22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time – Week of August 28, 2016

Aug 28, 2016 | This Week

The Passion of St. John the Baptist
August 29
St. John the Baptist ends the procession of prophets and saints
from the Jewish Bible in Joseph Mazur’s artistic rendering in the dome of our church.
Photo credit: Gary Kelley

August 28 – September 4, 2016

Weekly Activities

Thursday, September 1 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*

Friday, September 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

Saturday, September 3 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

Saturday, September 3 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*

*Please remember that we have instituted age restrictions for admission to Bingo in response to requests from our players. 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, August 28 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Cleveland Witherspoon (Requested by Family)

Monday, August 29 ~ The Passion of St. John the Baptist ~ No Service

Tuesday, August 30  ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Wednesday, August 31 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Thursday, September 1 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Friday, September 2 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Agnes and Cleveland Witherspoon (Family)

Saturday, September 3 ~ St. Gregory the Great ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Sunday, September 4 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Intentions of the Mgbenka Family (Fidelia Ejimadu)

Assisting on the Altar – Ministry Schedule for Saturday, September 3 and Sunday, September 4:

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

Sunday, 10:00 a.m.   Readers: Don Williams, Helen Roddy Gray; Eucharistic Ministers: Dan Korchowsky, Judy Casassa, Kathleen Marien, Sr. Liz Savage (Loft)

Readings for the Week of August 28

Sunday: Sir 3:17-18, 20, 28-29; Ps 68:4-7, 11-11; Heb 12:18-19, 22-24a; Lk 14:1, 7-14
Monday: 1 Cor 2:1-5; Ps 119:97-102; Mk 6:17-29
Tuesday: 1 Cor 2:10b-16; Ps 145:8-14; Lk 4:31-37
Wednesday: 1 Cor 3:1-9; Ps 33:12-15, 20-21; Lk 4:38-44
Thursday: 1 Cor 3:18-23; Ps 24:1-6; Lk 5:1-11
Friday: 1 Cor 4:1-5; Ps 37:3-6, 27-28, 39-40; Lk 5:33-39
Saturday: 1 Cor 4:6b-15; Ps 145:17-21; Lk 6:1-5
Sunday, Sept. 4: Wis 9:13-18b; Ps 90:3-6, 12-17; Phlm 1:9-10, 12-17; Lk 14:25-33

Photo Credit: Bridget Blesnuk

News from our Parish Community

Weekly Highlight from Faithful Citizenship: A message from Sister Maureen Harris ~ How does the Church help the Catholic Faithful to speak about political and social Questions? The other two principles of Catholic Social teaching not covered previously are “The Common Good” and “Solidarity.”

       The Common Good #49 – 51

In #49 it is stated that “Human dignity is respected and the common good is fostered only if human rights are protected and basic responsibilities are met. Every human being has a right to life, …and a right to access those things required for human decency – food and shelter, education and employment, health care and housing, freedom of religion and family life.”

#50 “The economy must serve people, not the other way around. Employers contribute to the common good through the services or products they provide and by creating jobs that uphold the dignity and right of the workers – to productive work, to decent and just wages, to adequate benefits and security in their old age…”

#51 “We have a duty to care for God’s creation, ‘our common home.’ As stewards called by God to share the responsibility for the future earth, we should work for a world in which people respect and protect all of creation and seek to live simply in harmony with it for the sake of future generations.”

Solidarity #52 – 56

#52 “We are the one human family, whatever our national, racial, ethnic, economic, and ideological differences. We are our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers, wherever they may be. Loving our neighbors has global dimensions and requires us to eradicate racism and address extreme poverty and disease plaguing so much of the world.”

“These four principles provide a moral framework that does not easily fit ideologies of ‘right’ or ‘left,’ ‘liberal’ or ‘conservative,’ or the platform of any political party. They are common to all people.” How will we consider them on election day?

