parish directory2016/04/10 · st.luke the evangelist page one 957 ` parish tithing march 24, 2016...
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ST. LUKE THE EVANGELIST
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PARISH TITHING March 24, 2016
Rice Bowls $1,547.70
March 25, 2016 Holy Land $1,053.00
March 27, 2016 Offertory $7,972.04 Easter $4,177.00
April 3, 2016 Offertory $6,954.55 Property Mgmt $1,713.00
Thank you for your generosity to your parish. Your weekly contribution helps ensure that the parish remains a vibrant community. Please remember to submit your weekly gift even if you will be away. We depend upon your support!
UPCOMING SECOND & SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
April 10, 2016 No Second Collection April 17, 2016 Fuel April 24, 2016 No Second Collection
ST. LUKE THE EVANGELIST SCHOOL OF RELIGION Religious Education Registration for the 2016-2017 Academic Year for Grades 1 to 10 will soon take place. If your child is currently enrolled, a registration form will be sent home in the next few weeks. If your child is new to the Program, please call Joyce in the Religious Education Office at 603-382-8324 for more information.
PARISH DIRECTORY
Fr. Albert Tremblay [email protected] Cathy Smith [email protected] Joyce Szczapa jszczapa@stluketheevangelist,net Jackie Tremblay [email protected] Thomas Kondel [email protected] Val Barczak [email protected] Robin Thompson [email protected] Julie Lamere [email protected] Parish Council [email protected]
Parish Office 382-8324 Parish Prayer Line 382-8324 x 314 St. Vincent de Paul Society 382-8324 x 315 St. Luke’s Food Pantry 819-4949 Preschool 382-9783 Presentation of Mary Convent 382-2744
MUSIC FOR THE LITURGY
Sunday, April 10, 2015 Third Sunday of Easter
4:00 PM 7:30 AM 11:00 AM Gathering: Hail The Day That Sees Him Rise BB186
Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 118)
This day was made by the Lord. Let us rejoice, let us be glad. This day was made by the Lord. Let us rejoice in salvation.
Sprinkling Rite: God, you have moved upon the waters, you have sung in the rush of wind and flame; and in your love, you have called us sons and daughters, make us people of the water and your name
Preparation You Have Called Us BB 652
Mass Parts Storrington Mass
Communion: Our Blessing Cup BB 319 Unlessd A Grain Of Wheat BB 509
Recessional: Festival Canticle: Worthy Is Christ BB 568
9:00 AM Gathering: Table Of Plenty BB 310
Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 118)
This day was made by the Lord. Let us rejoice, let us be glad. This day was made by the Lord. Let us rejoice in salvation.
Sprinkling Rite: If we have died to ourselves in Jesus, then we shall arise to new life in Him, Alleluia, Alleluia!
Preparation We Walk By Faith BB 490
Mass Parts Mass of God’s Promise
Communion: You Are Mine BB 454
Recessional: Join In The Dance BB 571
CONFIRMATION
Confirmation will take place in our parish on Sunday, April 17 at the 11:00 AM Mass in Plaistow. Please pray for our youth as they prepare to receive the Holy Spirit in the Sacrament of Confirmation.
HOLY IS HIS NAME
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APARTMENT NEEDED “Hello Parishoners! My name is Michael Klein. I am a Catholic engineering student at Benedictine College in Atchison, KS. I come from a devout Catholic family in St. Louis, MO. I am looking for a small apartment to rent for 2 months from June 5, 2016 to August 5, 2016 while working at an internship in Seabrook, NH. Please email [email protected] or call 314-774-9774. Thank you & God bless you!”
PARISH NEWS
FOOD PANTRY HOURS
Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon Thursday from 6:00 to 7:00 PM
Friday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
For more information call the St. Luke Food Pantry at 603-819-4949.
WHILE AWAY THIS SPRING…
We appreciate all of you who remember to send in your Parish Offertory during the spring even when on vacation or visiting other parishes. Thank you for remembering that our expenses also continue through the spring months. We invite others to consider doing the same before or even after you return home.
ST. LUKE THE EVANGELIST FOOD PANTRY
Food or care items are always needed – donations can be dropped off at Church or are welcome at the Parish Office during regular business hours. Cash donations for food are always welcome – make checks payable to St. Luke the Evangelist Food Pantry. All donations to the Food Pantry go toward helping the needy of our communities.
AMAZON SMILE You can help Saint Luke the Evangelist Parish every time you shop Amazon! AmazonSmile.com is the same market platform as Amazon.com, but with the added benefit of allowing customers to donate 0.5% of the price of items purchased to a charitable organization. Visit www.AmazonSmile.com and register to start shopping – and donating today!
