The Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time August 19, 2018

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1 The Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time August 19, 2018 MASS INTENTIONS FOR THE WEEK Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday August 20 Saint Bernard, Abbot and Doctor of the Church Phillip Leto by wife Anna August 21 Saint Pius X, Pope Olga Petito by Frances Incontro August 22 The Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary Fred Kilpatrick, Kate, Dom & Fr. Mario Antoci by Rita Kilpatrick August 23 Saint Rose of Lima, Virgin Deceased Members of the Order of St. Augustine by Ann Finn August 24 St. Bartholomew Eucharistic Service August 25 St. Louis, Saint Joseph Calasanz, Priest Thomas Dardani by wife Helen 4:00 p.m. Sunday August 26 Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time 7:30 a.m. John T. Croake by Mike Lopez & Phil Sundberg 9:00 a.m. Stanley Caminiti by daughter Linda 11:00 a.m. Phillip Volastro by wife Madelyn Candle & Flower Offerings The Sanctuary candle is offered in loving memory of Thomas Dardani by wife Helen. The candle before the Blessed Virgin Mary is offered in loving memory of Tom Quinn by wife Lucy. The candle before St. Joseph is offered for healing of Charlie Miller by Rose Ferrari. The Sanctuary flowers are offered for the People of the Parish. Summer Hours The Parish Office will be closed on Fridays now through Labor Day Weekend. PARISH CALENDAR Aug. 20 K of C Social 6:30 pm Aug. 21 Backpack Sorting 9 am 12 noon Aug. 22 Woman s Faith Sharing 9 10:30 am Aug. 24 Office Closed Aug. 29 Woman s Faith Sharing 9 10:30 am Aug. 31 Office Closed Sept. 3 Office Closed Labor Day Sept. 4 K of C Meeting 6:30 pm Sept. 5 Woman s Faith Sharing 9 10:30 am Buildings & Grounds 9:00 am Parish Council 7:30 pm Sept. 6 St. Vincent de Paul Meeting 9:00 am Choir Practice 7:30 pm Sept. 7 Men s Retreat Sept. 8 Fair Trade/Food Pantry Children s Liturgy 4:00 pm Green Thumb 9:00 am Men s Retreat Sept. 9 Hospitality Sunday Fair Trade /Food Pantry Children s Liturgy 9:00 am & 11:00 am Men s Faith Sharing 7:00 pm Men s Retreat Daily Readings Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time Sunday Prv 9:1-6; Eph 5:15-20; Jn 6:51-58 Monday Ez 24:15-24; Mt 19:16-22 Tuesday Ez 28:1-10; Mt 19:23-30 Wednesday Ez 34:1-11; Mt 20:1-16 Thursday Ez 36:23-28; Mt 22:1-14 Friday Rv 21:9b-14; Jn 1:45-51 Saturday Ez 43:1-7ab; Mt 23:1-12 The Collection amount for the weekend of August 12 th was $14,691. Thank you for your continued support of our parish!

