Our Lady of the Snow Catholic Church 175 Blue Point Avenue Blue Point, New York Telephone:

Transcription

1 Our Lady of the Snow Catholic Church 175 Blue Point Avenue Blue Point, New York Telephone: MASS SCHEDULE WEEKLY MASSES: Monday Friday 8:30AM in Mother Church NEW WEEKEND MASS SCHEDULE Saturday 5PM in Large Church Sunday 7:30AM in Mother Church 9AM, and 11:00AM in Large Church SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION (CONFESSION) Saturday 4PM 4:30PM in Large Church PARISH OFFICE HOURS Monday Thursday 9AM-4:30PM Friday 9AM 2:30PM Saturday 9AM 2PM OFFICES CLOSED WEEKDAYS 12:30PM 1:30PM RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Monday Thursday 9:30AM-12:30PM and 1PM 4:30PM PARISH OUTREACH Office and Pantry Hours Monday Thursday 10AM-1PM First Sunday of Lent March 9, 2014 Encounters With Jesus Session I Wednesday, March 12th See page 10 for more information. Visit us online!

2 The Pastoral Team Clergy Rev. Edward R. D Andrea, Pastor Rev. James Drew, Parish Administrator Rev. John Amoah, Priest In Residence Deacon Frank Hartmann Deacon Edward Karan Retired Clergy Rev. Diarmuid F. McGann, Pastor Emeritus Deacon Robert Gronenthal Parish Staff Mrs. Beth Rivalsi, Director of Faith Formation for Adults Mrs. Patricia Bartoldus, Director of Faith Formation, K-9 Mrs. Diana Mongan, Director of Outreach Mrs. Theresa Martin, Director of Music Parish Office: Fax: Mrs. Irene Mauro, Office Manager, ext. 11 Mrs. Lindsay Butler, Parish Asst., ext. 10 Mrs. Loraine Gonzalez, Admin. Asst., ext. 10 Hours: Monday -Thursday 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friday 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Closed from 12:30-1:30 p.m. Monday - Friday olsbp@aol.com Religious Education: Mrs. Eileen Mulry, Secretary, ext. 15 Mrs. Susan Gressler, C.R.E., ext. 14 Mrs. Charlotte Logan, C.R.E. ext. 16 Office hours: Monday Thursday 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. & 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. olsbpre@aol.com Faith Formation for Adults: Mrs. Beth Rivalsi, Director of Faith Formation for Adults olsbeth@aol.com Parish Outreach: Mrs. Diana Mongan, Director Mrs. Patricia Fulco, Outreach Assistant Office hours and food pantry, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Monday - Thursday in the cottage Evening Hours Available by Appointment olsoutreach@yahoo.com For full information on all sacraments, sponsor requirements for Godparents/ Confirmation Sponsors, schedules and dates, please consult our website, or call the Parish Office. (631) extension 10 Marriage: Arrangements must be made at least six to twelve months in advance. It is advisable to call the church prior to arranging the reception. Baptisms: Are celebrated on the second Saturday and fourth Sunday of most m o n t h s. Please visit our website at com for complete information. Christian Initiation: Persons interested in becoming Catholic and adults who have not received Confirmation or First Eucharist, please contact the parish office. For older children who have not received sacraments, please call the Religious Education office. SACRAMENTAL INFORMATION New parishioners: Please register at the parish or call , ext. 10 for information. Communion for the Homebound: To make arrangements to have Communion brought to the home, please call the parish office at , ext. 10. For emergency sick calls, please call the parish at any time.

3 A Message from the Administrator Page 3 March 9, 2014 Sunday, March 9, 2014 First Sunday of Lent A Message from Father Jim Drew Dear Parishioners, As I began to think about my personal plan and priorities for this Lent, I browsed through some books on my book shelf in my upstairs office. Matthew Kelly published a new book some time ago: The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic. It caught my attention. As I began browsing through it, I read these inspiring words. The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic are: I have now decided to read this insightful book during the next 4 weeks as part of my spiritual discipline for this Lent. These four words provide a road map for all of us as we do our Lenten journey together over the next 6 weeks. Let us take another look at those four sign posts to new life and being Dynamic Catholics: Prayer: Dynamic Catholics have a daily commitment to prayer. Study: Dynamic Catholics are continuous learners. Generosity: Dynamic Catholics are generous. Evangelization: Dynamic Catholics invite others to grown spiritually by sharing the love of God with them. Prayer: Take one prayer step...make a decision to give God one hour of prayer on Sundays with our parish family come prepared for Mass. Read 5 Ways to Prepare for Mass Study: Take one learning step...participate in one or more of our 5 week Lenten study series on first century disciples who were changed by meeting Jesus. The sessions begin this Wednesday, March 12 at 7:30PM in the Large Church. Generosity: Take one step...in being generous with your time (one hour for God on Sunday) and your money: support the 2014 Catholic Ministries Appeal and our parish services that benefit from it. Evangelization: Take one step...by praying for one family member/friend who is not here for Mass, so that he/she will come to know more personally the love Jesus has for him/her. Since January 12, you and I have been listening and learning about Jesus model of discipleship: how do we apply His life principles and stories (excerpts from Matthew s Gospel) to living out our calling as his 21st century disciples? Coping with snow storms and winter fatigue has tested our patience. What I have discovered is that our faith (in Jesus) expands our experience of love by teaching us to love God. Loving God expands our capacity to love each other. Jesus is more in favor of a law of love, rather than a love of law. As we begin our Lenten journey together as His 21st century disciples, let us live His love and share it. Thank you for your ongoing support of our parish family and your blood family in the ways you share your love. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Yours Lovingly, Fr. Jim

