5th Sunday in Ordinary Time
FEBRUARY 5, 2012
"Praise the Lord who heals the brokenhearted."
~ Psalm 147 ~
St.
Mary's Church
Main St., East Islip, N.Y.
(631) 581-4266
Rev. Donald E. Babinski
Pastor ext. 108
Rev. Janusz Mocarski
Associate Pastor ext. 110
Rev. Hugh Cannon
Associate Pastor ext. 112
Sr. Patricia Tippen, IHM
Pastoral Associate ext. 134
Rectory: 581-4266 ext. 100
Rectory
Hours
Monday thru Friday - 9am to 8pm
Saturday - 9am to 4pm
Sunday - CLOSED
Parish
Social Ministry:
581-7070
9:30 - 4:30pm Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri; 1pm - 4:30pm Thurs
Director
Sr. Camille Solis, DW
ext.
128
Music &
Liturgy:
Director
Barbara
J. Grace
ext. 107
Family Faith Enrichment: 581-3304
8am - Noon & 1pm - 4pm, Monday - Friday
Director For Religious Education
Linda Crowley (Gr.
1-6)
ext. 122
Biagio M.
Arpino (Gr.
7-8)
ext. 142
Director For Baptism
MaryAnn Giannettino
ext. 120
Director For
Family Life And Youth
Theresa
Roach
ext. 124
Parish School:
581-3423
8am -
2:30pm, Monday - Friday
Principal Biagio M. Arpino ext. 142
Director of Ministry, Development and
Operations
Jack Abruzzo ext. 102
Birthright: 277-3888
New Parishioners: All new families are welcome to the parish. They are asked to register by stopping at the Rectory during office hours or by calling our Parish Ministry & Development Office (*ext 125)..
Anointing of the Sick: 1st Saturday of each month at 8:30 A.M. Mass in the church.
Weekday Masses: Monday through Friday, 7:30am and 9:00 am, Saturday 8:30am
Sunday
Masses: Saturday 5pm in the Auditorium
Sunday: Church - 7:30am, 11am*, 5pm
Auditorium - 9:15am,10:45am, 12:15pm
(* - There is NO
11am mass during July and August)
Holyday Masses: To Be Announced in the Church and Auditorium
Baptism: Baptisms celebrated during scheduled masses as well as Sundays at 1:30pm. Parents please call to make arrangements prior to your child's birth. Baptism is not celebrated during Lent.
Reconciliation: Saturday, 4:00pm to 4:45pm
Marriage: Please call to begin the process at least one year in advance. No dates for marriage will be set over the phone. Either the bride or groom must be a member of St. Mary's.
MONDAY 02/06
7:30 a.m. Alice Mullane
9:00 a.m. Betty Stevens
7:30 a.m. Walter Johnson
9:00 a.m. Benjamin Maksym
9:00 a.m. Jerry Jaeckel
7:30 a.m. William P. McNamara
9:00 a.m. Francis X. McCaffrey
9:00 a.m. Walter Johnson
8:30 a.m. Frank and Maria Toledo
5:00 p.m. Marian Speth
7:30 a.m. Rose Rannazzisi
9:15 a.m. Mary Schwarting
10:45 a.m. Ivette Aulet
11:00 a.m. Domenica Bono
Dennis Dauplaise
Larry Hill
Frank Noviello
Michael De Nigris
Mrs. Hanley
12:15 p.m. All Parishioners
5:00 p.m. George Faller
THE SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION (PENANCE)
Penance on Wednesday, Feb. 8th at 8-8:45am
Penance on Saturday, Feb. 11th at 4-4:45pm
SCRIPTURE READINGS FOR THE WEEK
Monday: 1 Kings 8:1-7, 9-13; Mark 6:53-56
Tuesday: 1 Kings 8:22-23, 27-30; Mark 7:1-13
Wednesday: 1 Kings 10:1-10; Mark 7:14-23
Thursday: 1 Kings 11:4-13; Mark 7:24-30
Friday: 1 Kings 11:29-32; 12:19; Mark 7:31-37
Saturday: 1 Kings 12:26-32; 12:33-34; Mark 8:1-10
Sunday: Leviticus 13:1-2, 44-46
Psalm 32:1-2, 5, 11
1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1
Mark 1:40-45
COMMUNITY LIFE
PASTORAL COUNCIL
will meet on Saturday, February 18, 2012
at 9:30am in
the Joseph Room.
