News

First Reading:
She left and did as Elijah had said. She was able to eat for a year, and he and her son as well; the jar of flour did not go empty, nor the jug of oil run dry, as the LORD had foretold through Elijah. (1 Kgs. 17:15-16)

Psalm:
Praise the Lord, my soul! (Ps. 146)
or:
Alleluia

Second Reading:
But now once for all he has appeared at the end of the ages to take away sin by his sacrifice. (Heb. 9:26)

Gospel:
“Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury. For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood.” (Mk. 12:43-44) 

Excerpts from the Lectionary for Mass ©2001, 1998, 1970 CCD. The English translation of Psalm Responses from Lectionary for Mass © 1969, 1981, 1997, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved.

©LPi

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
It all really boils down to a matter of the heart, and actions do speak louder than words. We cannot hide from the truth. A problem with religion is that it is possible for someone to make everything appear to be right when actually it is not. We can say all of the right prayers, perform all of the proscribed rituals, claim that we adhere to orthodox doctrines and still lead a distorted, empty and sometimes pitiful life. Only actions springing from true and deep sacrifice demonstrate true integrity. Without sacrifice, even the noblest looking actions can amount to nothing. It is no wonder, then, that the widow who contributed from her poverty received great admiration from Jesus. While it may not always appear to be the case, God has a special care and regard for those who depend upon him in times of trouble and want. Only the person who is truly poor is the only one who can see this. Because of a lack of trust, the one who has much is afraid to take a risk and sees only what they possess as their only security.
©LPi

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

©LPi

---

Events:

• Food Pantries:
  • Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m.
  • Food truck: November 9, 4:00 p.m., South Seneca high school parking lot
  • Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.,
  • Trumansburg Food Pantry: Every other Monday (November 8) 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and 5:15–6:00 p.m., Methodist church
• Family Hope Center: Tuesdays 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., and Thursdays 4:00–6:00 p.m., Holy Cross
• Fr. Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30–7:30 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• Confirmation program: Sundays, 4:00 p.m., St. James
• Prayer for Healing and Harmony: Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m.
  • James Pine Room: November 17, December 1 & 15
  • Holy Cross Rectory: November 10 & 24, December 8 & 24
• Religious Education: November 14, 10:00 a.m., St. James
• Cemetery Fund collection: November 6 & 7
• Advent gathering/Holy hour: December 3, 7:00 p.m., Francis Solanus

National Vocation Awareness Week (NVAW):
This week is an annual week-long celebration of the Catholic Church in the United States dedicated to promoting vocations to the priesthood, diaconate, and consecrated life through prayer and education, and to renew our prayers and support for those who are considering one of these particular vocations. NVAW began in 1976 when the U. S. bishops designated the 28th Sunday of the year for NVAW. National Vocation Awareness Week will be celebrated in our country November 7-13, 2021. Please ask Our Lord for more dedicated, holy priests, deacons, and consecrated men and women. May they be inspired by Jesus Christ, supported by our faith community, and respond generously to God’s gift of vocation.

Cemetery Fund Collection—Today:
Our parish has two cemeteries: Holy Cross in Ovid, and St. James the Apostle in Trumansburg. They both operate with an annual deficit. Cemeteries must strive to maintain a fully funded “Permanent Maintenance Fund.” It is difficult to achieve this goal because the cemeteries do not have the opportunity to produce ongoing income to cover their costs. Your financial help is appreciated each year. This weekend a second collection will be taken up for the support of our parish cemeteries. You may also mail contributions to the parish office or make an offering through WeShare online giving. Thank you.

Cemeteries Fall Cleanup:
The fall cleanup for Holy Cross and St. James cemeteries will take place on Saturday, November 13. Please have all previous season’s decorations removed by that date. If possible, please take them home for disposal.

Angel Tree Tags:
This year the tags for the Angel Tree will need to be requested in advance. The tags would be for children up to age 12. While we cannot guarantee a specific gender or age for the child’s tag you might receive, all the children do come from families that have been or are having a difficult time and could use some outside support to help ensure a joyful Christmas for their children. If you would like to sponsor a child, or more than one child, please contact Gerald Frank at 607–869–5009 and leave a message or e-mail to . All requests will receive a confirmation. All gifts for the children will be due no later than December 5. Additional information will be provided with the tags that you receive. Thank you in advance for your kindness to those you don’t know.

Share the Warmth:
Trumansburg Rotary Club has placed a collection bin for winter outerwear on the St. James the Apostle Rectory porch. So, if you have coats, hats, gloves, scarves, boots, etc. that are not being used, drop them off to benefit another. This year, the annual Share the Warmth distribution of free winter outerwear will take place at Ithaca Catholic Charities from November 8-12 and November 15-19. Friendly volunteers are needed to wait on customers. Covid-19 safety protocols will be enforced. Contact Michaela to sign-up at or 607–272–5062. 

Seneca County Christmas Project:
Applications (sign-up) for participation in the Christmas Project will be accepted at the Ovid Food Pantry on Mondays through November 8 from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. For more information phone 315–835–1996. 

Prayer for Healing and Harmony:
Prayer sessions are held on Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. The next dates at St. James the Apostle Pine Room are November 17 and December 1 & 15. At Holy Cross Rectory the next dates are November 10 & 24 and December 8 & 22. Sr. Anne Alderman, SSJ will facilitate the sessions. For more information phone 607–209–4206 or email .

A Gathering:
Please mark your calendars for Friday, December 3, for a gathering at 7:00 p.m. at St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken to participate in a holy hour marking the beginning of the Advent Season. The holy hour will begin with Br. Francisco and a presentation on the Advent Season with the Blessed Virgin Mary as a role model during this season. The hour will conclude with Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament. The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available from 6:30–7:30 p.m. and after the Holy Hour.

The Word Among Us:
Daily meditations for Advent and the Advent daily Mass bible readings are available in the booklet, “The Word Among Us.” The booklets are in the church vestibules. A free will offering can be made for the booklet. It would be good that every household have and use the booklet daily during the Advent Season.

2021-2022 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
The active phase of our parish CMA campaign continues. By now past CMA donors have received a special letter in the mail with a personalized pledge card. Thank you to everyone who has responded with a gift or pledge. If you have not yet responded, please prayerfully consider a gift. The CMA provides funding for important programs, services and ministries that strengthen our whole Church. Every gift to the CMA helps those in need, supports the mission of the Church, and comes back to help our parish. Thank you. Let us continue to pray for the success of our efforts.

Birthright of Ithaca:
Birthright of Ithaca is celebrating 40 years of service to women and children in need in our surrounding communities. Come help us celebrate and see our new space! We will be hosting an Open House on Saturday, November 13, from 1:00–3:00 p.m.  We are located at 223 Elmira Rd. in Ithaca. We hope to see you there!

Worldwide Marriage Encounter:
Marriage Encounter will be November 12–14 at the Notre Dame Retreat House in Canandaigua. Register online at wwme.org. Couples can apply for a discount rate with the code ED&LEO35 at wwme.org. ​The WWME weekend teaches communication techniques such as active listening, listening with the heart and empathy towards your spouse’s feelings. It is based on the sacrament of Holy Matrimony and expresses the importance of love in the union and encourages this love be taken out into the world in various ministries to serve God by strengthening the couples and families in the church.

Day of Prayer:
The Notre Dame Retreat House in Canandaigua is offering a day of prayer with Fr. Ed Palumbos with the theme “The Table of the Lord”. The day of prayer is scheduled for November 10 from 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.. The cost, $25.00. To register please phone, 585–394–5700 or email .

Donating to Your Parish:
Online giving by WeShare is safe, simple and convenient. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3:

1. Visit the parish website’s giving page: https://marymotherofmercy.com/giving.
2. Follow the directions under the “Donate Online” section.
3. Set up your donation or payment.

That’s it! Your account will be created and you can put away your checkbook. If you experience any problems, please email Eileen at .

Synod of Bishops:
Pope Francis I has convoked an Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops (Synod: a church meeting to consult on church matters) to take place in Rome in October 2023—two years from now. Preliminary work for the Synod begins this month in all dioceses throughout the world. The theme for the Synod of Bishops is: For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission. The first phase is described as “listening to one another and walking forward together, guided by the Holy Spirit” on a Diocesan level.

Family Hope Center:
The Family Hope Center has two locations: one in Geneva and a satellite location in Ovid in the Holy Cross Church Rectory. Family Hope Center fights for life by valuing life above all else. It means offering support through free pregnancy tests, a limited ultrasound referral, parenting and life skills classes, bible studies, material aid such as diapers and clothing, and through our forgiven and set free post abortion study. It means looking at our clients and saying, “I see your life; I value your life. I see and value your children’s lives. You are important and loved.” Women come to the Family Hope Center to be valued. To learn more visit familyhopecentergeneva.org, call 315–789–0708, or email .

Please take time this week to pray the rosary for an end to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mass Intention Requests:
Parishioners requesting a Mass intention for a particular date and time can do so by completing the “Mass Intentions Request Form” located in the foyers of the churches. Mass intentions may also be requested by phoning the parish office.

Prayer Intentions:
Since we presently cannot have the prayer request books in our churches, do know that the prayer requests of fellow parishioners are still being listed on the parish website (see PRAYERS in top bar). If you would like to add a request, please email the parish at or phone the parish office at 607–294–0064 and it will be added to the list.

Sanctuary Lamp:
In Catholic Churches, a candle is always lit to indicate that the Blessed Sacrament is present in the church. This candle is called the “sanctuary lamp.” Every week the candle or oil is renewed. In many churches, people donate to the church for the sanctuary lamp be lit for the week for the intention of the donor. This has been the custom at Holy Cross Church, Ovid and is now extended to St. James the Apostle and St. Francis Solanus Churches. In making the donation simply put on the envelope, “donation for the sanctuary lamp” and specify the week and, if so desired, your intention.

Prayers from the Sisters of St. Joseph:
The Sisters of St. Joseph have a prayer ministry for the Diocese of Rochester. They have informed our parish that Sisters Anne Marie Burns and Dolores Bachman will be praying for our parish and parishioners throughout 2021. Let us keep in our prayers the two sisters praying for us and for all the Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester.

Year of St. Joseph:
Pope Francis initiated the Year of St. Joseph in recognition of the 150th Anniversary of the declaration of St. Joseph as patron of the Catholic Church. This year is dedicated to increase our love for this great saint, to encourage us to implore his intercession and to imitate his virtues and his zeal.

Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes:
The Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes is located at 551 Exchange St. in Geneva with an office in Ovid at 7231 Main St. “If you regret your abortion, you are not alone. Let us help you learn to forgive yourself.” For more information phone 315 789 0708, text: 315-945-1019, or e-mail .

Cancer Services Program (CSP):
Cortland and Tompkins Counties offer free cancer screenings to those who are uninsured or have health insurance that does not cover these screenings. The screening services are provided in local health centers, doctors’ offices, and hospitals. For more information, contact CSP at 866 442 2262.

First Reading:
“Therefore, you shall love the LORD, your God, with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength.” (Dt. 6:5)

Psalm:
I love you, Lord, my strength. (Ps. 18)

Second Reading:
But Jesus, because he remains forever, has a priesthood that does not pass away. Therefore, he is always able to save those who approach God through him. (Heb. 7:24-25)

Gospel:
And when Jesus saw that he answered with understanding, he said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” (Mk. 12:34)

Excerpts from the Lectionary for Mass ©2001, 1998, 1970 CCD. The English translation of Psalm Responses from Lectionary for Mass © 1969, 1981, 1997, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved.
©LPi

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
“Hear, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone!” This ancient prayer has been found on the lips of many of God’s devoted servants throughout history. In its simplicity it reminds us of a timeless truth we often forget. We often worship other gods rather than the One true God and find all of our relationships distorted as a result. This One True and Eternal God who alone has a solitary claim on us and must be loved with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. It is important that we remind ourselves often of God’s primary place in our lives, lest we get distracted and sidetracked. But there is one more important piece that Jesus insists belongs with this. We must love our neighbor as ourselves. You cannot have one without the other. God’s presence within each one of us requires that all of our relationships work together. This is at the heart of God’s kingdom.
©LPi

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

 

 

 

 

 

©LPi

 

---

Events:

• Food Pantries:
  • Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m.
  • Food truck: November 9, 4:00 p.m., South Seneca high school parking lot
  • Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.,
  • Trumansburg Food Pantry: Every other Monday (November 8) 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and 5:15–6:00 p.m., Methodist church
• Family Hope Center: Tuesdays 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., and Thursdays 4:00–6:00 p.m., Holy Cross
• Fr. Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30–7:30 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• Confirmation program: Sundays, 4:00 p.m., St. James
• Prayer for Healing and Harmony: Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m.
  • James Pine Room: November 3 & 17, December 1 & 1
  • Holy Cross Rectory: November 10 & 24, December 8 & 24
• Religious Education: October 31, 10:00 a.m., St. James
• Cemetery Fund collection: November 6 & 7

Parish Annual Financial Report:
The annual financial report, fiscal year July 1, 2020–June 30, 2021, was distributed by email or postal service to all parishioners on the weekend of October 10, 2021. Copies of the report are in the foyers of the Church. Thank you for your financial support and for keeping the parish solvent. You are a blessing.