Be sure to choose St Luke the Evangelist Parish, Plaistow
The Sanctuary Candle in Holy Angels Church
will burn this week for the In Memory of
Joseph Henault by his daughters, Janet & Patricia
We welcome into our faith community
Noah Carter Dermody who recently received the
Sacrament of Baptism.
HOLY ANGELS CEMETERY OPEN The Holy Angels Cemetery is now Open. Holy Angels Cemetery is a ministry of the Parish of St. Luke the Evangelist and is located on East Road in Plaistow. Please call the Parish Office at 603-382-8324 or email [email protected] for more information.
FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION STATEMENT
If you would like an “end of year” financial statement of your contributions to the parish for 2015, please call the Parish Office at 603-382-8324. Financial Statements are issued on a request only basis.
Out of respect, please remember to silence or turn off your cell phones during
Mass. Thank you!
RIDE NEEDED A 67 year old woman from Haverhill, who has Down’s Syndrome, is looking for a ride to Holy Angels Church so she can attend Mass on the weekends. If you can help, please call Carole at 603-887-2430.
THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER
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WEEKLY CALENDAR
Sunday, April 10 9:45 AM Religious Ed – 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 Plaistow 11:00 AM Confirmation II at Mass Plaistow 12:00 PM Confirmation II Rehearsal &
Reception Plaistow
Monday, April 11 4:00 PM Religious Ed – 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Plaistow 6:30 PM Religious Ed – 6, 7, 8 Plaistow 7:00 PM RCIA Plaistow
Wednesday, April 13 9:30 AM Eucharistic Adoration Begins Plaistow 9:30 PM Eucharistic Adoration Ends Plaistow
Thursday, April 14 8:30 AM Eucharistic Adoration Begins Newton 9:00 AM Intercessory Prayer Group Plaistow 8:30 PM Eucharistic Adoration Ends Newton
Saturday, April 16 3:00 PM Sacrament of Reconciliation Plaistow
Sunday, April 17 9:45 AM NO Religious Ed Plaistow
MASS INTENTIONS
Saturday, April 9 ~ Vigil / Third Sunday of Easter Acts 5:27-32, 40b-41; Rv 5:11-14; Jn 21:1-19 4:00 PM M. Clara Hammond by Mark & Colleen Hammond Plaistow
Sunday, April 10 ~ Third Sunday of Easter Acts 5:27-32, 40b-41; Rv 5:11-14; Jn 21:1-19 7:30 AM Patricia Carroll by Jeannie Sullivan Newton 9:00 AM Kathleen Marino by the Stanley family Newton 11:00 AM Carol Flaherty (5th Anniversery) by Nancy & Ron Breen Plaistow
Monday, April 11 ~ Stanislaus, Bishop & Martyr Acts 6:8-15; Jn 6:22-29 8:00 AM People of the Parish Newton
Tuesday, April 12 ~ Easter Weekday Acts 7:51—8:1a; Jn 6:30-35 8:00 AM Thanksgiving for Blessing Received Plaistow
Wednesday, April 13 ~ Martin I, Pope & Martyr Acts 8:1b-8; Jn 6:35-40 6:30 PM People of the Parish Plaistow
Thursday, April 14 ~ Easter Weekday Acts 8:26-40; Jn 6:44-51 8:00 AM Intentions of Theresa Skoczylas by Greg Pietroczynski Newton
Friday, April 15 ~ Easter Weekday Acts 9:1-20; Jn 6:52-59 No Mass
Saturday, April 16 ~ Easter Weekday Acts 9:31-42; Jn 6:60-69 (Daytime) Acts 13:14, 43-52; Rv 7:9, 14b-17; Jn 10:27-30 (Vigil) 4:00 PM Robbie Alberino by Ed & Susan Martin and family Plaistow
Sunday, April 17 ~ Fourth Sunday of Easter Acts 13:14, 43-52; Rv 7:9, 14b-17; Jn 10:27-30 7:30 AM Patricia Carroll by Don & Francis Harper Newton 9:00 AM People of the Parish Newton 11:00 AM Confirmation Plaistow
Drop-a-Dollar in the St. Vincent de Paul boxon your way out of church.
Remember ~ 100% of your donation is used to help those who need a hand up, not a hand out.
If you’d like to join the St. Vincent de Paul Society and help us help the poor and needy, please come to our next meeting on Wednesday, April 20 at 7:00 PM. We meet downstairs in the Holy Angels Church Hall in Plaistow.
