Jan 8, 2017 | This Week
January 8 – January 15, 2017
Weekly Activities
Sunday, January 8 immediately following Mass ~ Pastor’s meeting with those who have signed up for various ministries
Tuesday, January 10 at 6:30 p.m. ~ “Take-Down” [Christmas Decorations] Party in Church
Thursday, January 12 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*
Friday, January 13 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall
Saturday, January 14 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall
Saturday, January 14 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*
*In response to requests from our players, we have instituted age restrictions for admission to Bingo. As of October 15, 2015, we no longer admit children under 8 years of age.
We now have a Bingo camera with TV monitors and electronic verification!
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
There will be a change to our daily Mass schedule beginning on January 16, 2017.
Mass on Mondays and Tuesdays will be an 8:00 am;
Mass on Wednesday – Friday will continue at 11:00 am.
The Epiphany of the Lord
Sunday, January 8 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Blessed Trinity Parish Community
Monday, January 9 ~ The Baptism of the Lord ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)
Tuesday, January 10 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)
Wednesday, January 11 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Ray and Martha Freudenberger (Estate)
Thursday, January 12 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anne Crocker (Family)
Friday, January 13 ~ St. Hilary ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)
Saturday, January 14 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. ~ All Souls (Queen of Martyrs Parish)
Sunday, January 15 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Ray and Martha Freudenberger (Estate)
Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, January 14 and 15:
Saturday, 4:30 p.m. Reader: Michael Ogoh; Eucharistic Minister: Jack Curtin
Sunday, 10:00 a.m. Readers: Pam Zanghi, Bernice Bradley; Eucharistic Ministers: Fran Cahill, Pat Hartinger, Sharon Dunnigan; Maggie Gatson (Choir)
For our schedule of Christmas season services, Click HERE.
Diocesan Mass Celebration
Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.
January 15, Holy Cross Church
Photo credit: Phil Woods
News from our Parish Community
New at Blessed Trinity in 2017
First Friday Adoration and Benediction from 8:00-11:00 a.m. at the Daily Mass Chapel on the First Friday of each month. Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m.
Mass on Mondays, at 8:00 a.m. beginning January 16. Mass on Tuesdays will also be at 8:00 a.m., replacing the present 11 o’clock Mass. Masses on Wednesday through Friday will continue at 11:00 a.m.
Visits to the sick will begin on January 27, the last Friday of the month. Please help Father Victor by suggesting the names of those you believe need to be visited. There are sign-up sheets for this purpose near the side doors of the church, or you may call the church office, 716-833-0301.
Religious Education Classes for children will begin on Sunday, February 5. There are sign-up sheets for this purpose near the side doors of the church, so please register your children as soon as possible.
Bible Studies, reflections, sharing, discussion, and questions and answers will begin during the first week of February.
Meeting with Volunteers ~ On Sunday, January 8, immediately following the 11:00 a.m. Mass, Father Victor would like to have a brief meeting with parishioners who have signed up for various ministries.
Special Monday Mass celebrating The Baptism of the Lord, Monday, January 9, at 11:00 a.m.
The Spirit of Christmas Past ~ We are hoping you have enough spirit left to join us for a quick ‘n easy “Take-Down Party” this coming Tuesday evening, January 10, beginning at 6:30pm. With your help, we will have all the church decorations carefully packaged, labeled, and moved to their off-season storage area in record time. Please use the side entrance near the wheelchair ramp.
Changes in Music Ministry ~ We welcome Kate Barrett, who has agreed to serve temporarily as our musician and choir director for the month of January. Our search for a Director of Music to replace Nick DelBello, who served in the position from 2010-16, is continuing. Please pray that our search committee and the ideal candidate for Blessed Trinity will soon find each other. If you think you know someone with the “right stuff,” Click HERE to view requirements and information on how to apply.
Diocesan Celebration Honoring Rev. Martin Luther King is Sunday, January 15, at Holy Cross Church, 345 Seventh Street, Buffalo. Rev. Bishop Richard J. Malone will be the celebrant for the 10am Mass; the guest homilist, Rev. Chester Smith, SVD, from the Dioceseof Indianapolis, IN, will expand on the theme for the celebration, “Captured by the Spirit.” A reception will follow the Mass, with proceeds from a theme basket raffle going to support the MLK Scholarship Fund. The program is sponsored by the African American Commission, Diocesan Office of Cultural Diversity. Additional information is available by calling the Office, 716-847-2217.
Sodality Members: Save the Date ~ Members of the Ladies Sodality will meet in St. Charles Hall at 1:30pm on Saturday, January 21, to stuff envelopes and prepare the mailing of tickets for our February 26, 2017 Basket of Cheer Raffle. Please save the date. If we have a good member turnout, we should be finished in one hour.
Sodality Dues Reminder for 2017 ~ Membership in the Ladies Sodality of Blessed Trinity runs with the calendar year, and dues become payable each January. Since 2016, we have only one category of membership – member in good standing – and annual dues are $5.00 with checks payable to “Ladies Sodality of Blessed Trinity.” You do not have to pay dues if you are a member in good standing and have reached your 80th birthday. Our Membership Chair, Mickey Dick, is now accepting dues for 2017.
The National Black Catholic Congress XII ~ A Diocesan Delegation to The National Black Catholic Congress XII, to be held in Orlando, Florida from July 6—July 9, 2017, is now forming. If you would like to participate or obtain additional information on registration fees and room rates, please contact Althea Porter (716-316-8395) or the Office of Cultural Diversity (716-847-2217). February 15 is the last day to join the delegation and partial payment to cover trip expenses must be received by this date. The last payment should be sent to the Office of Cultural Diversity by May 15, 2017.
Vocation View ~ None of us is without gifts to share for the good of God’s kingdom. Could it be that your gift is a vocation to priesthood or religious life? If God is calling you to a Church vocation, call Fr. Andrew Lauricella at 716-847-5535. You can also check out the “Priest of the Month” stories at www.buffalovocations.org.
Detail of mural at 72 Jewett Avenue, Buffalo
Our Landmark church building is featured on a mural created earlier this year by Danial Galas on a the building located at 72 Jewett Avenue at Halbert Street. The building was originally owned by the Culliton Ice Cream Co. Local historian and preservationist, Chuck LaChiusa, has shared some marvelous photos of the mural depicting Blessed Trinity and other historical sites in the neighborhood on his web site. Click HERE to view them.
Announcements ~ If you have meeting or church event information you would like read during Mass announcements, please make sure to submit the information for approval to Barbara Sercu by Thursday morning of each week.
Mass Intentions ~ If you wish to have a Mass offered for a special intention, please call Barbara Sercu at the Rectory Office 716-833-0301. She will be available Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10:30am-2:30pm. The Mass offering is $15.00.
Sunday TV Mass ~ For those who are unable to physically attend Mass, the Diocese of Buffalo provides a televised Mass from the Our Lady Chapel at St. Joseph Cathedral that airs each Sunday on WUTV-Fox at 7:30am.
News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community
Benefit for Luz Milagros Ramos ~ Friends and family of Luz Milagros Ramos are hosting a benefit in her honor on Saturday, January14, from 3-9pm at the VFW Weber Post, 2909 South Park Avenue, Lackawanna, NY. Ms. Ramos, the Director of the Office of Cultural Diversity of the Buffalo Diocese, is currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer. If you would like to donate or buy a ticket, please contact Vicky at 716-903-3751.
Christmas Nativity Display ~ Only one week remaining to see Fr. Roy Herberger’s incredible display of 580 nativity sets from 58 countries. These international crèches are being shown at Ss Columba-Brigid Church at 75 Hickory & Eagle St (one block south of Clinton). The building is handicapped accessible. Hours are from 1-4pm on Saturday and Sunday until the weekend of January 14/15. There is NO charge and there is a special section for children. If anyone would like to view the display during the week with a large group (e.g. school children, senior groups, church organizations, etc.), please call Fr. Roy at 716-852-2076.
Attention Local History Buffs ~ The Erie-Lackawanna Railroad Historical Society (ELHS), which maintains its archives at 100 Lee St. (Heritage DiscoveRY Center) is interested in expanding its information base on the role of African-Americans and Hispanics as workers in the railroad industry. Perhaps this employment history applies to you or a family member or ancestor. If so, and you and/or your family member would like to know more about the project and how you can help, please contact Michael Connor at mjconnor_rr [at] hotmail [dot] com or (330) 691-0026.
Annual Festival of Lights Benefit and Auction on Saturday, January 14 at Our Lady of Fatima Shrine, 1023 Swann Rd. (off Rt. 18E), Lewiston, NY. An elegant evening in support of the Shrine’s renovation will honor Shrine Rector, Fr. Julio Ciavaglia, CRSP on the occasion of his fiftieth anniversary of priestly ordination. Wine tasting, basket auction, door prizes and catered dinner. Limited tickets available by calling 716-754-7489. Encore lighting of Fatima Shrine’s Festival of Lights display makes the setting of this gala unique. Come enjoy a fun evening for a great cause. Preview night of auction baskets Friday, January 13 from 12-7pm and Saturday, January 14 from 9am-3pm.
