Mass. Citizens for Life Mother’s Day Dinner – Pioneer Valley Mass. Citizens for Life’s 43rd Annual Mother’s Day Dinner will be Thursday, May 11, 2017 at Chez Josef in Agawam. The event will start with a social hour at 5:45 p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m. Tickets are $50. The speaker will be Dr. Joel Brind, professor of human biology and endocrinology at Baruch College, who will speak on “The Correlation between Abortion and Break Cancer”. To purchase tickets, please call the Pioneer Valley office at 413-583-5034. Proceeds of the dinner fund the Ludlow office.

 

 

+ Parish Schedule for the Week of April 30, 2017 +

Sunday, April 30 [Third Sunday of Easter]:

   8:00 am – Health and Blessings for the Rose-Fish Family – int. Mazzer Family

 10:30 am + Mary & Andrew Kazanowski – int. daughter, Connie and grandson, Andrew

Monday, May 1 [St. Joseph the Worker]:   

   8:00 am – Grace and Blessings for Michael Kokoszka – int. Elizabeth Mazzer

Tuesday, May 2 [St. Athanasius]: 

   5:30 pm – Grace and Blessings for Betty Fritz – int. Filipi Family

Wed., May 3 [St. Jude Novena / Sts. Philip and James / Bd. Stanislaus Kazimerczyk]:

   5:30 pm – Grace and Blessings for Wid Perry – int. OLC C.C.D. Program

Thursday, May 4 [St. Florian / Bd. Michael Giedroyc]:

   5:30 pm –Grace and Blessings for Al and Cathy Becklo – int. Filipi Family

First Friday, May 5:

  5:30 pm – Health and Blessings for Sr. Agnes Loretta and Sarah Garrepy – int.

Pelc Family

Recitation of the Litany to the Sacred Heart of Jesus will follow Mass

First Saturday, May 6:

The Holy Rosary will be recited before Mass, Exposition of the

Blessed Sacrament, Litany of Loreto and Benediction following Mass

   8:00 am – Health and Blessings for the Filipi Family – int. Mazzer Family

   4:00 pm + Catherine Hieronymus – int. Filipi Family

    6:00 pm (Spanish) – For our Parish and Parishioners

Sunday, May 7 [Fourth Sunday of Easter]:

   8:00 am – Brendan Enwright and Family – int. Filipi Family

 10:30 am – Living and departed members of the Holy Rosary Society

+ Królowo Polski Módl Się za Nami +

MONDAY, MAY 1^st is the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker focusing on the dignity of labor through the humility of St. Joseph.  He will be remembered in the Mass at 8:00 a.m.

TUESDAY, MAY 2^nd is the Feast of St. Athanasius the Bishop of Alexandria and a great champion of orthodox teaching in the Church.  He suffered greatly for his defense of the truth.  He will be remembered in the Mass at 5:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 3^rd is the Feast of St. Philip and St. James the Apostles.  St. Philip after preaching the gospel was crucified and St. James was beaten to death in Jerusalem for his Faith.  They will be remembered in the Mass at 5:30 a.m.

FRIDAY, MAY 5^th is the First Friday of the Month in honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.  The Mass of the Sacred Heart will be offered at 5:30 p.m. followed by the Litany of the Sacred Heart.  Confessions will be heard starting at 5:00 p.m.

SATURDAY, MAY 6^th is the First Saturday of the Month in honor of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.  The devotions will begin with Mass at 8:00 a.m. followed by Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Holy Rosary and Benediction.  Confessions will be available at 7:30 a.m.

THE HOLY ROSARY SOCIETY will gather as a body for the 10:30 a.m. Mass on Sunday, May 7^th.  Following the Mass they will have a meeting with a pot luck dinner in the church undercroft.  At 2:00 p.m. they will gather again in the church for May devotions with the Rosary and Benediction.

 

LADIES OF OUR PARISH interested in joining the Sisterhood of the Holy Rosary Society are invited to our meeting on Sunday, May 7^th in the morning following the 10:30 Mass in the church undercroft.  The Holy Rosary Society meets four times a year and is involved in charitable and spiritual activities throughout the year.  There are also many spiritual benefits to membership.

Monastic Experience Weekend – St. Mary’s Monastery, a contemplative monastery of Benedictine monks set in a forested area in Petersham, Mass., is offering a Monastic Experience Weekend for young Catholic men aged 18-40 from June 2-4, 2017.  Men will participate in the monks’ daily balance of prayer, work and study, and will have the opportunity to speak with those who have been called to this vocation.  Contact: Fr. Gregory at 978-724-3350 or monks@stmarysmonastery.org.  ww.stmarysmonastery.org.

MAY 3^rd IS THE FEAST of Our Lady, Queen of the Crown of Poland.  The Virgin Mary, always dear to the Polish people is honored especially in the month of May which is dedicated to her.  There are special ceremonies, processions, coronations, and prayers for this month.  Her altars and shrines, both indoors and outdoors are beautifully decorated and tended.  It is a Polish family custom to set up a shrine to Mary in the home or garden and of keeping fresh flowers and candles around it as a sign of petition and in gratitude for Our Lady’s prayers.

            In 1655 Poland was attacked and nearly crushed by Swedish, Turkish, German and Cossack armies.  The only stronghold was the great monastery of Our Lady of Czestochowa on Jasna Gora.  After the miraculous defense of Czestochowa and the expulsion of the enemy, King John II Casimir made a solemn vow to the Virgin Mary proclaiming her as the QUEEN OF THE POLISH CROWN:  “Great Mother of God made Man, most Holy Virgin, I, King John Casimir, lie prostrate at your feet.  I take you as my patron and the Queen of my nations and my Kingdom, commending my troops and people of all estates to your special care and protection.”

            It is interesting to note that from the date of this vow every Polish king made a holy pilgrimage to Częstochowa to pray before the miraculous icon of Our Lady of Jasna Gora immediately after their coronation – all, that is, except for the unfortunate last king of Poland who seemed to ignore the custom, and who eventually lost his crown when Poland lost her freedom.

MAY 3^rd IS THE DAY OF THE GREAT Polish Constitution called simply the Constitution of May 3^rd (1791).  It was the first democratic constitution in Europe which won the admiration of the world with its spirit of freedom, reform and brotherhood.  Unfortunately democracy was seen as a threat to the royalty who surrounded Poland and soon they banded together to crush this noble effort.  Austria, Germany and Russia formed an “Unholy Alliance” in order to eliminate Poland and democracy from the map of Europe.  Poland might have survived a war of one or maybe even two fronts but three armies proved too much for even the best of troops and Poland ceased to exist officially for almost 100 years on June 25, 1795.

MAY 4^th IS THE FEAST of Bd. Michael Giedroyc who died in 1485.  He was a holy monk who lived in the monastery of Our Lady of Metro at Kraków.  He lived a life of heroic simplicity and mortification.  His life was one of continual prayer and sacrifice.  He lived in a cell so small that he could scarcely lie down, leaving only to go to church.

            His austerities were hard but he never relaxed them in illness or in his old age.  He was consoled by Jesus who spoke to him from a crucifix and he also had the gifts of miracles and prophecy.

MAY 4^th IS THE FEAST of St. Florian, the early Christian martyr and the patron of the city of Krakow.  St. Florian was an officer of the Roman army who suffered death for his faith in 304.  He was cruelly tortured, being twice scourged, skinned alive and then drowned.

            In 1138 Pope Lucius III gave the relics of St. Florian to King Casimir for the city of Krakow (then the capital of Poland).  Many miracles of healings are attributed to his intercession and St. Florian is invoked as a powerful protector of those in danger from fire or water.  In addition to being the patron of Krakow, St. Florian is also the patron of firemen everywhere.

MAY DEVOTIONS in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary will take place Sunday, May 7^th at 2:00 p.m.  Benediction and the Holy Rosary will be included.

THE MAY CROWNING of the Blessed Virgin Mary will take place at the 10:30 a.m. Mass on Sunday, May 7^th.

MOTHER’S DAY CARDS for our annual Mother’s Day Novena of Masses which will begin on Saturday, May 14^th are presently available in the front vestibule.  The Novena will continue for nine days of Masses for all Mothers living and departed.

ALL CHILDREN OF OUR PARISH MAKING their First Communion will make their confession on Saturday, May 13^th at 9:00 a.m.  This will be followed by a rehearsal and a party.  The children will receive their First Holy Communion on Sunday, May 14^th at the 10:30 a.m. Mass.   Pray for our children who for the first time will receive Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament into their hearts to be their Lord and Savior now and forever their friend and companion through life and eternity.  The children who be making their First Communion next Sunday are:  Natalia Blanchard, Veronica Cottrill, Austin Drowski, Bryce Drowski, Joshua Filipi, Lorelai Galway, Mary Gilbert, Liam Hart, Florian Jaracz, Michael Korpiewski, John Ramirez Martin, Vivienne Soucy and Ella Tidlund.

Last day for Catechism classes – Sunday, May 21^st

Parents are encouraged to continue a program of prayer and Sacraments

with their children.  It’s a matter of eternal life or eternal death.

MOTHER’S DAY ROSES FOR LIFE – On Mothers’ Day weekend, May 14^th and 15^th, roses will be available at the doors of the church to benefit the Pro-Life cause in Franklin County.  Donations will be $3.00 per rose / $30 per dozen.  All proceeds to benefit pro-life events throughout the year.

You are invited to a Celebration of Thomas Aquinas College’s New England Campus

 and The Moody Center as they mark the official receiving of Northfield Campus

(formerly Northfield Seminary for Girls and Northfield Mount Hermon School)

Tuesday, May 2, 2017 3:00 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. Northfield Campus Auditorium

231 Main Street, Northfield. Reception following under the canopy.Please note: May 2^nd events with Thomas Aquinas College officials will include an 8:30 a.m. Mass at St. Patrick’s, Northfield with Celebrant Fr. Ryan Rooney.  All are welcome.

The “Teresians” – We know you have been reading about our new ministry the “Teresians”.  As we have said there is NO commitment.  We will notify everyone on the ministry list (via email) when someone is sick and in need of prayer or a visit OR dying and in need of prayer or a visit OR died and the funeral details.  It will be up to each individual/family to decide how they can minister.  No one is expected to respond to each need. If any parishioner knows of someone in need, please email Joy Pelc (rjpelc@comcast.net) and Nancy Faller (nafaller@aol.com), so we can get the word out.  Father will be in charge of letting us know about funerals. Thank you for your help! Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Pray for us. Dear Lord, the Great Healer, I kneel before You.  Since every perfect gift must come from You. I pray, give kindness and meekness to my heart, clear vision to my mind, and skill to my hands.  (Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta)

FATIMA 101 – A Lady dressed in white who said she was from Heaven.  Who was she?  What did she say?  What really happened?  What does it mean for us today?  Join us on Friday, May 5^th from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Church, 1900 Allen St., Springfield for an introduction to the apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima for the 100^th Anniversary.

THE FOLLOWING MASS INTENTIONS have been sent to various Missionaries.  They will be offered as follows and you may attend the Masses here in our church as the Missionaries offer the Masses in their churches.

Sun., April 30: 8:00 – Health and Blessings for Mathew Mielke – int. Nina Johnson

                          10:30 – Grace and Blessings for Fr. Charles Di Mascola – int. Nancy Faller

Monday, May 1: + George & Dorothy Piecuch – int. niece, Carol

Tuesday, May 2: – Living and departed members of the Seago Family – int. Betty Fritz

Wed., May 3: – Grace and Blessings for Fr. Seán O’Mannion – int. Nancy Faller

Thursday, May 4: + Mary Garmalo – int. Nancy Faller

Friday, May 5: – Living and departed members of the Seago Family – int. Betty Fritz

Saturday, May 6: 8:00 – Grace and Blessings for Donald Trump – int. Nancy Faller

                               4:00 + Mary R. Di Mascola – int. Son

PLEASE NOTE:  The above Masses not only assist the souls for whom they are offered, but they also help the Missionaries who often times receive very little help.  It also helps the people where the Masses are offered.  Bóg wam zapłać

Two Pilgrimages to World Meeting of Families – The World Meeting of Families will be held in Dublin, Ireland from August 21-26, 2018.  Two great pilgrimages (8 or 12 day) are planned which include daily Mass and visits to numerous shrines (Knock, St. Peter, Nat’l. Shrine to St. Oliver Plunkett, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, St. Valentine, Venerable Matt Talbot, Tomb of Venerable John Sullivan, depending on which pilgrimage you choose) and many places of interest.  For more information contact Grand View Tours at (610-361-7979), visit http://www.catholicsindublin.com, or contact Fr. Jonathan Reardon at Holy Family Parish in So. Deerfield (665-3254).

 

Tag, Rummage, Book, Plant and Bake Sale – The Holy Trinity Rosary Society will hold a tag, rummage, book, plant and bake sale on Friday, May 5^th from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and on Saturday, May 6^th from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Holy Trinity Church in Greenfield.  Saturday only $1.00 bag sale begins at noon.  Lunch will be available.

K of C Fourth Annual Charity Golf Tournament – The Greenfield Knights of Columbus, Council #133, are looking for golfers and sponsors for their fourth annual charity golf tournament to be held on Friday, May 26^th at Crumpin-Fox golf course in Bernardston.  Crumpin-Fox was recently voted by Golf Advisor as one of the top 50 courses in the country!  The event will be an 18-hole, 4-person scramble with tee advantages for senior golfers.  The entry fee of $110 includes green fees, carts, lunch and dinner.  Two raffles and a silent auction will be held and include:  $1,000 cash, Cleary Jewelry, four Red Sox tickets, 3-day Cape Cod vacation, Crumpin-Fox golf certificates, sports memorabilia, a Broadway show package and much, much more.  Pioneer Volvo is sponsoring a “Hole-in-One” contest for a chance to win a new car.  The proceeds from the event will be used to fund a number of worthy causes in Greenfield and Franklin County.  For more information, call Jason Semaski (413) 626-3378, Bob Wanczyk (413) 774-2465, or Lou Grader (413) 774-2848.

PLEASE MARK YOUR 2017 CALENDARS!!! We are doing four Community Meals in 2017: Wednesday, June 7; Wednesday, September 13 and Wednesday December 6. As you can see, the first one is coming up quickly!   We are responsible for the main meal, breads, beverages and dessert and a small group of volunteers to help serve the meal, which takes place at the Second Congregational Church in Greenfield. There will be a sign-up sheet in the front vestibule with aluminum pans for your convenience for our dinner on June 6^th.   Please contact Cathy Becklo at 413-863-2267 or at acbecklo@comcast.net if you would like more information or have any questions. Thank you for all the wonderful effort that keeps this program running so beautifully!

 AS OUR GARDENS burst into bloom, please remember the altars in our church.  All flowers are gladly accepted to decorate our altars.  Please let Mary Kobera know what you have and when you will be bringing them so she can arrange the altars to glorify God and beautify the Mass.

Spring Sock-A-Thon – Many charitable organizations in town receive donations of clothing for the needy, but the item they need the most and receive the least is socks.  Be a good “sole” and donate a pair of new socks to keep the feet of those less fortunate warm and dry!  There will be boxes available in the church on the weekend of May 20-21 for your donations.  Thank you!

Our parish has a Prayer Line under the patronage of the Sacred Heart of Jesus which is available for anyone.  To utilize the Prayer Line simply call 413-259-7571 or email nan6539@gmail.com to leave a message with your intention and over 25 intercessors will pray for your intention daily.

Fatima Vision Reminds Us of St. Joseph’s Patronage

Model of fatherhood linked to Marian apparitions.

Joseph Pronechen

 

     With the 100^th Anniversary of Fatima, many people have heard about the “Miracle of the Sun” in the October 1917 apparition. But few realize that St. Joseph appeared in that vision.

     Servant of God Lucia Santos, the longest living visionary of Fatima, described the blessed appearance in her Memoirs: “After Our Lady had disappeared into the immense distance of the firmament, we beheld St. Joseph with the Child Jesus and Our Lady robed in white with a blue mantle, beside the sun. St. Joseph and the Child Jesus seemed to bless the world, for they traced the Sign of the Cross with their hands.”

     “It reiterates the importance of St. Joseph’s role within the Church,” explained Mike Wick, executive director of the Institute on Religious Life, of St. Joseph’s appearance. As a husband and father, Wick finds that St. Joseph’s presence in the apparition “says so much for our world today. He’s the silent giant, the forgotten friend who is constantly present.”