2021-2022 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
The active phase of our parish CMA campaign continues. By now past CMA donors have received a special letter in the mail with a personalized pledge card. Thank you to everyone who has responded with a gift or pledge. If you have not yet responded, please prayerfully consider a gift. The CMA provides funding for important programs, services and ministries that strengthen our whole Church. Every gift to the CMA helps those in need, supports the mission of the Church, and comes back to help our parish. Thank you. Let us continue to pray for the success of our efforts.

All Saints’ Day – November 1:
This year All Saints’ Day is not a holy day of obligation because it falls on a Monday. On all Saints’ Day there will be one Mass at 8:30 a.m. at St. Francis Solanus in Interlaken.

All Souls’ Day is November 2:
It is the day the Church commemorates all the faithful departed. It is the custom that the names of one’s beloved deceased be submitted to be remembered and prayed for on that day and throughout the month of November. Envelopes are available in the churches to record the names of those to be remembered and prayed for. The envelopes will remain on the altar for the month of November. On that day, at the 8:30 a.m. Mass, the names of all those whose burial took place through the ministry of the Parish of Mary, Mother of Mercy during the past year will be announced, and a candle will be lit in remembrance of them. 

Cemetery Fund Collection:
Collection for the support of our two parish cemeteries will be taken up on the weekend of November 7. In preparation for that collection envelopes have been placed in the churches. Also, the opportunity to donate is online through the WeShare program.

Angel Tree Tags:
This year the tags for the Angel Tree will need to be requested in advance. The tags would be for children up to age 12. While we cannot guarantee a specific gender or age for the child’s tag you might receive, all the children do come from families that have been or are having a difficult time and could use some outside support to help ensure a joyful Christmas for their children. If you would like to sponsor a child, or more than one child, please contact Gerald Frank at 607–869–5009 and leave a message or e-mail to . All requests will receive a confirmation. All gifts for the children will be due no later than December 5. Additional information will be provided with the tags that you receive. Thank you in advance for your kindness to those you don’t know.

Share the Warmth:
Trumansburg Rotary Club has placed a collection bin for winter outerwear on the St. James the Apostle Rectory porch. So, if you have coats, hats, gloves, scarves, boots, etc. that are not being used, drop them off to benefit another.

Cemeteries Fall Cleanup:
The fall cleanup for Holy Cross and St. James cemeteries will take place on Saturday, November 13. Please have all previous season’s decorations removed by that date. If possible, please take them home for disposal.

Seneca County Christmas Project:
Applications (sign-up) for participation in the Christmas Project will be accepted at the Ovid Food Pantry on Mondays through November 8 from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and at the Interlaken Food Pantry on Fridays through November 5 from 3:00–6:00 p.m. For more information phone 315–835–1996.

Prayer for Healing and Harmony:
Prayer sessions are held on Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. The next dates at St. James the Apostle Pine Room are November 3 & 17 and December 1 & 15. At Holy Cross Rectory the next dates are November 10 & 24 and December 8 & 22. Sr. Anne Alderman, SSJ will facilitate the sessions. For more information phone 607–209–4206 or email .

Synod of Bishops:
Pope Francis I has convoked an Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops (Synod: a church meeting to consult on church matters) to take place in Rome in October 2023—two years from now. Preliminary work for the Synod begins this month in all dioceses throughout the world. The theme for the Synod of Bishops is: For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission. The first phase is described as “listening to one another and walking forward together, guided by the Holy Spirit” on a Diocesan level.

Birthright of Ithaca:
Birthright of Ithaca is celebrating 40 years of service to women and children in need in our surrounding communities. Come help us celebrate and see our new space! We will be hosting an Open House on Saturday, November 13, from 1:00–3:00 p.m.  We are located at 223 Elmira Rd. in Ithaca. We hope to see you there!

Worldwide Marriage Encounter:
Marriage Encounter will be November 12–14 at the Notre Dame Retreat House in Canandaigua. Register online at wwme.org. Couples can apply for a discount rate with the code ED&LEO35 at wwme.org. ​The WWME weekend teaches communication techniques such as active listening, listening with the heart and empathy towards your spouse’s feelings. It is based on the sacrament of Holy Matrimony and expresses the importance of love in the union and encourages this love be taken out into the world in various ministries to serve God by strengthening the couples and families in the church.

News:
The official voice of the Catholic Church in the Empire State is the New York State Catholic Conference. Stay on top of the issues of concern to Catholics, get the latest new on our Bishops and Dioceses, find inspiring content to deepen your spiritual life and more! Facebook: @nyscatholicconference; Twitter: @NYSCatholicConf or Instagram: @NYSCatholicConf.

Donating to Your Parish:
Online giving by WeShare is safe, simple and convenient. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3:

1. Visit the parish website’s giving page: https://marymotherofmercy.com/giving.
2. Follow the directions under the “Donate Online” section.
3. Set up your donation or payment.

That’s it! Your account will be created and you can put away your checkbook. If you experience any problems, please email Eileen at .

Family Hope Center:
The Family Hope Center has two locations: one in Geneva and a satellite location in Ovid in the Holy Cross Church Rectory. Family Hope Center fights for life by valuing life above all else. It means offering support through free pregnancy tests, a limited ultrasound referral, parenting and life skills classes, bible studies, material aid such as diapers and clothing, and through our forgiven and set free post abortion study. It means looking at our clients and saying, “I see your life; I value your life. I see and value your children’s lives. You are important and loved.” Women come to the Family Hope Center to be valued. To learn more visit familyhopecentergeneva.org, call 315–789–0708, or email .

Please take time this week to pray the rosary for an end to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mass Intention Requests:
Parishioners requesting a Mass intention for a particular date and time can do so by completing the “Mass Intentions Request Form” located in the foyers of the churches. Mass intentions may also be requested by phoning the parish office.

Prayer Intentions:
Since we presently cannot have the prayer request books in our churches, do know that the prayer requests of fellow parishioners are still being listed on the parish website (see PRAYERS in top bar). If you would like to add a request, please email the parish at or phone the parish office at 607–294–0064 and it will be added to the list.

Sanctuary Lamp:
In Catholic Churches, a candle is always lit to indicate that the Blessed Sacrament is present in the church. This candle is called the “sanctuary lamp.” Every week the candle or oil is renewed. In many churches, people donate to the church for the sanctuary lamp be lit for the week for the intention of the donor. This has been the custom at Holy Cross Church, Ovid and is now extended to St. James the Apostle and St. Francis Solanus Churches. In making the donation simply put on the envelope, “donation for the sanctuary lamp” and specify the week and, if so desired, your intention.

Prayers from the Sisters of St. Joseph:
The Sisters of St. Joseph have a prayer ministry for the Diocese of Rochester. They have informed our parish that Sisters Anne Marie Burns and Dolores Bachman will be praying for our parish and parishioners throughout 2021. Let us keep in our prayers the two sisters praying for us and for all the Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester.

Year of St. Joseph:
Pope Francis initiated the Year of St. Joseph in recognition of the 150th Anniversary of the declaration of St. Joseph as patron of the Catholic Church. This year is dedicated to increase our love for this great saint, to encourage us to implore his intercession and to imitate his virtues and his zeal.

Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes:
The Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes is located at 551 Exchange St. in Geneva with an office in Ovid at 7231 Main St. “If you regret your abortion, you are not alone. Let us help you learn to forgive yourself.” For more information phone 315 789 0708, text: 315-945-1019, or e-mail .

Cancer Services Program (CSP):
Cortland and Tompkins Counties offer free cancer screenings to those who are uninsured or have health insurance that does not cover these screenings. The screening services are provided in local health centers, doctors’ offices, and hospitals. For more information, contact CSP at 866 442 2262.

 

First Reading:
I will gather them from the ends of the world, with the blind and the lame in their midst. (Jer. 31:8)

Psalm:
The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy. (Ps. 126)

Second Reading:
No one takes this honor upon himself but only when called by God, just as Aaron was. (Heb. 5:4)

Gospel:
The blind man replied to him, “Master, I want to see.” Jesus told him, “Go your way; your faith has saved you.” (Mk. 10:46-52)

Excerpts from the Lectionary for Mass ©2001, 1998, 1970 CCD. The English translation of Psalm Responses from Lectionary for Mass © 1969, 1981, 1997, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved.
©LPi

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
“To fall in love with God is the greatest romance; to seek Him the greatest adventure; to find Him the greatest human achievement.” These words of St. Augustine are timeless. Every human being would certainly profit with wisdom if they realized Who calls them and to Whom they belong. There is only one way to satisfy the deepest longing of the human heart and that is in relationship with our Creator. When we seek God with true sincerity of heart and God passes us along our way, we will cry out, “Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!” We will instinctively know that it is only our Divine Master who can restore our sight and heal us. The blind man fell in love with Jesus, embarked upon this life-saving adventure to reach him and achieved a goal many have only remotely thought possible. This is mercy in action. No matter how far we stray or how blind we become God patiently waits to console us, guide us, and heal us. All we need to do is desire Him with all our heart.
©LPi

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

 

 

 

 

 

 

©LPi

---

Events:

• Food Pantries:
  • Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m.
  • Food truck: November 9, 4:00 p.m., South Seneca high school parking lot
  • Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.,
  • Trumansburg Food Pantry: Every other Monday (October 25) 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and 5:15–6:00 p.m., Methodist church
• Family Hope Center: Tuesdays 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., and Thursdays 4:00–6:00 p.m., Holy Cross
• Fr. Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30–7:30 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• Confirmation program: Sundays, 4:00 p.m., St. James
• Prayer for Healing and Harmony: October 27, 1:00 p.m., Holy Cross Rectory
• Religious Education: October 31, 10:00 a.m., St. James
• World Mission Sunday special collection: October 23 & 24
• Cemetery Fund collection: November 6 & 7

Funeral:
Michael C. Iannone, age 30, died October 12. There was a graveside service October 16, 2021, at Holy Cross Cemetery, Ovid. For the past seven years Michael did the grass cutting at Holy Cross Church and Cemetery and recently at St. James Catholic Cemetery. He also did the snow plowing at Holy Cross. Michael died of COVID. The parish was always appreciative of Michael’s work and his faithfulness. We keep him in our hearts and prayers.

Prayer for Healing and Harmony:
The next gathering for prayer will be at Holy Cross Rectory on Wednesday, October 27. Sister Anne Alderman, SSJ will facilitate the prayer sessions. For more information phone 607–209–4206 or email .

World Mission Sunday 2021:
Today is World Mission Sunday. We celebrate this day by remembering our baptismal call – to bring the Gospel to all! The collection today for the Society of the Propagation of the Faith supports the work and witness of the Mission Church, as it provides for priests, religious and lay leaders who offer the Lord’s mercy and concrete help to the most vulnerable communities in the Pope’s missions. Thank you for your generosity.

Baby Leighton Update:
Several weeks ago, Fr. Richard asked parishioners to pray for a baby relative of his. Fr. Richard reports that the baby is doing fine. Thank you all so much for your prayers. Everyone is so grateful.

All Saints’ Day – November 1:
November 1 is a Monday, therefore this year All Saints’ Day is not a holy day of obligation. On All Saints’ Day there will be one Mass at 8:30 a.m. at St. Francis Solanus in Interlaken.

All Souls’ Day is November 2:
It is the day the Church commemorates all the faithful departed. It is the custom that the names of one’s beloved deceased be submitted to be remembered and prayed for on that day and throughout the month of November. Envelopes are available in the churches to record the names of those to be remembered and prayed for. The envelopes will remain on the altar for the month of November. On that day, at the 8:30 a.m. Mass, the names of all those whose burial took place through the ministry of the Parish of Mary, Mother of Mercy during the past year will be announced, and a candle will be lit in remembrance of them.

Cemetery Fund Collection:
Collection for the support of our two parish cemeteries will be taken up on the weekend of November 7. In preparation for that collection envelopes have been placed in the churches.

Cemeteries Fall Cleanup:
The fall cleanup for Holy Cross and St. James cemeteries will take place on Saturday, November 13. Please have all previous season’s decorations removed by that date. If possible, please take them home for disposal.

Parish Annual Financial Report:
The annual financial report, fiscal year July 1, 2020–June 30, 2021, was distributed by email or postal service to all parishioners on the weekend of October 10, 2021. Copies of the report are in the foyers of the Church. Thank you for your financial support and for keeping the parish solvent. You are a blessing.

