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. 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 before your event. 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

August 8, 2022

20th Sunday in Ordinary Time
“Do you think I have come to give you peace on Earth?  No, I tell you, but rather division.” (Luke 12:51) Many of us like to play it safe, not cause waves with our family and friends, especially when it comes to politics and religion.  We don’t want to cause any turmoil.  However, many times this is at the expense of the truth.  The truth being Jesus Christ.  Too many people are misguided because they rely on their own limited human ability to reason and are not allowing faith in God to guide them. Form your conscience; take a stance for life, marriage and religious liberty.

20^o Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario 
“¿Creen ustedes que vine a traer paz a la tierra?   ¡No! Más bien vine a traer división”  (Lucas 12:51)  A muchos de nosotros nos gusta ir a lo seguro, no causar problemas con nuestra familia y amigos, especialmente cuando se trata de política y religión. No queremos causar ningún revuelo.  Sin embargo, muchas veces lo hacemos a expensas de la verdad.  Jesucristo es la verdad.  Demasiadas personas están equivocadas porque confían en su propia capacidad humana limitada para razonar y no permiten que la fe en Dios los guíe. Forma tu conciencia; toma una postura a favor de la vida, el matrimonio y la libertad religiosa.

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Vocations reflections for Bulletins

Bulletin inserts in English and Spanish for vocations awareness.
For weekly Vocations Intercessions, CLICK HERE for English  (en espanol)

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

“Run the race which lies ahead.”  Are you called to keep your eyes fixed on Christ and run the race of faith to heaven as a priest, deacon or in the consecrated life? Contact the Vocation Office at (508) 630-4473 or email: donato.infante@gmail.com.

Vigésimo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario

"Corre la carrera que tenemos por delante." ¿Estás llamado a mantener los ojos fijos en Cristo y correr la carrera de la fe hacia el cielo como sacerdote, diácono o en la vida consagrada? Comuníquese con la Oficina de Vocaciones al (508) 630-4473 o envíe un correo electrónico a: donato.infante@gmail.com.

40th Annual Chicken BBQ and Parish Fair in North Brookfield

All are welcome to Saint Joseph’s Parish, North Brookfield beginning on Saturday, Aug. 27 beginning at 3pm with Annual Outdoor Mass under the tent (at the Rectory grounds) and The Otters from 4-7 pm; Sunday, Aug. 28 from 11 am to 4 pm Parish Fair including music by DJ Richard “Tabby” LeBlanc; 1-2pm Chicken dinners served (eat in & take out!) $14/adults $7/children 12 & under).  Other food is available all weekend including hamburgers, hot dogs, tacos, corn dogs, chili, fried dough, french fries, pizza, warm pretzels, ice cream sundaes and more! Saint Joseph’s Parish Rectory Grounds are at 28 Mt. Pleasant St., North Brookfield.

Vianney Dinner

The next Vianney dinner is Thursday, September 1 at the Holy Name of Jesus House of Studies at 51 Illinois St., Worcester. These are nights for men, high school aged and up, interested in learning more about a priestly vocation.  Don't want to come alone?  Bring a friend!  You are welcome to come to all or part of the evening as your schedule allows. 6:05 pm Mass, 6:30 pm dinner, and 7:00 pm social.  An RSVP is not needed but it is helpful in getting an accurate count for food. Email:director@worcestervocations.com.

Parish Administration

Long, sturdy wooden table available
St. Edward the Confessor Parish has a long wooden table with drawers on both sides available. Solid Wood Table, Size: 11’9”L X 3’10”W with 3 drawers on each side. Available to pick up at St. Edward Parish Center, Westminster. Call 978-874-2362 if interested. A digital photo can be emailed upon request.

August 1, 2022

19th Sunday in Ordinary Time
“For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.”  (Luke 12:34) Jesus encourages us to build up our treasure in heaven.  The world encourages us to build up our treasure in real estate, investments, and material goods.  How much time are you investing in building up a worldly treasure?  How much time are you investing in building up a heavenly treasure?  To invest more in the things of heaven, you must let go of some of the things of this world.    

