Second Sunday of Easter

Apr 8, 2013 | This Week

April 7 – April 14, 2013

Easter Sanctuary. Photo credit: Margaret Dick.

Weekly Activities

Sunday, April 7 following the 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Sodality Meeting in St. Charles Hall.

Tuesday, April 9 ~ Choir Night Off; regular rehearsals resume on April 16.

Thursday, April 11 at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

Saturday, April 13 from 2:30 – 4:00 p.m. ~ Docent Training Class in St. Charles Hall.

Saturday, April 13 at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

     We now have: Red, White & Blue; carry over Bonus Ball; and a progressive Share-the-Wealth!

Sunday, April 14 from 9:30 – 10:00 a.m. ~ Choir rehearsal in church.

Mass Intentions

Sunday, April 7 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Frank McCue (Requested by Bob and Mary Kresse) and Sue Cahill (Requested by Bingo Workers)

Monday, April 8 ~ The Annunciation of the Lord ~ Communion Service at 11:00 a.m.

Tuesday, April 9 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Wednesday, April 10 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Bernard H. fix and Ruth R. Fix (Estate)

Thursday, April 11 ~ St. Staislaus ~ Mass  at 11 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Friday, April 12 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Loretta Saxer (Estate)

Saturday, April 13 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Gertrude Geiger Eagan (Jim and Gayle Eagan) and Trevor Williams (Don Williams

Sunday, April 14 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Kristian Woods (Angela Jost) and Ronald Rollek (Pauline Rollek)

News from our Parish Community

Docent Training ~ Blessed Trinity is currently recruiting additional docents to assist with its May Sacred Sites Open House, upcoming tours, and promotion of our unique edifice as a cultural tourism destination. The first of two volunteer training sessions will take place on Saturday afternoon, April 13, beginning at 2:30 p.m. in the parish hall located behind the church at 317 Leroy Avenue and concluding by 4 p.m. with a walking tour of the church. The date and time of the follow-up session will be scheduled to accommodate participants. You may register for the April 13 session by calling the church office at 716-833-0301 or leaving your contact information HERE. Please specify “Docent” as the Subject of your message. To read more about the church’s outstanding architectural features, click HERE or view “Our Beautiful House of Worship” video HERE.

The Trinity Series, “beautiful music in a beautiful space,” continues on Sunday, April 21, 2013 at 3 p.m., when the The Villa Maria Chorale, under the direction of Ireneusz Lukakszewski, performs The Peacemakers by contemporary Welsh composer Karl Jenkins. The work honors inspirational figures whose voices changed the world. Musical tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Mother Teresa, among others, are sung against rhythms and harmonies that reflect their origins and culture. Proceeds of the free-will offering will benefit The Chorale and Blessed Trinity’s Under This Roof building maintenance and restoration fund. Click HERE to learn more about The Peacemakes and The Villa Maria Chorale.

We Give Thanks ~ In addition to the  extaordinary efforts of the parish staff over the past few weeks, our parish community wishes to recognize dozens of volunteers whose contributions made our Holy Week services and activities so meaningful. They include parishioners and friends who decorated the church; Eucharistic Ministers; Lectors; choir members; greeters; ushers; and those who prepared and served food. Special recognition is owed to Bud Dick who devoted hours to shopping and food preparation for our Holy Thursday Supper of Friends and Holy Saturday reception.

Catholic Charities ~ At Catholic Charities, we rejoice with you today in the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! We also want to thank you for following the example of Appeal 2013 patron Blessed Frederic Ozanam and opening your hearts for those we serve. By giving generously to the 2013 Appeal in support of Catholic Charities, you demonstrate that you are a part of a generous community that is always there for our neighbors in need. Protect, Strengthen, Empower. Please give to the 2013 Catholic Charities Appeal. Thank you for your support! Find out more at http://www.ccwny.org or call (716) 218-1400.

Charitable Contributions ~ If you need a 2012 Statement of Contributions for income tax purposes, please contact Roy Laciura at the rectory, 716-833-0301.

Feast of the Annunciation of the Lord, April 8
Large ceramic relief in the church narthex depicting the Annunciation.
The artist, P. Kuhnle, pictures Mary being invited by the Angel Gabriel to be
the mother of the Savior. (Luke 1:26-38). Photo credit: Margaret Dick.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Bible Study at St. Columba-Brigid resumes on Tuesday, April 16.  During this Easter vacation, take time to ponder the messsage of God’s love shown during this blessed Season.

Blessed Sacrament Church, Buffalo, as part of its year-long 125th Anniversary Celebration, is pleased to welcome nationally-known syndicated columnist and author E.J. Dionne, Jr. to Buffalo on April 17, 2013. In his presentation, “Our Divided Political Heart and the Election of 2012,” Mr. Dionne will speak on how we Americans deal with the tension between two core values; i.e., our love for individualism and our reverence for community. He will speak at 8:00 p.m. at 710 Main Theater (formally Studio Arena Theatre). Tickets are priced at $20 for adults and $10 for students with ID. Tickets can be purchased at the Shea’s Buffalo Ticket Office located at 650 Main Street in downtown Buffalo; by calling Ticketmaster (1-800-745-3000); or online at www.ticketmaster.com.

Buffalo Jazz Review ~ Saturday, April 20, 2013 at 6:00 p.m. Performances by Mount St. Mary Jazz Ensemble, Depew HS Jazz Ensemble, St. Francis HS Jazz Ensemble, Tonawanda HS Jazz Ensemble and Sweet Home HS Jazz Ensemble will take place at Iris Restaurant (corner of Sweet Home Rd. & Maple Rd.). Admission: $7 presale and $9 at the door; Children under 5 are free. Call 716-877-1358 for more information or tickets.

Mass of Thanksgiving ~ The Felician Sisters invite you to a Mass of Thanksgiving in celebration of the twentieth anniversary of the Beatification of their foundress, Blessed Mary Angela Truszkowska. The Mass is scheduled for Sunday, April 28, at 2 p.m. at Villa Maria Convent Chapel, 600 Doat Street, Buffalo. Participants will also have the opportunity to recite the Litany to Blessed Mary Angela and venerate her relic immediately after the liturgy.

Easter Week 2013

Mar 31, 2013 | This Week

March 31 – April 7, 2013

The Easter Vigil Service, during the singing of the The Easter Proclamation or “Exsultet,” by Bridget Blesnuk. Photo credit: Bonnie Hodur Williams.