New members are always welcome!
If you seek assistance or need information about the St. Vincent de Paul Society, Please Call
603-382-8324 x315.
Hear, OH LORD, and answer me for I am poor and needy.
PLEASE HELP US
As you leave church, kindly take your Bulletin with you or return it to the basket at the entrance of the Church, return your music book and Mass card to their proper place, and pick up after yourself as you leave. Thank you for being attentive and respectful! Fr. Albert.
APRIL 10, 2016_ ____________________________
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FAITH FORMATION & PARISH INFORMATION
RCIA The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is the process by which people become members of the Roman Catholic Church. RCIA is intended to serve:
Those not Baptized who would like to learn more about the Catholic religion.
Those Baptized in another religion who think they might like to become Catholic.
Those Baptized Catholic but have not been raised in the Faith.
If you or someone you know is interested in inquiring about becoming a member of the Roman Catholic Church, please call Cathy Smith at 603-382-8324 or email her at [email protected].
ADORATION We are truly blessed to have times for perpetual Adoration of Our Lord in our Parish. This time of prayer and intercession is not only a source of great grace for the individual, but it is a great source of grace for us as a parish family, as well. We have many who have made the commitment to spend an hour each week with our Eucharistic Lord. If you can commit to one hour a week in Adoration of our Lord, please call Cathy Smith at 603-382-8324 or email her at [email protected].
ADULT CONFIRMATION Are you an adult who has been Baptized and received Eucharist, but has not celebrated the sacrament of Confirmation? The adult Confirmation process is an opportunity to complete the Sacraments of Initiation. If you would like to prepare for Confirmation, or if you have any questions, call Cathy Smith at 603-382-8324 or email her at [email protected].
PARENTS BAPTISM PREPARATION SESSION The monthly preparation session for infant Baptism will be held after the 11:00 AM Liturgy on Sunday, May 1 in the Parish Office living room. All parents planning to celebrate the Sacrament of Baptism are welcome.
Families wishing to celebrate Baptism in the Church must be registered (according to Church Canon Law) and practicing (attending Sunday Mass) for 3 full months before a Baptism can be scheduled. The use of the envelope system is always optional; however, it does guarantee a manner of accountability. For most families, the Pastor or staff can easily verify attendance during these three months.
Baptismal sponsors (godparents) are also regulated by Church Canon Law. Sponsors must be at least 16, fully initiated (having received Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation), and be practicing Catholics living Christian lives consistent with the Church’s teaching. Please see Fr. Albert with questions.
The next Ultreya will be on Friday, April 29, 2016 at 7:00 PM in the Church Hall. The format of the Ultreya is designed to create an atmosphere of sharing with each other our life as a Christian and witnessing to each other how Christ is working through us in our families, neighborhood, and other environments. The Ultreya provide the ongoing conversion process that started in the three-day Cursillo weekend. If you have any questions about Ultreya or Cursillo, please call Cathy Smith at 603-382-8324 or email her at [email protected].
HE IS RISEN MAGNETS Celebrate Easter by displaying “He is Risen” magnets on
your car or any other appropriate surface. This is a tasteful way to express your love for the sacrifice
our Lord made for us.
Magnets cost $5.00 each and all proceeds support our Youth Ministry and their programs. To purchase one,
please see Robin Thompson or Jack Brotz
MARIAN MASS AND BREAKFAST The NH Diocesan Council of Catholic Women cordially invites all women of the Diocese to participate in the Marian Mass & breakfast on Saturday, May 7, 2016 at St. Joseph Cathedral in Manchester. The Rosary will be prayed at 7:30 AM and Mass will begin at 8:00 AM with Bishop Libasci presiding. A catered hot breakfast will follow. Space is limited for this event. Please register at marian2016.eventbrite.com.
PRAYER LINE St. Luke’s offers a prayer line as a resource for those seeking prayer assistance. You can submit your prayer request to Cathy Smith via email [email protected] or call her at 603-382-8324, ext. 314.
THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER
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ANNUAL PRO-LIFE SEMINAR The public is invited for lunch and to hear Dr. Ryan Topping speak at St. Jospeh’s Cathedral Church Hall on Sunday, April 17, 2016 from 12:00 NOON – 4:00 PM. Contact Ron DiStasio for more information at 603-595-7837 or [email protected].