The FINANCE COUNCIL
will meet on Monday, January 23, 2012
at 7:00pm on the
Rectory Porch.
ST. MARY ROSARIANS ~ Our January meeting was well attended. On Wednesday, February 8th, after the 9am Mass, we will meet in the church parking lot. The meeting will take place at Gloria’s home where we will pray the Rosary and conduct our meeting. Mary will show us one of her real Italian recipes. It will be a fun time!
We recently acquired the new editions of the Roman Missal to be used at Mass. These red books contain the prayers and responses spoken by the priest and people during the celebration of the Eucharist. If you would like to donate or memorialize one of the following missals listed with the purchase price, please do so at the Rectory:
***Large Special Edition (church) $250.00
***Large Special Edition (auditorium) $250.00
***(To be used at Christmas, Easter and other special occasions.)
ST.
MARY SHAWL MINISTRY
invites new members to join our ministry. We knit or crochet shawls and other
smaller items to bring comfort to our friends and neighbors who are suffering
from bereavement, illness or other problems. Every item is offered with our
prayers. We meet every other Thursday from 1pm to 3pm in the Joseph Room.
There are no dues and no obligation to attend our meetings. Beginners are
welcome! For more information, please call the Rectory Receptionist at
581-4266, x100; or Mary McHugh at 631-968-4456; or Angela Hufner at
631-859-5299.
The SHAWL MINISTRY will meet on February 16th from 1pm to 3pm in the Joseph Room.
ST. MARY MEN’S MINISTRY invites all parishioners to join us on Tuesday, January 17th at 7:30pm in the church for Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Immediately following in Sacred Heart Hall all men 18 years of age and older are invited to attend our monthly discussion.
ST. MARY RETIRED MEN’S MINISTRY invites all parishioners to join us on Tuesday, February 21st at 7:30pm in the church for Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Immediately following this service, all men 18 years of age and older are invited to Sacred Heart Hall for a discussion on the topic of Death, Why Are We Afraid to Die?
Youth Ministry meets every Friday from 7pm to 9pm in Sacred Heart Hall. New members are always welcome! Youth Ministry is about FUN, FAITH, FRIENDSHIP & SERVICE ~ 7-12th Graders meet every Friday and Youth Ministry for 6th Graders meet on the First Friday of the Month. For more info, please call Theresa Roach at 581-3304, x124.
ATTENTION WOMEN OF ST. MARY! Please join us for our Bible Study Group. A series of discussions and reflections on “Men & Women of the Bible” on Wednesday, February 15th; Thursday, March 22nd; Wednesday, April 18th and Thursday, May 24th in the Joseph Room from 10am to 11am. Please RSVP to Avida Del Genio at 277-0520 or Sister Patty at 581-4266, x134.
PARENT-TOT PLAYGROUP ~ ~ Mondays at 10am-11:15am in Sacred Heart Hall. Come join the fun & meet new friends! We provide free play & circle time with songs, games and themes that introduce your child to God. Ages birth to 3+, caregivers and grandparents welcome! $5 donation includes snack. Parents are expected to take turns helping with setup, cleanup, and an easy craft. For more info, please call 581-3304, x124 or e-mail parenttots@gmail.com
Please note the following correction . . . Our LENTEN SOUP SUPPER will be held on MONDAY, MARCH 26th at 6pm in the School Auditorium. It was incorrectly listed as Wednesday, March 28th in the Lenten Schedule which was included in the recent package of Tithing Envelopes.
SAVE THE DATE!
ST. MARY “SOCK HOP” ~ Friday, April 20th
7pm in the Auditorium
ST. MARY SCHOOL NEWS
The Kindergarten at St. Mary is looking forward to our 100th day of school! This year the 100th day falls on Valentine’s Day! We will have fun celebrating with a party and many fun activities that incorporate the number 100. We are growing up so fast and learning so much every day! We are reading and writing, counting and adding. We have enjoyed making new friends, and before we know it we will be First Graders!
100th ANNIVERSARY ~ If you would be interested in helping with the planning of the 100th Anniversary celebration of Saint Mary School, please call 631-275-6366.