 

Weekly Activities

Tuesday, April 2 ~ Choir Night Off; regular rehearsals resume on April 16.

Thursday, April 4 at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

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

     We now have: Red, White & Blue; carry over Bonus Ball; and a progressive Share-the-Wealth!

Sunday, April 7 from 9:30 – 10:00 a.m. ~ Choir rehearsal in church.

Mass Intentions

Easter Sunday, March 31 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Blessed Trinity Parish Community

Monday, April 1 ~ No Communion Service

Tuesday, April 2 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Anthony and Teresa Hafner (Requested by Estate)

Wednesday, April 3 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Simon Keough (Estate of Mary Condon)

Thursday, April 4 ~ Mass  at 11 a.m. – Gladys Kibler (Estate)

Friday, April 5 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Saturday, April 6 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Bob Deboy (The Gallisdorfers)

Sunday, April 7 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Frank McCue (Bob and Mary Kresse) and Sue Cahill (Bingo Workers)

Easter Sanctuary. Photo credit: Margaret Dick.

News from our Parish CommunityDocent Training ~ Blessed Trinity is currently recruiting additional docents to assist with its May Sacred Sites Open House, upcoming tours, and promotion of our unique edifice as a cultural tourism destination. The first of two volunteer training sessions will take place on Saturday afternoon, April 13, beginning at 2:30 p.m. in the parish hall located behind the church at 317 Leroy Avenue and concluding by 4 p.m. with a walking tour of the church. The date and time of the follow-up session will be scheduled to accommodate participants. You may register for the April 13 session by calling the church office at 716-833-0301 or leaving your contact information HERE. Please specify “Docent” as the Subject of your message. To read more about the church’s outstanding architectural features, click HERE or view “Our Beautiful House of Worship” video HERE.

The Trinity Series, “beautiful music in a beautiful space,” continues on Sunday, April 21, 2013 at 3 p.m., when the The Villa Maria Chorale, under the direction of Ireneusz Lukakszewski, performs The Peacemakers by contemporary Welsh composer Karl Jenkins. The work honors inspirational figures whose voices changed the world. Musical tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Mother Teresa, among others, are sung against rhythms and harmonies that reflect their origins and culture. Proceeds of the free-will offering will benefit The Chorale and Blessed Trinity’s Under This Roof building maintenance and restoration fund. Click HERE to learn more about The Peacemakes and The Villa Maria Chorale.

We Give Thanks ~ In addition to the  extaordinary efforts of the parish staff over the past few weeks, our parish community wishes to recognize dozens of volunteers whose contributions made our Holy Week services and activities so meaningful. They include parishioners and friends who decorated the church; Eucharistic Ministers; Lectors; choir members; greeters; ushers; and those who prepared and served food. Special recognition is owed to Bud Dick who devoted hours to shopping and food preparation for our Holy Thursday Supper of Friends and Holy Saturday reception.

Catholic Charities ~ At Catholic Charities, we rejoice with you today in the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! We also want to thank you for following the example of Appeal 2013 patron Blessed Frederic Ozanam and opening your hearts for those we serve. By giving generously to the 2013 Appeal in support of Catholic Charities, you demonstrate that you are a part of a generous community that is always there for our neighbors in need. Protect, Strengthen, Empower. Please give to the 2013 Catholic Charities Appeal. Thank you for your support! Find out more at http://www.ccwny.org or call (716) 218-1400.

Charitable Contributions ~ If you need a 2012 Statement of Contributions for income tax purposes, please contact Roy Laciura at the rectory, 716-833-0301.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Celebrate Easter! We’ve prayed the “Way of the Cross” during Lent. Why not pray the “Way of Light” — the Stations of the Resurrection. Christ again asks you, “Will you spend just one hour with me?” Come at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 5, to St. Andrew’s (1525 Sheridan Drive. Kenmore). Msgr. Richard Siepka will lead us in prayer and Bruce Woody will lead us in song as we follow the Church’s journey of joy from Resurrection to Pentecost. Don’t miss it!

Bible Study at St. Columba-Brigid resumes on Tuesday, April 16. During this Easter vacation, take time to ponder the messsage of God’s love shown during this blessed Season.

Blessed Sacrament Church, Buffalo, as part of its year-long 125th Anniversary Celebration, is pleased to welcome nationally-known syndicated columnist and author E.J. Dionne, Jr. to Buffalo on April 17, 2013. In his presentation, “Our Divided Political Heart and the Election of 2012,” Mr. Dionne will speak on how we Americans deal with the tension between two core values; i.e., our love for individualism and our reverence for community. He will speak at 8:00 p.m. at 710 Main Theater (formally Studio Arena Theatre). Tickets are priced at $20 for adults and $10 for students with ID. Tickets can be purchased at the Shea’s Buffalo Ticket Office located at 650 Main Street in downtown Buffalo; by calling Ticketmaster (1-800-745-3000); or online at www.ticketmaster.com.

Buffalo Jazz Review ~ Saturday, April 20, 2013 at 6:00 p.m. Performances by Mount St. Mary Jazz Ensemble, Depew HS Jazz Ensemble, St. Francis HS Jazz Ensemble, Tonawanda HS Jazz Ensemble and Sweet Home HS Jazz Ensemble will take place at Iris Restaurant (corner of Sweet Home Rd. & Maple Rd.). Admission: $7 presale and $9 at the door; Children under 5 are free. Call 716-877-1358 for more information or tickets.

Volunteer opportunities are available at a homeless shelter in Buffalo for individuals, couples, or groups to carry out the Corporal Works of Mercy. Little Portion Friary, 1305 Main Street, provides training and has several shifts available: check residents in and out, answer telephone, maintain log, respond to residents’ requests for clothes and personal belongings, help prepare breakfast, help with household chores such as laundry and light housekeeping. Substitute volunteers are also needed. Required: good decision making, organizational skills, at least 18 years old. Contact Ed at 875-9629 or Ann at 863-6694.

Holy Week 2013

Mar 24, 2013 | This Week

March 24 – March 31, 2013

Stations of the Cross, right side aisle. Photo credit: Margaret Dick

 

Holy Week Schedule
Click HERE

 

Final Lenten Penance Service
Monday, March 25 at 7:00 p.m., St. Katharine Drexel, 135 N. Odgen Street

Weekly Activities

Monday, March 25 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Lenten Penance Service at St. Katharine Drexel.

