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The Diocesan DispatchPlease Cut & Paste items in your bulletin as appropriate to your parish.
The Diocesan Dispatch is usually published on Monday mornings by 8 am via email and fax to parishes. Submission must be received by the previous Friday for inclusion and should be at least 2 weeks before an event date in order to have an opportunity to be included in parish bulletins the week after the issue date. You can email submissions directly to rdelisle@worcesterdiocese.org.
Have space available in your bulletin this week? Consider including one of the ongoing resources: Click HERE for ONGOING RESOURCESLatest Edition: Sept. 24, 2018
Conversation with Bishop McManus will air as follows: (available on your eCatholic parish website if you use the Featured Program drag and drop icon)
Charter Communications 29 cities/towns that carry WCTR TV3 on Channel 193 Saturday, Oct. 6 at 6 p.m. Rebroadcast on the following: Sunday at 6 a.m. & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. SPAC TV28 (Shrewsbury) Sunday, Oct. 7 at 7:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and on Monday, Oct. 8 at 7:30 a.m. Clinton area Comcast CH 99 Sunday, Oct. 7 at 8:30 a.m. WCCA TV13 (Worcester Ch. 194) Tuesday, Oct. 9 at 8 p.m. Fitchburg Comcast CH 8 and Verizon CH 35 Thursday, Oct. 11 at 9:30 a.m., 5 p.m.; Friday at 9:30 a.m. Leominster LATV Check their bulletin board for times Athol/Orange (AOTV) Cable Access CH 13 Sunday at 11 am; Wednesday at 2:30 pm and Thursday at 2:30 am Grafton Cable Access Sundays at 10:30 a.m. ALL LOCATIONS – via the internet Watch online anytime at worcesterdiocese.org 26TH Sunday in Ordinary Time
“Anyone who gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ, amen, I say to you, will surely not lose his reward.” (MARK 9:41) Does your life reflect the life of Jesus? Remember, we were made in His image. We tend to forget this. When others see you, do they see the face of Jesus? When you look at others, do you see the face of Jesus in them?
26° domingo en tiempo ordinario
"Cualquiera que les dé un vaso de agua para beber porque pertenecen a Cristo, les aseguro que no perderá su recompensa" (MARCOS 9:41) ¿Tu vida refleja la vida de Jesús? Recuerde, fuimos hechos a Su imagen. Tendemos a olvidar esto. Cuando los demás te ven, ¿ven el rostro de Jesús? Cuando miras a los demás, ¿ves el rostro de Jesús en ellos?
Celebrate Respect Life Month!
You're invited to join Catholics nationwide in celebrating Respect Life Month this October with the message "Every Life: Cherished, Chosen, Sent"! Learn more at www.usccb.org/respectlife.
Note to Parishes: Print copies of the new edition of the annual Respect Life Program were mailed to all parishes during the first week of September. There are many helpful resources contained in the packet for use during the October national observance of Respect Life Month as well as throughout the year. We recommend distributing the reflection flyer on Respect Life Sunday (October 7) to introduce parishioners to this year’s theme: “Every Life: Cherished, Chosen, Sent!” Also available for download and can be reproduced for insertion in the parish bulletin or other suitable means of distribution.
Theology on Tap
Join us for the next Young Adult Theology on Tap on Tuesday, Oct. 2 at Compass Tavern in Worcester! Doors open for food and drinks at 6:30. Our speaker will be Fr. Richard Reidy, the Vicar General for the Diocese of Worcester. Compass Tavern in located at 90 Harding St. in Worcester. The speaker will begin around 7:15. Open to all young adults ages 18-39.
Praying for Priests and Seminarians
Beginning on Thursday Oct. 4 at 6:30 p.m. and continuing on the First Thursday of every month, all are welcome to Our Lady of Częstochowa Church in Worcester for Mass (in English) followed by Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament for the intention of our Priests and Seminarians.
“U.S. Rosary Coast to Coast.”
On October 7 at 4 pm, the parishes of Deanery VII are inviting everyone to participate in the Rosary Coast to Coast. (learn more at http://RosaryCoastToCoast.com) We encourage you to come and pray together through the intercession of Our Lady of the Rosary. This will take place that day at St. Andrew Bobola Church, 54 W. Main St. in Dudley. There will be Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, the Recitation of the Joyful, Luminous, Sorrowful, and Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary concluding with Benediction. During this time the priests who are present will be available to hear confessions. Light refreshments will follow. All are welcome!
