Third Sunday of Advent – Week of December 11, 2016

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.

Second Sunday of Advent – Week of December 4, 2016

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.

First Sunday of Advent – Week of November 27, 2016

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.

Feast of Christ the King, Week of Nov. 20, 2016

Nov 20, 2016 | This Week

Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe Sunday, November 20
Detail of church’s stained glass skylight, the theme of which is Christ the King. “The central panel shows Christ reigning as Lord of the kingdom that we pray will come.” Surrounding panels contain figures of angels and symbols both of Christ’s suffering and His glorification.
Photo credit: Jeannette Pikturna

November 20 – November 27, 2016

Weekly Activities

Tuesday, November 22 at 7:30 p.m. ~ Choir Rehearsal in St. Charles Hall

Thursday, November 24 is Thanksgiving Day ~ There will be NO Bingo.

Friday, November 25 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

Saturday, November 26 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

Saturday, November 26 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*

Tuesday, November 29 at 7:30 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

*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 20~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Bob Kinmartin (Requested by S. Miletello)

Monday, November 21 ~ No Service

Tuesday, November 22 ~ St. Cecilia ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Wednesday, November 23 ~ St. Clement I; St. Columban; Bl. Miguel Agustin Pro ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Francis Pietrzykowski (Estate)

Thursday, November 24 ~ St. Andrew Dung-Lac ~ Thanksgiving Day Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Catherine Maher (Estate)

Friday, November 25 ~ St. Catherine of Alexandria ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – All Souls (Queen of Martyrs Parish)

Saturday, November 26 ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. ~ Ray and Martha Freudenberger (Estate)

Sunday, November 27 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Bob Kinmartin (S. Miletello)

Ministry Schedule for Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 24 at 10:00 a.m.

Readers: Judy Casassa, Richard Plunkett; Eucharistic Ministers: Dan Korchowsky, Bernice Bradley, Kathleen Marien;  Judy Casassa (Loft)

Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, November 26 and 27:

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

Sunday, 10:00 a.m.   Readers: Pam Zanghi, Bernice Bradley;  Eucharistic Ministers: Fran Cahill, Sharon Dunnigan, Bernice Bradley; Maggie Gatson (Loft)

Readings for the Week of November 20

Sunday: 2 Sm 5:1-3; Ps 122:1-5; Col 1:12-20; Lk 23:35-43
Monday: Rv 14:1-3, 4b-5; Ps 24:1-6; Lk 21:1-4
Tuesday: Rv 14:14-19; Ps 96:10-13; Lk 21:5-11
Wednesday: Rv 15:1-4; Ps 98:1-3, 7-9; Lk 21:12-19
Thursday: Rv 18:1-2, 21-23; 19:1-3, 9a; Ps 100:1-5; Lk 21:20-28
Friday: Rv 20:1-4, 11–21:2; Ps 84:3-6, 8; Lk 21:29-33
Saturday: Rv 22:1-7; Ps 95:1-7; Lk 21:34-36
Sunday, Nov. 27: Is 2:1-5; Ps 122:1-9; Rom 13:11-14; Mt 24:37-44

News from our Parish Community

Thanksgiving at Blessed Trinity ~ Mass will be celebrated Thursday, November 24, at 10am. Please join us to begin the celebration around the table of the Lord.

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 Ladies Sodality Christmas Dinner is Wednesday, December 7 at 6:00 PM at the Family Tree Restaurant, 4346 N. Bailey Ave., Amherst. 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 ~ We need your donation of instant hot chocolate packets. Only two weeks remain to reach our goal of 4,200 by December 4. If you prefer to make a cash donation or can help decorate gift bags, leave a message for Amy Johnson (Subject: Prison Project) HERE.

The Freudig Singers performing at Blessed Trinity in December 2015

Our next Trinity Series Concert is Sunday, December 4 at 3pm, when the Freudig Singers of WNY will be bringing us “A Frozen Christmas Pie.” Under the direction of Roland E. Martin, the program features 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 on their signature pies, and enjoy a delicious post-concert pie reception. Suggested donation $10.

Special Alert for Lectorers ~ Please pick up your copy of “2017 Workbook for Readers” in the priest’s sacristy today. We begin using it for the First Sunday in Advent, November 26/27. Suggestion: as a refresher, read pages iv to ix.

