A COMMUNITY OF FAITH HOPE AND LOVE Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time October 23, 2016 The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
516-731-4220 Phone/516-731-4355 Fax Email: Parish@StBernardChurch.org Website: www.stbernardchurch.org PASTORAL TEAM Father Ralph Sommer, Pastor Shepherd@StBernardChurch.org ext. 130 Father Joe Nohs, Associate Pastor FrNohsBest@StBernardChurch.org ext. 128 Deacon John Blakeney DeaconJohn@StBernardChurch.org 516-731-4220 Deacon James Flannery Aquinas69@gmail.com 516-731-4220 Deacon Timm Taylor DeaconTimm@StBernardChurch.org 516-731-4220 Father Patrick Abem, Chaplain in Residence patabem@gmail.com ext 124 Mrs. Susan Martin, Director of Religious Education RelEd@StBernardChurch.org 516-731-8511 Phone/516-731-7860 Fax The Religious Education Center is closed on Fridays. Sr. Christine Sammons, O.P., Coordinator of Parish Social Ministry PSM@StBernardChurch.org 516-731-6074 Ms. Sarah Kropac, Coordinator of Youth Ministry skropac@stbernardchurch.org Mrs. Mary Jane Witte, Director of Liturgical Music MJWitte@StBernardChurch.org ext. 142 Ms. Diane Vella, Pastoral Associate DVella@StBernardChurch.org ext. 143 Mrs. Rose Marie Rotondo, Sacristan Sacristan@StBernardChurch.org 516-731-4220 Mr. Len Lanzi, Facilities Manager facilitiesmanager@stbernardchurch.org ext. 120 Mr. Dimas Carbajal, Head of Maintenance Maintenance@StBernardChurch.org ext. 126 CYO Basketball: stbernardcyo.org Would you like to join our vibrant community of Faith, Hope and Love at St. Bernard s? Sign-up and get to know us at one of our monthly New Parishioner Registration and Welcome evenings! For information, call the parish office at 516-731-4220, or download a form from our website www.stbernardchurch.org. Click on Join St. Bernard s on the bottom of the home page form. If you move away, please notify us as well. S T. BERNARD S CATHOLIC CHURCH MISSION STATEMENT With faith, hope, and love the people of St. Bernard's parish family are on a mission to bring the gospel of Jesus to the Levittown Community and beyond. Spiritual Life Schedule of Masses: Saturday: 8:00 am and 5:00 pm Sunday: 7:30 am, 9:00 am (Family Mass), 10:30 am, 12 Noon, 5:30 pm (Youth Mass) Weekdays: 8:00 am Holy Days: see website: www.stbernardchurch.org Confessions: Saturday: 4:00-5:00 pm. Weekdays: After the 8:00 am Mass Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Novena and Benediction: Monday: Check schedule on page 4. Morning Prayer: Monday through Saturday, 8:30 am, Prayer Room. Books are available. Baptism of Children: We welcome infants and children to our Christian community! Baptisms are held on select Sundays at 1:30 pm. Please contact the parish at least 3 months before an anticipated baptism even before a new child is born to ensure enough time to complete the baptism preparation process. Our three-step preparation process includes: 1) at-home reading and preparation by the parents; 2) an intake conversation with a member of our parish staff; and 3) participation with other parents in a Sunday morning gathering, which begins with attendance at our 9:00 am Family-friendly Mass. Please call 731-4220 or e-mail parish@stbernardchurch.org to request a Baptism information and preparation packet. Marriages: Church arrangements should be made at least 6 months before the marriage and before making any contracts with restaurants or caterers. Please call the Rectory to set up an appointment with a priest, 731-4220. Ministry to the Sick and Aging: If you are, or know of someone who is homebound and would like to receive Holy Communion, please call the rectory at 731-4220. St. Vincent De Paul Society: 735-3218 Usher Coordinator: John Lyons (516) 390-5150 or Jlyons8234@gmail.com Bulletin Deadline: Friday, 5:00 pm, nine days prior to publication. You may email us at Bulletin@StBernardChurch.org or leave a printed copy in the inbox on the bulletin desk in the Parish Office. Thank you for your cooperation! 2
Is This the Time? E mail Father Ralph: shepherd@stbernardchurch.org This week s column is for married people only -- or for people who know married people. How s your marriage going? Normal ups and downs? Little challenges that keep things interesting? As you look back over the time you ve been together, you see personal growth and a deeper love developing between you. Welcome Father Freddy We re happy to welcome Father Freddy Lozano to Saint Bernard s. He ll be in residence with us for the next couple of months as he prepares to work as a chaplain at Nassau University Medical Center. You ll see him from time to time as he celebrates Mass and hears confessions. Father Freddy is originally from Columbia and has been serving in our diocese, mostly in Spanish speaking communities. He