St. John The Evangelist Parish

In the Feast of All Saints, which we celebrated yesterday, we, the saints who are still struggling on earth (the church militant), celebrate fellowship with the saints who have already arrived in heavenly glory (the church triumphant). Today we celebrate our fellowship with the saints in purgatory, a state of temporary suffering for all the departed souls who are not yet in readiness for full fellowship with God in the glory of heaven (the church suffering).

All Christians believe in the Four Last Things: death, judgment, heaven and hell. Purgatory is not mentioned as one of the “last things” because, strictly speaking, it is considered as being part of heaven. The Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us, “All who die in God’s grace and fellowship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death they undergo purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven.” Souls who go to purgatory are those who have been judge worthy of heaven, but not straightaway. They still need some purification (purgation) before they are ready for heaven because as it says in Revelation 21:27, “nothing unclean shall enter it.”

Some Christians have a problem with the teaching on purgatory, primarily because it’s not mentioned by name in the Bible. Yet, these same Christians have no problem believing in “Trinity” even though it is not mentioned by name in the Bible. We arrive at the doctrine on purgatory the same way we arrive at the doctrine of the Trinity by making logical inferences from what God has explicitly revealed. Officially, Catholics believe in purgatory and Protestants do not, but unofficially we all have some belief in an interim state of purification before heaven. When we lose loved ones, Catholics and Protestants alike pray for the dead. We all say, “May their souls rest in peace.” Our prayers cannot help souls in hell, and souls in heaven do not need our prayers, so why pray from them? Any sort of prayer for the dead has meaning insofar as the souls of the dead who are in some interim state where they have not yet reached perfect union and peace with God, and where our prayers can help them get there. That’s purgatory. We pray for the souls of the faithful departed. In this we process our belief that, just as God has not stopped loving these poor souls because of their imperfections, neither have we. For us the belief in purgatory in good news.

TWO LITTLE BOYS

After a hardy rainstorm filled all the potholes in the streets and alleys, a young mother watched her two little boys playing in the puddle through her kitchen window.

The older of the two, a five-year-old lad, grabbed his sibling by the back of his head and shoved his face into the water hole. As the boy recovered and stood laughing and dripping, the mother runs to the yard in a panic.

'Why on earth did you do that to your little brother?' she asks, the older boy in anger. 'We were just playing 'church' mommy, ' he said. 'And I was just baptizing him... in the name of the Father, the Son and in.. the hole-he-goes!'

NO MATTER WHO WINS THE ELECTION
-The Bible will still have all the answers.
-Prayer will still work.
-The Holy Spirit will still move.
-God will still inhabit the praises of His people.
-There will still be God-anointed preaching.
-There will still be singing of praise to God.
-God will still pour out blessings upon His people.
-There will still be room at the Cross.
-Jesus will still love you.
-Jesus will still save the lost when they come to Him.

AND God approves this message!

ISN'T IT GREAT TO KNOW WHO IS REALLY IN CHARGE?

Fr. Bill's Notes (October 26, 2008)

As we come to the end of Respect Life Month, we shouldn’t forget that attacks on life are continuing. Oregon is a state that has a law allowing assisted suicide. Recently Barbara Wagner, a 64 year old retired school bus driver found out that her cancer, which had been in remission for 2 years, had come back. After her doctor prescribed a cancer drug that could slow the cancer growth and extend her life. She was notified that the Oregon Healthy Plan wouldn’t cover her prescription, but that it would cover assisted suicide. “To say to someone, we’ll pay for you to die, but not pay for you to live, is cruel”, she said. The senior medical director of the company that administers the Oregon Health Plan justified the decision to pay for assisted suicide, but not pay for treatment. He explained that assisted suicide could be considered a “comfort care measure” and that it was necessary, “to point out the options available” under the Oregon Health Plan. There was a happy ending to this story, though. After hearing about her plight, a representative of the pharmaceutical company that manufactures the cancer drug she needed, called her and told her it would provide the medicine free of charge.

Those pushing the assisted suicide measure are doing it in Washington State and challenging the law prohibiting assisted suicide in Montana. Things like this are promoting, “the culture of death” in our country where it starts with partial birth abortion. In some countries those who are disabled have their lives in danger. We have to pray and work that; “the culture of life” will be promoted.

In this month also dedicated to the Missions, we all have the responsibility of spreading the faith, not only to those who do not know Jesus or God, but also to those who need to become more aware of His teachings and values. Through our Baptisms we are all called to be missionaries, sharing the story of God’s love. A powerful way of doing this is praying the Rosary and asking Our Blessed Mother’s intercession. The Rosary is a strong weapon against the attacks of the devil who is very active in today’s world.

THE GIVER

It was a beautiful day for sightseeing around downtown Portland. A bunch of counselors were on their day off, away from campers, just out for some fun. The weather was perfect for a picnic, so when lunchtime came, they set their sights on a small park in town. Since they all had different cravings, they decided to split up, get what each one wanted and meet back on the grass in a few minutes.

When one of the counselors went to the hot dog stand, her friend accompanied her. They watched the vendor put together the perfect hot dog, just the way Robby wanted it. But when she took out her money to pay the vendor, he surprised them.

"It looks a little on the cool side," he said, "so never mind paying me". This will be my freebie of the day."

They said thanks, joined their friends in the park, and dug into the food. But as they talked and ate, a man sitting nearby looking at them distracted them.

They finished eating and decided to head off for more sightseeing. But when they went to the garbage can to throw away their lunch bag, they heard a strong voice ask, "there isn’t any food in that bag, is there?" It was the man who had been watching them. They didn’t know what to say. "No, I ate already." “Oh," was his only answer, with no shame in his voice at all. He was obviously hungry, couldn’t bear to see anything thrown away, and was used to asking this question.

They felt bad for the man, but didn’t know what to do. That's when Robby said, 'I'll be right back. Please wait for me a minute" and ran off to the hot dog stand. She brought back a hot dog, crossed back to the trashcan, and gave the hungry man the food.

When she came back, she simply said, 'I was just passing on the kindness that someone gave to me." "That day,' said Robby's friend, "I learned how generosity can go farther than the person you give to. By giving, you teach others how to give also."

"Whenever you did it to the least of my brethren,
you did it to me.”

PRAYER:

"Lord Jesus Christ, you have all power to heal and to deliver. There is no trouble nor bondage you cannot overcome. Set me free to serve you joyfully and to love and serve others generously. May nothing hinder me from giving myself wholly to you and to your service."

Fr. Bill's Notes (October 19, 2008)

Cardinal Egan has asked the Archdiocesan Department of Education to plan the formation of an inter-parochial school, which would be a Catholic Educational Community. The goal is to create true educational communities, which will ensure the availability of a Catholic education for as many Catholic children as possible.

The Educational Community is to be located in a geographic area with parishes in relative proximity. Each parish is to share responsibility for the continued viability of the school and participate in its governance. The school in our area would be St. Mary of The Snow in Saugerties and the parishes besides St. Mary’s would be St. John’s in Saugerties (us), St. John’s in Woodstock, St. Joseph’s in Glasco, and St. Frances de Sales in Phoenicia.

On October 27th at St. Mary’s School at 7:30 PM there will be representatives of the Archdiocese who will present the proposed structure and the implementation process. This will be a non-profit corporation and its governance requires the establishment of a Board of Directors who actively guides this Educational Community in monitoring finances and major projects, strategic planning and institutional advancement. Each of the parishes listed above are asked to provide three representatives who may come from business, professional, civic and Catholic educational groups, parents or alumni who are committed to maintaining and improving Catholic education. If you would like to be considered for being a Director for a two-year term, please let me know.

With the moral climate in today’s world we need teaching that will bring across God’s values. The world takes God and His teachings out of daily life. Just look at how some politicians vote in favor of abortions and other anti-life issues.

As young people in our parish are receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation, pray that they will be faithful in standing up for their faith and putting that faith into practice. Too many of our adults have received the wedding garment of sharing in God’s love and have put it aside. We pray that these confirmands will grow in showing others what it means to live as a Catholic.

We also pray that people will find time to spend with Jesus during the time of Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament Sunday afternoon, Sunday evening, or Sunday night until Monday morning at 8:30. How will they answer Jesus’ question in the garden “could you not spend one hour with me?” He has given so many blessings that we should show our thanks by being with Him.

BE HONEST
-- Author Unknown

Dishonesty, even in the smallest matter may severely damage a believer's credibility. You never know how closely you are being watched.

A businessman was invited to speak to a men's Church group. His topic was honesty in the workplace and he spoke very strongly and unwaveringly on the topic. The next morning, he boarded a city bus for the ride to work. He handed a dollar bill to the driver and received some change, which he counted as he proceeded down the aisle.

Before he reached his seat, he realized he had been given a dime too much. His first thought was that the transit company would never miss it. However, deep inside he knew he should return the money. So he went back to the driver, "You gave me too much change." To his amazement, the driver replied, "I know, a dime too much. I gave it to you on purpose. Then I watched you in my mirror as you counted your change. You see, I heard you speak yesterday, and if you had kept the dime, I would have written you off and everything that you said."

We may be the only Bible some people ever read. Let's never forget that people are watching

Reflection by Deacon Ed (October 12, 2008)

Can you imagine receiving a personal, hand delivered invitation to a reception from a high official, like the president, or maybe even the pope and ignoring it? Or booting the one who delivered it off the front porch? Hardly! We would go to the opposite extreme, and welcome it. We’d rearrange our schedule if need be to attend, and show our appreciation by coming in our finest wardrobe. Wouldn’t everyone?

Evidently not! The Gospel parable of the King inviting guests to a marriage feast describes the behavior of those invited as absurd and beyond understanding. Not only did they reject the invitation, ridicule it and prefer their own daily chores to the King’s invitation, but shamefully abused and killed the messengers. The idea that people would ignore the invitations so rudely and even kill those bearing them seems beyond the range of the possibility. Who in their right mind would do such a thing? The answer is all of us.

Throughout history, from the time of the prophets to the ministry of Jesus right to the present age, God constantly invites us to experience His salvation. He offers us an invitation to His great feast each day at no cost. In and through His Son, God offers us something of great value. It is the Kingdom of God’s love and life in which we are caught up in Baptism and asked to submit to. It is the Kingdom of God’s presence through grace. It is the Kingdom we belong to by believing that Jesus is Lord and accepting His guiding presence, His invitation, “Follow me.” To be a member of God’s People and Kingdom calls for constant interior conversion, a change of heart, repentance for sin and willingness to live a new life. Jesus summed it up when he said, “Repent, and believe in the Gospel”. Yes, the Gospel is about us.

The image of a wedding garment has always intrigued me. Many scholars do not think it was about an actual garment. Rather, they say, the person lacked a grateful heart. He was not grateful that God searched him out and found him and invited him to the feast.

