FOCUS ON THE MISSION
“There are so many things to do.” “We have so little time.” How many variations of these statements have you heard or even said yourself?
Actually neither statement is completely true. There are many things to do in this life, but really few things that are vitally important. Working, searching, conniving, and worrying our way to “gratify[ing] the desires of the flesh,” as Paul relates in today's second reading, are really non-productive. So little time? When we take on the freedom that Christ offers us, we have all the time we need in this world, and even more in the next.
Elisha, the prophet Elijah's chosen servant, was slightly befuddled about what he should do. When Elijah called, he returned to bid farewell to his parents and provide food for his people. Only then did he follow.
Jesus demands something different, something more of his disciples. He calls us to a single-minded determination to drop everything and follow him. Now, not later. © Copyright, J. S. Paluch Co.

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SAINTS AND SPECIAL OBSERVANCES
Sunday: Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time;
Canada Day
Tuesday: St. Thomas
Wednesday: St. Elizabeth of Portugal;
Independence Day
Thursday: St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria
Friday: St. Maria Goretti; First Friday
Saturday: Blessed Virgin Mary; First Saturday

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READINGS FOR THE WEEK
Monday: Gn 18:16-33; Mt 8:18-22
Tuesday: Eph 2:19-22; Jn 20:24-29
Wednesday: Gn 21:5, 8-20a; Mt 8:28-34; or, for Independence Day, any readings from the Mass “For Public Needs,” nos. 882- 889, or
“For Peace and Justice,” nos. 887-891
Thursday: Gn 22:1b-19; Mt 9:1-8
Friday: Gn 23:1-4, 19; 24:1-8, 62-67; Mt 9:9-13
Saturday: Gn 27:1-5, 15-29; Mt 9:14-17
Sunday: Is 66:10-14c; Ps 66; Gal 6:14-18;
Lk 10:1-12, 17-20 [10:1-9]
“No one who sets a hand to the plow
and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God.”
— Luke 9:62
TODAY'S READINGS
First Reading — Elisha left and followed Elijah as his attendant (1 Kings 19:16b, 19-21).
Psalm — You are my inheritance, O Lord (Psalm 16).
Second Reading — If you go on biting and devouring one another, beware that you are not consumed by one another (Galatians 5:1, 13-18).
Gospel — Go and proclaim the kingdom of God (Luke 9:51-62).

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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, Mary Devine, Richard Gulitus, Betty Swetz, Ed Knight and 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, Jr. Lisa Stine, Kath Sciascia, Sue Martin.

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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, LCPL William Mathes, LCPL Ernest Mathes, Karen Hassler, Tom Oroho, and SSG Mary Lynch.

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FAMILY PERSEPECTIVE
In today's gospel Jesus left for Jerusalem. This was dangerous and His friends could not prevent Him because He was “resolutely determined.” Family life is a series of leavings and lettings-go for school, jobs, marriage and finally in death. We are able to let-go because we believe and anticipate we will be reunited again.

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Parish Cookbook
The Parish Cookbooks are here! If you would like to purchase a copy, they will be for sale at the Sunday Social each week or you may call the rectory at 973-827-9575.
The cost is $10.00 and they make great gifts!

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Camp Auxilium
Interested in a Summer
Camping Experience?
Consider Camp Auxilium for girls, age 5-14, and for boys, age 5-10. For a brochure or more information, call 973-383-2621 or go to www.campauxilium.org

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Saint Thomas of Aquin Parish
in Ogdensburg, NJ is having a trip to Italy from November 4-13, 2007, which includes Rome, Assisi, Florence, Padua and Venice. Brochures and additional information can be obtained by calling Ann Breslin at 201-261-8484. Reservation deadline is July 1, 2007.

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No one has ever become poor by giving.
Anne Frank

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TO LIVE DELIBERATELY
It matters to what and to whom we commit ourselves- whether or not we marry and if we do to whom, whether or not we have children, what it is to which we give over the energy of our labors, what dreams we allow ourselves to be driven by, and ultimately the extent to which we allow faith to shape our lives. It all matters.