STEUBENVILLE EAST YOUTH CONFERENCE
IT’S TIME TO REGISTER! The dynamic Steubenville East weekend is full of opportunities to strengthen teens’ relationship with God, bond as a group, and exalt our Savior. This year’s Steubenville Youth Conference will take place at UMASS Lowell on the weekend of July 15 – 17, 2016 and is available to youth entering grades 9 -12. To register, please contact Robin Thompson at 603-382-8324 or [email protected].
WOULD YOU LIKE TO SPONSOR A TEEN?
On July 15-17, 2016 eighteen teens from St. Luke the Evangelist Parish will attend the Steubenville East Youth Conference at UMass Lowell College. The cost per person is $265.00 which covers all expenses associated with the weekend. Evangelistic in nature, this conference is both a great “introduction” to the Gospel message for first time participants, while offering deep and moving experiences of prayer and fellowship for those who return each year. As members of this community, you have generously supported the youth of our parish in many ways. If you would like to sponsor a teen to attend the event or make a donation to help defray the cost, please contact Robin Thompson at 603-382-8324.
Parish News ~Youth News ~ Around The Diocese
First Communion will take place in our parish on Sunday, April 24 at the 11:00 AM Mass in Plaistow, and on Sunday, May 1 at the 9:00 AM Mass in Newton and at the 11:00 AM Mass in Plaistow. Please pray for our First Communicants and their families as they prepare for this joyous celebration!
FINANCIAL FITNESS WORKSHOP
Catholic Charities will facilitate a 3-session financial fitness workshop on April 18, May 2, and May 16. The sessions will be held at the Catholic Charities Salem NH office on Stiles Road in the afternoons from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM and then again in the evenings from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. If you or someone you know is interested in reviewing their financial fitness, please call 603-893-1971 or email Judy Nelson [email protected] for more information or to register.
ST. PATRICK’S PARISH PENNY SALE
The Women’s Guild from St. Patrick’s Parish in Pelham, NH is holding a Penny Sale on Saturday, April 16 from 9:00 AM – 6 PM and Sunday, April 17 from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Come visit the Blarney Stone Café for mouthwatering food throughout the weekend. The drawings for the Penny Sale will be held Sunday,April 17 at 3:30 PM. (You do not need to be present to win.)
APRIL IS CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH All children deserve great childhoods! To reach this goal, each and every child needs a loving and supporting environment. This year the Diocese of Manchester has partnered with “Prevent Child Abuse America” and the “New Hampshire Children’s Trust to support their “Pinwheels for Prevention Campaign. This campaign provides an opportunity for all of us to take action by learning more about child absure prevention, supporting child and family friendly policies and services, and volunteering at the local, state and national levels. To learn more about how you can take action this April visit www.catholicnh.org/prevention.
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS
The Church throughout the world will pray for vocations the weekend of April 16-17, Good Sherpard Sunday. This is an opportunity of all Catholics to make a special effort to ask the Lord for more vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life. Pray for the priests who have ministered to you
throughout your life, both living and dead. Remember your parish priest in your prayers
throughout the week. Encourage your children, grandchildren, or other young
people to consider a vocation as a priest or religious brother or sister.
Pray that more men and women in our diocese will respond to God’s call.
Robert E. Cooper Mr. & Mrs. T. Ruthven
Mr. & Mrs. R. Cooper, Sr.
William C. Riley, Jr. Kevin W. and Brian C. Riley Rose & Charles Haggerty
Thomas A. Lacey Thomas H. Donohoe
Melissa Riley The Anderson & McKinnon Families
Margaret & Leon Cote Regina & Jesse Cote
Robert & Eleanora Davidson Jennifer Gaines
Anna Clapp Robert & Esther Bonin Mickey & Louis Inzero
Glenn & Dorothy Stanley Betty Nappi
Mary Nappi Phyllis Cahill
Anna Gambardella Ted & Mary Sweeney
Joe, Nancy, & Paul Murach John J. Meli
Joel & Rose L’Heureux Thomas Boudreau
Aunty Barb, Aunty Diz Pepe Bob
Grandma & Grampa Laliberte Meme & Pepe Lozeau
Dick, Anita, and Jeanne Lozeau Earl Stark
Yvonne Stark Connie Troy
Easter Flower Offerings Were Made In
Loving Memory / Honor of:
Jose Andrade II Norman Comeau
Patricia Urick Rose & Joe Urick Dan Mulqueeney
Ida & Charlie Stern Jim Sebastian Tommy Frink
Deceased Members of the DeSantis Family
Elizabeth Fritsche Peter & Florence Jones Mary & Walter Wozny
Lillian & Ted Karavedas Mr. & Mrs. Peter & Julia Belida
Wally Bergeron Mildred Tremblay
Nicole Rau Mr. & Mrs. R.W. Richards
Mr. & Mrs. Frederick Souza Colin P. Henderson
Donald D. Dane Dorrie Meile
Debbie Hammer Harvey Lee Irene Lee
The Kirkpatrick Family Sister Elizabeth Anne Lee, o.s.f.