SCRIP
will be sold on the
first Sunday of each month.
|
FORMATION |
Dear Friends,
Fifty years have passed since the election of our country’s first Roman Catholic President, John F. Kennedy. Despite the passage of time, some things have not changed. Although our nation has succeeded in overcoming its racial barriers by electing its first Afro-American President, Barack Obama, its struggle to overcome religious barriers remains. The recent Republican primaries make this quite clear.
Whenever the pollsters in Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina or Florida asked people why they had a problem with voting for Mitt Romney, one of the issues was his religion. He and his family are Mormons. Voters often expressed an uneasiness with, or a fear of, or lack of knowledge about the Mormon Church.
Some fear is that if Mitt Romney becomes president, the United States will become a Mormon state, controlled by the Mormon Church. Sadly, this same fear was expressed fifty years ago when JFK was running for president. Americans were afraid that if Kennedy was elected, the Vatican would assume control of the United States and the Pope would rule America.
Others are uncomfortable with some of the past practices and teachings of the Mormons which have since been discontinued or overturned by the Mormon Church. Among them are polygamy (having more than one wife) and the exclusion of blacks. There is also the misperception among some people that the Mormon religion is cult. Because of the experience like Waco, Texas, Americans are very leery of cults which Mormonism definitely is not. Nevertheless, there are some who think it is.
I think that this uncomfortableness is also linked to the lack of knowledge that many people have about the Mormon religion. For so long, our country has been accustomed only to the Judeo-Christian tradition. The emergence of other religions in America such as Islam and Mormonism is real but their acceptance into mainstream America still remains questionable and misunderstood.
That’s why I think Mitt Romney’s bid for the presidency has an added benefit. It has given the Mormon Church a lot of attention. This sudden and unexpected exposure is also a good thing for American and its citizens. Our nation is learning more about the Mormons as a result of it.
While they may account for only 2% of the population in the United States, the Mormon Church is steadily growing unlike its other Christian Protestant counterparts. This growth is largely due to the Mormon’s active and successful missionary movement.
As writer of this column, but more importantly to keep you informed as a future voter, I thought it worthwhile to share with you some of the history and beliefs of the Mormon Church. I hope you find the following information helpful.
For starters, the Mormons were founded in 1830 by Joseph Smith, Jr. Smith experienced a number of visions in which certain teachings were revealed to him by God. He said that God was using him to re-establish the true Christian Church. He maintained that the Book of Mormons which he dictated would be God’s means of establishing correct doctrines for the restored Church.
Smith’s “restored” Church steadily grew in upper western New York State but its members were also being persecuted. As a result, Smith and his followers traveled westward through Ohio, Illinois and Missouri where they again faced hostile opposition and fierce suspicion. After Joseph Smith, Jr. was killed by the Illinois Militia in 1844, the largest group of Mormons accepted Brigham Young as their new religious leader and prophet. They followed him into the Utah Territory where they incorporated their Church by its new and official name, The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints (LDS).
Because of its vigorous missionary campaign, the LDS has grown in size to 14 million members worldwide. Mormons think of themselves as a “peculiar people” set apart from the world by what they believe is their unique relationship with God. They maintain their religion is the “only true and living” Church because of the divine authority restored to it through Joseph Smith, Jr. They believe that Smith and his successors are modern day prophets who continue to receive revelation from God on how to guide the Church. The Mormon Church, however, recognizes that other religions have a portion of the truth and are guided by the Light of Christ.
Mormons believe they lived with God as spirits before they were born. According to God’s plan of happiness, they came to earth to receive physical bodies in order to learn and grow, to choose good over evil, godly over worldly.
Unfortunately, during this process, people make mistakes. Their earthly experience causes them to sin and undergo suffering. This makes them unworthy to return to God’s presence after their brief stint on earth. Therefore, redemption and salvation are required. Mormons believe that Jesus Christ paid for the sins of the world by shedding his blood on the cross and dying. This atonement is central to God’s plan. The Mormons believe that because of Jesus’ atonement all people can be saved.
If you were to go to the Mormon website mormon.org, you would read, “Mormons . . . believe first and foremost that Jesus Christ is our Savior and Redeemer. We believe that in Him all mankind may enjoy eternal life with their families in the Heavenly Father’s Kingdom.”