Tuesday, March 26 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir Rehearsal in St. Charles Hall.

Wednesday, March 27 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir Rehearsal in Church.

Holy Thursday, March 28 following 7:00 p.m. Mass ~ Supper of Friends in St. Charles Hall.

Good Friday, March 29 at 6:30 p.m. ~ Decorating the Church for Easter.

Holy Saturday, March 30 following Easter Vigil Service ~ Pastor’s Easter Reception in St. Charles Hall.

     In Observance of Holy Week, there will be no Bingo Games on Thursday, March 28 or Saturday, March 30

Mass Intentions

Sunday, March 24 ~ Palm Sunday ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Sara Dick (Requested by Family) and Sylvia Griffin (Requested by Bud and Mickey Dick)

Monday, March 25 ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, March 26 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – All Souls (St. Gerard Parish)

Wednesday, March 27 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – William Condon (Estate of Mary Condon)

Holy Thursday, March 28 ~ Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 7 p.m. – The Poor, the Unemployed, the Unwanted

Good Friday, March 29 ~ Stations of the Cross at 12 Noon
Solemn Service at 3 p.m. ~ St. John’s Passion, Veneration of the Cross, Holy Communion

Holy Saturday, March 30 ~ Easter Vigil Mass at 7 p.m. ~ Fire & Light, Scripture, Renewal of Baptisimal Vows –
Living and Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish

Easter Sunday, March 31 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Blessed Trinity Parish Community

News from our Parish Community

Lenten Journey Service ~ The last 2013 Lenten Journey Service is a Penance Service on Monday evening, March 25, at St. Katharine Drexel Church, 135 N. Ogden Street.

Decorating the Church for Easter ~ Easter presents a very special challenge. No decorating can be done until the end of Good Friday Services, and it must be finished for the Easter Vigil on Saturday. Our goal is to complete the task Friday evening. Sooooooo – we invite YOU to help us reach that goal. A great deal of care goes into preparing our church for the most important liturgical celebration of the year. There are all kinds of tasks to be done — something for everyone! We hope you can help us on Friday evening, March 29, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Please enter church using the door near the wheelchair ramp. Even if you can only stay for an hour, we thank you.

Holy Week Collections ~ The Holy Thursday collection will be used locally to support our Helping Hands Food Pantry.

Christians around the world are united in a special way during Lent, Holy Week and Easter. Our hearts, minds and prayers are also especially aware of the Holy Land. Once a year, our parish is called on to support Christians in the Holy Land. Many of them depend on the collection for their lives. As a pontifical collection requested by Pope Francis, the annual Good Friday Collection offers a direct link for parishioners to be witnesses of peace and to help protect Holy Places. When you donate on Good Friday, you are supporting these Christians. Franciscans and others in the Holy Land are housing and feeding the poor, providing religious formation and education, maintaining shrines and parishes, and conducting pastoral ministry. For more information, visit http://www.myfranciscan.org/. Please be as generous as your abundance allows. May we see these Holy Week collections as a direct result of our Lenten sacrifices.

A Different Kind of “Dinner Out” ~ Ss. Columba-Brigid will be hosting guests of the Family Promise network for the week beginning March 22. If you can assist other volunteers from Blessed Trinity in preparing dinner, please contact Naoma Allen or Amy Johnson or leave a message for them by clicking HERE. Remember to specify “Family Promise” in the Subject line.

Docent Training ~ Blessed Trinity is currently recruiting additional docents to assist with its May Sacred Sites Open House, upcoming tours, and promotion of our unique edifice as a cultural tourism destination. The first of two volunteer training sessions will take place on Saturday afternoon, April 13, beginning at 2:30 p.m. in the parish hall located behind the church at 317 Leroy Avenue and concluding by 4 p.m. with a walking tour of the church. The date and time of the follow-up session will be scheduled to accommodate participants. You may register for the April 13 session by calling the church office at 716-833-0301 or leaving your contact information HERE. Please specify “Docent” as the Subject of your message. To read more about the church’s outstanding architectural features, click HERE or view “Our Beautiful House of Worship” video HERE.

Prayer Partners ~ Our cluster parishes of Ss. Columba-Brigid, St. Ann, St. Katharine Drexel, Blessed Trinity, St. Lawrence and St. Martin de Porres will again organize a “Prayer Partner experience” during the Easter Season. It will culminate with a gathering in May at Ss. Columba-Brigid Church where partners can meet. If you have signed up to participate, you will be receiving your prayer partner’s name shortly.

Catholic Charities Appeal ~ As we enter into Appeal Week 2013, please help to ensure that we reach our diocesan goal of $10.7 million by responding with your contribution or pledge today.  Your donation helps educate, counsel and train parents, provide basic assistance to families and the hope of a promising future to yourth through our workforce development and education programs. Protect. Strengthen. Empower. Please give to the 2013 Catholic Charities Appeal. Find out more at http://www.ccwny.org or call (716) 218-1400.

Charitable Contributions ~ If you need a 2012 Statement of Contributions for income tax purposes, please contact Roy Laciura at the rectory, 716-833-0301.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Volunteer opportunities are available at a homeless shelter in Buffalo for individuals, couples, or groups to carry out the Corporal Works of Mercy. Little Portion Friary, 1305 Main Street, provides training and has several shifts available: check residents in and out, answer telephone, maintain log, respond to residents’ requests for clothes and personal belongings, help prepare breakfast, help with household chores such as laundry and light housekeeping. Substitute volunteers are also needed. Required: good decision making, organizational skills, at least 18 years old. Contact Ed at 875-9629 or Ann at 863-6694.

2013 Holy Week Schedule

Mar 20, 2013 | This Week

Fifth Week of Lent

Mar 17, 2013 | This Week

March 17 – March 24, 2013

Baldachino and Tabernacle Altar (background) and Altar of Sacrifice (foreground), Blessed Trinity Church. Lenten 2013 altar artwork by Todd Treat, T2 Printing; photo credit: Margaret Dick.

