News

First Reading:
But the LORD said to Samuel: “Do not judge from his appearance or from his lofty stature, because I have rejected him. Not as man sees does God see, because man sees the appearance but the LORD looks into the heart.” (1 Sm. 16:7)

Psalm:
The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want. (Ps. 23)

Second Reading:
Brothers and sisters: You were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light. (Eph. 5:8)

Gospel:
When Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, he found him and said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” He answered and said, “Who is he, sir, that I may believe in him?” Jesus said to him, “You have seen him and the one speaking with you is he.” He said, “I do believe, Lord,” and he worshiped him. (Jn 9:35-38)

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
Today is Laetare Sunday, or Rejoicing Sunday, a time of rejoicing at the midpoint of our Lenten observances. In the midst of our season of penance, today provides an opportunity to express our joy as we journey along to Easter.

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:
“If your eye is simple all of your body will be too.” ~St. Francis de Sales

©Liturgical Publications Inc.

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Upcoming Events:

• RCIA Program, Convert Classes: Sundays, 12:00 noon, at St. James the Apostle Pine Room. Classes are open to all.
• Scripture study classes of the Gospel: on Tuesdays after the 9:00 a.m. Mass at St. James the Apostle church.
• AA Meetings: St. Francis Church, on Tuesday, at 8:00 p.m.
• Food Pantries: Ovid Federated Church on Mondays, 10:00 a.m. The food truck is available to everyone every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (April 4 and 18). The food pantry is at the Interlaken Reformed Church on Fridays, 3:00 p.m. The Trumansburg food pantry is at the Methodist Church every other Monday 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30–6:00 p.m. (April 10 and 24).
• Stations of the Cross during Lent: Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament in St. Francis Solanus Church
• Day of Penance in the Diocese: On March 28 the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available at the Parish Center in Interlaken from12:00 noon until 7:00 p.m.
• Parish Soft Synchronization Explained: Wednesday, March 29, at 10:00 a.m. at the Parish Center with Dan Pohorance from the Diocese as the facilitator.
• Spring Enrollment Open House: Thursday, March 30, at 9:00 a.m. at Immaculate Conception School, Ithaca
• Retrouvaille / Recovery for Married Couples: retreat weekend at Notre Dame Retreat House on April 7–9
• Sacrament of Reconciliation with private confession: Monday of Holy Week, April 10, at 7:00 p.m. at St. Francis Solanus.
• Doug’s Fish Fry event to support Covert Bicentennial: on April 12 with a request for donations for the desert table
• Parish Choir Rehearsal: Tuesday, April 4, at 6:30 p.m. at Holy Cross (Ovid).

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Catholics Invite Catholics:
“Come to Mass in the Lord’s house on the Lord’s day.” A way to remind people of a way to be faithful to the third commandment: Keep holy the Lord’s Day.

Annual Catholic Relief Services Collection:
This weekend our parish will join the Catholic parishes across the country to take up the annual Catholic Relief Services Collection. This special national collection helps to support the U.S. Catholic community’s international social ministry carried out in our name by the U.S. Catholic agencies, including Catholic Migration and Refugee Services, United States Bishops’ Justice, Peace and Human Development Ministry, and the Holy Father’s Relief Fund. These Catholic agencies touch the lives of more than 100 million people all over the world annually…giving hope for refugees, immigrants, the impoverished, victims of war and natural disasters. Please visit www.usccb.org/catholic-relief to learn how you are making a difference.

Diocesan Day of Penance and Mercy:
Throughout the Diocese of Rochester, priests will be available at their parishes for confession this Tuesday, March 28, from 12:00 noon until 7:00 p.m. For our parish, a priest will be available at the Parish Center in St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken.

Maintenance Fund Collection:
The second collection next weekend will be the monthly maintenance fund collection. This collection helps in the support of the parish buildings and grounds maintenance. Your help is appreciated greatly. Thank you.

Sunday Collection Counters:
Churches are encouraged to have at least four counting teams on a rotating basis. Parishioners who are trustworthy and like to count money, we need you! St. James the Apostle church is in special need. Regarding the commitment, the goal is that a team would count once a month and the time would be about two hours. Could you give your church two hours a month in service? If interested please contact the Parish Office to volunteer. Thanks for your kind consideration of this request.

Parish Soft:
This is a computer program that synchronizes parish census information and eliminates duplicate data entries. The churches (including our parish) have been using the program for many years and have found it most helpful. In February the parish census information of the three churches were merged into one. To understand how the merger has affected this synchronization, a training session has been scheduled for this Wednesday, March 29, at 10:00 a.m. at the Parish Center in St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken. Dan Pohorance from the diocese will be the facilitator. The more people who know about the Parish Soft program and the many benefits it offers will be a blessing to the parish. Parishioners who have used the Parish Soft program in the past are most encouraged to attend the training. If interested in attending the training, please phone the parish office.

2016-2017 Catholic Ministries Appeal (CMA):
Thank you to everyone who has responded with a gift or pledge to the CMA. We need all parishioners to help reach our parish given goal of $29,855. A report issued on March 14 stated that our parish has pledged $24,685. We are presently $5,170 shy of our given goal. If you have not made a pledge, please do so as soon as possible. If our parish does not reach our given goal, the difference will be billed to the parish. Pledge envelopes are located in the vestibules of the church. Please respond as soon as possible.

Stations of the Cross:
This Lenten season devotion is held this year on the Thursdays of Lent at 7:00 p.m. with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament at the Parish Center, St. Francis Solanus Church.

Parish Choir Rehearsal:
All parishioners are welcome to be part of the parish choir. The next rehearsal date is Tuesday, April 4, at 6:30 p.m. at Holy Cross (Ovid).

Communal Celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation:
In preparation for the celebration of Easter, all are invited to celebrate with prayerful music, the Communal Celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation with Private Confession. This parish event will take place on the Monday of Holy Week, April 10, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken.

Holy Thursday—Foot Washing Rite:
Within the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday, celebrated at Holy Cross Church, Ovid at 7:00 p.m. on April 13, there is the “Washing of Feet” ceremony. The rite comprises of twelve people having a foot ceremonially washed. We are in need of twelve volunteers to have a foot ceremonially washed during the Liturgy. Please consider being a participant. If interested and willing please volunteer by adding your name to the sign-up sheet in the vestibule of the churches.

Good Friday—Altar Servers:
We are in need of four altar servers for the Good Friday liturgy, which will be celebrated at St. Francis Solanus Church at 3:00 p.m. on Good Friday, April 14. If you are interested and willing to serve, please volunteer by adding your name to the sign-up sheet located in the vestibule of the churches. Training will be provided.

Holy Saturday – Easter Vigil Altar Servers:
We are in need of six altar servers for the Easter Vigil that will be celebrated at St. James the Apostle Church at 8:00 p.m. on April 15. If you are interested and willing to serve, please volunteer by adding your name to the sign-up sheet located in the vestibule of the churches. Training will be provided.

Rice Bowls:
This is a Lenten program sponsored by the Catholic Relief Services (CRS) to help support the hungry and neglected throughout the world. Everyone is invited to pick up the CRS Rice Bowl located in the vestibules of the churches. Throughout Lent place the bowl in a prominent place in the home where family members can all coins saved from a self-indulgent sacrifice. At the end of Lent the money accumulated will go to Catholic Relief Services to help the hungry of the world. Learn more at crsricebowl.org/families.

Retrouvaille / Recovery for Couples:
Retrouvaille (pronounced retro-vi = recovery) is a program is for married couples who feel disillusioned, frustrated, or angry in their marriage. It is a worldwide Catholic program that has helped tens of thousands of couples experiencing difficulties in their marriage. For confidential information about or to register for the Spring program beginning with a weekend at Notre Dame Retreat Center, Canandaigua on April 7–9, please phone 585 293 1552 or visit the web site at www.HelpOurMarriage.com

Town of Covert 1817–2017:
The Town of Covert has planned events in celebration of their bicentennial. For a listing of the events please watch the newspaper and TOC2017 Facebook page for details. The planning committee is asking for volunteers to help with the April 12 Doug’s Fish Fry event —they are requesting donations for the desert table.

Notre Dame High School’s Open Enrollment:
The school is currently accepting applications for the 2017–2018 academic year for grades 7–12. An application may be found on the home page of the school’s web site. To download an application please visit: www.notredamehighschool.com. All applications are date stamped upon receipt and considered in the order in which they are received. If you would like to schedule a tour and/or shadowing experience or if you have questions regarding the application process, please contact Michelle Barkley at 607 734 2267 ext. 326. The school is located at 1400 Maple Ave, Elmira, NY 14904.

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
Today Jesus meets the woman at the well. After her time with Jesus she tells others about this man who is able to see into the depths of a person’s life. Is Jesus that person for you? Have you allowed him into the depths of your life? Do you go out and tell others about this Jesus, as the Samaritan woman does? Do you share the good news by the way you live your life?

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:
“All the efforts of the human mind cannot exhaust the essence of a single fly.”
~St. Thomas Aquinas

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Upcoming Events:

• RCIA Program, Convert Classes: Sundays, 12:00 noon, at St. James the Apostle Pine Room. Classes are open to all.
• Scripture study classes of the Gospel: on Tuesdays after the 9:00 a.m. Mass at St. James the Apostle church.
• AA Meetings: St. Francis Church, on Tuesday, at 8:00 p.m.
• Food Pantries: Ovid Federated Church on Mondays, 10:00 a.m. The food truck is available to everyone every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (March 21 and April 4). The food pantry is at the Interlaken Reformed Church on Fridays, 3:00 p.m. The Trumansburg food pantry is at the Methodist Church every other Monday 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30–6:00 p.m. (March 27 and April 10).
• Stations of the Cross during Lent: Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament in St. Francis Solanus Church
• Irish Music and Coffeehouse Fundraiser: Trumansburg Conservatory of Fine Arts, Saturday, March 18, at 7:00 p.m.
• Parish Choir Rehearsal: Tuesday, March 21, at 6:30 p.m. at Holy Cross in Ovid, in preparation for the liturgical services of Lent and the Easter Triduum.
• “Tolerance: A Key to Religious Freedom” by Tom Gallagher: Thursday March 23, 7:00 p.m., Immaculate Conception parish hall
• Day of Penance in the Diocese: On March 28 the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available at the Parish Center in Interlaken from12:00 noon until 7:00 p.m.
• Parish Soft Synchronization Explained: Wednesday, March 29, at 10:00 a.m. at the Parish Center with Dan Pohorance from the Diocese as the facilitator.
• Spring Enrollment Open House: Thursday, March 30, at 9:00 a.m. at Immaculate Conception School, Ithaca
• Retrouvaille / Recovery for Married Couples: retreat weekend at Notre Dame Retreat House on April 7–9
• Sacrament of Reconciliation with private confession: Monday of Holy Week, April 10, at 7:00 p.m. at St. Francis Solanus.
• Doug’s Fish Fry event to support Covert Bicentennial: on April 12 with a request for donations for the desert table

---

Catholics Invite Catholics:
“Come to Mass in the Lord’s house on the Lord’s day.” A way to remind people of a way to be faithful to the third commandment: Keep holy the Lord’s Day.

First Penance Celebration:
Several of our young parishioners who will be celebrating their First Communion after Easter, celebrated for the first time the Sacrament of Reconciliation on Saturday, March 18, 2017. They were: Abby Arco, Charlotte Masters, Harry Mullins, Claire Olney, Sofia Shaff, Zachary Tingue, Alessa Whitaker, Davin Updike and Sofiya Wright. We thank Helen Arco (the coordinator of the First Communion Program and their teacher) and their parents who practiced with their children on how to go to confession.