Most of that statement could have been made by any other Christian sect. But there are radical differences in theology which do set the Mormons “apart” from other Christian denominations. They reject the ecumenical creeds and the definition of the Trinity taught by the Roman Catholic Church. There are a number of tenets which are exclusive and central to the teachings of the Mormon religion. These tenets are not shared by other Christian faiths. Among them are:
The president of the Church is a prophet of God.
The Book of Mormons was written by ancient prophets.
Families can be bound together for all eternity in temple ceremonies.
God the Father and Jesus Christ are separate, physical beings.
Headquarters for the Mormons is Salt Lake City, Utah. Their center of worship is the Salt Lake Temple which hosts the world famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Family and strict moral values are extremely important to the Mormons.
This is a very brief summary of the Mormon religion. In no way is it meant to be a political endorsement of a presidential candidate. It was intended simply to give you further insight into the members of The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints. Hopefully, it will dispel any bias or preconceived myths you may have had about them.
If we as a nation can overcome racial barriers, it’s about time that we overcame our religious ones.
Fr. Don
FAMILY FAITH ENRICHMENT ~ RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
FIRST EUCHARIST PARENT MEETINGS take place this week ~ Tuesday 2/7, Wednesday 2/8 and Thursday 2/9 at 5pm in the Auditorium. There is also a Thursday 2/9 meeting at 7pm in the Auditorium. Parents must attend just one meeting.
FIRST RECONCILIATION ~ All children who are preparing to receive their First Eucharist will have the opportunity to receive this sacrament on Saturday, March 3rd, in the auditorium. There are three services and children have been assigned based on their class. If you do not know which service your child is scheduled to attend, please contact the FFE Office at 581-3304, x122.
FIRST EUCHARIST ~ Letters were sent out last week listing your child’s assigned Mass, as well as the associated rehearsal. If you have not received this letter, please contact the FFE Office.
PLEASE NOTE ~ Classes for First Grade do not resume until Tuesday, February 28th.
ON-LINE STUDENTS ~ An assessment was mailed to all 6th Grade Students in the on-line program. Please return this assessment to the FFE Office by February 16th. All 6th Grade Students will be receiving a Bible. If your child is in the on-line program, the Bible may be picked up at the FFE Office.
Please pray for these children who will be baptized and for their families:
Caroline Ann Lettieri and Elise Frances Lettieri
St. Mary Parish is in need of volunteer married couples to share their faith, time, and experience with our engaged couples by helping to facilitate our Pre-Cana Program. Marriage is one of God’s greatest gifts but it is also one of great responsibility. Our program is designed to help prepare couples for the sacrament of marriage. Our engaged couples report that the best part of their Pre-Cana experience is the conversation it encourages between them. Pre-Cana has been both a joy & blessing to our engaged couples . . . and to our facilitator couples. If you would like to consider becoming a Pre-Cana facilitator couple, please contact the Rectory at 581-4266, x100, or call Leslie & Mike Lanigan at 277-1778. Thank you so much!
PRE-CANA:
Proper marriage preparation is a priority in the Church. As a sign that
the whole parish is involved in this preparation, more than the priests of the
parish are involved. There are four areas where interested parishioners
may minister: 1). The initial meeting with the engaged couples.
2). Helping the couples with FOCCUS. This tool is strongly recommended
by the Bishops of the US, and helps the couple look at the different areas of
marriage that are important for discussion before entering marriage. 3).
The Pre-Cana In-Home Sessions facilitated by married couples. (The first
and last meetings are held on parish grounds.) 4). Leading the
rehearsals before the marriage.
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process where adults who want to join the Catholic Church participate in a spiritual journey towards faith and conversion to Jesus Christ. Currently at St. Mary the following people are part of the RCIA process: Susan Brass, William Widor, and Matthew Golden. Please remember them in your prayers. If you would like to join our RCIA Parish Ministry Team and walk with our catechumens along their journey, please call Ernie Merlino at 631-581-8982 or Marjorie Lamb at 631-581-7238. Thank you. “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” (Mt. 28:19).
COMMUNION
TO THE HOMEBOUND: There
are parishioners who are currently homebound and unable to receive the healing
Body of Christ. Please consider giving a few extra hours of your time by
becoming a Eucharistic Minister to the Homebound. Please call the
Rectory Receptionist at 581-4266 x100 to join this grace filled ministry.
|
LITURGY |
ST. MARY’S MISSION STATEMENT
“A vision of Church as envisioned by the Second Vatican Council, the Gospel message proclaimed by the Lord, Jesus Christ, the solemn obligation to hear the cry of all those in need.”
