2010 Columns

 

MAY 30, 2010

 

MUSINGS ON THE TRINITY   Our celebrations this weekend invite us to live in the awareness of the presence and mystery of the Triune God within us: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.  The mystery of the Holy Trinity, a doctrine enunciated by the ecumenical councils of Nicaea and Constantinople, is one of the fundamental doctrines of Christianity, and the greatest mystery of our Faith, namely, that there are three divine persons, sharing the same divine nature in one God.  The Catechism of the Catholic Church states, “There is one God, who has three persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  Each person is God, yet there is still only one God.”  The doctrine of the Trinity underlies all major Christian feasts, including Christmas, the Epiphany, Good Friday, Easter, the Ascension and Pentecost.  All the official prayers of the Church, including the Mass and the sacraments, begin with an address to the Holy Trinity: “In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”  We are baptized, absolved of our sins and anointed in the name of the Blessed Trinity.  Throughout the world, church bells ring three times a day inviting Christians to pray to God the Father (the Provider); God the Son (the Savior); and God the Holy Spirit (the Sanctifier).  We bless ourselves with the sign of the cross invoking the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and we conclude our prayers glorifying the Holy Trinity, saying “Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.”

 

There are only vague and hidden references to the Trinity in the Old Testament. But the New Testament offers more descriptions.

	At the annunciation God the Father sends His angel to Mary, God the Holy Spirit overshadows her and
	God the Son become incarnate in her womb.
	At the baptism of Jesus the Son, the Father’s Voice is heard and the Holy Spirit appears as a dove.
	At the ascension, Jesus gives the missionary command to baptize those who believe in the name of the
	Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

In John chapters 15-18, we have detailed account of Jesus’ teaching of the role of each person of the Holy Trinity.  God the Father creates and provides for His creatures.  God the Son redeems us and reconciles us with God.  God the Holy Spirit sanctifies us, strengthens us, teaches us and guides us.

 

A good contemporary illustration of the Trinity comes from world-renowned scientist Dr. Henry Morris.  He notes that the entire universe is Trinitarian by design.  The universe consists of three things: matter, space, and time.  Take away any one of those three and the universe would cease to exist.  But each one of those is itself a trinity.  Matter = mass + energy + motion.  Space = length + height + breadth.  Time = past + present + future.  Thus the whole universe witnesses to the character of the God who made it (cf. Psalm 19:1).

 

Complex theology and simple Jesus: Jesus said, “Who do men say that I am?” And his disciples answered and said, “Some say you are John the Baptist returned from the dead; others say Elias, or other of the old prophets.” And Jesus answered and said, “But who do you say that I am? Peter answered and said, "Thou art the Logos of God Who is the Father, the Son whom the Father loved from eternity and the Holy Spirit the eternal personification of the love between the Father and the Son.” And Jesus answering, said, "What?"  We are invited to enter into the mystery of God’s unfolding love, manifested in Jesus and sustained in the Spirit not so much by our heads as by our hearts.  As we enter more deeply into the beauty of creation, reconciling and healing relations and relationships and inspired lives, we enter more deeply into the mystery of the Trinity.  God is love, not math.

 

 

 

 

MAY 16, 2010

 

TO CELEBRATE THE FEAST OF ST BRENDAN (MAY 16) perhaps we can engage in a guided meditation, reflecting on his faith in Jesus, honoring his “walking on the edge”, risking all for the Lord.

 

1.  Read the Call of the Fishermen in Luke’s Gospel 5:1-11.  Picture the event. See the fishermen as they look to their nets.  They are tired and disappointed men: no catch of fish means no income: empty nets can mean an empty stomach.  Into the emptiness Jesus enters and sits in their boat.  He asks a small act of friendship in borrowing their boat.  Now he asks them to thrust out a little from the land.  They were ready to sleep, but Jesus asks them this small action.  From the boat he talks to the crowds and to them.  Then he asks them to launch out into the deep.  Immediately there is an objection, but at the same time they are willing to do what he asks, even to letting down of their nets.  When we obey it is amazing what great things happen.  Their nets were full of fish to the point of breaking.  A wonderful catch, but a more wonderful catch had taken place: Jesus had caught the disciples and he says “Follow me.”

            Ponder, think over how gentle was the call and how gradual.

                        A borrowed boat.

                        “Thrust out a little.”

                        “Launch out into the deep.”

                        “Let down your net.”

                        “Follow me.”

            At any stage the disciples could have refused.  Too often, we fail to enter the deep because we are not even willing to meet small requests that disturb our routine, nor are we willing to thrust out a little from our present situation.  It is when we take the first steps in small things that we can then be approached by the greater call, which says to us “Follow me.”  Are you really making enough effort to move out a little?  Promise that you will give heed each day to the Presence of God and to the mysteries that are about you.

            Pray slowly and carefully:

                        Lord, open my eyes to see your presence

                        In the world that is about me.

                        Lord, open my ears to your call

                        Make me attentive to you.

                        Open my heart to your love

                        As revealed in those who love me.

 

2.  Think over these words:

            Only those who walk the path know more than the maps:

            Only those who enjoy the Presence can truly talk of God.

