January 8, 2017 St. Patrick Catholic Church 140 Church St., Portland, MI 48875 Phone: 517-647-6505 Fax: 517-647-7807 parishoffice@portlandstpats.com www.stpatrickportland.com Rev. Larry J. King, Pastor Dcn. Don Sobolewski, Pastoral Associate The Mission of St. Patrick Parish is: To celebrate the Eucharist, To proclaim the Good News, To encourage Stewardship as a way of life and To grow in Faith, Justice, Love and Service to all. Mass Schedule: Reconciliation: Eucharistic Adoration: Saturday 4:30 pm Saturday 3:00 pm Monday, Noon 5:00 pm Sunday 7:30 am, 9:30 am, 11:30 am or by appointment Wednesday, Noon 7:00 pm & s: Tuesday 6:00 pm 9:00 pm-12:00 am Wednesday 7:30 am Parish Office Hours Thursday 9:30 am Friday 7:30 am Mon.-Fri.: 8:00 am-4:30 pm Closed 12:30 pm-1:00 pm for lunch Wed. evening: 6:00 pm-9:00 pm
ST. PATRICK CHURCH Page 2 PORTLAND, MICHIGAN Masses for the Week of January 8, 2017 Mon. 01/09 Tue. 01/10 Wed. 01/11 Thu. 01/12 Sat. 01/14 Sun. 01/15 The Baptism of the Lord Is 42:1-4, 6-7 or Acts 10:34-38; Ps 29:1-2,3-4, 3, 9-10; Mt 3:13-17 Heb 2:5-12; Ps 8:2ab and 5, 6-7, 8-9; Mk 1:21-28 or Heb 1:1-6 and 2:5-12; Mk 1:14-20 and 1:21-28 6:00 PM Helen Clorek 1 Year Anniv. Heb 2:14-18; Ps 105:1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8-9; Mk 1:29-39 7:30 AM For those on our Prayer List Heb 3:7-14; Ps 95:6-7c, 8-9, 10-11; Mk 1:40-45 9:30 AM For an increase in vocations Heb 4:1-5, 11; Ps 78:3 and 4bc, 6c-7, 8; Mk 2:1-12 7:30 AM For the People Heb 4:12-16; Ps 19:8, 9, 10, 15; Mk 2:13-17 Second Sunday in Ordinary Time Is 49:3, 5-6; Ps 40:2, 4, 7-8, 8-9, 10; 1 Cor 1:1-3; Jn 1:29-34 Bulletin deadline is 10:00 AM Monday for inclusion in Sunday Bulletin. Parish Staff (517) 647-6505 SUN MON TUE WED THUR FRI SAT SUN THIS WEEK IN OUR PARISH January 8, 2017-January 15, 2017 Coffee & Donuts-Following Masses 8th Grade Faith Formation, 12:45 PM, CIA HQ Communication/Spirtituality Workshop, 1:00 PM, LLCR High School YM, 6:00 PM, CIA HQ Athletic Association Meeting, 6:30 PM, Parish Hall Church Cleaning, 10:00 AM, Church Eucharistic Adoration, 12:00 PM, Chapel Adult Formation-Ignite, 6:30 PM, Parish Hall Children s Faith Formation Class, 6:30 PM, School Small Prayer Group, 9:00 AM, LLCR Church Cleaning, 10:00 AM, Church Adoration for Mass Class, 1:00 PM, Chapel Prayer Shawl Ministry, 1:00 PM, 116 Blossom Dr Hall Walking, 4:00 PM, School Finance Council Meeting, 6:00 PM, LLCR Eucharistic Adoration, 12:00 PM, Chapel Hall Walking, 4:00 PM, School Devotions to Our Mother of Perpetual Help, 7:00 PM, Church Adult Choir Practice, 7:00 PM, Church Basement Eucharistic Adoration, 9:00 PM, Chapel PTO Christmas Luncheon, 8:00 AM, Parish Hall Hall Walking, 4:00 PM, Hallways/Stairs Healing Prayer Ministry, 7:00 PM, Chapel Reconciliation for 5th Grade, 9:00 AM, Church Church Cleaning, 10:00 AM, Church 7th & 8th Grade YM, 2:45 PM, CIA HQ Rosary, 7:30 AM, Chapel Women s Faith Sharing Group, 9:00 AM, LLCR Reconciliation, 3:00 PM, Church PSIC collection-knights of Columbus Church Reserved, 1:30 PM, Church High School YM, 6:00 PM, CIA HQ School Website: www.portlandstpats.com Ministries
ST. PATRICK CHURCH Page 3 PORTLAND, MICHIGAN Caravans of Camels Isaiah 60:1-6 About those camels, we are not too sure about them. Yes, every nativity scene shows the magi seated on stately dromedaries, or leading their beasts of burden by bit and rein. But, quite honestly, the story of the Magi never tells us how they got there. They could have traveled on foot, in chariot, on horseback, elephants, or by camel but we just do not know. The reason we keep putting them on camels in our art is because of Isaiah s prophecy. He predicted that caravans of camels would fill Jerusalem, and that people from the East would come bearing gold and frankincense. Rise up in splendor, Jerusalem! he proclaims. Your light has come. In Matthew s story, the magi realize that Jerusalem s light has come. They follow the star and bring their gifts of gold and frankincense. Myrrh, too. By telling about these gifts, Matthew turns our attention back to Isaiah. Reading that prophecy, we realize that the light Isaiah mentioned is the Light of the World, Jesus Christ. When we see the magi seated on camels, we are remembering Isaiah. When we remember Isaiah, we remember the light that came to shatter the darkness of our world. Those camels carry hope. Written by Paul Turner. Copyright 2009, Resource Publications, Inc., 888-273-7782, www.rpinet.com. All rights reserved. Reprinted with permission from Lectionary Bulletin Inserts, Y ear C: First and Second Readings. Financial