Meat Raffle ~ St. Gregory the Great’s Home School Association will be holding a Meat Raffle on Friday, January 20 in the Ministry Center, 200 St. Gregory Court, Williamsville. Doors open at 6pm and the first spin is at 7pm. With admission you receive dinner and unlimited pop, beer and wine, as well as a ticket for our big ticket item raffle. Besides raffling off lots of different types of meats, we will also have a basket raffle and a 50/50. You can reserve a table or purchase individual tickets by contacting MeatRaffleTime [at] gmail [dot] com. Seating is limited but you can purchase tickets at the door if space is available. Hope to see you there!
For Women Only: Women Praying Through the Knots, A Spirituality of Imperfection! Presented by Mrs. Theresa Kehl on Monday, January 30 from 7-8pm at Our Lady of Pompeii Ministry Center (Marian Room), 129 Laverack Ave, Lancaster. All women are welcome: Free will offering accepted. Refreshments follow in the Aud together with the men from the 7pm men’s presentation.
For Men Only: The Real St. Joseph and the Tools for Real Manhood in the Home, the Church and the World! Presented by Deacon Mark Kehl on Monday, January 30 from 7-8pm at our Lady of Pompeii Ministry Center (St. Joseph Room), 129 Laverack Avenue, Lancaster. All men are welcome! Free will offering accepted. Refreshments follow in the Aud together with the women from the 7pm women’s presentation.
Jan 1, 2017 | This Week
The Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
January 1
January 1 – January 8, 2017
Weekly Activities
Thursday, January 5 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*
Friday, January 6 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall
Saturday, January 7 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall
Saturday, January 7 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*
Sunday, January 8 immediately following Mass ~ Pastor’s meeting in the sacristy with those who have signed up for various ministries
*In response to requests from our players, we have instituted age restrictions for admission to Bingo. As of October 15, 2015, we no longer admit children under 8 years of age.
We now have a Bingo camera with TV monitors and electronic verification!
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
There will be a change to our daily Mass schedule beginning on January 16, 2017.
Mass on Mondays and Tuesdays will be an 8:00 am;
Mass on Wednesday – Friday will continue at 11:00 am.
Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God
Sunday, January 1 ~ New Year’s Day Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Blessed Trinity Parish Community
Monday, January 2 ~ St. Basil the Great & St. Gregory Nazianzen ~ Mass at 8:00 a.m. ~ Special Mass for the New Year
Tuesday, January 3 ~ The Most Holy Name of Jesus ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anne Crocker (Family)
Wednesday, January 4 ~ St. Elizabeth Ann Seton ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)
Thursday, January 5 ~ St. John Neumann ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – All Souls (Queen of Martyrs Parish)
First Friday, January 6 ~ St. Andre Bessette ~ Benediction and First Friday Adoration from 8:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.
Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)
The Epiphany of the Lord
Saturday, January 7 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. ~ Blessed Trinity Parish Community
Sunday, January 8 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Blessed Trinity Parish Community
Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, January 7 and 8, 2017:
Saturday, 4:30 p.m. Reader: Jack Curtin; Eucharistic Minister: Lorna Cameron
Sunday, 10:00 a.m. Readers: Chris Porter, Dianne Riordan; Eucharistic Ministers: , Alice Davis, Pat Hartinger, Fran Cahill; Dan Korchowsky (Choir)
For our schedule of Christmas season services, Click HERE.
News from our Parish Community
The comfort that a mother can give in early life is like
no other comfort that a child ever experiences before or after.
The attachment, the need, the sense of identification
and security inherent in maternal contact
makes the female figure a sign and symbol
of mercy and comfort, of relief and joy….
This should be the goal of human relationships, a sharing in which needs are met with enjoyment and altruistic love of the other’s development. It is no accident that the figure of mother has been a symbol of nurture and peace. Mother and child, the virgin and child, have appealed to more than just artists. Mary as mother and as Our Lady of Peace and Mercy has had a primal power on believers through the ages. We still long for our mother’s care like infants crying in the night. Since the understanding God as mother has been suppressed in Western Christian tradition, the experience of Mary as mother has been accentuated and fulfilled the ideal and symbol of maternal mercy and love. Mother of God she was named, and if Christ too is our mother, then she is grandmother to us all. The great mother has always been longed for and worshiped, but in other religions she was not always benign and loving. We are confirmed by Mary, who as a merciful mother and the handmaid of the Lord assures us that we will not be left with a deep anxiety within, or a fear of the total otherness and power beyond ourselves. Fear of the sacred and the natural awe of God has been complemented by a final mercy and reassurance. Sidney Callahan, The Magnificat
New in 2017
This Monday, January 2, there will be a Special Mass for the New Year at 8:00 a.m. in the Daily Mass Chapel.
Benediction and First Friday Adoration begins this Friday, January 6, from 8:00-11:00 a.m., followed by Mass at 11:00 a.m.
Father Victor is introducing an 8:00 a.m. Mass on Mondays, beginning January 16. Mass on Tuesdays will also be at 8:00 a.m., replacing the present 11 o’clock Mass. Masses on Wednesday through Friday will continue at 11:00 a.m.
Visits to the sick will begin on January 27, the last Friday of the month. Please help Father Victor by suggesting the names of those you believe need to be visited. There are sign-up sheets for this purpose near the side doors of the church, or you may call the church office, 716-833-0301.
Religious Education Classes for children will begin on Sunday, February 5. There are sign-up sheets for this purpose near the side doors of the church, so please register your children as soon as possible.
Bible Study will begin during the first week of February, including reflections, sharing, discussion, questions and answers.
Meeting with Volunteers ~ On Sunday, January 8, immediately following the 11:00 a.m. Mass, Father Victor would like to have a brief meeting with parishioners who have signed up for various ministries.
Changes in Music Ministry ~ We welcome Kate Barrett, who has agreed to serve temporarily as our musician and choir director for the month of January. Our search for a Director of Music to replace Nick DelBello, who served in the position from 2010-16, is continuing. Please pray that our search committee and the ideal candidate for Blessed Trinity will soon find each other. If you think you know someone with the “right stuff,” Click HERE to view requirements and information on how to apply.
Sodality Dues Reminder for 2017 ~ Membership in the Ladies Sodality of Blessed Trinity runs with the calendar year, and dues become payable each January. Since 2016, we have only one category of membership – member in good standing – and annual dues are $5.00 with checks payable to “Ladies Sodality of Blessed Trinity.” You do not have to pay dues if you are a member in good standing and have reached your 80th birthday. Our Membership Chair, Mickey Dick, is now accepting dues for 2017.
Nick DelBello (center front) with Christmas Eve Choir
A Farewell Message from Our Music Director, Nick DelBello ~
Dear Friends at Blessed Trinity: It has been my great joy over the last 7 years to serve as your Director of Music. In that time we have restored the church’s original Tellers-Kent organ, our choir has given concert performances both here at BT and across the diocese, we have grown our concert series, and the Buffalo Brass Choir has become BT’s ensemble-in-residence. As many of you know, Miranda and I recently welcomed a new addition to our family; our son, Vincent, born in October. I also started a new full-time position in the Williamsville Schools this past September. Wanting to spend more time with my growing family and apply myself more fully to my new full-time position in addition to pursuing some other musical opportunities led me to a difficult decision last month: to leave my position here at BT as Director of Music. Next week’s Christmas Eve and Day Masses will be my last here, and an interim director will take over on January 1st until a new, permanent director is found. I am proud of the things we have been able to accomplish and the legacy of high-quality liturgical music that we have been able to continue here at BT. I am looking forward to maintaining the Buffalo Brass Choir’s ensemble-in-residence status, and will be back at BT in February for our annual performance here. I wish to thank our talented and dedicated choir, as well as the entire congregation for their enthusiastic support of the musical ministry. A very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all! Nick DelBello
Vocation View ~ Jesus, Mary and Joseph, as members of the Holy Family, always supported each other in doing God’s will, even though this was not always easy and meant letting go and trusting God. As the family of God’s children, we are to help each other in doing God’s will, which may be a vocation to priesthood or religious life. Let us not stand in the way of those whom God has called. If God is calling you to a Church vocation, call Fr. Andrew Lauricella at 716-847-5535. You can also check out the “Priest of the Month” stories at www.buffalovocations.org.
Detail of mural at 72 Jewett Avenue, Buffalo
Our Landmark church building is featured on a mural created earlier this year by Danial Galas on a the building located at 72 Jewett Avenue at Halbert Street. The building was originally owned by the Culliton Ice Cream Co. Local historian and preservationist, Chuck LaChiusa, has shared some marvelous photos of the mural depicting Blessed Trinity and other historical sites in the neighborhood on his web site. Click HERE to view them.
Announcements ~ If you have meeting or church event information you would like read during Mass announcements, please make sure to submit the information for approval to Barbara Sercu by Thursday morning of each week.
Mass Intentions ~ If you wish to have a Mass offered for a special intention, please call Barbara Sercu at the Rectory Office 716-833-0301. She will be available Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10:30am-2:30pm. The Mass offering is $15.00.
Sunday TV Mass ~ For those who are unable to physically attend Mass, the Diocese of Buffalo provides a televised Mass from the Our Lady Chapel at St. Joseph Cathedral that airs each Sunday on WUTV-Fox at 7:30am.
