Church Bulletin Week of May 4, 2008
Seventh Sunday of Easter
Church Bulletin Week of May 4, 2008
Seventh Sunday of Easter
Welcome to Immaculate Conception Parish
The faith community of Immaculate Conception welcomes all visitors, parishioners, family and friends. We hope you find your visit warm and inviting as well as spiritually nourishing. We will keep all of you in our prayers and wish you God's Blessings.
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Mission Statement of Immaculate Conception Parish
We, the faith community of Immaculate Conception Church of Franklin, New Jersey, under the safety of and with special devotion to Our Mother Mary, and empowered by our Baptism, commit ourselves to live the gospel message. Guided by the Holy Spirit we strive to share our gifts, our love and our faith to make the presence of God a reality in our lives and in our community by:
+Faithfully celebrating the sacraments
+Working for peace and justice
+Serving all who are in need
+Sharing the faith with our children
+Reaching out to all and welcoming all
Thus fostering an ever-increasing circle of faith in God, hope of eternal salvation and love and respect of all of God's creations.
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Honoring Mary during the Month of May
The pious practice of honoring Mary during the month of May has been especially recommended by the Popes. In May of 2002, Pope John Paul II said, “Today we begin the month dedicated to Our Lady a favorite of popular devotion. In accord with a long-standing tradition of devotion, parishes and families continue to make the month of May a “Marian” month, celebrating it with many devout liturgical, catechetical and pastoral initiatives.”
This angel bears a banner translated “Virgin Most Merciful,” taken from the Litany of Loreto. The mercy of Mary is shown in her willingness to intercede with Jesus on behalf of others. She comes to the aid of all who seek the mercy of her divine Son.
During the month of May we will honor the Blessed Mother by reciting the “Litany of Loreto to the Blessed Virgin Mary” at each Mass. Copies of the Litany can be found in the back of each Misselette. Please keep the copies there to be used throughout the month of May.
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May Crowning will take place May 11th after the 12:00 Mass.
The Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary consists of a long series of invocations to Our Lady, which follow in a uniform rhythm, thereby creating a stream of prayer characterized by praise and supplication.
The Litany of Loreto to the Blessed Virgin Mary was composed during the Middle Ages. The place of honor it now holds in the life of the Church is due to its faithful use at the shrine of the Holy House of Loreto in Loreto, Italy, [believed in the tradition of the Church] to be the home of the Blessed Virgin Mary; where she was born and raised. Its titles and invocations set before us Mary's exalted privileges, her holiness of life, her amiability and power, her motherly spirit and queenly majesty. Reflection on the titles of the litany will unfold before us the grand picture of our heavenly Mother, even though we know only little about her life.
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The Sacrament of First Communion
We extend our congratulations and prayers to all those making their
First Holy Communion this weekend at Immaculate Conception Church.
As they process with us to Christ's Banquet Table, may they be strengthened and nourished to always follow Jesus, the Good Shepherd, Who offers us abundant life.
Elisabetta Bracer
Ariana Bravo
Tara Brody
Syrina Bruno
Owen Cocchio
Alexandria Colfax
Richie Coltenback
Raymond Dignardi
Justin Dunn
Hanna Flatt
Sean Gindhart
Sara Graham
Sarah Haggerty
Zoe Heath
Taylor Hendrickson
Tyler Holden
Chelsea Horuzy
Jacob Hubbard
Brianna Kimble
Gillian Klass
Drew Langenfeld
Antonio Latorre
Carmella Limon
Justin Lindquist
Margaret Lukas
Anne Marie Lukas
Vincent Maguire
Cynthia Manning
Gabrielle Mascuch
Destiny Mathes
Gillian McDonald
Marissa McKinnon
Brianna Millier
Kora Milligan
Carson Moore
Elizabeth Morano
Ryan Nuzzo
Bethany Payne
Sarah Petrucci
Maggie Reid
Danielle Reilly
Morgan Rocks
Isabella Rodriguez
Zachary Rosko
Destinie Schlereth
Anastasia Schroeder
Patricia Stecher
Madison Stires
Shayla Traverso
Philip Verso
Shannon Wabeke
Ethan Whiteford
Angelique Wygonowski
Madison Yodice
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THE CALM BEFORE THE STORM
This seventh Sunday of Easter is somewhat like the proverbial "calm before the storm." The Lord Jesus has ascended into heaven and Pentecost has not yet occurred. Rather than immediately taking up Jesus' command to go out to all the nations, the disciples gather in the upper room "with some women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers" (Acts 1:14). There they all devote themselves to prayer. The Gospel recounts the great prayer for the disciples that Jesus offered to his Father in heaven. If the words of Jesus while he was on earth finally began to sink in for the disciples, then gathering to pray was certainly the right choice, for the second reading lets us all know that to follow Christ means to have a share in his sufferings. (c) Copyright, J. S. Paluch Co.
First Reading -- The Eleven and the women devoted
themselves to prayer (Acts 1:12-14).
