Week of December 31, 2023 – Feast of the Holy Family

The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary nd Joseph
December 31, 2023
The Holy Family depicted in one of six large oval reliefs in the church narthex.
Sculptor: P. Kuhnle
Photo credit: Margaret Dick

December 31, 2023 – January 7, 2024

 

Live-streaming of 10AM Sunday Mass has resumed. Click HERE.

This website also includes a “Bulletins” page where visitors may view an exact copy of the weekly bulletin and inserts in PDF format, as well as a calendar for our Family of Parishes.

News from our Parish Community

Cast of a homily play included as part of the liturgy on the Feast of the Holy Family. The play was written by Mary Weisenburger and directed by
Deacon Paul Weisenburger.
Photo credit: Pat Dyer

OUR SCHEDULE OF SERVICES FOR DECEMBER 30-JANUARY 1, 2024

Saturday, December 30, 2023
Vigil Mass for the Feast of the Holy Family
4:30 P.M. at St. Lawrence

but NONE at Blessed Trinity

Sunday, December 31
Mass for the Feast of the Holy Family at 10:00 A.M.

Monday, January 1, 2024
Mass for the Solemnity of Mary at 11:00 A.M.

Bible Study ~ ZOOM classes and the discussion of Mark’s Gospel will resume on Tuesday, January 2, 2024Click HERE to join us on Tuesdays.

Women’s “Little Christmas” Luncheon ~ The Women’s Guild of St. Martin de Porres has invited the women of Blessed Trinity to join them at their holiday luncheon on the Feast of the Epiphany, Saturday afternoon, January 6, from 12 Noon – 3 PM at the “Howling Rooster Restaurant,” 529 Englewood Ave., just north of Kenmore Ave. Luncheon entrees available from a limited menu with approximate cost of $20. Waitstaff will be preparing separate checks, so please assist them by coming prepared to pay with cash. The party will include a gift exchange (suggested gift value of $20) but participation in the exchange is not mandatory. If you would like to attend, please make your reservation no later than Tues., January 2 by emailing Laurie Alford at LBROWNC [at] KENT [dot] EDU or Marianne Partee at HUMANCAPITAL1ST [at] YAHOO [dot] COM.You may also reach Ms. Partee at 716-308-1613.

Subs ‘n Suds ~ Dr. Dennis Castillo, Professor of church History at St. Mary’s Seminary and University will explore the history of the Buffalo Diocese and our Family 21 Parishes on Monday evening, January 22, beginning with subs, beer and soft drinks at 5:30pm in St. Charles Hall. His presentation begins at 6:30pm and is also available on ZOOM for those who cannot attend in person. The evening’s entertainment is courtesy of our adult faith formation team

Prayerful thanks to all the volunteers, some two-dozen strong, who decorated our church for Christmas. We should all be grateful to: Don Blesnuk; Tom, Nik and Drew Brodfuehrer; Suzanne Carroll; Elizabeth and Luis Clay; Kenny Colligan; Bud and Mickey Dick; Tom Dinder, Pat Dyer, Kathleen Dove, Ellen Duffy, Allan Frank, Fr. Bob Gebhard, Sue Insana, Amy Johnson, Dan Korchowsky, Dorothy Manuppelli, Kathleen Marien, Kathy Press, Sr. Liz Savage and Colleen Schroeder for doing such an amazing job.

Visitors with Explore Buffalo enjoying Christmas décor while learning about design features in the nave.

Holiday Tourists ~ In addition to those who attended Mass over the Christmas season, a group of twelve Explore Buffalo tourists also enjoyed the decorations as they learned about our Landmark church on December 27. Thanks to docents Eleanor Ash, Luis Clay, Darvan Draper, Mickey Dick and Pam Zanghi for sharing their knowledge of the history, art and architecture of Blessed Trinity.

Food Pantry Returns to Shopper’s Choice ~ The Catholic Central Helping Hands Food Pantry, which operates from our St. Charles Hall at 350 Dewey Avenue, is now operating EVERY Wednesday from 9:30am – 1:30pm. Residents of 14214 & 14215 are welcome to help themselves, according to household size, to portions of carbohydrates, grains, proteins and canned vegetables. Bread and sweets generally available. Baby needs in stock also. Call (716) 800-1075 or email ccfp14215 [at] gmail [dot] com for information.

We play Bingo every Thursday in St. Charles Hall, 350 Dewey Ave. Doors open at 6:30pm, concessions open at 7:30, and games begin at 8:00pm. Please plan to join us. You can check the latest carryover figures on our Facebook page.

