Week of January 12, 2020 – The Baptism of the Lord

Jan 12, 2020 | This Week

Water flowing from a shell is used to symbolize the Sacrament of Baptism. You can find examples of this in at least 2 places in our church. One (in a dome window soffit) may require binoculars; look up as you enter the nave through the main door to find the other.

January 12 – January 19, 2020

Weekly Activities

Wednesday, January 15, 2020 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, January 15, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Parish Council Meeting in St. Charles Hall

Thursday, January 16 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

Saturday, January 18 at 8:00 p.m. ~  Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

Sunday, January 19 following the 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Anointing of the sick and well-aging in church

*To check the Bonus Ball and Progressive Share-the-Wealth carry over amounts and Progressive numbers for this week, click HERE and visit our Facebook page.

Mass Intentions

Sunday, January 12 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. –  Blessings for Willie Ray Folmar (Requested by John E. Curtin) and Eternal Rest for Edward F. Schroeder (Requested by The Franciscan Sisters)

Monday, January 13 ~ St. Hilary ~ No Service

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

Wednesday, January 15 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – For the intentions of our parishioners, both living and deceased (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Thursday, January 16 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Friday, January 17 ~ St. Anthony, Abbot ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – For the intentions of our parishioners, both living and deceased (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Saturday, January 18 ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Sunday, January 19 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. –  Eternal Rest for Lucille Venezia (Hispanic Heritage Council of WNY)

Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, January 18 & 19, 2020:

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

Sunday, 10:00 a.m.  Readers: Bob Heicklen, Pam Zanghi; Eucharistic Ministers: Dan Korchowsky, Pat Hartinger, Maggie Gatson; Choir – Sharon Dunnigan

Photo Credit: Sean T. Brodfuehrer

News from our Parish Community

We Thank Our Visiting Clergy who served us during Father Victor’s absence. Father Jim Dugan will be our celebrant on both Saturday and Sunday, January 11-12; Father Victor is expected back on Tuesday January 14.

Christmas De-Decorating ~ Volunteers are needed at 6:30pm on Monday, January 13 to help take down the Christmas decorations. Please enter the church through the side door near the wheelchair ramp.

The Parish Council will meet on Wednesday, January 15, in St. Charles Hall beginning at 7pm. Council members who are unable to attend should contact President Pam Zanghi or Vice President Colleen Schroeder.

Anointing of the Sick and Well-Aging on January 19, following Sunday Mass.

From the Cradle to the Cross ~ While the choir is taking their winter hiatus, I am busy exploring new music for the new year. This piece by Tony Alonso has beautiful words that are so meaningful at this time of the year, as we remember what is coming during Holy Week. Just imagine how beautiful it will be when sung by the BT Choir!

From the cradle to the cross a Savior to the lost
You came, You came
From heaven to the earth a simple Christmas birth
You came, Jesus you came

You loved enough to move,
You came and took my place
With every step, changing history

From the cradle to the cross, You became our sin
You became our hope, and gave us life within
The glory of your love displayed for us
From the cradle to the cross

You lived a perfect life, born for sacrifice
You gave, You gave
 A city on a hill, the living word fulfilled
 You came, Jesus, you came

 From the cradle to the cross
 You became our sin, you became our hope
 And gave us life within
 Oh the glory of your cross

 The story of our faith
 The hope of our salvation
 The power of your name
 The wonder of your love displayed for us
 The wonder of your love displayed for us
 The wonder of your love displayed for us
 From the Cradle to the cross

Did you know Blessed Trinity Church has one of the most beautiful acoustics in Western New York? Join us up in the loft and help enhance our Liturgies. Choir practice resumes on Wednesday, February 5, at 7:00 in St. Charles Hall. All are welcome to attend… Elizabeth

Personal Prayer Requests ~ As this Christmas season ends, you are invited to continue the practice of submitting your personal prayer requests. Just write them out and place your prayer petitions in the basket on the communion rail in front of the baptismal font. There is no need to provide your name. Your intentions will be remembered at Masses throughout the week.

Members of the Ladies Sodality are reminded that January means membership renewal. Dues for 2020 will remain at $5.00 and are being collected by Vice President, Mickey Dick. She will be happy to accept them in person, or you may mail your check payable to “Ladies Sodality of Blessed Trinity” to her c/o the church. (If you don’t want to write a check for such a small amount, make it $10 and she will credit you for 2021 – even if there is a dues increase). Life membership status begins at age 80 and no dues are required. You may even use the “Contact Form” below to submit your name, mailing address, email address (if you check it daily) for time-sensitive member notifications, preferred phone number, and date of birth (just month & day). If you are not a member but would like to know more about the Sodality, please contact Mickey (716-832-2540) or President Vera Andrew (716-704-2944). Our first meeting of 2020 is scheduled for Sunday, March 1.

Please notify the Rectory Office with your current email address if you wish to receive a PDF version of the weekly church bulletin. You easiest way to do that is by using the contact feature at the bottom of this page.

Anyone interested in coordinating a prayer group, such as Pious Society, Sacred Heart, St. Jude, Altar Rosary, etc., please see Fr. Victor or email the church office at blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com.

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!

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 home bound parishioners who may wish to receive a visit and the Eucharist on the last Friday of each month.

We are taking down the Christmas decorations on Monday evening, Dec. 13, at 6:30. Volunteers are needed.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Seeking Volunteer Opportunity?  The Station of the Cross Catholic Radio (6325 Sheridan Road in Williamsville) has a need for call-screeners for the Mother Miriam Live program that airs 10am-11am, and also volunteers for administrative duties (labeling, sorting/stuffing envelopes, addressing envelopes, etc.). Call Dana Mielke at 716-839-6114, ext. 105. Find out more at thestationofthecross.com.

Week of January 5, 2020 – The Epiphany of the Lord

Jan 5, 2020 | This Week

January 5 – January 12, 2020

Weekly Activities

Wednesday, January 8, 2020 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, January 9 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

Saturday, January 11 at 8:00 p.m. ~  Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

*To check the Bonus Ball and Progressive Share-the-Wealth carry over amounts and Progressive numbers for this week, click HERE and visit our Facebook page.

Mass Intentions

Sunday, January 5 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. –  Blessings for Mary Price Franco (Requested by Bob and Mary Kresse) and Birthday Remembrance for John Duffy (Requested by The Duffy Family)

Monday, January 6 ~ St. Andre Bessette ~ No Service

Tuesday, January 7 ~ St. Raymoind of Penafort ~ Communion Service at 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday, January 8 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – For the intentions of our parishioners, both living and deceased (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Thursday, January 9 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Friday, January 10 ~ Communion Service at 11:00 a.m.

Saturday, January 11 ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. – For the intentions of our parishioners, both living and deceased (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Sunday, January 12 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. –  Blessings for Willie Ray Folmar (John E. Curtin) and Eternal Rest for Edward F. Schroeder (The Franciscan Sisters)

Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, January 11 & 12, 2020:

Saturday, 4:30 p.m.  Reader: Gary Kelley; Eucharistic Minister: Lorna Cameron

Sunday, 10:00 a.m.  Readers: Mary Kresse, Avery White; Eucharistic Ministers: Fran Cahill, Toni Maus, Bernice Bradley; Choir – Maggie Gatson

We thank the St. John Paul II Schola Cantorum sharing their beautiful voices with us on Sunday, December 29.

News from our Parish Community

We Thank Our Visiting Clergy ~ This weekend we welcome Rev. Rob Contarin as our Saturday Mass celebrant and Rev. Jim Dugan on Sunday. Rev. Peter Ekanem will be here again for daily Mass on Wednesday and Thursday, January 8 and 9. Father Dugan will be our celebrant on both Saturday and Sunday, January 11-12; Father Victor is expected back on Tuesday January 14.