The wedding garment in today’s parable stands for our loving concern for others, especially the needy. We must come clothed in a new life of goodness, accepting Jesus as Savior. We must all come dressed in the wedding garment of love.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

There once was a little boy who had a bad temper. His father gave him a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper, he must hammer a nail into the back of the fence.

The first day the boy had driven 37 nails into the fence.

Over the next few weeks, as he learned to control his anger, the number of nails hammered daily gradually dwindled down. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence.

Finally the day came when the boy didn't lose his temper at all. He told his father about it and the father suggested that the boy now pull out one nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper.

The days passed and the young boy was finally able to tell his father that all the nails were gone.

The father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. He said, 'you have done well, my son, but look at the holes in the fence. The fence will never be the same.

When you say things in anger, they leave a scar just like this one. You can put a knife in a man and draw it out. But it won't matter how many times you say I'm sorry, the wound will still be there. A verbal wound is as bad as a physical one.

So be the type of person to make someone smile. Encourage someone to succeed. Lend an ear, share words of praise and always open your hearts to the needs of others.

SPECIAL COLLECTION- At Baptism, each of us is marked by the Lord and entrusted with a special responsibility to tell the world of His “Good News.” World Mission Sunday affords all baptized Catholics an opportunity to celebrate their missionary vocation. This year’s World Mission Sunday, October 19th, is particularly special inasmuch as it marks the 100th Anniversary of our “mission independence.” Through 1908, the Church in the US was the beneficiary of the generosity of the Catholic faithful of Europe through the Society of the Propagation of the Faith. In fact, 2/3 of the very first collection of the Propagation of the Faith, in 1822, was sent to the Church in America, making it possible to build churches and schools, educate clergy and religious, provide for the good works of religious communities, and support evangelization here at home. By a 1908 Papal Decree, the designation “mission territory” was removed from the US. One hundred years later, we are called upon to assist both spiritually and financially the more than 1,150 “young churches” in Asia, Africa, the Pacific Islands, and Latin America, all of which have the same needs that the United States once had. With this in mind, please be generous this Mission Sunday so that the Propagation of the Faith can continue to spread the “Good News”. So, too, following the call of our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, let us pray that our celebration of World Mission Sunday will generate within us a renewed awareness of the need to proclaim the Gospel to all corners of the world. With prayerful best wishes, may I remain, very truly yours in Christ. Edward Cardinal Egan

Fr. Bill's Notes (October 5, 2008)

The effects of praying the Rosary have been pointed out by Pope John Paul who said, “If the rosary keeps pace with the speed of lives, it can become a privileged instrument for building peace in the hearts of persons, in families and among peoples.” Popes have pointed out that praying (not just saying) the rosary is a powerful way of focusing on the mysteries of Our Lord’s life and Mary’s life.

October 7th is the Feast of The Holy Rosary instituted in the 16th century on the occasion when Christians used the praying of the Rosary to overcome the Turkish attempt to conquer Western countries. We need Mary’s intercession today to foster peace in our world. Remember Fr. Peyton’s motto that, ‘the family that prays together, stays together.” Today too many families don’t take the time to pray together. Our parish Prayer Meetings, which are held every Tuesday evening at 7:15, always starts with the praying of the Rosary.

The Life Chain will be held on Ulster Avenue from 2 to 3 PM on Sunday, October 5th. It is an opportunity to stand up for life in these days when life is taken away by abortion and violence. Join people of all faiths in this silent stand for life.

After participating in the Life Chain, there will be a Prayer Meeting at the church to thank God for the gift of life that their mothers have chosen to give them life and to pray that our country will have a grater respect for life.

On October 15th, Ed Mechmann from the Archdiocese will be speaking on our responsibilities as Catholic Voters at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Kingston at 7 PM. This is an important message and he will have an interesting presentation.

KIDS ARE QUICK

TEACHER: Maria, go to the map and find North America.

MARIA: Here it is.

TEACHER: Correct. Now class, who discovered America?

CLASS: Maria.

TEACHER: John, why are you doing your math multiplication on the floor?

JOHN: You told me to do it without using tables.

TEACHER: Glenn, how do you spell 'crocodile?'

GLENN: K-R-O-K-O-D-I-A-L'

TEACHER: No, that's wrong

GLENN: Maybe it is wrong, but you asked me how I spell it.

TEACHER: Donald, what is the chemical formula for water?

DONALD: H I J K L M N O.

TEACHER: What are you talking about?

DONALD: Yesterday you said it's H to O.

TEACHER: Winnie, name one important thing we have today that we didn't have ten years ago.

WINNIE: Me!

TEACHER: Glenn, why do you always get so dirty?

GLENN: Well, I'm a lot closer to the ground than you are.

TEACHER: Millie, give me a sentence starting with 'I.'

MILLIE: I is..

TEACHER: No, Millie..... Always say, 'I am.'

MILLIE: All right..... 'I am the ninth letter of the alphabet.'

TEACHER: George Washington not only chopped down his father's cherry tree, but also admitted it. Now, Louie, do you know why his father didn't punish him?

LOUIS: Because George still had the axe in his hand.

TEACHER: Now, Simon, tell me frankly, do you say prayers before eating?

SIMON: No sir, I don't have to, my Mom is a good cook.

TEACHER: Clyde, your composition on 'My Dog' is exactly the same as your brother's. Did you copy his?

CLYDE: No, sir. It's the same dog.

TEACHER: Harold, what do you call a person who keeps on talking when people are no longer interested?

HAROLD: A teacher

Fr. Bill's Notes (September 28, 2008)

Concern for Vocations and prayers for vocations are most important. Last week I had heard (I haven’t had a chance to check it out and I will do that this week), that there is no seminarian in the first year of theology at St. Joseph’s Seminary. If that is true, and it follows through, then in 4 years there will be no ordination of a priest for the Archdiocese. This is a dire situation, since that could mean there will be no priest to be assigned to a parish when a priest retires or dies. That could lead to one priest having to oversee two or even three parishes. There is a great need to encourage vocations at all ages. The Archdiocese has sent us posters to heighten the awareness of vocations and prayer cards, which ask for God’s intervention that more will respond to the call that He is giving. The Archdiocesan Campaign has for a theme, “The World Needs Heroes”, with a Website of www.NYPriest.com. A vocation is a call and too many don’t hear or respond to the call because of the distractions that today’s world presents and the secular pressures. We pray that more parents will encourage vocations through family prayer and participation in church activities. Being a priest and helping people to grow is a great life. It has enabled the Holy Spirit to work through me in helping people to get closer to God and God to be present to people. I thank all those who have prayed for me and helped me to share God’s love. Please keep me in your prayers as I pray for you.

October has a number of themes. It is Mission Month where we pray for and support those who are sharing the faith; priests, religious and laity. They are doing this in foreign missions, but also in areas of our country where the faith has not been firmly founded. Keep them in your prayers for vocations in these areas. The foreign missionaries need God’s help in sharing God’s message.

October is also Respect Life Month with Life Chains of people standing up for life on Sunday, October 5th from 2 to 3 PM. A Respect Life Dinner will be held on the evening of October 10th at the Hillside Manor in Kingston.

John A. Coleman Catholic High School celebrates its 40th Anniversary on October 11th. Bishop Dominic Lagonegro will bring the Holy Spirit to our parish in Confirmation on October 19th at 2 PM.

The Feast of St. Francis of Assisi is Saturday, October 4th. We will have a special Blessing of Animals at 9:15 AM that morning in the parking lot. If the weather is bad, we will do it on the front porch of the Church.

YOU ARE SPECIAL

One day a teacher asked her students to list the names of the other students in the room on a sheet of paper, leaving a space between each name. Then she told them to think of the nicest thing they could say about each of their classmates and write it down. As the students left class each one handed in the papers.

That Saturday, the teacher wrote down the name of each student on a separate sheet of paper, and listed what everyone else had said about that individual. On Monday she gave each student his or her list. Before long, the entire class was smiling. 'Really?' she heard whispered. 'I never knew that I meant anything to anyone!' and, 'I didn't know others liked me so much,' were most of the comments.

No one ever mentioned those papers in class again. She never knew if they discussed them after class or with their parents, but it didn't matter. The exercise had accomplished its purpose. The students were happy with themselves and one another.

Several years later, one of the students was killed in Vietnam and his teacher attended the funeral. The church was packed with his friends. One by one those who loved him took a last walk by the coffin. The teacher was the last one to bless the coffin. As she stood there, one of the soldiers who acted as pallbearer came up to her. 'Were you Mark's math teacher?' he asked. She nodded: 'yes.' Then he said: 'Mark talked about you a lot.'

After the funeral, Mark's mother and father waiting to speak with his teacher. 'We want to show you something,' his father said, taking a wallet out of his pocket 'They found this on Mark when he was killed. We thought you might recognize it.' Opening the billfold, he carefully removed two worn pieces of notebook paper that had obviously been taped, folded and refolded many times. The teacher knew without looking that the papers were the ones on which she had listed all the good things each of Mark's classmates had said about him. 'Thank you so much for doing that,' Mark's mother said. 'As you can see, Mark treasured it.'

All of Mark's former classmates started to gather around. Charlie smiled rather sheepishly and said, 'I still have my list, and it’s in the top drawer of my desk at home.' Chuck's wife said, 'Chuck asked me to put his in our wedding album.' 'I have mine too,' Marilyn said. 'It's in my diary'. Then, Vicki, another classmate, reached into her pocketbook, took out her wallet and showed her worn and frazzled list to the group. 'I carry this with me at all times,' Vicki said and without batting an eyelash, she continued: 'I think we all saved our lists'

That's when the teacher finally sat down and cried. She cried for Mark and for all his friends and family who would never see him again.

Sometimes we forget that life will end one day. And we don't know when that day will be. So tell the people you love and care for, that they are special and important. Don’t wait – tell them today!!

Reflection by Deacon Ed (September 21, 2008)

We’re all familiar with the letters DNA, a medical term, especially useful when it comes to solving crimes or determining the parenthood of a child. However, some meanings of DNA, for example on the TV show Big Brother, DNA means “Do Not Assume.” With our Gospel reading for today, DNA = Do Not Assume you know what is fair and maybe God does not.

“Equal pay for less work,” outrages our sense of justice and decency. And the statement of Jesus, “The last shall be first”, confuses us. The parable of the workers in the vineyard does have a shock effect. So does the parable of the prodigal son and the story of Martha and Mary. Such stories rattle us because they do violence to our sense of fairness and justice. In today’s readings the prophet Isaiah and the evangelist Matthew meet the confusion head on. They declare a consoling and challenging truth about God: God will not allow Himself to be cut down to our size or made over into our image.

Our Christian community, gathered here today at St. John’s, also has a lesson to learn about God’s justice and generosity because we usually “DNA” do not assume God to be too different from ourselves. To understand the parable in today’s Gospel we must avoid the details. Avoid thinking of the vineyard owner as representing God and earliest workers of the day as “cradle Catholics” and the latest workers of the day as “deathbed” converts. Jesus is telling us a story whose meaning is the story and not the details.