2021-2022 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
Hopefully, you have received the Catholic Ministries Appeal mailing and have had a chance to review the materials. The theme for this year’s campaign is “Forward in Faith.” The CMA supports each of us in our faith life and enables us to live out our purpose as Catholics. Through gifts to the CMA, we support the larger Church so that it may meet real needs throughout the Diocese. Your gift to the CMA enables the Church to be responsive and caring in fulfilling it mission. Please be as generous as your means allow in your response. Every gift is needed and important! Please pray for the success of our efforts. Thank you.

Synod of Bishops:
Pope Francis I has convoked an Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops (Synod: a church meeting to consult on church matters) to take place in Rome in October 2023—two years from now. Preliminary work for the Synod begins this month in all dioceses throughout the world. The theme for the Synod of Bishops is: For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission. The first phase is described as “listening to one another and walking forward together, guided by the Holy Spirit” on a Diocesan level.

Seneca County Christmas Project:
Applications (sign-up) for participation in the Christmas Project will be accepted at the Ovid Food Pantry on Mondays through November 8 from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and at the Interlaken Food Pantry on Fridays through November 5 from 3:00–6:00 p.m. For more information phone 315–835–1996.

Birthright of Ithaca:
Birthright of Ithaca is celebrating 40 years of service to women and children in need in our surrounding communities. Come help us celebrate and see our new space! We will be hosting an Open House on Saturday, November 13, from 1:00–3:00 p.m.  We are located at 223 Elmira Rd. in Ithaca. We hope to see you there!

Worldwide Marriage Encounter:
Marriage Encounter will be November 12–14 at the Notre Dame Retreat House in Canandaigua. Register online at wwme.org. Couples can apply for a discount rate with the code ED&LEO35 at wwme.org. ​The WWME weekend teaches communication techniques such as active listening, listening with the heart and empathy towards your spouse’s feelings. It is based on the sacrament of Holy Matrimony and expresses the importance of love in the union and encourages this love be taken out into the world in various ministries to serve God by strengthening the couples and families in the church.

October—Respect Life Month:
The month of October is dedicated to helping Catholics understand and value the gift of human life and help build a culture that cherishes and protects life. During this Year of St. Joseph, Pope Francis I invites us to reflect more deeply on how St. Joseph loved Jesus with a father’s heart. Joseph’s unhesitating adherence to God’s will as he faithfully and lovingly protected the Christ Child and the Blessed Mother bears witness to our own call as Christians to safe guard God’s gift of human life. May St. Joseph help us to faithfully commit ourselves to the service and defense of human life, especially where it is vulnerable or threatened, and obtain for us the grace to do the will of God in all things.

Donating to Your Parish:
Online giving by WeShare is safe, simple and convenient. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3:

1. Visit the parish website’s giving page: https://marymotherofmercy.com/giving.
2. Follow the directions under the “Donate Online” section.
3. Set up your donation or payment.

That’s it! Your account will be created and you can put away your checkbook. If you experience any problems, please email Eileen at .

Family Hope Center:
The Family Hope Center has two locations: one in Geneva and a satellite location in Ovid in the Holy Cross Church Rectory. Family Hope Center fights for life by valuing life above all else. It means offering support through free pregnancy tests, a limited ultrasound referral, parenting and life skills classes, bible studies, material aid such as diapers and clothing, and through our forgiven and set free post abortion study. It means looking at our clients and saying, “I see your life; I value your life. I see and value your children’s lives. You are important and loved.” Women come to the Family Hope Center to be valued. To learn more visit familyhopecentergeneva.org, call 315–789–0708, or email .

Please take time this week to pray the rosary for an end to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mass Intention Requests:
Parishioners requesting a Mass intention for a particular date and time can do so by completing the “Mass Intentions Request Form” located in the foyers of the churches. Mass intentions may also be requested by phoning the parish office.

Prayer Intentions:
Since we presently cannot have the prayer request books in our churches, do know that the prayer requests of fellow parishioners are still being listed on the parish website (see PRAYERS in top bar). If you would like to add a request, please email the parish at or phone the parish office at 607–294–0064 and it will be added to the list.

Sanctuary Lamp:
In Catholic Churches, a candle is always lit to indicate that the Blessed Sacrament is present in the church. This candle is called the “sanctuary lamp.” Every week the candle or oil is renewed. In many churches, people donate to the church for the sanctuary lamp be lit for the week for the intention of the donor. This has been the custom at Holy Cross Church, Ovid and is now extended to St. James the Apostle and St. Francis Solanus Churches. In making the donation simply put on the envelope, “donation for the sanctuary lamp” and specify the week and, if so desired, your intention.

Prayers from the Sisters of St. Joseph:
The Sisters of St. Joseph have a prayer ministry for the Diocese of Rochester. They have informed our parish that Sisters Anne Marie Burns and Dolores Bachman will be praying for our parish and parishioners throughout 2021. Let us keep in our prayers the two sisters praying for us and for all the Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester.

Year of St. Joseph:
Pope Francis initiated the Year of St. Joseph in recognition of the 150th Anniversary of the declaration of St. Joseph as patron of the Catholic Church. This year is dedicated to increase our love for this great saint, to encourage us to implore his intercession and to imitate his virtues and his zeal.

Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes:
The Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes is located at 551 Exchange St. in Geneva with an office in Ovid at 7231 Main St. “If you regret your abortion, you are not alone. Let us help you learn to forgive yourself.” For more information phone 315 789 0708, text: 315-945-1019, or e-mail .

Cancer Services Program (CSP):
Cortland and Tompkins Counties offer free cancer screenings to those who are uninsured or have health insurance that does not cover these screenings. The screening services are provided in local health centers, doctors’ offices, and hospitals. For more information, contact CSP at 866 442 2262.

 

 

First Reading:
If he gives his life as an offering for sin, he shall see his descendants in a long life. (Is. 53:10)

Psalm:
Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you. (Ps. 33)

Second Reading:
So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help. (Heb. 4:16)

Gospel:
“For the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mk. 10:45)

Excerpts from the Lectionary for Mass ©2001, 1998, 1970 CCD. The English translation of Psalm Responses from Lectionary for Mass © 1969, 1981, 1997, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved.
©LPi 

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
It’s the positions of power and great authority that people often admire. We equate success with six figure incomes, high positions, management, and influence. We even go above and beyond to find favor with our bosses so that we can get a little extra recognition and maybe the next promotion when it comes up. This is the way of the world. Those who have their values set on earthly things are going to work by earthly rules. We forget that it doesn’t work that way in the Kingdom of God. Success is measured not from the place of status, influence, or prestige but from the place of humility, service, and sacrifice. The authority that one hopes to achieve is not an authority over others but an authority that comes from wisdom and developing one’s relationship with God. Jesus flips the tables on our priorities. Even the first disciples had a tough time understanding this. They really thought that they would somehow receive a privilege or bonus from being faithful. We often operate under that same illusion.
©LPi

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

---

Events:

• Food Pantries:
  • Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m.
  • Food truck: November 9, 4:00 p.m., South Seneca high school parking lot
  • Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.,
  • Trumansburg Food Pantry: Every other Monday (October 25) 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and 5:15–6:00 p.m., Methodist church
• Family Hope Center: Tuesdays 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., and Thursdays 4:00–6:00 p.m., Holy Cross
• Fr. Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30–7:30 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• Confirmation program: Sundays, 4:00 p.m., St. James
• RCIA: Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• Prayer for Healing and Harmony: Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m.
  • St James the Apostle: October 20
  • Holy Cross Rectory: October 27
• Religious Education: October 17, 10:00 a.m., St. James
• World Mission Sunday special collection: October 23 & 24

World Mission Sunday 2021:
Next weekend, we will celebrate World Mission Sunday. Pope Francis invites the entire Church to support mission dioceses in Africa, Asia, the Pacific Islands and part of Latin America and Europe, where priests, religious and lay leaders serve the world’s most vulnerable communities. Please keep the Pope’s missions in your prayers and be generous in next week’s collection for the Society of the Propagation of the Faith. This year also marks the 200th Anniversary of the Founding of the Society of the Propagation of the Faith by Pauline Marie Jaricot.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA):
This is a faith formational program for people interested in learning about Jesus Christ and His Church, with a leaning toward being baptized, confirmed and celebrating Holy Communion. It is also for Catholics who have yet to celebrate the sacrament of Confirmation and/or Holy Communion. It is also for Catholics who are interested in continuing their religious education formation. The classes will be begin on Wednesday, October 6 at 7:00 p.m. at the Parish Center, St. Francis Solanus Church. Parishioners knowing people who might be interested in such a program please inform Fr. Bernard or Br. Francisco. For more information and/or to register, please phone the parish office.

Cemeteries Fall Cleanup:
The fall cleanup for Holy Cross and St. James cemeteries will take place on Saturday, November 13. Please have all previous season’s decorations removed by that date. If possible, please take them home for disposal.

CROP Hunger Walk:
Thank you to all who helped in last Sunday’s CROP Hunger Walk (Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty). Thank you to all who walked and to their sponsors and all who made donations. It was reported before the walk that Trumansburg Area Churches, since 1989, when Rev. Tom Lange of the Presbyterian Church initiated Trumansburg’s participation in the hunger walk, raised $211,300. That is $52,800 for the Trumansburg Food Pantry.

Vocations Committee:
The Diocesan Vocation Directors have requested that each parish develop a committee to promote vocations to the priesthood and religious life in their parish. They have materials available to assist this ministry. Our church needs priests and religious. Please consider helping and volunteer for the committee.

Prayer for Healing and Harmony:
The gathering for prayer will take place Wednesday afternoons at 1:00 p.m. They will be at St. James the Apostle Pine Room on the first and third Wednesdays (October 20) and at Holy Cross Rectory on the second and fourth Wednesdays (October 27). Sister Anne Alderman, SSJ will facilitate the prayer sessions. For more information phone: 607–209–4206 or email .

Synod of Bishops:
Pope Francis I has convoked an Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops to take place in Rome in October 2023. Preliminary work for the Synod begins this month in all dioceses throughout the world. On October 10, 2021, Bishop Matano, in union with our Holy Father, will celebrate the convocation of the Synod of Bishops under the theme: “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission.” The Mass will be at Sacred Heart Cathedral at 11:15 a.m.  The invitation to the Mass is extended to all parishioners.

2021-2022 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
Our Diocese has launched the 2021-2022 Annual Catholic Ministries Appeal (CMA). The purpose and necessity for the CMA is unchanged after 40 years. We are responsible for continuing the Church’s mission through good times and bad – through prosperous times and lean times. People are still poor, hungry, in need of pastoral care, education and employment. The faithful need ministry and a vibrant parish life. Our youth and young adults are yearning to learn and grow in their relationship with Christ. The Church and our Diocese need trained and educated seminarians, deacons, and pastoral leaders to lead our Church into the future. We cannot close our eyes to these needs even in these difficult times. Please pray for the success of our efforts. Thank you.

Seneca County Christmas Project:
Applications (sign-up) for participation in the Christmas Project will be accepted at the Ovid Food Pantry on Mondays through November 8 from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and at the Interlaken Food Pantry on Fridays through November 5 from 3:00–6:00 p.m. For more information phone 315–835–1996.

40 Days for Life Prayer Campaign:
40 Days for Life is an international campaign of fasting and peaceful prayer outside of abortion clinics. In Ithaca we pray across the street from Planned Parenthood, 620 W. Seneca St. The next prayer campaign begins September 22–October 31, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. everyday. 40daysforlife.com/ithaca offers daily devotions, resources, and an online calendar to select your hour to pray. Together, our peaceful prayer and witness will offer hope and life-affirming options to vulnerable women. For more info contact Carolann Darling, 607–351–6668. 

ExultRochester Catholic Men’s Conference:
This conference will be held on Saturday, October 23 from 7:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at the Parish of the Holy Family at St. Jude, 4100 Lyell Rd, Rochester. Information and registration are available online: exultrochester.org.

Notre Dame High School
The 16th annual McAuley Award evening will be held on Tuesday, October 19. This year, it is a hybrid event and those who are unable to be physically present at the Elmira Country Club can join virtually via Zoom. For more information or to register, visit https://www.notredamehighschool.com/mcauley-awards Questions may be directed to Theresa Tobey, Director of Advancement at 607-734-2267.

Donating to Your Parish:
Online giving by WeShare is safe, simple and convenient. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3:

1. Visit the parish website’s giving page: https://marymotherofmercy.com/giving.
2. Follow the directions under the “Donate Online” section.
3. Set up your donation or payment.

That’s it! Your account will be created and you can put away your checkbook. If you experience any problems, please email Eileen at .