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.

In grateful Thanksgiving, we raise our hands in prayer for all we have, that God might also bless others through us, and that with each memory of God’s goodness our hearts might overflow with joy.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

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.

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.

Journey Into Love ~ The Office of Family Life Ministries is looking for married couples to assist with the monthly diocesan marriage preparation program, Journey Into Love. Married couples help by giving a 20-minute talk once or twice a year on essential topics and issues that engaged and newly married couples face. Married couples that support this ministry find it beneficial to their own marriage and their efforts contribute to the strengthening of family life as couples prepare for their marriage. If you are interested in finding out more about this very successful diocesan marriage program, call the Family Life Office at 716-847-2210.

Volunteers needed ~ Little Portion Friary, located at 1305 Main St (south of Canisius College), Buffalo, is a shelter for homeless men and women whose goal is to assist our guests in ending the reasons for their homelessness. Needed are men and women willing to greet and serve the guests on weekends and weekday shifts. Training is provided. It is an ideal ministry for retired seniors as well as for men and women who want another opportunity to “live out” their faith. Please consider in answering God’s call to help feed and shelter the homeless. Call Ed L. at 875-3610 x221 or 222.

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time – Week of Nov. 13, 2016

Nov 13, 2016 | This Week

St. Elizabeth of Hungary, whose feast day we celebrate on November 17, is depicted in Joseph Mazur’s procession of saints in the church dome. The daughter of King Andrew II of Hungary, she devoted her life to caring for the poor. She was widowed at the age of 21, and continued her charitable activities as a member of the Third Order of Franciscans. St. Elizabeth appears as the second standing figure from the right, wearing a crown. Photo credit: Gary Kelley

November 13 – November 20, 2016

Rev. Victor Ibhawa, 2nd from right,with parishioners and Rev. John Aligamhe on Nov. 6.

Blessed Trinity welcomes Rev. Victor Ibhawa with warmth and joyful anticipation. Father Victor has been appointed by Bishop Malone to serve as our parish priest and temporary administrator. A native of Nigeria, he comes to us from St. Vincent de Paul parish in Niagara Falls, NY, where he had served as parochial vicar. Click HERE for additional photos.

Weekly Activities

Tuesday, November 15 at 7:30 p.m. ~ Choir Rehearsal in St. Charles Hall

Wednesday, November 16 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Parish Council Meeting in St. Charles Hall

Thursday, November 17 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*

Friday, November 18 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

Saturday, November 19 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

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

Sunday, November 20 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Coffee Hour 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 13~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Aileen Horan Townsell (Requested by Angela Jost)

Monday, November 14 ~ No Service

Tuesday, November 15 ~ St. Albert the Great ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Wednesday, November 16 ~ St. Margaret of Scotland; St. Gertrude ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Francis Pietrzykowski (Estate)

Thursday, November 17 ~ St. Elizabeth of Hungary ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine Maher (Estate)

Friday, November 18 ~ Dedication of the Basilicas of Ss. Peter & Paul; St. Rose Philippine Duchesne ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – All Souls (Queen of Martyrs Parish)

Saturday, November 19 ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. ~ Ray and Martha Freudenberger (Estate)

Sunday, November 20~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Bob Kinmartin (S. Miletello)

Assisting on the Altar – Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, November 19 and 20:

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

Sunday, 10:00 a.m.   Readers: Chris Porter and Dianne Riordan;  Eucharistic Ministers: Alice Davis, Maggie Gatson, Pat Hartinger; Dan Korchowsky (Loft)

Readings for the Week of November 13

Sunday: Mal 3:19-20; Ps 98:5-9; 2 Thes 3:7-12; Lk 21:5-19
Monday: Rv 1:1-4; 2:1-5; Ps 1:1-4, 6; Lk 18:35-43
Tuesday: Rv 3:1-6, 14-22; Ps 15:2-5; Lk 19:1-10
Wednesday: Rv 4:1-11; Ps 150:1-6; Lk 19:11-28
Thursday: Rv 5:1-10; Ps 149:1-6, 9; Lk 19:41-44
Friday: Rv 10:8-11; Ps 119:14, 24, 72, 103, 111, 131; Lk 19:45-48
Dedication: Acts 28:11-16, 30-31; Ps 98:1-6; Mt 14:22-33
Saturday: Rv 11:4-12; Ps 144:1-2, 9-10; Lk 20:27-40
Sunday, Nov. 20: 2 Sm 5:1-3; Ps 122:1-5; Col 1:12-20; Lk 23:35-43

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 Parish Council will meet in St. Charles Hall on Wednesday, November 16, at 7pm.

