“I AM”
Kindness and mercy are what the enslaved people of Israel needed, and they came in the form of deliverance. They came through a leader, Moses, who was once plucked from the Nile River and was now herding his father-in-law's sheep in the land of Goshen. The bush that burned but was not consumed shows us that God is inexhaustible mystery.
Moses' awe and deference are mixed with a touching conversational tone as he seeks to learn God's name. And God sweetly responds. The somewhat abstract “I AM” distinguishes the God of Abraham and Isaac and Jacob from the minor gods in the territory who “are not.” They are helpless, powerless, and useless. Moses is to step out into an amazing future, and God will be there with outstretched arm. Just go and see, God seems to say.
SAINTS AND SPECIAL OBSERVANCES
Sunday: Third Sunday of Lent;
First Scrutiny; Girl Scout Sunday;
Daylight Saving Time begins
Friday: Abstinence
Saturday: St. Patrick
READINGS FOR THE WEEK
Monday: 2 Kgs 5:1-15b; Lk 4:24-30
Tuesday: Dn 3:25, 34-43; Mt. 18:21-35
Wednesday: Dt 4:1, 5-9; Mt 5:17-19
Thursday: Jer 7:23-28; Lk 11:14-23
Friday: Hos 14:2-10; Mk 12:28-34
Saturday: Hos 6:1-6; Lk 18:9-14
Sunday: Jos 5:9a, 10-12; Ps 34; 2 Cor 5:17-21;
Lk 15:1-3, 11-32
Alternate readings (Year A):
1 Sm 16:1b, 6-7, 10-13a; Ps 23;
Eph 5:8-14; Jn 9:1-41[1, 6-9, 13-17, 34-38]
The Lord secures justice and the rights of all the oppressed.
— Psalm 103:6
TODAY'S READINGS
First Reading — “I have witnessed the affliction of my people in Egypt and have come to rescue them”
(Exodus 3:1-8a, 13-15) or Exodus 17:3-7.
Psalm — The Lord is kind and merciful (Psalm 103) or Psalm 95.
Second Reading — Those who think they are standing secure should take care not to fall (1 Corinthians 10:1-6, 10-12) or Romans 5:1-2, 5-8.
Gospel — I shall cultivate the ground around the fig tree and fertilize it; it may bear fruit in the future (Luke 13:1-9) or John 4:5-42 [5-15, 19b-26, 39a, 40-42].
Baby Shower for Birth Haven
Our Confirmation students are sponsoring the Annual Baby Shower for Birth Haven each Sunday during Lent, at which time they will collect items needed for babies as well as the new moms.
Birth Haven has been in existence for over 20 years and has provided support and hope for teens and women who have chosen to carry their pregnancies to full term. It is an independent, non-profit organization that welcomes women from all over New Jersey, regardless of age, race, creed, nationality, financial ability or marital status. Birth Haven is the only transitional home that accepts and welcomes minors.
All donations may be brought to Church and placed near the bassinet any Sunday during Lent, ending on Palm Sunday.
Wish List
Phone Cards, Ladies' Watches, Boppy Pillows, Batteries (AA,C,D), Laundry Baskets, C-Fold Towels, 1"-3" Ring Binders, Journals, Week-a-glance Planners, Towels, Slippers, Spring and Summer PJ's, Gift Certificates to Block Buster, Old Navy, and Wal-Mart.
Thank you for your support!
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Ministry to the Homebound
If you are unable to come to Church or know of someone who is homebound and would like to receive Communion, please call Janice at the Rectory at 973-827-9575 and arrangements will be made to visit your home. Janice is in the office on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.
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Easter Flower Memorials
Please submit your Easter Flower Memorial envelopes early. Remember to PRINT all information to ensure accuracy in posting your loved one's name in the Easter bulletin.
Thank you.
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Sacrificial giving nurtures the spirit of the giver and helps to build a better world. Thank you for your support and generosity for last week's collection.
Last Sunday's Collection: $6,253.00
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Choose life...Jesus told his disciples to invite the poor, blind, and the lame to dine with us, saying,”You should be pleased they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid in the resurrection of the just.” So also when we speak, work and pray for unborn children, we advocate for those least able to repay us. Thus, love for the unborn is the most selfless form of love. Nothing comes from them in return. “
Fr. Frank Pavone, National Director, Priests For life.