Family Hope Center:
The Family Hope Center has two locations: one in Geneva and a satellite location in Ovid in the Holy Cross Church Rectory. Family Hope Center fights for life by valuing life above all else. It means offering support through free pregnancy tests, a limited ultrasound referral, parenting and life skills classes, bible studies, material aid such as diapers and clothing, and through our forgiven and set free post abortion study. It means looking at our clients and saying, “I see your life; I value your life. I see and value your children’s lives. You are important and loved.” Women come to the Family Hope Center to be valued. To learn more visit familyhopecentergeneva.org, call 315–789–0708, or email .

Please take time this week to pray the rosary for an end to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mass Intention Requests:
Parishioners requesting a Mass intention for a particular date and time can do so by completing the “Mass Intentions Request Form” located in the foyers of the churches. Mass intentions may also be requested by phoning the parish office.

Prayer Intentions:
Since we presently cannot have the prayer request books in our churches, do know that the prayer requests of fellow parishioners are still being listed on the parish website (see PRAYERS in top bar). If you would like to add a request, please email the parish at or phone the parish office at 607–294–0064 and it will be added to the list.

Sanctuary Lamp:
In Catholic Churches, a candle is always lit to indicate that the Blessed Sacrament is present in the church. This candle is called the “sanctuary lamp.” Every week the candle or oil is renewed. In many churches, people donate to the church for the sanctuary lamp be lit for the week for the intention of the donor. This has been the custom at Holy Cross Church, Ovid and is now extended to St. James the Apostle and St. Francis Solanus Churches. In making the donation simply put on the envelope, “donation for the sanctuary lamp” and specify the week and, if so desired, your intention.

Prayers from the Sisters of St. Joseph:
The Sisters of St. Joseph have a prayer ministry for the Diocese of Rochester. They have informed our parish that Sisters Anne Marie Burns and Dolores Bachman will be praying for our parish and parishioners throughout 2021. Let us keep in our prayers the two sisters praying for us and for all the Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester.

Year of St. Joseph:
Pope Francis initiated the Year of St. Joseph in recognition of the 150th Anniversary of the declaration of St. Joseph as patron of the Catholic Church. This year is dedicated to increase our love for this great saint, to encourage us to implore his intercession and to imitate his virtues and his zeal.

Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes:
The Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes is located at 551 Exchange St. in Geneva with an office in Ovid at 7231 Main St. “If you regret your abortion, you are not alone. Let us help you learn to forgive yourself.” For more information phone 315 789 0708, text: 315-945-1019, or e-mail .

Cancer Services Program (CSP):
Cortland and Tompkins Counties offer free cancer screenings to those who are uninsured or have health insurance that does not cover these screenings. The screening services are provided in local health centers, doctors’ offices, and hospitals. For more information, contact CSP at 866 442 2262.

First Reading:
I pleaded, and the spirit of wisdom came to me. I preferred her to scepter and throne, and deemed riches nothing in comparison with her. (Wis. 7:7-8)

Psalm:
Fill us with your love, O Lord, and we will sing for joy! (Ps. 90)

Second Reading:
No creature is concealed from him, but everything is naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must render an account. (Heb. 4:13)

Gospel:
“Go, sell what you have, and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” (Mk. 10:21)

Excerpts from the Lectionary for Mass ©2001, 1998, 1970 CCD. The English translation of Psalm Responses from Lectionary for Mass © 1969, 1981, 1997, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved.
©LPi

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
Presumption can be a great sin. We can easily convince ourselves that as long as we do the bare minimum or master the basics, it is sufficient. Love doesn’t operate this way. If we are truly in love with God, then the basics are not going to be enough. That love is going to want to get expressed in going above and beyond, in leaving the comfortable and familiar, in stretching and growing and in following a voice other than our own. This is what those who are truly in pursuit of wisdom come to realize. Just like any human relationship worth achieving reveals, we never reach a plateau in following the Gospel or growing in wisdom and holiness. Wisdom is the rudder that guides us through all of life’s attractions and options. It alone determines what is worth pursuing and what must be left behind. That is why those who are only concerned about checking the boxes and doing the least amount possible often walk away sad when offered God’s gift of life eternal. They are not truly in love.
©LPi 

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

©LPi

---

Events:

• Food Pantries:
  • Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m.
  • Food truck: October 12, 4:00 p.m., South Seneca high school parking lot
  • Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.,
  • Trumansburg Food Pantry: Every other Monday (October 11) 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and 5:15–6:00 p.m., Methodist church
• Family Hope Center: Tuesdays 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., and Thursdays 4:00–6:00 p.m., Holy Cross
• Fr. Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30–7:30 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• Confirmation program: Sundays, 4:00 p.m., St. James
• RCIA: Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• Prayer for Healing and Harmony: Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m.
  • St James the Apostle: October 20
  • Holy Cross Rectory: October 13 & 27
• CROP Walk: October 10, 2:00 p.m., St. James the Apostle

2021-2022 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
The Fall Appeal Letter from Bishop Matano was mailed to our parishioners sometime during this past week. Hopefully you have all received the Appeal letter. Our parish given goal this year has been decreased from $29,979 to $28,086. Please respond to this Appeal as soon as you are able. Participation in the Appeal is primary. Please note that if all our parish households participated, our goal would be easily reached.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA):
This is a faith formational program for people interested in learning about Jesus Christ and His Church, with a leaning toward being baptized, confirmed and celebrating Holy Communion. It is also for Catholics who have yet to celebrate the sacrament of Confirmation and/or Holy Communion. It is also for Catholics who are interested in continuing their religious education formation. The classes will be begin on Wednesday, October 6 at 7:00 p.m. at the Parish Center, St. Francis Solanus Church. Parishioners knowing people who might be interested in such a program please inform Fr. Bernard or Br. Francisco. For more information and/or to register, please phone the parish office.

Cemeteries Fall Cleanup:
The fall cleanup for Holy Cross and St. James cemeteries will take place on Saturday, November 13. Please have all previous season’s decorations removed by that date. If possible, please take them home for disposal.

CROP Hunger Walk:
The CROP Hunger Walk, sponsored by the Trumansburg Area Churches (TAC), will take place this Sunday, October 10, at 2:00 p.m. (all walkers register at 1:45 p.m.). The host and starting place will be St. James the Apostle Church. To register for the walk or to help sponsor our team with a donation please go to: events.crophungerwalk.org/2021/team/the-parish-of-mary-mother-of-mercy. Also, checks can be mailed to the First Presbyterian Church of Ulysses, Attn: Carol MacLeod, 69 E. Main Street, Trumansburg, NY 14886. Please make checks out to CWS/CROP. If you would like to contribute directly on behalf of the parish, please go here.

Prayer for Healing and Harmony:
The gathering for prayer will take place Wednesday afternoons at 1:00 p.m. They will be at St. James the Apostle Pine Room on the first and third Wednesdays (October 20) and at Holy Cross Rectory on the second and fourth Wednesdays (October 13 & 27). Sister Anne Alderman, SSJ will facilitate the prayer sessions. For more information phone: 607–209–4206 or email .

Vocations Committee:
The Diocesan Vocation Directors have requested that each parish develop a committee to promote vocations to the priesthood and religious life in their parish. They have materials available to assist this ministry. Our church needs priests and religious. Please consider helping and volunteer for the committee.

Synod of Bishops:
Pope Francis I has convoked an Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops to take place in Rome in October 2023. Preliminary work for the Synod begins this month in all dioceses throughout the world. On October 10, 2021, Bishop Matano, in union with our Holy Father, will celebrate the convocation of the Synod of Bishops under the theme: “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission.” The Mass will be at Sacred Heart Cathedral at 11:15 a.m.  The invitation to the Mass is extended to all parishioners.

Rosary Rally:
This annual rally is promoted by a group called “America Needs Fatima.” The rally commemorates the last apparition of our Lady of Fatima and the miracle of the sun which occurred on October 13, 1917 and offers prayers for our nation, that through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary there will be an ending of the chaos, immorality, and social upheaval in our nation. A rosary rally will take place on October 16 at 12:00 p.m. at Branches Christian Rest and Renewal Center, 8251 Lower Lake Road, Lodi. On that date and time, it is expected that over 20,000 rosary rallies will be taking place throughout our nation.

40 Days for Life Prayer Campaign:
40 Days for Life is an international campaign of fasting and peaceful prayer outside of abortion clinics. In Ithaca we pray across the street from Planned Parenthood, 620 W. Seneca St. The next prayer campaign begins September 22–October 31, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. everyday. 40daysforlife.com/ithaca offers daily devotions, resources, and an online calendar to select your hour to pray. Together, our peaceful prayer and witness will offer hope and life-affirming options to vulnerable women. For more info contact Carolann Darling, 607–351–6668.

Winter Coat Distribution:
Children’s coats will be distributed on Saturday, October 16 from 10 a.m.–Noon – bring your child/children with you to the Ovid VFW, 7068 Route 96, Ovid. The event is sponsored by the Community Christmas Project. The free coats are for Seneca County residents only, you must have proof of address and income. 2021 community Christmas project applications will be accepted at the coat give-away.

“The Devil Made Me Do It”:
On Wednesday, October 13, Deacon Eric Bessette will give a presentation on what the Catholic Church teaches about the devil. It will take place at the Notre Dame Retreat House in Canandaigua beginning at 9:00 a.m. The cost is $25. There will be lunch, free time, confessions and Mass at 2:00p.m. Please register by phoning 585–394–5700 or email .

ExultRochester Catholic Men’s Conference:
This conference will be held on Saturday, October 23 from 7:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at the Parish of the Holy Family at St. Jude, 4100 Lyell Rd, Rochester. Information and registration are available online: exultrochester.org.

GriefShare Meetings:
Ovid Federated Church will be starting a cycle of GriefShare meetings on Wednesdays at 4:00 p.m. The GriefShare Program is a Biblical, Christ-centered seminar that focuses on grief topics associated with the death of a loved one. For information call the Ovid Federated Church office at 607–869–2794 or Judy Mellgard at 814–762–6928.

Notre Dame High School:
The 16th annual McAuley Award evening will be held on Tuesday, October 19. This year, it is a hybrid event and those who are unable to be physically present at the Elmira Country Club can join virtually via Zoom. For more information or to register, visit https://www.notredamehighschool.com/mcauley-awards Questions may be directed to Theresa Tobey, Director of Advancement at 607-734-2267.

Donating to Your Parish:
Online giving by WeShare is safe, simple and convenient. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3:

1. Visit the parish website’s giving page: marymotherofmercy.com/giving.
2. Follow the directions under the “Donate Online” section.
3. Set up your donation or payment.

That’s it! Your account will be created and you can put away your checkbook. If you experience any problems, please email Eileen at .

Family Hope Center:
The Family Hope Center has two locations: one in Geneva and a satellite location in Ovid in the Holy Cross Church Rectory. Family Hope Center fights for life by valuing life above all else. It means offering support through free pregnancy tests, a limited ultrasound referral, parenting and life skills classes, bible studies, material aid such as diapers and clothing, and through our forgiven and set free post abortion study. It means looking at our clients and saying, “I see your life; I value your life. I see and value your children’s lives. You are important and loved.” Women come to the Family Hope Center to be valued. To learn more visit familyhopecentergeneva.org, call 315–789–0708, or email .

Please take time this week to pray the rosary for an end to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mass Intention Requests:
Parishioners requesting a Mass intention for a particular date and time can do so by completing the “Mass Intentions Request Form” located in the foyers of the churches. Mass intentions may also be requested by phoning the parish office.

Prayer Intentions:
Since we presently cannot have the prayer request books in our churches, do know that the prayer requests of fellow parishioners are still being listed on the parish website (see PRAYERS in top bar). If you would like to add a request, please email the parish at or phone the parish office at 607–294–0064 and it will be added to the list.

Sanctuary Lamp:
In Catholic Churches, a candle is always lit to indicate that the Blessed Sacrament is present in the church. This candle is called the “sanctuary lamp.” Every week the candle or oil is renewed. In many churches, people donate to the church for the sanctuary lamp be lit for the week for the intention of the donor. This has been the custom at Holy Cross Church, Ovid and is now extended to St. James the Apostle and St. Francis Solanus Churches. In making the donation simply put on the envelope, “donation for the sanctuary lamp” and specify the week and, if so desired, your intention.

Prayers from the Sisters of St. Joseph:
The Sisters of St. Joseph have a prayer ministry for the Diocese of Rochester. They have informed our parish that Sisters Anne Marie Burns and Dolores Bachman will be praying for our parish and parishioners throughout 2021. Let us keep in our prayers the two sisters praying for us and for all the Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester.

Year of St. Joseph:
Pope Francis initiated the Year of St. Joseph in recognition of the 150th Anniversary of the declaration of St. Joseph as patron of the Catholic Church. This year is dedicated to increase our love for this great saint, to encourage us to implore his intercession and to imitate his virtues and his zeal.

Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes:
The Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes is located at 551 Exchange St. in Geneva with an office in Ovid at 7231 Main St. “If you regret your abortion, you are not alone. Let us help you learn to forgive yourself.” For more information phone 315 789 0708, text: 315-945-1019, or e-mail .

Cancer Services Program (CSP):
Cortland and Tompkins Counties offer free cancer screenings to those who are uninsured or have health insurance that does not cover these screenings. The screening services are provided in local health centers, doctors’ offices, and hospitals. For more information, contact CSP at 866 442 2262.

First Reading:
That is why a man leaves his father and mother and clings to his wife, and the two of them become one flesh. (Gn. 2:24)

Psalm:
May the Lord bless us all the days of our lives. (Ps. 128)

Second Reading:
He who consecrates and those who are being consecrated all have one origin. (Heb. 2:11)

Gospel:
“Therefore what God has joined together, no human being must separate.” (Mk. 10:9)

Excerpts from the Lectionary for Mass ©2001, 1998, 1970 CCD. The English translation of Psalm Responses from Lectionary for Mass © 1969, 1981, 1997, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved.
©LPi

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
“What God has joined together.” We are all familiar with these words. Because man and woman are essentially of the same substance, although also distinctively different, there is an innate desire to be connected and united. Admittedly, marriage covenants can be extremely difficult to negotiate and, at times, very painful to experience. But they can also be celebrations of great union and happiness. This is proven by couples who have been married for many years who still have that same twinkle of devotion in their eyes that was present on their wedding day. God designed it to be this way. By God’s power, the two become one. This is not of human design. The true intimacy of marriage is a Divine Intimacy. It is a bond created by a power far greater than any found in the two people who are joined. Marriage is where the virtue of love is most fully expressed.
©LPi

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

 

 

 

 

 

---

Events:

• Food Pantries:
  • Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m.
  • Food truck: October 12, 4:00 p.m., South Seneca high school parking lot
  • Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.,
  • Trumansburg Food Pantry: Every other Monday (October 11) 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and 5:15–6:00 p.m., Methodist church
• Family Hope Center: Tuesdays 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., and Thursdays 4:00–6:00 p.m., Holy Cross
• Fr. Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30–7:30 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• Confirmation program: Sundays, 4:00 p.m., St. James
• Blessing of Animals: This Sunday, October 3, 1:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• RCIA begins: October 6, 7:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• Prayer for Healing and Harmony: Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m.
  • St James the Apostle: October 6 & 20
  • Holy Cross Rectory: October 13 & 27
• CROP Walk: October 10, 2:00 p.m., St. James the Apostle

Funerals: 

• Elizabeth Jenner, age 104, died September 11, 2021. A funeral Mass was celebrated at St. James the Apostle Church on September 22, 2021.
• Lee Davidson, age 75 died September 23, 2021. A funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Francis Solanus Church, on September 30, 2021.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA):
This is a faith formational program for people interested in learning about Jesus Christ and His Church, with a leaning toward being baptized, confirmed and celebrating Holy Communion. It is also for Catholics who have yet to celebrate the sacrament of Confirmation and/or Holy Communion. It is also for Catholics who are interested in continuing their religious education formation. The classes will be begin on Wednesday, October 6 at 7:00 p.m. at the Parish Center, St. Francis Solanus Church. Parishioners knowing people who might be interested in such a program please inform Fr. Bernard or Br. Francisco. For more information and/or to register, please phone the parish office.

Baptisms:
Jack and Brad Agnello were baptized on September 21, 2021, at Holy Cross Church.

Blessing of Animals:
This Sunday, October 3, at 1:00 p.m. at the parish center, St. Francis Solanus, Interlaken, the Blessing of Animals will take place. Monday, October 4, is the Feast day of St. Francis of Assisi. Francis has a love for all of God’s creation. It is traditional to bless animals for his feast day.

CROP Hunger Walk:
The annual Trumansburg Tom Lange Memorial CROP Hunger Walk, sponsored by the Trumansburg Area Churches (TAC), will take place on Sunday, October 10, at 2:00 p.m. (all walkers register at 1:45 p.m.). The host and starting place will be St. James the Apostle Church. The initials CROP stand for Christian Rural Overseas Program and/or Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty, and their goal is “ending hunger one step at a time.” To register for the walk or to help sponsor the event with a donation please go here. Also, checks can be mailed to the First Presbyterian Church of Ulysses, Attn: Carol MacLeod, 69 E. Main Street, Trumansburg, NY 14886. Please make checks out to CWS/CROP. During this COVID time, waivers for all walkers must be completed and signed. Waivers will be available at the event or online. If you would like to contribute directly on behalf of the parish, please go here.

Prayer for Healing and Harmony:
The gathering for prayer will take place Wednesday afternoons at 1:00 p.m. They will be at St. James the Apostle Pine Room on the first and third Wednesdays (October 6 & 20) and at Holy Cross Rectory on the second and fourth Wednesdays (October 13 & 27). Sister Anne Alderman, SSJ will facilitate the prayer sessions. For more information phone: 607–209–4206 or email .

Vocations Committee:
The Diocesan Vocation Directors have requested that each parish develop a committee to promote vocations to the priesthood and religious life in their parish. They have materials available to assist this ministry. Our church needs priests and religious. Please consider helping and volunteer for the committee.

October – Respect Life Month:
The first Sunday of October, which is Respect Life Sunday, begins the Respect Life Month. The month is dedicated to helping Catholics understand and value the gift of human life and help build a culture that cherishes and protects life. During this Year of St. Joseph, Pope Francis I invites us to reflect more deeply on how St. Joseph loved Jesus with a father’s heart. Joseph’s unhesitating adherence to God’s will as he faithfully and lovingly protected the Christ Child and the Blessed Mother bears witness to our own call as Christians to safe guard God’s gift of human life. May St. Joseph help us to faithfully commit ourselves to the service and defense of human life, especially where it is vulnerable or threatened, and obtain for us the grace to do the will of God in all things.

2021-2022 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
The Fall Appeal Letter from Bishop Matano was mailed to our parishioners sometime during this past week. Hopefully you have all received the Appeal letter. Our parish given goal this year has been decreased from $29,979 to $28,086. Please respond to this Appeal as soon as you are able. Participation in the Appeal is primary. Please note that if all our parish households participated, our goal would be easily reached.

Synod of Bishops:
Pope Francis I has convoked an Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops to take place in Rome in October 2023. Preliminary work for the Synod begins this month in all dioceses throughout the world. On October 10, 2021, Bishop Matano, in union with our Holy Father, will celebrate the convocation of the Synod of Bishops under the theme: “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission.” The Mass will be at Sacred Heart Cathedral at 11:15 a.m.  The invitation to the Mass is extended to all parishioners.

 Rosary Rally:
This annual rally is promoted by a group called “America Needs Fatima.” The rally commemorates the last apparition of our Lady of Fatima and the miracle of the sun which occurred on October 13, 1917 and offers prayers for our nation, that through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary there will be an ending of the chaos, immorality, and social upheaval in our nation. A rosary rally will take place on October 16 at 12:00 p.m. at Branches Christian Rest and Renewal Center, 8251 Lower Lake Road, Lodi. On that date and time, it is expected that over 20,000 rosary rallies will be taking place throughout our nation.

40 Days for Life Prayer Campaign:
40 Days for Life is an international campaign of fasting and peaceful prayer outside of abortion clinics. In Ithaca we pray across the street from Planned Parenthood, 620 W. Seneca St. The next prayer campaign begins September 22–October 31, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. everyday. 40daysforlife.com/ithaca offers daily devotions, resources, and an online calendar to select your hour to pray. Together, our peaceful prayer and witness will offer hope and life-affirming options to vulnerable women. For more info contact Carolann Darling, 607–351–6668.

ExultRochester Catholic Men’s Conference:
This conference will be held on Saturday, October 23 from 7:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at the Parish of the Holy Family at St. Jude, 4100 Lyell Rd, Rochester. Information and registration are available online: exultrochester.org.

GriefShare Meetings:
Ovid Federated Church will be starting a cycle of GriefShare meetings on Wednesdays at 4:00 p.m. The GriefShare Program is a Biblical, Christ-centered seminar that focuses on grief topics associated with the death of a loved one. For information call the Ovid Federated Church office at 607–869–2794 or Judy Mellgard at 814–762–6928.

Donating to Your Parish:
Online giving by WeShare is safe, simple and convenient. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3:

1. Visit the parish website’s giving page: marymotherofmercy.com/giving.
2. Follow the directions under the “Donate Online” section.
3. Set up your donation or payment.

That’s it! Your account will be created and you can put away your checkbook. If you experience any problems, please email Eileen at .

Family Hope Center:
The Family Hope Center has two locations: one in Geneva and a satellite location in Ovid in the Holy Cross Church Rectory. Family Hope Center fights for life by valuing life above all else. It means offering support through free pregnancy tests, a limited ultrasound referral, parenting and life skills classes, bible studies, material aid such as diapers and clothing, and through our forgiven and set free post abortion study. It means looking at our clients and saying, “I see your life; I value your life. I see and value your children’s lives. You are important and loved.” Women come to the Family Hope Center to be valued. To learn more visit familyhopecentergeneva.org, call 315–789–0708, or email .

Please take time this week to pray the rosary for an end to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mass Intention Requests:
Parishioners requesting a Mass intention for a particular date and time can do so by completing the “Mass Intentions Request Form” located in the foyers of the churches. Mass intentions may also be requested by phoning the parish office.

Prayer Intentions:
Since we presently cannot have the prayer request books in our churches, do know that the prayer requests of fellow parishioners are still being listed on the parish website (see PRAYERS in top bar). If you would like to add a request, please email the parish at or phone the parish office at 607–294–0064 and it will be added to the list.

Sanctuary Lamp:
In Catholic Churches, a candle is always lit to indicate that the Blessed Sacrament is present in the church. This candle is called the “sanctuary lamp.” Every week the candle or oil is renewed. In many churches, people donate to the church for the sanctuary lamp be lit for the week for the intention of the donor. This has been the custom at Holy Cross Church, Ovid and is now extended to St. James the Apostle and St. Francis Solanus Churches. In making the donation simply put on the envelope, “donation for the sanctuary lamp” and specify the week and, if so desired, your intention.

Prayers from the Sisters of St. Joseph:
The Sisters of St. Joseph have a prayer ministry for the Diocese of Rochester. They have informed our parish that Sisters Anne Marie Burns and Dolores Bachman will be praying for our parish and parishioners throughout 2021. Let us keep in our prayers the two sisters praying for us and for all the Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester.

Year of St. Joseph:
Pope Francis initiated the Year of St. Joseph in recognition of the 150th Anniversary of the declaration of St. Joseph as patron of the Catholic Church. This year is dedicated to increase our love for this great saint, to encourage us to implore his intercession and to imitate his virtues and his zeal.

Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes:
The Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes is located at 551 Exchange St. in Geneva with an office in Ovid at 7231 Main St. “If you regret your abortion, you are not alone. Let us help you learn to forgive yourself.” For more information phone 315 789 0708, text: 315-945-1019, or e-mail .

Cancer Services Program (CSP):
Cortland and Tompkins Counties offer free cancer screenings to those who are uninsured or have health insurance that does not cover these screenings. The screening services are provided in local health centers, doctors’ offices, and hospitals. For more information, contact CSP at 866 442 2262.

First Reading:
But Moses answered him, “Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the people of the LORD were prophets!” (Nm. 11:29)

Psalm:
The precepts of the Lord give joy to the heart. (Ps. 19)

Second Reading:
Your wealth has rotted away, your clothes have become moth-eaten, your gold and silver have corroded, and that corrosion will be a testimony against you; it will devour your flesh like fire.” (Jas. 5:3)

Gospel:
“If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed than with two hands to go into Gehenna, into the unquenchable fire.” (Mk. 9:43)

Excerpts from the Lectionary for Mass ©2001, 1998, 1970 CCD. The English translation of Psalm Responses from Lectionary for Mass © 1969, 1981, 1997, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved.
©LPi

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
Who are the little ones? They are the many and varied faces of people who see hope in Jesus’ message about the Kingdom of God. They have come to believe that there is a different world to be had: a place where everyone has a home, all have an equal opportunity to share in God’s bountiful gifts and blessings, where justice reigns, truth presides, and peace fills hearts. The little ones are those who may have left their former views behind, perhaps even their former lives to follow Jesus and believe in the Beatitudes as God’s world vision. They are the poor, the marginalized, the women and men at the well, the Zacchaeus’ looking for Jesus from a tree, the blind who want to see, and the lame who want to walk. They are the lepers who have been told that they are unclean, and the ones who have learned that suffering and death are nothing to fear. These are all of the little ones. Jesus gathers and protects them as a shepherd guards his sheep. Whoever causes one of these little ones to sin deserves the greatest wrath. Be more concerned about what people are doing than where they came from.
©LPi

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

©LPi

---

Events:

• Food Pantries:
  • Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m.
  • Food truck: October 12, 4:00 p.m., South Seneca high school parking lot
  • Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.,
  • Trumansburg Food Pantry: Every other Monday (September 27) 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and 5:15–6:00 p.m., Methodist church
• Family Hope Center: Tuesdays 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., and Thursdays 4:00–6:00 p.m., Holy Cross
• Fr. Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30–7:30 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• Confirmation program begins: September 26, 4:00 p.m., St. James
• RCIA begins: October 6, 7:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• Prayer for Healing and Harmony: Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m.
  • St James the Apostle: October 6 & 20
  • Holy Cross Rectory: October 13 & 27
  • Francis Solanus: September 29
• CROP Walk: October 10, 2:00 p.m., St. James the Apostle

Sanctuary Lamp:
In Catholic Churches, a candle is always lit to indicate that the Blessed Sacrament is present in the church. This candle is called the “sanctuary lamp.” Every week the candle or oil is renewed. In many churches, people donate to the church for the sanctuary lamp be lit for the week for the intention of the donor. This has been the custom at Holy Cross Church, Ovid and is now extended to St. James the Apostle and St. Francis Solanus Churches. In making the donation simply put on the envelope, “donation for the sanctuary lamp” and specify the week and, if so desired, your intention.