4 Make Stewardship a Way of Life in 2014 ~ A Year of Grace for All of Us ~ 1. Discover the God of the Bible. 2. Discover that we are Jesus disciples and strive to live as His disciples anew. 3. Discover our God-given gifts and share them with others. Parish Prayer Gracious God, You have blessed this parish with many gifts, especially its people. We thank you for this Year of Grace, a time to start afresh from Christ. You invite us to contemplate the face of Jesus your Son, that we may experience a new wave of grace, and that the light of Christ may burn more brightly in our lives. Stewardship is a conversion, a new way of looking at life and our role in life. With thanks and praise, we acknowledge that God is the source of all that we have and all that we are. Source: 2014 Catholic Family Calendar: March Raynor & D Andrea Funeral Home Lenten Series Encounters with Christ Stewardship calls us to cultivate a relationship with God. This Lent answer this call by participating in our Lenten Series Encounters with Christ Each Wednesday during Lent This Wednesday, March 12 we begin our Lenten Series, Encounters with Christ We will use the DVD series Conversion, Following the Call of Christ, Attune our hearts and minds to by Fr Barron, who is well known for his Catholicism Series on PBS. Fr the presence of your Holy Barron presents us with 5 New Testament figures who encounter Jesus. Spirit, that our Church may be transformed, The first person we meet is Bartimaeus, the man born blind. When Jesus our relationships be healed and asks of him, What do you want me to do for you? Bartimaeus responds our parish grow in compassion I want to see. Fr Barron will help us to see how this simple response can and justice. change our lives. Pope Francis reminds us in Lumen Fidei, With the intercession, Out Lady Those who believe, see; they see with a light that illumines their entire of the Snow who showed us journey, for it comes from the risen Christ, the morning star which never new ways of living the Gospel, sits.(pope Francis Lumen Fidei) we make our prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen. Our Lady of the Snow, pray for us. Through this DVD, presentations and small group discussions we will encounter Jesus and those who followed Him. Fr Barron will help us see the light of faith that is given to each of us, as well as remind us that we all are blind in some areas of our lives. This Lent at Our Lady of the Snow we are called to open our eyes and see as much as we can with the eyes of God. Faith is God s great gift, which calls for humility and the courage to trust and to entrust; it enables us to see the luminous path leading to the encounter of God and humanity, the history of salvation (Pope Francis, Lumen Fidei 14) Come and see, answer the call this Lent to follow Jesus and see where this journey leads you in this year of Stewardship. For more information please see the flyer in this bulletin

5 Prayers & Intentions Page 5 March 9, 2014 MASS INTENTIONS FOR THE WEEK March 10-16, 2014 First Sunday of Lent Saints and Special Observances also indicated Saturday: Mar. 8 5:00 p.m Father John Amoah Sunday: Mar. 9 7:30 a.m. Father John Amoah 9:00 a.m. Father Jim Drew 11:00 a.m. Father Jim Drew Monday Mar. 10 8:30AM Mary Lavelle Tuesday Mar. 11 8:30AM Joseph J. Furey Wednesday Mar. 12 8:30AM John Lascari Thursday Mar. 13 8:30AM Joan Mulry Friday Mar. 14 8:30AM William Doyal Saturday Mar. 15 5:00PM Annie McCarrick Richard Golden Charles Gore Sunday Mar. 16 Second Sunday of Lent 7:30AM Richard & Marie Affenita 9:00AM Parishioners 11:00AM Christine Gembola Kevin McMahon Jeanne A. Murnane MASS PRESIDERS Subject to Change Saturday: Mar. 15 5:00 p.m Father John Amoah Sunday: Mar. 16 7:30 a.m. Father Jim Drew 9:00 a.m. Father Jim Drew 11:00 a.m. Father John Amoah Mass intentions for deceased persons are indicated with a It is the policy of Our Lady of the Snow that the intention of each priest who celebrates a parish Mass will be for the intentions listed in the Parish Mass intention book. Readings for the Week Monday Leviticus 19:1-2, 11-18; Matthew 25:31-46 Tuesday Isaiah 55:10-11; Matthew 6:7-15 Wednesday Jonah 3:1-10; Luke 11:29-32 Thursday Esther C:12, 14-16, 23-25; Matthew 7:7-12 Friday Ezekiel 18:21-28; Matthew 5:20-26 Saturday Deuteronomy 26:16-19; Matthew 5:43-48 Sunday Genesis 12:1-4a; 2 Timothy 1:8b-10; Matthew 17:1-9 Pray for Our Sick We pray for all who are sick, for their healing in both body and spirit. Patricia Carpenter & Rev. Diarmuid F. McGann Please remember in prayer all of the women and men from our parish and beyond who serve so selflessly in our armed forces. Please keep them, their families, friends and loved ones in thoughtful prayer as they serve our country at home and on foreign soil. Seasonal Choir The seasonal choir will begin rehearsing on Tuesday, March 11th for the Easter Vigil Liturgy, April 19th. The choir will rehearse each Tuesday evening at 7:30PM in the Large Church. Anyone high school age and older who would like to make a joyful noise is invited. For information, see Terry Martin after Mass, or call the rectory office at ext 10.