 

3.  Say slowly or sing:

            Guide me, O Thou great Redeemer,

            Pilgrim through this barren land;

            I am weak but Thou art mighty,

            Hold me with Thy powerful hand;

            Bread of Heaven,

            Feed me now and evermore.

 

            Open now the crystal fountain,

            Whence the healing streams do flow:

            Let the fiery cloudy pillar

            Lead me all my journey through;

            Strong Deliverer,

            Be Thou still my Strength and Shield.

 

MAY 9, 2010

 

A GOSPEL REFLECTION   John Ford's superb family action adventure “Wee Willie Winkie” (1937), is loosely based on Rudyard Kipling's popular story from his “Tales of British India."  The setting of this movie is 19^th century British-occupied India. Little Priscilla Williams and her widowed mother travel to India to live with their relative, Colonel Williams, the colonel at a British Army base in India, an oppressive place, ruled with an iron fist by Colonel Williams.  Priscilla is a very curious, precocious child, who gains the nickname of "Private WEE WILLIE WINKIE.”  The little girl quickly charms everyone around her, including a tough Scots Sergeant.  After a series of adventures, she wins the hearts of everyone by challenging the prejudicial assumptions of both friends and enemies.  Her innocent, yet challenging questions are instrumental in helping Colonel Williams and Islamic freedom fighter, Khoda Khan, to see the senselessness of violence.  This leads them to a negotiated peace.  Today’s gospel assures us that it is the abiding presence of God the Father and God the Holy Spirit within us, with the Risen Lord, which gives us lasting peace.

 

CURIOUS DATA   At the delicious Fish Dinner Appreciation Dinner last Friday and after we devoured an array of tasty dishes, there was a recap of our efforts: 3,434 people were served, 2,745 pounds of fish were prepared and cooked, our profit was $2,365.15 greater than last year, $1,600.00 was donated to the Haiti relief efforts through Catholic Relief Services, the 50/50 raffles netted $657.00 for the St. Vincent de Paul Kitchen, and Nancy Bielik was unfortunately left off the volunteer list.  Thank You All for your dedicated services to the parish.

 

2010 BISHOP’S APPEAL UPDATE   To date, parishioners have pledge $12,519.00 toward our goal of $26,640.00.  This is 47% of our goal.  However, there have been only 72 pledges or 9.8% of the parishioners responding.  The success of this work of charity in our community will be achieved if everyone does his or her part and makes a sacrificial gift to aid the needy and extend the Gospel in our 6 county diocese.  Please respond.  Please be generous.

 

AFTER THE HARSH WORDS spoken and distressing revelations given this week at the United Nations Assembly, the wise words of the U.S. Bishop’s 1983 pastoral letter, The Challenge of Peace, rang in my ears.  What was said 27 years ago still has the force of truth to it today:

            “The perfect world, we Christians believe, is beyond the horizon, in an endless eternity where God will be all in all.  But a better world is here for human hands and hearts and minds to make.

            For the community of faith the risen Christ is the beginning and end of all things.  For all things were created through him and all things will return to the Father through him.

            It is our belief in the risen Christ which sustains us in confronting the awesome challenge of the nuclear arms race.”(337-39) [And racism, immigration issues, poverty, education, economic fairness, and health care can easily be added to the list of works Christians are to tacked with our faith in the risen Christ!]

 

DIY, BUT MOM'S WAY   While assembling furniture, my friend Debbie asked her roommate's five-year-old son to bring her a screwdriver.  

"Do you want a 'Daddy' screwdriver or a 'Mommy' screwdriver?" the little boy asked.  

Confused but preoccupied, Debbie absentmindedly said, "Bring me a 'Mommy' screwdriver."

The child came back and handed her a butter knife.

Happy Mother’s Day!

 

MAY 2, 2010

A GOSPEL REFLECTION   The renowned artist Paul Gustave Dore once lost his passport while traveling in Europe.  When he came to a border crossing, he explained his predicament to one of the guards.  Giving his name to the official, Dore hoped he would be recognized and allowed to pass.  The guard, however, said that many people attempted to cross the border by claiming to be persons they were not.  Dore insisted that he was the man he claimed to be.  "All right," said the official, "we'll give you a test, and if you pass it we'll allow you to go through."  Handing him a pencil and a sheet of paper, he told the artist to sketch several peasants standing nearby.  Dore did it so quickly and skillfully that the guard was convinced he was indeed who he claimed to be.  His action confirmed his identity.  In today’s gospel Jesus gives us the mark of Christian identity:  “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another.  Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.  By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another (John 13:34-5).  Love is the Christian identity.  Love is the Christian uniform.  Love is the Christian habit.  If you are wearing the habit of love, you are in.  If you are not wearing love as a habit, you are out.  Let us remember the words of Shakespeare in Measure for Measure, "Cucullus non facit monachum (the hood does not make a monk).”  A Christian name or a cross on a chain will not make us Christians unless we practice Jesus’ new commandment of love given in today’s gospel.