Barbara Greenwood Gail Rodrigues
Joseph & Theresa Bourque Louise R. LaFleur Lionel J. LaFleur Helen T. Sielicki
Charles F. Sielicki Jesus, Mary, Joseph Karl & Mary Brotz
John & Louise Szematowicz Joan Brotz Paul Brotz
Robert Senter Robin Trout
John & Lillian Senter, Sr. Wanda Domin
The Caporizzo Family Mary E. Guilmette Simone G. Matson
The Krajewski & Viles Families Harold Lloyd
Raymond Fournier
Deceased Members of the Bettencourt Family
John Rogers The Halko Family Frank J. Bukowski
Susanna G. Fairbrother Anna F. Heffler
Carl E. Fairbrother Family & Friends of the
Morse & Litwinovich Families Joseph Walsh
Virginia Walsh Kawano Brian J. Walsh Jay K. Walsh
Lillian Fair Colford Deceased Members of the
Zameirowski Family The Gagon Family
The Emerson Family Geraldine Miele
The Lanseigne Family The Charest Family Mrs. Mary Mullen
Mrs. Lena Lambert Mrs. Elaine Basque Lucienne Jacques
Mr. & Mrs. John Murphy Agnes Massei Patricia Dolan Beatrice Clark Mary Donahue
The Smith, Coco, Bengivenga, and Rapazzo Families
Norman Tremblay Philip & Danny Boyle
George Balzer Krystyna M. Smardz
John C. Kane Ralph Helms
Dan & Cecilia Duggan John Meuse
Richard Lozeau Elaine Wilson
Jannie Mestugrates Deceased Members of the
O’Hara Family Eileen Messina Johana Power
Norman B. Proulx Alfred Hamel
Marie Jeanne Hamel Ann & Joseph Manewicz
John & Faith McKay Thomas Gallagher
R.J. Desrocher Kathleen McCarthy
The Fred Santos Family Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Lajoie Deceased Members of the
Sheehan & Hofbauer Families John Marciano & Family The Muscianesi Family
Timothy Hercules Ben, Antonia, Stanely, Patrick, Irene,
Joe, & Lucy Zakiewicz Jo Chudzicki
Nancy Raymond Stan Plonowski Millie Gatinella Kevin A. Gallant
Mary A. Wentworth James A. Wentworth
Margaret Gallant Fred Gallant
Ralph & Eliza Ernst Bob & Emily Hoppler
Mr. & Mrs. Roland Chabot Our Special Angel Robert Tremblay Howard E. Foster
Margaret McDonald Anthony & Lena Calderone
Robert & Mary Foster Deceased Members of the
Ross & Santangelo Families William Scully
Deceased Members of the Sculloy & Belanger Families Albert & Anna Marcelonis Louis & Robert M. Caron
Donald Culbert, Jr. John Marcinkowski
Rene & Irene Bourgault Joan Marie Roy
John & Katie Cotter Nancy Cotter John H. Walsh
Dr. Albert & Delia Consentino Lewis & Rosa Feuer
Robert & Theresa Hughes
Mr. & Mrs. Leo Cronin, Sr. Leo Cronin, Jr. Alice Janvrin
Mr. & Mrs. Albert Gaucher Robert Valli, Sr. Everett Burke Mark Burke
Keith Willoughby Mr. & Mrs. Edmond LeBlanc
Bishop Anthony LeBlanc Mr. & Mrs. Costante Morigi
Hank Solerno The Ayers & Obert Families
Daniel J. Driscoll Margurite Driscoll
Emily Driscoll John Healey
John Holleran Deceased Members of the
Rona, Doherty, & O’Leary Families The Murphy Family The Lueders Family
The Martin & Lumnah Family Madeline McDermott
Fr. Roger Charbonneau Sean Foley
Debra Reault Gerry Cabral
My Loved Ones Robert Girard
Barbara Girard William Esposito Dorothy Zahar William Poist
Helen Araskiewicz Robert E. Cooper
Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Ruthven Mr. & Mrs. C.R. Cooper, Sr.
