PASTORS CORNER…

Action has always been part of witness to Christ. In our words and in our deeds we seek to allow the Risen Lord to live in and through us. Of course, that is easier said than done. I know that in my examination of conscience the Holy Spirit causes me to be aware that there are times when I am not allowing the message of the Christ to live in and through me. Sometimes it can be because I am more concerned about what others think rather than giving clear witness to the truth as God reveals it. As Christians we are called to a higher order and are given the great gift of grace to assist us in being faithful.

History has certainly shown that some who have claimed to be living in union with Christ have been revealed to be anything but. Sometimes the words and actions of Christians drive people away from the message of Christ rather than drawing them closer. During this season of Lent it is healthy to examine how it is we are living our Christian life. Ideally, we are to live with such hope and joy that we can draw others to desire from Christ what they see in us.

I dare say however, that even when we try hard there are some who are less than convinced that they belong to or need to be part of the life of the Church. For many of us we don’t have to look too far outside our own families to find non-practicing Catholics. For some, this is of great worry and concern. Sometimes we can know their reasons and at other times it is a subject that we are uncomfortable in addressing too often. We certainly try not to alienate members of our own families and within our circle of acquaintances by badgering them about going to church.

Recently, I came across a letter which very honestly addresses the issue. I have placed 2 copies of the letter in each bulletin. I invite you to identify and share this letter with someone you know who does not go to church anymore but perhaps who once did. Maybe even share it with someone who never has gone to church just for their thought and reflection. The letter enables you to evangelize, to invite and to reclaim for Christ which is part of our vocation as witnesses to His love. Go ahead. If nothing else it may start an important conversation. You may even be responsible for opening someone to a beautiful relationship of faith. Fearful or hesitant? Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you to the most receptive heart.

Peace,

Father Richard

MEMORIALS

The Vigil Light is given in Memory of Frank Venito by Theresa & Bob.

REQUIESCAT IN PACE

Please remember in your prayers the soul of Michael Lasalandra, whom the Lord has called out of this life to Himself. May he rest in the eternal peace of Christ.

PARISH INCOME

February 28, 2010........$ 10, 409

Thank you for your generosity.

The estimated weekly cost of running the parish is

$13,500 for this fiscal year of 2009/2010.

Holy Silence. "Can you hear God?" Listen... The children about to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time and their families were so quiet you could've heard a pin drop as our visitor Fr. Victor Shoemaker invited them to a few moments of stillness. It is in stillness and silence that we can hear the voice of God speaking to us. Lent is the perfect time to practice silence and focus on Christ. Even if it's just 5, 10 or 20 minutes a day, giving God the gift of your "silent love" may help make your Lent a more peaceful one.

The 10th session of the series will take place on Sunday, March 7th, 2010.  The topic will be: The Sacrifice of Christ and what it means to the salvation of the world.  The sessions are also open to adults who want to grow in their faith. Each session begins at 6:30PM and ends at 8PM.

The 10th grade Confirmation retreat will take place on Friday evening, March 12th and Saturday, March 13th. Please keep the candidates in your prayers.

If you are reading this bulletin or a copy of The Beacon in church please take it with you afterwards. Please do not leave them in the pews for others to clean up. Thank you.

FROM THE PRICIPAL’S DESK

Dear Parishioners:

The children are preparing for Easter making their prayer pots and doing daily good deeds. The third grade will be collecting food for the food bank starting March 8th. If you wish to make a donation please drop it off during school hours (7:30A.M. -3:00P.M.) Second grade received First Reconciliation last week and will continue their preparation for their First Eucharist. The alumni committee is looking for new members to work with the existing group. If you are interested in possibly joining the alumni group come to a meeting being held on March 23rd at 7:00P.M. in the school. If you have any questions please call me at school 973-334-2777. Please keep us in your prayers and we will continue to keep you in ours.   

God bless,

Gladys

LECTORS AND ALTAR SERVERS NEEDED

If you are comfortable speaking in front of others, have the ability to be articulate and a desire to proclaim the Word of God at Mass please consider the ministry of Lector.

If you are in grades 3 and above with a desire to serve the Lord at Mass please consider becoming an Altar Server. Please contact the parish office in order that training sessions may be set up.

