This Week Archives - Page 60 of 120 - Blessed Trinity Church

Week of June 30, 2019 – 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Jun 30, 2019 | This Week

St. Thomas, Apostle
July 3
The feast day of St. Thomas, the apostle, is celebrated on July 3. He appears in Joseph Mazur’s depiction of the evangelists and apostles in our church’s great dome. Thomas is pictured here, the fourth figure from the right, holding a carpenter’s square. It is a symbol of his profession, that of a builder.
Photo credit: Gary Kelley

June 30 – July 7, 2019

Weekly Activities

Sunday, June 30 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Coffee Hour hosted by the Choir

Wednesday, July 3 from 12:00 noon – 4:00 p.m. ~ Catholic Central Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall (Food Pantry operates every Wednesday from Noon-4pm)

Thursday, July 4 ~ Independence Day Holiday ~ NO BINGO

Saturday, July 6 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

Sunday, July 7 following Mass ~ Liturgy committee meeting

*To check the Red, White & Blue and progressive Share-the-Wealth carry over amounts and progressive numbers for this week, click HERE and visit our Facebook page.

Mass Intentions

Sunday , June 30 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Thanksgiving for Edward Wilbert (Requested by “Sam”) and God’s Blessings for the Anniversary of Jimmie and Mildred Porter (Requested by the Family)

Monday, July 1 ~ St. Junipero Serra ~ No Service

Tuesday, July 2 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Wednesday, July 3 ~ St. Thomas, Apostle ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Thursday, July 4 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – In Memory of Alice Rose Schroeder (Colleen Schroeder)

Friday, July 5 ~ First Friday Adoration, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction from 8:00 – 11:00 a.m. in the Daily Mass Chapel

Friday, July 5 ~ St. Anthony Zaccaria, St. Elizabeth of Portugal ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – For the intentions of our parishioners, both living and deceased (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Saturday, July 6 ~ St. Maria Goretti ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Blessings for the Duncan Family (St. Nicholas, RCC)

Sunday July 7 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – For the intentions of our parishioners, both living and deceased (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, June 29/30, 2019:

Saturday, 4:30 p.m. Reader: John Curtin; Eucharistic Minister: Lucille Venezia

Sunday, 10:00 a.m. Readers: Sr. Liz Savage, Pam Zanghi; Eucharistic Ministers: Fran Cahill, Pat Hartinger

St. Thomas the Apostle, is also represented by the lance and staff, shown here (second from right) in one of the 45 decorated roofline corbels on the church facade.
Photo credit: Gary Kelley

News from our Parish Community

The Annual Mission Cooperative Plan Sunday is June 30. We welcome Sr. Gaudiosa Fidelis who will speak on behalf of the Sisters of St. Bernadette and their work in Africa. Please give generously to support their mission and be part of it. We will take up collections for the Mission Cooperative this weekend and on July 6/7.

Birthday Blessing for all those born during the month of June will take place at Mass on Sunday, June 30.

Monthly Anointing of the sick and well-aging will take place after Mass on Sunday, June 30, followed by Coffee Hour being hosted by the Choir. (This will be our last monthly coffee hour until September).

Anything but Ordinary ~ We are back to Ordinary Time in the liturgical calendar, but our music at Blessed Trinity is anything but routine! We have switched our Mass Setting back to the Mass of Creation, which begins with #871 in our Breaking Bread hymnal. You may have noticed there is a vertical number on our hymn board in the Sanctuary. That number represents the Mass Setting, which is the music we sing for the Gloria, Holy Holy, Mystery of Faith, Great Amen and Lamb of God. This music changes with the seasons, and we try to use Mass Settings that are included in our hymnals to encourage congregational singing.

The choir is taking a well-deserved break over the summer, but there is always room in the loft for people who want to contribute to our Liturgy through a music ministry. If you are curious as to how the ministry works or are thinking about contributing your talents to our parish, you are welcome to climb the stairs into the loft and check it out. We are always looking for ways to make our Liturgy even more meaningful, and whether you have a favorite hymn you would like sung at Mass or would like to join the choir, your presence and input are welcome.

