of the call we have received as we love one another and strive to preserve unity of the spirit through the bond of peace. We have one Lord, one baptism, one God of all. This brings to mind the Communion of Saints to which we all belong. We proclaim our belief in the Communion of Saints which includes the faithful on earth, the souls in purgatory and the saints in heaven every week end as we recite the Creed. The church living and dead are part of the same Mystical Body of Christ and Communion of Saints as we, the living are.
As our loved ones leave this earth we believe they go through a stage of purification and then join the saints in heaven. Since they remain a part of the Body of Christ and Communion of Saints after death, they remain connected to us who are also part of this same Body of Christ and the Communion of Saints. The practice of praying for them is wonderful and well established among the faithful on earth. Be assured that they are praying for us as well.
Weekly Reflection for July 22, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Turn Off the Cell Phone
This week we hear the prophecy of Jeremiah that assures us that God will raise up a righteous shoot to David which we will know as Jesus. Paul tells us that this Messiah preached peace to us and calls us to be one in the Father. In the Gospel the apostles report to Jesus on what they have done and taught.
These readings are concerned with peace, reconciliation and justice, with evangelization and spreading the Good News. As we see in the Gospel, this is a lot of work. The need for rest and rejuvenation is important. Jesus invited the apostles to “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.”
As we follow our Christian call to evangelize, to be one in Christ, we will find that spending time in a quiet place, away from all the distractions of the day is essential to our life of faith. These times of prayer, reflection and just being quiet will give us an opportunity to ponder direction on our journey of faith. Turn off the cell phone, TV, radio. The Lord will speak to us in the quiet and the Holy Spirit will renew us in remarkable ways.
Weekly Reflection for July 15, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Keep It Simple
Today’s Gospel reminds us of our call to a true Christian life. We are all expected to spread the Good News of Christ. We can do this by
living a life that is a good example to all, inviting others to join us in our faith community and being a part of social action and outreach endeavors.
Jesus sends his apostles out telling them to take nothing for the journey but a walking stick, no food, no sack, no money, no extra clothes. While very few of us would journey very far without provisions for food and overall safety, we can certainly keep it simple.
Our young folks are planning opportunities this summer to learn about other faith communities and social service groups in Cincinnati. Hopefully this will increase our knowledge of the needs of our community and our desire to live out more fully the corporal works of mercy. Any parishioner who is interested is welcome to join us.
Weekly Reflection for July 8, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
God's Grace is Sufficient
Paul’s reading and the Gospel today are among my favorites. When Paul prays for relief of the burdens that have come his way, he hears God’s response; “My grace is sufficient for you.” Sometimes when we feel overwhelmed and our troubles are many, it is good to remember that God is with us always and will not give us more than we can handle. Like Paul we accept our hardships and know that in Christ we are strong.
In the Gospel Jesus is rejected by his own neighbors, the people who knew him from childhood. We are reminded that there are times when those closest to us can be the least responsive. They wonder where you got your knowledge and ability. You are so familiar to them that they cannot see or hear what you say or do. Bring in a stranger from afar with the same message and they are astounded. This is human nature. A wise person remembers this and gets the message or deed done in whatever way it works.
Weekly Reflection for July 1, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Jesus is With Us Always
This Sunday, we hear Mark tell of the healing powers of Jesus. A woman touches his cloak and experiences immediate healing of a
long time illness. Jesus tells the woman that her faith has saved her and to go in peace. A man named Jairus pleads for the life of his daughter. By the time Jesus arrives, she is presumed dead. Jesus takes the girl by the hand and tells her to get up, which she did. In both cases, the cures were instantaneous with thanks and praise being offered to Jesus.
We can easily find the healing powers of Jesus in these stories. In today’s life, these same pleas are offered through prayer. Many in our community utilized the parish prayer chain, write their concerns in the book by the tabernacle, and share their concerns with our small faith groups and special friends. These powerful prayers bring unbelievable healing and comfort to us.
Jesus responds to our faithfulness today just as he did during his time on earth. He may respond in the form of a care taker, a friend, stranger, or personal revelation but, for sure, he is with us always, just as he promised.
Weekly Reflection for June 24, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
John the Baptist
The birth of John the Baptist was a most joyful time for Elizabeth and Zechariah. They had given up hope of a child due to their old age but
God blessed them with a most important offspring. He had already been blessed in the womb at the time of Mary’s visit to their home months before. John leaped for joy in his mother’s womb at the presence of Mary and Jesus who was in her womb.
One could imagine that Mary stayed with Elizabeth, her cousin, to help with the birth of John. Luke does not give us this information, just that Mary stayed about three months. We know John as the forerunner of Jesus, the one who would call people to repentance and obedience to God. As he baptized people, he foretold the coming of the Christ and the good news this would bring.
John lived his life in the desert, was jailed for his teachings and eventually was beheaded by Herod. John’s teaches us to bear good fruit, share what we have with those in need, be honest in our dealings with others, satisfied with our financial status, avoid greed, envy and false accusation. Basically, honor the commandments, especially the Greatest Commandment given by Jesus: Love the Lord, your God, with all you heart, all your soul and all your mind and love your neighbor as yourself. These messages from John, confirmed by Jesus, still hold today.
Weekly Reflection for June 17, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Oh Sacrament Most Holy,
Oh Sacrament Divine
Last Sunday on the feast of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, Michael Melvin, Aaron Keller, both of their mothers and I attended Mass at Old St. Mary’s where we experienced the celebration in three different languages: Latin, German and English. The Mass was a mixture of the old Latin Mass and our current Vatican II Mass. The priest faced the congregation and we recognized most of the Rite. We received Communion kneeling at the Communion rail from a priest with a choice of receiving on the tongue or in our hands; no Precious Blood. All servers and the lector were male.
At the end of Mass we had Benediction and processed outside around the city block singing and praying a Litany in honor of this special feast day. We returned to the garden at Old St. Mary’s to complete our procession and then to the church for the final prayers. We were impressed with the magnificence of the art and environment on this church and are pleased with the opportunity to worship there.
Weekly Reflection for June 10, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Corpus Christi
Today, in our Eucharistic celebration, we offer honor, praise and thanksgiving to God in a most special way, for the gift of Christ who sacrificed his body and blood for us. As we receive Jesus in Communion, we are joined to Christ and to each other as a community of believers. This spiritual food enables us to follow the footsteps of Jesus by seeing Christ in others and being Christ for others. As we proclaim and live our faith from week to week, we continue to grow in our love for God and our neighbors.
Weekly Reflection for June 3, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Feast of the Most Holy Trinity
We have many reminders of this wonderful truth of our faith which we celebrate today. Each time we make the sign of the cross, we remember Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The Nicene and Apostles Creed clearly define the Triune Deity. We often have the three persons of this one God defined as Father - Creator, Son - Redeemer and Holy Spirit - Sanctifier.
We have a better idea of Jesus, the Son, who took on a human body and walked among us. However, Jesus gave us plenty of information of the Father to whom he prayed, calling him Abba. He gave us the Lord’s Prayer and taught us how to pray to the Father. He told us about the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete, Counselor whom he would send after his ascension into Heaven.
While the Trinity remains a mystery to us, we can find great comfort in this one God, three persons, who created us, redeemed us and moves among us all the days of our lives.
Weekly Reflection for May 27, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
The Spirit Among Us
This Sunday we celebrate Pentecost which brings the Easter season to a close. This day is referred to as the birthday of the Church. The Holy Spirit, the Advocate, referred to in today’s Gospel, who had been promised to the disciples by Jesus, came and descended upon them and they were inspired to spread the good news of salvation.
This same Holy Spirit is among us and is available to those who seek his guidance. So many times the RCIA participants of the Easter Vigil will tell us that at the moment of baptism and confirmation, they experienced an awesome presence that they often cannot explain. This presence is surely the Holy Spirit descending upon them just as he did so many years ago upon the disciples.
Now these newest members of our community are finally ready to join us at the table of the Lord. They are also ready to join us as we proclaim and live our faith in our daily lives. As they become a part of our community, let’s encourage them and ourselves to consider the Gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety and wonder and awe of the Lord. There are also the Fruits of the Holy Spirit: charity, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, generosity, gentleness, faithfulness, modesty, self-control, chastity. For more information and reflection, see the Catechism of the Catholic Church1830-1845. The Spirit is moving among us.
Praise be to God.
Weekly Reflection for May 20, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Communication
One of the definitions offered by Webster is: “a process by which information is exchanged between individuals.” These days we have so many choices. We have face to face, telephone, email, regular mail, all the social medias, the internet, our parish bulletin, etc. Once we get our message out, we look for a response which usually meets with varied levels of success.
These days it can be difficult to find the best way to communicate. After making a couple phone calls on the Friday evening before Mother’s day, I decided to text all the families that I have in my cell phone asking for our youth to help offer carnations to our mothers after Mass on Mother’s day. I was amazed at the prompt response from so many families. Within seven minutes, I had the slots filled for all the Masses. This was a pleasant surprise for me and made my Friday evening free for other things.
This simple act of kindness from our youth demonstrated to our community that they do indeed honor our mothers. It also enlightened me on a new way of getting a quick response with this form of mass communication. Thanks to all who responded so quickly.
Weekly Reflection for May 13, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Love one another
This week we again hear about the love of God and love of our neighbor. It is all about relationships. We follow Jesus who loved and obeyed his Father. We love God and obey his commandments. We love our family and friends.
Now comes the hard part. Do we love those who do not show love to us? Do we love those who are different, who think differently, who are not a part of our click or culture? Do we frown on those who do not measure up to our standards, like Peter did the uncircumcised?
Have you ever been astounded, as Peter was with the Gentiles, when someone demonstrated a true measure of worth? As we continue to follow Jesus who sees the good (and the bad) in all of us, we are called to a Christianity that sees all human beings as children of God, redeemed by Jesus, and entitled to our consideration and fellowship.
Now go sit and talk to that person who is alone at the table in the corner. You may be surprised or “astounded” as Peter was when he realized that the Holy Spirit breaks all barriers.
Weekly Reflection for May 6, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
First Communion Day
What an exciting time for our young candidates. All four of our covenant parishes are celebrating First Communion this weekend. These youngsters will be dressed in special clothes selected with great care by them and their parents. The churches will be decorated with flowers of the Easter season and the music will flow with glorious praise and thanksgiving for this day. Celebrations, gifts and special meals will mark this very special occasion.
The greatest celebration and the focus of this day is in the Mass itself, when we remember the very first Eucharist at the Last Supper and the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. The First Communicants are very excited about finally coming to the table of the Lord. This first time is special to them.
May the second, third, fourth times and on bring increased joy as they begin to understand the beauty and the importance of this in their lives. And may all of us who have received the Eucharist thousands of times in our lives continue to find each time the greatest experience yet.
Weekly Reflection for April 29, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Give Thanks!
“Give thanks to the Lord, who is good, whose love endures forever” Psalm 118:1
Our Responsorial Psalm for this Sunday is taken from Psalm 118 which is a psalm of thanksgiving. During this Easter season, we have so many opportunities to express our thanksgiving; joyful music, reassuring readings, a church environment filled with lilies and other spring flowers, children in anxious anticipation of their First Communion. It brings to mind the constant formula on the lips of St. Julie Billiart, “How good is the good God.”
We are thankful for the recently Confirmed, the soon to graduate from grade school, high school, college and all those students in between. We have so much more to celebrate. We give thanks for the trials which lead us to understanding that life is a mixture joy and sorrow. We grow stronger and wiser with each experience. In looking back, many times we can see the trials as a path to some unexpected turns in the road. And then we can even more firmly give thanks to the Lord, who is good and who is always with us.
Weekly Reflection for April 22, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Always With Us
Last Sunday, two eighth grade students, their mothers and I attended Mass at the Holy Family Church in Dayton, a parish of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati staffed by the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter. The Mass and all the Sacraments are celebrated according to the extraordinary form (Latin) of the Roman Rite in a most traditional way. For me, it was a reminder of the past, before Vatican II. For the rest, it was a new experience. We will hear more about this from our eighth grade friends in the coming week or so.
Most of us celebrate Mass these days in the ordinary form (English) with the priest facing the congregation, various lay ministers assisting with readings, distribution of Communion and being led by the choir. We are actively engaged with responses to the priest and singing with the choir. Altar servers are boys and girls.
All this prompted me to dust off my St. Joseph Daily Missal from 1956 with imprimatur from Francis Cardinal Spellman which had Latin on one side and the English translation on the right side. I also have The Maryknoll Missal with imprimatur from Richard Cardinal Cushing, DD in 1965 with some changes that have the congregation singing the Gloria, reciting the Creed and responding to some prayers. And then, there is My Sunday Missal from 1938 which my dad used to follow the priest in Mass celebrations.
All these changes in the past century and the changes from the time of Jesus focus on a constant desire to offer praise and honor to God in the best possible way. I think he hears us now in our present form of prayer as he did in the forms of the past for he assured us that he is always with us. For this we are truly blessed and thankful.
Weekly Reflection for April 15, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
“Peace be with you” John 20:19
This greeting from Jesus on his first visit to the disciples after his resurrection are familiar to us. We hear this during many liturgies including the Mass. The rising from the dead completed the mission of Jesus for the salvation of our souls. Now it is up to each of us to believe and accept him as our Lord and God.
It is comforting that he says: “Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.”(John 24:29). That would be us! We do have the advantage of looking back, of reading the Gospels, Acts and other historic writings which are very convincing. Engaging in a community of faith, prayer, considering events in our daily lives and trying to understand how acceptance of the hallmark moments and the times of trial can draw us closer to God, keep us focused and know that we are truly blessed.
Weekly Reflection for April 8, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Rejoice and Be Glad!
“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice in it and be glad”. Psalm 118:24.
This was a favorite of my aunt, Sr. Mary Constantine, CPPS, now deceased. She included it in every letter and card she sent me throughout her years on this earth. How true it is this day as we celebrate the baptism of three and confirmation of one this week end. We also renew our own allegiance to our Catholic faith as we recite the Creed.
The redemption of our souls is complete as a result of the rising of Jesus from the dead. We are children of God and heirs to Heaven. Our call is to follow the teachings of Jesus and be faithful to the Gospel.
As we celebrate this most important day of our faith life, let’s remember all those in the Communion of Saints, which includes us, and follow the greatest and first commandment; “Love the Lord your God, with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind ... love your neighbor as yourself” Matt. 22:38-39.
May the joy of this Easter Day remain with you through the year.
Weekly Reflection for April 1, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
For God so love the world....
We are coming to the end of our Lenten journey. As we move through this Holy Week, we find our thoughts turning even more to the passion of Jesus. We are reminded of his great love for us and his willingness to redeem us so we can enjoy eternal life. Today, we hear of this in the Gospel according to Mark. We can recall these events as we continue through this week.
The Holy Oils will be blessed by the bishop on Tuesday evening and during this liturgy the priests of our archdiocese will once again pledge their allegiance to the Archbishop. A portion of each of the three oils from Tuesday will be brought forward in our procession on Holy Thursday and will be used in the celebration of Baptism, Confirmation and Sacrament of the Sick throughout the coming year.
We will recall the institution of the Eucharist in our Mass on Holy Thursday as we enter into the Triduum (three days). These three days mark the mystery and core of our beliefs. On Good Friday, as we pray, fast and abstain, we again listen to the passion of Jesus, this time, according to John.
This week is full of remembrances of those days of the past when Jesus followed the will of his Father, even unto death, and of the love of the Father who gave his only Son so we can be with him in eternal life. By the power of the Holy Spirit, we are led on a journey of faith this week that can be truly life changing. Let us pray that we can open our eyes, ears, mind and heart to God in our life.
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Mother's Day
This Sunday is Mother’s Day. It is a day when we honor our mothers, grandmothers and all the motherly women who have crossed our paths in life. Memories of the many blessings we have enjoyed as a result of the unconditional love from them can be over whelming. This leads us to think of Mary, the Mother of God who raised and nourished Jesus from birth to adulthood. We read in John’s Gospel, 19:26,27;
As she stood at the foot of the cross and heard her son say, “Woman, behold your son” and then to John, he said, “Behold your mother.”
At that point, as Mary accepted John as her son, so she accepted each of us as her children. Mary is the spiritual mother of all of us and just as she offers a supreme model for all women as a way of life, so she also offers all men the opportunity to be her faithful sons.
During this Month of May which we have dedicated to Mary, it would be good to honor her in a special way. We have special prayers such as the Hail Mary, Angelus, Rosary (even if we only pray a decade or two at a time) and an all-time favorite, the Memorare: Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession, was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly to you, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To you I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in your mercy, hear and answer me. Amen.
Weekly Reflection for May 5, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Saint Jozef Damien de Veuster
of Molokai, SS.CC. (1840 – 1889)
Missionary to the lepers of Molokai, Hawaii
St. Damien of Molokai was born in Belgium in 1840 to a poor farmer and his wife. At the age of 13, he quit school to help his parents on the farm; when he was nineteen, he entered the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Damien's older brother, Pamphile, was also a priest in this congregation, and had offered his service to the care of the lepers on the Island of Molokai. When he fell ill and couldn't go to the mission, Damien volunteered to take his place.
The saint offered to stay in the leper colony permanently - he built schools, churches, hospitals and coffins. He was later joined in his work by the Franciscan Sisters of Syracuse, led by St. Marianne Cope. St. Damien contracted the disease himself, but continued to serve the mission until his death on April 15, 1889 at the age of 49, after serving 16 years among the lepers. He was buried in the local cemetery under the same Pandanus tree where he had first slept upon his arrival in Molokai.
