The Daily Mass is also available Monday – Friday on the internet at www.worcesterdiocese.org .

Stewardship Note for Fourth Sunday of Lent 
“No longer was there manna for the Israelites, who that year ate of the yield of the land of Canaan.” (Joshua 5:12) Throughout the forty years that the Israelites journeyed through the desert, God provided them with manna to eat. As soon as they were able to enjoy the fruits of the Promised Land the manna ceased. Likewise, God’s blessings to us may change over the years but it is important to trust that God will always provide us with all that we need.

GIFT (Growing In Faith Together) Lecture Series 
The Mystical Animals of Ireland's Book of Kells. Dr. Kathleen Fisher, Associate Professor of Theology at Assumption College, will speak on the wondrous birds and beasts to be found in the pages of Ireland's greatest treasure, the medieval Book of Kells. The GIFT lectures are a project sponsored jointly by the Religious of the Assumption and St. Peter Church-St. Andrew Mission. Come join us for an early Saint Patrick's Day "safari," Celtic-style. Sunday, March 14 at 3:30. St. Peter's Church, Worcester. Free, off-street parking available. Refreshments will be served. For more information: ncotter@assumption.edu or Assumption Center at (508) 767-1356.

Chilean Relief with the Assumptionists
To learn how the Assumptionists are responding to the Chilean earthquake or to make a donation, visit www.assumption.us today.

Lenten Choral Meditation
On March 19 at 5:30 p.m.,The Assumption College Choir, under the direction of Lei “Ray” Yu, will sing the Lenten Choral Meditation and Stations of Cross at St. Mary’s Church, 263 Hamilton Street, Southbridge.All are welcome.

St. Patrick Family Dinner in Spencer
On Saturday, March 20, Mary Queen of the Rosary Parish will host a Family Dinner in honor of St. Patrick’s Day featuring Irish Step Dancers and Irish Music. Corned Beef and Ham with “all the fixings,” salad, coffee and desert. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 4 – 12; (under age 3 are free). Social Hour begins following the 4:30 Mass; dinner served at 7 pm. Join us for Mass and Dinner!

Lenten Mission in Leominster
You are invited to a multi-parish Lenten Mission in Leominster on March 21 – 24 at 7 pmeach evening. Speakers will reflect on the Year of the Priest Theme and it will take place as follows: Sunday: Adoration at St. Leo Church; Monday: Mass at St. Anna; Tuesday: Penance Service at St. Cecelia; Wednesday: Mass and Collation at Holy Family of Nazareth. For more information contact any of the parishes.

Chesterton Event at Holy Cross
On Thursday, March 25 at 7:30 p.m. in the Rehm Library (in Smith Hall), two scholars from Seton Hall University will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the historic visit of G.K. Chesterton to the College of the Holy Cross.   The great English writer, author of over 100 books and the world's most famous convert at that time, visited the College (and was made an 'Honorary Crusader') in December, 1930. The program, 'Chesterton in America,' presented by Father Ian Boyd, C.S.B., the editor of The Chesterton Review, and Professor Dermot Quinn, will be a delightfully warm presentation and 'conversation' relative to Chesterton's celebrated visit to the United States and captured eloquently in his book, 'What I Saw in America.' Co-sponsored by the G.K. Chesterton Society of Worcester and Holy Cross' Center for Religion, Ethics and Culture, this event is free and open-to-the-public. 

Poor Man’s Supper at St. Roch, Oxford
St Roch Family of Friends/Youth Ministry presents “Lazarus, A Poor Man's Supper” on Saturday, March 27 at 5 PM St. Roch Parish, 334 Main St., Oxford. $5 donation per person. Proceeds to benefit St. Vincent de Paul who feed the hungry and homeless in our community through the interfaith hospitality network. Contact St. Roch at 508-987-8987 or Terry Renaud at 508-987-2382 for advance tickets. Come join us!

Pancake Breakfast to Benefit Mercy Centre
The Friends of Mercy Centre, Inc. will host a Pancake Buffet Breakfast on Saturday, March 27 from 9AM-Noon at Mercy Centre, 25 West Chester St., Worcester. Suggested Donation: $6.00 adults $4.00 children (under 12 years of age). Free Easter Egg hunt with donation for breakfast. Egg Hunt starts at 10:30AM. Other activities include bake sale, raffle and the Easter Bunny will be our special guest (bring your camera). Please join us for breakfast and Easter Egg Hunt to benefit a great cause! Visit our website at www.friendsofmercycentre.org.   

Walk the Stations of the Cross on Palm Sunday in Worcester
On Palm Sunday, parishioners from Sacred Heart-St. Catherine of Sweden Parish will join parishioners from St. Matthew Episcopal Church to follow the Way of the Cross through the neighborhood. The procession will form at 1 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 600 Cambridge St. and proceed along a designated route, stopping 14 times to honor each Station of the Cross with readings and prayers. After the closing prayers all will gather at St. Matthew's Parish Hall for refreshments and fellowship. Everyone is welcome.

Census Jobs!
The Census Bureau in Worcester is still looking for qualified people to help with the 2010 Census. While the jobs are temporary, the pay is good at $18.50/hour. Applicants must take a basic skills test and complete an application process to be eligible. Information, application forms and a practice test are available online, at www.2010censusjobs.gov. To schedule a test call (508) 635-8130. Become part of the Census Team. Your work will help you and help our cities and state in the allocation of federal funds and in our representation in Congress.

Need tables
St. John the Baptist Parish in East Brookfield is in need of 6 or 8 foot tables in good condition, if any are available from reconfiguration. Please call the rectory at 508-867-3738.

The Daily Mass is also available Monday – Friday on the internet at www.worcesterdiocese.org .