Gifts for our Shut-ins – For the next 3 weeks, the Ladies Sodality will be collecting items for their annual Christmas gift bags to be delivered to our homebound parishioners (6 women) and those in senior care facilities (2 women & 1 man). The early completion date for the drive is necessary 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. 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 ~ 4,200 packets by December 4! Your donation of instant hot chocolate packets is needed for the Prisoner Gift Project. Put it on your “to do list” today! You may make a donation to “Peaceprints of WNY,” in an envelope marked “Prisoner Gifts,” and drop it in the collection basket. We need more bag decorators to personalize the gift bags. Bags available at Sunday Mass or by leaving a message for Amy Johnson (Subject: Prison Project) HERE.

Special Alert for Lectorers ~ Please pick up your copy of “2017 Workbook for Readers” in the priest’s sacristy today. We begin using it for the First Sunday in Advent, November 26/27. Suggestion: as a refresher, read pages iv to ix.

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.

Prayerful Thanks ~ October’s farewell and “thank you” celebration for Father George and Sister Barbara was a great success, and we thank everyone who played a part in making this such a memorable event. So many people volunteered that we can’t name names, but here is how they contributed: prepared and mailed invitations; planned and participated in the liturgy; provided the music; agreed on a menu, then shopped (and shopped some more); gathered after bingo on Saturday night to take down tables and chairs and reconfigure the hall for Sunday’s reception; returned on Sunday to decorate, prepare countless trays of food, and ready beverages; supervised our wait staff of Canisius College students; cleared the hall and washed dishes; and returned again on Wednesday to reset the hall for Thursday bingo! We hope you enjoyed Sunday’s reception and had a chance to personally thank our guests of honor, and we salute the members of the BT “family” who made it all possible.

Looking for Photos ~ Our web diva, Mickey Dick, is looking for additional photos from the October 30 farewell party for Father George and Sister Barbara. If you have any to share, please leave a message for Mickey (Subject: photos) by clicking HERE.

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.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Living Mercy Beyond the Year of Mercy presented by Deacon Bill Hynes on Monday, November 14 from 7-8pm at Our Lady of Pompeii Church, 158 Lavarack Avenue, Lancaster. The close of the Year of Mercy is quickly approaching! Here is an opportunity to reflect on mercy and to learn ways to make mercy part of our everyday lives. ALL are welcome. Refreshments following presentation. Free will offering accepted.

Grace and Mercy in the Face of Addiction on Tuesday, November 15 at 6:30pm at St. Leo the Great Church, 885 Sweet Home Rd, Amherst. Please join us for an evening of prayer and reflection as we seek to provide support for people and their families dealing with the disease of addiction. A communal “Rosary for Addiction” (rosaries provided) will be followed by a presentation by Dr. Paul Updike, Director of Addiction Medicine and Recovery Services at the Catholic Health System. We hope to provide you with support through faith, prayer and the demonstration of God’s healing love as our community faces the darkness of this epidemic together. You are NOT alone. This event is free and open to the public. Questions: contact Maureen Couche, RN, parish nurse, 835-8905 x13.

2016 International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day on Saturday, November 19 from 1-3pm at Buffalo Psychiatric Center, Butler Rehab Center Auditorium, 400 Forest Ave, Buffalo, BuffaloPC [at] omh [dot] ny [dot] gov. Reaching out can change your life. You are not alone. Join with a community of suicide loss survivors to find comfort and gain understanding as we share stories of healing and hope. Please register in advance if possible by calling 816-2011. Light lunch provided. There is no charge for this program.

Journey Into Love ~ The Office of Family Life Ministries is looking for married couples to assist with the monthly diocesan marriage preparation program, Journey Into Love. Married couples help by giving a 20-minute talk once or twice a year on essential topics and issues that engaged and newly married couples face. Married couples that support this ministry find it beneficial to their own marriage and their efforts contribute to the strengthening of family life as couples prepare for their marriage. If you are interested in finding out more about this very successful diocesan marriage program, call the Family Life Office at 716-847-2210.