     In Corcoran, Minnesota, Brian Holt looks to St. Joseph as a model for being a husband and father. He and his wife, Marylou, have eight children ranging in age from 8 to 26.

     “My favorite daily prayer for years before work is the ‘Workman’s Prayer to St. Joseph,’” Holt said, adding that the family also prays the Rosary ahead of home-schooling each day.

     Holt has been trying to follow Joseph’s saintly example when teaching work skills to his children, too. For this year’s winter project, he worked with three of his sons in remodeling a part of their home. “I’m teaching them skills so that when they’re heads of their own families, they can take care of themselves,” explained Holt, who builds furniture, too. “The skills, the health, and motivation comes from God. The ability to serve comes from God. To have work to do is a blessing.”

     Wick said his favorite title for Joseph is “patron of the present moment” — to live the present moment taking on the grace God gives you to fulfill the duty and the vocation you’re called, “quietly and subtly as Joseph did.”

     The Holy Family’s presence at the last Fatima apparition is a timely reminder for today’s families, believes Wick. “We need this today in families — the reflection of what the Church is to be, the family of God. Joseph being head of the Holy Family gives us great instruction to what God’s plan is to be.”

     “St. Joseph was teaching and reflecting the image of the fatherhood of God” in his role as head of the Holy Family, Wick added.

     Thus, Fatima, for all of its other meanings, also is a reminder of the importance of fatherhood.

     “The fatherhood of St. Joseph, as with all human fathers, is a reflection in a creature of the fatherhood of God the Father,” emphasized Msgr. Joseph Cirrincione in his 1989 booklet St. Joseph, Fatima and Fatherhood. “[T]he vision of St. Joseph and the Infant Jesus blessing the world, with Mary by the side of the sun, which has not left its place, is God’s assurance that although man may reject him, God will never reject man.”

     When the peaceful family scene is disrupted by the sun’s gyrations during the Miracle of the Sun, Msgr. Cirrincione sees “an ominous foreshadowing of the consequences for the world, which are sure to be felt if the true fatherhood of God and the traditional strong role of the father of the family are rejected by mankind.”

     He added: “The Miracle of the Sun represents not so much a threat of evils to come as it does a foreshadowing of the dethronement of God the Father and an intimation of the appalling consequences to follow.”

     Msgr. Cirrincione explained, “Since human fatherhood, as a reflection of the fatherhood of God, was designed to be the pillar of the family, the disappearance of esteem for fatherhood has led to the collapse of that pillar and to the disintegration of the family.”     Wick agreed: “The presence of Joseph especially at Fatima is a reminder God the Father is looking for us, waiting for us to return to the Lord. Joseph, just like Mary, plays the part of the missionary.”

     Looking to St. Joseph, the patron of the universal Church, is key for his March feast day and beyond — as Pope Leo XIII reminded the faithful.

     Pope Leo XIII consecrated October to Our Lady of the Rosary — the title Mary would later call herself at Fatima — and in his 1889 encyclical Quamquam Pluries (Devotion to St. Joseph), Pope Leo asked “for the Christian people continually to invoke, with great piety and trust, together with the Virgin Mother of God, her chaste Spouse, the Blessed Joseph.”

     Because it was of “high importance that the devotion to St. Joseph” was included in the daily practices of Catholics, Leo prescribed and provided a prayer to St. Joseph to be recited after the Rosary during October.

     Keeping the holy example of St. Joseph in mind is a key part of Catholic devotion.

     As Pope Leo wrote:  “The Blessed Patriarch looks upon the multitude of Christians who make up the Church as confided specially to his trust – this limitless family spread over the

earth, over which, because he is the spouse of Mary and that he was reputed the father of Jesus Christ, he holds, as it were, a paternal authority.

     “It is, then, natural and worthy that as the Blessed Joseph ministered to all the needs of the family at Nazareth and girt it about with his protection, he should now cover with the cloak of his heavenly patronage and defend the Church of Jesus Christ.”

     In his book True Story of Fatima, Father John DeMarchi believes similarly, stating, “Our Lord did not come to destroy, but to save. He saved the world that day through the blessing of good St. Joseph and the love of the Immaculate Heart of Mary for her children on earth.”                                                                                   – http://www.ncregister.com

Defending Life – Learn the Church’s teaching about the right to life, and find out what you can do to defend it.  Watch new episodes of “Defending Life” airing on EWTN at 2:30 a.m. on Wednesdays and 11:00 p.m. on Thursdays.  Listen on EWTN Radio Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. and Sundays at 5 a.m. and 1 p.m.  You can also stream EWTN online by going to EWTN.com and then clicking on the “television” tab.  For show topics for each week visit DefendingLife.TV.

THE ST. JUDE NOVENA is offered every Wednesday at the 5:30 p.m. Mass.  All are welcome to participate in these prayers for the intercession of St. Jude, the patron of desperate cases.

Children’s Hour of Adoration – The guided children’s hour of adoration is held on the first Thursday of every month at the Adoration Chapel in Greenfield at 4:00 p.m. Join us on May 4^th.  For more information, call Virginia Christi at 624-3467.

website:  ChroniclesofCzestochowa.wordpress.com  Like us on Facebook

OUR LADY’S HOLY ICON will visit the home of Joanne Dowdy for a week of prayer and petition for the needs of our Parish.  We thank you for this holy work of power and love.

 PRAY FOR VOCATIONS to the Priesthood from our Parish and for our Parish so that we might always have a Priest here to celebrate the Mass and administer the Holy Sacraments!  Please join in the Divine Mercy Chaplet to pray for vocations to the priesthood every Friday beginning at 4:45 p.m.

THE WEEKLY PRO-LIFE NOVENA takes place on Saturday before the 8:00 a.m. Mass begging God for an end to the massacre of the innocents, the violence to women, and protection of the handicapped, the aged and all those who are threatened by the so called choice mentality of our culture.

PERPETUAL ADORATION AT BLESSED SACRAMENT CHURCH in Greenfield has been successfully running since October of 1994.  There has been someone in prayer before our Lord in the Eucharist 24 hours a day, seven days a week since that time.  What an incredible grace for our community!  We are always looking for hour volunteers, someone willing to give just one hour a week to Jesus, and substitutes who would fill in for regular hours when needed.  We will need substitutes more than ever as the summer months (vacations) approach.  If you can help in any way, please call Maureen Filiault at 863-4777

PLEASE DON’T FORGET OUR GROCERIES for the Poor Project!  Many people who are having a hard time come to the Rectory for help.  Please help us to help them.  It is a sad and heartbreaking thing to turn someone away when we run out of groceries!  Any non-perishable items that you can spare will be greatly appreciated – dry milk, canned soups and stews, peanut butter, cereal, baked beans, canned vegetables, canned fruits, crackers, juices, etc.  Please leave them in the front vestibule of the church.

Holy Hour for the Sick and Dying – A Holy Hour is being observed each Wednesday evening at 7:00 p.m. in the Adoration Chapel at Blessed Sacrament Church in Greenfield. Included are the singing of hymns, recitation of the Rosary, and the Chaplet of Divine Mercy for the Sick and the Dying.  The hour concludes with Benediction.  If you know of someone who is ailing and in need of special graces and prayer, please be encouraged to come and spend an hour for his/her intention.  All are welcome.

FREE MINISTRY TO TRAVELING CATHOLICS.  For nationwide Mass Times and locations: call 1-800-Mass-Times (1-800-627-78460 or http://www.Masstimes.org.

Eternal Rest Grant Unto Them O Lord,

And Let Your Perpetual Light Shine Upon Them.

Frank Janek 4/30/1959

John Kuczek 4/30/1966

Mildred F. Potosek 4/30/1988

Chester W. Skowron 4/30/1989

Walter E. Kulesa 4/30/2003

Anne O. Niedbala 4/30/2011

Anna Sikora 5/1/1922

Barbara Kuzawuski 5/1/1924

Michael Mirecki 5/1/1981

Elaine A. Krejmas 5/1/1986

Edward J. Dranzek 5/1/1998

Theodore A. Pluta 5/1/1998

Adeline S. Cislo 5/1/2013

Mary A. Kruczek 5/2/1997

Marguerite A. Zayac 5/2/2004

Francius Putala 5/3/1947

Konstacji Korda 5/3/1955

Konstanty Traczewski 5/3/1955

Dorothy LaMountain 5/3/1993

Boleslaus Grygo 5/4/1934

Josephine Kopec 5/4/1975

Adeline B. Schab 5/4/1991

John J. Yez 5/4/2010

Veronica E. Krol 5/4/2014

Stanislaw Piszkor 5/5/1958

Frank Rudinski 5/5/1963

Mary E. Tucek 5/5/1990

Rosemarie E. Black 5/5/2010

George Kabaniec 5/6/1927

Wojtreck Podosek 5/6/1946

Joseph Pogoda 5/6/1963

Bronislawa Tranowski 5/6/1968

Remember the Holy Souls in Your Prayers

Alternatives Pregnancy Center – Pregnancy Tests, Counseling, Support Services, and Post Abortion Support, All Services Free and Confidential, 466 Main Street, P.O. Box 344, Greenfield, MA  01302-0344 — (413) 774-6010

CHURCH CHOIRS:  The St. Cecilia Choir, which sings at the Sunday 10:30 Mass and other special services, is always seeking additional singers of any experience.  We rehearse every Sunday in the choir loft following the 10:30 Mass, from 11:30 – 12:30.  For information, please see Henry Gaida or e-mail hgaida@gmail.com. The Saint Gregory Choir is accepting new members with any level of experience, adults and youths. One need only have a desire to sing in the Mass. We sing sacred chant and 16^th century sacred polyphony. We meet to rehearse in the choir loft every Friday evening right after Mass or devotions. We sing at the 8:00 Sunday morning Mass.  For more information, call Robert Heath at 772-8738. 

PLEASE NOTE that every day of the month is set aside to pray for a specific priest or deacon of Franklin County.  Please join in dedicating every day to one of the clergymen designated in our calendar.  The intentions for this week are:

 

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Pope Francis	Our Deacon Candidates	Fr. Campoli	Fr. Roux	Msgr. Yargeau	Deacon Rabbitt	Clergy who are sick

THIS BULLETIN is sponsored by the St. Stanislaus and St. Kazimierz Societies.

WORLD WAR I: BEYOND THE FRONT LINES – World War I, fought from 1914-1918, was the modern world’s first international conflict. Approximately 11 million soldiers were killed, and the war’s toll including civilian casualties exceeded 20 million. By Armistice Day, Nov. 11, 1918, more than 116,000 Americans died as a result of the war. Of these, more than 1,600 were Knights of Columbus. Both the first and last American military officers to die during the war were K of C members. The Knights of Columbus Museum in New Haven, Conn. commemorates the 100th anniversary of the United States’ participation in the war with an exhibition, World War I: Beyond the Front Lines (Apr. 6, 2017 – Dec. 30, 2018). The exhibition provides an historical retrospective of the war and includes interactives, images and artifacts from the Knights of Columbus Museum collection, Supreme Council archives and borrowed materials from private lenders and organizations. A series of WWI-related lectures and presentations will be offered throughout the course of the exhibition. For more information, visit http://www.kofcmuseum.org.

+ Parish Schedule for the Week of April 23, 2017 +

Divine Mercy Sunday, April 23:

 8:00 am – Health and Blessings for Richard & Joy Pelc – int. Pelc Children

10:30 am + Larry & Carol Roux and Family – int. Filipi Family

Monday, April 24 [St. Fidelis of Sigmaringen]:   

   8:00 am – Health and Blessings for Mary Kobera – int. Larry & Carol Roux

Tuesday, April 25 [St. Mark the Evangelist]:   

   5:30 pm – Grace and Blessings for Alan Becklo – int. OLC C.C.D. Program

Wednesday, April 26 [St. Jude Novena]:   

   5:30 pm + Patricia Collins – int. Doug & Mary Lynne Brown

Thursday, April 27:   

   5:30 pm – Health and Blessings for Fr. Charles Jan Di Mascola – int. Mazzer Family

Friday, April 28 [St. Peter Chanel / St. Louis Grignion de Montfort]:  

   5:30 pm – Grace and Blessings for Yves Jacques – int. OLC C.C.D. Program

Saturday, April 29 [St. Catherine of Siena]:

  8:00 am – Health and Blessings for Mark & Mary LaCroix – int. Filipi Family

  4:00 pm + John Russell and Family – int. Filipi Family

  6:00 pm (Spanish) – For our Parish and Parishioners

Sunday, April 30 [Third Sunday of Easter]:

  8:00 am – Health and Blessings for the Rose-Fish Family – int. Mazzer Family

10:30 am + Mary & Andrew Kazanowski – int. daughter, Connie and grandson, Andrew

+ Królowo Polski Módl Się za Nami +

Deanery-Wide Divine Mercy Sunday Celebration

The Franklin County Deanery will sponsor a Divine Mercy Celebration on Sunday, April 23rd at Blessed Sacrament Church in Greenfield.  The service will include Benediction, Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Novena Prayer.  All Catholic churches in Franklin County will be participating in this celebration in which great emphasis is being placed on the Eucharist and devotion to our Lord.  Msgr. Ronald Yargeau will be the Celebrant and Fr. Timothy Campoli will preach.

     “A Plenary Indulgence is granted to all faithful and to each individual faithful under the usual conditions (sacramental confession, Eucharistic communion and prayer in keeping with the intentions of the Supreme Pontiff, with the soul completely removed from attachment to any form of sin), each and every time they participate attentively and piously in a sacred function or a devotional exercise undertaken in honor of the Blessed Sacrament, solemnly exposed and conserved in the tabernacle.”

    Confessions will be heard from 1:45 – 3:00 p.m.  The celebration will begin at 3:00 p.m.

SUNDAY, APRIL 23rd is Divine Mercy Sunday.  During the course of Jesus’ revelations to Saint Faustina on the Divine Mercy He asked on numerous occasions that a feast day be dedicated to the Divine Mercy and that this feast be celebrated on the Sunday after Easter.  Concerning the Feast of Mercy Jesus said, “I want to grant complete pardon to the souls that will go to Confession and receive Holy Communion on the Feast of My Mercy.”  (Diary 1109)

MONDAY, APRIL 24th is the Feast of St. Fidelis of Sigmaringen.  He was known as “the poor man’s lawyer” before becoming a Capuchin priest.  He preached throughout Switzerland and died a martyr’s death in 1622.  He will be remembered in the Mass at 8:00 a.m.

TUESDAY, APRIL 25th is the Feast of St. Mark the Evangelist.  He is known as the cousin of St. Barnabas and is associated with St. Paul and St. Peter.  His gospel unfolded and reveals the mystery of a crucified Messiah.  St. Mark was the first Bishop of Alexandria and died a martyr’s death.  He will be remembered in the Mass at 5:30 p.m.  St. Mark is symbolized by a gold winged lion and nimbus on a red field, because he writes of John the Baptist whose voice was like the voice of a lion roaring in the wilderness.

THE ST. JUDE NOVENA is offered every Wednesday at the 5:30 p.m. Mass and all are welcome to come and ask for the help of this saint who is the patron of hopeless cases.

THE GENTLEMEN OF ST. JOSEPH will meet on Wednesday, April 26th at 6:00 p.m. for a Holy Hour with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament followed by a meeting in the undercroft.  The Gentlemen of St. Joseph are a group of men dedicated to answering the call of Mary to lead families to her son, Jesus.  All men are welcome.  Supper is served!

FRIDAY, APRIL 28th is the Feast of St. Louis Mary de Montfort.  A hospital chaplain and the founder of the Congregation of the Daughters of Wisdom and the Missionaries of the Company of Mary, he was an apostolic missionary whose preaching led to a spiritual revival.  He established numerous confraternities to propagate the recitation of the rosary.  His book True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin has influenced many in their spiritual life including Pope John Paul II.  He died in 1716.  

FRIDAY, APRIL 28th is also the Feast of St. Peter Chanel, a French missionary in the New Hebrides.  He established the Church in Oceana by his charity and courage.  He is considered the protomartyr and patron of Oceana.  He will be remembered in the Mass at 5:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, APRIL 29th is the Feast of St. Catherine of Siena, the great mystic and author known as a peace maker and an advocate of renewal in religious life by discipline, obedience, prayer and charity.  She is a Doctor of the Church and the patroness of Italy.  She will be remembered in the Mass at 8:00 a.m.

