The Diocesan Dispatch

Please Cut & Paste items in your bulletin as appropriate to your parish.     

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Latest Edition: October 16, 2017

Diocesan Special will air as follows:

Charter Communications 29 cities/towns that carry WCTR TV3 on Channel 193	Saturday, Oct. 21 at 6 p.m. Rebroadcast on the following: Sunday at 6 a.m. & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.
SPAC TV28 (Shrewsbury)	Sunday, Oct. 22 at 7:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and on Monday, Oct. 23 at 7:30 a.m.
Clinton area Comcast CH 99	Sunday, Oct. 22 at 8:30 a.m.
WCCA TV13 (Worcester Ch. 194)	Tuesday, Oct. 24 at 8 p.m.
Fitchburg Comcast CH 8 and Verizon CH 35	Thursday, Oct. 26 at 9:30 a.m., 5 p.m.; Friday at 9:30 a.m.
Leominster LATV	Check their bulletin board for times
Athol/Orange (AOTV) Cable Access CH 13	Sunday at 11 am; Wednesday at 2:30 pm and Thursday at 2:30 am
Grafton Cable Access	Sundays at 10:30 a.m.
ALL LOCATIONS – via the internet	Watch online anytime at worcesterdiocese.org

29^th Sunday in Ordinary Time
“Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s.” (MATTHEW 22:21) Everything we are and everything we have belongs to God.  We aren’t “owners” of anything, we are merely “stewards” of the gifts God has given each of us.  All God is asking is that we give back a portion of what He gave us.  This is the essence of Stewardship.  God should be our first priority in everything.  All else comes second.

29º Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
"Den al César lo que es del César, y a Dios lo que es de Dios". (MATEO 22:21)  Todo lo que somos y todo lo que tenemos pertenece a Dios. No somos dueños de nada, simplemente somos administradores de los dones que Dios nos ha dado a cada uno de nosotros. Lo único que Dios nos pide es que devolvamos una porción de lo que Él nos dio. Esta es la esencia de la corresponsabilidad. Dios debe ser nuestra primera prioridad en todo. Todo lo demás viene en segundo lugar.

Novena to St. Jude in Leicester
A Novena to Saint Jude will be held on Sunday, Oct. 29 at 2 pm which will include Eucharistic Adoration, recitation of the Rosary, Novena Prayers to Saint Jude, Anointing of the Sick and conclude with Benediction. St. Aloysius-St Jude Parish is located at 491 Pleasant St in Leicester. All are welcome. (location was omitted last week).

Harvest Dinner in Westminster
A Fall Harvest Dinner will be held on Saturday, Nov. 4 from 5 to 7 pm at St. Edward the Confessor Church Hall, 10 Church St., Westminster. Menu: Turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, stuffing, butternut squash, carrots, peas, salad, cranberry sauce, rolls and apple crisp. $10.00 per adult, $5.00 per child under 12 and children under 6 eat free. Tickets are available at the door. For more information, please call Wendy Provencial at 978-874-0767.

Christmas Bazaar in Worcester
Please join us for our Annual Christmas Bazaar on Saturday, Nov. 4, 8 am-2pm to be held at Sacred Heart-St. Catherine of Sweden Parish, 596 Cambridge St. Worcester. We will have raffles, hand-made crafts, knit items, vendors, food, youth table, etc. Everyone is welcome!

Open House at Venerini
Venerini Academy will hold its Fall Open House at Thursday, Nov. 9 from 8:45-11 a.m. Visit our Campus. Enjoy our students at work and at play! New for'17-18: STEM ROBOTICS and Kodable for Kids. Located at 23 Edward St. Worcester....508-753-3210 X7310 or visit www.veneriniacademy.com.

October 9, 2017

Diocesan Special will air as follows:

Charter Communications 29 cities/towns that carry WCTR TV3 on Channel 193	Saturday, Oct. 14 at 6 p.m. Rebroadcast on the following: Sunday at 6 a.m. & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.
SPAC TV28 (Shrewsbury)	Sunday, Oct. 15 at 7:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and on Monday, Oct. 16 at 7:30 a.m.
Clinton area Comcast CH 99	Sunday, Oct. 15 at 8:30 a.m.
WCCA TV13 (Worcester Ch. 194)	Tuesday, Oct. 17 at 8 p.m.
Fitchburg Comcast CH 8 and Verizon CH 35	Thursday, Oct. 19 at 9:30 a.m., 5 p.m.; Friday at 9:30 a.m.
Leominster LATV	Check their bulletin board for times
Athol/Orange (AOTV) Cable Access CH 13	Sunday at 11 am; Wednesday at 2:30 pm and Thursday at 2:30 am
Grafton Cable Access	Sundays at 10:30 a.m.
ALL LOCATIONS – via the internet	Watch online anytime at worcesterdiocese.org

28^th  Sunday in Ordinary Time
“My God will supply whatever you need…” (PHILIPPIANS 4:19)  God really does provide for those who are grateful and generous.  This is very difficult for people that don’t live a stewardship lifestyle to believe.  People are skeptical and say it’s just coincidence.  If you are skeptical, try living a stewardship lifestyle for just one month – be generous with your gifts of time, talent and treasure and see how God provides for your needs.