Volunteers needed ~ Little Portion Friary, located at 1305 Main St (south of Canisius College), Buffalo, is a shelter for homeless men and women whose goal is to assist our guests in ending the reasons for their homelessness. Needed are men and women willing to greet and serve the guests on weekends and weekday shifts. Training is provided. It is an ideal ministry for retired seniors as well as for men and women who want another opportunity to “live out” their faith. Please consider in answering God’s call to help feed and shelter the homeless. Call Ed L. at 875-3610 x221 or 222.

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time – Week of Nov. 6, 2016

Nov 6, 2016 | This Week

Father Victor Ibhawa (center) is welcomed by parishioners following Sunday Mass on November 6.

Blessed Trinity welcomes Rev. Victor Ibhawa with warmth and joyful anticipation.
Father Victor has been appointed by Bishop Malone to serve as
our parish priest and temporary administrator.
A native of Nigeria, he comes to us from
St. Vincent de Paul parish in Niagara Falls, NY,
where he had served as parochial vicar.

Click HERE for additional photos.

November 6 – November 13, 2016

Weekly Activities

Sunday, November 6 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Ladies Sodality Meeting & Service of Remembrance in St. Charles Hall

Tuesday, November 8 is Election Day.

Tuesday, November 8 at 7:30 p.m. ~ Choir Rehearsal in St. Charles Hall

Thursday, November 10 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*

Friday, November 11 is Veterans Day

Friday, November 11 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

Saturday, November 12 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

Saturday, November 12 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, November 6 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Bridget Dick Blesnuk (Requested by Bob and Mary Kresse)

Monday, November 7 ~ No Service

Tuesday, November 8 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine Maher (Estate)

Wednesday, November 9 ~ Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Walter and Helen Prystawski (Dorothy Prystawski)

Thursday, November 10 ~ St. Leo the Great ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Friday, November 11 ~ St. Martin of Tours ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – All Souls (Queen of Martyrs Parish)

Saturday, November 12 ~ St. Josaphat ~ Mass at 4:30 p.m. ~ Ray and Martha Freudenberger (Estate)

Sunday, November 13~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Aileen Horan Townsell (Angela Jost)

Assisting on the Altar – Ministry Schedule for Saturday and Sunday, November 12 and 13:

Saturday, 4:30 p.m.  Reader: Gary Kelley; Eucharistic Minister: Lucille Venezia

Sunday, 10:00 a.m.   Readers: Mary Kresse and Richard Plunkett;  Eucharistic Ministers: Dan Korchowsky, Bernice Bradley, Mary Kresse; Fran Cahill (Loft)

Readings for the Week of November 6

Sunday: 2 Mc 7:1-2, 9-14; Ps 17:1, 5-6, 8, 15; 2 Thes 2:16-3:5; Lk 20:27-38 or 20:27, 34-38
Monday: Ti 1:1-9; Ps 24:1-6; Lk 17:1-6
Tuesday: Ti 2:1-8, 11-14; Ps 37:3-4, 18, 23, 27, 29; Lk 17:7-10
Wednesday: Ez 47:1-2, 8-9, 12; Ps 46:3-6, 8, 11; 1 Cor 3:9c-11, 16 -17; Jn 2:13-22
Thursday: Phlm 7-20; Ps 146:7-10; Lk 17:20-25
Friday: 2 Jn 4-9; Ps 119:1-2, 10-11, 17-18; Lk 17:26-37
Saturday: 3 Jn 5-8; Ps 112:1-6; Lk 18:1-8
Sunday, Nov. 13: Mal 3:19-20; Ps 98:5-9; 2 Thes 3:7-12; Lk 21:5-19

News from our Parish Community

Prisoner Gift Project 2016 – Cocoa Challenge 2016 ~ Please remember to shop for instant hot chocolate packets and place your donation in the marked rear pew. If shopping is inconvenient, consider a donation (“Peaceprints of WNY”) in an envelope marked “Prisoner Gifts,” and drop it in the collection basket. Help decorate the gift bags to be filled with items for our prison inmates. No special talent is needed – just a desire to personalize the gift. Make it a family project. Bags available at Sunday Mass or by leaving a message for Amy Johnson (Subject: Prison Project) HERE.

