BULLETIN - 4/10/11

FR. JOE’S JOTTINGS….

   The word reparation is defined as making amends for harm or injustice caused to others, and in a religious sense it means trying to undo the harmful effects of our sins—something that becomes possible when our efforts are rooted in, and united to, the one perfect sacrifice of Jesus Himself on the Cross.  (Our Lenten acts of penance can, of course, be a valuable form of reparation.)

   All sin undermines God’s created order, and this means humanity’s evil deeds end up harming not only the individual sinners, but also society as a whole (including many innocent persons).  However, our prayers and acts of penance have spiritual value not only in making reparation for our own sins, but also for the sins of others—and of society itself.

  Years ago all Catholics were taught to “offer up” their sufferings and inconveniences for the souls in purgatory, for the conversion of sinners, and for other intentions.  Sadly, most persons no longer do this (in effect “wasting” their trials and burdens, instead of letting them become a valuable spiritual resource).  That’s why special “Masses of Reparation” and similar efforts are now more important than ever; many alleged private revelations and messages from Heaven suggest that sacrifices of this sort are desperately needed to counteract the rising tide of sin in our world (and this is easy to believe when looking at the abortion mentality prevalent in our culture of death).

   We will be having a special Mass of Reparation this Tuesday, April 12, at 7pm; it will be a way of asking forgiveness for the sins of our nation, praying for the conversion of sinners, and beseeching God’s blessing upon our country.  If you’ve fallen short on your Lenten resolutions, or haven’t had a chance to do anything “extra” for Lent, attending this Mass might be a good way of showing God your true sorrow for your sins and of uniting your sufferings to those of the Crucified Lord.  The sacred days of Holy Week are almost upon us—and taking part in this Mass can be a spiritually valuable way of preparing for them.

* * * * *

   This article on the new Roman Missal (which will be introduced in November) is provided by the Archdiocese of Detroit.

What Do We Do At Mass?

   “Every Sunday we, the ‘body of Christ,’ gather at the celebration of the Eucharist to become ever more ‘The Body of Christ.’  This is an awesome truth.  All the actions, words, hymns, postures, sights, sounds, and even moments of silence at the celebration have as their ultimate goals the glorification of God and our own transformation.

   “One of the most important things we are called to do at the celebration of the Eucharist is to open ourselves to the working of the Holy Spirit who effects our transformation.  As we pray the words of the Mass with the priest and community, as we sing the words of the hymns, as we hear and reflect on the words of the scriptures, as we stand and sit and kneel one with everyone in this community gathered, the Holy Spirit is at work in us.  As we proclaim our faith, as we remember what Christ has done for us, as we adore the Blessed Sacrament, as we turn to one another and extend the sign that we want to be at peace with everyone in  our lives, as we pray that the Father forgives us as we forgive others, the Holy Spirit is drawing us into a deeper and deeper realization of what it means when Christ commands us to be holy even as the heavenly Father is holy.

   “Years ago Kathleen Hughes wrote the story of Godfrey Diekman, a Benedictine monk who spent his lifetime helping others come to an understanding and appreciation of the Mass.  One of his memorable sayings was: ‘What good is it if the bread (and wine) are changed and we are not?’  This short sentence is one that holds the key to what we do at the Mass. We surrender ourselves to the power of the Holy Spirit Who little by little changes us.”

* * * * *

   A presentation on annulments will be held at Immaculate Conception Parish in Ira Township (corner of Church Road & M-29) on Thursday April 28 at 7pm.  The talk, which will be given by a member of the Metropolitan Tribunal of the Archdiocese of Detroit, is free and open to all.  To RSVP, call (586) 725-3051, ext. 114.

* * * * *

   An optimist and a pessimist together opened a small store—and their business was a big success right from the start.  “Our first month has been wonderful!” the optimist exclaimed; “customers have been coming into our store non-stop.”  “Yes,” replied his gloomy partner, “but look at those front doors.  At the rate people are coming through them, the hinges will be worn out in another week.”

* * * * *

Thought for the Day:

   The mere renunciation of sins is not sufficient for the salvation of penitents, but fruits worthy of repentance are also required of them.

                                             -- St. Basil the Great

PRAY FOR PRIESTS PROGRAM

April 9^th/April 10^th ~ ROGER INGLES FAMILY

April 16^th/April 17^rth ~ PAUL & SHIRLEY MCKILLOP

~STONE SOUP SUNDAY~

The Food Depot was very grateful for the 244 pounds of food donated in March!  225 food items, five dozen bags, and 8 toiletries were received.  Our next Stone Soup Sunday food drive is April 16-17.  The Food Depot is asking for small jars of baby food, canned fruit, and juice.  We ask each family to donate just one food item, plus any small toiletries and large paper grocery bags you may have.  May God bless you for your generosity!