28º Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
"Mi Dios proveerá todo lo que necesites ..." (FILIPENSES 4:19) Dios realmente provee para aquellos que son agradecidos y generosos. Esto es muy difícil para las personas que no viven un estilo de vida de corresponsabilidad en sus creencias. La gente es escéptica y dice que es sólo una coincidencia. Si usted es escéptico, trate de vivir un estilo de vida de corresponsabilidad sólo por un mes - sea generoso con sus dones de tiempo, talento y tesoro y vea cómo Dios provee sus necesidades.

Grandparent Prayer Group
A Prayer Group for Grandparents will meet on Friday, Oct. 20 at 11 am to Noon at St. George Church, 40 Brattle St. Worcester in the church hall Conference Room. Includes prayers to Saint Ann and Saint Joachim, grandparents of Jesus and the Rosary. All grandparents are welcome as we pray for the safety and well-being of our grandchildren. Contact Ruth Viens, 508-852-5658, ruthviens@charter.net.

Craft Fair in E. Brookfield
St. John the Baptist Parish will hold a Harvest Thyme Craft Fair on Saturday, Oct. 21 from 9 am – 2 pm at the Parish Hall, No. Brookfield Rd and Blaine Ave, East Brookfield. Includes Craft Tables, Kids’ Tables and Attic Treasures; A Café with soups, meat pies, baked goods and more; Raffles, Gift Baskets and Lottery tree, Silent Auction and gift certificates. All are welcome!

Harvest Bazaar in Worcester
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish at Our Lady of Loreto Church is sponsoring a Harvest Bazaar on Saturday, Oct. 21 from 9 am to 3 pm at 37 Massasoit Rd., Worcester.  Something for everyone!!  Italian food, fried dough, Italian cookies, themed baskets, purses and accessories, arts and crafts, 50/50 raffle, crocheted and knitted items, grand money raffle and more!  There will also be many vendors displaying their wares in our Parish Center.  Everyone is invited to come and have some fun!

Fall Events at Baldwinville Parish
Saint Vincent de Paul Parish, 1 Forest Street, Baldwinville is holding the following fall activities.
The Annual Meat Raffle will be held on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 6:30 pm at the Baldwinville American Legion, 3 Central Street. You could win your holiday roasts! Join us for an evening of fun.  A Harvest Fair will take place on Saturday, Oct. 28 from 9 am – 4 pm in the church hall. Features Theme Baskets; Country Store; Holiday Sale Table; Major Raffle (Cash Prizes); Lunch; Food & Snacks; Chinese Auction; Gift Certificate Chinese Auction; Baked Goods; Raffles; Crafts; Media Table (books, DVDs, movies);  SILENT AUCTION; Money Tree;  50/50; and more.

Register for Medical Ethics conference
There’s still time to register for Converging Roads, a medical ethics conference on end-of-life issues, which will take place on Monday, October 23 at Assumption College, Worcester.  To learn more, and to register, visit www.convergingroads.com/wma17.

St. Mary’s Schools, Worcester Open House
St. Mary's Schools (Grades PreK-12) 50 Richland St., Worcester, MA, will be holding a Fall Open House on Sunday, October 29 from 1 to 3 pm.  We currently have openings for all grade levels.  Come experience the spirit-filled community of St. Mary's Schools. Tours of the schools and informational packets will be provided.  For more information please call 508-753-1170 or visit www.stmarysworcester.org. 

St. Paul’s Catholic Schools Consortium Fundraiser
The St. Paul’s Catholic Schools Consortium, which supports the Catholic elementary schools in the North County, will hold its 10th Annual Fundraising Dinner at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Leominster on Thursday, Nov. 9 beginning at 5pm. St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award will be presented to Jeff and Karen Pelletier of Fitchburg. Michael J. Nicholson of Gardner will receive the Outstanding Young Alumni Award. For tickets or donations visit  www.stpaulconsortium.com or stpaulcsc@gmail.com.

Christmas Fair in North Brookfield
Join us Saturday, Nov. 4 from 9 am – 2 pm for a Christmas Fair at St. Joseph Parish Hall, 296 Main Street, North Brookfield. Bake Sale, Handmade Crafts, Flea Market, Baskets and many other raffles.  Lunch is served from 11 am -1 pm featuring Homemade Soups, Sandwiches and delicious Apple Pie!