Election Day is Tuesday, November 8. See the candidates on your ballot and where they stand on the issues! Just enter your address at www.VOTE411.ORG. (A service of the League of Women Voters).

Just a few of the many parishioners who made it all happen on Oct. 30.

Prayerful Thanks ~ Sunday’s farewell and “thank you” celebration for Father George and Sister Barbara was a great success. And now it’s time to thank everyone who played a part in making this such a memorable event. So many people volunteered that we can’t name names, but here is how they contributed: prepared and mailed invitations; planned and participated in the liturgy; provided the music; agreed on a menu, then shopped (and shopped some more); gathered after bingo on Saturday night to take down tables and chairs and reconfigure the hall for Sunday’s reception; returned on Sunday to decorate, prepare countless trays of food, and ready beverages; supervised our wait staff of Canisius College students; cleared the hall and washed dishes; and returned again on Wednesday to reset the hall for Thursday bingo! We hope you enjoyed Sunday’s reception and had a chance to personally thank our guests of honor, and we salute the members of the BT “family” who made it all possible.

Looking for Photos ~ Our web diva, Mickey Dick, is looking for additional photos from Sunday’s farewell party for Father George and Sister Barbara. If you have any to share, please leave a message for Mickey (Subject: photos) by clicking HERE.

Special Alert for Lectorers ~ The new “Workbook for Readers” will be available in the priest’s sacristy next week.

Solemn Vespers (Evening Prayer) ~ Closing Celebration of the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy on Sunday, November 6 at 4pm at St. Joseph Cathedral. All are invited to join Bishop Malone in thanking God for the ways in which his mercy has been demonstrated to us throughout the year.

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.

Attendees at CMG cantor workshop join in song.

Former Music Director Remembered ~ On Saturday, October 22, The Church Musicians’ Guild of Buffalo remembered Bridget Blesnuk, their former board member and Blessed Trinity’s music director from 1991-2010. Almost 50 individuals involved in music ministry from parishes across Western New York attended the Bridget Blesnuk Memorial Cantor Workshop held at Our Lady Help of Christians. The workshop presenter, Mary Lynn Pleczykowski, reviewed the goals and role of a cantor and coached attendees as they practiced singing various psalm settings. Ms. Pleczykowski, who traveled from Pittsburgh, is a Master Cantor Trainer affiliated with the National association of Pastoral Musicians. Click HERE to see additional photos from this event.

New programs offered by Buffalo Public Schools ~ Information, brochures and flyers are available on table display in front vestibule.

Albert Lenhard Family Scholarship ~ The Albert Lenhard Family Scholarship Fund was established in 1985 through a bequest of the estate of Albert M. Lenhard. The Scholarship was developed to assist applicants who want to continue their formal education beyond high school at the undergraduate and graduate levels. To be eligible for the Scholarship the candidate will have to be residing in the geographic boundaries of the Catholic Churches of Central Buffalo, i.e.: Blessed Trinity, SS Columba Brigid, St. Ann, St. Katharine Drexel, St. Lawrence and St. Martin de Porres. The Lenhard Scholarship fund is administered by the pastor of St. Martin de Porres in collaboration with the African American Commission of the Diocese of Buffalo and the director of the Office of Cultural Diversity. This Scholarship is awarded annually. The completed application and the Personal Statement Essay should be sent to the Office of Cultural Diversity, 795 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14203 to the attention of Milagros Ramos by December 1, 2016. An email confirmation will be sent to verify receipt of your application. The recipient of the award will be invited to receive the award in person at the annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration, which will take place on Sunday, January 15, 2017, at 10 am at Holy Cross Church in Buffalo. Applications are available at the rectory office. Please call our secretary, Barbara Sercu, at 716-833-0301 if you are interested in applying. (Rectory office hours are: Tuesday-Thursday from 10:30am – 2:30pm).

Rectory office hours are Tuesday-Thursday from 10:30am – 2:30pm. Please call our secretary, Barbara Sercu, at 716-833-0301 if you have information for the bulletin, changes to your phone number or mailing address, or would like to register as a parishioner.