With these as
our FOUNDATIONAL STONES, the
ST. MARY’S MISSION STATEMENT is:
“CENTERED IN THE WORD OF GOD AND THE GIFT OF JESUS IN OUR MIDST, THE MISSION OF ST. MARY’S PARISH FAMILY IS TO BE A WELCOMING COMMUNITY WHICH PROCLAIMS THROUGH WORD AND ACTION THE DIGNITY OF EVERY PERSON.”
Please remember to silence your cell phone before Mass. Thank you for your consideration & cooperation!
ATTENTION LITURGICAL MINISTERS! If you have not received the new instructions for Eucharistic Ministers of Holy Communion & Lectors, you may pick up a copy at the Rectory.
Visit our parish website for the new EM/LECTOR Schedule
http://www.stmaryseastislip.org/liturgicalministers’schedule.htm
Become an USHER . . . We are in need of men and women to become ushers at the various Masses. For more information, please call Barbara Grace at 581-4266, x107.
ADORATION HOLY HOUR & BENEDICTION ~ Please join us on Monday, February 20th to pray for priests in the Church at 12Noon. All are welcome.
CHILDREN’S CHOIR
~
Our next
rehearsal will be on
Tuesday, February 7th
at
6-7pm in the Auditorium. We will be
singing at the 9:15am Mass on Sunday, February
12th in the
Auditorium. New members are welcome! For information, contact the Office of Music &
Liturgy or e-mail Lynne Cook at
stmaryschildrenschoir@yahoo.com.
CENTERING
PRAYER 
“Centering Yourself in Prayer”
Take some time from your busy, hectic day/week! Spend some quiet, quality time with God! “When two or more are gathered in my name. . .” Our next gathering is Monday, February 13th at 10am in the Rectory Chapel for approximately 30 minutes; come, sit and pray in a small circle and in a non-threatening, non-intimidating manner. Have your own inner, reflective, meditative time with God. For more info, call Sister Patty at 581-4266, x134 or visit www.contemplativeoutreach.org.
Just a Reminder: If a child has not as yet received his or her First Eucharist and walks up in the communion procession each week and would like to receive a Blessing, please have the child cross his or her hands across their heart. This gesture indicates to the Priest or Extraordinary Minister that the child standing before him or her would like to receive a Blessing.
CIRCLE
OF SCRIPTURE
Consider joining us each Tuesday & Thursday
when we break open and pray the
scripture of the day at 8:30am in the Joseph Room. All are
welcome! Let these words of John’s Gospel nourish you: “Make your
home in me, as I make mine in you. Those who remain in me with me in them,
bear fruit in plenty. I have told you this so that my own joy may be in you
and your joy may be complete.” ~John 15:4, 5, 11
The Sick
Eddy and Esther Aigbojie, Gloria Arriaga, Baby Caitlin, Baisy Atostol, Edward Battle, Steve Brown,
Felicia Bryant, Michael DeFreitas, Barbara Dowie, Jane Dugue, John Edwards, Robert Fenn,
Gwen Finch, Naomi Fuller, Norman Gooding, Janice Gordin, Annette Harrell, Marie Henry,
Carmen Hernandez, Michelle Faye Hester, Maria F. Holloman,
Cordelia Howard, Fern Hunter, Berne Jackson, Myra James, Ramesh Khudan, Jr.,
Ramesh Khudan, Sr., Richard Landry, Kyle Legere, Dominick Leon,
Hugh Malone, Lisa McGhie, Clara Morehead, Talita Moore, Al Murray,
Dorothy Matthews, Ann Mitchell, Eileen McGloin Mullen, Ronnie Pierre,
Sarah Pooler, Debbie Poultre, Bertram Powell, Teresa Powell,
Patricia Richmond, Julia Royer, Kenneth Sardinha Sr., Jerry and Anne Marie Sardinha and Family,
Joshua Sardinha and Family, Mary McCormick Sykes, Miguel Vazquez, Myoshi Vital, Terry Warren,
Cheryl Watkins, Winifred Williams.
St. Mary Church has the large “Purgatorial” Remembrance Mass folders at the Rectory Reception Desk. Offering is $25.