 

April 25

 CATHOLICITY or universality is a hallmark of our faith tradition and an element of the creed we profess every Sunday.  To be catholic is to be diverse, broad, and expansive.  The second reading today from Revelation (7:9) expresses this well: “I had a vision of a great multitude, which no one could count, from every nation, race, people and tongue.”  This is a wonderful description of the church as well as a burden and challenge.  We are called to be diverse, respect differences and embrace the many cultures around us. 

 Is this an apt picture of St. Brendan Parish?  Yes and No.  We are blessed to have parishioners, neighbors, brothers and sisters from many backgrounds.  And now we are especially enriched with the presence of many Spanish speaking parishioners, neighbors, brothers and sisters (those within our parish boundaries and zip code but whose origin is Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Puerto Rico, El Salvador and other Latin American countries).  They bring a wealth of music and customs that enhance our worship, parish and lives.  But I hear grumblings.  Why do we have to sing a Spanish hymn?  Why do we have to translate for them?  Why didn’t the parish do this for me?

 If we are one Body of Christ, one community of faith, catholic, then we must be/learn to be inclusive and welcoming and our worship must reflect the nature of who we are: a multicultural, catholic church praising the goodness of the God of All.  Otherwise, we run the risk of nurturing a parochial, selfish, and unrealistic sense of who we are as a church (and global community).  It is important for us to approach this challenge as an opportunity for growth, for a more vital worship, and for a stronger parish community.  We need to learn to see diversity as a gift.  And if we do so, we will be true to the saving death of Christ who died for all and who invites us to the heavenly liturgy where “from every nation, race, people and tongue” the faithful ones worship before the throne of God.  So let us sing a new song to the Lord and who know where that may lead us!  Peace/Paz.

 THE EASTER COLLECTION for 2010 was $8,617.51.  Thank you to all who gave so generously.  This is about 4% less than last year.  And if you have not made your Easter offering yet, we would be happy to receive it.

 BISHOP’S ANNUAL APPEAL has begun will an appeal to the parish’s pacesetters and leaders.  The diocesan goal is $3,600,000.00—the same amount as 2009.  Our 2010 parish goal is $26,640.00.  I am grateful to Grace Logan who has volunteered to chair our parish campaign.  Included in today’s bulletin is the annual audit of Catholic Charities throughout the diocese.  It contains a description of the wide range of services that Catholic Charities provides throughout our six county diocese.  In our region, it is amazing that 18,010 persons were served in 2009 with emergency food and shelter assistance, hot meals served, low-income pregnancy services, senior support services, domestic violence shelters, and financial and economic education and support.  93% of those served reported incomes below the poverty threshold (2009 federal poverty threshold = $22,050 for a family of four).  The need is great.  And our generous response is even a greater need.  Please read the appeal brochure “Changing Lives…One Family at a Time” and today’s insert.  Pray how you can “feed the hungry” and support the poor.  I ask that every family response and I appeal to your generosity and compassion.

 

WITH GRATITUDE the parish has received several financial gifts.  In January $1,000.00 was given anonymously in thanksgiving.  In March $1,000.00 was given in memory of Joseph A. Pastore by his family.  I am also grateful to the families of Joseph A. Pastore and Paul J. Snyder for designating St. Brendan Parish as a memorial recipient at the deaths of their deceased.  Thank you for remembering the parish you loved so well in live that it may prosper into the future.  Thank you.

  

April 11

 

THE SCENT OF FISH LINGERS LONGER than the pine needles in the sanctuary.  But it is the odor of success.  Our Lenten Dinners and Luncheon Carry-outs were delicious and enjoyed by many.  And we were able to do so because of the many, many volunteers who did the myriad of jobs required for such a massive effort: cleaning and prepping the fish early in the morning; making the haluski, mac and cheese, and potatoes; setting up; cooking over hot fryers and ovens; answering phones; cutting cake; prepping the side dishes; serving beverages, collecting money; putting together orders; plating; taking orders and serving; selling raffle tickets; cleaning tables; and the final and really messy task of cleaning up. 