Lenten Weekday Mass Schedule March 19 – March 22
Tuesday – Friday at 11:00 a.m. in Daily Mass Chapel

Lenten Program

Wednesday, March 20 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Stations of the Cross in Church (preceded by Simple Supper in St. Charles Hall, 5:30-6:30 p.m.)

Lenten Journey Masses at Central Buffalo Vicariate Parishes Mondays at 7:00 p.m., followed by refreshments
Monday, March 18 at Nativity/Miguel Middle School, St. Augustine Campus, 21 Davidson Street
Monday, March 25 at St. Katharine Drexel, 135 N. Odgen Street – Penance Service (no Mass)

Lenten Penance Services
Monday, March 25 at 7:00 p.m., St. Katharine Drexel, 135 N. Odgen Street

Weekly Activities

Sunday, March 17 following the 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Coffee Hour in St. Charles Hall, hosted by the Holy Name Society.

Monday, March 18 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Lenten Journey Mass at Nativity/Miguel School.

Tuesday, March 19 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir Rehearsal in St. Charles Hall.

Thursday, March 21 at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

Saturday, March 23 at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

     We now have: Red, White & Blue; carry over Bonus Ball; and a progressive Share-the-Wealth!

Monday, March 25 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Penance Service at St. Katharine Drexel, 135 N. Odgen Street

Mass Intentions

Sunday, March 17 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Bob Hamsik (Requested by Angela Jost) and Philomena M. Vaillancourt (Requested by Jim and Gayle Eagan)

Monday, March 18 ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Feast of St. Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church and the Diocese of Buffalo, March 19.
Photo is of the Shrine to St. Joseph to the left of the Sanctuary. The niche surrounding the statue “is one of the exquisite ceramic creations in the church.” (Rev. Walter Kern’s “Guide to Blessed Trinity R. C. Church,” page 45. Photo by Margaret Dick).

Tuesday, March 19 ~ St. Joseph ~Mass at 11 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Wednesday, March 20 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Bernard H. Fix and Ruth R. Fix (Estate)

Thursday, March 21 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Friday, March 22 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Winifred Enright (Estate)

Saturday, March 23 ~ Palm Sunday Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Bob DeBoy (Angela Jost)

Sunday, March 24 ~ Palm Sunday ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Sara Dick (Family) and Sylvia Griffin (Bud and Mickey Dick)

News from our Parish Community

Our March Coffee Hour is Sunday, March 17, following the 10 a.m. Mass. It will be hosted by the Holy Name Society.

Lenten Journey Mass ~ The last Lenten Journey Mass for 2013 is Monday evening, March 18, at Nativity/Miguel School, 21 Davidson Ave., at 7:00 p.m. The entrance to their parking lot is on Hastings Avenue. We encourage all who are able to attend. On Monday, March 25, there will be a Penance Service at St. Katharine Drexel Church, 135 N. Ogden Street.

Holy Thursday “Supper of Friends” ~ If you plan to attend the Supper of Friends following our Holy Thursday Liturgy, please hand in your RSVP form no later than Palm Sunday, March 24. There is a basket on the railing near the Baptismal Font. Extra forms are available there. You may also call in a reservation to the rectory (833-0301) no later than Friday, March 22. Thank you.

A Different Kind of “Dinner Out” ~ Ss. Columba-Brigid will be hosting guests of the Family Promise network for the week beginning March 22. If you can assist other volunteers from Blessed Trinity in preparing dinner, please contact Naoma Allen or Amy Johnson or leave a message for them by clicking HERE. Remember to specify “Family Promise” in the Subject line.

Catholic Charities ~ If you wish to make your contribution to the 2013 Appeal in person rather than by mail, please plan to do so after weekend Masses on March 16/17 or March 23/24. There will be someone available to assist you. Thank you for helping us to meet our parish goal.

Prayer Partners ~ Our cluster parishes of Ss. Columba-Brigid, St. Ann, St. Katharine Drexel, Blessed Trinity, St. Lawrence and St. Martin de Porres will again organize a “Prayer Partner experience” during the Easter Season. It will culminate with a gathering in May at Ss. Columba-Brigid Church where partners can meet. If you would like to participate, please sign the forms on the altar rail near Our Lady’s Shrine by Palm Sunday, March 24.

Three Cheers for Ithrene ~ Now that we’ve had a chance to browse through our new Parish Directory, we can appreciate even more the challenging work done by Ithrene Cameron. Despite a series of delays and unexpected circumstances with the original company responsible for the Directory, Ithrene managed to move forward with the task. Thanks, also, to Gary Kelley who handled the group photography here at B.T. and arranged the layout of those pages.

Docent Training ~ Blessed Trinity is currently recruiting additional docents to assist with its May Sacred Sites Open House, upcoming tours, and promotion of our unique edifice as a cultural tourism destination. The first of two volunteer training sessions will take place on Saturday afternoon, April 13, beginning at 2:30 p.m. in the parish hall located behind the church at 317 Leroy Avenue and concluding by 4 p.m. with a walking tour of the church. The date and time of the follow-up session will be scheduled to accommodate participants. You may register for the April 13 session by calling the church office at 716-833-0301 or leaving your contact information HERE. Please specify “Docent” as the Subject of your message. To read more about the church’s outstanding architectural features, click HERE or view “Our Beautiful House of Worship” video HERE.

Charitable Contributions ~ If you need a 2012 Statement of Contributions for income tax purposes, please contact Roy Laciura at the rectory, 716-833-0301.

Catholic Charities U.S.A. ~ Growing up, Wanda was experiencing a brutal life of foster homes and an abusive family situation until Catholic Charities Family Shelter literally came to the rescue. The shelter opened its doors to Wanda and her mother – providing furniture, clothing, and food – and assisted them with finding permanent subsidized housing to stabilize their life. She says, “I came from a harsh childhood. I was homeless… but Catholic Charities gave us a new start and turned things around for us.” In 2011, Catholic Charities agencies provided permanent housing for close to 65,000 individuals and families. Protect. Strengthen. Empower. Please give to the 2013 Catholic Charities Appeal. Find out more at http://www.ccwny.org or call (716) 218-1400.

Extra Word Copies ~ We have extra copies of the Lenten issues of The Word. Please feel free to take copies for family/friends. They are in the ushers’ pew at the middle of the church.