Ascend: Monthly Young Adult Praise and Adoration
Join young adults from around the Diocese for "Ascend", an evening of Eucharistic Adoration and Praise on Friday, Oct. 5 at St. Bernard's Church at Our Lady of Providence Parish. The evening will begin at 7 pm and conclude around 8:15. The Sacrament of Reconciliation will also be available! There will be an opportunity for a social gathering afterwards. Open to all young adults ages 18-39. Our Lady of Providence Parish is located at 236 Lincoln St. in Worcester.
Life Chain in Worcester and Shrewsbury
All are invited to join the 31st annual Life Chain on Sunday, Oct. 7 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. This event of peaceful, prayerful witness to the sacredness of human life is held annually on Respect Life Sunday across the nation. Signs will be available at the local Life Chain stations: Elm Park, Worcester, Denny's Restaurant on Lincoln St., Worcester, and White City, Shrewsbury. The event will be held rain or shine. For more information, contact Louise at 508-756-1150. All are welcome to join in this prayerful effort to help build a Culture of Life!
Grief Support Workshop in Uxbridge
“Grieving with Great Hope” is a five-week grief support workshop from Good Mourning Ministry, a Catholic Apostolate, that will be offered at Saint Mary Parish in Uxbridge. This workshop is open to anyone who is grieving the death of a love one, whether it is a spouse, child (including pregnancy loss), grandparent, sibling, cousin, or friend. All are welcome. Everyone mourns at their own pace and everyone experiences grief in their own way. In this workshop participants will gather together as a community of faith to become disciples of hope. This workshop will be held in St. Mary Parish Center, 77 Mendon St., Uxbridge on Oct. 11, 18, 25, Nov. 8 and 15 from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. The cost is $15.00 before October 2 and $20.00 after October 2 and includes a book. Please call 508-278-2226 to register. For more info please email dmoriaty@stmaryuxbridge.org.
Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass – (Registration Deadline Oct. 12)
Bishop Robert J. McManus will celebrate the Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass on Sunday, Oct. 21 at 3 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Paul, Worcester. Couples wishing to attend should PRE-REGISTER BY OCTOBER 12 so that commemorative certificates may be issued. To register, complete the registration form at www.worcesterdiocese.org/wedding-anniversary-mass, or contact the Office of Marriage and Family at 508-929-4311 to request that a copy of the registration form be mailed to you.
Mini Retreat in Worcester
“The Armor of God, Dusting Ours Off” -- This mini retreat to remind us of, and help us navigate the spiritual battles being waged around us and against us. Join us Saturday, Oct. 13, from 8:30 am—1 pm at Sacred Heart-St. Catherine of Sweden Parish Hall, 600 Cambridge St. Worcester. Door prizes and raffles too! Tickets are $15.00 (includes lunch). Tickets available by calling the rectory, 508-752-1608 by October 10.
Taize moves to Blessed Sacrament Church
The Taize group that has been singing at Assumption College for six years has moved to Blessed Sacrament Church, 551 Pleasant St., Worcester. All are welcome to the next service on Sunday, Oct.14 at 7pm. The Taize (pronounced Ta-zay) tradition is a style of sacred music and prayer developed in France after World War II by Catholic and Protestants to come together in song and prayer for peace in the world and unity in the Christian faith. Songbooks are available to join in the song if desired. It will continue on the second Sunday of the month through December.
Fundraiser for Serra Club
We are only 4 weeks away from our Turkey Feast Fundraiser! We hope you can join us on Monday, Oct. 15 at Publick House Historic Inn for our Turkey Dinner Fundraiser! Publick House is located at 277 Main St., Sturbridge. First seating: 4:30 pm – 6:15 pm; Second seating: 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm; $14.00 per dinner Adult, $5.00 per dinner Child. Email serrasoworcco@gmail.com or call/text 508-574-2630.
Diocesan Youth Rally
The Diocesan Youth Rally will take place on Sunday, Nov. 4 from 1-6 pm at Assumption College at the Laska Gym. Join hundreds of other youth from around the Diocese for a day of music, speakers, breakout sessions, and Mass with Bishop McManus! This event is open to youth in 9-12th grade. Cost is $15/person. To register your group or to get more information about the day, go to neworcester.org/diocesan-high-school-youth-rally. Deadline to register is October 24!
