News – Page 27 – The Parish of Mary Mother of Mercy

Third Sunday of Easter ~ May 5, 2019

Posted on May 3, 2019 by Kathleen Rourke

First reading:
“We are witnesses of these things, as is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey him.” (Acts 5:32)

Psalm:
I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me. (Ps. 30)
or
Alleluia

Second reading:
“Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches, wisdom and strength, honor and glory and blessing.” (Rev. 5:12b)

Gospel:
This was now the third time Jesus was revealed to his disciples after being raised from the dead. (Jn. 21:14)

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
If you really want to get to know someone, invite them to dinner. Sharing a meal with someone opens up the door to a deeper, more intimate, and more authentic encounter. When we gather around a table, we are more vulnerable and are reminded not only of our need for food and sustenance, but also the love of friends and community. We are meant to be together. Meals can be opportunities not only for authentic meetings, but for healing relationships, for understanding one another better, and for renewal. Jesus invites us to dine with him once again at today’s Eucharist. He receives our pain and blesses our wounds. We are forgiven, set straight, renewed, and reconfirmed in our task of discipleship. Love is celebrated here again. May we bring that love to those who need it most, especially those we may find difficult to love and to those who have hurt us. Share with them the bread of compassion and the wine of mercy.

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

Events:

AA Meetings:
- Tuesdays, 8:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus, Interlaken
- Thursdays, noon, St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg
Food Pantries:
- Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m. Food Truck is every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (May 14)
- Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
- Trumansburg Food Pantry: Methodist church every other Monday, 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30-6:00 p.m. (May 13)
Confirmation Candidates: Eighth and ninth graders, Sundays, 4:00 p.m., St. James
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., St. James
Robotics: Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 6:00-8:00 p.m., St. James
Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30 p.m., St. Francis
Personal Care Products Collection: during the month of May at each church
The Sacrament of Confirmation: May 16, 7:00 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church
Renewing Wedding Vows: May 19, 2:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Cathedral
Selection of New Parish Council Members: May 26 at each church
Discerner retreat: May 31 to June 1, at St. John Fisher College
Conference for Catholic Women: June 1, from 9:15 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Sisters of St. Joseph Motherhouse in Pittsford, N.Y.
Coffee Hour: June 2, after 9:00 a.m. Mass, St. James
Ministers on Retreat: June 5, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Abbey of the Genesee

Thank-you:
Rich Rasmussen “thanks” both Mary, Mother of Mercy, and Immaculate Conception parishes for their support with the pancake breakfast fundraiser for St. Juan Bautista Church in Don Juan, Dominica Republic, that was held on April 7 at Immaculate Conception in Ithaca. The event raised $1,496.10 toward the rebuilding of the church. “This is awesome.”

The Sacrament of Confirmation:
On Thursday, May 16, at the Immaculate Conception Church, Ithaca, at 7:00 p.m. Bishop Salvatore R. Matano will confirm several of our parishioners. They are: Clare Marie Carver, Madison Feely, Bryce Grove, Colby Grove, Tylor Hunt, Andrew Masters, and Ashton Wiggins. Our parish rejoices in their commitment to our Lord Jesus and to promoting the Kingdom of God.

Food Donations at St. James:
Next Sunday, and every second Sunday of the month, please bring non-perishable food items to St. James Church. You may place the items in front of the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Monetary gifts are also welcome.

Parish Council Nominations:
During the month of May we ask parishioners to nominate themselves or others for membership on the Parish Council. The council meets a minimum of four times a year and members are assigned, after expressing their preference, to one of the standing committees: Word, Worship, Witness, or Fellowship. The selection of members will take place on Sunday, May 26. New members will be invited to attend the council’s meeting on June 13.

Birthright and Mothers’ Day:
The annual Mothers’ Day flower sale in support of Birthright is next weekend. You may purchase one flower for $1, a half dozen for $5, or one dozen for $10. Birthright is an organization that helps pregnant women by offering alternatives to abortion. They offer free self-administered pregnancy tests, prenatal information, medical referrals, financial assistance, and medical maternity and baby clothes. All services are free and confidential. Please extend your support to Birthright.

Personal Care Products Collection:
While many personal care items are donated to the food pantries throughout the year, during the month of May, additional attention is being paid to these items as being needed on a constant basis. These items are not covered by SNAP/food stamps. Personal care products that are needed include items like soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, body soap or washes, shaving soap, razors, or deodorants. This special collection will be held only during the month of May, ending May 26.

Renew Your Marriage Vows:
All married couples and their families are welcome to attend and renew their marriage vows with Bishop Matano on Sunday, May 19, at 2:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Cathedral, 296 Flower City Park, Rochester, NY. Those celebrating milestone jubilees will be given special recognition. To register go to: https://conta.cc/2Ep7Ptw. Additionally, as part of the recognition, the June issue of the Catholic Courier will feature a wedding jubilee section. To be included in this, please send an email, or a letter, with the following information: names, church, town where you were married, wedding date/year, and a wedding photo (optional). To be included you need to e-mail by May 6.

Parish Is on Social Media:
Social media got you down? Come and follow Mary, Mother of Mercy, on Facebook and Instagram! Both platforms will keep you updated on parish events (including photos), and the church community. It is also a good way to view positive devotional messages. The Facebook link is www.facebook.com/marymotherofmercyparish and on Instagram you can find us at marymotherofmercyparish. If you have something you would like to add to our parish pages, please contact Susan Guydosh at .

24 Hours with the Lord:
A discerner retreat is being sponsored by the Diocese of Rochester’s vocations office for young adult Catholic men ages 18–35. Join in a time of prayer, fellowship, food, and reflection on Friday, May 31, through Saturday, June 1, at St. John Fisher College. Please reply by Friday, May 24, by phoning 585 328-3210 ext, 1327 or by email .

Catholic Women:
Are you looking for signs of hope in our church? The executive director of FutureChurch, Deb Rose Milavec, and others will talk about recent developments that are happening in our church both internationally and locally, including honoring local Catholic women. The conference, open to both men and women, takes place on Saturday, June 1, from 9:15 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Sisters of St. Joseph Motherhouse in Pittsford, N.Y. Register before May 22 by sending $25 (includes breakfast and lunch) and your name and contact information to Karen Costello, 357 Marion St., Rochester, N.Y. 14610.

Easter Duty:
All the faithful, after they have been initiated into the Most Holy Eucharist, are bound by the obligation of receiving Communion at least once a year. The precept must be fulfilled during the Easter season unless it is fulfilled for a just cause at some other time during the year. (Church law #920) In reference to this precept the Easter season is considered the First Sunday of Lent until Trinity Sunday (this year June 16).

Right to Life:
A video is available to help you understand the different procedures of abortion at different stages of fetal development. Go to: https://www.liveaction.org/news/court-rules-ohio-defund-planned-parenthood.

40 Days For Life:
We thank all of who have participated in our largest campaign ever! What’s next you ask? Day 41! Come join others praying peacefully on Fridays throughout the year, or, any day that suits your schedule. Stay up to date with state legislative motions that will protect women, the unborn, and families affected by abortion expansion-join the Catholic Action Network of the NYS Catholic Conference. For more information go to http://www.nyscatholic.org.

Retreat Day for Ministers:
A retreat day for those in ministry will be held on Wednesday, June 5, from 8:30 am to 2:00 pm at the Abbey of the Genesee. The theme of the day will be: “Come Holy Spirit: God’s Presence in My Life.” To register go to www.dor.training and click on “register for live events.” If you have additional questions, please contact Katey Bourne at .

Prayers from the Sisters of St. Joseph:
The Sisters of St. Joseph have a prayer ministry and Sr. Dolores Bachman and Sr. Anne Marie Burns will be praying for our parish throughout 2019. Let us keep the sisters in our prayers as well.

Support Group:
Many people who have suddenly lost a family member, friend, classmate or colleague find that sharing openly with fellow survivors about what they have lived through can help with the healing process. The Seneca County Suicide Prevention Coalition hosts twice-monthly support groups which meet in Waterloo and Ovid for convenience of the entire community. These groups are held on the first- and third- Monday of every month; and provide people who are survivors of loss or survivors of suicide the opportunity to talk in an open and inclusive environment, free of judgment or stigma. The Waterloo Public Library plays host on the first Monday of every month and the Ovid session takes place on the third Monday at the Ovid Federated Church. Both sessions run from 6:30 until 8:00 p.m. For more information see www.facebook.com/SenecaSuicidePrevention or contact Mary Joslyn at .

Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes:
Pregnancy Care Center of the Finger Lakes, located at 551 Exchange St. in Geneva, is offering a “Forgiven and Set Free” post abortive ten-week session beginning October 4 until December 13. There is no cost involved. “If you regret your abortion, you are not alone. Let us help you learn to forgive yourself. Pleased join us for this healing ministry program.” For more information phone 315 789 0708.

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.

Toiletries and Hygiene Products:
There is a basket in the vestibule of St. James church for donations of toiletries. The request comes from Catholic Charities which is in need of items like shampoo, toothpaste, diapers etc. The items will be transferred to the Catholic Charities office in Ithaca.

