Church of the Blessed Sacrament A Roman Catholic Community of the Diocese of Metuchen www.blessedsacramentnj.org 1890 Washington Valley Road, Martinsville, New Jersey 08836
September 2012 Welcome, A special welcome to new parishioners. Your presence in the parish adds an extra dimension to the family of Blessed Sacrament. We hope that this information booklet will stimulate your interest and enthusiasm in you new faith community. We invite you to become an active member of this community by participating in any of the ministries, organizations or activities of our parish family. Sincerely, The People of Blessed Sacrament April, 1996 Revised: September 2012
MISSION STATEMENT OF THE CHURCH OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT We, the Community of Blessed Sacrament Parish, nurtured by the real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist, strive to be a community of faith. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, we proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ. We warmly welcome those who are willing to embrace our Roman Catholic Faith and invite them to join us as we worship, serve and educate, so that Christ may impact the lives of all whom we encounter.
CONTENTS Message of Welcome Mission Statement of the Church of the Blessed Sacrament Contents Ministries Open to Parish Volunteers...1 Family Life; Hospitality; Ministry of the Word; Liturgical Ministry Music Ministry; Social Ministry; Youth Ministry Sacramental Program: Children...4 Baptism; First Penance/Reconciliation; First Communion; Confirmation Sacramental Program:...6 Adults Adult Confirmation; Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA); Sacrament of Reconciliation; Marriage; Anointing of the Sick Special Liturgies and Devotions...8 St. Peregrine Mass; Stations of the Cross; Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament; Rosary; Miraculous Medal Novena; Eucharistic Adoration; Prayer Line; Vocation Seekers Christian Formation of Children and Adults...10 School of Religion; C.A.R.E.; Scripture Discussion Group; Library Parish Organizations...12 Council of Catholic Women (CCW); Knights of Columbus (K of C); Rosary Altar Society; Blessed Sacrament Youth Group (BSYG); Cub Scouts; Basketball Program; Our Lady s Rosary Makers; Circle of Friends; Special Events Social Committee Activities Sponsored by Parish Organizations...15 Activities Sponsored by the CCW; KofC; Rosary Altar Society BSYG; Special Events Social Committee Parish Supported Organizations...18 Boy Scouts; FISH Pastoral Care and Counseling Diocesan Organizations...20 Marriage Preparation; Marriage Enrichment; Family Enrichment; Families in Crises; Youth and Young Adult Ministry; Catholic Charities; The Catholic Spirit Information Sheet...23 Pastoral Staff; Trustees; Parish Council; Mass and Reconciliation Schedule
MINISTRIES OPEN TO PARISH VOLUNTEERS Family Life Hospitality Ministry of the Word Liturgical Ministry Music Ministry Social Ministry Youth Ministry There are different gifts but one Spirit; there are different ministries but one Lord; there are different works but the same God 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 1 P a g e
Family Life Ministry Pre-Cana: To prepare for Christian marriage, engaged couples need help from their families and friends, from other married couples and from the Christian community. A one day conference is presented where engaged couples explore the basic concepts of Christian marriage. Couples in sacramentally valid marriages, committed to each other, the family and the Church are welcome to assist in this ministry. Hospitality Ministry I was a stranger and you made me welcome. Matt. 25: 35. Usher/Greeter: Men and women who serve in this ministry welcome worshipers to the Liturgy on behalf of the community, help them find seats, keep order and take the collection. As an expression of hospitality, refreshments are served after special liturgies such as the St. Peregrine mass. All parishioners are welcome to assist in this ministry. Ministry of the Word Catechists: Persons who teach the essentials of our Christian faith and morals in our Religious Education programs for both children and adults. Volunteers are needed and trained. Deacons: Persons who are ordained by the Church to be a sign of Christ s own serving mission. Deacons preach, conduct catechical instruction, administer sacraments and assist at the Liturgy. Liturgical Ministry Altar Servers: Assist the priest at Mass. Deacons: May preside at funerals, burials, benediction, marriages, baptisms and assist at the Liturgy of the Eucharist. Music Ministry Vocal: Cantor/Song Leader, Festival Choir, Children s Choir Instrumental: Organ, guitar, percussion, brass, etc. This ministry is open to whatever would enhance it. 2 P a g e
Social Concerns Ministry All of the Parish Organizations and many parishioners, individually, respond to Our Lord s call to serve Him by serving our brothers and sisters in need. Youth Ministry Persons who volunteer for this ministry serve the high school population in spiritual development and community activities. Special training for various ministries in the Parish is provided. 3 P a g e
SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM CHILDREN Baptism First Penance/Reconciliation First Communion Confirmation Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Mark 10:14 4 P a g e
Preparation of children to receive the Sacraments is the joint responsibility of the parents, parish priests and the catechists of the Religious Education Program. At the time of immediate preparation for a sacrament, parents are expected to attend the meetings that are conducted to assist them in fulfilling this responsibility. Baptism Infant Baptisms are celebrated on the second Sunday of each month at a 1:00 pm ceremony. Arrangements are to be made in advance. Parents are to attend one pre-baptism class, held every first Wednesday of the month. Godparents must have a letter indicating they are Catholics in good standing. One non-catholic may be accepted as a Christian witness. Children prepare to receive the following sacraments by enrolling in the Religious Education Program beginning in the first grade. Details can be found on page 6 of this booklet. First Penance/Reconciliation Preparation is a two year program beginning in the first grade. The sacrament is received three months prior to First Communion. First Communion Preparation is a two year program beginning in the first grade. It is separated from first penance by at least three months. Parental involvement is required. Confirmation Is the culmination of the student s eight years of Religious Education studies. There are certain requirements to be met, including: Service Projects. Saint s Research, Spiritual Retreat and an interview by the Director of Religious Education. The Sacrament is administered in the Spring of the 8 th grade year. Parental support and assistance are required. 5 P a g e
SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM ADULTS Adult Confirmation Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) Sacrament of Reconciliation Marriage Anointing of the Sick My soul finds rest in God alone. My salvation comes from Him. Psalm 62:1 6 P a g e
Adult Confirmation Roman Catholics who have received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Reconciliation, but have not received the Sacrament of Confirmation are encouraged to do so. Further information on adult Confirmation is available at the rectory office. Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) The process through which new members are brought into the Roman Catholic Church. Those eligible include unbaptized adults and those baptized into another Christian denomination, as well as baptized Catholics who have not received both sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist. Volunteers serve on the RCIA team. Sacrament of Reconciliation Saturday 11:00am to 12:00 noon Marriage Policy of the Diocese asks that arrangement be made one year in advance. Engaged couples should make an appointment to meet with the Priest at the rectory to determine a date for the marriage and have it officially registered. This factor should be given attention before finalizing arrangements for a hall or place for reception. During the appointment with the Pastor, the couple will be advised regarding other policy details required by the Diocese, including attendance at a Pre-Cana conference. Anointing of the Sick For those of advanced age and for those of any age who are seriously ill, contact the Rectory. This sacrament is administered the second Wednesday of each month at the St. Peregrine mass at 7:30 pm. 7 P a g e
SPECIAL LITURGIES AND DEVOTIONS St. Peregrine Mass Stations of the Cross Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament Rosary Miraculous Medal Novena Eucharistic Adoration Prayer Line Vocation Seekers Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1 8 P a g e
St. Peregrine Mass is the 2 nd Wednesday of the month at 7:30 pm. Volunteers are welcome. Stations of the Cross are every Friday during Lent at 7:30 pm. Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament follows the Stations. Rosary is said every day after the 9:00am Mass, Monday through Saturday. It is also said every Wednesday evening at 7:30 pm in the home of a parishioner who welcomes all. Name and phone number on the last page. Miraculous Medal Novena is said every Saturday after the 9:00 am Mass. Eucharistic Adoration takes place the First Friday of each month, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Prayer Line The Prayer Line is open to every member of the Blessed Sacrament Community. If you would like to request prayers for a particular intention, or if you would like to offer prayers for those who call in with requests, please call: 908-722-4791. Anonymity is respected. Vocation Seekers Vocation Seekers has formed to pray for and promote vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life. Membership is not limited to members of Blessed Sacrament Parish but is open to all Catholics from Somerset County. Men, women and especially couples who are interested in actively encouraging and supporting vocations meet on the second Tuesday evening of the month at 7:00 pm in the Conference Room of the Parish Center. Pray-a-day club is sponsored by Vocation Seekers. Volunteers pledge to pray one day a month for the intention of increasing vocations to the priesthood and religious life. 9 P a g e
