MAY 11, 2008   VENI, SANCTE SPIRITUS, known as the Golden Sequence, is our Pentecost prayer—Come, Holy Spirit!  It is commonly regarded as one of the greatest masterpieces of sacred Latin poetry ever written.  Its beauty and depth have been praised by many. The hymn has been attributed to three different authors, King Robert II the Pious of France (970-1031), Pope Innocent III (1161-1216), and Stephen Langton (d 1228), Archbishop of Canterbury, of which the last is most likely the author.  The renowned theologian, Hans Küng, offers this contemporary reflection for our feast:   Veni Sancte Spiritus — The Holy Spirit cannot be compelled to come, we can only entreat. We can only ask;   Sana quod est sordidum —- Heal what is wounded!  Help those who have been hurt by an unjust church law and those who have not been treated fairly in the church, especially women;   Riga quod es aridum — Water what is barren!  Enliven those who have become resigned in the church and those who have been marginalized and especially let young people live in renewed hope;   Flecte quod est rigidum —- Bend what has become rigid!  Humiliate the obstinacy of theologians and hierarchies and shake all false security so that everything will not always remain as it was;   Fove quod est frigidum — Warm what has become cold!  Drive out all our fears and anxieties, our prejudices and restrictions, and open our hearts with your love that knows no bounds;   Rege quod est devium — Direct what is going astray!  Enable us to call what is error and injustice by its name and to work in the Church and in society for truth, justice and peace.   LILLY ENDOWMENT CLERGY RENEWAL PROGRAM UPDATE   This week the parish submitted the grant application and proposal for Fr. Daprile’s renewal leave, projected for the fall of 2009.  The Lilly Endowment requires that applications are to be postmarked no later than May 14, 2008; and the foundation’s notification of grants will be made by October 2008.  This is a national competitive grant program and 120 grants — up to $45,000.00 — are awarded annually.  The committee, comprised of Deb Flora, Rosie Marich, Pam Mihalik and Barb Carissimo, did an outstanding job crafting the renewal proposal.  I am grateful for their efforts and the support of Joan Lawson and Parish Pastoral Council.  We wait, and pray and hope.   MAY 4, 2008 OUR FIRST COMMUNION CELEBRATION was wonderful.  Pictured above are the newest members of our faith community to share at the Table of the Lord, front left to right, first row: Breanna Crone, Monica Brown, Magdalena de la Paz, Ashley McKelvey and Katrina Neff; second row: Joan Lawson, DFF; Fr. Jim Daprile, Fr. John Reiss and Judi Webber, 2nd grade catechist.        EXPANDING AND WELCOMING   On Sunday, June 1st, St. Brendan Parish will expand our Mass schedule.  Mass will be offered at 4:00 pm Saturdays and at 10:00 am and noon on Sundays.  The noon Mass — a parish Mass — will be entirely in Spanish / en Español: music, prayers, readings and preaching.  We are happy that Fr. John Reiss will be the ordinary presider for this Mass.  In a city that is embracing a “smart shrinking concept,” it is heartening that our parish is growing, developing and discovering new ministries.  And as a church, we are called to welcome the stranger, share our mutual giftedness and celebrate the wonderful ways of our God.  May this endeavor truly be a blessing to us and our community.   ABRAHAM & SARAH: A BLESSING AND BLESSED   At the recent sessions for greeters, hospitality persons and ushers, we read the Genesis story (18:1-18) of Abraham’s gracious outreach, care and setting a feast for the three strangers who appeared before the entrance of his tent near the oaks of Mamre.  And the strangers brought a surprising gift as well: by the time of their visit next year Sarah would be pregnant and the couple would be more blessed than the stars of the sky.  As our group reflected on this passage, the following were offered as ways for us to be welcoming and hospitable: we are to initiate the action of welcome; we are to treat strangers as friends; we are to provide for the comfort and physical needs of others; we are to give our very best; we are to stand with others; we are to be servants to others.  WELCOME carries wonderful burdens for the Christian!       APRIL 27, 2008   WE CELEBRATE FIRST COMMUNION this weekend and I thought I’d share some of the reflections from our children:         Ashley McKelvey:  I want to receive Eucharist to be part of his [Jesus’] family and follow his teachings, lead a good holy life and to go to heaven.         Katrina Neff:  I want to receive Jesus in the Eucharist because I want ot be like Him.         Breanna Crone: Jesus teaches me about how God made the world and about how I’m supposed to be nice.         Magdalena de la Paz:  I want to receive the Eucharist so I can become more like Jesus and so I can not be so bad anymore.         