19^o Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario 
“Porque donde estén sus tesoros, allí estará su corazón»   (Lucas 12:34)  Jesús nos anima a construir nuestros tesoros en el cielo.  El  mundo nos anima a construir nuestros tesoros en bienes raíces, inversiones y bienes materiales.  ¿Cuánto tiempo invierte en construir su tesoro terrenal?  ¿Cuánto tiempo invierte en construir su tesoro celestial?  Para invertir más en las cosas del cielo, debe dejar ir algunas de las cosas de este mundo.   

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Vocations reflections for Bulletins

Bulletin inserts in English and Spanish for vocations awareness.
For weekly Vocations Intercessions, CLICK HERE for English  (en espanol)

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

“Faith is the assurance of that which is hoped for.”  If you believe in the Giver of the call, you can hope to be true to it.  Will you follow Christ as a priest, deacon or in the consecrated life? Contact the Vocation Office at (508)630-4473or email: donato.infante@gmail.com. 

Decimonoveno Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario

"La fe es la certeza de lo que se espera." Si cree en el Dador de la llamada, puede esperar ser fiel a ella. ¿Seguirás a Cristo como sacerdote, diácono o en la vida consagrada? Comuníquese con la Oficina de Vocaciones al (508)630-4473o envíe un correo electrónico a: donato.infante@gmail.com.

Holy Hour to Pray for Priests

On Friday, August 12 from 7 - 8 pm a holy hour to pray for priests will take place at Immaculate Conception Church on 353 Grove St., Worcester. The holy hour consists of time for silent adoration, a short reflection, the rosary, and benediction. Please join us to pray for our priests. Repeats every second Friday of the month.

La Madonna della Cava Procession

St. Anthony of Padua Parish, 84 Salem St., Fitchburg, will celebrate the feast of La Madonna della Cava, Sunday Aug. 14 at 10 a.m. It will begin with a procession followed by Mass. Music accompanies food and refreshments will be served in the church hall and conclude with recitation of the rosary in honor of La Madonna.

The Holy Face of Jesus Relic

St. Cecilia Parish, 180 Mechanic St., Leominster, will host a presentation and opportunity to venerate a relic of the Holy Face of Jesus, Saturday, Aug. 20 at the 9 a.m. Mass. This Holy Relic has been touched to Veronica's Holy Veil, touched to the True Wood of the Cross, and touched to the Spear-head that pierced Christ's side. These facts are verified by the wax Papal Seal and the Certificate of Authenticity signed by His Holiness, Pope St. Pius X, in the year 1905. It is now 114 years old. Visit holyfaceadoration.com/holy-face-presentations   to learn more.

St. Bernard's High School  3rd Annual Golf Tournament 

Join us on Monday, September 26 at Northern Spy Golf Course, Townsend for the 3rd Annual STB Golf Tournament.  Entry fee is $130/per golfer and includes raffle prizes, use of driving range, mulligans, all day buffet, STB swag, skins pool, hospitality holes and cash prizes.  Two shot guns available:  7:30am or 1pm - Scramble format. Register at https://stbernardshighschool.org/.  Proceeds directly benefit the athletics program at St. Bernard's High School.

The Ignatian Spiritual Exercises in Daily Life

A 30-week directed prayer experience in the tradition of St. Ignatius of Loyola is being offered by a team of Jesuits and parishioners experienced in Ignatian prayer. Starting on October 4, each weekly session will be approximately ninety minutes and will include reflection, direction and a presentation. Sessions will be held on Tuesday evenings at St. Peter Church in Worcester, adjacent to Clark University. An Information Night will be held on Tuesday, August 9 at 7:00pm at St. Peter Church, 929 Main Street, Worcester, in the lower church. Information and an application form are available at ignatianspiritualexercisesworcester.com or contact the team by email at worcspex19@gmail.com or call Dick Kirk at 508-887-0107.