Annual Catholic Relief Services Collection:
Next weekend our parish will join the Catholic parishes across the country to take up the annual Catholic Relief Services Collection. This special national collection helps to support the U.S. Catholic community’s international social ministry carried out in our name by U.S. Catholic agencies, including Catholic Migration and Refugee Services, United States Bishops Justice, Peace and Human Development Ministry, and the Holy Father’s Relief Fund. These Catholic agencies touch the lives of more than 100 million people all over the world annually…giving hope to refugees, immigrants, the impoverished, victims of war and natural disasters. Please visit www.usccb.org/catholic-relief to learn how you are making a difference.

Sunday Collection Counters:
Churches are encouraged to have at least four counting teams on a rotating basis. Parishioners who are trustworthy and like to count money, we need you! St. James the Apostle church is in special need. Regarding the commitment, the goal is that a team would count once a month and the time would be about two hours. Could you give your church two hours a month service? If interested please contact the Parish Office to volunteer. Thanks for your kind consideration of this request.

Parish Soft:
Parish Soft is a computer program that synchronizes parish census information and eliminates duplicate data entries. The churches (including our parish) have been using the program for many years and have found it most helpful. In February the parish census information of the three churches were merged into one. To understand how this merger has affected this synchronization, a training session has been scheduled for Wednesday, March 29, at 10:00 a.m. at the Parish Center. Dan Pohorance from the diocese will be the facilitator. The more people who know about the Parish Soft program and the many benefits it offers will be a blessing to the parish. Parishioners who have used the Parish Soft program in the past are most encouraged to attend the training. If interested in attending the training, please phone the parish office.

2016–2017 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
Thank you to everyone who has responded with a gift or pledge. We need all parishioners to help reach our parish given goal of $29,855. A report issued on March 10 stated that our parish has pledged $24,685. We are presently $5,170 shy of our given goal. If you have not made a pledge, please do so as soon as possible. If our parish dos not reach our given goal, the difference will be billed to the parish. Pledge envelopes are located in the vestibules of the church. Please respond as soon as possible.

Stations of the Cross:
Thursdays, 7:00 PM with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament at the Parish Center in St. Francis Solanus Church.

Parish Choir Rehearsal:
All parishioners are welcome to be part of the parish choir. The next rehearsal date is this Tuesday, March 21, 2017 at 6:30 p.m. at Holy Cross, Ovid in preparation for the Liturgical services of Lent and the Easter Triduum.

Diocesan Day of Penance and Mercy:
The diocesan-wide day of penance and mercy will be Tuesday, March 28, from 12:00 noon until 7:00 p.m. Throughout the Diocese of Rochester, priests will be available at the parishes for Confession. A priest will be available during these times at the Parish Center in St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken.

Communal Celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation:
A Communal Celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation with Private Confession will be held on Monday of Holy Week: April 10, at the Parish Center in St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken.

Rice Bowls:
Rice bowls are a Lenten program sponsored by the Catholic Relief Services to help support the hungry and neglected throughout the world. Everyone is invited to pick up the CRS Rice Bowl and throughout Lent place the bowl in a prominent place in the home where family members can add coins saved from a self-indulgent sacrifice. At the end of Lent the money accumulated will go to Catholic Relief Services to help the hungry of the world. Learn more at: crsricebowl.org/families

Retrouvaille / Recovery for Married Couples:
Retrouvaille (pronounced retro-vi = recovery) is a program is for married couples who feel disillusioned, frustrated or angry in their marriage. It is a world-wide Catholic program that has helped tens of thousands of couples experiencing difficulties in their marriage. For confidential information about this program or to register for the Spring program that begins with a weekend at Notre Dame Retreat House on April 7–9, 2017, please phone 585 293 1552 or visit the web site at www.HelpOurMarriage.com

Town of Covert 1817 – 2017:
The Town of Covert has planned bicentennial events beginning in March. For a listing of the events please watch the newspaper and TOC2017 Facebook page for details. The planning committee is asking for volunteers to help with the Doug’s Fish Fry event on April 12—they are requesting donations for the desert table.

Presentation on Tolerance: A Key to Religious Freedom:
As part of Catholic Charities twentieth anniversary commemoration, the agency is proud to welcome Tom Gallagher, a National Catholic Reporter journalist and former administrator of the Mother Teresa of Calcutta Center. Tom spent two years as a full-time volunteer with Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity and is now the CEO of the Religion News Foundation. Drawing on experiences (including a visit to a displaced persons camp in Iraq with Cardinal Timothy Dolan), he’ll be speaking on the timely theme of “Tolerance: A Key to Religious Freedom.” The evening will also include an update on Catholic Charities’ new refugee resettlement program. Please join us Thursday March 23 at 7:00 p.m. at Immaculate Conception parish hall in downtown Ithaca.

Notre Dame High School’s Open Enrollment:
The school is currently accepting applications for the 2017–2018 academic year for grades 7–12. An application may be found on the home page of the school’s web site. To download an application please visit: www.notredamehighschool.com. All applications are date stamped upon receipt and considered in the order in which they are received. If you would like to schedule a tour and/or shadowing experience or if you have questions regarding the application process, please contact Michelle Barkley at 607 734 2267 ext. 326. The school is located at 1400 Maple Ave, Elmira, NY 14904.

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Ministry Schedules for St. Francis Solanus Church

Lector Schedule

through March 2017

DATE	FIRST READING from OLD TESTAMENT	SECOND READING from NEW TESTAMENT
March 19-3rd Sunday of Lent	Ann Buddle	Charlotte Huyler
March 26-4th Sunday of Lent	Heather Cranford	Barbara Willers

 

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion:

through March 2017

DATE	Precious Blood	SET UP AND PURIFICATION	Precious Blood
March 19-3rd Sunday of Lent	Cathy Millspaugh	Marie Roloson	Patti Perry
March 26-4th Sunday of Lent	Chris Duthie	Charlotte Huyler	Millie Messmer

REMEMBER: to take Communion to Richard Suchocki before giving to congregation.

12/29/16-cmh

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
The transfiguration of Jesus in today’s Gospel serves as a foretaste of the Resurrection. Each Lent we are given this vision on the second Sunday to encourage us in our penitential practices so that we may come to celebrate Easter joy.

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:
“All the efforts of the human mind cannot exhaust the essence of a single fly.”
~St. Thomas Aquinas

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Upcoming Events:

• RCIA Program, Convert Classes: Sundays, 12:00 noon, at St. James the Apostle Pine Room. Classes are open to all.
• Scripture study classes of the Gospel: on Tuesdays after the 9:00 a.m. Mass at St. James the Apostle church.
• AA Meetings: St. Francis Church, on Tuesday, at 8:00 p.m.
• Food Pantries: Ovid Federated Church on Mondays, 10:00 a.m. The food truck is available to everyone every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (March 21 and April 4). The food pantry is at the Interlaken Reformed Church on Fridays, 3:00 p.m. The Trumansburg food pantry is at the Methodist Church every other Monday 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30–6:00 p.m. (March 13 and 27).
• Stations of the Cross during Lent: Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament in St. Francis Solanus Church
• Planning for Your Legacy: Two free seminars, one on March 13 at St. Francis DeSales Parish Center, 130 Exchange Street, Geneva; and second at St. Mary’s of the Lake Parish Center, 905 N. Decatur St. Watkins Glen. Both seminars will be at 7:00–8:30 p.m.
• St. Patrick’s Feast day on March 17: The Bishop has provided a dispensation from abstinence for this Friday in Lent.
• Irish Music and Coffeehouse Fundraiser: Trumansburg Conservatory of Fine Arts, Saturday, March 18, at 7:00 p.m.
• Fourth annual Rochester Catholic Women’s Conference: March 18 at the Aquinas Institute
• Parish Choir Rehearsal: Tuesday, March 21, at 6:30 p.m. at Holy Cross in Ovid, in preparation for the liturgical services of Lent and the Easter Triduum.
• “Tolerance: A Key to Religious Freedom” by Tom Gallagher: Thursday March 23, 7:00 p.m., Immaculate Conception parish hall
• Day of Penance in the Diocese: On March 28 the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available at the Parish Center in Interlaken from12:00 noon until 7:00 p.m.
• Spring Enrollment Open House: Thursday, March 30, at 9:00 a.m. at Immaculate Conception School, Ithaca
• Sacrament of Reconciliation with private confession: Monday of Holy Week, April 10, at 7:00 p.m. at St. Francis Solanus.

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Catholics Invite Catholics:
“Come to Mass in the Lord’s house on the Lord’s day.” A way to remind people of a way to be faithful to the third commandment: Keep holy the Lord’s Day.

Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion:
A Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion will take place this Sunday at 2:00 p.m. at St. Mary our Mother Church located in Horseheads with Bishop Salvatore Matano presiding. Four people from our parish will be participating: James Landon will be celebrating the Rite of Election and will be baptized at the Easter Vigil; Amber Deman and Matthew Donovan will be celebrating the Call to Continuing Conversion and will be received into the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil; Raymond Zajac Jr. will also be celebrating the Call to Continuing Conversion and with the three others will celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation at the Easter Vigil. We rejoice with them and keep them in prayer as they make final preparations for the Sacramental celebrations.

Stations of the Cross: 
During Lent on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. there will be Stations of the Cross with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament at the Parish Center in St. Francis Solanus Church.

Diocesan Day of Penance and Mercy:
A diocesan day of penance will be on Tuesday, March 28, from 12:00 noon until 7:00 p.m. Throughout the Diocese of Rochester, priests will be available at the parishes for Confession. A priest will be available at the Parish Center in St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken, during the times mentioned.

Sacrament of Reconciliation with Private Confession:
A Communal Celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation with Private Confession will be held on Monday of Holy Week, April 10, at the Parish Center in St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken.

Easter Duty:
According to Church law #920: “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. In reference to this law the Easter season is considered from the First Sunday of Lent until Trinity Sunday” (this year Trinity Sunday is June 11).

Easter Flower Collection:
Today there will be a second collection for the floral decorations in the church at Easter. Thank you for your support as it is greatly appreciated.

St. Patrick’s Day Dispensation:
The feast day of St. Patrick is this Friday, March 17. Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence (no meat). However, Bishop Matano has given a dispensation from the abstinence for that day. He writes: “In accordance with canon 87, paragraph 1 of the Code of Canon Law and noting the many celebrations that will occur on that day, I hereby grant a dispensation from abstinence to all the faithful of the Diocese of Rochester.”

2016-2017 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
Thank you to everyone who has responded with a gift or pledge. We need all parishioners to help reach our parish given goal of $29,855. A report issued on March 3, 2017, stated that our parish has pledged $24,685. We are presently $5,170 shy of our given goal. If you have not made a pledge, please do so now. If our parish does not reach our given goal, the difference will be billed to the parish. Pledge envelopes are located in the vestibules of the church. Please respond as soon as possible.

Parish Choir Rehearsal:
All parishioners are welcome to be part of the parish choir. The next rehearsal date is this Tuesday, March 21, at 6:30 p.m. at Holy Cross in Ovid in preparation for the liturgical services of Lent and the Easter Triduum.