In the Father’s kingdom, all are equally loved and human standards are not to be used to measure God’s generosity. All God requires from us is a faint indication, a mere trace of action. If we show even the smallest interest in responding to Him, then He overwhelms us with generosity and captures us with the wild passion of His love.

Our celebration of the Eucharist is an unsettling reminder that God’s ways are not our ways. It is an up-to-date experience of God’s surprising ways in which we are nourished by His word and self-giving.

An unanswered question of today’s parable confronts us: “How did the late workers who received the generous wage feel and act?” Maybe we can help to answer that question as we are sent forth to shock the mentality of our age by forgiving hurts and giving generous response to the so-called least deserving of society.

DINNER TABLE LEARNING

A teacher friend showed me the cookbooks her preschool class had written for Mother's Day gifts. Each child was asked to choose the favorite dish prepared by his/her mother, and then dictate and illustrate the recipe for that dish. The result was predictably hilarious.

"Brownies," said Morgan. "I think she sprinkles some chocolate chips in water and puts it in the oven for 11 hours." "Pizza," said Peter. "But she doesn't cook it, she takes us to Johnny's to get it."

And then the one that really made me pause: "Fried chicken," reported Justin. "She buys it at the store, puts some salt on it and puts it in the frying pan, then calls us to dinner and when we finish, she excuses us." In that sentence, Justin told us everything he had learned so far about food and family. In his home, Mom was the person with the responsibility for selecting and purchasing the family's food, preparing it, and then most importantly, creating the environment for all to come together to enjoy the food, while learning important lessons about appropriate table behavior.

With several recent surveys indicating that 30 to 40 percent of families do not eat dinner together five to seven nights a week, it is important to consider just what is gained when children come together regularly with parents at the dinner table.

Significant differences are found in the number of children 11 years and older regarding the risk of smoking, drinking, or using illegal drugs, incidence of depressive symptoms, eating disorders, and sexual activity, when these children have regular and frequent family meals.

With younger children, Harvard researchers found that family dinners were even more important than play, story time, and other family events in promoting language development, especially when there is extended discourse at the table, such as story telling and explanations, rather than brief comments, like "eat your vegetables." Eating planned meals as a family also contributes to healthier patterns of food consumption, with parents acting as models for eating.

The predictable routine of family dinners provides an opportunity to establish a sense of belonging to a family unit. Parents who develop mealtime rituals, such as lighting a candle, proposing a toast, or giving simple words of thanks, allow their children to participate in everyday habits that bind the family together.

When parents decide that family dinnertime is important, they often have to find creative ways around common obstacles such as late working hours and activities such as soccer games and dance lessons. Busy parents can take advantage of slow cooker recipes, take-out, and advance preparation on the weekends. Children gain when their assistance is required for table setting and helping with food preparation, and taking some responsibility to help their parents.

Remember one other thing that Justin clearly gained from the dinner table experience: When the children were finished, they "were excused." With this, they learned appropriate manners and table behavior, and were able to avoid the stress of sitting at the table for a long time, thus allowing Mom and Dad to have some relaxing grownup time as well.

There is definitely a lot to be gained by regular family dinners. See what you can do in your household this week to maintain this healthy practice.

Fr. Bill's Notes (September 14, 2008)

Today the observance of Recovery Sunday reminds many of the agony of the days of addictions, the feeling of hopelessness following repeated failures and the works of the Lord manifested by those who have helped some on the road to recovery. The support extended to a brother or sister still enslaved by addiction is a reminder to them that they are of worth in the sight of a loving God. Recovery Sunday, coming of the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is a day of exaltation, a celebration of gratitude and a reminder of the ongoing challenge, which is the scourge of addiction in our world. Pray for those who are faced with addictions and give them support to overcome those addictions.

Last Monday, September 8th, we celebrated the Feast of Our Blessed Mother’s birthday. This week, On Monday, September 15th, we remember the Seven Sorrows of Mary. These sorrows have been depicted in art by showing a Madonna with seven swords in, or aimed at, her heart. Each sword represents a different account from Scripture of the life of Christ, witnessed by Mary that “pierced” her heart. These Seven Sorrows are: The Prophecy of Simeon, the Flight into Egypt, the loss of the boy, Jesus in the temple, meeting Jesus on the way to the cross, the crucifixion of Jesus, the taking down of Jesus from the cross and the burial of Jesus. With her experiences, Mary can sympathize with the sorrows we encounter.

Recently I received a short letter about a hospital in Guayaquil Ecuador where people are suffering from leprosy. Sr. Ann Credidio, B.V.M. has been working with these suffering people for 20 years. Fear, ignorance and the stigma attached to this illness prevent many patients from seeking early treatment where they could prevent the disabilities associated with the disease. There are 50 in-house patients, some of whom continue to live at the hospital because they are no longer welcomed by family or society. Damien Hose has a Website at www.thedamienhouse.org

Hansen’s Disease (Leprosy) is completely controllable and curable. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the disabilities traditionally associated with the disease and simple cost effect therapies can help alleviate the ones that occur. A flyer is available on the doors of the church.

DEAR FRIENDS IN THE LORD:

Since its opening in 1896, the sacred mysteries of Jesus Christ have been proclaimed, lived, and celebrated by the dedicated and committed priests of the Archdiocese of NY who have studied and received their formation at St. Joseph’s Seminary in Yonkers, New York.

One of the many blessings of this great Archdiocese is its extraordinary seminary system: St. Joseph’s Major Seminary; St. John Neumann Residence and Hall, located on the Seminary property, for men preparing to enter St. Joseph’s Seminary; and the Cathedral Preparatory Program in our high schools for young men who sense that they may be receiving a call from the Lord to serve as priests. Fortunately, the People of God of the Archdiocese have never ceased to be as supportive as they can of their seminary system.

With this letter, I invited you to make a sacrificial offering to the Annual Seminary Collection, which will be conducted in our parishes on the weekend of September 20/21st. The cost of preparing future priests is daunting, and for this reason we count on your yearly support. With it, we are able to continue our solid tradition of excellence in the formation and academic training of candidates for the priesthood.

It was with faith-filled joy and enormous enthusiasm that our seminarians extended a personal welcome to His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI to St. Joseph’s Seminary this past April. To have the Successor of St. Peter standing in their midst and telling them that “The People of God look to you to be holy priests” is an awesome and once-in-a-lifetime experience, indeed. Please know how very grateful I am for whatever you can do to assist these young men in becoming your good and holy priests on day soon.

With prayerful best wishes, may I remain,

Very truly yours in Christ,

Edward Cardinal Egan
Archbishop of New York

Fr. Bill's Notes (September 7, 2008)

With school starting we pray for our young people: We pray for those whose lives lie ahead of them that they may go forward with open and receptive minds to meet their future knowing that God is with them. We also pray that they may learn to live with life’s uncertainties, facing up to disappointments and accepting themselves, not losing heart. May they be honest and generous with their parents, respecting the past and the older generation. Keep them faithful to their friends being unselfish in love, not indulging in what is cheap or what may ruin the lives of others. May they make this world a better place to live in.

May parents realize they are to pass on their faith to their children. That is why their example in attendance at Mass and confession is important not just at Christmas and Easter, but all through the year. They also teach about bringing prayer into families even through grace before meals. If this world is to become better, the support of parents is essential.

Next week we celebrate the 10th Commemoration of Recovery Sunday in the Archdiocese of New York. This Sunday continues Pope Benedict’s message of hope for those individuals and families that struggle with the illness of addiction. Hopefully the prayers will reach all our recovery needs so we can support especially those struggling with that illness. We have no doubt that through these prayers and faith, miracles have happened over these 10 years and will continue to do so because Jesus has said that we will do the things that He has done and even greater. Nine million children live in homes with one parent who has an addiction with alcohol, drugs, gambling and relationships being the main ones.

Today is National Grandparent’s Day and we honor all grandparents who play a vital and sometimes unrecognized role in the development of our young. We have a love, respect and appreciation for all they do. We thank them for giving generously of themselves over the years with hugs and words to help the young. They live in faith and find strength in God’s grace as they try to fill each day with love. May God continue to bless them.

We in Saugerties have been blessed by clergy who have together tried to make the Kingdom of God a reality. We have worshipped together, marched together, consoled the sorrowing, preached together and shared the ministry of bringing God’s love to the people through food pantries as well as lunch programs. Unfortunately, we said farewell to Fr. Grace of St. Mary’s who went to Rockland County, Pastor Rockwood of Saugerties Reformed Church who has moved to Michigan, Pastor Astberg of the Congregational Church who is going to the Congregational Church in Colchester, CT, and Pastor Jeffery Turczyn of Trinity Episcopal Church who is retiring. These clergy have been very active in town and will be missed. Except for Fr. Grace, there are no replacements yet. Our prayers go with these good friends and pray that God will continue to bless them and their loved ones.

Set aside Saturday, September 27th from 10 AM to 4 PM to hear great presentations by Raymond DeSouza who will give talks on Jesus’ Presence in the Eucharist and “What is Good” and “What is Evil”. There will be opportunity for questions, admission is free and please call to pre-register (246-6688) to get a number for the lunch that will be provided. With our Catholic Faith under attack, we need to know and defend the truth.

MAKING PANCAKES

Six year-old Brandon decided one Saturday morning to fix his parents pancakes. He found a big bowl and spoon, pulled a chair to the counter, opened the cupboard and pulled out the heavy flour canister, spilling it on the floor.

He scooped some of the flour into the bowl with his hands, mixed in most of a cup of milk and added some sugar, leaving a floury trail on the floor, which by now had a few tracks left by his kitten. Brandon was covered with flour and getting frustrated.

He wanted this to be something very good for Mom and Dad, but it was getting very bad. He didn't know what to do next, whether to put it all into the oven or on the stove and he didn't know how the stove worked!

Suddenly he saw his kitten licking from the bowl of mix and reached to push her away, knocking the egg carton to the floor. Frantically he tried to clean up this monumental mess but slipped on the eggs, getting his pajamas white and sticky. And just then he saw Dad standing at the door.

Big crocodile tears welled up in Brandon 's eyes. All he'd wanted to do was something good, but he'd made a terrible mess. He was sure a scolding was coming, maybe even a spanking. But his father just watched him. Then, walking through the mess, he picked up his crying son, hugged him and loved him, getting his own pajamas white and sticky in the process!

That's how God deals with us.. We try to do something good in life, but it turns into a mess. Our marriage gets all sticky or we insult a friend, or we can't stand our job, or our health goes sour. Sometimes we just stand there in tears because we can't think of anything else to do. That's when God picks us up and loves us and forgives us, even though some of our mess gets all over Him.

But just because we might mess up, we can't stop trying to 'make pancakes' for God or for others. Sooner or later we'll get it right, and then they'll be glad we tried...

So are there any wounds needing to be healed, friendships that need rekindling or three words needing to be said, sometimes, 'I love you' can heal & bless! Remind every one of your friends that you love them. Even if you think they don't love back, you would be amazed at what those three little words, a smile, and a reminder like this can do.