Worcester Catholic Women’s Conference – November 10
Tickets are going fast! Register today for the Worcester Catholic Women’s Conference to be held on Saturday, November 10, 2018 at Assumption College. Come and be renewed by dynamic talks from outstanding national Catholic leaders including Professor Helen Alvaré, Dr. Janet E. Smith, Susie Lloyd, Mother Mary Assumpta Long, O.P., and Susan Conroy. Confessions will be available and Mass will be celebrated by Bishop McManus. More details and registration information are available at www.worcestercatholicwomensconference.com or call Corinn at 508-277-3969. Seating is limited.
Catholic Schools Appeal
Please consider using the FLOCKNOTE flyer for the Catholic School Appeal which has been added to the Library (to reach those who may have not gotten a flyer at Mass or in The Catholic Free Press). Simply find it in the Flocknote LIBRARY, choose “ADD TO MY NETWORK” then copy it to the group you want to send it to. Then SCHEDULE it or simply hit SEND.
Dementia Caregiver Support Groups
When a loved on develops Dementia, it can be difficult for everyone. Hearing how other people have walked through the journey with their loved on can be helpful. We invite you to join us for learning, sharing and support. There is no obligation to share; you are welcome to come and just listen!
Beginning in October: 1st Tuesday of the Month at 5 p.m. at Saint John’s Church – Church Hall
44 Temple St., Worcester; 3rd Thursday of the Month at 9:30 a.m. – Ducharme Center, 10 Dupont St., Worcester (behind Holy Family Parish at St. Joseph Church) For more information contact: Jeanne Pellegrino, Alzheimer Program Director, St. Francis Rehabilitation and Nursing Center 508-471-2272.
Career Opportunity!
Catholic Charities is seeking the right person to develop a fundraising strategy for a $10 million nonprofit human services agency, coordinating the fundraiser database, and work with management to run robust fundraisers. Requirements include a Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience, strong interpersonal and writing skills, knowledge and experience in professional fund raising, particularly major gift fund raising. Must be able to travel and willing to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends, to attend meetings beyond the framework of the normal working schedule. Strong computer skills and ability to use existing technology is also required. This is a great opportunity to build our fundraising program. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter and resume to hr@ccworc.org.Sept. 17, 2018
Diocesan Special will air as follows: (available on your eCatholic parish website if you use the Featured Program drag and drop icon)
Charter Communications 29 cities/towns that carry WCTR TV3 on Channel 193 Saturday, Sept. 29 at 6 p.m. Rebroadcast on the following: Sunday at 6 a.m. & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. SPAC TV28 (Shrewsbury) Sunday, Sept. 30 at 7:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and on Monday, Oct. 1 at 7:30 a.m. Clinton area Comcast CH 99 Sunday, Sept. 30 at 8:30 a.m. WCCA TV13 (Worcester Ch. 194) Tuesday, Oct. 2 at 8 p.m. Fitchburg Comcast CH 8 and Verizon CH 35 Thursday, Oct. 4 at 9:30 a.m., 5 p.m.; Friday at 9:30 a.m. Leominster LATV Check their bulletin board for times Athol/Orange (AOTV) Cable Access CH 13 Sunday at 11 am; Wednesday at 2:30 pm and Thursday at 2:30 am Grafton Cable Access Sundays at 10:30 a.m. ALL LOCATIONS – via the internet Watch online anytime at worcesterdiocese.org 25TH Sunday in Ordinary Time
“If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.” (MARK 9:35) Jesus teaches us that we are called to serve one another. Sacrifice is not a word that many people like to hear. We think it means that we must give up something that we want. However, the literal meaning of sacrifice is “to make holy,” from the words “sacer” = sacred and “facere” = to make. In other words, we make our lives holy by sharing our gifts in the service of God.
25° domingo en tiempo ordinario
"Si alguien quiere ser el primero, deberá ser el último y el servidor de todos" (MARCOS 9:35) Jesús nos enseña que estamos llamados a servirnos unos a otros. Sacrificio no es una palabra que a muchas personas les guste escuchar. Pensamos que significa que debemos renunciar a algo que queremos. Sin embargo, el significado literal del sacrificio es "hacer santo", de las palabras "sacer" = sagrado y "facere" = hacer. En otras palabras, hacemos nuestras vidas santas compartiendo nuestros dones en el servicio a Dios.