Let os pray that this church community may not judge women who have had abortions but rather encourage them to seek forgiveness and healing.
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Lent... embrace a prayerful journey by attending:
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place every Friday during Lent from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Stations of the Cross and Benediction takes place every Friday evening during Lent at 7:00 p.m.
Abstinence means no meat or meat products for all who have reached the age of 14. All Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence.
Fast means one full meal or meat products for everyone between the ages of 18 and 59.
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Operation Rice Bowl
In Luke's Gospel, Jesus tells us that we must repent and turn our hearts completely to God. He also reminds us that each of us must bear fruit. God has definite desires, and in faith we cannot remain neutral to His plan.
Catholic Relief Services' programs are all founded on the Catholic Social Teaching principle of respect for human life and dignity. In Angola, CRS works with uprooted families, former soldiers, and isolated or destabilized communities. Among the many humanitarian programs needed to restore normal life to people in this area, CRS focuses on the health needs of person affected by polio and on preventing the disease. Please support CRS' heath care projects wit your prayers, fasting, learning and giving with Operation Rice Bowl this week.
Visit www.crs.org/orb to learn more.
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TRADITIONAL IRISH BREAKFAST
On Saturday, March 17, 2007 at 9:00 a.m., the Sussex County St. Patrick's Day Committee will be sponsoring a traditional Irish Breakfast at the Lyceum of the Immaculate Conception Church.
There will be a guest speaker and the winning ticket for the 50/50 will be drawn. Come join us and celebrate your Irish Heritage. All are welcome. For more information or to purchase 50/50 tickets please contact Cathy Gleason, Parade Committee 973-827-2705.
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The Knights of Columbus of Immaculate Heart of Mary Council #10206, Wayne , NJ will be holding their Annual St. Patrick's Cocktail Party and Dinner Dance on Saturday, March 17th at the immaculate Heart of Mary Parish Center, located at 580 Ratzer Road, Wayne, NJ.
Entertainment includes Irish dancers, bagpipers, drummers and live music featuring the group, “Two For Tunes.”
The cost of the ticket is $35 per person and includes cocktail party, hors d'oeuvres, and a corned beef and cabbage dinner. Beer , wine and soda will be provided all night. For tickets and further information call Tom Baldyga - 973-519-7926, Rich Connor - 973-633-2980, Mike Funge - 973-686-0092 or Steve Loboda - 973-694-3965.
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Immaculate Conception's Grief Support Group
On the first Wednesday of each month Immaculate Conception Parish offers an ongoing Grief Support Group. If you or someone you know has suffered a loss, please join us. The next meeting is on April 4th from 7:00-8:30 p.m. in the Ministry House (former Convent).
Let us take time to feel blessed for those who are a part of our lives - for those who have died we may take time to think about and miss them, maybe we “talk” to them, light a candle, or say a prayer, but let us also take time for those who are living to say, “Thank you, I appreciate you, I love you.” Acknowledge the people in your life now, do not wait. Regret is painful.
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HELP SUPPORT
Immaculate Conception Regional School!
Scrip gift cards are convenient to use and are available in various denominations for Shop-Rite, A&P, Weis, Sussex Meat Packing, Staples, Barnes and Noble, J.C. Penney, Sears, Bed, Bath & Beyond, Wendy's, Applebee's and many more. ICRS benefits by receiving a percentage back from the retailer(s). To purchase, see Marie McKeever or contact Kathy Trainor at the school 973-827-3777. Thank you for your support!
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Reverend Brown School Tricky Tray
Don't forget to attend the annual Reverend Brown School Tricky Tray on Friday, March 16, 2007 at Pope John XX!!! High School. Doors open at 6 pm. Calling begins at 8 pm. There will be an extensive selection of trays, specials and super specials! Free coffee and dessert is offered for all attendees. This has always been a great event so don't forget to come!! For more information call 973-729-9174.
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NET Retreat
On Friday, April, 13th the NET Team will conduct a retreat at the Msgr. Gacquin Youth and Religious Education Center located at 122 Layton-Hainesville Road, Sandyston. Rev. Richard Carton of Saint James the Greater, Montague and Saint Thomas the Apostle Church in Branchville, has graciously extended and invitation to our Confirmation students.