Little Audrey Santo Gift Shop

The Little Audrey Santo Foundation’s gift shop located at the the Foundation House at 68 S. Flagg St., Worcester, will open Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1-3 p.m. Pilgrims are invited to visit Audrey’s room, pray in the chapel and visit the gift shop. Call 508-755-8712 for information.

TO: Parish Administration

Collection for Central and Eastern Europe
Please announce the Collection for Central and Eastern Europe on the weekend of Aug. 6/7 and take up the collection on the weekend of Aug. 13/14. The letter from Bishop McManus is available on the diocesan website under Bulletin Letters and Inserts.

July 25, 2022

18th Sunday in Ordinary Time
“Take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one’s life does not consist of possessions.”  (Luke 12:15)  The Gospel message is contrary to modern culture that continually tries to convince us that our joy comes from the material things we possess.  That the more we acquire, the happier we will be.  Jesus shows us that our true joy comes from our “invisible” gifts like love, mercy and forgiveness.  True joy comes from “emptying” ourselves, giving of ourselves rather than always taking.  We are called not to hoard but to share.  True joy comes from living a grateful and generous lifestyle; become more “God-centered” and less “self-centered.”

18^o Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario 
“Estén atentos y cuídense de toda forma de avaricia; porque aun cuando alguien tenga abundancia, su vida no consiste en tener bienes” (Lucas 12:15)  El mensaje del Evangelio es contrario a la cultura moderna que continuamente trata de convencernos de que nuestra alegría viene de los bienes materiales que poseemos.  Que mientras más cosas adquirimos, más felices seremos.  Jesús nos muestra que nuestra verdadera alegría viene de nuestros dones “invisibles” como el amor, la misericordia y el perdón.  La verdadera alegría viene de “vaciarnos” nosotros mismos, dando de nosotros en lugar de tomar.  No somos llamados a  atesorar sino a compartir.  La verdadera alegría viene de tener un estilo de vida agradecido y generoso; de transformarnos para estar más “centrados en Dios” y ser menos “egocéntricos”.

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Vocations reflections for Bulletins

Bulletin inserts in English and Spanish for vocations awareness.
For weekly Vocations Intercessions, CLICK HERE for English  (en espanol)

Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

“One's life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.” If simplicity of life and the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity and obedience especially attract you, discover that life as a priest, deacon, sister or brother. Contact the Vocation Office at (508)630-4473or email: donato.infante@gmail.com.

Decimoctavo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario

"La vida de uno no consiste en la abundancia de posesiones." Si te atraen especialmente la sencillez de vida y los consejos evangélicos de la pobreza, la castidad y la obediencia, descubre esa vida como sacerdote, diácono, hermana o hermano. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Vocaciones al (508)630-4473o envíe un correo electrónico a: donato.infante@gmail.com.

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The Ignatian Spiritual Exercises in Daily Life
A 30-week directed prayer experience in the tradition of St. Ignatius of Loyola is being offered by a team of Jesuits and parishioners experienced in Ignatian prayer.
Starting on October 4, 2022, each weekly session will be approximately ninety minutes and will include reflection, direction and a presentation. Sessions will be held on Tuesday evenings at St. Peter’s Church in Worcester, adjacent to Clark University. An Information Night will be held on Tuesday, August 9 at 7:00 pm at St. Peter Church, 929 Main Street, Worcester in the lower church. Information and an application form are available at ignatianspiritualexercisesworcester.com or contact the team by email at worcspex19@gmail.com or call Dick Kirk at 508-887-0107.

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 in the fall. 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 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 Joan DeMasi at 508-929-4345. Applications are due on or before September 2, 2022. Should anyone wish to contribute to the scholarship fund, donations will be greatly appreciated; contact can be made at the above address or phone number.