FAMILY PROMISE OF WNY: Feed the Hungry, Shelter the HomelessFamily Promise offers us the opportunity to perform these acts of charity in a very direct and personal manner. As a support congregation, Blessed Trinity parishioners purchase and deliver groceries to the Family Promise shelter at Ss. Brigid-Columba Parish. With a few more volunteers we could continue this corporal work of mercy at least one day a month. Working in pairs, you could anticipate your turn to occur every third month. We hope you will join us. If you want more background information go to the web site, www.fpwny.org, or contact Amy Johnson (716-836-4694).

  • Family Promise is certified by NYS and can house up to six families.
  • It is one of only two emergency shelters in Erie County that allow fathers and teenage sons to stay with their family.
  • Families are referred by the Dept. of Social Services and receive case management in finding employment and permanent housing, security deposit assistance, day care, school transport, and follow up support upon leaving the shelter.
  • In 2020, the Homeless Alliance of WNY rated Family Promise with the best success rate for moving families into permanent homes.

Pastor Emeritus, Rev. George L. Reger ~ The Mass of Christian Burial for Father Reger was celebrated at Blessed Trinity on Friday, May 26. Click HERE to view a recorded version of the Mass.

Is it time to update your contact information? During the pandemic when COVID-19 Protocols prevented many from attending church services, the ability to keep in touch by telephone, mail or email took on increased importance. Because not everyone has computer access, really important information is sent in a letter. Even though you are now able to attend Mass in person, this may be a good time to ask yourself: Does the church office have my correct mailing address and phone number? Have I shared my email address? Make sure that we have been notified of any changes in your contact information by completing this form. This is also a chance to let us know if you: wish to receive the bulletin electronically via email, register as a parishioner, or request envelopes. You can also submit the requested information by phoning our secretary at 716-833-0301 any Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday between 10:30am and 2:30pm; sending an email to blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com; or using the contact feature below to submit the information. If you choose either of the last two, please use “Contact Update” as the subject of the email or message.

Enjoy a virtual tour of our Landmark house of worship, courtesy of Buffalo Rising and Explore Buffalo. By Clicking HERE, you will be treated to both exterior and interior photos and more than a little history.

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
January 4
Our Altar of Sacrifice contains a relic of St. Elizabeth Seton (1774-1821), the first saint born in the U.S. to be canonized. This woodcarving hangs on the left (east) transept wall. It is a gift of the Southtowns Wood Carvers of WNY.

St. John Neumann (1811-1860)
January 5
Our Altar of Sacrifice contains a relic of St. John Neumann, a newly ordained priest assigned to WNY in 1836 and first pastor of St. John the Baptist parish in Kenmore. This woodcarving, a gift of the Southtowns Woodcarvers of WNY, hangs on the right (west) transept Wall.

 

Week of December 24, 2023 – Christmas Week

December 24 – December 31, 2023

 

Live-streaming of 10AM Sunday Mass has resumed. Click HERE.

This website also includes a “Bulletins” page where visitors may view an exact copy of the weekly bulletin and inserts in PDF format, as well as a calendar for our Family of Parishes.

News from our Parish Community

Blessed Trinity Choir

OUR SCHEDULE OF SERVICES FOR DECEMBER 23-31, 2023

Saturday, December 23
Vigil Mass for the Fourth Sunday of Advent at 4:30 PM

Sunday, December 24
Mass for the Fourth Sunday of Advent at 10:00 AM
Choral Prelude for Christmas Eve Service at 9:30 PM
Mass for Christmas Eve at 10:00 PM

Monday, December 25
Mass for Christmas Day at 10:00 AM

Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday, December 26, 27 & 29
Mass at 11:00 A.M.

Saturday, December 30
Vigil Mass for the Feast of the Holy Family
4:30 P.M. at St. Lawrence

but NONE at Blessed Trinity

Sunday, December 31
Mass for the Feast of the Holy Family at 10:00 A.M.

Decorating for Christmas ~ Somebody build a manger! And our veteran decorating crew did just that. Some two-dozen strong, they swept in on Monday evening, Dec. 18, and went straight to work not only arranging the manger scene, but also hanging wreaths, decorating trees, pews, windowsills and even the tops of confessionals—all to the wonderful accompaniment of Christmas carols on the piano. Say a prayer of thanksgiving for our wonderful team of volunteers: Don Blesnuk; Tom, Nik and Drew Brodfuehrer; Suzanne Carroll; Elizabeth and Luis Clay; Kenny Colligan; Bud and Mickey Dick; Tom Dinder, Pat Dyer, Kathleen Dove, Ellen Duffy, Allan Frank, Fr. Bob Gebhard, Sue Insana, Amy Johnson, Dan Korchowsky, Dorothy Manuppelli, Kathleen Marien, Kathy Press, Sr. Liz Savage and Colleen Schroeder.