St. Rose of Lima 18th Annual Golf Outing to Benefit Youth Ministry
Join us on Monday, Oct. 1 for 11 am Tee off at Wachusett Country Club, 187 Prospect Street, West Boylston (lunch & dinner provided), Best Ball. Register online at www.StRoseGolf.org. for more information call 508-393-2413. Golfers Cost: $160, includes golf, cart, use of driving range, hors d’oeuvres, lunch and dinner. Dinner Only at 6 pm: $50. choice of Prime Rib, Haddock or Surf & Turf. All are welcome!
“Rebuilt” Author coming to North Grafton Parish
‘Meeting them where they’re at’…Who are they? Where are they? How do we reach them? Tom Corcoran, co-author of Rebuilt, will share his Baltimore parish experiences of effectively building a dynamic youth program, developing Small Group fellowship communities that inspire discipleship, and revamping the homily message to appeal to the barely participating, as well as the devout Catholic. All are invited to join us at St. Mary Church, N. Grafton, on Monday, October 8, 6-8 pm. Light refreshments will be available; admission is free. Email smallgroups@stmarysgrafton.org to RSVP or to contact us with questions. You may also call the St. Mary Parish Office at (508)839-3993 x10.
Addiction Support Group in Webster
Calix is a Catholic support group (supplement to AA) for those directly affected by alcohol/addiction, and for family and friends who are also affected. It is open to all. The first Calix Society in the Worcester Diocese (A New Hope) will meet October 20 from 1:30 pm to 2:45 pm (and continue on the 3rd Saturday of each month) downstairs in the Emmaus Center across from Sacred Heart Church, 18 E Main St, Webster. Call Kyle at 508-887-2225 for more information.
Calling all Fans of G.K. Chesterton
Members of a local group are currently seeking others interested in joining them at their monthly gatherings to discuss the works of G.K. Chesterton and his contemporaries. Topics can be the Father Brown mysteries, maybe the Battle of Lepanto or eugenics. His contemporaries were G.B. Shaw, Charles Dickens and Hilaire Belloc among others. Chesterton’s relevance to today’s world is a surprising topic in itself. The group meets for a potluck supper usually on the second Saturday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Holy Name of Jesus House of Studies, 51 Illinois St., Worcester. For further information, please contact Monica at monica.mckenna@yahoo.com.
Praise & Worship Event in Webster
Living Waters Music Ministry invites you to an evening of praise and worship, light refreshments, and fellowship on October 13 from 7-9 pm at the Sacred Heart parish hall on 11 Day St., Webster. All ages are welcome to this free event. Doors open at 6:30 pm.
Mini-Retreat for Women
The Commission for Women of the Diocese of Worcester invites you to join us for a Mini-Retreat for Women on Saturday, October 20, 8:30 am – 1:30 pm at St. Mary’s Parish Hall, Main St., Shrewsbury. The day will begin with Mass at 8:30 AM, followed by registration and coffee/pastries. Lunch will be included with the $15 offering, and the program will conclude by 1:30 p.m. Our facilitator will be Jaymie Stuart Wolfe, a featured speaker at numerous spiritual events, conferences and retreats throughout the Archdiocese of Boston and beyond. She combines inspirational music with spoken reflection, and has produced numerous recordings of original music. The program will leave you with a stronger sense of who God is and how He wants to be in your life, and who you are and can be in Him and for each other. The registration fee (checks made payable to Commission of Women) can be mailed to Pamela Ashmankas, 5 Millbury Terrace, Millbury, MA 01527, by October 11th. Further information and registration form may be found at www.worcesterdiocese.org/commission-for-women .
Urban Missionaries Anniversary
Urban Missionaries of Our Lady of Hope will celebrate its 39th anniversary Saturday, October 20 at 6 pm at the ARC located at St. Joan of Arc Church, 570 Lincoln St., Worcester. Mass of Thanksgiving followed by a buffet of hors d’oeuvres (hot & cold) and desserts. The guest speaker is Stephen DeVincent presenting the “St. Stephen Housing Initiative” program. Donation is $10/adults and $5/under 16 and RSVP by October 8 by email at mailbox@urbanmkssionaries.com or 508-831-7455. Checks can be made payable to Urban Missionaries of Our Lady of Hope, 242 Canterbury St., Worcester or visit urbanmissionaires.com. Please include in the memo the # of people attending/food allergies.