Town of Covert 1817–2017:
The Town of Covert has planned bicentennial events beginning in March. For a listing of the events please watch the newspapers and TOC2017 Facebook page for details. The planning committee is asking for volunteers to help with the Doug’s Fish Fry event on April 12. They are requesting donations for the desert table.

“Tolerance: A Key to Religious Freedom” Presentation:
As part of Catholic Charities twentieth anniversary commemoration, the agency is proud to welcome Tom Gallagher, a National Catholic Reporter journalist and former administrator of the Mother Teresa of Calcutta Center. Mr. Gallagher spent two years as a full-time volunteer with Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity and is now the CEO of the Religion News Foundation. Drawing on experiences (including a visit to a displaced persons camp in Iraq with Cardinal Timothy Dolan), he’ll be speaking on “Tolerance: A Key to Religious Freedom.” The evening will also include an update on Catholic Charities’ new refugee resettlement program. Please join us Thursday March 23, 7:00 p.m., in Immaculate Conception’s parish hall in downtown Ithaca.

Open Enrollment for Notre Dame High School:
The school is currently accepting applications for the 2017–2018 academic year for grades 7–12. An application may be found on the home page of the school’s web site. To download an application please visit: www.notredamehighschool.com. All applications are date stamped upon receipt and considered in the order in which they are received. If you would like to schedule a tour and/or shadowing experience or if you have questions regarding the application process, please contact Michelle Barkley at 607 734 2267 ext. 326. The school is located at 1400 Maple Ave, Elmira, NY 14904.

Irish Music and Coffeehouse Fundraiser:
The Trumansburg Conservatory of Fine Arts, Inc., is sponsoring a traditional open session with local Celtic musicians plus coffee, snacks, and surprises. It will be held on Saturday, March 18, at 7:00 p.m. at the Trumansburg Conservatory (Congress St. at McLallen St.) with a charge of $5.00 at the door.

2017 Rochester Catholic Women’s Conference:
The fourth annual Rochester Catholic Women’s Conference will be held March 18 at the Aquinas Institute.  This year’s half-day program begins with 8:45 a.m. Mass celebrated by Bishop Salvatore R. Matano, and features the internationally renowned Immaculée Ilibagiza; author of seven books, motivational speaker, and Roman Catholic. A Rwandan genocide survivor, Ms. Ilibagiza persisted through 91 days in hiding with seven other women in a 3′ x 4′ room during the massacre.  Her message on forgiveness has been applauded around the world, and has earned her the Mahatma Gandhi International Award for Reconciliation and Peace. You will not want to miss her dynamic and inspiring presentation which will include her story, information on Our Lady of Kibeho, and leading the hundreds in attendance with saying the rosary—something she did dozens of times a day and which sustained her during her difficult captivity.  This year’s conference is offered for just $25 for adults and $15 for students (including college students), and includes Benediction, a continental breakfast, and book signing. For more information or to register, please visit www.rochestercwc.org. Don’t forget to register online by March 10 (or mail-in by March 3) for the Rochester Catholic Women’s Conference to be held on March 18. Thank you!

Requesting a Sunday Bulletin Announcement:
Please send requests for bulletin announcements to our parish e-mail address: . The announcement is to be written as you wish it to appear in the Sunday bulletin. The announcement must be submitted ten days before it is to appear in the bulletin.

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Ministry Schedules for St. Francis Solanus Church

Lector Schedule

through March 2017

DATE	FIRST READING from OLD TESTAMENT	SECOND READING from NEW TESTAMENT
March 12-2nd Sunday of Lent	Jeff Houck	Stephanie Houck
March 19-3rd Sunday of Lent	Ann Buddle	Charlotte Huyler
March 26-4th Sunday of Lent	Heather Cranford	Barbara Willers

 

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion:

through March 2017

DATE	Precious Blood	SET UP AND PURIFICATION	Precious Blood
March 12-2nd Sunday of Lent	Mary Ruckdeschel	Jeanie Wiggins	Jennifer Sharp
March 19-3rd Sunday of Lent	Cathy Millspaugh	Marie Roloson	Patti Perry
March 26-4th Sunday of Lent	Chris Duthie	Charlotte Huyler	Millie Messmer

REMEMBER: to take Communion to Richard Suchocki before giving to congregation.

12/29/16-cmh

 

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
We have begun Lent, entering into a season of conversion and repentance. Like us, Jesus was subject to temptation, but he resisted with all his heart. As we celebrate our Eucharist today, let us ask God to give us the perseverance to avoid sin.The providential love of God is without end and God’s eternal mercy is shown to every creature. Even in times of pain and difficulty, we are called to trust in God’s mercy and love. In the Gospel today, Jesus reminds us that we are worth more than the birds of the air or the flowers of the field.

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:
“There are two ways to get enough. One is to continue to accumulate more and more. The other is to desire less.” ~ G. K. Chesterton“It is a lesson that we all need–to let alone the things that do not concern us. He has other ways for others to follow him; all do not go by the same path.” ~St. Katharine Drexel

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Upcoming Events:

• RCIA Program, Convert Classes: Sundays, 12:00 noon, at St. James the Apostle Pine Room. Classes are open to all.
• Scripture study classes of the Gospel: on Tuesdays after the 9:00 a.m. Mass at St. James the Apostle church.
• AA Meetings: St. Francis Church, on Tuesday, at 8:00 p.m.
• Food Pantries: Ovid Federated Church on Mondays, 10:00 a.m. The food truck is available to everyone every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (March 7 and 21). The food pantry is at the Interlaken Reformed Church on Fridays, 3:00 p.m. The Trumansburg food pantry is at the Methodist Church every other Monday 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30–6:00 p.m. (March 13 and 21).
• Parish Choir Rehearsal: The next rehearsal date is Tuesday, March 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the Parish Center, Interlaken, in preparation for the liturgical services of Lent and the Easter Triduum.
• Parish Council meeting: Thursday, March 9, at the Parish Center at 7:00 p.m.
• Planning for Your Legacy: Two free seminars, one on March 13 at St. Francis DeSales Parish Center, 130 Exchange Street, Geneva; and second at St. Mary’s of the Lake Parish Center, 905 N. Decatur St. Watkins Glen. Both seminars will be at 7:00–8:30 p.m.
• Fourth annual Rochester Catholic Women’s Conference: March 18 at the Aquinas Institute
• Day of Penance in the Diocese: On March 28 the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available at the Parish Center in Interlaken from12:00 noon until 7:00 p.m.
• Spring Enrollment Open House: Thursday, March 30, at 9:00 a.m. at Immaculate Conception School, Ithaca
• Communal Celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation with private confession: Monday of Holy Week, April 10, at 7:00 p.m. at St. Francis Solanus.

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Catholics Invite Catholics:
“Come to Mass in the Lord’s house on the Lord’s day.” A way to remind people of a way to be faithful to the third commandment: Keep holy the Lord’s Day.

Lenten Reminders and Devotions:

• The season of Lent runs from Ash Wednesday (March 1) until the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday (April 13).
• “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 readings for the Lenten Masses have been chosen in relation to the themes of baptismal renewal and conversion.
• The Easter celebration is: Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday—the Easter Triduum (three days of Easter).
• During the season of Lent, the Church urges all the faithful to reflect a spirit of prayer, penance (conversion), and charity.

Fast and Abstinence:
Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fast and abstinence. Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence, i.e. meatless days.

Abstinence prohibits individuals from eating meat on a particular day. Abstinence obliges all those who have reached the age of 14 and continues to oblige throughout one’s entire life. Those not specifically obliged to abstain from eating meat are encouraged to join in this discipline to the extent that they are able.

Fasting requires that only one full meal be taken per day. Two other smaller meals may be taken during the day to maintain physical strength, but these two meals together should not equal a full meal in quantity. Fasting obliges all those who have reached the age of 18 and continues to oblige until age 59. Those not specifically obliged to fast are encouraged to join in the discipline of fasting to the extent that they are able.

Stations of the Cross:
Stations of the Cross during Lent will occur on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. This will happen at the Parish Center in St. Francis Solanus Church.

Diocesan Day of Penance and Mercy:
It has been decreed that a diocesan day of penance and mercy will be on Tuesday, March 28, from 12:00 noon until 7:00 p.m. Throughout the Diocese of Rochester, priests will be available at the parishes for Confession. A priest will be available at the Parish Center in St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken, during the times mentioned.

Sacrament of Reconciliation with Private Confession:
There will be a communal celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation Monday of Holy Week, April 10, at the Parish Center in St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken. There will be an opportunity for private confession.

Easter Duty:
According to Church law #920, 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. In reference to this law the Easter season is considered from the First Sunday of Lent until Trinity Sunday (this year June 11).

Parish Choir Rehearsal:
All parishioners are welcome to be part of the parish choir. The next rehearsal date is this Tuesday, March 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the Parish Center, Interlaken, in preparation for the liturgical services of Lent and the Easter Triduum.

St. James the Apostle Food Donations:
Food donations may be brought to the church next weekend and placed on the table located in the front of the church. Monetary
donations are accepted also.

Lenten Daily Meditations:
Two booklets, one is The Magnificat Lenten Companion and the other is The Word Among Us – Complete Catholic Mass and Daily Meditations. Please take one or the other but not both. A nominal offering will be posted for the booklets. The offering may be put in the weekend collection basket in an envelope marked Lenten Meditations Booklet. Thank you.

Requesting a Sunday Bulletin Announcement:
Please send requests for bulletin announcements to our parish e-mail address: . The announcement is to be written as you wish it to appear in the Sunday bulletin. The announcement must be submitted ten days before it is to appear in the bulletin.

Parish Council:
The council will meet this Thursday, March 9, at the Parish Center at 7:00 p.m.

Parish Office Hours:
The parish center office hours changed in February. The new hours are Wednesdays, 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and on Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The parish center office is located in the St. Francis Solanus annex.

Town of Covert 1817–2017:
The Town of Covert has planned bicentennial events beginning in March. For a listing of the events please watch the newspapers and TOC2017 Facebook page for details.

Notre Dame High School in Elmira:
Notre Dame High School (ND), with classes for grades 7–12, is hosting an “Ithaca Information Night” on Tuesday, February 28, at 6:00 p.m. in the Immaculate Conception School (ICS) library in Ithaca. This meeting is for students and families interested in learning about enrollment at Notre Dame and the busing that is available for local students. ND administrators and faculty will give a brief presentation and answer any questions. Current Notre Dame students and families will be present to talk about their experiences and light refreshments will be served. Please use the Plain Street parking lot/playground entrance to ICS. Notre Dame High School is currently accepting applications for the 2017–2018 academic year. An application for admission may be found on the home page of the school’s web site: www.notredamehighschool.com. If you would like to schedule a tour and/or shadowing experience or if you have questions regarding the application process, please contact Michelle Barkley at 607 734 2267 ext. 326. The school is located at 1400 Maple Ave, Elmira, NY 14904.