Ministry Schedule for St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken

May 4, at 5:00 p.m. (first weekend):
Lectors: Karl Messmer, Scott Hamula
EMs: Kathleen Rourke, Millie Messmer, Robin Hamula

May 11, at 5:00 p.m. (second weekend):
Lectors: Kathleen Rourke, Barbara Willers
EMs: Lee and Mary Davidson, Robin Hamula

Ministry Schedule for St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg

May 5, at 9:00 a.m. (first Sunday)
Lectors: Donna Ryan (for Lynne Stager) and Tim Davis (for Barbara Willers)
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Mark Scibilia-Carver, Beth Koeng

May 12, at 9:00 a.m. (second Sunday):
Lectors: Mark Scibilia-Carver and Barbara Willers
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Lynne Stager, Beth Koeng, Mary Szymanski

Ministry Schedule for Holy Cross, Ovid

Not available at this time

Second Sunday of Easter and Sunday of Divine Mercy ~ April 28, 2019

Posted on April 26, 2019 by Kathleen Rourke

First reading:
Many signs and wonders were done among the people at the hands of the apostles. (Acts 5:12a)

Psalm:
Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, his love is everlasting. (Ps. 118)
or
Alleluia

Second reading:
“Once I was dead, but now I am alive forever and ever. I hold the keys to death and the netherworld.” (Rev. 1:18b)

Gospel:
Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” (Jn. 20:21)

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
Peace be with you! Of all of the things the resurrected Christ could have said, he chose this: Peace be with you! These calming words lessened the disciples’ anxiety and gave them a wonderful sense of reassurance. Words have the power to do that. Jesus touches his friends with his breath and breathes his Spirit upon them. This intimate gesture of peace begins to alleviate the uncertainty and fear that no doubt consumed their thoughts and hearts. Words and gestures are so important in doing God’s work. Even the simplest of greetings and actions can profoundly move people and direct them to God. On this Sunday of Divine Mercy, we are reminded that God’s all-forgiving and merciful love comes to us through the risen Christ. By our words and actions, may we show that forgiveness and merciful love to others.

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

Events:

AA Meetings:
- Tuesdays, 8:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus, Interlaken
- Thursdays, noon, St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg
Food Pantries:
- Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m. Food Truck is every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (April 30)
- Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
- Trumansburg Food Pantry: Methodist church every other Monday, 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30-6:00 p.m. (April 29)
Confirmation Candidates: Eighth and ninth graders, Sundays, 4:00 p.m., St. James
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., St. James
Robotics: Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 6:00-8:00 p.m., St. James
Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30 p.m., St. Francis
Blue Sunday: April 28, day of prayer for victims of child abuse
Diocesan Social Ministry Conference: May 2, 10:30 a.m., Notre Dame Retreat House, Canandaigua.
Coffee Hour: May 5, after 9:00 a.m. Mass, St. James
Renewing Wedding Vows: May 19, 2:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Cathedral
Discerner retreat: May 31 to June 1, at St. John Fisher College
Ministers on Retreat: June 5, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Abbey of the Genesee

Easter Duty:

All the faithful, after they have been initiated into the Most Holy Eucharist, are bound by the obligation of receiving Communion at least once a year. The precept must be fulfilled during the Easter season unless it is fulfilled for a just cause at some other time during the year. (Church law #920) In reference to this precept the Easter season is considered the First Sunday of Lent until Trinity Sunday (this year June 16).

March Attendance and Collections:
On an average in the month of March there were 65 people at the 5:00 p.m. Mass, 83 at the 9:00 a.m. Mass, and 73 at the 10:30 Mass. The average Mass collections during the month were: $770 at the 5:00 p.m. Mass, $748 at the 9:00 a.m. Mass, and $662 at the 10:30 a.m. Mass. Parishioners participating through the WeShare online giving contributed $2,240. “Thank you all for your attendance and offerings.”

2018–2019 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
It was reported on April 16 that 108 parish households have pledged $30,597 to the Catholic Ministries Appeal (CMA). We have reached and surpassed the given goal of $29,979! This is exceptional and good news. A “thank you” to all who have made this possible. Be aware that our parish will receive 50% of what is received over goal. Those wishing to make a pledge to the CMA can still do so. The CMA provides funding for important ministries, services and programs that support our parish and strengthen our whole Church. To make a pledge to the CMA, there are pledge envelopes in the foyer of each church that may be mailed directly, sent to parish office, or deposited in the offertory collection. To make a gift online go to www.dor.org/cma.

Parish Is on Social Media:
Social media got you down? Come and follow Mary, Mother of Mercy, on Facebook and Instagram! Both platforms will keep you updated on parish events (including photos), and the church community. It is also a good way to view positive devotional messages. The Facebook link is www.facebook.com/marymotherofmercyparish and on Instagram you can find us at @marymotherofmercyparish. If you have something you would like to add to our parish pages, please contact Susan Guydosh at .

Blue Sunday:
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. Since 1983 the number of abused children has grown from half a million to over 6 million along with 1,600+ children dying annually as a result of their abuse. These numbers do not include missing or children exploited through trafficking. Additional resources including videos and fact sheets, are available online at www.bluesunday.org. Blue Sunday is a national faith-based movement to pray for victims of child abuse and for those who rescue them on the last Sunday of April, April 28.

Rice Bowl Collection:
Parishioners participating in the Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Lenten Rice Bowl program may bring their full CRS Rice Bowl to Mass, or count the amount in the bowl and write a check to Mary, Mother of Mercy, with a memo “Rice Bowl” and deposit the check in the weekend collection. You can also give online at crsricebowl.org/give.

Mass for Individuals with Special Needs:
All are invited to a Mass at St. John of Rochester on Sunday, May 5, at 12:00 p.m., to celebrate the special members of our community and the unique gifts that they offer to our Church and the world. St. John of Rochester is located at 8 Wickford Way in Fairport. Refreshments will be served in the “Gathering Room” immediately following Mass. This event is sponsored by the Diocese of Rochester, St. John of Rochester, and the Knights of Columbus. For more information contact Steve Coyle at 585-503-2858.

Retreat Day for Ministers:
A retreat day for those in ministry will be held on Wednesday, June 5, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Abbey of the Genesee. The theme of the day will be: “Come Holy Spirit: God’s Presence in My Life.” To register go to www.dor.training and click on “register for live events.” For additional questions, please contact Katey Bourne at .

Ministry Schedule for St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken

April 27, at 5:00 p.m. (fourth weekend):
Lectors: Gerry and Millie Messmer
EMs: Cathy DelSignore, Mary Davidson

May 4, at 5:00 p.m. (first weekend):
Lectors: Karl Messmer, Scott Hamula
EMs: Kathleen Rourke, Millie Messmer, Robin Hamula

Ministry Schedule for St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg

April 28, at 9:00 a.m. (fourth Sunday):
Lectors: Beth Duff and Tim Davis
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Tom Duff, Tim O’Boyle

May 5, at 9:00 a.m. (first Sunday)
Lectors: Donna Ryan (for Lynne Stager) and Barbara Willers
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Mark Scibilia-Carver, Beth Koeng

Ministry Schedule for Holy Cross, Ovid

Not available at this time

Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord ~ April 21, 2019

Posted on April 17, 2019 by Kathleen Rourke

First reading:
“He commissioned us to preach to the people and testify that he is the one appointed by God as judge of the living and the dead.” (Acts 10:42)

Psalm:
This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad. (Ps. 118)
or Alleluia

Second reading:
When Christ your life appears, then you too will appear with him in glory. (Col. 3:4)

Gospel:
Then the other disciple also went in, the one who had arrived at the tomb first, and he saw and believed. (Jn. 20:8)

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
Alleluia! Christ is risen! We are called, by how we live our lives, to celebrate the risen Christ. How do we do that? Our faith in the resurrection gathers us here today to celebrate this incredible event. The good news is that the doors of eternity are open! We can now understand that the fullness of who we are will be discovered when we one day meet God face-to-face in heaven. Our faith in the truth of who God is and who we are affects how we live our lives and the decisions we make. We are called to love our neighbor…to love those who hurt us…to work on behalf of the poor and the weak…to be people of justice, integrity, and hope…to practice compassion and mercy above anything else. Our lives are meant to be oriented around the axis of the Gospel. Are they?

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

Events:

AA Meetings:
- Tuesdays, 8:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus, Interlaken
- Thursdays, noon, St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg
Food Pantries:
- Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m. Food Truck is every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (April 30)
- Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
- Trumansburg Food Pantry: Methodist church every other Monday, 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30-6:00 p.m. (April 29)
Confirmation Candidates: Eighth and ninth graders, Sundays, 4:00 p.m., St. James
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., St. James
Robotics: Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 6:00-8:00 p.m., St. James
Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30 p.m., St. Francis
Shroud of Turin presentation: April 22 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis-St. Clare Ministry Center, Waterloo
Finance Council: April 25, 1:00 p.m., St. Francis
Blue Sunday: April 28, day of prayer for victims of child abuse
Diocesan Social Ministry Conference: May 2, 10:30 a.m., Notre Dame Retreat House, Canandaigua.
Coffee Hour: May 5, after 9:00 a.m. Mass, St. James
Mass for Individuals with Special Needs: May 5, noon, St. John of Rochester

Happy Easter:
Jesus, the Christ, has indeed risen, alleluia! May glory be His forever. Enjoy this holy season of the year rejoicing in Jesus’s victory over death and the fact that He shares that victory with us. Heaven is promised to us. May this promise always be a source of hope and strength in times of trouble. Rejoice and be glad!

Easter Offering:
There is one collection on Easter. In previous years parishioners on Easter generally increase their offering by being more generous on that day than usual. The parish has come to rely on the Easter offering collection. Please do what you are able. “Thank you.”

Easter Duty:
“All the faithful, after they have been initiated into the Most Holy Eucharist, are bound by the obligation of receiving Communion at least once a year. The precept must be fulfilled during the Easter season unless it is fulfilled for a just cause at some other time during the year.” (Church Law #920). In reference to this precept the Easter season is considered the First Sunday of Lent until Trinity Sunday (this year June 16).