New Year! New Music! When the Kings bring their gifts to the Magi, the Blessed Trinity Choir is ready for a well-deserved break.  We are truly blessed at this Church – not only for the beautiful worship space, but also for more than 75 years of choral music tradition from our loft. Our choir is dedicated, and their love for God is evident at every Liturgy. Just because we have been around a long time doesn’t mean we don’t have some new initiatives for this bright New Year. We will be dusting off some treasures rescued from the music library in the loft as well as learning some new pieces, including a new Mass setting. We will expand our repertoire to include music spanning five centuries and will be inviting new members into our ranks. We will continue to take musical requests from the congregation, so don’t hesitate to approach any choir member with your suggestions. This is *our* music program – let’s make it the best it can be. Did you know Blessed Trinity Church has one of the most beautiful acoustics in Western New York? Join us up in the loft and help enhance our Liturgies. Choir practice resumes on Wednesday, February 5, at 7:00 in St. Charles Hall. All are welcome to attend… Elizabeth

Personal Prayer Requests ~ As this Christmas season ends, you are invited to continue the practice of submitting your personal prayer requests. Just write them out and place your prayer petitions in the basket on the communion rail in front of the baptismal font. There is no need to provide your name. Your intentions will be remembered at Masses throughout the week.

Members of the Ladies Sodality are reminded that January means membership renewal. Dues for 2020 will remain at $5.00 and are being collected by Vice President, Mickey Dick. She will be happy to accept them in person, or you may mail your check payable to “Ladies Sodality of Blessed Trinity” to her at 2549 Main Street, Buffalo 14214. (If you don’t want to write a check for such a small amount, make it $10 and she will credit you for 2021 – even if there is a dues increase). Life membership status begins at age 80 and no dues are required. If you are not a member but would like to know more about the Sodality, please contact Mickey (716-832-2540) or President Vera Andrew (716-704-2944). Our first meeting of 2020 is scheduled for Sunday, March 1.

Please notify the Rectory Office with your current email address if you wish to receive a PDF version of the weekly church bulletin. You easiest way to do that is by using the contact feature at the bottom of this page.

Anyone interested in coordinating a prayer group, such as Pious Society, Sacred Heart, St. Jude, Altar Rosary, etc., please see Fr. Victor or email the church office at blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com.

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!

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 home bound parishioners who may wish to receive a visit and the Eucharist on the last Friday of each month.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Epiphany Lessons and Carols, Sunday, January 5 at 4pm, presented by The Fourteen Holy Helpers Choir, directed by Patrick Barrett at Fourteen Holy Helpers Church (1350 Indian Church Road at Union Road in West Seneca).

Seeking Volunteer Opportunity?  The Station of the Cross Catholic Radio (6325 Sheridan Road in Williamsville) has a need for call-screeners for the Mother Miriam Live program that airs 10am-11am, and also volunteers for administrative duties (labeling, sorting/stuffing envelopes, addressing envelopes, etc.). Call Dana Mielke at 716-839-6114, ext. 105. Find out more at thestationofthecross.com.

Week of December 29, 2019 – Feast of the Holy Family

Dec 29, 2019 | This Week

Merry Christmas from the Blessed Trinity Parish Community

December 29, 2019 – January 5, 2020

Weekly Activities

Sunday, December 29 from 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. ~ Explore Buffalo “Sacred Spaces” Tour of our church

Sunday, December 29 at 3:00 p.m. ~ “Catholic Treasures of Advent & Christmas” Concert in the church

Wednesday, January 1, 2020 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, January 2 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

Saturday, December 28 at 8:00 p.m. ~  Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

*To check the Bonus Ball and Progressive Share-the-Wealth carry over amounts and Progressive numbers for this week, click HERE and visit our Facebook page.

Mass Intentions

Sunday, December 29 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. –  Blessings for the Marriage of Melissa Stone and Yonnas Mengistu (Requested by Ruth Rebovich) and Eternal Rest for Lucille Venezia (Requested by Robert and Mary Reilly)

Monday, December 30 ~ No Service

Tuesday, December 31 ~ St. Sylvester I ~ Communion Service at 11:00 a.m.

New Year’s Day
Wednesday, January 1, 2020 ~ Solemnity of Mary ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – For the intentions of our parishioners, both living and deceased (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Thursday, January 2 ~ Ss. Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Friday, January 3 ~ Most Holy Name of Jesus ~ Communion Service at 11:00 a.m.

Saturday, January 4 ~ St. Eliuzabeth Ann Seton ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Eternal Rest for Lucille Venezia (John and Michele Covell)

Sunday, January 5 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. –  Blessings for Mary Price Franco (Bob and Mary Kresse) and Birthday Remembrance for John Duffy (The Duffy Family)

Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, January 4 & 5, 2020:

Saturday, 4:30 p.m.  Reader: Michael Ogoh; Eucharistic Minister: John Curtin

Sunday, 10:00 a.m.  Readers: Chris Porter, Miles James; Eucharistic Ministers: Fran Cahill, Fidelia Ejimadu, Maggie Gatson; Choir – Sharon Dunnigan

The St. John Paul II Schola Cantorum will perform “Catholic Treasures or Advent and Christmas” at 3pm on Sunday, December 29, 2019.

News from our Parish Community

Holiday Double-Bill on Sunday, December 29!  Blessed Trinity is a site of Explore Buffalo’s Sacred Spaces Tour Series from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Our excellent BT docents will explain the architectural and symbolic features of our Landmark church. This is a marvelous opportunity for WNY residents to bring their out-of-town holiday visitors to a place of light, warmth, and beautiful Christmas decorations! Tickets are $15 general admission, $10 with an Explorer Pass, and $5 for students. You may make a reservation with Explore Buffalo by clicking HERE or calling 716-245-3032. Walk-ins are welcome as well. Following the tour, beginning at 3 pm, the St. John Paul II Schola Cantorum will present “Catholic Treasures of Advent and Christmas,” a concert of sacred choral masterpieces of the season from the Renaissance to the twenty-first century. The Schola Cantorum will perform works by Elgar, Byrd, Palestrina, Bach, Victoria, Gallus, LeJeune and others. And you can be part of the act by staying for a post-concert sing-a-long of traditional Christmas Carols led by members of the Schola. There is no charge for the concert, but a free will offering will be taken. Come for the tour. Come for the concert. Come for both! It promises to be a most enjoyable afternoon.

Blessed Trinity Annual Christmas “Giving Tree” will remain in the transept through New Year’s Day. Please don’t forget to take an envelope from the Giving Tree. This year’s chosen charity is Family Promise of WNY, an inter-faith, volunteer-based charity providing temporary housing to families who have experienced a crisis and have no place to live. Your cash donation, gift card, or check payable to “Family Promise,” will assist Family Promise guests as they transition into more permanent housing. Recommended stores include Target, Walmart, Tops and other area grocery chains. Whatever form your donation takes, please place it in an envelope from The Giving Tree and drop it in the collection basket. DO NOT return the envelope to the tree. For additional information about Family Promise, please visit https://fpwny.org/.