2017 Rochester Catholic Women’s Conference:
The fourth annual Rochester Catholic Women’s Conference will be held March 18 at the Aquinas Institute.  This year’s half-day program begins with 8:45 a.m. Mass celebrated by Bishop Salvatore R. Matano, and features the internationally renowned Immaculée Ilibagiza; author of seven books, motivational speaker, and Roman Catholic. A Rwandan genocide survivor, Ms. Ilibagiza persisted through 91 days in hiding with seven other women in a 3′ x 4′ room during the massacre.  Her message on forgiveness has been applauded around the world, and has earned her the Mahatma Gandhi International Award for Reconciliation and Peace. You will not want to miss her dynamic and inspiring presentation which will include her story, information on Our Lady of Kibeho, and leading the hundreds in attendance with saying the rosary—something she did dozens of times a day and which sustained her during her difficult captivity.  This year’s conference is offered for just $25 for adults and $15 for students (including college students), and includes Benediction, a continental breakfast, and book signing. For more information or to register, please visit www.rochestercwc.org. Don’t forget to register online by March 10 (or mail-in by March 3) for the Rochester Catholic Women’s Conference to be held on March 18. Thank you!

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Ministry Schedules for St. Francis Solanus Church

Lector Schedule

through March 2017

DATE	FIRST READING from OLD TESTAMENT	SECOND READING from NEW TESTAMENT
March 5-1st Sunday of Lent	Marie Roloson	Barbara Willers
March 12-2nd Sunday of Lent	Jeff Houck	Stephanie Houck
March 19-3rd Sunday of Lent	Ann Buddle	Charlotte Huyler
March 26-4th Sunday of Lent	Heather Cranford	Barbara Willers

 

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion:

through March 2017

DATE	Precious Blood	SET UP AND PURIFICATION	Precious Blood
March 5-1st Sunday of Lent	Maryann Dendis	Chris Duthie	Pat Messmer
March 12-2nd Sunday of Lent	Mary Ruckdeschel	Jeanie Wiggins	Jennifer Sharp
March 19-3rd Sunday of Lent	Cathy Millspaugh	Marie Roloson	Patti Perry
March 26-4th Sunday of Lent	Chris Duthie	Charlotte Huyler	Millie Messmer

REMEMBER: to take Communion to Richard Suchocki before giving to congregation.

12/29/16-cmh

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
The providential love of God is without end and God’s eternal mercy is shown to every creature. Even in times of pain and difficulty, we are called to trust in God’s mercy and love. In the Gospel today, Jesus reminds us that we are worth more than the birds of the air or the flowers of the field.

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:
“It is a lesson that we all need–to let alone the things that do not concern us. He has other ways for others to follow him; all do not go by the same path.” ~St. Katharine Drexel

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Upcoming Events:

• RCIA Program, Convert Classes: Sundays, 12:00 noon, at St. James the Apostle Pine Room. Classes are open to all.
• Scripture study classes of the Gospel: on Tuesdays after the 9:00 a.m. Mass at St. James the Apostle church.
• AA Meetings: St. Francis Church, on Tuesday, at 8:00 p.m.
• Food Pantries: Ovid Federated Church on Mondays, 10:00 a.m. The food truck is available to everyone every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (March 7 and 21). The food pantry is at the Interlaken Reformed Church on Fridays, 3:00 p.m. The Trumansburg food pantry is at the Methodist Church every other Monday 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30–6:00 p.m. (February 27 and March 13).
• Visiting Priest: Fr. John Mellitt, OFM Cap., will be visiting the parish while Fr. Bernard is away, from February 8–March 1.
• Weekend Backpack Program Project: final collection date is February 26.
• Notre Dame High School’s  Ithaca Information Night: Tuesday, February 28, at 6:00 p.m. in the Immaculate Conception School library in Ithaca.
• Ash Wednesday: March 1
• Parish Choir Rehearsal: The next rehearsal date is Tuesday, March 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the Parish Center, Interlaken, in preparation for the liturgical services of Lent and the Easter Triduum.
• Planning for Your Legacy: Two free seminars, one on March 13 at St. Francis DeSales Parish Center, 130 Exchange Street, Geneva; and second at St. Mary’s of the Lake Parish Center, 905 N. Decatur St. Watkins Glen. Both seminars will be at 7:00–8:30 p.m.
• Fourth annual Rochester Catholic Women’s Conference: March 18 at the Aquinas Institute
• Day of Penance in the Diocese: On March 28 the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available at the Parish Center in Interlaken from12:00 noon until 7:00 p.m.
• Spring Enrollment Open House: Thursday, March 30, at 9:00 a.m at Immaculate Conception School, Ithaca
• Communal Celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation with private confession: Monday of Holy Week, April 10, at 7:00 p.m. at St. Francis Solanus.

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Ash Wednesday:
Ash Wednesday, March 1, is the beginning of the season of Lent. Why ashes? 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.

Parish Distribution of Ashes:

• St. James the Apostle: 9:00 a.m. Mass and 7:00 p.m. Mass
• St. Francis Solanus: 8:00 a.m. Mass
• Holy Cross: 12:00 Noon Ecumenical Service and 6:00 p.m. Mass

Who May Receive Ashes:
Baptized individuals who have reached the age of reason. Babies and young children who have not yet received the Sacrament of Penance should not be presented to receive ashes. Ashes are intended for those who are capable of personal sin. The keeping of Ash Wednesday is for leading the baptized members of the Church to repentance and renewal of baptismal promises at Easter.

Ashes and the Word of God:
As with all material things that are used as religious symbols, the symbolism of ashes is complex. In themselves ashes have little meaning. But received in light of God’s revealing Word, ashes can become for Christians the biblical symbol they are intended to be—a sign of our desire to turn back to God. It is for this reason that the Church has placed the reception of ashes within the framework of the reading of Scripture. Ashes are reminders of mortality and the fleetingness of life. God’s Word reminds us that it is not the death of the body, but rather the death of the soul that is to be feared. Through the Scripture readings God calls us to turn to Him with our whole heart and be faithful to the gospel again. In the light of these readings the reception of ashes becomes for us the symbol of hearts that desire to turn to God, a God who is “gracious and merciful, rich in kindness and relenting in punishment.”

Lenten Reminders and Devotions:
The season of Lent runs from Ash Wednesday (March 1) until the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday (April 13). “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 readings for the Lenten Masses have been chosen in relation to the themes of baptismal renewal and conversion. The Easter celebration is: Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday, called the Easter Triduum (Three Days of Easter). During the season of Lent, the Church urges all the faithful to reflect a spirit of prayer, penance (conversion), and charity.

Stations of the Cross:
Thursdays, 7:00 p.m., with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament at the Parish Center in St. Francis Solanus Church.

Diocesan Day of Penance and Mercy:
The diocesan day of penance and mercy will be Tuesday, March 28, when, throughout the diocese, priests will be available at the parishes for confession. A priest will be available at the Parish Center in St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken, from12:00 noon until 7:00 p.m.

Communal Celebration of Reconciliation:
There will be a communal celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, with opportunity for private confession, on Monday of Holy Week: April 10, at 7:00 p.m. at the Parish Center in St. Francis Solanus Church, Interlaken.

Fast and Abstinence:
Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fast and abstinence Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence, i.e. meatless days. Abstinence prohibits individuals from eating meat on a particular day. Abstinence obliges all those who have reached the age of 14 and continues to oblige throughout one’s entire life. Those not specifically obliged to abstain from eating meat are encouraged to join in this discipline to the extent that they are able. Fasting requires that only one full meal be taken per day. Two other smaller meals may be taken during the day to maintain physical strength, but these two meals together should not equal a full meal in quantity. Fasting obliges all those who have reached the age of 18 and continues to oblige until age 59. Those not specifically obliged to fast are encouraged to join in the discipline of fasting to the extent that they are able.

Easter Duty:
According to church law #920: “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. In reference to this law the Easter season is considered from the First Sunday of Lent until Trinity Sunday” (this year June 11).

Lenten Daily Meditations
Two booklets are available for you in the church. One is The Magnificat Lenten Companion and the other is The Word Among Us—Complete Catholic Mass and Daily Meditations. Please take one or the other but not both. A nominal offering will be posted for the booklets. The offering may be put in the weekend collection basket in an envelope marked Lenten Meditations Booklet. Thank you.

Parish Choir Rehearsal:
All parishioners are welcome to be part of the parish choir. The next rehearsal date is this Tuesday, March 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the Parish Center, Interlaken in preparation for the liturgical services of Lent and the Easter Triduum.

Weekend Backpack Program Project:
Parishioners are invited to help support this program. Currently over fifty children in the South Seneca School District benefit from the project. If you wish to write a check, write it to Weekend Backpack Program. You can put the check in the donation jar located in the church or mail it to Ovid Federated Church, PO Box 340, Ovid, NY 14521. Food items donated must be single serving size. The collection dates will be from the weekend of February 12 through February 26.

Requesting a Sunday Bulletin Announcement:
Please send requests for bulletin announcements to our parish email address: . The announcement is to be written as you wish it to appear in the Sunday Bulletin. The announcement must be submitted ten days before it is to appear in the bulletin.

Parish Office Hours:
The parish center office hours changed beginning on February 13. The new hours are Wednesday, 9:o0 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The parish center office is located in the St. Francis Solanus annex.

Town of Covert 1817–2017:
The Town of Covert has planned bicentennial events beginning in March. For a listing of the events please watch the newspapers and TOC200 Facebook page for details.

Immaculate Conception School:
Immaculate Conception School is hosting a Spring enrollment open house on Thursday, March 30, at 9:00 a.m. Immaculate Conception School continuously accepts registrations for all of our academic programs, pre-K through sixth grade. Tuition assistance and parish subsidy are available. Call the school at 273-2707 or visit icsithaca.org for more information and visit www.facebook.com/ICSIthaca

Notre Dame High School in Elmira:
Notre Dame High School (ND), with classes for grades 7–12, is hosting an “Ithaca Information Night” on Tuesday, February 28, at 6:00 p.m. in the Immaculate Conception School (ICS) library in Ithaca. This meeting is for students and families interested in learning about enrollment at Notre Dame and the busing that is available for local students. ND administrators and faculty will give a brief presentation and answer any questions. Current Notre Dame students and families will be present to talk about their experiences and light refreshments will be served. Please use the Plain Street parking lot/playground entrance to ICS. Notre Dame High School is currently accepting applications for the 2017–2018 academic year. An application for admission may be found on the home page of the school’s web site: www.notredamehighschool.com. If you would like to schedule a tour and/or shadowing experience or if you have questions regarding the application process, please contact Michelle Barkley at 607 734 2267 ext. 326. The school is located at 1400 Maple Ave, Elmira, NY 14904.

2017 Rochester Catholic Women’s Conference:
The fourth annual Rochester Catholic Women’s Conference will be held March 18 at the Aquinas Institute.  This year’s half-day program begins with 8:45 a.m. Mass celebrated by Bishop Salvatore R. Matano, and features the internationally renowned Immaculée Ilibagiza; author of seven books, motivational speaker, and Roman Catholic. A Rwandan genocide survivor, Ms. Ilibagiza persisted through 91 days in hiding with seven other women in a 3′ x 4′ room during the massacre.  Her message on forgiveness has been applauded around the world, and has earned her the Mahatma Gandhi International Award for Reconciliation and Peace. You will not want to miss her dynamic and inspiring presentation which will include her story, information on Our Lady of Kibeho, and leading the hundreds in attendance with saying the rosary—something she did dozens of times a day and which sustained her during her difficult captivity.  This year’s conference is offered for just $25 for adults and $15 for students (including college students), and includes Benediction, a continental breakfast, and book signing. For more information or to register, please visit www.rochestercwc.org. Don’t forget to register online by March 10 (or mail-in by March 3) for the Rochester Catholic Women’s Conference to be held on March 18. Thank you!

 

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
In today’s Gospel Jesus tells us to love our enemies and to pray for those who persecute us. It is one of the most challenging commands of the Gospel for believers. We should consider how well we fulfill this command of the Lord.