s looking forward to developing his skills in speaking English. A Message from Fr Joy Father Joy Varkey, former chaplain at NUMC, just wrote to tell us of the death of his uncle Mr Joseph Varkey this week. You can e-mail condolences to: joypvmst@gmail.com Or maybe something else is happening. You find yourself living in the same house, but more like single roommates than married lovers. Fights are frequent and don t resolve the issues or fights are rare because you hate conflict and it s easier not to talk. Deep down it feels like the marriage is drying up and you wonder if there s a future for you and your spouse. Or in some cases, one has already moved out of the house or at least out of the bedroom. You may or may not have tried professional counseling, and the counsel you get from family and friends leaves you confused. If I ve just described some aspect of your marriage in distress, I d like to invite you to spend a weekend giving your marriage another chance at fulfillment, better communication, forgiveness and love. Once a year I get to be the priest on a weekend retreat/workshop that helps dozens of couples get a new shot of life in their struggling marriages. It s called a Retrouvaille Weekend (pronounced retrovie -- the word is French for rediscovery ) and the next weekend will be at the Seminary in Huntington the weekend of November 4, 5, and 6 th. In the over ten years I have been doing this, I ve seen some of the most disastrous situations be healed. I ve seen couples avoid possible disastrous situations because they recognized things weren t going in the right direction and they needed to realign themselves. If you re struggling in your marriage, this is the best thing to do right now. Of course people are worried about their privacy and the good news is that there is no group sharing of anything about the couple s marriage. It s completely private. During the weekend couples will hear presentations from married leader couples and a priest. They get to reflect on those presentation together as a couple. It s guided and safe. To find out more and to register, go to the website: www.retrouvaille.org If after reading this column you re thinking, Actually this would be good for us, but... get the but out of that thought and just do it. If you have any questions, I d be glad to talk with you. 3
PARISH NEWS Memorial Mass On Sunday, October 30, 2016, there will be a special Mass at 3:00 pm in loving memory of all the deceased parishioners of St. Bernard s who passed away this past year. All are welcome to attend this beautiful celebration. Marriage Preparation The following couples will be completing Marriage Preparation this weekend, October 21 st 23 rd Christina Carbone and Jelson Goyco Lianna Gallow and Jeremy Howarth Pamela Johnson and Daniel Siri Jessica Ostrowsky and Nicholas Mauriello Mairee Rodriguez and Christian Castro Katie-Lyn Talbot and Lisandro Santacruz Maryann Teta and John French St. Bernard s Religious Education The Missionary Childhood Association of our diocese has recognized our Religious Education program as one of its honorees for the generous donation given last Spring! As partners in missionary work, we aim to live the corporal works of mercy and pray for the missions around the world on October 23 rd, the Diocesan World Mission Sunday. If you would like to support the missions, go to www.drvc.org/mission for contributions to help our needy brothers and sisters around the globe! GIFTS OF TREASURE SUNDAY COLLECTIONS October 16, 2016 October 18, 2015 $ 12,409.00 $ 12,533.30 551 envelopes 577 envelopes Faith Direct $ 2,378.90 $ 1,903.77 Total Collection $ 14,787.90 $ 14,437.07 Second Collection Hurricane Relief $ 2,503.85 Capital Campaign Goal: $1,000,000.00 Pledged: $1,199,925.00 Collected to date: $1,122,796.00 Please continue to fulfill your pledge commitment so that all of the planned projects can be accomplished. Thank you for your continued generosity. Faith Direct Have you enrolled yet? www.faithdirect.net Code = NY272 THE GIFTS OF BREAD AND WINE for the weekend of October 22 nd & October 23 rd have been requested in memory of James McGovern by Richard & Lisa Santer Monday, October 24 6:00 pm CYO-Drafts, Parish Center 7:30 pm Miraculous Medal Novena, Church 7:30 pm Parish Leaders Meeting, Parish Center Tuesday, October 25 10:00 am Our Lady of Consolation, Parish Center 11:00 am Alzheimer Caregiver Support Group, Parish Center 2:00 pm Zumba Gold, Parish Center 6:00 pm CYO-Drafts, Parish Center 6:15 pm Children s Choir, Parish Center 7:00 pm Boy Scout Troop 316, Cafeteria 7:00 pm Spanish Rosary, Prayer Room 7:00 pm Vivitrol Support Group, School Room 209 7:30 pm AA Meeting, School Room 207 7:30 pm Choir Practice, Church PARISH CALENDAR (Subject to change) 7:30 pm Cub Scout Awards St. Agnes, 7:30 pm Welcome Orientation, Parish Center Wednesday, October 26 6:00 pm CYO-Drafts, Parish Center 7:30 pm Faithful Voting, Parish Center 7:30 pm Folk Group, Off-site 8:00 pm Bread of Life Prayer Group, Parish Center Thursday, October 27 9:00 am Zumba Gold, Parish Center 10:00 am Faithful Voting, Parish Center 10:00 am Shawl Ministry, Parish Center 2:15 pm St. Vincent Meeting, Clairvaux House 6:00 pm CYO Referee Meeting, Cafeteria Friday, October 28 6:00 pm CYO-Drafts, Parish Center 4
