Church Bulletin Week of June 22, 2008
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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Parish Ministries Contact List
Coordinator of Ministries, Deacon Jerome Schenker: 973-702-1014
Grief Support, Charlene Castello: 973-827-9575 and 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:973-868-4523
Ushers, Henry Zarzycki:973-827-3228
Homebound Ministry, Janice Fitzsimmons: 973-827-9575
Hospitality, Marianne Cammarano: 973-827-9575
Children's Liturgy, Cynthia Hanenberg: 973-827-9575
Marriage Ministry, Tony & Sue Quartarolo: 973-827-9575
Liturgy Committee, Eileen & Mike Morgan: 973-827-9606
The Parish Community of Immaculate Conception has an active, living, liturgical life. Through the talents and skills of all those involved in various liturgical ministries, our experiences of workshop provide prayerful and meaningful signs of God's presence. If you are interested in becoming part of a Ministry at Immaculate Conception please contact Fr. Bogie at the Rectory Office or Deacon Jerry.
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FEAR NOT
How do people find hope in the face of suffering and death? That is the question addressed by today's scriptures. We hear of the suffering of Jeremiah and the psalmist. We hear of the death that “reigned from Adam to Moses” (Romans 5:14). We hear of the fears of the Twelve as Jesus sends them out into the world to preach and heal.
Through all this tribulation one message rings out loud and clear—“Do not be afraid!” The God who saved Jeremiah and the psalmist and Jesus is fully present to save us through the gracious gift of Jesus Christ. We have nothing and no one to fear. © Copyright, J. S. Paluch Co.
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TODAY'S READINGS
First Reading — The Lord has rescued the poor from the clutches of the wicked (Jeremiah 20:10-13).
Psalm — Lord, in your great love, answer me (Psalm 69).
Second Reading — The grace of God overflows for all (Romans 5:12-15).
Gospel — All who acknowledge Jesus before others will likewise be acknowledged by Jesus before the Father (Matthew 10:26-33).
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Holy Father's Prayer Intentions for June:
General:
That Christians may cultivate a deep and personal friendship with Christ so they are able to communicate the strength of His love to those they encounter.
Mission:
That the International Eucharistic Congress in Quebec, Canada, may lead to ever deeper understanding of the Eucharist, the heart of the Church and source of evangelization.
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Going away on Vacation? Looking for a Church?
http://masstimes.org/
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Saint John the Baptist - Patron Saint of the Paterson Diocese
Saint John the Baptist, born June 24th, was a Jewish preacher. He drew large crowds on the banks of the River Jordan, demanding from them repentance and baptism in view of the imminent coming of the Kingdom of God. Jesus was one of those whom he baptized. John was killed by Herod Antipas, whom he had denounced for his marriage and for fear that John might raise a rebellion. Jesus' own ministry followed John's, and some of Jesus' early followers had been followers of John. John, like Jesus, preached at a time of political, social, and religious conflict. All four canonical gospels relate John's ministry, his preaching and baptizing in the River Jordan. Most notably, according to the Bible, he is the one who recognized Jesus as the Messiah, and on Jesus' request, baptized him.
The baptism marked the beginning of Jesus' ministry.
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Patron Saints
Certain Catholic saints are associated with certain life situations. These patron saints intercede to God for us. We can take our special needs to them knowing they will listen to our prayers, and pray to God with us.
Cancer Patients - St. Peregrine
Headaches - St. Teresa
Travelers - St. Anthony
Lost Causes - St. Jude
Heart Patients - St. John of God
Throat Ailments - St. Blase
Difficult Marriages - St. Rita
Kidney Disease - St. Benedict
Toothache - St. Apollonia
Fathers - St. Joseph
Knee Problems - St. Roch
Animals - St. Francis
Grandparents - Sts. Ann & Joachim
Lost Items - St. Anthony
Ulcers - Job
Mothers - Mary
Military - St. Joan of Arc
Arthritis - Alphonsus
Motorists - St. Christopher
Stomach Ailments - Sts. Timothy & Titus
Good Sleep - St. Monica
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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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Volunteers Needed
Compassionate Care Hospice offers palliative care to individuals of all ages who are terminally ill and desiring Hospice services. A new office in Sparta has just opened and volunteers are needed to make supportive visits, offer emotional support and companionship. Volunteers can also assist with errands and help by doing administrative tasks in the office. Volunteer training is provided.