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INSIDE THE READINGS
The Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) compress the public life of Jesus into one year with just one trip to Jerusalem. They follow the outline used by the early preachers of the gospel. The outline began with John the Baptist and the baptism of Jesus. Then after the ministry of Jesus in Galilee, the journey to Jerusalem followed, ending with the events of Holy Week.
In today's Gospel from Luke, the author uses strong prophetic language to indicate the determination of the Lord to go to Jerusalem, the city of his destiny. There he will complete the work given to him by the Father: his death, resurrection, and ascension. "When the days for Jesus' being taken up were fulfilled, he resolutely determined to journey to Jerusalem" (Luke 9:51). The long journey that follows gives Jesus the opportunity to teach his disciples so that they will become reliable and well-informed witnesses to him after the Ascension.
In today's Gospel, the residents of a Samaritan village reject Jesus because he is going to Jerusalem. There was a deep hatred between Jews and Samaritans at the time of Jesus. But he rebukes his followers for wanting to punish them. He will often make it clear that he came to save everyone, that universal salvation is his primary goal.
In the final episode of today's Gospel, Jesus demands a firm commitment from those who would be his followers. Even the filial obligation of burying one's parent must yield to the urgency of proclaiming the kingdom of God. His difficult statement "Let the dead bury their dead" (9:60) means that those who are spiritually dead, who do not accept Jesus, should bury those who are physically dead. He then turns to the man who had offered to follow him, saying, "But you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God" (9:60). In today's first reading Elisha gives an example of being willing to leave his former way of life to share in the prophetic mission of Elijah.
THOUGHTS FOR ACTION
What we commit ourselves to matters. Conversely, looking back with longing dilutes the present and consequently the future as well. As believers, it is the vision of Jesus that continually shapes our present and future without disparaging our past.
Excerpted and edited from LIVING THE WORD for the Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time commentary by Msgr. Ralph Kuehner and Rev. Joseph Juknialis,
8 2007 by J. S. Paluch Co., Inc. 7/1/07

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May the special graces of baptism, through water and the Holy Spirit lead you to everlasting life. Our community at Immaculate Conception Church rejoices with you and gives praise and thanks to God for this new gift of life.
God bless…
Matthew John Martel
son of John & Amy Martel
Congratulations and may our Lord continue to bless you,
guide you and keep you in His loving care.

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The beautiful flowers in the
sanctuary are in memory of
John Salmon
as requested by his loving wife, Ruth

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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: $5,270.00
Next weekend's second collection is for Project Faith. Your help is so very important and appreciated.

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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.
Due to the Fourth of July holiday, the next meeting is on July 11th from 7:00-8:30 p.m. in the Ministry House.

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Is there something you keep putting off for “when you have the time” such as going for a nature walk or taking the kids fishing or surprising your spouse with a night out? Enjoy the moments you have together NOW. There are so many who wish they had another chance to have just one more minute with the ones they loved. Let us not take for granted the special gift we have of being able to be part of each other's lives.

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Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
Adoration takes place the last Friday of each month from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ending with a blessing. Parishioners are encouraged to take time out of their busy day to spend quiet time in the presence of the Lord.
Please sign up for a time slot that you are available to assure that there is adequate coverage each hour. A sign-up sheet is kept on the podium next to the candle stand.

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Religious Education News
Registration packets will be mailed to all former students within the next couple of weeks, as well as Immaculate Conception Regional School students who will be entering 8th Grade in September.
If you have a child who will be entering Kindergarten or First Grade in September please call the Rectory so a packet can be mailed to you.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call Isabel, who will be in the office until June 29th, at 973-827-9501.
Sincere thanks to all Teachers and Aides for their constant devotion to the children of our parish!
Have a wonderful Summer! God bless!

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Pipe Organ Celebration Mass
Last Sunday, our Parish marked a landmark in its history in the Dedication and Celebration of our new Pipe Organ.
The 12:00 Mass featured the organ and choir which was comprised of current and alumni Singers and included the Communion Hymn participation of decades-long parish music Wronka family representative, Andrew Moeckel. The Mass Celebration was followed by a demonstration and concert by two of our pipe organ builders, John Peragallo, Jr. and his son, John Peragallo, III. Monsignor O'Rorke blessed the organ, the musicians/singers and prayed over the Time Capsule filled with parish music artifacts to be “interred” within the organ console for its opening in the year 2057 by future parish musicians. A grand reception followed in the Lyceum.
Planning begun months before with an initial meeting with Father Martin, and apt rehearsal all within a mantle of prayer made out successful day possible; we were pleased to welcome many parishioners for Sunday's trio of festivities.
Several of the indispensable facilitating Committees included: invitations, mailing, hospitality, reception, folders pamphlet, and time capsule. Untold hours of planning and execution coupled with generosity and energy by scheduled and on-the-spot helpers went into the endeavor. Heartfelt thanks to the hands, voices and hearts contributing to our Pipe Organ Celebration Day. Choir and Helpers, though your names are too numerous to list, know they are inscribed indelibly in the history in which you have participated. Thank you so very much!
Rosanne Huttman
Music Director

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Prayer Shawl Ministry
Meetings will be suspended for the summer months but will resume in September! Please continue to knit or crochet. Completed shawls may be brought to the rectory at any time.
Wishing you all a happy, safe and relaxing summer!