Finance Council Meeting:
The parish’s Finance Council will meet this Thursday, April 25, at 1:00 p.m. in the St. Francis annex.

2018–2019 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
It was reported on April 9 that 108 parish households have pledged $30,472 to the Catholic Ministries Appeal (CMA). We have reached and surpassed the given goal of $29,979! This is exceptional and good news. A “thank you” to all who have made this possible. Be aware that our parish will receive 50% of what is received over goal. Those wishing to make a pledge to the CMA can still do so. The CMA provides funding for important ministries, services and programs that support our parish and strengthen our whole Church. To make a pledge to the CMA, there are pledge envelopes in the foyer of each church that may be mailed directly, sent to the parish office, or deposited in the offertory collection. To make a gift online go to www.dor.org/cma.

Parish Is on Social Media:
Social media got you down? Come and follow Mary, Mother of Mercy, on Facebook and Instagram! Both platforms will keep you updated on parish events (including photos), and the church community. It is also a good way to view positive devotional messages. The Facebook link is www.facebook.com/marymotherofmercyparish and on Instagram you can find us at @marymotherofmercyparish. If you have something you would like to add to our parish pages, please contact Susan Guydosh at .

Shroud of Turin:
A presentation on the Shroud of Turin, providing the latest scientific evidence, will be held on April 22 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis-St. Clare Ministry Center, 25 Center St. in Waterloo. The presentation is based on six days of the highest-level forensic studies. “This review provides the forensic evidence behind the belief that the Shroud is not a forgery but holds the miraculous image of a man, Jesus Christ.” For more information call presenter Frank Netti at 315 246-7021.

Trumansburg Food Pantry:
There is one more day, April 29, for Mary, Mother of Mercy, parishioners/St. James people to help-out at the Food Pantry located in the Trumansburg United Methodist church. There are various times and tasks still available. See the sign-up sheets in the foyer. Also, the pantry’s main fundraising campaign is occurring through the month of April. Please make checks payable to “Trumansburg Food Pantry” and mail it to PO Box 162, Trumansburg, N.Y. 14886. Your support helps the Food Bank of Southern Tier Backpack Program for Trumansburg Central School District students and maintains an emergency hotline for those in need of immediate food assistance (607 387 8260), in addition to the regular food pantry distribution. Thank you for your support!

Annual Diocesan Social Ministry Conference:
This year’s conference is entitled “Open Wide Our Hearts: The Enduring Call to Love” and is an opportunity to learn about the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ recent pastoral letter on the sin of racism and how to promote this teaching in your parish. The conference is open to pastors, parish staff, and parishioners, especially parish council members, religious education teachers, youth group leaders, and social ministry committee members. The conference will be held on May 2, beginning with Mass at 10:30 a.m. at the Notre Dame Retreat House, 5151 Foster Road, Canandaigua. There will be workshops on Catholic social teaching issues and their connection to racism and social division, including farmworker rights, pro-life issues, and care for creation. The registration fee is $20 (including lunch) and is due April 26. For more information, or to register, contact or phone 607-734 9784.

Mass for Individuals with Special Needs:
All are invited to a Mass at St. John of Rochester on Sunday, May 5, at 12:00 pm, to celebrate the special members of our community and the unique gifts that they offer to our Church and the world. St. John of Rochester is located at 8 Wickford Way in Fairport. Refreshments will be served in the “Gathering Room” immediately following Mass. This event is sponsored by the Diocese of Rochester, St. John of Rochester, and the Knights of Columbus. For more information contact Steve Coyle at 585-503-2858.

Ministry Schedule for St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken

April 27, at 5:00 p.m. (fourth weekend):
Lectors: Gerry and Millie Messmer
EMs: Cathy DelSignore, Mary Davidson

May 4, at 5:00 p.m. (first weekend):
Lectors: Karl Messmer, Scott Hamula
EMs: Kathleen Rourke, Millie Messmer, Robin Hamula

Ministry Schedule for St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg

April 28, at 9:00 a.m. (fourth Sunday):
Lectors: Beth Duff and Tim Davis
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Tom Duff, Tim O’Boyle

May 5, at 9:00 a.m. (first Sunday)
Lectors: Donna Ryan (for Lynne Stager) and Barbara Willers
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Mark Scibilia-Carver, Beth Koeng

Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord ~ April 14, 2019

Posted on April 12, 2019 by Kathleen Rourke

Processional Gospel:
They proclaimed: “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord.” (Lk. 19:38a)

First reading:
The Lord GOD is my help, therefore I am not disgraced. (Is. 50:7a)

Psalm:
My God, my God, why have you abandoned me? (Ps. 22)

Second reading:
He humbled himself, becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. (Phil. 2:8)

Gospel:
Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit;” and when he had said this he breathed his last. (Lk. 23:46)

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
Once hailed with blessings and hosannas as he approached the Mount of Olives, the same God is nailed to a cross amid cries for His crucifixion. What an ironic twist of fate. What an unjust end to this compassionate, simple, and loving life. Life’s ironies and cruelties are dramatically witnessed today and throughout this Holy Week. The thread of God’s love is woven through it all as it reveals God’s transforming, redemptive, and salvific plan. It is all necessary: the hardship and the joy, the suffering and the glory, the disappointment and the inheritance. When life takes a turn for the worse, we often question where God is. Are we ready to walk through our lives as did Jesus, with a persistent trust that regardless how difficult our journey, all will work out in the end. “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.”

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

Events:

AA Meetings:
- Tuesdays, 8:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus, Interlaken
- Thursdays, noon, St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg
Food Pantries:
- Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m. Food Truck is every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (April 16)
- Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
- Trumansburg Food Pantry: Methodist church every other Monday, 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30-6:00 p.m. (April 15)
Confirmation Candidates: Eighth and ninth graders, Sundays, 4:00 p.m., St. James
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., St. James
Robotics: Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 6:00-8:00 p.m., St. James
Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30 p.m., St. Francis
Sacrament of Reconciliation: April 15, St. Francis, at 6:30 p.m.
Day of Prayer: “Praying the Psalms,” April 16, at Notre Dame Retreat House in Canandaigua, N.Y.
Chrism Mass: April 16, 7:00 p.m., Cathedral of the Sacred Heart
Mass of the Lord’s Supper: April 18, 7:00 p.m. at St. James the Apostle church.
Good Friday, April 19: It is a day of fast and abstinence.
Stations of the Cross: Good Friday, April 19, 3:00 p.m. St. James
Celebration of the Lord’s Passion: April 19 at 7:00 p.m. at Holy Cross.
Holy Saturday, April 20: The Easter Vigil in the Holy Night, 8:00 p.m., St. Francis
Shroud of Turin presentation: April 22 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis-St. Clare Ministry Center, Waterloo
Blue Sunday: April 28, day of prayer for victims of child abuse
Diocesan Social Ministry Conference: 10:30 a.m., May 2, Notre Dame Retreat House, Canandaigua.
Coffee Hour: May 5, after 9:00 a.m. Mass, St. James

Annual Chrism Mass:
Bishop Salvatore R. Matano will celebrate the annual Chrism Mass at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart on Tuesday, April 16, at 7:00 p.m. During the Chrism Mass, the Oil of Catechumens and the Oil of the Sick will be blessed, and the Oil of Chrism will be consecrated. At the conclusion of the Mass, parishioners may obtain the oils and bring them back to their parish churches. Please let Fr. Bernard know if you intend to attend this year’s Chrism Mass.

Sacrament of Reconciliation:
The Sacrament of Reconciliation, with the opportunity for private confession, will take place on Monday of Holy Week, April 15, at St. Francis Solanus church at 6:30 p.m.

Washing of Feet Ritual:
This ritual takes place during the Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 7:00 p.m. at St. James. We need of 12 adult parishioners to volunteer to participate in this rite. Please volunteer. There are sign-up sheets in the foyers of each church.

Holy Thursday on April 18:
Mass of the Lord’s Supper, will take place on Holy Thursday, April 18, 7:00 p.m. at St. James the Apostle church. The Mass will include the ringing of bells at the Gloria and the washing of feet ritual (see above). The Mass concludes with a procession with the Blessed Sacrament to the Pine Room. For those who wish, adoration and private prayer will continue until 10:00 p.m.

Good Friday, April 19:
It is a day of fast and abstinence. When fasting, a person between the ages of 18–59 is permitted to eat one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal. All those over the age of 14 cannot eat meat. There will be Stations of the Cross at 3:00 p.m. at St. James the Apostle and a Celebration of the Lord’s Passion at 7:00 p.m. at Holy Cross. The passion liturgy has three major parts: the Liturgy of the Word, the adoration of the Holy Cross, and Holy Communion.

Holy Saturday, April 20:
The Easter Vigil in the Holy Night will take place at 8:00 p.m. at St. Francis Solanus. The liturgy begins outdoors with the blessing of the fire and preparation of the Paschal (Easter) candle, the procession, the Easter proclamation (Exsultet), the Liturgy of the Word, the blessing of Baptismal water, the renewal of Baptismal promises, and the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord:
Easter Sunday, April 21, will follow our regular Sunday Mass schedule: 9:00 a.m. at St. James and 10:30 a.m. at Holy Cross. At both Masses there will be the rite of the renewal of baptismal promises. There will also be an Easter egg hunt after Mass at St. James.

Good Friday Collection:
Pope Francis has asked our parish to support the Pontifical Good Friday Collection, which helps Christians in the Holy Land. Your support helps the church minister in parishes, provide Catholic schools and offer religious education as well as helping to preserve the sacred shrines. The wars, unrest, and instability have been especially hard on Christians. In these times of crisis, the Pontifical Good Friday Collection provides humanitarian aid to refugees. When you contribute, you become an instrument of peace and join with Catholics around the world in solidarity with the Church in the Holy Land. For more information about Christians in the Holy Land, visit www.myfranciscan.org/good-friday.