Activities Collection the week beginning 12/20 12/27 ALTAR APPOINTMENTS Jan 14th & Jan 15th 4:30 PM Randy Pung Fr. Larry King 7:30 AM Gary Fedewa Fr. Larry King Fr. Larry King 11:30 AM Lorie Schrauben Fr. Larry King 4:30 PM Rhiannon Pohl, Colette Pohl, Brandon Scheurer, Carly Scheurer 7:30 AM Matthew Bond, Alexandria Bennett 9:30 AM Bret Weller, Abigail Weller, Grant Werner, Breckyn Werner 11:30 AM Colin Cook, Lauren Bengel, Dalton Becker, Brice Cook Family Perspective By Bud Ozar Today s gospel tells us all Jerusalem was upset because King Herod was deeply troubled. A similar ripple effect happens in families; one person s negative attitude can affect the whole family. If you want a peaceful and joyful home, it must start with you. Be peaceful and joyful! STEWARDSHIP REFLECTIONS Sponsor of the Week: Hoort Law Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Matthew 2:11 The image of the Magi kneeling before the infant Jesus and opening their treasure chests for Him is an image that we should all try to follow all year long. In gratitude for all that we have been given, we are called to generously share all of our gifts, not just the ones we pick and choose. God wants us to be the most generous with that one thing that means the most to us. Prayer of the Faithful That, through our generous giving, we may show our gratitude to God for the great gift of sending His beloved Son to save us. The family of Richard Pline would like to thank our friends, parish members & elementary school kids for the Christmas cards, sympathy & support at the time of his passing. Father Larry for the wonderful service, altar servers, choir & organist. Also for the food, flowers, & gifts we received. We appreciate it so much. Thank you, JoAnn, Jeff, Kathy, Robin, Jesse & Brock
ST. PATRICK CHURCH Page 4 PORTLAND, MICHIGAN Diocesan Mass Commemorating the Anniversary of Roe v Wade On Monday, January 23, 2017 the nation will mark the 44 th Anniversary of the decision of the U.S. Supreme Court, Roe v. Wade, legalizing abortions in the United States. The Diocese of Grand Rapids will observe a Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children on January 23. As Catholics, we are deeply committed and concerned about the need to protect human life from the time of conception to natural death. Many prayer resources and ways you can participate can be found on the diocesan webpage. On Monday, January 23, 2017 at 7:00 p.m., Bishop Walkowiak will celebrate Mass at the Cathedral of Saint Andrew giving thanks to God for the gift of human life. A light reception will follow in the parish center of the Cathedral. All are welcome! Youth Corner Junior High: See you Friday! High School: Sunday Jan 8 Christmas Party Yes that is correct. Nerf Battle, gifts, and food of course. Sunday Jan 15 Study Break for Portland Public School exams Sunday Jan 22 A special guest speaker followed by Adoration Sunday Jan 29 Come see the Portland production of Code Red a faith based play ichallenge: When life seems to be more than you can stand kneel. Faith Formation New News Up Coming Dates January 30 th - NO CLASSS (Catechist In-Service) February 20 th - NO CLASSES Up Coming Events January 9 th Meals at First Congregational Church (4-6 pm) February 14 th Meals at First Congregational Church (4-6 pm) Announcements Keep in mind when schools are canceled due to the weather, so are Faith Formation classes The book drive will be going on until end of February Catholic Bussiness Leaders Forum Mark your calendar to join Bishop Walkowiak and fellow business associates for the Catholic Business Leaders Forum (CBLF) Breakfast, January 27, 2017 from 7:00-9:00 a.m. at Cathedral Square Center. Joe Schmieder, Principal Consultant of The Family Business Consulting Group, will facilitate a panel of three west Michigan business leaders in a discussion focused on incorporating innovation into family businesses and developing next-generation leaders. The CBLF breakfast events provide an environment for idea sharing, professional development, and thoughtful conversation while fostering the connection between Catholic business professionals in the Diocese of Grand Rapids RSVP by Monday, January 23 by visiting The Catholic Foundation of West Michigan website, CatholicFoundationWM.org, and clicking the events link or by calling 616.459.4508. The cost to attend is $25 for an individual and $200 to sponsor a table of eight. PAMA Ecumenical Sanctity of Life Service January 29 th at 3:00 PM Baptist Church FireKeepers Casino Trip The Portland Knights of Columbus Council 