Mini Fair at St. Vincent Hospital Atrium
The Guild of Our Lady of Providence is sponsoring their annual Mini Fair on Tuesday, Nov. 7 from 8 am – 2 pm in the St. Vincent Hospital Atrium, Worcester. Features baked goods, Chinese Auction with hundreds of gifts, knit and stitch items, jewelry and raffles. All are welcome.

Glitter & Glitz Holiday Fair in Webster
St. Joseph Women’s Club is sponsoring Glitter & Glitz: A Holiday Marketplace on Sunday, Nov. 12 from Noon – 5 pm at Point Breeze Restaurant in Webster. Appetizers; Attendance Prize; Lottery Raffles; 50/50 Raffles and Special Gifts Raffle. Tickets $15 In Advance and $20 at the door. Contact Phyllis 508­949­3517 or Jill Manak 508-943-1810 for tickets.  The fundraiser supports St. Joseph School in Webster.

Retreat for Judges & Lawyers
The Saint Thomas More Society is sponsoring a retreat for members of the bench and bar at Saint Joseph’s Abbey in Spencer on the weekend of February 23-25, 2018. The retreat will begin after work on Friday and will conclude at midday on Sunday. Amidst the demands and pressures of today’s legal profession, we hope that a retreat next Lent might be the occasion for spiritual renewal and refreshment. For further details and registration, please contact Fr. Richard F. Reidy at rreidy@worcesterdiocese.org or (508-929-4345). Space is limited to eleven participants. The registration deadline is December 1.

October 2, 2017

Conversation with Bishop McManus  with Tim McMahon Exec. Dir., Catholic Charities Worcester County will air as follows:

Charter Communications 29 cities/towns that carry WCTR TV3 on Channel 193	Saturday, Oct. 7 at 6 p.m. Rebroadcast on the following: Sunday at 6 a.m. & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.
SPAC TV28 (Shrewsbury)	Sunday, Oct. 8 at 7:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and on Monday, Oct. 9 at 7:30 a.m.
Clinton area Comcast CH 99	Sunday, Oct. 8 at 8:30 a.m.
WCCA TV13 (Worcester Ch. 194)	Tuesday, Oct. 10 at 8 p.m.
Fitchburg Comcast CH 8 and Verizon CH 35	Thursday, Oct. 12 at 9:30 a.m., 5 p.m.; Friday at 9:30 a.m.
Leominster LATV	Check their bulletin board for times
Athol/Orange (AOTV) Cable Access CH 13	Sunday at 11 am; Wednesday at 2:30 pm and Thursday at 2:30 am
Grafton Cable Access	Sundays at 10:30 a.m.
ALL LOCATIONS – via the internet	Watch online anytime at worcesterdiocese.org

27^th  Sunday in Ordinary Time
“The stone the builders rejected has become the corner stone…”  (MATTHEW 21:42)  Jesus was the corner stone and He was rejected by the religious and political leaders of his day, as well as ordinary citizens.  Living a stewardship lifestyle may cause you to be “rejected” by others in today’s society.  For example, saying grace before a meal in a restaurant may attract some strange looks from some.  But to others it is sign that God is alive and well!

27º Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
"La piedra que los constructores rechazaron se ha convertido en la piedra angular ..." - MATEO 21:42
Jesús fue la piedra angular y fue rechazado por los líderes religiosos y políticos de su época, así como por los ciudadanos comunes. Vivir un estilo de vida de corresponsabilidad puede hacer que usted sea "rechazado" por otros en la sociedad actual. Por ejemplo, dar gracias antes de una comida en un restaurante puede atraer algunas miradas extrañas de algunos. ¡Pero para otros es signo de que Dios está vivo y bien!

Give Gold Campaign
St. Bernard's Central Catholic High School is celebrating 90 years on Harvard Street, Fitchburg. As part of a challenge match, they are looking for 500 people to donate any sum of money over the Columbus Day Weekend so that a group of generous alumni will give St. Bernard’s High School over $10,000.  To donate visit www.STBERNARDSCCHS.ORG  and click on GiveCampus or mail your donation to St. Bernard's High School 45 Harvard St. Fitchburg, MA 01420. Show Your Pride: Give Gold!

Bereavement Support in Worcester
Blessed Sacrament Bereavement Support group will meet Oct. 12 from 6:30- 8 pm at Epiphany House, 551 Pleasant Street, Worcester. The Bereavement Ministry will serve families who have lost a loved one to death. The members of the ministry will implement our mission to provide comfort, care, and support to the grieving families in their experience of loss in a way that is fully sensitive to their grief and responsive to their needs. This ministry is open to anyone. For further information please call the Rectory at 508-755-9152 or Cecelia M Mason at ceceliamason@yahoo.com, Tel: 508 335-0898.
 