Msgr. Eugene Murphy Sister Anne St. George
The Baker Family The Lipomi Family The Ricker Family The Alaimo Family
Sophie Bengton Stephan Antkowiak
Ella Tomaselli Peter Tomaselli
Friends and Relative of The Harper Family
Andrew J. Miara Edward N. Herbert Mary C. Hostinsky Joseph Fitzpatrick Ryan Fitzpatrick
Molly Perin The O’Shea Family
Grant and Teresa Moulaison Mateo Intervalo Laura Intervalo Julito Intervalo
Magdalena Intervalo John & Katherine Daley
Sumner & Florence Amero Wayne Amero Rita Ahearn
Herbert Ahearn Normand Lessard
Mark Travis Joan Simpson
Dr. Julie Guilbert Maher Mr. Ronald R. Guilbert Carl Vincent Guilbert
Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Brady Dorathy Tully Virgilla Ryan Johana Brady Lea M. Roberts Richard Sullivan Mary G. Stevens
The Hammond & O’Leary Families Al Perrone
Ernie Picken Vincent Wood Hope Wood
Henry Martin Marjorie Martin
Ron, Larry, & Paul Martin Joseph D. Gibbs
Margaret & Ed Butler Buddy Butler
Thank You To Those Who Made Donations
Toward Our Paschal Candles:
Grace Bukowski & Alice
Litwinovich In Memory of Rev. Wilfred Demers
Mark & Colleen Hammond
Genevieve Helms
Patricia Zakiewicz
Jeanne Sullivan
Anonymous Donor
Third Sunday of Easter
Today’s Readings: Acts 5:27–32, 40b–41; Psalm 30:2, 4, 5–6, 11–12, 13; Revelation 5:11–14; John 21:1–19. Where have you seen the Risen Christ? The disciples encountered him again in Galilee while they were fishing. This story seems to have two parts. First, Jesus calls the disciples “chil-dren” and invites them to recast their nets to catch some fish. It seems that Jesus is reminding them that, though they are “fishers of people,” they still have a lot to learn.
Isn’t this true for us too? Each year we cycle through the Scriptures as pilgrims on a journey to share at the feast of life. During this pilgrimage, we encounter Christ and are confronted with sin. This deepens our communion with the living God and opens our hearts to know the path of disci-
pleship. This, in turn, propels us to share the Good News.The second scene recalls Peter’s denial of Jesus. Three
times Peter denied Jesus, and here, three times Peter con-fesses his love for Christ. This powerful image teaches us that no matter how badly we turn from Jesus, we are still loved. What does your love of the Lord look like? Sharing the Good News of the Resurrection isn’t easy for any of us. Like the early disciples, we too will be faced with ridicule and persecution, and yet, we must bear witness to the truth. That’s one reason we gather at Eucharist. There, we are strengthened in our faith so that we can go forth and witness the Paschal Mystery. Draw a timeline that shows your jour-ney of faith and witness.
PresenceGood and gracious God,in Baptism you call us out of darkness into
the light of life.Open our eyes to see your Sonand fill us with zeal so that, like Peter,who jumped into the sea to greet Christ,we may delight in your friendship.May the abundant love you share with
each of us overflow,and lead us to care for all your children.Grant that our Eucharistic sharingunite us in one heart and mindso that we can faithfully and joyfullyproclaim the Good News of salvation to
the ends of the earth.And may your Holy Spiritlead us always to accept your invitation
to feast at your table.Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Sunday, April 10, 2016Pilgrims Bearing Witness
Reproducibles for Lent–Triduum–Easter 2016
This Week at HomeMonday, April 11, 2016St. StanislausWhat do Sts. Stephen and Stanislaus have in common with Jesus? Each condemned corruption by political and religious leaders. Stephen and Stanislaus followed Jesus’ example. When you encounter the living God, you must authentically proclaim God’s justice and mercy. We need to pray for those who “work for the food that perishes” and we need to be mindful of our actions so that we follow Jesus, the Bread of Life. Take time to read a bit more about Stephen and Stanislaus. Today’s Readings: Acts 6:8–15; Psalm 119:23–24, 26–27, 29–30; John 6:22–29.
Tuesday, April 12, 2016Source of LifeStephen did not waver in sharing the Good News, and such steadfastness led to his death. We learn in the Gospel that Jesus is the source of life. When we are obedient to his will, we will have life and never thirst. Too often, we find our-selves unsatisfied and seeking fulfillment when all we need to do is turn to the Lord. Who is the Stephen in your life? In the coming weeks, consider setting aside time to bake some bread, bless it at dinner, and discuss Jesus, our sustenance. Today’s Readings: Acts 7:51— 8:1a; Psalm 31:3cd–4, 6 and 7 and 8a, 17 and 21ab; John 6:30–35.
