WATCH YOUR POSTURE
Our posture is often a tip-off to our hospitality and reverence for the Lord. Note the actions of Abraham as he greeted the Lord in the presence of three men who appeared near his tent. He ran from the entrance of the tent to greet them. He bowed to the ground as he met them. He and Sarah, his wife, hastened to prepare a meal and bring food and water to their guests.
In the Gospel story, Jesus' friend Mary sat at his feet in order to listen to him speak.
How do we welcome and reverence the Lord? What do our actions show? Do we remember the Lord's presence in the Blessed Sacrament? How do we welcome the Lord in the scripture readings? How do we acknowledge his presence in our brothers and sisters, both at Mass and afterwards?
Whether we kneel, stand, or sit in the Lord's presence, may our hearts and minds always be attuned to him. © Copyright, J. S. Paluch Co.
 
It is Christ whom we proclaim, admonishing everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.
—Colossians 1:28B
 
SAINTS AND SPECIAL OBSERVANCES
Sunday: Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Monday: St. Bridget of Sweden
Tuesday: St. Sharbel Makhluf
Wednesday: St. James
Thursday: Ss. Joachim and Anne
Saturday: Blessed Virgin Mary
 
READINGS FOR THE WEEK
Monday: Ex 14:5-18; Mt 12:38-42
Tuesday: Ex 14:21 — 15:1; Mt 12:46-50
Wednesday: 2 Cor 4:7-15; Mt 20:20-28
Thursday: Ex 19:1-2, 9-11, 16-20b; Mt 13:10-17
Friday: Ex 20:1-17; Mt 13:18-23
Saturday: Ex 24:3-8; Mt 13:24-30
Sunday: Gn 18:20-32; Ps 138; Col 2:12-14;
Lk 11:1-13
 
TODAY'S READINGS
First Reading — Abraham shows hospitality to three visitors (Genesis 18:1-10a).
Psalm — He who does justice will live in the presence of the Lord (Psalm 15).
Second Reading — The mystery hidden from generations past has been manifested; it is Christ in you, the hope for glory (Colossians 1:24-28).
Gospel — Jesus converses with Martha and Mary about service and contemplation (Luke 10:38-42).
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Dear Parishioners,
I would like to express my sincere thanks for the warm welcome I received from all of you last weekend. I hope to work and grow with you together in spirit and in faith. I look forward to meeting those that I have not met yet and getting to know all of you!
In the first reading Abraham readily responds to God's call giving hospitality to three strangers he did not know that he was entertaining God himself and becomes worthy of God's blessings. The strangers regard him with the good news that his wife is to bear him a child.
Today's second reading is from the letter to the Colossians. Paul wrote this letter from the prison. As we see from the letter, the Apostle suffers for his converts. He also sees in his sufferings a confirmation that Christ is with him and so he is happy in his situation. His sufferings bring him closer to Christ. He is a minister of the mystery hidden for generations namely the calling of the gentiles to salvation.
In the gospel the sisters Martha and Mary welcome Jesus into their home in Bethany, though each does so in a different way. Martha thinks how to prepare a good meal for Jesus—a very kind and hospitable thought. Mary on the other hand, sits at his feet and drinks in his words.
Most of us should be able to identify with Martha. We rush about, busy with many things, yet constantly short of time. Sometimes we might neglect others. We might not have time to listen to them. Neither have we time to reflect on our lives, to listen to the word of God and to pray. Yet without the word of God we are blind and our activities are rendered barren, or at least they leave us drained and empty.
God's word is a lamp for our steps and a light for our path. We have to listen to his word so that we may do his will, and surely to do his will is the whole purpose of our lives.
From time to time we must stop, if only for a few minutes. God is saying: “Be still, I, your God, want to speak to you. I have something important to say to you”.
I hope we can learn for the example of Mary.
—Fr. Bogie
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May the special graces of baptism, through water and the Holy Spirit lead you to everlasting life. Our parish community rejoices with you and gives praise and thanks to God for this new gift of life. God bless…
Noah Michael Snook
son of Shelley and Allen
Marisa Margaret Captoni
daughter of Rachel and John
Congratulations and may our Lord continue to bless you,
guide you and keep you in His loving care!  
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Sunday Social welcome
for Fr. Bogie!
Parishioners! Join us in the Lyceum this weekend, Sunday, July 22, after the 10:30 Mass to welcome Fr. Bogie with some delicious delights. Many, many thanks to all our Sunday Social volunteers who share their time, commitment and talent with us.
Witamy serdecznie

CCD REGISTRATION
Registration packets have been mailed to all former students, 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 the rectory at 973-827-9575
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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Blood Drive
We Need You!
Saturday, August 4th
Immaculate Conception Lyceum
8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Reasons Why You Should Donate Blood:
· Every three seconds, someone needs a blood transfusion!
· 20% of recipients are children – many are cancer patients!
· Giving blood is 100% safe!
· One pint of blood from one donor can save up to three lives!!!
· Your donation will go to someone in your community
· Donating will not cost you money.
· About 60% of the population are eligible to donate blood, yet less than 5% do!
· Your body will replenish the fluid lost during the donation within 24 hours.
· We will provide juice, donuts and cookies!
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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: $5,301.00