Taize Prayer in Worcester
Monthly Ecumenical Taize prayer continues in Worcester at Assumption College Chapel of the Holy Spirit on the SECOND Friday of every month at 8 pm.  Call Mary Mullaney at 508 791 0808 with questions.

Fatima Celebration in Webster
Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Miraculous Apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima on Friday, Oct. 13, 9:30 a.m., The Emmaus Center-in front of the Statue of St. Anne, 17 E. Main St., Webster. Join the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Respect Life Ministry with children and staff from All Saints Academy, St. Anne campus, praying The Rosary for the following intentions:  That, through the intercession of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, we receive the Grace to seek more fully to do God's Will and that He continue to bless America and the world.

America Needs Fatima Rosary Rally in West Brookfield
The Holy Rosary Prayer Program, one of 20,00 Rosary Rallies throughout the Nation, will take place at Sacred Heart Church, Rte. 9, West Brookfield on Saturday, Oct. 14, beginning at Noon. America NEEDS Fatima! For more information contact: Michele Connor 508-789-2262

Harvest Vendor and Craft Fair in No. Oxford
St. Ann Parish in North Oxford is holding a Harvest Vendor and Craft Fair on Saturday, Oct. 14 from 9 am – 3 pm in the Parish Hall, 652 Main St., No. Oxford. Shop, listen to Country Music and enjoy the food including Butternut Squash Apple Soup, Cider Donuts, Apple Crisp and Hot Dogs. Tables with Yard Sale Items will be on the front lawn, weather permitting. Fun for everyone.

Prayer Shawl & Operation Rosary
Blessed Sacrament Prayer Shawl Ministry together with Operation Ranger Rosary will hold their next meeting Oct. 14 from 1-3 pm at the Phelan Center, Blessed Sacrament Parish, 551 Pleasant Street, Worcester.  Whether you knit or crochet quickly or slowly, your help is welcome to make fulfill the mission of spreading God’s love through prayer shawls. For further information please contact Blessed Sacrament Rectory at 508 755-9152 or Cecelia Mason at ceceliamason@yahoo.com, Tel: 508 335-0898.

Italian Night in Worcester
An Italian Night is being hosted by the St. George’s Men’s Club in the Church Hall at 40 Brattle Street, Worcester, on Oct. 14 at 6 pm.  A full course Italian Meal will be served followed by entertainment by the incredible talent of Tony Funches, the former lead singer of “The Platters”.  The cost is $20.00 per person.  All proceeds will be used to fund the youth and St. George Church activities. For ticket information, please contact Joe Cote at 508 852-7718.

Fall Fair-Rummage Sale in Milford
It’s that time of year again! The Sacred Heart women’s club in Milford will hold their annual fall fair Rummage Sale on Saturday, Oct. 28 from 9 am to 2 pm, bake sale, raffles and loads of rummage for sale.  Free admission, free parking and handicap accessible. Sacred Heart Church is located at 7 East Main St., Milford. All are welcome!

A Church for "New Worcester": Centennial Reflections of Our Lady of the Angels
All are welcome to a lecture by noted author and historian James M. O’Toole who holds the Charles I Clough Millennium Chair in History at Boston College. It will be held on Sunday, Oct. 29 at Noon in the Rieger Hall, Our Lady of the Angels, 1222 Main St., Worcester. Dr. O’Toole will lead a discussion of our past and future responsibilities as Catholics in America.  He will outline the general history of Catholicism in Worcester, offer some focus on Our Lady of the Angels Parish in particular and discuss the role of the laity in the overall development of the church. Refreshments will be served. All are welcome.

Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass
Bishop Robert J. McManus will celebrate the Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass on Sunday, Nov. 5 at 3 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Paul, Worcester.  This liturgy of thanksgiving to God for many years of faithful witness to the sacredness of Christian marriage honors couples who are marking significant anniversaries (25th, 50th, etc.) this year. A light reception will follow downstairs in the Cenacle.  Family and friends are welcome! Couples wishing to attend should pre-register no later than October 27 so that commemorative certificates may be issued.  To register, complete the registration form at www.worcesterdiocese.org/wedding-anniversary-mass, or contact the Office of Marriage and Family at 508-929-4311 to request a copy by mail.
 
TO: Pastors and Administrators
The Annual Pew Count Sunday will take place on the weekend of October 14-15. Questions? Call Elizabeth Marcil at 508-929-4306 or email emarcil@worcesterdiocese.org

Sept. 25, 2017

 

Help for Couples dealing with Chronic Illness
“Couples Teamwork” is a seven-week workshop series for couples dealing with chronic illness. Experts will offer sessions that will help persons with chronic illness and their spouse to work together to navigate various aspects and resources for their situation.  Weekly sessions will be held on Oct. 1 to Nov. 19 at 1 – 3 p.m. at Summit Elder Care, 1369 Grafton St., Worcester.  For more information contact Deacon Frank and Liz Myska at 508-849-9238.

