Church Bulletin Week of July 6, 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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A HUMBLE KING
Like a tonal center in music, the note to which we keep returning in today's readings is humility. We wait in joyful expectation for the coming of our Lord as King. But what we are told to expect and rejoice over is a meek and humble king, riding on an ass. Not horses or chariots of the great and mighty, but a humble beast carries the Ruler whose dominion stretches “from the River to the ends of the earth” (Zechariah 9:10). This King comes to banish the tools of the warrior and bring peace. No wonder that a weary world rejoices and gives thanks to God! © Copyright, J. S. Paluch Co.
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FINDING PEACE
If you want peace, work for justice.
—Pope Paul VI
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Holy Father's Prayer Intentions for July:
General:
That there may be an increase in the number of those who volunteer to serve the Christian community with generous and prompt availability
Mission:
That World Youth Day in Sydney, Australia, may kindle the fire of divine love in numerous young people and render them sowers of hope for a new humanity
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Offertory Gifts
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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Prayer for the Nation
Almighty God, You have given us this good land for our heritage. We humbly ask You that we may always prove ourselves a people mindful of Your favor and glad to do Your will. Bless our land with honorable endeavor, sound learning and pure manners. Save us from violence, discord, and confusion, from pride and arrogance, and from every evil way. Defend our liberties and fashion into one united people the multitude brought here out of many nations and tongues. Endow with the Spirit of wisdom those to whom in Your Name we entrust the authority of government, that there may be justice and peace at home, and that through obedience to Your law we may show forth Your praise among the nations on earth. In time of prosperity fill our hearts with thankfulness, and in the day of trouble do not allow our trust in You to fail. Amen.
by Thomas Jefferson, taken from "Prayers for Today," published by Leaflet Missal Co
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Mass for the People
Every week a pastor celebrates one Mass for the people entrusted to his care (canon 534). This Mass is designated in the Bulletin Mass Intentions as for the “People of the Parish.” The priest and parish receive no offering for this Mass. It is part of the pastor's responsibilities to the parish. This custom reminds the parish community of several values. The pastor has spiritual care for his flock, which includes praying for them and their intentions. The people can see that their priest is responding when they ask him to pray for their concerns. Sundays and holydays are honored as the special days on which the community gathers to praise God, share communion and hold one another in prayer. At Masses for the people, the pastor is obliged to pray for the parish. Especially at those Masses, it's a good idea for the people to pray for one another as well. Copyright © 2006 Resource Publications, Inc., Paul Turner.
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Online Education
Online Graduate Programs in Religious Education at 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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Are you Caring for an Elderly Love One?
Caregiver's Support Group - We're Here to Help You!
When: Last Tuesday of Every Month
Time: 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Location: Sussex County
Homestead Auditorium
129 Morris Turnpike
Newton, NJ 07860
Contact: Lori Baker, MSW, LSW
Phone: 973-948-5400, ext. 3140
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Attention Sussex County Seniors
You may be eligible to receive $20 in Farmers' Market Vouchers for participating farm stands in Sussex County.
Income Guidelines: Single- $19,240 annual - $370 week
Married -$25,900annual - $499 week
Proxies may be assigned for the homebound. Contact Sussex County Division of Senior Services at 973-579-0555. Must be 60 years of age or older and a resident of Sussex County. Enjoy locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs!
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Vacation Bible School
When: July 9th, 16th, 23rd, & 30th
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Where: First Presbyterian Church
Franklin, New Jersey
Ages 3-6th Grade
Bible Lessons, Skits, Songs, Crafts,
FUN - FUN - FUN and It's All FREE!!!
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Weekly 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: $4,564.00
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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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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 8-day directed retreats during July:
July 12-20, and July 23-31.
Visit: www.bethanyspiritualitycenter.org for information.
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Good News International
School of Catholic Lay Evangelization
Workshops 7/25—7/29 at Georgian Court University
1-800-430-0586
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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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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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Parish Picnic – Mark the Date - September 14th
Anyone wishing to volunteer to help with this annual event, please call the Rectory Office.
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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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WANTED! Rosary Makers for the Cause of Our Blessed Mother
Respond to the call of Our Lady. The need for rosaries is great and urgent. Become a missionary by making rosaries for missions in the US, the military and around the world.