MASS INTENTIONS This listing may not reflect recent changes or additions. Monday, October 24 8:00 am Frank and Marcella Casey Tuesday, October 25 8:00 am Thanksgiving to the Blessed Mother Wednesday, October 26 8:00 am Josephine and Joseph Witkowski Thursday, October 27 8:00 am Sheila Sweeney Friday, October 28 8:00 am Lucila Peniera-7th Anniversary Saturday, October 29 8:00 am Deborah Veny, Cynthia Simpson, Rosemary Forchelli, Medi Stowell 5:00 pm William Brady Sunday, October 30 7:30 am Hynes and Legere Families 9:00 am Joseph Natale 10:30 am Howard Mouzakes, Alfred Wiedlein, Nevia Bencich, Gervas H. Ignacio 12 Noon Randolph Frey 3:00 pm Memorial Mass for parishioners who have died during the past year, Church 5:30 pm Deceased Members of the Salomone Family Mark Your Calendar St. Bernard s Holiday Craft Fair Saturday, November 26, 9:00 am 4:00 pm PARISH CALENDAR (Subject to change) 6:00 pm Girl Scout Cadette Troup, Parish Center 7:30 pm Book Pilgrimage, Parish Center Saturday, October 29 9:00 am Awakening Faith, YM Room School 9:00 am Gift Retreat, Church 10:15 am Special Ed, Parish Center 11:00 am Women s AA Meeting, Cafeteria 7:00 pm Boy Scout 316 Pack Night, Cafeteria Sunday, October 30 3:00 pm Memorial Mass, Church ( see page 4) 4:00 pm Ministry of Consolation Reception, Parish Center 4:15 pm Youth Choir Rehearsal, Church 6:30 pm Youth Ministry Meeting, YM Room 8:00 pm AA Meeting, Cafeteria SACRAMENTS BAPTISMS We welcome into the parish the following new members John Joseph Laub Luca Joseph Merlo Conor Jackson O Brien Mia Rose Pagan Peyton Matthew Talmage Abigail Lynn West Congratulations to the happy parents. FOR THE SICK OF OUR PARISH Mary Carr Lori Ciccicari Betty DeCostanzo Gale Gallahue Wanda Krasnoff Betty Lucivero Paul Lyons Lillian McConlogue Rosalie Russo Emil William Stalzer Norma Steiger Lou Steinberg Jerry Valinoti James P. Ward Thomas Williams, Jr. All names will remain on the list for 4 weeks after you call in. After that time we ask, if necessary, to call again. Thank you for cooperating and God bless all. Please pray for all those on our Long-term Sick List Baby Mason Francis Combs Susan Arena Arlene Barsch Kathleen Biscardi Eileen Bopp Irene Boyce Jean Caprera Rosemary Clark Ed Costello Diane DeSalvo Monica DeLaRosa Debra Dowdell Margaret Dowdell Jim Finlan Linda Fitz Kathleen Flaherty Gerry Finlan Rich Fuleki Teresita Gallego Regina Gorman Colleen Grasing John Guiffre Mike Hach Patricia Hafner Carolyn Hakim Suzanne Hanna Annette Hannon Cynthia Hansen Donna Hare John Hartofil Judy Hupfer Vicki Jacona Steve Jugan Jerome W. Kalkhof Anne Kalman Tia Mabanta Andrew Mahoney Lucy Marconi Gene McDonagh William McDonagh Teresa McDonald Dr. John McLaughlin Mary McLean John McMahon Mary Messina Irmgard Montanino Kerri Orlando Johnny Perdue Rosina Perri Raymond Pfeifer Catherine Pipinou Joan Rampolla Fred Rappa Laureen Quinn-Sturge Deanne Reilly John Rotondo, Jr. John Rotondo, Sr. Federico Rueda Terri Saccente Eve Saint Thomas Saint Keith Sessa Terry Sherwood Norma Steiger David Testa Rosalie Travers Donna Vollaro Theresa Votta Richard Yankowski Frank Zizzo PRAY FOR OUR BELOVED DECEASED AND THOSE WHO MOURN FOR THEM Patrick Corcoran Loriann Flaherty Mary Harucki Joanne M. Magill 5
YEAR OF MERCY OCT. 2015 NOV. 2016 A Series of Help and Support Managing Holiday Stress Dr. Ray Shelton Monday, November 14, 7:30-9:00 p.m., Parish Center For many, the first signs of holiday stress emerge around Halloween, when stores start stocking shelves with Christmas decorations and candies. People begin to feel the clock ticking and that there is not enough time to fit in everything. We often have higher expectations for this time of year than for any other, which places even more pressure on us and increases the likelihood we may end up disappointed. Back by popular demand, Dr. Shelton will share tips on how to manage Holiday stress and focus on what s important. Dr. Ray Shelton, Fellow and Director of Professional Development with the National Center for Crisis Management, has provided consultation, development and training to the law enforcement, emergency services, corporate, industrial, insurance, medical, and education community