BABY BOTTLE COLLECTION THIS WEEKEND!  We are collecting the Baby Bottles from the ALTERNATIVES Change for Babies program this weekend.  If you forgot your bottle at home, please bring it next week.  Kindly return all empty bottles as well as full ones!  Questions?  Call Joanne Dowdy 413/498-0241.  Thank you for participating!!

AS OUR GARDENS burst into bloom, please remember the altars in our church.  All flowers are gladly accepted to decorate our altars.  Please let Mary Kobera know what you have and when you will be bringing them so she can arrange the altars to glorify God and beautify the Mass.

MOTHER’S DAY CARDS for our annual Mother’s Day Novena of Masses which will begin on Saturday, May 14th are presently available in the front vestibule.  The Novena will continue for nine days of Masses for all Mothers living and departed.

A Gift for Divine Mercy Sunday

By Chris Sparks (March 30, 2017)

    Do you need a way to drive out the devil? Saint Faustina’s Diary offers some particularly powerful ways to break the traps of Satan and set the captives free.

    One very powerful way to defeat the devil is by celebrating the Feast of Mercy, Divine Mercy Sunday. Many people have heard of the promises attached to Divine Mercy Sunday, coming especially through the Sacraments of Confession and the Eucharist, which set us free from the stain of sin, give us a share in the divine, eternal life of God, and, on Divine Mercy Sunday, also set us free from all temporal punishment due to sin. Knowing this, many people work very hard to have Divine Mercy Sunday properly celebrated in their parishes and dioceses so that as many people as possible may receive the graces God wants so badly to give us all.

    Another important tool for breaking the power of hell involves another essential element of the devotion: the Divine Mercy Image. Jesus said to St. Faustina:

    I want the Image to be solemnly blessed on the first Sunday after Easter, and I want it to be venerated publicly so that every soul may know about it (Diary, 341).

    Now, that sounds like a minor detail, really, a little addition to receiving Holy Communion in the state of grace and doing works of mercy to celebrate the great Feast of Mercy. Right?

    Not according to the Diary.

    When Sr. Faustina convinced Fr. Michael Sopoćko to have the image publicly displayed for the first time in the chapel at Ostra Brama, the Gate of Dawn, in Vilnius on Divine Mercy weekend, 1935, the effects were literally out of this world.

    When the image was displayed, I saw a sudden movement of the hand of Jesus, as He made a large sign of the cross. In the evening of the same day, when I had gone to bed, I saw the image going over the town, and the town was covered with what appeared to be a mesh and nets. As Jesus passed, He cut through all the nets and finally made a large sign of the cross and disappeared. I saw myself surrounded by a multitude of malicious figures burning with hatred for me. Various threats came from their lips, but none of them touched me. After a moment, this apparition vanished, but for a long time I could not get to sleep. (Diary, 416)

    The imagery she saw brings to mind some of the words from the prayer to St. Michael the Archangel: “Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil.” Clearly, obeying Jesus about the display, blessing, and veneration of the image opened the door to Jesus’ powerful action, setting the captives free from all sorts of spiritual traps and snares, driving out the demons from their places of strength and security throughout the town, places where people had allowed hell to act through their sins. Further, the devils were essentially powerless against St. Faustina because she had been obedient to Jesus.

    But there was more:   

    [April] 26. On Friday, when I was at Ostra Brama to attend the ceremony during which the image was displayed, I heard a sermon given by my confessor [Father Sopocko]. This sermon about Divine Mercy was the first of the things that Jesus had asked for so very long ago. When he began to speak about the great mercy of the Lord, the image came alive and the rays pierced the hearts of the people gathered there, but not all to the same degree. Some received more, some less. Great joy filled my soul to see the grace of God. Then I heard the words, You are a witness of My mercy. You shall stand before My throne forever as a living witness to My mercy.

    When the sermon was over, I did not wait for the end of the service, as I was in a hurry to get back home. When I had taken a few steps, a great multitude of demons blocked my way. They threatened me with terrible tortures, and voices could be heard: “She has snatched away everything we have worked for over so many years!” When I asked them, “Where have you come from in such great numbers?” the wicked forms answered, “Out of human hearts; stop tormenting us!”

    Seeing their great hatred for me, I immediately asked my Guardian Angel for help, and at once the bright and radiant figure of my Guardian Angel appeared and said to me, “Do not fear, spouse of my Lord; without His permission these spirits will do you no harm.” Immediately the evil spirits vanished, and the faithful Guardian Angel accompanied me, in a visible manner, right to the very house. His look was modest and peaceful, and a flame of fire sparkled from his forehead. O Jesus, I would like to toil and wear myself out and suffer all my life for that one moment in which I saw Your glory, O Lord, and profit for souls. (Diary, 417-419)

    The image is clearly a tremendous vessel of graces (see Diary, 327), graces that lend power to Fr. Sopoćko’s preaching about Divine Mercy even greater than that already promised by the Lord to the priests who preach about Divine Mercy (see Diary, 1521). Again, demons are displaced. The powers of hell are shaken and removed from their strongholds, driven out of the hearts and lives of the people listening to the words of Blessed Michael Sopoćko.

    And through the faithful response of St. Faustina and Blessed Michael Sopoćko to the call of God to have the image be blessed, displayed, and venerated publicly, graces are given to the entire world:

    Sunday, [April] 28, 1935. 420 Low Sunday; that is, the Feast of The Divine Mercy, the conclusion of the Jubilee of Redemption. When we went to take part in the celebrations, my heart leapt with joy that the two solemnities were so closely united. I asked God for mercy on the souls of sinners. Toward the end of the service, when the priest took the Blessed Sacrament to bless the people, I saw the Lord Jesus as He is represented in the image. The Lord gave His blessing, and the rays extended over the whole world. Suddenly, I saw an impenetrable brightness in the form of a crystal dwelling place, woven together from waves of a brilliance unapproachable to both creatures and spirits. Three doors led to this resplendence. At that moment, Jesus, as He is represented in the image, entered this resplendence through the second door to the Unity within. It is a triple Unity, which is incomprehensible — which is infinity. I heard a voice, This Feast emerged from the very depths of My mercy, and it is confirmed in the vast depths of My tender mercies. Every soul believing and trusting in My mercy will obtain it. I was overjoyed at the immense goodness and greatness of my God. (Diary, 420)

    Now, as we’ve already written elsewhere, we believe that Divine Mercy is the answer to the great and growing evils of our time. One hugely important element to allowing Jesus to triumph over evil in our lives and present times is to welcome His providential action and loving power into our homes, our parishes, and our world through having the Divine Mercy Image on display for Divine Mercy Sunday, publicly blessed, and venerated, according to the writings of St. Faustina. Put an image in your home, using prayers of enthronement and entrustment, welcoming Divine Mercy into the heart of your family, neighborhood, and wider community. Pray for your enemies before it, seeking victory over them through their conversion into brethren in the Lord and friends (see Diary, 48). Ask for every grace and blessing from Jesus, the Divine Mercy, and through trust, draw forth as much grace and strength as your mustard seed of faith will allow (see Diary, 1578).
    Let us obey the call of God, as given through St. Faustina, and so draw forth the many graces needed by our world today. Let us spread the Divine Mercy Image throughout the world, and so open the door even more widely to Jesus’ presence, power, and free action in the darkness of the present day. Let us trust, and win the victory over the world, the flesh, and the devil, all by the grace of God.

    Let us pray, now and always, the words at the bottom of the image, words that sum up the whole of the Christian faith: Jesus, I trust in You.                 www.marian.org

MOVIE NIGHT ON FATIMA – Come with family and friends to see the movie The 13th Day on Saturday, April 29th at 6:30 p.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish Hall, 10 Hawley Street in Northampton.  The 13th Day is the best film ever made about Fatima, the most beautiful and effective, as well as one of the most historically accurate.  Following the movie Fr. Ryan Sliwa will give a talk on “Living the message of Fatima.”  Refreshments will be available.  For more information, call Brenda at (413) 221-4372.

THE FOLLOWING MASS INTENTIONS have been sent to various Missionaries.  They will be offered as follows and you may attend the Masses here in our church as the Missionaries offer the Masses in their churches:

Sun., April 23: 8:00 + Holy Souls in Purgatory – int. Nina Johnson

                  10:30 + Peter Seago – int. Holy Rosary Society

Monday, April 24: + Bea Machado – int. Joyce & Tina

Tuesday, April 25: + Jack & Ann Killay – int. the Shaughnessys

Wed., April 26: – Living & departed members of the Seago Family – int. Betty Fritz

Thursday, April 27: + Bernard Johnson – int. wife, Nina Johnson

Friday, April 28: + Living & departed members of the Seago Family – int. Betty Fritz

Saturday, April 29: 8:00 + Mary R. Di Mascola – int. Son

                                  4:00 + Lina Thake – int. Nina Johnson

PLEASE NOTE:  The above Masses not only assist the souls for whom they are offered, but they also help the Missionaries who often times receive very little help.  It also helps the people where the Masses are offered.  Bóg wam zapłać!

ALL CHILDREN OF OUR PARISH MAKING their First Communion will make their confession on Saturday, May 13th at 9:00 a.m.  This will be followed by a rehearsal and a party.  The children will receive their First Holy Communion on Sunday, May 14th at the 10:30 a.m. Mass.   Pray for our children who for the first time will receive Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament into their hearts to be their Lord and Savior now and forever their friend and companion through life and eternity.  The children who be making their First Communion this year are:  Natalia Blanchard, Veronica Cottrill, Austin Drowski, Bryce Drowski, Joshua Filipi, Lorelai Galway, Mary Gilbert, Liam Hart, Florian Jaracz, Michael Korpiewski, John Ramirez Martin, Vivienne Soucy and Ella Tidlund.

Last day for Catechism classes – Sunday, May 21st

OUR LADY’S HOLY ICON will visit the home of Shirley Webb for a week of prayer and petition for the needs of our Parish.  We thank you for this holy work of power and love.

PLEASE DON’T FORGET OUR GROCERIES for the Poor Project!  Many people who are having a hard time come to the Rectory for help.  Please help us to help them.  Any non-perishable items that you can spare will be greatly appreciated – dry milk, canned soups and stews, peanut butter, jam, crackers, baked beans, cereal, juices, etc.  Please leave them in the front vestibule of the church.

FOR THE GLORY OF GOD and in memory of Joseph and Anna Zak a donation was made to our parish for Easter flowers from their children.  Bóg wam wielki zapłać!

THE PRO-LIFE NOVENA takes place every Saturday before the 8:00 a.m. Mass as a spiritual attack on a tragic evil.  All are welcome to take part.

FATIMA 101 – A Lady dressed in white who said she was from Heaven.  Who was she?  What did she say?  What really happened?  What does it mean for us today?  Join us on Friday, May 5th from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Church, 1900 Allen St., Springfield for an introduction to the apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima for the 100th Anniversary.

THE 4-STAR SAINT MICHAEL SCHOOL PK PROGRAM will be offering a Spring Open House for returning, new and prospective families on Saturday, 4/29/17. The Open House will run from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm. All PK teachers and teaching assistants will be on-site to meet with parents and discuss our wonderful program. For more information, call (802) 254-6320 or e-mail: bethanythies@smsvt.info.

2017 GALA “MORE JUKEBOX MEMORIES” – 2017 will mark the 40th Anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley.  In tribute to his music and his legacy, the GMEF proudly presents “More Jukebox Memories” for their 2017 Gala on Saturday, April 29t.h at 7:30 p.m. featuring Elvis tribute artist David Lee.  Also returning, The American Longboards with their high-energy tribute to music of the 50′s, 60′s, and 70′s.       Tickets for the GMEF Annual Gala are on sale at the World Eye Bookshop, Greenfield; Scotty’s Convenience Store, Turners Falls; by calling Sandy at the TFHS 863-7296; or at the GMEF website – http://www.thegmef.org.  Advance tickets are $25 – At the Door $30.   Your concert ticket includes an invitation to join the Board of Directors, Underwriters and Sponsors for the Pre-show Reception at “The Jukebox Junction” (TFHS cafeteria) from 6:15 to 7:15.  GMEF will be Honoring Earl McGraw in three Ways at their Gala.  (1)  A Special Tribute to Earl in the 2017 Gala Program, (2) The GMEF Annual Tier-giving Campaign – March 1 – April 14, 2017. There a special page on our website – “Tributes to Earl McGraw” with tier-giving form for Earl, (3) A Special Tribute during the Concert will be made to honor Earl.  For more information go to our website – http://www.thegmef.org

THE POLISH JUNIOR LEAGUE of Massachusetts is accepting applications for scholarships for college students of Polish heritage.  Undergraduate scholarships are awarded to students completing their sophomore year of college; the Josephine Karwoski Scholarship is awarded to a female graduate student or a returning student.  Application information and forms may be obtained at http://www.polishjuniorleaguema.org.  Deadline for application materials is May 1, 2017.

THE TERESIANS – Please consider becoming a Teresian.  As we have said there is NO commitment.  We will notify everyone on the ministry list (via email) when someone is sick and in need of prayer or a visit OR dying and in need of prayer or a visit OR died and the funeral details.  It will be up to each individual/family to decide how they can minister.  No one is expected to respond to each need. If any parishioner knows of someone in need, please email Joy Pelc (rjpelc@comcast.net) and Nancy Faller (nafaller@aol.com), so we can get the word out.

K OF C FOURTH ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT – The Greenfield Knights of Columbus, Council #133, are looking for golfers and sponsors for their fourth annual charity golf tournament to be held on Friday, May 26th at Crumpin-Fox golf course in Bernardston.  Crumpin-Fox was recently voted by Golf Advisor as one of the top 50 courses in the country!  The event will be an 18-hole, 4-person scramble with tee advantages for senior golfers.  The entry fee of $110 includes green fees, carts, lunch and dinner.  Two raffles and a silent auction will be held and include:  $1,000 cash, Cleary Jewelry, four Red Sox tickets, 3-day Cape Cod vacation, Crumpin-Fox golf certificates, sports memorabilia, a Broadway show package and much, much more.  Pioneer Volvo is sponsoring a “Hole-in-One” contest for a chance to win a new car.  The proceeds from the event will be used to fund a number of worthy causes in Greenfield and Franklin County.  For more information, call Jason Semaski (413) 626-3378, Bob Wanczyk (413) 774-2465, or Lou Grader (413) 774-2848.

TWO PILGRIMAGES TO WORLD MEETING OF FAMILIES – The World Meeting of Families will be held in Dublin, Ireland from August 21-26, 2018.  Two great pilgrimages (8 or 12 day) are planned which include daily Mass and visits to numerous shrines (Knock, St. Peter, Nat’l. Shrine to St. Oliver Plunkett, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, St. Valentine, Venerable Matt Talbot, Tomb of Venerable John Sullivan, depending on which pilgrimage you choose) and many places of interest.  For more information contact Grand View Tours at (610-361-7979), visit http://www.catholicsindublin.com, or contact Fr. Jonathan Reardon at Holy Family Parish in So. Deerfield (665-3254).

CAREER OPPORTUNITY – The Knights of Columbus is seeking a Field Agent for a career opportunity representing their insurance program.  We offer a complete benefits package with this full-time position.  In order to qualify, one must be eligible for membership in the Knights of Columbus.  We welcome bi-lingual applicants. For more information, please contact, Thomas R. Racine, General Agent, at 508-346-1303 or thomas.racine@kofc.org  

FREE MINISTRY TO TRAVELING CATHOLICS.  For nationwide Mass Times and locations call 1-800-Mass-Times (1-800-627-7846) or Internet www.Masstimes.org.

LAST CALL – 100th Anniversary Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima 10-day pilgrimage to Portugal offered over three dates in October 2017.  We can be departing your airport and at the all land inclusive cost of $2,149 in twin accommodations with single accommodations also available.  Call for the special air price from your city.  We will be visiting Lisbon, Fatima, Santarem Portugal, Lourdes France and Barcelona Spain.  For more information, call James Adair at 1-855-564-1008 toll free or simply e-mail jimadair@thecatholictour.com.

TAG, RUMMAGE, BOOK, PLANT AND BAKE SALE – The Holy Trinity Rosary Society will hold a tag, rummage, book, plant and bake sale on Friday, May 5th from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and on Saturday, May 6th from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Holy Trinity Church in Greenfield.  Saturday only $1.00 bag sale begins at noon.  Lunch will be available.