Confirmation Program:
Candidates for the celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation will begin classes this Sunday, September 26 at 4:00 p.m. at St. James the Apostle Pine Room.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA):
This is a faith formational program for people interested in learning about Jesus Christ and His Church, with a leaning toward being baptized, confirmed and celebrating Holy Communion. It is also for Catholics who have yet to celebrate the sacrament of Confirmation and/or Holy Communion. It is also for Catholics who are interested in continuing their religious education formation. The classes will be begin on Wednesday, October 6 at 7:00 p.m. at the Parish Center, St. Francis Solanus Church. Parishioners knowing people who might be interested in such a program please inform Fr. Bernard or Br. Francisco. For more information and/or to register, please phone the parish office.

Vocations Committee:
The Diocesan Vocation Directors have requested that each parish develop a committee to promote vocations to the priesthood and religious life in their parish. They have materials available to assist this ministry. Our church needs priests and religious. Please consider helping and volunteer for the committee.

Prayer for Healing and Harmony:
The gathering for prayer will take place Wednesday afternoons at 1:00 p.m. They will be at St. James the Apostle Pine Room on the first and third Wednesdays (October 6 & 20) and at Holy Cross Rectory on the second and fourth Wednesdays (October 13 & 27). On the fifth Wednesday there will be a gathering at St. Francis Solanus (September 29). Sister Anne Alderman, SSJ will facilitate the prayer sessions. For more information phone: 607–209–4206 or email .

October – Respect Life Month:
The first Sunday of October, which is Respect Life Sunday, begins the Respect Life Month. The month is dedicated to helping Catholics understand and value the gift of human life and help build a culture that cherishes and protects life. During this Year of St. Joseph, Pope Francis I invites us to reflect more deeply on how St. Joseph loved Jesus with a father’s heart. Joseph’s unhesitating adherence to God’s will as he faithfully and lovingly protected the Christ Child and the Blessed Mother bears witness to our own call as Christians to safe guard God’s gift of human life. May St. Joseph help us to faithfully commit ourselves to the service and defense of human life, especially where it is vulnerable or threatened, and obtain for us the grace to do the will of God in all things.

Respect Life Mass:
Sunday, October 3, at 11:15 a.m. Bishop Salvatore R. Matano will be the principal celebrant and homilist at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Rochester celebrating a “Respect Life Mass.” He has a desire that each parish send two delegates or more to the Mass as an expression of the parish’s commitment to life issues. If you are so inclined, please notify Fr. Bernard at the parish office.

40 Days for Life Prayer Campaign:
40 Days for Life is an international campaign of fasting and peaceful prayer outside of abortion clinics. In Ithaca we pray across the street from Planned Parenthood, 620 W. Seneca St. The next prayer campaign begins September 22–October 31, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. everyday. 40daysforlife.com/ithaca offers daily devotions, resources, and an online calendar to select your hour to pray. Together, our peaceful prayer and witness will offer hope and life-affirming options to vulnerable women. For more info contact Carolann Darling, 607–351–6668.

Volunteer with Catholic Charities:
You can be a friend to elders, youth and families who visit Catholic Charities by volunteering in our free clothing closet. People stop by in search of outfits for job interviews, work, school and general purposes. For some folks, just having a friendly conversation is as important as getting a shirt or pair of pants. We’re seeking volunteers to commit to one morning shift per week, Tuesday through Friday, to wait on customers and help sort donations at our office in downtown Ithaca. Covid-19 safety protocols will be enforced. Contact Michaela to sign-up at  or 607–272–5062.

CROP Hunger Walk:
The annual Trumansburg Tom Lange Memorial CROP Hunger Walk, sponsored by the Trumansburg Area Churches (TAC), will take place on Sunday, October 10, at 2:00 p.m. (all walkers register at 1:45 p.m.). The host and starting place will be St. James the Apostle Church. The initials CROP stand for Christian Rural Overseas Program and/or Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty, and their goal is “ending hunger one step at a time.” To register for the walk or to help sponsor the event with a donation please go here. Also, checks can be mailed to the First Presbyterian Church of Ulysses, Attn: Carol MacLeod, 69 E. Main Street, Trumansburg, NY 14886. Please make checks out to CWS/CROP. During this COVID time, waivers for all walkers must be completed and signed. Waivers will be available at the event or online through this link. If you would like to contribute directly on behalf of the parish, please go here.

ExultRochester Catholic Men’s Conference:
This conference will be held on Saturday, October 23 from 7:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at the Parish of the Holy Family at St. Jude, 4100 Lyell Rd, Rochester. Information and registration are available online: exultrochester.org.

GriefShare Meetings:
Ovid Federated Church will be starting a cycle of GriefShare meetings on Wednesdays at 4:00 p.m. The GriefShare Program is a Biblical, Christ-centered seminar that focuses on grief topics associated with the death of a loved one. For information call the Ovid Federated Church office at 607–869–2794 or Judy Mellgard at 814–762–6928.

Donating to Your Parish:
Online giving by WeShare is safe, simple and convenient. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3:

1. Visit the parish website’s giving page: marymotherofmercy.com/giving.
2. Follow the directions under the “Donate Online” section.
3. Set up your donation or payment.

That’s it! Your account will be created and you can put away your checkbook. If you experience any problems, please email Eileen at .

Family Hope Center:
The Family Hope Center has two locations: one in Geneva and a satellite location in Ovid in the Holy Cross Church Rectory. Family Hope Center fights for life by valuing life above all else. It means offering support through free pregnancy tests, a limited ultrasound referral, parenting and life skills classes, bible studies, material aid such as diapers and clothing, and through our forgiven and set free post abortion study. It means looking at our clients and saying, “I see your life; I value your life. I see and value your children’s lives. You are important and loved.” Women come to the Family Hope Center to be valued. To learn more visit familyhopecentergeneva.org, call 315–789–0708, or email .

Please take time this week to pray the rosary for an end to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mass Intention Requests:
Parishioners requesting a Mass intention for a particular date and time can do so by completing the “Mass Intentions Request Form” located in the foyers of the churches. Mass intentions may also be requested by phoning the parish office.

Prayers from the Sisters of St. Joseph:
The Sisters of St. Joseph have a prayer ministry for the Diocese of Rochester. They have informed our parish that Sisters Anne Marie Burns and Dolores Bachman will be praying for our parish and parishioners throughout 2021. Let us keep in our prayers the two sisters praying for us and for all the Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester.

Year of St. Joseph:
Pope Francis initiated the Year of St. Joseph in recognition of the 150th Anniversary of the declaration of St. Joseph as patron of the Catholic Church. This year is dedicated to increase our love for this great saint, to encourage us to implore his intercession and to imitate his virtues and his zeal.

Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes:
The Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes is located at 551 Exchange St. in Geneva with an office in Ovid at 7231 Main St. “If you regret your abortion, you are not alone. Let us help you learn to forgive yourself.” For more information phone 315 789 0708, text: 315-945-1019, or e-mail .

Cancer Services Program (CSP):
Cortland and Tompkins Counties offer free cancer screenings to those who are uninsured or have health insurance that does not cover these screenings. The screening services are provided in local health centers, doctors’ offices, and hospitals. For more information, contact CSP at 866 442 2262.

First Reading:
Let us condemn him to a shameful death; for according to his own words, God will take care of him. (Wis. 2:20)

Psalm:
The Lord upholds my life. (Ps. 54)

Second Reading:
And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace for those who cultivate peace. (Jas. 3:18)

Gospel:
“The Son of Man is to be handed over to men and they will kill him, and three days after his death the Son of Man will rise.” (Mk. 9:31)

Excerpts from the Lectionary for Mass ©2001, 1998, 1970 CCD. The English translation of Psalm Responses from Lectionary for Mass © 1969, 1981, 1997, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved.
©LPi

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
What does it mean to be God’s servant? In essence, it means being willing to call the world back to its childlike innocence, showing all that a joy-filled playfulness has a place in life. The servant of God serves to foster the Kingdom of God. God’s kingdom is not a sterile, unhappy, strict, and rigid reality. It is quite the opposite. It is a kingdom devoid of jealousy and selfish ambition where peace, gentleness, mercy, and good works abound. To be a servant of this kingdom means that selfish ambition must be set aside so that others can be first, and justice pursued at all cost. The prayer of this kind of servant is not focused on self-advancement or need. Rather, the servant’s prayer seeks to detach from self-concern in order to be used by God. In this way, we who are servants can be inspired, guided, empowered, and led by God. We can then be used to lay the cornerstones of the kingdom: faith, hope, and love. It is upon these that God’s firm dwelling is built. Accepting this call may place us last in the world’s eyes but first in God’s.
©LPi

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

©LPi

---

Events:

• Food Pantries:
  • Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m.
  • Food truck: October 12, 4:00 p.m., South Seneca high school parking lot
  • Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.,
  • Trumansburg Food Pantry: Every other Monday (September 27) 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and 5:15–6:00 p.m., Methodist church
• Family Hope Center: Tuesdays 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., and Thursdays 4:00–6:00 p.m., Holy Cross
• Fr. Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30–7:30 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• Catholic Campaign for Human Development collection: September 18 & 19
• Family Faith Formation begins: September 19, 9:00 a.m., St. James the Apostle
• Prayer for Healing and Harmony: Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m.
  • St James the Apostle: October 6 & 20
  • Holy Cross Rectory: September 22; October 13 & 27
• CROP Walk: October 10, 2:00 p.m., St. James the Apostle

Sanctuary Lamp:
In Catholic Churches, a candle is always lit to indicate that the Blessed Sacrament is present in the church. This candle is called the “sanctuary lamp.” Every week the candle or oil is renewed. In many churches, people donate to the church for the sanctuary lamp be lit for the week for the intention of the donor. This has been the custom at Holy Cross Church, Ovid and is now extended to St. James the Apostle and St. Francis Solanus Churches. In making the donation simply put on the envelope, “donation for the sanctuary lamp” and specify the week and, if so desired, your intention.

Break the Cycle of Poverty:
Support the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) collection this weekend, September 18 and 19. CCHD addresses the root causes of poverty in America by supporting community-controlled, self-help organizations of low-income people. Here in our Diocese, four life-changing community organizations are being funded with major CCHD national grants! They include a farmworker organization, a workers’ center, a land trust of low-income people becoming homeowners in inner city Rochester, and a refugee organization empowering their members to know their rights as tenants. In addition, 25% of the funds we collect will remain in our diocese to fund smaller anti-poverty projects. By supporting this collection, you are standing with people on the margins and making positive social change.

Confirmation Program:
Candidates for the celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation will begin classes next Sunday, September 26 at 4:00 p.m. at St. James the Apostle Pine Room. Please note, the beginning date has been changed from September 19.

Vocations Committee:
The Diocesan Vocation Directors have requested that each parish develop a committee to promote vocations to the priesthood and religious life in their parish. They have materials available to assist this ministry. Our church needs priests and religious. Please consider helping and volunteer for the committee.

Prayer for Healing and Harmony:
The gathering for prayer will take place Wednesday afternoons at 1:00 p.m. They will be at St. James the Apostle Pine Room on the first and third Wednesdays (October 6 & 20) and at Holy Cross Rectory on the second and fourth Wednesdays (September 22; October 13 & 27). On the fifth Wednesday there will be a gathering at St. Francis Solanus (September 29). Sister Anne Alderman, SSJ will facilitate the prayer sessions. For more information phone: 607–209–4206 or email .