Monica Brown:  I want to receive Jesus in Eucharist because I want to eat and drink the body and blood of Jesus.  Jesus taught me to be nice to others, to help others, be respectful, be responsible, to be kind, to help others, and love my family.   May these children and their family be blessed today and every day.   BLESSINGS to our catechist JUDI WEBBER, who has taught 2nd grade in our CCD program for 25 years.  We are truly grateful for her dedication and sharing the faith with our children in such a wonderful and faithful way.  Thank you and may God continue to shower you with divine goodness.   FROM SECTION 34 AT YANKEE STADIUM, our parishioner Deb Zalovcik attending the Papal Mass said, “We were so high up and he was so small and far away, but we were all closer to heaven.”  Here is her reflection:   “At a recent Parish Pastoral Council meeting a question was posed "What would make your heart sing?"  It wasn't until this past weekend would I truly be able to answer.  I had the honor, along with my daughter Stephanie, to attend the Papal Mass in Yankee Stadium this past Sunday as part of the Youngstown Diocese delegation.   My voice sang to the music, my ears listened to the Word and my eyes watched the Faithful community 57,000 strong inside the stadium as they cheered BENEDICTO! “But during the Eucharistic prayer, the community of believers became silent, and one could hear a pin drop.  Then, as the community prayed in unison the Our Father, arms were outstretched to their neighbor, voices became louder then ever.  As my eyes were fixed on the altar, my heart began to sing.  For the first time I could answer the question posed just weeks before.  This wasn't just about me...you...the community of attendees...It is about US—all of US: all being disciples, working together, following the Gospels and Teachings of Jesus.”   APRIL 20, 2008   THE 2008 BISHOP’S APPEAL FOR CATHOLIC CHARIITES AND CHURCH has begun throughout the diocese.  Our parish goal is $28,571.00.  I am grateful for the 34 donors in the Leadership and Pacesetter division who have pledged $6,369.00.  This annual campaign will be successful if every member of the parish participates and pledges.  I am asking that every household make a monthly gift of $12.00, for a total pledge of $144.00.  Even in difficult times, we know we are abundantly gifted and with our many blessings are called to be generous, especially for the work of the Church and the needs of the poor.   Our Catholic Charities Regional Agency (serving Columbiana, Mahoning and Trumbull Counties) served 27,121 people in 2007.  70% of those served had incomes below the national poverty threshold (poverty threshold is $20,650 for a family of four).  64% of those served received public assistance.  72% of those served were women.   Here are some service highlights: 1,967 people benefited from food vouchers for groceries. 710 older adults received support services (advocacy, transportation, telephone reassurance) 259 people who were homeless received supportive services 4,598 people benefited from utility assistance 310 pregnant women and families received material assistance through First Step Program 366 people received housing counseling services 16,921 on-site, carried-out and home-delivered meals were provided to older adults 53 women and 47 children received domestic violence shelter; 255 people received assistance with protection orders; 1,081 crisis phone calls were received.   KIDS  At a recent baptism, a second grader came over to the newly baptized child and whispered into his ear, “How does feel to be cleaned of all your sins?”  What a wonderful innocence in this exchange!  But there is also a serious resurrection challenge lurking within it for all of us.  We have been cleansed in the blood of the Lamb and renewed in our Easter celebrations.  So what do we do?  Sit on our hands?  Go back to our old sinful ways?  Reject the life-giving Spirit?  Our city faces a “shrinking” future.  Our church is experiencing a new immigration group and a re-alignment of ministry and resources.  How do we bring the Easter light of Christ to these situations?  Every time we bless ourselves with holy water, we are reminded of our own baptism when we rejected sin and professed our faith in a loving, redeeming God.  How is our baptism going?     APRIL 6, 2008   “WE WILL WALK THE BEAUTYWAY” captures the vision and sprit of St. Brendan Parish’s proposal for a renewal leave for our pastor, Rev. James M. Daprile.  Borrowed from the Navajo, “beautyway” suggests harmony, happiness, goodness, and well-being.  The “beautyway” is a healing ceremony.  During the rituals, inner journey and physical walk, the individual and community seek to re-establish balance and beauty; to find restoration and hope; and to be secure in the knowledge that all is well in your life.  The Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Program will allow us—parish and pastor—to “walk the beautyway” taking time to replenish the energies of our pastor and calling forth new vigor in the parish, to renew the joy of ministry for all and hopefully to transform us in surprising ways.   Walking the “beautyway” not only influences the vision and rationale of our proposal but also describes the essential elements of the renewal period: pilgrimage/way and art/beauty.  First, I will pilgrimage to Celtic Ireland and Wales for two weeks to both immerse myself in my own heritage and to walk (and perhaps sail) in the way of our patron, St. Brendan.  The art of this segment will not only be the salt air that inspired Brendan’s navigation and the monastic remains that testify to his religious energies, but also a heart sensitive to the Celtic tradition: the thin boundary between the sacred and secular, the Trinity, a passionate love of nature and the elemental, the personal and enduring presence of Mary and the saints, the need for a “soul friend” (anmchara), and a respect for the great stories of life.               Then, I will fly to Bilbao, Spain to visit the Guggenheim Museum designed by Frank Gehry.  There I will meet up with Rev. Jim Schutte (Archdiocese of Cincinnati) and travel to Roncesvalles, Spain to begin on foot the 33 day-500 mile camino francés (across the north of Spain) to Santiago de Compostelo.  Fr. Schutte and I annually make retreats together and have pilgrimaged in Palestine/Israel.  This is a unique opportunity to deepen those personal and spiritual bonds.  Walking the camino will be physical and will present challenges of endurance and trust to the body and spirit.  The art will probably be more than possibly imagined but will surely include the beauty of nature, a renewal of purposefulness and prayerfulness, encounters with other pilgrims and their stories, and the sense of openness and vulnerability.               Back in the United States, I will explore some long repressed instincts and yearnings: oil painting.  In the studio of Richard Dziak, a plein air, impressionist painter, I will be mentored in painting techniques.  Then, in the center of the Navajo nation (Sante Fe, NM) and for the next month, I will have the time to develop my latent painting skills.  This will also provide a pivot point to engage the surrounding creative arts communities, such as Taos and Albuquerque.  Reflections on my journeys and the southwestern light and landscape will, hopefully, generate some works of art that will represent the dynamics of walking the “beautyway.”     MARCH 30, 2008   WHAT WILL MAKE YOUR HEART SING? is the title of the 2008 National Clergy Renewal Program sponsored by the Lilly Endowment Inc., Indianapolis, IN.  “Lilly Endowment seeks to strengthen Christian congregations by providing opportunities for pastors to step away from the persistent obligations of daily parish life and to engage in a period of renewal and reflection.  Renewal periods are not vacations, but times for intentional exploration and reflection, for regaining the enthusiasm and creativity for ministry, for discovering what will make the pastor’s heart sing.”   Parish Pastoral Council and I have embarked upon the process of applying for a grant from the Lilly Endowment for a renewal program in the fall of 2009.  At our Parish Summit Meeting on March 10th, our evening prayer focused on both the demanding nature of our faith journey and the need to rest and rejoice in the Lord.  Joan Lawson explained (and reminded us) of the nature of the Sabbath: to keep a holy rest by ceasing from work, by embracing our calling in life, our relationship with God and neighbor, and by feasting in joy.  Rosie Marich had a power point presentation on the Lilly program and Deb Flora facilitated our discussion.   How can this renewal leave renew our parish?  The responses of the parishioners participating were: People will pull together Identify new leaders Interaction with other priests Fr. Daprile’s enthusiasm could be shared upon his return to the parish Our parish may use the time to blend more with Spanish-speaking community—understand needs, etc. Motivate people  to contribute to life of parish beyond Sunday Mass Learn more about global church   What are some issues that might cause us to fret? Who will preside at Mass, fill in for sacraments, weddings, funerals, daily Mass? What will be chain of command during Fr. Daprile’s absence, esp. in case of an emergency? What will happen to us without Fr. Daprile? Not used to being without our pastor. What will happen if we don’t get grant from Lilly Endowment? What if people leave during his sabbatical and don’t return? Should we get a deacon? Will we be able to continue to draw young people and families to parish? What if bishop makes decisions that affect this parish while Fr. Daprile is away?   