READINGS FOR THE WEEK

Sunday: Ex 3:1-8a, 13-15; 1 Cor 10:1-6, 10-12; Lk 13:1-9

Monday: 2 Kgs 5:1-15b; Lk 4:24-30

Tuesday: Dn 3:25, 34-43; Mt 18:21-35

Wednesday: Dt 4:1, 5-9; Mt 5:17-19

Thursday: Jer 7:23-28; Lk 11:14-23

Friday: Hos 14:2-10; Mk 12:28-34

Saturday: Hos 6:1-6; Lk 18:9-14

RESPECT FOR LIFE – A REFLECTION

"I think it is vital that society understands and appreciates the sanctity of every human life whether it is a developing child in the womb or somebody approaching the end of their life. When I graduate and become a doctor I am hoping to be able to use my skills to help save lives. I think abortion is never the answer and hope that one day, as a doctor, I will be able to help women to make the right decision." Siobhan Fearon, 19, of Hull York Medical School

FATHER HINDS REMEMBRANCE BOOK

We have loved them in life; let us not forget them in death – St. Ambrose

The words of St. Ambrose are significant. In our fleeting world it is sometimes easy to forget and the memory of loved ones who have passed from this world should be maintained. If you would like to contribute a story, photo or other special memory of how the life and ministry of Fr. Hinds impacted you please email it to Fran or Jack Mesagno at fran12jack@earthlink.net or jmesagno@yahoo.com.

or drop it off or mail it to the rectory:

Father Hinds Remembrance Book

910 Birch St.

Boonton, NJ 07005

We would like to have all remembrances submitted by the middle of April so that we can publish it for the anniversary of Fr. Hind’s priestly ordination in May.

DEEPEST THANKS

For the past few months, we have called upon our friends to pray for our daughter, Denise. Thank you so much and your prayers are working. Denise has found two doctors who are willing to treat her rare tumor. They are very positive. She has a very long road ahead of her but she is confident that she will be okay. Please continue to pray for her.

Thank you and God Bless You,

Leon & Mary Anne Doty

CHANGE FOR HAITI

During the Lenten season a container will be in the vestibule to receive change (coins) which at the end of Lent will be counted and sent to CRS for continuing aid in Haiti.

OPERATION RICE BOWL

The Burning Bush and the Call of Moses. Today we hear the call of Moses to lead his people from oppression to freedom. God promises to be with them as they journey to a new life. Our participation in Catholic Relief Services' Operation Rice Bowl unites us in prayer, fasting, and giving with the millions of people throughout the world who are oppressed by poverty, injustice, war, disease, and lack of education and other opportunities.

MINISTRY SCHEDULE FOR

 March 13-14, 2010

5:15PM

Priest: Fr. Richard Carton

Lector: Monica Scozzafava

Altar Servers: Frances Barr, Daniel DeGroot

Eucharistic Ministers: Brian & Mary Shortall, Barbara Galluzzi

7:30AM

Priest: Fr. Richard Carton

Lector:  Dot Fuerherm

Altar Servers: Luke & Katherine Cicala

Eucharistic Ministers: Lucille Rockis, Melissa Beiermeister, Louise DiCarlo

9:00AM

Priest: Fr. Richard Carton

Lector: Lauren Mesagno

Altar Servers: Jacob Kondroski, Danny Crochery

Eucharistic Ministers:Betty Rutan, Mary Jo Wildey, Vivien Retano

11:15AM

Priest: Fr. Thomas Fallone

Lector: Lucille Scerbo

Altar Servers: Antonio & Renato DiBonaventura, John Hughes, Isabella DiGiacopo

Eucharistic Ministers: Frank DeLuca, Pat Hughes, Kathy DeMare, Marie LaHaye, Marcia Snyder, Priscilla Ortiz

FROM THE THRIFT SHOP

Donations of household items in useable, complete sets are accepted, i.e. glasses, dishes. Please bring

items during store hours only  Tuesday , Thursday, or Saturday  10-2PM. Thank you.

“CABIN FEVER” THEATRE FUNDRAISER

Boonton H.S. Class of 2010 Project Graduation Committee presents a benefit performance of the hilarious comedy, Epic Proportions, at The Barn Theatre, 32 Skyline Drive, Montville on Thursday, March 25, 2010.  The fun begins at 7 p.m. with a wine & cheese reception at 7 p.m. and the curtain goes up at 8 p.m.  Tickets are $25 General Admission or $20 for Students.  Proceeds to benefit the BHS Class of 2010 Project Graduation celebration in June.  For tickets or further info, contact Claudia Metz at 973-263-8863. 

THE SEASON OF LENT 2010

DAILY MASS SCHEDULE IN LENT: Monday through Friday Masses will be celebrated at 8AM and at 12:05

EACH FRIDAY IN LENT: Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament after 8AM Mass until 6PM. At 6PM sung Evening Prayer and Benediction followed by Stations of the Cross.

LENTEN BOOK CLUB: Discussion led by Fr. Richard on the writings of Fr. Ronald Rolheiser in his book, The Holy Longing. Sessions will meet on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-9 or on Thursday morning from 10:00 ending at 11:45 for Mass at 12:05. Feel free to join either session. In preparation for the 2nd session participants are asked to read Part 1 (pages 20-41).

THE SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION is offered in every parish of our diocese on Mondays during Lent beginning on February 22 from 7-8:30. This is aimed primarily for those who have been away from the church and the sacraments. While it may not be you encourage someone who you know would benefit.

BIBLE STUDY will continue on Tuesday evening during Lent from 7:30 -9 where our attention will turn to the Sunday Scripture readings at Mass for the coming weekend.