There is no cost. If you would like to attend please call Isabel Natoli at the Office of Religious Education, 973-827-9575 before April 2nd so that the proper arrangements can be made.
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Help Wanted - Come Join Our Wonderful “Family”
Counselors for 5 high-functioning, developmentally disabled adults living in a private home in Whippany. Full and part-time positions available. Some weekend hours included. Benefits for full-time positions. Experience valued but not necessary. Please call 973-539-6233 or 973-539-4292.
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Constant kindness can accomplish much. As the sun makes ice melt, kindness causes misunderstanding, mistrust and hostility to evaporate. Albert Schweitzer
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Lenten Reflection Evenings
at St. Jude the Apostle Church Lent is a special time for all of us to reflect on Christ's suffering and death. Dr. Thomas Wisniewski from the College of St. Elizabeth will present Christ's suffering and death in light of the gospels. His presentations will take place on Wednesday evenings March 14, 21, 28 and April 4th from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the church hall at St. Jude the Apostle Church in Hamburg. There will also be time for questions and answers. Please take time for you and your family to enhance your love for Christ.
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WALKING THE WAY OF THE CROSS THROUGH THE EYES OF MARY:
A Wednesday for Women Program led by Gail Mertz and Paulette Cicero. March 21st, 9:30-1:30 p.m. Cost is $30, includes lunch. Register by March 16th.
FINDING GOD IN ALL THINGS: A Lenten Day of Reflection led by Rev. Msgr. James Burke. March 24th, 9:30 - 4:45. Includes opportunity for Sacrament of Reconciliation and Liturgy. $40 with lunch. Register by March 20th.
To register call 973-290-5100 or visit www.xaviercenter.org.
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OPEN HOUSE - Morris Catholic High School in Denville is hosting a Spring Open House for prospective students and their families on Wednesday, March 14th from 7 to 9:00 p.m. Contact the Advancement Office at 973-627-6674, ext. 136, for additional information and to register for this special event.
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College of Saint Elizabeth
2 Convent Road, Morristown, NJ
Monday, March 19, 7 pm, Mahoney Library Octagon: AWARD WINNING POET LI-YOUNG LEE READS AT THE COLLEGE OF SAINT ELIZABETH. Award winning poet Li-Young Lee will read from a selection of his work to audience members and answer questions shortly afterwards.. A book signing and refreshments will follow shortly after the reading in the library lobby. Admission is free. For more info call 973-290-4450.
Thursday - Friday March 22-23, Founder Hall CSE Campus: WOMEN'S COLLEGE CAMPUS OVERNIGHT AT THE COLLEGE OF SAINT ELIZABETH - High school seniors and transfer students are welcome to stay overnight on the College campus. Prospective students will tour the campus, visit classrooms, have lunch with student leaders and attend a session on admission procedures and financial aid. To register or for more info call 1-800-210-7900.
Saturday, March 24, 8 am - 5 pm, Saint Joseph Hall Gymnasium: FIFTEENTH ANNUAL SPIRITUALITY CONVOCATION AT THE COLLEGE OF SAINT ELIZABETH. Sponsored by the Center for theological Development at CSE. The day will begin with registration at 8 am and conclude with the celebration of the Eucharist at 4 pm. The day will feature two keynote addresses by Rev. James Martin, a Jesuit priest and associate editor of America Magazine, and Dr. Mary Jo Leddy, an adjunct professor at Regis College, the Jesuit theological school at the University of Toronto. The cost is $35 per person. For more info call 973-290-4300.
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Please remember to pray for our parishioners and friends who are ill:
In Nursing Homes: Anna Elekes, Beatrice Brown, Catherine Alvino, Arthur Schaffhauser, Joanna Tugoluko, Mary Devine, Richard Gulitus, Betty Swetz, Ed Knight, Frank Kalafut.
At Home: Loraine Schenker, Diane Sidoli, Robert Zeuner, Russell Covert, Jr., Evelyn Caljean, Agnes Maselli, Anthony Fehir, Zina Restivo, Danielle Dionisio, Thomas Dionisio, Jr., Christine Huntley, Steven “Itchy” Novak, Gabbi Welsch, Flo Yurchak, Ethel Segarra, Mary Carmody, Madison Dorr, Michael Soojian, Don Tilley, Jr. Lisa Stine, Kath Sciascia and Edward Padgett.