2018–2019 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
It was reported on April 9 that 108 parish households have pledged $30,472 to the Catholic Ministries Appeal (CMA). We have reached and surpassed the given goal of $29,979! This is exceptional and good news. A “thank you” to all who have made this possible. Be aware that our parish will receive 50% of what is received over goal. Those wishing to make a pledge to the CMA can still do so. The CMA provides funding for important ministries, services and programs that support our parish and strengthen our whole Church. To make a pledge to the CMA, there are pledge envelopes in the foyer of each church that may be mailed directly, sent to parish office, or deposited in the offertory collection. To make a gift online go to www.dor.org/cma.

Parish Is on Social Media:
Social media got you down? Come and follow Mary, Mother of Mercy, on Facebook and Instagram! Both platforms will keep you updated on parish events (including photos), and the church community. It is also a good way to view positive devotional messages. The Facebook link is www.facebook.com/marymotherofmercyparish and on Instagram you can find us at @marymotherofmercyparish. If you have something you would like to add to our parish pages, please contact Susan Guydosh at .

Trumansburg Food Pantry:
A reminder that April is one of the months for St. James/Mary, Mother of Mercy, parishioners to help-out with the local food pantry at Trumansburg United Methodist church. See the sign-up sheets in the St. James foyer as there are various times and tasks still available on April 15 and 29. Also, the pantry’s main fundraising campaign is occurring now through the month of April. Please make checks payable to “Trumansburg Food Pantry” and mail it to PO Box 162, Trumansburg, N.Y. 14886. Your support helps the Food Bank of Southern Tier Backpack Program for Trumansburg Central School District students and maintains an emergency hotline for those in need of immediate food assistance (607 387 8260), in addition to the regular food pantry distribution. Thank you for your support!

Scholarship for High School Seniors:
The Dyke, Brown, and Lange Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a college-bound senior (university, college, business, or vocational school) who has been actively involved in their school and community, displayed excellent citizenship and sensitivity to the needs, concerns, and feelings of others, and who has a positive outlook on life and the future. Applications for the scholarship may be obtained at the Trumansburg High School Guidance Office or through the following link: https://fpcu.info/our-community/memorial-scholarship/. Please return the application by April 15, marked Attention Scholarship Trustees, to the First Presbyterian Church of Ulysses, P.O. Box 597, Trumansburg, N.Y. 14886.

Day of Prayer:
There will be a day of prayer on Tuesday of Holy Week, April 16, at Notre Dame Retreat House in Canandaigua, N.Y. The day’s theme is “Praying the Psalms” and it is presented by Dr. Joseph Kelly, Professor Emeritus of Religious Studies at Nazareth College of Rochester. The day begins at 9:00 a.m. with morning coffee and concludes at 3:00 p.m. after confessions and Mass. There is a $25.00 fee payable on the day of the retreat. Please call 585-394-5700 or email: to register.

Ministry Schedule for St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken

Palm Sunday: April 14, (second weekend)
First reading: Kathleen Rourke
Epistle: Barbara Willers
Narrator (at Ambo): Scott Hamula
Speaker/voice (at cantor’s stand): Carol Kuklo

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Mary Davidson, Robin Hamula, Cathy Del Signore

Altar servers: Ben and Alex Hamula

Easter Vigil, April 20, beginning at 8:00 p.m.
First reading, Gen. 22: 1-18: Scott Hamula
Second reading, Ex. 14:15-15:1: Ann Buddle
Third reading, Is. 54: 5-14: Tony Humulock
Epistle, Romans 6: 3–11: Michelle Humulock

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Robin Hamula, Cathy DelSignore,

Altar servers: Alex and Ben Hamula, Gerry Frank

Fire starter: Mark Scibilia-Carver

Ministry Schedule for St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg

Palm Sunday: April 15 (second Sunday)
First reading: Mark Scibilia-Carver
Epistle: Beth Duff
Narrator (at Ambo): Barbara Willers
Speaker/voice (possibly at altar, next to Father): Lynne Stager

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Lynne Stager, Tom Duff,

Easter Sunday: April 21 (third Sunday)
Lectors: Donna Ryan and Nancy Olszewski (2^nd reading is Col. 3:1–4)
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Beth and Tom Duff, Debbie Short

Ministry Schedule for Easter Triduum

Holy Thursday, April 18
7:00 p.m. Mass of the Lord’s Supper at St. James the Apostle
Lectors: Nancy Olszewski and Scott Hamula
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Cathy DelSignore, Robin Hamula, and Fran Grasek

Good Friday, April 19
Stations of the Cross at 3:00 p.m. at St. James and
the Liturgical Celebration of the Passion of the Lord at 7:00 p.m. at Holy Cross

Fifth Sunday of Lent ~ April 7, 2019

Posted on April 5, 2019 by Kathleen Rourke

First reading:
Remember not the events of the past, the things of long ago consider not; see, I am doing something new! (Is. 43:18-19a)

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

Second reading:
I continue my pursuit toward the goal, the prize of God’s upward calling, in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 3:14)

Gospel:
“Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” (Jn. 8:7a)

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
We are all sinners, and we all need mercy. If met with sincerity and true repentance of heart, an encounter with God’s unconditional and all-forgiving love will lead to true conversion and a new life of grace. There is no point to condemnation or excessive punishment. We do not need to wag fingers or make people feel inferior. Jesus met the woman caught in adultery with compassion. He did not condemn her. People have not always been faithful to God. We have not always been faithful to God. Yet, God waits for us to return and trusts that His seeds of forgiveness and mercy will take root. We do not know if the woman left Jesus and sinned no more. It’s not important.

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

Events:

AA Meetings:
- Tuesdays, 8:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus, Interlaken
- Thursdays, noon, St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg
Food Pantries:
- Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m. Food Truck is every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (April 16)
- Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
- Trumansburg Food Pantry: Methodist church every other Monday, 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30-6:00 p.m. (April 15)
Confirmation Candidates: Eighth and ninth graders, Sundays, 4:00 p.m., St. James
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., St. James
Robotics: Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 6:00-8:00 p.m., St. James
Stations of the Cross: Thursdays, 6:00 p.m., Holy Cross, and Fridays, 3:30 p.m., St. James
Sacrament of Reconciliation: Fridays, 4:15 p.m., St. James, and 6:30 p.m., St. Francis
Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30 p.m., St. Francis
Days of Abstinence: Fridays of Lent, those over the age of 14 should abstain from eating meat
Forty Days for Life: From March 6 through April 14, Ithaca
Sharing our Blessings Weekend: April 6 and 7 promoting CMA
Coffee Hour: April 7, after 9:00 a.m. Mass, St. James
Pancake Breakfast: April 7, 9:00 a.m. to noon, Immaculate Conception parish hall
Day of Prayer: “Praying the Psalms,” April 16, at Notre Dame Retreat House in Canandaigua
Cemetery Spring Cleanup: April 13, Holy Cross and St. James cemeteries
Chrism Mass: April 16, 7:00 p.m., Cathedral of the Sacred Heart
Blue Sunday: April 28, day of prayer for victims of child abuse
Diocesan Social Ministry Conference: 10:30 a.m., May 2, Notre Dame Retreat House, Canandaigua

Pancake Breakfast this Sunday:
The family based and youth ministry programs of Immaculate Conception and the family based religious education program of the parish of Mary, Mother of Mercy, are joining together to raise money to help rebuild the San Juan Bautista Catholic church in the Dominican Republic. The breakfast will be held on this Sunday, April 7, from 9:00 a.m. to noon at Immaculate Conception church parish hall. The cost is $6 per person, $5 for senior citizens, and $20 max per family. Children 3 and under are free.

2018–2019 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
It was reported on March 26 that 106 parish households pledged $30,072 to the Catholic Ministries Appeal (CMA). We reached and surpassed the given goal of $29,979! This is exceptional and good news. A “thank you” to all who have made this possible. Be aware that our parish will receive back 50% of what is contributed now that we have exceeded our goal. Those wishing to make a pledge to the CMA can still do so. The CMA provides funding for important ministries, services, and programs that support our parish and strengthen our whole church. The diocesan “Sharing our Blessings Weekend” to promote the Catholic Ministries Appeal is this weekend, April 6–7.

Holy Week Schedule:

On April 18, Holy Thursday, there will be a 7:00 p.m. Mass of the Lord’s Supper at St. James the Apostle.
On Good Friday, April 19, Stations of the Cross will occur at 3:00 p.m. at St. James and the Liturgical Celebration of the Passion of the Lord will begin at 7:00 p.m. at Holy Cross. On Saturday,
April 20, the Easter Vigil in the Holy Night will occur at 8:00 p.m. at St. Francis Solanus.
Easter Sunday Masses will follow our regular Sunday schedule: 9:00 a.m. at St. James and 10:30 a.m. at Holy Cross.

Cemetery Spring Cleanup:
Spring cleanup day for our parish cemeteries (Holy Cross and St. James) will be April 13. Please have all previous seasons’ decorations/flowers removed and disposed of off site by April 12. Anything left will be removed, as the cemetery manager deems appropriate.

Our Parish Is on Social Media:
Social media got you down? Come and follow Mary, Mother of Mercy, on Facebook and Instagram! Both platforms will keep you updated on parish events (including photos), and the church community. It is also a good way to view positive devotional messages. The Facebook link is www.facebook.com/marymotherofmercyparish, and on Instagram you can find us at @marymotherofmercyparish. If you have something you would like to add to our parish pages, please contact Susan Guydosh at .