Bible Study ~ The group will then be taking a break for Christmas, with NO meeting on December 26. ZOOM classes and the discussion of Mark’s Gospel will resume on Tuesday, January 2, 2024. Click HERE to join us on Tuesdays.

Our Ladies Sodality is very thankful for each of you who donated to this year’s collection for the homebound. Due to your generosity, twenty-one individuals received Christmas gifts from their “Blessed Trinity Parish Family” including Mass cards, grocery store gift cards and—for the first time since 2019—a flowering plant. Special thanks to all those who helped along the way: shopping, wrapping and labeling, carrying plants into church and personally delivering the cards and flowers in time for Christmas.

Food Pantry Returns to Shopper’s Choice ~ The Catholic Central Helping Hands Food Pantry, which operates from our St. Charles Hall at 350 Dewey Avenue, is now operating EVERY Wednesday from 9:30am – 1:30pm. Residents of 14214 & 14215 are welcome to help themselves, according to household size, to portions of carbohydrates, grains, proteins and canned vegetables. Bread and sweets generally available. Baby needs in stock also. Call (716) 800-1075 or email ccfp14215 [at] gmail [dot] com for information.

We play Bingo every Thursday in St. Charles Hall, 350 Dewey Ave. Doors open at 6:30pm, concessions open at 7:30, and games begin at 8:00pm. Please plan to join us. You can check the latest carryover figures on our Facebook page.

FAMILY PROMISE OF WNY: Feed the Hungry, Shelter the HomelessFamily Promise offers us the opportunity to perform these acts of charity in a very direct and personal manner. As a support congregation, Blessed Trinity parishioners purchase and deliver groceries to the Family Promise shelter at Ss. Brigid-Columba Parish. With a few more volunteers we could continue this corporal work of mercy at least one day a month. Working in pairs, you could anticipate your turn to occur every third month. We hope you will join us. If you want more background information go to the web site, www.fpwny.org, or contact Amy Johnson (716-836-4694).

  • Family Promise is certified by NYS and can house up to six families.
  • It is one of only two emergency shelters in Erie County that allow fathers and teenage sons to stay with their family.
  • Families are referred by the Dept. of Social Services and receive case management in finding employment and permanent housing, security deposit assistance, day care, school transport, and follow up support upon leaving the shelter.
  • In 2020, the Homeless Alliance of WNY rated Family Promise with the best success rate for moving families into permanent homes.

Pastor Emeritus, Rev. George L. Reger ~ The Mass of Christian Burial for Father Reger was celebrated at Blessed Trinity on Friday, May 26. Click HERE to view a recorded version of the Mass.

Is it time to update your contact information? During the pandemic when COVID-19 Protocols prevented many from attending church services, the ability to keep in touch by telephone, mail or email took on increased importance. Because not everyone has computer access, really important information is sent in a letter. Even though you are now able to attend Mass in person, this may be a good time to ask yourself: Does the church office have my correct mailing address and phone number? Have I shared my email address? Make sure that we have been notified of any changes in your contact information by completing this form. This is also a chance to let us know if you: wish to receive the bulletin electronically via email, register as a parishioner, or request envelopes. You can also submit the requested information by phoning our secretary at 716-833-0301 any Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday between 10:30am and 2:30pm; sending an email to blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com; or using the contact feature below to submit the information. If you choose either of the last two, please use “Contact Update” as the subject of the email or message.

Enjoy a virtual tour of our Landmark house of worship, courtesy of Buffalo Rising and Explore Buffalo. By Clicking HERE, you will be treated to both exterior and interior photos and more than a little history.

 

Week of December 17, 2023 – 3rd Sunday of Advent

December 17 – December 24, 2023

 

Live-streaming of 10AM Sunday Mass has resumed. Click HERE.

This website also includes a “Bulletins” page where visitors may view an exact copy of the weekly bulletin and inserts in PDF format, as well as a calendar for our Family of Parishes.

News from our Parish Community

We are decorating the church for Christmas 2023 on Monday evening, Dec 18, beginning at 6:30pm. Please join us.

Christmas Concert ~ On Sunday, December 17, at 4pm, the choir of our sister parish, St. Martin dePorres, will present a Christmas concert at their church, located at 555 Northampton Street.