Catholic Schools Appeal
A letter is attached from Bishop McManus for this year’s Catholic Schools Appeal. A Flocknote flyer will also be available by the end of this week to use from the Library to copy and share with your parishioners. The letter is also available on worcesterdiocese.org in the Bulletin Letters and Inserts section (click on “Parish Resources” at the top of the home page.)Sept. 10, 2018
Faith in Action, featuring agencies and ministries supported by Partners in Charity, will air as follows: (available on your eCatholic parish website if you use the Featured Program drag and drop icon)
Charter Communications 29 cities/towns that carry WCTR TV3 on Channel 193 Saturday, Sept. 22 at 6 p.m. Rebroadcast on the following: Sunday at 6 a.m. & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. SPAC TV28 (Shrewsbury) Sunday, Sept. 23 at 7:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and on Monday, Sept. 24 at 7:30 a.m. Clinton area Comcast CH 99 Sunday, Sept. 23 at 8:30 a.m. WCCA TV13 (Worcester Ch. 194) Tuesday, Sept. 25 at 8 p.m. Fitchburg Comcast CH 8 and Verizon CH 35 Thursday, Sept. 27 at 9:30 a.m., 5 p.m.; Friday at 9:30 a.m. Leominster LATV Check their bulletin board for times Athol/Orange (AOTV) Cable Access CH 13 Sunday at 11 am; Wednesday at 2:30 pm and Thursday at 2:30 am Grafton Cable Access Sundays at 10:30 a.m. ALL LOCATIONS – via the internet Watch online anytime at worcesterdiocese.org
Blessing of Animals in Webster
Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Webster will host a Blessing of Animals on Saturday, Sept. 22, at 10 a.m. at the Emmaus Center, 17 E. Main St. Webster. Join us for this free annual event. All pets and owners are welcome. Prizes will be awarded for the largest and for the most exotic animals. Also featured will be face painting for the children. Be sure to take advantage of this family-friendly, community-building activity right here in your backyard!
Polish Fall Festival at Our Lady of Czestochowa Church
Please join us for our Annual Polish Fall Festival on Saturday, Sept. 29 from 10 am to 6 pm and Sunday, Sept. 30 from 8 am to 1 pm in the hall under the church at 34 Ward St. in Worcester. Festival feature includes: Homemade, Delicious Polish Food and Baked Goods, Raffles, Games of Chance, Crafts, Attic Treasure and much more. Sunday Morning: All you can eat Pancake Breakfast from 8:00 to 10:00. Rain or Shine – Free admission. Plenty of free parking. For more info call the rectory at 508-755-5959 or visit: www.olcworcester.com.
Blessing of Animals in Worcester
Blessing of Animals will be held on Sunday, Oct. 7 at 1 p.m. at Sacred Heart - St. Catherine of Sweden Church, The ceremony includes scripture and prayers, special readings, and individual blessings as each animal is presented with a St. Francis of Assis medal. Treats and refreshments will be served.
Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass – October 21
Bishop Robert J. McManus will celebrate the Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass on Sunday, Oct. 21 at 3 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Paul, Worcester. This liturgy of thanksgiving to God for many years of faithful witness to the sacredness of Christian marriage honors couples who are marking significant anniversaries (25th, 50th, etc.) this year. A light reception will follow downstairs in the Cenacle. Family and friends are welcome! Couples wishing to attend should pre-register no later than October 12 so that commemorative certificates may be issued. To register, complete the registration form at www.worcesterdiocese.org/wedding-anniversary-mass, or contact the Office of Marriage and Family at 508-929-4311 to request that a copy of the registration form be sent to you.