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:
“If we do not risk anything for God we will never do anything great for him.” ~St. Louis Grignion de Montfort

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Upcoming Events:

• RCIA Program, Convert Classes: Sundays, 12:00 noon, at St. James the Apostle Pine Room. Classes are open to all.
• Scripture study classes of the Gospel: on Tuesdays after the 9:00 a.m. Mass at St. James the Apostle church.
• AA Meetings: St. Francis Church, on Tuesday, at 8:00 p.m.
• Food Pantries: Ovid Federated Church on Mondays, 10:00 a.m. The food truck is available to everyone every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (February 21 and March 7). The food pantry is at the Interlaken Reformed Church on Fridays, 3:00 p.m. The Trumansburg food pantry is at the Methodist Church every other Monday 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30–6:00 p.m. (February 27 and March 13).
• Parish Choir Rehearsal: The next rehearsal date is Tuesday, February 21, at 6:30 p.m. at the Parish Center, Interlaken, in preparation for the liturgical services of Lent and the Easter Triduum.
• Visiting Priest: Fr. John Mellitt, OFM Cap., will be visiting the parish while Fr. Bernard is away, from February 8–March 1.
• Weekend Backpack Program Project: collection dates will be from the weekend of February 12 through February 26.
• Notre Dame High School’s  Ithaca Information Night: Tuesday, February 28, at 6:00 p.m. in the Immaculate Conception School library in Ithaca.
• Ash Wednesday: March 1
• Planning for Your Legacy: Two free seminars, one on March 13 at St. Francis DeSales Parish Center, 130 Exchange Street, Geneva; and second at St. Mary’s of the Lake Parish Center, 905 N. Decatur St. Watkins Glen. Both seminars will be at 7:00–8:30 p.m.
• Day of Penance in the Diocese: On March 28 the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available at the Parish Center in Interlaken
• Spring Enrollment Open House: Thursday, March 30, at 9:00 a.m at Immaculate Conception School, Ithaca.
• Communal Celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation with private confession: Monday of Holy Week, April 10, at 7:00 p.m. at St. Francis Solanus.

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Catholics Invite Catholics:
“Come to Mass in the Lord’s house on the Lord’s day.”  A way to remind people of a way to be faithful to the third commandment: Keep holy the Lord’s Day.

Parish Choir Rehearsal:
All parishioners are welcome to be part of the parish choir. The next rehearsal date is this Tuesday, February 21,  at 6:30 p.m. at the Parish Center, Interlaken in preparation for the liturgical services of Lent and the Easter Triduum.

Weekend Backpack Program Project:
Parishioners are invited to help support this program. Currently over fifty children in the South Seneca School District benefit from the project. If you wish to write a check, write it to Weekend Backpack Program. You can put the check in the donation jar located in the church or mail it to Ovid Federated Church, PO Box 340, Ovid,  NY 14521. Food items donated must be single serving size. The collection dates will be from the weekend of February 12 through February 26.

Visiting Priest:
Fr. John Mellitt, OFM Cap., will be visiting the parish and helping out while Fr. Bernard is away from February 8–March 1, 2017. We welcome Fr. John Mellitt.

Requesting a Sunday Bulletin Announcement:
Please send requests for bulletin announcements to our parish e-mail address: . The announcement is to be written as you wish it to appear in the Sunday bulletin. The announcement must be submitted ten days before it is to appear in the bulletin.

Ash Wednesday:
This year Lent begins with Ash Wednesday on March 1. Plan now to participate in one of the Ash Wednesday Masses/service proposed by the Liturgical Planning Committee and presented to the Parish Council. The schedule is:

• 8:00 a.m. Mass at St. Francis Solanus
• 9:00 a.m.  Mass at St. James the Apostle
• 6:00 p.m.  Mass at Holy Cross
• 7:00 p.m.  Mass at St. James the Apostle

There will be a 12:00 noon ecumenical service at Holy Cross Church with Pastor Rob Mellgard from the Ovid Federated Church presiding and Fr. Bernard M. Maloney, OFM Cap., homilist.

Altar Servers Needed:
There will be Stations of the Cross and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on the Thursdays of Lent at St. Francis Solanus Church. The time is yet to be determined but they will be in the early evening. At least three altar servers are required for these devotions. A training session will be held on Saturday, March 4, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis Solanus. We need several volunteers, men, women, boys, and girls, to accommodate a rotation schedule. If you are able and willing please notify the Parish Office.

Lenten Study Project:
The Word Committee is looking for a Lenten study project for adults, time and place TBA. Suggested resources so far include: Jesus of Nazareth—Holy Week by Pope Benedict XVI. Please pass suggested titles/topics on to a member of the Word Committee: Andy Morpurgo, Jeannie Wiggins, Pam Jasikoff, Scott Hamula. Their contact info is available on the parish web site.

Lenten Daily Meditations:
Two booklets will be available beginning this weekend—February 19. One is The Magnificat Lenten Companion and the other is The Word Among Us—Complete Catholic Mass and Daily Meditations. Please take one or the other but not both. A nominal offering will be posted for the booklets. The offering may be put in the weekend collection basket in an envelope marked Lenten Meditations Booklet. Thank you.

Donations/Contributions Made by Check:
When making donations to the church, please make checks out to: the parish of Mary, Mother of Mercy. On the memo line of the check you may name of the church be it St. James the Apostle, St. Francis Solanus, or Holy Cross.

Parish Mailing Address:
When mailing items to one of the three churches, please use the parish of Mary, Mother of Mercy’s address: P.O. Box 403, Interlaken, N.Y. 14847 (as on the front cover of the bulletin). The Post Office is continuously encouraging that we remind parishioners to use only the new address and not the names and addresses of the churches.

Parish Office Hours:
The parish center office hours changed beginning on February 13. The new hours are Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The parish center office is located in the St. Francis Solanus annex.

Advocate for Refugees:
Catholic Charities is petitioning all to be a voice for those being held in refugee resettlements and to be a voice for those who have been meticulously vetted and are waiting to leave the misery of refugee camps. The invitation is to “speak up” by sending a message to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishop’s Justice for Immigrants justiceforimmigrants.org/category/action-alert and by phoning our senators: Schumer at 202-456-1111 and Gillibrand at 202 224 4451, and our Representative: Reed at 202 225 3161.

Assisting those Who have Been Wounded by Abortion:
Are you experiencing shame, sleepless nights, guilt, or other negative emotions after abortion? You are not alone. Any woman or man who has had abortions touch their life personally is invited to contact Project Rachel, a post-abortion healing ministry. Trained, nonjudgmental staff can refer you to those who can help All contacts are confidential. Take courage or call or e-mail us. Call Project Rachel for a confidential referral to those who can help: 585-328-3210 or e-mail: Deacon David Snyder, or Suzanne Stack, .

Town of Covert 1817–2017:
The Town of Covert has planned bicentennial events beginning in March. For a listing of the events please watch the newspapers and TOC200 Facebook page for details.

Immaculate Conception School:
Immaculate Conception School is hosting a Spring Enrollment Open House on Thursday, March 30, at 9:00 a.m. Immaculate Conception School continuously accepts registrations for all of our academic programs, pre-K through sixth grade. Tuition assistance and parish subsidy are available. Call the school at 273-2707 or visit icsithaca.org for more information and visit www.facebook.com/ICSIthaca

Notre Dame High School in Elmira:
Notre Dame High School (ND), with classes for grades 7–12, is hosting an “Ithaca Information Night” on Tuesday, February 28, at 6:00 p.m. in the Immaculate Conception School (ICS) library in Ithaca. This meeting is for students and families interested in learning about enrollment at Notre Dame and the busing that is available for local students. ND administrators and faculty will give a brief presentation and answer any questions. Current Notre Dame students and families will be present to talk about their experiences and light refreshments will be served. Please use the Plain Street parking lot/playground entrance to ICS. Notre Dame High School is currently accepting applications for the 2017–2018 academic year. An application for admission may be found on the home page of the school’s web site: www.notredamehighschool.com. If you would like to schedule a tour and/or shadowing experience or if you have questions regarding the application process, please contact Michelle Barkley at 607 734 2267 ext. 326. The school is located at 1400 Maple Ave, Elmira, NY 14904.

 

Live the Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
In today’s Gospel, Jesus calls for us to be a sign of God’s revelation to the world. We come together today to be inflamed with love for God, that all we encounter might see our light and come to the Father.

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:
“It is love that gives value to all our works.” ~St. Francis de Sales

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Upcoming Events:

• RCIA Classes: Sundays, 12:00 noon, at St. James the Apostle Pine Room. All are welcome.
• Scripture study classes of the Gospel: on Tuesdays after the 9:00 a.m. Mass at St. James the Apostle church.
• AA Meetings: St. Francis Church, on Tuesday, at 8:00 p.m.
• Food Pantries: Ovid Federated Church on Mondays, 10:00 a.m. The food truck is available to everyone every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (February 7 and 21). The food pantry is at the Interlaken Reformed Church on Fridays, 3:00 p.m. The Trumansburg food pantry is at the Methodist Church every other Monday 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30–6:00 p.m. (February 13 and 27).
• Souper Bowl of Caring 2017: Our parish will be participating in this event by collecting donations of non-perishable food items and collecting monetary offerings on February 5 for the local food pantries.
• Public Policy Weekend: February 4 and 5, 2017.
• Parish Choir Rehearsal: The next rehearsal date is Tuesday, February 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the Parish Center, Interlaken, in preparation for the Liturgical services of Lent and the Easter Triduum.
• Visiting Priest: Fr. John Mellitt, OFM Cap., will be visiting the parish while Fr. Bernard is away, from February 8–March 1.
• Weekend Backpack Program Project: collection dates will be from the weekend of February 12 through February 26.
• Ash Wednesday: March 1
• Planning for Your Legacy: Two free seminars, one on March 13 at St. Francis DeSales Parish Center, 130 Exchange Street, Geneva; and second at St. Mary’s of the Lake Parish Center, 905 N. Decatur St. Watkins Glen. Both seminars will be at 7:00–8:30 p.m.
• Day of Penance in the Diocese: On March 28 the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available at the Parish Center in Interlaken
• Communal Celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation with private confession: Monday of Holy Week, April 10, at 7:00 p.m. at St. Francis Solanus.

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Catholics Invite Catholics:
“Come to Mass in the Lord’s house on the Lord’s day.”
A way to remind people of a way to be faithful to the third commandment: Keep holy the Lord’s Day…

Second Collection:
The monthly maintenance fund collection will be taken up this weekend. This collection helps support buildings and grounds costs. Your help is appreciated greatly.

Visiting Priest:
Fr. John Mellitt, OFM Cap., will be visiting the parish and helping out while Fr. Bernard is away from February 8–March 1. Please welcome Fr. John Mellitt.

Parish Choir Rehearsal:
All parishioners are welcome to be part of the parish choir. The next rehearsal date is this Tuesday, February 7, 2017 at 6:30 p.m. at the Parish Center, Interlaken in preparation for the Liturgical services of Lent and the Easter Triduum.

Nationwide Souper Bowl of Caring 2017:
Sunday, February 5, is Super Bowl Sunday and across this nation it is also SouperBowl of Caring. Our parish will be participating in this one-day event by collecting donations of non-perishable food items. Our parish’s second year Confirmation students, as part of their community service project, will be present at the doors of the churches on February 5 to collect monetary offerings for the local food pantries as part of the national Souper Bowl of Caring Program.