in the area of Stress Management, Crisis, Trauma and Violence. He is a consulting psychologist with the Diocese of Rockville Center, presenting programs in stress management, communication, parenting, and marriage preparation. Dr. Shelton is a former member of the Nassau County Police Department, a Navy veteran, and an Eagle Scout. Words of MERCY from Pope Francis:...Keep in mind those people trapped in poverty....i would encourage you to keep in mind all those people around us who are trapped in a cycle of poverty. They...need to be given hope. The fight against poverty and hunger must be fought constantly and on many fronts, especially in its causes. From Pope Francis Address to the U.S. Congress, Washington DC, September, 2015 Come with us to visit our Christian neighbors at St. Thomas Indian Orthodox Church 110 Schoolhouse Rd., Levittown St. Bernard s is sponsoring a getting to know you visit to St. Thomas on Sunday, November 13 at 4:00 p.m. Can you understand how the actions of some individuals and some groups may adversely affect those who suffer from hunger? Are there any changes in mindset that you could make to make a positive difference in the lives of hungry people? Father John, Father Abraham and the people of St. Thomas parish are looking forward to greeting us, giving us a tour of their church, and telling us about their mission and ministries, which are very much like our own! Would you like to come? Bring the whole family! Let us know you re coming by November 10: dvella@stbernardchurch.org or 516-731-4330, ext. 143 6
PARISH SOCIAL MINISTRY Sr. Christine Sammons, O.P., 731-6074 St. Vincent de Paul: We thank everyone who is conscious of our neighbors who experience food-insecurity on a regular basis, and whom we are able to help because of the great generosity of our parishioners. Special thanks are extended to our Charitable KIDZ who conducted a food drive for our pantry on October 22 nd. Thanks to the adults who helped with the drive and to all who shopped and donated at Stop & Shop! This week, our pantry needs include: Canned tomatoes and sauces (any kind) Gelatin desserts Cake mixes and frostings Please remember the poor boxes and to buy one, get one free! Thanks to a generous someone who donated Shop Rite and Wal-Mart cards! We are grateful, as always! The Blue Wagon: The Blue Wagon has returned to the 9:00 a.m. Family Mass, so we encourage our young people to remember to bring some non-perishable food items or change to be presented at the gift time of the Mass. If a reminder is needed, we count on our parents to help! Our children will develop a good habit early on! Durable Medical Equipment: Father Patrick is hoping to take some durable medical equipment (canes, walkers, crutches, transport and wheelchairs) home to Nigeria when he returns at the end of the year. Our KIDZ will be collecting them in early December only. If you have such good, clean items, please hold them until we announce a collection date! Thanks! The Charitable KIDZ: Our Charitable KIDZ community service program is off to a great start. Teens are invited to do their service requirements for Confirmation or school together with other teens who do great work on behalf of others. The next meeting is Saturday, November 5 th at 10:00 a.m. in the parish center to plan a Thanksgiving party for our special friends from Catholic Charities group homes. This is always a wonderful event which will take place on Saturday, November 12 th from 10-12 in the parish center. 8 th through 12 th graders are welcome, as are parents. This is a wonderful intergenerational activity which has been part of St. Bernard s for many, many years! Don t miss out! Just show up! One-Stop Career Centers: The New York State Department of Labor has convenient NO COST Job Search Services in various locations to help with: Career Counseling Resume Development Career Workshops Computers/Internet Access Computer Workshops Adult Basic Education English as a Second Language Phones, Faxes, Copiers Career Resource Libraries Job Search Resources Job Placement Assistance Vocational Classroom Training Internet-Based Job/Talent Bank All services are free! Call 1-888-4-NYSDOL or go to: www.labor.ny.gov to find the correct center to visit. Take advantage of these wonderful FREE services! Catholic Charities Job Openings: Catholic Charities has many job openings across the Island. You can peruse the openings at: drvc.org, Diocesan Departments/Catholic Charities. Remember that OCTOBER IS RESPECT LIFE MONTH Mid-Week Mid-Morning Book Discussion George Washington's Secret Six: The Spy Ring That Saved the American Revolution Join your fellow parishioners for an informal discussion of this New York Times Best Seller, on which the AMC seasonal series TURN is based, on Wednesday November 9 at 10 AM in the St. Bernard s Parish Center. For more information contact Wally Rodier at wrodi@verizon.net or 516-731-6690. 7