Choir practice will resume in September and everyone is welcome to participate – no musical experience necessary! Please join the choir after Sunday Mass this week for the coffee hour in St. Charles Hall as we celebrate their commitment to our church. Thank you! … Elizabeth

On Thursday, July 4, the Rectory Office will be closed in observance of Independence Day. Please submit Bulletin announcements for July 6/7 by the morning of Tuesday, July 2.

Friday, July 5 is First Friday. Join in Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in the Daily Mass Chapel from 8:00 – 10:45 a.m., followed by Benediction and daily Mass.

The Liturgy Committee will meet following Mass on Sunday, July 7.

Commissioning Ceremony ~ On Sunday, July 14, parishioners Fidelia Ejimadu, Antoinette Maus, and Palma Zanghi will receive a special blessing and be commissioned as Eucharistic Ministers to serve our congregation. Please join in thanking and congratulating the women who have successfully completed the diocesan training requirements to become Eucharistic Ministers.

Good news about staying connected ~ Have you visited www.blessedtrinitybuffalo.org lately? It’s been a decade since our parish launched its web site, and seven years since its first makeover. Since that time, mobile devices have become the dominant way to access websites. In fact, when parish council member Nik Brodfuehrer reviewed our usage stats, he found that 50% of our present users access the site from a cell phone or tablet. Unfortunately, sites like ours with their older design did not “flex” to fit small screens, necessitating a second upgrade. Our revamped site debuted right before Easter, and we encourage you to take a look. Whether you check in with your cellphone, tablet or desktop computer, we hope you like our new look. Mass times, office and food pantry hours, bingo schedules, and an easy-to-use contact form are visible at first glance. Looking for the type of information normally found in the bulletin? Just click on the post with the current week’s date; e.g., “Week of June 30, 2019 ~ 13th Sunday of Ordinary Time.” In addition to scheduled activities, coming events, and Mass intentions, you’ll also find examples of church symbolism and artwork relating to the week’s readings or feast days. While you are away on vacation this summer, stay in touch with your parish family by visiting www.blessedtrinitybuffalo.org.

The Ibhawa Family thanks everyone who came out to support them during the wedding celebration of Osaze and Bethany last Saturday, June 22, and all who attended the live music and luncheon after Sunday Mass. May God bless you abundantly.

Father George Reger is now undergoing rehabilitation at the McAuley Residence, 1503 Military Road, Kenmore, NY 14217. We are sure he would appreciate your prayers, cards and notes of encouragement as he works to regain his strength.

Blessed Trinity Needs Your Help! We’re not asking for money, but for something maybe even more valuable: a little bit of your TIME. Just a bit. ONE or TWO nights a month that will really help your parish. Our most recent financial report shows the importance of BINGO. Clearly, this fundraiser is essential for our parish’s financial health. Just as clearly, it needs broad parish support in the way of MORE workers. We have Bingo every Thursday and Saturday night. Can you PLEASE commit to one or two nights a month? You can start simply by helping to sell things and — as you learn the routine — cross-train for other essential tasks. Our friendly team of workers stands ready to help you. Please contact Kathy Press at 716-445-8160 for more information. Your Parish Bingo Team thanks you!

Our Kids Parent Education and Awareness Program (OKPEAP) is a Catholic Charities program available to families who are experiencing conflict related to custody issues. Visit ccwny.org/okpeap.

Do you know that Mass is the highest and greatest form of prayer? The Catechism of the Catholic Church reveals that “from the very earliest days of the Christian religion, [the Church] has honored with great respect the memory of the dead.” In its reference to the Second Vatican Council’s conclusion that “it is a wholly and a wholesome thought to pray for the dead that they may be loosed from their sins,” the Catechism adds: “Our prayer for them is capable of not only helping them, but also of making their intercession for us effective.” Consider contacting the church office (716-833-0301) to request a Mass for yourself, your deceased loved ones, or for any intention. The stipend is $15.

Presentation of Offertory Gifts ~ For those who have requested a Mass and would like to present the Offertory gifts, please see Head Usher, Ed Marien, prior to Mass. This also applies to those whose family members are being remembered during the Liturgy.