February Attendance and Collections:
On an average in February there were 55 people at the 5:00 p.m. Mass on Saturday at St. Francis, and, on Sunday, 89 attended the 9:00 a.m. Mass at St. James and 75 parishioners were at the 10:30 a.m. Mass at Holy Cross. The average Mass collections during this month were: $708 at St. Francis, $802 at St. James, and $669 at Holy Cross plus $2,261 from parishioners participating through WeShare online giving.

Ministry Schedule for St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken

Saturday Vigil Mass at 5:00 p.m.

April 6 (first weekend):
Lectors: Karl Messmer, Scott Hamula
EMs: Kathleen Rourke, Millie Messmer, Robin Hamula

April 13 ~ Palm Sunday (fifth weekend):
Lectors:
First reading: Kathleen Rourke
Second reading: Barbara Willers
Gospel Narrator: Scott Hamula
Gospel Speaker/voice:

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Mary Davidson, Robin Hamula,

Ministry Schedule for St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg

Sunday Mass at 9:00 a.m.

April 7 (first Sunday):
Lectors: Lynne Stager and Barbara Willers
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Mark Scibilia-Carver, Beth Koeng

April 14 ~ Palm Sunday (fifth Sunday):
Lectors:
First reading: Mark Scibilia-Carver
Second reading: Beth Duff
Gospel Narrator: Barbara Willers
Gospel Speaker/voice:

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Lynne Stager, Tom Duff

Ministry Schedule for Easter Triduum

Good Friday, April 19
Stations of the Cross at 3:00 p.m. at St. James and
the Liturgical Celebration of the Passion of the Lord at 7:00 p.m. at Holy Cross

Easter Vigil, April 20
St. Francis at 8:00 p.m.
Lectors: Scott Hamula, Ann Buddle
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Robin Hamula, Cathy DelSignore

Easter Sunday, April 21
St. James at 9:00 a.m.
Lectors: Donna Ryan and Nancy Olszewski
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Beth and Tom Duff, Debbie Short

Fourth Sunday of Lent ~ March 31, 2019

Posted on March 29, 2019 by Kathleen Rourke

First reading:
No longer was there manna for the Israelites, who that year ate of the yield of the land of Canaan. (Jos. 5:12b)

Psalm:
Taste and see the goodness of the Lord. (Ps. 34)

Second reading:
All this is from God, who has reconciled us to himself through Christ and given us the ministry of reconciliation. (2 Cor. 5:18)

Gospel:
“Now we must celebrate and rejoice, because your brother was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.” (Lk. 15:32)

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
God does not coerce us into anything. Rather, He gives us the freedom and the means to live like adults, taking responsibility for our choices and the direction our lives take. As our loving Father, He desires that our home be made with Him but understands when we choose to pursue our own passions and desires, which lead us away from Him. We have to learn our own lessons if conversion is to be tangible and real. We cannot return to God simply because we are told to or because we are expected to. We have to come to God freely, and when we do, God is there with loving, open arms ready to welcome us back home. We can celebrate because we were dead and have found life again!

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

Events:

AA Meetings:
- Tuesdays, 8:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus, Interlaken
- Thursdays, noon, St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg
Food Pantries:
- Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m. Food Truck is every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (April 2)
- Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
- Trumansburg Food Pantry: Methodist church every other Monday, 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30-6:00 p.m. (April 1)
Robotics: Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 6:00-8:00 p.m., St. James
Confirmation Candidates: Eighth and ninth graders, Sundays, 4:00 p.m., St. James
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., St. James
Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30 p.m., St. Francis
Stations of the Cross: Thursdays, 6:00 p.m., Holy Cross, and Fridays, 3:30 p.m., St. James
Sacrament of Reconciliation: Fridays, 4:00 p.m., St. James, and 6:30 p.m., St. Francis
Days of Abstinence: Fridays of Lent, those over the age of 14 should abstain from eating meat
Forty Days for Life: From March 6 through April 14, Ithaca
Marion Icon Prayer Service: 2:00 p.m., March 31, St. Patrick’s church, Seneca Falls
Sharing our Blessings Weekend: April 6 and 7 promoting CMA
Coffee Hour: April 7, after 9:00 a.m. Mass, St. James
Pancake Breakfast: April 7, 9:00 a.m. to noon, Immaculate Conception parish hall
Cemetery Spring Cleanup: April 13, Holy Cross and St. James cemeteries
Chrism Mass: April 16, 7:00 p.m., Cathedral of the Sacred Heart
Blue Sunday: April 28, day of prayer for victims of child abuse
Diocesan Social Ministry Conference: 10:30 a.m., May 2, Notre Dame Retreat House, Canandaigua.

Catholic Relief Services Collection:
This weekend there is a second collection to help support the work of six U.S. Catholic agencies (Catholic Relief Services; Catholic Migration and Refugee Services; U.S. Bishops’ Justice, Peace and Human Development Ministry; and the Holy Father’s Relief Fund) who carry out the Church’s global social ministry on our behalf, caring for refugees and victims of famine, war, and natural disasters. These agencies annually touch the lives of more than 100 million brothers and sisters all over the world.

Food Pantry Campaign:
The Trumansburg Food Pantry for the Town of Ulysses continues to successfully help many families who are experiencing economic hardships and are struggling to provide food for their families. It also supports the Food Bank of the Southern Tier’s backpack program for Trumansburg Central School District students and maintains an emergency phone hotline for residents who are in need of immediate food assistance. The pantry’s main fundraising campaign kicked off with the “Empty Bowls” fundraiser event on March 17. If you wish to contribute to the Trumansburg Food Pantry at any time, please send your contribution to the Trumansburg Food Pantry, Box 162, Trumansburg, N.Y. 14886 or make a donation to the United Way and indicate that it is for the Trumansburg Food Pantry. On another note, the pantry is in need of a new coordinator to carry on the work of our parishioner, Anne Haus, who will be retiring this year after many years of doing amazing work for the panty. She is greatly appreciated by the community for the many gifts and talents she has shared so generously. If you need more information about the Food Pantry, it has a presence on both Instagram and Facebook. Search for Trumansburg Food Pantry and join in the pantry’s ongoing mission. Thank you!

Pancake Breakfast:
The family based and youth ministry programs of Immaculate Conception and the family based religious education program of the parish of Mary, Mother of Mercy, are joining together to raise money to help rebuild the San Juan Bautista Catholic church in the Dominican Republic. The breakfast will be held on Sunday, April 7, from 9:00 a.m. to noon at Immaculate Conception church parish hall. The cost is $6 per person, $5 for senior citizens, and $20 max per family. Children 3 and under are free.

2018–2019 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
It was reported on March 26 that 106 parish households have pledged $30,072 to the Catholic Ministries Appeal (CMA). We reached and surpassed the given goal of $29,979! This is exceptional and good news. A “thank you” to all who have made this possible. Be aware that our parish will receive back 50% of what is contributed now that we have exceeded our goal. Those wishing to make a pledge to the CMA can still do so. The CMA provides funding for important ministries, services, and programs that support our parish and strengthen our whole church. The diocesan “Sharing our Blessings Weekend” to promote the Catholic Ministries Appeal is next weekend, April 6–7.

Marian Icon:
The icon of Our Lady, Help of Persecuted Christians, is on tour and will be at St. Patrick’s church in Seneca Falls on Sunday, March 31. All are welcome to a prayer service at 2:00 p.m. at St. Patrick’s. This event is being sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Council 222.

Ministry Schedule for St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken

Saturday Vigil Mass at 5:00 p.m.

March 30 (fifth weekend):
Lectors: Kathleen Rourke, Ann Buddle
EMs: Millie Messmer, Robin Hamula

April 6 (first weekend):
Lectors: Karl Messmer, Scott Hamula
EMs: Kathleen Rourke, Millie Messmer, Robin Hamula

Ministry Schedule for St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg

Sunday Mass at 9:00 a.m.

March 31 (fifth Sunday):
Lectors: Lynne Stager and Barbara Willers
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Mark Scibilia-Carver, Tim O’Boyle

April 7 (first Sunday):
Lectors: Lynne Stager and Barbara Willers
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Mark Scibilia-Carver, Beth Koeng

Ministry Schedule for Holy Cross, Ovid

Sunday Mass at 10:30 a.m.

(information not available at this time)

Third Sunday of Lent ~ March 24, 2019

Posted on March 22, 2019 by Kathleen Rourke

First reading:
God replied: “I am who I am.” Then he added, “This is what you will tell the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you.” (Ex. 3:14)

Psalm:
The Lord is kind and merciful. (Ps. 103)

Second reading:
Therefore, whoever thinks he is standing secure should take care not to fall. (1 Cor. 10:12)

Gospel:
“But I tell you, if you do not repent, you will all perish as they did!” (Lk. 13:5b)

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
If salvation history teaches us anything, it’s that God is very patient. Time and time again, people have wandered away from Him and He has sent prophet after prophet to lead them back. To show us just how much He does love us, He sent us His Son who revealed this unconditional love in all that he said and did. This Lenten season is an opportunity to repent and turn back. The mystery of God’s presence is revealed in and through the ordinary events of life as the birth of Christ reminds us. God told Moses through the burning bush, “I am who am.” And so he reminds us today. Let us turn away no more and turn back to truth.

