The Diocesan Dispatch

Please Cut & Paste items in your bulletin as appropriate to your parish.     
The Diocesan Dispatch is usually published on Monday mornings by 8 am via email and fax to parishes. Submission must be received by the previous Friday for inclusion and should be at least 2 weeks before an event date in order to have an opportunity to be included in parish bulletins the week after the issue date. You can email submissions directly to rdelisle@worcesterdiocese.org.

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Have space available in your bulletin this week? Consider including one of the ongoing resources:  Click HERE for ONGOING RESOURCES

Latest Edition: July 23, 2018

Faith in Action featuring agencies and ministries supported by Partners in Charity along with a parish results scroll as of July 17 will air as follows: (available on your eCatholic parish website if you use the Featured Program drag and drop icon)

Charter Communications 29 cities/towns that carry WCTR TV3 on Channel 193	Saturday, Aug. 4 at 6 p.m. Rebroadcast on the following: Sunday at 6 a.m. & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.
SPAC TV28 (Shrewsbury)	Sunday, Aug. 5 at 7:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and on Monday, Aug. 6 at 7:30 a.m.
Clinton area Comcast CH 99	Sunday, Aug. 5 at 8:30 a.m.
WCCA TV13 (Worcester Ch. 194)	Tuesday, Aug. 7 at 8 p.m.
Fitchburg Comcast CH 8 and Verizon CH 35	Thursday, Aug. 9 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

NEW eCatholic resource: Stewardship reflections
We have created a new “From the Diocese” resource to let parishes drag and drop the Stewardship Reflections on their website which will automatically update each week. Consider putting this above a donation form to encourage a spirit of Stewardship in their giving.

17^th  Sunday in Ordinary Time
“There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish; but what good are these for so many?” (JOHN 6:9) The miracle of the Loaves and Fishes is the only miracle which is recorded six times in the Gospel. It carries two important messages. First, no matter how little we have, we always have enough to share. Second, Christ can take our humble gifts and do great things with them if we are just willing to let Him. No gift is too small or insignificant!

17º domingo en tiempo ordinario
"Aquí hay un niño que tiene cinco panes de cebada y dos pescados; pero ¿de qué sirven estos para tantos?  (JUAN 6: 9)  El milagro de los panes y los peces es el único milagro que se registra seis veces en el Evangelio. Lleva dos mensajes importantes. Primero, no importa lo poco que tengamos, siempre tenemos suficiente para compartir. Segundo, Cristo puede tomar nuestros humildes dones y hacer grandes cosas con ellos si estamos dispuestos a dejarlo hacer. Ningún regalo es demasiado pequeño o insignificante!

Feast of the Assumption Pilgrimage in Leicester
The Sisters of Mercy are hosting the 117^th Annual Mass and Pilgrimage to Our Lady’s Grotto at Nazareth on Wednesday, Aug. 15, the Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady into heaven. The procession leaves the parking lot at St. Joseph Church in Leicester at 9:15 am arriving at the Grotto at 10 am for Mass. Fr. Richard Reidy will be the principal celebrant. Following Mass there is a reception on the Nazareth grounds. All are welcome!
 
National Novena for the Legal Protection of Human Life
The U.S. bishops urge our participation each Friday in a nationwide Novena for the Legal Protection of Human Life, August 3–September 28. Participants will receive weekly email or text reminders to pray and fast, along with little-known facts about Roe v. Wade to share with others. Sign up at www.usccb.org/pray!

Fall Retreat for Women
SAVE THE DATE! On Saturday, October 20, A Retreat for Women with Jaymie Stuart Wolfe will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at St. Mary Church Hall, Shrewsbury. Sponsored by the Commission for Women of the Diocese of Worcester.  For more information, please contact Pamela Ashmankas at 508-798-0612.

Collection for the Church in Central and Eastern Europe
The letter from Bishop McManus is attached and posted online under “Bulletins and Inserts” to be published in bulletins on the weekend of August 4 & 5 for a collection to be taken on Aug 11 & 12. It is being sent early due to vacations.)

July 16, 2018

Faith in Action featuring agencies and ministries supported by Partners in Charity along with a parish results scroll as of July 17 will air as follows: (available on your eCatholic parish website if you use the Featured Program drag and drop icon)

Charter Communications 29 cities/towns that carry WCTR TV3 on Channel 193	Saturday, July 28 at 6 p.m. Rebroadcast on the following: Sunday at 6 a.m. & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.
SPAC TV28 (Shrewsbury)	Sunday, July 29 at 7:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and on Monday, July 30 at 7:30 a.m.
Clinton area Comcast CH 99	Sunday, July 29 at 8:30 a.m.
WCCA TV13 (Worcester Ch. 194)	Tuesday, July 31 at 8 p.m.
Fitchburg Comcast CH 8 and Verizon CH 35	Thursday, Aug. 2 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

16^th  Sunday in Ordinary Time
“…come away by yourselves to a lonely place and rest awhile.” (MARK 6:31)  Do you spend time, every day, alone and in silence listening to how God is calling you? If not, you are missing out on a wonderful opportunity to develop a more personal relationship with Him. Unless we talk and more importantly, listen to God every day, how else will we know how He is calling us? Consider making a retreat this year, spend some “alone” time with God.

16º domingo en tiempo ordinario
"... vengan a un lugar solitario y descansen un poco" (MARCOS 6:31)  ¿Pasas tiempo, todos los días, solo y en silencio escuchando cómo Dios te está llamando? Si no, te estás perdiendo una maravillosa oportunidad de desarrollar una relación más personal con él. A menos que hablemos y, lo que es más importante, escuchemos a Dios todos los días, ¿de qué otro modo sabremos cómo Él nos está llamando? Considere hacer un retiro este año, pasar un tiempo "solitario" con Dios.