 Lots of jobs, but also lots of good hearted people: Melva, Minnie, Jim Minnie, Jerry Miller, Ed Bielik, Muriel Galaias, Jerry Kernan, Amy Kernan, Fran Mihalik, Al, Mihalik, Maryanne Peters, Sr. Marjorie, Judy Lazar, Sonny Lazar, Jim Love, Teri Laret, Bill Neff, Matt Neff, Gracie Logan, Chuch Logan, Rita Flora, Dick Flora, Mary Sabol. Barb Carissimo, Burt Myers, Cathy Chance, Joe Kachurek, Darlene Ruggiero, Rosemary Cervone, Joan Lawson, Bob Casey, Barb Perry, Ralph Perry, Dorothy Losasso, Randy Dolak, Helen Dolak, Sam Dolak, Nick Dolak, Linda Feher, Autumn Feher, Joe Pilz, Mary Lou Casey, Mike Mraz, Bev DeGenova, Tom Gatto, Jom Banyots, Paul Robinson, Tony Warino, Jennifer Gatto, Rob Brose, Fred Cappogreco, Gia Cappabianca, Giacomo Cappabianca, Jack Cappabianca, Betty Burke, Debbie Brown, Roger Bell, Donna Lorenzi, Elena Hanuschak, Cassie Hanushak, Fran Warino, Jenny Popa, Deb Flora, Mark Flora, Lisa Spencer, Marie Johnson, Audrey Zaksek, Dan Mihalik, Pam Mihalik, Craig Mihalik, Megan Mihalik, and Allison Pollice.  Thank you all!!  All of this was coordinated by Mike and Patty Infante and John Coudriet—who deserve a huge round of applause for their dedicated efforts.  (There is always a danger in listing volunteers because someone may inadvertently be left off.  If so, I apologize in advance but let me know so I can correct the list.)  I am happy to report that our net profit is $8,462.49.  This was our best ever!  From this we are sending a check in the amount of $1,600.00 to Catholic Relief Services for the Haiti Relief efforts, which represents the profits from our St. Joseph Day (3/19) fund raiser.  Also our 50/50 Raffle netted $657.00 and this will be applied to the St. Vincent de Paul Kitchen when our parish is next assigned to serve.  What a wonderful Lenten season of Fish Dinners.  Thanks be to God.

 EVERLASTING SERENITY is the name given to our Paschal Candle uniquely made for us by Jeanette M. Kramer.  She writes about her creation, “The dignity of presence felt in ancient Byzantine icons infuses this remarkable Paschal candle, the primary representation of the Light of Christ in the Church.  Masters of the art of iconography would adorn their most resplendent creations with precious stones of varying shapes and sizes.  Everlasting Serenity echoes this dynamic technique, featuring hand set glass jewels which capture and reflect the lighgt and luster of the shimmering gold leaf which composes the cross.  The Alpha and Omega, Greek letters meaning the Beginning and End, are perfectly incorporated into the design.  The five nails, which represent the five wounds of Christ, are generously incensed, adding to the glorious Old World mien of Everlasting Serenity.  The ‘Year of Our Lord,’ 2010 appears within the date plate.”

 BRETT WILCOX FUND RAISER netted just over $14,500.00 and donations are still coming via the rectory.  Brett had a set back and is in ICU at Akron Children’s Hospital.  He is on a slew of antibiotics and is stabilizing day by day.  Keep the Wilcox family in your prayers.

 

THE BUCKET BRIGADE once again faithfully gathered with buckets, rags, Murphy’s Oil Soap and lots of elbow grease to give the church, sanctuary and sacristies a good cleaning.  Thanks to Mary West, Mary Morley, Louise Miller, Gerry Miller, Gracie Logan, Barb Fechtel, Marsh Robinson, Pam Mihalik, Bryan Chiadez, Rita Flora, Dick Flora, Mike Mraz, Jim Baynots, Joan Lawson, Sonny Lazar, Jerry Kernan and Jean McGonnell.  (And again, I hope this list is complete.)  Many thanks.

 

 

March 28

 

IT WAS AN AWESOME WEEKEND!

Our benefit Lenten Fish Luncheons, Dinners and Carry outs were covered by all 3 TV channels and Senator Joe Schiavoni was our celebrity server.  It was a wonderful day.  While the final tabulation is almost complete, we expect to send about $2,500.00 to Catholic Relief Services to aid recovery efforts in Haiti.  Thank you everyone who participated to make this so successful.

 

 

 The Brett Wilcox Benefit was another smash.  Here is a note I received from the Wilcox Family:  “Hi Father.  I want to send out a big THANKYOU to our faith community.  Amy said that our parish is wonderful and could not have done it with out you.  I am so glad that more of the community could see and experience what a wonderful parish St Brendan’s is.

 “We can't begin to express our gratitude to our faith community for all the volunteers and supporters of the spaghetti dinner.  The spaghetti dinner committee said that they could not have asked to work with a better group of volunteers.  They could not have done it without you.  You were amazing.  The dinner was a huge success due to your help and generosity.  We so greatly appreciate all that you have done.  This time has been extremely difficult for us but knowing we have the support and prayers of people like you certainly helps.  Thank you again from the bottom of our hearts!  God Bless Sharon, Don & Brett”

 

 

 

 

Over 300 pounds of macaroni were cooked.  90 baskets were set out for the Chinese Auction.  Musicians and clowns provided entertainment.  Hordes of volunteers set up and cleaned up.  An initial report suggests that over $13,000.00 has been raised!  Thank you all.

 And a final and belated Thank You to the Parish Mission Committee who did a fabulous job in Be-ing the Attitude and Action of the Beatitudes for us all.  Pictured are Rose Dunlap, Joan Lawson, Barb Carissimo, Joe Kachurek and Linda Feher.  Not pictured are Carol Pilz and Autumn Feher. 

 

March 21

“Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.”

The adulteress loved your word of mercy.
You said, “Neither do I condemn you.”
You were a river in the wasteland.
You were shelter in the storm.

Shelter us too.

Please let us become what we receive.
Forgiven, let us always forgive.
Uncondemned, let us
lay down the
stones.

And
stand
before you.