Is it time to update your contact information? We know that not everyone can attend church every weekend, so when there is important information to be shared, we often mail it. If you have not received some of our recent mailings, please make sure that we have your correct contact information by completing this form. This is also a chance to let us know if you: wish to be included in our online email list, register as a parishioner, or request envelopes. You can also submit the requested information by phoning our secretary at 716-833-0301 any Tuesday-Thursday between 10:30am and 2:30pm; sending an email to blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com; or Clicking HERE to use the contact feature of our web site to submit the information. If you choose either of the last two, please use “Contact Update” as the subject of the email or message.

Home Visits ~ Please notify the church office if you know of aged, sick, or homebound parishioners who may wish to receive a visit and the Eucharist on the last Friday of each month.

Symbols representing phrases from the Litany of the Most Sacred Heart appear above the side altar dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Top, left-right: throne (Infinite Majesty), temple (Sacred Temple of God), tabernacle (tent) in the desert (Tabernacle of the Most High); Bottom, l-r: open gates (House of God and Gate of Heaven), flaming furnace (Furnace of Charity)
Photo credit: Char Szabo-Perricelli

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

The Ignatian Volunteer Corps (“IVC”) of Buffalo seeks new members this Fall. Ignatian volunteers are men and women (age 50+) who spend a few hours each week in service to those in need. IVC volunteers share their expertise, life skills, and their hope — while learning to pray and reflect in the Ignatian tradition. If you wish to explore this further, please contact the Volunteer Director, Minnie Wyse, at 716-854-6726, email mwyse [at] ivcusa [dot] org or visit ivcusa.org.

St. Mary’s High School Summer Camps (142 Laverack Avenue in Lancaster) ~ Register now for boys and girls age 5+ at bheist [at] smhlancers [dot] org.

Clarence Summer Art & Plein Air Festival ~ Saturday July 13, 10am-5pm. Painters, vendors, food trucks, and music in Clarence Town Park (10405 Main Street, Clarence), along with tours of the Clarence History Museum and Club House tours. Contact clarencearts [at] gmail [dot] com for information.

Queen of Heaven Carnival 2019 ~ Friday-Sunday July 12, 13, 14 at 4220 Seneca Street & Mill Road in West Seneca with Super Cruz Night on Thursday, July 11, 4-10pm. Find out more at rectory [at] qofhchurch [dot] org or QofHcarnival.com.

Corpus Christi Sunday – Week of June 23, 2019

Jun 24, 2019 | This Week

The Body of Christ, or “Corpus Christi,” is well-represented in art and symbols throughout our church. Ceramic pieces within the bronze decorations on the altar railing contain Latin phrases from the Sequence (hymn) for the Mass of Corpus Christi by St. Thomas Aquinas. The words shown here mean “Bread of Angels,” and are from the sentence “Ecce panis angelorum factus cibus viatorum – “Behold, the Bread of Angels is made into food for pilgrims” – which is spelled out on the left side of the railing as one faces the Sanctuary.
Photo credit: Margaret Dick

June 23 – June 30, 2019

Weekly Activities

Wednesday, June 26 from 12:00 noon – 4:00 p.m. ~ Catholic Central Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall (Food Pantry operates every Wednesday from Noon-4pm)

Thursday, June 27 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

Saturday, June 29 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

Sunday, June 30 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Coffee Hour hosted by the Choir

*To check the Red, White & Blue and progressive Share-the-Wealth carry over amounts and progressive numbers for this week, click HERE and visit our Facebook page.

Mass Intentions

Sunday , June 23 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – God’s Blessings for Mary A. White (Penny Schick) and Thanksgiving for Ozy’s Graduation and Wedding Celebration (The Ibhawa Family)

Monday, June 24 ~ Nativity of St. John the Baptist ~ No Service

Tuesday, June 25 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – John F. Curtin (The Family)

Wednesday, June 26 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Thursday, June 27 ~ St. Cyril of Alexandria ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – For the intentions of our parishioners, both living and deceased (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Friday, June 28 ~ Most Sacred Heart of Jesus ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Saturday, June 29 ~ Ss. Peter & Paul ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Seta Chapman (Lola)

Sunday June 30 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Thanksgiving for Edward Wilbert (“Sam”) and God’s Blessings for the Anniversary of Jimmie and Mildred Porter (The Family)

Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, June 29/30, 2019:

Saturday, 4:30 p.m. Reader: John Curtin; Eucharistic Minister: Lorna Cameron

Sunday, 10:00 a.m. Readers: Bob Heicklen, Richard Plunkett; Eucharistic Ministers: Dan Korchowsky, Mary Kresse, Bernice Bradley

The Body of Christ, or “Corpus Christi,” is well-represented in art and symbols throughout our church. For example, the Gospel read at Mass on the Feast of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi) is Luke’s account of the miracle of the loaves and fishes, and a depiction of this scene appears in a ceramic relief by P. Kuhnle over the main door in the church’s nave.
Photo credit: Margaret Dick

News from our Parish Community

Monthly Anointing of the sick and well-aging will take place after Mass on Sunday, June 30.