July 18, 2022

17th Sunday in Ordinary Time
“Ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”  (Luke 11:9) Jesus assures us that if we ask, God will take care of what we need.  The problem is that our culture often confuses what we really need with what we simply want.  The truth is that many of us need very little.  However, we usually want so much more!  Stewardship is simply being grateful for all that we are and all that we have been given, and generously sharing all of our God-given gifts with others.  Generosity is a gift that opens doors to new relationships with others and with God.

17^o Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario 
“Pidan, y se les dará; busquen, y encontrarán; llamen, y se les abrirá la puerta”     (Lucas 11: 9) Jesús nos asegura que, si le pedimos, Dios se ocupará de nuestras necesidades.  El problema es que nuestra cultura a menudo confunde lo que realmente necesitamos y lo que simplemente queremos.  La verdad es que muchos de nosotros necesitamos muy poco.  Sin embargo, ¡usualmente queremos mucho más!  Corresponsabilidad es simplemente estar agradecido por todo lo que somos y por todo lo que se nos ha dado, y compartir generosamente con los demás todos los dones que Dios nos ha otorgado.   La generosidad es un don que abre puertas a nuevas relaciones con los demás y con Dios.
 

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Vocations reflections for Bulletins

Bulletin inserts in English and Spanish for vocations awareness.
For weekly Vocations Intercessions, CLICK HERE for English  (en espanol)

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

“Give us this day our daily bread.”  Are you being called to help feed the people of God as a priest, deacon or in the consecrated life? Contact the Vocation Office at (508) 630-4473or email: donato.infante@gmail.com.

Decimoseptimo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario

"Danos hoy nuestro pan de cada día." ¿Estás llamado a ayudar a alimentar al pueblo de Dios como sacerdote, diácono o en la vida consagrada? Comuníquese con la Oficina de Vocaciones al (508)630-4473 o envíe un correo electrónico a: donato.infante@gmail.com.

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Volunteer Opportunities for Retirees
Ignatian Volunteer Corps (IVC) New England is interviewing applicants now for fall openings. IVC Service Corps Members combine direct service opportunities at non-profits serving those in need in our communities with monthly spiritual reflection in the Jesuit tradition. Volunteers, 50 years of age and better, serve two full days/week from September through June. For more information and an application, contact IVC New England Director Dave Hinchen: dhinchen@ivcusa.org.

135^th Annual Novena to St. Anne - July 18  26
Theme: “They shall bear fruit even in old age”  (Psalm 92:15) - In celebration of the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. The theme “intends to emphasize how grandparents and the elderly are a value and a gift both for society and for ecclesial communities.” Novena Schedule July 18 to 25: 5:30 PM  Confessions at St. Anne Church Sacristy; 6:30 PM Rosary Procession from the Generations Statue in front of the Gift Shop; 7:00 PM Novena Mass at the Outdoor Pavilion. Feast Day Schedule July 26.11:00 AM Mass with Anointing of the Sick – Fr. Luc Martel, AA; 4:30 PM Confessions at St. Anne Church Sacristy; 5:30 PM Rosary Procession from the Generations Statue; 6:00 PM Feast Day Mass at the Outdoor Pavilion with Cardinal Seán Patrick O’Malley, OFM Cap., Celebrant and Homilist.

Diocesan Youth Discipleship Team – Application Deadline EXTENDED to August 1
Sign up for the Diocesan Youth Discipleship Team! The Discipleship Team is a program for high school age youth (as of August 2022) that focuses on helping young people grow deeper in their relationship with God, equips them with skills for evangelization with their peers, and provides opportunities to lead various Diocesan events for middle school youth. The program begins in August with a retreat followed by monthly meetings from September – May. To accommodate for distance, participants have the option to choose between one of two meeting locations – Auburn and Leominster. For complete details or to sign up, go to neworcester.org/diocesan-youth-discipleship-team. Deadline to sign up has been extended to August 1!