Please call 973-402-4712 if you have any questions.
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Franklin Senior Center
Are you tired of the same routine? Need a change of pace?
GOOD TIMES, GOOD FOOD, GOOD FRIENDS
The Lunch Bunch Senior (60+) Activity Center
in Franklin offers a hot lunch and fun activity. Transportation can be arranged by the Sussex Country Transit System at 973-579-0480, M-F.
Reservations should be made a day ahead by 11am
Call 973-827-2973.
Suggested donation of $2 for lunch and the daily activity.
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Lay Ministry Leadership Formation Endowment applications are available. The funding comes from the Prepare the Way Campaign by the people of our diocese. Lay leaders are eligible to apply for grants to attend courses leading to a certificate or degree in lay ministry. Deadline for the Fall of 2008 semester is June 30th. Please contact Ivannia at 973-777-8818.
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Baptisms:
This weekend we welcome into our parish family, through the sacrament of Baptism:
Emilia Michele Veith, daughter of Christine and Scott
and
Sophia Marianna Massa, daughter of Adriana and Mario
May the Lord bless you, guide you and keep you in His loving care.
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Mass Intentions:
Mass Intentions are a wonderful way to remember a deceased loved one, celebrate a birthday or anniversary, or for any special intention you may have.
There are two types of Mass Intentions: Holy Mass for the Deceased and
Spiritual Bouquet for the Living
· A Holy Mass for the Deceased request is made in memory of a deceased parent, relative, friend, parishioner or loved one. It can commemorate any occasion such as birthdays, anniversaries, etc.
· A Spiritual Bouquet request can be made for any reason or special request of remembrance such as God's blessing, thanksgiving, healing, prayer, etc.
A customary donation is $10 and Mass Cards can be obtained by calling 973-827-9575 or visiting the Rectory during Office Hours Monday - Friday, 9-5pm.
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A Family Perspective
Jesus says “Do not be afraid” three times in today's gospel and reminds us “all concealed secrets will be revealed.” Do not be afraid to acknowledge problems in your family. If they remain “hidden in darkness” they will “destroy body and soul.” Healing, understanding and hope are found only “in the light” of openness. “Do not be afraid..” Bud Ozar
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Summer Carnival...July 9th—July 12th
Our Lady of Fatima R.C.Church
Highland Lakes, NJ
Call: 973-764-4457 for more information
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Altar Server Schedule for 6/21-22 & 6/28-29
Sat.
5:00pm JMcKeever CBrossman
Sun
7:30 SMorano MKHubbard
9:00 JFriend AHamler
10:30 MFalk MMcDonald RHolowienka DPeck
12:00 APost MPost KMorano
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Sat.
5:00pm AKoske NMoscalow
Sun
7:30 SMorano JOroho
9:00 ECox ASica
10:30 MPost APost DPeck RHolowienka
12:00 JDragon CMcDonald
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Prayer Requests:
Please remember to pray for our parishioners and friends.
In Nursing Homes: Ceil Williams , Pauline Trofimuk and Ethel Segarra
At Home: 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, Regina Kobus, Jerzy Kobus and Lisa Stine.
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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, Shannon Barr , Pvt. Michael Gannon 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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Weekly Offering:
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: $4,643.00
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United in Marriage
Our Parish Community Rejoices with the Families of
Katrina Chesnulovitch and Ed Plummer
United in Marriage on June 20, 2008.
Congratulations! May the Lord continue to guide you and bless you with a lifetime of love and happiness.
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A Way to Freedom - Sussex County Self-Help Center
Open Monday - Friday, 3pm to 7:30pm and Saturdays, 11am to 4pm.
For more information, call 973-300-0830
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Grief Support Group
“Communicate, Appreciate, Validate”...J.Edward.
It is a good message; take time for the people who are still with us. What greater gift can we give to our loved ones who have died than to even more deeply value those who are living. The next meeting of the Immaculate Conception Grief Support Group will be July 2, 2008 from 7-8:30 pm in the Ministry House. If you or someone you know has experienced a loss, please know that you are not alone.