The Helping Hands Food Pantry has been experiencing chronic shortages of cereal (store brands welcome). Their supply of cereal is usually gone by the end of the first week after the monthly food delivery from the Food Bank. They also are in need of any kind of canned vegetables, juice or canned soup, as well as flour or sugar and baking supplies. Many younger people and grandparents are asking for baby supplies, such as diapers and formula. You should also know that the food pantry now has used clothing that is clean and folded according to size for men, women, boys, girls and infants. They are in greatest need of clothing for men and infants. All clothing is donated and must be cleaned upon acceptance.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Celebrating the Year of Faith ~ The fourth of a Lenten series on the Documents of the Second Vatican Council will be held Monday, March 18, at 7:00 p.m. at Blessed Sacrament Church, 1029 Delaware Avenue. Parking is available behind Catholic Academy of West Buffalo. The Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World will be presented by Father Paul Bossi, Pastor of Blessed Sacrament Church.

News from NativityMiguel: Curtain Up! The girls at St Monica’s have been rehearsing and building sets as they prepare to take the stage. St Lawrence Parish’s own Kaylee Wilcox will be playing the lead role of Annie in the girls production of the musical “Annie” on Thursday, March 21 at 3 p.m. Come and support Kaylee and her classmates in their theatrical debut! For more information about “Annie” or NativityMiguel Middle School, please contact Nancy Langer at 716-836-5188. Thank you.

Bible Study – Ss. Columba-Brigid ~ Tuesday night Bible Study has returned at Ss. Columba-Brigid. The weekly readings from Luke’s gospel will take us on the journey to Jerusalem and teach us to walk in his ways. Come out. Bring a friend. Come any week you can and don’t worry about weeks you can’t be with us. We’ll be here and you’ll always be welcome; Tuesdays during Lent, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

Morning Prayer will be celebrated in St. Lawrence Church during Lent. We will start at 8:10 a.m. on Ash Wednesday and continue Monday through Friday during Lent. Our weekday Mass follows at 8:30 am. Please consider joining us to experience the Daily Prayer of the Church.  Questions? Call Luke Dyer at 308-6302.

Lenten Bible Study ~ The Church in the Modern World is the current topic of a luncheon Bible Study at St. Lawrence Church, each Thursday at 1:00 p.m.  Please consider joining us for Lent as we review church teachings and Scripture for lessons in how to live and act in the world today. We gather in the Franciscan Guest House dining room on the St. Lawrence Campus behind the church and school buildings for a simple meal, reading and discussion.  Questions? Call Luke Dyer at 308-6302.

Volunteer opportunities are available at a homeless shelter in Buffalo for individuals, couples, or groups to carry out the Corporal Works of Mercy. Little Portion Friary, 1305 Main Street, provides training and has several shifts available: check residents in and out, answer telephone, maintain log, respond to residents’ requests for clothes and personal belongings, help prepare breakfast, help with household chores such as laundry and light housekeeping. Substitute volunteers are also needed. Required: good decision making, organizational skills, at least 18 years old. Contact Ed at 875-9629 or Ann at 863-6694.

Fourth Week of Lent

Mar 10, 2013 | This Week

March 10 – March 17, 2013

Baldachino and Tabernacle Altar (background) and Altar of Sacrifice (foreground), Blessed Trinity Church. Lenten 2013 altar artwork by Todd Treat, T2 Printing; photo credit: Margaret Dick.

Lenten Weekday Mass Schedule March 12 – March 27 Tuesday – Friday at 11:00 a.m. in Daily Mass Chapel

Lenten Program

Monday, March 11 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Lenten Journey Mass in Church (followed by refreshments in St. Charles Hall)
Wednesday, March 20 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Stations of the Cross in Church (preceded by Simple Supper in St. Charles Hall, 5:30-6:30 p.m.)

Lenten Journey Masses at Central Buffalo Vicariate Parishes Mondays at 7:00 p.m., followed by refreshments
Monday, March 11 at Blessed Trinity, 317 Leroy Avenue
Monday, March 18 at Nativity/Miguel Middle School, St. Augustine Campus, 21 Davidson Street
Monday, March 25 at St. Katharine Drexel, 135 N. Odgen Street – Penance Service (no Mass)

Lenten Penance Services
Tuesday, March 12 at 7:00 p.m., St. Joseph University Church, 3269 Main Street
Monday, March 25 at 7:00 p.m., St. Katharine Drexel, 135 N. Odgen Street

Weekly Activities

Monday, March 11 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Lenten Journey Mass at Blessed Trinity.

Tuesday, March 12 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir Rehearsal in St. Charles Hall.

Thursday, March 14 at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

Saturday, March 16 at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

     We now have: Red, White & Blue; carry over Bonus Ball; and a progressive Share-the-Wealth!

Sunday, March 17 following the 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Coffee Hour in St. Charles Hall, hosted by the Holy Name Society.

Monday, March 18 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Lenten Journey Mass at Nativity/Miguel Middle School, St. Augustine Campus, 21 Davidson Street

Mass Intentions

Sunday, March 10 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Carole Kane (Requested by Family) and Dan Hartinger (Requested by Pat Hartinger and Family)

Monday, March 11 ~ Lenten Journey Mass at 7 p.m.

Tuesday, March 12 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – James Condon (Estate of Mary Condon)

Wednesday, March 13 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Gladys Kibler (Estate)

Thursday, March 14 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Friday, March 15 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Loretta Saxer (Estate)

Saturday, March 16 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Pauline Viola (Joe Viola) and Jimmie Porter – Birthday Remembrance (Family)

Sunday, March 17 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Bob Hamsik (Angela Jost) and Philomena M. Vaillancourt (Jim and Gayle Eagan)

News from our Parish Community

Lenten Journey Mass ~ We will be hosting the Mass on Monday evening, March 11, at 7:00 pm. followed by a reception in St. Charles Hall. We encourage all who are able to attend this event and welcome the parishioners from our Central Buffalo Vicariate churches: Ss. Columba-Brigid, St. Lawrence, St. Martin de Porres, St. Katharine Drexel and the Nativity/Miguel School. Please remember to bring your contribution of finger foods for the reception.

Our March Coffee Hour is Sunday, March 17, following the 10 a.m. Mass. It will be hosted by the Holy Name Society.