Stewardship Note for Third Sunday of Lent 
“He said to the gardener, ‘For three years now I have come in search of fruit on this fig tree but have found none.’” (Luke 13:7) Are we like the barren fig tree? What does God find when He searches for the fruits which we have given back?

Young Adult Conference March 6
Registrations are due for the March 6 Young Adult Conference at Assumption College, sponsored by the Office for Youth Ministry. Registrations can be faxed to 508-234-0348 and checks sent in the mail. If you need another copy of the materials mailed to you from the Office of Youth Ministry, call them today at 508-234-0346 or email ymworcester@hotmail.com.

Annual Black Catholic Gospel Mass
St. Peter’s Church proudly hosts the Annual Black Catholic Gospel Mass on Sunday, March 7 at 5:15 pm with Bishop Daniel Reilly, principal celebrant and Boston’s Best: Black Catholic Gospel Choir. St. Peter Church is at 929 Main St., Worcester. Light refreshments will follow. Sponsored by St. Peter Black Catholic Ministry. Contact (508) 752-4674 for more information.

Assumption College Speaker on Religion and Peacebuilding 
The President's Lecture Series presents Maryann Cusimano Love, Ph.D., who will present a lecture, “Religion and Peacebuilding: Practicing Resurrection Politics,” on March 18 at 7 p.m. in Hagan Campus Center Hall (2nd floor) at Assumption College. Cusimano Love, an associate professor of international relations at Catholic University of America will discuss the role of religion and "peacebuilding" in world affairs. She writes a column for America magazine and is the author of the book Beyond Sovereignty: Issues for a Global Agenda (4th edition, 2010), and Morality Matters: Ethics and the War on Terrorism (forthcoming, Cornell University Press), and many children’s books. Contact 508.767.7322 or sbousquet@assumption.edu for more information or to reserve a seat. This event is free and open to the public.

Easter Passion Musical
"All I Have Done For You” is a Musical Production of the last days of Christ using narrative and music performed by teenagers from Lawrence, MA. It will be held at St. Anna Church, 199 Lancaster St., Leominster on Marc h 20 at 7 p.m. Free Admission. Excellent for all ages. . . Families, Youth Groups, and CCD Classes encouraged to attend.

Annual Mass for Life
The annual Mass for Life will be celebrated by Bishop McManus on the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord, Thursday, March 25 at 10:00 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Paul.   The annual pro-life awards, given to individuals who have shown heroic witness to the intrinsic value of each human life, will also be presented.   All the faithful are invited and welcome to attend and join in prayer with students from our Catholic Schools as we celebrate God’s gift of life.

Invitation from Boston College for enrichment and learning
Come to Boston College on Saturday, April 10 for “Living the Journey: Spirituality for the Second Half of Life.” • It is being held at Boston College Chestnut Hill Campus, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sponsors include Boston College Alumni Association, Boston College School of Theology and Ministry, the Church in the 21st Century Center, and the University Institute on Aging. For more information and directions visit: www.bc.edu/journey.

New York’s Late Nite Catechism Comes to Shrewsbury
On Saturday, May 15 at 8 pm, St. Mary Parish, Shrewsbury, will host “Late Nite Catechism” as a fundraiser for the St. Mary School Annual Fund Campaign. The show will be in the Church Hall at 16 Summer Street, Shrewsbury. General Seating tickets ae $30. Premium seating ($45) includes a wine and cheese reception at 7 pm with “Sister,” the show’s lead. For more information contact Sira Naras at 508-845-6341 or email naras@stmarysparish.org.  

Join with priests from around the country at the NFPC’s 42^nd Annual Priests’ Conference on April 12-15 in Houston, Texas. It is open to all Priests. The theme during this Year of the Priest, “The Call to Holiness and Wholeness,” will provide the opportunity for priests to reflect on their work and also on their personal and spiritual growth. For more information and to register, visit www.NFPC.org.

The Daily Mass is also available Monday – Friday on the internet at www.worcesterdiocese.org .

Stewardship Note for Second Sunday of Lent 
“I am the Lord who brought you from Ur of the Chaldeans to give you this land as a possession.” (Genesis 15:7) Just as the Lord gave Abraham, Moses and the Israelites a land to possess, He has also given each of us a home. Whether our home is grand or humble, it is a gift from God. Abraham prepared a great sacrifice to the Lord in gratitude for the home God gave him. How do we show our gratitude to God for the home He has given us? Do we make a sacrifice of any kind? Do we return any of our finances to God, investing equally in our eternal home just as we invest in our current abode?

Stations of the Cross in Worcester
Sacred Heart-St. Catherine of Sweden Parish invite all to Stations of the Cross and Benediction on Fridays at 7 pm during Lent, at 600 Cambridge Street, Worcester

Post Funeral Bereavement Support
The Post Funeral Bereavement Committee of Christ the King Parish welcomes you to “Making Sunshine” on Monday, March 1 at 7 pm in the Conference Room. Hear the story of one widow who “made sunshine” after the death of her spouse by getting involved with others. Conversation and light refreshments follow. The church is located at 1052 Pleasant Street in Worcester.

Evening of Prayer for Haiti
All are invited to an Evening of Prayer for the People of Haiti to be held on Tuesday, March 2 at 6:30 pm at St. Bernard Church, 228 Lincoln Street, Worcester. The evening is sponsored by the Marie Anne Center and the social justice committees of Our Lady of Providence Parish and St. Joan of Arc Parish. Music by Anna Maria College Music Dept. For more information contact the Center at 508-799-0526.

Young Adult Conference March 6
There’s still time to register young adults at the early Registration rate of $20 (March 1 deadline) for the upcoming Young Adult Conference to be held at Assumption College on March 6. If you need another copy of the materials mailed to you from the Office of Youth Ministry, call them today at 508-234-0346 or email ymworcester@hotmail.com.