His remains were exhumed in 1936 at the request of the Belgian Government and translated to a crypt of the Church of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts at Louvain. Damien is universally known for having freely shared the life of the lepers in quarantine on the Kalaupapa Peninsula of Molokai.
Information about the Year of Faith Saint of the Month is found on the US Conference of Catholic Bishops website.
Weekly Reflection for April 28, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Reflections on CCD 2012-13
Last Sunday, we had the closing of CCD for this year. Our group was small but they were faithful in attendance and wonderful in their
participation.
At this last class, we discussed what impressed us most in our weekly lessons. One third grader responded, “The greatest commandment” in which Jesus said, “You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul and all your mind. This is the greatest and first commandment. The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. The whole law and the prophets depend on these two commandments.” One other third grader said he learned more about the Ten Commandments. The rest of the class was tongue-tied.
We focused on the First Commandment which is: Thou shalt not have other gods before me. We talked about the “other gods” that tempt us: activities that keep us from Sunday Mass, desire for power, fame, money, expensive clothes and games. If we put these and other things before the God who made us and loves us, we are traveling down a dangerous road which will lead us to ignore the rest of the Commandments. We understand that perfect joy rests in being faithful to the teachings of Jesus.
We enjoyed special treats, and made a poster with our picture on it which is in the Holy Family Room. We promised to meet again next September.
Another very unique part of our group: A parent of children in the primary grades attended each of the sessions. One of the parents, Tony Lovins, acted as facilitator of the primary group while the upper grades met in another room. Kim Vogeler stated that she learned some things while she worked with her son, Josh. Sounds like we will repeat this parent and child program next year. It is like a community home school and works because there is a regular time to work with your child among friends. We hope more families will join us next year.
Weekly Reflection for April 21, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Saint Mark, the Evangelist
On Thursday, April 25, we celebrate the feast of St. Mark the Evangelist. The first reading for Mass on this day seems appropriate for our reflection. It is from 1Peter 5:5-11
Beloved: Clothe yourselves with humility in your dealings with one another, for: “God opposes the proud but bestows favor on the humble.”
So humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you. Be sober and vigilant. Your opponent the Devil is prowling around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in faith, knowing that your brothers and sisters throughout the world undergo the same sufferings. The God of all grace who called you to his eternal glory through Christ Jesus will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you after you have suffered a little. To him be dominion forever. Amen
Weekly Reflection for April 14, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Mystagogy
Now that the Easter Vigil is over and our recent RCIA elect are baptized, confirmed and in full communion with us, we enter into the period of Mystagogy which is the final step in the RCIA process. One definition of mystagogy is to “lead into the mysteries.” We focus on the meaning of the liturgy, which helps us to perceive the depths of what we do and what God does for us.
For those just baptized at the Easter Vigil, the period of mystagogy draws them deeper into the mystery of the sacraments they have received, especially the Eucharist they now take part in. The RCIA team meets with the “neophytes” on a regular basis to continue on the journey and to ascertain that these new members feel welcome as active members of the community and share in all the aspects of the parish community life. They will continue to grow in their knowledge and love of God, as will the rest of us. Getting to know God is a lifelong process for all of us.
Weekly Reflection for April 7, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
The Annunciation
Since March 25th came in Holy Week this year, we will celebrate the Annunciation of the Lord on Monday, April 8th. We will hear Luke tell of the visit of the Angel Gabriel to Mary in the town of Nazareth.
As Mary hears of God’s plan for her to conceive and bear a son by the power of the Most High who will be called the Son of God, she certainly had questions and concerns. However, she submitted to the will of God, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Thus, because of her faith and trust in the Lord, the journey began for our redemption and promise of eternal life.
Weekly Reflection for March 31, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Saint Mother Theodore Geurin, S.P.
The April saint for our Year of Faith is Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, S.P, missionary and foundress of the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. Theodore Guerin was born October 2, 1784 in Etables, France. At the age of ten, she received her First Holy Communion and announced to the parish priest that she would one day be a nun. At the age of 25, she fulfilled this statement, entering the order of the Sisters of Providence of Ruille-sur-Loir, whose mission it was to educate children and to care for the poor, sick and dying.
While serving at the convent, Theodore was asked to lead a small band of missionary sisters to Indiana in the United States of America. When the sisters arrived, there was only a log cabin with a porch that served as a chapel. Though her health was suffering, Theodore fell to this new task with a will. By the time she died in 1856, Mother Theodore had opened schools in Illinois and throughout Indiana. The sisters were well-established and respected.
Through illness, poverty and all manner of unwelcoming circumstances, she trusted in God’s providence and lived as a model of belief in his mercy. She was canonized in 2006, and is known as the patron saint of Indianapolis.
This is posted on the United States Conference of
Catholic Bishops website.
Weekly Reflection for March 24, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Holy Week
My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?
Philippians 2:6-11 Luke 22:14—23:56
In Matthew we hear the familiar words of the Passion story. Isaiah, in a reading about the suffering servant, declares, “The Lord is my help.” Jesus says the words of the psalm of the day, “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?” Paul tells us that Jesus was exalted by God and given the name above all other names.
Can I come to praise God even in my sufferings? The first step is to trust God. Trust is a decision. This week I will look at my life and decide where I need to trust God. I will make that decision and commitment, and make it again, and again, and again, as often and for as long as I need to for it to become a habitual way of thinking. Yes, the Lord is my help.
(Offered by Ministry Resource)
Weekly Reflection for March 17, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Fifth Sunday of Lent: Openness
The Lord has done great things for us: we are filled with joy.
Phillipians 3:8-14, John 8:1-11
Jesus enjoins the women in the Gospels, and us, "Do not sin anymore." Jesus asks her to change. Isaiah tells us that the Lord is doing something new. Paul declares that he has given up everything in order to be possessed by Christ.
What is keeping me from belonging entirely to Christ? What should I refrain from doing so that God can do something new in me? What stands in my way?
This week I will open myself to God's possibilities. I will take time to sit quietly and ask God what I need to do to achieve openness to God's plan. I will trust that the Lord will do great things for me and fill me with joy.
(Offered by Ministry Resources)
Weekly Reflection for March 10, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Year of Faith Saint for March:
Saint Katharine Drexel, S.B.S.
When she asked Pope Leo XIII to send more missionaries to
Wyoming, he asked her, "Why don't you become a missionary?" As a young, wealthy, educated girl from Philadelphia, this was hardly the expected lifestyle for young Katharine Drexel. But raised in a devout family with a deep sympathy for the poor, Katharine gave up everything to become a missionary to the Indians and African Americans. She founded schools in thirteen states for African Americans, forty mission centers and twenty-three rural schools. She also established fifty missions for Indians in sixteen different states. She died at the age of ninety-six and was canonized in the year 2000. This report is posted on the website of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. For more information, visit the website: www.usccb.org
Fourth Sunday of Lent: Reconciliation
The so-called prodigal son insulted his father and disgraced himself and his family. When he returned to ask for forgiveness, he found his father more than ready for reconciliation. His father came running to greet him offering complete forgiveness and reconciliation. God is like that. During the Our Father we pray that we may be forgiven as we forgive others. Is there someone to whom I need to be reconciled? This week, I will make the first steps to offer forgiveness and to seek reconciliation with someone from whom I feel estranged. I will model the welcoming forgiveness of God to them.
(Used with permission of Ministry Resources)
Weekly Reflection for March 3, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Third Week of Lent: Repentance
God sent Moses to rescue God’s people in Egypt. The psalm reminds us that “God is kind and merciful,” and wants good for us. We must not desire that which is evil and not of God. Jesus urges us to repentance.
This week I will look at one fault I would like to correct and take steps to break that habit. To accomplish this, I will focus on building a good habit that is the opposite. I will be patient with myself because “The Lord is kind and merciful.” I will remind myself of that daily, repent my failures, and keep trying.
(Offered via Resource Publications for use in our bulletin)
Weekly Reflection for February 24, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Second Week of Lent: Imitation
Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18
Psalm 27:1, 7-9, 13-14
The Lord is my light and my salvation.
Philippians 3:17-4:1 Luke 9:28b-36
St Paul encourages us to stand firm in the Lord and to follow the example of Jesus. In the story of the Transfiguration, no less than God the Father, as a voice from a cloud, commands that we listen to Jesus.
Who is Jesus for me? Do I take him as a model for my actions and imitate him? Can others see Jesus in me? This week I will pay close attention to my actions, repeating the words of the psalm, “Lord, you are my light and my salvation,” and asking: Is this what you would have me do? Will others see your presence in my action?
Copied with permission
Weekly Reflection for February 17, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Be With Me, Lord
I was introduced to reflections for the Sunday readings for Lent and I have permission to share them with our faith community. So, this I will do for the Lenten season. There are bookmarks with this reflection in the rack as you enter the church off the parking lot. Take one if you like.
Reliance on God:
Deuteronomy 26:4-10
Psalm 91:1-2, 10-15
Be with me, Lord, when I am in trouble
Romans 10:8-13
Luke 4:1-13
The Israelites’ psychological backdrop was their salvation from slavery in Egypt. The psalm response reflects their cry, “Be with me, Lord, when I am in trouble.” Paul tells the Romans to call on the name of the Lord to be saved. Jesus in the desert, hungry, alone, and facing temptation, relied on God for strength.
Can I admit that I need God for my strength? What troubles might I need God’s help with right now? This week I will work on forming a habit of acknowledging my dependence on God and pray the psalm response daily: “Be with me, Lord, when I am in trouble.”
Weekly Reflection for February 10, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
World Day of the Sick
I was looking through the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops to see what they have to say about the World Day of the Sick which is Monday, February 11 and is celebrated annually on the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, this same day. It is comforting to know that the entire Church, including the Pope, will remember our sick in a special way on this day.
As I moved on to the Vatican website, I found Pope Benedict’s message to us for this year’s World Day of the Sick. Some excerpts from this: “You have been called by Christ and are his living and transparent image,” he said, quoting from a message delivered by fathers of the Second Vatican Council in 1965, “to the Poor, the Sick and the Suffering.” The Gospel of the Good Samaritan is just one of the many accounts that show how Jesus expected his disciples to be toward others, especially those in need, the pope said.
As we begin the Lenten season, we the sound of body and spirit can comfort the sick, being the Good Samaritan we are called to be while the sick, whose prayers are so pleasing to God, can lift up the healthy among us to God, praying that we are doing His will.
Weekly Reflection for February 3, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
St. Rose Duchesne
The Year of Faith saint for February is St. Rose Phillippine Duchesne who was born August 29, 1852 in Grenoble, France. She became a
novice in a contemplative order at age 18 but returned home during the French revolution to care for prisoners. Later, in 1804, she and her companions were received into the Society of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Fourteen years later she was sent to the Louisiana territory to help the bishop educate and evangelize the Indian and French children. She founded the first house of the Society of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in this new country. By 1828, she had founded six houses which were schools for young women from Kansas and Missouri. At age 72, she moved to help at a school for the Potawatomi at Sugar Creek Kansas.
It was a long held desire in her heart to serve the Indian people. Her long hours of contemplation earned her to be named Quah-kah-ka-num-ad, which means "Woman-Who-Prays-Always". After about a year, her poor health required her to return to St. Charles where she continued her special love for the missions and the Indian people in her contemplative life of prayer. She died at age 83 on November 18, 1852.
Weekly Reflection for January 27, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Rediscover Catholicism
Last Tuesday, we had our first gathering to discuss the Rediscover Catholicism book written by Matthew Kelly which was recommended to us by Archbishop Schnurr. One group met at 10:00 a.m. and the other met at 7:00 p.m. We watched a couple of messages from the Archdiocese via DVD and began to review and discuss the material on hand. It was agreed by both groups that they will meet on the third Tuesday of the month through August and follow the plan as noted in the St. Margaret Mary winter newsletter. It is not too late to join us. Just read Chapters 1 to 5 in the book and come to either the morning or evening session. We hope to maintain a time frame of one hour for these meetings.
The next meeting for our Tuesday groups is on February 19 in Room 20 of the Parish Center. Among the many advantages you will receive is that you will be called to “live with passion and purpose and become a better version of yourself” as you look to find the purpose God has for you on this earth. You can continue on a life long search to better know and love God who has such unconditional love for you.
If you are a part of a small group that meets on another day and time and want to take advantage of this program for your particular group, call the Faith Formation Office 729-0222 or email wmcglasson@fuse.net. We will give you the information you need. Also, copies of Rediscover Catholicism are available if you did not get one at Christmas Mass.
Weekly Reflection for January 20, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Pray for our Confirmandi
This Sunday, at the 10:30 Mass, we recognize and bless our candidates for Confirmation. They have begun the preparation for this Sacrament which they will receive April 9 at St. Peter in Chains Cathedral. At St. Margaret Mary, the preparation includes students age 12 or older. They participate in a faith formation program that includes participation by the parents/guardian and a Confirmation sponsor. For the candidates, Confirmation completes the reception of the Sacraments of Initiation which are Baptism, First Eucharist and Confirmation. While the parents/guardian and godparent spoke for them earlier in their life at their Baptism, they will now “confirm” this promise as they proclaim their faith, are anointed with Chrism and experience the laying on of hands by the bishop. Please keep them in your prayers.
Weekly Reflection for January 13, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Rite of Acceptance
RCIA: The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) is the process by which those who wish to join the Catholic faith community are
welcomed and introduced to the beliefs and practices of the Church. For those not yet baptized, this process leads to an Easter Vigil where they receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. Those who have been previously baptized in another Christian tradition are invited to participate fully in the Church through the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist.
This year, we have one inquirer for whom we have planned the Rite of Acceptance this Sunday at the 10:30 Mass. She will then enter into the Catechumenate for more studies where she and the RCIA team will meet weekly to help her discern her readiness for Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. We will keep you posted on our progress. Please keep her in your prayers.
Weekly Reflection for January 6, 2013
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, S.C. has been chosen for January in this Year of Faith. She was born Elizabeth Ann Bayley on August 28, 1774 in New York City. She practiced the Episcopalian faith, and married William Magee Seton at age 19. Together they had five children.
Inspired by the St. Vincent DePaul Society, Elizabeth helped organize the Ladies of Charity who visited the sick poor and helped them in any way they could. William suffered severe losses in his business and was forced into bankruptcy and then became ill and died leaving Elizabeth in poverty with the five children to raise alone.
Elizabeth had a great love of the Eucharist and eventually converted to Catholicism in 1805. With the support of the Sulpician Fathers she established St. Joseph Academy and Free School for Catholic girls, all while continuing to support her children. She later started a religious community dedicated to the care of children of the poor. The order was named the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph and Elizabeth was called Mother Seton. Many schools, hospitals, orphanages and elder care centers are the result of the work of Mother Seton and her followers, the Sisters of Charity, which is how we know them today.
Elizabeth died in 1841 at the age of 46 and was canonized September 14, 1975 by Pope Paul VI. She is the first native born citizen of the United States to be canonized.
Weekly Reflection for December 30, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
A Model Family
This Sunday we celebrate the feast of the Holy Family; Jesus, Mary and Joseph. They have provided a model family for us to imitate in our own lives. Mary was the loving mother who nurtured and cared for her son; Joseph, the protecting father, who provided for the family needs; Jesus, an obedient child who honored and respected his parents. We do not know a lot about their daily lives other than the trip by Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem to register, the birth of Jesus, presentation at the temple, the flight into Egypt, and the return to Nazareth where Jesus "grew and became strong, filled with wisdom" (Luke 2:40).
When the family went to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover, Jesus, age 12, did not join the group for the return home. When his parents realized this, they returned to Jerusalem to find him in the temple sitting among the teachers. He returned to Nazareth and "was obedient to them" (his parents) (Luke 2:51). "And Jesus increased in wisdom and years and in divine and human favor" (Luke 2:52).
It seems that we can relate to some of the experiences of their family life. They were faithful to their beliefs and practices. They had some frightening times, including a typical teen age failure to keep his parents informed of his whereabouts. They had good times and they enjoyed and celebrated the life given to them.
Weekly Reflection for December 23, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Our Gift of Faith
The New Evangelization that we are hearing and reading so much about begins with Pope Paul VI’s Encyclical, On Evangelization in the
Modern World,1975. This topic was much discussed by Pope John Paul II. Pope Benedict XVI, also seeing the need for this, called for an International Synod on the New Evangelization.
Now as we move through this Year of Faith, we will be reminded that, by our baptism, we are called to proclaim the Good News of Jesus. We strive to live a Christian life which can encourage those around us to do the same. As we grow in faith by our participation in Mass, personal prayer, acts of kindness, practicing the Greatest Commandment: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your being, with all your strength, and with all your mind and your neighbor as yourself,” (Luke 10:27) we will feel the call to share our faith with others.
As we work, study, play, entertain, visit friends, opportunities will present themselves for us to evangelize by the choices we make, how we treat others, the priorities we hold precious in our lives. God has blessed us with this gift of faith. Let’s nourish it and pass it on.
Weekly Reflection for December 16, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Forming Our Faith
In this "Year of Faith", our bishops, priests and faith leaders will offer many ways for us to enhance and support our relationship with God
and with each other. As we strive to be more welcoming to each other and to those who cross our paths, we will be offered opportunities to think about why we are here in this time and place and what specific plan God has for us individually and as a community.
One program, Christ at the Center, has a home edition of prayers and reflections for the Advent / Christmas season. Copies of this were available at out Pastoral Region Advent Penance Service last Tuesday. There are copies in the bookrack in the vestibule off the parking lot entrance. Get your family and friends together for a discussion of the Reading for the Sunday, ponder the reflection and consider how you apply all this in your life.
