Transcript Slide 1
THE SOLEMNITY OF
THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD
JANUARY 4, 2015
“The Magi set out because of a deep desire
which prompted them to leave everything
and begin a journey. It was as though they
had always been waiting for that star” (Pope
Benedict XVI). Our response to the Father’s
offer of salvation is that of the Magi: “To offer
gold is to proclaim Christ’s kingship, to offer
incense is to adore his Godhead, and to offer
myrrh is to acknowledge his mortality” (Saint
Odilio of Cluny). Creation responds as well:
“When the king of heaven was born, the
heavens knew that he was God because they
immediately sent forth a star; the sea knew
him because it allowed him to walk upon it;
the earth knew him because it trembled when
he died; the sun knew him because it hid the
rays of its light” (Saint Gregory the Great).
The manifestation of the Son of God to the
world begs belief from us by which we will be
lead home by another way.
ST. MATTHEW
THE EVANGELIST PARISH
MINERSVILLE, PA
www.StMatthewTheEvangelistParish.org
Rectory Office Hours: Monday to Friday 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM
Phone: (570) 544-2211
Fax: (570) 544-2317
SAINT MATTHEW THE EVANGELIST WELCOMES ALL
No matter what your present status in the Catholic Church; no matter what your current family
or marital situation; no matter what your past or present religious affiliation; no matter what
your personal history, age, background, race, ethnicity, etc.; you are Invited, Welcomed,
Accepted, Loved and Respected at Saint Matthew the Evangelist Parish!
SAFE ENVIRONMENT COORDINATOR: Sr. Meg Cole (610-866-0581x19)
VICTIM ASSISTANCE COORDINATOR: Wendy S. Krisak (1-800-791-9209)
WEEKDAY MASS AT 8:00 AM
MON – Scott Renninger by Family
TUE – In Honor of Mary Ellen Kralick on her 90th Birthday by Sokola Family
WED – Juritsko Family and Junior Barton by Family
THU – John Santarelli by Parents, Al and Dolores
FRI – Helen O’Connor by Mollie and Helene
SAT – 4:00 PM – Sophie Kuchta by Mary Ann Sokola
SUN – 8:30 AM – Fritz Doran by Ellen Doran and Family
10:30 AM – Living and Deceased Parishioners
***************************************************************************************************************************** ***************
REQUIESCANT IN PACE: May Jesus, the Word Made Flesh, take unto Himself:
EDWARD J. RACZKA, a former member of the former St. Francis of Assisi
Parish, and a member of our Parish Family, who died Saturday, December 27,
and whose funeral was Friday, January 2; MARY WITCOFSKY COLEMAN, a
former member of the former St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish, who died Tuesday,
December 30, and will be buried Wednesday, January 7; FRANK J.
ANTINOZZI, a former member of the former St. Francis of Assisi Parish, who
died Wednesday, December 31, and will be buried Wednesday, January 7;
May Mary, Mother of Our Savior, comfort their family and friends. ET LUX
PERPETUA LUCEAT EIS!
*************************************************************************************************************************
THE WEEKLY CALENDAR: Behold, the Lord, the Mighty One, has
come;/ and kingship is in his grasp, and power and dominion.
The Christmas Season continues with yet
another view of God in our history. In his
very flesh, Jesus is the revelation of God.
This is a season to celebrate a baby, but even
more the manifestation, “epiphany,” of God to
the whole world. // The gospel warms many
hearts with the story of the three visitors to
Bethlehem. Following the star, they come to
offer gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Aided by the first two readings, we can open
up the meaning of this vignette. God is
present in our history. This is a gift for all.
Whether arriving on dromedaries from Midian
and Ephah or bearing gold and frankincense
from Sheba, whole nations shall walk by this
light. In the early Church, this meant that
Gentiles would have to be seen as co-heirs
with the Jews, members of the same body. //
Enjoying the memories and mystery of this
day should thus be more than thinking about
the three kings. It is also far more important
than any technical debate about the translation of “magi” (Greek). They have been called
kings, wise men, or astrologers. In any event
they signal a day to celebrate God’s manifestation in Christ Jesus. When we celebrate
Epiphany we face the mystery of Christ’s
identity and our response in faith. Because
this revelation is universal, we are presented
with a further challenge. Do we treat some as
“outsiders” as if we were not co-heirs? Do
we act as if epiphany were for a few?
THE SOLEMNITY OF THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD, SUNDAY,
JANUARY 4 – THREE KINGS SUNDAY: To honor the Magi, their gifts to
the Christ Child, Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh (and chalk for the traditional
Epiphany Home Blessing) will be blessed. Packets of these gifts will be available for home use. Offering, $1.00 per pack. Preserve this beautiful tradition!
SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: 8:00 AM and 10:15 AM.