Consider Enrolling at Holy Family Academy, Gardner
Holy Family Academy in Gardner is open for enrollment! If you – or someone you know – are interested in enrolling your child in a Catholic preschool, elementary, or middle school, come check us out! There are full-time and part-time spots available for children ages 3-4 in our Preschool; Before-Care and After-Care programs are offered for full-time students. Our school includes Grades K-8. To ask questions or schedule a tour, please call Mrs. Nancy Tyros at (978) 632-8656 ext. 5. You can also read more about our educational programs, extracurricular activities, and scholarship opportunities on our website: http://www.holyfamilyacademyma.org.

Distinguished Bernardian Gala
The Bernardian Charitable Foundation will host the Distinguished Bernardian Gala on Saturday, September 29 at the Double Tree in Leominster. Cocktails at 6pm Dinner and Ceremony at 7pm  This year's inductees are: Mary (Nally) Whitney ‘53 ;  Karen (St. Cyr) Leger ’65 ;  Claire (DiNatale) Freda ‘66 :William McSheehy ‘66 : Fr. Wayne Berndt, OFM Cap. ‘72 :Martha McKittrick ‘ 79 R.D., C.D.E. Colonel David Schmitt USA ’88 : Nathan Bilotta ‘93 : CDR Michael Norton ‘93 USN, Ph.D.  Tickets are $60 per person and may be purchased at https://stbernardscchs.weshareonline.org/ws/opportunities through September 14. 
 
Consider the Legion of Mary in your parish
Below is a testimonial message from Joseph Duggan, president of the Legion of Mary in the Diocese of Worcester:
What does the Legion of Mary mean to me? The Legion is a gift to me of love. For the past 15 years that I have been a member of the Legion of Mary, it has given me much happiness and joy, with the opportunity to share that love with my fellow members and others. Our weekly meetings bring us together to pray the Rosary, so Spiritual readings, share our works being done during the past week and work together in our Spiritual growth in our faith and devotion to Our Lady.
            Visiting the sick at home, in nursing homes and prison ministry are a source of great joy to help bring Our Lord closer to whom we meet. I have learned to love Our Lady more each day and call upon her to help me spread the Good News by my actions. She is my mother and I can never do enough.
If you would like to learn more about sponsoring the Legion of Mary in your parish, contact Mr. Duggan at 508-856-7129 or email joebobduggan@outlook.com. Thank you.

July 9, 2018

Diocesan Special will air as follows: (available on your eCatholic parish website if you use the Diocesan Special drag and drop icon)

Charter Communications 29 cities/towns that carry WCTR TV3 on Channel 193	Saturday, July 21 at 6 p.m. Rebroadcast on the following: Sunday at 6 a.m. & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.
SPAC TV28 (Shrewsbury)	Sunday, July 22 at 7:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and on Monday, July 23 at 7:30 a.m.
Clinton area Comcast CH 99	Sunday, July 22 at 8:30 a.m.
WCCA TV13 (Worcester Ch. 194)	Tuesday, July 24 at 8 p.m.
Fitchburg Comcast CH 8 and Verizon CH 35	Thursday, July 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

15^th Sunday in Ordinary Time
“He instructed them to take nothing for the journey but a walking stick – no food, no sack, no money in their belts.” (MARK 6:8)  How different we are from the Apostles who took nothing when they ventured out to serve God. Today, we make our life’s journey more difficult because of all the material baggage that we drag along. When we really put God first in everything and put money and possessions second, we experience more freedom to joyfully serve God and others.

15º domingo en tiempo ordinario
"Les ordenó que no llevaran nada para el viaje sino solamente un bastón: sin comida, sin saco, sin dinero en sus cinturones" (MARCOS 6: 8)  Cuán diferentes somos de los Apóstoles que no tomaron nada cuando se aventuraron a servir a Dios. Hoy, hacemos el viaje de nuestra vida más difícil debido a todo el equipaje material que arrastramos. Cuando realmente ponemos a Dios primero en todo y ponemos el dinero y las posesiones en segundo lugar, experimentamos más libertad para servir con alegría a Dios y a los demás.

131st Annual Novena to Saint Anne
St. Anne Shrine, 16 Church St., Fiskdale will hold the 131^st Annual Novena to St. Anne from July 18 – 26. Each evening includes confessions at 6 pm in St. Anne Church; 6:30 pm Rosary Procession; 7 pm Novena Mass in the Outdoor Pavilion. On July 26 there will be an additional Healing Mass at 11 am in the Pavilion. Celebrant/homilists in order by day are: Rev. Peter Precourt, AA for Opening Day; Rev. Peter Joyce for Hispanic Day; Rev. Stanley Rousseau for Haitian Day; Rev. Enoch Kyeremateng for African Day; Rev. Tam Bui for Vietnamese Day; Rev. Jonathan Slavinskas for American Day; Rev. Alex Castro, AA for Filipino Day; Rev. Nicholas Desimone for Youth Day, and Most Rev. Robert J. McManus for the Closing Day. Visit stannestpatrickparish.com for more information or call 508-347-7338.

Senior Fraud Hotline
RSVP’s Senior Fraud HelpLine is a toll-free resource for seniors and their families to call when they are concerned that they are being targeted by scammers.  If they are in doubt, they should check it out by calling 1-800-297-9760. Confidential. Knowledgeable. Local. Supportive.