From “A Call to Political Responsibility” from the Catholic Bishops of the United States – “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship.” It is online if you want to read it yourself at www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithfulcitizenship/upload.

Rooted in Our Faith: Day of Reflection for the National Black Catholic Congress XII ~ The African American Commission of the Office of Cultural Diversity will be hosting a Day of Reflection on Saturday, September 10, at Ss. Columba-Brigid. Every five years since 1987, the National Black Catholic Congress convenes a congress culminating in a pastoral plan of action. Months before each congress, dioceses across the U.S. hold a Day of Reflection on the chosen theme. The Congress XII theme is “The Spirit of the Lord is Upon Me; Act Justly, Love Goodness, and Walk Humbly with Your God.” The Day of Reflection will begin with onsite registration at 9:30 AM and conclude with Mass at 4 PM. Anyone may register for the Day of Reflection by completing a registration form. Registration forms are available at our church and should be returned to the Office of Cultural Diversity by September 5. For more information please contact Althea Porter at 716-316-8395 or Milagros Ramos at 716-847-2217.

Blessed Trinity School Alumni will hold their annual Alumni Sunday on September 18. A 9:30 AM guided mini-tour of the church will precede our 10 AM Memorial Mass at which recently deceased alumni and faculty of the school will be remembered. Blessed Trinity School operated from 1909-1975, educating more than 2,300 students. If you know anyone who attended the grammar school, please be sure to mention the annual all-class gathering to them. Additional information regarding planned activities and the alumni committee raffle are available by Clicking HERE, or by calling Bud or Mickey Dick at 716-832-2540.

Preservationist Tom Yots (far right) and teachers from the Lewiston-Porter
District on their Aug. 18, 2016 visit to BTC.

Blessed Trinity Part of  “Summer School” Curriculum ~ Twenty-five teachers from the Lewiston-Porter School District, accompanied by local preservationist Tom Yots, participated in a docent-led architectural tour of our church on Thursday, August 18. We thank them for choosing to visit Blessed Trinity as part of their summertime professional development program.

TRY (Teaching and Restoring Youth), a program for homeless young women ages 16 to 21, is in need of a variety of donations for our Annual Fund Raising Dinner to be held Friday, September 23 at 6 p.m. at Salvatore’s Italian Gardens Restaurant. If you can donate anything for our baskets, please leave them at church marked “TRY” and we will pick them up. Monetary donations can be sent directly to Annual Dinner, c/o Sr. Mary Augusta, 228 Brinkman Ave, Buffalo 14211. For dinner reservations call 716-896-5332. If there are any questions email SMAKaiser [at] roadrunner [dot] com.

Looking for a Bible Study? There is a lot of information out there now: video programs, the internet, social media. But, if you are looking for a solid Bible study program that has withstood the test of time, the Catholic Biblical Studies program may be just what you are looking for. The CBSP has been conducting classes in the Buffalo Diocese for 25 years. Entry into a study of the Bible is a lifelong journey. It begins with the first step! Please join us in September at one of our introductory classes: Tuesday 7-9pm at St. Mary’s Church, 1 St. Mary’s Hill, Lancaster; or Wednesday 10am-noon at Newman Center, UB North Campus, 495 Skinnersville Rd, Amherst. Registration information, including class dates and cost, is available on their website where you can also learn more about who we are and other upcoming events and programs. Visit us at www.cbstudies.org or call 716-871-9180. For “first-hand information,” see our parishioner Elsieta Chapman.

A Network of Caring ~ When you call on Catholic Charities,  you connect to a wealth of support. From professional counseling, mental health assessments, senior support, troubled teen programs, parenting to education and work readiness programs and more, we’ll respond with goals to grow stronger together. For more information, call 856-4494 or go to www.ccwny.org. You can also find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Rectory office hours are Tuesday-Thursday from 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM. 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.