CHRISTIAN FORMATION OF CHILDREN AND ADULTS School of Religion C.A.R.E. Scripture Discussion Group Library If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong on a clanging symbol. 1 Corinthians 13:1 10 P a g e
Children School of Religion The Religious Education Program is not the sole provider of your child s religious education. Rather it is intended to supplement the religious formation you are already giving your child in your home. The administration of the School of Religion consists of the Director and one assistant. Parishioners volunteer to teach in the Religious Education program. They are called Catechists. Catechists and other volunteers such as aides and substitutes are always needed and welcome. Training is available. Class schedule is as follows: Monday from 4:15 pm to 5:30 pm for Grades K,1,2,3,4,5,6 Tuesday from 4:15 pm to 5:30 pm for Grades K.1,2,3,4,5,6 Tuesday from 7:30 pm to 8:45 pm for Grades 6,7,8 Thursday from 4:45 pm to 6:00 pm for Grades K,1,2,3,4,5,6 Thursday from 4:15 pm to 5:15 pm for Special Needs C.A.R.E. C.A.R.E. is an acronym for Catechist Accreditation in Religious Education. The C.A.R.E. program is a catechist formation program, consisting of four level(sessions of classes) to complete the program Levels A,B,C,D. Levels are offered in the fall and in the spring. At the completion of all four levels of the program, catechists will receive a Certificate of Accreditation in June of the appropriate year which certifies the catechist with the Diocese of Metuchen. Vacation Bible School is offered each summer. Volunteers are welcome. Adults Continuing religious education sessions and courses are offered from time to time and on a variety of topics. Announcement of time and topics are made in the weekly bulletin. Scripture Discussion Group meets from time to time during the year. Details will be announced in the Sunday bulletin and on the Parish webpage. Library A small parish library of Catholic resource materials is located in the Parish Center. A volunteer librarian would be welcome. 11 P a g e
PARISH ORGANIZATIONS Council of Catholic Women (CCW) Knights of Columbus (K of C) Rosary Altar Society Blessed Sacrament Youth Group (BSYG) Cub Scouts Basketball Program Our Lady s Rosary Makers Circle of Friends Special Events Social Committee I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13 12 P a g e
Blessed Sacrament Council of Catholic Women(CCW) Meets the third Monday of the month at 7:00 pm in the Parish Center. All women of the parish are welcome to join. The objective of the council is to unite women of the parish to develop their spiritual growth and leadership potential, to motivate and assist them to act upon current issues in the church, community and society, to be a channel through which the Catholic women of the community may speak and act on matters of common interest, to respond to the needs of the parish and community. Knights of Columbus (K of C) Our Lady of the Hills, Council #5959. All men of the Parish over the age of 18 are welcome to join. The Knights are a Catholic, fraternal, pro-family, service organization supporting the church, the Parish, the clergy and the community. Meetings are held on the first and third Mondays of the month at 7:30 pm in the Parish Center. Visit the webpage for further information and calendar of events at www.kofc.ws and www.kofc.org for more information on how to join the Knights of Columbus. Rosary Altar Society Meets the third Wednesday of the month: September to May at 1:00 pm in the Parish Center. Each meeting begins with the recitation of the Rosary. All men and women of the parish, married and single, are eligible for membership. The objective of the Society is to honor the Blessed Mother by proclaiming the Good News of Christ, her Son, in our members lives and in relationships with others; to promote the praying of the Rosary by personal example; to encourage a spirit of friendliness and cooperation among its members and thereby contribute to the formation of a strong Christian Community; to provide ways and means of raising money for projects initiated by the Society and to participate in parish activities. BSYG: Blessed Sacrament Youth Group Meets the first and third Sundays of the month at 7:00 pm in the Parish Center. The executive board and the officers are comprised of the high school students. The goal is the spiritual development of and the creation of community among the members. It is affiliated with the Diocesan Youth Ministry and has adult advisors. Volunteers are welcome. All high school students of Blessed Sacrament are welcome. 13 P a g e