Diocesan Youth Discipleship Team – Application Deadline EXTENDED to August 1
Sign up for the Diocesan Youth Discipleship Team! The Discipleship Team is a program for high school age youth (as of August 2022) that focuses on helping young people grow deeper in their relationship with God, equips them with skills for evangelization with their peers, and provides opportunities to lead various Diocesan events for middle school youth. The program begins in August with a retreat followed by monthly meetings from September – May. To accommodate for distance, participants have the option to choose between one of two meeting locations – Auburn and Leominster. For complete details or to sign up, go to neworcester.org/diocesan-youth-discipleship-team. Deadline to sign up has been extended to August 1!

Person, Empathy and Spirituality, According to St. Edith Stein. 
Fr. Thiago Ibiapina, who has studied the work of St. Edith Stein extensively, will be offering a presentation on her insights into the  human person, empathy and spirituality on Monday, August 8 at 6:30 p.m. at Annunciation Parish in the Lower Church hall at Holy Rosary, 135 Nichols St., Gardner. 

ITALIAN FESTIVAL 2022
After two years, the Italian Festival at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel and Our Lady of Loreto Parish is back!  Thursday, August 11 (5pm-10pm), Friday, August 12 (5pm-11pm), Saturday, August 13 (noon - 11 pm) and Sunday, August 14 (noon -6pm), at 37 Massasoit Rd., Worcester.  Admission is $2.  Bouncy houses and face painting for the kids.  Wonderful live music each night for all to enjoy.  Fried dough, ITALIAN COOKIES, food options from local restaurants and much, much more. Please come and join us as we bring our parish community and neighbors together to share in our heritage and traditions.  Mark your calendars now and come celebrate with us! 

Indoor Yard Sale at Spencer Parish
Mary, Queen of the Rosary Parish, Spencer is having an Indoor Yard Sale on Saturday, August 13 in the parish hall located at 7 Church Street, Spencer. Doors open at 8 am and close at 3pm Featuring; Housewares, Small Furniture, Books, Home Décor, Jewelry, Kids Toys & Games, Seasonal Items, Vendor Tables, Raffles & Lunch Café.  Cash Sales Only, . Ample parking. 

“Misgivings” to be performed in Douglas
On Saturday, Sept. 17 at St. Denis Church, Douglas join us for a performance of Misgivings - a “Divine” comedy of belly laughs, blessings, blarney and bingo! Join is for an evening of fun and fellowship as Father Patrick Aloysius Misgivings relates his stories and one-liners about growing up Catholic. Adults (21+) only, please. Doors open at 4:45pm, show starts at 5:30pm. Tickets are $20 per person and include heavy hors d’oeuvres and beverages. Purchase tickets online at SaintDenisChurch.com, in person after all Masses in August and early September, or call the Rectory at 508-476-2002. Don’t miss this delightfully entertaining and uplifting one man show!

July 11, 2022

Volunteers Needed
The Mustard Seed Catholic Worker offers a meal to those in need every weeknight. Parishes or small groups are needed to prepare and serve a meal for 100 guests. This is a pressing need during the summer.  For more information, or to volunteer, please contact Paula Bushey at 508-243-0735. 

Job Opportunity: DRE in Leominster
St. Leo Parish, Leominster seeks a Director of Religious Education. Responsibilities include: Faith Formation for Grades 1 – 11; Preparation for First Penance, First Communion and Confirmation; RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) and Safe Environment Coordinator. Qualifications: Bachelors or Masters Degree in theology and/or religious education, education; Good organizational skills; Strong verbal and written communication skills; Proven leadership ability and strong relational skills. St. Leo’s has a small religious education program with the potential for growth! Salary/benefits commensurate with education and experience. This position can be part-time or full-time, depending upon applicant’s needs. Full-time applicants would be asked to lead adult education as well. Send resume to stleoparish@verizon.ne...  or mail to: St. Leo Parish DRE Search, 108 Main St., Leominster, MA 01453

Local Evangelization Workshop via Zoom

6 Evangelizing Approaches for Reaching Inactive Catholics - Missionary evangelizing goes beyond programs. No single program or “magic pill” will bring all inactive Catholics in our area back to Jesus and the Mass. Discover the six most dynamic approaches and tools that successful evangelizing individuals, groups, and parishes use. Instructors: John and Therese Boucher. To be held on Saturday, July 30 from 9:30 AM to Noon. NO COST registration. This is a Zoom workshop. Email your name & phone number to boucherjohn@hotmail.com by Wednesday, July 27.