 

In his book, A Forgiving God in an Unforgiving World, Ron Lee Davis tells the true story of a priest in the Philippines, a much- loved man of God who carried the burden of a secret sin he had committed many years before.  He had repented but still had no peace about it.  In his parish was a woman who deeply loved God and who claimed to have visions in which she spoke with Christ.  The priest, however, was skeptical about that. To test her he said, "The next time you speak with Christ, ask him what sin I committed while I was in the high school."  The woman agreed.  A few days later the priest asked, "Well, did Christ visit you in your dreams?"  "Yes, he did," she replied.  "And did you ask him what sin I committed back in high school?"  "Yes."  "And what did he say?"  She smiled and answered, "Christ said, 'I don't remember. '"

 

As we continue our Lenten Journey...

Give up complaining.....focus on gratitude.

Give up harsh judgments...think kind thoughts.

Give up worry......trust Divine Providence.

Give up discouragement.....be full of hope.

Give up bitterness......turn to forgiveness.

Give up hatred.....return good for evil.

Give up negativism.....be positive.

Give up anger......be more patient.

Give up pettiness.....become more mature.

Give up gloom.....enjoy the beauty that is all around you.

Give up jealousy....pray for trust.

Give up gossiping.....control your tongue.

Give up sin.....turn to virtue.

Give up giving up....hang in there !!!

 

And some Lenten advice from Ann Landers:  Sometime ago a lady wrote to the famous advice columnist Ann Landers and asked this question, "Do all men cheat on their wives?  I have been suspicious of my husband for some time.  I even hired a private detective to trail him, but he couldn't come up with a thing.  I went to a lawyer. He told me to grow up and accept the fact that all husbands fool around.  Do they?"  Ann Landers very wisely replied, "No.  There are plenty of married men who never cheat, and your husband could be one of them.  The only thing you can be fairly sure of is that your lawyer cheats on his wife."

 

March 14

 

STATIONS OF THE CROSS FOR TODAY

 

The Lenten Stations of the Cross offer a rich opportunity to see Jesus, suffering today in our world.  Many of our brothers and sisters walk the way of the Cross continuing the suffering of Jesus in their lives.  We are all called to be the Simon of Cyrenes or Veronicas today, knowing that what we lovingly do for each other, we truly do for Him.

 

1st Station  Pilate Condemns Jesus to Death: Pray for those on death row and work to end to death penalty.

2nd Station  Jesus Takes Up His cross: Encourage and offer help to a family member, or friend who is suffering.

3rd Station  Jesus Falls the First Time: Prepare a meal for someone who is ill or homeless.

4th Station  Jesus Meets His Mother: Lend a listening ear to a family member or a friend in need.

5th Station  Simon Helps Jesus Carry His Cross: Make a contribution of time or money to a parish ministry.

6th Station  Veronica Wipes the Face of Jesus:  Volunteer your time at a food bank, soup kitchen, or serve a benefit meal.

7th Station  Jesus Falls a Second time: Vote for legislation for a living wage. Offer kindness and respect to those who do minimum wage jobs.

8th Station  Jesus Talks with the Women:  Offer assistance to a single parent, or visit an elderly neighbor.

9th Station  Jesus Falls a Third Time: Pray for families and victims of HIV/AIDS.

10th Station  Jesus Is Stripped of His Garments: Wear clothing that has been produced by just labor practices, not by sweatshop labor.

11th Station  Jesus Is Nailed to the Cross: Write to legislators in Congress to ban land mines and other weapons which target civilians.

12th Station  Jesus Dies on the Cross: Pray for the victims of violence.  Pray for those who do violence.  Pray for those who support violence.

13th Station  Jesus Is Placed in the Arms of His Mother: Turn off your television when violent shows come on.

14th Station  Jesus Is Laid in the Tomb: Visit someone who is home-bound or in a nursing home.

 

"We adore you O Christ and we bless you, because by Your holy cross, you have redeemed the world."

 

 

March 7

 

REFLECTIONS on the DIOCESAN RECONFIGURATION PLAN

            The parish representatives of the Mahoning County Deanery met on Wednesday, February 24 to learn of the diocesan plans for reconfiguration or restructuring of parishes.  Our deanery presently has 30 priests and will be reduced to 25 (22 pastors and 3 parochial vicars) in the plan.  With gratitude, joy and a bit of relief, St. Brendan Parish was designated as a single entity or stand-alone parish.  In other words, the parish will not be merged or clustered with another neighboring parish.  That is the good news.  The bad news is that within the next 4 years roughly a third of the priests will retire.  There was a general sense at the meeting that this plan is but a small step, and in the very near future this plan will be revisited and more drastic changes will need to be made.

 

            With this good news, we must not become complacent or sit on our hands.  Change will come and we must strive to both maintain and expand our viability and vitality.  So, what might be some benchmarks that we might strive toward?  Let me suggest several.

 

            First, we must meet our goal in the Annual Bishop’s Appeal.  For the past several years we have been below par in our response.  Last year we barely made 78% of our goal.  Our 2010 goal is $26,640.00.  I urge every parishioner and household to make a sacrificial gift to aid the work of charity in our diocese and the operations of the church.