Project Rachel
Know someone hurting from a past abortion? We can help. Our services are free and strictly confidential. Call Project Rachel at (508) 791-HOPE. Come home to God’s mercy!
Note to priests: Project Rachel brochures are available from the Respect Life Office, as are business cards with the Project Rachel contact information which are handy to have in the confessional should a penitent seek additional support. Please contact the office at (508) 929-4311 if you would like to have some of these materials on hand in the parish, particularly during our Lenten initiative on Reconciliation.

Seminar For Engaged Couples
The "God's Plan for a Joy-Filled Marriage" Seminar is a one-day program for engaged couples that uniquely presents the "why's behind the what's" of Catholic teaching, helping couples understand God's plan for marriage and the joy of living it. The next seminar will be held on Saturday, March 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Blessed Sacrament Parish Hall (Phelan Center), Worcester. Pre-registration is required. Download the brochure and registration form at our website: www.worcesterdiocese.org (click on “Marriage and Family” under the Departments tab; information can be found on the Marriage Preparation page), or call the Office of Marriage & Family at (508) 929-4311; email: aledoux@worcesterdiocese.org .

Like to Sing?
Worcester Area Community Choir is looking for singers. This is a non-audition choir, singing works from many cultures and led by composer and guitarist Jim Scott. Rehearsals are Tuesdays evenings. If you would like more information please give me a call, or go to www.JimScottMusic.com.

To Pastors:
Can you Donate a Sacramentary?
Deacon Gary Miller is looking for a donation of a used Sacramentary from a parish for use at the Worcester County Jail. If you can assist him, please email dcmiller@gmail.com or call 978-365-3544.

Penance Initiative Resources
Parish and personal Resources are being made available on the diocesan Website for downloadable versions of bulletin inserts and posters for the Lenten Penance Initiative, Come Home to God’s Mercy. Click on the Resources Link on the Penance Banner on the diocesan homepage, worcesterdiocese.org.

Steubenville East Registrations due March 15
Steubenville East is taking place at the Univ., of Rhode Island in Kingston on July 23 – 25. Your parish group registration/reservation is due no later than March 15 at the Office for Youth Ministry (priests attend at no charge). Call them today at 508-234-0346 if you need another form.

March 2 Priests’ Day Postponed
The Annual Priests’ Day scheduled for March 2 at the Cenacle of the Cathedral of St. Paul has been postponed. A notice will be sent regarding rescheduling.

The Daily Mass is also available Monday – Friday on the internet at www.worcesterdiocese.org .

Stewardship Note for First Sunday of Lent 
“I have now brought you the first fruits of the products of the soil which you, O Lord, have given to me.” (Deuteronomy 26:10) This simple line from the Old Testament presents us with two challenges. First, do we bring God our first fruits – the best that we have to offer? Second, do we remember that everything we have has been given to us by God? We brought nothing into this world and we can take nothing from it. So why not share what we have while we are here?

Parish Mission at St. Charles Borromeo
All are welcome to St. Charles Borromeo Parish on June Street, Worcester, for the Lenten Mission to be held Sunday, Feb. 21 through Wednesday, Feb 24, conducted by Fr. Raphael Bonanno, a Franciscan friar from St. Anthony Shrine in Boston. All evening session are at 6:30 pm. Weekdays will incorporate the daily Mass at 9 am. Refreshments will be served following all sessions. For more information call Fr. Chet at 508-799-4031.

Stations of the Cross at St. Stephen Church 
During Lent, Stations of the Cross will be led at St. Stephen Church, 16 Hamilton, St., Worcester, on Fridays at 3:30 pm followed by Mass at 4 pm. All are welcome.

Lecture on Muslim-Christian Relations at Holy Cross
Sidney Griffith, professor and chair of the department of Semitic and Egyptian languages and literature at the Catholic University of America, will give a lecture titled “Christians and Muslims Together: Lessons from Yesterday for Today” on Monday, Feb. 22 at 4:30 p.m. in the Rehm Library at the College of the Holy Cross. The lecture, sponsored by the Center for Religion, Ethics and Culture, is free and open to the public.

Bingo Returns to St. Stephen Parish
Bingo returns to St. Stephen Church Hall at 357 Grafton St., Worcester on Thursday nights. Doors open at 4:30 pm. Ticket sales begin at 5:30 pm. Games at 7 pm. Proceeds to benefit St. Stephen School.

Salisbury Singers to Perform at Assumption College
Salisbury Singers, a mixed chorus of 75 members serving Central Massachusetts, will perform “Requiem and Remembrance,” a concert featuring Maurice Duruflé’s Requiem and contemporary works from Canada on Sunday, March 7 at 2 p.m. in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit at Assumption College.Tickets for the concert are $20, $18 seniors and students, and $10 children under 12, and may be purchased online at www.salisburysingers.org or by calling 508-799-3848.

Save the Date for Visitation House Annual Dinner 
All are welcome to attend the 5^th Annual Pot-Luck Benefit Suppoer for Visitation House to be held on Tuesday, March 23 at the Cenacle of the Cathedral of St. Paul, Worcester. This year’s guest speaker is Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia. For more information on how to attend or to reserve a table, contact Eve Lindquist at 508-798-0762 or email evelindquist@visitationhouse.org.

Support St. Vincent de Paul Clothing Bins
When you drop items in a St. Vincent de Paul Clothing Bin you support their important outreach to the poor and needy as well as keep usable items out of landfills. For more information contact them at 508-752-4232. 

Parish and personal Resources are being made available on the diocesan Website for downloadable versions of bulletin inserts and posters for the Lenten Penance Initiative, Come Home to God’s Mercy.

The Daily Mass is also available Monday – Friday on the internet at www.worcesterdiocese.org .