A Different Kind of “Dinner Out” ~ Ss. Columba-Brigid will be hosting guests of the Family Promise network for the week beginning March 22. If you can assist other volunteers from Blessed Trinity in preparing dinner, please contact Naoma Allen or Amy Johnson or leave a message for them by clicking HERE. Remember to specify “Family Promise” in the Subject line.

Holy Thursday “Supper of Friends” ~ If you plan to attend the Supper of Friends following our Holy Thursday Liturgy, please hand in your RSVP form no later than Palm Sunday, March 24. There is a basket on the railing near the Baptismal Font. Extra forms are available there. You may also call in a reservation to the rectory (833-0301) no later than Friday, March 22. Thank you.

Catholic Charities ~ If you wish to make your contribution to the 2013 Appeal in person rather than by mail, please plan to do so after weekend Masses on March 16/17 or March 23/24. There will be someone available to assist you. Thank you for helping us to meet our parish goal.

Prayer Partners ~ Our cluster parishes of Ss. Columba-Brigid, St. Ann, St. Katharine Drexel, Blessed Trinity, St. Lawrence and St. Martin de Porres will again organize a “Prayer Partner experience” during the Easter Season. It will culminate with a gathering in May at Ss. Columba-Brigid Church where partners can meet. If you would like to participate, please sign the forms on the altar rail near Our Lady’s Shrine by Palm Sunday, March 24.

Three Cheers for Ithrene ~ Now that we’ve had a chance to browse through our new Parish Directory, we can appreciate even more the challenging work done by Ithrene Cameron. Despite a series of delays and unexpected circumstances with the original company responsible for the Directory, Ithrene managed to move forward with the task. Thanks, also, to Gary Kelley who handled the group photography here at B.T. and arranged the layout of those pages.

Docent Training ~ Blessed Trinity is currently recruiting additional docents to assist with its May Sacred Sites Open House, upcoming tours, and promotion of our unique edifice as a cultural tourism destination. The first of two volunteer training sessions will take place on Saturday afternoon, April 13, beginning at 2:30 p.m. in the parish hall located behind the church at 317 Leroy Avenue and concluding by 4 p.m. with a walking tour of the church. The date and time of the follow-up session will be scheduled to accommodate participants. You may register for the April 13 session by calling the church office at 716-833-0301 or leaving your contact information HERE. Please specify “Docent” as the Subject of your message. To read more about the church’s outstanding architectural features, click HERE or view “Our Beautiful House of Worship” video HERE.

A Special Thank You to all who helped with the success of our last two Wednesday evening programs: Amy Johnson who coordinated the Soup Suppers; Vera Andrew, Judy Casassa and Ithrene Cameron who helped with set-up; our Soup Chefs: Ithrene Cameron, Judy Casassa, Angela Jost, Bob Kinmartin, Althea Porter, Dianne Riordan, Helen Roddy-Gray and Sister Liz Savage; our cookie providers: Vera Andrew, Yvonne Andrew, Alice Davis, Pat Gallisdorfer, Mary Kinmartin, Dan Korchowsky and Pauline Rollek; our bread provider: Ithrene Cameron; and Sister Liz Savage who organized and facilitated the two Lenten presentations by Norm McLaughlin.

Thank you for your support for the 2013 Black and Indian Mission Collection. Your monetary assistance will provide opportunities for a solid Catholic education in our Indian and Black mission schools, will allow the purchase of catechetical materials and bibles, and will provide for the formation of lay leadership, to name but a few ways the collection supports evangelization. Your generosity is appreciated.

Charitable Contributions ~ If you need a 2012 Statement of Contributions for income tax purposes, please contact Roy Laciura at the rectory, 716-833-0301.

Catholic Charities U.S.A. ~ Growing up, Wanda was experiencing a brutal life of foster homes and an abusive family situation until Catholic Charities Family Shelter literally came to the rescue. The shelter opened its doors to Wanda and her mother – providing furniture, clothing, and food – and assisted them with finding permanent subsidized housing to stabilize their life. She says, “I came from a harsh childhood. I was homeless… but Catholic Charities gave us a new start and turned things around for us.” In 2011, Catholic Charities agencies provided permanent housing for close to 65,000 individuals and families. Protect. Strengthen. Empower. Please give to the 2013 Catholic Charities Appeal. Find out more at http://www.ccwny.org or call (716) 218-1400.

Extra Word Copies ~ We have extra copies of the Lenten issues of The Word. Please feel free to take copies for family/friends. They are in the ushers’ pew at the middle of the church.

The Helping Hands Food Pantry has been experiencing chronic shortages of cereal (store brands welcome). Their supply of cereal is usually gone by the end of the first week after the monthly food delivery from the Food Bank. They also are in need of any kind of canned vegetables, juice or canned soup, as well as flour or sugar and baking supplies. Many younger people and grandparents are asking for baby supplies, such as diapers and formula. You should also know that the food pantry now has used clothing that is clean and folded according to size for men, women, boys, girls and infants. They are in greatest need of clothing for men and infants. All clothing is donated and must be cleaned upon acceptance.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

St. Joseph’s Day Table ~ The Sisters of St. Joseph give thanks on Sunday, March 10, from 12 noon – 3 p.m. at Our Lady of Peach Church, 10950 Main St., Clarence, NY. We hope you will share this wonderful tradition with the Sisters. Donations received will go to food pantries at Clarence Presbyterian Church, St. Aloysius Gonzaga Parish, Ss. Columba-Brigid Parish, and Vive.

Buffalo Choral Arts Society (120-voice community chorus) presents “Sacred & Serene,” an eclectic blend of choral works spanning the centuries, setting the tone for an afternoon of reflective music at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 10 at Our Lady Help of Christians Church, 4125 Union Rd (corner Genesee St.), Cheektowaga, NY. For more information call: 812-1541 or visit http://www.BuffaloChoralArts.org.

St. Lawrence Fish Fry ~ March 15, 2013 from 4 – 7 pm. Home made desserts and theme tray Auction! Tickets are $9 and take-outs are available. St. Lawrence is located at 1520 East Delavan Avenue. The venue is handicap accessible. Call 892-2471 for further information.