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

Events:

AA Meetings:
- Tuesdays, 8:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus, Interlaken
- Thursdays, noon, St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg
Food Pantries:
- Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m. Food Truck is every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (April 2)
- Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
- Trumansburg Food Pantry: Methodist church every other Monday, 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30-6:00 p.m. (April 1)
Robotics: Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 6:00-8:00 p.m., St. James
Confirmation Candidates: Eighth and ninth graders, Sundays, 4:00 p.m., St. James
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., St. James
Fr. Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30 p.m., St. Francis
Stations of the Cross: Thursdays, 6:00 p.m., Holy Cross, and Fridays, 3:30 p.m., St. James
Sacrament of Reconciliation: Fridays, 4:00 p.m., St. James, and 6:30 p.m., St. Francis
Days of Abstinence: Fridays of Lent, those over the age of 14 should abstain from eating meat
Forty Days for Life: From March 6 through April 14, Ithaca
Marion Icon Prayer Service: 2:00 p.m., March 31, St. Patrick’s church, Seneca Falls
Movie Gosnell: March 27, at 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., St. Mary’s church, Waterloo
Coffee Hour: April 7, after 9:00 a.m. Mass, St. James
Pancake Breakfast: April 7, 9:00 a.m. to noon, Immaculate Conception Church parish hall.
Cemetery Spring Cleanup: April 13, Holy Cross and St. James cemeteries
Chrism Mass: April 16, 7:00 p.m., Cathedral of the Sacred Heart

Catholic Relief Services Collection:
Next weekend our parish will join with Catholic parishes across the country to take up the annual Catholic Relief Services (CRS) collection. This special national collection helps support the U.S. Catholic community’s global social ministry carried out in our name by six U.S. Catholic agencies, including Catholic Relief Services, Catholic Migration and Refugee Services, U.S. Bishops’ Justice, Peace and Human Development Ministry, and the Holy Father’s Relief Fund. These agencies annually touch the lives of more than 100 million brothers and sisters all over the world.

Trumansburg Food Pantry Updates:
The Trumansburg Food Pantry is now up and running on both Instagram and Facebook. Search for Trumansburg Food Pantry and join in the pantry’s ongoing mission. On another note, the pantry is in need of a new coordinator to carry on the work of our parishioner, Anne Haus, who will be retiring this year after many years of doing amazing work for the panty. She is greatly appreciated by the community for the many gifts and talents she has shared so generously.

Pancake Breakfast:
The family based and youth ministry programs of Immaculate Conception church and the family based religious education program of the parish of Mary, Mother of Mercy are joining together to raise money to help rebuild the San Juan Bautista Catholic Church in the Dominican Republic. The breakfast will be held on Sunday, April 7, from 9:00 a.m. to noon at Immaculate Conception church parish hall. The cost is $6 per person, $5 for senior citizens, and $20 max per family. Children 3 and under are free.

Annual Chrism Mass:
Bishop Salvatore R. Matano will celebrate the annual Chrism Mass at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart on Tuesday, April 16, at 7:00 p.m. At the Chrism Mass, the Oil of Catechumens and the Oil of the Sick will be blessed, and the Oil of Chrism will be consecrated. At the conclusion of the Mass, parishioners may obtain the oils and bring back to their parish churches. Please let Fr. Bernard know if you intend to attend this year’s Chrism Mass.

Cemetery Spring Cleanup:
Spring cleanup day for our parish cemeteries (Holy Cross and St. James) will be April 13. Please have all previous seasons’ decorations /flowers removed and disposed of off site by April 12. Anything left will be removed, as the cemetery manager deems appropriate.

2018–2019 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
The Catholic Ministries Appeal (CMA) report of March 4, 2019, revealed that 105 of our parish households have pledged $26,972 toward our given parish goal of $29,979. Thank you. If you have not yet responded, please consider your financial participation. In the church vestibules there are CMA pledge envelopes and CMA has produced an extraordinary video in connection with this year’s appeal. It is posted to the CMA page at www.dor/org/cma.

Mass Intentions:
People wishing to have a Mass offered for whatever reason, may send in the request via phone, email, or U.S. mail to the parish office (see web page for contact information). It is important you clearly indicate the purpose for the Mass intention, the date and time desired, and the name of the person(s) making the request. Please include your phone number or e-mail so the request can be confirmed or to resolve any questions. It is also helpful to let us know if you desire a Mass intention card for you to give to the family or an individual. The suggested stipend (offering) for an announced Mass (meaning it will be published in the Sunday bulletin) is $10 which can be mailed to the parish office. You can also deposit it in the weekly collection, but you need to clearly indicate it is intended for a Mass stipend and for whom the Mass is requested.

40 Days For Life:
Peaceful prayer to end abortion continues at the vigil site across from Planned Parenthood, 620 W. Seneca Street, Ithaca. Consider selecting an hour or more per week as part of your Lenten offering. See more details at the website: www.40daysforlife.com/ithaca. For more information about the Ithaca vigil, contact Mary Anne Tissot at 315-246-7479 or Carolann Darling at 607-351-6668. “Like” us on Facebook at Ithaca 40 Days for Life.

Free Movie:
The movie Gosnell will be shown at St. Mary’s Church, 35 Center St., Waterloo, on Wednesday, March 27, at 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. There is no admission fee. The film is the shocking true story of the investigation and trial of Dr. Kermit Gosnell and his thirty-year abortion practice and the political and media establishment that tried to cover it up. It is rated PG13 and runs for 93 minutes. A discussion will follow for those who wish to participate. For more information contact Kathy Peters at 315-539-8006.

Daily Meditations:
The Center for Action and Contemplation offers daily mediations that have proved most helpful to thousands of people. Please go to https://cac.org or .

More Great Links
The New York State Catholic Conference has an excellent website available at http://www.nyscatholic.org. It is a good way to stay informed and a great way for people to quickly notify your legislators regarding issues that concern you. Another link is available through Catholic Charities, and offers a variety of helpful programs: https://catholiccharitiesusa.org/advocacy-and-policy.

More Counters Needed:
We currently have four two-person teams counting the offertory collections at St. James the Apostle but could use more people as substitutes. The counting is done after the 9:00 a.m. Mass on Sundays or Tuesdays and you need to be eighteen years old or older to be a counter. The commitment involves one hour of training and then counting four or five times per year. If you are interested, please contact either Ron Singer at 607-387-6577 or at or Father Bernard Maloney at .

Ministers of Hospitality Needed:
St. James the Apostle is in need of additional volunteers to serve as ministers of hospitality/ ushers. It currently has two two-person teams and one substitute but it would be good to increase the ministry by at least four additional people. That would give the church four two-person teams and would allow each team to usher just once a month. We currently do not have any women involved in this ministry and would welcome their participation. You have to be 18 years old or older (men or women) to be an usher. If anyone is interested, please contact Ron Singer at 607-387-6577 or at or Father Bernard Maloney at .

Ministry Schedule for St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken

Saturday Vigil Mass at 5:00 p.m.

March 23 (fourth weekend):
Lectors: Gerry and Millie Messmer
EMs: Cathy DelSignore, Mary Davidson

March 30 (fifth weekend):
Lectors: Kathleen Rourke, Ann Buddle
EMs: Millie Messmer, Robin Hamula

Ministry Schedule for St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg

Sunday Mass at 9:00 a.m.

March 24 (fourth Sunday):
Lectors: Beth Duff and Tim Davis
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Tom Duff, Tim O’Boyle

March 31 (fifth Sunday):
Lectors: Lynne Stager and Barbara Willers
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Mark Scibilia-Carver, Tim O’Boyle

Ministry Schedule for Holy Cross, Ovid

Sunday Mass at 10:30 a.m.

(information not available at this time)

Second Sunday of Lent ~ March 17, 2019

Posted on March 15, 2019 by Kathleen Rourke

First reading:
The Lord God took Abram outside and said, “Look up at the sky and count the stars, if you can. Just so,” he added, “shall your descendants be.” (Gn. 15:5)

Psalm:
The Lord is my light and my salvation. (Ps. 27)

Second reading:
He will change our lowly body to conform with his glorified body by the power that enables him also to bring all things into subjection to himself. (Phil. 3:21)

Gospel:
While he was praying his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white. (Lk. 9:29)

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
Our minds are often preoccupied with the things of this world, and we forget about the things of heaven. We live our lives as if what we see before us is all there is and almost place the truth of eternity on hold until it is absolutely necessary to confront it. We fail to see the connection between earth and heaven and to see the road of transformation we are all called to travel. When Jesus was transfigured before his disciples, they saw the truth of who he was. Earth and heaven were wed that day, just as they will one day come together for us. God desires to transfigure us as well, changing our earthly body into our heavenly one. We miss our true destiny if we don’t factor this into the choices we make and the paths we choose to walk.

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

Events:

AA Meetings:
- Tuesdays, 8:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus, Interlaken
- Thursdays, noon, St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg
Food Pantries:
- Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m. Food Truck is every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (March 19)
- Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
- Trumansburg Food Pantry: Methodist church every other Monday, 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30-6:00 p.m. (March 18)
Robotics: Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 6:00-8:00 p.m., St. James
Confirmation Candidates: Eighth and ninth graders, Sundays, 4:00 p.m., St. James
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., St. James
Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30 p.m., St. Francis
Forty Days for Life: From March 6 through April 14, Ithaca
Hope for Climate Action Presentation: March 19, 7:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m., Quaker Meeting House, Ithaca
Movie Gosnell: March 27, at 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., St. Mary’s Church, Waterloo
Coffee Hour: April 7, after 9:00 a.m. Mass, St. James

Feast Day:
Tuesday, March 19 is the feast day of St. Joseph, spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. St. Joseph is the patron of the Universal Church and patron of workers, carpenters, and fathers. He also has the title of Guardian of the Redeemer.