            “Make us worthy, Lord, to serve those people throughout the world who live and die in poverty and hunger. Give them through our hands, this day, their daily bread, and by our understanding love, give them peace and joy.”                                                                                                                Mother Teresa

MONDAY APRIL 11^th

     8:00 A.M.        INTENTIONS OF DONOR

TUESDAY APRIL 12^th

     8:00 A.M.        PROTECTION OF A LIFE FROM CONCEPTION TO NATURAL DEATH

WEDNESDAY APRIL 13^th

      8:00 A.M.       IN THANKSGIVING   Requested by Charles & Sandra Verga

THURSDAY APRIL 14^th

     7:00 P.M.        THANKSGIVING FOR FAVORS RECEIVED

FRIDAY APRIL 15^th  

     8:00 A.M.        RICHARD KEZAL (RIP)

                               Requested by St. Edward’s School Students & Staff

SATURDAY APRIL 16^th

8:00 A.M.        RICHARD SERVENTI (RIP)

                          JOHN & ZELMA VIVIANO (RIP)

                          SAM & BETTY CUSMANO (RIP)

5:00 P.M.        BARBARA RUMLEY (RIP)   Requested by Rumley family

SUNDAY APRIL 17^th

        9:30 A.M.      VIRGINIA WRIGHT (RIP)   Requested by Family

     11:30 A.M.      SPECIAL BIRTHDAY INTENTIONS FOR JENNI KOROLIK

                                Requested by Sharon Colwell

FINANCIAL STATEMENT

SUNDAY (4/3) COLLECTION (PLUS FAITH DIRECT COLLECTIONS)….……………..……………………$9,725.00

CHILDREN….……………..……………………………..$58.00

DEVOTION CANDLES...………………………………..$55.00

FUEL………………………………………………….....$279.00

EASTER FLOWERS………………………………….$1,020.00

**YTD AVERAGE INCLUDING CONTRIBUTIONS THROUGH FAITH DIRECT………………………....$8,455.00

BUDGETED AMOUNT NEEDED FOR EACH SUNDAY COLLECTION IS:….....................................................$8,850.00

CURRENT FISCAL YEAR SHORTFALL……...…$-12,451.00

SPONSOR OF THE WEEK

Gary Fletcher

*SPIRITUAL ADOPTION PROGRAM*

WEEK 3

            During this past week your adopted baby has done a lot of growing. The heart is forming and eyes are developing. The foundations of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system are forming.

 Prayer of Bishop Fulton J. Sheen

Jesus, Mary and Joseph

I love you very much

I beg you to spare the life

Of the unborn child that I

Have spiritually adopted who

Is in danger of abortion.

To participate in the program, please sign the statement below and return it either to the collection basket or to the small cradle by the St Joseph statue at the front of the church.  Thank you!

---------------------------------------------------------------

I, _____________________, PROMISE TO SPIRITUALLY ADOPT AN UNBORN BABY IN DANGER OF ABORTION BY PRAYING DAILY FOR THE LIFE OF THAT CHILD.

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BULLETIN - 4/3/11

FR. JOE’S JOTTINGS….

   This reflection on health is taken from the Christophers’ book Three Minutes A Day (Vol. 42, entry for October 27):

   “Did you ever think that positive emotions, such as feeling hopeful about the future, being happy and enjoying life could improve your health?

   “In a seven year study of 1,558 older Mexican-Americans living in five Southwestern states, researchers at the University of Texas Medical Center in Galveston found that ‘those who scored high in positive emotions were significantly less likely to become frail than those who did not.  In fact, as the participants’ positive emotions score increased, their risk of frailty decreased.’

   “Researchers think that ‘positive emotions may directly affect health via chemical and neural responses . . . (and) by increasing intellectual, physical, psychological, and social resources.’

   “Cultivate hopefulness and happiness.  Do all in your power to enjoy life—however you define ‘enjoy.’  Life and good health are God-given gifts.”

   There is nothing better for (mortals) than to be happy and enjoy themselves as long as they live (Ecclesiastes 3:12).

* * * * *

   Today a special Healing Mass is being held at 2pm, in which a silent laying-on of hands and/or the Sacrament of Anointing will be available for anyone seeking physical, spiritual, or emotional healing.  (Attendance at this Mass counts for the Sunday Mass obligation.)

   Anointing is meant for any Catholic in poor health, whether of a physical, spiritual, or emotional nature, along with persons having impaired health due to old age or a chronic illness, and also anyone facing major surgery.  Immediately after today’s 2pm Mass, the Chaplet of Divine Mercy will be prayed, with the Blessed Sacrament exposed on the altar; then the anointing, and/or silent laying-on of hands, will be offered.

   Our Heavenly Father is always happy to protect, heal, and bless His children; all He asks is that we forgive others in His Name, surrender our lives into His hands, and trust in His gracious love.

* * * * *

   The Holy Father’s prayer intention for April is “That through its compelling preaching of the Gospel, the Church may give young people new reasons for life and hope.”

