Church Bulletin Week of July 27, 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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LISTEN TO YOUR DREAMS
God visits Solomon in a dream, and the scripture story nowhere tells us that Solomon awoke to have this conversation with God! So, still in his dream, Solomon answers God's question about what he desires most, and God grants his request for wisdom in abundance.
In our waking hours, we are much distracted by work, home, family, traffic, entertainment, and many worries. When we try to think about what we really want out of life, we have trouble even imagining what that might be. But deep inside, our real longings dwell, known to God and to the Holy Spirit. Our dreams, unencumbered by defenses, may hold clues to what our deepest needs are, or what bothers us most. They could be God speaking.
(c) Copyright, J. S. Paluch Co.
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TODAY'S READINGS
First Reading -- Solomon prays for an understanding heart (1 Kings 3:5, 7-12).
Psalm -- Lord, I love your commands (Psalm 119).
Second Reading -- All things work for the good for those who love God Romans 8:28-30).
Gospel -- The one who knows of the kingdom of heaven brings out the new and old from the storeroom (Matthew 13:44-52 [44-46]).
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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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Liturgy and Life
Our lives are supposed to prepare us for the Liturgy. We bring our successes and even failures to the altar and offer them up to the Lord. Then, when we leave the Mass, we have been strengthened so that we can live our Christian commitment more fully. Liturgy and life are not supposed to be separated from each other. They are to interpenetrate each other and make the other more meaningful. (Pastoral Reflection taken from St. Joseph Handbook for Proclaimers of the Word)
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An Invitation:
We invite you be become an active member of our Church Liturgies by participating in one of the Ministries at Immaculate Conception Parish. We need: Homebound Ministers, Children's Liturgists, CCD Teachers and Aides, and Parish Nurses. The need is great and likewise the rewards are great.
Please look deep within and see if you can fulfill one of these rewarding Ministry positions at our Parish.
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Weekly Donation:
Last Weekend's Collection: $4,579.00
We are grateful for your contributions this weekend and for all that you have done for our parish in the past.
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CCD Registrations
Registration packets will be sent home in the mail this week. If you do not receive one in the mail, extra copies can be found in the back of the church.
Please return all applications by August 15th to the Office of Religious Education.
For more information call Nadine at 973-827-9501.
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Welcome in Baptism:
Immaculate Conception Parish Welcomes in Baptism and
Samantha Ann Iannelli daughter of Allyson & Nicholas
Genevieve Adel Kerr & Vivienne Grace Kerr daughters of Jennifer and Jon
May the Lord bless you and keep you in His loving care.
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In Loving Memory
The beautiful flowers this weekend are in loving memory of Nestor DeLaTorre requested by his family.
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RCIA
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: Learn more about the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults.
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Attention Parish Couples
Couples were you married in 1958 or 1983?
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 in the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Paterson on Sunday, October 26, 2008 at 3:00 pm.
Arrangements can be made by contacting the parish office. Application forms are available through September 22nd. 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.
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Upcoming Events:
Grief Support Group Meeting: Wednesday, August 6th at 7-8:30 pm in the Ministry House.
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SOUPer SUNDAY FOOD PANTRY: Collection for the Food Pantry will take
place this weekend. As always your generosity serves many who are in need.
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Children's Liturgists Needed
Please consider volunteering as a Children's Liturgist. Training will be provided. Children's Liturgy is an integral part of every child's church experience. You will have the opportunity to help teach our children the Word of the Lord, embrace the opportunity to inspire them, and encourage and empower the children through their faith. Contact Cynthia at the Rectory.
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Parish Picnic September 14th
Anyone wishing to volunteer to help with this annual event please call the Rectory Office.
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Blood Pressure Sunday: Stop by the Lyceum after the 10:30 Mass to have your blood pressure taken by one of our Parish Nurses. It's healthy to be “Heart Smart” and “Heart Healthy.”
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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 through 8th Grade
· Education in a safe, caring & spiritual setting.
· Extended Care available to working parents
· Most competitive rates in Sussex County
Call 973-827-3777 or visit www.ICRSCHOOL.com
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School Supply Drive
The Knights of Columbus are conducting a school supply drive for children in the Bronx, NY. Donations can be dropped off in the box at the back of the church. Supplies will be collected until August 24th. Thank you.
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On the Lighter Side
A Father was at the beach with his children when the 4yr. old ran up to him, grabbed his hand, and led him to the shore where a seagull lay dead in the sand. “Daddy, what happened to him? The child asked. “He died and went to Heaven,” the dad replied. The child thought for a moment and said, “Did God throw him back down?”
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A Family Perspective
· “The man in today's gospel 'sold all he had' for the treasure he found. Family relationships are 'treasures' and demand our total personal investment. Invest yourself in the “treasure” of your family.” Bud Ozar
· “I have always looked at life as a voyage, mostly wonderful, sometimes frightening. In my family and friends I have discovered treasure more valuable than gold.” Jimmy Buffet
· “Family and friends are hidden treasures, seek them and enjoy their riches.” Wanda Hope Carter
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Choose Life:
The “Right to Life” debate “...is not a debate about religious doctrine or even about public policy options. It is a debate about our understanding of human dignity, what it means to be a member of the human family,
even though tiny, powerless and unwanted.” Rep. Henry Hyde
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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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Vacation Bible School
Vernon United Methodist Church - August 11-15; 9am - 12pm.