MASS. CITIZENS FOR LIFE MOTHER’S DAY DINNER – Pioneer Valley Mass. Citizens for Life’s 43rd Annual Mother’s Day Dinner will be Thursday, May 11, 2017 at Chez Josef in Agawam.  The event will start with a social hour at 5:45 p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m.  Tickets are $50.  The speaker will be Dr. Joel Brind, professor of human biology and endocrinology at Baruch College, who will speak on “The Correlation between Abortion and Break Cancer”.  To purchase tickets, please call the Pioneer Valley office at 413-583-5034.  Proceeds of the dinner fund the Ludlow office.

ALTERNATIVES PREGNANCY CENTER – Pregnancy Tests, Counseling, Support Services, and Post Abortion Support, All Services Free and Confidential, 466 Main Street, P.O. Box 344, Greenfield, MA  01302-0344 — (413) 774-6010

Eternal Rest Grant Unto Them O Lord,

And Let Your Perpetual Light Shine Upon Them.

Stanley Drinzek 4/23/1966

Mary. G. Gulo 4/23/1973

Frank Gozeski 4/23/1975

Frances M. Lapinski 4/23/2004

Lucien P. Desbien 4/23/2014

Elizabeth A. Hanley 4/23/2015

John Tranowski 4/24/1927

Joseph Plodzien 4/24/1971

Barbara L. Cutler 4/24/1995

Paul Zukowski 4/25/1945

Stephania Skwarzek 4/25/1984

Thomas P. Sliva 4/25/1987

Mary P. Hoynoski 4/25/1988

Walter P. Kenney 4/25/1994

Agnes A. Golembeski 4/25/2008

Stanislaus Dudzinski 4/26/1933

Francisjki Bergiel 4/26/1954

Paul Jablonski 4/26/1955

Henry F. Dlugon 4/26/1977

Stanley J. Wasileski 4/26/1988

John Sliwa 4/27/1955

Antoinette Pelis 4/27/1989

Veronica J. Kulesa 4/27/1996

Waclaw Bialecki 4/28/1953

John A. Cuky 4/28/1977

Helen G. Kaczenski-Butynski 4/28/1997

Theodore W. Jablonski, Sr. 4/28/2016

Joseph Brzozowy 4/29/1925

Chester Kopinto 4/29/2007

Linda Hicks 4/29/2014

Remember the Holy Souls in Your Prayers

10th ANNIVERSARY MEMORIAL MASS for Audrey Marie Santo will be held on Saturday, April 29th at 10:00 a.m. at 64 South Flagg Street, Worcester.  Events of the Day: Confession begins at 10:00 a.m., Mass and anointing with oil, Adoration in the Chapel, visit Audrey’s rooms, museum and gift shops.  Call ahead at least one week in advance to reserve your seat and to receive oil.  Call 508-755-8712.

K OF C FLEEING FAMINE EXHIBITION – During the mid-19th century, some 2 million people emigrated from Ireland, predominantly to North America, during a chaotic, hurried exodus resulting from a potato blight and devastating famine.  Thousands of Irish emigrants died during the 3,000- mile trans-Atlantic trip, huddled into what became known as “coffin ships.”  Fleeing Famine recounts the saga of the ocean crossing for the Irish emigrants and is on view at the Knights of Columbus Museum in New Haven through September 17, 2017.

PERPETUAL ADORATION AT BLESSED SACRAMENT CHURCH in Greenfield has been successfully running since October of 1994.  There has been someone in prayer before our Lord in the Eucharist 24 hours a day, seven days a week since that time.  What an incredible grace for our community!  We are always looking for hour volunteers, someone willing to give just one hour a week to Jesus, and substitutes who would fill in for regular hours when needed.  We will need substitutes more than ever as the summer months (vacations) approach.  If you can help in any way, please call Maureen Filiault at 863-4777.

DID YOU KNOW. . . Poland was the center of the European Jewish world with 3.3 million Jews living there.

  – It is estimated that more than 6 million Poles including soldiers and civilians died in concentration camps, labor camps, prisons, and forced labor during the five years of Nazi occupation.  The historic site of the Auschwitz German concentration camp near Oświęcim is now a site of pilgrimage and monument to the prevention of war and suffering.

PRAY FOR VOCATIONS to the Priesthood from our Parish and for our Parish so that we might always have a Priest here to celebrate the Mass and administer the Holy Sacraments!  Please join in the Divine Mercy Chaplet to pray for vocations to the priesthood every Friday beginning at 4:45 p.m.

OUR PARISH HAS A PRAYER LINE under the patronage of the Sacred Heart of Jesus which is available for anyone.  To utilize the Prayer Line simply call 413-259-7571 or e-mail nan6539@gmail.com to leave a message with your intention and over 25 intercessors will pray for your intention daily.

WEBSITE:  ChroniclesofCzestochowa.wordpress.com  Like us on Facebook

CHURCH CHOIRS:  The St. Cecilia Choir, which sings at the Sunday 10:30 Mass and other special services, is always seeking additional singers of any experience.  We rehearse every Sunday in the choir loft following the 10:30 Mass, from 11:30 – 12:30.  For information, please see Henry Gaida or e-mail hgaida@gmail.com. The Saint Gregory Choir is accepting new members with any level of experience, adults and youths. One need only have a desire to sing in the Mass. We sing sacred chant and 16th century sacred polyphony. We meet to rehearse in the choir loft every Friday evening right after Mass or devotions. We sing at the 8:00 Sunday morning Mass.  For more information, call Robert Heath at 772-8738.  

PLEASE NOTE that every day of the month is set aside to pray for a specific priest or deacon of Franklin County.  Please join in dedicating every day to one of the clergymen designated in our calendar.  The intentions for this week are:

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Fr. Reardon	Fr. Campoli	Deacon Bete	Deacon Culliton	Fr. O’Mannion	Msgr. Yargeau	For our Deacon Candidates

LAST CALL – 100th Anniversary Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima 10-day pilgrimage to Portugal offered over three dates in October 2017. We can be departing your airport and at the all land inclusive cost of $2,149 in twin accommodations with single accommodations also available. Call for the special air price from your city. We will be visiting Lisbon, Fatima, Santarem Portugal, Lourdes France and Barcelona Spain. For more information, call James Adair at 1-855-564-1008 toll free or simply e-mail jimadair@thecatholictour.com.

 

JMJ

+ Parish Schedule for the Week of April 16, 2017 +

 

Easter Sunday, April 16 [Resurrection of the Lord]:

   8:00 am – For our Parish and Parishioners – Ceremonies at the empty tomb

and Easter procession will take place before Mass

 10:30 am – For the Benefactors of our Parish

Monday within the Octave of Easter, April 17:

 8:00 am + Charles Gloski – int. Family

Tuesday within the Octave of Easter, April 18:

  5:30 pm – Grace and Blessings for Cathy Becklo – int. OLC C.C.D. Program

Wednesday within the Octave of Easter, April 19 [St. Jude Novena]:

  5:30 pm + Mary Kopinto – int. Fritz Family

Thursday within the Octave of Easter, April 20:

  5:30 pm + André LaPalme – int. daughter, Brenda

Friday within the Octave of Easter, April 21:   

  5:30 pm – Health & Blessings for Sophie Fritz on her Birthday – int. Family

Saturday within the Octave of Easter, April 22:  

  8:00 am + Fr. Bruno Cocuzzi and all living and deceased members of the St. Joseph

Chapter of the Discalced Carmelites Secular Order

  4:00 pm + Philip Scheurer Family – int. Filipi Family

  6:00 pm (Spanish) – For our Parish and Parishioners

Divine Mercy Sunday, April 23:

 8:00 am – Health & Blessings for Richard & Joy Pelc – int. Pelc Children

10:30 am + Larry & Carol Roux and Family – int. Filipi Family

 

+ Królowo Polski Módl Się za Nami +

Wesołego Alleluja

 

Dear Parishioners,

May the blessings of Easter and the joy of Eternal Life be yours!  Because of the Resurrection we have the certainty of Paradise!  May this trust in Jesus always be ours!  Wesołego Alleluja i smacznego jajka

Una muy bendecida Pascua a todos!

Fr. Seán O’Mannion

THE HOLY SATURDAY MASS OF THE NIGHT WATCH – 8:00 p.m. will begin with the blessing of the new fire and the Paschal Candle, the “Remembrance Readings” from the Old and New Testaments, the Blessing of Water, and the Renewal of Baptismal promises.  The evening will end with the celebration of the Liturgy of the Eucharist with the ringing of the Gloria Bells sounding the praise of the Resurrection.  The Mass will be bilingual.

 

EASTER SUNDAY, APRIL 16TH – The “Resurrection Mass of Dawn” will take place at 8:00 a.m. beginning with the Service at the Empty Tomb followed by the Eucharistic Procession of the Risen Lord around the church.  The first Mass of Easter will follow.

 

THE 10:30 a.m. MASS OF EASTER DAY will celebrate the Resurrection with the solemn reading of the Gospel of St. John and the enshrinement of the statue of the Resurrected Christ.

 

WE THANK EVERYONE WHO HAS HELPED the parish with our annual Easter Bazaar by their work, donations, and spirit of family.  We thank all of the members of the Parish Council, the Holy Rosary Society, the St. Stanislaus Society, the St. Cecilia Choir and the St. Kazimierz Society for their spirit and generosity.  Please note that we work together to build up the parish in every way so that we can effectively and lovingly serve God and one another.  Bóg wam zapłać!

EASTER DAY BEGINS with the celebration of the Resurrection Mass at sunrise.  A solemn procession walks to the altar with the tomb of Jesus.  The statue of the dead Christ is replaced by a statue of the Risen Christ.  The Gospel of the discovery of the empty tomb is chanted and then the Eucharist is carried in the Monstrance in a festive procession around the Church led by the statue of the Risen Christ and a crucifix draped with a red stole (to symbolize the victorious passion of Christ).  The bells ring again and young men often fire guns and fire crackers as a reminder of the tomb crashing open at the Resurrection.

    After Mass the worshippers return to take part in the Święconka meal which was blessed the day before.  But before the serious business of eating the great feast, there are two customs that tradition dictates be observed.  Everyone takes a little of the horseradish in vinegar as the very first mouthful of the Easter feast in commemoration of Christ’s bitter cup of gall.

    Cierpiał Jezus w Wielki Piątek, Jedzmy chrząn na te pamiątkę

    Ocet w gąbce Panu dali, Bądź o Chryste zawsze z NAMI!

Roughly, this bit of Polish Folk poetry says:

    Jesus suffered on Great Friday!  Let us take horseradish, to recall

    His bitter cup of gall.  O Christ with us stay!

    After the horseradish comes the tradition of sharing a blessed egg.  The boiled eggs are shared with everyone at the table, much as the Opłatek was at Christmas.  Blessings and good wishes are exchanged in this way before the meal actually begins.

    Jajko symbol wielkanocy, Pan zmartwychwstał z własney mocy-

    Na nic straż, pieczęć i skała.  Niech go wielbi ziemia cała!

Again, roughly this bit of Polish Folk poetry says:

    This egg is a symbol of the great night

    When the Lord rose from the dead in His own might –

    The guard, the crypt, the rock are as nothing.   

    Let all the earth come to Him.  All praising!

 

BABY BOTTLE COLLECTION NEXT WEEKEND!  We will be collecting the baby bottles next weekend (April 22 & 23) from all of you who have participated in ALTERNATIVES Pregnancy Center’s Change for Babies program this Lent.  Please bring your bottles to any of the weekend Masses to hand in as you come into the church.  Thank you for helping ALTERNATIVES and for making Lent a time of sacrifice and giving.  

 

FOR THE GLORY OF GOD and in memory of Lucinda, Nicholas, Martin, Demetria and Peter Seago a donation was made to Our Lady of Częstochowa Church from Ms. Kristen Angel and Ms. Mariam Mirgoli.   Bóg wam wielki zapłać!

AFTER WEEKS OF LENTEN FASTING, great preparations are made for the Easter feast.  Tables are artistically set with traditional Easter foods ready for the priests blessing (The Święconka).  If the parish is large and the priest cannot come to the house, beautiful baskets are filled with a representative sampling of the Easter meal, and brought to the Church or a home singled out as a central gathering place for the priest to bless everyone’s food.

    The Easter menu for the Święconka is set by tradition – hams, sausages, colored eggs, breads, pastries, and most important, butter carved in the image of the Paschal Lamb, a symbol of Christ.

    The colored eggs are works of art in themselves and families compete with each other to produce the most beautiful designs.  The eggs are decorated in three ways:  1.  MALOWANKI:  eggs painted in a solid color;  2.  PISANKI:  eggs of many colors with traditional and elaborate geometric designs completely covering the egg;  3.  SKROBANKI:  eggs of solid colors on which outlines of birds, flowers or animals are scratched in delicate lines by a sharp instrument.

 

THE ST. JUDE NOVENA requesting the help of the saint of the impossible takes place every Wednesday at the 5:30 p.m. Mass.  All are welcome and invited.

 

THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS will hold their monthly meeting this week, Wednesday, April 19th, at 6:30 p.m. in the church undercroft.  All members are asked to attend.

 

MOTHER’S DAY CARDS for our annual Mother’s Day Novena of Masses which will begin on Saturday, May 7th are presently available in the front vestibule.  The Novena will continue for nine days of Masses for all Mothers living and departed.

 

PRAYER IS THE MOST POWERFUL WEAPON we have to stop the terrible violence of abortion which is destroying our nation.  All are welcome to attend the weekly Pro-Life Novena that is offered every Saturday before the 8:00 a.m. Mass.

 

FOR THE GLORY OF GOD the following have made donations to our Parish Renovation Fund:  In memory of Stanley Bak, Paul Deskavich and Fleurette Witalisz from Joseph & Irene Klepadlo / In memory of Joseph A. Klepadlo from Patricia & James McVeigh and Peter & Rebecca Wellman.  Bóg Zapłać!

EASTER MONDAY IS A LEGAL HOLIDAY in Poland.  It is called Smigus-Dyngus and it is a day dedicated to fun and games often ending with a good drenching with buckets of water.  On Monday it is the boys who douse the girls while the girls are allowed to avenge themselves on Tuesday.  This downpour is to remind us of the first Easter Monday, when according to an old Polish story, Herod and Pilate’s henchmen tried to stop the Apostles from talking and preaching about Christ’s resurrection by throwing buckets of water on them whenever they spoke in public.  Today the dousing with buckets is often, but not always, replaced by a more genteel sprinkling, sometimes with water, but more often with perfume!

    Mówimy dziś przy Dyngusie, O zmartwychstałym Jesusie,

    Bo gdy o nim rozmawiali, Wodą ludzi rozpędzali!

Roughly translated this bit of Polish Folk Poetry says:

    The day after Easter we preach, How Jesus saved us each

    By rising from the dead.

    But in this Jewish schism, we are blessed with a rowdy Baptism!

Last day for Catechism classes – Sunday, May 21st

ALL CHILDREN OF OUR PARISH MAKING their First Communion will make their confession on Saturday, May 13th at 9:00 a.m.  This will be followed by a rehearsal and a party.  The children will receive their First Holy Communion on Sunday, May 14th at the 10:30 a.m. Mass.

 

THE THIRD ORDER OF MOUNT CARMEL will meet on Saturday, April 22nd, following the 8:00 a.m. Mass.  What is a Carmelite?  Some of the most famous saints of the Church were Carmelites.  They include St. John of the Cross, St. Teresa of Avila and St. Thérèse of Lisieux and Sister Lucia of Fatima. The name “Carmelite” derives from Mount Carmel. The full name of the order is “The Order of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.”  The order was founded in Palestine about 1154 and claims continuity with the hermits who lived on Mount Carmel in the Holy Land, from ancient times even as far back as to the prophet Elijah of the Old Testament.  All interested are welcome to attend.

 

FATIMA 101 – A Lady dressed in white who said she was from Heaven.  Who was she?  What did she say?  What really happened?  What does it mean for us today?  Join us on Friday, May 5th from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Church, 1900 Allen St., Springfield for an introduction to the apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima for the 100th Anniversary.