Stewardship Note for Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time 
“Woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation.” (Luke 6:24) Jesus’ words to the crowd can seem harsh to all of us who enjoy the many blessings of living in one of the richest countries of the world. Yet, in reality the sin is not in being rich. The sin is in failing to share our blessings. When was the last time you looked at your income and determined what percentage you were giving to those who had less than you? Remember the Bible teaches us to give 10%. How close are you to that level of giving?

Seminar For Engaged Couples
The "God's Plan for a Joy-Filled Marriage" Seminar is a one-day program for engaged couples that uniquely presents the "why's behind the what's" of Catholic teaching, helping couples understand God's plan for marriage and the joy of living it. The next seminar will be held on Saturday, February 20, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Hall, Webster. Pre-registration is required. Download the brochure (including additional dates for 2010) and registration form at our website: www.worcesterdiocese.org (click on “Marriage and Family” under the Departments tab; information can be found on the Marriage Preparation page), or contact the Office of Marriage & Family at (508) 929-4311; aledoux@worcesterdiocese.org. 

     Note to priests, deacons, and marriage preparation ministers: The 2010-2011 dates for Engaged Encounter weekends are also available on the marriage preparation page of our website: www.worcesterdiocese.org. These can be downloaded and added to the Engaged Encounter brochures in your marriage preparation packets (lavender folders) that you give to your engaged couples.

“Legend of the Rain Wolf” at Anna Maria
Come See “Legend of the Rain Wolf, ”an ecological ghost story Live on Stage!  College students in the Canadian wilderness are stalked by a spiritual presence. Death, supernatural phenomena, Native mysticism and an ecological message are all part of this exciting comedy-drama starring K&K Productions Theatre Workshop Students. Written and directed by Kevin T. Baldwin.  February 19, 20 & 21at 8 pm at Zecco Performing Arts Center, Anna Maria College, 50 Sunset Lane, Paxton. For tickets at $12. ($10 children/seniors)or more information contact K&K Productions at 508-304-8356.

Lenten Prayer Program at Marie Anne Center
A six-week Lenten Prayer Program will be offered at the Marie Anne Center located at St Bernard Church, 228 Lincoln St., Worcester on Tuesday mornings beginning Feb 23 through March 30, 10-11:30 am. Presenters include (in order by week) Fr. William Reiser, SJ, Catherine Pimley, Sr. Maureen Hickey, PBVM; Sr. Irma Gendreau, PFM; Sr. Jon-Julie Sullivan, SNDdeN; and Sr. Mary Duffy, SSJ. Contact the center at 508-736-6986 for more information. All are welcome.

Bible Study in Leicester During Lent
Beginning Monday, Feb. 22 at 7 pm and continuing through March 22, Adult Bible Study is being offered by Fr,. Stephen Johnson at Mother St. John House. Contact the parish for more information and directions at 508-892-7407 or visit www.stjoseph-stpiusx.com .

Fundraiser for Dismas House at Hanover Theatre
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day early with Dismas House and The Chieftains at The Hanover Theatre on March 9. Cocktails and Hors D’oeuvres at 6 pm; Concert at 7 pm. Tickets are $100 per person ($75 for seniors/students) and available by contacting Dismas House at 508-799-9389 or visit www.dismashouse.org to for secure purchase online.

Experience a Unique Ecumenical Pilgrimage This September
Bishop McManus and Metropolitan Methodios of the Orthodox Church will lead a unique pilgrimage to the Ancient Sees of Ss. Peter and Andrew on September 15 – 26, 2010. Special opportunities include a visit to the Patriarch Bartholomew I in Constantinople as well as a Papal Audience with Pope Benedict XVI. Liturgies will be held at various holy sites on this first-class trip to Izmir (Ephesus), Constantinople and Rome. For more information contact Msgr. Peter Beaulieu at peter.beaulieu@stvincenthospital.com or call 508-363-6246. Reservation deadline ($1,000 non-refundable deposit) is March 15.

1.) When sending in the couples’ answer sheets for processing, please mail the original copies to the Office of Marriage and Family at 49 Elm St. This is preferable to faxing in order to ensure accuracy. 

2.) A copy of the cover sheet (called “FOCCUS Facilitator/Couple Information Form”) must be included with each set of answer sheets sent for processing. Also, please be sure to dispose of any of the older copies of the cover sheet you may have on hand. The most updated version says “Office of Marriage and Family” at the top and there are some minor updates to the form that make our record keeping easier. A pdf version is available. If you would like to have this document on hand in the parish computer to print out as needed, please send an email to aledoux@worcesterdiocese.org  to request a copy. 
3.) The facilitator code number must be included on the cover sheet when sending in forms for processing. If you do not have a facilitator code, or need a reminder of what your existing code is, please email Phyllis at plynch@worcesterdiocese.org.

Annual Priests’ Day with Bishop McManus (Second Notice)
Our annual Priests’ Day with Bishop McManus will be held on Tuesday, March 2 at 1:30 – 3:30 pm at the Cenacle at the Cathedral of St. Paul, Worcester. In this Year of the Priest, our committee suggested that Bishop McManus give two 20-minute talks focusing on the Prayer Life of the modern parish priest. Please mark your calendar today!

Lenten Events calendar on the Diocesan website:
Please let us know if you are holding Stations of the Cross so that we may list it on the website on a Lenten Calendar. We get many calls from people looking for information and it allows them to find it day or night. Fax to Ray Delisle at 508-753-7180 or email the info to rdelisle@worcesterdiocese.org.

The Daily Mass is also available Monday – Friday on the internet at www.worcesterdiocese.org .

Stewardship Note for Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time 
“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? Who will go for us?’ ‘Here I am,’ I said, ‘send me!’” (Isaiah 6:8) Every day – in little ways and in big ways – God asks, “Whom shall I send?” Whether it is someone to take on a new ministry or just someone to open a door for an overburdened stranger, God constantly looks to see if we are willing to respond with the eagerness that Isaiah showed when he answered, “Here I am, send me!”