July 2, 2018

Come Follow Me featuring a conversation this month with Bishop Daniel Reilly about his discernment of a vocation to the priesthood, will air as follows: (available on your eCatholic parish website if you use the Diocesan Special drag and drop icon)

Charter Communications 29 cities/towns that carry WCTR TV3 on Channel 193	Saturday, July 14 at 6 p.m. Rebroadcast on the following: Sunday at 6 a.m. & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.
SPAC TV28 (Shrewsbury)	Sunday, July 15 at 7:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and on Monday, July 16 at 7:30 a.m.
Clinton area Comcast CH 99	Sunday, July 15 at 8:30 a.m.
WCCA TV13 (Worcester Ch. 194)	Tuesday, July 17 at 8 p.m.
Fitchburg Comcast CH 8 and Verizon CH 35	Thursday, July 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

14^th Sunday in Ordinary Time
“As the Lord spoke to me, the spirit entered me and set me on my feet, and I heard the one who was speaking say to me, ‘Son of  man, I am sending you…’” (EZEKIEL 2:2-3) God asks each of us to do some special work for Him. He gives us the resources we need to do His work. However, do we listen to God when He calls? Do we get up on our feet and use our talent to do the work He asks of us? Remember, God doesn’t call the equipped, he equips the called.

14º domingo en tiempo ordinario
"Mientras el Señor me hablaba, el espíritu entró en mí y me puso de pie, y oí que el que estaba hablando me decía: 'Hijo de hombre, te envío ...'" (EZEQUIEL 2: 2-3)  Dios nos pide a cada uno que hagamos un trabajo especial para Él. Él nos da los recursos que necesitamos para hacer Su trabajo. Sin embargo, ¿escuchamos a Dios cuando Él llama? ¿Nos levantamos y usamos nuestro talento para hacer el trabajo que Él nos pide? Recuerda, Dios no llama al preparado, Él prepara al llamado.

Bereavement Support in Worcester
Blessed Sacrament Bereavement Support group will meet July 12 from 6:30- 8 pm, Epiphany House, 551 Pleasant Street, Worcester. For further information please contact Blessed Sacrament Rectory at 508 755-9152 or Cecelia M Mason at ceceliamason@yahoo.com, Tel: 508 335-0898.


Retreat with Sonja Corbitt in New Hampshire
St. Kathryn Parish in Hudson, NH presents a very special 2-day event, Love the Word^TM featuring Sonja Corbitt, the Bible Study Evangelist - in her only scheduled Northeast appearance - on Friday, Sept. 21 at 7 pm and on Saturday, Sept. 22 from 9 am – 3 pm. Join us for what promises to be a fulfilling and uplifting retreat – all men, women, and couples encouraged to attend! In addition to her talks the weekend will include Adoration & Benediction, Confessions, Evening Prayer, Music by Larry Franchitto, and refreshments in the social hall. We’ll have breaks for quiet reflection, using Sonja’s Love the Word^TM technique and lunch available for purchase in the Parish Hall. Guests are invited to visit the Grottos on our beautiful grounds and will have an opportunity to purchase Sonja’s books and meet Sonja for a book signing. $25 Saturday Admission Price. Tickets on Sale Now! Please call 603-882-7793 or visit stkathryns.org for further details and to purchase tickets.

Fall Consortium Dinner
Save the date! The 11th St. Paul Catholic Schools Consortium Dinner will be held on Thursday, November 8 at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, Leominster. We will be honoring Thomas D. Bingham with the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award for exemplary service in support of youth and Catholic Education and Joseph R. Mullaney with the Outstanding Young Alumni Award for extraordinary service to the community.  For further information, please visit  www.stpaulconsortium.com  or contact us at (978) 855-2501. Email: stpaulcsc@gmail.com.
 
Job Opening: PT Receptionist
The Chancellor’s Office is seeking a part-time receptionist to work afternoons at the Chancery. Familiarity with MS Office and bilingual (Spanish/English) a plus. For more information call Ray Delisle at 508-929-4313 or email rdelisle@worcesterdiocese.org.

June 25, 2018

Conversation with Bishop McManus will air as follows: (available on your eCatholic parish website if you use the Diocesan Special drag and drop icon)

Charter Communications 29 cities/towns that carry WCTR TV3 on Channel 193	Saturday, July 7 at 6 p.m. Rebroadcast on the following: Sunday at 6 a.m. & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.
SPAC TV28 (Shrewsbury)	Sunday, July 8 at 7:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and on Monday, July 2 at 7:30 a.m.
Clinton area Comcast CH 99	Sunday, July 8 at 8:30 a.m.
WCCA TV13 (Worcester Ch. 194)	Tuesday, July 10 at 8 p.m.
Fitchburg Comcast CH 8 and Verizon CH 35	Thursday, July 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

13^th Sunday in Ordinary Time
“…as a matter of equality your abundance at the present time should supply their want, so that their abundance may supply your want, that there may be equality.” (2 CORINTHIANS 8:14)  We are responsible not only for our own lives, but for the lives of those around us. It is important that we not only grow, nurture and share our gifts; but that we also teach our children and encourage others to do the same. This is the communal aspect of our Catholic faith. We are the “Body of Christ”. We are called to be dependent on each other and not live in isolation.

13º domingo del tiempo ordinario
"... como una cuestión de igualdad, tu abundancia en el tiempo presente debe suplir sus necesidades, para que su abundancia pueda suplir tu necesidad, para que haya igualdad". (2 CORINTIOS 8:14) Somos responsables no solo de nuestras vidas, sino también de las vidas de quienes nos rodean. Es importante que no solo crezcamos, nos nutramos y compartamos nuestros dones; sino que también enseñamos a nuestros hijos y alentamos a otros a hacer lo mismo. Este es el aspecto comunitario de nuestra fe Católica. Somos el "Cuerpo de Cristo". Estamos llamados a depender el uno del otro y no vivir aislados.

“Light of Education Foundation” Night in Sturbridge
Join us Thursday, July 12 at 6:30 pm, at St Anne-St Patrick Parish, St Joachim Chapel, 16 Church Street, Fiskdale for an introduction, discussion and video of a day in the life of a child in Haiti to be presented by a new committee from St Anne’s Parish supporting the Light of Education Foundation. Admission is free and refreshements will be served. The guest speaker is Magalie Olivier, Foundation Director. The Light of Education Foundation is a non-profit organization founded and headed by Fr. Stanley Rousseau of Haiti.  It provides education and personal development for the underprivileged children of Savanne du Bois, Margiot, Haiti through the building of a fledgling school.  Fr Rousseau has been a guest speaker for Haitian night at several of St Anne’s Novenas.