I have met with Bishop Murry and he was impressed by the parish process and has endorsed and encouraged this renewal leave.  He has granted permission to continue to pursue the grant application and for the leave time in 2009.  Next week I’ll describe my proposed renewal journey and plans.     MARCH 9, 2006 TIME FLIES BUT MINISTRY DEMANDS PERSIST   It was a little over a year ago that Fr. Noga and I spent three weeks at the Mexican American Cultural Center in San Antonio, Texas and immersed ourselves in multicultural dynamics and sensitized ourselves to the growing pastoral needs of Hispanics in America.  It was a little over a year ago that the joint leadership of St. Brendan and St. Patrick Parishes gathered to pray and meet on how we might be aware and be prepared to respond to these needs.  Now is the time to embrace and celebrate some new directions for our parish.  AT THE HOLY SATURDAY VIGIL Marta de la Paz and her two sons will be baptized and welcomed into our parish faith community.  Through the efforts of Sr. Norma Raupple, OSU, Hispanic educator at Potter’s Wheel and the guidance of Joan Lawson in the RCIA and CCD, Marta and her sons have studied the Scriptures, opened their hearts to the Lord, learned Catholic traditions and seek full initiation and membership in the Church.  What a wonder occasion for rejoicing!!  Participating and concelebrating on this holy night will be Fr. John Reiss (past pastor of Holy Name).  For the past three years and since his retirement, he has been presiding at Masses for the Spanish community.  Our liturgy will be a mixture of English and Spanish, especially for the initiation rites.  AND AS THE DIALOGUE CONTINUES between the Spanish community on the Westside and St. Brendan’s there is a growing need for a welcoming church and space.  Upon consultation with our Parish Pastoral Council, we are eagerly and enthusiastically opening our doors, hearts and welcome to the Spanish community.  In mid May 2008, we will initiate a noon Mass at St. Brendan’s, presided by Fr. Reiss, conducted and with music in Spanish and open to all!!  There are many details to be worked out, but for now let us rejoice that by opening our doors we are opening ourselves to Christ-in-the-other.  ALERT   I have received a notice from the IRS about the "Stimulus Payments" from the Federal Government.  In order to receive a payment you must file a 2007 tax return even if you don't have to pay taxes.  The only criteria is that you must have $3000.00 in income from any source.  The payments will be based on income.  I am concerned about the senior citizens in our parish because I know many of them do not have to file tax returns.  Again, to receive a Stimulus Payment you must file a return this year.  For more information, contact your tax preparer or consult the advertisers on the back of the bulletin.   MARCH 2, 2008  WE STAND IN COMMUNITY is one of the themes in the Gospel of John and a theme our mission presenter Megan McKenna stressed.  Our joint parish mission was a wonderful and faith-filled because of the efforts of a number of folks.  I am grateful for our parish team (St. Pat’s had a matching group): for Teri Laret who coordinated the Sunday evening reception with the generous help of Barbara Olbrych, Jean McGonnell, Gerry Perrine, Dolores Snyder and all who provided snacks; for the greeters who welcomed our neighbors and friends into our church: Barb and Ralph Perry, Mary Ann and Malin Peters, Burt and Carol Myers, Rick and Janette Koewacich, Fred and Shirley Merlo; for Mike Mraz who coordinated the ushers: Debra Brown, Jerry and Amy Kernan ($870.00 was raised for the Maryknoll mission in Central America); for Carol Pilz who coordinated children's catechesis with Barb Carissimo; for Deb Flora who worked on publicity; and for Pam Mihalik who coordinated the book sales (65 titles sold).  We are especially grateful for the organization and behind the scenes energy of Joan Lawson.  As baptized in Christ may we be disciples standing our ground and living in the new life (paschal mystery) of the Savior of the Lord.  "STANDING WITH THE POOR begins with and introduces us into a new way of seeing the world around us.  Making the invisible visible, is our first step on the way to compassion." (Fred Kammer, SJ:, Doing Faith Justice, p.149)  In the Gospel for this Laetare Sunday, Jesus heals a man blind from birth.  Growing up, as most of us have in an affluent culture, we too are “blind from birth”.  When we see things differently, our new knowledge leads us to act differently.  As “children of light” we “produce every kind of goodness” (Ephesians 5:8).  But clear vision, which leads to knowledge and new ways of living in the world, is painful.  Few of us have the courage to have our hearts broken by looking into the eyes of the poor and truly asking why they are poor and what part we have played in their misery. It is hard to “see” with God’s eyes.  