At the bottom of the Gospel Reading’s page, there is a web site describing the poverty of the people in Kenya. The following is from this page. In Meru, Kenya thousands of orphans and abandoned children live in unspeakable conditions on the streets, the victims of gross poverty and the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The Children’s Village is the inspiration of Fr. Francis Limo Riwa who in 1999 began to rescue orphaned and abandoned street children. Today the Children’s Village is home, family and school to more than 750 children, living on two campuses: the St. Clare Girls’ Centre and St. Francis Boys’ Home. Fr. Riwa answered God’s call in his time and place.
Weekly Reflection for December 9, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Our Lady of Guadalupe
On December 9, 1531, a 57-year-old Aztec, Juan Diego, saw the Blessed Mother on a hill in Mexico City. She told Juan to have a church built in her honor. When Juan went to ask Bishop Zumarraga about this, the bishop did not understand the Indian dialect—and he did not believe in the vision Juan described. Three days later, on December 12, Mary appeared again to Juan Diego, and this time she gave him a sign for the bishop. “Take these roses to the bishop,” she said, as she arranged in his cloak beautiful roses she had Juan Diego pick from the hillside although it was winter. When he was admitted into the bishop's room, Juan Diego opened his cloak, and out dropped the roses. On the cloak there remained an image of Mary as she had appeared to Juan Diego. Mary appeared to Juan Diego dressed as an Aztec woman to show her love & compassion to an oppressed group of people. Mary had heard the prayers & pain of these people, and she came to give them hope. Mary's visit to Guadalupe is a reminder that God will remember his mercy for all people. People honor Our Lady of Guadalupe because they recognize her motherly concern for them. She is Patroness of the Americas. Her feast day is December 14.
Reprinted with permission from Loyola Press.
Weekly Reflection for December 2, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Saint John Neumann
When I offered St. Frances Xavier Cabrini in one of my articles last month, I was not aware of the fact that she is honored during the Year
of Faith for the month of November. For the month of December, we have St. John Neumann, born in Bohemia March 28, 1811. John was denied ordination because there was an over-abundance of priests in Europe. He eventually traveled all the way from Bohemia to New York City where there was a shortage of priests and he was ordained on June 25, 1836 and then assigned to upper New York until 1842. He then joined the Redemptorists and was assigned to Baltimore MD. He became an American citizen February 10, 1848.
After his ordination as bishop in 1852, he was assigned to Philadelphia where he became the founder of the first diocesan Catholic School system, going from only two schools to one hundred. He is also credited with establishing a Diocesan schedule for 40 Hours Devotion. He established the Third Order of Sisters of St. Francis in 1854.
He was a humble man, and worked tirelessly to visit homes and teach wherever people gathered. He was fluent in Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch and Gaelic. His ability to relate to others enabled him to pastor his flock in a wonderful and loving way. He died of a stroke on January 5, 1860. He was canonized by Pope Paul VI in 1977.
Weekly Reflection for November 25, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
We Belong Together
I read an article in the November issue of the Liguorian written by Dr. Timothy Mullner titled We Belong Together. He remembers the days
of his childhood when his parents greeted people who knocked on the door with, “Hi, how are you. Do you need something to eat?” He remembers the hospitality of those days flooded with visits to each other’s homes, school activities and Catholic life.
It was certainly simpler than the times in which we now live. There were no cell phones, no texting, and no internet with all of its social media. People actually spoke face to face, visited and supported each other. Catholics attended Sunday Mass, cherished the Eucharist because they believed that by receiving Holy Communion, they were called to become what they received. This gave them the desire, will and strength to be a community of believers who understand and cherish this wonderful gift of faith.
I will try to get copies of this article for anyone who would like to read the entire thing or you can borrow my copy of the Liguorian.
Weekly Reflection for November 18, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Year of Faith at St.MM
As we continue to avail ourselves of the many offerings from the Vatican and our Archdiocese offices during this Year of Faith, we consider the Advent/Christmas Evangelization (ACE) which is presented to us from Archbishop Schnurr. We will have many ways to consider this call to evangelization and renewal of our personal faith life during this coming year. We will hear a message from the Archbishop, himself, next weekend. By our baptism we are called to evangelize and live the Christian life.
Life will be very busy here at St. Margaret Mary in the coming months and we need everyone’s help. Most of us have a relative, friend or neighbor who, for whatever reason, does not join us on a regular basis for Sunday Mass. When the opportunity presents itself, you can offer encouragement and an invitation to them to join us on Sundays and to attend our other parish gatherings. Then pray for them, and ourselves, that Christ will be first in our lives as we enter into a spirit of renewal in this upcoming year and for years to come.
We are truly blessed to have the gift of faith which needs constant nourishing to bring us as close to God as we can be.
Weekly Reflection for November 11, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini
November 13 is the feast day of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini. She was born on July 15, 1850 in Italy. While working in an orphanage in Italy, she began an order of the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart. She dreamed of going to China but Pope Leo XIII told her she needed to go west. Mother Frances Cabrini arrived in New York with six other sisters in 1889. After finding so many boys and girls whose parents had died, she sought permission from the Archbishop to start an orphanage.
She had complete trust in God always trusting the food and shelter would be provided for her sisters and the children. She is responsible for inspiring the building of many schools, hospitals and orphanages.
Mother Cabrini traveled back and forth from the United States to Italy, her homeland. While working to establish more schools, orphanages and hospitals in the United States, she returned to Italy to oversee the training of novices and to identify leaders within her community. In 1909, she took the oath of allegiance to the United States, becoming a citizen of this country. She traveled all over the United States and South America, offering help and advice in establishing various institutions. She was a friend of three popes and very influential and successful in the many ventures of her life. Her particular passion was for young children and people in need.
A sudden heart attack ended her life on December 22, 1917. She was canonized on July 7, 1946 making her the first American citizen to be proclaimed a saint. She is the patron saint of immigrants.
Weekly Reflection for November 4, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Saint Luke
As we enter into the month of November, we find just three more Sundays in this liturgical year. On December 2, we begin a new
liturgical year with the season of Advent. This also begins Year C of our three year cycle with most Gospel readings coming from Luke during this time.
Luke traveled with St. Paul and was his loyal friend. He knew Peter and other leaders of the early church. He was well educated, a physician by trade and well-traveled. He was a Greek, not a Jew. His Gospel is the longest. Added to that, he is given credit for writing the Acts of the Apostles. With his physician background, we can expect to hear even more of the compassion, mercy and healing powers of Jesus during this Year C. St. Luke died sometime around 84 AD. His feast day is October 18.
Weekly Reflection for October 21, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Serve Others and Be Great!
This week, we have readings that are very encouraging. Isaiah in his prophetic way reminds us of Jesus whose suffering and death bore the guilt of our sins, justified us and assured us of eternal life. Paul tells us to approach the throne of God for mercy and the grace we need for timely help. Then we can strive to live a life pleasing to Him. We get some direction from Jesus in today’s Gospel.
Jesus tells us that in order to be great, we must be a servant to others. Some ways of serving others is by following the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy. The following is my break down of these guidelines:
• We offer food, drink, clothes and other necessities to those in need. • We help the homeless find shelter, visit the sick, support the prison ministry, reverence the lives of those who have died and support the grieving families and friends.
• We evangelize our family, friends and neighbors, offer a listening ear and support to those in doubt, befriend and give hope to those who have lost their way on their journey of faith, bear wrongs patiently, forgive offenses willingly, comfort the sick, pray for the living and the dead.
If you check out our parish ministries, you will find parishioners who focus on one or more of these works. If you join just one of them, you will be a servant indeed and your reward will be in the grace you experience by your action. If you need help in identifying any of these, I will be happy to direct you. Call 729-0222 or email me at wmcglasson@fuse.net
We follow Jesus who came not to be served but to serve.
Weekly Reflection for October 14, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Feast of our Patroness
October 16 is the feast of Saint Margaret Mary, the patron saint of our parish. She was born in France in 1647 to Claude and Philiberte
Alacoque who were righteous people of modest means. Saint Margaret Mary had a great love for the Blessed Sacrament from an early age. In her young life, she suffered a paralysis which confined her to bed for a period of four years. Her devotion to the Blessed Virgin is credited with her restoration to health after that time. In her youth, she spent a few years working with the poor and enjoying a social life. At age 24 she entered the Visitation Convent at Paray. She had many visions which gave her direction at various stages of her life and led to a devotion to the Sacred Heart. She established the practice of receiving Holy Communion on the first Friday of the month, something that is still honored by many of us. She suffered many illnesses in her lifetime with cures attributed to her devotion to Christ. She died October 17, 1690 and was canonized by Pope Benedict XV in 1920. St. Margaret Mary Parish was established this same year with the first Mass being celebrated by Fr. Joseph Albers on December 5, 1920.
The Twelve Promises, made through St. Margaret Mary to families who honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus...
1. I will give them all the graces necessary for their state of life.
2. I will establish peace in their families.
3. I will bless every house in which the picture of My Heart shall be exposed and honored.
4. I will console them in all their difficulties.
5. I will be their refuge during life and especially at the hour of death.
6. I will shed abundant blessing upon all their undertakings.
7. Sinners shall find in My Heart a fountain and boundless ocean of mercy.
8. Tepid souls shall become fervent.
9. Fervent souls shall rise speedily to great perfection.
10. I will give to priests the power of touching the hardest hearts.
11. Those who propagate this devotion shall have their names written in My Heart never to be blotted out.
12. I promise thee, in the excessive mercy of My Heart, that My all-powerful love will grant to all who communicate on the first Friday of the month for nine consecutive months, the grace of final penitence; they shall not die in My displeasure nor without their sacraments; My Divine Heart shall be safe refuge in this last moment.
Weekly Reflection for October 7, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Like a Child
In the midst of our readings this week, Mark writes that Jesus expresses his love of children, stating that “the kingdom of God
belongs to such as these” and advises us to “accept the kingdom of God like a child” as he embraces and blesses them. Like children, we offer ourselves in total dependence upon and obedience to the Gospel. Matthew has a similar story of Jesus calling us to become like children, to be humble. Matthew 18:4-5. As we accept this call to obedience and humility, our lives become more orderly and peaceful and we can be sure that the God who loves us and calls us to be with him eternally will be with us always and in all ways during our life on this earth.
Weekly Reflection for September 30, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Remembering Francis of Assisi
On Thursday, October 4, we celebrate the feast of St. Francis of Assisi. He was born in Italy in 1181 and died in 1226. His father was
wealthy and young Francis enjoyed the good things of life. As a young soldier, he had a change of heart and returned back to Assisi. He gave up his lavish lifestyle, and began to live in poverty, begging with beggars. As he preached on the streets, he attracted many followers and eventually founded the men’s Franciscan Order, later the women’s Order of St. Clare and eventually the Third order of St. Francis (for lay people), now called the Secular Order of St. Francis.
Although he was a great leader and a holy man, he was never ordained as a priest. He is given credit for the first Christmas manger scene. He is well known, and admired even among other faiths. His love and respect for nature has earned him a special place in the hearts of ecologists. He was a joyful person even though he suffered many illnesses and sorrows in his lifetime. He bore the wounds of Christ on his hands (the stigmata) which bound his devotion to Jesus even closer. A couple of familiar hymns that reflect his life are: Canticle of the Sun and the Prayer of St. Francis which starts with “Make me a Channel of Your Peace...” Many men and women continue to follow his way of life even today in the Franciscan orders for priests and brothers, consecrated women and lay people. He is remembered as a peace maker, comforter, and a true servant of humanity and of God.
Weekly Reflection for September 23, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Honoring Our Catechists
Last weekend we honored our catechists, those who teach and proclaim the faith in various ways. They may be preparing a couple for marriage, teaching in Vacation Bible School, CCD, CLOW, RCIA, or be part of the Faith Formation Team or Youth Ministry. Those involved with our children are supporting the parents and guardians who are the primary catechists of their children. As we blessed and recognized the catechists, we also blessed the parents and guardians for their very important part in this endeavor. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, older siblings and our own faith community can have a positive influence and a support in this endeavor. We offered a prayer card and spiritual book to the catechists in thanksgiving for their efforts. There is also a prayer card for the parents and guardians. If you did not pick one up at the entrances, last week-end, you can find one in the shelves at the church entrance by the tabernacle and parish office doors off the parking lot. Please take one. Remember, a very important part of teaching is in the example we give. Children tend to mimic the adults they admire for good or bad.
Weekly Reflection for September 16, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Recognizing Our Jewish Roots
This Sunday evening begins the celebration of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year which is observed for a two day period remembering the creation of Adam & Eve. It recognizes the special relationship between God and humanity and our dependence on God as our creator.
God also depends on humanity to make his presence known and felt in the world. The shofar, ram’s horn, is sounded and is also a call to repentance as we recognize man’s first sin and his repentance. Ten days follow which ends with Yom Kippur on September 26, the Day of Atonement and is the major fast of the year at which time Jews seek forgiveness from anyone they have wronged.
These high holy days are very important to the Jewish faith and are surrounded with many rituals, prayers and special gatherings. It is easy to see some resemblance to our Christian faith and practices as we take note of the Jewish religion into which Jesus was born and in which we have roots.
Weekly Reflection for September 9, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
September Starts It All
September brings us back from summer celebrations and times of relaxation to a call to get back to the mainstream of our life. School has started. Programs, information sessions, meetings and other activities in the community, parish and our home are calling us.
At St. Margaret Mary, some of our time will focus on the Year of Faith, ACE and VIRTUS. We want to welcome Catholics who have not been with us lately to come back and be a part of our community. We also welcome anyone who wonders what we are all about to come to an RCIA inquiry session.
We will introduce the recently implemented Protecting God’s Children program. CCD classes and CLOW begin this month. We have meetings scheduled for parents and students regarding Sacraments of Initiation. We honor our parishioners who have shared their faith in various ways on Catechetical Sunday. We remember Mary’s birthday on September 8th.
Do you know what all the above acronyms mean? Watch the upcoming bulletins. Reference will certainly be made to them over the next few weeks. Try to make room in your life for at least some of our fall activities. Read the bulletin; check us out on our website and Facebook. There is a lot going on in our community life and we need everyone to help keep us going. Call the Parish Office 521-7387 and you will be directed to someone to give you more information on your area of interest.
Weekly Reflection for September 2, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Be Doers of the Word
This week, James tells us to, “be doers of the Word, not hearers only.” Our personal prayers, times of reflection, Mass attendance, etc. should naturally lead us to the Greatest Commandment, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind....You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 22: 38-39.
As we read and hear the Word of God each week, we can apply this call from Jesus to not only keep the Commandments but to recognize the afflictions and needs of those around us and to lovingly offer them friendship and assistance in their time of need. Need some ideas? Check St. Vincent DePaul Society, the Archdiocese Social Action, pay attention to your friend, neighbor, family member. I bet someone you know could use your ear to listen, a lawn mowed, a trip to the store, etc., etc.
Weekly Reflection for August 26, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
St. John the Baptist
On Wednesday of this week, we remember the Passion of St. John the Baptist. This cousin of Jesus, six months older than him, spent his life preaching and calling people to prepare the way of the Lord. He is considered the forerunner and precursor of Jesus. He spent his time in the desert and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Jesus, himself, was baptized by John at which time God the Father revealed to all present that Jesus is the Son of God.
On the feast day of this Wednesday, we recall the story of John’s allegiance to God and His Commandments when he said to Herod that it was not lawful for him to marry his brother’s wife. While Herod was fearful of John, his unlawful wife, Herodias held a grudge against John. She had her opportunity to take out her revenge when Herod promised her daughter that he would give her whatever she asked as a reward for her performance of a dance. The daughter asked her mother, Herodias, what she should request and the response was the head of John the Baptist who was in prison at that time. Herod felt he could not refuse since he made the promise in the presence of his guests. Thus John was beheaded and his head was placed on a silver platter and given to the girl who gave it to her mother.
Isn’t it interesting that Herod felt compelled to honor Herodias’s daughter’s request that he knew was wrong, and could not bring himself to do the right thing; deny her request and tell her to ask for something else, all because he did not want to look bad in the presence of his friends? This gives us pause for thought on how we handle decisions in our life. Do we back off or do things to impress others even when we know it is wrong in the eyes of God?
Weekly Reflection for August 19, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Spread the Good News of the Lord
This weekend it seems to me that, in the Book of Wisdom, we are invited to understand the will of God. In the gospel, Jesus tells
us that he is the living bread which will give us eternal life. What an appropriate time to think of our own journey of faith, focusing on the meaning of these words and reflecting on the wonderful gift of the Eucharist.
It is also a great time to do some evangelization. Do you know anyone who seems to be searching for a meaning in life, who wonders about the God we worship? Would you consider taking the time to speak with this person (friend, relative or neighbor)? Would you take time to explain your joy of being a part of our Catholic community? Invite this person to look into the inquiry sessions of the Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA) (no strings attached). If, after hearing our story, the individual wants to continue to study more, he/she can continue as long as he/she likes. If eventually there is a desire for Baptism (if not already baptized) and communion with our church, we can all celebrate at an Easter Vigil when new members are baptized and make a profession of faith.
Remember, you are called by your baptism to spread the good news. If someone you know wants more information on RCIA, ask him/her to call me at 729-0222 or email me at wmcglasson@fuse.net.