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Summer Retreats at Bethany Spirituality Center
A directed retreat provides time for prayer, solitude, and daily guidance from a personal director trained in the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola. In addition to individually scheduling of personal retreats, Bethany offers three 8-day directed retreats during July:
July 1-9, July 12-20, July 23-31.
Visit: www.bethanyspiritualitycenter.org for information.
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Choose Life
We Pray: That the Holy Spirit may guide government and religious leaders in their decisions affecting protection of all human life.
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SOUPer SUNDAY FOOD PANTRY DONATIONS
Next weekend, June 28-29, is SOUPer Sunday Weekend at Immaculate Conception Parish. Donations are sent to the Partnership for Social Services Family Center's Food Pantry. Through your good will, generosity and kindness we will be helping to meet the needs of the less fortunate families in our Community. The need is great so please continue to help! Thank you for your continued support and generosity! It makes a difference!
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CCD Teachers Needed
It's not too soon to start thinking about volunteering in our Religious Education Program, starting in September as a teacher or as an aide. We can really use your help. You need to be an active, registered member of Immaculate Conception, with a desire to minister to the children of the parish. If you can commit an hour a week to the program, please call Nadine at the Rectory Office.
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Caregiver's Support Group Are you Caring for an Elderly Loved One?
When: Last Tuesday of Every Month
Time: 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Location: Homestead Auditorium,129 Morris Turnpike, Newton, NJ 07860
Contact: Lori Baker, MSW, LSW
Phone: 973-948-5400, ext. 3140
We're Here to Help You!
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CONCETTA TOWERS
Apartments for the Elderly and Handicapped
located at 75 Catlin Road, Franklin, NJ
is accepting applications to add to its existing waiting list:
· Subsidized by US HUD
· Must be 62 years or older
· One bedroom and studio units,
· Certain units designed for mobility impaired.
Call 973-209-2808 for an application.
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Online Graduate Programs in Religious Education
Felician College, The Franciscan College of New Jersey
Are you involved in Lay Ecclesial Ministry?
Are you interested in teaching CCD?
Are you looking for a program that meets the demands of your busy life by enabling you to study in the comfort of your own home?
Visit: www.felician.edu or call 201-559-6085
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INSIDE THE READINGS
In today's Gospel Jesus provides direction and encouragement for his disciples. They must proclaim his teachings openly and forcefully. God's revelation through Christ must be made available to all, even when it requires extraordinary courage. Three times Jesus says, "Do not be afraid!" (Matthew 10:26, 28, 31). Jesus knows that his apostles will be persecuted even as he himself was being persecuted. But fear must not keep them from being effective missionaries. They must, as Jesus insists, "proclaim [it] on the housetops" (10:27).
The disciples are told that their only fear should be "of the one who can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna" (10:28). "Gehenna" comes from the Hebrew Ge-Hinnom, the Valley of Hinnom. Located southwest of Jerusalem, it had been the site of an idolatrous cult, which included sacrificing children (Jeremiah 7:31). At the time of Jesus it was a place for refuse disposal with constantly burning fires. In the New Testament it symbolizes eternal punishment.
To give the apostles the necessary courage in the face of persecution, Jesus assures his followers that they have the continuing love of the Father. Jeremiah in today's first reading gives an example of great confidence in the face of opposition. "But the Lord is with me, like a mighty champion: / my persecutors will stumble, they will not triumph" (Jeremiah 20:11). Jesus uses a rabbinic formula, arguing from a light matter to a heavy one. From God's concern for the sparrows (the light matter) Jesus proceeds to the incredible love of the Father for the disciples (the heavy matter).
Today's Gospel ends with a warning and a promise. Already in the Old Testament Yahweh declared, "I will honor those who honor me, but those who spurn me shall be accursed" (1 Samuel 2:30). In the same way, Christ will deny before the Father those who deny him before others (Matthew 10:33). But those who acknowledge Jesus before others will have the grace of being acknowledged by the Son of Man "before the angels of God" (Luke 12:8).
Excerpted and edited from LIVING THE WORD for the Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time commentary by Msgr. Ralph Kuehner and Rev. Joseph Juknialis, © 2008 by J. S. Paluch Co., Inc. 6/22/08
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