Christians should offer their brethren simple and unpretentious hospitality. —St. Basil
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The lovely flowers in the sanctuary this weekend are a loving birthday remembrance of
Kevin Reagan
requested by his family.
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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.
The next meeting will take place Wednesday, August 1, from 7:00-8:30 p.m. in the Ministry House.
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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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Do you have a little time each week?
Help us help others ...
Partnership for Social Services Family Center is looking for dedicated volunteers!
Please call 973-827-4702 if you want to volunteer, meet new people and make new friendships while at the same time helping others.
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MARION PILGRIMAGE TO THE BASILICA
OF THE NATIONAL SHRINE OF
THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
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.
Four 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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Children's Liturgy of the Word
Attention Parishioners: Children's Liturgy will not be conducted during the months of July and August.
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. Thank you. Have a wonderful summer!
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 Singles Ministry
Immaculate Conception Singles Ministry welcomes all singles of any age. The Singles Ministry focus is spiritual growth, fellowship and service to God's Community. This lay ministry provides an opportunity for singles to encourage, receive and give support to each other in our Faith Journey. For further information on activities, please contact Janice at the Rectory 973-827-9575.
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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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SUSSEX COUNTY DIVISION OF SOCIAL SERVICES
SPECIAL PRE-SCHOOL EDUCATION SERVICES
Every public school system offers special education programs and services for pre-school students as well as students who are already attending school. If you notice that your child between the ages of 3 and 5 is experiencing physical, emotional, or learning difficulties, he or she may be eligible for special education related services even before entering kindergarten. If you are concerned about your preschool child's progress, contact the Child Study Team in your school district. All evaluations and services are no cost to the parent.
The county also offers a special services program known as Special Child Health Services to babies from birth to 3 years who may be thought to have a developmental delay. Call 973-948-5239 for further information.
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Catholic Charities
Annual Summer Concert
“Music for a Midsummer Night”
Please save the date for this year's Catholic Charities Summer Concert. Join us at the Catholic Campus Ministry Center of William Paterson University on Tuesday evening, July 31 at 7:30 p.m.
Fr. Ed and friends will perform songs by the great American composers Richard Rodgers, George Gershwin, Jerome Kern, Arthur Schwartz, Cole Porter and more. Reception to follow at the Center. $75 per person. All proceeds will go to the programs and services of Catholic Charities Diocese of Paterson.
For further information contact Ruth Saginario in the Development Office at 973-523-4456.
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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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 A Family Perspective
The gospel today teaches us to imitate BOTH Martha and Mary. We must “welcome others into our home” as Martha did, but we must also “listen” to them as Mary did. Welcoming and listening create hospitality.
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Parish Cookbooks
Parish Cookbooks are available! 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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Diocese of Paterson
Silver and Gold Wedding
Anniversary Mass
Couples, were you married in 1957 or 1982?
You are warmly invited to celebrate your 25th or 50th Wedding Anniversary with the Church of Paterson. Bishop Arthur Serratelli will be the main celebrant at Mass at St. Mary Church, Passaic, where you will renew your marriage commitment on ...
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2007 at 3:00 p.m.
Arrangements can be made by contacting Cynthia in the Rectory, 973-827-9575. Application forms are available through Tuesday, August 28, 2007. A confirmation letter will be sent from the Diocesan Center once your application has been processed. Bring family and friends to attend this joyous event with you!

Do not desire to be other than you are, but desire to be very well what you are. —St. Francis de Sales

 
ON THE WINDS OF CHANGE
Most of us like to keep life as it is. Change can be unsettling, especially too much of it. Yet change also brings new perspectives and opens us to becoming what we never would have dreamed. Today's Gospel is presents an unexpected turn, not because Martha was abandoned in the kitchen, or was unimportant, or because her sister, Mary, seemed more spiritual, but because it became apparent that a woman could sit at the feet of a master as readily as a man. Such a thing was both unexpected and unsettling.
 
INSIDE THE READINGS
In today's Gospel Jesus commends Mary for choosing to be his disciple and hear from him the word of God. He says, "Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her" (Luke 10:42).
Jesus is continuing his journey to Jerusalem, but stops in the village of Bethany, the home of his friends Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. The Gospel of John also refers to these friends John 11:1; 12:1-3). Bethany is near Jerusalem, the goal of Jesus' journey.
Jesus truly appreciated the concern of Martha for his physical needs, but preferred the attention to him and his word shown by Mary. She realized that "there is need of only one thing" (10:42), to be a disciple of Jesus. It was quite unusual at that time for a woman to be a disciple of a Jewish teacher. Mary "sat beside the Lord at his feet, listening to him speak" (10:39) as a disciple would. In the Acts of the Apostles Paul says, "At the feet of Gamaliel I was educated strictly in our ancestral law" (Acts 22:3). The fact that Jesus accepts Mary as a disciple highlights another theme of the Gospel of Luke, namely the great concern of Jesus for women.
The Christian reader of Luke's Gospel is being told that Jesus does expect acts of loving concern for one's neighbor as exemplified by the Good Samaritan in last Sunday's Gospel (Luke 10:29-37). But this incident in Bethany reminds everyone that it is essential to find one's strength for a Christ-like life by imitating Mary, who drew close to Jesus and heard from him the word of God. That word is the basic message of Jesus for the world, a very important theme for Luke.

THOUGHTS FOR ACTION
It would seem that God thrives on the unexpected. Or else God uses the unexpected as a stirring spoon in the soup pot of life. Either way, there is a sense in which the unexpected has a quality of the divine about it.
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Excerpted and edited from LIVING THE WORD FOR THE SIXTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME commentary by Msgr. Ralph Kuehner and Rev. Joseph Juknialis, 8 2007 by J. S. Paluch Co., Inc. 7/22/07

 

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