Reflection by Deacon Ed (August 31, 2008)

The crucifixion of Jesus brought about the redemption of the world because he suffered out of love. Jesus is not telling us to go out and look for new crosses, but to take up the crosses that are already in place in our lives and follow Him. You see, the emphasis is not on suffering, but on following Him. Suffering is not important, but love is. Suffering by itself is worth nothing. Only love can make suffering worthwhile. Our crosses, our sufferings are useless and we should get rid of them if we can. But if we cannot, then we should accept them with love, as best we can, and follow Jesus. United with the suffering of Jesus, our sufferings will be valuable.

Each day a large part of humanity takes up its cross and climbs the hill of there own Calvary. They are not alone. They follow Jesus. Their crosses are not something to be denied, hidden or rejected, but embraced with love. It’s a sign of being chosen to draw closer to Jesus who first suffered with love for us.

Suffering did not originate with God, but from disease, from sinful human beings and from disorder that sin brings to us. Regardless of who we are, the shadow of the cross is never far from us. Plan as we may, try as we might, the shadow of the cross will fall on all of us at some point in our life. We have the choice either to accept it or reject it.

When Peter heard Jesus’ prediction about his fateful journey to Jerusalem where he would meet the storms of suffering and death, Peter strongly resisted. He simply could not believe that something so horrible could possibly lead to something infinitely more glorious. It’s a natural human trait to want to minimize suffering. No one wants to suffer, but Jesus showed us that if we allow the message and the power of His cross to put to death our old life of sin, we will know a new life here and now, that far surpasses anything the world could possibly offer. It’s hard to put aside our old way and for us to say, “Your will be done, Lord.”

But we should not waste our suffering. In Holy Mass, where we share the fruits of the Passion of Jesus, receiving His Body and Blood, may we be filled with courage to embrace the cross as we find it in our lives, and to look forward with joyful hope for the coming of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

THE PINK DRESS

There was this little girl sitting by herself in the park. Everyone passed by her and never stopped to see why she looked so sad. Dressed in a worn pink dress, barefoot and dirty, the girl just sat and watched the people go by. She never tried to speak. She never said a word. Many people passed by her, but no one would stop.

The next day I decided to go back to the park in curiosity to see if the little girl would still be there. Yes, she was there, right in the very spot where she was yesterday, and still with the same sad look in her eyes.

Today I was to make my own move and walk over to the little girl. For as we all know, a park full of strange people is not a place for young children to play alone. As I got closer I could see the back of the little girl's dress. It was grotesquely shaped. I figured that was the reason people just passed by and made no effort to speak to her. Deformities are a low blow to our society and, heaven forbid if you make a step toward assisting someone who is different.

As I got closer, the little girl lowered her eyes slightly to avoid my intent stare. As I approached her, I could see the shape of her back more clearly. She was grotesquely shaped in a humped over form. I smiled to let her know it was okay - I was there to talk. I sat down beside her and opened with a simple, 'Hello.' The little girl acted shocked, and stammered a 'hi ' after a long stare into my eyes.

I smiled and she shyly smiled back. We talked until darkness fell and the park was completely empty. I asked the girl why she was so sad. The little girl looked at me with a sad face said, 'Because, I'm different.' I immediately said, 'That you are!' and smiled. The little girl acted even sadder and said, 'I know.' 'Little girl,' I said, 'you remind me of an angel, sweet and innocent.' She looked at me and smiled, then slowly she got to her feet and said, 'Really?' Yes, you're like a little Guardian Angel sent to watch over all the people walking by.' She nodded her head yes, and smiled.

With that she opened the back of her pink dress and allowed her wings to spread, then she said 'I am.' 'I'm your Guardian Angel,' with a twinkle in her eye. I was speechless -- sure I was seeing things. She said, 'For once you thought of someone other than yourself. My job here is done.' I got to my feet and said, 'Wait, why did no one stop to help an Angel?' She looked at me, smiled, and said, 'You're the only one that could see me,' and then she was gone. And with that, my life was changed dramatically.

So, when you think you're all you have, remember, your angel is always watching over you.

Hope your Guardian Angel watches over you always.

Fr. Bill's Notes (August 24, 2008)

As we come to a new school year we find meetings with various groups starting. The Saugerties Council of Churches meets once a month, usually on the third Monday of the month at 6 PM with a Dinner Meeting. Gert Lund who represented our parish well, has moved to Texas. We need someone to take her place and represent our parish at these meetings. Please let us know at the Rectory if you can help in that way.

Pope John Paul and Pope Benedict have spoken and written about a new Pentecost for the Church. We are praying and working for a new Pentecost in our parish. Archbishop Oscar Romero gave us these words of hope: “It will always be Pentecost in the Church as it lets the beauty of the Holy Spirit shine forth from her countenance. The Church will be fair to see, perennially young, attractive to every age as long as she is faithful to the Spirit that floods her, and she reflects that Spirit through her communities, through her pastors, through her very life.”

We hear people saying that we must be open to the workings of the Holy Spirit in our lives. A clue to how we respond to the flood of the Holy Spirit is found in our response to anything new. If our first response upon hearing some new initiative or idea is always, “Well, that won’t work” or “aren’t things just fine the way they are?” or “that will take too much time and energy” or some similar answer, then it might be fair to say that our level of openness might not be very high. If we keep closing doors even before they are opened, then we are not allowing the Holy Spirit to enter our lives in any significant way. If as a community we act in that way, we are condemning ourselves to become or to remain a sterile and non-creative member of the Body of Christ. Our task is to allow the Holy Spirit enough room in our lives so that we can realize our prayer, “Send forth your Spirit, O Lord, and renew the face of the earth.” We do not want to stifle the work of the Holy Spirit.

There are a number of ways in which we can allow the Holy Spirit to work in and through us; praying the rosary, participating in a weekday Mass, raising the level of prayer by think about the words you are praying; visiting someone who is homebound, participating in a prayer meeting to give God glory for His blessings and asking that we might be open to His direction; spend time before the Blessed Sacrament, especially praying for someone who doesn’t have or does not appreciate the riches of the Eucharist; forgiving someone against whom you have a grudge.

THE CHILDREN’S BIBLE IN A NUTSHELL

In the beginning, which occurred near the start, there was nothing but God, darkness, and some gas. The Bible says, “The Lord thy God is one, but I think He must be a lot older than that. Anyway, God said, “Give me light! And someone did.

Then God made the world. He split the Adam and made Eve. Adam and Eve were naked, but they weren’t embarrassed because mirrors hadn’t been invented yet. Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating one bad apple, so they were driven from the Garden of Eden. Not sure what they were driven in though, because they didn’t have cars. Adam and Eve had a son, Cain, who hated his brother as long as he was Abel. Pretty soon all of the early people died off, except for Methuselah, who lived to be like a million or something.

One of the next important people was Noah, who was a good guy, but one of his kids was kind of a Ham. Noah built a large boat and put his family and some animals on it. He asked some other people to join him, but they said they would have to take a rain check.

After Noah came Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Jacob was more famous than his brother, Esau, because Esau sold Jacob his birthmark in exchange for some pot roast. Jacob had a son name Joseph who wore a really loud sports coat.

Another important Bible guy is Moses, whose real name was Charleston Heston. Moses led the Israel Lights out of Egypt and away from the evil Pharaoh after God sent ten plagues on Pharaoh’s people. These plagues included frogs, mice, lice, bowels, and no cable. God fed the Israel Lights every day with manicotti. Then He gave them His Top Ten Commandments. These include: don’t lie, cheat, smoke, dance, or covet your neighbor’s stuff. Oh, yeah, I just though of one more: Humor they father and thy mother.

One of Moses’ best helpers was Joshua who was the first Bible guy to use spies. Joshua fought the battle of Geritol and the fence fell over on the town. After Joshua came David. He got to be king by killing a giant with a slingshot. He had a son named Solomon who had about 300 wives and 500 porcupines. My teacher says he was wises, but that doesn’t sound very wise to me.

After Solomon there were a bunch of major league prophets. One of these was Jonah, who was swallowed by a big whale and then barfed up on the shore. There were also some minor league prophets, but I guess we don’t have to worry about them.

After the Old Testament came the New Testament. Jesus is the star of the New. He was born in Bethlehem in a barn. (I wish I had been born in a barn too, because my mom is always saying to me, “Close the door! Were you born in a barn?” It would be nice to say, “As a matter of fact, I was.”)

During His life, Jesus had many arguments with sinners like the Pharisees and the Republicans. Jesus also had twelve opossums. The worst one was Judas Asparagus. Judas was so evil that they named a terrible vegetable after him.

Jesus was a great man. He healed many leopards and even preached to some Germans on the mount. But the Republicans and all those guys put Jesus on trial before Pontius the Pilot. Pilot didn’t stick up for Jesus. He just washed his hands instead.

Anyway, Jesus died for our sins, and then came back to life again. He went up to Heaven but will be back at the end of the Aluminum. His return is foretold in the book of Revolution

Fr. Bill's Notes (August 17, 2008)

A Reminder – With the partition doors closed, many people might miss the announcements on the Bulletin Boards, which point out events happening or coming, as well as news of the Altar Rosary Society. On the other side of the Church there are books and tapes on a variety of subjects in the Fr. Derrenbacher Library. These can give you some spiritual and scriptural knowledge as well as learning more about the lives of the Saints and the history of the Church. Use these tools to deepen the gift of faith and continue in growing closer to God and live His love. There are also some free pamphlets and prayers on a table by the bulletin boards.

Pope Benedict in Australia at World Youth Day said to those who were there that they should experience the power of the Holy Spirit. He said that a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit would enable them to witness to the world that Jesus is alive. To do this they cannot sit on their hands. They must go out. At St. Patrick’s Cathedral he prayed that tongues of fire would descend on all people with a new Pentecost. John the Baptist (Matthew 3:11) says that, “I am baptizing you with water for repentance, but the One who is coming after me is mightier than I…. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” The fire is to purify us as gold is purified to remove impurities and is purification into holiness. Jesus didn’t say He wanted us to be “nice” people but holy people. He wants us to chip away things that hinder us from seeing God. St. Paul reminds us not to quench the Holy Spirit. We can quench that fire of the Holy Spirit that God gives us to bring His love and Kingdom to others if we stop praying. There can be a struggle when we don’t feel like praying. To turn to God we need to have enduring prayer for all our life or the fire that we received at Baptism and Confirmation will go out and we will not bring about His Kingdom in our hearts and the hearts of others.