* * * * *

   A communal penance service with individual absolution will be held at St. Patrick Church in Croswell this Tuesday, April 5, at 7pm.

   Also, one of our Blue Water Vicariate communal penance services will be held at St. Mary Parish in Port Huron this Wednesday, April 6, at 7pm.  (The last of these Lenten communal penance services will be held next week, at 7pm on Wednesday April 13, at St. Mary Queen of Creation Parish in New Baltimore.)

* * * * *

   For your advance planning:  One month from now, there will be a worldwide effort to say at least 1 million Rosaries for unborn babies.  This effort will take place on Mother’s Day weekend (May 6 – 8), with participants from the United States, Italy, Argentina, Canada, South Africa, Australia, France, and elsewhere, all praying at least one Rosary for an end to the surgical and non-surgical killing of unborn human persons.

   Last year’s prayer campaign involved persons from over forty different countries, but fell short of the goal of 1 million Rosaries.  A count of the number of Rosaries registered for this year’s prayer event is being kept on the homepage of the website www.SaintMichaelTheArchangel Organization.org. 

   If you can participate, please go to the website to register, or indicate your willingness to take part by writing to:  Saint Michael the Archangel Organization, at P.O. Box 41257, Memphis, TN  38174.

* * * * *

You may bring your old palms (from Palm Sunday last year) to church next weekend (for proper disposal by burning).

* * * * *

   A frantic young man hurried down the ferry dock, leaped across a strip of water, and landed with a thud on the deck of the boat.  After catching his breath, he pulled himself up and gasped to the deck hand, “Thank goodness I made it.”  “What’s your hurry?” the crewman asked.  “This boat’s coming in.”

* * * * *

Thought for the Day:

   Penance is the purifier of the soul.

                                    -- St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

PRAY FOR PRIESTS PROGRAM

April 2^nd/April 3^rd ~ PAUL & SHIRLEY MCKILLOP

April 9^th/April 10^th ~ ROGER INGLES FAMILY

Spring Semester Classes at

Sacred Heart Major Seminary

Would you like to grow in your relationship with Jesus Christ and learn more about Catholic teaching? Or perhaps you would like to learn the Bible, understand how Sacred Scripture truly supports Catholic doctrine, and how to deepen your prayer life using the Word of God?

Consider taking a course this coming spring semester at Sacred Heart Major Seminary! Geared toward your busy schedule, courses are held from May 9 through June 24 twice per week during late afternoon and early evening hours. Spring is a great time to complete a class in seven short weeks, but hurry--new student application ends April 15! Apply online at www.shms.edu or call (313) 883-8520.

MONDAY APRIL 4^th

     8:00 A.M.        DOMINICK ORLANDO (RIP)

TUESDAY APRIL 5^th

     8:00 A.M.        BARB BARTLEY (RIP)   Requested by Jim & Barb MacLeren

WEDNESDAY APRIL 6^th

      8:00 A.M.       SPECIAL INTENTIONS FOR MARILYN ORLANDO & ROSEMARY CORACI

THURSDAY APRIL 7^th

     7:00 P.M.        SPECIAL INTENTIONS FOR MARY LYNN FLETCHER

                               Requested by Ingles family

FRIDAY APRIL 8^th  

     8:00 A.M.        RICHARD KEZAL (RIP)   Requested by St. Edward’s Choir

SATURDAY APRIL 9^th

8:00 A.M.        LULU WOLVIN (RIP)

                          SAM & BESSIE PORTA (RIP)

                          VITO & GRACE VIVIANO (RIP)

                          DOMINICK & NINA ORLANDO (RIP)

5:00 P.M.        SPECIAL INTENTIONS FOR BETTY LOANE

                          Requested by Ingles family

SUNDAY APRIL 10^th

        9:30 A.M.      BOBBIE PIOTROWSKI (RIP)   Requested by Frank Piotrowski

     11:30 A.M.      ROBERT STEWARD (RIP)   Requested by Wife Karen

FINANCIAL STATEMENT

SUNDAY (3/27) COLLECTION (PLUS FAITH DIRECT COLLECTIONS)….……………..……………………$6,562.00

CHILDREN….……………..……………………………..$26.00

DEVOTION CANDLES...………………………………..$55.00

FUEL………………………………………………….......$62.00

EASTER FLOWERS……………………………………..$45.00

**YTD AVERAGE INCLUDING CONTRIBUTIONS THROUGH FAITH DIRECT………………………....$8,422.00

BUDGETED AMOUNT NEEDED FOR EACH SUNDAY COLLECTION IS:….....................................................$8,850.00

CURRENT FISCAL YEAR SHORTFALL…………$-12451.00

SPONSOR OF THE WEEK

Jeffrey Easton

*SPIRITUAL ADOPTION PROGRAM*

WEEK 2

                During this past week your adopted baby has grown more securely planted into the wall of the uterus.  The baby’s presence is causing hormones to be produced that suppress the monthly menstrual cycle.