Wednesday, April 13, 2016PersecutionEven in the midst of persecution, Jesus’ disciples continue sharing the Gospel. Our world is filled with religious perse-cution from all directions. Much violence and war has been suffered because of the egos of individuals who hold differ-ing creeds. Today pray for all those who suffer because of their religious beliefs and practices; let each of us remain faithful to the proclamation of the Gospel, even when it’s dif-ficult. Today’s Readings: Acts 8:1b–8; Psalm 66:1–3a, 4–5, 6–7a; John 6:35–40.
Thursday, April 14, 2016CatechesisHow did you come to know Christ? Was it through a parent, friend, or teacher? Jesus, the Bread of Heaven, says whoever believes will have eternal life. Today’s story of Philip and the eunuch depicts how an encounter with the Risen Lord shapes belief. As Philip breaks open the Word, the eunuch is moved by the Spirit and requests to be baptized. We should follow Philip’s example and share the Good News so that others may be nourished by Jesus. As part of sharing Easter joy, perhaps you would like to write a thank-you note to your parish cat-echists. Today’s Readings: Acts:8:26–40; Psalm 66:8–9, 16–17, 20; John 6:44–51.
Friday, April 15, 2016EucharistWe have been reading through chapter 6 of John’s account of the Gospel for several days. We have learned Jesus is the one who gives us bread; he is the Bread of Revelation. John por-trays a Eucharistic Jesus. Every time we gather at Mass, we receive the Flesh and Blood of Christ in the sacrament. The Eucharist not only confirms our faith but challenges us to ongoing conversion. At the end of the liturgy, we are sent out to “tell the Good News.” How have you become Eucharist for the world? Today’s Readings: Acts 9:1–20; Psalm 117:1bc, 2; John 6:52–59.
Saturday, April 16, 2016Go OutIn the Gospel, Peter asks Jesus, “To whom can we go?” Not all the disciples believed that Jesus was God’s chosen one, but those who were convinced knew that Jesus brought life. After the Resurrection, we find Peter doing the Lord’s works and proclaiming God’s healing so that others may come to believe. He and the others went out sharing the Good News. What works does the Church do today to help others believe in Christ? Spend time praying for all those who do not believe in Christ. Today’s Readings: Acts 9:31–42; Psalm 116:12–13, 14–15, 16–17; John 6:60–69.
© 2016 Liturgy Training Publications. 1-800-933-1800. Written by Timothy A. Johnston. Illustrated by Steve Musgrave. Scripture quotations are from The New Revised Standard Version Bible: Catholic Edition, copyright © 1993 and 1989 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Permission to publish granted by the Archdiocese of Chicago on August 21, 2015.
Third Sunday of Easter April 10, 2016
Never Too Far GoneBy Janel Esker
We’ve all experienced awkward moments: You run into someone at the grocery
store whom you’ve been avoiding out of anger. A friend overhears a criticism that wasn’t intended for her ears. Your wife greets you dressed up for dinner, and you realize you’ve forgotten your anniversary…again. It can be difficult to smoothly navigate these moments—to minimize hurt feelings and reestablish intimacy.
So reflect on the more-than-awkward moment between Peter and Jesus in today’s Gospel reading. Peter did more than just forget a birthday or spread gossip; he denied ever knowing Jesus, and he did it when Jesus was at his most vulnerable. That kind of betrayal would permanently end most relationships. But Jesus comes back to Peter and asks three times whether Peter loves him—a threefold reversal of the three denials. Peter must be embarrassed, afraid and, at the end, even frustrated at being asked so many times. But Jesus persists and reestablishes their intimate friendship. In fact, he calls Peter to even greater leadership—such was the trust Jesus placed in his formerly cowardly friend.
In this episode Peter shows us that no one is too far gone to be redeemed by the Lord. Peter’s sin was great, but Jesus’ love was greater. Jesus doesn’t let awkwardness or discomfort get in the way of forgiveness and healing. Jesus calls even well-practiced sinners to greatness.
In the Easter season, we celebrate Jesus’ new risen life; at the same time, we’re challenged to rise to new life from our sin, betrayals, and failings. Jesus hasn’t given up on us, and he never will. †
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A Word From Pope FrancisWe say we must seek God, go to him and ask forgiveness, but when we go, he is waiting for us, he is there first
…To find someone waiting for you is truly a great grace. You go to him as a sinner, but he is waiting to forgive you.