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Please continue to keep all those serving in the military in your thoughts and prayers especially:
Dan Greene, Jamison Micke, Stephen Saski, Jr., Christopher Faber, SFC Morgan McHose, Kevin Remus, LCPL William Mathes, LCPL Ernest Mathes, Karen Hassler and Tom Oroho.
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A FAMILY PERSPECTIVE
The gardener in today's Gospel gave the fig tree another chance to produce fruit. In families we need to grasp every opportunity to give another chance to each other. Don't waste the opportunity. - Bud Ozar
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Bishop Serratelli announces...
There will be a ceremony in the Cathedral on Sunday, April 22nd at 3:30 p.m. to dedicate a new stained-glass window which has been installed. It is a window honoring the diversity of immigrants that make up our great diocese. It has the Patroness of Immigrants, Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, surrounded by two people on either side that can represent different ethnic groups.
Attention parishioners, if you are interested in attending this ceremony, please call the Rectory 973-827-9575.
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Give Blood... on Sunday, March 25th from 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at the Church of Saint Jude the Apostle located on Beaver Run Road in Hamburg. No appointment is necessary.
If you are 17 years of age you can now donate blood without parental consent. Your support would be greatly appreciated. If you have any questions please call Debbie Sutton at 973-875-0654 or Saint Jude's at 973-827-8030.
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Paterson Diocesan Council of the
National Council of Catholic Women
Lenten Spiritual Enrichment Day for Women
Presenter: Rev. Anthony Ciorra, Ph.D.
SATURDAY, MARCH 24, 2007 from 9:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. St. Clement Pope & Martyr Parish, 154 Pleasant Ave, Rockaway 2 minutes from Rt 80 - near Rockaway Townsquare Mall.
Coffee and registration at 9 a.m. - Program at 9:30 a.m.; Celebration of the Eucharist at 11:00 a.m.
All women of the Diocese are invited to attend and to enjoy this enriching and inspiring program. Donation (including registration) is $5.00. Please bring a “brown bag” lunch; beverages and dessert will be served. Call the rectory at 973-827-9575 if you would like to attend. All reservations and fees must be in by March 13th.
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THE QUIET SIDE OF PATIENCE
When it comes to holiness, however we might define it, we're all more or less cast from the same mold. Whether old or young wise or simple, priests or parishioners, like good wine we all take time to age into something worthwhile.
INSIDE THE READINGS
In today's first reading God's name is revealed to Moses. Yahweh is the proper personal name of God in the Hebrew scriptures. Someone's name in Old Testament times was very important because it revealed that person's reality. So, too, with the name of God. But God is purposely somewhat mysterious in revealing the name Yahweh. Yahweh comes from the basic Hebrew verb "to be." In the original Hebrew text there were no vowels. It was simply YHWH. Some interpret this as a reference to God's absolute existence. Others, by adding different vowels, understand it of God as creator, the one who causes to be.
Out of great reverence for the divine name the Israelites said adonai (my lord) in place of Yahweh. Jehovah is the result of putting the vowels of adonai with the consonants of Yahweh. It is not really a Hebrew word.
Whatever the etymological understanding of Yahweh, everyone agrees that it refers to an active, loving relationship between Yahweh and the chosen people. "I am" exists for them, as seen in creation, in the covenant, in the Exodus. What God expects of the Israelites in return is to "[b]e holy, for I, the LORD, your God, am holy" (Leviticus 19:2).
In the Gospel today Jesus warns his followers to be holy for there is always the possibility of sudden death. Even if God spares the sinner, as the fig tree is spared, it is only for a limited time. Ultimately all will be called to judgment. What is required, therefore, is repentance. The Greek word involved here, metanoia, demands a true reformation of life based on the values of Yahweh and of the Son. Not surprisingly, repentance is a basic theme of Lent. The Christian is to prepare for the events of Holy Week by a sincere effort to repent for past sins and to seek greater holiness in the future.
THOUGHTS FOR ACTION
It may be that as we all grow older and pile up years, one by one we add more and more experiences like that of Moses and his now famous bush. Or perhaps it may be that as we simply become accustomed to the holy, just because it is so ordinary, it happens in ways we never even notice.
Excerpted and edited from LIVING THE WORD FOR THE THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT commentary by Msgr. Ralph Kuehner and Rev. Joseph Juknialis, 3/11/07
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