 Prayer of Bishop Fulton J. Sheen:

Jesus, Mary and Joseph

I love you very much

I beg you to spare the life

Of the unborn child that I

Have spiritually adopted who

Is in danger of abortion

It is not too late to participate in the spiritual adoption program; just sign the statement below and return it either to the collection basket or to the small cradle by the St Joseph statue at the front of the church.  Begin praying today.  Thank you!

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I, ___________________________, PROMISE TO SPIRITUALLY ADOPT AN UNBORN BABY IN DANGER OF ABORTION BY PRAYING DAILY FOR THE LIFE OF THAT CHILD.

BULLETIN - 3/27/11

Father Joe’s Jottings…

   There will be a Healing Mass here at St. Edward’s next Sunday, April 3, at 2pm.  This Mass (which, of course, fulfills the Sunday obligation) will conclude with Eucharistic Exposition and the praying of the Divine Mercy Chaplet, while everyone in attendance will be welcome to come forward for the Sacrament of Anointing and/or a laying on of hands.

   Anointing is intended for anyone in poor health, whether of a physical, spiritual, or emotional nature, along with persons having impaired health due to old age, and anyone facing major surgery.  Many healings have been known to occur as a result of Masses of this kind, and I have no doubt the same will be true next week.  All Catholics—whether parishioners of St. Edward’s or another parish—are welcome to attend.

   The Lord is always happy to bless (and many times heal) those who place their trust in Him.

* * * * *

   One of the most important ways Jesus offers us spiritual healing is through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.  In addition to the confessions being heard at the regular times this week (Thursday evening from 6:30 – 6:50, and Saturday afternoon from 4:15 – 4:45), I will also be in the reconciliation room (the confessional) during the Lenten conference being offered here this coming Saturday morning.

   Furthermore, the first of our three Blue Water Vicariate Lenten communal penance services will be held next Saturday afternoon (April 2):  1pm at Holy Cross Church in Marine City.  (The other two will be on Wednesday April 6 at St. Mary’s in Port Huron, and Wednesday April 13 at St. Mary Queen of Creation in New Baltimore.)

   Rather than each parish holding its own communal penance service, as in the past, our vicariate is now combining services in three central locations, with all the area priests making themselves available to assist.  However, individual confessions are still available at scheduled times in the parish (with extra opportunities during the first few days of Holy Week).

   If it’s been more than a few months since your last confession, or if your spiritual life would benefit from the Sacrament (and whose wouldn’t?), please don’t waste these chances to experience the mercy of your Savior.

* * * * *

   The following item appeared in last week’s issue of “The Luminary” (the bulletin of St. Mary Queen of Creation Parish in New Baltimore), and deserves to be repeated here:

American Spending Priorities

   “Many consider Americans to live in the most profligate consumer society in the world.  Consider how the average American spends his or her discretionary income.  According to studies completed within the last ten years, Americans spend their discretionary income in some of the following ways:

-- $44 billion a year on soft drinks

-- $35 billion a year on sports activities

-- $29 billion a year on diets

-- $19.5 billion a year on state lottery tickets

-- $12 billion a year on candy

-- $8 billion a year on pets

-- $5.5 billion a year on pinball machines and video games

-- $3.5 billion a year on cut flowers

-- $2.2 billion for church activities

-- $1.5 billion on fingernails

   “This list is a reflection of our culture’s priorities.  It is a culture in which we must educate Catholics about what it means to be a Christian steward.  The challenge is practicing stewardship in a culture that is not receptive to it.  Our culture defines the above list of spending as normal.  The question that challenges us is:  Does the above list suggest something about our own patterns of spending?  Is our own consumer behavior consistent with the Gospel message?”

* * * * *

   First Friday Communion Calls will take place this week.  If you know of a homebound parishioner wishing to receive Holy Communion, please call the parish office.

* * * * *

   A pastor in a rural town was having trouble with small Sunday collections, so one weekend he announced from the pulpit, “Before we pass the collection plate, I would like to request that the person who stole the chickens from Harvey Lindemann’s henhouse please refrain from giving any money to the Lord.  The Lord doesn’t want money from a thief.”  Then the collection plate was passed around—and for the first time in many months, everyone gave.

* * * * *

Thought for the Day:

   Between the spirit and the flesh there is a continual combat.  Now, if you wish the spirit to win, you must assist it by prayer and resist the flesh by such means as fasting (for by fasting the flesh is weakened).

                                          -- St. Thomas Aquinas

PRAY FOR PRIESTS PROGRAM

March 26^th/March 27^th ~ MICHAEL & JULIE REXFORD FAMILY

April 2^nd/April 3^rd ~ PAUL & SHIRLEY MCKILLOP

 To our St. Edward’s Parish family from Mitch & Julie Maze: Thank you for all the prayers and financial support through out the years for Marcus. Although his progress is very slow, we thank God that he is no longer declining and may soon graduate from Hospice.