The Challenge of Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship Part II of II: Making Moral Choices and Applying Our Principles This brief document is Part II of a summary of the US bishops reflection, Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, which complements the teaching of bishops in dioceses and states. Part I of the summary of the US bishops reflection, Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, considered the core principles that underlie Catholic engagement in the political realm. Part II is a consideration of the process by which these principles are applied to the act of voting and taking positions on policy issues. It begins with the general consideration of the nature of conscience and the role of prudence. The application of prudential judgment does not mean that all choices are equally valid or that the bishops guidance and that of other church leaders is just another political opinion or policy preference among many others. Rather, Catholics are urged to listen carefully to the Church s teachers when they apply Catholic social teaching to specific proposals and situations. How Does the Church Help the Catholic Faithful to Speak About Political and Social Questions? A Well-Formed Conscience The Church equips its members to address political questions by helping them develop well-formed consciences. Conscience is a judgment of reason whereby the human person recognizes the moral quality of a concrete act.... [Every person] is obliged to follow faithfully what he [or she] knows to be just and right (Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 1778). We Catholics have a lifelong obligation to form our consciences in accord with human reason, enlightened by the teaching of Christ as it comes to us through the Church. The Virtue of Prudence The Church also encourages Catholics to develop the virtue of prudence, which enables us to discern our true good in every circumstance and to choose the right means of achieving it (Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 1806). Prudence shapes and informs our ability to deliberate over available alternatives, to determine what is most fitting to a specific context, and to act. Prudence must be accompanied by courage, which calls us to act. As Catholics seek to advance the common good, we must carefully discern which public policies are morally sound. At times, Catholics may choose different ways to respond to social problems, but we cannot differ on our obligation to protect human life and dignity and help build, through moral means, a more just and peaceful world. 8 Doing Good and Avoiding Evil There are some things we must never do, as individuals or as a society, because they are always incompatible with love of God and neighbor. These intrinsically evil acts must always be rejected and never supported. A preeminent example is the intentional taking of innocent human life, as in abortion. Similarly, human cloning, destructive research on human embryos, and other acts that directly violate the sanctity and dignity of human life including genocide, torture, and the targeting of noncombatants in acts of terror or war, can never be justified. Nor can violations of human dignity, such as acts of racism, treating workers as mere means to an end, deliberately subjecting workers to subhuman living conditions, treating the poor as disposable, or redefining marriage to deny its essential meaning, ever be justified. Opposition to intrinsically evil acts also prompts us to recognize our positive duty to contribute to the common good and act in solidarity with those in need. Both opposing evil and doing good are essential. As St. John Paul II said, The fact that only the negative commandments oblige always and under all circumstances does not mean that in the moral life prohibitions are more important than the obligation to do good indicated by the positive commandment. 1 The basic right to life implies and is linked to other human rights such as a right to the goods that every person needs to live and thrive including food, shelter, health care, education, and meaningful work. Avoiding Two Temptations Two temptations in public life can distort the Church s defense of human life and dignity: The first is a moral equivalence that makes no ethical distinctions between different kinds of issues involving human life and dignity. The direct and intentional destruction of innocent human life from the moment of conception until natural death is always wrong and is not just one issue among many. It must always be opposed. The second is the misuse of these necessary moral distinctions as a way of dismissing or ignoring other serious threats to human life and dignity. Racism and other unjust discrimination, the use of the death penalty, resorting to unjust war, environmental degradation, the use of torture, war crimes, the failure to respond to those who are suffering from hunger or a lack of health care or housing, pornography, human trafficking, redefining civil marriage, compromising religious liberty, or unjust immigration policies are all serious moral issues that challenge our consciences and require us to act.