The waters of division can quench the fire of God’s love. When we cut off ourselves from others, we are breaking up the Body of Christ. St. Paul reminds us that we need each other just as our natural bodies need all the parts. He has also said, “Woe is me, if I don’t preach God.” Fire is also used for enlightenment. St. Paul in his letter to the Romans in the 5th Chapter says, that love is the response to the gift of God. St. Matthew in 5:14-16 points out that enlightenment is for others. The Holy Spirit empowers us to be His witnesses. We have power in Jesus and He is there even when we struggle. We should not stop praying. Pope John Paul said, we should exercise the charisma that everyone has been given. We need to use it so we can draw people to God by sharing the fire of the Holy Spirit. If we live only for this world, we are most to be pitied. Does anyone know you are alive in Christ? Do you speak about Him? If we have the Good News we should want to tell some.

Keep the Fire of the Holy Spirit Burning because the devil wants to put it out and if we don’t show and share the message we are not letting that fire burn brightly.

Spending time in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is an important way of deepening God’s Presence with us.

DID GOD CREATE EVERYTHING?

A university professor at a well-know institution of higher learning challenged his students with this question. Did God create everything?

A student bravely replied, “Yes, He did!” The professor answered, “If God created everything then God created evil. And since evil exist and according to the principal that our works define who we are then we can assume God is evil.”

The student became quiet and did not answer the professor’s hypothetical definition. The professor, quite pleased with himself, boasted to the students that he had proven once more that the Christian faith was a myth.

Another student said, “May I ask you a question professor?” “Does cold exist?” The reply was, “of course, haven’t you ever been cold?” The student replied, “In fact sir, cold does not exist. According to the laws of physics what we consider cold, is in reality the absence of heat. Absolute zero (-460 F) is the total absence of heat and all matter becomes inert and incapable of reaction at the temperature. Cold does not exist. We have created this word to describe how we feel if we have no heat.

The student continued, “Professor, does darkness exist?” His response was “of course it does.” “Once again, you are wrong,” said the student. “Darkness in reality is the absence of light. You cannot measure darkness. A simple ray of light can break into a world of darkness and illuminate it. How can you know how dark a certain space is? You measure the amount of light present. Isn’t this correct? Darkness is a term used by a man to describe what happens when there is no light present.”

“Evil does not exist, sir, or at least it does not exist unto itself. Evil is simply the absence of God. It is just like darkness and cold – a word that man has created to describe the absence of God. God did not create evil. Evil is the result of what happens when man does not have God’s love present in his heart. It’s like the cold that comes when there is no heat or the darkness that comes when there is no light.”

To that, the professor had nothing to say!

Reflection by Deacon Ed (August 10, 2008)

Our Lord Jesus extends his hand and heart across the sea of our many problems and difficulties. As He said to Peter, so says He to us, “Take courage. It is I, do not be afraid.”

There was an elderly widow who lived in the Deep South who experienced the storm of poverty and hunger, but she had deep faith in her Lord. She sat before her fireplace and prayed, “Dear Lord, please send me a side of bacon and a sack of cornmeal.” Over and over she prayed. One of the town’s worst scoundrels overhead her as he walked past and decided to play a trick. He ran to the store and bought the bacon and cornmeal. When he got to the woman’s house, he climbed to the roof and dropped the food down the chimney.

She jumped to her feet crying out, “Lord, you’ve answered my prayer.” She ran around town telling everyone about the answer to her prayer. All this joy was too much for the scoundrel. He began to mock the old woman, ridiculing her faith and telling everyone how he overheard her praying and dropped the food down the chimney. The wise old lady responded, “Well, the devil may have brought it, but it was the Lord who sent it.”

The stormy weather in our lives comes in many forms, and we get through it when we keep our eyes on the Lord. This woman lived a life of faith; she cried out like Peter, “Lord, save me from hunger.”

There are times, however, when the Lord cannot reach out, when He cannot make things right. No one, not even the Lord, could force anyone to believe or accept the gift of faith. The Lord offers this gift to one and all, but only some accept it. Even in our acceptance of faith, the Lord does not force us to use it.

It is our willingness to use what the Lord gives us that counts. Do we use our gift of faith? The hand of the Lord is there if we ask, “Lord, ‘save me.”

When we are battered by the storms of life and get that sinking feeling, we have but to reach out to Jesus. He will save us. He will keep us calm.

THROUGH THE EYES OF A CHILD

OPINIONS- On first day of school, a first-grader handed his teacher a note from his mother. The note read, 'The opinions expressed by this child are not necessarily those of his parents.'

KETCHUP- A woman was trying hard to get the ketchup out of the jar. During her struggle the phone rang so she asked her 4-year-old daughter to answer the phone. 'Mommy can't come to the phone to talk to you right now. She's hitting the bottle.'

POLICE#1- While taking a routine vandalism report at an elementary school, I was interrupted by a little girl about 6 years old. Looking up and down at my uniform, she asked, ‘Are you a cop? ‘Yes,’ I answered and continued writing the report. My mother said if I ever needed help I should ask the police. Is that right?' 'Yes, that’s right,' I told her. 'Well, then,' she said as she extended her foot toward me, 'would you please tie my shoe?'

POLICE#2- It was the end of the day when I parked my police van in front of the station. As I gathered my equipment, my K-9 partner, Jake, was barking, and I saw a little boy staring in at me. 'Is that a dog you got back there?' he asked. 'It sure is,' I replied. Puzzled, the boy looked at me. Finally he said, 'What'd he do?'

ELDERLY- While working for an organization that delivers lunches to elderly shut-ins, I used to take my 4-year-old daughter on my afternoon rounds. The various appliances of old age -- canes, walkers and wheelchairs, unfailingly intrigued her. One day I found her staring at a pair of false teeth soaking in a glass. As I braced myself for the inevitable barrage of questions, she merely turned and whispered, 'The tooth fairy will never believe this!'

DEATH- While walking along the sidewalk in front of church, our minister heard a prayer that made his collar wilt. Apparently, his 5-year-old son and his playmates had found a dead robin. Feeling that proper burial should be performed, they had secured a small box and cotton batting, then dug a hole and made ready for the disposal of the deceased. The minister's son was chosen to say the appropriate prayers and with sonorous dignity intoned his version of what he thought his father always said: Glory be unto the Faaather, and unto the Sonnn, and into the hole he goooes.'

SCHOOL- A little girl had just finished her first week of school. 'I'm just wasting my time,' she said to her mother. 'I can't read, I can't write, and they won't let me talk!'

BIBLE- A little boy opened the big family Bible. He was fascinated as he fingered through the old pages. Suddenly, something fell out of the Bible. He picked up the object and looked at it. What he saw was an old leaf that had been pressed in between the pages. 'Mama, look what I found,' the boy called out. 'What have you got there, dear?' With astonishment in the young boy's voice, he answered, 'I think it's Adam's underwear!

Fr. Bill's Notes (August 3, 2008)

This weekend I am at a Catholic Charismatic Conference in Scranton, PA. Fr. Carsten Martensen, a Jesuit priest who is chaplain at Ithaca College, next to Cornell University will be celebrating the Masses. I have known him and his family for many years, even before his ordination to the priesthood. He has a great rapport, especially with young people. I thank him for filling in.

The Monthly Prayer Meeting, which is usually held on the first Sunday of the month will be held on the second Sunday, August 10th at 1:30 PM. We should find time to give God praise and glory. Where are our priorities?

On August 10th at the 10:30 Mass we will have Anointing of the Sick for those who need the strengthening power of Jesus and the grace of the Holy Spirit in their time of sickness and notable weakness. Elderly people (those over 60) may be anointed if they are notably weakened even though no serious illness is present. This Sacrament can be received by all baptized who are physically, emotionally or spiritually sick. This Sacrament is used to strengthen the sick in time of anxiety and encourage them not to lose hope, perhaps restoring them to physical health. Everyone can pray with the sick and for the sick and those prayers of faith can work great things, especially if the sick unite themselves to the sufferings of Jesus. In the New Testament, the Letter of St. James states, that the prayer of faith can raise them up and turn them away from sin. By the grace of the Holy Spirit the person is strengthened against the temptations of the evil one and against anxiety over death. It can help a person to turn away from sin.

This date was selected as being close to the day when Audrey Santo almost drowned and for over 20 years offered her condition for people who needed God’s help. Audrey’s prayers and people’s faith brought healing from God and she is being considered to be a Servant of God.

We thank Karissa Lombardo and those who assisted her in running the Blood Drive, which helped bring the gift of life to many people. We also thank those who donated blood.

We also thank Donna Cornelison, Stephanie Munoz and all who helped with the Penny Social, which helped raise money for the Program for Parents in our Religious Education Program, which will be held during the next school year.

MASTER’S PLAN- Olivia Munoz’s as part of her 4th Grade Religious Education Master’s Plan Project made up several Specialty Baskets (with the guidance and help of Kelly Utter). She raised $260, which was donated to help pay for the expenses of the Family Days of Prayer that will occur during the next year of Religious Education. This project was done in loving memory of Theresa Maloney and Patricia Boswell. Olivia would like to thank all who donated to her project, with a special thanks to Kelly Utter and her family.

BEAUTIFUL CHRISTIAN SISTER

By Maya Angelou

Awoman’s heart should be so hidden in Christ,
that a man should have to seek Him first to find her.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not shouting "I'm clean living''
I'm whispering 'I was lost,
now I'm found and forgiven.'

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
and need Christ to be my guide.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak and
need His strength to carry on.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed and
need God to clean my mess.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect,
my flaws are far too visible but,
God believes I am worth it.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain...
I have my share of heartaches,
so I call upon His name.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not holier than thou;
I'm just a simple sinner
who received God's good grace, somehow!

But they said to him, "Five loaves and two fish are all we have here." Then he said, "Bring them to me," and he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. - Mt 14:17-19

Fr. Bill's Notes (July 27, 2008)

Pope Benedict’s visits to the United States and Australia have tried to revitalize people throughout the world to what it means to be a follower and a disciple of Jesus. He has pointed out that faith and hope should increase our sense of the preciousness and value of persons calling us to a deep love of people. Faith and hope can grasp that the value of persons is expressed by the great price paid for their salvation, which is the death and resurrection of Jesus.

The Eucharistic Prayer of the Church recalls the saving activity of God and the meaning of the prayer in that the entire congregation of the faithful should join itself with Christ in confessing the great deeds of God and in the offering of Sacrifice. The purpose of the Mass is not an action simply to consecrate Hosts. Some people think their participation in the Eucharistic Prayer is all about watching the priest and their receiving Holy Communion. They do not understand the need to offer themselves with Christ to the Father in the Spirit during the Mass and their parts (the Entrance Song, the expression of sorrow, the Holy, Holy, Holy, the Memorial Acclamation and the Great Amen) are the outward signs of their participation in their offering. Having a Communion Service when there can be no Mass should be only for Sundays and Feast Days in areas where the absence of a priest makes the celebration of Sunday Mass a rare occurrence. That’s why we list the weekday schedules of Masses in nearby parishes so that those who wish to participate in Mass daily may do so.

St. Mary’s in Saugerties celebrates Mass on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday at 6:45 AM with a noon Mass on Monday and an 8:00 AM Mass on Saturday; St. Joseph in Glasco – 8 AM daily except Friday, St. John’s in Woodstock – 9 AM Monday through Friday except at 7 PM on Thursday.