He may have two syndromes that you can find on Wikipedia.com: West Syndrome & Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome. However, the underlying cause is still unknown.

Ladies Auxiliary would like to thank everyone who helped clean the church on March 15^th.  To quote one parishioner "even if any spots were missed, the church sure was cleaned with a lot of love".  It looks great, thanks so much!

MONDAY MARCH 28^th

     8:00 A.M.        BARB BARTLEY (RIP)  Requested by Shaun Editz

TUESDAY MARCH 29^th

     8:00 A.M.        HELEN TILLOTSON (RIP)   Requested by Harry Tillotson

WEDNESDAY MARCH 30^th

      8:00 A.M.       BARBARA RUMLEY (RIP)   Requested by the Rumley Family

THURSDAY MARCH 31^st

     7:00 P.M.        MARGARET O’BRIEN (RIP)   Requested by Husband Dennis

FRIDAY APRIL 1^st  

     8:00 A.M.        ELIZABETH MAE GIBBONS (RIP)   Requested by Debbie Gibbons

SATURDAY APRIL 2^nd

8:00 A.M.        PAULINA BOHM (RIP)

                          CHRISTOPHER CHOPP (RIP)

                          JAMES CANGEMIE (RIP)

                          BERTHA RICKERT (RIP)

5:00 P.M.        GRACE STROER (RIP)   Requested by Husband Bill

SUNDAY APRIL 3^rd

        9:30 A.M.      JOHN MCGRAW (RIP)   Requested by Barbara & John McGraw

     11:30 A.M.      RAYMOND & VIRGINIA COMMENT & DAUGHTER (RIP)

                                Requested by Jane Wheelock

FINANCIAL STATEMENT

SUNDAY (3/20) COLLECTION (PLUS FAITH DIRECT COLLECTIONS)….……………$6,927.00

CHILDREN….……………..……………………………..$14.00

DEVOTION CANDLES...………………………………..$55.00

FUEL………………………………………………….....$105.00

**YTD AVERAGE INCLUDING CONTRIBUTIONS THROUGH FAITH DIRECT……....$8,513.00

BUDGETED AMOUNT NEEDED FOR EACH SUNDAY COLLECTION IS:…..................$8,850.00

CURRENT FISCAL YEAR SHORTFALL…………$-12451.00

SPONSOR OF THE WEEK

Columbus Elevator

*SPIRITUAL ADOPTION PROGRAM*

WEEK 1

      We would like to encourage everyone in the parish to join the “SPIRITUAL ADOPTION PROGRAM.”  Our most powerful weapon is prayer!

      As part of the spiritual adoption program we would like to make everyone aware of the wonders of God’s creation.  We chose the Annunciation, March 25, for our baby to be conceived.  Using this bulletin, we will give you weekly and monthly updates on the baby’s development until he is ready to be born 9 months later, on Christmas, December 25.

      At the moment of conception, 46 chromosomes with 30,000 genes combined to form a unique and special person. At that moment, all the physical characteristics are decided, all that makes a person unique. Three or four days after conception the baby journeys down the fallopian tube and enters the uterus. Barring unforeseen difficulties, this child will continue to grow at a rapid rate.

To participate, please sign the statement below and return it either to the collection basket or to the small cradle by the St Joseph statue at the front of the church.  Thank you!

---------------------------------------------------------------

I, _____________________, PROMISE TO SPIRITUALLY ADOPT AN UNBORN BABY IN  DANGER OF ABORTION BY PRAYING DAILY FOR THE LIFE OF THAT CHILD.

BULLETIN - 3/20/11

Fr. Joe’s Jottings…

   We welcome Archbishop Allen Vigneron to St. Edward Parish this Wednesday, March 23, as he comes to administer the Sacrament of Confirmation to this year’s Confirmation class.  It’s always a special honor and occasion when the Archbishop himself is able to join us for this important event (and this is the first time this has occurred since I’ve been here at St. Edward’s).

   We also offer our sincere congratulations and heartfelt prayers to those receiving this Sacrament.  Dear Confirmandi, not only is our parish proud of you; we also have high expectations of you:  as you enter into an adult level of membership in the Church, we look forward to seeing you become active in various ministries (as lectors, Eucharistic ministers, choir members, etc.), and, more importantly, we call upon you to be living signs of the Gospel to your peers.  The gifts you’ve received from the Holy Spirit are meant to make a difference—not only in your lives, but in the world around you.  Your families, sponsors, and fellow parishioners pray that, through your commitment to your faith, you will witness and experience many miracles of grace.

* * * * *

   There was once a Saxon king early in English history who had to leave his capital city to put down a rebellion in a distant part of the kingdom.  After he had overcome the rebels, he set a candle in the doorway of the castle where he had temporarily established his headquarters, and had it announced that all who had rebelled against his rule were welcome to come and receive pardon from him by taking an oath of loyalty—but this offer would last only as long as the candle was burning.  Following that, mercy would no longer be available.