Family Faith Formation at Mary, Mother of Mercy:
The Family Faith Formation program will begin Sunday, September 19 at St. James and is open to all families with children in grades K-7. If you have not yet registered, you can find the registration form available here along with more information. You can also phone the parish office or email with any questions.

CROP Hunger Walk:
The annual Trumansburg Tom Lange Memorial CROP Hunger Walk, sponsored by the Trumansburg Area Churches (TAC), will take place on Sunday, October 10, at 2:00 p.m. (all walkers register at 1:45 p.m.). The host and starting place will be St. James the Apostle Church. The initials CROP stand for Christian Rural Overseas Program and/or Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty, and their goal is “ending hunger one step at a time.” To register for the walk or to help sponsor the event with a donation please go here. Also, checks can be mailed to the First Presbyterian Church of Ulysses, Attn: Carol MacLeod, 69 E. Main Street, Trumansburg, NY 14886. Please make checks out to CWS/CROP. During this COVID time, waivers for all walkers must be completed and signed. Waivers will be available at the event or online.

October – Respect Life Month:
The first Sunday of October, which is Respect Life Sunday, begins the Respect Life Month. The month is dedicated to helping Catholics understand and value the gift of human life and help build a culture that cherishes and protects life. During this Year of St. Joseph, Pope Francis I invites us to reflect more deeply on how St. Joseph loved Jesus with a father’s heart. Joseph’s unhesitating adherence to God’s will as he faithfully and lovingly protected the Christ Child and the Blessed Mother bears witness to our own call as Christians to safe guard God’s gift of human life. May St. Joseph help us to faithfully commit ourselves to the service and defense of human life, especially where it is vulnerable or threatened, and obtain for us the grace to do the will of God in all things.

Respect Life Mass:
Sunday, October 3, at 11:15 a.m. Bishop Salvatore R. Matano will be the principal celebrant and homilist at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Rochester celebrating a “Respect Life Mass”. He has a desire that each parish send two delegates or more to the Mass as an expression of the parish’s commitment to life issues. If you are so inclined, please notify Fr. Bernard at the parish office.

40 Days for Life:
40 Days for Life is an international campaign of fasting and peaceful prayer outside of abortion clinics. Here in Ithaca we pray across the street from Planned Parenthood, 620 W. Seneca St. The next prayer campaign takes place September 22–October 31, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. everyday. 40daysforlife.com/ithaca offers daily devotions, resources, and an online calendar to select your hour to pray. Together, our peaceful prayer and witness will offer hope and life-affirming options to vulnerable women. For more info contact Carolann Darling, 607–351–6668.

The Healing Journey Class:
The Interlaken Reformed Church is hosting classes for anyone struggling with loss, grief, or depression. They are biblically based and designed for all, regardless of your faith perspective. To register please phone the church office at 607–532–4321. For more information, phone the class leader, Steve Messmer at 607–882–1374. The classes will begin September 21 on Tuesday evenings from 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Donating to Your Parish:
Online giving by WeShare is safe, simple and convenient. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3:

1. Visit the parish website’s giving page: marymotherofmercy.com/giving.
2. Follow the directions under the “Donate Online” section.
3. Set up your donation or payment.

That’s it! Your account will be created and you can put away your checkbook. If you experience any problems, please email Eileen at .

Family Hope Center:
The Family Hope Center has two locations: one in Geneva and a satellite location in Ovid in the Holy Cross Church Rectory. Family Hope Center fights for life by valuing life above all else. It means offering support through free pregnancy tests, a limited ultrasound referral, parenting and life skills classes, bible studies, material aid such as diapers and clothing, and through our forgiven and set free post abortion study. It means looking at our clients and saying, “I see your life; I value your life. I see and value your children’s lives. You are important and loved.” Women come to the Family Hope Center to be valued. To learn more visit familyhopecentergeneva.org, call 315–789–0708, or email .

Please take time this week to pray the rosary for an end to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Mass Intention Requests:
Parishioners requesting a Mass intention for a particular date and time can do so by completing the “Mass Intentions Request Form” located in the foyers of the churches. Mass intentions may also be requested by phoning the parish office.

Prayers from the Sisters of St. Joseph:
The Sisters of St. Joseph have a prayer ministry for the Diocese of Rochester. They have informed our parish that Sisters Anne Marie Burns and Dolores Bachman will be praying for our parish and parishioners throughout 2021. Let us keep in our prayers the two sisters praying for us and for all the Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester.

Year of St. Joseph:
Pope Francis initiated the Year of St. Joseph in recognition of the 150th Anniversary of the declaration of St. Joseph as patron of the Catholic Church. This year is dedicated to increase our love for this great saint, to encourage us to implore his intercession and to imitate his virtues and his zeal.

Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes:
The Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes is located at 551 Exchange St. in Geneva with an office in Ovid at 7231 Main St. “If you regret your abortion, you are not alone. Let us help you learn to forgive yourself.” For more information phone 315 789 0708, text: 315-945-1019, or e-mail .

Cancer Services Program (CSP):
Cortland and Tompkins Counties offer free cancer screenings to those who are uninsured or have health insurance that does not cover these screenings. The screening services are provided in local health centers, doctors’ offices, and hospitals. For more information, contact CSP at 866 442 2262.

First Reading:
I gave my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who plucked my beard; my face I did not shield from buffets and spitting. (Is. 50:8)

Psalm:
I will walk before the Lord, in the land of the living. (Ps. 116)

Second Reading:
What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? (Jas. 2:14)

Gospel:
And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said to him in reply, “You are the Christ.” (Mk. 8:29)

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
Rest in the presence of God simply because God is God and you are you. This is all that is necessary. Out of this relationship will come inspiration, understanding, courage, constancy, truth, and virtues of all kind. We will find ourselves knowing the true meaning of things and developing a depth of insight that is not found following purely human venues. It is God who inspires and opens human hearts to see truth and beauty. In God, we understand all of our relationships with a richer appreciation and come to know who Jesus, who speaks of God’s kingdom, really is. The trust that is fostered from resting with the Divine One allows us to see that God’s ways are not our ways. There is something bigger going on in this picture of life. It is something mystical and magical that seeks to surprise us at every turn. It is not for us to cling to this world and its limitations. Our adventure is to dream bigger and brighter, realizing that it is even in suffering that the radiant light of the dawn will come. God’s ways allow for our paths to be rocky, challenging, difficult, and even crippling at times. Purely human eyes cannot understand the ‘why’ of such experiences. The eyes and mind of God, however, reveal and detail a journey that ends in glorious resurrection joy. When we lose our axis and become too human in our thinking, Jesus rebukes us and gently reminds us how to see.
©LPi

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

 

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Events:

• Food Pantries:
  • Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m.
  • Food truck: September 14, 4:00 p.m., South Seneca high school parking lot
  • Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.,
  • Trumansburg Food Pantry: Every other Monday (September 13) 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and 5:15–6:00 p.m., Methodist church
• Family Hope Center (Summer Hours): Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., Holy Cross
• Fr. Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30–7:30 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• Catholic Campaign for Human Development collection: September 18 & 19
• Family Faith Formation begins: September 19, 9:00 a.m., St. James the Apostle
• Prayer for Healing and Harmony: Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m.
  • St James the Apostle: September 15; October 6 & 20
  • Holy Cross Rectory: September 22; October 13 & 27
• CROP Walk: October 10, 2:00 p.m., St. James the Apostle

Parish Feast Day:
On the second Sunday of September our parish celebrates its feast day in honor of Mary, Mother of Mercy. Happy feast day. There are popular prayers that speak of Mary as Mother of Mercy. For example, “Hail holy Queen, Mother of mercy” …and, later: “turn, then, your eyes of mercy towards us.” In another prayer, the Memorare, we hear: “To you I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful, O Mother of the Word incarnate, despise not my petitions but in your mercy, hear and answer me.” In recognizing Mary as our mother and as a mother of mercy, it is easy to approach her in prayer with confidence and joy.

Mary, Mother of Mercy Needs You:
The parish needs people who may be called upon to occasionally perform various small tasks, such as weeding one flower garden, changing a few light bulbs, or helping to move tables, chairs, fans, etc. Please sign up today. Sign up sheets are located on the churches’ bulletin boards.

This Weekend—Mission Cooperative Appeal:
The Diocese of Rochester Propagation of the Faith office has invited the Diocese of Kumbakonam, India to participate in the Mission Cooperative Appeal in our parish this year. Rev. Antony Muthu will speak at all the Masses this weekend – September 11/12. The Kumbakonam Diocese is in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The Catholic population is 6% and is served by 224 diocesan and 79 religious priests, 620 nuns, 12 trained catechists and 330 untrained lay catechists and 2 social service centers.

Break the Cycle of Poverty:
Next weekend, September 18 and 19, is the collection for the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD). CCHD addresses the root causes of poverty in America by supporting community-controlled, self-help organizations of low-income people. Here in our Diocese, four life-changing community organizations are being funded with major CCHD national grants! They include a farmworker organization, a workers’ center, a land trust of low-income people becoming homeowners in inner city Rochester, and a refugee organization empowering their members to know their rights as tenants. In addition, 25% of the funds we collect will remain in our diocese to fund smaller anti-poverty projects. By supporting this collection, you are standing with people on the margins and making positive social change.

Sanctuary Lamp:
In Catholic Churches, a candle is always lit to indicate that the Blessed Sacrament is present in the church. This candle is called the “sanctuary lamp.” Every week the candle or oil is renewed. In many churches, people donate to the church for the sanctuary lamp be lit for the week for the intention of the donor. This has been the custom at Holy Cross Church, Ovid and is now extended to St. James the Apostle and St. Francis Solanus Churches. In making the donation simply put on the envelope, “donation for the sanctuary lamp” and specify the week and, if so desired, your intention.

Prayer for Healing and Harmony:
The gathering for prayer will take place Wednesday afternoons at 1:00 p.m. They will be at St. James the Apostle Pine Room on the first and third Wednesdays (September 15, October 6 & 20) and at Holy Cross Rectory on the second and fourth Wednesdays (September 22; October 13 & 27). Sister Anne Alderman, SSJ will facilitate the prayer sessions. For more information phone: 607–209–4206 or email .

Family Faith Formation at Mary, Mother of Mercy:
The Family Faith Formation program will begin Sunday, September 19 at St. James and is open to all families with children in grades K-7. If you have not yet registered, you can find the registration form available here along with more information. You can also phone the parish office or email with any questions.

Food Pantry Donations Resume:
Non-perishable food items are once again being accepted at all three of our parish churches. Donations left at Holy Cross will go to the Ovid Federated Church; donations left at St. Francis Solanus will go to the Reformed Church in Interlaken; and food left at St. James the Apostle will be taken to the Trumansburg Food Pantry.

CROP Hunger Walk:
The annual Trumansburg Tom Lange Memorial CROP Hunger Walk, sponsored by the Trumansburg Area Churches (TAC), will take place on Sunday, October 10, at 2:00 p.m. (all walkers register at 1:45 p.m.). The host and starting place will be St. James the Apostle Church. The initials CROP stand for Christian Rural Overseas Program and/or Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty, and their goal is “ending hunger one step at a time.” To register for the walk or to help sponsor the event with a donation please go here. Also, checks can be mailed to the First Presbyterian Church of Ulysses, Attn: Carol MacLeod, 69 E. Main Street, Trumansburg, NY 14886. Please make checks out to CWS/CROP. During this COVID time, waivers for all walkers must be completed and signed. Waivers will be available at the event or online.

Day of Prayer:
On Wednesday, September 15, Rev. Robert Werth will present “Feeding the Spiritual Hungers” at the Notre Dame Retreat House, Canandaigua. Fr. Werth has been a priest within the Diocese of Rochester for the last 42 years. He is currently serving as Parochial Vicar at Cabrini Rochester. He has a Masters in Scriptures and in Social Work. The conference is from 9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. followed by lunch, free time, confessions, and the day will end with mass at 2:00 p.m. There is a $25.00 fee. Please register by calling 585–394–5700 or email .

The Healing Journey Class:
The Interlaken Reformed Church is hosting classes for anyone struggling with loss, grief, or depression. They are biblically based and designed for all, regardless of your faith perspective. To register please phone the church office at 607–532–4321. For more information, phone the class leader, Steve Messmer at 607–882–1374. The classes will begin September 21 on Tuesday evenings from 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Reception of Holy Communion:
During these pandemic times, the church gives the encouragement to receive Holy Communion in the hand – the ancient and longest tradition of the Church. An added precaution for those choosing to receive Holy Communion on the tongue: please come up last in the Communion procession.

Donating to Your Parish:
Online giving by WeShare is safe, simple and convenient. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3:

1. Visit the parish website’s giving page: marymotherofmercy.com/giving.
2. Follow the directions under the “Donate Online” section.
3. Set up your donation or payment.

That’s it! Your account will be created and you can put away your checkbook. If you experience any problems, please email Eileen at .