Cleaning and Decorating for Christmas ~ A wonderful team of volunteers turned out as early as 8am on Saturday, December 9, to clean our church for Christmas. Prayerful thanks to Vera Andrew, Tom, Nik and Drew Brodfuehrer; Luis Clay, Bud and Mickey Dick, Tom Dinder, Pat Dyer, Kathleen Dove, Ellen Duffy, Allan Frank, Fr. Bob Gebhard, Sue Insana, Amy Johnson, Dorothy Manuppelli, Kathy Press, Colleen Schroeder, Joe Strusienski and Palma Zanghi for all their hard work. We hope you will join them in “building a manger” and other Christmas decorating tasks on Monday, December 18, beginning at 6:30pm. Please use the ramp side entrance to the church.

Bible Study ~ The group will then be taking a break for Christmas, with NO meetings on December 19 or December 26. ZOOM classes and the discussion of Mark’s Gospel will resume on Tuesday, January 2, 2024. Click HERE to join us on Tuesdays.

The Ladies Sodality completed their Christmas project with plants and cards ready for distribution to homebound parishioners.

Our Ladies Sodality is very thankful for each of you who donated to this year’s collection for the homebound. Due to your generosity, twenty-one individuals received Christmas gifts from their “Blessed Trinity Parish Family” including Mass cards, grocery store gift cards and—for the first time since 2019—a flowering plant. Special thanks to all those who helped along the way: shopping, wrapping and labeling, carrying plants into church and personally delivering the cards and flowers in time for Christmas.

Many thanks to Amy Johnson, Dan Korchowsky and Bud Dick for everything they did in facilitating Sister Karen Klimczak’s Christmas Package Prison Project for 2023. Except for the pandemic years, volunteers have met at Blessed Trinity each December since 2007 and filled from 1,000 to 2,000 gift bags for men and women incarcerated at three area prisons. It’s a monumental task made possible by many community volunteers.

Confirmation for the candidates of our Parish Family, including Blessed Trinity’s Ogechi Iheke, took place on Monday evening, November 27, at St. Lawrence. The joy-filled service was followed by a reception for the candidates and congregation. We congratulate Ms. Iheki and thank the combined choirs of St. Lawrence and Blessed Trinity for enhancing the service with song.

Food Pantry Returns to Shopper’s Choice ~ The Catholic Central Helping Hands Food Pantry, which operates from our St. Charles Hall at 350 Dewey Avenue, is now operating EVERY Wednesday from 9:30am – 1:30pm. Residents of 14214 & 14215 are welcome to help themselves, according to household size, to portions of carbohydrates, grains, proteins and canned vegetables. Bread and sweets generally available. Baby needs in stock also. Call (716) 800-1075 or email ccfp14215 [at] gmail [dot] com for information.

We play Bingo every Thursday in St. Charles Hall, 350 Dewey Ave. Doors open at 6:30pm, concessions open at 7:30, and games begin at 8:00pm. Please plan to join us. You can check the latest carryover figures on our Facebook page.

FAMILY PROMISE OF WNY: Feed the Hungry, Shelter the HomelessFamily Promise offers us the opportunity to perform these acts of charity in a very direct and personal manner. As a support congregation, Blessed Trinity parishioners purchase and deliver groceries to the Family Promise shelter at Ss. Brigid-Columba Parish. With a few more volunteers we could continue this corporal work of mercy at least one day a month. Working in pairs, you could anticipate your turn to occur every third month. We hope you will join us. If you want more background information go to the web site, www.fpwny.org, or contact Amy Johnson (716-836-4694).

  • Family Promise is certified by NYS and can house up to six families.
  • It is one of only two emergency shelters in Erie County that allow fathers and teenage sons to stay with their family.
  • Families are referred by the Dept. of Social Services and receive case management in finding employment and permanent housing, security deposit assistance, day care, school transport, and follow up support upon leaving the shelter.
  • In 2020, the Homeless Alliance of WNY rated Family Promise with the best success rate for moving families into permanent homes.

Pastor Emeritus, Rev. George L. Reger ~ The Mass of Christian Burial for Father Reger was celebrated at Blessed Trinity on Friday, May 26. Click HERE to view a recorded version of the Mass.