Psalm -- I believe that I shall see the good things of the Lord in the land of the living (Psalm 27).
Second Reading -- Glorify God if you suffer for the name of Christian (1 Peter 4:13-16).
Gospel -- The Son will give eternal life to all those who are given to him by the Father (John 17:1-11a).
SAINTS AND SPECIAL OBSERVANCES
Sunday: Seventh Sunday of Easter
Monday: Cinco de Mayo
Saturday: Vigil of Pentecost; Blessed Damien Joseph de Veuster of Moloka'i
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Holy Father's Prayer Intentions for May
+General: That Christians may use literature, art and the media to greater advantage to favor a culture which defends and promotes the values of the human person.
+Mission: That just as she accompanied the Apostles in the early stages of the Church, may the Blessed Virgin Mary, Star of Evangelization and Queen of Apostles, continue to guide missionaries throughout the world with maternal affection.
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Donations:
Sacrificial giving nurtures the spirit of the giver and helps to build a better world. Thank you for your support and generosity.
Last Sunday's Collection: $4527.00
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30th Thomasina Golf Tournament
Wednesday, May 14, 2008. Join us for an exciting day of golf and dinner at the Rolling Greens Golf Club or for our BBQ Steak Dinner @3:00pm and the opportunity to win fabulous Door Prizes and a 50/50 Raffle. This event is sponsored by Partnership for Social Services. Call 973-827-4702 for more information.
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Healing Mass
On May 18th we will be celebrating a Mass of Healing at our twelve o'clock service. All those who are part of our Homebound Ministry in Nursing Homes or in need of Healing are invited to attend. Communal celebrations of the Anointing of the Sick are commonly celebrated during Mass. All who are sick, elderly or in need of ANY kind of spiritual, physical, or emotional healing are invited to attend. In the past the sacrament was associated with only those who were seriously ill or dying. This has changed. It is for everyone in need of HEALING. The celebration includes scripture readings, a homily and songs, followed by fellowship and a reception. People are encouraged and comforted by such a ceremony. As people have more positive experiences, their ideas about the Anointing of the Sick may change and be seen in a more positive light. This sacrament is a source of strength, courage and love.
Special intention cards for those not able to be present will be collected weekly. Cards can be found at the table by the Baptismal Font and returned to the basket on the table. Intentions will be prayed for during the Healing Mass.
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Prayer Shawl Requests
For anyone requesting a Prayer Shawl, request cards are on the table by the Baptismal Font and can be placed in the basket. They will be distributed after the Healing Mass on May 18th.
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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 for the next meeting this Wednesday, May 7, from 7:00-8:30 p.m. in the Ministry House.
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Blood Drive: We Need You
Friday, May 9, 2008 from 3-8pm
Immaculate Conception Lyceum
Registration requested but not required.
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49th International Eucharistic Congress
Quebec City ... June 18-23, 2008
Bishop Serratelli has called for a bus pilgrimage and is looking for people who will represent our Diocese at this great gathering honoring Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. Call 973-779-0427.
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Need A Ride? Call-Sussex County Assisted Transportation
Sussex County Assisted Transportation is a nonprofit service, funded through a grant from the Sussex County Division of Senior Services, the United Way of Sussex County and the Diocese of Paterson. Escort services for older adults (60+) are available for medical appointments and food shopping. Shopping for those who are homebound is also available. Appointments can be made in advance…for information, Call 973-209-0123.
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A Catholic Education at Immaculate Conception Regional School
+Programs for all 4 & 5 Year Olds
+Full and Part Time Preschool
+Full Day Kindergarten
+Education in a safe, caring and spiritual setting.
+Extended Care available for working parents
+Most competitive rates in Sussex County
Call 973-827-3777 or visit www.ICRSCHOOL.com
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Looking Forward to a Spiritual Get-Away?
· St. John Vianney Parish is sponsoring an 11 day trip to Lourdes and the Shrines of France, June 5-15, escorted by Fr. Matthew Twiggs. Call 973-208-1200
· Join Bishop Serratelli on a diocesan pilgrimage to the Shrines of France and Lourdes, July 9-16. Call 201-825-3725 or E-mail: greatexinc@verizon.net
· Religious Pilgrimage in Assisi, Italy, July 5-15 This pilgrimage is sponsored by the Assisi Music Festival. Join Msgr. Paul Bochicchio, Pastor of Holy Family Church, Nutley, NJ. with special Masses at The Basilica of St. Francis and the Vatican. For more information call Gregory Scime 908-277-1145
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Bringing Up the Gifts
At the beginning of the Liturgy of the Eucharist, the bread, wine and offerings for the church and the poor are brought to the alter. Gifts are brought up in procession by “the faithful,” who hand them to the priest or deacon (General Instruction of the Roman Missal 73)... After handing them over, it would be most appropriate if those who bring up the gifts make a bow to the altar just before returning to their places.
When the Mass Intention is for your loved one or a friend, and you would like to bring up the gifts of bread and wine, please advise one of the ushers before Mass.