6 Stewardship and Worship In the Eucharist people enjoy a unique union with Christ and, in him, with one another. Here his love-indeed, his very self flows into his disciples, and through them and their practice of stewardship to the entire human race. Here Jesus renews his covenant forming act of perfect fidelity to God, while also making it possible for us to cooperate. In the Eucharist, Christians reaffirm their participation in the New Covenant; they give thanks to God for blessings received; and they strengthen their bonds of commitment to one another as members of the covenant community Jesus forms. (Stewardship A Disciple s Response, A Pastoral Letter on Stewardship) Stewardship Financial Report Collection Week of Feb Week of Feb TOTAL $9725 $9733 Religious Education The Level 1 parents and children participated in a learning activity of what it means to be The Body of Christ, the Church. They learned of their baptism and being part of a wonderful family that gathers on Sundays to give praise and thanks to God. Stewardship Witness The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass- an encounter with God. Music, the Liturgy of the Word, even some parts I don t get become clear and meaningful because of the insightful homilies given by our priests. All the prayers that bring us together to the Transubstantiation, (Consecration) ordinary bread and wine become the body and blood of Christ, and then coming forward to receive this most holy sacrament. I am blessed to be able to attend daily mass as well as Sunday knowing that I have been renewed and strengthened each time by the Mass, the words I listened to and the most holy sacrament I have received. Thank you God for this great gift. Patricia Hansen Our Level 2 Families had a celebration that was a learning experience about the Eucharist. Through song, stories and video our families were given a deeper understanding of the Mass. As our children grow in their understanding of these great mysteries may we be open to grow in our understanding and commitment to participating in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

7 Parish Outreach & Local Events Page 7 March 9, 2014 Parish Outreach News WE ARE CALLED TO REACH OUT TO PEOPLE IN NEED It means protecting people, showing loving concern for each and every person, especially children, the elderly, those in need, who are often the last we think about. - Pope Francis, March 19,2013 Winter Food pantry Alert During the winter months donations to our food pantry drop drastically. Due to these tough economic times we are helping an increased number of our neighbors in need. We are currently in need of all food items but especially Boxed milk, canned meats, tuna, mayonnaise, tea, coffee, all juices, cereal, pancake mix and syrup, paper towels, toilet paper, laundry detergent, baby wipes, peanut butter, jelly, chili, fruit, dog & cat food, and all toiletries. Food can be dropped off at the outreach office Mon- Thur 10am-1pm or in the food bin outside the pantry door in the foyer of the large church before or after every mass. November and December 2013 Parish Outreach Statistics. November We assisted with 334 food pantry requests. There were 213 other requests for assistance. December We assisted with 314 food pantry requests. There were 352 other requests for assistance. These services included food, basic needs of living, transportation, advocacy, economic assistance, health care, housing, substance abuse, employment, case management and referrals to other agencies and programs. THANK YOU FOR HELPING US PROVIDE THIS HELP TO SO MANY OF OUR BROTHERS AND SIS- TERS IN NEED. Did you know that nearly 300,000 Long Islanders struggle with hunger everyday? That s 1 out of every 10 residents! Upcoming Events The Neighborhood House 8 week support groups are forming for children, families and individuals grieving the loss of a family member due to suicide. Groups will meet Tuesday evenings from 6-8PM at New Life Community Church, Sayville. There is no cost for participating. For more information, call or visit Help Wanted at St. Ursula Center, Blue Point Seeking to hire a per diem LPN (licensed practical nurse), Must have experience working with seniors and a flexible schedule. Also seeking a per diem cook who has experience shopping and preparing nutritional meals for sisters. For additional information, please call Shavetta at x2005 Long Island Men s Ministry presents For God and Country Conference - March 29th at Holy Trinity Diocesan High School, Hicksville. Doors open for registration at 7AM, conference begins at 8AM. For more information, and to buy tickets, visit St. Mary, East Islip Free 8 Week Support Group Adults who are struggling to cope with the loss of a loved one. Registration is required for group that begins April 2 May 21st from 7-9PM. The death must have occurred before January 2nd. For more info, call ext 100. Women at the Well Series, Mary Immaculate, Bellport Come together with other women as we look at the stories of the Women in the Bible, as well as other women in our church history and see how they relate to our lives today. Next meeting Rebekah & Salome - Tuesday, March 18th from 7:30-9PM in room 7 Church Auditorium. The Dignity and Role of One s Conscience in the Making of Moral Decisions presented by Fr. Bob Smith, Pastor of St. James Church, Setauket. March 20 & 27 from 7-8PM in East Wing. Register by calling Free will offering accepted at the door.