2 MESSAGE FROM BISHOP CHECCHIO Bishop gathers senior team to examine processes for reporting abuse Since becoming your bishop just over two years ago, I have been regularly uplifted and affirmed in my own ministry by so many faithful and committed priests, religious and lay people. I am constantly amazed to learn about new initiatives here which strive to deepen our friendship with Christ, and the numerous efforts that so many undertake to provide genuine responses to tragic situations that call upon us to show the mercy of God to those in need. I also feel strengthened by the examples of generosity that I have experienced when I have called upon you to help me respond to building up our local Church, in order that we can meet so many needs together. The people of the Diocese of Metuchen are an inspiration. I continue to be saddened and ashamed, however, by reports of the abhorrent events we have been learning about in regard to Archbishop McCarrick and I know you must be, too. Our efforts to evangelize, and spread the Good News of Christ, have been hobbled by these atrocities. I am praying for all those who have been hurt and praying that God s mercy will bring healing and consolation. My heart also breaks for our faithful people, and the clergy and religious of our Diocese, as we face another tragic situation within the Church that we love. Nonetheless, I am grateful that the processes the Church has in place regarding child sexual abuse have been shown to work. The case of Archbishop McCarrick demonstrates that the culture of the Church is changing and that no one is exempt from its censure regardless of a person s rank or status, or the number of years that have passed since an incident occurred. As I have done in the past, I continue to urge anyone who has been abused to bring the situation to the attention of law enforcement officials. Also, I want to reiterate that the Diocese stands poised and ready to help any who have been abused. I am also working to address how we can ensure that similar abuses, especially of seminarians or young priests, would not happen again, particularly by those in positions of authority over them. I have begun to bring together a senior team of advisors to examine reporting processes. Clearly, the safety of an independent reporting structure that allows for anyone to bring an allegation forward without the fear of retribution of any kind is needed. Accountability on all levels helps to ensure that a healthy, wholesome environment prevails to form and train our future priests. I know that I do not have to reiterate to the people of this Diocese that proper priestly formation is central to renewal in the life of the Church. In the Diocese of Metuchen, we are seeing a new springtime with men studying for the priesthood. We are blessed with the most seminarians we have had in 25 years. They are good men, striving to make over their hearts like the Good Shepherd s own caring heart. Of course, years ago it might have been relatively easy to enter the seminary, and receive the accolades of family, parish and society at large for deciding to become a priest. That is not the case now. Our young men seek to join in this life of service to God and His people at a time when it would be easy to ignore the call and choose another path. Yet, they choose to listen to the quiet call of the Lord, asking them to follow me just as our Lord asked the apostles two thousand years ago. I thank God for them, as I thank God as well for you, who support these dedicated young men in their response to God's call in these challenging times. I ask for your prayers as the Church faces so many challenges in our world today. We know that the Holy Spirit protects the Church by insuring the truth of the presence of Christ who is its keystone, its heart and its foundation. The Holy Spirit wraps the Church in this protection in spite of our sinfulness and, it must be said in candor, in spite of the sinfulness of some of its leaders. Despite the failings of the past, however, we remain steadfast in hope. This hope anchors our faith in the credibility of this sinful yet holy Assembly of Believers, a living paradox of unity in diversity, as we endeavor to build the Kingdom of God established through the incarnation, suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ who is the same yesterday, today and forever. (Heb. 13:8) In the midst of the trials we currently face, I do not want to miss pointing out that Christ is still at work in His Church! This summer, in addition to my weekend visits to parishes for Mass, I have been taking advantage of the lighter weekday schedule to visit some vacation bible schools, religious communities of sisters, nursing homes, prisons and some parishes for daily Mass. It is an honor to be with you, and it is evident that people everywhere are still yearning to see Christ in us a willingness to place their hope in the many ministries and initiatives through which the Lord Himself uses our humble humanity to touch us with His grace. Let us not lose our vision: to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, who inspires and perfects our faith. (Heb 12:12) To Him be glory and praise forever. Be assured of my prayers for you and know of my gratitude for you. Please remember to pray for me too. God bless you!

Therefore, do not continue in ignorance, but try to understand what is the will of the Lord but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and