The Liturgy of the Hours, the official prayer of the Church, is the preferred Liturgy when Mass is not available during the week. So we are fortunate to have Morning Prayer on Thursday at 8:30 AM and Evening Prayer on Sunday at 7 PM. We thank Joe Defino Sr. for leading these prayers.

Pope Benedict on World Youth Day prayed, “May the fire of God’s love descend to fill your hearts, unite you even more fully to the Lord and His Church and send you faith, a new generation of apostles to bring the world to Christ.” “The power of the Holy Spirit is the power of God’s life.” “God’s love can only unleash its power when it is allowed to change us from within. We have to let it break through the hard crust of our indifference, our spiritual weariness, and our blind conformity to the spirit of this age. Only then can we let it ignite our imagination and shape our deepest desires. That is why prayer is so important.” “Being baptized” in the one Spirit, means being set on fire with the love of God. Being “given to drink” of the Spirit, mean being refreshed by the beauty of the Lord’s plan for us and for the world, and becoming in turn a source of spiritual refreshment for others. Being “sealed with the Spirit” means, not being afraid to stand up for Christ, letting the truth of the Gospel permeate the way we see, think and act, as we work for the triumph of the civilization of love.” This applies to all who have been confirmed regardless of age. Let the power of the Holy Spirit work in and through you to build up God’s Kingdom.

CELL PHONE VS BIBLE

I wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our cell phone?

What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?

What if we flipped through it several times a day?

What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?

What if we used it to receive messages from the text?

What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?

What if we gave it to our kids as gifts?

What if we used it when we traveled?

What if we used it in case of emergency?

This is something to make you go....hmm...where is my Bible?

So remember this...

You'll never have dropped calls.... and unlike our cell phone....we don't have to worry about our Bible being disconnected...because Jesus already paid the bill.

But most important of all...you'll never have to ask Him 'Can you hear me now?'

Doesn’t this makes you stop and think, 'Where are my priorities?

Reflection by Deacon Ed (July 20, 2008)

Reports reach us daily, almost hourly, about the unimaginable atrocities and crimes committed in different parts of the world. It’s perplexing; the wicked prosper and thrive while the good have it difficult in our world. Many feel a sense of frustration and despair. Not only that, even within the Church, some people are so saddened by the faults, directions and sins that happen within that they resort to extreme solutions, that they leave the Church. Some want to drive out the sinners. They cannot stand weeds among the wheat. Human wisdom says to get rid of the offending agents; cut them off; do it now. Divine wisdom says to wait, you can’t always tell what will be the wheat and what will be the weeds. Jesus’ listeners would have understood that He was referring to a Palestinian weed known as “fools wheat”, which, in its early stages looks like real wheat. Those weeds will never turn into real wheat.

There are other lessons we can draw from that parable; when applied to human beings, it is never too late for the weeds to actually become wheat. Thanks to the grace of God, one is never relegated to the status of “weed”. How sad it is, then, when we judge others as such, and when we close them off from our kindness and our concern. Judgment is not our business.

We have within our Church saints and sinners and everybody in-between. Our Church is not an elitist band of angels, nor a wretched company of the damned. We have chaos amid our cosmos. We try to stamp out sin and evil – but in doing so we must not destroy the Church itself. The sinners among us can become saints. The saints among us can become holier. No one is in a fixed state this side of paradise. The sinners need our forgiveness and the saints our admiration and resolve to change.

We are called to appreciate the whole picture of the Church that is composed of people on a journey. Some are racing toward God – others are speeding away from Him, while others are just muddling through. The drama and adventure of being Catholic is to walk this journey with poise, elegance, sympathy, and understanding. If you have a friend, or family member not practicing his or her Catholic faith, today’s parable challenges you to have a faith-filled conversation with that person. Life’s final deadline will come.

A BIT OF GEORGE CARLIN’S WISDOM
Died at the age of 71

The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings, but shorter tempers, wider freeways, but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less; we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families, more conveniences, but less time. We have more degrees, but less sense, more knowledge, but less judgment, more experts, yet more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.

We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom. We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.

We’ve learned how to make a living, but not a life. We’ve added years to life, not life to years. We’ve been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor. We conquered outer space, but not inner space. We’ve done larger things, but not better things.

We’ve cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We’ve conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We’ve learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.

These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion, big men and small character, steep profits and shallow relationships. These are the days of two incomes, but more divorce, fancier houses, but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill. It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stockroom.

So remember, spend some time with your loved ones. Remember to say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side. Remember to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn’t cost a cent.

Remember to say ‘I love you’ to your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you. Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment.

Give time to love, give time to speak, give time to thank, and give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind. And always remember, life is not measured by the number of breath we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

Fr. Bill's Notes (July 13, 2008)

Fr. James Derrenbacher Library in the Church has acquired new books about the “Bicentennial of the Archdiocese” and “The History of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Also check for VCR tapes with talks by Fr. Benedict Groeschel, Fr. Trevor Nathasinglh, Bob Valiante, Dolores Grier, and Babsie Bleasdell on “The Class to Evangelization. This will give you some interesting listening and help you to grow living close to Jesus. We will be adding to these tapes.

We look forward to the opportunity next Sunday to spend time in adoration of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. A reporter, Rick Hinshaw did a series on Catholics who had left the Church to join evangelical faith communities. A question he had was: had they really believed, when they were practicing Catholics that the Eucharist was the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ and if so, how could they give that up? He found that their faith in the Real Presence was apparently never very strong. They may have professed the belief, even convinced themselves of its truth, but never really internalized it; never really, emotionally or spiritually, felt the presence of Jesus when they partook of the Eucharist.

Unfortunately, surveys recently have revealed that there are still numbers who proclaim themselves Catholics, but see the Eucharist as only a symbol. We can see this at Sunday Mass in the casual way some people approach the reception of the Eucharist and even the way some rush to the exists as soon as they have received, not appreciating the Extraordinary Gift they have received. Some on the way to receive the Eucharist are looking around the church, waving to friends or even chewing gum. The lack of reverence seems to show an outright rejection of our Catholic belief in the Real Presence or a lack of appreciation to internalize that Jesus is really physically present in the Eucharist. Making a bow reverently before taking the Host is one sign of reverence. Prayer and reverence before and after Communion is necessary not only for adults, but also as a witness for younger parish member.

The changing of the chairs and the closing of the partitions in church was done by the Liturgy Committee so that people could keep a better focus on the altar and have fewer distractions from the sides.

WHEN THE WIND BLOWS

Years ago a farmer owned land along the Atlantic seacoast. He constantly advertised for hired hands. Most people were reluctant to work on farms along the Atlantic. They dreaded the awful storms that raged across the Atlantic, wreaking havoc on the buildings and crops.

As the farmer interviewed applicants for the job, he received a steady stream of refusals. Finally, a short, thin man, well past middle age, approached the farmer. “Are you a good farm hand?” the farmer asked him.

“Well, I can sleep when the wind blows,” answered the little man. Although puzzled by this answer, the farmer, desperate for help, hired him.

The little man worked well around the farm, busy from dawn to dusk, and the farmer felt satisfied with the man’s work. Then one night the wind howled loudly in from offshore. Jumping out of bed, the farmer grabbed a lantern and rushed next door to the hired hand’s sleeping quarters.

He shook the little man and yelled, “Get up! A storm is coming! Tie things down before they blow away!” The little man rolled over in bed and said firmly, “No sir. I told you, I can sleep when the wind blows.”

Enraged by the response, the farmer was tempted to fire him on the spot. Instead, he hurried outside to prepare for the storm. To his amazement, he discovered that all of the haystacks had been covered with tarpaulins. The cows were in the barn, the chickens were in the coops, and the doors were barred. The shutters were tightly secured.

Everything was tied down. Nothing could blow away. The farmer then understood what his hired hand meant, so he returned to his bed to also sleep while the wind blew.

Moral: When you’re prepared, spiritually, mentally, and physically, you have nothing to fear. Can you sleep when the wind blows through your life? The hired hand in the story was able to sleep because he had secured the farm against the storm. We, as believers in Christ, secure ourselves against the storms of life by grounding ourselves in the Word of God. We don’t need to understand, we just need to hold His hand to have peace in the midst of the storms.

Prayer: “Lord, by your cross you have redeemed the world and revealed your glory and triumph over sin and death. May I never fail to see your glory and victory in the cross. Help me to conform my life to your will and to follow in your way of holiness.”

Fr. Bill's Notes (July 6, 2008)

As we celebrate Independence Day this weekend, grateful to God for all the blessings we have received in our country, we are grateful too for all the sacrifices many have made, especially the total sacrifices of their lives, so that we might enjoy the freedom we have. Don’t neglect the right to vote or to serve your communities in whatever way you can to make your family, state, and country better. Pray for all in leadership.

We congratulate Joe & Ethel Pilz who are celebrating their 50th Wedding Anniversary this year and Steve & Betty Gakenheimer who are celebrating their 25th Anniversary. They were honored at the 8:30 AM Mass on June 22nd. We thank Joe & Joan Bilotti and their committee who arranged the celebration after Mass for them. We also thank God’s blessings on all couples celebrating their anniversaries this year.

Last week’s Liturgy for the Feasts of St. Peter and St. Paul reminded us that as being a Christian we should not become complacent and that the profession of God’s Word is not a seasonal occupation. Just as Peter and Paul gave powerful witness to the Word of God, there are many occasions when believers today should give a response, which might involve personal risk so that the truth of God’s Word might be shown to the world.

As Pope Benedict has said when he announced this Jubilee Year dedicated to St. Paul that the Church needs “modern Christians who will imitate St. Paul’s missionary energy and spirit of sacrifice”. He said that Christ “needs witnesses and martyrs like St. Paul.” This year will be ecumenical, reflecting the saint’s commitment to the unity and harmony among all Christians. Paul was one of the Church’s foremost evangelizers, first among the Jews, then among Gentiles. St. Paul’s letters are a primary source of information about the life of the early church and have strongly influenced Church thinking through the centuries. Pope Benedict said that the action of the Church is credible and effective only to the extent that Christians are willing to “pay personally for their faith in Christ, in every situation.” Where this commitment is lacking, the appeal of the Gospel will be weaken. “THE CHURCH IS, BY ITS NATURE, MISSIONARY. ITS PRIMARY TASK IS EVANGELIZATION”. “At the beginning of the third millennium, the Church feels with renewed strength that Christ’s missionary mandate is more pressing than ever”.

WHO PACKED MY PARACHUTE

Charles Plumb, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate, was a jet pilot in Vietnam. After 75 combat missions, his plane was destroyed by a surface-to-air missile. Plumb ejected and parachuted into enemy hands. He was captured and spent six years in a Vietnamese prison. He survived the ordeal and now lectures on lessons learned from that experience.