T’burg Food Pantry Volunteers:
A reminder for those who volunteered to help out in March and April at the Trumansburg Food Pantry: the dates are March 18, and April 1, 15, and 29. If you didn’t sign up but want to help out during these two months when our parish provides volunteers for the food distribution, feel free to join us. Details are on the bulletin boards at St. James. Thank you.

Fridays in Lent:
Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence. Abstinence means that people over the age of 14 are obliged to abstain from eating meat on Fridays.

Stations of the Cross:

Thursdays of Lent, at 6:00 p.m. at Holy Cross Church followed by a communal soup supper.
Fridays of Lent at 3:30 p.m. at St. James followed by Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament and the opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Sacrament of Reconciliation:

The Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) is available on Fridays, 6:30–7:00 p.m., at the St. Francis Solanus in Interlaken or by appointment with a priest.
The sacrament will also be available at St. James the Apostle on the Fridays of Lent, after the Stations of the Cross and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament (see above).

Daily Meditations:
The Center for Action and Contemplation offers daily mediations that have proved most helpful to thousands of people. Please go to https://cac.org or .

Mass Intentions:
People wishing to have a Mass offered for whatever reason, may send in the request via phone, email, or U.S. mail to the parish office (see front of bulletin for contact information). It is important you clearly indicate the purpose for the Mass intention, the date and time desired, and the name of the person(s) making the request. Please include your phone number or e-mail so the request can be confirmed or to resolve any questions. It is also helpful to let us know if you desire a Mass intention card for you to give to the family or an individual. The suggested stipend (offering) for an announced Mass (meaning it will be published in the Sunday bulletin) is $10 which can be mailed to the parish office. You can also deposit it in the weekly collection, but you need to clearly indicate it is intended for a Mass stipend and for whom the Mass is requested.

2018–2019 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
The Catholic Ministries Appeal (CMA) report of March 4, 2019, revealed that 105 parish households have pledged $26,972 toward our given parish goal of $29,979. Thank you. If you have not yet responded, please consider your financial participation. In the church vestibules there are CMA pledge envelopes and CMA has produced an extraordinary video in connection with this year’s appeal. It is posted to the CMA page at www.dor/org/cma.

Free Movie:
The movie Gosnell will be shown, with free admission, at St. Mary’s Church, 35 Center St., Waterloo, on Wednesday, March 27, at 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The film is the shocking true story of the investigation and trial of Dr. Kermit Gosnell and his thirty-year abortion practice and the political and media establishment that tried to cover it up. It is rated PG13 and runs for 93 minutes. A discussion will follow for those who wish to participate. For more information contact Kathy Peters at 315-539-8006.

Hope for Climate Action:
The Interfaith Climate-Justice Action Network invites you to a presentation on a federal bill, called the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act, a bipartisan solution for climate change. The U.S. Catholic Bishops Conference has already praised the bill calling it a “hopeful sign that more and more climate change is beginning to be seen as a crucial moral issue.” Join us on Tuesday, March 19, from 7:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. (refreshments at 6:45 p.m.) at the Quaker Meeting House, 120 Third Street, Ithaca, to learn more.

Ministry Schedule for St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken

Saturday Vigil Mass at 5:00 p.m.

March 16 (third weekend):
Lectors: Scott Hamula, Ann Buddle
EMs: Robin Hamula, Kathleen Rourke, Cathy DelSignore

March 23 (fourth weekend):
Lectors: Gerry and Millie Messmer
EMs: Cathy DelSignore, Mary Davidson

Ministry Schedule for St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg

Sunday Mass at 9:00 a.m.

March 17 (third Sunday):
Lectors: Donna Ryan and Nancy Olszewski
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Beth and Tom Duff, Debbie Short

March 24 (fourth Sunday):
Lectors: Beth Duff and Tim Davis
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Tom Duff, Tim O’Boyle

Ministry Schedule for Holy Cross, Ovid

Sunday Mass at 10:30 a.m.

(information not available at this time)

First Sunday of Lent ~ March 10, 2019

Posted on March 9, 2019 by Kathleen Rourke

First reading:
“Therefore, I have now brought you the first fruits of the products of the soil which you, O LORD, have given me.” (Dt. 26:10a)

Psalm:
Be with me, Lord, when I am in trouble. (Ps. 91)

Second reading:
For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Rom. 10:13)

Gospel:
Filled with the Holy Spirit, Jesus returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the desert for forty days, to be tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and when they were over he was hungry. (Lk. 4:1-2)

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
Temptation is a part of our lives. Even Jesus wrestled with temptation. Our faith tells us that we are meant to live our lives in service of God’s kingdom. Yet, we often find ourselves pursuing our own desires rather than God’s. The Gospel clearly tells us that true power is found in the embrace of virtue—living lives of non-violence, mercy, and forgiveness. Yet, we still are not convinced and seek things that will hurt us and retaliate against those who harm us. When Jesus faced temptation, he found security in who he was, which firmly rooted him in his mission and gave him the determination to trust in God. We, too, must learn to find security in our identity as a son or daughter of God, to live out our mission rooted in that truth, and to be confident in God’s abiding presence.

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

Events:

AA Meetings:
- Tuesdays, 8:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus, Interlaken
- Thursdays, noon, St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg
Food Pantries:
- Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m. Food Truck is every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (March 19)
- Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
- Trumansburg Food Pantry: Methodist church every other Monday, 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30-6:00 p.m. (March 18)
Robotics: Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 6:00-8:00 p.m., St. James
Fr. Bernard is Available: Fridays, 6:30 p.m., St. Francis
Choir Practices: March 14 at 6:30 p.m., St. Francis; after Sunday Mass, St. James; and Tuesdays, at 10:00 a.m., Holy Cross
Forty Days for Life: From March 6 through April 14, Ithaca
Donations to T’burg Food Pantry: March 10, in front of statue of Mary, St. James
Confirmation Candidates: Eighth and ninth graders, classes will resume March 10 at 4:00 p.m., St. James
Day of Penance and Mercy in the Diocese: March 13, 2:00–4:00 and 6:00–8:00 p.m., St. Francis
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): Instruction will resume March 20 at 7:00 p.m., St. James
Coffee Hour: April 7, after 9:00 a.m. Mass, St. James

Black, Native American, and Hispanic Collection:
This collection will be taken up this weekend. Originally mandated by the III Plenary Council in 1884, the 125-year-old national collection continues as the embodiment of the Church’s concern for evangelizing the Black, Native American, and Hispanic people of the United States. The funds are distributed as grants to dioceses throughout the United States, supporting and strengthening evangelization programs which otherwise would cease.

Rice Bowl:
Through Catholic Relief Services (CRS), our parish provides Rice Bowl boxes for people to use during Lent. Pick up your family’s CRS Rice Bowl at the back of your church and, throughout Lent, add in your pocket change or other money. This is an easy way we can all give to those in need around the world and 25% of what we collect will stay in our local community. During the forty days of Lent, as companions on the journey, we will encounter our neighbor.

Choir Practice:
As the liturgical year moves closer to Ash Wednesday and ultimately the Tridium, there will be a group Tridium practice at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis on March 14. The Tuesday morning group has commenced at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Cross. This also provides an alternative practice time for any choir member who prefers not to be out at night. At St. James, feel free to stay and practice after Sunday Mass.

T’burg Food Pantry:
This weekend is our chance to donate food or money to the Trumansburg pantry. Just leave your donations on the table in front of the Mary statue at St. James. Also, we still need a couple more volunteers to help out at the Trumansburg Food Pantry, located in the Trumansburg United Methodist church. The food pantry counts on our parish to provide to people to help out during March and April. Please sign up on the lists provided in the St. James foyer. Thank you!

Fridays in Lent:
Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence. Abstinence means that people over the age of 14 are obliged to abstain from eating meat on Fridays.

Stations of the Cross:
There will be Stations of the Cross on Thursdays of Lent beginning at 6:00 p.m. at Holy Cross church followed by a communal soup supper. On Fridays of Lent, at 3:30 p.m. at St. James, the Stations will be followed by Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament and the opportunity to participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Sacrament of Reconciliation:
The Sacrament of Reconciliation (confession) is available on Fridays, 6:30–7:00 p.m., at St. Francis church or by appointment with a priest. March 13, the Wednesday after Ash Wednesday, will be a day of penance and mercy throughout the Diocese of Rochester. The celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation will take place in parishes throughout the diocese on that day, including at our parish center (St. Francis Solanus church) from 2:00–4:00 and 6:00–8:00 p.m. Please make note of this opportunity as the Sacrament of Reconciliation is a “graced opportunity for us to celebrate God’s forgiveness.” On Fridays of Lent, the Sacrament of Reconciliation will also be available at St. James after Benediction. Do you have questions about the Sacrament of Reconciliation? Visit http://forgiven.dor.org and click on “Commonly Asked Questions.”

More Counters Needed:
We currently have four two-person teams counting the offertory collections at St. James the Apostle. The counting is done after the 9:00 a.m. Mass on Sundays or Tuesdays. It would be good to have a one or two additional parishioners to be substitutes for when one or more of our regular counters is either ill or otherwise unavailable. You need to be eighteen years old or older to be a counter. The commitment involves one hour of training and then counting four or five times per year. If you are interested, please contact either Ron Singer at 607-387-6577 or at or Father Bernard Maloney at .