News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community
Christmas Nativity Display ~ Only one week remaining to see Fr. Roy Herberger’s incredible display of 580 nativity sets from 58 countries. These international crèches are being shown at Ss Columba-Brigid Church at 75 Hickory & Eagle St (one block south of Clinton). The building is handicapped accessible. Hours are from 1-4pm on Saturday and Sunday until the weekend of January 14/15. There is NO charge and there is a special section for children. If anyone would like to view the display during the week with a large group (e.g. school children, senior groups, church organizations, etc.), please call Fr. Roy at 716-852-2076.
Attention Local History Buffs ~ The Erie-Lackawanna Railroad Historical Society (ELHS), which maintains its archives at 100 Lee St. (Heritage DiscoveRY Center) is interested in expanding its information base on the role of African-Americans and Hispanics as workers in the railroad industry. Perhaps this employment history applies to you or a family member or ancestor. If so, and you and/or your family member would like to know more about the project and how you can help, please contact Michael Connor at mjconnor_rr [at] hotmail [dot] com or (330) 691-0026.
Annual Festival of Lights Benefit and Auction on Saturday, January 14 at Our Lady of Fatima Shrine, 1023 Swann Rd. (off Rt. 18E), Lewiston, NY. An elegant evening in support of the Shrine’s renovation will honor Shrine Rector, Fr. Julio Ciavaglia, CRSP on the occasion of his fiftieth anniversary of priestly ordination. Wine tasting, basket auction, door prizes and catered dinner. Limited tickets available by calling 716-754-7489. Encore lighting of Fatima Shrine’s Festival of Lights display makes the setting of this gala unique. Come enjoy a fun evening for a great cause. Preview night of auction baskets Friday, January 13 from 12-7pm and Saturday, January 14 from 9am-3pm.
Meat Raffle ~ St. Gregory the Great’s Home School Association will be holding a Meat Raffle on Friday, January 20 in the Ministry Center, 200 St. Gregory Court, Williamsville. Doors open at 6pm and the first spin is at 7pm. With admission you receive dinner and unlimited pop, beer and wine, as well as a ticket for our big ticket item raffle. Besides raffling off lots of different types of meats, we will also have a basket raffle and a 50/50. You can reserve a table or purchase individual tickets by contacting MeatRaffleTime [at] gmail [dot] com. Seating is limited but you can purchase tickets at the door if space is available. Hope to see you there!
For Women Only: Women Praying Through the Knots, A Spirituality of Imperfection! Presented by Mrs. Theresa Kehl on Monday, January 30 from 7-8pm at Our Lady of Pompeii Ministry Center (Marian Room), 129 Laverack Ave, Lancaster. All women are welcome: Free will offering accepted. Refreshments follow in the Aud together with the men from the 7pm men’s presentation.
For Men Only: The Real St. Joseph and the Tools for Real Manhood in the Home, the Church and the World! Presented by Deacon Mark Kehl on Monday, January 30 from 7-8pm at our Lady of Pompeii Ministry Center (St. Joseph Room), 129 Laverack Avenue, Lancaster. All men are welcome! Free will offering accepted. Refreshments follow in the Aud together with the women from the 7pm women’s presentation.
Dec 25, 2016 | This Week
December 25, 2016 – January 1, 2017
Weekly Activities
Thursday, December 29 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*
Friday, December 30 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall
Saturday, December 31 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall
Saturday, December 31 ~ NO BINGO
*In response to requests from our players, we have instituted age restrictions for admission to Bingo. As of October 15, 2015, we no longer admit children under 8 years of age.
We now have a Bingo camera with TV monitors and electronic verification!
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
There will be a change to our daily Mass schedule beginning on January 16, 2017.
Mass on Mondays and Tuesdays will be an 8:00 am;
Mass on Wednesday – Friday will continue at 11:00 am.
Sunday, December 25 ~ Christmas Day Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Blessed Trinity Parish Community
Monday, December 26 ~ St. Stephen ~ No Service
Tuesday, December 27 ~ St. John, apostle & evangelist ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – All Souls (Queen of Martyrs Parish)
Wednesday, December 28 ~ The Holy Innocents ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Ray and Martha Freudenberger (Estate)
Thursday, December 29 ~ St. Thomas Becket ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)
Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph
Friday, December 30 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)
Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God
Saturday, December 31 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. ~ Blessed Trinity Parish Community
Sunday, January 1 ~ New Year’s Day Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Blessed Trinity Parish Community
Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, December 31 and January 1, 2017:
Saturday, 4:30 p.m. Reader: Lorna Cameron; Eucharistic Minister: Lucille Venezia; Mary Kresse (Loft)
Sunday, 10:00 a.m. Readers: Mary Kresse, Richard Plunkett; Eucharistic Ministers: Dan Korchowsky, Alice Davis, Maggie Gatson, Fran Cahill (Choir)
For our schedule of Christmas season services, Click HERE.
News from our Parish Community
“Christmas calls a community back to its origins by remembering Jesus’ own beginnings as a human child, a prophet of God’s reign, a judgment on the world and its projects. What the parish celebrates during this season is not primarily a birthday, but the beginning of a decisive new phase in the tempestuous history of God’s hunger for human companions. The social concerns of the season are thus rooted in Jesus’ proclamation of God’s reign: the renunciation of patterns that oppress others (holding, climbing, commanding) and the formation of a new human community that voluntarily embraces those renunciations. It is an adult Christ that the community encounters during the Advent and Christmas cycles of Sundays and feasts: a Risen Lord who invites sinful people to become church. Christmas does not ask us to pretend we were back in Bethlehem, kneeling before a crib; it asks us to recognize that the wood of the crib became the wood of the cross.” ~ Nathan Mitchell
A heartfelt “Thank You” to all the volunteers who decorated the church Monday and Tuesday and helped with flower arranging on Wednesday. We appreciate your service.
Prisoner Gifts 2016 ~ Giving hope and comfort to the imprisoned. On Friday morning, Dec. 9 volunteers, directed by Coordinator Janice Burns, sorted and counted, supplied and then filled 1,130 gift bags for the women at Albion Correctional Facility. The evening crew, representing churches, schools, social agencies and friends of Sr. Karen Klimczak, bagged 1,000 gifts for the men at Wende and packed all the shipping boxes. On Tuesday Dec. 13 “Paint of WNY” donated their truck and employees to help load the boxes. Delivery to the prisons was completed that day in good weather between the snowstorms. A BIG THANK YOU is extended to all at Blessed Trinity who donated hot chocolate and books, decorated bags (200+) and helped package and ship the gifts. Special thanks to Dan Korchowsky who helped unload at the prisons and to Judy Casassa who handled arrangements with BT staff and directed recycling efforts. Thanks and appreciation to Coordinator Jan Burns for her hard work bringing this project to another successful end. Having made last minute adjustments to changing prison regulations and schedules, Jan says, “I believe it is Sr. Karen’s spirit that gets us through this each year.”
Employment Opportunity at BT ~ Nick DelBello, our music director since 2010, is resigning to devote more time to the new addition to his family, Vincent Michael, and his teaching position in the Williamsville School District. His resignation is effective December 31, 2016. Father Ibhawa is currently accepting applications for the position. Click HERE to view requirements and information on how to apply.
Sodality Dues Reminder for 2017 ~ Membership in the Ladies Sodality of Blessed Trinity runs with the calendar year, and dues become payable each January. Since 2016, we have only one category of membership – member in good standing – and annual dues are $5.00 with checks payable to “Ladies Sodality of Blessed Trinity.” You do not have to pay dues if you are a member in good standing and have reached your 80th birthday. Our Membership Chair, Mickey Dick, is now accepting dues for 2017.
Nick DelBello (center front) with Christmas Eve Choir
A Farewell Message from Our Music Director, Nick DelBello ~
Dear Friends at Blessed Trinity: It has been my great joy over the last 7 years to serve as your Director of Music. In that time we have restored the church’s original Tellers-Kent organ, our choir has given concert performances both here at BT and across the diocese, we have grown our concert series, and the Buffalo Brass Choir has become BT’s ensemble-in-residence. As many of you know, Miranda and I recently welcomed a new addition to our family; our son, Vincent, born in October. I also started a new full-time position in the Williamsville Schools this past September. Wanting to spend more time with my growing family and apply myself more fully to my new full-time position in addition to pursuing some other musical opportunities led me to a difficult decision last month: to leave my position here at BT as Director of Music. Next week’s Christmas Eve and Day Masses will be my last here, and an interim director will take over on January 1st until a new, permanent director is found. I am proud of the things we have been able to accomplish and the legacy of high-quality liturgical music that we have been able to continue here at BT. I am looking forward to maintaining the Buffalo Brass Choir’s ensemble-in-residence status, and will be back at BT in February for our annual performance here. I wish to thank our talented and dedicated choir, as well as the entire congregation for their enthusiastic support of the musical ministry. A very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all! Nick DelBello
Vocation View ~ Jesus, Mary and Joseph, as members of the Holy Family, always supported each other in doing God’s will, even though this was not always easy and meant letting go and trusting God. As the family of God’s children, we are to help each other in doing God’s will, which may be a vocation to priesthood or religious life. Let us not stand in the way of those whom God has called. If God is calling you to a Church vocation, call Fr. Andrew Lauricella at 716-847-5535. You can also check out the “Priest of the Month” stories at www.buffalovocations.org.