Weekly Reflection for August 12, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Saint Maximilian Kolbe, Imitator of God
We read Paul’s letter this weekend that calls us to be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love. We then think of St. Maximilian
Kolbe whose feast day is this Tuesday, August 14th. Maximilian, a Franciscan priest was born in Poland January 8, 1894. He is well known for the shelter he gave thousands of Christian and Jews during the Second World War. He was eventually arrested and sent to prison, then to Auschwitz. He secretly ministered to the prisoners and sometimes went without food as he waited until last to eat. When ten men were chosen to die by starvation in an underground pit in retaliation for one prisoner escaping, Fr. Kolbe stepped forward and offered to take the place of a man who had a wife and children waiting for his return from the war. Fr. Kolbe spent his time with the nine other men leading them in song and prayer. After two weeks, Fr. Kolbe was the only one still alive and he was executed by an injection and his body was burned with the other prisoners. The man he saved eventually returned to his wife and children. What a timely example for this reading of Paul who calls us to be kind to one another and compassionate. Fr. Kolbe was canonized in 1982.
Weekly Reflection for August 5, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Our Trip to the Basilica
On Thursday, July 26, the feast of St. Joachim and St. Anne, who are honored as the parents of the Blessed Virgin, a small group of
parishioners, young and old, visited St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption. We attended the 9:30 am Mass and then toured the Basilica.
The exterior is magnificent, reminding us of Notre Dame. The Stations are in mosaic art. The shrines, devotional spots and organs add a sacred ambiance to the church. At the Mass, we noticed a little more conservative slant with no holding hands during the Our Father and no hand shake of peace.
The homily reflected the feast day and we enjoyed hearing the background that identifies St. Joachim and St. Anne as the parents of Mary. Even though we know very little of Mary’s childhood, we do know these parents were exceptional and we honor them as holy parents. They were also the grandparents of Jesus. What an awesome privilege!
A brochure is on display at the PYO board for your review. By the way, if the Pope comes to visit us in Cincinnati, he will stay at this Basilica in Covington. You should visit it when you have the opportunity.
Weekly Reflection for July 29, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
One Body, One Spirit
As I read Paul’s reference to one body and one Spirit in today’s reading, I looked further in his letter where he refers to the body of Christ into which we should grow in every way (verse 15). We are all one body with Christ as the head.
Paul calls us to live worthy of the call we have received as we love one another and strive to preserve unity of the spirit through the bond of peace. We have one Lord, one baptism, one God of all. This brings to mind the Communion of Saints to which we all belong. We proclaim our belief in the Communion of Saints which includes the faithful on earth, the souls in purgatory and the saints in heaven every week end as we recite the Creed. The church living and dead are part of the same Mystical Body of Christ and Communion of Saints as we, the living are.
As our loved ones leave this earth we believe they go through a stage of purification and then join the saints in heaven. Since they remain a part of the Body of Christ and Communion of Saints after death, they remain connected to us who are also part of this same Body of Christ and the Communion of Saints. The practice of praying for them is wonderful and well established among the faithful on earth. Be assured that they are praying for us as well.
Weekly Reflection for July 22, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Turn Off the Cell Phone
This week we hear the prophecy of Jeremiah that assures us that God will raise up a righteous shoot to David which we will know as Jesus. Paul tells us that this Messiah preached peace to us and calls us to be one in the Father. In the Gospel the apostles report to Jesus on what they have done and taught.
These readings are concerned with peace, reconciliation and justice, with evangelization and spreading the Good News. As we see in the Gospel, this is a lot of work. The need for rest and rejuvenation is important. Jesus invited the apostles to “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.”
As we follow our Christian call to evangelize, to be one in Christ, we will find that spending time in a quiet place, away from all the distractions of the day is essential to our life of faith. These times of prayer, reflection and just being quiet will give us an opportunity to ponder direction on our journey of faith. Turn off the cell phone, TV, radio. The Lord will speak to us in the quiet and the Holy Spirit will renew us in remarkable ways.
Weekly Reflection for July 15, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Keep It Simple
Today’s Gospel reminds us of our call to a true Christian life. We are all expected to spread the Good News of Christ. We can do this by
living a life that is a good example to all, inviting others to join us in our faith community and being a part of social action and outreach endeavors.
Jesus sends his apostles out telling them to take nothing for the journey but a walking stick, no food, no sack, no money, no extra clothes. While very few of us would journey very far without provisions for food and overall safety, we can certainly keep it simple.
Our young folks are planning opportunities this summer to learn about other faith communities and social service groups in Cincinnati. Hopefully this will increase our knowledge of the needs of our community and our desire to live out more fully the corporal works of mercy. Any parishioner who is interested is welcome to join us.
Weekly Reflection for July 8, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
God's Grace is Sufficient
Paul’s reading and the Gospel today are among my favorites. When Paul prays for relief of the burdens that have come his way, he hears God’s response; “My grace is sufficient for you.” Sometimes when we feel overwhelmed and our troubles are many, it is good to remember that God is with us always and will not give us more than we can handle. Like Paul we accept our hardships and know that in Christ we are strong.
In the Gospel Jesus is rejected by his own neighbors, the people who knew him from childhood. We are reminded that there are times when those closest to us can be the least responsive. They wonder where you got your knowledge and ability. You are so familiar to them that they cannot see or hear what you say or do. Bring in a stranger from afar with the same message and they are astounded. This is human nature. A wise person remembers this and gets the message or deed done in whatever way it works.
Weekly Reflection for July 1, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Jesus is With Us Always
This Sunday, we hear Mark tell of the healing powers of Jesus. A woman touches his cloak and experiences immediate healing of a
long time illness. Jesus tells the woman that her faith has saved her and to go in peace. A man named Jairus pleads for the life of his daughter. By the time Jesus arrives, she is presumed dead. Jesus takes the girl by the hand and tells her to get up, which she did. In both cases, the cures were instantaneous with thanks and praise being offered to Jesus.
We can easily find the healing powers of Jesus in these stories. In today’s life, these same pleas are offered through prayer. Many in our community utilized the parish prayer chain, write their concerns in the book by the tabernacle, and share their concerns with our small faith groups and special friends. These powerful prayers bring unbelievable healing and comfort to us.
Jesus responds to our faithfulness today just as he did during his time on earth. He may respond in the form of a care taker, a friend, stranger, or personal revelation but, for sure, he is with us always, just as he promised.
Weekly Reflection for June 24, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
John the Baptist
The birth of John the Baptist was a most joyful time for Elizabeth and Zechariah. They had given up hope of a child due to their old age but
God blessed them with a most important offspring. He had already been blessed in the womb at the time of Mary’s visit to their home months before. John leaped for joy in his mother’s womb at the presence of Mary and Jesus who was in her womb.
One could imagine that Mary stayed with Elizabeth, her cousin, to help with the birth of John. Luke does not give us this information, just that Mary stayed about three months. We know John as the forerunner of Jesus, the one who would call people to repentance and obedience to God. As he baptized people, he foretold the coming of the Christ and the good news this would bring.
John lived his life in the desert, was jailed for his teachings and eventually was beheaded by Herod. John’s teaches us to bear good fruit, share what we have with those in need, be honest in our dealings with others, satisfied with our financial status, avoid greed, envy and false accusation. Basically, honor the commandments, especially the Greatest Commandment given by Jesus: Love the Lord, your God, with all you heart, all your soul and all your mind and love your neighbor as yourself. These messages from John, confirmed by Jesus, still hold today.
Weekly Reflection for June 17, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Oh Sacrament Most Holy,
Oh Sacrament Divine
Last Sunday on the feast of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, Michael Melvin, Aaron Keller, both of their mothers and I attended Mass at Old St. Mary’s where we experienced the celebration in three different languages: Latin, German and English. The Mass was a mixture of the old Latin Mass and our current Vatican II Mass. The priest faced the congregation and we recognized most of the Rite. We received Communion kneeling at the Communion rail from a priest with a choice of receiving on the tongue or in our hands; no Precious Blood. All servers and the lector were male.
At the end of Mass we had Benediction and processed outside around the city block singing and praying a Litany in honor of this special feast day. We returned to the garden at Old St. Mary’s to complete our procession and then to the church for the final prayers. We were impressed with the magnificence of the art and environment on this church and are pleased with the opportunity to worship there.
Weekly Reflection for June 10, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Corpus Christi
Today, in our Eucharistic celebration, we offer honor, praise and thanksgiving to God in a most special way, for the gift of Christ who sacrificed his body and blood for us. As we receive Jesus in Communion, we are joined to Christ and to each other as a community of believers. This spiritual food enables us to follow the footsteps of Jesus by seeing Christ in others and being Christ for others. As we proclaim and live our faith from week to week, we continue to grow in our love for God and our neighbors.
Weekly Reflection for June 3, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Feast of the Most Holy Trinity
We have many reminders of this wonderful truth of our faith which we celebrate today. Each time we make the sign of the cross, we remember Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The Nicene and Apostles Creed clearly define the Triune Deity. We often have the three persons of this one God defined as Father - Creator, Son - Redeemer and Holy Spirit - Sanctifier.
We have a better idea of Jesus, the Son, who took on a human body and walked among us. However, Jesus gave us plenty of information of the Father to whom he prayed, calling him Abba. He gave us the Lord’s Prayer and taught us how to pray to the Father. He told us about the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete, Counselor whom he would send after his ascension into Heaven.
While the Trinity remains a mystery to us, we can find great comfort in this one God, three persons, who created us, redeemed us and moves among us all the days of our lives.
Weekly Reflection for May 27, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
The Spirit Among Us
This Sunday we celebrate Pentecost which brings the Easter season to a close. This day is referred to as the birthday of the Church. The Holy Spirit, the Advocate, referred to in today’s Gospel, who had been promised to the disciples by Jesus, came and descended upon them and they were inspired to spread the good news of salvation.
This same Holy Spirit is among us and is available to those who seek his guidance. So many times the RCIA participants of the Easter Vigil will tell us that at the moment of baptism and confirmation, they experienced an awesome presence that they often cannot explain. This presence is surely the Holy Spirit descending upon them just as he did so many years ago upon the disciples.
Now these newest members of our community are finally ready to join us at the table of the Lord. They are also ready to join us as we proclaim and live our faith in our daily lives. As they become a part of our community, let’s encourage them and ourselves to consider the Gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety and wonder and awe of the Lord. There are also the Fruits of the Holy Spirit: charity, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, generosity, gentleness, faithfulness, modesty, self-control, chastity. For more information and reflection, see the Catechism of the Catholic Church1830-1845. The Spirit is moving among us.
Praise be to God.
Weekly Reflection for May 20, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Communication
One of the definitions offered by Webster is: “a process by which information is exchanged between individuals.” These days we have so many choices. We have face to face, telephone, email, regular mail, all the social medias, the internet, our parish bulletin, etc. Once we get our message out, we look for a response which usually meets with varied levels of success.
These days it can be difficult to find the best way to communicate. After making a couple phone calls on the Friday evening before Mother’s day, I decided to text all the families that I have in my cell phone asking for our youth to help offer carnations to our mothers after Mass on Mother’s day. I was amazed at the prompt response from so many families. Within seven minutes, I had the slots filled for all the Masses. This was a pleasant surprise for me and made my Friday evening free for other things.
This simple act of kindness from our youth demonstrated to our community that they do indeed honor our mothers. It also enlightened me on a new way of getting a quick response with this form of mass communication. Thanks to all who responded so quickly.
Weekly Reflection for May 13, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Love one another
This week we again hear about the love of God and love of our neighbor. It is all about relationships. We follow Jesus who loved and obeyed his Father. We love God and obey his commandments. We love our family and friends.
Now comes the hard part. Do we love those who do not show love to us? Do we love those who are different, who think differently, who are not a part of our click or culture? Do we frown on those who do not measure up to our standards, like Peter did the uncircumcised?
Have you ever been astounded, as Peter was with the Gentiles, when someone demonstrated a true measure of worth? As we continue to follow Jesus who sees the good (and the bad) in all of us, we are called to a Christianity that sees all human beings as children of God, redeemed by Jesus, and entitled to our consideration and fellowship.
Now go sit and talk to that person who is alone at the table in the corner. You may be surprised or “astounded” as Peter was when he realized that the Holy Spirit breaks all barriers.
Weekly Reflection for May 6, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
First Communion Day
What an exciting time for our young candidates. All four of our covenant parishes are celebrating First Communion this weekend. These youngsters will be dressed in special clothes selected with great care by them and their parents. The churches will be decorated with flowers of the Easter season and the music will flow with glorious praise and thanksgiving for this day. Celebrations, gifts and special meals will mark this very special occasion.
The greatest celebration and the focus of this day is in the Mass itself, when we remember the very first Eucharist at the Last Supper and the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. The First Communicants are very excited about finally coming to the table of the Lord. This first time is special to them.
May the second, third, fourth times and on bring increased joy as they begin to understand the beauty and the importance of this in their lives. And may all of us who have received the Eucharist thousands of times in our lives continue to find each time the greatest experience yet.
Weekly Reflection for April 29, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Give Thanks!
“Give thanks to the Lord, who is good, whose love endures forever” Psalm 118:1
Our Responsorial Psalm for this Sunday is taken from Psalm 118 which is a psalm of thanksgiving. During this Easter season, we have so many opportunities to express our thanksgiving; joyful music, reassuring readings, a church environment filled with lilies and other spring flowers, children in anxious anticipation of their First Communion. It brings to mind the constant formula on the lips of St. Julie Billiart, “How good is the good God.”
We are thankful for the recently Confirmed, the soon to graduate from grade school, high school, college and all those students in between. We have so much more to celebrate. We give thanks for the trials which lead us to understanding that life is a mixture joy and sorrow. We grow stronger and wiser with each experience. In looking back, many times we can see the trials as a path to some unexpected turns in the road. And then we can even more firmly give thanks to the Lord, who is good and who is always with us.
Weekly Reflection for April 22, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Always With Us
Last Sunday, two eighth grade students, their mothers and I attended Mass at the Holy Family Church in Dayton, a parish of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati staffed by the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter. The Mass and all the Sacraments are celebrated according to the extraordinary form (Latin) of the Roman Rite in a most traditional way. For me, it was a reminder of the past, before Vatican II. For the rest, it was a new experience. We will hear more about this from our eighth grade friends in the coming week or so.
Most of us celebrate Mass these days in the ordinary form (English) with the priest facing the congregation, various lay ministers assisting with readings, distribution of Communion and being led by the choir. We are actively engaged with responses to the priest and singing with the choir. Altar servers are boys and girls.
All this prompted me to dust off my St. Joseph Daily Missal from 1956 with imprimatur from Francis Cardinal Spellman which had Latin on one side and the English translation on the right side. I also have The Maryknoll Missal with imprimatur from Richard Cardinal Cushing, DD in 1965 with some changes that have the congregation singing the Gloria, reciting the Creed and responding to some prayers. And then, there is My Sunday Missal from 1938 which my dad used to follow the priest in Mass celebrations.
All these changes in the past century and the changes from the time of Jesus focus on a constant desire to offer praise and honor to God in the best possible way. I think he hears us now in our present form of prayer as he did in the forms of the past for he assured us that he is always with us. For this we are truly blessed and thankful.
Weekly Reflection for April 15, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
“Peace be with you” John 20:19
This greeting from Jesus on his first visit to the disciples after his resurrection are familiar to us. We hear this during many liturgies including the Mass. The rising from the dead completed the mission of Jesus for the salvation of our souls. Now it is up to each of us to believe and accept him as our Lord and God.
It is comforting that he says: “Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.”(John 24:29). That would be us! We do have the advantage of looking back, of reading the Gospels, Acts and other historic writings which are very convincing. Engaging in a community of faith, prayer, considering events in our daily lives and trying to understand how acceptance of the hallmark moments and the times of trial can draw us closer to God, keep us focused and know that we are truly blessed.
Weekly Reflection for April 8, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
Rejoice and Be Glad!
“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice in it and be glad”. Psalm 118:24.
This was a favorite of my aunt, Sr. Mary Constantine, CPPS, now deceased. She included it in every letter and card she sent me throughout her years on this earth. How true it is this day as we celebrate the baptism of three and confirmation of one this week end. We also renew our own allegiance to our Catholic faith as we recite the Creed.
The redemption of our souls is complete as a result of the rising of Jesus from the dead. We are children of God and heirs to Heaven. Our call is to follow the teachings of Jesus and be faithful to the Gospel.
As we celebrate this most important day of our faith life, let’s remember all those in the Communion of Saints, which includes us, and follow the greatest and first commandment; “Love the Lord your God, with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind ... love your neighbor as yourself” Matt. 22:38-39.
May the joy of this Easter Day remain with you through the year.
Weekly Reflection for April 1, 2012
From our Faith Formation Director
Wilma McGlasson
For God so love the world....
We are coming to the end of our Lenten journey. As we move through this Holy Week, we find our thoughts turning even more to the passion of Jesus. We are reminded of his great love for us and his willingness to redeem us so we can enjoy eternal life. Today, we hear of this in the Gospel according to Mark. We can recall these events as we continue through this week.
The Holy Oils will be blessed by the bishop on Tuesday evening and during this liturgy the priests of our archdiocese will once again pledge their allegiance to the Archbishop. A portion of each of the three oils from Tuesday will be brought forward in our procession on Holy Thursday and will be used in the celebration of Baptism, Confirmation and Sacrament of the Sick throughout the coming year.
We will recall the institution of the Eucharist in our Mass on Holy Thursday as we enter into the Triduum (three days). These three days mark the mystery and core of our beliefs. On Good Friday, as we pray, fast and abstain, we again listen to the passion of Jesus, this time, according to John.
This week is full of remembrances of those days of the past when Jesus followed the will of his Father, even unto death, and of the love of the Father who gave his only Son so we can be with him in eternal life. By the power of the Holy Spirit, we are led on a journey of faith this week that can be truly life changing. Let us pray that we can open our eyes, ears, mind and heart to God in our life.