Coffee Hour hosted by the Choir will take place in St. Charles Hall after Mass on Sunday, June 30. (This will be our last monthly coffee hour until September).

God Be With You ’til We Meet Again ~ The choir will be taking the summer off from the loft. They have earned some rest, and the loft temperatures soar in the summer, making beautiful music-making difficult.This week’s meditation was an old favorite requested by choir member Vera Andrew. It was re-discovered during a search through the music archives previously housed in the loft – and hasn’t been sung at BT in many years. Grayson Warren Brown is an internationally known liturgical composer, author, recording artist, and speaker who has published many collections of liturgical compositions. He began his liturgical ministry in the late 1960’s in a small inner-city parish in New York City. It was there that he learned how significant an authentic and spirit-filled experience of worship can be to those in need of hope. Forty years of experience working with multicultural parishes throughout the United States and abroad have given him a unique insight into the power that good liturgy can instill in people of all races and cultures. Grayson is now dividing his time between writing, composing, and traveling the country presenting workshops, speaking at conventions and conducting parish missions and revivals. His down-to-earth approach to liturgy and scripture, coupled with his dynamic speaking style, have made him one of the most sought after presenters in the United States today. His rendition of Holy, Holy was written in 1979 and hopefully filled you with the Spirit as we head into the summer liturgies and Ordinary Time. Choir practice will resume in September and everyone is welcome to participate – no musical experience necessary! … Elizabeth

The Mission Cooperative Plan collection will take place on June 29/30 and not on July 6/7 as indicated on the printed envelope. Sr. Gaudiosa Fidelis will speak on behalf of The Mission Coooperative. A few words about their mission…

Missionaries of Africa from Canada founded the Congregation of Franciscan Sisters of St. Bernadette in 1958 in Tanzania, East Africa. The Congregation works in the steps of the founder, which is to preach the Good News to all people, primarily in Tanzania and the USA through teaching and other activities. Currently, the congregation has 220 professed members. We live the Franciscan spirit by loving and accepting all God’s creatures as gifts. We are close to the people and participate according to the needs of the time by rendering pastoral and social services especially by teaching in schools, taking care of the orphans, the hospitalized, HIV/ADIS victims, refugees, women groups, children, the disabled, lepers, widows, and widowers. The greatest challenge for our congregation’s orphanage is a shortage of funds for food, clothes, school fees and medical services. The community has been struggling for four years to build St. Bonaventure English Medium school. The good news is that two classrooms, an administration block, and one dormitory for the girls and boys are already in use. Our next priority is to build two additional classrooms and one dining room for unprivileged children whom we serve. We believe that a good basic education will empower the children so that they will able to carry on their own lives in the future.

Please give generously to next weekend’s special collection using the Mission Cooperative Plan envelope.

Father George Reger is now undergoing rehabilitation at the McAuley Residence, 1503 Military Road, Kenmore, NY 14217. We are sure he would appreciate your prayers, cards and notes of encouragement as he works to regain his strength.

The Catholic Charities 2019 Appeal ends this month! No gift is too small. Donation envelopes can be on the tables by the church doors.

Blessed Trinity Needs Your Help! We’re not asking for money, but for something maybe even more valuable: a little bit of your TIME. Just a bit. ONE or TWO nights a month that will really help your parish. Our most recent financial report shows the importance of BINGO. Clearly, this fundraiser is essential for our parish’s financial health. Just as clearly, it needs broad parish support in the way of MORE workers. We have Bingo every Thursday and Saturday night. Can you PLEASE commit to one or two nights a month? You can start simply by helping to sell things and — as you learn the routine — cross-train for other essential tasks. Our friendly team of workers stands ready to help you. Please contact Kathy Press at 716-445-8160 for more information. Your Parish Bingo Team thanks you!

