Church Bulletin Week of August 17, 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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Called to Act in God's Name
“Let all the nations praise you!” (Psalm 67:4) today's psalm response exclaims. In the psalms and other Hebrew scriptures, this kind of invocation is actually an invitation to God to act, to intervene in human lives in a manner that will cause everyone—not just the Chosen People—to give praise. Stated a bit more strongly, it is something of a “put up or shut up” challenge to God, the sort of strong statement the psalmists of Israel, trusting in their intimate and loving relationship with God, were not afraid to make.
The Gospel has its own exclamation, announcing the appearance of the Canaanite woman with “Behold!” (Matthew 15:22) “Behold!” is a scriptural flag that tells us that God is about to act or announce something through an individual or a situation. In the case of Jesus, God was going to act through this woman, whom nobody among Jesus' followers would have believed to be an agent of the divine will. Like the psalmists, we might passively inform or perhaps even actively challenge God to do something so that everyone will come to belief, but God will always turn the tables on us. It becomes our calling, our duty (as it was for Jesus) to behold the situations and persons of our daily lives so that God can act through us, so the Kingdom can be announced through our living. © Copyright, J. S. Paluch Co.
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TODAY'S READINGS
First Reading — Thus says the Lord: “Stand firm in justice; do what is right” (Isaiah 56:1, 6-7).
Psalm — O God, let all the nations praise you! (Psalm 67).
Second Reading — The gifts and the calling of God are unable to be revoked (Romans 11:13-15, 29-32).
Gospel — Recognizing the woman's great faith, Jesus said: “It shall be done as you wish” (Matthew 15:21-28).
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Holy Father's Prayer Intentions for August:
General: That the human family may learn to respect God's plan for the world and become ever more aware that Creation is God's great gift.
Mission: That the answer of the entire people of God to the common calling to holiness and mission may be promoted and fostered by means of careful discernment of charisms and constant commitment to spiritual and cultural formation.
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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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CCD Registrations Due August 15th
While leisure summer schedules and vacation planning are the focus of many of our families, the Office of Religious Education is in the process of preparing for the new catechetical year. If your children are returning to the program and you have not yet registered, please do so immediately. Letters for the start of the new year have only been sent to families registered in the 2007-2008 CCD school year. Registration forms can also be found in the vestibule of the church. Please call the Office of Religious Education and our Director of Faith Formation, Nadine Allen, will be glad to answer any questions you may have about the CCD program or the upcoming school year. CCD Teacher (Gr. K) and Aides( Gr. K-10) are needed for this year.
Please consider volunteering for this most worthwhile Ministry.
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Weekly Donations:
Last Weekend's Collection: $3,944
Mission Co-Op Collection: $2,229
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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United in Marriage
Our Parish Community rejoices with the families of
Kim Donohue and Paul McDermott
Congratulations. May the Lord continue to guide you and bless you with a lifetime of love and happiness.
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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. Application forms are available from the Rectory.
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Welcome in Baptism
Baptism is birth into the new life in Christ, a time of joy.
We joyfully welcome...
Timothy Joseph McQuade, Jr., son of Rebecca and Timothy
&
Lily Benemerito, daughter of Wendy and James
Congratulations to you and may God continue to bless you, guide you and keep you in His loving care.
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RCIA
Through RCIA you are welcomed into the Catholic Community.” The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults will help you travel your spiritual journey and follow Christ in your life. If you would like to ask about the Catholic faith and move on in your spiritual journey, call the Rectory Office.
Parishioners, who would like to be part of the RCIA Support Team to support RCIA Candidates, please speak to Fr. Bogie.
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Volunteers Needed
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Children's Liturgists
Please consider volunteering as a Children's Liturgist. Training will be provided. 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. Confirmation students are needed to help with the children's activities...project hours will apply.
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Request for Transportation
· Wheelchair bound parishioner wishes to occasionally attend 5pm Mass. If you or anyone you know owns/operates a wheelchair accessible van and can assist, please call the Rectory Office.
· Franklin parishioner, without transportation, wishes to attend 12:00 Mass. If you can assist, please call the Rectory Office.
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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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CCD Teacher's Meeting
There will be a meeting of all Religious Education Teachers, CCD and Confirmation, on, Tuesday, August 26th, at 7:00pm in the Lyceum. Please call the Rectory Office, 973-827-9501, to confirm your attendance and participation.
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On the Lighter Side
The CCD teacher asks, “Now, Johnny, tell me frankly do you say prayers before eating?” “No” little Johnny replies, “I don't have to, my mom is a good cook.”
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The Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary - August 22nd
Mary was assumed, carried, into Heaven by Jesus and the angels. Jesus ascended into Heaven, which is a different word; He went up to Heaven by His own power. Mary doesn't have that kind of power, so Jesus carried her. After she was assumed into Heaven, Jesus took His Mother to a throne next to His own. Since He is King and Lord of all, then as His Mother, she was to become Queen. Jesus, God our Father and the Holy Spirit placed a beautiful crown of twelve stars on her head. In 1954, Pope Pius XII established the Feast of the Queenship of Mary to be celebrated throughout the world, and commanded that on that day each year, the world should renew its consecration to her. She obtains all graces for us through her prayers. As our mother and as Jesus' Mother, she will always intercede for us to her Son, and lead us closer to Him. So we should pray to her in all our needs, and every day.