The Napkin was Rolled up in a Place by Itself

 

“Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb; he saw the linen cloths lying, and the napkin, which had been on his head, not lying with the linen cloths but rolled up in a place by itself.”  – John 20:6-7

 

2483 [John] The Evangelist says that Peter entered the tomb. According to the literal meaning, although John arrived first, he did not enter because of his respect for Peter….. John saw only the linen cloths. He, Peter, also saw the linen cloths…. But in addition Peter saw the napkin which had been on his head: “The head of Christ is God” (1 Cor. 11:3). Thus to see the napkin which had been on the head of Jesus is to have faith in the divinity of Christ, which the Jews refused to accept. This napkin is described as not lying with the linen cloths, and rolled up, having a place by itself, because the divinity of Christ is covered over, and it is apart from every creature because of its excellence: “God who is over all be blessed forever” (Rom 9:5); “Truly, you art a God who hides yourself” (Is 45:15). He saw the napkin rolled up, to form a circle. And when linen is rolled this way one cannot see its beginning or end, for the eminence of the divinity neither begins nor ends: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Heb. 13:8); “You are the same, and your years have no end” (Ps 102:27). The napkin was in one place, a place by itself, because God does not dwell where minds are divided; those who merit his grace are those who are one in charity: “His place is in peace” [Ps 76:2]; “For God is not a God of confusion but of peace” (1 Cor 14:33).

 

2484 Or, in another interpretation, the napkin, which workers use to wipe the sweat off their faces can be understood to indicate the labor of God. For while God always remains tranquil, he presents himself as laboring and burdened when he endures the stubborn depravity of mankind: “They have become a burden to me, I am weary of bearing them” (Is 1:14). Christ took on this burden in a special way when he took on a human nature: “Let him give his cheek to the smiter, and be filled with insults” (Lam 3:30). This napkin is found separate and apart from the other cloths because the sufferings of our Redeemer are far apart and separate from our sufferings. The other linen cloths, which are related to the members of the body as the napkin is to the head, indicate the sufferings of the saints, which are separate from the napkin, that is, the sufferings of Christ, for Christ suffered without fault what we suffer because of our faults: “For Christ also died … the righteous for the unrighteous” (1 Pet 3:18). He went to his death willingly -“No one takes it [my life] from me, but I lay it down of my own accord” (10:18); “Christ loved us and gave himself up for us” (Eph 5:2) – while the saints go to their death reluctantly, “Another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish to go” (21:18).

 

2485 Why was the Evangelist so careful to mention all these details? Chrysostom says this was done to counter the false rumor spread by the Jews that the body of Christ had been secretly taken away, as we see from Matthew (28:13).[3] For if Christ’s body had been stolen away as they said, the disciples would surely not have removed the wrappings, especially since they had to work fast because the guards were near. Nor would they be so careful to lift off the napkin and roll it up and place it in a separate place. They would simply have taken the body as they found it. This was why he allowed himself to be buried with myrrh and aloes: they glue the cloths to the body so that they cannot be quickly removed.

Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274): Commentary on John, cap. 20, lect. 3, 2483-2485.

FREE MINISTRY TO TRAVELING CATHOLICS.  For nationwide Mass Times and locations call 1-800-Mass-Times (1-800-627-7846) or Internet www.Masstimes.org.

THE FOLLOWING MASS INTENTIONS have been sent to various Missionaries.  They will be offered as follows and you may attend the Masses here in our church as the Missionaries offer the Masses in their churches:

 

Sun., April 16: 8:00 – Living & departed members of the Seago Family – int. Betty Fritz

                  10:30 + Chet Galvis – int. Connie

Monday, April 17: – Living & departed members of the Seago Family – int. Betty Fritz

Tuesday, April 18: + Lucinda Seago – int. Holy Rosary Society

Wednesday, April 19: + Nicholas Seago – int. Holy Rosary Society

Thursday, April 20: + Martin Seago – int. Holy Rosary Society

Friday, April 21: + Mary R. Di Mascola – int. Son

Saturday, April 22: 8:00 + Demetria Seago – int. Holy Rosary Society

                                   4:00 + Anthony Adamski – int. Helen

 

PLEASE NOTE:  The above Masses not only assist the souls for whom they are offered, but they also help the Missionaries who often times receive very little help.  It also helps the people where the Masses are offered.  Bóg wam zapłać!

Deanery-Wide Divine Mercy Sunday Celebration

The Franklin County Deanery will sponsor a Divine Mercy Celebration on Sunday, April 23rd at Blessed Sacrament Church in Greenfield.  The service will include Benediction, Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Novena Prayer.  All Catholic churches in Franklin County will be participating in this celebration in which great emphasis is being placed on the Eucharist and devotion to our Lord.  Msgr. Ronald Yargeau will be the Celebrant and Fr. Timothy Campoli will preach.

     “A Plenary Indulgence is granted to all faithful and to each individual faithful under the usual conditions (sacramental confession, Eucharistic communion and prayer in keeping with the intentions of the Supreme Pontiff, with the soul completely removed from attachment to any form of sin), each and every time they participate attentively and piously in a sacred function or a devotional exercise undertaken in honor of the Blessed Sacrament, solemnly exposed and conserved in the tabernacle.”

    Confessions will be heard from 1:45 – 3:00 p.m.  The celebration will begin at 3:00 p.m.

 

FOR THE GLORY OF GOD a donation was made to our parish to support the production of the play Faustina:  Messenger of Divine Mercy from John and Rebecca Worden, MD, Mercy Family Practice.  Bóg wam wielki zapłać

 

A WEBSITE has been set up to raise money for the Seago Family, members of our parish from Warwick, following their tragic fire. Please visit http://www.givesendgo.com/GDJD if you can help.   Bóg Zapłać!

 

PLEASE DON’T FORGET OUR GROCERIES for the Poor Project!  Many people who are having a hard time come to the Rectory for help.  Please help us to help them.  It is a sad and heartbreaking thing to turn someone away when we run out of groceries!  Any non-perishable items that you can spare will be greatly appreciated -canned soups and stews, jam, crackers, baked beans, peanut butter, canned vegetables and canned fruits, juices, cereal, etc.  Please leave them in the front vestibule of the church.

 

FOR THE GLORY OF GOD the following have made donations for Easter Flowers:  In memory of Raymond & Louise Kervian, Lawrence & Helen Pelletier, and David W. Phillips from Joyce and Tina / In memory of Leslie & Gertrude Phillips from Tina / In memory of Sr. Mary Rosalie, Charles & Cecelia Gloski, Mattie Stepanek and Sandra Miner from Joyce.   Bóg wam Zapłać!

PERPETUAL ADORATION AT BLESSED SACRAMENT CHURCH in Greenfield has been successfully running since October of 1994.  There has been someone in prayer before our Lord in the Eucharist 24 hours a day, seven days a week since that time.  What an incredible grace for our community!  We are always looking for hour volunteers, someone willing to give just one hour a week to Jesus, and substitutes who would fill in for regular hours when needed.  We will need substitutes more than ever as the summer months (vacations) approach.  If you can help in any way, please call Maureen Filiault at 863-4777.

 

HOLY HOUR FOR THE SICK AND DYING – A Holy Hour is being observed each Wednesday evening at 7:00 p.m. in the Adoration Chapel at Blessed Sacrament Church in Greenfield. Included are the singing of hymns, recitation of the Rosary, and the Chaplet of Divine Mercy for the Sick and the Dying.  The hour concludes with Benediction.  If you know of someone who is ailing and in need of special graces and prayer, please be encouraged to come and spend an hour for his/her intention.  All are welcome.

 

TAG, RUMMAGE, BOOK, PLANT AND BAKE SALE – The Holy Trinity Rosary Society will hold a tag, rummage, book, plant and bake sale on Friday, May 5th from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and on Saturday, May 6th from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Holy Trinity Church in Greenfield.  Saturday only $1.00 bag sale begins at noon.  Lunch will be available.

 

THE 4-STAR SAINT MICHAEL SCHOOL PK PROGRAM will be offering a Spring Open House for returning, new and prospective families on Saturday, 4/29/17. The Open House will run from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm. All PK teachers and teaching assistants will be on-site to meet with parents and discuss our wonderful program. For more information, call (802) 254-6320 or e-mail: bethanythies@smsvt.info.

 

THE POLISH JUNIOR LEAGUE of Massachusetts is accepting applications for scholarships for college students of Polish heritage.  Undergraduate scholarships are awarded to students completing their sophomore year of college; the Josephine Karwoski Scholarship is awarded to a female graduate student or a returning student.  Application information and forms may be obtained at www.polishjuniorleaguema.org.  Deadline for application materials is May 1, 2017.

 

PRAY FOR VOCATIONS to the Priesthood from our Parish and for our Parish so that we might always have a Priest here to celebrate the Mass and administer the Holy Sacraments!  Please join in the Divine Mercy Chaplet to pray for vocations to the priesthood every Friday beginning at 4:45 p.m.

THE TERESIANS – Please consider becoming a Teresian.  As we have said there is NO commitment.  We will notify everyone on the ministry list (via email) when someone is sick and in need of prayer or a visit OR dying and in need of prayer or a visit OR died and the funeral details.  It will be up to each individual/family to decide how they can minister.  No one is expected to respond to each need. If any parishioner knows of someone in need, please email Joy Pelc (rjpelc@comcast.net) and Nancy Faller (nafaller@aol.com), so we can get the word out.

 

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT DIVINE MERCY SHRINE – The National Shrine of the Divine Mercy (2 Prospect Hill Road, Stockbridge, MA 01263) is seeking volunteers for food preparation, ushering, on and off site parking, caregivers for disabled persons, sign language, gift shop, and many other opportunities.  Come and use the gifts that The Lord has given you for Divine Mercy Weekend, April 22 -23, 2017. To register, contact Peter James at 413-298-1114, volunteers@marian.org, or visit us online at www.thedivinemercy.org/volunteers to register. If you have never joined us before for Mercy Weekend, it never hurts to have all your questions answered – call today!

 

2017 GALA “MORE JUKEBOX MEMORIES” – 2017 will mark the 40th Anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley.  In tribute to his music and his legacy, the GMEF proudly presents “More Jukebox Memories” for their 2017 Gala on Saturday, April 29t.h at 7:30 p.m. featuring Elvis tribute artist David Lee.  Also returning, The American Longboards with their high-energy tribute to music of the 50′s, 60′s, and 70′s.       Tickets for the GMEF Annual Gala are on sale at the World Eye Bookshop, Greenfield; Scotty’s Convenience Store, Turners Falls; by calling Sandy at the TFHS 863-7296; or at the GMEF website – www.thegmef.org.  Advance tickets are $25 – At the Door $30.   Your concert ticket includes an invitation to join the Board of Directors, Underwriters and Sponsors for the Pre-show Reception at “The Jukebox Junction” (TFHS cafeteria) from 6:15 to 7:15.  GMEF will be Honoring Earl McGraw in three Ways at their Gala.  (1)  A Special Tribute to Earl in the 2017 Gala Program, (2) The GMEF Annual Tier-giving Campaign – March 1 – April 14, 2017. There a special page on our website – “Tributes to Earl McGraw” with tier-giving form for Earl, (3) A Special Tribute during the Concert will be made to honor Earl.  For more information go to our website – www.thegmef.org

 

10TH ANNUAL CATHOLIC WOMEN’S CONFERENCE – On Saturday, April 22nd, the Diocese of Springfield will hold its 10th Catholic Women’s Conference.  Women of all ages are invited.  The conference will be held at the Bellamy Middle School in Chicopee from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  This year’s speakers will be Mother Olga of the Sacred Heart, Patricia Livingston and Therese Wilson Favors.  Please register by April 8th.  For more information, call 413-452-0812.

Eternal Rest Grant Unto Them O Lord,

And Let Your Perpetual Light Shine Upon Them.

Jean A. Clarke 4/16/2001

Jessie Potyrala 4/16/2003

Maurice R. Emond 4/16/2013

Joseph S. Bocon 4/17/1974

Thomas Hughes 4/17/2014

Margaret Walchowski 4/18/1977

Anna Kazanowski 4/19/1959

Joseph Skrypek 4/19/1974

Frank J. Bakula, Jr. 4/19/1992

Mark E. Urban 4/19/1993

Mary A. Kopinto 4/19/2016

Mary J. Kelleher 4/20/2000

Edward Kalapojski 4/21/1932

Ethel Podlenski 4/21/1966

Walter J. Lapinski 4/21/1974

Stephen J. Gulo, Sr. 4/21/1994

Helena A. Herzig 4/21/2001

Henry E. Mleczko 4/21/2012

Sophie Roniejko 4/22/1953

 

Remember the Holy Souls in Your Prayers

DID YOU KNOW . . . Polish dumplings or “pierogi” are one of the national dishes and one of the best recognizable Polish foods outside of Poland.

 

STASH BASH – Our Lady of Peace Women’s Group presents Stash Bash on Saturday, April 22nd from 9:00AM – 1:00PM at Our Lady of Peace Church in Turners Falls. The Women’s Group will be selling a variety of sewing and crafting supplies, including fabric, yarn, stamping, scrapbooking and jewelry making supplies! Lunch and beverages available for purchase.  Questions? Call Beverly at (413) 863-7783.

 

CHURCH CHOIRS:  The St. Cecilia Choir, which sings at the Sunday 10:30 Mass and other special services, is always seeking additional singers of any experience.  We rehearse every Sunday in the choir loft following the 10:30 Mass, from 11:30 – 12:30.  For information, please see Henry Gaida or e-mail hgaida@gmail.com. The Saint Gregory Choir is accepting new members with any level of experience, adults and youths. One need only have a desire to sing in the Mass. We sing sacred chant and 16th century sacred polyphony. We meet to rehearse in the choir loft every Friday evening right after Mass or devotions. We sing at the 8:00 Sunday morning Mass.  For more information, call Robert Heath at 772-8738.  

 

CAREER OPPORTUNITY – The Knights of Columbus is seeking a Field Agent for a career opportunity representing their insurance program.  We offer a complete benefits package with this full-time position.  In order to qualify, one must be eligible for membership in the Knights of Columbus.  We welcome bi-lingual applicants. For more information, please contact, Thomas R. Racine, General Agent, at 508-346-1303 or thomas.racine@kofc.org  

OUR LADY’S HOLY ICON will visit the home of Sophie Fritz for a week of prayer and petition for the needs of our Parish.  We thank you for this holy work of power and love.

 

TWO PILGRIMAGES TO WORLD MEETING OF FAMILIES – The World Meeting of Families will be held in Dublin, Ireland from August 21-26, 2018.  Two great pilgrimages (8 or 12 day) are planned which include daily Mass and visits to numerous shrines (Knock, St. Peter, Nat’l. Shrine to St. Oliver Plunkett, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, St. Valentine, Venerable Matt Talbot, Tomb of Venerable John Sullivan, depending on which pilgrimage you choose) and many places of interest.  For more information contact Grand View Tours at (610-361-7979), visit www.catholicsindublin.com, or contact Fr. Jonathan Reardon at Holy Family Parish in So. Deerfield (665-3254).

 

 

WEBSITE:  ChroniclesofCzestochowa.wordpress.com  Like us on Facebook

 

ALTERNATIVES PREGNANCY CENTER – Pregnancy Tests, Counseling, Support Services, and Post Abortion Support, All Services Free and Confidential, 466 Main Street, P.O. Box 344, Greenfield, MA  01302-0344 — (413) 774-6010

 

DID YOU KNOW . . . Polish born astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus (1473-1543) was the first person to propose that the earth was not the center of the universe.  Another Polish astronomer, Johannes Hevelius (1611-1687) published the earliest exact maps of the moon.

 

PLEASE NOTE that every day of the month is set aside to pray for a specific priest or deacon of Franklin County.  Please join in dedicating every day to one of the clergymen designated in our calendar.  The intentions for this week are:

 

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
For our Seminarians	Fr. Aksamit	Deacon  DeCarlo	Deacon Bucci	Fr. Bombardier	Deacon Tudryn	Fr. DiMascola

 

 

 

 

+ Parish Schedule for the Week of April 9, 2017 +

 

Sunday, April 9 [Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord]:    

    8:00 am + Ralph V. Fronkus, Sr. – int.  Betty Fritz

  10:30 am + Mitchell Family – int. Filipi Family

    2:00 pm – Gorzkie Żale

Monday of Holy Week, April 10 [St. Mary’s Extravagance]:

 8:00 am + Bernie Kobera – int. Family

Tuesday of Holy Week, April 11 [[Love’s Last Appeal]:

   5:30 pm – Grace and Blessings for Sean Driscoll – int. OLC C.C.D. Program

Wednesday of Holy Week, April 12 [St. Jude Novena / The Thirty Pieces of Silver]:

   5:30 pm + John Bush – int. George Bush 

Holy Thursday, April 13 [The Last Supper]:

   7:00 pm – Living and deceased Priests of Our Lady of Częstochowa Church

Good Friday, April 14 [The Passion and Death of our Lord]:

  8:00 am – The church will be open from 8:00 a.m. for private prayer

  3:00 pm – Stations of the Cross and veneration of the Relic of the Cross

  7:00 pm – Liturgy of the Pre-Sanctified and Holy Communion

(The church will remain open until 9:00 p.m.)