Our Kids Parent Education and Awareness Program (OKPEAP) is a Catholic Charities program available to families who are experiencing conflict related to custody issues. Visit ccwny.org/okpeap.

Do you know that Mass is the highest and greatest form of prayer? The Catechism of the Catholic Church reveals that “from the very earliest days of the Christian religion, [the Church] has honored with great respect the memory of the dead.” In its reference to the Second Vatican Council’s conclusion that “it is a wholly and a wholesome thought to pray for the dead that they may be loosed from their sins,” the Catechism adds: “Our prayer for them is capable of not only helping them, but also of making their intercession for us effective.” Consider contacting the church office (716-833-0301) to request a Mass for yourself, your deceased loved ones, or for any intention. The stipend is $15.

Presentation of Offertory Gifts ~ For those who have requested a Mass and would like to present the Offertory gifts, please see Head Usher, Ed Marien, prior to Mass. This also applies to those whose family members are being remembered during the Liturgy.

Is it time to update your contact information? We know that not everyone can attend church every weekend, so when there is important information to be shared, we often mail it. If you have not received some of our recent mailings, please make sure that we have your correct contact information by completing this form. This is also a chance to let us know if you: wish to be included in our online email list, register as a parishioner, or request envelopes. You can also submit the requested information by phoning our secretary at 716-833-0301 any Tuesday-Thursday between 10:30am and 2:30pm; sending an email to blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com; or Clicking HERE to use the contact feature of our web site to submit the information. If you choose either of the last two, please use “Contact Update” as the subject of the email or message.

Home Visits ~ Please notify the church office if you know of aged, sick, or homebound parishioners who may wish to receive a visit and the Eucharist on the last Friday of each month.

The Sequence (hymn) for the Mass of Corpus Christi by St. Thomas Aquinas also references the institution of the Eucharist by Christ at the Last Supper. P. Kuhnle’s ceramic sculpture of same appears over the inside door in Blessed Trinity’s Right (West) Transept.
Photo credit: Derek Gee, Buffalo News

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

St. Mary’s High School Summer Camps (142 Laverack Avenue in Lancaster) ~ Register now for boys and girls age 5+ at bheist [at] smhlancers [dot] org.

Our Lady of Pompeii Summer Bash is Saturday June 29, 8-11pm at 158 Laverack Avenue in Lancaster, with food, beverages, and music by Badlands, a Bruce Springsteen cover band (adults 21+). The Bash will be preceded by kids activities (bounce house, mini golf, lawn games, and hotdog roast) 5:30-7:30pm. Call 716-683-6522 for tickets.

Clarence Summer Art & Plein Air Festival ~ Saturday Jul 13, 10am-5pm. Painters, vendors, food trucks, and music in Clarence Town Park (10405 Main Street, Clarence), along with tours of the Clarence History Museum and Club House tours. Contact clarencearts [at] gmail [dot] com for information.

Queen of Heaven Carnival 2019 ~ Friday-Sunday July 12, 13, 14 at 4220 Seneca Street & Mill Road in West Seneca with Super Cruz Night on Thursday, July 11, 4-10pm. Find out more at rectory [at] qofhchurch [dot] org or QofHcarnival.com.

Trinity Sunday – Week of June 16, 2019

Jun 16, 2019 | This Week

Multiple symbols of the Trinity are found in our church’s baldachino, the large canopy over the Tabernacle Altar, designed by Robert Hoffman. Among them are the Latin words “Deus Unus et Trinus” (One God in Three Persons) in the pediment, the three hands directly below (the Father “hurling” creation into existence, the Son suffering to redeem mankind, and the Spirit enlightening and sanctifying), and representation of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the semi-circular area.
Photo Credit: Gary Kelley

June 16 – June 23, 2019

Weekly Activities

Tuesday, June 18 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir rehearsal in St. Charles Hall

Wednesday, June 19 from 12:00 noon – 4:00 p.m. ~ Catholic Central Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall (Food Pantry operates every Wednesday from Noon-4pm)

Wednesday, June 19 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Parish Council Meeting in St. Charles Hall

Thursday, June 20 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

Saturday, June 22 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

Sunday, June 23 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Graduation and Wedding Thanksgiving Party hosted by Ibhawa Family in St. Charles Hall

*To check the Red, White & Blue and progressive Share-the-Wealth carry over amounts and progressive numbers for this week, click HERE and visit our Facebook page.