Open for all pre-school to 5th grade. 973-764-3188
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Weekend Retreat for Separated or Divorced
will be given on Sept. 12,13,14, 2008 in Newton, N.J. by a Franciscan Retreat Team. For more information Call Fr. Tom Kelly, OFM 973-985-9736.
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Bus Pilgrimage to the Shrines of Philadelphia sponsored by Our Lady of the Lake Parish, Sparta on Saturday August 9th, 2008.
Directed by Fr. Michael A. Rodak
The one day pilgrimage includes stops at the National Shrine of the Miraculous Medal, the Shrine of St. Rita, Shrine of St. Katharine Drexel, and the Shrine of St. John Neumann.
Includes: transportation, lunch, dinner, and prayer booklet. Cost $60….reservations first come, first, serve, paid basis. Call Fr. Michael at 973-729-6107
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Plan Ahead for the Spring Semester....
Consider a Lay Ministry Leadership Formation Scholarship to attend courses leading to a certificate or degree in lay ministry. Deadline is Nov 30th: Call 973-777-8818 X243 for more information.
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WANTED!
Rosary Makers for the Cause of Our Blessed Mother
Respond to the call of Our Lady. 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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Need a Ride?
Sussex County Assisted Transportation is a nonprofit service funded through a grant from the Sussex County Division of Senior Services, United Way of Sussex County and the Diocese of Paterson. Escort services for frail older adults (60+) are available for medical appointments and food shopping. Appointments must be made in advance: Call: 973-209-0123 for more information.
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St. John Vianney Parish Feast Day Celebration
50th Anniversary Golden Jubilee Celebration
Saturday, August 2nd from 12-7pm
Sunday, August 3rd from 12-5pm
Games, Rock-Climbing Wall on Saturday, Crazy Caterpillar, Raffles, Food, Beverages, and Fun! Fun! Fun for all ages! For more information call:973-697-6550.
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Newark Bears Minor League Baseball Team
will be hosting a special night of faith on Saturday, August 23rd. After the baseball game, Point of Grace, the sensational Christian pop group, will be giving a concert at the ballpark… at Bears & Eagles Riverfront Stadium in Newark.
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Prayer Requests:
Please remember to pray for our parishioners and friends.
In Nursing Homes: Ceil Williams, Ethel Segarra and Pauline Trofimuk
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 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, Pvt. Michael Gannon, Ryan Halkirt, Joseph Trainor, Shannon Barr and CPL Matt Lindquist.
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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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Altar Server Schedule
Sat 7/265:00CBrossman NMoscalow
Sun 7/277:30MKHubbard SMorano
9:00ECox ASica
10:30RHolowienka MLattanzio
12:00DPeck AAllen
Sat 8/025:00NMoscalow
Sun 8/037:30JOroho
9:00ECox MFalk
10:30CMcDonald MMcDonald
12:00JDragon AAllen
Sat 8/095:00JMcKeever JMcKeever
Sun 8/107:30JOroho
9:00APost MPost
10:30RHolowienka JFriend
12:00 JPayne DPeck
Th 8/14 7PM ECox
Fri 8/15 7AM JDragon & MLattanzio
7 PM JPayne
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BEING FOUND
Anyone who has ever gone fishing knows that you never find the fish. They find you. That's how it is with most things of any worth. Things like love, or the right job, or wanting a child, or even faith. It seems to be a matter of patient waiting, until it finds you. The reign of God seems to find us rather than the other way around. At least that's what the Gospel this Sunday suggests when it compares the reign of God to a treasure found buried in a field. Treasures tend to find us, sometimes even when we're actually searching for them, as in the Gospel's tale of the fine pearl. That's why Solomon needed to lean on God for some wisdom, because he couldn't come to it on his own.
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INSIDE THE READINGS
Today's Gospel concludes the day of parables, Jesus' teaching about the kingdom of heaven. The first two parables today stress the great value of God's kingdom. It is worth any sacrifice. It is so rewarding for the follower of Jesus that the commitment should be a joyful acceptance of the reign of God. That is the message of the parable of the treasure and the parable of the pearl.
Historians tell us that it was common for persons to hide their valuable property in the ground. The man in the parable comes across such a hoard, the symbol of God's kingdom, by accident. He joyfully sells everything to acquire that field and its treasure. The merchant also is willing to give up everything to get possession of "the pearl of great price," also a symbol of the kingdom of heaven. Matthew himself is an example of such total commitment to the kingdom. When Jesus called him, "leaving everything behind, he got up and followed him" (Luke 5:27).
The parable of the net concludes the series. Its teaching is the same as the explanation of the parable of the weeds among the wheat. The kingdom will have both good and evil until the end of time, when the final sorting will take place.
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THOUGHTS FOR ACTION
Some folks suggest that most of the really valuable things we wait for are part and parcel of God's reign, things like love or wisdom or the joy that comes with the perfect job or the long-awaited child. There is little in life that we can control, and certainly not faith or a sense of God's presence or wisdom or any such things. They all require patience, and they are all discovered with a sense of pure gift. It's as if God plans it that way. Excerpted and edited from LIVING THE WORD for the 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time commentary by Msgr. Ralph Kuehner and Rev. Joseph Juknialis, © 2008 by J. S. Paluch Co., Inc.7/27/08
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