Holy Saturday, April 15 [Waiting at the Tomb]:

  8:00 am – Tenebrae               (The church will be open all day for private prayer.)

11:00 a.m., noon, 1:00 p.m. – The blessing of Easter food – Święconka

       will take place in the church undercroft.

   8:00 pm – For our Parish and Parishioners

Easter Sunday, April 16 [Resurrection of the Lord]:

    8:00 am – For our Parish and Parishioners – Ceremonies at the empty tomb

and Easter procession will take place before Mass

  10:30 am – For the Benefactors of our Parish

 

Holy Week Schedule

 

THE MASS OF ST. MARY’S EXTRAVAGANCE on Monday, April 10^th, at 8:00 a.m. will commemorate the anointing of Jesus by Mary, the sister of Lazarus, as a prelude to the anointing for the burial of Jesus.  Following an old Polish tradition, the congregation will be anointed with aromatic oil, blessed at this Mass, in remembrance of “St. Mary’s Extravagant Act of Love.”

 

THE MASS OF LOVE’S LAST APPEAL on Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. is a remembrance of the last appeal of Jesus to Judas and of the betrayal of Judas.

 

THE MASS OF THE 30 PIECES OF SILVER on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. will recall the price of betrayal and of the final days of Jesus.

 

HOLY THURSDAY – THE “MASS OF THE LAST SUPPER” at 7:00 p.m. will commemorate the institution of the Holy Eucharist by Jesus at the Last Supper.  The bells and organ will play for the last time at the Gloria of the Mass and the Eucharist will be transferred in solemn procession to the “Altar of the Holy Prison” recalling the arrest and imprisonment of Jesus.  The Altar of Sacrifice will then be stripped and the tabernacle emptied to underline the grief of the Church.  The church will remain open until 9:00 p.m. for private adoration before the Blessed Sacrament in the Holy Prison Altar.  The Mass will be bilingual in English and Spanish.  Confessions will be heard one half hour before the Mass.

 

GOOD FRIDAY – The church will be open all day from 8:00 a.m. for private adoration before the Blessed Sacrament in the Holy Prison Altar.

 

THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS will be prayed at 3:00 p.m. on Good Friday, following the path of love Jesus walked to His crucifixion.

 

THE GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE OF THE LORD’S PASSION, 7:00 p.m. will commemorate the suffering and death of Jesus on the Cross.  The Passion Gospel of St. John will be read followed by the unveiling and veneration of the Cross.  The Liturgy of the Pre-sanctified will follow with Holy Communion.  The Holy Eucharist will then be transferred to the “Altar of the Garden Tomb” where it will remain until Easter morning. The church will remain open until 9:00 p.m. for private prayer before the Altar of the Garden Tomb.  The service will be bilingual.

 

HOLY SATURDAY – The church will be open all day from 8:00 a.m. for private adoration before the Blessed Sacrament at the Altar of the Garden Tomb.

 

THE OFFICE OF TENEBRAE will be chanted at 8:00 a.m.  This service, unique to Holy Week, is the combined services of the Office of Readings and Morning Prayer.  The service gets its name, which is Latin for “darkness” or “shadows”, from the custom of extinguishing candles during the chanting of each of the Psalms, reflecting the darkness of the world at the death of Christ.  Interspersed between the Psalms are readings from Scriptures and the Church Fathers.

 

THE TRADITIONAL BLESSING OF EASTER FOOD called the Święconka will take place in the church undercroft on Holy Saturday at 11:00 a.m., 12:00 noon, and 1:00 p.m.  All are welcome and encouraged to bring their Easter baskets with their Easter dinner for the beautiful ceremony of the blessing.  Also please bring the children with their candy baskets, chocolate bunnies and Easter eggs.  There is a special blessing for them too!

 

CONFESSIONS will be heard from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

 

THE HOLY SATURDAY MASS OF THE NIGHT WATCH – 8:00 p.m. will begin with the blessing of the new fire and the Paschal Candle, the “Remembrance Readings” from the Old and New Testaments, the Blessing of Water, and the Renewal of Baptismal promises.  The evening will end with the celebration of the Liturgy of the Eucharist with the ringing of the Gloria Bells sounding the praise of the Resurrection.  The Mass will be bilingual.

 

EASTER SUNDAY – The “Resurrection Mass of Dawn” will take place at 8:00 a.m. beginning with the Service at the Empty Tomb followed by the Eucharistic Procession of the Risen Lord around the church.  The first Mass of Easter will follow.

 

THE 10:30 a.m. MASS OF EASTER DAY will celebrate the Resurrection with the solemn reading of the Gospel of St. John and the enshrinement of the statue of the Resurrected Christ.

 

THE PARISH COUNCIL will not meet this month due to Holy Week Services.

 

SUNDAY, MAY 21^ST is the last day for Catechism classes.

SUNDAY, APRIL 9^th IS PALM SUNDAY and commemorates Christ’s triumphal entrance into Jerusalem.  For this reason the Church blesses palms to remind us of the multitude which accompanied Him carrying branches and strewing them in His way, while they chanted:  “Hosanna to the Son of David!  Blessed is He Who comes in the name of the Lord!”   The ceremonies for Palm Sunday and the reading of the Passion Gospel of Luke will take place on Saturday, April 8^th at 4:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 9^th at 8:00 a.m. and10:30 a.m.

 

Palm Sunday is celebrated as Flower Sunday in Polish parishes.  In Polish churches it is the custom to bless pussy willow and Forsythia blossoms (which were forced into bloom during Lent rather than palms which often were impossible to obtain).  A beautiful Polish custom involves the creation of great staffs of flowers, ribbons, pussy willows and greens to use as palms in the Blessing and Procession proclaiming Jesus Christ the King and Messiah.  These “palms” are often eight to ten feet high and create an imposing and solemn picture.

 

THE LAST LENTEN CHANTING OF GORZKIE ŻALE will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 9^th.  Bilingual books are available so that everyone can follow this beautiful service following the loving sacrifice of Jesus in His final days.

 

WHAT DO YOU DO with the palm branch received last year?  Any religious object, once blessed, should be disposed of properly.  This means the palm branch or other object should be buried in the earth or burned in a “clean” fire . . . not a trash fire.  If you have children, this is a good way of teaching them the importance of respecting religious objects.  The new palm branch you will receive this week should be placed on your crucifix at home or over a religious icon or picture.

 

PLEASE, PLEASE, VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED TO HELP set up the altars for Holy Week on Monday, April 10^th immediately following the 8:00 a.m. Mass.

 

PARENTS OF CATECHISM CLASS STUDENTS please note that there will be no classes on Easter Sunday, April 16^th.  Because Religious Education is so important to the salvation of the souls of our children we only have three days off from catechism each year:  Christmas and New Year’s weekends and Easter Sunday.  We never cancel classes.  Eternal life is too important for days off!

 

A WEBSITE has been set up to raise money for the Seago Family, members of our parish from Warwick, following their tragic fire. Please visit http://www.givesendgo.com/GDJD if you can help.   Bóg Zapłać!

THE FOLLOWING MASS INTENTIONS have been sent to various Missionaries.  They will be offered as follows and you may attend the Masses here in our church as the Missionaries offer the Masses in their churches:

 

Sunday, April 9: 8:00 + Mary Garmalo – int. Betty Fritz

                                10:30 + Diane Galardi – int. Susan Malley

Monday, April 10: –Living and departed members of the Seago Family – int. Betty Fritz

Tues., April 11: – Living and departed members of the Seago Family – int. Betty Fritz

Wed., April 12: – Living and departed members of the Seago Family – int. Betty Fritz

Thursday, April 13: + Mary R. Di Mascola – int. Son

Saturday, April 15: + Mary Garmalo – int. Betty Fritz

 

PLEASE NOTE:  The above Masses not only assist the souls for whom they are offered, but they also help the Missionaries who often times receive very little help.  It also helps the people where the Masses are offered.  Bóg wam zapłać!

 

Divine Mercy Novena Prayers Start on Good Friday – From 1931 to 1938 Our Lord revealed the secrets of His great mercy to St. Faustina.  He designated the first Sunday after Easter as the Feast of the Divine Mercy of God. In preparation of this Feast, He asked that a Novena be started on Good Friday, a Novena which asks for prayers each of the nine days for a different group of souls in order to immerse them in the sea of God’s Mercy!  Mass, Confession, Communion are required on Mercy Sunday, the first Sunday after Easter. Our Lord promised to the souls who follow these requests a complete remission of sin and punishment!  Our Lord thus instructed Sister Faustina: “My daughter, speak to the whole world of My incomprehensible Mercy.  I desire that the Feast be a refuge and a shelter for all souls, especially for poor sinners.  The very depths of My Mercy will be opened on that day.  I will pour out a sea of graces upon those souls that will approach the font of My Mercy.  Those who go to confession and receive Holy Communion on Mercy Sunday, the first Sunday after Easter, will obtain complete remission of sins and punishment.  Let no soul fear to come to Me, even though its sins be as scarlet.  Tell ailing mankind to draw close to My Merciful Heart and I will fill it with peace.  Mankind will not find peace until it turns with confidence to My Mercy.”

 

APRIL 11^th IS THE FEAST of St. Stanislaw the bishop and martyr of Krakow.  St. Stanislaw gave his life defending virtue and truth in spite of the overwhelming power of the king.  He resisted with great courage even unto death.  St. Stanislaw is one of the great patrons of Poland and is buried in the nave of the Wawel Cathedral in Krakow.

 

FOR THE GLORY OF GOD and in memory of Joseph Klepadlo a donation was made to our Parish Renovation Fund from Joyce and Roger Tower.  Bóg Zapłać!

IN POLISH HOMES, the evening meal of Holy Thursday, has a festive atmosphere in remembrance of the Last Supper and in particular of Our Lord’s great gift of Himself in the Holy Eucharist.

            Pike is a traditional part of the meal because the bones, interestingly enough, seem to make up the instruments used in crucifying Jesus.  The bones are delicately arranged after the meal and, curiously, there appears a ladder, a cross, a lance and a set of nails.

            An old Polish legend states that the Apostles caught a Pike on Thursday which was eaten at the Last Supper.

            The Mass in Polish churches for Holy Thursday is particularly beautiful with ancient ceremonies and solemn processions.  The first half of the Mass is festive in commemoration of the great gift of Holy Communion but the second half is more somber in remembrance of the betrayal and arrest of Jesus.

            Every possible bell in the church is rung while the Gloria is sung.  At the end of this prayer they are all silenced and the Polish people use a picturesque phrase to describe this action by saying “the bells have flown to Rome not to return until the Easter Vigil.”

            A beautiful altar of reservation is set up, often representing the Last Supper, the Eucharist, or Jesus in prison.  The faithful worship all night before this shrine in silent adoration of the Eucharistic Lord.

 

ON GOOD FRIDAY it is the custom in many Polish homes to cover all mirrors with black cloth as a sign of mourning for the suffering and death of Jesus.  Parents wake the children on this day by gently whispering “The Wounds of God” as they tap them lightly with a little switch in memory of the scourging of Our Savior.

            Strict fasting is observed all day as well as holy silence.  If any conversation is carried on, it is only about serious or spiritual matters.  No music is heard and the radio and TV is never played on this day to impress everyone with the solemnity of the day.

            It is the custom to visit the various churches in town on Good Friday in order to view the sepulcher of Jesus and to pray at these holy shrines built only for this one day of the year.  These sepulchers are set at a garden-like altar.  Here in the midst of artistically arranged flowers is an image of the stricken Jesus in a tomb guarded day and night by priests, faithful worshippers and representatives of veterans groups.  The Eucharist is displayed in a veiled monstrance on this altar and the people often approach it walking on their knees down the center of the church.

ON HOLY SATURDAY, April 14, 966 A. D. Mieszko I was baptized a Christian, most likely by Bishop Michael, the head of the Bohemian Church in Ratisbon.  This event took place a year after Mieszko married the Bohemian Christian princess Dąbrowka.  April 14, 966 is thus considered the date of the “Conversion of Poland” and the beginning of historic Poland.

     After he was baptized, Mieszko offered Poland as a gift to the Holy See.  The document conferring this donation is known as the “Dagome Iudex”.  While this act entailed the payment of an annual levy to Rome, it offered Poland security and independence from Germany and the “Holy Roman Empire.”

 

Sunday, aPRIL 23^rd, is Divine Mercy Sunday.  The roots of this devotion go back to a young Polish nun, Sr. Faustina, who, in the early part of the last century became “God’s Secretary” of Divine Mercy.  This young peasant woman, who had barely three years of formal education, kept a diary of her mystical encounters with the Lord – a diary that could be mistaken for the work of the greatest theologians!  St. Faustina’s whole life proclaimed the Mercy of God – a mercy which the Lord is dying to share with us.  St. Faustina has left for us certain ways in which we can receive and experience the power of God’s love and mercy.  Our Lord requested that the Sunday after Easter be designated as Mercy Sunday as a time to focus on His Divine Mercy and Love and to petition and give thanks for that Mercy and Love.

 

THE ST. JUDE NOVENA takes place every Wednesday at the 5:30 p.m. Mass.  All are welcome to come and pray for the intercession of St. Jude, the patron of impossible cases.

 

MOTHER’S DAY CARDS for our annual Mother’s Day Novena of Masses which will begin on Saturday, May 14^th are presently available in the front vestibule.  The Novena will continue for nine days of Masses for all Mothers living and departed.

 

THE WEEKLY PRO-LIFE NOVENA is offered every Saturday before the 8:00 a.m. Mass.  All are invited to come and beg God for an end to the terrifying evil which is destroying our nation.

 

PLEASE DON’T FORGET OUR GROCERIES for the Poor Project!  Many people who are having a hard time come to the Rectory for help.  Please help us to help them.  It is a sad and heartbreaking thing to turn someone away when we run out of groceries!  Any non-perishable items that you can spare will be greatly appreciated – dry milk, canned soups and stews, jam, crackers, pasta, juices, etc.  Please leave them in the front vestibule of the church.

 

Jesus is Crowned with Thorns

 

“And the soldiers, plaiting a crown of thorns, put it upon His head” (John 19:2).

 

Jesus Crowned with thorns is our King and our Redeemer

 

Behold a new kind of torment chosen to distinguish the King of Martyrs and Head of the elect!  This torment was reserved for Jesus alone; no one else ever had endured or ever will endure it.  It was inflicted on Him on account of His title of King of Israel being the cause of His condemnation:  and divine Providence willed to conceal beneath that cruel and ignominious circumstance of His Passion the mystery of His true royalty, and the most important instructions.  Let us contemplate our divine Master, His head pierced with long and sharp thorns, and His face bathed in blood.  The pains which He endures are inconceivable, and it is for us that He has taken them upon Him.  It is to snatch us from the tyranny of hell and the slavery of sin that He has willed to wear that bloody crown; in that condition He expiated our sins of thought, our ambitious projects, and the criminal vanity of so many senseless mortals, who adorn their head as an idol in order to attract culpable admiration.  O Jesus!  O my King!  How much has it not cost Thee to cancel my debts due to Thy Father’s justice!  The fearful severity of Thy torments tells me the immensity of Thy love.  Ah!  Never permit me to be so unhappy as to throw off Thy loveable and lawful dominion over me, in order to take on me anew the chains that Thou hast broken at the price of so many sufferings.

 

Jesus Crowned with thorns is our Model

 

In meditating on the sufferings of Jesus, let us not forget that He is our Model.  We are destined to reign with Him; but it is only after having participated in His sufferings that we shall share in His glory.  Let us, then, treasure up with a holy respect the lessons given us in this sad spectacle.  Jesus is a King, but His crown is painful and bloody.  We ourselves are destined also to reign, but it must be through combats and sufferings.  We must reign over our own heart by subjugating and mastering its inclinations – over the world, by despising its vain illusions and braving its persecutions – over hell, by triumphing courageously over all its attacks.  O my Jesus, my Saviour, my Sovereign, my Master and Supporter! How shall I fear the combat when I behold Thee sustain the conflict with so much generosity and constancy!  Love caused Thee to accept the cruel crown which pierced Thy adorable head.  Ah! Grant that love may induce me to embrace, in my turn, all that can render me more like unto Thee.  Thou hast merited for me the grace to suffer.  That grace is all-powerful:  if it uphold my weakness, I shall have courage enough for any undertaking, and strength enough to execute it.  Give me, then, that grace, O Lord.  I will place my happiness and glory in trampling under foot my pride and self-love.