2016-2017 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
Thank you to everyone who has responded with a gift or pledge. We need all parishioners to help reach our parish given goal of $29,855. A report issued on January 24, 2017 stated that our parish has pledged $24,585. We are a distance from our goal. Pledge envelopes are located in the vestibules of the church. Please respond as soon as possible.

Weekend Backpack Program Project:
Parishioners are invited to help support this program. Currently over fifty children in the South Seneca School District benefit from the project. If you wish to write a check, write it to Weekend Backpack Program. You can put the check in the donation jar located in the church or mail it to Ovid Federated Church, PO Box 340, Ovid, N.Y. 14521. Food items donated must be single serving size. The collection dates will be from the weekend of February 12 through February 26.

Alternatives to Assisted Suicide:
Public policies regarding the end of life should focus on alleviating suffering for those who are dying, through increased access to quality palliative care. There are alternatives to physician-assisted suicide. We must do all we can to reduce suffering and promote the loving option of palliative medicine and hospice care. Check out www.dor.org and click on Public Policy (lower left sidebar) for more info. Sign a letter or petition to you legislators opposing assisted suicide on Public Policy Weekend February 4–5.

Preparing for Lent:
This year Lent begins with Ash Wednesday on March 1. Plan now to participate in one of the Ash Wednesday Masses/service proposed by the Liturgical Planning Committee and the Parish Council. The schedule is:

• 8:00 a.m. Mass at St. Francis Solanus
• 9:00 a.m. Mass at St. James the Apostle
• 6:00 p.m. Mass at Holy Cross
• 7:00 p.m. Mass at St. James the Apostle

There will be a 12:00 noon ecumenical service at Holy Cross Church with Pastor Rob Mellgard from the Ovid Federated Church presiding and Fr. Bernard M. Maloney, OFM Cap., homilist.

Stations of the Cross:
Stations of the Cross will be held on the Thursdays of Lent at St. Francis Solanus Church at 7:00 p.m. followed by Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. Still being considered is the possibility of a social gathering with a soup supper before or after the stations. If the soup supper is after the stations the time of the Stations will be earlier.

Day of Penance:
Tuesday, March 28, is a day of penance in the diocese of Rochester. Confessions will be heard in Catholic parishes throughout the diocese from 12:00 noon to 7:00 p.m. For our parish the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be at the Parish Center (St. Francis Solanus Church). Together with that there will be a communal celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation with private confession on the Monday of Holy Week, April 10, at 7:00 p.m. at St. Francis Solanus.

The Easter Triduum, April 13–16:
Holy Thursday will be celebrated at Holy Cross at 7:00 p.m., Good Friday at St. Francis Solanus at 3:00 p.m., and Holy Saturday at St. James the Apostle at 8:00 p.m. The Masses for Easter Sunday will follow our regular schedule.

Lenten Study Project:
The Word Committee is looking for a Lenten study project for adults, time and place TBA. A suggested resource is: Jesus Of Nazareth: Holy Week by Pope Benedict XVI. Please pass other suggested titles/topics to a member of the Word Committee: Andy Morpurgo, Jeannie Wiggins, Pam Jasikoff, Scott Hamula. Their contact info is available on the parish council website.

Lenten Daily Meditations:
Two booklets will be available beginning the weekend of February 19. One is The Magnificat Lenten Companion and the other is The Word Among Us—Complete Catholic Mass and Daily Meditations. Please take one or the other but not both. An offering of $4.00 for a booklet is appreciated. The offering may be put in the weekend collection basket in an envelope marked Lenten Meditations Booklet. Thank you.

St. James the Apostle Food Donations:
Food donations may be brought to the church next weekend and placed on the table located in the front of the church. Monetary donations are accepted also.

Donations/Contributions Made By Check:
When making donations to the church, please make checks out to: the Parish of Mary, Mother of Mercy. On the memo line of the check you may name of the church be it St. James the Apostle, St. Francis Solanus, or Holy Cross.

Parish Mailing Address:
When mailing items to one of the three Churches, please use The Parish of Mary, Mother of Mercy’s address: P.O. Box 403, Interlaken, NY 14847 (as on the front cover of the bulletin). The Post Office is continuously encouraging that we remind parishioners to use only the new address and not the names and addresses of the churches.

Immaculate Conception School:
Immaculate Conception School continuously accepts registrations for all of our academic programs, Pre- K through sixth grade. Tuition assistance and parish subsidy are available. Call the school at 273-2707 or visit icsithaca.org for more information and visit https://www.facebook.com/ICSIthaca

Notre Dame High School—Elmira:
Notre Dame High School Grades 7–12 is currently accepting applications for the 2017-2018 academic year. An application for admission may be found on the home page of the school’s website: www.notredamehighschool.com. If you would like to schedule a tour and/or shadowing experience or if you have questions regarding the application process, please contact Michelle Barkley at 607 734 2267 ext. 326. The school is located at 1400 Maple Ave, Elmira, NY 14904.

Advocate for Refugees:
Catholic Charities is petitioning all to be a voice for those being held in refugee resettlements and to be a voice for those who have been meticulously vetted and are waiting to leave the misery of refugee camps. The invitation is to “speak up” by sending a message to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishop’s Justice for Immigrants http://justiceforimmigrants.org/category/action-alert and by phoning our Senators: Schumer at 202-456-1111 and Gillibrand at 202 224 4451 and our Representative: Reed at 202 225 3161.

Assisting Those Who Have Been Wounded by Abortion:
Are you experiencing shame, sleepless nights, guilt, or other negative emotions after abortion? You are not alone. Any woman or man who has had abortions touch their life personally is invited to contact Project Rachel, a post-abortion healing ministry. Trained, nonjudgmental staff can refer you to those who can help All contacts are confidential. Take courage or call or email us. Call Project Rachel for a confidential referral to those who can help: 585-328-3210 or email: Deacon David Snyder, or Suzanne Stack,

Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester:
The sisters have a prayer ministry and throughout 2017, Sister Dolores Bachman and Sister Anne Marie Burns will be praying for our parish and parishioners. Let us keep the sisters in our prayers as an expression of gratitude. Sisters of St. Joseph website: www.ssjrochester.org.

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.

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.

Cancer Services Program (Cortland and Tompkins Counties):
This a program that provides free cancer screenings (breast, cervical, and colorectal) to women from ages 40–64 and men ages 50–64, who are uninsured or have health insurance that does not cover these screenings and who meet income eligibility requirements. These services are provided in local health centers, doctor’s offices, and hospitals. For more information call 1-866 442 2262.

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Ministry Schedules for St. James

Schedule for February 4 and 5, 2017 (first Sunday):

5:00 p.m. Mass
Lectors: Scott Hamula and Carol Kuklo (for Amy Panek)
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Barbara Willers, Robin Hamula, Kathleen Rourke

11:00 a.m. Mass
Lectors: Lynne Stager and Maria Connell
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Mark Scibilia-Carver, Glenn Stamps, Mary Szymanski

Schedule for February 11 and 12, 2017 (second Sunday):

5:00 p.m. Mass
Lectors: Kathleen Rourke and Scott Hamula
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Barbara Willers, Carol Kuklo, Robin Hamula

11:00 a.m. Mass
Lectors: Rich and Hilary Wong
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Lynne Stager, Glenn Stamps, Susan Stafford

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Ministry schedule for Holy Cross:

 

Live The Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
In today’s competitive world, many people do not see justice and humility as virtues to acquire. Yet Jesus makes a big point of giving us the beatitudes as the blueprint to follow for our lives. Being poor in spirit, meek, thirsting and hungering for righteousness, being merciful, clean of heart, and peacemakers are all hallmarks of the true disciple and a child of God. After doing all these things, however, the true disciple must be prepared for persecution. Are you really ready to become a true disciple?

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:
“Everything and everyone is won by the sweetness of our words and works.” ~St. John Bosco

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Upcoming Events:

• RCIA Classes: Sundays, 12:00 noon, at St. James the Apostle Pine Room. All are welcome.
• Scripture study classes of the Gospel: on Tuesdays after the 9:00 a.m. Mass at St. James the Apostle church.
• AA Meetings: St. Francis Church, on Tuesday, at 8:00 p.m.
• Food Pantries: Ovid Federated Church on Mondays, 10:00 a.m. The food truck is available to everyone every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (February 7 and 21). The food pantry is at the Interlaken Reformed Church on Fridays, 3:00 p.m. The Trumansburg food pantry is at the Methodist Church every other Monday 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30–6:00 p.m. (January 30 and February 13).
• Usher meetings after Masses: 8:15 a.m. on January 29 at St. Francis Solanus, and 11:00 a.m. Sunday Mass on January 29 at St. James the Apostle
  Parish Choir Rehearsal: The next rehearsal date is Tuesday, January 31, at 6:30 p.m. at the Parish Center.
• Souper Bowl of Caring 2017: Our parish will be participating in this event by collecting donations of non-perishable food items beginning on the weekend of January 28 and 29 and collecting monetary offerings on February 5 for the local food pantries.
• Presentation of the Lord, February 2: This feast day, also known as Candlemas Day, will have a blessing of candles at St. James the Apostle at the 9:00 a.m. Mass.
• Immaculate Conception School Open House: on February 2, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and February 4, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• St. Blaise Day and the Blessing of Throats: on February 3 at the 8:30 a.m. Mass at Holy Cross and at the St. James the Apostle Mass at 9:00 a.m.
• Public Policy Weekend: February 4 and 5, 2017.
  
• Weekend Backpack Program Project: collection dates will be from the weekend of February 12 through February 26.
• Planning for Your Legacy: Two free seminars, one on March 13 at St. Francis DeSales Parish Center, 130 Exchange Street, Geneva; and second at St. Mary’s of the Lake Parish Center, 905 N. Decatur St. Watkins Glen. Both seminars will be at 7:00–8:30 p.m.

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Catholics Invite Catholics:
“Come to Mass in the Lord’s house on the Lord’s day.” A way to remind people of a way to be faithful to the third commandment: Keep holy the Lord’s Day..

Prayers:
Please keep the following parishioners in prayer:
• James Clair, 90, died January 1, funeral service in Ovid on January 7.
• Harold Miles, 71, died January 12, funeral service in Ovid on January 17
• William (Bill) White, 82, died January 16, funeral Mass in Trumansburg on January 28.

Visiting Priest:
Fr. John Mellitt, OFM Cap. will be visiting the parish and helping out while Fr. Bernard is away from February 8–28. Please welcome Fr. John Mellitt.

RCIA Classes:
RCIA classes are held on Sundays, at 12:00 noon, in the St. James the Apostle Pine Room. Classes are open to all.

Donations/Contributions Made by Check:
When making donations to the church, please make checks out to: the Parish of Mary, Mother of Mercy. On the memo line of the check you may name of the church be it St. James the Apostle, St. Francis Solanus, or Holy Cross.

Parish Mailing Address:
When mailing items to one of the three churches, please use the Parish of Mary, Mother of Mercy’s address: P.O. Box 403, Interlaken, NY 14847 (as on the front cover of the bulletin). The U.S. post office is continuously encouraging that we remind parishioners to use only the new address and not the names and addresses of the individual churches.