Our Helping Hands Food Pantry has extended its hours and now operates on both Friday and Saturday mornings from 9 AM – 12 Noon. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Luis Clay at 716-812-3461.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Summer Celebration Features Big Band Dance Under the Stars! Sunday, August 28 from 7-9 PM, St. Joseph University Church will host an outdoor Big Band Concert and Dance featuring the Jim Tudini Band with Bobby Militello. Join us for a great summer evening of music and dance under the stars! The Jim Tudini Band is an 11 piece contemporary big band perfect for dancing. Tudini has played with such notables as the Tommy Dorsey Band, Doc Severinson and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. The band specializes in traditional big band music as well as songs from the 70s through the 90s. Donation for the dance is $10 per person at the door. Beverages and light snacks will be available for purchase. For information contact 833-0298.

Celebrate Saint Mother Teresa ~ On the day of her canonization, September 4, 2016 , celebrate the heroic life Saint Mother Teresa by entering through the Holy Doors of Mercy at St. Leo the Great Church, 885 Sweet Home Rd, Amherst at the Hour of Mercy, 3 pm, as we recite the Chaplet of Divine Mercy followed by a movie of her life, “Mother Teresa,” starring Olivia Hussey. The film is free and 177 minutes long, so feel free to bring a “pillow for the pew” and enjoy being inspired by the extraordinary life of our new saint. Questions, contact Dawn Iacono at diacono [at] stleothegreatamherst [dot] com.

September Concert ~ The Evangelization Committee at St. Martin de Porres (“SMDP”) is sponsoring The George Scott Big Band in concert at the church on Saturday, September 10 from 5-7 p.m. Tickets are available for $10.  Please call the SMDP office at 883-PRAY for further information.

Prayer Service for Mercy ~ Join women and men Religious of the Diocese of Buffalo during this Year of Mercy for a Prayer Service for Mercy. The Buffalo Leadership Conference of Women Religious is inviting the public to join us in a prayer for Mercy. Host sites include: September 9 at 7 pm, St. Mary Center, 241 Lafayette Ave, Buffalo; September 11 at 2 pm, Immaculate Conception Convent, 5229 South Park Ave, Hamburg; Sacred Heart Center, 22 Meadowbrook Pkwy, Cheektowaga; St. Mary of the Angels Convent, 210 Reist St, Williamsville.

Uptown Fresh ~ A Healthy Lifestyle Market featuring fresh fruits and vegetables is now taking place every Saturday from 10 AM – 2 PM at the corner of Bailey and Dartmouth in Buffalo. It began operation on June 25 and will continue every Saturday (except Labor Day weekend, Sept. 3) through September 24.

“Griefshare” Support Group to meet at Our Lady of Pompeii Catholic Church ~ If you’ve experienced the death of a loved one, or know someone who has, please consider joining us on September 21 at 6:30 PM in our Ministry Center, 129 Laverack Avenue, Lancaster, NY. A different DVD will be shown on two Wednesdays of each month on how to cope with grief and loss. Coffee and an informal discussion will follow. Call Sister Joyce to register at 716-683-6522 x103.

21st Sunday in Ordinary Time – Week of Aug. 21, 2016

Aug 21, 2016 | This Week

St. Rose of Lima (1586-1617)
August 23
St. Rose, born in Lima, Peru, was the first person from the Americas to be canonized a saint (1671). She is depicted in a grouping of “Virgins and Widows” in the great dome of our church as the second kneeling figure on the left, wearing a crown of roses. St. Rose is the patroness of embroiderers, gardeners, florists, people who suffer family problems, and those who suffer ridicule for their piety.
Artist: Joseph Mazur. Photo credit: Gary Kelley.