But that is what we are called to do.  Our culture's preference for the "rich and famous" is enshrined in our public policies and national economic priorities, which continually find more funding for sophisticated weapons and less for services to the needy.  May we, the baptized, see with the eyes of the Gospel.  A BLIND MAN is walking down the street with his guide dog one day.  They come to a busy intersection and the dog, ignoring the high volume of traffic zooming by on the street, leads the blind man right out into the thick of the traffic.  This is followed by the screech of tires as panicked drivers try desperately not to run the pair down.  Horns blaring, the blind man and the dog finally reach the safety of the sidewalk on the other side of the street and the blind man pulls a cookie out of his coat pocket, which he offers to the dog.       A passerby, having observed the near fatal incident, can't control his amazement and says to the blind man, "Why on earth are you rewarding your dog with a cookie?  He nearly got you killed!"  The blind man turns partially in his direction and replies, "To find out where his head is, so I can kick his rear end!"       February 24, 2008                                       MEGAN McKENNA is an internationally known author, lecturer, retreat leader, and spiritual director. She received her doctorate from the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California, and has taught in Dublin, Ireland, Asia, South America, Chicago, Marshall Islands, Thailand, and Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she currently lives.   She is the author of more than thirty books, including And Morning Came - Scriptures of the Resurrection, Praying the Rosary, Send My Roots Rain, The New Stations of the Cross, On Your Mark - Reading Mark in the Shadow of the Cross, and the recently released, Harm Not The Earth.   Megan will conduct our joint Parish Mission with St. Patrick Parish.  She will speak at both parishes during morning Masses and will begin the mission with a presentation on “The Man Born Blind” on Sunday evening at St. Brendan Parish at 7:00 pm.  She will continue on Monday evening at 7:00 pm at St. Patrick Parish, 1420 Oak Hill Avenue with a presentation on “Lazarus.”  The gathering is open to the public and a collection will be taken for the Maryknoll Missions in Central America.   Megan’s program, which is for adults and teens, will feature music, stories and prayer.  Those attending will be challenged to “do their homework” each evening as they reflect on the relationship between their religion and lifestyle.   School-age children will participate in age-appropriate sessions during Megan’s presentations.  Afterwards there will be refreshments at each parish.   This is a Lenten opportunity we are privileged to host and an opportunity not to be missed.  Some of Meagan’s books will be available for purchase during the Mission.                    February 17, 2008   OUR LENTEN FIISH DINNERS have gotten off to a good start. Pictured is the crew that was set to cook and serve after the blessing prayer for our endeavor. Earlier in the day the fish preparers and the lunch team worked hard and afterwards more parishioners came and cleaned up. We could still use a few more voluinteers. Call Patty Infante at 330-799-3339 or the rectory to help out. Thanks to all who support this wonderful parish activity. PARISH MISSION With St. Patrick Parish, we are hosting a Lenten Mission with the renowned MEGAN MCKENNA next weekend. She will speak at all the Masses on “The Woman at the Well.” Sunday, February 24 at 7:00 pm at St. Brendan Church she will speak on “The Man Born Blind” Monday, February 25 at 7:00 pm at St. Patrick Church she will speak on “Lazarus.” A reception will follow both presentations. There will be breakout sessions for our younger members. I urge you to make every effort to attend, enjoy and be up-lifted by our Mission with Megan McKenna.   MATTHEW THE BOOK OF MERCY by author Megan McKenna, our guest presenter of our Lenten mission, will be available for sale on February 16th-17th and 23rd-24th after Masses and also during the Lenten Mission on February 24th and 25th.   In her new book, well-known author and master storyteller Megan McKenna shows how this identity is forged of forgiveness, reconciliation and at-one-ment. What characterizes Matthew’s church is Jesus as the Mercy of God, as mercy shared. Matthew’s community becomes the presence of the kingdom of heaven on earth — the presence of God’s mercy on earth. In this masterful commentary, McKenna shows that, as it did for that early Jewish community of Christians, Matthew’s gospel offers balm and hope for the Church today.   