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MARION PILGRIMAGE!
Bishop Arthur Serratelli has designated Saturday, September 29, 2007 as the day for our MARIAN PILGRIMAGE to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, D.C. We unite with our Bishop in honoring our Blessed Mother, in this largest Catholic church in the America's!
Bishop Serratelli will celebrate a Liturgy of Thanksgiving; there will be time to visit the many Marian and ethnic shrines.
Price for 1-day bus pilgrimage is $35, leaving parishes between 6 and 7:00 a.m., returning about 10:00 p.m. Overnight pilgrimage is also available.
Two parishioners are planning to attend this event! Consider joining them! Call Cynthia at the Rectory 973-827-9575 or call ITC TOURS at 1-800-828-2126 for information or registration.

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Caldwell College's Center for Continuing Education has three Adult Open Houses this summer. Come to the Alumni Theater on Tuesday, July 17th at 6:30 pm, Thursday, August 2nd at 6:30 pm or Saturday, August 4th at 10:00 am to get all of your questions answered. At this event you will get the opportunity to meet representatives from admissions, academic advising and financial aid who can suggest various programs and address all of your concerns. Remember to bring copies of your college/university and/or high school transcripts for immediate acceptance!

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Caldwell College makes it easy for you to earn a Bachelors Degree. Caldwell is flexible in transferring your previously earned credits towards a Bachelors Degree while you continue to earn a living. With the assistance of your personal academic advisor, build a flexible class schedule that works for you. Choose from on-campus, day, evening, Saturday or distance learning classes. For more information, contact Lynn Marie Peluso, an Adult Undergraduate Admissions Recruiter, at 973-618-3216 or email at lpeluso@caldwell.edu.

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Choose Life… As we celebrate our nation's birth, it is good to remember our founding principles, chief among which are the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Legalized abortion has upset that balance, but the Supreme Court took a small step toward restoring it when, in a decision upholding a ban on partial birth abortions, Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote, “The government may show its profound respect for the life within the woman.” A statement to celebrate and hopefully a sign of greater respect to come.

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Let us pray that this nation may use its freedom wisely, to protect the weak and vulnerable, born and unborn.
Honor peace more than anything else. But strive first of all to be at peace in yourself.
—John of Apamea, Syriac monk and spiritual writer

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Mass will be celebrated at 9:00 AM on Wednesday, July 4th.
Independence Day Prayer
On this Independence Day I am reminded of all those who have sacrificed for my freedom, following the example of your Son, Jesus Christ. Let me not take my freedom, both physical and spiritual, for granted. May I always remember that my freedom was purchased with a very high price. My freedom cost others their very lives.
Lord, today, bless those who have served and continue to give their lives for my freedom.
With favor and bounty meet their needs and watch over their families.
Help me to live my life in a way that glorifies you, Lord. Give me the strength to be a blessing in someone else's life today, and grant me the opportunity to lead others into the freedom that can be found in knowing Christ.
Amen

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Children's Liturgy of the Word
Ministers are needed to teach Children's Liturgy. Children's Liturgy is offered at the Saturday, 5:00 p.m. Mass, and at the Sunday 9:15 and 10:30 a.m. Masses. If you have interest in becoming a minister for Children's Liturgy please contact Cynthia at 827-9575.

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Music Festival Family Day Event
Samaritan Inn will be holding a fundraiser at Sussex County Community College on July 21st from 1:00—5:00 PM. Musicians from New York and New Jersey will be performing at the college pavilion. The fun-filled family event will entertain you as well as delight your pallet and engage ones interest through items available from intriguing merchants near and far. Admission: Adults $16; 12 and under $8 Under 5 free. For ticket information call Gail 973-827-8911.

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Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People
If any person may have been abused by any priest, they should immediately contact their local County Prosecutor's Office and either the Diocesan Response Officers: Rev. Msgr. James T. Mahoney, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, 973-777-8818, ext. 205 or Sister Mary Edward Spohrer, S.C.C., Chancellor/Delegate for Religious, 973-777-8818, ext. 248.
The entire text of the Policy of the Diocese of Paterson in Response to Complaints of Sexual Abuse is available on the Diocesan website: www.patersondiocese.org.

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My father didn't tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it. —Clarence B. Kelland

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