2168 will be sponsoring a bus trip to Firekeepers Casino on Wednesday Feb. 8, 2017. The cost is $30.00 with each participant receiving $20 in casino play and a $5 food voucher. The bus will leave the KC Hall parking lot located at 690 Maynard Road Portland at 9 a.m. and arrive at the casino at 10:00 am. The bus will depart the casino at 3 pm and arrive back in Portland at 4 p.m. Participants must register in advance for this trip. For more information or to register, contact Rich Schneider at (517) 647-4567, or John Vallier at (517) 647-6409. KNIGHTS NEWS On the weekend of January 14 & 15, 2017 the Knights Of Columbus will be having it s annual collection for Positive Solutions Informed Choices (Formally Pregnancy Services Of Ionia County). Items such as diapers, blankets, formula, car seats, clothing for infants and small children are needed, just about anything a young mother may need. Money donations and diapers are needed the most. There will be Knights before and after each mass in back of church. Any questions contact Tom Klein at 810-588-3965 or Bill Vallier at gk2168@mikofc.org
The Epiphany of the Lord Page 5 January 8, 2017 Athletics This week s information has been submitted by St. Patrick School Athletic Director Mr. Patrick Russman. It isn t a secret that athletic programs at Portland St. Patrick have seen great success over the years, but many people do not understand the planning that goes on behind the scenes to ensure our coaches and student athletes can focus on having a successful season. This is where the St. Patrick School Athletic Director comes in. The position of athletic director at St. Patrick isn t much different than that of an athletic director at a public school. However, in addition to athletic director responsibilities I also teach classes and coach the football team. I was not actively seeking the job of athletic director, in fact it found me. I was told by Mr. Al Schrauben, here is my binder, don t lose this it s important. The binder had all of the fall, winter and spring game schedules along with a budget for the 2008 school year in it. He said give me a call if you need anything and that was how I received the job. I ve called often in the past nine years and still keep a binder. I have gone through several computers, but the binder never crashes. Thank you, Mr. Schrauben. The athletic director is responsible for the administrative detail of the athletic program. This includes scheduling contests, contracting officials, developing budgets, purchasing equipment, assisting in the hiring of coaches, coordinating with the transportation department, filing all necessary paperwork with the MHSAA and representing the school at required meetings. But, my main duty is to ensure that academics come first for all of our student athletes. Each week, we run eligibility checks on all student athletes in grades 5-12 ensuring that they are keeping their priorities straight. Working successfully with the principal, Athletic Association, coaches, teachers, parents and student athletes is the key to our success here. All of the funding for our programs is raised by the Athletic Association and donations. It has been a blessing to live in Portland where many people care a great deal about the success of the various programs we offer. While many of our foes are the same every year, we are actually affiliated with a few different leagues: Grades 5-6: Catholic Youth Activities Conference, Junior High and High School: Central Michigan Athletic Conference (CMAC) and for other sports, we belong to the Mid-Michigan Bowling League and Central Michigan 8 Man Conference in football. There are many things athletic directors do above and beyond to ensure successful programs and none of it would be possible without the support of our coaches, parents, teachers, student athletes, and the community. So thank you for helping in many ways to ensure that the St. Patrick legacy continues to live on. Several years ago a documentary was produced called, Supersize Me. The producers explored the fast food industry and its impact on children through targeted advertising. In one segment, children aged 5-7 years were shown pictures of well-known individuals and fast food mascots to see how easily recognizable they were. More children were able to correctly identify Ronald McDonald than Jesus. What s going on here? Who really has our attention and what message are they sending? There is so much out there that can distract us from our walk with God. It s hard to live as a faithful Catholics in a culture