Young Adult Theology on Tap
Join us for the next Theology on Tap on Tuesday, July 10 beginning at 6:30 pm at Compass Tavern in Worcester! Our speaker will be Fr. Jim Boland and the topic will be "Mission Possible: Living Your Call in the Modern World". Open to all young adults (ages 18-39). Doors open at 6:30 for food and drinks. The speaker will begin at 7:15. Compass Tavern is located at 90 Harding St, Worcester.

Job Opening: P.T. Custodian
St. Stephen School is looking for Part-Time Custodial Support for 10 weeks this Summer.  Seeking a reliable, responsible custodian. High School Diploma or Equivalent is mandatory. Call Joanne Mallozzi, principal at 508-272-8600 for more information or email joanne.mallozzi@worcesterdiocesek12.org .

June 18, 2018

Diocesan Special: Highlights of Ordinations to the Priesthood on June 23 will air as follows: (available on your eCatholic parish website if you use the Diocesan Special drag and drop icon)

Charter Communications 29 cities/towns that carry WCTR TV3 on Channel 193	Saturday, June 30 at 6 p.m. Rebroadcast on the following: Sunday at 6 a.m. & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.
SPAC TV28 (Shrewsbury)	Sunday, July 1 at 7:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and on Monday, July 2 at 7:30 a.m.
Clinton area Comcast CH 99	Sunday, July 1 at 8:30 a.m.
WCCA TV13 (Worcester Ch. 194)	Tuesday, July3 at 8 p.m.
Fitchburg Comcast CH 8 and Verizon CH 35	Thursday, July 5 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

The Nativity of St. John the Baptist
“…Behold, one is coming after me; I am not worthy to unfasten the sandals of his feet.” (ACTS 13:25) Stewardship is a lifestyle; it’s not a program or a process. It’s how we are called to live our lives twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week! It challenges us to live “God-centered” lives, not “self-centered” lives. Reflect on your daily activities, do you do them for the glory of God or for the glory of your own name?

El Nacimiento de San Juan Bautista
"... He aquí, uno viene detrás de mí; no soy digno de desatar las sandalias de sus pies ". (HECHOS 13:25) La Corresponsabilidad es un estilo de vida, no es un programa o un proceso. ¡Así es como somos llamados a vivir nuestras vidas las veinticuatro horas del día, los siete días de la semana! Nos desafía a vivir vidas "centradas en Dios", no vidas "egocéntricas". Reflexiona sobre tus actividades diarias, ¿las haces para la gloria de Dios o para la gloria de tu propio nombre?

Sale at St. Stephen Thrift Store
St. Stephen Thrift Store, 20 Hamilton St., Worcester is holding a GOING OUT OF BUSINESS SALE: Everything must go. Store hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 9 am-2:30 pm and Saturday: 8:30 am-4 pm. The store will close on July 31.^.

Come Celebrate Grandparent’s Day
Feast of St. Joachim & St. Anne, Grandparents of Jesus. Thursday, July 26 from 10 am - 3:30 pm, Saint Anne’s Shrine, 16 Church St., Fiskdale, (Sturbridge), 508-347-7338. Speakers: John and Therese Boucher, authors of Praying for Our Adult Sons and Daughters and Spiritual Grandparenting, will present “Spiritual Grandparenting” and “Sharing Our Faith with Young People.” Lunch, Healing Mass/Anointing Service, & Rosary Procession. For more information contact Alicia Belanger at email lishbelanger@comcast.net. (Sponsored by the Catholic Grandparent’s Association.) “The old and the young are the twin towers of the great suspension bridge which morally upholds our civilization: the old represent Christianity’s memory and the young represent our future.” (Pope Francis)
 
Chancery Summer Hour Begin This week
The Chancery Offices will be open from 8 am to 5:30 pm from Monday through Thursday and closed on Fridays from June 22 through August 24 inclusive. Thank you for your understanding. Our summer schedule provides good cost savings and efficient operation during the summer given the number of employees with scheduled vacations.

June 11, 2018

Faith in Action featuring agencies and ministries supported by Partners in Charity will air as follows: (available on your eCatholic parish website if you use the Diocesan Special drag and drop icon)

Charter Communications 29 cities/towns that carry WCTR TV3 on Channel 193	Saturday, June 23 at 6 p.m. Rebroadcast on the following: Sunday at 6 a.m. & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.
SPAC TV28 (Shrewsbury)	Sunday, June 24 at 7:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and on Monday, June 25 at 7:30 a.m.
Clinton area Comcast CH 99	Sunday, June 24 at 8:30 a.m.
WCCA TV13 (Worcester Ch. 194)	Tuesday, June 26 at 8 p.m.
Fitchburg Comcast CH 8 and Verizon CH 35	Thursday, June 28 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

11^th Sunday in Ordinary Time
“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive good or evil, according to what he has done in the body.”  (2 CORINTHIANS 5:10)  We are all accountable for the gifts God has given us – our time, our talent and our treasure. Each of us is accountable not only for our own life but for the lives of others as well. One day God will ask each of us what did we do with the gifts we were given. How will you respond?

11° domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
"Porque es necesario que todos nosotros comparezcamos ante el tribunal de Cristo, para que cada uno reciba el bien o el mal, según lo que haya hecho en el cuerpo". (2 CORINTIOS 5:10)  Todos somos responsables de los dones que Dios nos ha dado: nuestro tiempo, nuestro talento y nuestro tesoro. Cada uno de nosotros es responsable no solo de nuestrapropia vida sino también de la vida de los demás. Un día Dios nos preguntará a cada uno de nosotros qué hicimos con los dones que recibimos. ¿Cómo responderás?