Detail of mural at 72 Jewett Avenue, Buffalo
Our Landmark church building is featured on a mural created earlier this year by Danial Galas on a the building located at 72 Jewett Avenue at Halbert Street. The building was originally owned by the Culliton Ice Cream Co. Local historian and preservationist, Chuck LaChiusa, has shared some marvelous photos of the mural depicting Blessed Trinity and other historical sites in the neighborhood on his web site. Click HERE to view them.
Announcements ~ If you have meeting or church event information you would like read during Mass announcements, please make sure to submit the information for approval to Barbara Sercu by Thursday morning of each week.
Mass Intentions ~ If you wish to have a Mass offered for a special intention, please call Barbara Sercu at the Rectory Office 716-833-0301. She will be available Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10:30am-2:30pm. The Mass offering is $15.00.
Sunday TV Mass ~ For those who are unable to physically attend Mass, the Diocese of Buffalo provides a televised Mass from the Our Lady Chapel at St. Joseph Cathedral that airs each Sunday on WUTV-Fox at 7:30am.
News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community
Christmas Nativity Display ~ Fr. Roy Herberger invites you to experience a display of 580 nativity sets from 58 countries. These international crèches will be shown at Ss Columba-Brigid Church at 75 Hickory & Eagle St (one block south of Clinton). The building is handicapped accessible. Hours are from 1-4pm every Saturday and Sunday in December – except the weekend of Dec 24/25 – and until the weekend of January 14/15. There is NO charge and there is a special section for children. If anyone would like to view the display during the week with a large group (e.g. school children, senior groups, church organizations, etc.), please call Fr. Roy at 716-852-2076.
Annual Festival of Lights Benefit and Auction on Saturday, January 14 at Our Lady of Fatima Shrine, 1023 Swann Rd. (off Rt. 18E), Lewiston, NY. An elegant evening in support of the Shrine’s renovation will honor Shrine Rector, Fr. Julio Ciavaglia, CRSP on the occasion of his fiftieth anniversary of priestly ordination. Wine tasting, basket auction, door prizes and catered dinner. Limited tickets available by calling 716-754-7489. Encore lighting of Fatima Shrine’s Festival of Lights display makes the setting of this gala unique. Come enjoy a fun evening for a great cause. Preview night of auction baskets Friday, January 13 from 12-7pm and Saturday, January 14 from 9am-3pm.
Meat Raffle ~ St. Gregory the Great’s Home School Association will be holding a Meat Raffle on Friday, January 20 in the Ministry Center, 200 St. Gregory Court, Williamsville. Doors open at 6pm and the first spin is at 7pm. With admission you receive dinner and unlimited pop, beer and wine, as well as a ticket for our big ticket item raffle. Besides raffling off lots of different types of meats, we will also have a basket raffle and a 50/50. You can reserve a table or purchase individual tickets by contacting MeatRaffleTime [at] gmail [dot] com. Seating is limited but you can purchase tickets at the door if space is available. Hope to see you there!
For Women Only: Women Praying Through the Knots, A Spirituality of Imperfection! Presented by Mrs. Theresa Kehl on Monday, January 30 from 7-8pm at Our Lady of Pompeii Ministry Center (Marian Room), 129 Laverack Ave, Lancaster. All women are welcome: Free will offering accepted. Refreshments follow in the Aud together with the men from the 7pm men’s presentation.
For Men Only: The Real St. Joseph and the Tools for Real Manhood in the Home, the Church and the World! Presented by Deacon Mark Kehl on Monday, January 30 from 7-8pm at our Lady of Pompeii Ministry Center (St. Joseph Room), 129 Laverack Avenue, Lancaster. All men are welcome! Free will offering accepted. Refreshments follow in the Aud together with the women from the 7pm women’s presentation.
Dec 18, 2016 | This Week
December 18 – December 25, 2016
Weekly Activities
Sunday, December 18, following the 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Moving of Christmas decorations from church basement
Monday, December 19 at 6:30 p.m. ~ Decorating the Church for Christmas
Tuesday, December 20 at 6:30 p.m. ~ Decorating the Church for Christmas
Tuesday, December 20 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir Rehearsal in St. Charles Hall
Wednesday, December 21 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir Rehearsal in Church
Thursday, December 22 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*
Friday, December 23 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall
Saturday, December 24 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall
Saturday, December 24 ~ NO BINGO
Saturday, December 24 at 9:30 p.m. ~ Christmas Eve Choir preludes in Church
*In response to requests from our players, we have instituted age restrictions for admission to Bingo. As of October 15, 2015, we no longer admit children under 8 years of age.
We now have a Bingo camera with TV monitors and electronic verification!
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 18 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Albert and Ella Tiede (Requested by Mary and Bob Kresse) and Gretchen Kelly (Requested by Bud and Mickey Dick)
Monday, December 19 ~ No Service
Tuesday, December 20 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anne Crocker (Family)
Wednesday, December 21 ~ St. Peter Canisius ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine Maher (Estate)
Thursday, December 22 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)
Friday, December 23 ~ St. John of Kanty ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)
Feast of the Birth of Our Lord
Saturday, December 24 ~ Christmas Eve Mass at 10:00 p.m. (preceded by choral preludes at 9:30 p.m.) ~ Blessed Trinity Parish Community
Sunday, December 25 ~ Christmas Day Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Blessed Trinity Parish Community
Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, December 24 and 25:
Saturday, 10:00 p.m. Readers: Bob Heicklen, Mary Kresse; Eucharistic Ministers: Jack Curtin, Maggie Gatson, Alice Davis; Mary Kresse (Loft)
Sunday, 10:00 a.m. Readers: Jack Curtin, Lorna Cameron; Eucharistic Ministers: Fran Cahill, Jack Curtin, Lorna Cameron; Sr. Liz Savage (Loft)
For our schedule of Christmas season services, Click HERE.
News from our Parish Community
Decorating for Christmas: Phase I ~ On Sunday, December 18 after 10am mass, we will be bringing the Christmas decorations up from the church basement. Any help you can provide will be greatly appreciated.
Decorating for Christmas: Phase II ~ Decorating of the Church for Christmas will take place this Monday and Tuesday, December 19 and 20, beginning at 6:30pm. A plan is in place; all we need is your helping hands to accomplish a variety of tasks. Please bring your Christmas spirit and join us on Monday and/or Tuesday. Enter through the side door near the wheelchair ramp.
A Farewell Message from Our Music Director, Nick DelBello ~
Dear Friends at Blessed Trinity: It has been my great joy over the last 7 years to serve as your Director of Music. In that time we have restored the church’s original Tellers-Kent organ, our choir has given concert performances both here at BT and across the diocese, we have grown our concert series, and the Buffalo Brass Choir has become BT’s ensemble-in-residence. As many of you know, Miranda and I recently welcomed a new addition to our family; our son, Vincent, born in October. I also started a new full-time position in the Williamsville Schools this past September. Wanting to spend more time with my growing family and apply myself more fully to my new full-time position in addition to pursuing some other musical opportunities led me to a difficult decision last month: to leave my position here at BT as Director of Music. Next week’s Christmas Eve and Day Masses will be my last here, and an interim director will take over on January 1st until a new, permanent director is found. I am proud of the things we have been able to accomplish and the legacy of high-quality liturgical music that we have been able to continue here at BT. I am looking forward to maintaining the Buffalo Brass Choir’s ensemble-in-residence status, and will be back at BT in February for our annual performance here. I wish to thank our talented and dedicated choir, as well as the entire congregation for their enthusiastic support of the musical ministry. A very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all! Nick DelBello
Employment Opportunity at BT ~ Nick DelBello, our music director since 2010, is resigning to devote more time to the new addition to his family, Vincent Michael, and his teaching position in the Williamsville School District. His resignation is effective December 31, 2016. Father Ibhawa is currently accepting applications for the position. Click HERE to view requirements and information on how to apply.
Thanks from Our Ladies Sodality – Thank you to everyone who contributed items for our homebound parishioners and those in senior care facilities. This was such a busy week at Blessed Trinity, and we are especially grateful to: Judy Casassa, Elsieta Chapman, Jack Curtin, Madonna Hartzell, Amy Johnson, Angela Jost, Marianne Pernick, Dianne Riordan, Sue Trabert and Palma Zanghi for volunteering to deliver the presents; Bud Dick for picking up the poinsettias; and Vera Andrew and Mickey Dick for assembling the Christmas gift bags and having everything ready for delivery by December 10. Best wishes to all for a blessed Christmas.
A very special “Thank You” to Maggie Gatson who laundered all the ministers’ robes in preparation for the Christmas season.
Retirement Fund for Religious Appeal ~ Thank you for your generous donations to the Retirement Fund for Religious to support our retired priests and sisters who belong to religious orders. Please continue to pray for them, whether serving or retired.
Sodality Dues Reminder for 2017 ~ Membership in the Ladies Sodality of Blessed Trinity runs with the calendar year, and dues become payable each January. Since 2016, we have only one category of membership – member in good standing – and annual dues are $5.00 with checks payable to “Ladies Sodality of Blessed Trinity.” You do not have to pay dues if you are a member in good standing and have reached your 80th birthday. Our Membership Chair, Mickey Dick, is now accepting dues for 2017.