 

            Second, our Sunday contributions have been steadily slipping.  This year contributions are down by 5%.  I ask that you prayerfully reflect on the treasures with which you have been blessed and to make a committed effort to increase your contributions to the parish. 

 

            Third, there is a crying need for more lay leadership and volunteers for our parish activities and committees.  Can you use your gifts and talents for the Parish Pastoral Council, the Parish Finance Council, revive the Stewardship Committee, assist with the Fish Dinners, St. Vincent de Paul or Bingo?  How are you involved?

 

            Fourth, our spiritual and faith formation must be a priority.  The parish Lenten Mission is a privileged opportunity to grow in God’s love and wisdom.  Will you be there?

 

            Fifthly, we must be more deliberate in sharing the Gospel with others and inviting others to find fulfillment in the Gospel as members of the church.  This year we have no candidates for baptism at the Easter Vigil—a sad sign of our lack of evangelizing.  How have you enlarged the Body of Christ?

 

 

 

February 28

 

 

PHOTOS OF THE WEEK;

 

The Fish Dinner crew hustling in the kitchen

getting orders out hot and tasty.  Thanks all.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Tom Snyder with his back hoe

clearing the parking lot and making Snow Mountains. 

 

 

 

 

The word transfiguration means a change in form or appearance. Biologists call it metamorphosis (derived from the Greek word metamorphoomai used in Matthew’s gospel) to describe the change that occurs when a caterpillar becomes a butterfly. As children we might have curiously watched the process of the caterpillar turning into a chrysalis and then bursting into a beautiful Monarch butterfly.  Fr. Anthony de Mello tells the story of such a metamorphosis in the prayer life of an old man.  'I was a revolutionary when I was young and all my prayer to God was: “Lord, give me the grace to change the world.” As I approached middle age and realized that half of my life was gone without changing a single soul, I changed my prayer to: “Lord, give me the grace to change all those who come in contact with me; just my family and friends and I shall be satisfied.”  Now that I am old and my days are numbered, I have begun to see how foolish I have been.  My one prayer now is: “Lord, give me the grace to change myself.”  If I had prayed for this right from the start, I should not have wasted my life.'

 

 

February 21

 

SCENES FROM OUR DISTRIBUTION OF THE PILLOWS OF LOVE

 

 

 

 

A LENTEN TWIST A priest was ministering to a man on his deathbed. "Renounce Satan!" said the priest.” No," said the dying man.  "I say, renounce the devil and his works!"  "No," the man repeats.  “And why not, I ask you in the name of all that is holy?"  "Because," said the dying man, "I want to wait until I see where I'm heading, before I start annoying anybody."

 

 

February 14

 

SO WHERE DO WE STAND IN THE DIOCESAN PLANNING PROCESS?  As I understand the time line, the Presbyteral Council (the chief advisory board of priests to the bishop) and the 8 deans (delegates of the bishop in each of the counties, Mahoning and Stark have 2 due to their size) will meet together with Bishop Murry on February 16 to finish their discussions and development of the Diocesan Plan. 

 

Then each deanery will meet on Wednesday, February 24 and the deans will announce the diocesan plans.  Mahoning North (Fr. Steve Popovich) and South (Fr. Nick Shori) Deaneries will meet jointly at Immaculate Heart of Mary Hall from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. to learn of the plan.  This will be the final consultation not the final plan.  Our parish delegation includes, Joan Lawson, Deb Flora, Pam Mihalik, Rosie Marich, Mike Mraz, Joe Kachurek, Carol Martin, Geri Jacquet and myself.  This is the final opportunity for input.

 

Then on March 23, the bishop will promulgate the Diocesan Reorganization Plan.  I do not know details on the implementation process, the realignment of priests, or the appeals process (and I am sure many more issues will arise).  Keep the bishop, all decision making parties, and all diocesan parishes and institutions in your prayers.  Come, Holy Spirit, burn in our hearts and renew us.

 

SO WHAT ABOUT LENTEN PRACTICES?  1966 Pope Paul VI reorganized the Church's practice of public penance in his "Apostolic Constitution on Penance" (Poenitemini).  The 1983 revision of the Code of Canon Law incorporated the changes made by Pope Paul.  Not long after that, the U.S. bishops applied the canonical requirements to the practice of public penance in our country.

 

To sum up those requirements, Catholics between the ages of 18 and 59 are obliged to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.  In addition, all Catholics 14 years old and older must abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday and all the Fridays of Lent.

 

Fasting as explained by the U.S. bishops means partaking of only one full meal. Some food (not equaling another full meal) is permitted at breakfast and around midday or in the evening—depending on when a person chooses to eat the main or full meal.  Abstinence forbids the use of meat, but not of eggs, milk products or condiments made of animal fat.

 

Each Lent we are reminded of the seriousness of observing these days of penance.  The obligation to do penance is a serious one; the obligation to observe, as a whole or "substantially," the days of penance is also serious.

 

In his "Apostolic Constitution on Penance," Pope Paul VI did more than simply reorganize Church law concerning fast and abstinence.  He reminded us of the divine law that each of us in our own way do penance.  We must all turn from sin and make reparation to God for our sins.  We must forgive and show love for one another just as we ask for God's love and forgiveness.