Is it time to update your contact information? During the pandemic when COVID-19 Protocols prevented many from attending church services, the ability to keep in touch by telephone, mail or email took on increased importance. Because not everyone has computer access, really important information is sent in a letter. Even though you are now able to attend Mass in person, this may be a good time to ask yourself: Does the church office have my correct mailing address and phone number? Have I shared my email address? Make sure that we have been notified of any changes in your contact information by completing this form. This is also a chance to let us know if you: wish to receive the bulletin electronically via email, register as a parishioner, or request envelopes. You can also submit the requested information by phoning our secretary at 716-833-0301 any Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday between 10:30am and 2:30pm; sending an email to blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com; or using the contact feature below to submit the information. If you choose either of the last two, please use “Contact Update” as the subject of the email or message.

Enjoy a virtual tour of our Landmark house of worship, courtesy of Buffalo Rising and Explore Buffalo. By Clicking HERE, you will be treated to both exterior and interior photos and more than a little history.

Week of December 10, 2023 – 2nd Sunday of Advent

December 10 – December 17, 2023

 

Live-streaming of 10AM Sunday Mass has resumed. Click HERE.

This website also includes a “Bulletins” page where visitors may view an exact copy of the weekly bulletin and inserts in PDF format, as well as a calendar for our Family of Parishes.

News from our Parish Community

The Ladies Sodality completed their Christmas project with plants and cards ready for distribution to homebound parishioners.

Bible Study continues this Tuesday, December 12, at 4 PM. The group will then be taking a break for Christmas, with NO meetings on December 19 or December 26. ZOOM classes and the discussion of Mark’s Gospel will resume on Tuesday, January 2, 2024. Click HERE to join us on Tuesdays.

Cleaning and Decorating for Christmas ~ A wonderful team of volunteers turned out as early as 8am on Saturday, December 9, to clean our church for Christmas. Prayerful thanks to Vera Andrew, Tom, Nik and Drew Brodfuehrer; Luis Clay, Bud and Mickey Dick, Tom Dinder, Pat Dyer, Kathleen Dove, Ellen Duffy, Allan Frank, Fr. Bob Gebhard, Sue Insana, Amy Johnson, Dorothy Manuppelli, Kathy Press, Colleen Schroeder, Joe Strusienski and Palma Zanghi for all their hard work. We hope you will join them in “building a manger” and other Christmas decorating tasks on Monday, December 18, beginning at 6:30pm. Please use the ramp side entrance to the church.

The officers and directors of our Ladies Sodality wish to thank everyone who contributed to the 2023 collection for our parish homebound and those in senior care facilities. They are especially grateful to those who volunteered to deliver plants, grocery store gift cards and Mass cards to twenty senior men and women. Thanks to your generosity and an early season “push” by the Sodality, everything was ready for distribution by Sunday, December 10.

Christmas Concert ~ On Sunday, December 17, at 4pm, the choir of our sister parish, St. Martin dePorres, will present a Christmas concert at their church, located at 555 Northampton Street.

Prison Project volunteers fill gift bags at Blessed Trinity on Dec 1, 2023.
Photo credit: Margaret Dick

Many thanks to Amy Johnson, Dan Korchowsky and Bud Dick for everything they did in facilitating Sister Karen Klimczak’s Christmas Package Prison Project for 2023. Except for the pandemic years, volunteers have met at Blessed Trinity each December since 2007 and filled from 1,000 to 2,000 gift bags for men and women incarcerated at three area prisons. It’s a monumental task made possible by many community volunteers.

Confirmation for the candidates of our Parish Family, including Blessed Trinity’s Ogechi Iheke, took place on Monday evening, November 27, at St. Lawrence. The joy-filled service was followed by a reception for the candidates and congregation. We congratulate Ms. Iheki and thank the combined choirs of St. Lawrence and Blessed Trinity for enhancing the service with song.

Food Pantry Returns to Shopper’s Choice ~ The Catholic Central Helping Hands Food Pantry, which operates from our St. Charles Hall at 350 Dewey Avenue, is now operating EVERY Wednesday from 9:30am – 1:30pm. Residents of 14214 & 14215 are welcome to help themselves, according to household size, to portions of carbohydrates, grains, proteins and canned vegetables. Bread and sweets generally available. Baby needs in stock also. Call (716) 800-1075 or email ccfp14215 [at] gmail [dot] com for information.

We play Bingo every Thursday in St. Charles Hall, 350 Dewey Ave. Doors open at 6:30pm, concessions open at 7:30, and games begin at 8:00pm. Please plan to join us. You can check the latest carryover figures on our Facebook page.