Strawberry Festival in North Brookfield
St. Joseph Parish 27th Annual Strawberry Festival will be held Saturday, June 16 at 5 pm. MENU:  Baked Ham, Homemade Baked Beans, Homemade Potato Salad, Homemade Cole Slaw, Rolls, Coffee, Iced Tea, and the always delicious Strawberry Shortcake. Tickets: Available after Masses or call the rectory at (508) 867-6811. Tickets are Adults:  $12.00 Children  5-10 Yrs. Old, $5.00. The  Church Hall is located at 296 No. Main St., No. Brookfield. Take-out is available.

Parish BBQ in East Brookfield
St. John the Baptist Parish Chicken BBQ will be held on Saturday, June 23 starting at 5 pm. Tickets are $12.00 adults $5.00 children. Bring your families and friends for the entertainment and fun!  Located at 121 Blaine Ave., East Brookfield. Please call for tickets – 508-867-3738. 

Fatal Flaws Showing in Gardner
Missed the Fatal Flaws film and discussion in Worcester? We will be showing it Wednesday, June 27 from 7 - 9 pm at Holy Spirit Chapel, 50 Lovewell Street, Gardner followed by a discussion led by Kris Correira, physician assistant, bioethicist, and co-chair of Witness for Life.  It will include the portion of the proposed Massachusetts legislation that specifically attacks religious freedom.  The event is free and open to the public, sponsored by Witness for Life and Emmanuel Radio.  Please register at witnessforlife.com or by calling Maura Sweeney at Annunciation Parish, 978-632-0253.

Religious Freedom Week
Religious Freedom Week will be celebrated in dioceses nationwide from June 22 to June 29.  Throughout the week we will focus on the importance of preserving the essential right of religious freedom, both now and in the future, for Catholics and all people of faith. This year’s theme is “Serving Others in God’s Love” reminding us that religious liberty allows people of faith to serve God and others freely in ministries like healthcare, adoption and foster care, education, and migration and refugee services to name a few.  The significant feast days during the week (Saints Thomas More and John Fisher – June 22, Saint John the Baptist – June 24, and Saints Peter and Paul – June 29) inspire us to follow the example of these great saints who loved God above all and remained faithful in the face of adversity. Please visit www.usccb.org/ReligiousFreedomWeek  to download the “Pray-Reflect-Act” one-pagers for each day on various religious liberty topics.  These excellent resources are intended to inspire us to learn more about religious liberty from a Catholic perspective, help us to pray about particular issues, and provide us with tools to act on what we learn. Additional information can be found at www.worcesterdiocese.org/religiousfreedomweek.

Pilgrimage to the Holy Land and Jordan
St. Andrew Bobola Parish will sponsor a Pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan March17-28, 2019.  During this time we will visit Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Bethlehem, Cesarea Maritima, Haifa, Mount Tabor, Cana, Nazareth, Capernaum, Tabgha, Amman, Jordan, Jerash, Ein Karen,Yad Vashem,Qasr el Yahud, Wadi El Qelt, Jericho, Qumran, Dead Sea, Bethany, Judaean Desert, Mount of Temptation, Qarantal, Jordan, Mount of Olives, Mount Sinai, and more.  The all-inclusive cost with breakfast, dinners is $3,190.00 (double occupancy). Single room supplement - $300. Deposit of $1,000 is due at registration and is NON-REFUNDABLE after December 10, 2018. The remaining balance ($2,190.00) is due- Dec 10, 2018.  Please make checks payble to St. Andrew Bobola Church – Memo: Pilgrimage to Israel. Please contact: Fr. Chris at 508-943-5633 or email: rectory@standrewbobola.net. Registration Forms are available on parish website: www.standrewbobola.com. The price includes: Transportation: Round trip Bus transportation from Dudley /St. Andrew’s parking lot/ to Boston Airport; Round trip flight from Boston to Tel Aviv and from Tel Aviv to Boston; Accommodation: 10 nights in 4-star hotels. -Meals: breakfasts and dinners daily; and more. Call St. Andrew Bobola Church at 508-943-5633.

Position Available: Administrative Assistant
Young and vibrant faith community is seeking an Administrative Assistant to help with the daily workings of the parish. This is a full-time position (40 hrs), reporting directly to the pastor. The applicant must be able to work with people in a professional, efficient, and organized manner, while being a minister of hospitality to all. Applicants must be detail oriented, have the ability to work independently, possess strong organizational skills, have excellent telephone etiquette and a working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite. Responsibilities include maintaining the parish calendar, creating weekly bulletin, entering weekly donations, maintaining parish records for a parish of 1,500 families, facilities management as well as some supervisory responsibilities. This position involves working with staff, volunteers, ministries, parishioners, and visitors to the parish, as such it requires the ability to handle confidential material and exercise good judgement with sensitivity and tact. A working knowledge of the Catholic Faith is important. Please send resume, along with a cover letter, to: saintrose1@verizon.net or mail to: St. Rose of Lima, Box 685, Northborough, MA 01532.  Position available September 15, 2018.

To Parish Staff
Lowrey Organ Donation available
Donna Rawdon, who can be reached by telephone at 508-887-6593, will be happy to donate a custom-made Lowrey pedal organ to any church or organization that would like it. If interested, please call her.