Job Opportunities
PART-TIME COOK
Seeking a part-time cook and weekly grocery shopper at the Holy Name of Jesus House of Studies in Worcester. 14.5 hours per week. Weekday evening meals for 34 weeks of the academic year and 5 weeks in July and August. $14.65/hour. Contact Fr. Jim Mazzone at jmazzone@charter.net or at 508-340-5788 for more information.Sept. 4, 2018
St. Joseph- St. Pius X Parish Fair
On Sept. 22 from 10 am-4 pm, please join us at St. Joseph Church at 759 Main St., Leicester for a fun-filled event featuring food, raffles, silent auction, craft table, baked goods, bake auction, Vendors, Kids Zone including games, activities, Bouncy House, Face Painting, Sand Art, “kids raffle”, Dunk Tank, and an Outdoor Mass celebrated @ 4:00 pm followed by our 2nd annual St. Joseph-St.Pius X Chicken BBQ. Entertainment by the well-known “ Otters,” a Leicester Favorite band that all can sing & dance to ... Also: Extended open hours for the Thrift Shop & Deja New Too!
Women’s Club Fair in Milford
The Sacred Heart Women’s Club 11th Annual Fall Fair will be held on Saturday, Oct. 13 from 9 AM to 3 pm. The Fair will have a rummage sale, bake sale, raffles and refreshments for sale. The Fair is held annually at the Sacred Heart Church in the Bell Tower Room/Parish Hall on East Main St. Milford. It is handicap accessible, has free parking and free admission. All proceeds go toward projects of the church.
Upcoming Cursillo Weekends
Cursillo or "short course in Christianity" is an uplifting and educational experience. The weekend is facilitated by a team of laypeople and clergy who deliver organized talks and discussions. Our last 2018 date is: Women’s – Oct. 25-28; and our 2019 dates are as follows. Men: March 21-24 & Oct. 10-13; Women: May 2-5 & Nov. 14-17. All weekends will be held at the Immaculate Conception Spiritual Renewal Center in Putnam, CT. For additional information, please contact Sue Leighton at 508-278-3155 or sleighton1958@gmail.com.
Job Opportunities
Music Coordinator: St. Philip Benizi Parish in Grafton is seeking a Music Coordinator for the 9 am Sunday Mass. This individual must be proficient in organ, piano or guitar, select appropriate music, be collaborative in working with cantors and have a working knowledge and respect for Catholic liturgy. Please send a cover letter and resume to Lisa Stewart, Business Manager at lstewart@stmarysgrafton.org.
Music Ministry: St. Augustine in Millville is looking for someone to provide music for the Saturday 4:30 Vigil Mass. Proficiency in organ, piano, or guitar (or a mix) and preferably someone who can sing as well as play. Weekly commitment is not necessary and compensation is available. Contact Al DeNoncour at aldomidi@charter.net or call 774-280-1638.
Facilities Manager at All Saints Academy, Webster: This person is responsible for maintaining the school and hall buildings: performs and supervises tasks related to heating, electrical, plumbing, security, environmental, safety, custodial and event coordination. Requires a team player attitude, excellent interpersonal and communication skills, attention to details and project coordination. The facilities manager has a clear understanding of acceptable business practices in relationship to church teachings and can collaborate with and support the Head of School, Business Manager, Administrative Assistant, school and parish staff and volunteers. To apply, contact Joan Matys at headofschool@allsaintswebster.org or call 508-943-2735.August 27, 2018
Amplify
Join us for Amplify, a FREE evening of food, games, community, prayer and worship for high school youth! Our next Amplify will be at Holy Family of Nazareth and Leominster on Sunday, Sept. 30 from 6:30-8:45 pm. To register a group or to get more info, go to www.neworcester.org/amplify-nights. Deadline to register is Sept. 21.
Share your Evangelization tips
Please send us your recommendations of evangelization practices you have found to be successful in your parish. We will be collecting them and publishing them periodically so parishes can share, compare adopt and adapt successful methods for deepening and spreading the faith. Please send your suggestions to Sara Smillie at ssmillie@worcesterdiocese.org. Thank you.
St. Francis Day at Agape
“Confronting Systemic Racism” will be the theme at St. Francis Day and the 36th Anniversary of the Agape Community, Saturday, Oct. 6, 10 am-4 pm. Speakers include, Fr. Warren Savage, Diocese of Springfield; Dr. John Bracey, chair of WEB DuBois African-American Studies Department, UMASS Amherst; Eduardo Samiengo, DACA and undocumented activist; Alex Mooradian, immigration lawyer; Tahirah Amatul Wadud, Chicopee attorney; music, freedom songs and drumming by Ruth Bass-Green; Native American video and presentation: Nicole Braithwaite Hunt and Elena Creef. Bring a lunch and arrive early for on-street parking. All are welcome!Fall Festival in Whitinsville
Family Fun Fest/Fall Festival at St. Patrick's Church, Whitinsville on Sunday, Sept. 23 from 11 am – 4 pm. The festival will include vendor tables, bake sale, toy table, raffles, cup cake decorating, food, games, music and much more! Vendor spaces are available to rent for $30. Save $5 with early registration prior to Sept. 1st. If interested in renting a vendor table, please email officesupport@mystpatricks.com or call the rectory at 508-234-5656.