THE FAMILY PRAYER CHALICE FOR VOCATIONS (FPC):
Jesus told us to ask the Harvest Master to send laborers into
his harvest. May the prayers of our participating families bear
fruit. Thanks to THE EADES FAMILY for hosting the FPC for
Vocations this week. Please sign up in Church vestibule.
FAMILY PERSPECTIVE: The Magi in today’s gospel were led to Jesus by
a star. Who are the stars your children follow? Don’t let it be the tabloid stars.
Resolve in this New Year to be the guiding star in the life of your children.
PRO-LIFE REFLECTION: America, your very future as a nation depends
on your willingness to protect the Right to Life of the most defenseless in your
society. Join a pro-life organization today.
STEWARDSHIP: “..they fell down and worshipped him. Then they opened
their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh...” –
Matthew 2:11. Notice the order of events in the Magi’s visit. First, they knelt
before Jesus and prayed to Him. Then they presented Him with their gifts. We,
too, must take time to pray before we present our gifts to the Lord. We never
know what God may be asking us to share! LAST WEEK YOU CONTRIBUTED: Sunday: $2,332; Capital Improvement: $362; Expenses: 4,911.96.
Thank you for your generosity! N.B.: Without our SAVINGS and the
PROFITS FROM OUR FUNDRAISING, our parish could not
meet its expenses! Please support your parish consistently!
CHRISTMAS SEASON CHARITY: ST. VINCENT DE PAUL FOOD
PANTRY – Your donation of all TYPES OF CANNED SOUPS will allow the
SVDP Society to aid the needy of our area. Volunteer to help our SVDP
Society Outreach and God’s Bountiful Table. Call 570-544-2739.
CHRISTMAS SEASON VOTIVES: (1) SANCTUARY: IMO John Socko
(17th Annv) by Daughter, Ann Marie. (2) ALTARS: BLESSED VIRGIN
MARY: Special Intention by Stan and Sally Gober; For the Health of George
Homa and Special Intention by Wife and Family; In Thanksgiving by Katherine;
In Thanksgiving by Aldona Butler. DIVINE MERCY: For the Intention of
Catherine on Her 90th Birthday. (3) BEFORE: ST. JOSEPH: Special
Intention. REREDOS NICHE: IMO John Szekeres (7th Annv) by Ann Marie.
ST. FRANCIS: IMO Paul Gelches by Son. ST. ANTHONY: For the Intention
of Catherine on Her 90th Birthday. ST. THERESA: For the Intention of
th
of Catherine on Her 90 Birthday. Call 570-544-2211 to memorialize votives.
ST. PATRICK CHURCH ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT SPAGHETTI DINNER: 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM. Adults $8.00; Children $3.50. Call 570622-1802 for more information.. Kindly support our sister parish!
MONDAY, JANUARY 5 – THE FEAST OF ST. JOHN NEUMANN: We will venerate the relic of St. John Neumann at today’s 8:00 AM Mass.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 6 – ST. MATTHEW RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAM: 6:00 PM in the Good Shepherd Building. Any
questions, contact our Coordinator of Religious Education, Rosalie Novack (570-544-2211).
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7 – DEVOTIONS TO ST. PEREGRINE: 8:00 AM Mass. Ask St. Peregrine to help cancer patients / caregivers.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 8 – “SOUNDS OF THE SPIRIT” CONTEMPORARY CHOIR: 7:00 PM, Church. New members are needed and
welcome! Call Greg Senich at 570-544-2355 to join .
FRIDAY, JANUARY 9 – SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: 7:45 AM.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 10 – SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: 3:30 PM. Continue this New Year by making a good Confession!
SUNDAY, JANUARY 11 – THE FEAST OF THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD – ORIENTATION: This Feast proclaims a theophany,
a revelation and manifestation of the divine Sonship of Jesus by his anointing and appointing to his Messianic
office. It is the feast that proclaims the Baptism that elevates believers to the status of sons and daughters of
God. THE RITE OF BLESSING AND SPRINKLING WITH HOLY WATER will be celebrated in commemoration of Christ’s Baptism in the
Jordan River by St. John the Baptist. Pastoral Note: Today officially ends the Christmas Season.
SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: 8:00 AM and 10:15 AM.
THE FAMILY PRAYER CHALICE FOR VOCATIONS (FPC): ROSE KUEHN will host the FPC this week. Call 570-3995056 or sign-up in the Church Vestibule. We also need host families for February!
NATIVITY BVM HIGH SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 1:00 PM. Meet faculty, staff, students, parents, advisors, coaches and board
members; take a tour of our campus; learn about tuition assistance opportunities. Call Jenn (570-622-8110) with questions.