Ushers (Greeters of Hospitality):
It is the diocesan policy that an annual meeting be held in the month of January for ushers to review the policies and procedures related to taking up and securing the collections. The schedule for usher meetings after Mass is as follows:
• 8:15 a.m. Sunday Mass on January 29 at St. Francis Solanus
• 11:00 a.m. Sunday Mass on January 29 at St. James the Apostle

Parish Choir Rehearsal:
All parishioners are welcome to be part of the parish choir. The next rehearsal date is Tuesday, January 31, at 6:30 p.m. at the Parish Center, Interlaken, in preparation for the liturgical services of Lent and the Easter Triduum.

Love to Sing?:
Join the Trumansburg Community Chorus on Monday evenings, starting January 30, 7:00–9:00 p.m. at the Jacksonville Community Church, Trumansburg Rd, Jacksonville. All are welcome. Get details at tburgchorus.com. “Life is short. Sing!”

The Presentation of the Lord, February 2:
This feast day, forty days after Christmas, is also known as Candlemas Day because at the beginning of Mass the candles that will be used for liturgical services are blessed followed by a procession into the church with lighted candles. The blessed candles will be available at the following weekend Masses for parishioners to take for use in their own home. This celebration will take place at St. James the Apostle at the 9:00 a.m. Mass. All are welcome to participate.

St. Blaise Day and the Blessing of Throats on February 3:
This feast day is February 3 and as is the tradition, throats are blessed with blessed candles with a prayer for the general good health of the person. The celebration will take place at Mass at 8:30 a.m. at Holy Cross and at St. James at 9:00 a.m.

Nationwide Souper Bowl of Caring 2017:
Sunday, February 5, is Super Bowl Sunday and across this nation it is also Souper Bowl of Caring. Our parish will be participating in this one-day event by collecting donations of non-perishable food items beginning on the weekend of January 28 and 29. Our parish’s second year Confirmation students, as part of their community service project, will be present at the doors of the churches on February 5 to collect monetary offerings for the local food pantries as part of the national Souper Bowl of Caring Program.

2016-2017 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
Thank you to everyone who has responded with a gift or pledge. We need all parishioners to help reach our parish given goal of $29,855. A report issued on January 10 stated that our parish has pledged $24,385. We are a distance from our goal. Pledge envelopes are located in the vestibules of the church. Please respond as soon as possible.

Weekend Backpack Program Project:
Parishioners are invited to help support this program which is funded by the community. Currently over fifty children in the South Seneca School District benefit from the project. If you wish to write a check, write it to Weekend Backpack Program. You can put the check in the donation jar located in the church or mail it to Ovid Federated Church, PO Box 340, Ovid, NY 14521. Food items donated must be single serving size: cereal, canned milk or juice, canned fruit, microwaveable individual meals and popcorn are some examples. The collection dates will be from the weekend of February 12 through February 26.

Fatal Flaws in Assisted Suicide Bill:
The proposal to legalize doctor-assisted suicide in New York State contains fatal flaws. It allows patients to fill a physician’s prescription for a lethal dose of medication, and then ingest those pills at home, with no oversight by a doctor or nurse, no safeguards, and no accountability. What if a child got their hands on those pills first? Or what if the patient later changed their mind and decided not to take the pills? Who would know if someone else decided to trick or coerce the patient into taking the pills? Check out www.dor.org, click on Public Policy (lower left sidebar) for more info. Sign a letter or petition to you legislators opposing assisted suicide on Public Policy Weekend February 4–5.

Open House:
Immaculate Conception School will be hosting Enrollment Open Houses for the 2017–2018 school year on February 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and February 4 from 5:00 p.m. –6:30 p.m. Don’t miss your opportunity to experience the difference our Catholic school will make for your child’s education. Immaculate Conception School continuously accepts registrations for all of our academic programs, Pre-K through sixth grade. Tuition assistance and parish subsidy are available. Call the school at 273-2707 or visit icsithaca.org for more information and visit https://www.facebook.com/ICSIthaca.

Before the Flood:
On Monday, January 30, there will be a potluck dinner at 6:00 p.m. (please bring a dish to pass if you’d like to join in) before the film screening of Leonardo DiCaprio’s documentary on climate change, Before the Flood. The film will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Ithaca, 309 North Cayuga Street, DeWitt Park, Ithaca. This event is sponsored by ICAN (the Interfaith Climate Action Network).

Assisting those Who have Been Wounded by Abortion:
Are you experiencing shame, sleepless nights, guilt, or other negative emotions after abortion? You are not alone. Any woman or man who has had abortions touch their life personally is invited to contact Project Rachel, a post-abortion healing ministry. Trained, nonjudgmental staff can refer you to those who can help All contacts are confidential. Take courage or call or email us. Call Project Rachel for a confidential referral to those who can help: 585-328-3210 or email: Deacon David Snyder, or Suzanne Stack, .

Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester:
The sisters have a prayer ministry and throughout 2017, Sister Dolores Bachman and Sister Anne Marie Burns will be praying for our parish and parishioners. Let us keep the sisters in our prayers as an expression of gratitude. Sisters of St. Joseph website: www.ssjrochester.org.

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.

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.

Cancer Services Program (Cortland and Tompkins Counties):
This a program that provides free cancer screenings (breast, cervical, and colorectal) to women from ages 40–64 and men ages 50–64, who are uninsured or have health insurance that does not cover these screenings and who meet income eligibility requirements. These services are provided in local health centers, doctor’s offices, and hospitals. For more information call 1-866 442 2262.

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Ministry Schedules for St. James

Schedule for January 28 and 29, 2017 (fifth Sunday):

5:00 p.m. Mass
Lectors: Barbara Willers and Kathleen Rourke
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Traci Bump, Carol Kuklo, Robin Hamula

11:00 a.m. Mass
Lectors: Tim Davis and Lynne Stager
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Mark Scibilia-Carver, Susan Stafford, Mary Szymanski

Schedule for February 4 and 5, 2017 (first Sunday):

5:00 p.m. Mass
Lectors: Scott Hamula and Amy Panek
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Barbara Willers, Robin Hamula, Kathleen Rourke

11:00 a.m. Mass
Lectors: Lynne Stager and Maria Connell
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Mark Scibilia-Carver, Glenn Stamps, Mary Szymanski

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Ministry schedule for Holy Cross
January 2017

	1/29/17
Greeter in addition to Usher
Altar Ser 1	P. Schirmer
Altar Ser 2
Lector 1	L. Kurkchi
Lector 2	M. Frank
Extraordinary Min 1	D. Moore
Extraordinary Min 2	A. Calice
Extraordinary Min 3	D. Traphagen
Usher 1 (Lead)	J. Taylor
Usher 2	E. Conroy
Usher 3	P. Marrella
Usher 4	A. Reagan

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Ministry Schedules for St. Francis Solanus Church

Lector Schedule

January through March 2017

DATE	FIRST READING from OLD TESTAMENT	SECOND READING from NEW TESTAMENT
January 29 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Sheila Haddad	Marie Roloson
February 5 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Barbara Willers	Ann Buddle
February 12 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Gerry Messmer	Millie Messmer
February 19 7th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Charlotte Huyler	Sheila Haddad
February 26 8th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Pat Messmer	Karl Messmer
March 1 Ash Wednesday	Volunteers needed if	there is a Mass.
March 5 1st Sunday of Lent	Marie Roloson	Barbara Willers
March 12 2nd Sunday of Lent	Jeff Houck	Stephanie Houck
March 19 3rd Sunday of Lent	Ann Buddle	Charlotte Huyler
March 26 4th Sunday of Lent	Heather Cranford	Barbara Willers

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion

January through March 2017

DATE	Precious Blood	SET UP AND PURIFICATION	Precious Blood
January 29 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Jennifer Sharp	Maryann Dendis	Michele Barr
February 5 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Jeanie Wiggins	Pat Messmer	Charlotte Huyler
February 12 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Cathy Millspaugh	Patti Perry	Michele Barr
February 19 7th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Millie Messmer	Jennifer Sharp	Marie Roloson
February 26 8th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Charlotte Huyler	Chris Duthie	Mary Ruckdeschel
March 1 Ash Wednesday	Volunteers	needed if there	is a Mass
March 5 1st Sunday of Lent	Maryann Dendis	Chris Duthie	Pat Messmer
March 12 2nd Sunday of Lent	Mary Ruckdeschel	Jeanie Wiggins	Jennifer Sharp
March 19 3rd Sunday of Lent	Cathy Millspaugh	Marie Roloson	Patti Perry
March 26 4th Sunday of Lent	Chris Duthie	Charlotte Huyler	Millie Messmer

REMEMBER: to take Communion to Richard Suchocki before giving to congregation.

12/29/16-cmh

Live The Liturgy—Inspiration for the Week:
Sometimes we get so accustomed to walking in shadows and even in darkness that we forget that there is a light that can illuminate our lives more clearly. That light is Jesus Christ. Have you ever been looking for something in a dimly lit room and when someone shines a light, you suddenly find what you seek? This is how the Gospel works. At first we may not realize that we need it but then when someone shares its good news with us it all becomes clear. Jesus invites us out of darkness and calls us to come after him.

Catholic Quotes—Words to Inspire the Faithful:
“Christ made my soul beautiful with the jewels of grace and virtue. I belong to Him who the angles serve.” ~St. Agnes

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Upcoming Events:

• RCIA Classes: Sundays, 12:00 noon, at St. James the Apostle Pine Room. All are welcome.
• AA Meetings: St. Francis Church, on Tuesday, at 8:00 p.m.
• Food Pantries: Ovid Federated Church on Mondays, 10:00 a.m. The food truck is available to everyone every other Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. (January 24 and February 7). The food pantry is at the Interlaken Reformed Church on Fridays, 3:00 p.m. The Trumansburg food pantry is at the Methodist Church every other Monday 1:00–2:00 p.m. and 5:30–6:00 p.m. (January 30 and February 13).
• Usher meetings after Masses: 5:00 p.m. January 21 at St. James the Apostle, 9:30 a.m. on January 22 at Holy Cross, 8:15 a.m. on January 29 at St. Francis Solanus, and 11:00 a.m. Sunday Mass on January 29 at St. James the Apostle
• Scripture study classes of the Gospel: will resume on Tuesdays beginning January 24, 2017, after the 9:00 a.m. Mass at St. James the Apostle church.
• March for Life 2017 Diocese of Rochester (DOR) to DC: Buses leave Thursday night, January 26 and return Friday night, January 27.
• Parish Choir Rehearsal: The next rehearsal date is Tuesday, January 31, at 6:30 p.m. at the Parish Center.
• Souper Bowl of Caring 2017: Our parish will be participating in this event by collecting donations of non-perishable food items beginning on the weekend of January 28 and 29 and collecting monetary offerings on February 5 for the local food pantries.
• Presentation of the Lord, February 2: This feast day, also known as Candlemas Day, will have a blessing of candles at St. James the Apostle at the 9:00 a.m. Mass.
• Immaculate Conception School Open House: on February 2, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and February 4, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• St. Blaise Day and the Blessing of Throats: on February 3 at the 8:30 a.m. Mass at Holy Cross and at the St. James the Apostle Mass at 9:00 a.m.
• Public Policy Weekend: February 4 and 5, 2017.
• Weekend Backpack Program Project: collection dates will be from the weekend of February 12 through February 26.
• Planning for Your Legacy: Two free seminars, one on March 13 at St. Francis DeSales Parish Center, 130 Exchange Street, Geneva; and second at St. Mary’s of the Lake Parish Center, 905 N. Decatur St. Watkins Glen. Both seminars will be at 7:00–8:30 p.m.