 

Colloquy with our Lord.  Let us adore Him as our divine King; thank Him for all He has been willing to suffer for us; and beg of Him to increase His holy love in our heart, to apply to us His merits, and to give us grace to imitate Him.

 

Contemplations and Meditations on the Passion and Death, and on the Glorious Life of Our Lord Jesus Christ, According to the Method of Saint Ignatius.  London:  Burns & Oates, 1881

The 4-STAR Saint Michael School PK Program will be offering a Spring Open House for returning, new and prospective families on Saturday, 4/29/17. The Open House will run from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm. All PK teachers and teaching assistants will be on-site to meet with parents and discuss our wonderful program. For more information, call (802) 254-6320 or e-mail: bethanythies@smsvt.info.

 

Don’t forget the Bottle!  As you put your change in the baby bottle for Alternatives Pregnancy Center, please pray for the women and their babies and for those who serve them at ALTERNATIVES.  We will be collecting the bottles on the weekend of April 23.  Thank you for participating!

 

2017 Gala “More Jukebox Memories” – 2017 will mark the 40^th Anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley.  In tribute to his music and his legacy, the GMEF proudly presents “More Jukebox Memories” for their 2017 Gala on Saturday, April 29^t.h at 7:30 p.m. featuring Elvis tribute artist David Lee.  Also returning, The American Longboards with their high-energy tribute to music of the 50′s, 60′s, and 70′s.       Tickets for the GMEF Annual Gala are on sale at the World Eye Bookshop, Greenfield; Scotty’s Convenience Store, Turners Falls; by calling Sandy at the TFHS 863-7296; or at the GMEF website – www.thegmef.org.  Advance tickets are $25 – At the Door $30.   Your concert ticket includes an invitation to join the Board of Directors, Underwriters and Sponsors for the Pre-show Reception at “The Jukebox Junction” (TFHS cafeteria) from 6:15 to 7:15.  GMEF will be Honoring Earl McGraw in three Ways at their Gala.  (1)  A Special Tribute to Earl in the 2017 Gala Program, (2) The GMEF Annual Tier-giving Campaign – March 1 – April 14, 2017. There a special page on our website – “Tributes to Earl McGraw” with tier-giving form for Earl, (3) A Special Tribute during the Concert will be made to honor Earl.  For more information go to our website – www.thegmef.org

The Teresians – Please consider becoming a Teresian.  As we have said there is NO commitment.  We will notify everyone on the ministry list (via email) when someone is sick and in need of prayer or a visit OR dying and in need of prayer or a visit OR died and the funeral details.  It will be up to each individual/family to decide how they can minister.  No one is expected to respond to each need. If any parishioner knows of someone in need, please email Joy Pelc (rjpelc@comcast.net) and Nancy Faller (nafaller@aol.com), so we can get the word out.

 

Volunteers Needed at Divine Mercy Shrine – The National Shrine of the Divine Mercy (2 Prospect Hill Road, Stockbridge, MA 01263) is seeking volunteers for food preparation, ushering, on and off site parking, caregivers for disabled persons, sign language, gift shop, and many other opportunities.  Come and use the gifts that The Lord has given you for Divine Mercy Weekend, April 22 -23, 2017. To register, contact Peter James at 413-298-1114, volunteers@marian.org, or visit us online at www.thedivinemercy.org/volunteers to register. If you have never joined us before for Mercy Weekend, it never hurts to have all your questions answered – call today!

 

10^th Annual Catholic Women’s Conference – On Saturday, April 22^nd, the Diocese of Springfield will hold its 10^th Catholic Women’s Conference.  Women of all ages are invited.  The conference will be held at the Bellamy Middle School in Chicopee from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  This year’s speakers will be Mother Olga of the Sacred Heart, Patricia Livingston and Therese Wilson Favors.  Please register by April 8^th.  For more information, call 413-452-0812.

 

“One Family, Many Gifts”, this year’s theme for the Annual Catholic Appeal, calls on each of us to unite in one mission to share God’s blessings. Did you know that the Annual Catholic Appeal has been helping those most in need for 58 years?  Please continue the tradition of Neighbor Helping Neighbor through your financial gift to the Annual Catholic Appeal.  You can also learn more about the ministries that we help on our Facebook page Annual Catholic Appeal Springfield, MA.  One-Time gifts, pledges paid over 8 months, Matching Gifts and gifts of stock are just a few of the ways you can make a difference in someone’s life.  If you did not receive an invitation in the mail to participate in this year’s Annual Catholic Appeal, please contact the rectory or call 413-452-0637.  Online donations may be made at www.diospringfield.org/aca.

 

Our parish has a Prayer Line under the patronage of the Sacred Heart of Jesus which is available for anyone.  To utilize the Prayer Line simply call 413-259-7571 or e-mail nan6539@gmail.com to leave a message with your intention and over 25 intercessors will pray for your intention daily.

Eternal Rest Grant Unto Them O Lord,

And Let Your Perpetual Light Shine Upon Them.

 

Peter Skydzielewski 4/9/1932

Wanda L. Majewski 4/9/1986

Veronica Putala 4/9/1997

Bruce T. Mackie 4/9/2003

Mary Koscinski 4/10/1958

Alfred Mirecki 4/10/2004

Skepania Mlowski 4/11/1923

Joseph Zigmond 4/11/1952

Mary Kurtyka 4/11/1975

Felix Naida 4/11/1995

Victoria Traceski 4/11/2007

Chester J. Schab 4/11/2011

Timothy A. Avery 4/11/2016

Joseph J. Zukowski 4/12/1963

Chester M. Pietraszek 4/12/1976

Regina I. Kostecki 4/12/1979

Brian Billiel 4/12/1993

Victoria E. Kulis 4/12/2007

Stanislaus Kurtyka 4/13/1946

Antonina Bocon 4/13/1949

Louis Kozlowski 4/14/1973

Mary C. Baron 4/14/1996

Walter A. Gaines 4/14/1998

Stefania Milewski 4/15/1923

Katirina Sokolewski 4/15/1951

Richard C. Patterson 4/15/1997

Marjorie L. Payne 4/15/2014

Remember the Holy Souls in Your Prayers

 

DID YOU KNOW. . . Nazi-occupied Poland was the only territory where the Germans decreed that any kind of help for Jews was punishable by death.  Up to 50,000 Poles were executed by the Nazis for saving Jews.

 

 

OUR LADY’S HOLY ICON will visit the home of Kathryn Putala for a week of prayer and petition for the needs of our Parish.  We thank you for this holy work of power and love.

 

 

website:  ChroniclesofCzestochowa.wordpress.com  Like us on Facebook

 

 Alternatives Pregnancy Center – Pregnancy Tests, Counseling, Support Services, and Post Abortion Support, All Services Free and Confidential, 466 Main Street, P.O. Box 344, Greenfield, MA  01302-0344 — (413) 774-6010

 

 

CHURCH CHOIRS:  The St. Cecilia Choir, which sings at the Sunday 10:30 Mass and other special services, is always seeking additional singers of any experience.  We rehearse every Sunday in the choir loft following the 10:30 Mass, from 11:30 – 12:30.  For information, please see Henry Gaida or e-mail hgaida@gmail.com. The Saint Gregory Choir is accepting new members with any level of experience, adults and youths. One need only have a desire to sing in the Mass. We sing sacred chant and 16^th century sacred polyphony. We meet to rehearse in the choir loft every Friday evening right after Mass or devotions. We sing at the 8:00 Sunday morning Mass.  For more information, call Robert Heath at 772-8738. 

 

ALL CHILDREN OF OUR PARISH MAKING their First Communion will make their confession on Saturday, May 13^th at 9:00 a.m.  This will be followed by a rehearsal and a party.  The children will receive their First Holy Communion on Sunday, May 14^th at the 10:30 a.m. Mass.   Pray for our children who for the first time will receive Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament into their hearts to be their Lord and Savior now and forever their friend and companion through life and eternity.  The children who be making their First Communion this year are:  Natalia Blanchard, Veronica Cottrill, Austin Drowski, Bryce Drowski, Joshua Filipi, Lorelai Galway, Mary Gilbert, Liam Hart, Florian Jaracz, Michael Korpiewski, John Ramirez Martin, Vivienne Soucy and Ella Tidlund.

 

 

Pilgrimage to Italy – A pilgrimage to Italy will leave from Boston on October 15, 2017 returning October 26.  Spiritual Directors are Msgr. Ronald Yargeau and Fr.  Timothy Campoli who will offer daily Mass. The cost is $4,499 which includes airfare, wonderful hotels for 10 nights, two meals a day, admission fees and tour guides.  A bus to Boston may be rented if there is enough interest. Please spread the word and contact Helen Shea Murphy at 413-773-8890 or HelenSheaMurphy@verizon.net with questions and to receive a flyer.

 

 

THE POLISH JUNIOR LEAGUE of Massachusetts is accepting applications for scholarships for college students of Polish heritage.  Undergraduate scholarships are awarded to students completing their sophomore year of college; the Josephine Karwoski Scholarship is awarded to a female graduate student or a returning student.  Application information and forms may be obtained at www.polishjuniorleaguema.org.  Deadline for application materials is May 1, 2017.

 

 

PRAY FOR VOCATIONS to the Priesthood from our Parish and for our Parish so that we might always have a Priest here to celebrate the Mass and administer the Holy Sacraments!  Please join in the Divine Mercy Chaplet to pray for vocations to the priesthood every Friday beginning at 4:45 p.m.

 

 

 

PLEASE NOTE that every day of the month is set aside to pray for a specific priest or deacon of Franklin County.  Please join in dedicating every day to one of the clergymen designated in our calendar.  The intentions for this week are:

 

 

 

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Vocations	Deacon Leary	Fr. Roux	Deacon Rabbitt	In Thanksgiving for the Priesthood	For clergy in Purgatory	Fr. Lisowski

 

 

 

RTHIS BULLETIN is sponsored by the St. Stanislaus and St. Kazimierz Societies.

 

World War I: Beyond the Front Lines – World War I, fought from 1914-1918, was the modern world’s first international conflict. Approximately 11 million soldiers were killed, and the war’s toll including civilian casualties exceeded 20 million. By Armistice Day, Nov. 11, 1918, more than 116,000 Americans died as a result of the war. Of these, more than 1,600 were Knights of Columbus. Both the first and last American military officers to die during the war were K of C members. The Knights of Columbus Museum in New Haven, Conn. commemorates the 100th anniversary of the United States’ participation in the war with an exhibition, World War I: Beyond the Front Lines (Apr. 6, 2017 – Dec. 30, 2018). The exhibition provides an historical retrospective of the war and includes interactives, images and artifacts from the Knights of Columbus Museum collection, Supreme Council archives and borrowed materials from private lenders and organizations. A series of WWI-related lectures and presentations will be offered throughout the course of the exhibition. For more information, visit http://www.kofcmuseum.org.

 

+ Parish Schedule for the Week of April 2, 2017 +

 

Sunday, April 2 [Fifth Sunday of Lent]:

   8:00 am – Intentions of the Marian Sisters of Santa Rosa –int. Ron & Monica Scherman

 10:30 am – Grace & Blessings for Theresa Kolodziej – int. OLC C.C.D. Program

   2:00 pm – Gorzkie Żale

Monday, April 3:

  8:00 am + Mary Pelc – int. Pelc Family

Tuesday, April 4 [St. Isidore]:

  5:30 pm + Mary Kopinto – int. Fritz Family

Wednesday, April 5 [St. Jude Novena / St. Vincent Ferrer]:

  5:30 pm + Donna M. O’Connell (25^th Anniv.) – int. Antoinette & Robert Otrando, Sr.

Thursday, April 6:

5:30 pm – Grace & Blessings for Larry Roux – int. OLC C.C.D. Program

First Friday, April 7 [St. John Baptist de la Salle]: (The Seven Dolors of Our Lady)

   5:30 pm – Health & Blessings for Robert Pietraszek – int. Larry & Carol Roux

Stations of the Cross immediately follow Mass

Saturday, April 8:

   8:00 am – Grace & Blessings for Monica Scherman – int. OLC C.C.D. Program

   4:00 pm + Albina Noga – int. Dorothy Kosewicz

   6:00 pm (Spanish) – For our Parish and Parishioners

Sunday, April 9 [Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord]:    

    8:00 am + Ralph V. Fronkus, Sr. – int.  Betty Fritz

  10:30 am + Mitchell Family – int. Filipi Family

    2:00 pm – Gorzkie Żale

 

+ KRóLOWO POLSKI MóDL SIĘ ZA NAMI +

Fatima for Lent

 

     Our Lenten series of talks by Father Donald Noiseux in honor of the 100^th Anniversary of Fatima concludes this Sunday.  Father Noiseux’s full title for the series is Fatima: The Apocalypse Hidden in Plain Sight.  Come receive a greater understanding of Fatima in this series of twenty-five minute presentations following the Gorzkie Żale devotions, Sundays at 2:00 p.m., at Our Lady of Częstochowa Church in Turners Falls.  The final talk is: April 2 – The Consecration of Russia and the Triumph of the Immaculate Heart of Mary

GORZKIE ŻALE, the chanting of the passion of our Lord, will take place on Sunday, April 2^nd and on all the Sundays of Lent, at 2:00 p.m.  This weekly devotion follows Jesus and Mary to the sufferings of Calvary.  Bilingual books are provided.

 

TUESDAY, APRIL 4^th is the Feast of St. Isidore, Bishop and Doctor of the Church.  His great scholarship and preaching has earned him the title “The Schoolmaster of the Middle Ages.”  He will be remembered in the Mass at 5:40 p.m.

 

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5th is the Feast of St. Vincent Ferrer, a noted orator and preacher.  He was known as the “Angel of Judgment.”  He will be remembered in the 5:30 p.m. Mass.

 

THE WEEKLY ST. JUDE NOVENA will be offered at the 5:30 p.m. Mass on Wednesday, April 5^th.  All are encouraged to come and pray for the intercession of the patron of impossible and hopeless cases.

 

Faustina: Messenger of Divine Mercy, the moving, live production performed by actress Maria Vargo and directed by Leonardo Defilippis of Saint Luke Productions, will be presented at the Shea Theater in Turners Falls on Thursday, April 6 at 7:00 p.m.  The event is sponsored by Our Lady of Częstochowa Church. Experience firsthand the life and message of Saint Faustina whose personal encounters with Jesus have inspired a worldwide devotion to Christ’s Divine Mercy. This drama also brings audiences a riveting modern story that makes Divine Mercy remarkably relevant and urgent for our world today.  The program is filled with all the elements of professional theater, runs 90 minutes, and is suitable for ages 13 and up.  Admission is $10 for adults, and $5 for students under 18. To reserve will-call tickets, contact Joy Pelc at 413-772-2654 or rjpelc@comcast.net.  Watch the trailer and learn more at http://www.DivineMercyDrama.com

 

STATIONS OF THE CROSS will be prayed immediately following the 5:30 p.m. Mass on Friday, April 7^th.  This devotion follows the path of love Jesus walked to His crucifixion.

Easter Bazaar and Spring Gaik

Saturday, April 8, 2017

9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

                      Polish Food Sale

                    Items from Poland

                      Religious Goods

    Gifts for Baptism, First Communion,

            Confirmation, and Wedding

                      Religious Goods

                            Bake Sale

               Easter and spring crafts

                       Chinese Raffle

                 White Elephant Table

                           and More!

      Breakfast and lunch will be served.

 

 

FRIDAY, APRIL 7^th is the Feast of St. John Baptist de la Salle who gave up his fortune to found the Brothers of the Christian Schools.  He is the patron of teachers and he will be remembered in the Mass at 5:30 p.m.

Note of Thanks

To our Parish:  Thank you for your generous response to the CCD children’s Valentine Fundraiser to help the Hart family pay for a conversion van for Moses.  We counted up all the money and it totaled $2,215.56!  We think this may set a record for a bake sale!  You were generous and it was a huge, huge blessing to the Harts.  Thank you to the bakers and those who gave beyond the price of the cookies!  From the Harts:  “Thank you from the bottom of our hearts! It is such an out-pouring of love from you and all the parishioners. With your help we are encouraged that we will soon raise the total funding for the van. Thank you for making it so special for Moses.”