The ANOINTING OF THE SICK will be celebrated on Saturday, March 3rd, at the 8:30am Mass in the Church. All are most welcome ~ Please come and pray with us!
PARISH SOCIAL MINISTRIES
Parish Outreach Office
Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 9:30-4:30;
Thursday 1:00-4:30
Dear All of You:
I
was very taken with this line in today’s Gospel; speaking of Jesus, it reads
“Rising very early before dawn, he left and went
off to a deserted place, where he prayed.”
Imagine, even Jesus felt it necessary to go off by himself and speak to his Father. We all need to pray; not only to get an answer to a request, but to establish and maintain an intimate relationship with God.
My best time to pray is also in the early morning. I enjoy the peacefulness of that time. Sometimes I pour my heart out and then there are times when I just sit there; words seem superfluous and get in the way. God knows all the details anyway. So I just remain still and absorb God’s light and grace.
There was a time when I wasn’t sure if I was really praying since I wasn’t pleading or bargaining with God. But I began to notice that I came away from this time with God with exactly what I needed. When I was tired . . . a little more refreshed, when worried . . . more hopeful. If I felt weak, I was given the strength. I no longer doubt that merely being aware of God’s presence changes me.
This Gospel goes on to say that after Jesus prayed, he went into the town to heal and preach. After praying, he was energized by his Father’s presence and love. May we be so enriched.
In Wisdom’s love, Sr. Camille
PARISH SOCIAL MINISTRY NEEDS YOU! There are some parishioners who call us on occasion because they need rides to local stores or doctors, or might also request help with minor home repairs. If you would like to be a part of either ministry, please call 581-7070, x128 for further information.
Other Community Service Opportunities:
Neighborhood food drives are a wonderful way for students to get family, friends & neighbors involved in helping to put food on the table for those in need. If you would like to help in any of these activities, please contact Rosanne at Parish Social Ministry, 581-7070, x129.
FOOD PANTRY ~ During the winter months our pantry is in special need. Please remember our food pantry when you are shopping. This week we are in need of: COFFEE, TEA, TOMATO SAUCE IN JARS, KID’S LUNCH SNACKS, BABY DIAPERS (sizes 3, 4 & 5) and TOOTHPASTE. We are grateful for all you do. Thank you!
THRIFT SHOP Opportunity ~ If you have been thinking about volunteering at our THRIFT SHOP, now is the time! We are in need of someone to help on Monday afternoons fro a 3-hour shift from 1pm-4pm. If you are interested, please call Roseanne at 581-7070, x129. Please consider this very rewarding ministry.
St. Mary “SENIOR CONNECTION” invites all seniors to attend our
next gathering on Tuesday, February 7th from 1pm
to 3pm in Sacred Heart Hall. Come, meet, mingle and enjoy the
company of some really nice people as we gather for prayer, conversation and
some fun. We will provide the desserts and beverages. Ladies and gentlemen
are most welcome. Bring a friend! Please note that
in the event of snow and for your safety, the meeting will be cancelled.
FOOD
DELIVERY VOLUNTEERS NEEDED ~ AS LITTLE AS ONE HOUR PER YEAR:
As you can
imagine, the need for
food in this current economic climate has dramatically increased. Our
parish is able to help by providing food to many of our neighbors.
Volunteers are being solicited for seasonal food deliveries (about one hour of
your time) for Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Also, we are in
need of additional volunteers who would be able to deliver food baskets to those
who call the Outreach Office but cannot pick up the food. This would
require a commitment of -at the most- a few days per month. If you
are motivated to help in any way, please contact Parish Social Ministry at
581-4266, x128. Thank you in advance for your consideration
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
TRANSPORTATION
~ The Parish Social Ministry is in need of people who would be able to provide
rides to parishioners to supermarkets, doctors’ appointments, and Sunday
Very often people call the Outreach Office looking for help to care for elderly parents or ailing relatives in their homes. If you have a need for this type of service, please be advised that our office can provide the names of individuals from the community who are available to provide this type of service. However, please note that we ask that you take the time to interview and check references of any names you are given, as St. Mary cannot endorse or recommend particular individuals for employment. If you would like to speak with an employment volunteer, please call Mary at 581-7070, x133 or leave a message.