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Your Help Is Needed
Holy Week & Easter Choir
All are invited to join with the current members of all music ministries to form our Holy Week/Easter choir. We will rehearse at 7 PM on Wednesday evenings in Room 13 (MR) of the Parish Activity Center beginning March 6. Contact Dale Foley by Monday, March 4 to express your interest or for more information.
Bereavement Ministry
There can never be too many people involved in the Bereavement Ministry. If you have an interest in singing in the Funeral Choir, in being a Lector or Eucharistic Minister as needed at parish funerals, or in planning the Funeral Mass on a rotating basis with the family of the deceased, contact Dale Foley, (513) 742-2173.
Lend your voice to the Funeral Choir
Our Parish is blessed to have a funeral choir. The ministry of this choir is to serve the family of the deceased by leading the singing at the Mass of Christian Burial. Because every choir member isn’t available to attend every funeral (although we try), we can never have too many members! So won’t you consider lending your voice to this important ministry? We rehearse on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month from 9:30 am – 10:30 am. Contact Dale Foley, (513) 742-2173, or any current choir member for particulars, or just come to the Music Room 13 in the Parish Activity Center (PAC). We’d love to see you!
Looking for Lectors
There is currently a need for lectors at the 10:30 am Sunday Mass. Please consider joining this ministry. Training is provided. Contact the Parish Office to volunteer or for more information, (513) 521-7387.
Consider Becoming a Volunteer Sacristan
Volunteers are needed to help with a variety of light housekeeping tasks in the area of the altar and sacristy. You would be scheduled once a month. Please contact the Parish Office, (513) 521-7387 if you are interested in helping with this ministry.
Holy Week & Easter Choir
All are invited to join with the current members of all music ministries to form our Holy Week/Easter choir. We will rehearse at 7 PM on Wednesday evenings in Room 13 (MR) of the Parish Activity Center beginning March 6. Contact Dale Foley by Monday, March 4 to express your interest or for more information.
Bereavement Ministry
There can never be too many people involved in the Bereavement Ministry. If you have an interest in singing in the Funeral Choir, in being a Lector or Eucharistic Minister as needed at parish funerals, or in planning the Funeral Mass on a rotating basis with the family of the deceased, contact Dale Foley, (513) 742-2173.
Lend your voice to the Funeral Choir
Our Parish is blessed to have a funeral choir. The ministry of this choir is to serve the family of the deceased by leading the singing at the Mass of Christian Burial. Because every choir member isn’t available to attend every funeral (although we try), we can never have too many members! So won’t you consider lending your voice to this important ministry? We rehearse on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month from 9:30 am – 10:30 am. Contact Dale Foley, (513) 742-2173, or any current choir member for particulars, or just come to the Music Room 13 in the Parish Activity Center (PAC). We’d love to see you!
Looking for Lectors
There is currently a need for lectors at the 10:30 am Sunday Mass. Please consider joining this ministry. Training is provided. Contact the Parish Office to volunteer or for more information, (513) 521-7387.
Consider Becoming a Volunteer Sacristan
Volunteers are needed to help with a variety of light housekeeping tasks in the area of the altar and sacristy. You would be scheduled once a month. Please contact the Parish Office, (513) 521-7387 if you are interested in helping with this ministry.
Seeking Old St. MM Graduation Class Photos
The St. MM School historical preservation group is looking for class photos to complete its collection. If you have a class photo from 1949 / 1950 / 1971 / 1991 / 1999 / 2000 / 2001 / 2002 / 2003 / 2005, please contact Carol Rutz through the Parish Office, (513) 521-7387.
Readings for the
Ascension of the Lord
Sunday, May 19
Acts of the Apostles 2:1-11
1 Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13
John 20:19-23
Ascension of the Lord
Sunday, May 19
Acts of the Apostles 2:1-11
1 Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13
John 20:19-23
Click to hear about today's Saint of the Day
May 12, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that today’s celebration of Christ’s Ascension is celebrated on either a Thursday or a Sunday, depending on your geographical location? Because of the story found at the beginning of the Acts of the Apostles, the Ascension was originally celebrated on a Thursday. There, Luke says that Jesus rose from the dead, appeared to believers for 40 days, and then ascended to the heavens. The United States is so large and its needs are so varied that Rome granted permission for each geographical region to decide when this solemnity is celebrated. In the United States, it’s possible for the Ascension to be celebrated on a Thursday in one state, and on a Sunday in another.
May 5, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that children who receive communion for the first time must have “sufficient knowledge and careful preparation so as to understand the mystery of Christ according to their capacity” (Code of Canon Law 913). The Church’s expectation is that a child is able to distinguish ordinary food from Eucharistic bread. The norm is that the child has reached the age “of the use of reason”, generally, seven years of age. A definitive age cannot be established, however, since each child matures independently. Children need not comprehend the mystery of Christ totally (who can?), but only in accordance to their capacity. In all cases though, receiving communion for the first time requires not only the element of reason, but the element of faith as well.
April 28, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that next weekend children of the parish will receive Eucharist for the first time? But, did you know that the tradition of girls wearing a white dress and veil is a fairly recent tradition? The origins aren’t clear, but references to a white dress first appear in the 18th century. Several interpretations of its meaning are: (1) it was the dress of angels who worshiped at God’s throne or (2) it imitated the garb of those serving in a royal court. Those ideas, however, stress adoration more than communion. A third option is that it recalls the white garment of baptism. Today we regard communion as one of the sacraments of initiation, but that concept was not agreed upon at the time this tradition began. Lastly, of course, is the similarity to a wedding dress. Some believe that the white dress is a call for young ladies to commit themselves to Christ before committing to anyone else. There is no definitive answer as to why a tradition of dress exists for girls with none for boys except to say that the universal church has no norms governing the proper dress for first communion and communicants normally wear whatever follows the local custom.
April 21, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the Latin words “panem” (bread) and “pacem” (peace) are closely related in the context of liturgy? Their relationship lies in the fact that real peace (pacem) is only achieved through Christ who is the Bread (panem). This is why the greeting of peace comes so close to our reception of Eucharist. When we greet those around us we’re indicating that we believe that Jesus is present in them. It is only when we have accepted Christ in our neighbor that we are ready to accept the Christ who is present in Eucharist. The rite of peace is an immediate preparation for the breaking of bread and the reception of Communion. To elongate it by including everyone we can reach is to miss its purpose.
April 14, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the meaning of confirmation has changed over the years? Originally the bishop conferred confirmation immediately with baptism as part of the initiation ritual. When the number of people to be baptized made it impossible for the bishop to be the primary minister, confirmation was separated from the initiation rite. It then became the bishop’s confirmation of the baptism ministered by the priest. Gradually confirmation was conferred even later in life, further removed from baptism. It became thought of as a teenage rite of passage, a chance for the individual to make a personal commitment. Today we recognize those from the parish who were confirmed Tuesday evening at the cathedral. Please express to these individuals your prayerful support as they strengthen their journey of faith.
April 7, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that life would be mass confusion without signs to guide us? Signs tell us to “go”, to “stop” which door to “enter”, which door to “exit.” Signs are no less important for us as Christians – the tolling of church bells, the decorations used (or not used) in church, the singing of “alleluia.” The word “Alleluia”, Hebrew for “Praise the Lord”, is an expression of joy and praise. It indicates that what we are about as Christians has to do with something special. It expresses our belief in the Lord, the Lord’s Day, the Lord’s people, and the Lord’s meal.
March 31, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that Easter is one of the major feasts appearing on the Church calendar? In fact, it is the major feast of the Church, an annual landmark in our Christian journey. Today demands our continuous, joyous cries of “Alleluia.” But first, the power of the resurrected Lord must be unleashed in our hearts and in our lives. Only then can we truly sing “Alleluia.” Only then can our Easter song be authentic.
March 24, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the Easter Triduum has been called the climax of the liturgical year, for these indeed are our “high holy days”? Even though each day highlights a particular aspect of Christ’s redemptive act, the days are viewed as a single event spanning three days. During this time we, in a special way, join Christ in his victory over death. Our song, no matter what the words, is a song of hope: the struggle of Christ is our struggle; his victory is our victory.
March 17, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the first part of the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday is the Service of Light? Weather permitting, all gather outside where the new fire is lighted. Since this fire is a symbolic representation of the light of Christ shattering the darkness of the world, it's important that the service begins after nightfall. The Paschal Candle, representing Christ, is lighted from the new fire and leads the procession to the space in the church where the Exsultet is sung. The Exsultet is a song of praise and gratitude to God for the reconciliation and redemption Christ won for us. This song concludes the first of four parts of the Easter Vigil. The others are the Liturgy of the Word, the Baptismal Liturgy, and the Liturgy of the Eucharist.
March 10, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the Adoration of the Cross on Good Friday is not a time to rush or be efficient? This is our time to be present to the moment, to put our heart into the adoration of the wood on which Christ died for our salvation. We express our gratitude by touching the cross, kissing it, or bowing before it, whatever best expresses us.
March 3, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that counting today there are only three Sundays before Palm Sunday, the beginning of Holy Week? Today provides an opportunity to begin to address some aspects of the sacred Triduum that begins on Holy Thursday. The Entrance Antiphon on Holy Thursday sets the tone for all three days. It doesn’t speak of bread, wine, or even the Eucharistic celebration. It reminds us that we should glory in the cross of Christ, for through it we achieve our salvation and resurrection. The gathering song for this Mass supports that focus. For the song isn’t just for Holy Thursday, but serves as an introduction to the entire Triduum – Holy Thursday’s mandate to practice loving service, Good Friday’s adoration the cross of Christ, and the celebration of Christ’s resurrection at the Easter Vigil.
February 24, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that prayer and almsgiving are two time-honored Christian Lenten traditions? Most Catholics make time for extra prayer during Lent, either as individuals, as a family, or as part of a parish group. And everyone is encouraged to develop spiritually through reflection on the reading of the season, and by efforts to increase our relationship with Jesus. One way to demonstrate union with Christ is to care for our brothers and sisters. Using our time, talent, treasure or any form to charity for the benefit of others can be viewed as almsgiving.
February 17, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that Christian devotion through the centuries has produced many time-honored methods of praying? But none of these can surpass the prayers of the Bible, especially the Book of Psalms. Used by generations of Jewish and Christian believers, the psalms express every dimension of life’s joys and sorrows. Today’s Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 91. As Luke mentions in today’s Gospel reading, the devil quotes verses from this psalm when tempting Jesus in the desert: “He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you, and with their hands they will support you, lest you dash your foot against a stone.” A popular musical setting of this psalm is #434 “On Eagle’s Wings.”
February 10, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that Wednesday is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent? Lent (the word is derived from the medieval English lente meaning “springtime”) was begun by early Christians observing a fast prior to the Easter Vigil. By the 4th century this fast was extended to forty days, imitating the number of days Christ fasted in the desert. In addition to fasting, Christians also joined as a community to pray and to hear the word of God. During Mass on Wednesday, the distribution of ashes (occurring after the homily) will replace the Penitential Act and the Creed will be omitted. One noteworthy instruction from the Roman Missal (#313) says that “In Lent the playing of the organ and musical instruments is allowed only in order to support the singing. Exceptions are Laetare Sunday (4th Sunday of Lent), Solemnities and Feasts.” You will also notice that the environment of the church has changed. The color is violet, there are no flowers, and the church interior is barren and somber.
February 3, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that stained glass windows are primarily found in churches? One of their functions is to add beauty and a feeling of reverence to the worship environment. Although they are displayed as works of art, they also have a practical function. Because stained glass windows came into prominence at a time when most people were not literate, many windows depict items of faith. These windows serve almost like a pictorial catechism. Some people have described them as sermons for the eyes.
January 27, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...the proper name for the outer vestment worn by a priest at Mass? It’s called a chasuble. This sleeveless vestment reflects the liturgical color of the day’s feast (white, red, green, violet or rose). During Ordinary Time the chasuble is green. Its color changes to violet on Ash Wednesday for the season of Lent. The name comes from the Latin word casula and the garment itself is modeled after Roman clothing commonly worn at the establishment of the early Church. The style has changed over the years from a completely round or square cloth with an opening for the head to a garment shaped to make it easier for the priest to move his arms.
January 20, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that today we begin Ordinary Time? This part of the liturgical year has no distinctive emphasis like the seasons of Advent, Lent or Easter. Ordinary Time lasts 34 weeks, but not consecutively. It continues now through the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, then resumes on the Monday after Pentecost and continues until the beginning of Advent.
January 13, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that today is the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, the last day of the Christmas Season. Tomorrow begins Ordinary Time. This year, there are only 4 Sundays of Ordinary Time. Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent is February 13. So today, as we conclude our celebration of Christmas, let’s sing our closing song with gusto, “Joy to the world, the Lord has come.”
January 6, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that today is the Feast of the Epiphany? Today we celebrate Jesus’ manifestation to the Gentiles as represented by the magi. Although the exact number of kings isn’t known, it’s assumed that each gift was carried by one man. Our entrance hymn, “We Three Kings” uses gifts to explain the purpose of Jesus’ coming. In stanza 2, “gold I bring to crown him again” signifies that Jesus is the King. Stanza 3 speaks of the gift of frankincense, incense that signifies prayer and praise in Jesus’ priestly ministry. In stanza 4, the gift of myrrh and “its bitter perfume breathes a life of gathering gloom,” foretells Jesus’ suffering and death. In many countries this is a day on which gifts are exchanged, recalling the gifts given by the magi. Today is sometimes referred to as “little Christmas.”
December 30, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that today is the Feast of the Holy Family? Below is a paraphrase of the Prayer of St. Francis asking that we, as a parish family, grow as the instruments of the Lord's presence:
Lord, make our parish the instrument of Your presence.
Help us depend on lively faith.
Help us be open to build bridges between people.
Help us find words that encourage and affirm.
Help us be sensitive to the needs and hurts of others.
For we believe that it is ours to build community where there is isolation,
To proclaim gospel wholeness where there is brokenness,
And to replace the shallow promises made by our world with the promise and the presence of the Risen Lord.
December 23, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that even though we hear them everywhere else, we haven’t heard Christmas Carols during Mass? Even today, December 23, we won’t sing carols. For the liturgy, Christmas celebrations don’t begin until the Christmas Eve Masses. Until then, we celebrate Advent, and the music we sing supports the season. Once Christmas comes, we’ll sing carols through the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, January 13. Long after people have thrown away or stored their Christmas decorations, the Church will still be celebrating Christ’s birth.
December 16, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that today’s response to the First Reading isn’t a Psalm but is a passage taken from the Book of Isaiah? It continues to praise and thank God for His wondrous deeds. All of us, at various times and in various ways, become discouraged. Recall the words of Zephaniah in today’s First Reading: “...be not discouraged.” St. Paul says in his Letter to the Philippians that: “...the peace of God ...will guard your hearts and minds.” Allow God to take charge and you’ll be at peace no matter what occurs, for the Lord is always present and is always yet to come.
December 9, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that Psalm 126, today’s Responsorial Psalm, prays that the Jewish homeland be restored? It’s a plea that God lead the people out of captivity and restore their fortunes soon - “like the torrents in the southern desert.” During summer the riverbeds are dry until rain suddenly turns them into a torrent of water. The psalm complements today’s first reading where Baruch prophecies that the captivity of the Jewish people in Babylon will soon end. The works of the Lord are indeed a reason for rejoicing; they are the reason “we are filled with joy.”
December 2, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that Psalm 25, today’s Responsorial Psalm, is an alphabetic psalm? If you would read the psalm in Hebrew, you’d see that each couplet of the psalm begins with the next letter of the Hebrew alphabet. The text speaks of a forgiving God, a God who is good, kind, and constant. That is why the entire assembly can proclaim the refrain, “To you, O Lord, I lift my soul.” This psalm introduces the spirit of Advent, a time of watching, preparing, and waiting for Christmas and Christ’s Second Coming at the end of time.
November 25, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the motto of Pope Pius XI was “Christ’s peace through Christ’s reign?” In 1925 he introduced today’s solemnity – Christ the King. Originally the feast was to counter the secularism and naturalism that was rampant in society. Today, the focus of the celebration looks to the time when Christ will come in His glory to establish the fullness of His kingdom, a kingdom that will embrace all.
November 18, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...it has been suggested that Now Thank We All Our God is the most widely known hymn of all time? True or not, everyone will probably agree that it’s a classic. The lyrics were written during an especially sad period in history: the plague of 1637 took the lives of five thousand people, and the Thirty Years War was still raging. Yet, in spite of everything, people still found reason to give thanks. We celebrate Thanksgiving on Thursday. Now Thank We All Our God will be sung at our parish Mass during the Presentation of Gifts. Circumstances today aren’t exactly the same as when the song was composed, but each of us deals with adversity every day. And yet, we still find the need to express our thanks. Consider carrying this song with you as you gather at table on Thanksgiving – maybe as part of the grace before meals.
November 11, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the Church not only has a past, it also has a memory? And so it is that, especially during the month of November, the Church recalls those who through the centuries have given witness to Christ. In the early Church the faithful gathered on the anniversary day of a martyr’s death to celebrate Eucharist. These martyrs were the first to be recognized as official saints, an honor eventually extended to others. From the earliest centuries Christians prayed for the dead and sang hymns in their memory. Today is Veterans Day. Let us carry on this sacred tradition of the Church as we continue to remember relatives, friends, and even strangers who have “fallen asleep in the Lord.”