Music Ministry at Blessed Trinity ~ People who come to Mass for the first time at Blessed Trinity frequently comment on the beautiful music ministry we have. Did you know that many church choirs in Western New York have paid singers to enhance the sound of their choirs? Our choir is made up of a core of dedicated volunteers who meet weekly to sing praises to our God. But the music ministry at Blessed Trinity goes beyond that – together, we learn how to worship God through music, but we also learn how to take care of one another, as we are all on this journey together. What a privilege it is to continue a choral music tradition at our church that has lasted more than 75 years. When you see the members of our holiday choir, please tell them how you feel about the music at Blessed Trinity and please thank them for their efforts. They are amazing! Our 2019 Christmas singers include: Vera Andrew, Judy Casassa, Elizabeth Clay, Luis Clay, Margaret (“Mickey”) Dick, Louise Dietrich, Gayle Eagan, Theresa Johnson, Gary Kelley, James Kelly, Helen Roddy-Gray, Rafael RonDon, Kathryn Sands, Sr. Liz Savage, Sue Trabert, Bonnie Williams, Don Williams, and Palma Zanghi. The Blessed Trinity Choir wishes you a new year filled with God’s blessings.

Our Parish Community thanks all of the priests who have celebrated Mass at Blessed Trinity this Christmas season during Fr. Victors’s time away: Rev. Rob Contarin, Rev. Jim Dugan, Rev. Peter Ekanem, Rev. Greg Gallagher, Rev. Roy Herberger,  Rev. Ken Hezel, Rev, Joe Rogliano, and Rev. Duke Zajac.

Personal Prayer Requests ~ During Christmas week, you are invited to submit your personal prayer requests. Just write them out and place your prayer petitions in the basket on the communion rail in front of the baptismal font. There is no need to provide your name. Your intentions will be remembered at Masses throughout the week.

Gifts for Home Bound Parishioners – Christmas gift bags for our parish home bound and those in senior care facilities have been delivered, and we are receiving many positive comments from grateful recipients. Thank you to members of the Ladies Sodality who spearheaded the project, everyone who contributed gifts or money to purchase them, and all who took the time to deliver a gift bag and visit with someone who is no longer able to attend services on a regular basis.

Father Victor’s Travel Schedule ~ Due to the death of a member of his extended family in Nigeria, Fr. Victor will be away from December 10 – January 14. We pray that God will watch over his travels and bless his time with family and friends. 

Emotional Support During the Holiday Season ~ If you are struggling with depression, grief or anxiety, the holidays can be an especially difficult time. If you are experiencing these feelings and think counseling could help, call Catholic Charities. We offer counseling in every county in the Diocese of Buffalo and are ready to assist you. In Erie and Niagara counties, call 716-895-1033.

Please notify the Rectory Office with your current email address if you wish to receive a PDF version of the weekly church bulletin. You easiest way to do that is by using the contact feature at the bottom of this page.

Anyone interested in coordinating a prayer group, such as Pious Society, Sacred Heart, St. Jude, Altar Rosary, etc., please see Fr. Victor or email the church office at blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com.

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!

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 home bound parishioners who may wish to receive a visit and the Eucharist on the last Friday of each month.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Seeking Volunteer Opportunity?  The Station of the Cross Catholic Radio (6325 Sheridan Road in Williamsville) has a need for call-screeners for the Mother Miriam Live program that airs 10am-11am, and also volunteers for administrative duties (labeling, sorting/stuffing envelopes, addressing envelopes, etc.). Call Dana Mielke at 716-839-6114, ext. 105. Find out more at thestationofthecross.com.

Free Legal Advice by Volunteer Lawyers Project, Wednesdays, 12-2pm at Adult Education Center (368 Virginia Street in Buffalo) and Thursdays 3:30-5:30pm at East Community High School (820 Northampton Street in Buffalo). Visit ecbavlp.com or call 716-828-8491 for more information.

Week of December 22, 2019 – 4th Sunday of Advent

Dec 22, 2019 | This Week

Merry Christmas from the Blessed Trinity Parish Community

December 22 – 29, 2019

Weekly Activities

Monday, December 23 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir rehearsal in the loft

Wednesday, December 25 ~ Catholic Central Food Pantry is closed in observance of Christmas Day.

Thursday, December 26 ~ NO BINGO. (Allowing our hard-working volunteers to enjoy an extended holiday).

Saturday, December 28 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, December 22 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. –  Blessings for Elmer Kirst and Elvira (Requested by Bob and Mary Kresse)

Monday, December 23 ~ No Service

Tuesday, December 24 ~ Christmas Eve at 9:30 p.m. ~ Choral preludes sung by the choir

Tuesday, December 24 ~ Christmas Eve Mass at 10:00 p.m. – Deceased Members of the Venezia, Ferella and Then Families (Theresa Ferella)

Wednesday, December 25 ~ Nativity  of Our Lord ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – For the intentions of our parishioners, both living and deceased (Blessed Trinity Parish)

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

Friday, December 27 ~ Communion Service at 11:00 a.m.

Saturday, December 28 ~ St. Peter Canisius ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Eternal Rest for Lucille Venezia (Nancy DeBoy)

Sunday, December 29 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. –  Blessings for the Marriage of Melissa Stone and Yonnas Mengistu (Ruth Rebovich) and Eternal Rest for Lucille Venezia (Robert and Mary Reilly)

Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, December 28 & 29, 2019:

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

Sunday, 10:00 a.m.  Readers: Bob Heicklen, David Iheke; Eucharistic Ministers: Dan Korchowsky, Toni Maus, Pam Zanghi; Choir – Fran Cahill

Join us for worship on Christmas Eve. Choral preludes at 9:30 PM followed by Christmas Eve Mass at 10:00 PM or Christmas Day Mass at 10:00 AM.

News from our Parish Community

Blessed Trinity Annual Christmas “Giving Tree” ~ Please don’t forget to take an envelope from the Giving Tree. This year’s chosen charity is Family Promise of WNY, an inter-faith, volunteer-based charity providing temporary housing to families who have experienced a crisis and have no place to live. Your cash donation, gift card, or check payable to “Family Promise,” will assist Family Promise guests as they transition into more permanent housing. Recommended stores include Target, Walmart, Tops and other area grocery chains. Whatever form your donation takes, please place it in an envelope from The Giving Tree and drop it in the collection basket. DO NOT return the envelope to the tree. For additional information about Family Promise, please visit https://fpwny.org/.

The Whole World is Waiting for Love
Marianne Misetich, SNJM

We’re waiting for Jesus like Mary, we’re waiting for Jesus the Lord. Come down, Lord Jesus! Come quickly, Lord Jesus!
The whole world is waiting for Love. The whole world is waiting for Love.

We’re laying a manger for Mary, a manger for Jesus the Lord. Come down, Lord Jesus! Come quickly, Lord Jesus!
The whole world is waiting for Love. The whole world is waiting for Love.

We’re making it lovely for Mary, so lovely for Jesus the Lord. Come down, Lord Jesus! Come quickly, Lord Jesus!
The whole world is waiting for Love. The whole world is waiting for Love.

Did you know Blessed Trinity Church has one of the most beautiful acoustics in Western New York? Join us up in the loft and help enhance our Liturgies. Choir practice continues on Monday, December 23, at 7:00 p.m. in the loft. 

Monday Bulletin Deadline ~ Because of the Christmas and New Year holidays, we ask that all items for the December 29 bulletin be submitted to the rectory office by Monday, December 23.

Personal Prayer Requests ~ During Christmas week, you are invited to submit your personal prayer requests. Just write them out and place your prayer petitions in the basket on the communion rail in front of the baptismal font. There is no need to provide your name. Your intentions will be remembered at Masses throughout the week.