Vocation View ~ On the Fourth Sunday of Advent we hear that Jesus’ coming into our world and all of the love he poured out for us, through much sacrifice, was done in obedience to the Father’s will. Remember that it may be God’s will that you be a priest, or a religious sister or brother. If so, will you follow Jesus’ example of faithfulness? If God is calling you to a Church vocation, call Fr. Andrew Lauricella at 716-847-5535. You can also check out the “Priest of the Month” stories at www.buffalovocations.org.
Announcements ~ If you have meeting or church event information you would like read during Mass announcements, please make sure to submit the information for approval to Barbara Sercu by Thursday morning of each week.
Detail of mural at 72 Jewett Avenue, Buffalo
Our Landmark church building is featured on a mural created earlier this year by Danial Galas on a the building located at 72 Jewett Avenue at Halbert Street. The building was originally owned by the Culliton Ice Cream Co. Local historian and preservationist, Chuck LaChiusa, has shared some marvelous photos of the mural depicting Blessed Trinity and other historical sites in the neighborhood on his web site. Click HERE to view them.
Mass Intentions ~ If you wish to have a Mass offered for a special intention, please call Barbara Sercu at the Rectory Office 716-833-0301. She will be available Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10:30am-2:30pm. The Mass offering is $15.00.
Sunday TV Mass ~ For those who are unable to physically attend Mass, the Diocese of Buffalo provides a televised Mass from the Our Lady Chapel at St. Joseph Cathedral that airs each Sunday on WUTV-Fox at 7:30am.
A Friendly Call ~ The Telephone Assurance Program (TAP) serving Erie and Chautauqua Counties, and the Friendly Phones program serving Orleans County, are free volunteer services providing regular phone calls to homebound elderly and disabled persons to check on their well-being and to give people an opportunity to socialize. These calls are especially needed during the upcoming holiday season to alleviate concerns facing those who live alone and to help them maintain their independence. If you know of someone who would like to receive calls through the programs or volunteer to make calls, call 585-343-0614 x18 for Friendly Phones and 716-218-1400 for TAP. For frequent updates from Catholic Charities of Buffalo follow on Twitter @ccbuffalo and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ccbuffalo. For other services available or volunteer opportunities visit us at www.ccwny.org.
News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community
St. Joseph Cathedral Choir will present a Festival of Lessons & Carols on Monday, Dec. 19 at 7:30pm under the direction of Organist-Choir Director Tim Socha. The Cathedral Choir will be joined by the Royalton Ringers and Diane Dick, solo handbells; the Bel Canto Singers of West Seneca West High School, and the Christ the King Seminary Schola. Featured music will include newly composed music and traditional Christmas music for choirs and congregation. There will be a free will offering. ALL are welcome. St. Joseph Cathedral is located at 50 Franklin St, downtown Buffalo (between Church & Swan Sts). For more information call 716-854-5855.
Christmas Nativity Display ~ Fr. Roy Herberger invites you to experience a display of 580 nativity sets from 58 countries. These international crèches will be shown at Ss Columba-Brigid Church at 75 Hickory & Eagle St (one block south of Clinton). The building is handicapped accessible. Hours are from 1-4pm every Saturday and Sunday in December – except the weekend of Dec 24/25 – and until the weekend of January 14/15. There is NO charge and there is a special section for children. If anyone would like to view the display during the week with a large group (e.g. school children, senior groups, church organizations, etc.), please call Fr. Roy at 716-852-2076.
Annual Festival of Lights Benefit and Auction on Saturday, January 14 at Our Lady of Fatima Shrine, 1023 Swann Rd. (off Rt. 18E), Lewiston, NY. An elegant evening in support of the Shrine’s renovation will honor Shrine Rector, Fr. Julio Ciavaglia, CRSP on the occasion of his fiftieth anniversary of priestly ordination. Wine tasting, basket auction, door prizes and catered dinner. Limited tickets available by calling 716-754-7489. Encore lighting of Fatima Shrine’s Festival of Lights display makes the setting of this gala unique. Come enjoy a fun evening for a great cause. Preview night of auction baskets Friday, January 13 from 12-7pm and Saturday, January 14 from 9am-3pm.
Dec 12, 2016 | Upcoming Events
Feast of the Birth of Our Lord ~ Christmas Eve
Saturday, December 24, 2016
9:30 p.m. ~ Choral Program, Blessed Trinity Choir
10:00 p.m. ~ Christmas Eve Mass with Choir, Brass and Organ
Christmas Day
Sunday, December 25
10:00 a.m. ~ Christmas Mass
Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph
Friday, December 30
11:00 a.m. ~ Mass
The Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
Saturday, December 31
Vigil Mass ~ 4:30 p.m.
Sunday, January 1, 2017
10:00 a.m. ~ Mass
The Epiphany of the Lord
Saturday, January 7
4:30 p.m. ~ Vigil Mass
Sunday, January 8
10:00 a.m. ~ Choir Mass
The Baptism of the Lord
Monday, January 9
11:00 a.m. ~ Mass
Dec 12, 2016 | This Week
December 11 – December 18, 2016
Weekly Activities
Tuesday, December 13 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir Rehearsal in St. Charles Hall
Wednesday, December 14 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Parish Council Meeting in St. Charles Hall
Thursday, December 15 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*
Friday, December 16 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall
Friday, December 16 from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. ~ Prisoner Gift Project, First Phase of Assembly in Church
Saturday, December 17 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall
Saturday, December 17 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*
Sunday, December 18, following the 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Moving of Christmas decorations from church basement
*In response to requests from our players, we have instituted age restrictions for admission to Bingo. As of October 15, 2015, we no longer admit children under 8 years of age.
We now have a Bingo camera with TV monitors and electronic verification!
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 11 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Bob and Mary Kinmartin (Requested by Mary and Bob Kresse) and Bridget Blesnuk (Requested by Family)
Monday, December 12 ~ Our Lady of Guadalupe ~ No Service
Tuesday, December 13 ~ St. Lucy ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Mary D. Clemons (Amy Johnson)
Wednesday, December 14 ~ St. John of the Cross ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)
Thursday, December 15 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)
Friday, December 16 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – All Souls (Queen of Martyrs Parish)
Saturday, December 17 ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. ~ Adam and Pauline Glowacki (Barbara Sercu)
Sunday, December 18 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Albert and Ella Tiede (Mary and Bob Kresse) and Gretchen Kelly (Bud and Mickey Dick)
Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, December 17 and 18:
Saturday, 4:30 p.m. Reader: Jack Curtin; Eucharistic Minister: Lucille Venezia
Sunday, 10:00 a.m. Readers: Bob Heicklen, Gary Kelley; Eucharistic Ministers: Fran Cahill, Bernice Bradley, Pat Hartinger; Sharon Dunnigan (Loft)
For our schedule of Christmas season services, Click HERE.
News from our Parish Community
The Parish Council Meeting, usually held on the third Wednesday of the month, will instead take place this Wednesday, December 14, at 7 p.m. in St. Charles Hall. Any Council member who will be unable to attend is reminded to call the parish office after 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday or Wednesday. Summary of November 16 Parish Council Meeting: Thank you to all who helped with the retirement party for Fr. Reger and Sister Barbe. The Finance Council (Fran Cahill, Bud Dick, Judy Casassa, Madonna Hartzell, Bob Heicklen) continues to meet weekly; income/expenses are watched closely. Closings on the sale of the FLARE building and St. Gerard’s Church and rectory are expected in the near future. A new boiler will be installed in St. Charles Hall. Members discussed a banner for the church, plus signs at several city intersections directing people here. Fr. Victor stressed his availability to the people and the need to identify some parish activities.
Decorating for Christmas: Phase I ~ On Sunday, December 18 after 10am mass, we will be bringing the Christmas decorations up from the church basement. Any help you can provide will be greatly appreciated.
Employment Opportunity at BT ~ Nick DelBello, our music director since 2010, is resigning to devote more time to the new addition to his family, Vincent Michael, and his teaching position in the Williamsville School District. His resignation is effective December 31, 2016. Father Ibhawa is currently accepting applications for the position. Click HERE to view requirements and information on how to apply.
Thanks from Our Ladies Sodality – Thank you to everyone who contributed items for our homebound parishioners and those in senior care facilities. This was such a busy week at Blessed Trinity, and we are especially grateful to: Judy Casassa, Elsieta Chapman, Jack Curtin, Madonna Hartzell, Amy Johnson, Angela Jost, Marianne Pernick, Dianne Riordan, Sue Trabert and Palma Zanghi for volunteering to deliver the presents; Bud Dick for picking up the poinsettias; and Vera Andrew and Mickey Dick for assembling the Christmas gift bags and having everything ready for delivery by December 10. Best wishes to all for a blessed Christmas.
Retirement Fund for Religious Appeal ~ A reminder to please be as generous as possible when this annual collection for women and men religious is taken during the December 10/11 weekend Masses. For your convenience you may also donate online to the collection in the Diocese of Buffalo at http://www.shareinthecare.org.
Announcements ~ If you have meeting or church event information you would like read during Mass announcements, please make sure to submit the information for approval to Barbara Sercu by Thursday morning of each week.