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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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Thinking of Getting Away from it All!
Cruise to Bermuda on October 18th - October 23rd, Sponsored by St. Monica's Church.
Call the Rectory for details: 973-875-4521
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Catholic Campus Ministry Club
All parishioners who are students at Sussex County Community college are invited to become involved in the Catholic Campus Ministry Club. This is one of the many clubs you can join at the college, and it is a good way to meet other people who also share your Catholic ideals and values. The club meets twice a month for an hour of reflective time and faith sharing. Call Carol Bezak at 973-875-4521 or 973-875-7041 for more information.
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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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Choose Life
Scripture makes clear the challenge before us in deciding our role in the right to life debate. Jesus says, “Amen, I say to you, what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me.” (Matt 25:46) If we do nothing for the protection of the unborn, surely the least among us, then we do nothing for Jesus.” Excerpt from Culture of Life Family Services Newsletter
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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.
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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. Call: 973-209-0123 for more information.
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Our Lady of Mount Carmel Tricky Tray
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Route 622, Swartswood, is having their annual Labor Day Tricky Tray on Saturday, August 30th. Doors open at 6:30 and drawing begins at 8pm. Over 100 trays, Specials, Super Specials, 50/50, and a Grand Prize of a laptop computer with accessories. Call 973-383-3566
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Shop Online for Charity
Visit the Paterson Diocese Shop for Charity Online Mall
There are 1000+ stores in the online Mall. When you visit the Home Page you will see featured stores just select the store. Once you have selected the store you want, you simply go shopping. Every purchase you make will return a % to Catholic Charities diocese of Paterson helping them make a difference in your world. This gives YOU the power to make a difference with your every day purchases.
Visit: http://www.shopforcharityday.com/134508
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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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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, 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, Harry Kosminsky, Jeanine Hodgins, Janice Rogers, Beverly Hand, Joan Boyer, Doris Gancarcik, Elizabeth Schaible, Bernadette Hoffman, Syrina Bruno, Vicki Schroeder, Ed Gonzales, John Tidona & 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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Altar Server Schedule
Sat 8/165:00NMoscalow ASica
Sun 8/177:30Morano
9:00ECox
10:30JMcKeever JFriend
12:00 MLattanzio JPayne
Sat 8/235:00JDragon
Sun 8/247:30Morano
9:00ASica DPeck
10:30RHolowienka JFriend
12:00 APost MPost
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THE GRAYS OF BLACK AND WHITE
Black and white sorting tends to make things clear-cut. We humans like that. We like knowing where we stand, what to expect, how to act. Little in life, however, is that simple. Life is lived mostly in grays.
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INSIDE THE READINGS
Early in today's Gospel Jesus says that his mission is "only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel" (Matthew 15:24). Some texts in the Old Testament, however, made it clear that salvation was intended for everyone. In today's first reading Yahweh promises, "My house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples" (Isaiah 56:7). Despite that tradition the relationship of the Gentiles to salvation was a thorny problem for the early church. This was especially true for Matthew's community, which consisted mainly of Jewish Christians. The evangelist wants to encourage the mission to the Gentiles.
The Canaanite woman beseeches Jesus, "Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David" (Matthew 15:22). He first responds with silence to the woman's prayerful plea to help her possessed daughter. Then Jesus points out that his mission is only to Israel. Despite all that the Canaanite woman "did him homage," and also persists in prayerful petition to Jesus, "Lord, help me" (15:25). However, Jesus responds harshly, saying that the Gentiles (dogs) cannot eat from the table of the Jews (masters). Instead of giving up, this woman, out of love for her daughter and because of her great belief in Jesus, continues. She answers in a clever but humble way, pointing out that even the dogs eat the scraps from the table.
Jesus may well have smiled as he responded, "O woman, great is your faith!" (15:28). This praise from Jesus is in strong contrast to his criticism of his disciples as persons "of little faith." He even said this to Peter, "O you of little faith" (14:31). Because of the woman's great faith Jesus heals her daughter "from that hour" (15:28).
As Christ is preparing to return to his Father he instructs his disciples to bring the gospel to everyone. "Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations" (28:19). This missionary thrust has been and always will be an essential part of the church of Jesus Christ.
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THOUGHTS FOR ACTION
Despite the aphorism that "Good fences make good neighbors," the opposite is true. Good neighbors take down fences of any sort. It is the divine instinct in us that overcomes walls, that seeks ways of healing and uniting. By the end of today's Gospel, Jesus breaks the cultural barriers and brings healing to the woman's daughter. Such activity is ultimately God's initiative and not ours. Excerpted and edited from LIVING THE WORD for the Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time commentary by Msgr. Ralph Kuehner and Rev. Joseph Juknialis, © 2008 by J. S. Paluch Co., Inc. 8/17/08
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