…Moreover, when we seek him, we discover that he is waiting to welcome us, to offer us his love. And this fills your heart with such wonder that you can hardly believe it, and this is how your faith grows— through encounter with a Person, through encounter with the Lord.
— Address, May 18, 2013 (Pentecost Vigil)Sunday ReadingsActs 5:27-32, 40b-41 “We must obey God rather than men….We are witnesses of these things.”
Revelation 5:11–14“Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches, wisdom and strength, honor and glory and blessing.”
John 21:1–19“Simon Peter went over and dragged the net ashore full of one hundred fifty-three large fish.”
• What emotions and assumptions hold me back from new life?
• Where can I grow in trust, love, and mercy?
Because God is the chief architect of evangelization, in order to promote and implement the Gospel, we must be open to God’s power through prayer and sacramental life. For a parish, this means implementing programs that help to deepen the spirituality of the community. It means the whole Christian community must renew its inner life, and its members must energize each other by sharing their faith. It means submitting ourselves as willing instruments of God’s saving action in the world. Indeed, the advance of God’s kingdom is first of all God’s gift.
Many may find evangelization a bit scary, but effective evangelization is not difficult or risky. There is no need for academic degrees, religious training, or public-speaking experience. It involves no coercion, charm, or casting fear. True evangelization relies on God’s love and the truth and power of his word. It is both gentle and friendly. When we share our faith, Jesus is our model. He had
compassion on the unbeliever. He met people on their own level, and he spoke their language—in parables and stories they could understand. The way we can evangelize is solidly rooted in the way we live and relate to other people.
If our relationship with Jesus Christ is genuine, it will show. People will see us celebrating something wonderful with them, mourning with them in their grief, and comforting them in times of hardship. Being a friend, one who empathizes and supports, is the first step in helping people discover the secret to your happiness—an intimate union with Jesus Christ, your Lord and Savior.
Reflection Questions 1. How has God revealed himself and empowered you as a disciple?
2. Why should a layperson, evangelize?
3. How can you begin to share the Good News with those around you? †
Adapted from Catholic Update Guide to the New Evangelization, © 2012 Liguori Publications
WEEKDAY READINGS
April 11–16
April 10, 2016
© 2016 Liguori Publications, One Liguori Drive, Liguori, MO 63057. 1-800-325-9521. Liguori.org. Editor: Julia A. DiSalvo. Designer: John Krus. Scripture quotations in this publication are from the New American Bible, revised edition, © 2010, 1991, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Washington, DC. Pope Francis quotation is used with permission and copyright © 2016 Libreria Editrice Vaticana. For licensing information, call 1-800-488-0488. All rights reserved. Distribution rights granted only to license holders. BHW001
What IsEvangelization?
W hen we think of evangelization, images that may spring to mind
are pastors in pulpits, revival events, televangelists addressing packed stadiums, or going door to door passing out leaflets and seeking to gain converts by persuasive words. Yet it is a common error to restrict the meaning of evangelization to preaching or proselytizing.
Actually, many people are already evangelizing without knowing it: parents who teach their children Gospel values by embodying them in their daily lives; citizens who write their senators and representatives to urge better housing for the poor; coaches, mentors, and therapists who counsel troubled youth; nurses who treat and comfort fearful patients; volunteers who work with charitable agencies and organizations. All these people are engaged in evangelization.
To share our faith more effectively with today’s world, we first have to get a clearer and richer understanding of evangelization. The word comes from the Latin word evangelium (Greek, euangelion) meaning “good news” or “gospel.” To evangelize, therefore, means to do the Gospel—to live it, to carry it out, and to proclaim it. Challenging others by one’s example and lifestyle, upholding true values, opening people’s hearts to God’s saving power, building community, struggling against injustice, and working to transform society are all vital elements of evangelization.
Mon. St. Stanislaus: Acts 6:8–15 / John 6:22–29Tue. Easter Weekday: Acts 7:51—8:1a / John 6:30–35Wed. Easter Weekday: Acts 8:1b–8 / John 6:35–40
Thu. Easter Weekday: Acts 8:26–40 / John 6:44–51Fri. Easter Weekday: Acts 9:1–20 / John 6:52–59Sat. Easter Weekday:
Acts 9:31–42 / John 6:60–69
Risen Lord, you gave your life to save the world. Help me
to be a selfless servant of love and peace in the world. —From Hopeful Meditations for
Every Day of Easter Through Pentecost, Rev. Warren J. Savage
and Mary Ann McSweeny