Detail of mural at 72 Jewett Avenue, Buffalo
Our Landmark church building is featured on a mural created earlier this year by Danial Galas on a the building located at 72 Jewett Avenue at Halbert Street. The building was originally owned by the Culliton Ice Cream Co. Local historian and preservationist, Chuck LaChiusa, has shared some marvelous photos of the mural depicting Blessed Trinity and other historical sites in the neighborhood on his web site. Click HERE to view them.
A Message from Father Reger and Sister Barbara Horan ~ “We hope all are receiving our sentiments of gratitude and thanks after our October 30 Celebration. Some may have been missed or lost in the mail, but we meant to thank you all … We thank you again for the monetary gifts from the congregation and from individuals. You are too generous! We could not do justice to all the messages of congratulations and future happiness — and to the touching ways they were expressed. They brought tears to the eyes and were read and re-read ~ and they sustain us now … It is for these offered blessings and words of appreciation that we are especially grateful. Fr. Reger and Sr. Barbara“
Mass Intentions ~ If you wish to have a Mass offered for a special intention, please call Barbara Sercu at the Rectory Office 716-833-0301. She will be available Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10:30am-2:30pm. The Mass offering is $15.00.
Sunday TV Mass ~ For those who are unable to physically attend Mass, the Diocese of Buffalo provides a televised Mass from the Our Lady Chapel at St. Joseph Cathedral that airs each Sunday on WUTV-Fox at 7:30am.
A Friendly Call ~ The Telephone Assurance Program (TAP) serving Erie and Chautauqua Counties, and the Friendly Phones program serving Orleans County, are free volunteer services providing regular phone calls to homebound elderly and disabled persons to check on their well-being and to give people an opportunity to socialize. These calls are especially needed during the upcoming holiday season to alleviate concerns facing those who live alone and to help them maintain their independence. If you know of someone who would like to receive calls through the programs or volunteer to make calls, call 585-343-0614 x18 for Friendly Phones and 716-218-1400 for TAP. For frequent updates from Catholic Charities of Buffalo follow on Twitter @ccbuffalo and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ccbuffalo. For other services available or volunteer opportunities visit us at www.ccwny.org.
Photo credit: Margaret Dick
News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community
Free Monthly Faith Enrichment Series ~ On Monday, December 12 at 7pm, Deacon Dave Rotterman will present “Advent…It’s Not Just a Countdown to Christmas” at Our Lady of Pompeii Church, 158 Laverack Ave, Lancaster. Learn how to prepare and be spiritually ready for Christmas. Make each day and each moment of Advent “count.” It’s not a countdown…it’s a state of being. Refreshments to follow. ALL are welcome; no need to register.
Give a child a safe home. Catholic Charities works closely with birth families to provide a safe place for children, especially sibling groups, to stay and receive care when they cannot receive it at their own home. While often temporary, some children must be relocated permanently. Our Foster Care program allows for children to receive nurturing care in these moments of their lives from other loving families. Interested in learning more about becoming a foster parent? Our next informational meeting will be held at 525 Washington St, Buffalo on Tuesday, Dec. 13 from 10-11:30am and 5-7:30pm; attend either one. To register or learn more, call 716-856-4494 x360 or email elizabeth [dot] murphy [at] ccwny [dot] org. For frequent updates from Catholic Charities of Buffalo follow us on Twitter @ccbuffalo and Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/ccbuffalo. To view our full list of services, find us online at http://www.ccwny.org.
Canisius High School presents a Service of Lessons and Carols on Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 7pm at Assumption Church, 435 Amherst St, Buffalo. All are welcome to attend this free presentation of Christmas carols and readings. The school’s new audio CD, “Christmas at Canisius,” will be available for purchase. For more information call the school at 716-882-0466.
Celebrate Christmas ~ Cardinal O’Hara High School, 39 O’Hara Rd, Tonawanda, will continue one of its longest running traditions with a Greccio re-enactment and Christmas concert starting at 6:30pm on Wednesday, Dec. 14. The O’Hara freshman class will re-enact St. Francis of Assisi’s pageant which depicts the birth of Jesus. O’Hara’s Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, Chorus and Song Corps will also perform their annual concert of holiday favorites in the performing arts center immediately following the Greccio re-enactment. The Music Department will host a spaghetti dinner fundraiser from 4-6pm in the student dining room. Eat in or take-out is available. Dinner tickets may be purchased by calling O’Hara at 716-695-2600.
St. Joseph Cathedral Choir will present a Festival of Lessons & Carols on Monday, Dec. 19 at 7:30pm under the direction of Organist-Choir Director Tim Socha. The Cathedral Choir will be joined by the Royalton Ringers and Diane Dick, solo handbells; the Bel Canto Singers of West Seneca West High School, and the Christ the King Seminary Schola. Featured music will include newly composed music and traditional Christmas music for choirs and congregation. There will be a free will offering. ALL are welcome. St. Joseph Cathedral is located at 50 Franklin St, downtown Buffalo (between Church & Swan Sts). For more information call 716-854-5855.
Christmas Nativity Display ~ Fr. Roy Herberger invites you to experience a display of 580 nativity sets from 58 countries. These international crèches will be shown at Ss Columba-Brigid Church at 75 Hickory & Eagle St (one block south of Clinton). The building is handicapped accessible. Hours are from 1-4pm every Saturday and Sunday in December – except the weekend of Dec 24/25 – and until the weekend of January 14/15. There is NO charge and there is a special section for children. If anyone would like to view the display during the week with a large group (e.g. school children, senior groups, church organizations, etc.), please call Fr. Roy at 716-852-2076.
NativityMiguel Boys Basketball Team starts season with Tournament wins. Again this year the NativityMiguel St. Augustine Rens began its basketball season with wins in local tournaments: Canisius High School Tip-Off Tournament and St. Joe’s John Barden Memorial Tournament. The team is coached by Mr. Dorcely with the support of school principal, Father Edward Durkin, SJ, and teacher, Sister Timothy Howard, OSP. The team is inspired by the New York Renaissance (also known as the Harlem Rens), the first all black, African-American owned professional basketball team and one of the most successful basketball teams of all time. Both the St. Augustine Rens boys team and the St. Monica Doms girls teams start their regular season of play this month. For more info about the school please visit www.nativitymiguelbuffalo.org or call Nancy Langer, school president at 716-836-5188.
Dec 4, 2016 | This Week
Assembly of gift bags for Prison Project. Photo by Derek Gee, The Buffalo News.
December 4 – December 11, 2016
Weekly Activities
Tuesday, December 6 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir Rehearsal in St. Charles Hall
Wednesday, December 7 beginning at 6:00 p.m. ~ Sodality Christmas Dinner at the Family Tree Restaurant
Thursday, December 8 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*
Friday, December 9 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall
Friday, December 9 from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. ~ Prisoner Gift Project, First Phase of Assembly in Church
Friday, December 9 from 6:00 p.m. – completion ~ Prisoner Gift Project, Assembly and Packing in Church
Saturday, December 10 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall
Saturday, December 10 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*
*In response to requests from our players, we have instituted age restrictions for admission to Bingo. As of October 15, 2015, we no longer admit children under 8 years of age.
We now have a Bingo camera with TV monitors and electronic verification!
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 4 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Santos Bueme (Requested by Angela Jost) and Rhoda Tisdale (Requested by Bob Heicklen)
Monday, December 5 ~ No Service
Tuesday, December 6 ~ St. Nicholas ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – All Souls (Queen of Martyrs Parish)
Wednesday, December 7 ~ St. Ambrose ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)
Thursday, December 8 ~ Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary ~ Mass at 6:00 p.m. – Ray and Martha Freudenberger (Estate)
Friday, December 9 ~ St. John Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)
Saturday, December 10 ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. ~ Catherine Maher (Estate)
Sunday, December 11 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Bob and Mary Kinmartin (Mary and Bob Kresse) and Bridget Blesnuk (Family)
Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, December 10 and 11:
Saturday, 4:30 p.m. Reader: Michael Ogoh; Eucharistic Minister: Jack Curtin
Sunday, 10:00 a.m. Readers: Maggie Gatson, Angela Jost; Eucharistic Ministers: Alice Davis, Dan Korchowsky, Fran Cahill; Maggie Gatson (Loft)
News from our Parish Community
Father Victor thanks ALL the parishioners who attended the November 30th “meet and greet.” His efforts to share his thoughts, get to know you better and begin a dialog with the congregation was a great success. Your presence spoke volumes in support our parish as a community. He thanks you for all the thoughtful comments and questions and looks forward to working together to strengthen Blessed Trinity’s mission.
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary is this Thursday, December 8. It is a Holy Day of Obligation and our Mass will be at 6pm.
Employment Opportunity at BT ~ Nick DelBello, our music director since 2010, is resigning to devote more time to the new addition to his family, Vincent Michael, and his teaching position in the Williamsville School District. His resignation is effective December 31, 2016. Father Ibhawa is currently accepting applications for the position. Click HERE to view requirements and information on how to apply.
A Frozen Christmas Pie, the next concert in our Trinity Series, is this Sunday, December 4, at 3 PM. The Freudig Singers of WNY, under the direction of Roland E. Martin, will present a program featuring traditional and contemporary music for Advent and Christmas, plus the premier of a new piece – “Star Carol” by Sidney King – to enhance your celebration of this beautiful season. The Singers invite you and your friends to “come a’ wassailing” with them, take chances to win one of their signature pies, and enjoy a delicious post-concert pie reception in St. Charles Hall. Suggested Donation: $10.