St. Thomas More Law School Scholarship
Each year the St. Thomas More Society of our Diocese awards a scholarship of not less than $3000 to a law student attending an accredited law school. Applicants or parents must be registered and active members of a parish in the Diocese of Worcester. Applicants may be in any year of law school studies. Applications may be obtained by visiting the diocesan website, www.worcesterdiocese.org/st-thomas-more-society, by mailing requests to: St. Thomas More Society, Chancery Office, 49 Elm Street, Worcester, MA 01609 or by calling Sara Smillie at 508-929-4345. Applications are due on or before September 21, 2018. Should anyone wish to contribute to the scholarship fund, donations will be greatly appreciated and you can make contact at the above address or phone number.
Consider the Legion of Mary in your parish
Below is a testimonial message from Joseph Duggan, president of the Legion of Mary in the Diocese of Worcester:
What does the Legion of Mary mean to me? The Legion is a gift to me of love. For the past 15 years that I have been a member of the Legion of Mary, it has given me much happiness and joy, with the opportunity to share that love with my fellow members and others. Our weekly meetings bring us together to pray the Rosary, so Spiritual readings, share our works being done during the past week and work together in our Spiritual growth in our faith and devotion to Our Lady.
Visiting the sick at home, in nursing homes and prison ministry are a source of great joy to help bring Our Lord closer to whom we meet. I have learned to love Our Lady more each day and call upon her to help me spread the Good News by my actions. She is my mother and I can never do enough.
If you would like to learn more about sponsoring the Legion of Mary in your parish, contact Mr. Duggan at 508-856-7129 or email joebobduggan@outlook.com. Thank you.Fall Consortium Dinner
Save the date! The 11th St. Paul Catholic Schools Consortium Dinner will be held on Thursday, November 8 at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, Leominster. We will be honoring Thomas D. Bingham with the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award for exemplary service in support of youth and Catholic Education and Joseph R. Mullaney with the Outstanding Young Alumni Award for extraordinary service to the community. For further information, please visit www.stpaulconsortium.com or contact us at (978) 855-2501. Email: stpaulcsc@gmail.com.
ONGOING RESOURCESSenior Fraud Hotline
RSVP’s Senior Fraud HelpLine is a toll-free resource for seniors and their families to call when they are concerned that they are being targeted by scammers. If they are in doubt, they should check it out by calling 1-800-297-9760. Confidential. Knowledgeable. Local. Supportive.
Catholic Programming for Ham Radio Operators
Tune in on Sunday evenings at 8 pm to Saint Maximilian Kolbe Net - Net Control is K3QNT with W1HGY as alternate. Dr. Ted Figlock - W1HGY of Taunton, MA - and Lloyd Roach - K3QNT of Bedford, PA - founded the net in 1997 to commemorate the life and martyrdom of Saint Maximilian Maria Kolbe – SP3RN. Father Kolbe was a Franciscan Priest who founded Niepokalanow (City of Mary), a large monastery in Poland dedicated to communications. Maximilian Kolbe was canonized by Pope John Paul II on 10 October 1982. He is considered the patron saint of the addicted and of amateur radio operators. Visit www.saintmaxnet.org for more information about this and related ham operator information.
Looking to make a Retreat?Franciscan Guest House & Retreat Facilities welcomes you to refresh & renew from the outside world and bask in the peaceful presence of the Monastery, Shrine and grounds located in Kennebunkport, ME. The Retreat House is just steps away from the radiant Shrine & Chapel of St. Anthony and offers 47 acres full of beautiful grottos and peaceful walking paths along the Kennebunk River. Open to retreat groups and individuals wishing to focus on their spirituality. Mass celebrated Daily. Special rates now through May 2016 starting midweek at just $45.00 per night! Call Marge Oliveri, toll free 844-253-2972.