August 21 – August 28, 2016

Weekly Activities

Thursday, August 25 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*

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

Saturday, August 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

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

*Please remember that we have instituted age restrictions for admission to Bingo in response to requests from our players. 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, August 21 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Bob Kinmartin (Requested by Wife, Mary) and Kristi Duffy and Elizabeth Duffy (Requested by Duffy Family)

Monday, August 22 ~ The Queenship of the Blessed Virgin ~ No Service

Tuesday, August 23  ~ St. Rose of Lima ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Wednesday, August 24 ~ St. Bartholomew ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Thursday, August 25 ~ St. Louis, St. Joseph Calasanz ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

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

Saturday, August 27 ~ St. Monica ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Leo M. Townsell (Family)

Sunday, August 28 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Cleveland Witherspoon (Family)

Assisting on the Altar – Ministry Schedule for Saturday, August 27 and Sunday, August 28:

Saturday, 4:30 p.m.  Reader: Sr. Liz Savage; Eucharistic Minister: Lorna Cameron

Sunday, 10:00 a.m.   Readers: Bob Heicklen, Mary Kresse; Eucharistic Ministers: Dan Korchowsky, Maggie Gatson, Kathleen Marien, Judy Casassa (Loft)

Readings for the Week of August 21

Sunday: Is 66:18-21; Ps 117:1-2; Heb 12:5-7, 11-13; Lk 13: 22-30
Monday: 2 Thes 1:1-5, 11-12; Ps 96:1-5; Mt 23:13-22
Tuesday: 2 Thes 2:1-31; 14-17; Ps 96:10-13; Mt 23:23-26
Wednesday: Rev 21:9b-14; Ps 145:10-18; Jn 1:45-51
Thursday: 1 Cor 1:1-9; Ps 145:2-7; Mt 24:42-51
Friday: 1 Cor 1:17-25; Ps 33:1-2, 4-5, 10-11; Mt 25:1-13
Saturday: 1 Cor 1:26-31; Ps 33:12-13, 18-21; Mt 25:14-30
Sunday, August 28: Sir 3:17-18, 20, 28-29; Ps 68:4-7, 11-11; Heb 12:18-19, 22-24a; Lk 14:1, 7-14

News from our Parish Community

Full-time Position Available ~ We are still hoping to bring on a new custodian before Jerry Gallisdorfer leaves in September so that he can show the new person around and train him/her in the basic tasks of the job. If you know of someone qualified for the job, please have him/her submit a resume to the rectory as soon as possible.
The Custodian is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of several buildings and assisting with a variety of semi-skilled manual work in the maintenance, repair and energy management of the church and other parish buildings. Requires a high school education, completed police background check, basic knowledge of plumbing and electrical work, and ability to maintain the buildings and grounds of the parish. This is a full-time position, with salary commensurate with education and experience. For detailed questions about the job, contact Bud Dick (832-2540). More information about the position is available at http://www.buffalodiocese.org/job-opportunities. Look under under “Parishes/Other.”

Preservationist Tom Yots (far right) and teachers from the Lewiston-Porter
District on their Aug. 18, 2016 visit to BTC.

Blessed Trinity Part of  “Summer School” Curriculum ~ Twenty-five teachers from the Lewiston-Porter School District, accompanied by local preservationist Tom Yots, participated in a docent-led architectural tour of our church on Thursday, August 18. We thank them for choosing to visit Blessed Trinity as part of their summertime professional development program.

Weekly Highlight from Faithful Citizenship: A message from Sister Maureen Harris ~ How does the Church help the Catholic Faithful to speak about political and social Questions? The last section of Part 1 of A Well-Formed Conscience contains important remarks on the four principles of Catholic Social Teaching: the dignity of the human person, the common good, subsidiarity, and solidarity. In the words of Pope Francis, “Progress in building a people in peace, justice and fraternity depends on these 4 principles related to constant tensions present in every social reality.”

     #44 – Dignity of Human Life – We know all human life is sacred from womb to tomb. Catholic teaching about the dignity of life calls us to oppose torture, unjust wars, and the indiscriminate use of drones for violent purposes; to prevent genocide and attacks against noncombatants; to oppose racism; to oppose human trafficking; and to overcome poverty and suffering.