Family Hope Center:
The Family Hope Center has two locations: one in Geneva and a satellite location in Ovid in the Holy Cross Church Rectory. Family Hope Center fights for life by valuing life above all else. It means offering support through free pregnancy tests, a limited ultrasound referral, parenting and life skills classes, bible studies, material aid such as diapers and clothing, and through our forgiven and set free post abortion study. It means looking at our clients and saying, “I see your life; I value your life. I see and value your children’s lives. You are important and loved.” Women come to the Family Hope Center to be valued. To learn more visit familyhopecentergeneva.org, call 315–789–0708, or email .

Please take time this week to pray the rosary for an end to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Respect Life:
All are welcome to come and pray every Friday morning from 8:30–11:00 a.m. at Planned Parenthood, 620 W. Seneca St., Ithaca, and be available to offer life-affirming options to women considering abortions. For more information contact Carolann Darling, 607–351–6668.

Mass Intention Requests:
Parishioners requesting a Mass intention for a particular date and time can do so by completing the “Mass Intentions Request Form” located in the foyers of the churches. Mass intentions may also be requested by phoning the parish office.

Prayers from the Sisters of St. Joseph:
The Sisters of St. Joseph have a prayer ministry for the Diocese of Rochester. They have informed our parish that Sisters Anne Marie Burns and Dolores Bachman will be praying for our parish and parishioners throughout 2021. Let us keep in our prayers the two sisters praying for us and for all the Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester.

Year of St. Joseph:
Pope Francis initiated the Year of St. Joseph in recognition of the 150th Anniversary of the declaration of St. Joseph as patron of the Catholic Church. This year is dedicated to increase our love for this great saint, to encourage us to implore his intercession and to imitate his virtues and his zeal.

Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes:
The Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes is located at 551 Exchange St. in Geneva with an office in Ovid at 7231 Main St. “If you regret your abortion, you are not alone. Let us help you learn to forgive yourself.” For more information phone 315 789 0708, text: 315-945-1019, or e-mail .

Cancer Services Program (CSP):
Cortland and Tompkins Counties offer free cancer screenings to those who are uninsured or have health insurance that does not cover these screenings. The screening services are provided in local health centers, doctors’ offices, and hospitals. For more information, contact CSP at 866 442 2262.

First Reading:
Then will the eyes of the blind be opened, the ears of the deaf be cleared; then will the lame leap like a stag, then the tongue of the mute will sing. (Is. 35:5-6)

Psalm:
Praise the Lord, my soul! (Ps. 146)

Second Reading:
Did not God choose those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom that he promised to those who love him? (Jas. 2:5)

Gospel:
“He has done all things well. He makes the deaf hear and the mute speak.” (Mk. 7:37)

Excerpts from the Lectionary for Mass ©2001, 1998, 1970 CCD. The English translation of Psalm Responses from Lectionary for Mass © 1969, 1981, 1997, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved.
©LPi

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
Life can be challenging and frightening. Sometimes, it really hurts to be a human being. We face brokenness of all kinds: physical, emotional, and spiritual. For no apparent reason, life can quickly fall apart. What we knew to be familiar is gone and something we relied upon is taken away. We are left sitting with our incompleteness and swimming in the pools of our sadness. Be strong! Fear not! These admonitions flow from the mouths of prophets and are echoed by Jesus. It is difficult to trust that restoration, healing, and rejuvenation will one day come, and remain steadfast in our faith. But we are here because of a God who loves us, not as the result of a random occurrence. When we reach for that truth about who we are and who God is, life changes for us. We are healed from our old distorted way of seeing things. Our eyes, heart, and soul are opened to the beauty and magnificence of life. The pulse of our loving Creator is felt in all things and we can’t wait for God to come and touch us again. God made us, God loves us, and God keeps us. He has done all things well.
©LPi

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

©LPi

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Events:

• Food Pantries:
  • Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m.
  • Food truck: Every other Tuesday (September 14), 4:00 p.m., South Seneca high school parking lot
  • Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.,
  • Trumansburg Food Pantry: Every other Monday (September 13) 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and 5:15–6:00 p.m., Methodist church
• Family Hope Center (Summer Hours): Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., Holy Cross
• Fr. Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30–7:30 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• Liturgy Planning Committee Meeting: September 7, 6:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• Parish Council: September 9, 7:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus
• Family Faith Formation begins: September 19, 9:00 a.m., St. James the Apostle
• Prayer for Healing and Harmony: Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m.
  • St James the Apostle: September 15; October 6 & 20
  • Holy Cross Rectory: September 8 & 22; October 13 & 27

Parish Feast Day:
Our parish celebrates its feast day in honor of Mary, Mother of Mercy on the second Sunday of September. This year it will be September 12.

Reception of Holy Communion:
During these pandemic times, the church gives the encouragement to receive Holy Communion in the hand – the ancient and longest tradition of the Church. An added precaution for those choosing to receive Holy Communion on the tongue: please come up last in the Communion procession.

Mary, Mother of Mercy Needs You:
The parish needs people who may be called upon to occasionally perform various small tasks, such as weeding one flower garden, changing a few light bulbs, or helping to move tables, chairs, fans, etc. Please sign up today. Sign up sheets are located on the churches’ bulletin boards.

Liturgy Planning Committee:
This committee is a subcommittee of the Parish Council Worship Committee. They meet to plan the music for several weeks for the upcoming weekend Masses. The committee will meet Tuesday, September 7, at the Parish Center, St. Francis Solanus Annex, at 6:00 p.m. Parishioners who are musically trained or inclined are welcome to attend the meeting.

Parish Council Meeting:
The meeting will take place this Thursday, September 9, at the Parish Center at 7:00 p.m. The following are the members of the Parish Council and the committees.

• Executive Committee: Tim Davis, chair; Gerald Frank, vice chair; and Kathleen Rourke, secretary.
• Word Committee: Andrew Morpurgo, chair; Marc Albanese, Susan Guydosh, and Jacqueline Leidenfrost.
• Worship Committee: Thomas Duff, chair; Leo Kawczenski, Donna Ryan and Barbara Willers.
• Witness Committee: Lynne Stager, chair; Bill Masterson, Charles Mullins and Richard Pell.
• Fellowship Committee: Scott Hamula, chair; Laurenda Denmark and Martha Wooledge.

Mission Cooperative Appeal:
The Diocese of Rochester Propagation of the Faith office has invited the Diocese of Kumbakonam, India to participate in the Mission Cooperative Appeal in our parish this year. Rev. Antony Muthu will speak at all the Masses on the weekend of September 11/12. The Kumbakonam Diocese is in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The Catholic population is 6% and is served by 224 diocesan and 79 religious priests, 620 nuns, 12 trained catechists and 330 untrained lay catechists and 2 social service centers.

Prayer for Healing and Harmony:
The gathering for prayer will take place Wednesday afternoons at 1:00 p.m. They will be at St. James the Apostle Pine Room on the first and third Wednesdays (September 15, October 6 & 20) and at Holy Cross Rectory on the second and fourth Wednesdays (September 8 & 22; October 13 & 27). Sister Anne Alderman, SSJ will facilitate the prayer sessions. For more information phone: 607–209–4206 or email .

Family Faith Formation at Mary, Mother of Mercy:
The Family Faith Formation program will begin Sunday, September 19, and is open to all families with children in grades K-7. This year, the program will be weekly and will begin with the family attendance at the 9:00 a.m. Mass at St. James the Apostle. Following the Mass, families will gather for fellowship and a doctrinal lesson and activities based on the Sunday readings. At this time, it is hoped that the Religious Formation Director will be Brother Francisco Serrano, OFM Cap. He has recently received his Master’s Degree of Divinity and has been assigned to St. Fidelis Friary to begin a pastoral year of formation at our parish. You can find the registration form available here. Call Susan Guydosh at the parish office, 607-294-0064, or email with any questions.

Sanctuary Lamp:
In Catholic Churches, a candle is always lit to indicate that the Blessed Sacrament is present in the church. This candle is called the “sanctuary lamp.” Every week the candle or oil is renewed. In many churches, people donate to the church for the sanctuary lamp be lit for the week for the intention of the donor. This has been the custom at Holy Cross Church, Ovid and is now extended to St. James the Apostle and St. Francis Solanus Churches. In making the donation simply put on the envelope, “donation for the sanctuary lamp” and specify the week and, if so desired, your intention.

Food Pantry Donations Resume:
Non-perishable food items are once again being accepted at all three of our parish churches. Donations left at Holy Cross will go to the Ovid Federated Church; donations left at St. Francis Solanus will go to the Reformed Church in Interlaken; and food left at St. James the Apostle will be taken to the Trumansburg Food Pantry.

Day of Prayer:
On Wednesday, September 15, Rev. Robert Werth will present “Feeding the Spiritual Hungers” at the Notre Dame Retreat House, Canandaigua. Fr. Werth has been a priest within the Diocese of Rochester for the last 42 years. He is currently serving as Parochial Vicar at Cabrini Rochester. He has a Masters in Scriptures and in Social Work. The conference is from 9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. followed by lunch, free time, confessions, and the day will end with mass at 2:00 p.m. There is a $25.00 fee. Please register by calling 585–394–5700 or email .

The Healing Journey Class:
The Interlaken Reformed Church is hosting classes for anyone struggling with loss, grief, or depression. They are biblically based and designed for all, regardless of your faith perspective. To register please phone the church office at 607–532–4321. For more information, phone the class leader, Steve Messmer at 607–882–1374. The classes will begin September 21 on Tuesday evenings from 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Donating to Your Parish:
Online giving by WeShare is safe, simple and convenient. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3:

1. Visit the parish website’s giving page: marymotherofmercy.com/giving.
2. Follow the directions under the “Donate Online” section.
3. Set up your donation or payment.

That’s it! Your account will be created and you can put away your checkbook. If you experience any problems, please email Eileen at .

St. James the Apostle Church – New Collection Baskets:
New collection baskets have arrived, and the plan is to start using them September 5. We will be using collection baskets without handles. The ushers will start the baskets at the front pew, and each person can make their donation and then give the basket to the next person in the pew. When the basket reaches the end of the pew, please pass it to the person behind you.

Family Hope Center:
The Family Hope Center has two locations: one in Geneva and a satellite location in Ovid in the Holy Cross Church Rectory. Family Hope Center fights for life by valuing life above all else. It means offering support through free pregnancy tests, a limited ultrasound referral, parenting and life skills classes, bible studies, material aid such as diapers and clothing, and through our forgiven and set free post abortion study. It means looking at our clients and saying, “I see your life; I value your life. I see and value your children’s lives. You are important and loved.” Women come to the Family Hope Center to be valued. To learn more visit familyhopecentergeneva.org, call 315–789–0708, or email .

Please take time this week to pray the rosary for an end to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Respect Life:
All are welcome to come and pray every Friday morning from 8:30–11:00 a.m. at Planned Parenthood, 620 W. Seneca St., Ithaca, and be available to offer life-affirming options to women considering abortions. For more information contact Carolann Darling, 607–351–6668.

Mass Intention Requests:
Parishioners requesting a Mass intention for a particular date and time can do so by completing the “Mass Intentions Request Form” located in the foyers of the churches. Mass intentions may also be requested by phoning the parish office.

Volunteer with Catholic Charities:
You can be a friend to elders, youth and families who visit Catholic Charities by volunteering in our free clothing closet. People stop by in search of outfits for job interviews, work, school, and general purposes. For some folks, having a friendly conversation is as important as getting a shirt or pair of pants. We’re seeking volunteers to commit to one morning shift per week, Tuesday through Friday, to wait on customers and help sort donations at our office in downtown Ithaca. COVID-19 safety protocols will be enforced. To sign up, email Michaela at  or call 607–272–5062.

Prayers from the Sisters of St. Joseph:
The Sisters of St. Joseph have a prayer ministry for the Diocese of Rochester. They have informed our parish that Sisters Anne Marie Burns and Dolores Bachman will be praying for our parish and parishioners throughout 2021. Let us keep in our prayers the two sisters praying for us and for all the Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester.

Year of St. Joseph:
Pope Francis initiated the Year of St. Joseph in recognition of the 150th Anniversary of the declaration of St. Joseph as patron of the Catholic Church. This year is dedicated to increase our love for this great saint, to encourage us to implore his intercession and to imitate his virtues and his zeal.

Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes:
The Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes is located at 551 Exchange St. in Geneva with an office in Ovid at 7231 Main St. “If you regret your abortion, you are not alone. Let us help you learn to forgive yourself.” For more information phone 315 789 0708, text: 315-945-1019, or e-mail .

Cancer Services Program (CSP):
Cortland and Tompkins Counties offer free cancer screenings to those who are uninsured or have health insurance that does not cover these screenings. The screening services are provided in local health centers, doctors’ offices, and hospitals. For more information, contact CSP at 866 442 2262.