June 4, 2018

Diocesan Special: Bishop Harrington Biography, will air as follows: (available on your eCatholic parish website if you use the Diocesan Special drag and drop icon)

Charter Communications 29 cities/towns that carry WCTR TV3 on Channel 193	Saturday, June 16 at 6 p.m. Rebroadcast on the following: Sunday at 6 a.m. & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.
SPAC TV28 (Shrewsbury)	Sunday, June 17 at 7:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and on Monday, June 18 at 7:30 a.m.
Clinton area Comcast CH 99	Sunday, June 17 at 8:30 a.m.
WCCA TV13 (Worcester Ch. 194)	Tuesday, June 19 at 8 p.m.
Fitchburg Comcast CH 8 and Verizon CH 35	Thursday, June 21 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

10th Sunday in Ordinary Time
“And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand.” - MARK 3:25
Do your parish ministries complement each other or do they compete against each other? Is your parish “one Body of Christ” or a bunch of little, separate ministries controlled by human ego? The goal of all parish ministries is to bring people to Christ. All of our parish work should be for the glory of God’s name, not our own name.

10° domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
"Y si una casa está dividida contra sí misma, esa casa no podrá sostenerse".  (MARCOS 3:25) ¿Sus ministerios parroquiales se complementan entre sí o compiten entre sí? ¿Es su parroquia "un Cuerpo de Cristo" o un grupo de pequeños ministerios separados controlados por el ego humano? La meta de todos los ministerios parroquiales es atraer a las personas a Cristo. Toda nuestra labor parroquial debe ser para la gloria del nombre de Dios, no para nuestro propio nombre.

Monthly Vocations Discernment Dinner Postponed until June 14
Men who are discerning a priestly vocation are cordially invited to the Holy Name of Jesus House of Studies on Thursday, June 14. Mass: 5:45pm; Spaghetti Supper: 6:30 pm; Social: 7:30 pm.  You are welcomed to attend whatever events your schedule allows.  These events are for men discerning a priestly vocation, and their friends who support them.  We are located at 51 Illinois Street in Worcester. For more information contact Fr. Jim Mazzone at jmazzone@charter.net or call 508-340-5788.

Diocese Group Night at Worcester Bravehearts
Come join with members of the Diocese of Worcester for an evening of fun and baseball on June 19! Your school, parish or agency will all be seated together (section-Diocese of Worcester) to watch the Worcester Bravehearts as they pursue a third league championship! Cost: $8 per person includes entrance and a Bravehearts baseball hat. Please visit www.worcesterdiocese.org/events  and click on the June 19 event  and scrolls down to the link to purchase and print out your tickets! Use Password: Diocese. Contact Ryan Adams at the Worcester Bravehearts at 508-438-3773 if you have any issues.

St. Roch Festival
St. Roch Church, 332 Main St., Oxford will be holding their Annual Festival on Saturday, June 23 from 8 am – 8 pm in the church hall. Activities include: A giant Adopt-A-Basket raffle, crafts, homemade baked goods, used books, huge garage sale, auction, money raffle, scratch ticket raffle, plant sale, fried dough and strawberry shortcake. Lunch will be served from 10:30-2:30. Business banners also available for sale - $100 new or $50 for renewals. Please contact Teri at 508-987-8987 for details.
 

May 28, 2018

Diocesan Special will air as follows: (available on your eCatholic parish website if you use the Diocesan Special drag and drop icon)

Charter Communications 29 cities/towns that carry WCTR TV3 on Channel 193	Saturday, June 9 at 6 p.m. Rebroadcast on the following: Sunday at 6 a.m. & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.
SPAC TV28 (Shrewsbury)	Sunday, June 10 at 7:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and on Monday, June 4 at 7:30 a.m.
Clinton area Comcast CH 99	Sunday, June 10 at 8:30 a.m.
WCCA TV13 (Worcester Ch. 194)	Tuesday, June 12 at 8 p.m.
Fitchburg Comcast CH 8 and Verizon CH 35	Thursday, June 14 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

Solemnity of Corpus Christi
“Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them and they all drank from it.” (MARK 14:23) Jesus, the perfect steward, gave thanks, just before He gave Himself to us completely for our salvation. He offers us the chance to drink from His cup. In the Eucharist, we meet Christ personally and, if we listen to Him, we know what drinking from His cup means our own sacrifice – giving up some of our time, talent and treasure to do His work on earth.

Fiesta del Corpus Christi
"Entonces tomó una copa, dio gracias, y se la dio a ellos, y todos bebieron de ella". (MARCOS 14:23)  Jesús, el mayordomo perfecto, dio gracias, justo antes de entregarse a nosotros por completo para nuestra salvación. Él nos ofrece la oportunidad de beber de su copa. En la Eucaristía nos encontramos personalmente con Cristo y, si lo escuchamos, sabemos lo que significa beber de su copa, nuestro propio sacrificio, sacrificando parte de nuestro tiempo, talento y tesoro para hacer su obra en la tierra.

Travel to Ireland with St. Richard of Chichester Parish
If you dream of going to Ireland, here is a great opportunity to fulfill that goal. St. Richard of Chichester Parish is planning a sightseeing trip to Ireland from September 7-15 with the help of The World Tour travel adventure club.  The cost is $2,895 which includes:  flights, luxury coach tour, local guides and tour director, sightseeing, 7 nights in great hotels, all breakfasts and dinners. There is an informational breakfast meeting at St. Richard of Chichester Church, 4 Bridge Street, Sterling  on Sunday, June 3 at 8:30am for all who are interested in joining us in this adventure. If you are interested in hearing more or  wish to view a detailed itinerary of the trip, visit www.TheWorldTour.org  or call  888-828-0096.

Young Adult Theology on Tap
Join us for the next Young Adult Theology on Tap on Tuesday, June 5 at Compass Tavern in Worcester! Our speaker will be Fr. Jose Rodriguez and the topic will be "Genetic Editing: Correcting Mutations and Designing my Child". Open to all young adults (ages 18-39). Doors open at 6:30 for food and drinks. The speaker will begin at 7:15. Compass Tavern is located at 90 Harding St, Worcester.