8 Religious Education Page 8 March 9, 2014 OUR LADY OF THE SNOW RELIGIOUS EDUCATION OFFICE /olsbpre@aol.com Hours: Monday to Thursday 9:30-4:30 or by appointment Amen, I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed Nothing will be impossible for you. Matt. 17:20,21 The ministry of Religious Education strives to bring all into a closer relationship with Jesus through Word, Worship and Service. Week of March 9 OUR CLASSES Children s Liturgy of the Word and Pre k K Program, During the 9 a.m. Mass Classes this week for Levels 2-9 No Level 6 classes because of Temple Tour- do Ch 17 at home THIS WEEK Level 6 Temple Tour Mon. March 10 at 7pm- at Temple B Nai Israel Reform Temple. Students must be accompanied by a parent. Wed. March 12 th Confirmation class 7:30 to 8:30pm Large Church Confirmation Service Liturgy for March 16 th rescheduled. See parish website for new date. Level 3 Stations of the Cross Fri. March 14 th at 7:30pm in the Mother Church. Children must be accompanied by an adult. MARK YOUR CALENDARS Level 1 Parent/Child Celebration Thurs. Mar. 20 th - Church Tour Children in Grade 1 (2013/2014) Should be registered in our Level 1 Program. If you have not registered please call or the Religious Education Office as soon as possible. Participation in a 2 year preparation program is a Diocesan mandate before receiving First Reconciliation and First Eucharist. For grade level calendars and more information visit us on our parish website ourladyofthesnowbluepoint.com

9 Mark Your Calendars for These Upcoming Parish Sponsored Events Sunday, March 9 First Sunday of Lent - Daylight Savings Time Begins Wednesday, March 12 Encounters with Jesus Lenten Reflection Series Session I 7:30PM Mother Church Basement Friday, March 14 Respect Life Ministry, General Meeting 2PM in the Cottage Sunday, March 16 Second Sunday of Lent Wednesday, March 19 Encounters with Jesus Lenten Reflection Series Session II 7:30PM Mother Church Basement Sunday, March 23 Third Sunday of Lent Wednesday, March 26 Encounters with Jesus Lenten Reflection Series Session III 7:30PM Mother Church Basement Sunday, March 30 Fourth Sunday of Lent - Second Collection Catholic Relief Services LENTEN REGULATIONS Weekdays of Lent: There is no obligation to fast, however, voluntary acts of self-denial are recommended. Days of Abstinence: (All Fridays of Lent) All who have reached their 14th year are bound to abstain totally from meat. Ash Wednesday & Good Friday: All Catholics who have reached their 14th year are bound to abstain entirely from meat on Ash Wednesday and all the Fridays of Lent. All Catholics between the ages of 18 and 59 inclusive are also bound to observe the law of fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. This means limiting oneself to a single full meal and avoiding food between meals. Two other light meals, which together do not equal a full meal, may be taken during the day. Illness or other serious reason excuses from the obligations of fast and abstinence. Easter Duty Obligation: After receiving First Holy Communion, Catholics are bound by the obligation to receive Holy Communion at least once a year. This precept should be fulfilled during the Easter Season. Catholics are also bound to confess serious (mortal) sins at least once a year, but this is not limited to the Lenten/Easter season.

10 Encounters with Jesus Come join Bartimaeus, Matthew, The Rich Young Man, The Woman at the Well and the Magi for a Lenten Reflection Series. Our Series will take place on each Wednesday of Lent using Fr Barron s DVD series Conversion, Following the Call of Christ Our First Session will be March 12 at 7:30 in the Mother Church Basement

11 The Lord, your God, shall you worship and him alone shall you serve. - Matthew 4:10