Holiday Double-Bill on Sunday, December 29!  Blessed Trinity will host a tour as part of Explore Buffalo’s Sacred Spaces Tour Series from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Our excellent BT docents will explain the architectural and symbolic features of our Landmark church. This is a marvelous opportunity for WNY residents to bring their out-of-town holiday visitors to a place of light, warmth, and beautiful Christmas decorations! Tickets are $15 general admission, $10 with an Explorer Pass, and $5 for students. Explore Buffalo is sponsoring the tour and you may make a reservation by clicking HERE or calling 716-245-3032. Walk-ins are welcome as well. On this same day (December 29) at 3 pm, the St. John Paul II Schola Cantorum will present “Catholic Treasures of Advent and Christmas”, a concert of sacred choral masterpieces of the season from the Renaissance to the 21st century. The Schola Cantorum will perform works by Elgar, Byrd, Palestrina, Bach, Victoria, Gallus, LeJeune and others. The concert will be followed by a singalong of traditional Christmas Carols. There is no charge for the concert, but a free will offering will be taken. Come for the tour, come for the concert, or come for both!! It promises to be a most enjoyable afternoon!

Gifts for Home Bound Parishioners – Christmas gift bags for our parish home bound and those in senior care facilities have been delivered, and we are receiving many positive comments from grateful recipients. Thank you to members of the Ladies Sodality who spearheaded the project, everyone who contributed gifts or money to purchase them, and all who took the time to deliver a gift bag and visit with someone who is no longer able to attend services on a regular basis.

Father Victor’s Travel Schedule ~ Due to the death of a member of his extended family in Nigeria, Fr. Victor will be away from December 10 – January 14. We pray that God will watch over his travels and bless his time with family and friends. 

Emotional Support During the Holiday Season ~ If you are struggling with depression, grief or anxiety, the holidays can be an especially difficult time. If you are experiencing these feelings and think counseling could help, call Catholic Charities. We offer counseling in every county in the Diocese of Buffalo and are ready to assist you. In Erie and Niagara counties, call 716-895-1033.

Please notify the Rectory Office with your current email address if you wish to receive a PDF version of the weekly church bulletin. You easiest way to do that is by using the contact feature at the bottom of this page.

Anyone interested in coordinating a prayer group, such as Pious Society, Sacred Heart, St. Jude, Altar Rosary, etc., please see Fr. Victor or email the church office at blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com.

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!

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 home bound parishioners who may wish to receive a visit and the Eucharist on the last Friday of each month.

The St. John Paul II Schola Cantorum will perform “Catholic Treasures of Advent and Christmas” at 3pm on Sunday, December 29, 2019.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Seeking Volunteer Opportunity?  The Station of the Cross Catholic Radio (6325 Sheridan Road in Williamsville) has a need for call-screeners for the Mother Miriam Live program that airs 10am-11am, and also volunteers for administrative duties (labeling, sorting/stuffing envelopes, addressing envelopes, etc.). Call Dana Mielke at 716-839-6114, ext. 105. Find out more at thestationofthecross.com.

Free Legal Advice by Volunteer Lawyers Project, Wednesdays, 12-2pm at Adult Education Center (368 Virginia Street in Buffalo) and Thursdays 3:30-5:30pm at East Community High School (820 Northampton Street in Buffalo). Visit ecbavlp.com or call 716-828-8491 for more information.

Week of December 15, 2019 – 3rd Sunday of Advent

Dec 17, 2019 | This Week

December 15 – 22, 2019

Weekly Activities

Sunday, December 15 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Anointing of the sick and well-aging in church.

Tuesday, December 17 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir rehearsal in St. Charles Hall

Wednesday, December 18 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, December 18 at 6:40 p.m. ~ Parish Council social and meeting in St. Charles Hall

Thursday, December 19 at 8:00 p.m. ~  Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

Saturday, December 21 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

Sunday, December 22 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Help needed to retrieve Christmas decorations from church basement.

Monday, December 23 at 6:00 p.m. ~ Open invitation to help decorate church for Christmas

*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, December 15 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Eternal Rest for Lucille Venezia (Requested by Bingo Workers) and Blessings for Nicholas Orlando (Requested by Bob and Mary Kresse)

Monday, December 16 ~ No Service

Tuesday, December 17 ~ Communion Service at 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday, December 18 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Thursday, December 19 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – For the intentions of our parishioners, both living and deceased (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Friday, December 20 ~ Communion Service at 11:00 a.m.

Saturday, December 21 ~ St. Peter Canisius ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Eternal Rest for Lucille Venezia (Nancy DeBoy)

Sunday, December 22 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. –  Blessings for Elmer Kirst and Elvira (Bob and Mary Kresse)

Tuesday, December 24 ~ Christmas Eve Mass at 10:00 p.m., preceded by choral prelude by the Blessed Trinity Choir

Wednesday, December 25 ~ Christmas Day Mass at 10:00 a.m.

Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, December 21 & 22, 2019:

Saturday, 4:30 p.m.  Reader: Michael Ogoh; Eucharistic Minister: Lorna Cameron

Sunday, 10:00 a.m.  Readers: Fran Cahill, Bernice Bradley; Eucharistic Ministers: Dan Korchowsky, Toni Maus, Fidelia Ejimadu; Choir – Sharon Dunnigan

Please help decorate the church for Christmas on Monday, Dec. 23, at 6pm.

News from our Parish Community

The Parish Council will hold it’s monthly meeting on Wednesday, December 18, at 7pm in St. Charles Hall. Council President Palma Zanghi and Veep Colleen Schroeder are promising holiday goodies if you make an appearance by 6:40pm. Don’t miss out on this special treat.

Church Decorating ~ With Christmas Eve falling on a Tuesday, there isn’t much time for decorating. Immediately after Mass on December 22, the 4th Sunday of Advent, able bodied volunteers are needed to carry up the decorations from the church basement. Then please reserve some time on Monday evening, December 23, to help put the finishing touches on our Christmas decorating effort. Volunteers are asked to assemble on Monday at 6 p.m. Please use the side entrance near the wheelchair ramp. As we all know, “many hands make light work,” but if we are not finished by 7 p.m., you’ll get a preview of the Christmas music selections as the choir rehearses in the loft.

Blessed Trinity Annual Christmas “Giving Tree” ~ Please don’t forget to take an envelope from the Giving Tree. This year’s chosen charity is Family Promise of WNY, an inter-faith, volunteer-based charity providing temporary housing to families who have experienced a crisis and have no place to live. Your cash donation, gift card, or check payable to “Family Promise,” will assist Family Promise guests as they transition into more permanent housing. Recommended stores include Target, Walmart, Tops and other area grocery chains. Whatever form your donation takes, please place it in an envelope from The Giving Tree and drop it in the collection basket. DO NOT return the envelope to the tree. For additional information about Family Promise, please visit https://fpwny.org/.

Anticipation ~ The Advent season takes me back to my childhood, every single year. The theme of the four Sundays of waiting vacillates between a mature, steady expectation to a child-like urgency – When are we going to get there? Selecting liturgical music that reinforces this varied waiting is a fun challenge – and this week’s opening and closing hymns hopefully reinforced this dichotomy. Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus exemplifies adult anticipation:

   Come, Thou long expected Jesus born to set Thy people free;
   From our fears and sins release us, let us find our rest in Thee.
   Israel’s strength and consolation, hope of all the earth Thou art;
   Dear desire of every nation, joy of every longing heart.

   Born Thy people to deliver,  born a child and yet a King,
   Born to reign in us forever, now Thy gracious kingdom bring.
   By Thine own eternal Spirit rule in all our hearts alone;
   By Thine all sufficient merit, raise us to Thy glorious throne.