Making Moral Choices The bishops do not tell Catholics how to vote; the responsibility to make political choices rests with each person and his or her properly formed conscience, aided by prudence. This exercise of conscience begins with always opposing policies that violate human life or weaken its protection. When morally flawed laws already exist, prudential judgment is needed to determine how to do what is possible to restore justice even if partially or gradually without ever abandoning a moral commitment to full protection for all human life from conception to natural death (see St. John Paul II, Evangelium Vitae, no. 73). Prudential judgment is also needed to determine the best way to promote the common good in areas such as housing, health care, and immigration. When church leaders make judgments about how to apply Catholic teaching to specific policies, this may not carry the same binding authority as universal moral principles but cannot be dismissed as one political opinion among others. These moral applications should inform the consciences and guide the actions of Catholics. As Catholics we are not single-issue voters. A candidate s position on a single issue is not sufficient to guarantee a voter s support. Yet a candidate s position on a single issue that involves an intrinsic evil, such as support for legal abortion or the promotion of racism, may legitimately lead a voter to disqualify a candidate from receiving support. 1 What Public Policies Should Concern Catholics Most? As Catholics, we are led to raise questions about political life other than those that concentrate on individual, material wellbeing. We focus more broadly on what protects or threatens the dignity of every human life. Catholic teaching challenges voters and candidates, citizens and elected officials, to consider the moral and ethical dimensions of public policy issues. In light of ethical principles, we bishops offer the following policy goals that we hope will guide Catholics as they form their consciences and reflect on the moral dimensions of their public choices: Address the preeminent requirement to protect human life by restricting and bringing to an end the destruction of unborn children through abortion and providing women in crisis pregnancies with the supports they need. End the following practices: the use of euthanasia and assisted suicide to deal with the burdens of illness and disability; the destruction of human embryos in the name of research; the use of the death penalty to combat crime; and the imprudent resort to war to address international disputes. Protect the fundamental understanding of marriage as the life-long and faithful union of one man and one woman as the central institution of society; promote the complementarity of the sexes and reject false gender 9 ideologies; provide better support for family life morally, socially, and economically, so that our nation helps parents raise their children with respect for life, sound moral values, and an ethic of stewardship and responsibility. Achieve comprehensive immigration reform that offers a path to citizenship, treats immigrant workers fairly, prevents the separation of families, maintains the integrity of our borders, respects the rule of law, and addresses the factors that compel people to leave their own countries. Help families and children overcome poverty and ensure access to and choice in education, as well as decent work at fair, living wages and adequate assistance for the vulnerable in our nation, while also helping to overcome widespread hunger and poverty around the world, especially in the policy areas of development assistance, debt relief, and international trade. Ensure full conscience protection and religious freedom for individuals and groups to meet social needs, and so enable families, community groups, economic structures, and government to work together to overcome poverty, pursue the common good, and care for creation. Provide health care while respecting human life, human dignity, and religious freedom in our health care system. Continue to oppose policies that reflect racism, hostility