FAMILY PROMISE OF WNY: Feed the Hungry, Shelter the HomelessFamily Promise offers us the opportunity to perform these acts of charity in a very direct and personal manner. As a support congregation, Blessed Trinity parishioners purchase and deliver groceries to the Family Promise shelter at Ss. Brigid-Columba Parish. With a few more volunteers we could continue this corporal work of mercy at least one day a month. Working in pairs, you could anticipate your turn to occur every third month. We hope you will join us. If you want more background information go to the web site, www.fpwny.org, or contact Amy Johnson (716-836-4694).

  • Family Promise is certified by NYS and can house up to six families.
  • It is one of only two emergency shelters in Erie County that allow fathers and teenage sons to stay with their family.
  • Families are referred by the Dept. of Social Services and receive case management in finding employment and permanent housing, security deposit assistance, day care, school transport, and follow up support upon leaving the shelter.
  • In 2020, the Homeless Alliance of WNY rated Family Promise with the best success rate for moving families into permanent homes.

Pastor Emeritus, Rev. George L. Reger ~ The Mass of Christian Burial for Father Reger was celebrated at Blessed Trinity on Friday, May 26. Click HERE to view a recorded version of the Mass.

Is it time to update your contact information? During the pandemic when COVID-19 Protocols prevented many from attending church services, the ability to keep in touch by telephone, mail or email took on increased importance. Because not everyone has computer access, really important information is sent in a letter. Even though you are now able to attend Mass in person, this may be a good time to ask yourself: Does the church office have my correct mailing address and phone number? Have I shared my email address? Make sure that we have been notified of any changes in your contact information by completing this form. This is also a chance to let us know if you: wish to receive the bulletin electronically via email, register as a parishioner, or request envelopes. You can also submit the requested information by phoning our secretary at 716-833-0301 any Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday between 10:30am and 2:30pm; sending an email to blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com; or using the contact feature below to submit the information. If you choose either of the last two, please use “Contact Update” as the subject of the email or message.

Enjoy a virtual tour of our Landmark house of worship, courtesy of Buffalo Rising and Explore Buffalo. By Clicking HERE, you will be treated to both exterior and interior photos and more than a little history.

St. Lucy
December 13
Lucy was born into a noble family in Syracuse, Sicily, and martyred in the year 304 during the persecution of Emperor Diocletian. During the Middle Ages, people suffering from eye trouble began invoking Lucy’s aid because her name is derived from the Latin word for “light” (lux). She is the second kneeling figure on the right (holding lilies) as depicted in Joseph Mazur’s mural of “virgins and widows” in our church’s great dome.
Photo credit: Gary Kelley.

Week of December 3, 2023 – 1st Sunday of Advent

December 3 – December 10, 2023

 

Live-streaming of 10AM Sunday Mass has resumed. Click HERE.

This website also includes a “Bulletins” page where visitors may view an exact copy of the weekly bulletin and inserts in PDF format, as well as a calendar for our Family of Parishes.

News from our Parish Community

Bishop Michael Fisher confers the Sacrament of Confirmation on candidate from Blessed Trinity at St. Lawrence Church on Nov 27, 2023.

Bible Study resumes this Tuesday, December 5, at 4 PM. We are returning to Tuesday ZOOM classes during Advent and will continue discussing the Gospel of Mark following last month’s introduction by Deacon Don Weigel. Click HERE to join us on Tuesdays.

Friday, December 8, we commemorate the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is a Holyday of Obligation and Mass will be celebrated at 11am at Blessed Trinity and at 7pm at Ss. Columba-Brigid.

Cleaning for Christmas — Many volunteers are needed to clean our church this Saturday, December 9, from 9am – 12 Noon. The early start time is necessary because of an afternoon wedding. Cleaning products and rags are provided but bring your favorite tools; e.g., pails, rubber gloves, long-handled dusters, small vacuums. Your reward will be great AND you will be treated to lunch in St. Charles Hall when our task is completed. Please enter through the ramp side door.

Remembering our HomeboundNext Sunday, December 10, is the deadline for contributing to the Sodality’s collection for our homebound parishioners and those in senior care facilities. You may drop your donation in the collection basket in an envelope marked “Sodality Project”; checks should be payable to “Ladies Sodality of Blessed Trinity.” We don’t want anyone to be forgotten, so please call Barb in the office by Wednesday, Dec. 6, with the name of anyone you believe should be included. She can be reached Mon-Wed, 10:30a-2:30p, at 716-833-0301. Many thanks to those who have already contributed. Please call Mickey Dick (716-832-2540) If you can spend a few minutes between now and Christmas visiting with one of our parishioner-recipients.