Summer Theatre Opportunity in Southboro

Join the St. Anne Youth Theater Performance Troupe! Open to ages 12-18. Musical, comedy, historical & dramatic performances will be held at St. Anne’s Stage in Southborough throughout the year. Meetings will be held beginning July 30 after the 5:00 pm vigil Mass at St. Anne Church, 20 Boston Rd., Southborough. For more information, or to sign up, please contact: theodramaclass@gmail.com.

June 20, 2022

33 Days to Morning Glory! A Consecration to Our Blessed Mother -in Charlton

Come to St. Joseph Parish in Charlton for this six-week retreat as a way of developing a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ through his mother, Mary. To be held on Mondays, July 11 through August 15 from 6:30 – 8:00 pm at the parish in the "cornerstone". The book and video program are part of the Hearts Afire series by Fr. Michael E. Gaitley, MIC, director of evangelization for the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception in Stockbridge. Together we will prepare our hearts for a total consecration to Mary. Four major saints who had a deep devotion to Mary will be highlighted: St. Maximillian Kolbe, St. Teresa, St. John Paul II and St. Louis de Montfort. Cost for the materials is $29.95 and includes a book and workbook. Please sign-up on our website: www.stjosephscharlton.com/33-days-to-morning-glory and you can order the books online from that site (copies available for those in financial need). For questions, please call Susan Montville at 508-735-3269. 

June 13, 2022

33 Days to Morning Glory! A Consecration to Our Blessed Mother.
Join us in this six-week retreat as a way of developing a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ through his mother, Mary. To be held on Mondays, July 11 through August 15 from 6:30 – 8:00 pm at St. Mary Parish Hall, Uxbridge. Presenter: Mary Fahey. The book and video program is part of the Hearts Afire series by Fr. Michael E. Gaitley, MIC who is director of evangelization for the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception in Stockbridge. Together we will prepare our hearts for a total consecration to Mary. Four major saints who had a deep devotion to Mary will be highlighted: St. Maximillian Kolbe, Mother St. Teresa of Calcutta, St. John Paul II and St. Louis de Montfort. Cost for the program cost $30.00 and includes a book and workbook. Please sign-up on our website: stmaryuxbridge.org/33-days-to-morning-gloryand we will order the books for you. For questions, please call the office at: 508-278-2226 ext. 23.

Introduction to Catholic Social Teaching
On Wednesdays, July 27, August 3, 10, 24, and 31 from 6:30 - 8:00 pm at St. Mary Parish Hall, Uxbridge. Presenter: Peter Fritz, Associate Professor, Department of Religious Studies, College of the Holy Cross. Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is the church’s best-kept secret. We are all aware that God loves us and asks us to love our neighbors. But fewer people know that the church gives us principles and guidelines to help us love God and neighbor not just in private, but also in public; not just in our homes and neighborhoods, but also in politics and society. CST is this body of principles and guidelines. In this five-week course we will survey modern CST, how it advocates Christ-centered living, the biblical and traditional roots of CST, and also discuss three of the main principles of CST: solidarity, subsidiarity, and the universal destination of goods. No prior knowledge of CST or theology is needed. Brief weekly readings will be provided. Please register on our website: stmaryuxbridge.org/st-mary-university-of-uxbridge or call the office at: 509-278-2226 ext. 23.

Volunteer Opportunity
Little Audrey Santo Foundation is welcoming volunteers. For more information call 508-755-8712.