toward immigrants, religious bigotry, and other forms of unjust discrimination. Establish and comply with moral limits on the use of military force examining for what purposes it may be used, under what authority, and at what human cost with a special view to seeking a responsible and effective response for ending the persecution of Christians and other religious minorities in the Middle East and other parts of the world. Join with others around the world to pursue peace, protect human rights and religious liberty, and advance economic justice and care for creation. Notes 1. Veritatis Splendor, no. 52. Copyright 2016, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington DC. All rights reserved. Quotes from the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Second Edition, copyright 2000, Libreria Editrice Vaticana United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. Used with permission. All rights reserved. Quote from Veritatis Splendor, copyright 1993, Libreria Editrice Vaticana (LEV), Vatican City State. Used with permission. All rights reserved. ISBN: 978-1-60137-546-9 Publication No. 7-546
LITURGY CORNER THIRTIETH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME October 23, 2016 First Reading: Sirach is part of the Wisdom literature of ancient Israel. The author affirms that the Lord is a God of justice and hears the cry of the oppressed and the lowly. The widows and orphans were especially vulnerable in society and their pleas do not go unheeded by God. But the Lord has no favorites and hears the cry of all who willingly serve God. Responsorial Psalm 34: The words of the refrain echo the tone of the reading from Sirach. The text is a hymn of praise of God; the actions of God on behalf of those who cry out are named. The saving action of the Lord is the reason to bless the Lord at all times. Second Reading: As he nears the end of his journey Paul recalls his ministry and proclaims that the Lord will welcome him to the heavenly Kingdom. His apologia is both a testament to the commitment and energy he gave to his mission and a profession of faith in the Lord who has sustained him. But the glory, Paul states, belongs to the Lord. Gospel: The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector has overtones that are easily connected to the First Reading and the Responsorial Psalm of today. Both the prayer of the tax collector and the Pharisee are heard by God; the lesson of the parable lies in the disposition of the ones who pray. The honesty and sincerity of the former and the lack of humility by the latter set them apart. The fact that the Pharisee was a religious leader and the tax collector a confessed sinner is not lost on Jesus listeners. What each of them confesses may be true; what s in their hearts makes all the difference. Saints of the Week Monday, October 24. St. Anthony Mary Claret (1807-1870), the son of a Spanish weaver, wanted to be a Jesuit, but ill health prevented him from entering that religious order. Instead, he became a secular priest, overseeing a parish in Spain before heading to Catalonia and the Canary Islands as a missionary. He established the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (the Claretians), a group of priests and brothers dedicated to seeing the world through the eyes of the poor. They operate a diverse number of ministries throughout the world. St. Anthony was instrumental in spreading the devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and the Rosary. Friday, October 28. Two of the Twelve we remember today: Simon, who was called Zealot, and Judas, also called Thaddeus. That is the end of the historical record. But the memory of the Church, which might not meet all the requirements of modern historians, does have a deeper record of these two saints. Sometime after Pentecost the two of them went off to spread the Gospel in Persia. There they freed people from the oppression that comes with worshipping idols and confronting magicians and pagan priests. The magicians of the false gods demanded a showdown with the holy Apostles, challenging them like the Egyptian priests challenged Moses and Aaron in the courts of Pharaoh. Many were amazed and came to know the truth of Christ, but the magicians and pagan priests rushed upon the Apostles and killed them. Sourcebook 2016 10