Cub Scouts Bridgewater/Martinsville Pack 46 welcomes all boys grades 1 5 th. Pack Meetings are held once a month at 7:00 pm in the Parish Center. During the month Den meetings are held biweekly in the leaders homes. The goal of the Scout Program is to: Influence a boy s character development and spiritual growth, develop habits and attitudes of good citizenship, encourage good sportsmanship and pride in growing strong in mind and body, improve understanding within the family, strengthen a boy s ability to get along with others, foster a sense of personal achievement by developing new interests and skills and provide FUN and exciting new things to do. Basketball Program All boys and girls from 4 th grade through 8 th grade are welcome to play; also, high schoolers for those who are interested. The program is run by the Diocese of Metuchen. Games are every Saturday from December through March. Our Lady s Rosary Makers The group meets in the Conference Room on the 1 st Floor in the Parish Center on the second Tuesday of the month after the 9:00 am Mass and Recitation of the Rosary. All men and women of the Parish are welcome to join. The goal is to create a chain of rosary makers praying themselves and supplying rosaries to those who wish to spread the devotion and power of the Rosary. Individual instructions can be arranged for those unable to attend the meetings. Circle of Friends The purpose of this group is to provide emotional support and an opportunity for socialization for widowed men and women of the Catholic faith. Meets the third Sunday of the month at 2:00 pm in the Parish Center. Other spiritual and social events are planned throughout the year. Special Events Social Committee This Committee plans and provides social events for members of the parish throughout the year that allow the opportunity to meet with and enjoy each other s company and to support the idea of community within the parish. The Committee meets occasionally to discuss, plan and carry out social events. The goal is to offer at least two event to the parish community throughout the year. 14 P a g e
ACTIVITIES SPONSORED BY PARISH ORGANIZATIONS Activities Sponsored by the CCW Activities Sponsored by the K of C Activities Sponsored by the Rosary Altar Society Activities Sponsored by the BSYG Activities Sponsored by Special Events Social Committee A merry heart doeth good like medicine. Proverbs 17:22 15 P a g e
Parish Activities Sponsored by the Council of Catholic Women Web Page: http://www.blessedsacramentnj.org/ccw/ Feeding the hungry/homeless: every month, in cooperation with the Episcopal Church of Somerville and SHIP. Collects Pennies for the Homeless Coordinates: Jesse Tree Holiday Gift program o McCauley House nursing home visits o Mary s Way of the Cross Conducts: Retreat, Annual Communion Breakfast, Scripture Courses Bakes for the K of C Blood Drive Planning Committee for Parish Picnic Awards Scholarship to qualified Blessed Sacrament High School seniors Parish Activities Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Web Page: www.kofc.ws Annual Art Auction (annually) Communion Breakfast (annually) Bake Sale (annual) Pant Sale (bi-annually, Spring and Fall) Basketball Free Throw (annually) Blood Drive (quarterly) Food-bank Drive Parish Picnic Christmas Party Pageant Santa Claus Easter Egg Hunt with the Easter Bunny Scholarship Awards Coffee and Doughnut Fellowship Gathering (monthly - 2 nd Sunday) Parish Activities Sponsored by the Rosary Altar Society Christmas Party Communion Breakfast Guest speakers Bake Sale Baby bottle fundraiser for Pregnancy Aid Center Through Catholic Charities, send children to summer day camp. 16 P a g e
Parish Activities Sponsored by the BSYG: Blessed Sacrament Youth Group Web site: http://www.blessedsacramentnj.org/youth-group/ Advent Candle Sale Caroling for Shut-ins at Christmas Collecting peanut butter and jelly and tuna for the homeless Sponsor of Blessing of Animals in October Stuffed Animal Collection for Runnels Hospital Souper Bowl Sunday for Local Food Bank Participates in Youth Ministry State and National Rallies and Justiceworx Annual Retreat for Youth Parish Activities Sponsored by Special Events Social Committee Parish Picnic, held in September each year Parish Talent Show, held in February each year N.B. Volunteers are welcome to assist in any of these programs. Please call the appropriate contact person listed on the Information sheet on the last page of this book. 17 P a g e
PARISH SUPPORTED ORGANIZATIONS Boy Scout Troop 46 FISH PASTORAL CARE AND COUNSELING And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13 18 P a g e