Prison Project volunteers fill gift bags at Blessed Trinity on Dec 1, 2023.
Photo credit: Margaret Dick

Many thanks to Amy Johnson, Dan Korchowsky and Bud Dick for everything they did in facilitating Sister Karen Klimczak’s Christmas Package Prison Project for 2023. Except for the pandemic years, volunteers have met at Blessed Trinity each December since 2007 and filled from 1,000 to 2,000 gift bags for men and women incarcerated at three area prisons. It’s a monumental task made possible by many community volunteers.

Confirmation for the candidates of our Parish Family, including Blessed Trinity’s Ogechi Iheke, took place on Monday evening, November 27, at St. Lawrence. The joy-filled service was followed by a reception for the candidates and congregation. We congratulate Ms. Iheki and thank the combined choirs of St. Lawrence and Blessed Trinity for enhancing the service with song.

Food Pantry Returns to Shopper’s Choice ~ The Catholic Central Helping Hands Food Pantry, which operates from our St. Charles Hall at 350 Dewey Avenue, is now operating EVERY Wednesday from 9:30am – 1:30pm. Residents of 14214 & 14215 are welcome to help themselves, according to household size, to portions of carbohydrates, grains, proteins and canned vegetables. Bread and sweets generally available. Baby needs in stock also. Call (716) 800-1075 or email ccfp14215 [at] gmail [dot] com for information.

We play Bingo every Thursday in St. Charles Hall, 350 Dewey Ave. Doors open at 6:30pm, concessions open at 7:30, and games begin at 8:00pm. Please plan to join us. You can check the latest carryover figures on our Facebook page.

FAMILY PROMISE OF WNY: Feed the Hungry, Shelter the HomelessFamily Promise offers us the opportunity to perform these acts of charity in a very direct and personal manner. As a support congregation, Blessed Trinity parishioners purchase and deliver groceries to the Family Promise shelter at Ss. Brigid-Columba Parish. With a few more volunteers we could continue this corporal work of mercy at least one day a month. Working in pairs, you could anticipate your turn to occur every third month. We hope you will join us. If you want more background information go to the web site, www.fpwny.org, or contact Amy Johnson (716-836-4694).

  • Family Promise is certified by NYS and can house up to six families.
  • It is one of only two emergency shelters in Erie County that allow fathers and teenage sons to stay with their family.
  • Families are referred by the Dept. of Social Services and receive case management in finding employment and permanent housing, security deposit assistance, day care, school transport, and follow up support upon leaving the shelter.
  • In 2020, the Homeless Alliance of WNY rated Family Promise with the best success rate for moving families into permanent homes.

Pastor Emeritus, Rev. George L. Reger ~ The Mass of Christian Burial for Father Reger was celebrated at Blessed Trinity on Friday, May 26. Click HERE to view a recorded version of the Mass.

Is it time to update your contact information? During the pandemic when COVID-19 Protocols prevented many from attending church services, the ability to keep in touch by telephone, mail or email took on increased importance. Because not everyone has computer access, really important information is sent in a letter. Even though you are now able to attend Mass in person, this may be a good time to ask yourself: Does the church office have my correct mailing address and phone number? Have I shared my email address? Make sure that we have been notified of any changes in your contact information by completing this form. This is also a chance to let us know if you: wish to receive the bulletin electronically via email, register as a parishioner, or request envelopes. You can also submit the requested information by phoning our secretary at 716-833-0301 any Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday between 10:30am and 2:30pm; sending an email to blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com; or using the contact feature below to submit the information. If you choose either of the last two, please use “Contact Update” as the subject of the email or message.

Enjoy a virtual tour of our Landmark house of worship, courtesy of Buffalo Rising and Explore Buffalo. By Clicking HERE, you will be treated to both exterior and interior photos and more than a little history.

Our outdoor statue of Mary, dedicated to her under the title of the Immaculate Conception, originally stood at St. Gerard’s Church. It was relocated to Blessed Trinity and rededicated in 2009.
Photo credit: Margaret Dick

Week of November 26, 2023 – Christ the King

Detail of church’s stained glass skylight, the theme of which is Christ the King. “The central panel shows Christ reigning as Lord of the kingdom that we pray will come.” Surrounding panels contain figures of angels and symbols both of Christ’s suffering and His glorification.
Photo credit: Jeannette Pikturna

November 26 – December 3, 2023

Live-streaming of 10AM Sunday Mass has resumed. Click HERE.