First Saturday in Spencer
All are welcome to join us at any time on Oct. 7 or each First Saturday beginning at 8 am with Mass followed by Confession, Adoration and concluding with Benediction before the 4 pm Vigil Mass. Mary Queen of the Rosary Parish is located at 60 Maple Street in Spencer (off Rte. 31)

Interested in Becoming a Deacon?
Find out everything you wanted to know about the Diaconate program for the Diocese of Worcester.  If you are a male, college graduate (or have an equivalent to a degree) and are between the ages of 31 and 60 and have an interest, now is your opportunity to get some answers.  Spouses are welcome and urged to attend with you. Oct. 7 at 10 a.m. at St. Anne Church, 130 Boston Tpke (Rt. 9), Shrewsbury. Oct. 14 at 10 a.m. at St. Mary Church, 77 Mendon St., Uxbridge, and Oct. 21 at 10 a.m. at St. Stephen Church, 357 Grafton St., Worcester. Call  508-929-4335 or visit worcesterdiocese.org/diaconate.

Local Religious Vocation Conference in Worcester
Assumption College is hosting a half-day event on Sunday, Oct 15 from Noon – 4:30 pm exploring vocations to the Religious life. For more information about the event contact Fr. Rocco Puopolo, s.x. at frrocco@xaverianmissionaries.org or Sr. Natalie Cain, SSJ at ncain@ssjspringfield.com. Open to all who are involved in youth ministry, campus ministry, religious education and Catholic education.

Mass for Retired Religious & Annual Awards
On Sunday, Oct. 22 at 10:15 am, Bishop McManus will be principal celebrant for the annual Mass for Retired Religious and Awards at Cathedral of St. Paul, corner of Chatham and High Streets. Handicapped accessible from the lower courtyard on Chathan St. A reception will follow in the cenacle. All are welcome!

Open House at St. Bernard C.C.H.S.
St. Bernard Central Catholic High School is holding its Open House on Sunday, Oct. 22 from 1-3 p.m. for 7th and 8th grade students and their families as well as transfer students. Located at 45 Harvard St., Fitchburg.  St. Bernard is celebrating 90 years of educating students in a faith-based tradition.

Morning Retreat—Commission for Women
The Commission for Women invites you to join us on Saturday, Oct. 28 at St. Mary Parish Hall, Main St., Shrewsbury. The day will begin with breakfast at 8:30 AM (included with the $15 offering) and will conclude by Noon.  Our facilitator will be Megan Fox-Kelly, chaplain at Holy Cross College and director of the college retreat program.  With Megan we will explore our search for a deepening relationship with God and our desires for our life of prayer.  The registration offering may be forwarded to Pat Smith, 11 Raymond Street, Worcester, MA 01607 by October 22.  Further information and a registration form may be found at www.worcesterdiocese.org/commission-for-women.

SPRED: Special Religious Development
SPRED is Special Religious Development available for children, teens and adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. We are dedicated to giving our friends with disabilities a sense of God and a sense of Church. SPRED will prepare participants for the Sacraments as needed. SPRED centers are available in four parishes around the Diocese: St. Andrew Mission, Worcester; St. Luke, Westborough; Madonna of the Rosary, Fitchburg; and Sacred Heart, Webster. For more information about the program or to participate please contact Carolyn Oberhelman at 978-422-8512 or carolynprinceton@aol.com.
(Note to Pastors: A SPRED center, with all the necessary materials, can be started at your parish! Bishop McManus has high regard for this program and will be pleased with the addition of new Centers. SPRED centers need adequate space, and interest from a small group of concerned parishioners. Call Carolyn.)

 

Sept. 5, 2017

Spanish Mass/Event at St. Stephen Church
St. Stephen Parish, 357 Grafton St., Worcester, now has a Spanish Mass on Sundays at 6 pm.  All are welcome.  
On Sunday, Sept. 24, from 2:30-7 pm the Spanish Catholic Community of St. Stephen Parish will hold an event with an outside speaker, Catholic Theologian, Salvador Gomez. Tickets: $10. All are welcome.

Taize Prayer at Assumption College
Taize Prayer, a service of song, silence and contemplation, is celebrated on the Second Friday of every Month at 8 pm at the Chapel of the Holy Spirit, Assumption College, 500 Salisbury St., Worcester. For more information please call 508-791-0808.
 