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Catholics Invite Catholics:
“Come to Mass in the Lord’s house on the Lord’s day.” A way to remind people of a way to be faithful to the third commandment: Keep holy the Lord’s Day.

RCIA Classes:
RCIA classes take place on Sundays, at 12:00 Noon, in the St. James the Apostle Pine Room. All are welcome.

Scripture Study:
Parishioners are welcome to join an informal study of The Gospel According to Mark which will resume January 24, 2017, on Tuesday mornings after the 9:00 a.m. Mass (St James the Apostle Church). The study is facilitated by Debbie Short and Camille Taranto. The Liguori Catholic Bible Study will be used. Questions: contact Camille at (607) 387-3125.

Donations/Contributions Made by Check:
When making donations to the church, please make checks out to: the Parish of Mary, Mother of Mercy. On the memo line of the check you may name of the church be it St. James the Apostle, St. Francis Solanus, or Holy Cross.

Parish Mailing Address:
When mailing items to one of the three churches, please use the Parish of Mary, Mother of Mercy’s address: P.O. Box 403, Interlaken, NY 14847 (as on the front cover of the bulletin and on the parish contact web page). The U.S. post office is continuously encouraging that we remind parishioners to use only the new address and not the names and addresses of the individual churches.

Sunday Collection Counters:
It is a diocesan policy that an annual meeting be held in the month of January for the Sunday collection counters, to review the policies and procedures related to those responsibilities. Sunday collection counters as asked to please schedule yourself for one of two meetings to be held on Thursday, January 19, at 1:00 p.m. or at 7:00 p.m. at the Parish Center, Interlaken. A snow date will be the following Thursday, January 26. This is an important service to the parish. Parishioners interested in helping with this service, please phone the parish center to volunteer. Attending this annual meeting would be a great way to begin this ministry as a Sunday collection counter.

Ushers (Greeters of Hospitality):
It is the diocesan policy that an annual meeting be held in the month of January for ushers to review the policies and procedures related to taking up and securing the collections. The schedule for usher meetings after Mass is as follows:

• 5:00 p.m. Saturday Evening Mass on January 21 at St. James the Apostle
• 9:30 a.m. Sunday Mass on January 22 at Holy Cross
• 8:15 a.m. Sunday Mass on January 29 at St. Francis Solanus
• 11:00 a.m. Sunday Mass on January 29 at St. James the Apostle

Parish Choir Rehearsal:
All parishioners are welcome to be part of the parish choir. The next rehearsal date is Tuesday, January 31, at 6:30 p.m. at the Parish Center, Interlaken, in preparation for the liturgical services of Lent and the Easter Triduum.

Nationwide Souper Bowl of Caring 2017:
Sunday, February 5, is Super Bowl Sunday and across this nation it is also Souper Bowl of Caring. Our parish will be participating in this one-day event by collecting donations of non-perishable food items beginning on the weekend of January 28 and 29. Our parish’s second year Confirmation students, as part of their community service project, will be present at the doors of the churches on February 5 to collect monetary offerings for the local food pantries as part of the national Souper Bowl of Caring Program. For more information see https://souperbowl.org/welcome

2016-2017 Catholic Ministries Appeal:
Thank you to everyone who has responded with a gift or pledge. We need all parishioners to help reach our parish given goal of $29,855. A report issued on January 10, 2017 stated that our parish has pledged $24,285. We are a distance from our goal. Pledge envelopes are located in the vestibules of the church. Please respond as soon as possible.

The Presentation of the Lord, February 2:
This feast day, forty days after Christmas, is also known as Candlemas Day because at the beginning of Mass the candles that will be used for liturgical services are blessed followed by a procession into the church with lighted candles. The blessed candles will be available at the following weekend Masses for parishioners to take for use in their own home. This celebration will take place at St. James the Apostle at the 9:00 a.m. Mass. All are welcome to participate.

St. Blaise Day and the Blessing of Throats on February 3:
This feast day is February 3 and as is the tradition, throats are blessed with blessed candles with a prayer for the general good health of the person. The celebration will take place at Mass at 8:30 a.m. at Holy Cross and at St. James the Apostle at 9:00 a.m.

Weekend Backpack Program Project:
Parishioners are requested to participate in supporting this program that is funded by the community. Currently over fifty children in the South Seneca School District benefit from this project. There will be money collection jars in the churches. If you wish to write a check, write it to “Weekend Backpack Program.” You can put the check in our donation jar or mail it to Ovid Federated Church, PO Box 340, Ovid, NY 14521. Food items donated must be single serving size: cereal, canned milk or juice, canned fruit, microwaveable individual meals, and popcorn are some examples. The collection dates for this program will be from the weekend of February 12 through February 26. Thank you for supporting our children in need.

March for Life 2017 Diocese of Rochester (DOR) to DC:
Buses are leaving from around the diocese to the March for Life in D.C. Join 1000’s marching for a day when every human life will be valued and protected. Buses leave Thursday night, January 26 and return Friday night, January 27. There will be a Mass with Bishop Matano at 10 a.m. at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. March with Bishop Matano and others from the DOR. Make your bus reservations today. Contact: or 315-246-7479.

Assisting those who have Been Wounded by Abortion:
Are you experiencing shame, sleepless nights, guilt, or other negative emotions after abortion? You are not alone. Any woman or man who has had abortions touch their life personally is invited to contact Project Rachel, a post-abortion healing ministry. Trained, nonjudgmental staff can refer you to those who can help All contacts are confidential. Take courage or call or email us. Call Project Rachel for a confidential referral to those who can help: 585-328-3210 or email: Deacon David Snyder, or Suzanne Stack, .

Public Policy Weekend—Prevent Suicide, Don’t Assist Suicide:
Nothing in proposed N.Y. legislation to legalize assisted suicide requires that patients be counseled or screened for clinical depression before they are handed a lethal prescription. Yet mental health professionals know that a large number of suicides could be prevented with the right therapeutic intervention. New York State recognizes suicide as a critical public health concern, and works to prevent it. Government should not reverse course now and send the message that some suicides are acceptable. Check out more information about the diocesan public policy agenda on the diocese’s website (http://www.dor.org/index.cfm/catholic-charities/public-policy/). Sign a letter or petition to you legislators opposing assisted suicide on Public Policy Weekend February 4–5.

Immaculate Conception School Open House:
Immaculate Conception School will be hosting enrollment open houses for the 2017–2018 school year on February 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and February 4 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Don’t miss your opportunity to experience the difference our Catholic school will make for your child’s education. Immaculate Conception School continuously accepts registrations for all of our academic programs, Pre- K through sixth grade. Tuition assistance and parish subsidy are available. Call the school at 273-2707 or visit icsithaca.org for more information and visit https://www.facebook.com/ICSIthaca

“Before the Flood” Movie and Potluck Dinner:
On Monday, January 30, there will be a potluck dinner beginning at 6:00 p.m. (please bring a dish to pass if you’d like to join in). This will be followed by a film screening of Leonardo DiCaprio’s documentary on climate change, Before the Flood, at 6:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Ithaca, 309 North Cayuga Street, DeWitt Park, Ithaca. This event is sponsored by ICAN (the Interfaith Climate Action Network).

Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester:
The sisters have a prayer ministry and throughout 2017, Sister Dolores Bachman and Sister Anne Marie Burns will be praying for our parish and parishioners. Let us keep the sisters in our prayers as an expression of gratitude. Sisters of St. Joseph website: www.ssjrochester.org.

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.

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.

Cancer Services Program (Cortland and Tompkins Counties):
This a program that provides free cancer screenings (breast, cervical, and colorectal) to women from ages 40–64 and men ages 50–64, who are uninsured or have health insurance that does not cover these screenings and who meet income eligibility requirements. These services are provided in local health centers, doctor’s offices, and hospitals. For more information call 1-866 442 2262.

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Ministry Schedules for St. James

Schedule for January 21 and 22, 2017 (fourth Sunday):

5:00 p.m. Mass
Lectors: Paul Povinelli and Carol Kuklo
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Cathy DelSignore, Joan Hogan

11:00 a.m. Mass
Lectors: Mark Scibilia-Carver, Tim Davis (for Tara and Leon Webster)
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Mary Szymanski, Glenn Stamps

Schedule for January 28 and 29, 2017 (fifth Sunday):

5:00 p.m. Mass
Lectors: Barbara Willers and Kathleen Rourke
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Traci Bump, Carol Kuklo, Robin Hamula

11:00 a.m. Mass
Lectors: Tim Davis and Lynne Stager
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Mark Scibilia-Carver, Susan Stafford, Mary Szymanski

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Ministry schedule for Holy Cross
January 2017

	1/22/17	1/29/17
Greeter in addition to Usher	M. Maleski
Altar Ser 1	G. Frank	P. Schirmer
Altar Ser 2
Lector 1	K. Knapp	L. Kurkchi
Lector 2	J. Leidefrost°	M. Frank
Extraordinary Min 1	F. Grasak	D. Moore
Extraordinary Min 2	D. Brandow	A. Calice
Extraordinary Min 3	K. Sinkiewicz	D. Traphagen
Usher 1 (Lead)	S. Brandow	J. Taylor
Usher 2	S. Limoncelli	E. Conroy
Usher 3	M. Maleski	P. Marrella
Usher 4	T. Grasak	A. Reagan

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Ministry Schedules for St. Francis Solanus Church

Lector Schedule

January through March 2017

DATE	FIRST READING from OLD TESTAMENT	SECOND READING from NEW TESTAMENT
January 22 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time	Stephanie Houck	Jeff Houck
January 29 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Sheila Haddad	Marie Roloson
February 5 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Barbara Willers	Ann Buddle
February 12 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Gerry Messmer	Millie Messmer
February 19 7th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Charlotte Huyler	Sheila Haddad
February 26 8th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Pat Messmer	Karl Messmer
March 1 Ash Wednesday	Volunteers needed if	there is a Mass.
March 5 1st Sunday of Lent	Marie Roloson	Barbara Willers
March 12 2nd Sunday of Lent	Jeff Houck	Stephanie Houck
March 19 3rd Sunday of Lent	Ann Buddle	Charlotte Huyler
March 26 4th Sunday of Lent	Heather Cranford	Barbara Willers

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion

January through March 2017

DATE	Precious Blood	SET UP AND PURIFICATION	Precious Blood
January 22 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time	Chris Duthie	Marie Roloson	Mary Ruckdeschel
January 29 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Jennifer Sharp	Maryann Dendis	Michele Barr
February 5 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Jeanie Wiggins	Pat Messmer	Charlotte Huyler
February 12 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Cathy Millspaugh	Patti Perry	Michele Barr
February 19 7th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Millie Messmer	Jennifer Sharp	Marie Roloson
February 26 8th Sunday in Ordinary Time	Charlotte Huyler	Chris Duthie	Mary Ruckdeschel
March 1 Ash Wednesday	Volunteers	needed if there	is a Mass
March 5 1st Sunday of Lent	Maryann Dendis	Chris Duthie	Pat Messmer
March 12 2nd Sunday of Lent	Mary Ruckdeschel	Jeanie Wiggins	Jennifer Sharp
March 19 3rd Sunday of Lent	Cathy Millspaugh	Marie Roloson	Patti Perry
March 26 4th Sunday of Lent	Chris Duthie	Charlotte Huyler	Millie Messmer

REMEMBER: to take Communion to Richard Suchocki before giving to congregation.

12/29/16-cmh