The Ladies Sodality Christmas Dinner is this Wednesday, December 7 at 6:00 PM at the Family Tree Restaurant, 4346 N. Bailey Ave., Amherst. Reservations & entrée choices (pot roast, baked fish, or roast pork) were due Friday. If you forgot, click HERE now and leave a message for Jessie Wells or Treasurer Amy Johnson (Subject: Reservation). The $25 price includes tax and gratuity. Checks payable to Ladies Sodality of Blessed Trinity.
Prisoner Gift Project 2016 ~ Thank you! As of last Sunday we have 3,066 packets! With this weekend’s donations we will reach our goal. Forgot? Make a donation in an envelope marked “Peaceprints of WNY” and drop it in the collection basket. Bag decorators: Please return all bags (decorated or not). Help assemble the gifts here at Blessed Trinity on this Friday, December 9 in two shifts: Morning 10am-1pm – Unpacking, sorting, counting, prepping shipping boxes; or Evening 6pm to completion – Filling gift bags and packing the shipping boxes
Gifts for our Shut-ins – Thank you to everyone who has contributed items to be delivered to our homebound parishioners and those in senior care facilities for Christmas. The gift bags will be ready next weekend, December 10/11, and Mickey Dick is looking for 9 more volunteers. Can you give an hour of your time between December 11 and Christmas to deliver a gift bag and visit with its recipient? If so, click HERE and leave a message for Mickey (Subject: Shut-ins).
Prisoner Gift Project 2016 – Cocoa Challenge 2016 ~ Thank you to everyone who has contributed already! We are still in need of donations of instant hot chocolate packets to reach 4,200 by next Sunday, Dec. 4. Monetary donations are welcomed. Bag decorators – Please return all bags by Dec. 4 (box near the cocoa donations). You may leave a message for Amy Johnson (Subject: Prison Project) HERE.
Retirement Fund for Religious Appeal ~ A reminder to please be as generous as possible when this annual collection for women and men religious is taken during the December 10/11 weekend Masses. For your convenience you may also donate online to the collection in the Diocese of Buffalo at http://www.shareinthecare.org.
Detail of mural at 72 Jewett Avenue, Buffalo
Our Landmark church building is featured on a mural created earlier this year by Danial Galas on a the building located at 72 Jewett Avenue at Halbert Street. The building was originally owned by the Culliton Ice Cream Co. Local historian and preservationist, Chuck LaChiusa, has shared some marvelous photos of the mural depicting Blessed Trinity and other historical sites in the neighborhood on his web site. Click HERE to view them.
Catholic University of America ~ Thank you for your generous contributions to last week’s special second collection. Your support enables Catholic University to provide an education based in the Catholic intellectual tradition to the next generation of leadership for our Church and nation. You can learn more about your impact and the University at collection.cua.edu.
Blessed Trinity extends Congratulations to Jonathan Sands who elected to pursue his college preparatory education at Canisius High School. Jonathan has achieved first honors during his first quarter of 12th grade. Keep up the good work!
A Message from Father Reger and Sister Barbara Horan ~ “We hope all are receiving our sentiments of gratitude and thanks after our October 30 Celebration. Some may have been missed or lost in the mail, but we meant to thank you all … We thank you again for the monetary gifts from the congregation and from individuals. You are too generous! We could not do justice to all the messages of congratulations and future happiness — and to the touching ways they were expressed. They brought tears to the eyes and were read and re-read ~ and they sustain us now … It is for these offered blessings and words of appreciation that we are especially grateful. Fr. Reger and Sr. Barbara“
Mass Intentions ~ If you wish to have a Mass offered for a special intention, please call Barbara Sercu at the Rectory Office 716-833-0301. She will be available Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10:30am-2:30pm. The Mass offering is $15.00.
Just a sample of the gift bags decorated for prior Christmas Prison Project
News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community
Finding Hope in Hard Times, presented by Charles Gardner on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 9:30-11am at the St. Joseph Center for Spirituality, 4975 Strickler Rd, Clarence. Based on the writing of Henri Nouwen, Turn My Mourning Into Dancing, he encourages us to let go, make ourselves vulnerable and to wait patiently for God’s hope often while in a state of despair. Not always easy. For reservations, call 759-6893 x175.
Christmas with Harmonia ~ Be blessed on Sunday, Dec. 11 from 4-5:30pm as the Harmonia Chamber Singers present “O Holy Night: Christmas with Harmonia” at St. Leo the Great Church, 885 Sweet Home Rd, Amherst. Free will offering or donations gratefully accepted. CDs will be available. Celebrate the sacredness of the season.
Give a child a safe home. Catholic Charities works closely with birth families to provide a safe place for children, especially sibling groups, to stay and receive care when they cannot receive it at their own home. While often temporary, some children must be relocated permanently. Our Foster Care program allows for children to receive nurturing care in these moments of their lives from other loving families. Interested in learning more about becoming a foster parent? Our next informational meeting will be held at 525 Washington St, Buffalo on Tuesday, Dec. 13 from 10-11:30am and 5-7:30pm; attend either one. To register or learn more, call 716-856-4494 x360 or email elizabeth [dot] murphy [at] ccwny [dot] org. For frequent updates from Catholic Charities of Buffalo follow us on Twitter @ccbuffalo and Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/ccbuffalo. To view our full list of services, find us online at http://www.ccwny.org.
Canisius High School presents a Service of Lessons and Carols on Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 7pm at Assumption Church, 435 Amherst St, Buffalo. All are welcome to attend this free presentation of Christmas carols and readings. The school’s new audio CD, “Christmas at Canisius,” will be available for purchase. For more information call the school at 716-882-0466.
Celebrate Christmas ~ Cardinal O’Hara High School, 39 O’Hara Rd, Tonawanda, will continue one of its longest running traditions with a Greccio re-enactment and Christmas concert starting at 6:30pm on Wednesday, Dec. 14. The O’Hara freshman class will re-enact St. Francis of Assisi’s pageant which depicts the birth of Jesus. O’Hara’s Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, Chorus and Song Corps will also perform their annual concert of holiday favorites in the performing arts center immediately following the Greccio re-enactment. The Music Department will host a spaghetti dinner fundraiser from 4-6pm in the student dining room. Eat in or take-out is available. Dinner tickets may be purchased by calling O’Hara at 716-695-2600.
Christmas Nativity Display ~ Fr. Roy Herberger invites you to experience a display of 580 nativity sets from 58 countries. These international crèches will be shown at Ss Columba-Brigid Church at 75 Hickory & Eagle St (one block south of Clinton). The building is handicapped accessible. Hours are from 1-4pm every Saturday and Sunday in December – except the weekend of Dec 24/25 – and until the weekend of January 14/15. There is NO charge and there is a special section for children. If anyone would like to view the display during the week with a large group (e.g. school children, senior groups, church organizations, etc.), please call Fr. Roy at 716-852-2076.
Dec 2, 2016 | News & Photos
Director of Music at Blessed Trinity Roman Catholic Church
Position available January 1, 2017
Blessed Trinity Parish, a diverse and welcoming faith community at home in a Landmark edifice in Buffalo, NY, seeks a motivated musician familiar with the Roman Catholic Liturgy to serve part-time as Director of Music.
Key Responsibilities:
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Plan music appropriate for the liturgical season, including hymns, and Mass and psalm settings, to be sung by congregation and choir at one Sunday service (10am), and additional special services; e.g., Christmas, Holy Week, and Holy Days
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Serve as organist/pianist and cantor
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Rehearse and conduct an established adult volunteer choir at weekly evening rehearsal, Sunday, and special liturgies
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Serve as member of concert committee, which plans and implements the church’s concert series
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Right of first refusal for all weddings and funerals
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Monitor the church’s recently restored Tellers-Kent pipe organ for any needed service
Review of Applicants will begin immediately; resumes will be accepted until position is filled.
Apply to:
Rev. Victor Ibhawa
Blessed Trinity RC Church
317 Leroy Ave., Buffalo, NY 14214
blessedtrinitychurch [at] gmail [dot] com
Dec 2, 2016 | News & Photos
Detail of mural at 72 Jewett Avenue, Buffalo
Our Landmark church building is featured on a mural created earlier this year by Danial Galas on a neighborhood building located at 72 Jewett Avenue at Halbert Street. Thanks to local historian and preservationist, Chuck LaChiusa, who has included some marvelous photos of the mural on his website. Click HERE to view them.
Nov 27, 2016 | This Week
November 27 – December 4, 2016
Weekly Activities
Tuesday, November 29 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir Rehearsal in St. Charles Hall
Wednesday, November 30 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Pastor’s meeting with his parishioners in St. Charles Hall
Thursday, December 1 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*
Friday, December 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall
Saturday, December 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall
Saturday, December 2 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*
Sunday, December 4 at 3:00 p.m. ~ Trinity Series Concert in church; post-concert reception in St. Charles Hall
*In response to requests from our players, we have instituted age restrictions for admission to Bingo. As of October 15, 2015, we no longer admit children under 8 years of age.
We now have a Bingo camera with TV monitors and electronic verification!