End-Of Life Conference in Worcester
Converging Roads, a medical ethics conference on end-of-life issues, will take place on Monday, October 23 at Assumption College, 500 Salisbury St., Worcester.  Converging Roads is an initiative of the St. John Paul II Foundation and presented in collaboration with the Diocese of Worcester and the Massachusetts Catholic Conference. Presentations on many aspects of end-of-life care and decision-making will be given by nationally recognized speakers and experts, including Bishop Robert J. McManus, Dr. William Toffler, Dr. Marie Hilliard, and more. Continuing education credits for health care professionals are available.  To learn more, and to register, visit www.convergingroads.com/wma17 .

Wedding Anniversary Mass
SAVE THE DATE!  Bishop Robert J. McManus will celebrate the Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass on Sunday, Nov. 5 at 3 pm at the Cathedral of St. Paul, Worcester.  This liturgy of thanksgiving to God for many years of faithful witness to the sacredness of Christian marriage honors couples who are marking significant anniversaries (25th, 50th, etc.) this year. A light reception will follow downstairs in the Cenacle.  Family and friends are welcome! Couples wishing to attend should pre-register no later than October 27 so that commemorative certificates may be issued.  To register, complete the registration form at www.worcesterdiocese.org/wedding-anniversary-mass, or contact the Office of Marriage and Family at 508-929-4311 to request a copy by mail.

Walking with Jesus- A Retreat for Adults
On Saturday, Oct. 21 from 8:30 am—4 pm, South County Link will sponsor a Retreat day for Adults “walking with Jesus” at Mary Queen of the Rosary, 60 Maple St., Spencer. The requested donation is $25 which includes coffee, snacks, lunch, and all materials. Please register by Friday, October 6. Join us as we journey with Jesus as he walks on water, along Calvary, on the Road to Emmaus, and as we are sent forth in the name of Jesus Christ! Our day will include prayer, reflections, journaling, games, fun and food! Reconciliation available during retreat — all are welcome to attend the parish vigil Mass at 4:30 pm. Church and hall are Handicap Accessible by elevator. Email stlouisreledwebster@gmail.com for more information and a registration form.

Crafters and Vendors Wanted
The St. Joseph Women’s Club of Webster is sponsoring “Glitter & Glitz - A Holiday Marketplace” on Sunday, Nov. 12 from Noon to 5 pm at Point Breeze Restaurant in Webster. Pricing for one six-foot space will be $35 and $60 for two spaces.  A description of your craft/exhibit will be required.  For further information and an application, please contact Jackie Skrocki at 508-943-8182 (skrockij@charter.net) or Sheri Bergeron at 508-943-2277 (sher2545@aol.com).  The number of vendors will be limited, so you are encouraged to apply early.  Deadline to register will be October 1. The fundraiser supports St. Joseph School in Webster.

Spiritual Support for those with Cancer

The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women will be diagnosed with some form of cancer in their lifetime. Many parishioners are fighting cancer, either as patients or as caregivers.  Research strongly suggests that people who put their faith to work before, during, and after cancer treatment are more likely to be optimistic because they believe God has a purpose for them. Among the variety of support groups offered by the Saint Vincent Cancer and Wellness Center(SVCWC), there is one dedicated to the spiritual and sacramental support that the Catholic faith can provide. The monthly meeting is held on the first Thursday of every month and begins at 11:30 am in the chapel in the Cancer Center, located at 1 Eaton Place. The faith-sharing portion begins at Noon. Both the chapel and meeting take place on the Garden (or lowest) Level of the Center. Validated parking is available adjacent to the facility. For more information contact either Sr. Paula Kelleher or Msgr. Peter Beaulieu at 508-363-6246. The remaining sessions are Sept. 7, Oct. 5, Nov. 2, and Dec. 7.

Annual Novena to St. Joseph at Christ the King
The 6th Annual Novena to St. Joseph will take place at Christ the King Parish, Worcester for nine consecutive Mondays from 7:15 pm to 8:00 pm beginning Sept. 11. There will be prayer for the seriously ill, for improvements in palliative care, and to oppose all attempts to end human life unnaturally as in the case of physician assisted suicide. Homilists are Msgr. Thomas Sullivan (Sept. 11), Bishop Robert J. McManus (Sept. 18), Fr. Kenneth Cardinale (Sept. 25), Fr. Dennis O'Brien (Oct. 2), Fr. John Gavin, SJ (Oct. 9), Fr. Frederick Fraini (Oct. 16), Fr. José Rodriguez (Oct. 23), Fr. Walter Riley (Oct. 30) and Msgr. Thomas Sullivan (Nov. 6).  All are welcome to participate in this annual Novena especially as there are strong indications that physician assisted suicide could become the law in Massachusetts in 2018 through an act of the Legislature. The Public Health Joint Committee of the General Court of Massachusetts will hear a new bill proposing physician assisted suicide on Tuesday, September 26. If you wish to submit the name of a seriously ill person you can email Msgr. Sullivan at tsullivan5@mac.com.