Mass Intentions

Sunday , June 16 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Bridget Blesnuk (Requested by Her Family) and Birthday Thanksgiving for Chaka Chapman (Requested by Mom and Family)

Monday, June 17 ~ No Service

Tuesday, June 18 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – For the intentions of our parishioners, both living and deceased (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Wednesday, June 19 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Thursday, June 20 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Friday, June 21 ~ St. Aloysius Gonzaga ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Saturday, June 22 at 1:00 p.m. ~ Wedding of Osaze (Ozy) Ibhawa and Bethany Anderson

Saturday, June 22 ~ St. John Fisher & St. Thomas More ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. – For the intentions of our parishioners, both living and deceased (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Sunday June 23 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – God’s Blessings for Mary A. White (Penny Schick) and Thanksgiving for Ozy’s Graduation and Wedding Celebration (The Ibhawa Family)

Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, June 22/23, 2019:

Saturday, 4:30 p.m. Reader: John Curtin; Eucharistic Minister: Lorna Cameron

Sunday, 10:00 a.m. Readers: Bob Heicklen, Richard Plunkett; Eucharistic Ministers: Dan Korchowsky, Mary Kresse, Bernice Bradley

St. Aloysius Gonzaga
June 21
An artist’s impression of St. Aloysius Gonzaga appears in stained glass in the Shrine Area in the church’s right (west) transept.
Photo credit: Derek Gee, Buffalo News

News from our Parish Community

Monthly Anointing of the sick and well-aging will take place after Mass on Sunday, June 16.

Feast Day Coincides with Father’s Day ~ This year our parish feast day, Trinity Sunday, coincides with the observance of Father’s Day. We ask for God the Father’s blessing on all our fathers and father-figures, both living and dead, and offer this Father’s Day Prayer:

God, bless all the fathers in the world.
Father, we ask that you guide them to be good role models and loving to their children.
We also ask that You help them to be a father like You are.
Give them grace and patience to handle situations in a loving way. Amen.

The Parish Council will meet on Wednesday, June 19, at 7pm in St. Charles Hall. This is our last regularly scheduled meeting until September, with several items on the agenda to finalize before our summer break. If you are unable to attend, please contact Mickey Dick (716-832-2540) as soon as possible.

An Unusual Psalm for our Feast Day ~ If you have ever thought psalms are repeated throughout the Liturgical Calendar, you are correct. Many of the psalms proclaimed, especially during Easter, are repeated at various times throughout the year. This week’s psalm, however, appears only once in the three-year liturgical cycle – on Most Holy Trinity Sunday during Cycle C. Its text is beautiful, and provides a wonderful framework for our identity as Blessed Trinity Parish. Next time you open your Bible, I encourage you to look at Psalm 8 – it’s worth repeating! O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth! Our final choir practice of the season will take place on June 18 at 7:00 p.m. in St. Charles Hall. All are welcome…Elizabeth

You’re Invited ~ Osaze (Ozy) Ibhawa and Bethany Anderson will be married at Blessed Trinity Church on Saturday, June 22. Many parishioners know Fr. Victor’s younger brother who once resided in the rectory and has served as both an usher and bingo worker. He and Bethany are inviting members of the parish to add to the joy of the occasion and celebrate with their family and friends by attending the 1pm ceremony. Then, on Sunday June 23, the Ibhawa Family invites the parish to join them in St. Charles Hall after Mass for a graduation and wedding thanksgiving luncheon and celebration with live music.

The Mission Cooperative Plan collection will take place on June 29/30 and not on July 6/7 as indicated on the printed envelope. Please give generously.

The Catholic Charities 2019 Appeal ends this month! No gift is too small. Donation envelopes can be on the tables by the church doors.

Prayerful thanks to our parish custodian, Dennis Pawlikowski, for his rapid response in finding an appropriate solvent and removing the graffiti that appeared on our church sign several weeks ago. We hope his quick action will deter any future incidents of vandalism.

Eucharistic Minister Training ~ If you are interested in serving as an Eucharistic Minister, please talk to Father Victor so that you can be included in the training session which is scheduled to take place in the near future.