SECOND COLLECTION ENVELOPE: (1) FUEL: Your contribution will help defray the cost of heating oil for all parish buildings. (2)
END OF THE YEAR GIVING: 2014 is over. Check your Sunday Church Envelopes for the envelopes you missed due to illness, vacation,
inclement weather, etc. Please catch up as soon as possible. Your Church needs your consistent and generous support to meet its
financial obligations and to serve you. 2014 envelopes returned by January 31, 2015 will be credited for the fiscal year 2014. Thank you!
***************************************************************************************************************************** ********************************************************************************************************************
MINISTERS AT MASS FOR THE FEAST OF THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD
OFF. PROC.
SAT
4:00 PM
Sokola Family
LECTORS
Rosalie Novack
E. M. of H. C.
ALTAR SERVERS
Barbara Sincavage
Jordan Berdanier
Max Wigoda
SUN
8:30 AM
Doran Family
Elaine Stine
Jack Ruscavage
Eric Andruchek
Alex Reppert
10:30 AM
Parishioners
Marge Walasavage
Marian Rhoads
Killian Clark
Carter Melochick
***************************************************************************************************************************** ********************************************************************************************************************
COMING EVENTS: Please be sure to mark your calendar!
JANUARY 14 – GOD’S BOUNTIFUL TABLE: 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, Fr. Ricapito Annex. Call 570-544-2739.
JANUARY 18 – FIRST ANNUAL BRIDAL EXPO: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, St. Nicholas Hall, Primrose. Vendors and businesses offering wedding
products and services call 570-527-0899 or 570-544-6807. Future brides and grooms mark your calendar and plan to attend!
JANUARY 21 – ST. MATTHEW’S TRAVELERS’ HOLLYWOOD CASINO BUS TRIP: Pay $23; Rebate $30. Bus leaves R&J 8:30 AM;
Quandel’s in Minersville 9:00 AM. Bus departs casino 4:00 PM. Call Julie (570-544-5231) or Millie (570-628-5413) for information.
JANUARY 25 – DIOCESAN COLLECTION: CATHOLIC RELIEF SERVICES: Our parish will take up this collection Which supports six
Catholic agencies that touch more than 100 million lives around the world. The funds collected help provide food to the hungry, welcome
and support to displaced refugees, and invaluable life skills to those seeking a better life. How will you help? Please give generously and
help Jesus in disguise. Use the Special Envelope found in your boxes.
MAY 11-14 – ST. MATTHEW’S TRAVELERS’ VIRGINIA BEACH BUS TRIP: $479 per person, double occupancy includes: 3 nights hotel
accommodations, 3 full breakfasts, 3 dinners including all-you-can-eat seafood buffet, visit to Fort Monroe Casemate Museum Williamsburg
Pottery, Yankee Candle Village, Douglas MacArthur Memorial, Norfolk Naval Base, Hampton Roads Naval Museum, beach and boardwalk.
Motorcoach transportation. Baggage handling, meal gratuities and hotel taxes included. YOUR PAYMENT IS YOUR RESERVATION!
Call Julie (570-544-5231) or Millie (570-628-5413).
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
CHRISTMAS FLOWER MEMORIALS: We gratefully acknowledge your kindness and generosity which allowed us to decorate our church so
beautifully during the Christmas Holidays (Unless otherwise noted each donation was $10): IMO Dante and Jean Cola by Daughter,
Jeanine; IMO Sumoski and Warcola Family by Bertha Warcola; IMO Stanley Brilla by Catherine Brilla; IMO David Moore by the James
Moore Family; IMO William Lesky by Betty Lesky; IMO Donald (Tom) Doyle, Bud and Jo Volkert, Anna and Frank Yanosky by Flossie
Doyle ($50); IMO John Andruchek, Sr., Joseph and Adella Andruchek, Joseph and Anna Terleckas, Michael and Anna Orlosky, Lewis
Lesnefsky by Catherine Andruchek ($25); IMO Joseph Pizzico by Daughter Anna Butcavage; IMO Pauline and Charles Butensky, George
Frew by M/M Robert Butensky ($20); IMO Joseph and Mary Hudock, Elizabeth Hoover, Catherine Slavickas by John F. Hudock ($20);
IMO Ken Klotunowitch by Deborah Klotunowitch; IMO Frank and Sophie Kuchta, Deceased of Kuchta Family, Deceased of Sinkovich