#46 – Subsidiarity – The human person is not only sacred but social. Full development takes place in relationship with others. The family is the first and fundamental unit of society. Respect for family should be reflected in every policy and program; we must uphold parents’ rights and responsibilities to care for their children, including the right to choose their children’s education.

#47 – How we organize our society – in economics and politics in law and policy – directly affects the common good and the capacity of individuals to develop their full potential. Every person and association has a right and a duty to participate actively in shaping society and to promote the well-being of all, especially the poor and vulnerable. (Observations from Sr. Maureen Harris)

From “A Call to Political Responsibility” from the Catholic Bishops of the United States – “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship.” It is online if you want to read it yourself at www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithfulcitizenship/upload.

TRY (Teaching and Restoring Youth), a program for homeless young women ages 16 to 21, is in need of a variety of donations for our Annual Fund Raising Dinner to be held Friday, September 23 at 6 p.m. at Salvatore’s Italian Gardens Restaurant. If you can donate anything for our baskets, please leave them at church marked “TRY” and we will pick them up. Monetary donations can be sent directly to Annual Dinner, c/o Sr. Mary Augusta, 228 Brinkman Ave, Buffalo 14211. For dinner reservations call 716-896-5332. If there are any questions email SMAKaiser [at] roadrunner [dot] com.

Looking for a Bible Study? There is a lot of information out there now: video programs, the internet, social media. But, if you are looking for a solid Bible study program that has withstood the test of time, the Catholic Biblical Studies program may be just what you are looking for. The CBSP has been conducting classes in the Buffalo Diocese for 25 years. Entry into a study of the Bible is a lifelong journey. It begins with the first step! Please join us in September at one of our introductory classes: Tuesday 7-9pm at St. Mary’s Church, 1 St. Mary’s Hill, Lancaster; or Wednesday 10am-noon at Newman Center, UB North Campus, 495 Skinnersville Rd, Amherst. Registration information, including class dates and cost, is available on their website where you can also learn more about who we are and other upcoming events and programs. Visit us at www.cbstudies.org or call 716-871-9180. For “first-hand information,” see our parishioner Elsieta Chapman.

A Network of Caring ~ When you call on Catholic Charities,  you connect to a wealth of support. From professional counseling, mental health assessments, senior support, troubled teen programs, parenting to education and work readiness programs and more, we’ll respond with goals to grow stronger together. For more information, call 856-4494 or go to www.ccwny.org. You can also find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Rectory office hours are Tuesday-Thursday from 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM. 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.

Our Helping Hands Food Pantry has extended its hours and now operates on both Friday and Saturday mornings from 9 AM – 12 Noon. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Luis Clay at 716-812-3461.

St. Bartholomew
August 24
This ceramic medallion of St. Bartholomew originally hung in St. Bartholomew R. C. Church on Grider Street in Buffalo. Since the merger of our parishes in 1993, it has hung on the wall of the transept on the right (west) side of the church.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

September Concert ~ The Evangelization Committee at St. Martin de Porres (“SMDP”) is sponsoring The George Scott Big Band in concert at the church on Saturday, September 10 from 5-7 p.m. Tickets are available for $10.  Tickets purchased before August 22 will be eligible for a $50 cash drawing! Please call the SMDP office at 883-PRAY for further information.

Infant of Prague Lawn Fete, 921 Cleveland Drive, Cheektowaga, will be having their lawn fete on August 26-27 – rides and games, carnival food, games of chance, a beer tent, entertainment, a basket extravaganza and much more. On Friday the rides, midway and beer garden open at 5 pm; basket raffle extravaganza from 5-10 pm; “Party of Nine” in the beer garden from 7-11:30 pm. On Saturday the rides and midway open at 12 noon; basket raffle extravaganza from 12-10 pm; “Kids Zone” featuring Party Animals Petting Zoo, face painting and games from 1-6 pm; Krolick’s BBQ dinner from 4-6 pm (or sold out): “Hit ‘N Run” in the beer garden from 7-11:30 pm.