Free Introduction to the Internet
Ever wonder what you are missing online? Here’s your chance to check out the amazing resources using the internet. Find health and medical information, check out your ancestry, get free knit and crochet patterns or even play games like solitaire and hangman! No experience necessary. Individualized and self paced, this is an amazing FREE opportunity. Call Catholic Charities, 196 Mechanic Street, Leominster, at 978-840-0696 for more information and to reserve a time.

Lecture at Assumption College
George Yancy, Ph.D., will present “White Gazes and the Fear of Black Bodies” at Assumption College on Tuesday, Feb. 16 at 7 pm at the Hagan Campus Center Hall. Dr. Yancy is Assoc, Prof, of Philosophy at Duquesne where he earned his Ph.D. with honors, and holds Masters from Yale and NYU. His talk wil focus on how we must continue to speak about race with courage. The talk is open to the public at no charge and you can RSVP sbousquet@assumption.edu or call 508-767-7322 to reserve a seat.

From the Religious Education Bookstore
The 2011 Liturgical Desk Calendar and 2011 Daily Mass Record are available in the Bookstore.

Note to Worcester Residents & Parishes
The City of Worcester Commission on Disabilities requests that sidewalks, curbs and fire hydrants be cleared of snow by businesses and homeowners within 10 hours after snowfall ends, In addition to making it passable for those who walk, push a carriage, or use a wheelchair, it avoids a $75 per day fine the city can levy for uncleared sidewalks!

Haitian Relief Bowling Benefit
Haitian Relief Bowling Benefit at AMF Auburn Lanes, Saturday, February 6 from 12:30 to 2:30. Cost is $10.00. All money goes to the American Red Cross. Please call in advance to reserve no later than Thursday, February 4. Call the Holiday Inn Express at 508-832-2500 to reserve your spot. Sponsored by the Holiday Inn Express and AMF Bowling Lanes in Auburn.

The Daily Mass is also available Monday – Friday on the internet at www.worcesterdiocese.org .

Stewardship Note for Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time 
“Love is patient, love is kind. It is not jealous, it is not pompous.” (1 Corinthians 13:4) Are you jealous? Do you focus more on the things that other people have than on the gifts that God has given to you? Are you pompous? Do you seek to acquire more possessions to impress others? At times we are all guilty of these human weaknesses. Yet as stewards we are called to love God above all other things – striving always to be less jealous, less pompous and more giving.

Multi-Parish Confirmation Retreats
Multi-Parish Confirmation Retreats offered through the Office For Youth Ministry are as follows:  February 7 from 10:30 am - 5:00 pm, St. Boniface Parish, Lunenburg,. March 7, April 11, and April 18 from 1-7 pm at Oakhurst Retreat and Conference Center, 120 Hill Street, Whitinsville. Call 508-234-0346 to register your group. Cost: $35 per person. Materials and hot meal included.

Faith And Job Networking Event
Where is God in this current economic crisis? Are you unemployed and need help preparing for future employment? Are you employed but want to prepare yourself in case of future unemployment? Whether employed or unemployed, please consider attending the FAITH and JOB NETWORKING event sponsored by the Diocesan Pastoral Councils Social Justice Subcommittee on Wednesday, February 24, (snow date March 3) 6:30 to 9:00 pm in the La Salle Reception Center, Notre Dame Parish, Main Street, Southbridge. Dr. Neil Castronovo, Dean of Student Development, Assumption College and Dr. Virginia Ryan, Associate Professor of Religious Studies, Rivier College will present a faith talk on: Looking at the Current Economic Crisis through the Lens of Faith followed by a facilitated networking session for those unemployed. The program will be augmented by a presentation from Catholic Charities describing the services available to the unemployed. This program is free and open to ALL. Advance registration is not required. For further information please contact, Ray Griffin, ray.j.griffin@gmail.com.

Pro-Life Awards Nominations Sought
The Diocese of Worcester Respect Life Office is seeking nominations for our annual Pro-Life Awards. The Mother Teresa Pro-Life Award, presented to an adult, and the Ruth Pakaluk Pro-Life Youth Award, presented to a high school or college student, are awarded to individuals who have shown heroic witness to the sanctity of human life. Nomination forms may be downloaded from our website at www.worcesterdiocese.org/respectlife  or obtained from the Respect Life Office at (508) 929-4311, email: aledoux@worcesterdiocese.org. Nominations must be received no later than February 10. The pro-life awards are presented at the annual Mass for Life on the Feast of the Annunciation which will take place on March 25 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Young Adult Conference in March
If you are a senior in high school, single, married, discerning a ministry in the Church or currently involved and older. Join us for a day of fellowship with your peers at the First YOUNG ADULT CONFERENCE on March 6 at Assumption College Hagan Center. This event is hosted by the Office For Youth Ministry. Walk-in registration $25 ($20 if registered before March 1) Opening remarks at 9 am. Keynote: Fr. Robin Ryan, C.P. Director of Catholics On Call (www.catholicsoncall.org) at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, IL. He will speak on "Becoming a Person of Prayer" and "Discipleship:Following Jesus in Our Culture Today". Bishop McManus will speak on "Eucharist: The Source and Summit" and be the principal celebrant for Mass. Young Adult panel presentation, Q/A, open discussion and lunch are included. Visit www.ymworcester.org  for more information

Shawl Prayer Ministry Retreat in March
A Shawl Prayer Ministry Retreat will be held on March 20 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Oakhurst Retreat and Conference Center, 120 Hill Street, Whitinsville. Connie Bartelson of Uxbridge, experienced in this ministry, will facilitate. Call 508-234-0346 to register. Hot lunch included. Cost $30.