November 4, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the Presentation of Gifts lays the foundation for what follows in the Mass? Recall what took place at the feeding of the multitude. A large crowd followed Jesus and was hungry. The disciples said that they should be sent away to fend for themselves, but Jesus told the disciples to provide food for them. Imagine the disciples’ frustration when only a few loaves and a couple of fish could be gathered! But Jesus took that meager offering, blessed it, broke it, and gave it back to them. And it was enough. In fact, it was more than enough!
Each of us can become frustrated by the needs that surround us every day and echo the cry of the disciples, “Lord, I don’t have all that it takes to handle this.” But Jesus tells us, “Bring me what you have.” This is what we do symbolically when the gifts are presented at the altar.
There is no schedule for PRESENTER OF GIFTS at the 4:30 PM and 8:30 AM Masses. There will, however, be a change at the 10:30 AM Mass. At its May meeting, the Worship Committee recommended that: 1) the CLOW children present the gifts as a group one Sunday per Month; 2) on another Sunday, one child with his/her relatives present the gifts (since families are the primary teachers of their children, this affords the opportunity to teach by example); 3) on the remaining Sundays, you, with family and friends, are encouraged to participate. The Worship Committee continues to promote your participation in this act of faith.
October 28, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that every Sunday and holy day one Mass is celebrated for the people of the parish? In Latin, this is the missa pro populo, a Mass for the people. The weekend Mass that carries this as the priest’s intention is published as such in the parish bulletin. This is part of the pastor’s responsibilities to the parish, so neither the priest nor the parish receives an offering for it. At other Masses, a contribution to request the priest’s intention can be offered. This doesn’t mean, however, that all the blessings of that Mass are directed solely to that intention. Since God directs the infinite blessings of each Mass, it’s more accurate to say that at that Mass the published intention is remembered by the priest in a special way, not that the Mass is offered solely for that particular request. Whether your intention appears in print or not, the intention you offer at a particular Mass is prayed for. Don’t let the reduction in the number of parish Masses offered each week deceive you into believing that your individual intentions and concerns cannot be remembered. Every Mass is always offered for all.
October 21, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that a basic principle of Philosophy 101 is: Whatever is received is received according to the mode (or mood) of the receiver? For example, when everything in your life is going wrong, isn’t it hard to hear someone complain about his or her insignificant problem? Isn’t it hard to be compassionate? How many nasty responses come from a bad mood? This leads us to a consoling conclusion about God. God doesn’t have moods. God isn’t supersensitive. We can be confident that God fits the ancient proverb regarding a friend: “someone to whom one may pour out all the contents of one’s heart, chaff and grain together, knowing that the gentlest of hands will take and sift it, keep what is worth keeping, and with the breath of kindness blow the rest away.”
October 14, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that in the 10th century Prince Vladimir of Kiev, Russia was besieged by Moslems, Latin rite Catholics, Jews, and Greek Orthodox Catholics to have their particular faith proclaimed the official religion of Russia? Not being sure what to do, he consulted with his counselors. They advised him that instead of being personally involved in the evaluation, he should send servants to participate in the ritual of each and experience how each worships God. It’s important to note that the servants assessed the liturgy and not the theological formulation. Despite the importance of the latter, how we celebrate and what we celebrate says more about us than all the books found on all the shelves of all our libraries.
October 7, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
..that God gets the blame for a variety of things? In fact, no one is blamed more. This could be viewed as a profession of faith in God’s power. But it can also be viewed as an insult. In his book A Grief Observed, C. S. Lewis portrays this dilemma. Lewis married when he was in his fifties. However, in the first year of his marriage his wife died from cancer. Lewis wasn’t tempted to believe that God didn’t exist. Instead he was tempted to believe terrible things about God and blame him for the grief he was carrying. The Old Testament book Song of Songs gives a poetic picture of God’s relationship to his people. The book portrays a young couple on their honeymoon with God as the bridegroom, and his people as the bride. This God is not cruel, vindictive, jealous or angry. This God is passionate, loyal, tender and gracious. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could become more like God by keeping an affectionate image of him to guide us? Wouldn’t it be even better if everyone could tell?
September 30, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the Old Testament account of the escape of the Israelites from the Egyptian army by the parting of the Red Sea is a story of both winners and losers? While the Israelites were celebrating their safety, the families of the Egyptian soldiers were mourning the death of their loved ones. An old rabbinic story portrays angels watching this event from heaven and celebrating the victory of the chosen people. They went to God to share their joy, but they found God weeping. God turned to them and asked, “How can I celebrate when my children are downing?” Scripture tells us to rejoice with those who rejoice and to weep with those who weep. According to this story even God can’t do both at the same time.
September 23, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that we are constantly given the opportunity to determine the direction of our life? When we least expect it, a word, an event, or even a book can serve as the catalyst for a life-changing event. Take the life of John Newton for example. As a youth John served in the Navy, enjoying all the adventures and pleasures that life-style offered. When he left the navy, he sought his fortune as a slave trader, transporting men, women, and children from Africa to slave markets around the world. John was an avid reader. One day he found The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a Kempis. He was intrigued by the subject matter and began reading it. That book changed his life. He turned to God. (The fact that the ship was battling a terrible storm and he feared drowning might have had something to do with his conversion as well.) He was baptized a Christian and eventually was ordained a curate in the Anglican Church. John wrote poems based on the good and not-so-good events of his life. He used these poems in his preaching to illustrate how his experiences helped form his theological outlook. One poem in particular inspired his congregation. In it he reflected that it was grace that saved “a wretch like me.” That poem, written by John Newton, a poem reflecting the journey to his conversion, is the hymn we know as Amazing Grace. If you’re not already familiar with the words, open Breaking Bread to #424 and share in John’s story.
September 16, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that it’s necessary to fast before receiving Holy Communion? Some of us are old enough to remember the requirement to fast from midnight in order to receive Holy Communion at morning Mass. This requirement became more complicated when Christmas Mass at Midnight was introduced, so a three hour fast was prescribed for evening Masses. Finally, because church leaders feel that the reception of communion is important for everyone, the current rule of fasting one hour before receiving communion was introduced. So much easier than in the past!
September 9, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that today’s Responsorial Psalm is numerically the first of what are known as the Alleluia Psalms? Psalms 146 through 150 conclude the Psalter by praising God’s goodness and greatness. In the first reading Isaiah tells us that the coming of the Messiah will be accompanied by wonderful things, things like opening the eyes of the blind and clearing the ears of the deaf. Today’s gospel has Jesus doing just that - curing a deaf man who also had a speech impediment. We’re told that the people who witnessed this miracle didn’t know how to react. Their amazement went beyond all limits. God’s miracles continue in our lives, so we echo the psalm and sing: “Praise the Lord, my soul.”
September 2, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that Catholic worship involves more than a series of prayers? Words are an integral part of liturgy, but gesture, posture, action, and movement are no less important. An ebb and flow movement weaves these elements together. The strong progression of the Eucharistic prayer contrasts to the more relaxed movement during the preparation of gifts. There are times to speak, times to listen, times to sing, times to respond, and times to be silent. To be silent is probably the most difficult, for to participate silently is to put aside all cares. It is a time to do nothing other than listen for the voice of God. And, more often than not, this voice is not heard in a stirring “Alleluia”, but in the hush of a quiet whisper.
August 26, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that today we finish the section of John’s Gospel known as the “Bread of Life” discourse? At the end of today’s gospel many of the disciples realized what a difficult teaching Jesus was presenting and, “returned to their former way of life and no longer accompanied him.” The Twelve, however, remained faithful. The first reading from the Book of Joshua also describes people forced to make a choice. Joshua tells the tribes of Israel to “decide today whom you will serve.” Every week when we gather at Mass, we too, are faced with a choice since living the Eucharist demands that our whole lives – especially what we do after Mass – “bless the Lord at all times.”
August 19, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that one of the greatest bishops of the early church was St. Ambrose (c.340-397)? While he was still a catechumen, the people of Milan nominated him to be their bishop. (You could do that in those days.) After some hesitation Ambrose consented. He was then baptized, then ordained. Ambrose was an author, a preacher, and a strong advocate of congregational singing. He wrote, “What a grand bond of unity becomes evident when a multitude of diverse people sing in unison! It is like a harp with many strings sounding a single melody! The fingers of a musician may strike wrong chords at times, but not here – for among God’s people it is his Spirit who is the master musician.” May we continue to be led by that Spirit!
August 12, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
..that attempts to discover the “historical” Jesus are neither new nor unexpected? It’s human nature to probe, to discover. But Christianity isn’t a mathematical puzzle to be solved. It’s more like a love story - the story of God being in love with us, and of us falling in love with God. Today’s Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 34. This traditional Eucharistic psalm reminds us that we gather to “taste and see the goodness of the Lord.”
August 5, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the most popular image of the church is the “Body of Christ?” We hear this phrase at the distribution of communion. Our “Amen” in response signifies our agreement to three implied mysteries. We acknowledge that the community is the body of Christ, that the communicant through the water of Baptism and the power of the Holy Spirit is a member of the body of Christ, and that the Eucharistic bread is, in a unique way, the body of Christ. It is as the Body of Christ that we join with Christ himself to give praise to the Father.
July 29, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that at the time of Jesus, Jewish worship took place either in the temple at Jerusalem, in local synagogue, or in the home? The texts for worship were primarily the psalms and other poetic compositions. Services at the temple were the most elaborate because their musical resources were much larger. There were 12 singers and 12 instrumentalists, each playing a wide variety of instruments. Although we’re not sure what the music sounded like, it spoke to all ages and undoubtedly was capable of making a great noise to the Lord. Consider the words of St. John Chrysostom (c. 347-407) regarding the singing of the psalms: “old men lay aside the rigor of age; downcast middle-aged men respond in the cheerfulness of their heart; younger men sing without peril of wantonness; youth sing without danger to their still impressionable age and without fear of being tempted to pleasure; tender maidens suffer no damage to the adornment of their chastity; and young widows let their rich voices ring out without endangering their modesty.” Powerful prayers, aren’t they?
July 22, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that the psalms are part of scripture and are the word of God? The 150 psalms, (yes, 150) convey every aspect of the human condition. There is a psalm for every mood, every emotion, and every occasion. The psalms help to express the voice of the church and of its members, whether they be poor and sinful, or powerful and saintly. Today we pray one of the most beloved of all psalms – Psalm 23. This psalm suggests two themes: that of a shepherd who lovingly cares for his flock, and that of a host who shows generosity to his guest. Today’s gospel tells us that when Jesus got out of the boat, a large crowd was waiting for him. He pitied them, for they were “like sheep without a shepherd.” In the first reading, the prophet Jeremiah warns us against evil shepherds who allow the flock to be scattered. He also assures us that there are good shepherds as well. Is it any wonder then that Psalm 23 is today’s responsorial psalm?
July 15, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that the psalms are not only inspiring religious poetry, they are also prayers addressed to God? The God of the psalms is a friend to whom the psalmist expresses the gamut of human emotions. Time and again the Lord comes to the aid of Israel, forgives the infidelities of the people, and restores both individuals and the nation to His favor. God performs similar wonders for us. Like the psalmist, we respond with songs filled with human emotion. Whether it is praise, thanksgiving, or petition, the psalms are not only the prayer book of Israel, they are also the prayer book of the Church.
July 8, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that ideally readers at weddings (or funerals) should be people with training and experience in proclaiming the readings at liturgy? Many times the role of reader at these liturgies is given to friends or family members as a way of including them. It is more important, however, that the scriptures be read in a way that communicates the meaning of the Word to the listeners. Usually people who do not have training or experience are nervous and rush through the readings. The words are said, but they are not a proclamation of God’s word. If the readers are not regular parish ministers, they should practice with someone who is so that they can give the Word its prime importance.
July 1, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the entrance song at weddings shouldn’t be solely instrumental? What is really called for by the Church is an entrance song in which everyone participates. This is part of the way in which the guests at a wedding take an active part in the celebration. Any liturgically appropriate song that reflects the focus and joy of the occasion can be used.
June 24, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the traditional role of the bride and groom at weddings are based on an old-fashioned model? The current thinking of the Church is that the bride and groom are hosts. They have invited guests to share in their joy and witness their commitment to one another. Together they should greet their guests as they arrive. Then, when all is ready, the priest or deacon goes to the back of the church to greet them. The music starts and the procession begins. The ministers process first followed by the priest or deacon, and the wedding party. Since the bride and groom are the actual ministers of the sacrament (remember last week’s column), they process last. They can walk together, arm in arm, or separately with their parents.
June 17, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that the month of June is traditionally known as the “month of brides?” Even though this parish doesn’t celebrate the Sacrament of Matrimony frequently, there’s wisdom in discussing some basic aspects of the sacrament. So, beginning today and for the next three weeks, we’ll do just that. For example, do you know who actually does the marrying? Frequently couples say that they were married by Fr. Soandso, or that Fr. Soandso married them. The fact is that the priest or deacon serves only as an official witness for both the church and the state. The bride and groom are the ones who confer the sacrament on each other by the exchange of their consent. They are the real ministers of the sacrament.
June 10, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that today’s solemnity pays homage to Christ’s presence in the Eucharist? Scripture and tradition demonstrate that Eucharist is to be our food: “Take and eat...Take and drink.” Although this “taking” usually occurs within the celebration of Mass, the early church did reserve Eucharist for those who were unable to be physically present for that celebration, e.g., the sick, the imprisoned, and those about to die. Over time, and for a variety of reasons, the number of people receiving communion decreased. As a result, devotion to the reserved sacrament greatly increased, with prayers, visits, and the sacrament itself being reserved on or near the altar. Out of those observances today’s feast was born in the thirteenth century. Our devotion to the Blessed Sacrament is always to flow from, and lead us back to, the sacred meal given to us by Christ himself.
June 3, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that every Sunday liturgy begins with the sign of the cross? Often this gesture and its accompanying words become meaningless because it’s an automatic response. Yet, making the sign of the cross is one of the most basic and profound signs of our faith. Crossing ourselves not only praises the Trinity, but it makes a powerful statement about who we are. How carefully do you make the sign of the cross? This gesture could be much more powerful if it were done with attention and reverence. Today is Trinity Sunday. Make a special effort to sign yourself with attention and devotion.
May 27, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that today, the Feast of Pentecost completes our Easter celebration? On the first Pentecost the apostles received the gifts of the Holy Spirit that enabled them to proclaim the good news to the entire world. Despite differences in language and culture, we are one in the Lord, one in Faith, and one in Baptism. Red is the color of the day. These touches of red in decoration and clothing symbolize the fire of the Holy Spirit. Come, Holy Spirit, fill our lives with the fire of your love and renew this community in its call to worship, witness, and service.
May 20, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that today's feast of the Ascension of the Lord, used to be celebrated on the Thursday of the sixth week of Easter? It originated on that day because of what is written at the opening of the Acts of the Apostles. There, Luke says that Jesus rose from the dead, appeared to believers for 40 days, then ascended into heaven. Most of the dioceses of the United States have moved the Ascension to the Seventh Sunday of Easter, making it more accessible to working Catholics. This is the final feast of the Lord before the sending of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (next Sunday). Today Jesus commissions us, his disciples, to be his witnesses throughout the world baptizing in his name.
May 13, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that music, unlike other forms of art, never looks back? Music always moves forward. We can reread pages in a novel, rewind a film, or look at the same painting again and again. But a melody, once begun, moves on, pulling us with it. In a way, music is a symbol of Christian life. We are on a journey with Christ as the conductor. We can never turn back. True, each year we return to the same Lenten and Easter songs and sing them as we did before. But yet, not really, for we are always moving toward that place where past, present, and future come together to sing a new song of praise. Let us continue to sing “Alleluia”.
May 6, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that the melody to the song “Lord of the Dance” (BB #597) is a “Shaker” tune? Shakers originated in 1747 near Albany, NY. At one time there were about five to six thousand members in the U.S., but today the group is considered extinct. Shakers held all property in common, arose at the same time, took meals together, abstained from smoking, were pacifists, and, although marriage wasn’t absolutely forbidden, placed a high value on celibacy (maybe a reason for their demise). Members were known to “shake” while dancing during their religious services. One Shaker guide for worship was: “Sing a little, dance a little, exhort a little, preach a little, and a good many littles will make a great deal.” Are you still “shaking” with Easter joy?
April 29, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that the quote “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm” is attributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson? Enthusiasm is having strong feelings, zeal, energy, and excitement. It’s the ability to be glad in the work at hand. Enthusiastic athletes win medals; enthusiastic teachers motivate students; enthusiastic fans help the home team win; and an enthusiastic congregation is a pleasure to sing and worship with because it is a sign of what awaits us all. The life of a true Christian should be a perpetual jubilee. Is it any wonder that the “Alleluias” of the Easter Season are sung for fifty days?
April 22, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that it’s here? The Easter season, that is, and its HUGE! We took six weeks to prepare for it, and now we take eight weeks to celebrate it. The church is filled with joy. What we see and what we sing is proof of our happiness. Nature is also in harmony, for the new life of spring is a sign of the Easter mystery. The Easter Season provides a constant reminder that, like the flower that comes from a seed buried in the ground, our faith is a promise of resurrection. Continue to celebrate, for the Easter season lasts until Pentecost. This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice, let us be glad!
April 15, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that some say that singing is the most ancient and widespread form of music? The only thing needed is the human voice. We can sing either alone or with others with no accompaniment. Much of the time all other activity stops while we sing. We sing Happy Birthday - then cut the cake. We sing God Bless America - then enjoy the fireworks. We sing The Star Spangled Banner - then begin the game.