THE RIDE HOME This feature is for families to share their thoughts as they travel to and from Church. Thirtieth Sunday of Ordinary Time October 23, 2016 Adults: When have you felt self-satisfied in observing the mistakes of others? What should we remember at such times? Children: Have you ever thought you were better than someone else? What is the problem with such thoughts? Readings for October 23, 2016 - October 30, 2016 Sunday, October 23. Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Sirach 35:12-14, 16-18; 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18; Psalm 34:2-3, 17-19, 23; Luke 18:9-14. Monday, October 24. Ephesians 4:32-5:8; Psalm 1:1-4, 6; Luke 13:10-17. Tuesday, October 25. Ephesians 5:21-33; Psalm 128:1-5; Luke 13:18-21. Wednesday, October 26. Ephesians 6:1-9; Psalm 145:10-14; Luke 13:22-30. Thursday, October 27. Ephesians 6:10-20; Psalm 144:1, 2, 9-10; Luke 13:31-35. Friday, October 28. Feast of Saints Simon and Jude, Apostles. Ephesians 2:19-22; Psalm 19:2-5; Luke 6:12-16. Saturday, October 29. Philippians 1:18-26; Psalm 42:2-3, 5; Luke 14:1, 7-11. Sunday, October 30. Thirty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time. Wisdom 11:22-12:2; 2 Thessalonians 1:11-2:2; Psalm 145:1-2, 8-11, 13-14; Luke 19:1-10. Are you a military Veteran? Would you like to participate in our candle ceremony at 10:30 Mass on November 13? As we do every year, our parish will honor and bless all who served in our armed forces at all Masses on the weekend of November 12-13. At the 10:30 Mass only, we will hold a candle -lighting ceremony to honor all Veterans in attendance as well as those who are not. If you or a friend or family member would like to participate in this ceremony, please return this form in the collection basket or directly to the parish office no later than Monday, November 7. You must include a phone number at which you can be reached. Please print clearly Name: Branch of Service: Phone: Best Time to call: 11
Year of Mercy Special Activity A New Spin on Giving Back Help Raise Needed Funds for Our Parish Social Ministry Serving People in Need Diocese of Rockville Center And SPIN while doing it! Saturday, October 29 PUSH FITNESS in New Hyde Park 11 am to 2 pm or 3 m to 6 pm We are participating in a unique fundraiser at St. Bernard s to support our Parish Social Ministry and the outreach efforts of the Diocese of Rockville Centre. It s a great opportunity for our parish to participate in a new Year of Mercy Activity and we can have some laughs doing it. Go to https://exerciseforothers.networkforgood.com/ Start you own. If you start your own, make sure St. Bernard s Church is in the title. You ll need 1 to 5 people on a team! What if each ministry started a team? How about you or a group of friends? If you want to spin and do not have a team, call 678-5800 Ext. 264 or email exerciseforothers@drvc.org. Or support one of our existing teams. Sign up to support one of our St. Bernard s team: The Renaissance Ladies or Team Scarallo. How St. B e r n a r d s b e n e f i t? 50% of the funds raised are returned to our Parish Social Ministry, The other 50% goes to specific works of the diocese that assist the poor and the vulnerable. 12
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The Catholic Daughters of the America s Court St. Pius, No. 1690 Invite you to our annual Pasta Night Date: Tuesday, November 8 th, 2016 Time: 6:30 PM Place: St. Bernard s Auditorium We will be serving salad, pasta, meatballs, beverage & dessert. PRICE: $12.00 adults $ 5.00 children For reservations, please complete the form below and return with your remittance by November 5, 2016 to: St. Bernard s Rectory, 3100 Hempstead Tpke., Levittown- Attn: Catholic Daughters Pasta Night - November 8 th Name: # of Adults # of Children Amount enclosed: $ 14
St. Bernard s Parish invites you to an Ole Fashion Square Dance Saturday, November 12 6:30pm in the School Auditorium Featuring Renowned Caller Lee Kopman Square Dance Man Also included Line Dancing Join us for a BBQ Dinner, Dessert, Beer, Wine and Soda $35.00 a person Any questions, email Deacon John at deaconjohn@stbernardchurch.org or leave a message at the rectory 516-731-4220. PLEASE RETURN THIS SLIP WITH PAYMENT TO THE RECTORY BY NOVEMBER 6 TH NAME: PHONE NUMBER: NUMBER OF GUESTS: AMOUNT ENCLOSED: SEATING REQUESTS: HOLY INNOCENTS COUNCIL 3581 & AMERICAN LEGION POST 1711 Proudly Presents their 2 ND ANNUAL SPECIAL FRIENDS KARAOKE FUNDRAISER Sunday, October 30-2 to 6 pm Temple B'Nai Torah 2900 Jerusalem Avenue, Wantagh Food, Beer, Wine & Soda @ $20 per person All proceeds benefit Children, with Down Syndrome, Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities. For Information please call: Wayne Murphy 516-520-6603 or Jim McHale 516-796-0894. Sign up sheet at the Council Volunteer needed to proofread the bulletin If you have computer skills, proofreading skills and a couple of hours on Tuesday afternoons either here or at home to proof the bulletin, please call or email Diane Vella for an interview. Phone: 516-731-4220 ext. 143; email: DVella@StBernardChurch.org 15
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