Annual Priests’ Day with Bishop McManus
Our annual Priests’ Day with Bishop McManus will be held on Tuesday, March 2 at 1:30 – 3:30 pm at the Cenacle at the Cathedral of St. Paul, Worcester. In this Year of the Priest, our committee suggested that Bishop McManus give two 20-minute talks focusing on the Prayer Life of the modern parish priest. Please mark your calendar today!

The Daily Mass is also available Monday – Friday on the internet at www.worcesterdiocese.org . 

FaithNight with Sean Forrest 
Join us for a pre-Lenten FAITHNIGHT with SEAN FORREST on Monday, February 15 from 7 – 9 pm at St. Anna Parish in Leominster. Pre-purchased tickets are $10  ($15.00 after February 10). Seating is limited. Everyone is welcome. Please contact Patti Taylor at 978-537-5293 ext. 14 or Brenda Bodanza at 978-868-6120 for tickets.

Lenten Sessions on Stewardship of the Environment 
St. George Parish in Worcester will host “Catholics Going Green” beginning on February 23, 7 – 8:30 pm and continue on March 3, 16, 23, April 6 and 13. The six sessions will invite participants to read, reflect, discuss, pray and take action to become better stewards of God’s creation. All are welcome. For more information and registration contact Eileen Charbonneau at 508-853-1739 pr etcharb@yahoo.com.

Free Tax Prep for those who qualify
The Worcester Earned Income Tax Credit Coalition is ready to help households which qualify beginning in late January. Call any of the following sites for more information: Plumley Village: 508-770-0508; Worcester State College: 508-929-8424; Worcester Community Action Council: 508-754-1176 x124; or Main South Comm. Develop, Corp. 508-752-6181. Spanish translation is available at Plumley Village and Main South CDC.

Hospice Volunteers Needed
Are you looking for a rewarding, unique volunteer experience?   Do you have some time available each week that you could give in a constructive, meaningful way? If so, than perhaps you would make a good volunteer for Allegiance Hospice.   Allegiance Hospice is looking for volunteers to visit patients under hospice care in nursing homes in Central Mass Area for a minimum of 1 hour a week.   Volunteers are formally trained and are a valued part of the interdisciplinary team in serving patients at end of life.   If you are interested please call Lisa Trudell 877-255-4623, email ltrudell@allegiancehospice.com. 

Stop Abortion Funding in Health Care Reform!
On Nov. 7, the House passed a health care reform bill that opposed federal funding of abortion. On Dec. 24, the Senate rejected this policy and passed a measure that requires the use of tax payer dollars to fund abortions. Now, as Congress continues to debate health care reform and attempts to combine the two bills, the U.S. Bishops’ Conference is asking us to please contact our congressional representatives immediately asking them to oppose abortion funding and improve conscience protection. Visit www.usccb.org/action  to send an instant email to Congress. Additional information can be found at www.worcesterdiocese.org  and www.usccb.org/healthcare . 

Next Seminar For Engaged Couples
The "God's Plan for a Joy-Filled Marriage" Seminar is a one-day program for engaged couples that uniquely presents the "why's behind the what's" of Catholic teaching, helping couples understand God's plan for marriage and the joy of living it. The next seminar will be held on Saturday, January 30 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s Parish Hall, North Grafton. Pre-registration is required. Download the brochure and registration form at our website: www.worcesterdiocese.org (click on “Marriage and Family” under the Departments tab; information can be found on the Marriage Preparation page), or contact the office at (508) 929-4311; aledoux@worcesterdiocese.org . 

            Any engaged couples preparing for marriage should register for a seminar as soon as possible. Schedules and registration forms can be downloaded from the Marriage and Family page at www.worcesterdiocese.org . (Print copies of the updated 2010 schedules were mailed in November.)

Adult Confirmation
Please send completed registration forms by January 15 to the Office of Religious Education for the January 24 Adult Confirmation Retreat and the February 7 celebration of Adult Confirmation. A copy of the candidate’s baptismal certificate must accompany the registration form. Information and registration forms may be accessed on the diocesan website: www.worcesterdiocese.org (Click on “Learning”, then “Religious Education”, then “Confirmation”). For questions, contact Barbara Ramian at (508) 929-4308.

Diocesan Annual Report for FY2009
Copies will arrive at your parish by Thursday of this week of the Diocesan Annual Report for FY 2009. Given the economic climate and initiatives being undertaken this year, your assistance in distributing this succinct yet clear use of funds is more important than ever. Your help is greatly appreciated. It was planned for distribution this week to follow the Christmas Season and precede inserts scheduled for subsequent weeks. Another USCCB Healthcare insert had not been anticipated.

Bereavement Support Group in Leominster
Compassionate Companions Bereavement Support Group meets at Our Lady of the Lake Church, 1400 Main St., Leominster on Wednesdays at 7 pm from Jan. 20 through Feb. 24, facilitated by Elaine Hackett and Cathy Pimley. This faith-based group provides a safe and confidential environment for expressing sadness and learning ways to cope while grieving. Pre-registration is required. Call the parish office at 978-342-2978 or email ehackett1098@comcast.net.  

Grupo De Apoyo Para Madres-Padres En Español
Miercoles, comenzando el 13 de enero de 2010, de 10:30 am a 12 m., à Y.O.U. Inc. Family Center, para todos los padres, madres, cuidadores, familiares de menores de 18 años. INTERESADO? Contacte a Jeannette Cardozo al 508-849-54600 ext 211.

Substance Abuse Family Group
Are you a parent/caregiver with youth concerned about drug and alcohol use? Beginning Monday, December 21, come together with others who understand and join us in support, hope and action! Substance Abuse Coalition for Central MA Youth (SACCMY), co-led by parents, will meet each 3rd Monday from 6-7:30pm. at the YWCA of Central Mass, 1 Salem Sq., Worcester. Light snacks and babysitting will be provided at each meeting. For more information, contact Jannelle Correa at 508.963.3696, cmunitybuild1@aol.com  or Rina Cavallini at 508.615.2126, cmunitybuildrc@aol.com. FREE & CONFIDENTIAL - JUST SHOW UP!