3 HIS WORD TODAY by Rev. William J. Reilly Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time Brothers and sisters. Watch carefully then how you live, not as foolish persons but as wise, making the most of the opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore, do not continue in ignorance, but try to understand what is the will of the Lord but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and playing to the Lord in your hearts, giving thanks always The apostle Paul knew his people well. With encouraging words he taught them, corrected them, and warned them. Do I realize that they are also directed to me today? We are careful about many, many things each day. We fastened our seat belts, placed the infants in their car seats, make sure the smoke alarms are functioning and lock the door securely. We should also show the same care for our spiritual lives. We would promise in the prayer of contrition to avoid the near occasion of sin. In our day and age, as well as that of the Ephesians, it is not easy. We are bombarded from every side, challenged, tempted, yes assaulted by the evil one. Only through a strong, vibrant prayer life can we both resist evil and not fall at times of temptation. For the gift of grace, we are able to express our thanks. A MESSAGE FROM FR. ED MEN S RETREAT Join other men of faith for a retreat September 7-9 th at Sacred Heart Center in Newton, NJ. This year we will explore the questions of Jesus. If interested, kindly contact Sr. Mary Leonard (admin@nativitymonroe.org) to register. Cost of the retreat is $ Spend some time in prayer and fellowship with your brothers in Christ. RELIGIOUS EDUCATION We are excited to launch our NEW Religious Education Program at Nativity of Our Lord Church. We are committed to the spiritual growth of your children while challenging your own faith life. We cannot stress how important the parents are in a child's religious formation. You are their greatest influence; now it's time to show them the way to God with your example. With a new program come fresh ideas and new responsibilities for both parent and child. Our program is now multi-dimensional and has been thoroughly designed to target each individual child depending on their grade/age, while keeping community. These components are not optional and all children and parents must participate. Parents will work closely with the Religious Ed office to teach their child at home. This component is supported by a comprehensive website including curriculum and interactive games. Families must attend Mass on a weekly basis and will be accountable for their attendance. Families must fulfill a monthly obligation as set forth by the religious education office. Families must fulfill a service requirement. Opportunities will be provided by the religious education office. We look forward to assisting you and help guide you and your child through a spiritual path that you will follow through life. RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) Do you or someone you know have questions about the Catholic faith? Have you ever considered or know of someone who is thinking about joining the Catholic Church? Have you or do you know of an adult who has never received First Holy Communion or Confirmation? We invite you, or any adult family member or friend, who is not a member of the Catholic faith or who is not fully initiated into the Catholic Church, to an Inquiry Session in the Resurrection Room after all the weekend Masses on September 8/9 to answer any questions you may have. All are welcome to stop in and inquire. If you would like to know more about the RCIA program before Inquiry Sunday, ask Sister Marie Colette for an RCIA Brochure.

Nativity of Our Lord Annual Picnic Knights of Columbus Council 14658 Sunday, September 16, 2018 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM (Rain or Shine) Deadline: September 9, 2018 All parishioners and their families are

and an assortment of condiments, along with various beverages, wine and beer, plus BYOB. The afternoon will be capped off with watermelon, snacks, coffee and cookies. Adults: $15.

4 Nativity of Our Lord Annual Picnic Knights of Columbus Council Sunday, September 16, :00 PM to 5:00 PM (Rain or Shine) Deadline: September 9, 2018 All parishioners and their families are invited to participate in a fun day of activities of food, games for children, cotton candy, live DJ music and a 50/50 Raffle. Enjoy hamburgers, franks, beans, onions, etc. and an assortment of condiments, along with various beverages, wine and beer, plus BYOB. The afternoon will be capped off with watermelon, snacks, coffee and cookies. Adults: $15.00 Children (under 12 years) $7.50 Registration: Please print names of attendees & phone numbers below: Questions: Please call: Francis Macchiaroli at: or starfire13@comcast.net In anticipation of a Parish Ministry Fair to be held the weekend of September 15-16, we are featuring our Parish Ministries. This weekend we are featuring Lectors. Confirmed members of the Parish are invited to participate in our liturgical celebrations by proclaiming the Word of God at Mass as Lectors. They are privileged to participate in Christ s own ministry. When sacred scripture is read aloud in Church, God speaks to his people. If you would like additional information, contact Sr. Marie Colette at sistermariecolette@nativitymonroe.org or X 16. Women of Nativity Communion Breakfast The women of Nativity are invited to gather together for the 8:30 am Mass on Wednesday, September 12 th. A catered buffet Communion Breakfast will follow in Father Congdon Hall. The breakfast menu is: Scrambled Eggs and Cheddar Cheese, Bacon & Sausage, Breakfast Potatoes, Buttermilk Pancakes, Caramel French Toast. Fresh Sliced Fruit Salad, Assorted Mini Pastries & Mini Muffins, Assorted Bagels, Juice, Coffee, Tea Our speaker will be Maryann Sullivan Please fill out the form below, along with it make your check payable to Nativity of Our Lord Church for $15.00, and drop it off in the WON slot in the narthex near the elevator. Deadline is September 7 th. If you have any questions: Please contact: Anne Tredici at Women of Nativity Communion Breakfast - September 12 th Name: Phone Number: Check # Amount:

5 PARISH MINISTRIES St. Vincent De Paul Society: If you are experiencing financial hardship due to a temporary loss of employment, illness, or disability, the St. Vincent de Paul Society is available to provide assistance for your everyday needs such as food, utility assistance, or agency referrals. Please dial the parish number , then press 8, and leave a message with your name and phone number. Someone will return your call. All calls are handled in strict confidence. Backpacks 4 Kids: Being your "usual generous selves," you've contributed more than we've asked for! Have you ever seen a child's backpack by the end of the school year? Now picture a little girl or a junior high boy starting the school year with a faded, ripped, broken-zipper backpack. How great for them to know that someone cares enough to give them a brand-new start, with fresh crayons, pencils, pens, etc. You have made a tremendous difference in these students' lives! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!!! If anyone is able, we will be sorting backpacks and the multitude of supplies this Tuesday August 21st. Come to the hall for a cup of coffee and see what your overwhelming generosity has provided! Catholic Relief Services/CRS: Why does Nativity of Our Lord support the scholarship program in Santa Rosa, Guatemala? In countries with some of the worst gang violence in the world, economic opportunity for young people is a life line, says Rick Jones, Senior Technical Advisor for Latin America and the Caribbean at Catholic Relief Services. They need our help accessing the opportunities that exist in their communities so that they are not forced to migrate elsewhere to find them. Our scholarship sponsors are that lifeline! If you would like to sponsor a student, the cost is $30/month or $360/year for an elementary school student and $50/month or $600/year for a high school student. Questions? Call Phyllis Smith or pps212@aol.com. Food Pantry: Is there really "food insecurity" in Monroe and Jamesburg? It may be hard to believe, but some of your neighbors could not feed their families without your generous contributions. Our collection is always the first weekend of the month, but we accept donations any time. Bins are located at the top of the stairwell. Thank you! Caring Meals: The Caring Meals group delivers soup year-round to our homebound parishioners and provides short-term help to parishioners who are recuperating from an illness or hospital stay with deliveries of homecooked meals. If you like to cook or know of someone who could benefit from either of these two services, please call Maryanne Sheerin at Elder Care: Do you need assistance with shopping periodically? Are you seeking a responsible person to sit with someone in need of supervision for a brief time? Do you require help with minor household chores? Please call Marge Nadolny for further information. Helping Hands: Do you need a helping hand with minor tasks around the house? There are parishioners who are willing to help in these situations. Please contact Esther Wolff by phone at Rosary Group: Please join us every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 7:50 a.m. to recite the Holy Rosary. We will be seated at the right side of the church near the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. CHURCH ACTIVITIES Good News! I have been informed that additional seats are now available at the Millennium Theater in Lancaster, PA for the Sight and Sound production of JESUS on September 26, Round trip transportation, Buffet Luncheon (12 Noon) at Shady Maple Smorgasbord, Show Ticket (3pm) all taxes and tips are included. Price per person is $ Buses will leave the church parking lot promptly at 9:30 am (arrive by 9:15 am) and park in rear of church parking lot. Return home about 7:45 pm. For reservations and info, call Janet Mascio (609) A BUSY PERSONS RETREAT Facilitator: Mary Ann Sullivan Tuesdays 9:00-10:30 am All are invited to attend this series of prayer experiences based on the spirituality of St. Ignatius that will integrate biblical meditation, reflection and faith sharing. It will provide participants with the opportunity time in prayer and personal reflection within the framework of everyday activity. Join us for this most unique retreat. Sept. 4 th, 11 th, 18 th, 25 th, Oct. 2 nd, 9 th, 16 th, 23 rd, 30 th.

The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist June 24, 2018

The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist June 24, 2018 MASS INTENTIONS FOR THE WEEK Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday June 25 William Cary by Lisa & Kenny Zimmer June 26 Frances Garafola by Carmela