Blessed Trinity featured on Channel 2 ~ WGRZ-TV’s Kevin O’Neill and Channel 2 photographer, Charles, visited Blessed Trinity very early Thursday morning April 25, for a live “Daybreak” feature. They also did a much lengthier Facebook Live session with members of our docent team. [Click HERE to view their video].

Blessed Trinity Needs Your Help! We’re not asking for money, but for something maybe even more valuable: a little bit of your TIME. Just a bit. ONE or TWO nights a month that will really help your parish. Our most recent financial report shows the importance of BINGO. Clearly, this fundraiser is essential for our parish’s financial health. Just as clearly, it needs broad parish support in the way of MORE workers. We have Bingo every Thursday and Saturday night. Can you PLEASE commit to one or two nights a month? You can start simply by helping to sell things and — as you learn the routine — cross-train for other essential tasks. Our friendly team of workers stands ready to help you. Please contact Kathy Press at 716-445-8160 for more information. Your Parish Bingo Team thanks you!

Our Kids Parent Education and Awareness Program (OKPEAP) is a Catholic Charities program available to families who are experiencing conflict related to custody issues. Visit ccwny.org/okpeap.

Do you know that Mass is the highest and greatest form of prayer? The Catechism of the Catholic Church reveals that “from the very earliest days of the Christian religion, [the Church] has honored with great respect the memory of the dead.” In its reference to the Second Vatican Council’s conclusion that “it is a wholly and a wholesome thought to pray for the dead that they may be loosed from their sins,” the Catechism adds: “Our prayer for them is capable of not only helping them, but also of making their intercession for us effective.” Consider contacting the church office (716-833-0301) to request a Mass for yourself, your deceased loved ones, or for any intention. The stipend is $15.

Presentation of Offertory Gifts ~ For those who have requested a Mass and would like to present the Offertory gifts, please see Head Usher, Ed Marien, prior to Mass. This also applies to those whose family members are being remembered during the Liturgy.

Is it time to update your contact information? We know that not everyone can attend church every weekend, so when there is important information to be shared, we often mail it. If you have not received some of our recent mailings, please make sure that we have your correct contact information by completing this form. This is also a chance to let us know if you: wish to be included in our online email list, register as a parishioner, or request envelopes. You can also submit the requested information by phoning our secretary at 716-833-0301 any Tuesday-Thursday between 10:30am and 2:30pm; sending an email to blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com; or Clicking HERE to use the contact feature of our web site to submit the information. If you choose either of the last two, please use “Contact Update” as the subject of the email or message.

Home Visits ~ Please notify the church office if you know of aged, sick, or homebound parishioners who may wish to receive a visit and the Eucharist on the last Friday of each month.

Restoration of the church’s front plaza area is nearing completion. Concrete has been poured and only final stair replacement remains.
Photo credit: Bud Dick

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

St. Greg’s Great Race. St. Gregory the Great Parish in Williamsville will host its 24th Annual Great Race on Friday, June 21.The 5K sanctioned Run/One-Mile Walk begins promptly at 7 pm; pre-race party begins at 6 pm, post-party with music by “Hit n Run” in the parking lot following the race. Don Postles from Channel 4 will emcee the even.. Media sponsor, 96.1 The Breeze, will broadcast live from 3-7 pm. Register at itsyourrace.com.

Pentecost Sunday – Week of June 9, 2019

Jun 9, 2019 | This Week

Pentecost Sunday
June 9, 2019
P. Kuhnle’s ceramic bas relief depiction of the descent of the Holy Spirit on Mary and the apostles over doorway in left side vestibule

June 9 – June 16, 2019

Weekly Activities

Tuesday, June 11 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir rehearsal in St. Charles Hall

Wednesday, June 12 from 12:00 noon – 4:00 p.m. ~ Catholic Central Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall (Food Pantry operates every Wednesday from Noon-4pm)

Thursday, June 13 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

Saturday, June 15 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

*To check the Red, White & Blue and progressive Share-the-Wealth carry over amounts and progressive numbers for this week, click HERE and visit our Facebook page.