 

The Code of Canon Law and our bishops remind us of other works and means of doing penance: prayer, acts of self-denial, almsgiving and works of personal charity.  Attending Mass daily or several times a week, praying the rosary, making the way of the cross, attending the parish evening prayer service, teaching the illiterate to read, reading to the blind, helping at a soup kitchen, visiting the sick and shut-ins and giving an overworked mother a break by baby-sitting—all of these can be even more meaningful and demanding than simply abstaining from meat on Friday.

 

May this Lent be a holy season of FAST, PRAYER and GIVING ALMS.

 

SO WHY NOT COME TO A LENTEN EVENING OF REFLECTION?  Fr. Jim Schutte (pastor, St. Leo Parish, Cincinnati) and I will present a multi-media evening reflection on Monday, February 22.  We will reflect on our beauty way pilgrimage/journey last fall and offer for our 2010 Lenten journey some new or tested or challenging strategies.  You do not need a backpack or walking sticks, but a good pair of shoes to get you here and an open heart.  Hope to see you, my fellow pilgrims. 

 

 

 

February 7

 

IF THERE IS A SUPERLATIVE OF SUPERLATIVE, I would use it to describe last Sunday and Bishop George Murry’s Pastoral Visit.  While numbers do not show the whole picture, it was wonderful to see the church busting at the seams (452 worshippers) and the singing thunderous.  The merging of the Masses showed the many faces of the parish and the richness of our community.  And the overwhelming response and the seemingly infinite variety of rolls, pastries and cookies was a gourmand’s sight to behold.  I was very proud being pastor of St. Brendan’s last week and extremely heartened by the enthusiasm and response of all of you—the CHURCH.

 

The bishop and I had a light lunch afterwards and before he had to preside at Confirmation at the Cathedral at 2:00 pm.  During the conversation, he had several things to say about his experience.  First, he was impressed by the high quality of our worship on all fronts: ministers, musicians, participation, and environment.  He commented on the beauty and integrity of the Mass.  Secondly, the warmth of the parishioners had an impact on him.  He felt welcomed and felt it was easy to chat with folks.  Thirdly, he remarked on the diversity present.  Because we are a city parish, often it is thought we are just aging and shrinking.  While there is some truth in that, we are a vibrant and diverse community: we have our fair share of senior pillars and long time parishioners, but we also are welcoming younger families and a Latino community.  We need to continue to build the kingdom of God on these strengths.

 

Finally, he enjoyed visiting all of you in Maxwell Hall.  Yes, he heard from numerous parishioners how much the parish is loved, it is home, it is an anchor and beacon and how committed we are.  He was touched by the conviction and enthusiasm of parishioners.  He pointed out that many people remarked on the quality of pastoral leadership of the parish and the continued development of the parish.  Selfishly, it was encouraging to hear that.

 

I received a letter from Bishop Murry this week, and he wrote, “I always enjoy visiting your parish.  In my name, thank the parishioners who made the cookies and be assured of my prayers for the Lord’s continued blessings on you and your people.”

 

On Tuesday evening there was a beautiful and touching prayer service invoking the Holy Spirit upon St. Brendan Parish and the reconfiguration process of the diocese and its parishes and institutions.  On the candles was this reflection from St. Irenaeus (c. 130-202) that bears repeating and continued prayer, “Where the Church is, there is the Spirit of God, and where the Spirit of God is, there is the Church and all grace, and the Spirit is truth.” 

 

Al Forte of Norwalk, Conn., calls himself a “prayer activist.”  He attends Mass daily, passes out prayer for peace cards and has organized walks for peace.  He offers Seven Lessons Learned: (1) Prayer works.  Why not do it more often and encourage others to pray?  (2) More people can pray than we realize.  (3) If good people try to be a little better themselves, the world would be a better place, and there would be a lot of good people in the world.  (4) Take time to see the beauty of the landscape around you.  (5) Get a “kitchen cabinet” together to test your ideas on them.  (6) The little things we do for others may be more important than the big things we do for them.  (7) Pray and think more about what God’s will is for each of us.  www.prayforpeacewalk.org

 

 

 

January 31

 

CHANGE.  It seems that our attitude toward change is a bit like St. Augustine’s take on chastity: Give it to us, Lord, but not yet.  In theory we know that change is part of life, that it can be good and sometimes necessary.  But when it comes to actually making change, we go all wobbly.  We know we need change in dealing with personal relationship, our body, our spiritual life, health care, economic problems, waging war in Afghanistan, creating jobs and a whole host of social problems, but as soon as change is proposed there is constant wrangling and rancor and we go limp. 