What a contrast to our closing hymn, Alleluia! Hurry the Lord is Near.  I can feel the excitement of child-like anticipation for Christmas morning in every verse:  

Alleluia! Hurry the Lord is near. Alleluia! Alleluia! Hurry the Lord is near.
Sound the trumpet, the Lord is near. Hurry the Lord is near.
See, He comes to save us all, hurry the Lord is near.

Earth has longed for his approach. Hurry the Lord is near.
Straighten the road, smooth the path. Hurry the Lord is near.

Go out to meet and shout his name. Hurry the Lord is near.
His mighty Kingdom shall never end. Hurry the Lord is near.

He is the mighty one, He is the Word. Hurry the Lord is near.
God everlasting, Prince of Peace. Hurry the Lord is near.

So privileged to be waiting for our Savior’s birth together! May Christ’s peace continue to bless this Advent season – hurry!  Our Lord is near! Join us up in the loft and help enhance our Liturgies. Choir practice continues on Tuesday, December 17, at 7:00 p.m. in St. Charles Hall. All are welcome to attend.

Personal Prayer Requests ~ During Advent, you are invited to submit your personal prayer requests. Just write them out and place your prayer petitions in the basket on the communion rail in front of the baptismal font. There is no need to provide your name. Your intentions will be remembered at Masses throughout Advent.

Thank You to all of the volunteers (Vera Andrew, Judy Casassa, Elizabeth & Luis Clay, Mickey & Bud Dick, Ellen Duffy, Dorothy Manuppelli, Sue Trabert and Pam Zanghi) who helped with the Freudig Singers Concert last Sunday. The music was great and the pies were delicious!!

Holiday Double-Bill on Sunday, December 29!  Blessed Trinity will host a tour as part of Explore Buffalo’s Sacred Spaces Tour Series from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Our excellent BT docents will explain to all the participants the architectural and symbolism features of our Landmark church. This is a marvelous opportunity for WNY residents to bring their out-of-town holiday visitors to a place of light, warmth, and beautiful Christmas decorations! Tickets are $15 general admission, $10 with an Explorer Pass, and $5 for students. Explore Buffalo is sponsoring the tour and you may make a reservation by clicking HERE or calling 716-245-3032. Walk-ins are welcome as well. On this same day (December 29) at 3 pm, the St. John Paul II Schola Cantorum will present “Catholic Treasures of Advent and Christmas”, a concert of sacred choral masterpieces of the season from the Renaissance to the 21st century. The Schola Cantorum will perform works by Elgar, Byrd, Palestrina, Bach, Victoria, Gallus, LeJeune and others. The concert will be followed by a singalong of traditional Christmas Carols. There is no charge for the concert, but a free will offering will be taken. Come for the tour, come for the concert, or come for both!! It promises to be a most enjoyable afternoon!

Gifts for Home Bound Parishioners – Christmas gift bags for our parish home bound and those in senior care facilities have been delivered, and we are receiving many positive comments from grateful recipients. Thank you to members of the Ladies Sodality who spearheaded the project, everyone who contributed gifts or money to purchase them, and all who took the time to deliver a gift bag and visit with someone who is no longer able to attend services on a regular basis.

Report  on the 2019 Prisoner Package Project ~ Sister Karen Klimczak’s message of hope, love, peace, and forgiveness to the imprisoned continues. A Big Thank You is extended to all the friends and supporters of Sr. Karen who donated cocoa and books, decorated bags, and helped package the gifts.

On the evening of 12/3, goods and books were delivered with the help of men from the ancient Order of Hibernians. On Friday morning 12/6, volunteers from churches, schools, social agencies and friends of Sr. Karen unpacked, sorted and counted supplies for 1900 gift bags. Cartons and boxes were flattened and plastics bagged for recycling. Working very efficiently, they then filled 900 gift bags for the women at Albion and packed them into shipping boxes. A big evening crew of 95 volunteers packed 1000 gifts for the men at Wende Correctional Facility. Each gift bag contained: 2 books, a pair of socks, ramen noodles, a granola/snack bar, a bag of candy, 2 hot chocolate packs, and a note of peace and encouragement. On Tuesday 12/10, “Paint of WNY” donated their truck and 20 workers who loaded the boxes for delivery to the prisons.

Blessed Trinity’s Cocoa Challenge exceeded its goal and donated 4000 packets.  Cash donations totaled $335.  We spent $178 to purchase 1600 cocoa packets, leaving $157 to fill shortages and donate to Peaceprints of WNY. Thanks and appreciation to our BT parishioners who decorated and arranged for friends and children to decorate over 200 gift bags. Thank you to our parishioners who shopped for cocoa at BJ’s and Sam’s Club, and to those who worked to pack the gift bags and help clean up.

We thank Dennis, our maintenance man, for setting up tables and supplying cart and extension cord. We are grateful and thank Fr. Victor for again making Blessed Trinity Church available for this yearly project.

We acknowledge and thank Janice Burns, project coordinator, for her hard work bringing this project to another successful end. Hopefully, we have left some peace prints.

Father Victor’s Travel Schedule ~ Due to the death of a member of his extended family in Nigeria, Fr. Victor will be away from December 10 – January 14. We pray that God will watch over his travels and bless his time with family and friends. 

Emotional Support During the Holiday Season ~ If you are struggling with depression, grief or anxiety, the holidays can be an especially difficult time. If you are experiencing these feelings and think counseling could help, call Catholic Charities. We offer counseling in every county in the Diocese of Buffalo and are ready to assist you. In Erie and Niagara counties, call 716-895-1033.

Please notify the Rectory Office with your current email address if you wish to receive a PDF version of the weekly church bulletin. You easiest way to do that is by using the contact feature at the bottom of this page.

Anyone interested in coordinating a prayer group, such as Pious Society, Sacred Heart, St. Jude, Altar Rosary, etc., please see Fr. Victor or email the church office at blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com.

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!

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 home bound parishioners who may wish to receive a visit and the Eucharist on the last Friday of each month.

The St. John Paul II Schola Cantorum will perform “Catholic Treasures of Advent and Christmas” at 3pm on Sunday, December 29, 2019.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Concerts For The Soul: The Wonder of Christmas, Friday December 20 at 7pm. Cory James Gallagher presents Concerts For The Soul: The Wonder of Christmas at St. Michael’s Church (651 Washington Street in Buffalo).  Another performance is set for Saturday, December 21 (7pm) at St. Mary of The Lake Church (4737 Lakeshore Road in Hamburg). Come join tenor-vocalist Cory James Gallagher and writer-poet Amy Gallagher as they take you on a musical-poetic journey through the wonder and nostalgia of this sacred season.  All concerts are by donation. To dedicate a song and have your loved one included in our “Christmas Angels” segment, contact concertsforthesoul [at] gmail [dot] com or 716-868-2047.

Seeking Volunteer Opportunity?  The Station of the Cross Catholic Radio (6325 Sheridan Road in Williamsville) has a need for call-screeners for the Mother Miriam Live program that airs 10am-11am, and also volunteers for administrative duties (labeling, sorting/stuffing envelopes, addressing envelopes, etc.). Call Dana Mielke at 716-839-6114, ext. 105. Find out more at thestationofthecross.com.

Free Legal Advice by Volunteer Lawyers Project, Wednesdays, 12-2pm at Adult Education Center (368 Virginia Street in Buffalo) and Thursdays 3:30-5:30pm at East Community High School (820 Northampton Street in Buffalo). Visit ecbavlp.com or call 716-828-8491 for more information.

Week of December 8, 2019 – 2nd Sunday of Advent

Dec 8, 2019 | This Week

December 8 – 15, 2019

Weekly Activities

Sunday, December 8 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Distribution of gifts for home bound in St. Charles Hall.