   This historical incident parallels the far greater reality involving our eternal destiny.  God offers His mercy on a lavish, overwhelming scale—but the opportunity to receive His pardon for our sins is not unlimited: it lasts only during our lifetimes—and none of us can know with certainty the hour of our death.  We must never become complacent; as St. Augustine noted in reference to the Good Thief, there is an example in Scripture of a deathbed conversion, so that we might not despair—but there is only one example, so that we might not presume.

   For many people throughout the world, this Lent will be the last one of their lives—and none of us can guarantee this won’t also be true for us.  Instead of taking life, and the chance to repent, for granted, we must make good of this present opportunity to turn from our sins and strive for holiness; as St. Paul tells us, “Now is a very acceptable time; now is the day of salvation” (2 Cor. 6:2).  Our parish’s Lenten theme is “Called to Grow in Faith and Love.”  Blessed are we if we accept this challenge.

* * * * *

   As part of the Church’s ongoing preparation for the introduction of the new Roman Missal this Advent, the following Q and A article is offered by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops:

 “Q.  Will everyone have to use the new translation of the Roman Missal?

A.      Yes.  The “typical edition” of the Roman Missal that Pope John Paul II gave to the Church is the only official text for the prayers to be used at the celebration of the Eucharist. 

Some Bishops’ Conferences around the world have already completed their process of translation and are presently using this official text.  Because there are so many countries with varying cultures, yet speak the English language, the process of translating the official text into English has taken longer.  When the translation that has been approved by the English speaking countries is finally approved by Rome and printed, it will be the only translation of the Roman Missal to be used for the ordinary celebration of the Eucharist.” 

   Note:  The new Missal has nothing to do with the translation of the Bible passages read at Mass (taken from the book called the Lectionary), nor does it have anything to do with the Extraordinary Rite of the Mass (the Tridentine, or Latin, Mass), which is celebrated here at St. Edward’s on the first Saturday of each month.

* * * * *

   Marvin wasn’t doing a very good job practicing his faith, and as he was leaving Mass on one of the rare occasions he accompanied his wife Sue to church, their pastor remarked that it would be nice to see him more often.  “Thank you, Father,” Marvin said; “we’re very busy with our work and our family responsibilities, but at least we keep the Ten Commandments.”  “Well, I’m glad to hear that much at least,” the priest responded, and Marvin continued, “Yes, Sue keeps six of them, and I keep the other four.”

* * * * *

 Thought for the Day:

   Let us love the one who offends us, since this great God has not ceased to love us, even though we have offended Him very much.  Thus the Lord is right in wanting all to pardon the wrongs done to them.

                                             -- St. Teresa of Avila

PRAY FOR PRIESTS PROGRAM

March 19^th/March 20^th ~ TRACY & PAUL PEACOCK & FAMILY

March 26^th/March 27^th ~ MICHAEL & JULIE REXFORD FAMILY

  “Mother Teresa” starring Olivia Husey will be shown on the ‘big screen’ on April 2^nd in the Fr. Hogan Center following the 5pm Mass. This action packed and worthwhile film is something you won’t want to miss! Light refreshments & childcare will be available.

The Sunday Tridentine (Latin) Mass at Sacred Heart in Yale has a new time: 2pm.

MONDAY MARCH 21^st

     8:00 A.M.        BARB BARTLEY (RIP)   Requested by Shaun Editz

TUESDAY MARCH 22^nd

     8:00 A.M.        RICHARD KEZAL (RIP)   Requested by St. Edward’s Choir

WEDNESDAY MARCH 23^rd

      8:00 A.M.       SPECIAL INTENTIONS FOR LAURA SOMOGY

                               Requested by Husband Ray

THURSDAY MARCH 24^th

     7:00 P.M.        SPECIAL INTENTIONS FOR NICHOLAS SERAFIN

                               Requested by Martha & Louis Serafin

FRIDAY MARCH 25^th  

     8:00 A.M.        SPECIAL INTENTIONS FOR THE GIBBONS FAMILY

SATURDAY MARCH 26^th

8:00 A.M.        FRANK ORLANDO (RIP)

                          MARY JO TYE (RIP)

                          FR. PAUL HIGDON (RIP)

                          PAUL DERING (RIP)

                          THERESA CHOPP (RIP)

                          ART SIEROTA (RIP)

5:00 P.M.        JODY BLACK (RIP)   Requested by the Ingles Family

SUNDAY MARCH 27^th

        9:30 A.M.      RICHARD KEZAL (RIP)   Requested by St. Edward’s Bible Study

     11:30 A.M.      ARTHUR RYLANDER (RIP)   Requested by  Family

FINANCIAL STATEMENT

SUNDAY (3/13) COLLECTION (PLUS FAITH DIRECT COLLECTIONS)….……………..……………$7,662.00

CHILDREN….……………..……………………………..$19.00

DEVOTION CANDLES...………………………………..$50.00

FUEL………………………………………………….......$91.00

**YTD AVERAGE INCLUDING CONTRIBUTIONS THROUGH FAITH DIRECT……………………....$8,513.00

BUDGETED AMOUNT NEEDED FOR EACH SUNDAY COLLECTION IS:…..........................................$8,850.00

CURRENT FISCAL YEAR SHORTFALL…………$-12451.00

St. Mary FRIDAY FISH FRY

Fridays through April 15, 4-7pm

NOTE: No fish fry on Good Friday!