But, at other times, singing accompanies our work. Sailors sing chanties while pulling ropes. Songs have been sung while laying railroad tracks, and while picking cotton. And, of course, there’s singing in the shower. But, can you think of a song designated to be sung while sinning? Singing implies that we are in harmony with God, with self, and with others. As we continue to sing the “Alleluias” of this Easter Season, let’s do so with the conviction to sing away the desire to sin!
April 8, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... Our Lenten journey has brought us to today, Easter Sunday. During Lent we went to both the desert and the mountaintop. We heard stories of forgiveness, healing, and compassion. Last Sunday we traveled to Jerusalem to wash feet, share a meal, bear our cross, and learn what it means to give up one’s life for those we love. During the season of Easter, the Church suggests that we pray the Apostles’ Creed at Sunday Mass instead of the
Creed is more directly connected to the baptismal promises that we renew today. From the door of a tomb, a message of life is proclaimed. Go in peace, alleluia, alleluia!
April 1, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that one of the most impressive parts of the Good Friday liturgy is the faithful coming forward to show their respect for the cross of Christ? For years, this has been called an act of veneration, but the revised English translation now calls it adoration. “Adoration” is a word we reserve for God. Catholics do not adore the Virgin Mary, saints, or statues. The cross, however, holds a special place of honor on Good Friday. According to St. Thomas Aquinas, the cross is “worshipped with the same adoration as Christ” (Summa Theologica III, q.25, a.4). The practice of kissing the cross on Good Friday dates back to the fourth century, when the faithful in Jerusalem possessed what they believed to be the true cross. The faithful may adore the cross on Good Friday in any way they choose: with a kiss, a bow, a genuflection, or standing in silence. When leaving the church on Good Friday, it is appropriate to genuflect in the direction of the cross.
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that today’s celebration of Christ’s Ascension is celebrated on either a Thursday or a Sunday, depending on your geographical location? Because of the story found at the beginning of the Acts of the Apostles, the Ascension was originally celebrated on a Thursday. There, Luke says that Jesus rose from the dead, appeared to believers for 40 days, and then ascended to the heavens. The United States is so large and its needs are so varied that Rome granted permission for each geographical region to decide when this solemnity is celebrated. In the United States, it’s possible for the Ascension to be celebrated on a Thursday in one state, and on a Sunday in another.
May 5, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that children who receive communion for the first time must have “sufficient knowledge and careful preparation so as to understand the mystery of Christ according to their capacity” (Code of Canon Law 913). The Church’s expectation is that a child is able to distinguish ordinary food from Eucharistic bread. The norm is that the child has reached the age “of the use of reason”, generally, seven years of age. A definitive age cannot be established, however, since each child matures independently. Children need not comprehend the mystery of Christ totally (who can?), but only in accordance to their capacity. In all cases though, receiving communion for the first time requires not only the element of reason, but the element of faith as well.
April 28, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that next weekend children of the parish will receive Eucharist for the first time? But, did you know that the tradition of girls wearing a white dress and veil is a fairly recent tradition? The origins aren’t clear, but references to a white dress first appear in the 18th century. Several interpretations of its meaning are: (1) it was the dress of angels who worshiped at God’s throne or (2) it imitated the garb of those serving in a royal court. Those ideas, however, stress adoration more than communion. A third option is that it recalls the white garment of baptism. Today we regard communion as one of the sacraments of initiation, but that concept was not agreed upon at the time this tradition began. Lastly, of course, is the similarity to a wedding dress. Some believe that the white dress is a call for young ladies to commit themselves to Christ before committing to anyone else. There is no definitive answer as to why a tradition of dress exists for girls with none for boys except to say that the universal church has no norms governing the proper dress for first communion and communicants normally wear whatever follows the local custom.
April 21, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the Latin words “panem” (bread) and “pacem” (peace) are closely related in the context of liturgy? Their relationship lies in the fact that real peace (pacem) is only achieved through Christ who is the Bread (panem). This is why the greeting of peace comes so close to our reception of Eucharist. When we greet those around us we’re indicating that we believe that Jesus is present in them. It is only when we have accepted Christ in our neighbor that we are ready to accept the Christ who is present in Eucharist. The rite of peace is an immediate preparation for the breaking of bread and the reception of Communion. To elongate it by including everyone we can reach is to miss its purpose.
April 14, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the meaning of confirmation has changed over the years? Originally the bishop conferred confirmation immediately with baptism as part of the initiation ritual. When the number of people to be baptized made it impossible for the bishop to be the primary minister, confirmation was separated from the initiation rite. It then became the bishop’s confirmation of the baptism ministered by the priest. Gradually confirmation was conferred even later in life, further removed from baptism. It became thought of as a teenage rite of passage, a chance for the individual to make a personal commitment. Today we recognize those from the parish who were confirmed Tuesday evening at the cathedral. Please express to these individuals your prayerful support as they strengthen their journey of faith.
April 7, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that life would be mass confusion without signs to guide us? Signs tell us to “go”, to “stop” which door to “enter”, which door to “exit.” Signs are no less important for us as Christians – the tolling of church bells, the decorations used (or not used) in church, the singing of “alleluia.” The word “Alleluia”, Hebrew for “Praise the Lord”, is an expression of joy and praise. It indicates that what we are about as Christians has to do with something special. It expresses our belief in the Lord, the Lord’s Day, the Lord’s people, and the Lord’s meal.
March 31, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that Easter is one of the major feasts appearing on the Church calendar? In fact, it is the major feast of the Church, an annual landmark in our Christian journey. Today demands our continuous, joyous cries of “Alleluia.” But first, the power of the resurrected Lord must be unleashed in our hearts and in our lives. Only then can we truly sing “Alleluia.” Only then can our Easter song be authentic.
March 24, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the Easter Triduum has been called the climax of the liturgical year, for these indeed are our “high holy days”? Even though each day highlights a particular aspect of Christ’s redemptive act, the days are viewed as a single event spanning three days. During this time we, in a special way, join Christ in his victory over death. Our song, no matter what the words, is a song of hope: the struggle of Christ is our struggle; his victory is our victory.
March 17, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the first part of the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday is the Service of Light? Weather permitting, all gather outside where the new fire is lighted. Since this fire is a symbolic representation of the light of Christ shattering the darkness of the world, it's important that the service begins after nightfall. The Paschal Candle, representing Christ, is lighted from the new fire and leads the procession to the space in the church where the Exsultet is sung. The Exsultet is a song of praise and gratitude to God for the reconciliation and redemption Christ won for us. This song concludes the first of four parts of the Easter Vigil. The others are the Liturgy of the Word, the Baptismal Liturgy, and the Liturgy of the Eucharist.
March 10, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the Adoration of the Cross on Good Friday is not a time to rush or be efficient? This is our time to be present to the moment, to put our heart into the adoration of the wood on which Christ died for our salvation. We express our gratitude by touching the cross, kissing it, or bowing before it, whatever best expresses us.
March 3, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that counting today there are only three Sundays before Palm Sunday, the beginning of Holy Week? Today provides an opportunity to begin to address some aspects of the sacred Triduum that begins on Holy Thursday. The Entrance Antiphon on Holy Thursday sets the tone for all three days. It doesn’t speak of bread, wine, or even the Eucharistic celebration. It reminds us that we should glory in the cross of Christ, for through it we achieve our salvation and resurrection. The gathering song for this Mass supports that focus. For the song isn’t just for Holy Thursday, but serves as an introduction to the entire Triduum – Holy Thursday’s mandate to practice loving service, Good Friday’s adoration the cross of Christ, and the celebration of Christ’s resurrection at the Easter Vigil.
February 24, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that prayer and almsgiving are two time-honored Christian Lenten traditions? Most Catholics make time for extra prayer during Lent, either as individuals, as a family, or as part of a parish group. And everyone is encouraged to develop spiritually through reflection on the reading of the season, and by efforts to increase our relationship with Jesus. One way to demonstrate union with Christ is to care for our brothers and sisters. Using our time, talent, treasure or any form to charity for the benefit of others can be viewed as almsgiving.
February 17, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that Christian devotion through the centuries has produced many time-honored methods of praying? But none of these can surpass the prayers of the Bible, especially the Book of Psalms. Used by generations of Jewish and Christian believers, the psalms express every dimension of life’s joys and sorrows. Today’s Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 91. As Luke mentions in today’s Gospel reading, the devil quotes verses from this psalm when tempting Jesus in the desert: “He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you, and with their hands they will support you, lest you dash your foot against a stone.” A popular musical setting of this psalm is #434 “On Eagle’s Wings.”
February 10, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that Wednesday is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent? Lent (the word is derived from the medieval English lente meaning “springtime”) was begun by early Christians observing a fast prior to the Easter Vigil. By the 4th century this fast was extended to forty days, imitating the number of days Christ fasted in the desert. In addition to fasting, Christians also joined as a community to pray and to hear the word of God. During Mass on Wednesday, the distribution of ashes (occurring after the homily) will replace the Penitential Act and the Creed will be omitted. One noteworthy instruction from the Roman Missal (#313) says that “In Lent the playing of the organ and musical instruments is allowed only in order to support the singing. Exceptions are Laetare Sunday (4th Sunday of Lent), Solemnities and Feasts.” You will also notice that the environment of the church has changed. The color is violet, there are no flowers, and the church interior is barren and somber.
February 3, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that stained glass windows are primarily found in churches? One of their functions is to add beauty and a feeling of reverence to the worship environment. Although they are displayed as works of art, they also have a practical function. Because stained glass windows came into prominence at a time when most people were not literate, many windows depict items of faith. These windows serve almost like a pictorial catechism. Some people have described them as sermons for the eyes.
January 27, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...the proper name for the outer vestment worn by a priest at Mass? It’s called a chasuble. This sleeveless vestment reflects the liturgical color of the day’s feast (white, red, green, violet or rose). During Ordinary Time the chasuble is green. Its color changes to violet on Ash Wednesday for the season of Lent. The name comes from the Latin word casula and the garment itself is modeled after Roman clothing commonly worn at the establishment of the early Church. The style has changed over the years from a completely round or square cloth with an opening for the head to a garment shaped to make it easier for the priest to move his arms.
January 20, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that today we begin Ordinary Time? This part of the liturgical year has no distinctive emphasis like the seasons of Advent, Lent or Easter. Ordinary Time lasts 34 weeks, but not consecutively. It continues now through the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, then resumes on the Monday after Pentecost and continues until the beginning of Advent.
January 13, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that today is the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, the last day of the Christmas Season. Tomorrow begins Ordinary Time. This year, there are only 4 Sundays of Ordinary Time. Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent is February 13. So today, as we conclude our celebration of Christmas, let’s sing our closing song with gusto, “Joy to the world, the Lord has come.”
January 6, 2013
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that today is the Feast of the Epiphany? Today we celebrate Jesus’ manifestation to the Gentiles as represented by the magi. Although the exact number of kings isn’t known, it’s assumed that each gift was carried by one man. Our entrance hymn, “We Three Kings” uses gifts to explain the purpose of Jesus’ coming. In stanza 2, “gold I bring to crown him again” signifies that Jesus is the King. Stanza 3 speaks of the gift of frankincense, incense that signifies prayer and praise in Jesus’ priestly ministry. In stanza 4, the gift of myrrh and “its bitter perfume breathes a life of gathering gloom,” foretells Jesus’ suffering and death. In many countries this is a day on which gifts are exchanged, recalling the gifts given by the magi. Today is sometimes referred to as “little Christmas.”
December 30, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that today is the Feast of the Holy Family? Below is a paraphrase of the Prayer of St. Francis asking that we, as a parish family, grow as the instruments of the Lord's presence:
Lord, make our parish the instrument of Your presence.
Help us depend on lively faith.
Help us be open to build bridges between people.
Help us find words that encourage and affirm.
Help us be sensitive to the needs and hurts of others.
For we believe that it is ours to build community where there is isolation,
To proclaim gospel wholeness where there is brokenness,
And to replace the shallow promises made by our world with the promise and the presence of the Risen Lord.
December 23, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that even though we hear them everywhere else, we haven’t heard Christmas Carols during Mass? Even today, December 23, we won’t sing carols. For the liturgy, Christmas celebrations don’t begin until the Christmas Eve Masses. Until then, we celebrate Advent, and the music we sing supports the season. Once Christmas comes, we’ll sing carols through the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, January 13. Long after people have thrown away or stored their Christmas decorations, the Church will still be celebrating Christ’s birth.
December 16, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that today’s response to the First Reading isn’t a Psalm but is a passage taken from the Book of Isaiah? It continues to praise and thank God for His wondrous deeds. All of us, at various times and in various ways, become discouraged. Recall the words of Zephaniah in today’s First Reading: “...be not discouraged.” St. Paul says in his Letter to the Philippians that: “...the peace of God ...will guard your hearts and minds.” Allow God to take charge and you’ll be at peace no matter what occurs, for the Lord is always present and is always yet to come.
December 9, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that Psalm 126, today’s Responsorial Psalm, prays that the Jewish homeland be restored? It’s a plea that God lead the people out of captivity and restore their fortunes soon - “like the torrents in the southern desert.” During summer the riverbeds are dry until rain suddenly turns them into a torrent of water. The psalm complements today’s first reading where Baruch prophecies that the captivity of the Jewish people in Babylon will soon end. The works of the Lord are indeed a reason for rejoicing; they are the reason “we are filled with joy.”
December 2, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that Psalm 25, today’s Responsorial Psalm, is an alphabetic psalm? If you would read the psalm in Hebrew, you’d see that each couplet of the psalm begins with the next letter of the Hebrew alphabet. The text speaks of a forgiving God, a God who is good, kind, and constant. That is why the entire assembly can proclaim the refrain, “To you, O Lord, I lift my soul.” This psalm introduces the spirit of Advent, a time of watching, preparing, and waiting for Christmas and Christ’s Second Coming at the end of time.
November 25, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the motto of Pope Pius XI was “Christ’s peace through Christ’s reign?” In 1925 he introduced today’s solemnity – Christ the King. Originally the feast was to counter the secularism and naturalism that was rampant in society. Today, the focus of the celebration looks to the time when Christ will come in His glory to establish the fullness of His kingdom, a kingdom that will embrace all.
November 18, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...it has been suggested that Now Thank We All Our God is the most widely known hymn of all time? True or not, everyone will probably agree that it’s a classic. The lyrics were written during an especially sad period in history: the plague of 1637 took the lives of five thousand people, and the Thirty Years War was still raging. Yet, in spite of everything, people still found reason to give thanks. We celebrate Thanksgiving on Thursday. Now Thank We All Our God will be sung at our parish Mass during the Presentation of Gifts. Circumstances today aren’t exactly the same as when the song was composed, but each of us deals with adversity every day. And yet, we still find the need to express our thanks. Consider carrying this song with you as you gather at table on Thanksgiving – maybe as part of the grace before meals.
November 11, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the Church not only has a past, it also has a memory? And so it is that, especially during the month of November, the Church recalls those who through the centuries have given witness to Christ. In the early Church the faithful gathered on the anniversary day of a martyr’s death to celebrate Eucharist. These martyrs were the first to be recognized as official saints, an honor eventually extended to others. From the earliest centuries Christians prayed for the dead and sang hymns in their memory. Today is Veterans Day. Let us carry on this sacred tradition of the Church as we continue to remember relatives, friends, and even strangers who have “fallen asleep in the Lord.”
November 4, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the Presentation of Gifts lays the foundation for what follows in the Mass? Recall what took place at the feeding of the multitude. A large crowd followed Jesus and was hungry. The disciples said that they should be sent away to fend for themselves, but Jesus told the disciples to provide food for them. Imagine the disciples’ frustration when only a few loaves and a couple of fish could be gathered! But Jesus took that meager offering, blessed it, broke it, and gave it back to them. And it was enough. In fact, it was more than enough!
Each of us can become frustrated by the needs that surround us every day and echo the cry of the disciples, “Lord, I don’t have all that it takes to handle this.” But Jesus tells us, “Bring me what you have.” This is what we do symbolically when the gifts are presented at the altar.
There is no schedule for PRESENTER OF GIFTS at the 4:30 PM and 8:30 AM Masses. There will, however, be a change at the 10:30 AM Mass. At its May meeting, the Worship Committee recommended that: 1) the CLOW children present the gifts as a group one Sunday per Month; 2) on another Sunday, one child with his/her relatives present the gifts (since families are the primary teachers of their children, this affords the opportunity to teach by example); 3) on the remaining Sundays, you, with family and friends, are encouraged to participate. The Worship Committee continues to promote your participation in this act of faith.
October 28, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that every Sunday and holy day one Mass is celebrated for the people of the parish? In Latin, this is the missa pro populo, a Mass for the people. The weekend Mass that carries this as the priest’s intention is published as such in the parish bulletin. This is part of the pastor’s responsibilities to the parish, so neither the priest nor the parish receives an offering for it. At other Masses, a contribution to request the priest’s intention can be offered. This doesn’t mean, however, that all the blessings of that Mass are directed solely to that intention. Since God directs the infinite blessings of each Mass, it’s more accurate to say that at that Mass the published intention is remembered by the priest in a special way, not that the Mass is offered solely for that particular request. Whether your intention appears in print or not, the intention you offer at a particular Mass is prayed for. Don’t let the reduction in the number of parish Masses offered each week deceive you into believing that your individual intentions and concerns cannot be remembered. Every Mass is always offered for all.