One day, when Plumb and his wife were sitting in a restaurant, a man at another table came up and said, “You’re Plumb! You flew jet fighters in Vietnam from the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk. You were shot down!” “How in the world did you know that?” asked Plumb.” “I packed your parachute,” the man replied. Plumb grasped in surprise and gratitude. The man pumped his hand and said, “I guess it worked!” Plumb assured him, “It sure did. If your chute hadn’t worked, I wouldn’t be here today.”

Plumb couldn’t sleep that night, thinking about that man. Plumb says, “I kept wondering what he might have looked like in a Navy uniform, a white hat, a bib in the back, and bell-bottom trousers. I wonder how many times I might have seen him and not even said, “Good morning, how are you?” or anything because, you see, I was a fighter pilot and he was just a sailor.

Plumb thought of the many hours the sailor had spent on a long wooden table in the bowels of the ship, carefully weaving the shrouds and folding the silks of each chute, holding in his hands each time the fate of someone he didn’t’ even know. Now, Plumb asks his audience, “Who’s packing your parachute?”

Everyone has someone who provides what they need to make it through the day. Plumb also points out hat he needed many kinds of parachutes when his plane was shot down in enemy territory – he needed his physical parachute, his mental parachute, his emotional parachute, and his spiritual parachute. He called on all these supports before reaching safety.

Sometimes in the daily challenges that life gives us, we miss what is really important. We may fail to say hello, please, or thank you, congratulate someone on something wonderful that has happened to them, give a compliment, or just do something nice for no reason.

As you go through this week, this month, this year,

recognize people who pack your parachute.

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO HAVE, WHO ARE, AND FOR THE MANY WHO HAVE GIVEN THEIR LIVES SERVING OUR COUNTRY AND PROVIDING US OUR FREEDOMS.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES!

Reflection by Deacon Ed (June 29, 2008)

If someone were to ask you what difference Jesus’ death made, what would you say? That we can now be transformed into a new creation? That we can be filled with the character of Christ?

From the first day of His public ministry, Jesus’ goal was to gather all people into one – the family of God. Peter and Paul, whose solemnity the Church celebrates today, each received a specific call from Jesus and each gave his life in testimony to Jesus. And because of their faith and surrender to Christ, their deaths contributed to the spreading of Jesus’ mission and salvation.

Today’s feast is a celebration of this transformed life. Consider: Peter was changed from an impulsive and boastful fisherman into a compassionate shepherd and faithful servant. Paul was transformed from a dedicated, but stiff-necked religious leader into an itinerant preacher consumed with proclaiming the Gospel of Christ. Both men worked miracles, confounded kings, and stirred thousands of hearts – all because they came in contact with Jesus Christ. Are their experiences normal? Yes! Can each of us experience a radical transformation that Peter and Paul knew? Ask someone who has experienced a Cursillo weekend.

God may not call us to confront world leaders or raise the dead, but the same basic experience that impelled their ministries is the inheritance of every child of God. Not only can we experience this transformation, we should expect it as a vital part of our heritage in Christ. While Peter had a mandate for evangelization of the Jews, Paul was the chosen apostle to the Gentiles. Through the covenant that was sealed in the blood of Jesus, God is creating a new people to be one in Him. Those who were not His own He has made His own (Romans 9:25). His desire is for “a people of His own who are zealous for good deeds” (Titus 2:14), who are “a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation,” and who will proclaim His might and calling them “out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9). Brothers and sisters, we are those special people. Our individual calling is to be part of the Church and its mission – no less important than that of the apostles we celebrate today. God uses each of us in different ways, but when we respond in the way He calls, marvelous good things can happen.

Today in Rome, Pope Benedict XVI will inaugurate a special year honoring the life and works of St. Paul – a year dedicated to celebrating a man who went from hating Jesus to loving Him and giving his life so that everyone would come to know Jesus’ love. Like all of us, Paul (and Peter), had some character faults that took years for God to iron out. No matter where we are in our walk with the Lord, even when we fail miserably, over and over again, God will work in us if we keep turning back to Him. We can be transformed and become faithful servants. In prayer today, rejoice in the work of God through Peter and Paul and in that of all others (including yourself) who follow them.

THE SNEEZE

They walked in tandem, each of the ninety-two students filing into the already crowded auditorium. With their rich maroon gowns flowing and the traditional caps, they looked almost as grown up as they felt. Dads swallowed hard behind broad smiles, and Moms freely brushed away tears.

This class would NOT pray during the commencements----not by choice, but because of a recent court ruling prohibiting it.

They gave inspirational and challenging speeches, but no one mentioned divine guidance and no one asked for blessings on the graduates or their families.

One final speech received a standing ovation. A solitary student walked proudly to the microphone. He stood still and silent for just a moment, and then it happened. All 92 students, every single one of them, suddenly SNEEZED!!!!

The student on stage simply looked at the audience and said, "GOD BLESS YOU". And he walked off stage. The audience exploded into applause. This graduating class had found a unique way to invoke God's blessing on their future with or without the court's approval.

Isn't this a wonderful story?
This is a true story
It happened at the University of Maryland.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THOSE WHO ARE GRADUATING. MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND PROTECT YOU IN YOUR NEXT PHASE OF LIFE!

Fr. Bill's Notes (June 22, 2008)

A Prayer of Commitment-- “Take up your cross” you say. “Give your all to me!” Lord, strengthen me and give me the courage to hear and follow your claim on me. Take my life, my energy, and my soul. Transform me through the grace of your Holy Spirit. I wish only to follow you with my whole being. I commit myself to you and trust in your ways. Amen.

That payer of commitment shows our love of God during this month dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Mother Angelica wrote, “Being a saint is being who you were meant to be; a frail human being keeping the Commandments, especially the new one. It’s loving when you are not loved in return. It’s being patient when you want to hit somebody on the head. It’s loving your family as they are, not as you want them to be. It’s not letting the disappointments in your life crush you. The challenge of Christianity is to have fortitude in suffering; to stand for the truth even if you stand alone; to be undeterred by obstacles; to know that there is a big world out there and you are a weak, little person. But God is looking for weakness so His power can be manifest – He needs you!”

This commitment will be shown and emphasized starting on June 28th when Pope Benedict proclaims a year especially dedicated to St. Paul, marking the 200th Anniversary of the birth of the Apostle of the Gentiles. St. Paul realized his imperfect past and wanted to use the gifts God gave to him. He was put through many hardships and persecutions, but would not give up in spreading the Good News. St. Paul teaches us the importance of standing for the truth, when it’s convenient and when it is inconvenient. This is what we are called to be and to do if we are to show we are living a life of love and commitment.

LIVE YOUR BAPTISMAL AND CONFIRMATION COMMITMENT!

Cardinal’s Appeal Update – Thank you for your continual support of the Cardinal’s Appeal in pledges and donations. As we continue to reach our goal, we invite anyone who has not already pledge to do so. Envelopes are available on the tables at each entrance. Our parish goal is $12,100. We have pledged $8,538 with $7,933 paid from 69 donors as of June 13th. We are grateful to all those who have contributed to the educational, charitable and pastoral needs of our Archdiocese.

WE ALL NEED A TREE!

I hired a plumber to help me restore an old farmhouse, and after he had just finished a rough first day on the job: a flat tire made him lose an hour of work, his electric drill quit and his ancient one ton truck refused to start.

While I drove him home, he sat in stony silence. On arriving, he invited me in to meet his family. As we walked toward the front door, he paused briefly at a small tree, touching the tips of the branches with both hands.

When opening the door he underwent an amazing transformation. His face was wreathed in smiles and he hugged his two small children and gave his wife a kiss.

Afterward he walked me to the car. We passed the tree and my curiosity got the better of me. I asked him about what I had seen him do earlier.

'Oh, that's my trouble tree,' he replied. 'I know I can't help having troubles on the job, but one thing's for sure, those troubles don't belong in the house with my wife and the children. So I just hang them up on the tree every night when I come home and ask God to take care of them. Then in the morning I pick them up again.'

'Funny thing is,' he smiled,' when I come out in the morning to pick them up, there aren't nearly as many as I remember hanging up the night before'

Reflection by Deacon Ed (June 8, 2008)

A young couple took their three-month-old baby to the movies and was warned by the usher – he said, “If the baby cries, you’ll have to leave. We’ll give you your money back.” After watching the show for half an hour the husband asked the wife, “How do you like the movie?” She turned to him and whispered, “It’s rotten.” He agreed, “I think so, too. Pinch the baby.”

Today’s scriptures warn us about being clever with God – but sometimes we cleverly separate our piety from our daily lives. God does want fine worship and fine lives. The prophet Hosea and the Gospel writer, Matthew, impart this message. The initial verses of today’s reading from the prophet Hosea might impress you as beautiful and consoling words, “Let us strive to know the Lord; as certain as the dawn is His coming, and His judgment shines forth like the light of day! He will come to us like the rain, like spring rain that waters the earth.” These words are like a prayer that any of us might use to express the kind of humble confidence in the mercy of a forgiving God. Yet God’s words, which follow this prayer, “Your piety is like a morning cloud, like the dew that early passes away,” do not seem to express satisfaction or compassion, but are drenched with a tone of sarcastic exasperation. So we ponder, “What is the prophet telling us?” Words that seem like an excellent prayer are in fact a sarcastic distortion of what in the prophet’s judgment is despicable lip service paid to God – words instead of deeds, tokens instead of efforts, ritual piety as a pretext for moral apathy.

And so, God rejects such words, with a grim reminder that what he wants from us are words and deeds, not ritual piety with moral indifference. God raises the divine fist in frustration through the prophet Hosea, “What can I do with you people?” Love is the answer, not destruction. For the one who loves much will be forgiven much. It is a lesson we learn from one testament to the next. “I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.” Sharing our humanity, Jesus dies on a cross for those most in need of God’s mercy, compassion and forgiveness. He is crucified not because there are good people in the world, but because there are sinners who need to experience the love and mercy of God. Jesus came to save sinners and, in one way or another, we are all sinners. Jesus’ words are comforting to everyone conscious of their human weakness – to all who desperately long for and need a savior.

THE STRANGER

A few years after I was born, my dad met a stranger who was new to our small Texas town. From the beginning, dad was fascinated with this enchanting newcomer and soon invited him to live with our family. The stranger was quickly accepted and was around from then on.

As I grew up, I never questioned his place in my family. In my young mind, he had a special niche. My parents were complementary instructors: Mom taught me good from evil, and dad taught me to obey. But the stranger…he was our storyteller. He would keep ups spellbound for hours on end with adventures, mysteries and comedies.

If I wanted to know anything about politics, history or science, he always knew the answers about the past, understood the present and even seemed able to predict the future! He took my family to the first major league ball game. He made me laugh, and he made me cry. The stranger never stopped talking, but dad didn’t seem to mind.

Sometimes, Mom would get up quietly while the rest of us were shushing each other to listen to what he had to say, and she would go to the kitchen for peace and quiet. (I wonder now if she ever prayed for the stranger to leave).