Artisan Fair & Farmers’ Market ~ Father Baker Manor, 6400 Powers Road, Orchard Park, will be sponsoring its Second Annual Artisan Fair & Farmer’s Market on Saturday, August 27, from 10 am – 4 pm. The event is open to the public and will be held rain or shine. The community is invited to enjoy local artisans, crafters, and market vendors. There will also be a Lucky Draw Raffle for a number of prizes. All proceeds to support special projects at Father Baker Manor, a Catholic Health Skilled Nursing Facility. For more information visit www.chsbuffalo.org/FBMfair or contact Jill Hirczak at jhirczak [at] chsbuffalo [dot] org or by calling 716-209-0744.

Summer Celebration Features Big Band Dance Under the Stars! Sunday, August 28 from 7-9 PM, St. Joseph University Church will host an outdoor Big Band Concert and Dance featuring the Jim Tudini Band with Bobby Militello. Join us for a great summer evening of music and dance under the stars! The Jim Tudini Band is an 11 piece contemporary big band perfect for dancing. Tudini has played with such notables as the Tommy Dorsey Band, Doc Severinson and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. The band specializes in traditional big band music as well as songs from the 70s through the 90s. Donation for the dance is $10 per person at the door. Beverages and light snacks will be available for purchase. For information contact 833-0298.

Prayer Service for Mercy ~ Join women and men Religious of the Diocese of Buffalo during this Year of Mercy for a Prayer Service for Mercy. The Buffalo Leadership Conference of Women Religious is inviting the public to join us in a prayer for Mercy. Host sites include: September 9 at 7 pm, St. Mary Center, 241 Lafayette Ave, Buffalo; September 11 at 2 pm, Immaculate Conception Convent, 5229 South Park Ave, Hamburg; Sacred Heart Center, 22 Meadowbrook Pkwy, Cheektowaga; St. Mary of the Angels Convent, 210 Reist St, Williamsville.

Uptown Fresh ~ A Healthy Lifestyle Market featuring fresh fruits and vegetables is now taking place every Saturday from 10 AM – 2 PM at the corner of Bailey and Dartmouth in Buffalo. It began operation on June 25 and will continue every Saturday (except Labor Day weekend, Sept. 3) through September 24.

“Griefshare” Support Group to meet at Our Lady of Pompeii Catholic Church ~ If you’ve experienced the death of a loved one, or know someone who has, please consider joining us on September 21 at 6:30 PM in our Ministry Center, 129 Laverack Avenue, Lancaster, NY. A different DVD will be shown on two Wednesdays of each month on how to cope with grief and loss. Coffee and an informal discussion will follow. Call Sister Joyce to register at 716-683-6522 x103.

20th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Week of Aug. 14, 2016

Aug 14, 2016 | This Week

The “Assumption of Mary into Heaven,” painting by Joseph Mazur on left side in church’s transept.
Photo credit: Steve Mangione

August 14 – August 21, 2016

Weekly Activities

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

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

Saturday, August 20 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

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

*Please remember that we have instituted age restrictions for admission to Bingo in response to requests from our players. 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, August 14 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Mary Kinmartin (Requested by The Gallisdorfers) and Gregory DeLong (Requested by Bud and Mickey Dick)
Baptism of Elise Christine Chessher

Monday, August 15 ~ Assumption of The Blessed Virgin Mary ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m.  – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Tuesday, August 16  ~ St. Stephen ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Wednesday, August 17 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Thursday, August 18 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Friday, August 19 ~ St. John Eudes ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Saturday, August 20 ~ St. Bernard, Abbot ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Ann Horan O’Connor (Family)

Sunday, August 21 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Bob Kinmartin (Wife, Mary) and Kristi Duffy and Elizabeth Duffy (Duffy Family)