October 21, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that a basic principle of Philosophy 101 is: Whatever is received is received according to the mode (or mood) of the receiver? For example, when everything in your life is going wrong, isn’t it hard to hear someone complain about his or her insignificant problem? Isn’t it hard to be compassionate? How many nasty responses come from a bad mood? This leads us to a consoling conclusion about God. God doesn’t have moods. God isn’t supersensitive. We can be confident that God fits the ancient proverb regarding a friend: “someone to whom one may pour out all the contents of one’s heart, chaff and grain together, knowing that the gentlest of hands will take and sift it, keep what is worth keeping, and with the breath of kindness blow the rest away.”
October 14, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that in the 10th century Prince Vladimir of Kiev, Russia was besieged by Moslems, Latin rite Catholics, Jews, and Greek Orthodox Catholics to have their particular faith proclaimed the official religion of Russia? Not being sure what to do, he consulted with his counselors. They advised him that instead of being personally involved in the evaluation, he should send servants to participate in the ritual of each and experience how each worships God. It’s important to note that the servants assessed the liturgy and not the theological formulation. Despite the importance of the latter, how we celebrate and what we celebrate says more about us than all the books found on all the shelves of all our libraries.
October 7, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
..that God gets the blame for a variety of things? In fact, no one is blamed more. This could be viewed as a profession of faith in God’s power. But it can also be viewed as an insult. In his book A Grief Observed, C. S. Lewis portrays this dilemma. Lewis married when he was in his fifties. However, in the first year of his marriage his wife died from cancer. Lewis wasn’t tempted to believe that God didn’t exist. Instead he was tempted to believe terrible things about God and blame him for the grief he was carrying. The Old Testament book Song of Songs gives a poetic picture of God’s relationship to his people. The book portrays a young couple on their honeymoon with God as the bridegroom, and his people as the bride. This God is not cruel, vindictive, jealous or angry. This God is passionate, loyal, tender and gracious. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could become more like God by keeping an affectionate image of him to guide us? Wouldn’t it be even better if everyone could tell?
September 30, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the Old Testament account of the escape of the Israelites from the Egyptian army by the parting of the Red Sea is a story of both winners and losers? While the Israelites were celebrating their safety, the families of the Egyptian soldiers were mourning the death of their loved ones. An old rabbinic story portrays angels watching this event from heaven and celebrating the victory of the chosen people. They went to God to share their joy, but they found God weeping. God turned to them and asked, “How can I celebrate when my children are downing?” Scripture tells us to rejoice with those who rejoice and to weep with those who weep. According to this story even God can’t do both at the same time.
September 23, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that we are constantly given the opportunity to determine the direction of our life? When we least expect it, a word, an event, or even a book can serve as the catalyst for a life-changing event. Take the life of John Newton for example. As a youth John served in the Navy, enjoying all the adventures and pleasures that life-style offered. When he left the navy, he sought his fortune as a slave trader, transporting men, women, and children from Africa to slave markets around the world. John was an avid reader. One day he found The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a Kempis. He was intrigued by the subject matter and began reading it. That book changed his life. He turned to God. (The fact that the ship was battling a terrible storm and he feared drowning might have had something to do with his conversion as well.) He was baptized a Christian and eventually was ordained a curate in the Anglican Church. John wrote poems based on the good and not-so-good events of his life. He used these poems in his preaching to illustrate how his experiences helped form his theological outlook. One poem in particular inspired his congregation. In it he reflected that it was grace that saved “a wretch like me.” That poem, written by John Newton, a poem reflecting the journey to his conversion, is the hymn we know as Amazing Grace. If you’re not already familiar with the words, open Breaking Bread to #424 and share in John’s story.
September 16, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that it’s necessary to fast before receiving Holy Communion? Some of us are old enough to remember the requirement to fast from midnight in order to receive Holy Communion at morning Mass. This requirement became more complicated when Christmas Mass at Midnight was introduced, so a three hour fast was prescribed for evening Masses. Finally, because church leaders feel that the reception of communion is important for everyone, the current rule of fasting one hour before receiving communion was introduced. So much easier than in the past!
September 9, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that today’s Responsorial Psalm is numerically the first of what are known as the Alleluia Psalms? Psalms 146 through 150 conclude the Psalter by praising God’s goodness and greatness. In the first reading Isaiah tells us that the coming of the Messiah will be accompanied by wonderful things, things like opening the eyes of the blind and clearing the ears of the deaf. Today’s gospel has Jesus doing just that - curing a deaf man who also had a speech impediment. We’re told that the people who witnessed this miracle didn’t know how to react. Their amazement went beyond all limits. God’s miracles continue in our lives, so we echo the psalm and sing: “Praise the Lord, my soul.”
September 2, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that Catholic worship involves more than a series of prayers? Words are an integral part of liturgy, but gesture, posture, action, and movement are no less important. An ebb and flow movement weaves these elements together. The strong progression of the Eucharistic prayer contrasts to the more relaxed movement during the preparation of gifts. There are times to speak, times to listen, times to sing, times to respond, and times to be silent. To be silent is probably the most difficult, for to participate silently is to put aside all cares. It is a time to do nothing other than listen for the voice of God. And, more often than not, this voice is not heard in a stirring “Alleluia”, but in the hush of a quiet whisper.
August 26, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that today we finish the section of John’s Gospel known as the “Bread of Life” discourse? At the end of today’s gospel many of the disciples realized what a difficult teaching Jesus was presenting and, “returned to their former way of life and no longer accompanied him.” The Twelve, however, remained faithful. The first reading from the Book of Joshua also describes people forced to make a choice. Joshua tells the tribes of Israel to “decide today whom you will serve.” Every week when we gather at Mass, we too, are faced with a choice since living the Eucharist demands that our whole lives – especially what we do after Mass – “bless the Lord at all times.”
August 19, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that one of the greatest bishops of the early church was St. Ambrose (c.340-397)? While he was still a catechumen, the people of Milan nominated him to be their bishop. (You could do that in those days.) After some hesitation Ambrose consented. He was then baptized, then ordained. Ambrose was an author, a preacher, and a strong advocate of congregational singing. He wrote, “What a grand bond of unity becomes evident when a multitude of diverse people sing in unison! It is like a harp with many strings sounding a single melody! The fingers of a musician may strike wrong chords at times, but not here – for among God’s people it is his Spirit who is the master musician.” May we continue to be led by that Spirit!
August 12, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
..that attempts to discover the “historical” Jesus are neither new nor unexpected? It’s human nature to probe, to discover. But Christianity isn’t a mathematical puzzle to be solved. It’s more like a love story - the story of God being in love with us, and of us falling in love with God. Today’s Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 34. This traditional Eucharistic psalm reminds us that we gather to “taste and see the goodness of the Lord.”
August 5, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the most popular image of the church is the “Body of Christ?” We hear this phrase at the distribution of communion. Our “Amen” in response signifies our agreement to three implied mysteries. We acknowledge that the community is the body of Christ, that the communicant through the water of Baptism and the power of the Holy Spirit is a member of the body of Christ, and that the Eucharistic bread is, in a unique way, the body of Christ. It is as the Body of Christ that we join with Christ himself to give praise to the Father.
July 29, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that at the time of Jesus, Jewish worship took place either in the temple at Jerusalem, in local synagogue, or in the home? The texts for worship were primarily the psalms and other poetic compositions. Services at the temple were the most elaborate because their musical resources were much larger. There were 12 singers and 12 instrumentalists, each playing a wide variety of instruments. Although we’re not sure what the music sounded like, it spoke to all ages and undoubtedly was capable of making a great noise to the Lord. Consider the words of St. John Chrysostom (c. 347-407) regarding the singing of the psalms: “old men lay aside the rigor of age; downcast middle-aged men respond in the cheerfulness of their heart; younger men sing without peril of wantonness; youth sing without danger to their still impressionable age and without fear of being tempted to pleasure; tender maidens suffer no damage to the adornment of their chastity; and young widows let their rich voices ring out without endangering their modesty.” Powerful prayers, aren’t they?
July 22, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that the psalms are part of scripture and are the word of God? The 150 psalms, (yes, 150) convey every aspect of the human condition. There is a psalm for every mood, every emotion, and every occasion. The psalms help to express the voice of the church and of its members, whether they be poor and sinful, or powerful and saintly. Today we pray one of the most beloved of all psalms – Psalm 23. This psalm suggests two themes: that of a shepherd who lovingly cares for his flock, and that of a host who shows generosity to his guest. Today’s gospel tells us that when Jesus got out of the boat, a large crowd was waiting for him. He pitied them, for they were “like sheep without a shepherd.” In the first reading, the prophet Jeremiah warns us against evil shepherds who allow the flock to be scattered. He also assures us that there are good shepherds as well. Is it any wonder then that Psalm 23 is today’s responsorial psalm?
July 15, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that the psalms are not only inspiring religious poetry, they are also prayers addressed to God? The God of the psalms is a friend to whom the psalmist expresses the gamut of human emotions. Time and again the Lord comes to the aid of Israel, forgives the infidelities of the people, and restores both individuals and the nation to His favor. God performs similar wonders for us. Like the psalmist, we respond with songs filled with human emotion. Whether it is praise, thanksgiving, or petition, the psalms are not only the prayer book of Israel, they are also the prayer book of the Church.
July 8, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that ideally readers at weddings (or funerals) should be people with training and experience in proclaiming the readings at liturgy? Many times the role of reader at these liturgies is given to friends or family members as a way of including them. It is more important, however, that the scriptures be read in a way that communicates the meaning of the Word to the listeners. Usually people who do not have training or experience are nervous and rush through the readings. The words are said, but they are not a proclamation of God’s word. If the readers are not regular parish ministers, they should practice with someone who is so that they can give the Word its prime importance.
July 1, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the entrance song at weddings shouldn’t be solely instrumental? What is really called for by the Church is an entrance song in which everyone participates. This is part of the way in which the guests at a wedding take an active part in the celebration. Any liturgically appropriate song that reflects the focus and joy of the occasion can be used.
June 24, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that the traditional role of the bride and groom at weddings are based on an old-fashioned model? The current thinking of the Church is that the bride and groom are hosts. They have invited guests to share in their joy and witness their commitment to one another. Together they should greet their guests as they arrive. Then, when all is ready, the priest or deacon goes to the back of the church to greet them. The music starts and the procession begins. The ministers process first followed by the priest or deacon, and the wedding party. Since the bride and groom are the actual ministers of the sacrament (remember last week’s column), they process last. They can walk together, arm in arm, or separately with their parents.
June 17, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that the month of June is traditionally known as the “month of brides?” Even though this parish doesn’t celebrate the Sacrament of Matrimony frequently, there’s wisdom in discussing some basic aspects of the sacrament. So, beginning today and for the next three weeks, we’ll do just that. For example, do you know who actually does the marrying? Frequently couples say that they were married by Fr. Soandso, or that Fr. Soandso married them. The fact is that the priest or deacon serves only as an official witness for both the church and the state. The bride and groom are the ones who confer the sacrament on each other by the exchange of their consent. They are the real ministers of the sacrament.
June 10, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that today’s solemnity pays homage to Christ’s presence in the Eucharist? Scripture and tradition demonstrate that Eucharist is to be our food: “Take and eat...Take and drink.” Although this “taking” usually occurs within the celebration of Mass, the early church did reserve Eucharist for those who were unable to be physically present for that celebration, e.g., the sick, the imprisoned, and those about to die. Over time, and for a variety of reasons, the number of people receiving communion decreased. As a result, devotion to the reserved sacrament greatly increased, with prayers, visits, and the sacrament itself being reserved on or near the altar. Out of those observances today’s feast was born in the thirteenth century. Our devotion to the Blessed Sacrament is always to flow from, and lead us back to, the sacred meal given to us by Christ himself.
June 3, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that every Sunday liturgy begins with the sign of the cross? Often this gesture and its accompanying words become meaningless because it’s an automatic response. Yet, making the sign of the cross is one of the most basic and profound signs of our faith. Crossing ourselves not only praises the Trinity, but it makes a powerful statement about who we are. How carefully do you make the sign of the cross? This gesture could be much more powerful if it were done with attention and reverence. Today is Trinity Sunday. Make a special effort to sign yourself with attention and devotion.
May 27, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that today, the Feast of Pentecost completes our Easter celebration? On the first Pentecost the apostles received the gifts of the Holy Spirit that enabled them to proclaim the good news to the entire world. Despite differences in language and culture, we are one in the Lord, one in Faith, and one in Baptism. Red is the color of the day. These touches of red in decoration and clothing symbolize the fire of the Holy Spirit. Come, Holy Spirit, fill our lives with the fire of your love and renew this community in its call to worship, witness, and service.
May 20, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that today's feast of the Ascension of the Lord, used to be celebrated on the Thursday of the sixth week of Easter? It originated on that day because of what is written at the opening of the Acts of the Apostles. There, Luke says that Jesus rose from the dead, appeared to believers for 40 days, then ascended into heaven. Most of the dioceses of the United States have moved the Ascension to the Seventh Sunday of Easter, making it more accessible to working Catholics. This is the final feast of the Lord before the sending of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (next Sunday). Today Jesus commissions us, his disciples, to be his witnesses throughout the world baptizing in his name.
May 13, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that music, unlike other forms of art, never looks back? Music always moves forward. We can reread pages in a novel, rewind a film, or look at the same painting again and again. But a melody, once begun, moves on, pulling us with it. In a way, music is a symbol of Christian life. We are on a journey with Christ as the conductor. We can never turn back. True, each year we return to the same Lenten and Easter songs and sing them as we did before. But yet, not really, for we are always moving toward that place where past, present, and future come together to sing a new song of praise. Let us continue to sing “Alleluia”.
May 6, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that the melody to the song “Lord of the Dance” (BB #597) is a “Shaker” tune? Shakers originated in 1747 near Albany, NY. At one time there were about five to six thousand members in the U.S., but today the group is considered extinct. Shakers held all property in common, arose at the same time, took meals together, abstained from smoking, were pacifists, and, although marriage wasn’t absolutely forbidden, placed a high value on celibacy (maybe a reason for their demise). Members were known to “shake” while dancing during their religious services. One Shaker guide for worship was: “Sing a little, dance a little, exhort a little, preach a little, and a good many littles will make a great deal.” Are you still “shaking” with Easter joy?
April 29, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that the quote “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm” is attributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson? Enthusiasm is having strong feelings, zeal, energy, and excitement. It’s the ability to be glad in the work at hand. Enthusiastic athletes win medals; enthusiastic teachers motivate students; enthusiastic fans help the home team win; and an enthusiastic congregation is a pleasure to sing and worship with because it is a sign of what awaits us all. The life of a true Christian should be a perpetual jubilee. Is it any wonder that the “Alleluias” of the Easter Season are sung for fifty days?
April 22, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that it’s here? The Easter season, that is, and its HUGE! We took six weeks to prepare for it, and now we take eight weeks to celebrate it. The church is filled with joy. What we see and what we sing is proof of our happiness. Nature is also in harmony, for the new life of spring is a sign of the Easter mystery. The Easter Season provides a constant reminder that, like the flower that comes from a seed buried in the ground, our faith is a promise of resurrection. Continue to celebrate, for the Easter season lasts until Pentecost. This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice, let us be glad!
April 15, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
...that some say that singing is the most ancient and widespread form of music? The only thing needed is the human voice. We can sing either alone or with others with no accompaniment. Much of the time all other activity stops while we sing. We sing Happy Birthday - then cut the cake. We sing God Bless America - then enjoy the fireworks. We sing The Star Spangled Banner - then begin the game.
But, at other times, singing accompanies our work. Sailors sing chanties while pulling ropes. Songs have been sung while laying railroad tracks, and while picking cotton. And, of course, there’s singing in the shower. But, can you think of a song designated to be sung while sinning? Singing implies that we are in harmony with God, with self, and with others. As we continue to sing the “Alleluias” of this Easter Season, let’s do so with the conviction to sing away the desire to sin!
April 8, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... Our Lenten journey has brought us to today, Easter Sunday. During Lent we went to both the desert and the mountaintop. We heard stories of forgiveness, healing, and compassion. Last Sunday we traveled to Jerusalem to wash feet, share a meal, bear our cross, and learn what it means to give up one’s life for those we love. During the season of Easter, the Church suggests that we pray the Apostles’ Creed at Sunday Mass instead of the
Creed is more directly connected to the baptismal promises that we renew today. From the door of a tomb, a message of life is proclaimed. Go in peace, alleluia, alleluia!
April 1, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?...
... that one of the most impressive parts of the Good Friday liturgy is the faithful coming forward to show their respect for the cross of Christ? For years, this has been called an act of veneration, but the revised English translation now calls it adoration. “Adoration” is a word we reserve for God. Catholics do not adore the Virgin Mary, saints, or statues. The cross, however, holds a special place of honor on Good Friday. According to St. Thomas Aquinas, the cross is “worshipped with the same adoration as Christ” (Summa Theologica III, q.25, a.4). The practice of kissing the cross on Good Friday dates back to the fourth century, when the faithful in Jerusalem possessed what they believed to be the true cross. The faithful may adore the cross on Good Friday in any way they choose: with a kiss, a bow, a genuflection, or standing in silence. When leaving the church on Good Friday, it is appropriate to genuflect in the direction of the cross.
2013 Vacation Bible School
Mon - Thu June 17 - 20
5:30 - 8:00 pm in the St.MM PAC
More information and registration form here
children attend
NOTE!
New program
rules for Kroger Community Reward cards went
into effect on
May 1.
New program
rules for Kroger Community Reward cards went
into effect on
May 1.
Next order deadline:
Ordering Deadline
Fri. May 17
Online Order deadline: Tue.May 21
Order Pickup Date:
Sat. May 25
Ordering Deadline
Fri. May 17
Online Order deadline: Tue.May 21
Order Pickup Date:
Sat. May 25