MINISTRY OF REASSURANCE ~ St. Mary’s Parish Social Ministry offers the Ministry of Reassurance to anyone who is homebound or in a nursing home. If you, or someone you know, would like a friendly phone call or note, please call Nora at 581-4266, x133. Feel free to leave a message and she will return your call. If you would be interested in volunteering your time in this ministry, please call 581-4266, x129.
If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please contact the Outreach Office of Parish Social Ministry at 581-4266, ext. 128. All contacts will be confidential.
PRAYER/SUPPORT GROUPS:
The next meeting for Catholic Gays/Lesbians and their Parents will be held on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:30pm. For further information, please call Al and Rita Mazza at 631-650-7016.
If you are in any process of Divorce and Separation and would like information regarding the support and prayer group, please contact Parish Social Ministry at 581-4266 ext. 128. All calls confidential.
St. Mary Bereavement Ministry hosts a Bereavement After-Care Program for anyone who has completed a Bereavement Support Group and is in need of companionship and/or ongoing grief education. If you are interested in participating in such a program, please contact Margaret Peterson at 631-224-3911 to register. Please note that the next meeting of the Bereavement After-Care Program will be held on Thursday, January 12th in Sacred Heart Hall from 7:30pm to 9pm. We will be planning our topics and programs for the year ahead. Refreshments will be served. Please RSVP to Margaret at 631-224-3911 or by e-mail at stmarysaftercare@gmail.com.
Please
remember in your prayer those members of St. Mary’s Parish who serve in the
Military and have asked for our prayers. If you have a relative or friend
that you would like to add to our Prayer List, please call Teresa Van Buren at
581-4266 (x105).
Let us remember in our prayer:
James Misner, Nick Cerbone, Michael Skelly, Adam Ferrone,
Colin Dornemann, Anthony Adam Wilson,
John Gregory Finn, Robert Necci, Jr., Michael Paradiso,
Corporal Joseph Hart, Logan Phillips, Private Donald Scott,
Andrew Citarella, Jr., Paul Minihan, Colleen Stephens-Minihan,
Ray Callahan, Sgt. Timothy Chaplin, Ian Lynch,
Lance Corporal Marine Matthew Gervais, Keith & Teague Liming,
Christopher Hill, Ray Sigman, Evan Kennedy,
Michael Pare, Charles Flood III, PFC Eric Mitchell, Tom Paul,
Anthony R.Corrado, Jr., Corporal Joseph Young,
George Byrnes, PFC Christopher Mazza, Rob Raguso,
Patrick Donohue, Sgt. Rick Seitz USAF, John Yancigay,
Terrence Edward, Douglas Moskowitz, Mark Crawford,
Eric Schurman, Lance Corporal Kurt Benjamin USMC,
Lance Corporal Matthew Paterno, and PFC Kevin Uffmann USMC.
Welcome a “Home Town Hero” . . . visit www.flylima.org. and then click on Our Veterans for more information.
RESPECT LIFE
RETROUVAILLE ~ A Life Line for Married Couples. Retrouvaille is a peer ministry. Couples who have had problems in their own marriages and have recovered from those problems, share their experiences with couples in troubled marriages with the hope that they too will see that their marriage can be saved. Thousands of couples all over the globe have found hope, help and healing by participating in the Retrouvaille program. A Retrouvaille weekend is a deeply personal and private experience shared between a husband and wife that can help a couple to reconnect and go on to lead a happy and fulfilling life together. YOU CAN SAVE YOUR MARRIAGE NOW! For more information about the upcoming Retrouvaille weekend that begins on Friday, February 3rd, 2012 at the Montfort Retreat House in Bay Shore, please call 1-800-470-2230 and you will be connected (confidentially) to an experienced couple from Long Island/Metro Retrouvaille who can help.
Ministry & Development
Thank you for sharing your Treasure
Last Week’s Offering $21,287
A Will is your final statement of your Christian stewardship. When planning your bequests and memorials, prayerfully consider including our parish community of St. Mary’s.
DID YOU KNOW?
We are now on Facebook.
Once you are signed in,
search for us as “Church of St. Mary.” Hope to see
you there.
“The color of Springtime is in the flowers;
The color of Winter is in the imagination.”
~ Terri Guillemets
DEVOTIONAL
WALL CANDLES ~ Located in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel in the Church
Weekly Wall Candle Devotions for any occasion ~ to honor someone’s Birthday, Special Anniversary, Sacrament Celebration, Memorial, etc. Name of Honoree will appear in the bulletin and underneath the candle. Minimum of 2 weeks prior to the desired week must be given to meet the bulletin printing deadline. Please see the Rectory Receptionist during office hours to arrange. Offering is $25 per week.