June 6, 2022

Young Adult Weekly Pick-up Volleyball & Hangout
All young adults (ages 18+) are invited to join us for weekly pick-up volleyball at Saint Christopher in Worcester! Join us every Friday at 6 pm beginning on June 10 through the end of August. These gatherings are very laid back and open to any young adult (regardless of skill level!). If you are looking for a fun way to meet up with other young adults in the area, then this is perfect for you! There is no commitment or formal sign-ups but if you would like to receive text or email updates during the summer, feel free to sign up at the following link: www.neworcester.org/young-adult-summer-volleyball

Men’s Golf League

Join us for a men’s golf league at Pakachoag Golf Course in Auburn for six consecutive Wednesdays from July 6 through August 13, beginning at 5:00 pm. High school students, college students, and men of all ages are invited to sign up in teams of two for the league, which will be played in the two-man scramble format. This is a great opportunity for Catholic men to meet other men who are striving for holiness and for a better golf swing. Before each round, Holy Mass will be offered for any players who wish to attend. Players will be responsible for paying the weekly greens fee at the course, which is $16 to walk and $28 to ride. To sign up, go to neworcester.org/summer-golf-league. Questions? Contact Deacon Derek Mobilio at derek.mobilio@gmail.com

Job Opportunity

Youth Minister Job Position

Our parish is looking for an innovative Youth Minister to bring the Gospel message of Jesus Christ to life for our middle and high school students. Responsibilities include: organizing and encouraging youth to participate in a variety of parish activities including retreats, social events, service opportunities and the celebration of Sunday Eucharist; promote a faith based approach to life for parish youth; oversee the existing catechetical formation and sacramental programs for youth in grades 9-12; recruit and train adult volunteers. The candidate must be a practicing Catholic with a solid knowledge of Catholic doctrine and skilled in social media. This is a full-time position. Most importantly, the candidate must love working with teens and sharing his/her faith in a creative and collaborative manner. Send resume to: St. Rose of Lima, PO Box 685, Northborough, MA 01532 or email: jescudero@saintroseoflima.com

Parish Referral for Clothing Collections
St. Roch Parish in Oxford would like to share their success with having a St. Pauly Textile, Inc. clothing shed on the church property for the past nine years.  It has been a positive experience giving the townspeople a clean, safe and convenient way to donate clothing. They are a Western NY based, family owned for-profit company and an A+ member of the Better Business Bureau. Their goal is to get USEABLE clothing to people and organizations that can use it, here in the U.S. and in developing countries. More info can be found online at stpaulytextile.com. Alex Hillis can be reached at 585-924-7941

Flea Market to benefit Urban Missionaries

Doing some spring cleaning? Gain some extra cash and space by selling your unwanted household and outdoor items. Rent a table for only $15.00 at the Urban Missionaries' Saturday Flea Market (seasonal).  You will also be supporting their mission of “Just Helping, the Least, the Last, and the Left Out.” Set-up is at 7:00 am. Reservations are required one week in advance; family appropriate items only; payment due on-site, prior to set-up. Contact mailbox@urbanmissionaries.com or call 508-831-7455.

FOR PARISH ADMINISTRATION:

Coming to Chancery for Appointments - Protocol
The chancery remains closed to the public except for scheduled appointments. Beginning September 1 we have made staffing changes including no longer having a receptionist at the front lobby. The front vestibule is OPEN during business hours and a phone is present to call your appointment to notify them of your arrival.
If you are dropping off material for a department (e.g., Marriage Tribunal, Partners in Charity or Finance, please call that department to let them know. Phone messages will be checked regularly and we encourage parish staff to use the direct dial numbers for each department which are listed in the Diocesan Directory.
If you are entering the building for an appointment, masks must be worn in the building and hand sanitizer is available as you enter for your use. A strict cleaning schedule is maintained for all common areas and meeting rooms are cleaned immediately after use.