BLANKETS OF LOVE were distributed last weekend at Meridian Arms and Omni Assisted Living Center. Despite the cold it was a warm and wonderful afternoon sharing songs, Valentines, blankets and love. Pictured with me is Mary Lautner, our elder member at almost 101 years of age, cherishing her blanket and celebrating in this wonderful parish project. Thanks to ALL who made this Advent-Christmas-Valentine event so meaningful and engaging.     February 10, 2008 IF WE WERE KNIVES, Lent would be a time to sharpen our cutting edges.  If we were cars, Lent would be a time for an oil change and a tune-up.  If we were gardens, Lent would be a time to fertilize our soil and dig out our weeds.  If we were carpets, Lent would be a time to get power-cleaned.  If we were computers, Lent would be a time to overhaul our disk drive.  If we were highways, Lent would be a time to repair our cracks and fill our chuckholes.  If we were silverware, Lent would be a time to clean away our tarnish.  If we were batteries, Lent would be a time to get recharged.   BUT WE ARE NONE OF THOSE THINGS.  We are people who sometimes do wrong things; we need to atone for them.  We are people who sometimes get spiritually lazy; we need to get back into shape. We are people who sometimes become selfish; we need to stretch out of our narrowness and begin giving again.  We are people who sometimes lose sight of our purpose on earth and the immense promise within us; we need to regain our vision.   AND BECAUSE we are also people who sometimes tend to put those things off, we need a special sort of official time to concentrate on doing them.  So we have Lent.    AT ST. BRENDAN’S FOR LENT this year we can get back on track by Participating in Valley Bible Study on Tuesday nights or Wednesday mornings to better appreciate the Word of God Praying the Stations of the Cross at noon or 7:00 pm on Fridays to follow the Lord more faithfully Attending the Parish Mission on February 24 and 25 at 7:00 pm with Megan McKenna to quicken our spiritual lives Reserving some Silence in our lives to allow God to claim our hearts Reading the Scriptures, the Little Black Book, Catholic newspapers and magazines, spiritual and uplifting books to widen our imaginations Seeking reconciliation by forgiving our neighbor and participating in the Lenten Communal Penance Service on March 3 at 7:00 pm to renew our relationships with God and one another Striving to allow God to fulfill our lives by Fasting and Abstaining Spreading the Good News by joining the Door to Door Campaign on March 9 to share the blessings of the parish in our neighborhood Doing Works of Mercy by using the Rice Bowl, helping at the St. Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen or the Kingdom Meals, assisting with the drive for cleaning items for the needy   THEN AFTER FORTY DAYS of dying and rising with Jesus, we will have more deeply entered into the mystery of Jesus Christ, victorious over sin and death and living in God’s glory.       January 27, 2009 A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY OF OUR PARISHES AND SCHOOLS   After his first nine months in the Diocese of Youngstown, Bishop Murry wrote to all the priests of the diocese: “Repeatedly, I have heard a desire expressed for a strategic plan to guide our diocese into a promising future.  I believe that the time is now opportune to begin a comprehensive study of our parishes and schools in order to wisely plan for the future.”  The bishop is developing a planning committee comprised of folks who can objectively study our parishes and schools and who are able to suggest structural proposals that are in the best interest of the diocese, not the best interest of any one group or location.  The bishop expects the study to take 9 to 11 months to complete, and seeks a final report and recommendations for implementation by January 2009.  It is a long overdue task.  Let us all pray for the Spirit’s guidance in this pressing project.   OUR OWN PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL is attempting to be pro-active by studying the issues facing us (by developing a strategic pastoral plan) and by stretching our imaginations about a changing future.  At the last council meeting, members engaged in an exercise where an imaginary bishop (but not unlike the bishop of Youngstown) was faced with the crisis to not being able to supply a priest-pastor for each parish.  The bishop sought input as to possible solutions.   Yes, praying for vocations is important but the bottom line is that vocations are not achieving replacement levels of priests retiring, dying or resigning.  Yes, there are some options that are “off the table”, such as alternatives to a celibate, male priesthood—married priests, ordaining women or time-conditioned celibacy (in the line of Shinto priests).   So what are the options?  1.  Close parishes (an administratively easy choice but devastating to communities as the unique incarnation of the body of Christ) 2.  