Monastic Experience Weekend in June
If you're serious about God, what does He want you to do next? Listen. Listen and act. Why not try listening and acting in a monastery? Job shadow a monk for a weekend on June 22-24 at St Mary’s Monastery in Petersham. For single Catholic men aged 18-40. With the monks and other young adults, live in the monastery, not the guest house, and participate in the prayer, the work and shared and private talks with monks. It is a balanced and rhythmical contemplative Benedictine monastic life with a 1600 year history. Serious liturgy (Gregorian chant); serious work (intellectual and manual); good humored people (monks; well, that's the theory!) Watch our Youtube video at www.stmarysmonastery.org or our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/stmarysmonastery. If you are interested or would like more information please contact Father Gregory at monks@stmarysmonastery.org or call 978-724-3350.

Summer Girls’ Basketball Camp at Holy Cross
Holy Cross Girls Basketball Day School will be held July 19-22 for girls ages 8 -15 at the Brand New Luth Athletics Complex. It will featuring lectures by Coach Bill Gibbons of the HC Team along with Daily Games, Contests,  Fundamentals, Friendships and Fun. For more Info or an Application, please call (508) 793-2534.

Job Opportunities
Housekeeper/Cook
Saint James Parish, South Grafton, is looking for someone to fill a 30 hour position left open by retirement. Responsibilities will include cleaning the rectory and parish center, cooking, shopping, laundry and other miscellaneous duties. Please call Father Hanlon at 508-839-5354 if interested.

May 21, 2018

Conversation with Bishop McManus will air as follows: (available on your eCatholic parish website if you use the Diocesan Special drag and drop icon)

Charter Communications 29 cities/towns that carry WCTR TV3 on Channel 193	Saturday, June 2 at 6 p.m. Rebroadcast on the following: Sunday at 6 a.m. & Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.
SPAC TV28 (Shrewsbury)	Sunday, June 3 at 7:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and on Monday, June 4 at 7:30 a.m.
Clinton area Comcast CH 99	Sunday, June 3 at 8:30 a.m.
WCCA TV13 (Worcester Ch. 194)	Tuesday, June 5 at 8 p.m.
Fitchburg Comcast CH 8 and Verizon CH 35	Thursday, June 7 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

"I Told You So: Humanae Vitae 50 Years Later."
Immaculate Conception Church, 353 Grove St., Worcester is hosting a talk on Monday, June 11 at 6:30 pm by parishioner Dr. Christopher Klofft on Blessed Pope Paul VI's encyclical Humanae Vitae (On Human Life) during this 50th anniversary of the document, being the most controversial Catholic document of the last century. Dr. Klofft will discuss how Pope Paul VI's letter to the world came about, what it actually says (and a few things it doesn't say), and see how it proved to be astonishingly prophetic. The talk will be held in the Church basement. All are welcome to attend.

Polish Festival in Webster
The 45th Annual St. Joseph Polish Festival will be held on the St. Joseph School Grounds, Whitcomb Street in Webster on Friday, June 15 from 5 pm to 11 pm; Saturday, June 16 from Noon to 11 pm; and Sunday, June 17 from Noon to 4 pm.  All raffles will be drawn after 4 pm on Sunday.   Fresh homemade Polish & American Food all weekend long, including seafood specials on Friday night.   Raffles, Games of Chance, Kiddie land and Kids games, Texas Hold’em Poker, and much more!  Maestro’s Men Polka Band will perform Friday and Saturday evenings.  Cornhole Tournament on Saturday (508-943-0378 to register) and a Chicken BBQ on Sunday.  For more information call 508-943-0467.  Free parking and free admission.   Festival benefits St. Joseph School in Webster.

Celebrating Shore Park in Worcester
On Wednesday, June 27 beginning at 4:30 pm, the public is invited to a free celebration at Shore Park with swimming, boating, family games, history display, food trucks and a music concert at 6 pm. This is a free public event celebrating the investment in the Indian Lake District.

A Taste of the Diaconate Cookbook
A cookbook has been published as part of the celebration of 40 years of the Diaconate Program in the Worcester Diocese (1978 to 2018). It is a collection of 143 recipes by our local Deacons, Candidates and their families. Proceeds support the Diaconate Program. To order you copy for $10, contact Kathy Barrett at kbarrett@worcesterdiocese.org.

St. Thomas More Law School Scholarship
Each year the St. Thomas More Society of our Diocese awards a scholarship of not less than $3000 to a law student attending an accredited law school. Applicants or parents must be registered and active members of a parish in the Diocese of Worcester. Applicants may be in any year of law school studies. Applications may be obtained by visiting the diocesan website, www.worcesterdiocese.org/st-thomas-more-society, by mailing requests to: St. Thomas More Society, Chancery Office, 49 Elm Street, Worcester, MA 01609 or by calling Sara Smillie at 508-929-4345. Applications are due on or before September 21, 2018.  Should anyone wish to contribute to the scholarship fund, donations will be greatly appreciated and you can make contact at the above address or phone number.

May 14, 2018

Huge Yard Sale at North Oxford Parish

St. Ann Parish, 652 Main Street, North Oxford will hold an Indoor and Outdoor Yard Sale on Saturday, June 2 from 7 am to 3 pm and Sunday, June 3 from 9 am to 2 pm. All are welcome!
 
Adult Scouting Awards Dinner
The Adult Scouting Awards Dinner will take place on Saturday, June 9 at 5:30 pm at the St. Joseph Parish Center in Auburn. $20 per person. To reserve your place, go to www.neworcester.org/2018-adult-scouting-awards-dinner. Reservation Deadline is June 1.

Diocesan Summer Volleyball League
The 2018 Diocesan High School Summer volleyball league will take place from June 18-August 13. The league is for parishes in the diocese and is open to all high school youth.  The register a team, go to neworcester.org/volleyball for all the forms and information.  Forms and payment must be submitted by June 1 to the Youth Ministry Office.