BREAD
& WINE OFFERING ~ One Offering for each Sunday Mass
Dedicate a Bread & Wine Offering for a loved one to celebrate any occasion. Honoree’s name will appear in the bulletin. Minimum of 2 weeks prior to the desired Sunday must be given to meet bulletin printing deadline. Please see the Rectory Receptionist during office hours to arrange. Offering is $25 per Mass.
REMEMBER OUR PARISH
Please consider continuing your lifelong stewardship by leaving a bequest to St. Mary’s. A gift to us in your will or trust affirms your everlasting commitment to the Parish’s life and works. You can instruct your attorney to use this wording:
I hereby give, devise and bequeath to St. Mary’s Church, with offices at 20 Harrison Avenue, East Islip, NY, the sum of $_____ to be used for its most urgent needs.
As an alternative, you can make a gift of what remains in your estate or living trust after all other bequests and expenses have been paid:
I hereby give, devise and bequeath to St. Mary’s Church, with offices at 20 Harrison Avenue, East Islip, NY, all the rest, residue and remainder of my estate (trust) to be used for its most urgent needs.
For more information about remembering the Parish in your will or living trust, or to request a brochure, please contact Barbara Kilarijian, Director of Marketing and Development at the Diocese of Rockville Centre at 516-379-5210, x229.
St. Mary’s Automated Sacrificial Giving
St. Mary’s is pleased to offer Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) as a convenient way for you to deliver your regular sacrificial gift to our parish. Here’s why you may want to consider this option:
Convenience ~ Your gift is automatically received once a month.
Consistency and Planning ~ Even when you are away, your gift provides consistent support of our parish and ministries. Your participation enhances our budget planning.
Confidentiality and Security ~ EFT utilizes the Automated Clearing House (ACH), the same network used for Direct Deposit and Electronic Bill Payment. In addition, paperless transfer prevents possibility of loss or theft.
Community ~ We will continue to send you envelopes. If you choose, mark your weekly envelope with the letters “EFT” and place it in the collection basket. This will allow you to participate in the offertory, and will assure us that your gift is not missing from the envelope. Also included in this mailing are specialty envelopes not part of this program.
If you are interested in this option, please complete and submit the form below. For further information, contact the Office of Ministry & Development at 581-4266, x125.
AUTOMATED GIVING AUTHORIZATION FORM
I, ____________________________________, authorize St. Mary’s R.C. Church, East Islip, New York, to initiate monthly withdrawals from my (choose one): ( ) Checking, ( ) Statement Savings, or ( ) Money Market account.
To convert a weekly gift to a monthly one, multiply dollar amount by 4 ⅓.
My monthly sacrificial gift is $____________. I would like my gift to be deducted from my account on the (choose one):
( ) 1st of each month, or ( ) 15th of each month.
Note: Your gift will be clearly listed on your monthly bank statement.
This authorization will remain in effect until St. Mary’s
______________________________ _______________________ Date:__________
Authorized signature for account Printed Name
______________________________ __________________________ Date:__________
Joint signature for account Printed Name
Please retain a copy of this completed form for your records. Attach a voided check to the original document and return it to:
St. Mary’s Office of Ministry & Development – EFT, 20 Harrison Avenue, East Islip, NY 11730-2391
Attention all Parishioners of St. Mary & St. Mary School Families!
Effective immediately, St. Mary’s has a new phone system. Please note the new separate telephone numbers:
St. Mary’s Parish: 631-581-4266
St. Mary School: 631-581-3423
Parish Social Ministry: 631-581-7070
Family Faith Enrichment: 631-581-3304
(Please note that the FFE Office also includes the following ministries:
FFE (x122), Baptism (x120), Family Life & Youth (x124).
MOVING TO or FROM ST. MARY’S PARISH? Please assist us in keeping our records up-to-date by completing this form and returning it either in the collection basket or to the Rectory. Thank you!
___*New to St. Mary’s ~ Welcome! ___Change of Address ___Moving out of parish ___Phone
(*Please contact the Rectory to register at 581-4266 x105)
Name: ___________________________
Address: _________________________
Phone: __________________________