Appoint a layperson as the pastoral agent of the parish (address the administrative aspects of the parish but leaves sacramental issues unresolved) 3.  Import priests from other priest-rich parts of the world (a quick replenishment of priests but a complex of cultural issues arise) 4. Loosen the connection between a particular day of the week, Sunday, and the community’s weekly public gathering around the table of the Lord (loss of the Lord’s Day and fragmentation of communities) 5.  Cut back on the number of Masses (move from Masses of convenience to Masses of commitment) 6.  Merge/realign parishes (this may result in leaner and more resourceful parishes but can we agree on the criteria of a viable community?) 7.  Introduce regular use of the ritual officially called Sunday Celebrations in the Absence of a Priest (does this risk treating the reception of the Eucharist as something separable from the sacrifice of the Mass?)   A choice has to be made.  Reality must be faced.  How would you advise the bishop?   January 20, 2008 NEEDLES GONE, POINSETTIAS ENDURE   The Christmas poinsettias in church were just beautiful this year (and long lasting).  Many folks asked where we got such lovely plants.  Chuck Lehotsky, owner of Church’s Greenhouses on South Salem Warren Road (Rt 45) in North Jackson, is the grower and supplier.  Being a small and independent grower is difficult and very expensive in today’s world, but the poinsettias were a real testament of hard work and dedication to quality and beauty.  Check out his greenhouses when you start to think spring!   CHRISTMAS COLLECTION   I am grateful to the many faithful and generous parishioners who gifted the parish in the total amount of $13,974.00.  This allows the parish to continue the many ministries and programs which make our parish a strong anchor on the Westside.  Thank you all.   FROM OUR DOOR TO YOUR DOOR CAMPAIGN   The Stewardship Committee is embarking on an ambitious program to share the good news of St. Brendan Parish with all those who live in the 44509 zip code area.  On Sunday, March 9 after the 10:00 am Mass, parishioners will canvas in teams throughout the 44509 zip code area and place an information/invitation flyer on the doors of our neighbors.  Then we will all return to Maxwell Hall for a celebration and some chili.  Will you help spread the good news of our parish and open the door of our parish and Christ to the neighborhood?  We need between 50 and 75 volunteers to reach out to our neighbors and friends.  Will you help?  Call the rectory or Tina Fitzwilliams (330-727-2577) for more information and to put your name on the volunteer list.  Will you help?   LAMB ON THE ROOF: In the city of Werden, in Germany, there stands a Catholic Church with a lamb carved out of stone and placed on its roof.  Centuries ago a worker was once up on the roof of that church in order to repair it.  His safety belt snapped and he fell.  The area below was filled with large-size rocks.  As luck would have it, a lamb was having its lunch on grass growing between the rocks.  The craftsman fell on the poor lamb.  The lamb was slain… but the man lived.  So the craftsman did the decent thing.  He sculpted a lamb and, in gratitude, situated it on the roof.  Today we come together at this Liturgy to remember and salute another Lamb.  Each of us owes Him much.  As a matter of fact, we owe Him our spiritual lives because he saved us from the eternally fatal fall from grace.   January 13, 2008 MERRY CHRISTMAS   While post holiday sales compete with Valentines and bunnies on the stores shelves, the Christmas season draws to and end—for Christians, anyhow—with the feast of the Baptism of the Lord.  Christmas celebrates the mystery of the “Word made flesh” (incarnation), Epiphany reveals Christ as the light to all nations and peoples (universal salvation), and the Baptism announces that this “beloved Son” is to “bring forth justice” (the mission of Jesus and the church).  Merry Christmas!   GLADNESS AND GRATITUDE   I am always amazed and appreciative of the many parishioners who dedicate themselves in so many ways to make our parish Christmas celebrations so wonderful.  The list is longer than any child’s wish list to Santa.  Thanks to the Bucket Brigade who scrubbed, swept and shined the church.  Thanks to the Worship Committee who planned and plotted the environment and liturgical ministers.  Thanks to all who decorated the church, hung wreathes, ribbons, banners, to our CCD students who made angels and stars for the trees and doors, for those who made and coordinated refreshments, for those who dragged large tress into and out of the church, to those who made bows, lifted heavy objects, climbed ladders, hammered nails, watered poinsettias and various other tasks, and to those who carried the nativity figurines back to the basement and packed them away again.  