Job Opportunities
Catholic Charities Home Care Program is looking for aides to care for individuals in the Blackstone Valley Area and Southbridge Area. Aides provide light housekeeping, laundry, shopping and personal care. We offer paid training and a schedule to meet your needs. We are also hiring a per diem, registered nurse to supervise aides in the towns surrounding Southbridge. Please call Catholic Charities at 800-649-4364 for more information.

Volunteer Opportunities at Catholic Charities
Volunteers needed to assist with painting and weeding at the Mercy Centre (Worcester).  Volunteers needed to assist with cleaning office space (1-2 hours per week) in Southbridge, Leominster and Whitinsville.  For more information, please contact Rose Gage at rgage@ccworc.org or at 508-860-2211.

Mercy & Mary Retreat in Charlton

Experience this Special time of MERCY with Father Michael Gaitley!  Join the Marian Missionaries of Divine Mercy on November 10 & 11 for an inspiring Mercy & Mary Retreat, featuring bestselling author of 33 Days to Morning Glory and international speaker Fr. Michael Gaitley, MIC. Join us for a full immersion experience into Divine Mercy and Mary.  Enjoy new talks by Fr. Gaitley along with Mass, Adoration, Chaplet of Divine Mercy, Personal testimonies from the Marian Missionaries, and much more!  Register now at Events.MarianMissionaries.org.  For more information: 413-944-8500 Ext. 10.

Struggling Families need Diapers too!
Many families in need are unable to purchase the appropriate number of diapers for their infant children.  When faced with limited resources, they may reuse diapers throughout the day, which can result in a number of health and emotional issues. In an effort to grow the “Worcester County Diapers and Wipes Program,” Catholic Charities is seeking parishioners’ support by donating through Jet.com (go online at http://go.jet.com/give-ccworcester).  Disposable diapers and wipes can also be donated to the Leominster (196 Mechanic Street) and Worcester (10 Hammond Street) offices.  A direct donation of $35 can purchase 275 diapers.  With Mother’s Day around the corner and Father’s Day in June, please consider honoring a significant woman or man in your life with a donation to this program.  Each diaper purchased will improve a precious life.  For more information about Catholic Charities, please go to www.ccworc.org.  Thank you.

  ONGOING RESOURCES

ASL Signed Mass
We invite all to join us in celebrating the Holy Mass at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, 18 East Main St., Webster. Our ASL interpreter will sign the English language 6:00 pm Mass every first Sunday of the month. Please join us for our next ASL signed Mass on September 4. Welcome to our community!

Catholic Programming for Ham Radio Operators

Tune in on Sunday evenings at 8 pm to Saint Maximilian Kolbe Net - Net Control is K3QNT with W1HGY as alternate. Dr. Ted Figlock - W1HGY of Taunton, MA -  and Lloyd Roach - K3QNT of Bedford, PA -  founded the net in 1997 to commemorate the life and martyrdom of Saint Maximilian Maria Kolbe – SP3RN.  Father Kolbe was a Franciscan Priest who founded Niepokalanow (City of Mary), a large monastery in Poland dedicated to communications. Maximilian Kolbe was canonized by Pope John Paul II on 10 October 1982.  He is considered the patron saint of the addicted and of amateur radio operators.  Visit www.saintmaxnet.org for more information about this and related ham operator information.

Looking to make a Retreat?
Franciscan Guest House & Retreat Facilities welcomes you to refresh & renew from the outside world and bask in the peaceful presence of the Monastery, Shrine and grounds located in Kennebunkport, ME.  The Retreat House is just steps away from the radiant Shrine & Chapel of St. Anthony and offers 47 acres full of beautiful grottos and peaceful walking paths along the Kennebunk River. Open to retreat groups and individuals wishing to focus on their spirituality. Mass celebrated Daily. Special rates now through May 2016 starting midweek at just $45.00 per night! Call Marge Oliveri, toll free 844-253-2972.

Volunteer To Help With Food Distribution In Our Food Pantry
Catholic Charities Emergency Stabilization Services located on Hammond Street in Worcester is looking for volunteers who might be able to assist them with distributing food in our food pantry. Volunteers must be available once a week from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm and be able to lift cases of food. Volunteer days: Monday - Friday. Thank you for your consideration. All help is much needed and appreciated! Contact: Maydeé Morales at 508-860-2206 or via e-mail to mmorales@ccworc.org.