This website also includes a “Bulletins” page where visitors may view an exact copy of the weekly bulletin and inserts in PDF format, as well as a calendar for our Family of Parishes.

News from our Parish Community

Assembly of gift bags for Prison Project

Assembly of gift bags for 2023 Prison Project will take place this Friday, December 1. Volunteers are needed in church from 10am to 12pm and again from 6-9pm.
“The king will say to those on his right…Come, …[i]nherit the kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. For I was…in prison and you visited me.” Mt. 25:34-35, 36.
2010 Photo by Derek Gee,
The Buffalo News.

Confirmation for the candidates of our Parish Family will take place on Monday evening, November 27, at St. Lawrence. Please pray for the young men and women who will be deepening their commitment to our faith.

Remembering our Homebound – Chances are, there are members of our congregation who do not enjoy the same level of mobility as they did a year ago. If you are aware of someone who should be included when parishioners visit our homebound, please call Barb in the office at 716-833-0301, Mon-Wed, 10:30a-2:30p. Many thanks to those who have already contributed to the Ladies Sodality’s Christmas remembrance project. We need time to shop and arrange delivery, so please drop your donation in the collection basket in an envelope marked “Sodality Project” no later than Dec. 10. Checks should be payable to “Ladies Sodality of Blessed Trinity.”

Many thanks to Deacon Don Weigel who met with our Bible Study group on November 14 and introduced us to The Gospel of St. Mark. A discussion of Mark’s Gospel  will continue when Tuesday ZOOM Bible Study resumes in December.

Food Pantry Returns to Shopper’s Choice ~ The Catholic Central Helping Hands Food Pantry, which operates from our St. Charles Hall at 350 Dewey Avenue, is now operating EVERY Wednesday from 9:30am – 1:30pm. Residents of 14214 & 14215 are welcome to help themselves, according to household size, to portions of carbohydrates, grains, proteins and canned vegetables. Bread and sweets generally available. Baby needs in stock also. Call (716) 800-1075 or email ccfp14215 [at] gmail [dot] com for information.

We play Bingo every Thursday in St. Charles Hall, 350 Dewey Ave. Doors open at 6:30pm, concessions open at 7:30, and games begin at 8:00pm. Please plan to join us. You can check the latest carryover figures on our Facebook page.

FAMILY PROMISE OF WNY: Feed the Hungry, Shelter the HomelessFamily Promise offers us the opportunity to perform these acts of charity in a very direct and personal manner. As a support congregation, Blessed Trinity parishioners purchase and deliver groceries to the Family Promise shelter at Ss. Brigid-Columba Parish. With a few more volunteers we could continue this corporal work of mercy at least one day a month. Working in pairs, you could anticipate your turn to occur every third month. We hope you will join us. If you want more background information go to the web site, www.fpwny.org, or contact Amy Johnson (716-836-4694).

  • Family Promise is certified by NYS and can house up to six families.
  • It is one of only two emergency shelters in Erie County that allow fathers and teenage sons to stay with their family.
  • Families are referred by the Dept. of Social Services and receive case management in finding employment and permanent housing, security deposit assistance, day care, school transport, and follow up support upon leaving the shelter.
  • In 2020, the Homeless Alliance of WNY rated Family Promise with the best success rate for moving families into permanent homes.

Pastor Emeritus, Rev. George L. Reger ~ The Mass of Christian Burial for Father Reger was celebrated at Blessed Trinity on Friday, May 26. Click HERE to view a recorded version of the Mass.

Is it time to update your contact information? During the pandemic when COVID-19 Protocols prevented many from attending church services, the ability to keep in touch by telephone, mail or email took on increased importance. Because not everyone has computer access, really important information is sent in a letter. Even though you are now able to attend Mass in person, this may be a good time to ask yourself: Does the church office have my correct mailing address and phone number? Have I shared my email address? Make sure that we have been notified of any changes in your contact information by completing this form. This is also a chance to let us know if you: wish to receive the bulletin electronically via email, register as a parishioner, or request envelopes. You can also submit the requested information by phoning our secretary at 716-833-0301 any Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday between 10:30am and 2:30pm; sending an email to blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com; or using the contact feature below to submit the information. If you choose either of the last two, please use “Contact Update” as the subject of the email or message.

Enjoy a virtual tour of our Landmark house of worship, courtesy of Buffalo Rising and Explore Buffalo. By Clicking HERE, you will be treated to both exterior and interior photos and more than a little history.

Mass on Thanksgiving morning ended with the distribution of loaves of bread
to be shared at family tables.
Photo credit: Margaret Dick