Father Victor Ibhawa made his move to Blessed Trinity with the help of friends from his former parish, St. Vincent de Paul in Niagara Falls.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Concert at SS. Columba-Brigid Church, 75 Hickory Street, Buffalo on Sunday, November 6 at 6pm. This special concert will combine the choirs of St. Joseph’s Church in Fredonia and the one from SS. Columba-Brigid. Some favorite local musicians will also be a part of this evening of inspiring music. A social will follow the concert and there is no charge for the event. The building is handicapped accessible.

Niagara University invites all to the 2016 McNulty Lecture on Religion in the Modern World with John L. Allen, Jr. His topic is “Pope Francis and the Future of Catholicism” on Wednesday, November 9 at 5:15pm at the Castellani Art Museum at Niagara University. Free and open to the public. For more information contact Dr. Brian Bennett at bbennett [at] niagara [dot] edu.

Concert for the Angels ~ A weekend of remembrance, a musical-poetic journey of healing with tenor vocalist Cory James Gallagher and writer/poet Amy Gallagher on Friday, Nov 11 @ 7pm at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 4263 St. Francis Drive, Hamburg and Saturday, Nov 12 at St. Michael Church, 651 Washington St, Buffalo. Join Cory and Amy as they lead you on a musical and poetic journey of the heart to reconnect with our loved ones that have gone before us. Events by donation.

National Donor Sabbath is observed annually Friday through Sunday two weekends before Thanksgiving (November 11-13, 2016). During this 3-day observance, faith leaders, donor families, transplant recipients, and donation and transplantation professionals join forces to increase awareness of the need for lifesaving organ, tissue and eye donation. In New York State, we have tremendous need for these acts as there are currently over 10,500 New Yorkers waiting for lifesaving organ transplants. Show compassion and love to your brothers and sisters by joining the New York State Organ, Tissue and Eye Registry. You can find out more information about the lifesaving gifts passed to others through organ, tissue and eye donation by visiting http://alliancefordonation.org.

Living Mercy Beyond the Year of Mercy presented by Deacon Bill Hynes on Monday, November 14 from 7-8pm at Our Lady of Pompeii Church, 158 Lavarack Avenue, Lancaster. The close of the Year of Mercy is quickly approaching! Here is an opportunity to reflect on mercy and to learn ways to make mercy part of our everyday lives. ALL are welcome. Refreshments following presentation. Free will offering accepted.

Grace and Mercy in the Face of Addiction on Tuesday, November 15 at 6:30pm at St. Leo the Great Church, 885 Sweet Home Rd, Amherst. Please join us for an evening of prayer and reflection as we seek to provide support for people and their families dealing with the disease of addiction. A communal “Rosary for Addiction” (rosaries provided) will be followed by a presentation by Dr. Paul Updike, Director of Addiction Medicine and Recovery Services at the Catholic Health System. We hope to provide you with support through faith, prayer and the demonstration of God’s healing love as our community faces the darkness of this epidemic together. You are NOT alone. This event is free and open to the public. Questions: contact Maureen Couche, RN, parish nurse, 835-8905 x13.

Volunteers needed ~ Little Portion Friary, located at 1305 Main St (south of Canisius College), Buffalo, is a shelter for homeless men and women whose goal is to assist our guests in ending the reasons for their homelessness. Needed are men and women willing to greet and serve the guests on weekends and weekday shifts. Training is provided. It is an ideal ministry for retired seniors as well as for men and women who want another opportunity to “live out” their faith. Please consider in answering God’s call to help feed and shelter the homeless. Call Ed L. at 875-3610 x221 or 222.

Buffalo City Ballet ~ The finest training in classical ballet. Offering: Ballet, Contemporary Modern, Pointe Works for young girls, Tiny Tots pre-movement and Boys Ballet. Two classes per week for ages 3 to 18 years. This is not a hip hop or recital-based dance program. Buffalo City Ballet is a designed training program for young dancers who are serious about obtaining a dance career or entering a professional dance college. For more information contact Buffalo City Ballet @ 716-833-1243 or Marvin Askew @ 716-864-4167 weekdays between 10am-4pm. Also visit us at www.buffalocityballet.org. Slingers available on the table in front vestibule of church.