Dad ruled our household with certain moral convictions, but the stranger never felt obligated to honor them. Profanity, for example, was not allowed in our home… Not from our friends, any visitor or us. Our long time visitor, however, got away with four-letter words that burned my ears and made my dad squirm and my mother blush. My dad didn’t permit the liberal use of alcohol. But the stranger encouraged us to try it on a regular basis. He made cigarettes look cool, cigars manly and pipes distinguished.

He talked freely (much too freely) about sex. His comments were sometimes blatant, sometimes suggestive and generally embarrassing. I now know that my early concepts about relationships were influenced strongly by the stranger. Time after time, he opposed the values of my parents, yet he was seldom rebuked…. And NEVER asked to leave.

More than fifty years have passed since the stranger moved in with our family. He was blended right in and is not nearly as fascinating as he was at first. Still, if you could walk into my parents’ den today, you would still find him sitting over in his corner, waiting for someone to listen to him talk and watch him draw his pictures.

His name!

We just call him ‘TV”.

Fr. Bill's Notes (June 1, 2008)

As you may have noticed, there were only six priests ordained this year for the 408 parishes of the Archdiocese. There is a need for many more, particularly to work with the Spanish speaking: The population of the Archdiocese is more than 33% Spanish speaking. This time of year a number of priests will be celebrating the anniversaries of ordination and reaching the retirement age of 75. Pope Benedict and Pope John Paul II have encouraged having families pray for vocations. Using the rosary for that prayer is asking Our Blessed Mother, who is mother of priests, to awaken that call in more men so they respond to be fishers of men.
Next Saturday, Cardinal Egan will ordain 10 men to the Sacred Order of Deacon at St. Patrick’s Cathedral and marks 35 years of Diaconal Ordination here in New York. Pray for these men in their ministry as Ministers of Word, Altar and Charity and also pray that more will respond in this work of the Church in serving and assisting God’s people. We also pray for those ordained in those 35 years, including our Deacon, Ed Topple.

Next Sunday we will honor our High School Graduates at the 10:30 Mass. If you know someone who is graduating, give us a call at 246-9581, as we want to ask God’s protection for them as they reach this important step in their lives. We pray that they will stay close to God wherever they go.

We thank all those who have continued to care for the grounds and gardens on the church property. You have added to the beauty of the church in taking care of God’s creation.
I am coming to the end of 14 years here at St. John’s. I am sorry if there are people whom I have offended or caused to fall away from the parish or the Catholic Church. I have been disappointed that there are not more families participating in Mass regularly. I would like to know how we could reach out to those who are not receiving the Sacraments. If you have any suggestions, please send them to the rectory. We want to bring people closer to God and to get them to share in God’s gifts to us. As members of the Body of Christ, we have to work together to build up that Body. This is a commission all have received in their Baptism.

God and the Spider

During World War II, a US marine was separated from his unit on a Pacific island. The fighting had been intense, and in the smoke and the crossfire he had lost touch with his comrades.
Alone in the jungle, he could hear enemy soldiers coming in his direction. Scrambling for cover, he found his way up a high ridge to several small caves in the rock. Quickly he crawled inside one of the caves. Although safe for the moment, he realized that once the enemy soldiers looking for him swept up the ridge, they would quickly search all the caves and he would be killed.
As he waited, he prayed, "Lord, if it be your will, please protect me. Whatever your will though, I love you and trust you. Amen."
After praying, he lay quietly listening to the enemy begin to draw close. He thought, "Well, I guess the Lord isn't going to help me out of this one." Then he saw a spider begin to build a web over the front of his cave.
As he watched, listening to the enemy searching for him all the while, the spider layered strand after strand of web across the opening of the cave.
"Hah, he thought. "What I need is a brick wall and what the Lord has sent me is a spider web. God does have a sense of humor."
As the enemy drew closer he watched from the darkness of his hideout and could see them searching one cave after another. As they came to his, he got ready to make his last stand. To his amazement, however, after glancing in the direction of his cave, they moved on. Suddenly, he realized that with the spider web over the entrance, his cave looked as if no one had entered for quite a while.
"Lord, forgive me," prayed the young man. "I had forgotten that in you a spider's web is stronger than a brick wall."
We all face times of great trouble. When we do, it is so easy to forget what God can work in our lives, sometimes in the most surprising ways. And remember with God, a mere spider's web becomes a brick wall of protection.
Lord, I thank you for all our military, and their families. Pray for your brick wall of protection, to protect them everyday!!!

"Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. But it did not collapse; it had been set solidly on rock." - Mt 7:24-25

Fr. Bill's Notes (May 25, 2008)

Some parishioners have received a reminder about our parish goal for the Cardinal’s Appeal. Our goal is $12,100. We are only at half of that total in supporting the activities of the Archdiocese: works of charity, academic and spiritual formation, retired priests, specialized services for the needy, support for needy parishes and schools.

To reach our goal in the Bicentennial Campaign we ask, “is your piece of the puzzle missing?” We need your help in fulfilling your pledge to accomplish projected ideas of the parish. Your pledge can be honored in any combination of cash, appreciated securities, trust or even property. As a reminder, our parish receives 80% of all funds we collect and the additional 20% will be put toward a special fund to secure the future of needy parishes in the Archdiocese. Your gift will make it possible to address the needs of our parish as well as support the larger community of the church in the Archdiocese of New York.

As we celebrate the Feast of the Body and Blood of Jesus, we are recognizing God’s Gift to us in the Presence of Jesus. St. Alphonsus Liguori wrote, “Oh, how Jesus seems continually to exclaim from the altar: Come to me, all you that labor and are burdened, and I will refresh you. Come, He says, Come, you poor; come ye infirm; come, ye just and ye sinners, and you shall find in me a remedy for all your losses and afflictions; such is the desire of Jesus Christ: to console everyone who has recourse to Him, He remains day and night on our altars, that He may be found by all, and that He may bestow favors upon all. Hence the saints experienced in this world such pleasure in remaining in the presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, that days and nights appeared to them as moments.”

We pray: Heavenly Father, increase our faith in the Real Presence of your Son, Jesus Christ, in the Eucharist. We are obliged to adore Him, to give Him thanks and to make reparation for sins. We need Your peace in our hearts and among nations. We need conversion from our sins and the mercy of Your forgiveness. May we obtain this through prayer and our union with the Eucharistic Lord. Please send down the Holy Spirit upon all peoples to give them the love, courage, strength and willingness to respond to the invitation to Eucharistic Adoration. We ask this in the name of Jesus the Lord. Amen.

NEEDED- A former parishioner, Debbie Volkle, who was active in Cub Scouts, Boys Scouts, the Fire Department and our parish, has developed Acute Myelogenous Leukemia. She has had battles with cancer over two decades and the years of intermittent radiation and chemo have had a huge negative impact on her immune system. Her husband had a crushed knee due to a work accident. To pay their bills they sold their property here and moved to a town house by her sister in Georgia. In August 2007, the cancer came again and the AML returned. She has needed chemo treatments three times a week at a cost of $1300 each with her insurance only covering $300. Her coworkers have made donations and her employer has arranged for a cleaning service to keep her house clean to prevent illness due to her weakened immune system. Her sister, family, and neighbors are reaching out to raise money for the continued treatments.

A PERSPECTIVE ABOUT OLD BARNS

Only years of standing in the weather, bearing the storms and scorching sun, only that can produce beautiful barn wood.

A stranger came by the other day with an offer that set me to thinking. He wanted to buy the old barn that sits out by the highway. I told him right off he was crazy. He was a city type, you could tell by his clothes, his car, his hands, and the way he talked. He said he was driving by and saw that beautiful barn sitting out in the tall grass and wanted to know if it was for sale. I told him he had a funny idea of beauty.

Sure, it was a handsome building in its day. But then, there's been a lot of winters pass with their snow and ice and howling wind. The summer sun's beat down on that old barn till all the paint's gone, and the wood has turned silver gray. Now the old building leans a good deal, looking kind of tired. Yet, that fellow called it beautiful.

That set me to thinking. I walked out to the field and just stood there, gazing at that old barn. The stranger said he planned to use the lumber to line the walls of his den in a new country home he's building down the road. He said you couldn't get paint that beautiful. Only years of standing in the weather, bearing the storms and scorching sun, only that can produce beautiful barn wood.

It came to me then. We're a lot like that, you and I. Only it's on the inside that the beauty grows with us. Sure we turn silver gray too, and lean a bit more than we did when we were young and full of sap. But the good Lord knows what He's doing. And as the years pass, He's busy using the hard weather of our lives, the dry spells and the stormy seasons to do a job of beautifying our souls that nothing else can produce. And to think how often folks holler because they want life easy!

They took the old barn down today and hauled it away to beautify a rich man's house. And I reckon someday you and I'll be hauled off to Heaven to take on whatever chores the Good Lord has for us on the Great Sky Ranch.

And I suspect we'll be more beautiful then for the seasons we've been through here...and just maybe even add a bit of beauty to our Father's house. May there be peace within you today.

May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.

Reflection by Deacon Ed (May 18, 2008)

We desire to know! The human person questions the mystery of creation and even about his own creation as well. We desire to know – and we are driven to know more until we come to rest in the very heart of truth itself. Yet we are restless. Our answers only seem to give rise to more questions. Every explanation leads to a new set of inquiry, which only deepens the mystery and continues our quest for the ultimate truth. We desire to know more than facts and figures. We see, however dimly, that there is another dimension beyond what is evident to the senses. This never-ending quest for wholeness and truth is our search for God. We cannot be whole or complete apart from God who is the very ground of all being. Yet for the Christian, this search for God is but the beginning of the mystery.

Today we gather to celebrate Trinity Sunday. There is more to our celebration than the remembrance of a dogma learned long ago from our catechism. To celebrate the Trinity worthily is to allow us to be drawn into the very mystery of God and the mystery of our very being. When we ponder the Trinity, we are being drawn into the very fullness of God’s unbound love. We try to understand in a triune way – that God is, three distinct persons yet sharing equality and oneness of being. We have come to term God as Father, Son and Holy Spirit – words and terms fall way short of the glory of God. When we speak about the nature of God, we fall short. There is always a gap between the very nature of God and our poor, though necessary, attempts at God-talk. What we are able to say about God through the witness of Scripture, and our own experience, is the God is LOVE – and this unbounded love comes to us in three fundamental experiences: creation, re-recreation and sanctification or abiding holiness. However humankind misuses freedom and turns love of God into a perverted love of self – yet God does not give up on his good creation. This divine love reaches a new level with the sending of Jesus, Son of God as redeemer and source of the new creation. The story of this unbounded love continues through history under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The celebration of the Trinity is the celebration of God’s unbounded love for us. A mystery we can only ponder and be open to receive. For in doing so we come to understand God in ways beyond human understanding.

NEEDED- A former parishioner, Debbie Vol