Clergy visiting Saint Vincent protocol
When familiar clergy are able to visit the hospitalized members of their parish, it offers patients spiritual support and brings faith into the healing process. While COVID-related restrictions at Saint Vincent Hospital have been relaxed, Massachusetts hospitals are still required to internally maintain some restrictions. Masks will still be required within the hospital. If you arrive without a mask, one will be provided. Currently, entry to the hospital is restricted to the 3rd level North entrance. It is recommended that you check with the unit secretary before visiting your parishioner(s) in order to be made aware of any patient who might be under restrictions or who has been hospitalized with an infectious condition. Hand hygiene is necessary and essential for your safety and preventing unnecessary spread of certain pathogens. Given the evolving nature of the current visitor policy and any accompanying restrictions, consider other options that are available to area priests to stay connected with the members of the parish: contact them by phone, video communication, or text. The SVH staff chaplains should be contacted if there is an emergency or your visitation seems unlikely due to other demands which would seriously delay your ability to visit in person. Call (508) 363-5000 to page the priest on duty or call the direct phone number for the Department of Pastoral Care: (508) 363-6246.  A priest-chaplain is always available for emergencies.

Priest Coverage for Pastoral Care at UMASS Memorial in Worcester:
Message from Cathy Pimley, Manager, Pastoral Care
Since March 2021, I have been diligently trying to fill two full-time Catholic Priest positions at the Medical Center.  There is hope that one full time position will be filled in mid-September to replace Fr. Roach, who retires on August 29.  There will also be a few overnight per-diem positions posted, but we are greatly in need of another 32-hour Catholic priest day position.   I wanted to give you a heads-up so that you know there will be days when a priest will not be in-house for the Sacrament of the Sick.   Our Interfaith Chaplains are available but want to encourage you to reach out to your parishioners who may be hospitalized and need sacramental ministry.  You may want to invite your parishioners to receive the Sacrament of the Sick from you prior to scheduled hospitalizations.  I pray we will have full staffing soon, but as you know, we live in challenging times.  You, as priests, are welcome to visit your congregants who are hospitalized, even amid visitor limits.  COVID + patients may require different protocols.   If you have any questions, please feel free to call me at 774-442-6550.   Thank you for your ongoing support. 

eCatholic tip: online payments and donations
The monthly fee to use eCatholic payments is waived for parishes in the diocese and transaction fees are as low as it gets in the industry.  The site is very secure, and the money goes right into your parish bank account and you get a report letting you know! You can also use eCatholic Payments for one time or recurring payments and donations for offertory, religious education tuition and more! But, if you already have an online offertory platform you can use eCatholic Payments with their web forms alongside that platform for one time donations for events, etc. Questions: email worcester@ecatholic.com anytime.

Promoting events? Use your eCatholic and Flocknote Resources!

It is EASY to set up an event announcement and registration/ticket form on your eCatholic website. If you have not yet done so, contact them for an online account to accept credit cards via your site. Not only will it make it more convenient than “come to the rectory for tickets;” you can reach more people and plan better for your event. Costs are as low as it gets in the industry, the site is very secure, and the money goes right into your parish bank account and you get a report letting you know! PLUS you can then send everyone a link by Flocknote to go to the site with one click from their phone, tablet or computer and get the tickets, make the donation or at least be aware of the event details to share with family and friends. Let your Communications Ministry tools work for you! Contact Luke at worcester@eCatholic.com if you need to get set up or to learn more.

EMAIL NOTICES
We often hear from pastors and parishes saying they are not getting emails from us, even when we have a correct address. No Email system is foolproof (Gmail, MSN, Outlook, aol, Charter.net, Verizon.net,  etc.) and your provider may be very aggressively blocking emails from your inbox based on general algorithms. Please remember to check your junk mail regularly to see if emails from our Flocknote system or from worcesterdiocese.org or other sources are being inadvertently blocked. You can always use your email system’s rules when this happens to “always accept email from this sender.” Usually that option appears when you “Right Click’ on the email in question with your mouse.

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.

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.

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.