Adults: $8.00, Seniors (60+): $7.00

Children: $3.50 (Ages 5-10 yrs)

To-go orders & children’s pizza available.

Call John Derrer at 385-2225.

FREE FIRST SATURDAY MORNING LENTEN MINI-RETREAT AT ST. EDWARD'S:  THE RELEVANCE OF FATIMA FOR TODAY

On April 2^nd, St. Edward's will hold a morning mini-retreat beginning with Tridentine (Latin) Mass at 8am celebrated by Fr. Matthew Hincks, ORC.  Following Mass, Fr. Hincks, who returns from Fatima, Portugal just before the retreat, will give a talk entitled, "The Relevance of Fatima for Today," while Fr. Joe, hears Confessions.  The event closes with a short period of adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction.  After Benediction Opus Sanctorum Angelorum materials will be available for purchase in the church, with free refreshments in the convent.  Call Chris or Irene 810-385-5981 for further information.

NOTICE FROM MT. HOPE CEMETERY

All winter decorations are to be removed from Mt. Hope Cemetery by April 1^st. Artificial flowers, wreaths, grave blankets, toys, structures of wood or other perishable materials are NOT permitted between April 1 thru November 15^th.

SPONSOR OF THE WEEK

The Catholic Directory.com

BULLETIN - 3/13/11

FR. JOE’S JOTTINGS….

   As we begin this holy season of sacrifice and spiritual growth, this alleged message from Our Lady of Medjugorje (given February 20, 1985), is very appropriate:

   “I give you advice:  I would like you to try to conquer some fault each day.  If your fault is to get angry at everything, try each day to get angry less.  If your fault is not to be able to study, try to study.  If your fault is not to be able to obey, or if you cannot stand those who do not please you, try on a given day to speak with them.  If your fault is not to be able to stand an arrogant person, you should try to approach that person.  If you desire that person to be humble, be humble yourselves.  Show that humility is worth more than pride. Thus, each day, try to go beyond, and to reject every vice from your heart.  Find out which are the vices that you most need to reject.  During this Lent, you should try and truly desire to spend it in love.  Strive as much as possible.”

   This heavenly advice is very timely; let us make good use of these coming weeks as an opportunity to become holier in God’s sight.

* * * * *

   In addition to working to overcome our personal sinfulness, we as Catholic Americans should be vitally concerned over the increasing immorality of our nation.  Rather than complacently saying “God bless America” (which, for many people, often seems more an expression of arrogant entitlement than humble supplication), we should be making reparation for our country’s sins.  I recently came across this “Reparation Prayer,” and it would be a good Lenten practice to pray it each day:

   Eternal Father, I offer You all the Wounds of Your dearly beloved Son, Jesus Christ, the Pains and Agonies of His Most Sacred Heart and His Most Precious Blood which gushed out from all His Wounds in reparation for my sins and those of the whole world.  Amen.  (say three times)

* * * * *

   In my column five weeks ago, I referred to an article by Times Herald religion columnist Joseph Hayes, in which he recommended, among other things, storing food and water.  He said, “This country has taken its abundance of many blessings, including food, for granted.  Yet in the Bible, when a nation forsook its covenant with God, He allowed famine.”  We must not assume we are exempt from this possibility (and even the federal government tells us we should have several months of essential supplies on hand in case of an emergency).

   Alleged visionary John Leary, who has spoken here at St. Edward’s on several occasions, has supposedly been told by Jesus that widespread crop failures around the world will result in grave shortages of food, and possible famines in many places—even here in the United States.  Therefore, Jesus allegedly warns, we should begin storing extra food now—even if it means buying just a little more than usual each week (obviously with a focus on canned goods and other long-lasting items).  However, we are not to worry or act out of a sense of fear.  Our Lord has supposedly promised to multiply what we have, if necessary—as long as we’re willing to share with those who seek our assistance.

    Is this dire prediction of famine a real possibility?  We have no way of knowing for sure, but prudence suggests we take it seriously (and there’s no harm in buying in advance food items we’ll eventually use anyway).

   Jesus reminds us in today’s Gospel that we do not live “by bread alone,” meaning that our spiritual preparations to serve God are always of primary importance.  Even as we’re trying to grow in grace this way, however, we’re called to take reasonable precautions for ourselves and those who depend on us, and so I offer this reflection for your prayerful discernment.