Nutrition Assistance in Greater Worcester Area 
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program-SNAP (formerly Food Stamps) is now operating 5 day a week! Applications NOW taken Monday- Friday from 8:30 AM- 3:30 PM. Appointments are encouraged, and walk-ins are welcomed at WCAC, 484 Main Street, Suite 201, Worcester. Please call 508 754-1176 ext. 124 to make an appointment or visit www.wcac.net for more information about SNAP.

Retrouvaille - a Lifeline
Rediscover a loving marriage with a Retrouvaille (pronounced re-tro-vy) weekend. If your marriage is tearing the two of you apart, if there is little or no meaningful communication, if you are considering separation or divorce, we believe Retrouvaille can help you. The next New England Retrouvaille marriage renewal weekends will be held January 15-17, 2010, and April 16-18, 2010. To register for the weekend or for more information, visit www.HelpOurMarriage.com or call 800-470-2230. 

Trying to Call Catholic Charities in Leominster?
The Leominster office for Catholic Charities, located at 196 Mechanic Street, was inadvertently left out of the current Leominster/Fitchburg phone book. Their number is (978) 840-0696.

Ignatian Volunteer Corps Information
Are you 50 yrs. or older, semi-retired or retired, looking to share your time, talent and life experiences with the less fortunate? The Ignatian Volunteer Corps might be the answer for you.   Share your experiences from years of work, education, and life experiences with the materially poor. If you are willing to dedicate two days a week to servicing the poor [ministered to through local Service Sites in New England], while developing your spiritual life in the Jesuit Ignatian Spiritual “Reflective” process, then IVC could be the answer you’ve been waiting to hear about. Please call Br. Steven Jubin, New England Regional Director at (617)-699-4045 or email sjubin@ivcusa.org, or visit www.ivcusa.org to learn more.

Any correspondence regarding marriage preparation (including FOCCUS processing, etc.) should be addressed to: Office of Marriage and Family.   This name change has been in effect since 2007. The diocesan office no longer uses the name “Family Life Ministry”. Please update your parish records to reflect this change if you have not already done so. Thank you very much!

Become a Foster Parent!
Help a child from your community who needs a nurturing and supportive place to live until they can return to their family. Your love, patience, understanding and life experiences will give a child a brighter tomorrow. Please help a child from your neighborhood today. You won’t be alone; there is support available 24 hours a day. Experienced Foster Parents and Social Workers are available to talk with you and answer your questions. Please call today and make a difference. Call 1-800-KIDS-508.

Volunteer to help Homeless Children 
Horizons for Homeless Children is having a volunteering training on Tuesday, December 1 and Wednesday, December 2 from 6 pm- 9 pm (both evenings). We are looking for volunteers to spend 2 hours per week playing with homeless children in shelters throughout Central Massachusetts. Horizons for Homeless Children, formerly The Horizons Initiative, is Massachusetts's only non-profit organization dedicated exclusively to meeting the needs of homeless children and their families. For more information, contact Kari Lefort at klefort@horizonsforhomelesschildren.org  or 508-755-2615.

An Easy, Free Way To Help Dismas House!
If you have a bank account with TD Bank, stop by your branch or call and ask to become an affinity member for Dismas, our code is A1122. At the end of the year, the Bank will add up the value of all participating accounts, and make a donation to Dismas! It’s that easy! All Dismas House needs is 50 TD Bank members to join up, and it costs members nothing. If you sign up for a new account with TD Bank, TD Bank will put an extra $25 in your new account for joining affinity.  This is an easy and free way for businesses and individuals to help! Stop by TD Bank and sign up for Dismas.

Crisis Nursery for at-risk children
Baby’s Breath Crisis Nursery is a non-profit organization dedicated to caring for children ages 0 through 7 in times of family crisis. A Crisis Nursery is a licensed crisis center that provides short-term, non-medical care and supervision for children who are voluntary placed by a parent or legal guardian. The Crisis Nursery may be used for day respite or overnight shelter for up to 30 days. Crisis Nurseries provide a safe haven for children during a time of family crisis. Referrals for placement may be planned or accommodate an emergency. All services are voluntary, confidential and at no cost to the family. Contact Baby’s Breath Crisis Nursery 24-hours a day at 508-892-0009.

Bilingual Mass in Clinton
St. John the Evangelist Parish will celebrate a Mass in English and Spanish at 11:30 am on the 4^th Sunday of each month. The parish invites any Catholic who is interested to join in this community-integrating experience, celebrating our different cultures in one Catholic faith.

Mass schedule for Holy Trinity Chapel in Leominster
The schedule for Masses celebrated in Spanish at Holy Trinity Chapel, 69 Lincoln Street, Leominster, is as follows: Thursdays at 6 pm; Saturdays at 6:30 pm and Sundays at 2 pm. All are welcome!

To Pastors: Capturing the History of the Religious in Worcester Diocese 
The Vicar for Religious and TV Ministry are working on a DVD in conjunction with the Retirement Fund for Religious that will attempt to highlight each religious community of men and women who worked in any capacity in our parishes since the parish was founded. Records may be sketchy in this area but we appreciate any help you are able to give us, including any anecdotes and photos we can scan. Please contact Sr. Paula Kelleher with any information at 508-929-4327. Please remember our elderly religious as they remember their former parishes in daily prayers. Thank you for your assistance.