Thanks to those who made music and those who served to proclaim the word, share the Eucharist, make folks welcomed, attended to the altar, ushered, and counted the collection.  Thanks to the maintenance staff who erected the outdoor nativity scene and keep the sidewalks clean, and to the rectory staff producing bulletins, programs and untold tasks.  Thanks to all who worshipped and rejoiced.  Thanks to all who contributed toward the Flower Fund and the Christmas Collection.  Thanks to all who brought cookies, calamari and wine to the rectory.  And thanks, to anyone and all who were behind the scenes and whose specific contribution may be inadvertently overlooked.  The work of your hands and the warmth of your hearts made a beautiful Christmas season and a wonderful parish.  Let us rejoice and be glad to celebrate in the richness of Christ, born for our salvation!   "HAVE YOU FOUND JESUS?"  A drunk stumbles across a baptismal service on Sunday afternoon down by the river.  He proceeds to walk down into the water and stand next to the Preacher.  The minister turns and notices the old drunk and says, "Mister, Are you ready to find Jesus?"  The drunk looks back and says, "Yes, Preacher. I sure am."  The minister then dunks the fellow under the water and pulls him right back up.  "Have you found Jesus?" the preacher asked.  "No, I didn't!" said the drunk.  The preacher then dunks him under for quite a bit longer, brings him up and says, "Now, brother, have you found Jesus?”  “No, I did not, Reverend."  The preacher in disgust holds the man under for at least 30 seconds t his time brings him out of the water and says in a harsh tone, "My God, have you found Jesus yet?”  The old drunk wipes his eyes and says to the preacher "Are you sure this is where he fell in?"   January 6, 2008 IN ONE OF THE “PEANUTS’ cartoons drawn by the late Charles Schultz, Charlie Brown and Lucy are gazing up into the starry night sky.  Charlie Brown muses that out of all those stars, one must be his.  He tells Lucy that just as he is alone among millions of people on earth, his tiny star, out there among millions of stars, is also alone.  They continue to survey the twinkling heavens above them.  Charlie Brown asks, “Does that make sense, Lucy? Do you think it means anything?”  Lucy replies, “Certainly!  It means that you’re crackling up, Charlie Brown.”             Perhaps the magi from the East, following their star, had some second thoughts about the assurance that drove them onward in search of a king.  They might have asked themselves, “Does this really mean anything, does it make any sense?”  Still, they preserved until they discovered Jesus.  Our feast of Epiphany invites us to continue our quest to discover Jesus in our lives.   TWELVE DAYS   This is one of those rare years when the celebration of the Epiphany falls on its traditional date and the twelfth day of Christmas.  Did you know the carol “The Twelve Days of Christmas” is a disguised biblical grammar? On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me A Partridge in a Pear Tree as a symbol for Jesus the Christ, the Son of God, whose birth we celebrate. Two Turtle Doves representing The Old and New Testaments. Three French Hens suggesting the Three Theological Virtues of faith, hope and charity. Four Calling Birds or the Four Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Five Gold Rings which are the first Five Books of the Old Testament, known as the Torah or the Pentateuch: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Six Geese A-laying for the six days of creation. Seven Swans A-swimming for the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: prophecy, ministry, teaching, exhortation, giving, leading, and compassion (Romans 12:6-8; cf. 1 Corinthians 12:8-11) Eight Maids A-milking for the eight Beatitudes:1 Blessed are the poor in spirit, 2 those who mourn, 3 the meek, 4 those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, 5the merciful, 6) the pure in heart, 7 the peacemakers, 8 those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake. (Matthew 5:3-10) Nine Ladies Dancing for the nine Fruit of the Holy Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22) Ten Lords A-leaping for the Ten commandments. Eleven Pipers Piping for the eleven Faithful Apostles. Twelve Drummers Drumming for the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostles' Creed: 1) I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. 2) I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. 3) He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. 4) He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell. 5) On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. 6) He will come again to judge the living and the dead. 7) I believe in the Holy Spirit, 8) the holy catholic Church, 9) the communion of saints, 10) the forgiveness of sins, 11) the resurrection of the body, 12) and life everlasting.