that often runs contrary to the faith. Join us Monday for Ignite: Christ or Chaos? We ll explore the cultural dynamics in our lives and how we can take the best and leave the rest! I m excited to have a special guest speaker who will share his story about how getting caught up in the worst the world has to offer led him right into the Catholic Church. Coming Events: Mon. January 9th: Christ or Chaos? - Holiness in a hostile culture. Mon. January 16th: Answering Atheism - Proofs for God s existence Mon. January 23rd: One, Holy, Catholic, Apostolic - Why Catholic is not just Christian Mon. January 30th: Not a Tame Lion - Great Catholic books Spread the fire! Carolyn Kwiecinski Director of Evangelization and Adult Faith Formation carolynkwiecinski@portlandstpats.com Potential Scam There is a potential scam involving the Diocese of Grand Rapids where a caller is asking for money to support the victims of the Haitian Hurricane. The diocese will never call parishioners to ask for such funds. If you receive such a call please call the Parish Office at 517.647.6505. Portland Right to Life Portland Right to Life meets Tuesday, January 17th, at 6:30 p.m. at the Portland District Library, lower level conference room. We welcome people of all faiths to join us in our efforts to protect the rights of the unborn and most vulnerable members of our society.
The Epiphany of the Lord Page 6 January 8, 2017 NEW ALTAR SERVER TRAINING The Church teaches that the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is the prayer of the whole Catholic Community. God s people gather together at the Liturgy to hear God s Word and reflect upon it, to be fed by the Eucharist, and to be sent forth to live as disciples of Jesus. Everyone has a part in this prayerful celebration. Pray for Them One of the special ways that young Catholics are traditionally invited to participate in the Mass is through service as an Altar Server. This ministry allows them to have a very active role in the Mass, our first and greatest prayer. The young people of our parish are invited to serve when they are old enough and strong enough to handle the book of prayers, the cross, and the sacred vessels. For our parish, this is the second half of Fifth Grade. Altar Servers are Guardians of the Sacred. They must commit themselves to weekly attendance at Sunday Mass, to training, to attendance at Continuing Formation meetings approximately 2 times a year on Saturday or Sunday afternoon, and faithful service whenever they are scheduled or volunteer. Training for new Altar Servers, 5 th Grade or older, will be held on three SUNDAYS: January 29, and February 12 & 19 from 3:00pm until 5:30pm in the Church. Attendance at these sessions is mandatory. Register for training by completing the form and returning it to the Parish Office no later than Monday, January 23. If there are any questions, please contact Deacon Don @ 517-647-6505 x-409 Name: (Please print.) Address: Telephone: Family e-mail: School: Grade: Age: Server s Signature: PARENT: LEGAL GUARDIAN (Signature REQUIRED) Please circle at least TWO Masses you are able to serve: Saturday: 4:30 Sunday: 7:30 9:30 11:30 The Family of Richard Pline would like to Thank our friends, parish members, and elementary school children for the Christmas cards, sympathy and support at the time of his passing. Father Larry for the wonderful service, altar servers, choir and organist. Also for the food, flowers, and gifts we received. WE appreciate it so much. Thank You, JoAnn, Jeff, Kathy, Robin, Jesse & Brock
The Epiphany of the Lord Page 7 January 8, 2017 My Own Church My Own Church is your online connection to your family and individual members Church records. In My Own Church you are able to keep your records updated (phone numbers, e-mail address, address changes), you are also able to review your contributions. The first step is to make sure the parish office has your e-mail address on file, the next step would be to register creating a user name and password. The My Own Church website is available from any web browser. Links are available from the St. Patrick Website, www.stpatrickportalnd.com or https://connectnow.parishsoft.com/grandrapids/. Click the new user button, complete the fields on the new user registration form. Read the terms and conditions and check the I Agree Box. Once you have submitted your registration, a St. Patrick Administrator will approve your registration and you will receive an e -mail. Please contact the parish office (517-647-6505 x 410) if you need assistance or have any questions.