Ministers of Hospitality Needed:
St. James the Apostle is in need of additional volunteers to serve as ministers of hospitality/ ushers. It currently has two two-person teams and one substitute. It would be best to increase the ministry by at least four additional people. That would give the church four two-person teams and would allow each team to usher just once a month. We currently do not have any women involved in this ministry and would welcome their involvement. You do have to be 18 years old or older (men or women) to be an usher. If anyone is interested, please contact Ron Singer at 607-387-6577 or at or Father Bernard Maloney at .

Daily Meditations:
The Center for Action and Contemplation offers daily mediations that have proved most helpful to thousands of people. Please go to https://cac.org or .

Parish Finances:
The parish finance council met on January 25, and, in the review of the sixth month finance report, (July 1–December 31, 2018) it was noted that our parish ordinary income, i.e. weekend collections, are not meeting our ordinary expenses, creating a deficit over the sixth month period of $1,405. This deficit would have been higher, if not for the fact that our ordinary expenses were down $7,663.76 from the previous year’s sixth month reporting. Also noted was that our ordinary income was $11,635.62 less than the previous year’s ordinary income. It is suspected that, because our weekend Mass attendance is down from the previous year, possibly due to the Mass schedule changes, our collections are down as well. On another level, church collections are down nationally because of the scandals the Church is dealing with at this time. Whatever the reason why our collections are down, we need to alert parishioners to the situation. Please continue to invite parishioners who are not attending weekly Mass to return to the celebration of God’s word, the celebration of the memorial of Jesus’s death and resurrection, and the celebration of our union with Jesus and one another in the sacrament of Holy Communion. It would also be helpful if parishioners could increase their weekly offering according to their means. Thank you for your kind consideration of this matter.

Ministry Schedule for St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken

Saturday Vigil Mass at 5:00 p.m.

March 9 (second weekend):
Lectors: Kathleen Rourke, Barbara Willers
EMs: Lee and Mary Davidson, Robin Hamula

March 16 (third weekend):
Lectors: Scott Hamula, Ann Buddle
EMs: Robin Hamula, Kathleen Rourke, Cathy DelSignore

Ministry Schedule for St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg

Sunday Mass at 9:00 a.m.

March 10 (second Sunday):
Lectors: Mark Scibilia-Carver and Barbara Willers
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Lynne Stager, Beth Koeng, Mary Szymanski

March 17 (third Sunday):
Lectors: Donna Ryan and Nancy Olszewski
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Beth and Tom Duff, Debbie Short

Ministry Schedule for Holy Cross, Ovid

Sunday Mass at 10:30 a.m.

(information not available at this time)

Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time ~ March 3, 2019

Posted on March 1, 2019 by Kathleen Rourke

First reading:
Praise no one before he speaks, for it is then that people are tested. (Sir. 27:7)

Psalm:
Lord, it is good to give thanks to you. (Ps. 92)

Second reading:
Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be firm, steadfast, always fully devoted to the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. (1 Cor. 15:58)

Gospel:
“A good person out of the store of goodness in his heart produces good, but an evil person out of a store of evil produces evil; for from the fullness of the heart the mouth speaks.” (Lk. 6:45

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
How quick are we to point out the faults of others? It is so easy to see what others are doing wrong and much harder to see ourselves for who we are. Many want to see themselves as one of the privileged and the saved and are quick to condemn those who choose to do things differently. We can be so hypocritical while at the same time proclaiming to be so spiritual. What we speak reveals the true thoughts of our minds and intention of our hearts. We fool no one but ourselves. Rather than being defensive, critical, and exclusive, does it not make more sense to help each other and work together for the kingdom of God? We may have to leave something behind, but in turn, we’ll gain much more.

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:

Events:

AA Meetings:
- Tuesdays, 8:00 p.m., St. Francis Solanus, Interlaken
- Thursdays, noon, St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg
Food Pantries:
- Ovid Federated church: Mondays, 10:00 a.m. Food Truck is every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (March 5)
- Interlaken Reformed church: Fridays, 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
- Trumansburg Food Pantry: Methodist church every other Monday, 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30-6:00 p.m. (March 4)
Robotics: Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 6:00-8:00 p.m., St. James
Coffee Hour: March 3, following the 9:00 a.m. Mass, St. James
Ash Wednesday: March 6
Choir Practices: March 7 and 14 at 6:30 p.m., St. Francis; after Sunday Mass, St. James; and Tuesdays, at 10:00 a.m., Holy Cross
Forty Days for Life: From March 6 through April 14, Ithaca
Bernard: Being available on Fridays at 6:30 p.m. will resume March 8, St. Francis
Catholic Women’s Conference: March 9, from 8 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., Aquinas Institute
Confirmation Candidates: Eighth and ninth graders, classes will resume March 10 at 4:00 p.m., St. James
Day of Penance and Mercy in the Diocese: March 13, 2:00–4:00 and 6:00–8:00 p.m., St. Francis
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): Instruction will resume March 20 at 7:00 p.m., St. James

T’burg Food Pantry:
When Jesus fed the multitudes, he needed people to help distribute the loaves and fishes. March and April are the months for Mary, Mother of Mercy/St. James to provide volunteers for the Trumansburg Food Pantry, located in the Trumansburg United Methodist church. The food pantry counts on our parish to provide to help out during these two months and we still need people on the afternoon shifts on March 4 and 18, and April 1, 15, and 29. Please sign up on the lists provided in the St. James foyer. Don’t forget to leave your phone number if you would like a reminder call. Next weekend is also our chance to donate food or money to the pantry. Just leave your donations on the table in front of the Mary statue at St. James. Thank you!

Rice Bowl
Through Catholic Relief Services (CRS), our parish provides Rice Bowl boxes for people to use during Lent. Pick up your family’s CRS Rice Bowl at the back of your church and, throughout Lent, add in your pocket change or other money. This is an easy way we can all give to those in need around the world and 25% of what we collect will stay in our local community. During the forty days of Lent, as companions on the journey, we will encounter our neighbor.

Choir Practice:
As we move closer to Ash Wednesday and, ultimately the Tridium, there will be a group Tridium practice at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis on March 7 and 14. The Tuesday morning group has commenced at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Cross. This also provides an alternative practice time for any choir member who prefers not to be out at night. At St. James, feel free to stay and practice after Sunday Mass.

Lent in the Parish of Mary, Mother of Mercy

Lenten Reminders and Devotions:

The season of Lent runs from Ash Wednesday (March 6) until the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday (April 18).
“Alleluia” is not sung or said from the beginning of Lent until the Easter Vigil.
During Lent the altar is not to be decorated with flowers.
Musical instruments may be played only to give necessary support to the singing.
The Sunday and daily Mass readings for Lenten have been chosen in relation to the themes of baptismal renewal and conversion.

Lenten Days of Fast and Abstinence:

Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fast and abstinence.
Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence.
Abstinence: those who are over the age of 14 are obliged to abstain from eating meat.
Fasting: those who are between the ages of 18 and 59 are obliged to fast (i.e. two small meals are not to equal one full meal

Ash Wednesday is March 6, 2019:

Distribution of Ashes:

9:00 a.m. Mass at St. James the Apostle
6:00 p.m. Distribution of Ashes Service at Holy Cross

Why Ashes? Ash Wednesday is the beginning of the season of Lent. On this day the Church invites us to receive a cross of ashes on our foreheads as a sign that during the Season of Lent we will make sincere efforts to cleanse our lives of sin and to discipline ourselves through prayer and fasting.

Who May Receive Ashes? Baptized individuals who have reached the age of reason may receive the ashes. Babies and young children who have not yet received the Sacrament of Penance should not be presented to receive ashes. The purpose of Ash Wednesday is to lead the baptized members of the Church to repentance and renewal of their baptismal promises at Easter.

Stations of the Cross:

Thursdays of Lent, at 6:00 p.m. at Holy Cross Church followed by a communal soup supper.
Fridays of Lent at 3:30 p.m. at St. James followed by Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.

Sacrament of Reconciliation:

The Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) is available Fridays, 6:30–7:00 p.m., at the Parish Center (St. Francis Solanus in Interlaken) or by appointment with a priest.
A diocesan day of penance and mercy will occur on Wednesday, March 13. The celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation will take place in parishes throughout the diocese and in our parish at the parish center (St. Francis Solanus church) from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m.

Easter Triduum:
“The summit of the liturgical year is the Easter Triduum—from the evening of Holy Thursday to the evening of Easter Sunday. Though chronologically three days, they are liturgically one day unfolding for us the unity of Christ’s Paschal Mystery. The single celebration of the Triduum marks the end of the Lenten season, and leads to the Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord at the Easter Vigil” (from the United State Conference of Catholic Bishops web site: http://www.usccb.org). Easter this year is April 21, 2019.

Ministry Schedule for St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken

Saturday Vigil Mass at 5:00 p.m.

March 2 (first weekend):
Lectors: Karl Messmer, Scott Hamula
EMs: Kathleen Rourke, Millie Messmer, Robin Hamula

March 9 (second weekend):
Lectors: Kathleen Rourke, Barbara Willers
EMs: Lee and Mary Davidson, Robin Hamula

Ministry Schedule for St. James the Apostle, Trumansburg

Sunday Mass at 9:00 a.m.

March 3 (first Sunday):
Lectors: Lynne Stager and Barbara Willers
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Mark Scibilia-Carver, Beth Koeng

Ash Wednesday, March 6, at 9:00 a.m.:
Lectors: Carol Kuklo and Barbara Willers
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Cathy DelSignore, Kathleen Rourke

March 10 (second Sunday):
Lectors: Mark Scibilia-Carver and Barbara Willers
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Lynne Stager, Beth Koeng, Mary Szymanski

Ministry Schedule for Holy Cross, Ovid

Sunday Mass at 10:30 a.m.

(information not available at this time)