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CAR WASH
Sponsored by ICRS National Jr. Honor Society
To Benefit St. Jude's Building Expansion Fund.
Saturday, May 17th & June 7th
St. Jude's Parking Lot
Thank you to all who supported us at the first Car Wash, held April 12th, we raised $275 so far
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Prayer Requests
In Nursing Homes: Ceil Williams and Pauline Trofimuk
At Home: Loraine Schenker, Maria Woppel, Diane Sidoli, Robert Zeuner, Evelyn Caljean, Danielle Dionisio, Thomas Dionisio, Jr., Steven “Itchy” Novak, Flo Yurchak, Mary Carmody, Harold & May Dickey, Debbie Yodice, JoAnn Ritz and Lisa Stine.
In the Military:
Jamison Micke, Stephen Saski, Jr., Christopher Faber, SFC Morgan McHose, LCPL William Mathes, LCPL Ernest Mathes, Karen Hassler, Tom Oroho, Maj. Stephen McKenzie, Ryan Halkirt, Joseph Trainor and CPL Matt Lindquist.
Please notify us when you have recovered from your illness. Hospitals are now bound by privacy laws and can no longer release the names of their patients. It is up to a family member to let us know if a parishioner is hospitalized or homebound. Thank you.
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Altar Server Schedule for 5/3-4 and 5/10-11
Sat. 5:00pm CBrossman, ASica
Sun 7:30 JOroho, SMorano
9:00 AHamler, AKoske
10:30 ECox, DPeck
12:00 CMcDonald, J&JFriend
Sat. 5:00pm NMoscalow, JMcKeever
Sun 7:30 MKHubbard, SMorano
9:00 CMcDonald, JFriend
10:30 RHolowienka, MHocking
12:00 AAllen, JDragon
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Parish Ministries Contact List:
Coordinator of Ministries: Deacon Jerome Schenker 973-702-1014
Grief Support -Charlene Castello 973-827-9575 / Nadine Allen 973-827-9575
Religious Education- Nadine Allen 973-827-9501
Eucharistic Ministers- Christine Muller 973-827-9575
Lectors - Charlotte Vnuk 973-827-6277
Music Director -Rosanne Huttman 973-827-9575
Altar Servers - Barbara Morano 973-209-8121
Ushers -Henry Zarzycki 973-827-3228
Outreach Ministry -Janice Fitzsimmons 973-827-9575 (Health, Transportation, Homebound, Prayer Shawl)
Hospitality - Marianne Cammarano 973-827-9575
Children's Liturgy - Cynthia Hanenberg 973-827-9575
Liturgy Committee - Eileen and Mike Morgan 973-827-9606
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THE PRICE OF GLORY
With all of its enchantments, with all of it deceptions, we live in the world. In fact, today's Gospel reminds us that we've been sent into the world, not away from it. That mission is not always easy, nor does it commonly result in public acclamation.
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INSIDE THE READINGS
In today's Gospel Jesus prays, "Father, the hour has come" (John 17:1). Jesus' hour is a very important concept for John. Jesus tells Mary at Cana, "My hour has not yet come" (2:4). However, as the Book of Glory (John 13:1 C 19:42) begins, "Jesus knew that his hour had come to pass from this world to the Father" (13:1). This hour will include not only the sufferings and death of Jesus, but also his resurrection, ascension, and sending of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus continues his prayer, "Give glory to your son, so that your son may glorify you" (17:1). The Father gives glory to the Son by leading him through the events of his hour. Jesus will glorify the Father by bringing the gift of eternal life to the disciples, thereby "accomplishing the work that you gave me to do" (17:4).
John describes eternal life as knowing "you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ" (17:3). "Knowing" in the Semitic background is more than a mental acceptance. It requires intimacy, a relationship with God that demands a life of loving God and neighbor.
"I revealed your name to those whom you gave me out of the world" (17:6). The name is I AM, the name Yahweh in Hebrew. It is the name that God revealed to Moses. "This is what you shall tell the Israelites: I AM sent me to you" (Exodus 3:14).
Jesus prays to be restored to the glory that was his before the work given to him by his Father. Completing that work means revealing the Father to his disciples. He praises their faith, which includes "[believing] that you sent me" (17:8). Jesus then prays ardently for his followers. He will be returning to the Father, but they will have to continue to face the evil forces of the world (17:11a). Nevertheless, as the early Christians were assured, "We have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous one" (1 John 2:1).
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THOUGHTS FOR ACTION
The lasting meaning that we find in our lives never comes from the outside, from those who offer praise and recognition. Ultimately such outside affirmations fade away. What lasts comes from within, from the realization that someone else's life is better because we were present. It is its own glory, the presence of love that comes from God.
Excerpted and edited from LIVING THE WORD for the Seventh Sunday of Easter commentary by Msgr. Ralph Kuehner and Rev. Joseph Juknialis, © 2008 by J. S. Paluch Co., Inc. 5/4/08
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