FOR CLERGY: OBTAINING INFORMATION FOR HOSPITALIZED PARISHIONERS AT SAINT VINCENT HOSPITAL 

The general method of obtaining information about the hospitalized members of your parish remains the same. Weekdays, during normal business hours, call 508-363-9233 and wait for the voice prompt; then, enter extension 22241. Your call will be automatically transferred to the hospital’s patient information desk. Give the receptionist your three-digit parish code number(s). On weekends, holidays and during the evening hours, you must call the hospital operator directly at 508-363-5000 and supply her with your parish code(s). For those parishes that have been merged or renamed, you will have to use multiple code numbers in order to obtain a thorough listing of your parishioners. For patients who have invoked patient confidentiality, in accord with legal requirements, these names will not be available to you.

DAILY MASS ON TV AND THE INTERNET 
Tune in on Monday through Friday on Charter TV3 on channel 193 at 9 am for the local Daily Mass on cable celebrated by various priests from around our diocese. Also airs at 4:30 pm in Shrewsbury on Ch. 28, and 5 pm in Clinton area on Ch. 8. 

INTERESTED IN LEARNING HOW TO HELP IN TV MINISTRY? 
Whether you like to operate a camera, or would like to learn audio controls or even how to produce, we have a place for you in TV Ministry. We will train – all you need is a desire to learn and some free time. Call Steve at 508-791-203 9 or email tvmass@charter.net for more information. Great service opportunity for high school or college students and retirees alike! 

Volunteer To Help Those In Need
Would you like a rewarding experience assisting families in need? If so, Catholic Charities is looking for you. Volunteers are needed to assist with multiple projects throughout the year.  Clothing closet organizing and clothing distribution, school supply collection drive, dog and cat food drive, winter hats and gloves drive, toiletries and sock drives, and holiday time collections.  Contact Maydeé Morales, Emergency Stabilization Services/Homeless Prevention Coordinator at mmorales@ccworc.org or 508-860-2206.

REDUCED-FEE LEGAL SERVICES IN WORCESTER 
The Worcester County Bar Association has a Reduced Fee Program where household income exceeds the requirements for free legal assistance but makes hiring an attorney unfeasible. You must be a Worcester County resident and legal services include bankruptcy, mortgage foreclosures, wills, divorces, custody and evictions. Call 800-622-9700 800-622-9700 for more information, indicating your interest in the Reduced Fee Program. 

UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON ONLINE LEARNING (DIOCESAN PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM) 
Have you ever had a desire to expand your knowledge of the faith in areas such as Scripture, Liturgy and Worship, Prayer and Spirituality, Sacraments, Creed, or Church History? Check out the on-line courses available to adults through our Diocesan Partnership Program with U Dayton and the Virtual Community for Faith Formation. You can receive a substantial discount while learning in your own space during your personal hours of availability. If you have any questions, please call Barbara Ramian at 508-929-4308.

PROJECT RACHEL CAN HELP WITH THE PAIN OF A PAST ABORTION 
Hurting from a past abortion? We can help. Project Rachel is the Catholic Church’s ministry of healing and reconciliation to those who have been wounded by abortion. Our services are free and strictly confidential. Call Project Rachel at (508) 791-HOPE. 

FERTILITY CARE PROGRAM 
There is an alternative to artificial methods of birth control and IVF. Learn about The Creighton Model System of FertilityCare, the reproductive science that is 99% effective to avoid pregnancy, highly effective to achieve pregnancy and offers couples who are experiencing infertility hope to achieve their dream of pregnancy without artificial reproductive technologies. This is accomplished while following the teachings of the church. To learn more about the program contact Barbara Meier, RN, FertilityCare Practitioner at 609-457-0108 609-457-0108 or fertilitycare@ymail.com.

CAR DONATION PROGRAM
Did you know you can donate your car, truck, motorcycle or boat to Catholic Charities and help us help your Worcester County neighbors?  It’s quick and easy to do.  Just visit our website to donate your vehicle online atwww.ccworc.org or call 1-888-CAR-7308 1-888-CAR-7308 to arrange a convenient pickup time and confirmation of your donation from Catholic Charities Donation Angel Program.  The car in your driveway can help us to continue to offer many services to children, families and elders in our community so that they may regain home for a brighter future.  Thank you!

 Mental Health Providers Directory
An extensive directory of mental health providers in Worcester who serve children and families, as well as bilingual providers, is available from the Worcester Community Action Council, Main St. Worcester.

Employees or Independent Contractors?
The Office of the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has issued new guidance on the classification of hired personnel as employees or independent contractors. Hired personnel are considered employees unless: (1) the individual is free from the employers direction and control in connection with the performance of the service, both under his or her contract for the performance of service and in fact; (2) the service the individual performs is outside the usual course of business of the employer; and (3) the individual is customarily engaged in an independently established trade, occupation, profession, or business of the same nature as that involved in the service performed.