May 7, 2018

Prayer Group in Ashburnham
Adult Prayer Group: Anyone wishing to deepen their faith, open to all people, men, women, youth, all denominations held on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month 6:30 till 8 pm St Denis Parish, 85 Main St, Ashburnham. Want to learn the building blocks to grow your faith? Want to dig beneath the surface and rediscover why you believe what you do. Need a mini retreat to get your bearings in this crazy world? Come check us out! We believe in a four phase experience. Music, Prayer, Bible study and discussion. Rediscover how God plays an active role in your peace of mind in these trying times. Next session is May 16.For more information call Andy at 978-827-6570 or e-mail andrewwgage@yahoo.com.

Retreat in North Oxford
Divine Mercy: The Second Greatest Story Ever Told is a 10 week retreat being held at St. Ann's Parish Hall, 652 Main St., North Oxford on Monday evenings, June 11 to August 20 from 6 to 8 pm. $35.00 per person. Pre-registration Deadline May 21. Contact information: Joan Hauge @ 774-415-0117 or Mary Fahey @ 508-353-5272.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Part Time Custodian Position Available
St. Mary and St. Philip Benizi Parishes in Grafton are seeking a part time custodian (15-20 hrs. per week). Good opportunity for recently retired person or a second job, and who has basic electrical, plumbing and carpentry skills and be able to lift 25 to 40 pounds. The person must be available on some weekends, especially during winter season. Experience preferred. They must be self-directed, motivated, and must have own transportation. Please send resume to Pastor, St. Mary’s Parish, 17 Waterville St., N. Grafton, MA 01536. No phone calls please.

Music Coordinator
St. Philip Benizi Parish in Grafton, MA is seeking a Music Coordinator for a weekly 9am Sunday Mass.  This individual must be proficient in organ and piano, select appropriate music, be collaborative in working with cantors and instrumentalists and have a working knowledge and respect for Catholic liturgy. Please send a cover letter and resume to Lisa Stewart, Cluster Business Manager at lstewart@stmarysgrafton.org.  No phone calls please.

April 30, 2018

April 23, 2018

Diocesan Summer Volleyball League
The 2018 Diocesan High School Summer volleyball league will take place from June 18-August 13. The league is for parishes in the diocese and is open to all high school youth.  The register a team, go to neworcester.org/volleyball for all the forms and information.  Forms and payment must be submitted to the Youth Ministry Office by June 1. We will have a coaches meeting on May 9 at 6:30 pm at Sacred Heart-St. Catherine of Sweden Parish in Worcester.

Upcoming Events at St. Roch, Oxford
• A Taste of Wine & Song from Movies and Theater on May 5, 7:00 PM Tickets $30 on sale now until April 29. St Roch Parish 334 Main St Oxford. Call 508-987-8987 to reserve a table.
• Vacation Bible Camp July 23-27, 8:15AM-1:15 PM at St Roch Parish Hall 334 Main St., Oxford. Call  Terry Ann Renaud at 508-987-2382. Planning sessions for our Summer Camp begin on April 25 at Noon.  All are welcome. Spring is here, summer just around the corner and time will fly by before it is upon us. This year our theme is “Shipwrecked, Rescued by Jesus.”

April 16, 2018

Continuous Novena to St. Joseph
Saint Joseph Basilica, 53 Whitcomb Street, Webster offers a continuous Weekly Novena and Devotion to St. Joseph on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m.   All are welcome to participate and to attend Mass.

Benefit for St. Bernard H.S.
The Bernardian Foundation will host its 25th Annual Golf Tournament to benefit the students of St. Bernard CCHS at Oak Hill Country Club on Monday, June 25 at 1 pm.  Registration is open!  We hope you can join us.   Thank you for your past participation in the tournament!

Upcoming Cursillo Opportunities
Cursillo or "short course in Christianity" is an uplifting and educational experience.  The weekend is facilitated by a team of laypeople and clergy who deliver organized talks and discussions.  Our 2018 dates are: Men - June 14-17; Women - May 3-6 & October 25-28.  All weekends will be held at the Immaculate Conception Spiritual Renewal Center in Putnam, CT. For additional information, please contact Sue Leighton at 508-278-3155 or sleighton1958@gmail.com.

Yard Sale in Dudley
St. Andrew Bobola in Dudley is holding a Yard Sale on Saturday, June 9 from 8 am – 2 pm. We are asking for items in good condition to be donated to this all  important fundraiser. No large electronics or appliances. Drop off dates for donations for the June Yard Sale are April 21, May 5, and May 19 from 9AM –Noon. We welcome anyone who wants to help on the drop off days to receive and sort the donated goods. Contact St. Andrew Bobola Rectory at 508-943-5633.
 
Part-time Parish Secretary Available
If any parish is seeking part-time secretarial help, a dedicated, experienced parish secretary who is computer savvy, familiar with the basics of bookkeeping, excellent in interpersonal skills and deeply committed to the faith is available.  Please contact Father Reidy at 508-929-4345 for further details and references.

TO: Parish Administration
Partners in Charity Pledge & Gift Processing
Please note that it is important for each parish to mail in a weekly pledge envelope/report. Inside each packet you should include individual pledge envelopes, along with a completed donor information sheet and an accompanying check made out to Partners in Charity.
Reminder: If we do not receive a check for the total gift amount with the envelope(s) we will not be able to enter the pledge(s) into the system as was done years ago. No reports such as faxes or phone calls are necessary. It is important for billing purposes that pledges are sent in as soon as possible to the chancery, in order to comply with the donor’s request for up to 10 months of billing. This past week we sent out the first  reminders to donors that have pledged to the 2018 Appeal.  Thank you!
Also If you are looking for a list of your parish’s 2018 gifts that have been sent directly to the Chancery via mail or online, email your request to mgillespie@worcesterdiocese.org or call 508-929-4368.

  ONGOING RESOURCES

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.