Readings for the Week of August 14

Sunday: Jer 38:4-6, 8-10; Ps 40:2-4, 18; Heb 12:1-4; Lk 12:49-53
Monday: Vigil: 1 Chr 15:3-4, 15-16; 16:1-2; Ps 132:6-7, 9-10, 13- 14; 1 Cor 15:54b-57; Lk 11:27-28
Day: Rv 11:19a, 12:1-6a, 10ab; Ps 45:10-12, 16; 1 Cor 15:20-27; Lk 1:39-56
Tuesday: Ez 28:1-10; Dt 32:26-28, 30, 35-36; Mt 19:23-30
Wednesday: Ez 34:1-11; Ps 23:1-6; Mt 20:1-16
Thursday: Ez 36:23-28; Ps 51:12-15, 18-19; Mt 22:1-14
Friday: Ez 37:1-14; Ps 107:2-9; Mt 22:34-40
Saturday: Ez 43:1-7a; Ps 85:9-14; Mt 23:1-12
Sunday, August 21: Is 66:18-21; Ps 117:1-2; Heb 12:5-7, 11-13; Lk 13: 22-30

Altar of the Blessed Virgin in the church’s Lady Chapel
Photo credit: Ron Storfer

News from our Parish Community

The Assumption of Our Lady Mary Into Heaven ~ Because this year the Feast of the Assumption falls on a Monday, it is not celebrated as a Holy Day of Obligation. However, we will be celebrating a Mass on Monday, August 15, at 11:00 a.m. in the Daily Mass (Sacristy Chapel). Please join us in honoring Mary on this day.  

The dogma of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary was proclaimed in 1950, but this observance has been celebrated on this day from the middle of the fifth century. On this solemnity, we profess our belief that Mary has gone before us, body and soul, into heaven. For her, the resurrection of the dead has taken place already. And thus the Assumption is technically an “Easter feast.” God invites us to eternal life, to enjoy the glorious new creation of his Son in body, soul, and spirit. Our final hope is the resurrection of our own bodies at the end of time to exist forever in this new order of creation. The Solemnity of the Assumption is our great celebration of this final hope. Mary is a pioneer for us in faith. She was the first among us to accept Jesus Christ into her life. In her bodily assumption, she is also the first fully to enjoy eternal life at the side of her risen son in the glory of heaven. Where she has gone, we hope to follow. We rejoice in the fulfillment of God’s promise in her, as we turn to her to guide us to the side of her risen son who reigns in heaven.

Full-time Position Available ~ We are still hoping to bring on a new custodian before Jerry Gallisdorfer leaves in September so that he can show the new person around and train him/her in the basic tasks of the job. If you know of someone qualified for the job, please have him/her submit a resume to the rectory as soon as possible.
The Custodian is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of several buildings and assisting with a variety of semi-skilled manual work in the maintenance, repair and energy management of the church and other parish buildings. Requires a high school education, completed police background check, basic knowledge of plumbing and electrical work, and ability to maintain the buildings and grounds of the parish. This is a full-time position, with salary commensurate with education and experience. For detailed questions about the job, contact Bud Dick (832-2540). More information about the position is available at http://www.buffalodiocese.org/job-opportunities. Look under under “Parishes/Other.”

Who Doesn’t Like a Picnic! ~ On Tuesday, August 2^nd, we proved that we all do. But even something as “relaxed” as a picnic requires a lot of planning and hard work, and Blessed Trinity was up to the task. And so we send heartfelt thanks to everyone who played a part in making National Night Out and the CCCB’s “Summer in the City” such an enjoyable evening. We won’t name names, but you know who you are: the folks who arranged for donations; gathered the grill and tents and shopped for essentials; made sure there was ample ice to keep all the drinks cold; hauled tables and chairs; set up games and erected canopies; prepared side dishes and desserts; provided entertainment for the children; endured the fire and smoke to grill our hot dogs and hamburgers; made numerous trips up and down stairs with food and utensils – and then did it all in reverse at the end of the night as we put everything back in its place. Whew! In between, we hope you all enjoyed meeting and dining with neighbors and dancing to the music of J.J. Williams. Thanks again to a wonderful team of BT volunteers. Click HERE for a photo gallery from our National Night Out celebration.