Family, Deceased of Yakobosky Family by Family ($40); IMO Francis and Helen O’Connor by Daughter, Mollie and Family; IMO William
C. Laudeman, Sr. by Son, William, Jr. and Family; IMO Anna and Alice Holley by Liddick Family; IMO Daniel Polansky, Joseph McGovern,
Vince and Ruth Murphy, Pat and Mary McGovern by Thomas and Carol McGovern; Intentions of M/M Francis Roscoe; IMO Charles and
Elizabeth Schwalm, Patsy O’Brien, William Laudeman, Sr. by Scott and Patrice Schwalm and Family ($20); IMO Charles Stablum, Sr.,
Birch and Gary Witman, John, Helen and Mario Stablum, M/M Lewis Carroll by Craig Witman Family; IMO The Marzinsky and Gussick
Families from Carolyn and John Marzinsky ($50); Intentions of M/M John Andruchek; IMO Joseph and Betty Wentz, Aucker Family by Joe
and JoAnn Aucker; IMO Thomas W. Barr by M/M Michael Barr; IMO William Barton, Charles Pukas, Deceased of Plesnarski and Barton
Families by Diane Barton; IMO John, Anna, Richard and Keith Butcavage, Thomas J., Clara, Tom and Peg Farrell by John and Elaine
Butcavage ($20); IMO John Cazonie, Norma Olenick by Henry Cazonie; IMO Stephen Chelak by Wife, Katherine; IMO Catherine and
Michael Gober and Sons by Family ($15);IMO Stanley and Tessie Costick;IMO Joseph and Adella Melenchick and Anna Coyle by Norman
and Ann Marie Coyle; IMO Herman DiSarro by Tina DiSarro; IMO Fritz and Jean Doran, Deceased of Doran Family, Deceased of
Calderone Family, Deceased Friends by Ellen Doran; IMO David and Mary Montello, GerryAnn Walker and David Montello, Jr., Ona
Supsinskas, Grandmother, All Deceased and Living Priests and Religious who served St. Francis Church and School by Gloria Dutcavich
($50); IMO Butcavage, Farrell, and Earlosky Families by Jane and Vince Earlosky; IMO Catherine Campion, Eleanore Forney, Burton
Forney, Leo Campion by Nicole Forney ($20); IMO Anna Gieger, Lorenz Gieger by Liz Gieger ($20); IMO Joseph Gottschall, Sr. M.
Lucretia, John Brennan Family, Clare Hennessy by Helen Gottschall; IMO Stanley Graf, Jr., Stanley Graf, Sr., James and Phyllis
McNamara by Barbara, MaryBeth, Evelyn and Maureen ($20); IMO John J. Sabadish, Frank Kralick by Mary Ann Harrison; IMO M/M
George Bossick, Leona and Sophie Botzick by Marilyn Homa ($20); IMO Lohin and Hudock Families by Anna Hudock ($20); IMO Dorothy
and Stanley Plesnarksi, Lillian and Nicholas Hutzel, Diane Cory, Deceased of Hoffman and Plesnarksi Families by Beverly, Nick, Kristin
and Alexis Hutzel; IMO Scott Bedford, Milan and Madeline Barber by Kelly Family ($20); IMO Felix Kryston, Antoinette Murphy, Madeline
Aucker by Anna Kryston; IMO John and Rose Kukta, Francis and Jack O’Brien, Margaret and John Kukta, Leonard Kukta by M/M John
Kukta ($20); IMO Michael Bosack, Sr., Gertrude Bosack, Raymond and Stephen Bosack, Eugene and Florence Gilchrist, Deceased
Members of Bosack Family by Michael Bosack, Jr. ($50); IMO David and Anna Brennan, Anthony and Elizabeth Marchowsky, Mercedes
Essler, Diane Warcola by Gail Brennan ($20); IMO Kulpcavage and Buglia Families by Ann and Bob Buglia; IMO Donald J. Butler, Sr. by
Aldona and Edward Butler; IMO Joseph and Emelia Czwarc Family by Aldona and Edward Butler; IMO Anna and Stanley Gober by M/M
Jason Clark ($20); IMO Murphy and Consugar Families by Pat Consugar; Intentions of Dougherty Family; IMO Francis Gahres by Dolores
Gahres; IMO Brito, Budresky, Homa and Sweet Families by M/M George Homa; IMO Kabana and Plesnarksi Families by Paul Kabana;
IMO Rose Karmazin, Ryan Wiscount, Joe Karmazin by Joe and Beth Karmazin and Family; IMO Mary and John Ciesla, Charles Dietrich,
Stella and Walter Kopinetz by Michael B. and MaryAnn Kopinetz ($30); IMO John W. Lauck by Wife and Children; Intentions of Michelle
and Brooke Lewandowski; IMO Veronica and Edward Darosh by Teresa Miller; Intentions of Lawrence Murphy; IMO Elizabeth and
Anthony Trotsky, Frank and Helen Ruscavage, Stanley and Helen Zitka by M/M John Ruscavage ($20); IMO M/M Andrew Sabados, Sr.,
George and Robert Honyara, M/M George Mitchell, Mrs. Frances Donoris by Joe and Judy Sabados ($20); IMO Connie and Tim Stine,
Pauline and Charles Butensky, Pat Wiscount, Ryan Wiscount by M/M Fenton Stine; IMO Russ Rothermel, Jr. by M/M Stephen Toth (T.B.C.).