Parish Supported Organizations Boy Scout Troop 46 Runs a year-round program of outdoor activities (camping, canoeing, hiking, rock climbing and summer camp) to prepare young boys, ages 10 to 17, to make ethical choices throughout their lives by instilling the qualities of leadership and the values contained in the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Troop 46 meets Monday nights from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm and the adult committee meets the second Wednesday of the month from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm. New scouts and adult volunteers are encouraged to join. FISH Provide 24 hour emergency assistance for food, clothing, rental and prescription aid. Volunteers call the hot-line listed on the last page. Pastoral Care and Counseling Pastoral Care is the care the Church gives to the hospitalized or home bound. If a family member, a friend or a neighbor is in the hospital or is home bound and would like to receive the Sacraments, please call the Rectory. Also, please make it a point to let the Rectory know when a parishioner is admitted to the hospital so that we can pay a visit. Sometimes we discover that someone has been laid up at home for a long time and no one has let the Rectory know. We d like to serve you in these times of need. Please, keep us informed. Also, priests are available to give counsel in personal or family matters or to provide spiritual guidance. Please call the Rectory for an appointment. 732-356-4442. 19 P a g e
DIOCESAN ORGANIZATIONS Marriage Preparation Marriage Enrichment Family Enrichment Families in Crisis Youth and Young Adult Ministry Catholic Charities The Catholic Spirit Have we not all one Father? Did not one God create us? Malachi 2:10 20 P a g e
Family Life Ministry of the Diocese of Metuchen: Judith A. Psota, Director: 732-562-1990, ext 1624 Marriage Preparation F.O.C.C.U.S. premarital inventory for engaged couples Pre-Cana Sessions Engaged Encounter Weekend To Trust Again marriage preparation for couples wherein one or both persons were previously married and former spouse is either deceased or divorced(with church annulment). Natural Family Planning Marriage Enrichment Marriage Encounter Silver/Gold Wedding Anniversary Celebrations: Evening Prayer Service celebrated by the Bishop in the Cathedral to honor couples celebrating 25 or 50 years of marriage. Family Enrichment Parenting Programs Expectant and First time Parent Workshops (adoptive or biological) are held twice a year, or as needed. Professional therapists, a priest and couple mentors share hints and suggestions that will enhance their relationships and their spirituality as couples and parents. 21 P a g e Active Parenting Now Support group for parents and step-parents. Elizabeth Ministry An outreach in which women help other women during a time of pregnancy, birth, adoption or infant crises. Training provided through the Family Life Office. Ministry to Seniors ( age 55+) Focolare This movement, which promotes the ideals of unity and universal brotherhood, calls people to discover the Gospel. This spirituality of unity gives rise to a spiritual and social renewal. For information, call Maureen Cranley 732-819-9664. Families in Crises Support groups for separated and divorced Catholics and for those bereaved and grieving Pieta support group for mother receiving a negative prenatal diagnosis or following the birth and/or death of a baby born with a fatal or life-threatening condition. Rainbows to foster emotional healing for children grieving a loss from a life-altering experience. Retrouvaille for troubled marriages. Beginning Experience Weekend an international peer ministry for separated/divorced and widowed persons that is intended to facilitate the resolution of grief and promote healing. Annulment Information Evenings sessions are presented by a member of the Tribunal to dispel misconceptions, allay fears and provide accurate information to petitioners.
Diocesan Organizations continued Youth and Young Adult Ministry of the Diocese of Metuchen: Javier Bustamante: 732-562-1990 ext 1635 Serves high school age youth and young adults, 20 to 40, married or single. Catholic Charities: Bridgewater: 908-722-1881 Perth Amboy: 732-324-8200 The Catholic Spirit Announcements and information about activities taking place in the Diocese of Metuchen can be found in the bi-weekly newspaper, The Catholic Spirit. At home delivery may be had by phoning 732-562-1990 ext 1400 or email: news@catholicspirit.com. Also, copies may be picked up at Church after mass for free. 22 P a g e
Pastoral Staff Rev. Richard M. Rusk Associate Pastor Lukasz Blicharski Deacon: Lou Pizzigoni III Rectory and Parish Office: Phone: 732-356-4442 Fax: 732-356-5172 Email: pastor@blessedsacramentnj.org Web: www.blessedsacramentnj.org Trustees 2010 2012: Paula Choa 732-560-8366 pschoa@yahoo.com Tim Yessman 908-595-1819 tyessman@avalonconsultingllc.com Parish Council: Tim Yessman, Chairman Mass and Reconciliation Schedule The Eucharist: Sunday: Saturday Evening: 5:00 pm Sunday 7:30 am, 9:00 am, 10:30 am and 12 noon Weekdays: Monday through Saturday: Monday through Friday: 09:00 am 12:10 pm Holy Days: See notice in Weekly Bulletin, accessible from the webpage at www.blessedsacramentnj.org/bulletin/ Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession): Saturday: 11:00 am to 11:30 am 23 P a g e