Volunteer To Help With Food Distribution In Our Food Pantry
Catholic Charities Emergency Stabilization Services located on Hammond Street in Worcester is looking for volunteers who might be able to assist them with distributing food in our food pantry. Volunteers must be available once a week from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm and be able to lift cases of food. Volunteer days: Monday - Friday. Thank you for your consideration. All help is much needed and appreciated! Contact: Maydeé Morales at 508-860-2206 or via e-mail to mmorales@ccworc.org.FOR CLERGY: OBTAINING INFORMATION FOR HOSPITALIZED PARISHIONERS AT SAINT VINCENT HOSPITAL
The general method of obtaining information about the hospitalized members of your parish remains the same. Weekdays, during normal business hours, call 508-363-9233 and wait for the voice prompt; then, enter extension 22241. Your call will be automatically transferred to the hospital’s patient information desk. Give the receptionist your three-digit parish code number(s). On weekends, holidays and during the evening hours, you must call the hospital operator directly at 508-363-5000 and supply her with your parish code(s). For those parishes that have been merged or renamed, you will have to use multiple code numbers in order to obtain a thorough listing of your parishioners. For patients who have invoked patient confidentiality, in accord with legal requirements, these names will not be available to you.
DAILY MASS ON TV AND THE INTERNETTune in on Monday through Friday on Charter TV3 on channel 193 at 9 am for the local Daily Mass on cable celebrated by various priests from around our diocese. Also airs at 4:30 pm in Shrewsbury on Ch. 28, and 5 pm in Clinton area on Ch. 8.
INTERESTED IN LEARNING HOW TO HELP IN TV MINISTRY?Whether you like to operate a camera, or would like to learn audio controls or even how to produce, we have a place for you in TV Ministry. We will train – all you need is a desire to learn and some free time. Call Steve at 508-791-203 9 or email tvmass@charter.net for more information. Great service opportunity for high school or college students and retirees alike!
REDUCED-FEE LEGAL SERVICES IN WORCESTER
The Worcester County Bar Association has a Reduced Fee Program where household income exceeds the requirements for free legal assistance but makes hiring an attorney unfeasible. You must be a Worcester County resident and legal services include bankruptcy, mortgage foreclosures, wills, divorces, custody and evictions. Call 800-622-9700 800-622-9700 for more information, indicating your interest in the Reduced Fee Program.UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON ONLINE LEARNING (DIOCESAN PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM)
Have you ever had a desire to expand your knowledge of the faith in areas such as Scripture, Liturgy and Worship, Prayer and Spirituality, Sacraments, Creed, or Church History? Check out the on-line courses available to adults through our Diocesan Partnership Program with U Dayton and the Virtual Community for Faith Formation. You can receive a substantial discount while learning in your own space during your personal hours of availability. If you have any questions, please call Barbara Ramian at 508-929-4308.
PROJECT RACHEL CAN HELP WITH THE PAIN OF A PAST ABORTION
Hurting from a past abortion? We can help. Project Rachel is the Catholic Church’s ministry of healing and reconciliation to those who have been wounded by abortion. Our services are free and strictly confidential. Call Project Rachel at (508) 791-HOPE.
FERTILITY CARE PROGRAM
There is an alternative to artificial methods of birth control and IVF. Learn about The Creighton Model System of FertilityCare, the reproductive science that is 99% effective to avoid pregnancy, highly effective to achieve pregnancy and offers couples who are experiencing infertility hope to achieve their dream of pregnancy without artificial reproductive technologies. This is accomplished while following the teachings of the church. To learn more about the program contact Barbara Meier, RN, FertilityCare Practitioner at 609-457-0108 609-457-0108 or fertilitycare@ymail.com.
CAR DONATION PROGRAM
Did you know you can donate your car, truck, motorcycle or boat to Catholic Charities and help us help your Worcester County neighbors? It’s quick and easy to do. Just visit our website to donate your vehicle online atwww.ccworc.org or call 1-888-CAR-7308 1-888-CAR-7308 to arrange a convenient pickup time and confirmation of your donation from Catholic Charities Donation Angel Program. The car in your driveway can help us to continue to offer many services to children, families and elders in our community so that they may regain home for a brighter future. Thank you!Mental Health Providers Directory
An extensive directory of mental health providers in Worcester who serve children and families, as well as bilingual providers, is available from the Worcester Community Action Council, Main St. Worcester.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.