Mass Intentions

Sunday , June 9 ~ Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Monday, June 10 ~ The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church ~ No Service

Tuesday, June 11 ~ St. Barnabas, Apostle ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Rita E. Curtin (Family)

Wednesday, June 12 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Thursday, June 13 ~ St. Anthony of Padua ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Birthday Thanksgiving for Gwen-do-lyn Moore

Friday, June 14 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Saturday, June 15 ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. – For the intentions of our parishioners, both living and deceased (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Sunday June 16 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Bridget Blesnuk (Her Family) and Birthday Thanksgiving for Chaka Chapman (Mom and Family)

Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, June 15/16, 2019:

Saturday, 4:30 p.m. Reader: Gary Kelley; Eucharistic Minister: Michael Ogoh

Sunday, 10:00 a.m. Readers: Fran Cahill, Grace Iheke; Eucharistic Ministers: Dan Korchowsky, Alice Davis, Pat Hartinger; Choir – Sharon Dunnigan

Parishioners (L to R) Maggie Gatson, Bud Dick, Judy Casassa & Mickey Dick celebrated with Sr. Flavia Dampf on the occasion of her 75th Jubilee.

News from our Parish Community

Prayerful thanks to our parish custodian, Dennis Pawlikowski, for his rapid response in finding an appropriate solvent and removing the graffiti that appeared on our church sign. We hope his quick action will deter any future incidents of vandalism.

Catholic Communication Collection ~ Please be generous in your support of The Catholic Communication Campaign, a special collection on the weekend of June 8/9. It’s “how the Good News gets around.”

Bearing Fruit with the Spirit of God ~ Pentecost Sunday is one of my personal favorites because of the sheer magnitude of the drama: Wind! Fire! Fear! Groaning! Gifts of the Spirit! Speaking in tongues! Flowing water! Mystery! Marvels! Your musical selections this weekend included a meditation called Spirit of God by Louis S. Valenzi, a music educator, actor, director and music minister at St. James Parish in Sewickley, Pennsylvania. The text is based on Isaiah 61, and it perfectly coincides with this weekend’s liturgical theme:

Spirit of God, rest upon me, rain down your life-giving love.
When I wake or lie down, with peace you surround me;
Spirit, come make your home in my heart.

May we all experience the fruits of the Holy Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Spirit, come make your home in our hearts! Choir practice continues June 11 at 7:00 p.m. in St. Charles Hall – all are welcome!…Elizabeth

The Parish Council will meet next Wednesday, June 19, at 7pm in St. Charles Hall. This is our last regularly scheduled meeting until September.

Sister Flavia Dampf’s 75th Jubilee ~ Many Blessed Trinity parishioners remember with affection Sr. Flavia Dampf, who worked in several capacities in our parish for more than 30 years. Since her retirement, she’s been living in the Sisters of St. Joseph residence in Clarence, where she celebrated her seventy-fifth anniversary as a Sister of Social Service at a special afternoon Mass on June 2. If you would like to send a congratulatory message to Sister Flavia, her address is 4975 Strickler Rd., Clarence, NY 14031.

Congratulations to Our Graduates ~ As you move to the next chapter of your journey from grade school, high school, college, we wish you continued success along with experiences and challenges that will enrich you and prepare you for the future.

Wedding Bells ~ Osaze (Ozy) Ibhawa and Bethany Anderson will be married at Blessed Trinity Church on Saturday, June 22, Many parishioners know Fr. Victor’s younger brother who once resided in the rectory and has served as both an usher and bingo worker. He and Bethany are inviting members of the parish to add to the joy of the occasion and celebrate with their family and friends by attending the 1pm ceremony.

The Catholic Charities 2019 Appeal ends this month! No gift is too small. Donation envelopes can be on the tables by the church doors.

Know Your Faith: A Prayer for Each of Us to Know My Vocation ~ Lord, I want to be happy in this life and spend eternity with you in the life to come. From the first moment of my existence, you knew my vocation. Please help me discover your plan for my life. Help me to know myself. Help me to overcome my fears. Help me to want what you want. Help me to trust you completely. Send your Holy Spirit into my mind and heart, so I can see the gifts you have given me and hear your call to serve the church. Increase my desire to bring others to you and help them reach heaven. Mary Most Holy, Mother of God, pray for me, that I can discover my vocation and have the courage to respond in faith. Amen. Holy Spirit! Enlighten and sanctify the Church.