Catholic Biblical Studies Program ~ Sister Dianne Bergant, CSA, will be the presenter at the Annual Lenten Day of Reflection sponsored by the Catholic Biblical Studies Program on Saturday, March 16, 2013 from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at the Millennium Airport Hotel, 2040 Walden Ave., Cheektowaga, NY 14225. Why is there suffering in the world?  Where is God in the midst of my confusion and suffering?  Do the things we do influence the circumstances of life?  These are some of the questions asked by the book of Job.  Sr. Dianne Bergant, CSA, will share her insights and invite us to rethink what can sometimes be all too familiar. All are welcome to attend.  Contact the Catholic Biblical Studies Program at (716) 871-9180 for registration information.

News from NativityMiguel: Curtain Up! The girls at St Monica’s have been rehearsing and building sets as they prepare to take the stage. St Lawrence Parish’s own Kaylee Wilcox will be playing the lead role of Annie in the girls production of the musical “Annie” on Thursday, March 21 at 3 p.m. Come and support Kaylee and her classmates in their theatrical debut! For more information about “Annie” or NativityMiguel Middle School, please contact Nancy Langer at 716-836-5188. Thank you.

Bible Study – Ss. Columba-Brigid ~ Tuesday night Bible Study has returned at Ss. Columba-Brigid. The weekly readings from Luke’s gospel will take us on the journey to Jerusalem and teach us to walk in his ways. Come out. Bring a friend. Come any week you can and don’t worry about weeks you can’t be with us. We’ll be here and you’ll always be welcome; Tuesdays during Lent, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

Morning Prayer will be celebrated in St. Lawrence Church during Lent. We will start at 8:10 a.m. on Ash Wednesday and continue Monday through Friday during Lent. Our weekday Mass follows at 8:30 am. Please consider joining us to experience the Daily Prayer of the Church.  Questions? Call Luke Dyer at 308-6302.

Lenten Bible Study ~ The Church in the Modern World is the current topic of a luncheon Bible Study at St. Lawrence Church, each Thursday at 1:00 p.m.  Please consider joining us for Lent as we review church teachings and Scripture for lessons in how to live and act in the world today. We gather in the Franciscan Guest House dining room on the St. Lawrence Campus behind the church and school buildings for a simple meal, reading and discussion.  Questions? Call Luke Dyer at 308-6302.

Volunteer opportunities are available at a homeless shelter in Buffalo for individuals, couples, or groups to carry out the Corporal Works of Mercy. Little Portion Friary, 1305 Main Street, provides training and has several shifts available: check residents in and out, answer telephone, maintain log, respond to residents’ requests for clothes and personal belongings, help prepare breakfast, help with household chores such as laundry and light housekeeping. Substitute volunteers are also needed. Required: good decision making, organizational skills, at least 18 years old. Contact Ed at 875-9629 or Ann at 863-6694.

Third Sunday of Lent

Mar 3, 2013 | This Week

March 3 – March 10, 2013

Baldachino and Tabernacle Altar (background) and Altar of Sacrifice (foreground), Blessed Trinity Church. Lenten 2013 altar artwork by Todd Treat, T2 Printing; photo credit: Margaret Dick.

Lenten Weekday Mass Schedule March 5 – March 27
Tuesday – Friday at 11:00 a.m. in Daily Mass Chapel

Lenten Program

Wednesday, March 6 at 7:00 p.m. in St. Charles Hall ~ “Jesus’ Entry Into Jerusalem: Starting Our Holy Week” presented by Norm McLaughlin RCIA Team & Social Justice Committee, St. Joseph University Church (preceded by simple soup supper in St. Charles Hall, 5:30-6:30 p.m.)
Monday, March 11 at 7:00 p.m. in Church ~ Lenten Journey Mass in Church (followed by refreshments in St. Charles Hall)
Wednesday, March 20 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Stations of the Cross at 7:00 p.m. in Church (preceded by pizza supper in St. Charles Hall, 5:30-6:30 p.m.)

Lenten Journey Masses at Central Buffalo Vicariate Parishes Mondays at 7:00 p.m., followed by refreshments
Monday, March 4 at St. Lawrence, 1520 E. Delavan Avenue
Monday, March 11 at Blessed Trinity, 317 Leroy Avenue
Monday, March 18 at Nativity/Miguel Middle School, St. Augustine Campus, 21 Davidson Street
Monday, March 25 at St. Katharine Drexel, 135 N. Odgen Street – Penance Service (no Mass)

Lenten Penance Services

Tuesday, March 12 at 7:00 p.m., St. Joseph University Church, 3269 Main Street
Monday, March 25 at 7:00 p.m., St. Katharine Drexel, 135 N. Odgen Street

Weekly Activities

Monday, March 4 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Lenten Journey Mass at St. Lawrence, 1520 E. Delavan Avenue.

Tuesday, March 5 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir Rehearsal in St. Charles Hall.

Wednesday, March 6 from 5:30-6:30 ~ Soup Supper in St. Charles Hall.

Wednesday, March 6 at 7:00 p.m. in St. Charles Hall ~ “Jesus’ Entry Into Jerusalem: Starting Our Holy Week,” presented by Norm McLaughlin.

Thursday, March 7 at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

Saturday, March 9 at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

     We now have: Red, White & Blue; carry over Bonus Ball; and a progressive Share-the-Wealth!

Monday, March 11 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Lenten Journey Mass in our church.

Mass Intentions

Sunday, March 3 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Jack Revene (Requested by Bob and Mary Kresse) and Homer Dick, Sr. (Requested by Family)

Monday, March 4 ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, March 5 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Allen M. Andrew, Sr. – Anniversary (Wife and Monique)

Wednesday, March 6 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – William Condon (Estate of Mary Condon)

Thursday, March 7 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Anthony and Teresa Hafner (Estate)

Friday, March 8 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Simon Keough (Estate of Mary Condon)

Saturday, March 9 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Scott Webb (The Sinnott Family) and Bob DeBoy (Jack Curtin)

Sunday, March 10 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Carole Kane (Family) and Dan Hartinger (Pat Hartinger and Family)

News from our Parish Community

Wanted: Soup-er Chefs ~ We’re still looking for a few more “specials” on the Soup Super menu boards for March 6. If you can help by contributing soup or cookies, please contact Amy Johnson. Thanks to all who have volunteered already.

Lenten Journey Mass ~ We will be hosting the Lenten Journey Mass here at Blessed Trinity on Monday, March 11 at 7:00 p.m. Jessie Wells has offered to organize the reception that will follow this Mass. We invite all who can to bring a plate of cookies, bar cookies or brownies for this reception, and that you bring them to the hall before Mass. Please contact Jessie by Thursday, March 7 to let her know what you plan to bring. Thank you for your help.