Sunday, December 8 following 3:00 p.m. concert ~ Dessert reception in St. Charles Hall

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

Thursday, December 12 at 8:00 p.m. ~  Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

Saturday, December 14 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

Sunday, December 15 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Anointing of the sick and well-aging in church.

*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, December 8 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Eternal Rest for Edward F. Schroeder (Requested by Robert and Mary Reilly)

Monday, December 9 ~ Mass at 5:00 p.m. – Mass for the Immaculate Conception, U.S. Patronal Feast Day – Birthday Remembrance for Lucille Venezia (Theresa Ferella)

Monday, December 9 ~ Prayer Service at 6:00 p.m. for Healing of Victims of Clergy Abuse

Tuesday, December 10 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – For the intentions of our parishioners, both living and deceased (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Wednesday, December 11 ~ St. John Damasus I ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Thursday, December 12 ~ Our Lady of Guadalupe ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – For the intentions of our parishioners, both living and deceased (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Friday, December 13 ~ St. Lucy ~ COMMUNION SERVICE at 11:00 a.m.

Saturday, December 14 ~ St. John of the Cross ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Blessings for Daniel Smith (John E. Curtin)

Sunday, December 15 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Eternal Rest for Lucille Venezia (Bingo Workers) and Blessings for Nicholas Orlando (Bob and Mary Kresse)

Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, December 14 & 15, 2019:

Saturday, 4:30 p.m.  Reader: Gary Kelley; Eucharistic Minister: John Curtin

Sunday, 10:00 a.m.  Readers: Joe Nwogu, Avery White; Eucharistic Ministers: Dan Korchowsky, Toni Maus, Fidelia Ejimadu; Choir – Maggie Gatson

The Freudig Singers present “A Christmas Pie ” at Blessed Trinity, Sunday, December 8 at 3 PM. Come for the concert; stay for the pie!

News from our Parish Community

Gifts for Home Bound Parishioners – Christmas gift bags for our parish home bound and those in senior care facilities are now ready for distribution. If you have agreed to deliver one, they will be available in St. Charles Hall following Mass on Sunday, December 8. Members of the Ladies Sodality are so grateful to those of you who gave so generously in order to bring a little cheer from our parish family to those who may sometimes feel they are forgotten.

Musical treats will be served on Sunday, December 8, at 3 p.m. when The Freudig Singers of WNY return for their annual “Christmas Pie” performance in our acoustically splendid church setting. This presentation of religious and popular holiday melodies with its post-concert dessert reception and pie raffle is always a popular event. Tickets at the door. Come for the music; stay for the pie! Our Landmark church is wheelchair accessible with secured, off-street parking.

Special Mass for the Feast of The Immaculate Conception and Healing Prayer Service, Monday, December 9. Because the Second Sunday of Advent supersedes the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the latter is not a Holy Day of Obligation this year. It is, however, a patronal feast day in the United States, and Father Victor will celebrate a special Mass at 5 PM Monday, December 9.  It will be followed by a prayer service at 6 PM for the healing of victims of clergy abuse.

Winchester New? Bartholomäus  Crasselius, son of Johannes Crasselt, sheepmaster at Wemsdorf near Glauchau, Saxony; was born at Wernsdorf, Feb. 21, 1667. After studying at Halle under A. H. Francke, he became, in 1701, pastor at Nidda, in Wetteravia, Hesse. In 1708 he was appointed Lutheran pastor at Düsseldorf, where he died Nov. 30, 1724, after a somewhat troubled pastorate. Crasselius wrote a hymn tune now known as Winchester New in 1690. It was named Winchester New to differentiate it from a different hymn tune now known as…you guessed it…Winchester Old. If today’s opening hymn, On Jordan’s Banks, sounded familiar, it is because it is just one of dozens of texts that have been set to Winchester New over the centuries. We have at least two other hymn texts set to this tune in our current Breaking Bread hymnal. How many hymns can you think of set to this tune? Did you know Blessed Trinity Church has one of the most beautiful acoustics in Western New York? Join us up in the loft and help enhance our Liturgies. Choir practice continues on Wednesday, December 11 at 7:00 p.m. in St. Charles Hall. All are welcome to attend.

Father Victor’s Travel Schedule ~ Due to the death of a member of his extended family in Nigeria, Fr. Victor will be away from December 10 – January 14. We pray that God will watch over his travels and bless his time with family and friends.

Blessed Trinity Annual Christmas “Giving Tree” ~ For many years it has been a tradition at Blessed Trinity to have a Christmas “Giving Tree.” Each year a particular charity is chosen and our congregation has generously responded. This year our charity will be Family Promise of WNY. This charity provides temporary housing to families who have experienced a crisis and have no place to live. For additional information about this organization, please visit https://fpwny.org/. As guest families are often starting from scratch, the staff at Family Promise have expressed a need for gift cards to give families as they transition into more permanent housing. Recommended stores include Target, Walmart, Tops and other area grocery chains. You may also make a monetary donation. If you choose this option, be sure to use an envelope from The Giving Tree for your gift and drop it in the collection basket. Checks should be made payable to “Family Promise.” You can also join our parish Family Promise Team and help prepare dinner for the network’s guests on Monday, December 9. To offer assistance, please contact Amy Johnson,  (716) 836-4694.

Would you like a prayer for a special intention? Beginning Sunday December 1, you will be provided an opportunity to submit your personal prayer requests. These requests will be remembered at each Mass throughout the week. You may submit your request by writing it on a slip of paper and placing it in the basket on the rail in front of the baptismal font. There is no need to provide your name.

Luis Clay

Prayerful Thanks ~ The Parish thanks Luis Clay for his dedicated time and volunteer service as the Catholic Central Food Pantry Coordinator these past four years. Dan Korchowsky will take over as Temporary Coordinator. We pray that God continues to bless Luis and reward him accordingly. We wish Dan a fruitful and successful time of service.

Holiday Tours of Blessed Trinity ~ Explore Buffalo is again bringing their seasonal tours to Blessed Trinity Church and inviting the public to see our beautiful structure and its festive decorations. The Thanksgiving Weekend tour rook place on Saturday, November 30. The Christmas Weekend tour will take place on Sunday, December 29 from 12:30 – 2:30 PM. Cost: $15 per person. Reservations can be made by visiting Explore Buffalo or calling 716-245-3032. Walk-ins are also welcome. Why not take advantage of this opportunity by inviting your holiday guests to share a pleasant and educational holiday experience. At 3:00 PM on December 29, we will also host a musical presentation by the St. John Paul II Schola Cantorum. A double bill and truly joyful Christmas gift!!

Emotional Support During the Holiday Season ~ If you are struggling with depression, grief or anxiety, the holidays can be an especially difficult time. If you are experiencing these feelings and think counseling could help, call Catholic Charities. We offer counseling in every county in the Diocese of Buffalo and are ready to assist you. In Erie and Niagara counties, call 716-895-1033.