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, November 27 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Ella and Joe Loibl (Requested by Mary and Bob Kresse)
Monday, November 28 ~ No Service
Tuesday, November 29 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)
Wednesday, November 30 ~ St. Andrew, apostle ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine Maher (Estate)
Thursday, December 1 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – All Souls (Queen of Martyrs Parish)
Friday, December 2 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Ray and Martha Freudenberger (Estate)
Saturday, December 3 ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. ~ Mary C. Nelson (Family)
Sunday, December 4 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Santos Bueme (Angela Jost) and Rhoda Tisdale (Bob Heicklen)
Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, December 3 and 4:
Saturday, 4:30 p.m. Reader: Gary Kelley; Eucharistic Minister: Lucille Venezia
Sunday, 10:00 a.m. Readers: Fran Cahill, Sharon Dunnigan; Eucharistic Ministers: Dan Korchowsky, Mary Kresse, Pat Hartinger; Fran Cahill (Loft)
News from our Parish Community
Father Victor invites you to join him at 7pm on Wednesday evening, November 30, for a parish “meet and greet.” He would like to get to know you better, share his thoughts and yours, and begin a dialog with his congregation. Please show your support for our future together by participating in the conversation. The meeting will take place in St. Charles Hall.
The Freudig Singers performing at
Blessed Trinity in December 2015
Employment Opportunity at BT ~ Nick DelBello, our music director since 2010, is resigning to devote more time to the new addition to his family, Vincent Michael, and his teaching position in the Williamsville School District. His resignation is effective December 31, 2016. Father Ibhawa is currently accepting applications for the position. Click HERE to view requirements and information on how to apply.
A Frozen Christmas Pie, the next concert in our Trinity Series is just a week away — Sunday, December 4, at 3pm. The Freudig Singers of WNY, under the direction of Roland E. Martin, will present a program featuring traditional and contemporary music for Advent and Christmas, plus the premier of a new piece – “Star Carol” by Sidney King – to enhance your celebration of this beautiful season. The Singers invite you to “come a’ wassailing” with them, take chances to win one of their signature pies, and enjoy a delicious post-concert pie reception. Suggested Donation: $10.
The Ladies Sodality Christmas Dinner is Wednesday, December 7 at 6:00 PM at the Family Tree Restaurant, 4346 N. Bailey Ave., Amherst, and reservation are due this week. All women of the parish are invited and guests are welcome. There are 3 entrees to choose from: pot roast, baked fish, or roast pork. Greek or baked potato, chef salad, rolls & butter, coffee, tea or soda and a dessert choice of ice cream with chocolate sauce or rice pudding complete the menu – all for only $25. This price includes tax and gratuity. Entrée choices and payment (checks payable to “Ladies Sodality”) are due no later than Friday, December 2 and may be given to either Jessie Wells or Treasurer Amy Johnson. Click HERE to leave a message for them (Subject: Reservation).
Gifts for our Shut-ins – The Ladies Sodality is again assembling Christmas presents to be delivered to our homebound parishioners (6 women) and those in senior care facilities (2 women, 1 man). SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4, is our target date for collecting all donated items and cash contributions so that presents and plants are ready for delivery on the weekend of Dec. 10/11. If you would like to contribute, please bring your new, unwrapped items to church and leave them in the designated basket at the far left end of the communion rail. Some suggestions: socks, eye glass wipes, artificial tears (eye drops), calendars, large-print puzzle books, wrapped candies, or cash for a hair cut or shampoo & set. Ready-to-eat food items such as jam, jelly, toaster pastries; gelatin, fruit or pudding cups; or “add water” mixes; e.g., soup cups, single-serving oatmeal packets, tea, cocoa or coffee are also acceptable for the homebound. If you prefer to donate money, please do so before Thanksgiving so that our volunteers have time to shop. If you have any questions, please Click HERE and leave a message for Mickey Dick (Subject: Shut-ins).
Prisoner Gift Project 2016 – Cocoa Challenge 2016 ~ Thank you to everyone who has contributed already! We are still in need of donations of instant hot chocolate packets to reach 4,200 by next Sunday, Dec. 4. Monetary donations are welcomed. Bag decorators – Please return all bags by Dec. 4 (box near the cocoa donations). You may leave a message for Amy Johnson (Subject: Prison Project) HERE.
Detail of mural at 72 Jewett Avenue, Buffalo
Our Landmark church building is featured on a mural created earlier this year by Danial Galas on a the building located at 72 Jewett Avenue at Halbert Street. The building was originally owned by the Culliton Ice Cream Co. Local historian and preservationist, Chuck LaChiusa, has shared some marvelous photos of the mural depicting Blessed Trinity and other historical sites in the neighborhood on his web site. Click HERE to view them.
A Message from Father Reger and Sister Barbara Horan ~ “We hope all are receiving our sentiments of gratitude and thanks after our October 30 Celebration. Some may have been missed or lost in the mail, but we meant to thank you all … We thank you again for the monetary gifts from the congregation and from individuals. You are too generous! We could not do justice to all the messages of congratulations and future happiness — and to the touching ways they were expressed. They brought tears to the eyes and were read and re-read ~ and they sustain us now … It is for these offered blessings and words of appreciation that we are especially grateful. Fr. Reger and Sr. Barbara“
Retirement Fund for Religious Appeal ~ Please be as generous as possible when the collection is taken during the December 10/11 weekend Masses. For your convenience you may also donate online to the collection in the Diocese of Buffalo at www.shareinthecare.org.
St. Gerard Church ~ On November 9, 2016, Bishop Richard Malone issued a decree reducing the former St. Gerard Church building to secular use effective November 23, 2016.
Mass Intentions ~ If you wish to have a Mass offered for a special intention, please call Barbara Sercu at the Rectory Office 716-833-0301. She will be available Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10:30am-2:30pm. The Mass offering is $15.00.
The Diocese of Buffalo wants your feedback. A survey has been created to understand perceptions about how deacons are currently ministering within our community, as well as direct future needs so that our ordained deacons are able to effectively minister to all people within the diocese. Please visit http://bit.ly/dcnsurvey to take this short survey.
There’s plenty of room remaining for
your donation of cocoa for Sr. Karen Klimczak’s Christmas Prison Project.
News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community
Rev. Msgr. Peter J. Popadick and the Parish Community of St. Aloysius Gonzaga Church invite ALL to the 73rd Annual Family Christmas Fair on Saturday, December 3, from noon to 6pm in the Parish Hall, 157 Cleveland Drive, Cheektowaga. The Christmas Fair includes a Grand Prize Drawing, a wide variety of prize booths (groceries, musical novelties, toys for boys and girls, candy, poinsettias and Christmas variety), theme baskets and cash prizes. Santa Claus will visit with youngsters from 2-4pm and the kitchen will be serving a full menu of homemade food items at reasonable prices. For more information call the St. Aloysius Rectory at 716-833-1715.
Need time to do your Christmas shopping? Mount St. Mary Academy’s annual Holiday Bazaar and Craft Show showcases over 70 vendors, offering great gift ideas for everyone on your list. Shop for everything from homemade candles, jellies, wreaths, scarves, artwork, jewelry and more. Join us for Chiavetta’s BBQ from 11am-3pm while you do your shopping. Holiday Bazaar and Craft Show, Sunday, December 4 from 10am-4pm at Mount St. Mary Academy, 3756 Delaware Ave, Kenmore. Questions? Call Alexandra Fussell 716-877-1358 x304 or email afussell [at] msmacademy [dot] org.
Christ the King Seminary will host its annual Advent Vespers Service on the second Sunday of Advent, Sunday, December 4 at 4pm in the seminary’s St. John Vianney Chapel. The Most Reverend Richard J. Malone will preside. Alan Lukas, director of music for the seminary and the Diocese of Buffalo, will lead the Christ the King Seminary Festival chorus through a selected arrangement of Scripture passages and sacred songs. A reception will follow the service. A free-will offering will be taken; ALL are welcome. Fur further information visit www.cks.edu or call Gayle Mann, coordinator of events and scheduling 716-805-1438. Christ the King Seminary is located at 711 Knox Road in East Aurora.
Christmas Nativity Display ~ Fr. Roy Herberger invites you to experience a display of 580 nativity sets from 58 countries. These international crèches will be shown at Ss Columba-Brigid Church at 75 Hickory & Eagle St (one block south of Clinton). The building is handicapped accessible. Hours are from 1-4pm every Saturday and Sunday in December – except the weekend of Dec 24/25 – and until the weekend of January 14/15. There is NO charge and there is a special section for children. If anyone would like to view the display during the week with a large group (e.g. school children, senior groups, church organizations, etc.), please call Fr. Roy at 716-852-2076.
Catholic Charities’ Immigration and Refugee Assistance Program is collecting donations of winter outerwear and clothing. Many of the program’s clients do not have proper clothing or shoes for the winter months, especially those who arrive in the summer. Items being collected include winter boots, galoshes, jackets, coats and sweaters. All sizes are being accepted. Items can be dropped off at Immigration and Refugee Assistance, 20 Herkimer St, Buffalo from 8:45am-4:45pm Monday through Friday. Please call ahead if possible: 716-842-0270. Consider helping Buffalo’s newest neighbors. More information on Immigration and Refugee Assistance, visit http://www.ccwny.org or call 716-842-0270.
