From Our Pastor ~ October 2, 2016

From Our Pastor ~ October 2, 2016

Dear Folks,

One change this weekend in the manner in which we distribute Holy Communion. When you come up the center aisle, there will only be the 2 priests or Extraordinary Ministers at the head of the aisle. There will no longer be 2 extra stations at the busier masses. The reason for this in order to simplify communion and help the area where you receive to be free of last second distractions and decisions.

Over the years I have observed that when the faithful are faced with a last second decision (go to this communion station or that one), it proves for many to be a  distraction from the singular purpose for which they have come forward: focussing on Jesus and the reverent reception of Holy communion. I see people hesitate, and do stutter steps, or have to tuck their shoulder in to slip by the person receiving from the other station.

This will have some effect on the length of our communion time, but less dramatic than you might expect. Eliminating these spots will likely add a minute or two, but I will always prioritize devout reception of communion over speeding up Mass. Having met last weekend with the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, this change is effective this weekend going forward.

Additionally, I will be meeting with the Usher Coordinator and the Head Ushers of each Mass to see if other changes to the manner of distributing communion might help with the flow of traffic. I have asked them to keep an eye on how this works, until we can meet to discuss and I can get their input.

Additionally, this is the last weekend where Maura Harrison serves as our bulletin editor. She has graciously served the parish and edited this beautiful bulletin for more than 2 years. We thank her and wish her abundant blessings!

pax,

Signature

 

 

Fr. Mosimann

From Our Pastor ~ September 26, 2016

From Our Pastor ~ September 26, 2016

Dear Folks,

I meant to put this in the bulletin last weekend for Parish Life Weekend. However, I realized that this Sunday is Commitment Weekend, so maybe it’s a better fit here! If you are reading this over a cup of coffee at IHOP, then you may have already signed up for a new ministry. But for all of you who read the bulletin during Mass: purely for your entertainment, not to be actually used by anyone, here are this year’s top excuses given for not committing to serve:

  • “I was busy texting during Mass, what are you talking about?”
  • “I am busy with Destiny’s Rise of Iron.” (Sorry, inside joke for a few geeks like me).
  • “If I sit in the back of the Church and Father can’t see me…. then he isn’t speaking to me.”
  • “A unicorn told me to chill out this year.”
  • “If there isn’t an iPhone app for it, I don’t do it.”
  • “If I can get past Father’s gaze, I won’t feel guilty about doing nothing.”
  • “I love volunteering, especially when others do it.”
  • “I have no worries, and no responsibilities.”
  • “I see these appeals every year, why rush?”
  • “I had a vision of Jesus, he told me to pick up my pillow and follow Him.”

with a smile,

Signature

 

 

Fr. Mosimann

Express Announcements ~ September 25, 2016

Express Announcements ~ September 25, 2016

* This weekend is Stewardship Commitment Weekend. Please prayerfully consider how you can get involved with our parish community and share your talents and gifts with others. Please see pages 9-10 for the Commitment Card.

* The traditional blessing of animals for the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi will take place on Saturday, October 1 at 10am in the parking lot at the statue of St. Francis in front of the Parish Office Building. Please park away from the building to allow space for our “rambunctious” pets. Please also come prepared to clean up after your pet in case of “accidents.” All animals should be contained or leashed.

* Next Sunday, October 2, is Respect Life Sunday. Saint Mary Parish will again participate in the Annual Life Chain. We will meet in the Parish Life Center at 2pm to pick up our signs and walk up to Route 1, where we will form a chain along Route 1 from Route 3 to College Avenue. lease join us and take a stand for the unborn.

* The Saint Mary Choir’s Cabaret Night fundraiser, featuring lively music and silent auction is Saturday, October 15 at 7:30pm at Holy Cross Academy. Tickets are $50. Buy tickets after Mass, at the parish office or by calling Joyce O’Toole at 540-371-2365.