Know Your Faith: Why Advent? Advent comes from the Latin word “adventus” which means “coming” or “arrival.” It begins four Sundays before Christmas, or the Sunday closest to November 30. Advent lasts through Christmas Eve, or December 24. As we prepare for Christmas and the second coming of Christ, the church celebrates the season of advent to remind us that we are here on earth for a purpose and to prepare to welcome the coming of the savior. The savior Jesus Christ has promised to come again to take us to God’s kingdom — our final destination. As Christ came to be born to us a child, at Christmas so, too, he will come again in glory to take us with him. “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am” (John 14:3). So when will Christ come again? What should we do? It is certain that Christ will come again, but no one knows the day or time. Jesus himself tells us that “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only” (Matthew 24:36). All we need to do is be prepared, stay awake, and be vigilant (Matthew 24:42). Although Jesus did not tell us the exact day but gave us a clue not a sign. A clue with an example that just as it is in the days of Noah, as everyone was busy about their daily activities when the flood came over them, so too it will be on the day the Son of God will come — the end time ( Luke 17:26). As indicated by Jesus example, so too we will all be going about our daily activities when the “D-day” comes.  For that day not to be surprising to us or take us unaware, we are called to be prepared and to be ready. To be ready as St. Paul tells us is to live in the light, not in darkness (Romans 13; 12). To live in the light means to practice virtues by keeping God’s commandments and avoiding vices. In simple words, everyday should be Advent — an opportunity to prepare, to be vigilant, to be awake, to live in the light, to practice virtue and keep God’s commandment awaiting the coming of our savior.

Anyone interested in coordinating a prayer group, such as Pious Society, Sacred Heart, St. Jude, Altar Rosary, etc., please see Fr. Victor or email the church office at blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com.

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!

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 home bound parishioners who may wish to receive a visit and the Eucharist on the last Friday of each month.

Please be sure to take an envelope from the Blessed Trinity “Giving Tree.” Donations of gift cards will benefit homeless families served by “Family Promise of WNY.”

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Live Nativity to Celebrate the Birth of Jesus at St. Joseph University Parish, Sunday December 15 at 5pm.  You will find the Nativity scene in front of the church (3269 Main Street in Buffalo near UB). This is part of the annual Holiday in the Heights on Main St. Bring the family to church at 5 pm for the Living Nativity, 5:45 pm Lighting of the Christmas Tree (at the former Cantalician Center), followed by 6 pm Hot Chocolate and Santa at Parkside Ice Cream & Candy Shoppe. Each event is a short walk to the next. Dress warm. Free parking behind the church.

Monthly Faith Enrichment Speaker Series ~ Monday, December 16, 7-9pm: ADVENT AND CREATION—Who is God? Who are you? with Rev. Frederick Leising at Our Lady of Pompeii Parish (129 Laverack Avenue in Lancaster). Call 716-683-6522 or visit olpparish.com for information.

Concerts For The Soul: The Wonder of Christmas, Friday December 20 at 7pm. Cory James Gallagher presents Concerts For The Soul: The Wonder of Christmas at St. Michael’s Church (651 Washington Street in Buffalo).  Another performance is set for Saturday, December 21 (7pm) at St. Mary of The Lake Church (4737 Lakeshore Road in Hamburg). Come join tenor-vocalist Cory James Gallagher and writer-poet Amy Gallagher as they take you on a musical-poetic journey through the wonder and nostalgia of this sacred season.  All concerts are by donation. To dedicate a song and have your loved one included in our “Christmas Angels” segment, contact concertsforthesoul [at] gmail [dot] com or 716-868-2047.

Seeking Volunteer Opportunity?  The Station of the Cross Catholic Radio (6325 Sheridan Road in Williamsville) has a need for call-screeners for the Mother Miriam Live program that airs 10am-11am, and also volunteers for administrative duties (labeling, sorting/stuffing envelopes, addressing envelopes, etc.). Call Dana Mielke at 716-839-6114, ext. 105. Find out more at thestationofthecross.com.

Free Legal Advice by Volunteer Lawyers Project, Wednesdays, 12-2pm at Adult Education Center (368 Virginia Street in Buffalo) and Thursdays 3:30-5:30pm at East Community High School (820 Northampton Street in Buffalo). Visit ecbavlp.com or call 716-828-8491 for more information.Weekend Retreat “JUST MEN” at Stella Niagara Center of Renewal in Lewiston, Friday November 22. Led by Fr. John Graden, OSFS, Director of Embraced by God. Space is limited. Visit stellaniagararetreats.org or call 716-754-7376, ext. 2 to register (preferably 2 weeks prior to event).

Week of December 1, 2019 – First Sunday of Advent

Dec 1, 2019 | This Week

December 1 – 8, 2019

Weekly Activities

Wednesday, December 4 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, December 4 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir rehearsal in St. Charles Hall

Thursday, December 5 at 8:00 p.m. ~  Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.*

Saturday, November 30 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, December 1 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Blessings for Elmer Hartzell (Requested by Madonna Hartzell) and Eternal Rest for Lucille Venezia (Requested by The Duffy Girls)

Monday, December 2 ~ No Service

Tuesday, December 3 ~ St. Francis Xavier ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Mary Nelson (John E. Curtin)

Wednesday, December 4 ~ St. John Damascene ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Eternal Rest for Lucille Venezia (Rev. Victor Ibhawa)

Thursday, December 5 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – For the intentions of our parishioners, both living and deceased (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Friday, December 6 ~ St. Nicholas ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Saturday, December 7 ~ St. Ambrose ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Blessings for Shirley Monnin (Family)

Sunday, December 8 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Eternal Rest for Edward F. Schroeder (Robert and Mary Reilly)

Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, December 7 & 8, 2019:

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

Sunday, 10:00 a.m.  Readers: Bob Heicklen, Simon Kresse; Eucharistic Ministers: Fran Cahill, Fidelia Ejimadu, Mary Kresse; Choir – Sharon Dunnigan

We welcome your donation of cocoa for Sr. Karen Klimczak’s Christmas Prison Project.

News from our Parish Community

“Share in the Care” ~ The second collection on November 30/December 1 benefits the Retirement Fund for Religious. Historically, Religious have focused on ministering to others rather than on their own retirement needs. Their surplus funds were used to fund their ministries or educate their members. Today, many women and men Religious continue to provide volunteer services for many years beyond retirement. Religious Congregations in the Diocese receive no retirement benefits from the Diocese of Buffalo, Upon This Rock Campaign, or Diocesan Priests Retirement Fund. All donations are used for Congregations with documented financial need to provide for their members over 70 years of age. Your donation to the Retirement Fund for Religious enables not only the care of retired Religious, but also helps assure that their ministries of prayer and service will continue. Please give generously.

Coming Soon ~ Monday, December 9 at 5pm, Mass for the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, followed at 6pm with a Healing Service for Victims of Abuse.

As we conclude the Thanksgiving celebrations and begin our Advent season, we are most grateful for the parishioners of Blessed Trinity Church who make our community the special place it has become. May God continue to bless us all and meet us at the point of our needs. Amen.

The Ladies Sodality annual Christmas Dinner is this Tuesday, December 3, at 6pm at The Family Tree Restaurant, 4346 Bailey Avenue in Amherst. If you have made reservations, please arrange to pay Amy Johnson this weekend. The $25/person price includes the gratuity; wine or beer is available at cost.

Delivering Gifts for Home Bound Parishioners – We are still in need of folks to deliver Christmas gift bags to our parish home bound and those in senior care facilities. Although the gift bags will have to be picked up in St. Charles Hall after Masses on Dec. 7 or 8, they can be delivered any time during that week – or any time before Christmas if you are good at keeping poinsettias alive.  If you are willing to bring a little cheer from the parish family, please contact Mickey Dick (716-832-2540) or Vera Andrew (716-704-2944).

An Advent Prayer ~ Singing in the choir at Blessed Trinity is not just about singing at the Sunday Liturgies. We are a prayerful group, and each week we strive to glorify our God through song while we pray for ourselves and others. This is an Advent prayer written by Jeanne Hunt for choir members, but it is applicable to everyone who is preparing for the coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Let’s get ready – Jesus is coming!