Please call Our Lady's Rosary Makers 502-968-1434 or visit www.olrm.org
$13.50 for a beginner's kit for 50 rosaries. Instructions are included.
Great Summer Craft Activity for Children, too!
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Spiritual Growth Opportunity
For young adults, ages 20-40
Mount Paul Retreat Center—Oak Ridge, NJ. - August 1-3
Seeking God's Presence in Everyday Life.
Call 212-265-3209 or email: mike@bustedhalo.com
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Baptisms
The Community of Immaculate Conception Church joyfully welcomes through Baptism,
Alexis Noel Venezia, daughter of Suzanne and Bryan
and
Shawn Peter Sondervan, Jr. son of Stacey and Shawn
Congratulations and may God continue to bless you, guide you and keep you in His loving care.
“ NEW” Adult Initiation Program
You or someone you know may wish to talk about adult Baptism, how to become a Catholic or about receiving Communion or Confirmation. Call the Rectory Office to learn more about the RCIA Program Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults.
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A Catholic Education at Immaculate Conception Regional School
· Full and Part Time Preschool
· Full Day Kindergarten
· Programs for all 4 & 5 Year Olds
· 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 Lunch Bunch
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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Interested in Lay Ministry?
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. Please contact Ivannia at 973-777-8818.
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Prayer Requests
In Nursing Homes: Ceil Williams, Ethel Segarra and Pauline Trofimuk
At Home: Maria Woppel, 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, George Kobus, Harry Kosminsky, Jeanine Hodgins, Janice Rogers, Beverly Hand, Joan Boyer, Doris Gancarcik, Elizabeth Schaible, Bernadette Hoffman, Syrina Bruno, Doris Herron, Vicki Schroeder, Ed Gonzales, & 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, Pvt. Michael Gannon, Ryan Halkirt, Joseph Trainor, Shannon Barr 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.
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BLESSING AND BURDEN
As we wend our way through life, we frequently find ourselves accountable to someone or something, perhaps not always of our own choosing. Sometimes it is a blessing and at other times it becomes a burden.
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INSIDE THE READINGS
Today's Gospel contains wonderful teaching about Jesus and also encouragement for his followers. First and most important, Jesus is identified as the Son of God, equal to the Father. The Father and Son share the same knowledge, the same revelation: "No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him" (Matthew 11:27).
Christ, the final and definitive revelation of God, praises the Father in typical Jewish prayer form for revealing the mysteries of the kingdom to the "childlike" while concealing them from "the wise and the learned" (11:25). The childlike here can include the poor, the anawim of the Old Testament, the disciples of Jesus, the tax collectors, the sinners. The wise and the learned in this context are the arrogant scribes and Pharisees.
In addition to being the revelation of the Father, the Son of God is also presented as Wisdom personified. "Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened" (11:28) reflects many wisdom texts in the Hebrew scriptures. As an example, "Come aside to me, you untutored. . . Submit your neck to [wisdom's] yoke" (Sirach 51:23, 26). "Yoke" at that time referred to the Mosaic Law, which was very burdensome. There were six hundred thirteen precepts plus complicated interpretations by the scribes and Pharisees. Jesus says about the scribes and Pharisees, "They tie up heavy burdens [hard to carry] and lay them on people's shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them" (Matthew 23:4).
Christ, true Wisdom, meek and humble of heart, invites everyone to learn from him, "for my yoke is easy and my burden light" (11:30). "Meek" suggests today's first reading from Zechariah. There the Messiah is portrayed as meek, just, and peaceful in contrast to many of the kings of Israel who were aggressive warriors. Jesus' law is demanding; for example, "Love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). His law is easy and his burden light because he remains with and supports Christians with his continuing presence "until the end of the age" (Matthew 28:20).
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THOUGHTS FOR ACTION
The Way of Jesus is our yoke-burden when we strive to go our own way, but always intended as a blessing for those who seek a God who is love or a God who is freedom and life.
Excerpted and edited from LIVING THE WORD for the Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time commentary by Msgr. Ralph Kuehner and Rev. Joseph Juknialis, ©2008 by J. S. Paluch Co., Inc. 7/6/08
“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
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