Donate your Books
Blue Star Mothers of America is sponsoring a local fundraiser seeking used books, CDs, DVDs, videos and audio books. They can be dropped off at the collection container at 326 Plantation St., Worcester. For more information contact Got Books at 978-664-6555 or visit www.gotbooks.com

Summer and Afterschool Programs For Girls
Girls Inc. of Worcester offers quality afterschool and summer programs for all girls to grow and play in a safe and fun environment. Find out what is available by calling 508-755-6455 or visit www.girlsincworcester.org today.

Volunteers needed to make Health Kits
The American Cancer Society is seeking volunteers to help assemble Personal Health Manager Kits. These free kits are provided to newly diagnosed patients throughout New England and are a tool to help patients organize their health care information and learn more about their disease. The kit is prepared at the American Cancer Society office on Plantation St., Worcester, which is open on Monday – Friday, 9 am – 5 pm. Volunteers can help with kits on any day, at any time. 25,000 kits have already been distributed this year. For more information contact Kathy O’Connor at koconnor@cancer.org or call 800-952-7664 x 3109.

Register for Your Choose Life License Plate
We are very close to having a specialty plate in Massachusetts that benefits our pregnancy crisis and adoption resource centers. Won’t you help? Register for your own Choose Life License Plate and then ask your friends, relatives, and co-workers to do the same. We need 3,000 registrants in order to get this plate on the road. When you register for the plate, you pay $40 more than your regular registration fee. $12 goes to pay for the plate and $28 goes to Choose Life, Inc. which will distribute it to the centers. Registration forms can be downloaded from the website www.MaChoose-Life.org. If you have any questions, you can email merry@machoose-life.org or call 781-224-0404. You can also contact Bob or Irene Connor from Immaculate Conception, Lancaster at 978-840-1117 or rsconnor@hotmail.com. Choose Life, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Put Your Loose Change To Use! Pennies for Dismas.
Inspired by the generosity of Dismas supporter, Ted Doyle, who recently donated $100.75 in loose pennies to Dismas House, Dismas House is launching a coin drive! If you have a change jar that you would like to use to make positive change, please consider joining our coin drive. Giving is easy. Dismas House staffers will come directly to your door to collect your change. We will also place a coin jar at Dismas House at 30 Richards St., Worcester if you would like to drop off your change. We are hoping to raise $5,000 through this effort, so every penny will count! For more information, contact Dave or Colleen at Dismas, 508-799-9389, cmdismashouse@aol.com

Funeral Organist and Cantor available
Michael Garceau, who is at St. Hedwig, Southbridge and Our Lady of Loreto, Worcester, is available to play and sing at funerals. Please call 774-402-4957 or email jelliclecat60@yahoo.com.

Bereavement Support Group in Worcester
“The Lord is close to the broken-hearted.” There is no right way or time-line for healing. We are each uniquely created by God, and we each cope with our loss and find healing in our own unique ways and times. Please join us to offer information, to listen, to share feelings and to support one another. PLACE: Worcester Pastoral Counseling Center, 128 Providence St., Worcester (in the Worcester Senior Center across from the old St. Vincent Hospital) We meet on Mondays from 1-2:30 pm. To register, please call Jean at the Worcester Pastoral Counseling Center-508-757-0376. FACILITATORS: Doreen Hardy MSW, LICSW, RN, BSN and Marion Howard RN, MSN, Med.

Online Information on Healthcare for Elders
Whether you are a senior looking for answers about Medicare or a caregiver needing answers and advice, you can find a wealth of resources online at www.seniorconnection.org then click on “Information and Referral” for links to the SHINE program. They also offer weekly online seminars on various related topics. Sponsored by Central Mass Agency on Aging, 360 West Boylston St., West Boylston, MA.

Lending Library in Worcester for Spiritual Reading 
"The Religious of the Assumption have opened a lending library of spiritual books at their new Assumption Center (former St. Andrew Church Rectory) at 16 Vineyard Street, Worcester, MA 01603. Regular hours are Tuesdays and Fridays, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Come, browse and borrow a book or two…especially as Advent nears and we prepare ourselves for the birth of our Lord! For more information call Sr. Therese at 508 767 1356."

Grief Support in Hopedale
Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? If you are in need of consolation and comfort, the Christ-centered bereavement group, Seasons of Hope is for you. Meetings are held every other Sunday from 7-8:30 pm in the Sacred Heart Hopedale parish house. To register or for more details please call Pam Chaplin at 508-473-1900 or by email at pchaplin@shchopedale.org   Feel free to bring a friend!

To Heat Or To Eat
More residents are greatly concerned about how they are going to heat their homes and feed their families during the cold season. While both energy and food prices continue to rise sharply, local Catholic Charities offices in Worcester County are responding by assisting struggling residents with their basic needs, including energy and food. This year the need greatly exceeds the resources. The assistance staff is worried how they are going to be able to handle all the requests and are seeking donations to help meet demand. Donations to the utility fund will be given to all the area offices throughout Worcester County for local assistance. Checks can be made out to Catholic Charities, (note utility fund), and mailed to 10 Hammond St., Worcester, MA 01610. For information, call 508-860-2246. Thanks for helping to keep your neighbors warm this winter!

Grief Management Program moves to WCRN AM830
“You are not alone” (YANA) is a grief management program and radio show hosted by Jim Kelly. The Live call-in show that helps people deal with grief in their lives has moved to WCRN Radio (AM 830) on Sunday evenings from 9 – 10 pm. You can also listen on the internet at www.wcrnradio.com.

Employees or Independent Contractors?
The Office of the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has issued new guidance on the classification of hired personnel as employees or independent contractors. Hired personnel are considered employees unless: (1) the individual is free from the employers direction and control in connection with the performance of the service, both under his or her contract for the performance of service and in fact; (2) the service the individual performs is outside the usual course of business of the employer; and (3) the individual is customarily engaged in an independently established trade, occupation, profession, or business of the same nature as that involved in the service performed.