Charitable Contributions ~ If you need a 2012 Statement of Contributions for income tax purposes, please contact Roy Laciura at the rectory, 716-833-0301.

Catholic Charities ~ You or an organization you belong to may already have been asked by Catholic Charities to become part of the 2013 Appeal. Please respond with your donation or pledge to the 2013 Appeal as soon as possible. Join the thousands of others throughout the diocese who stand together in support of the mission of Catholic Charities. Find inspiration in the example of Blessed Frederic Ozanam and share your blessings with those we serve. Without your generosity, we cannot reach our goal or fulfill our mission. Protect. Strengthen. Empower. Please give to the 2013 Catholic Charities Appeal. Find out more at http://www.ccwny.org or call (716) 218-1400.

Extra Word Copies ~ We have extra copies of the Lenten issues of The Word. Please feel free to take copies for family/friends. They are in the ushers’ pew at the middle of the church.

A Message from Family Promise ~ Ss. Columba-Brigid wants to thank all the volunteers that cooked and visited with our guests from Family Promise.  We logged 261 volunteer hours!!  Our next Hosting week will be Friday, March 22 through March 28.  If you have any questions, feel free to call Paula Hunt at 348-0154.

The Helping Hands Food Pantry has been experiencing chronic shortages of cereal (store brands welcome). Their supply of cereal is usually gone by the end of the first week after the monthly food delivery from the Food Bank. They also are in need of any kind of canned vegetables, juice or canned soup, as well as flour or sugar and baking supplies. Many younger people and grandparents are asking for baby supplies, such as diapers and formula. You should also know that the food pantry now has used clothing that is clean and folded according to size for men, women, boys, girls and infants. They are in greatest need of clothing for men and infants. All clothing is donated and must be cleaned upon acceptance.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Celebrating The Year of Faith ~ The second of a Lenten series on the Documents of the Second Vatican Council will be held Monday Evening, March 4 at 7:00 p.m. at Blessed Sacrament Church, 1029 Delaware Avenue. The Constitution on Sacred Liturgy will be presented by Fr. Czeslaw Kyrsa, Director of the Diocesan Office of Worship. Parking is available behind the Catholic Academy of West Buffalo.

Lenten Taize Prayer Service at St. Timothy R.C. Church, 565 East Park Drive, Tonawanda on Thursday, March 7 at 7 p.m. A Taize Prayer Service features music, song, meditation, scripture readings and prayers and is a beautiful, inspiring way to spend an evening with Jesus and our Christian brothers and sisters and to experience the spirituality and beauty of Taize as we prepare for our Lord’s Passion, Death and Resurrection. There will be time for fellowship after the service. For more information contact Music Director, Sandy at 875-9430.

St. Joseph’s Day Table ~ The Sisters of St. Joseph give thanks on Sunday, March 10, from 12 noon – 3 p.m. at Our Lady of Peach Church, 10950 Main St., Clarence, NY. We hope you will share this wonderful tradition with the Sisters. Donations received will go to food pantries at Clarence Presbyterian Church, St. Aloysius Gonzaga Parish, Ss. Columba-Brigid Parish, and Vive.

Buffalo Choral Arts Society (120-voice community chorus) presents “Sacred & Serene,” an eclectic blend of choral works spanning the centuries, setting the tone for an afternoon of reflective music at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 10 at Our Lady Help of Christians Church, 4125 Union Rd (corner Genesee St.), Cheektowaga, NY. For more information call: 812-1541 or visit http://www.BuffaloChoralArts.org.

St. Lawrence Fish Fry ~ March 15, 2013 from 4 – 7 pm. Home made desserts and theme tray Auction! Tickets are $9 and take-outs are available. St. Lawrence is located at 1520 East Delavan Avenue. The venue is handicap accessible. Call 892-2471 for further information.

Catholic Biblical Studies Program ~ Sister Dianne Bergant, CSA, will be the presenter at the Annual Lenten Day of Reflection sponsored by the Catholic Biblical Studies Program on Saturday, March 16, 2013 from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at the Millennium Airport Hotel, 2040 Walden Ave., Cheektowaga, NY 14225. Why is there suffering in the world?  Where is God in the midst of my confusion and suffering?  Do the things we do influence the circumstances of life?  These are some of the questions asked by the book of Job.  Sr. Dianne Bergant, CSA, will share her insights and invite us to rethink what can sometimes be all too familiar. All are welcome to attend.  Contact the Catholic Biblical Studies Program at (716) 871-9180 for registration information.  

Bible Study – Ss. Columba-Brigid ~ Tuesday night Bible Study has returned at Ss. Columba-Brigid. The weekly readings from Luke’s gospel will take us on the journey to Jerusalem and teach us to walk in his ways. Come out. Bring a friend. Come any week you can and don’t worry about weeks you can’t be with us. We’ll be here and you’ll always be welcome; Tuesdays during Lent, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

Morning Prayer will be celebrated in St. Lawrence Church during Lent. We will start at 8:10 a.m. on Ash Wednesday and continue Monday through Friday during Lent. Our weekday Mass follows at 8:30 am. Please consider joining us to experience the Daily Prayer of the Church.  Questions? Call Luke Dyer at 308-6302.

Lenten Bible Study ~ The Church in the Modern World is the current topic of a luncheon Bible Study at St. Lawrence Church, each Thursday at 1:00 p.m.  Please consider joining us for Lent as we review church teachings and Scripture for lessons in how to live and act in the world today. We gather in the Franciscan Guest House dining room on the St. Lawrence Campus behind the church and school buildings for a simple meal, reading and discussion.  Questions? Call Luke Dyer at 308-6302.

Volunteer opportunities are available at a homeless shelter in Buffalo for individuals, couples, or groups to carry out the Corporal Works of Mercy. Little Portion Friary, 1305 Main Street, provides training and has several shifts available: check residents in and out, answer telephone, maintain log, respond to residents’ requests for clothes and personal belongings, help prepare breakfast, help with household chores such as laundry and light housekeeping. Substitute volunteers are also needed. Required: good decision making, organizational skills, at least 18 years old. Contact Ed at 875-9629 or Ann at 863-6694.