                                  Love, Cathy & Rob, Moses, and all the Harts

THE FOLLOWING MASS INTENTIONS have been sent to various Missionaries.  They will be offered as follows and you may attend the Masses here in our church as the Missionaries offer the Masses in their churches:

 

Sunday, April 2: 8:00 + Wayne McDaniel – int. Ron & Monica Scherman

                                10:30 + Marlene Jarvenpac – int. Dan. D.

Monday, April 3: – Health & Blessings for Helen Adamski – int. Joseph Kosewicz

Tuesday, April 4: + Patrick Moskal and Family – int. Maeve Shaughnessy

Wednesday, April 5: + Mary R. Di Mascola – int. Son

Thursday, April 6: + Mary Garmalo – int. Susan Malley

Friday, April 7: + Mr. & Mrs. Albert Zappa – int. Susan Malley

Saturday, April 8: 8:00 + Arthur & Rose Villa – int. Susan Malley

                                  4:00 + Stephen & Phyllis Sanicki – int. Joseph & Irene Klepadlo

 

PLEASE NOTE:  The above Masses not only assist the souls for whom they are offered, but they also help the Missionaries who often times receive very little help.  It also helps the people where the Masses are offered.  Bóg wam zapłać!

 

FRIDAY, APRIL 7^th is the First Friday of the Month in honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.   The Mass of the Sacred Heart will be offered at 5:30 p.m.  Confessions will be heard starting at 5:00 p.m.

 

Don’t forget the Bottle! – As you put your change in the baby bottle for Alternatives Pregnancy Center, please pray for the women and their babies and for those who serve them at ALTERNATIVES.  We will be collecting the bottles on the weekend of April 23.  Thank you for participating!

 

Our parish has a Prayer Line under the patronage of the Sacred Heart of Jesus which is available for anyone.  To utilize the Prayer Line simply call 413-259-7571 or e-mail nan6539@gmail.com to leave a message with your intention and over 25 intercessors will pray for your intention daily.

 

website:  ChroniclesofCzestochowa.wordpress.com  Like us on Facebook

 

The Teresians – Please consider becoming a Teresian.  As we have said there is NO commitment.  We will notify everyone on the ministry list (via email) when someone is sick and in need of prayer or a visit OR dying and in need of prayer or a visit OR died and the funeral details.  It will be up to each individual/family to decide how they can minister.  No one is expected to respond to each need. If any parishioner knows of someone in need, please email Joy Pelc (rjpelc@comcast.net) and Nancy Faller (nafaller@aol.com), so we can get the word out.

ON APRIL 8th WE OBSERVE HOLOCAUST DAY to remember the millions of individuals who were put to death simply because of their race, religion or political beliefs by the Nazis during World War II.  In addition to the four million Jews were six million Polish men, women and children, over one third of the nation, massacred by the Nazi madmen.  Over 40,000 Polish priests and nuns alone were murdered in concentration camps and not one Polish family remained untouched by this brutal attempt at genocide.  During this Day of Holocaust, when we remember the Jews, the Poles, the Gypsies and other individuals and groups who were discriminated against to the point of death simply because they were not politically correct, simply because they didn’t fit into the grand scheme of the new age of Hitler, it is important to remember that this sort of thing can happen again and is happening again.  It is important to remember that the only answer to bigotry, prejudice and hatred is to follow the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ; to follow that love totally, to extend His forgiveness completely, to fill our hearts with love for everyone at every time, in every situation, in all conditions so that the violence of hatred, abuses and prejudice has no room; to fill ourselves so completely with the teachings of Jesus Christ who commanded us to love one another as He first loved us and to forgive our enemies as He forgives us.  There is no excuse for separating ourselves form one another.  There is no excuse for holding on to past offenses.  There is no excuse for holding on to hatred.  Love and forgiveness are the only keys to peace, to power, to strength and to eternal life.

 

The adult Catechism group has finished the study on the “Catechism of the Catholic Church”, and are now going to begin a study of the Gospel according to St. John. Everyone is welcome. We meet in the living room of the rectory on Sunday mornings at 9:00, during the time the children are attending their CCD class.

 

Volunteers Needed at Divine Mercy Shrine – The National Shrine of the Divine Mercy (2 Prospect Hill Road, Stockbridge, MA 01263) is seeking volunteers for food preparation, ushering, on and off site parking, caregivers for disabled persons, sign language, gift shop, and many other opportunities.  Come and use the gifts that The Lord has given you for Divine Mercy Weekend, April 22 -23, 2017. To register, contact Peter James at 413-298-1114, volunteers@marian.org, or visit us online at www.thedivinemercy.org/volunteers to register. If you have never joined us before for Mercy Weekend, it never hurts to have all your questions answered – call today!

 

THE WEEKLY PRO-LIFE NOVENA takes place every Saturday before the 8:00 a.m. Mass begging God for an end to the massacre of the innocents, the violence to women, protection of the handicapped, the aged and all those who are threatened by the so called choice mentality of our culture.

Mass. Citizens for Life Convention – Keep the Momentum Going at the 2017 Massachusetts Citizens for Life Convention on April 8^th at Boston College’s Devlin Hall. Meet other pro-lifers and hear from speakers on how to end Roe v. Wade and what happens after – and more! Get all the details at MassProLife.com/2017Convention or call 617-242-4199.

 

2017 Gala “More Jukebox Memories” – 2017 will mark the 40^th Anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley.  In tribute to his music and his legacy, the GMEF proudly presents “More Jukebox Memories” for their 2017 Gala on Saturday, April 29^t.h at 7:30 p.m. featuring Elvis tribute artist David Lee.  Also returning, The American Longboards with their high-energy tribute to music of the 50′s, 60′s, and 70′s.       Tickets for the GMEF Annual Gala are on sale at the World Eye Bookshop, Greenfield; Scotty’s Convenience Store, Turners Falls; by calling Sandy at the TFHS 863-7296; or at the GMEF website – http://www.thegmef.org.  Advance tickets are $25 – At the Door $30.   Your concert ticket includes an invitation to join the Board of Directors, Underwriters and Sponsors for the Pre-show Reception at “The Jukebox Junction” (TFHS cafeteria) from 6:15 to 7:15.  GMEF will be Honoring Earl McGraw in three Ways at their Gala.  (1)  A Special Tribute to Earl in the 2017 Gala Program, (2) The GMEF Annual Tier-giving Campaign – March 1 – April 14, 2017. There a special page on our website – “Tributes to Earl McGraw” with tier-giving form for Earl, (3) A Special Tribute during the Concert will be made to honor Earl.  For more information go to our website – www.thegmef.org

 

10^th Annual Catholic Women’s Conference – On Saturday, April 22^nd, the Diocese of Springfield will hold its 10^th Catholic Women’s Conference.  Women of all ages are invited.  The conference will be held at the Bellamy Middle School in Chicopee from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  This year’s speakers will be Mother Olga of the Sacred Heart, Patricia Livingston and Therese Wilson Favors.  Please register by April 8^th.  For more information, call 413-452-0812.

 

“One Family, Many Gifts”, this year’s theme for the Annual Catholic Appeal, calls on each of us to unite in one mission to share God’s blessings. Did you know that the Annual Catholic Appeal has been helping those most in need for 58 years?  Please continue the tradition of Neighbor Helping Neighbor through your financial gift to the Annual Catholic Appeal.  You can also learn more about the ministries that we help on our Facebook page Annual Catholic Appeal Springfield, MA.  One-Time gifts, pledges paid over 8 months, Matching Gifts and gifts of stock are just a few of the ways you can make a difference in someone’s life.  If you did not receive an invitation in the mail to participate in this year’s Annual Catholic Appeal, please contact the rectory or call 413-452-0637.  Online donations may be made at http://www.diospringfield.org/aca.

PLEASE DON’T FORGET OUR GROCERIES for the Poor Project!  Many people who are having a hard time come to the Rectory for help.  Please help us to help them.  It is a sad and heartbreaking thing to turn someone away when we run out of groceries!  Any non-perishable items that you can spare will be greatly appreciated – dry milk, canned soups and stews, jam, crackers, pasta, juices, etc.  Please leave them in the front vestibule of the church.

 

Totus Tuus – Summer Program – This summer will be the 7^th year of our Saint Michael Parish hosting the Totus Tuus camp at Saint Michael School! This weeklong summer camp is scheduled for the week of July 9-14. The grade school program is open to any child who will be entering the 1^st – 8^th grade in September. That day program runs from 9 am to 3 pm, Monday through Friday with a cost of $50.00 per student or $75.00 total for a family.  There is also a High School Program, which runs from Sunday night through Thursday night from 7:30-9:30.  Please consider helping us to make this year’s camp successful.  Please contact us at 254-4818 or neros75@comcast. net for questions about the camp or to volunteer to help. Thank you. Pete and Judith Nero

 

OUR LADY’S HOLY ICON will visit the home of Monica Scherman for a week of prayer and petition for the needs of our Parish.  We thank you for this holy work of power and love.

 

Alternatives Pregnancy Center – Pregnancy Tests, Counseling, Support Services, and Post Abortion Support, All Services Free and Confidential, 466 Main Street, P.O. Box 344, Greenfield, MA  01302-0344 — (413) 774-6010

 

 

Martyr Longinus the Centurion, Who Stood at the Cross of the Lord

 

     The Holy Martyr Longinus the Centurion, a Roman soldier, served in Judea under the command of the Governor, Pontius Pilate.  When our Savior Jesus Christ was crucified, it was the detachment of soldiers under the command of Longinus which stood watch on Golgotha, at the very foot of the holy Cross.  Longinus and his soldiers were eyewitnesses of the final moments of the earthly life of the Lord, and of the great and awesome portents that appeared at His death.  These events shook the centurion’s soul.  Longinus believed in Christ and confessed before everyone, “Truly this was the Son of God” (Mt. 27:54).

     According to Church Tradition, Longinus was the soldier who pierced the side of the Crucified Savior with a spear, and received healing from an eye affliction when blood and water poured forth from the wound.

     After the Crucifixion and Burial of the Savior, Longinus stood watch with his company at the Sepulchre of the Lord.  These soldiers were present at the All-Radiant Resurrection of Christ.  The Jews bribed them to lie and say that His disciples had stolen away the Body of Christ, but Longinus and two of his comrades refused to be seduced by the Jewish gold.  They also refused to remain silent about the miracle of the Resurrection.

     Having come to believe in the Savior, the soldiers received Baptism from the apostles and decided to leave military service.  Saint Longinus left Judea to preach about Jesus Christ the Son of God in his native land (Cappadocia), and his two comrades followed him.

     The fiery words of those who had actually participated in the great events in Judea swayed the hearts and minds of the Cappadocians; Christianity began quickly to spread throughout the city and the surrounding villages.  When they learned of this, the Jewish elders persuaded Pilate to send a company of soldiers to Cappadocia to kill Longinus and his comrades.  When the soldiers arrived at Longinus’s village, the former centurion himself came out to meet the soldiers and took them to his home.  After a meal, the soldiers revealed the purpose of their visit, not knowing that the master of the house was the very man whom they were seeking.  Then Longinus and his friends identified themselves and told the startled soldiers to carry out their duty.

     The soldiers wanted to let the saints go and advised them to flee, but they refused to do this, showing their firm intention to suffer for Christ.  The holy martyrs were beheaded, and their bodies were buried at the place where the saints were martyred.  The head of Saint Longinus, however, was sent to Pilate.

     Pilate gave orders to cast the martyr’s head on a trash-heap outside the city walls.  After a while a certain blind widow from Cappadocia arrived in Jerusalem with her son to pray at the holy places, and to ask that her sight be restored.  After becoming blind, she had sought the help of physicians to cure her, but all their efforts were in vain.

     The woman’s son became ill shortly after reaching Jerusalem, and he died a few days later.  The widow grieved for the loss of her son, who had served as her guide.

     Saint Longinus appeared to her in a dream and comforted her.  He told her that she would see her son in heavenly glory, and also receive her sight.  He told her to go outside the city walls and there she would find his head in a great pile of refuse.  Guides led the blind woman to the rubbish heap, and she began to dig with her hands.  As soon as she touched the martyr’s head, the woman received her sight, and she glorified God and Saint Longinus.

     Taking up the head, she brought it to the place she was staying and washed it.  The next night, Saint Longinus appeared to her again, this time with her son.  They were surrounded by a bright light, and Saint Longinus said, “Woman, behold the son for whom you grieve.  See what glory and honor are his now, and be consoled.  God has numbered him with those in His heavenly Kingdom.  Now take my head and your son’s body, and bury them in the same casket.  Do not weep for your son, for he will rejoice forever in great glory and happiness.”

     The woman carried out the saint’s instructions and returned to her home in Cappadocia.  There she buried her son and the head of Saint Longinus.  Once, she had been overcome by grief for her son, but her weeping was transformed into joy when she saw him with Saint Longinus.  She had sought healing for her eyes, and also received healing of her soul.

https://oca.org

 

PLEASE NOTE that every day of the month is set aside to pray for a specific priest or deacon of Franklin County.  Please join in dedicating every day to one of the clergymen designated in our calendar.  The intentions for this week are:

 

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Fr. Roach	Deacon Ratté	Deacon Nolan	Bishop Rozanski	Fr. Campoli	Fr. Naranjo	Fr. Cullen

 

RTHIS BULLETIN is sponsored by the St. Stanislaus and St. Kazimierz Societies.

 

Pilgrimage to Italy – A pilgrimage to Italy will leave from Boston on October 15, 2017 returning October 26.  Spiritual Directors are Msgr. Ronald Yargeau and Fr.  Timothy Campoli who will offer daily Mass. The cost is $4,499 which includes airfare, wonderful hotels for 10 nights, two meals a day, admission fees and tour guides.  A bus to Boston may be rented if there is enough interest. Please spread the word and contact Helen Shea Murphy at 413-773-8890 or HelenSheaMurphy@verizon.net with questions and to receive a flyer.

 

Catholic Cruise Alaskan Explorer with Glacier Bay – Come and sail away on a 7 night Alaskan Explorer with Glacier Bay Cruise with Fr. David Cooper July 8-15, 2017 on Holland America’s Eurodam out of Seattle, Wash.  Ports of Call:  Juneau, Alaska, Cruise Glacier Bay National Park, Sitka, Alaska, Ketchikan, Alaska, Victoria, and British Columbia.  Prices begin at $2,984 for two passengers which includes all port fees and taxes.  Daily Mass offered. Deposits of only $350 per person will reserve your cabin.  For more information or to register, call 860-399-1785 or Doug@CatholicCruiseandTours.com.

 

10^th ANNIVERSARY MEMORIAL MASS for Audrey Marie Santo will be held on Saturday, April 29^th at 10:00 a.m. at 64 South Flagg Street, Worcester.  Events of the Day: Confession begins at 10:00 a.m., Mass and anointing with oil, Adoration in the Chapel, visit Audrey’s rooms, museum and gift shops.  Call ahead at least one week in advance to reserve your seat and to receive oil.  Call 508-755-8712.

Eternal Rest Grant Unto Them O Lord,

And Let Your Perpetual Light Shine Upon Them.

 

Joseph Traciewski  4/2/1943

Edward Najda  4/2/1962

Amelia T. Pogoda  4/2/1995

Antoninia Scweckla  4/3/1953

Stanislaw Miciek  4/3/1958

Franciska Brzostowski 4/3/1965

Louis S. Pogoda, Sr. 4/3/2013

Joseph Butor 4/4/1926

Constance Padlewski 4/4/1941

Wladyslaw  Skowron 4/4/1956

Mary Guszan 4/4/1963

Alexander Garanin 4/4/1967

Genevieve Pierszalowski 4/4/1994

Blanche E. Thomas 4/4/1999

Rozalia Dobosz 4/5/1958

John P. Dzeima 4/5/1974

Julia Cislo 4/5/1975

Valda M. Bakula 4/5/1987

Helen M. Stewart 4/5/1991

Bernard Ciesunski 4/5/1993

Rose A. Wasileski 4/5/1994

Paul V. Fontes 4/5/2010

Adalbert Sobolewski 4/6/1931

John Kliszka 4/6/1939

Stanislaus Zamojski 4/6/1957

Bolick B. Sokoloski 4/6/1979

Adalbert Bus 4/7/1926

Gerald W. Kropelnicki 4/7/2005

Charles A. Waseleski, Jr. 4/7/2016

Grace Sokoloski 4/8/1976

Isadore P. Kopinto 4/8/1979

Alvera C. Rys 4/8/1979

Edward S. Skrypek 4/8/1996

Remember the Holy Souls in Your Prayers