* * * * *

   Your generous support helps make possible our parish’s worship, educational ministry, and Christian service outreach to those in need, and I am grateful for your financial contributions.

   This season of Lent may be a good time to consider electronic giving, which offers security and convenience to you and a more predictable cash flow to the parish.  To enroll, or for more information, go to www.faithdirect.net and enter our parish code of MI293.

* * * * *

   A judge looked at the disheveled man standing before him in his courtroom and said, “Now, ‘Lieutenant’ Palmer, according to records subpoenaed from the police department, you are not and never have been a member of the police force.  Can you explain how you came to claim your title?”  “Well, sir,” said the man, “it’s kind of like that title ‘Honorable’ in front of your name—it doesn’t mean a thing.”

* * * * *

Thought for the Day:

   No one ought to consider himself a true servant of God who is not tried by many temptations and trials.  Temptations overcome are a sort of betrothal ring God gives the soul.

                                                -- St. Francis of Assisi

PRAY FOR PRIESTS PROGRAM

March 12^th/March 13^th ~ JOE & DEBBIE GIBBONS FAMILY

March 19^th/March 20^th ~ TRACY & PAUL PEACOCK & FAMILY

Lenten Church Cleaning will be Tuesday March 15^th from 4pm-6pm.  Cleaning materials will be supplied.  There are many jobs to do and we could really use your help!  Pizza will be provided for all volunteers by the Ladies Auxiliary.

The Sunday Tridentine (Latin) Mass at Sacred Heart in Yale has a new time: 2pm.

MONDAY MARCH 14^th

     8:00 A.M.        BARB BARTLEY (RIP)   Requested by Bill & Vicki Janski

TUESDAY MARCH 15^th

     8:00 A.M.        JEANNE FLECKENSTEIN (RIP)

                               Requested by Gerry & Paula McCarthy

WEDNESDAY MARCH 16^th

      8:00 A.M.       AN END TO ABORTIONS

THURSDAY MARCH 17^th

     7:00 P.M.        GERALD F. MCCARTHY (RIP)  

                               Requested by Gerald & Paula McCarthy

FRIDAY MARCH 18^th  

     8:00 A.M.        RICHARD WISNIEWSKI (RIP)   Requested by Debbie Gibbons

SATURDAY MARCH 19^th

8:00 A.M.        SPECIAL INTENTIONS FOR

                          SUSAN BRYANT & FAMILY

                          PAT & KEN MELCHER & FAMILY

                          ALICE REED & FAMILY

5:00 P.M.        DECEASED BISHOPS, PRIESTS, & DEACONS OF THE ARCHDIOCESE

SUNDAY MARCH 20^th

        9:30 A.M.      CECILIA CARSON (RIP)   Requested by the League of Catholic Women

     11:30 A.M.      RICHARD KEZAL (RIP)   Requested by Library Staff

FINANCIAL STATEMENT

SUNDAY (3/6) COLLECTION (PLUS FAITH DIRECT COLLECTIONS)….………………$6,318.50

CHILDREN….……………..……………………………..$26.00

DEVOTION CANDLES...………………………………..$50.00

FUEL………………………………………………….....$282.00

**YTD AVERAGE INCLUDING CONTRIBUTIONS THROUGH FAITH DIRECT………....$8,423.00

BUDGETED AMOUNT NEEDED FOR EACH SUNDAY COLLECTION IS:…......................$8,850.00

SPONSOR OF THE WEEK

Zimmer Roofing

The first 2011 Polish Dinner planning meeting will be this Monday (14^th) at 1:30pm in the school library!  We hope to see you there!

Calling All Princesses!

St. Edward School is excited to announce that we will be hosting the 2011 ‘Enchanted Princess Ball’ on Saturday, March 26^th & Sunday March 27^th, 2011!

Tickets for sale in the school office (810)385-4461or

online at www.enchantedprincessball.com.

For additional information and pictures, visit the website!

Knights of Columbus

ESSAY CONTEST

The K of C Essay Contest is open to all boys and girls graduating from McCormick Catholic Academy or in the 8^th grade and attending one of the participating Port Huron area Catholic churches.  Essays must reflect the theme and topic of The Responsibility of the Catholic Citizen in a Free Society.  Essays must be the student’s original work.  Essays must be between 500 and 750 words long, typed on 8 ½” X 11” paper, one side, double spaced, with one inch margins.  The student’s name should appear only on the official Knights of Columbus Essay Contest entry form which should be stapled to the essay.  All entries become the property of the K of C and will not be returned.  Essays must be received by May 6th.

For entry form please see the MCA School Principal or a K of C member. For additional information contact Mike Mayer, 810-385-8380.

St. Edward on-the-Lake School - 6995 Lakeshore Road - Lakeport, MI 48059 - 810.385.4461