 

What makes us resistant to change?  Some psychologists suggest that we fall prey to the “endowment effect”: the mere fact that you own something leads you to overvalue it.  A simple demonstration of this was an experiment in which some students in a class were given coffee mugs emblazoned with their school logo and asked how much they would demand to sell them, while others in the class we asked how much they would pay to buy them.  Instead of valuing the mugs similarly, the new owners of the mugs demanded more than twice as the buyers were willing to pay.  They performed another experiment: posing as ticket scalpers, they phoned people who had entered a raffle to win tickets to a Dukes basketball game.  People who hadn’t won tickets were willing to pay, on average, a hundred and seventy dollars to get into the game.  Those who had won tickets wanted twenty-four hundred dollars to part with them.  In other words, those who had by pure luck, won the tickets thought the tickets were fourteen times as valuable as those who hadn’t.

 

What makes us resistant to change?  Perhaps the “status-quo bias” has a deep hold on us.  Myriad studies have shown that people are inclined to keep things as they are and to stick to what they have started out with.  Some of this might be simple inertia, but our hesitancy to change is also driven by our aversion to loss.  Behaviorists have established that we feel the pain of loss more than we enjoy the pleasure of gains.  So when we think about change we focus more on what we might lose rather than what we might get.  Even people who are not happy with the current system, are likely to feel anxious about whatever will replace it.  We love the devil we know!

 

I offer these thoughts on change, for our diocese (which directly involves our parish) is in the midst of change, of restructuring, of reconfiguring.  The shortage of priests is a change.  The movement of folks from the city to the suburbs is a change.  The types of ministries have exploded and changed.  So how do we respond?  Do we dig in and defend (the endowment effect)?  Do we deny and decry (the status-quo bias)?  Or do we respond as Gospel people?  Do we pray Come Holy Spirit and renew your people and the face of the earth?  Do we repent and reform and believe the Good News? 

 

 

January 24

 

THE LETTER B from the Book of Kells shows the intricacy of design and creativeness of the Celtic monk illustrators of this 8^th century stunning work of art.  The Book of Kells is an illustrated manuscript of the Four Gospel.  It is a masterpiece of Western calligraphy and the pinnacle of Insular illumination (figures of humans, animals, mythical beasts mixed with interlacing Celtic knots and vibrant colors).  It is widely regarded as Ireland’s finest national treasure.  While in Dublin I had the opportunity to visit Trinity College where the Book of Kells is kept and 2 pages displayed for public viewing (I have to admit that I was disappointed that so little was displayed).  I also brought back 3 prints (The Four Evangelists, Mary, the Mother of God, and the Beginning of the Gospel according to John—in principio) that I have had framed and are now hanging on the wall outside the restrooms.  From Dingle, I brought back a colorful print of the launch site of Brendan’s sea adventures—Brendon’s Cove.  And I had framed a color photo that Bob Casey took of an outdoor sculpture of Brendon’s Boat and Crew outside the city of Castlemaine on the Ring of Kerry.  Hope you will enjoy some of the beauty of the Beauty Way.

 

AS THE WALLS of the former West Elementary School come tumbling down and hauled away, the question of what is to become of that expanse of property.  I met this week with our councilwoman, Carol Rimedio Righetti to discuss the future of this space.  We are trying to assemble a wide range of people who might have a stake in this project, such as our congressional representative Tim Ryan, representatives of the city, of the school board, of the West Side Citizens Coalition, of neighborhood block watches, YSU urban planning center.  This list is not exhaustive.  We hope to set a date in early February.  If you are interested or have ideas, please contact me ASAP.

 

 

 

January 17

 

 

 

SANTIAGO (St. James in Spanish, santo/holy iago/James) was our guide and goal as Fr. Jim Schutte and I walked and hobbled the camino.  In the city of Santiago de Compostela and high in the center tower of the Cathedral we were greeted by the pilgrim Santiago (top left) wearing a broad brimmed hat with a shell, holding a staff and gourd/jug in one hand and in the other the Scriptures.  Following custom, we centered the Cathedral and touched the “Tree of Life” sculpture where Santiago mediates the blessings of Christ (top right).  Then we made our way down the side aisle to the sanctuary where—over the main altar—a gilded and jeweled statue of Santiago is prominent.  Following the tradition of pilgrims throughout the centuries, we climbed up a set of stairs and hugged (lo abrazo) Santiago from behind (with incredible joy and with immense gratitude) and then went down below the altar into the crypt to pray before the ornate reliquary containing the remains of the saint.  The holy card and medal that I have brought back for parishioners, as a memento, features this last ornate statue (and note the scallop shell transformed into his halo).

 

ADVENT-CHRISTMAS-EPIPHANY 2009 was beautiful, prayerful and joyful thanks to the hosts of parishioners who brought glory to God and good will to our community by buffing up the church; by planning, ministering, making music and celebrating our Masses and services; by setting up and tearing down the church decorations; by the cards, gifts and kolachi to the rectory; by the myriad and unnoticed acts of kindness; and by the generous Christmas collection of $13,267.00.  May the Peace of Christ flourish in our day.

 

 

January 10

 

Reunited & Renewed

 

  

Celebrating Fr. Daprile” 61^st Birthday

 

 

 

January 3,2010

 

The Baptism of Trevor Santo Sicialano (?)

 

 Caroling at Lou & Gerry Miller’s House

 Caroling at Bea Amon’s House

  

Caroling at Joe Antal’s House