In night’s quiet, when we have time and silence to think, the songs of this season come drifting into our minds.
In the quiet they are welcomed, and our spirits somehow delight in this sweet Advent time.
The dark seems comfortable, and our songs fit the mood of night.
“Come, long-awaited Savior,” into the darkness of our lives.
There is a lot of darkness in our lives…so many places where we live without God.
It is not easy to stay with him. It is not always easy to find him
in our work, in traffic, in our families. But now, gathered together, we come to his light.We can feel the warmth of his love. We can sing about his coming. Here we can find this Jesus the Christ
who is willing to walk in our darkness with us, born to become our light.

Did you know Blessed Trinity Church has one of the most beautiful acoustics in Western New York? Join us up in the loft and help enhance our Liturgies. Choir practice continues on Wednesday, December 4 at 7:00 p.m. in St. Charles Hall. All are welcome to attend.

Cocoa Challenge 2019 ~ We are over 75% of our Cocoa Challenge goal. With your final donations this weekend we will reach 4,200 packets of instant hot chocolate. Thank you! Gift Bags (decorated or not) should be returned this Sunday morning or bring to church for assembly on Friday December 6. Help assemble the gifts 10am to 1pm and/or 6pm to completion. Please join fellow parishioners and volunteers from the community and support Sr. Karen Klimczak’s message of hope, forgiveness, and non-violence to the prisoners at the Wende and Albion correctional facilities.

The Lord Works in Unexpected Ways – It all started with a phone call to Bud Dick late Friday afternoon, November 22, from a friend at Canisius High School. Joe Van Volkenburg indicated that Saturday was the school alumni’s Community Outreach Day, and they had more volunteers than places to send them. Could Blessed Trinity use some? Even on such short notice, it’s hard to say “no” to volunteers, so – early Saturday morning – Bud, Mickey & Judy Casassa welcomed a group of 11 consisting of alumni, family members and current students. They turned out to be one of the most gracious and hard working group of volunteers to ever visit our church, and they worked diligently from the side vestibules to the loft and back. Three hours later, we ran out of tasks to assign them. And before leaving, they even decorated a few bags for the Prison Project! Please say a prayer of thanksgiving for: Karl and Barbara McKinnie; Sam and Tammy Foley; Luke and Amy Braun; Colin, Syd and Owen Pratt; Aidan Armenia and Stan Bukowski.

Canisius High School Volunteers
Front, left-right: Amy Braun, Syd Pratt, Owen Pratt, Aiden Armenia, Sam Foley, Tammy Foley;
Back, l-r: Colin Pratt, Luke Braun, Karl & Barbara McKinnie, Stan Bukowski

Would you like a prayer for a special intention? Beginning Sunday December 1, the first Sunday of Advent, you will be provided an opportunity to submit your personal prayer requests. These requests will be prayed for at each Mass. You may submit your request by writing it on a slip of paper and placing it in the basket on the rail in front of the baptismal font. There is no need to provide your name. These written prayer requests will be in addition to the petitions shared during the Prayer of the Faithful.

Thank you to Bud and Mickey Dick, Don and Bonnie Williams, and all Parish Council volunteers who helped plan and prepare the wonderful food and desserts enjoyed by all who attended the Italian dinner on November 17 … and a very special thanks to Frank Cugino who provided his signature sauce and homemade pasta from Cugino’s Restaurant!

Save the Date ~ Blessed Trinity is serving up musical treats on Sunday, December 8, at 3 p.m. when The Freudig Singers of WNY return for their annual “Christmas Pie” performance. Come for the music; stay for the pie.

Holiday Tours of Blessed Trinity ~ Explore Buffalo is again bringing their seasonal tours to Blessed Trinity Church and inviting the public to see our beautiful structure and its festive decorations. The Thanksgiving Weekend tour will be on Saturday, November 30 from 2:00 – 4:00 PM. The Christmas Weekend tour will be on Sunday, December 29 from 12:30 – 2:30 PM. Cost: $15 per person. Reservations can be made by contacting Explore Buffalo at explore [at] explorebuffalo [dot] org or 716-245-3032. Walk-ins are also welcome. Either weekend presents a wonderful opportunity for local folks to invite their visiting relatives for a pleasant and educational holiday experience. At 3:00 PM on December 29, we will also host a musical presentation by the St. John Paul II Schola Cantorum. A double bill – a gorgeous Christmas gift!!

Blessed Trinity Annual Christmas “Giving Tree” ~ For many years it has been a tradition at Blessed Trinity to have a Christmas “Giving Tree.” Each year a particular charity is chosen and our congregation has generously responded. This year our charity will be Family Promise of WNY. This charity provides temporary housing to families who have experienced a crisis and have no place to live. For additional information about this organization, please visit https://fpwny.org/. As guest families are often starting from scratch, the staff at Family Promise have expressed a need for gift cards to give families as they transition into more permanent housing. Recommended stores include Target, Walmart, Tops and other area grocery chains. You may also make a monetary donation. If you choose this option, be sure to use an envelope from The Giving Tree for your gift and drop it in the collection basket. Checks should be made payable to “Family Promise.” You can also join our parish Family Promise Team and help prepare dinner for the network’s guests on Monday, December 9. To offer assistance, please contact Amy Johnson,  (716) 836-4694.

Anyone interested in coordinating a prayer group, such as Pious Society, Sacred Heart, St. Jude, Altar Rosary, etc., please see Fr. Victor or email the church office at blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com.

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!

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.

The Vocation View: Christ will come again! This we have been promised. The same Christ has called us all to different vocations, and some of these include Holy Orders and Religious Life. What Greater way is there to honor our Lord and King than by faithfully answering his call.

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 home bound parishioners who may wish to receive a visit and the Eucharist on the last Friday of each month.

St. Francis Xavier
December 3
A statue of St. Francis Xavier (1506-1552), the famous Jesuit missionary to the Far East, is found in the church’s right side aisle.
Photo credit: Margaret Dick

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Monthly Faith Enrichment Speaker Series ~ Monday, December 16, 7-9pm: ADVENT AND CREATION—Who is God? Who are you? with Rev. Frederick Leising at Our Lady of Pompeii Parish (129 Laverack Avenue in Lancaster). Call 716-683-6522 or visit olpparish.com for information.

Seeking Volunteer Opportunity?  The Station of the Cross Catholic Radio (6325 Sheridan Road in Williamsville) has a need for call-screeners for the Mother Miriam Live program that airs 10am-11am, and also volunteers for administrative duties (labeling, sorting/stuffing envelopes, addressing envelopes, etc.). Call Dana Mielke at 716-839-6114, ext. 105. Find out more at thestationofthecross.com.

Free Legal Advice by Volunteer Lawyers Project, Wednesdays, 12-2pm at Adult Education Center (368 Virginia Street in Buffalo) and Thursdays 3:30-5:30pm at East Community High School (820 Northampton Street in Buffalo). Visit ecbavlp.com or call 716-828-8491 for more information.Weekend Retreat “JUST MEN” at Stella Niagara Center of Renewal in Lewiston, Friday November 22. Led by Fr. John Graden, OSFS, Director of Embraced by God. Space is limited. Visit stellaniagararetreats.org or call 716-754-7376, ext. 2 to register (preferably 2 weeks prior to event).

St. Gregory the Great Adoration Chapel is in need of adorers for all times and days. The Chapel is open 24 hours, 7 days a week. You do not need to be a parishioner of St. Greg’s to be an adorer; all are welcome. Contact Kathy at 716-759-7149 or Barbara at 716-634-7478 with a time that is convenient for you to come and adore, as the Blessed Sacrament cannot be left alone. The Chapel is located inside St. Gregory the Great Church, 200 St. Gregory Ct., Williamsville.