Weekly Highlight from Faithful Citizenship: A message from Sister Maureen Harris ~ How does the Church help the Catholic Faithful to speak about political and social Questions? Part 1 of A Well-Formed Conscience is so important in regard to forming moral consciences that I feel I am not doing justice to it and encourage you to read the document for yourself. (Available at www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithfulcitizenship/upload). The section on “Making Moral Choices” contains articles #31 – 39.

• #31 – This exercise of conscience begins with outright opposition to laws and other polices that violate human life or weaken its protection.
• #36 – “When all candidates hold a position that promotes an intrinsically evil act, the conscientious voter faces a dilemma. The voter may decide to take the extraordinary step of not voting for any candidate or, after careful deliberation, may decide to vote for the candidate deemed less likely to advance such a morally flawed position and more likely to pursue other authentic human goods.”
• #38 has a beautiful quote from Pope Benedict XVI, in his reflection on the Eucharist. It is “The sacrament of charity,” challenged all of us to adopt what he calls “a Eucharistic form of life.” This means the redeeming love we encounter in the Eucharist should shape our thoughts, our words, and our decisions, including those that pertain to the social order.
  From “A Call to Political Responsibility” from the Catholic Bishops of the United States – “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship.”

Prayer Service for Mercy ~ Join women and men Religious of the Diocese of Buffalo during this Year of Mercy for a Prayer Service for Mercy. The Buffalo Leadership Conference of Women Religious is inviting the public to join us in a prayer for Mercy. Host sites include: September 9 at 7 pm, St. Mary Center, 241 Lafayette Ave, Buffalo; September 11 at 2 pm, Immaculate Conception Convent, 5229 South Park Ave, Hamburg; Sacred Heart Center, 22 Meadowbrook Pkwy, Cheektowaga; St. Mary of the Angels Convent, 210 Reist St, Williamsville.

Are You Parishioners in your 20s and 30s Looking to Make a Meaningful Difference in Our Community? Meet other young people, have fun, and put your faith into practice? Then we have the perfect event for you – “Give Back!” Give Back is a day of community service open to young adults ages 18-39. On September 10 volunteers will spend the morning serving at various non-profits around Buffalo to help positively impact our community. Afterwards, there will be a celebration at Canalside with a free food truck lunch, music and more. Volunteers must register in advance so sign up at www.HaveFaithBuffalo.com today!

Rectory office hours are Tuesday-Thursday from 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM. 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.

Our Helping Hands Food Pantry has extended its hours and now operates on both Friday and Saturday mornings from 9 AM – 12 Noon. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Luis Clay at 716-812-3461.

We welcomed parishioners and friends from Our Mother of Good Counsel
in Blasdell, NY for a guided tour of the church on July 19, 2016.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Burgers, Brews & Blues ~ The Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities will host their inaugural “Burgers, Brews & Blues” on Tuesday, August 16 from 5-9:30 PM at St. Mary of the Angels, 201 Reist Street, Williamsville. A performance by Janice Mitchell and the Jim Beishline Trio will highlight the event. The evening will include a social hour, dinner and live music. For additional information, call 716-632-2155 x687 or email cmunschauer [at] sosf [dot] org.

Free Dinner Program on Relieving Chronic Shoulder Pain ~ Catholic Health is sponsoring a free dinner program, “Why Live with Chronic Shoulder Pain?” on Tuesday, August 16 from 5:30-7:30 pm in the Community Room at Kenmore Mercy Hospital, 2950 Elmwood Ave. Kenmore. Joint local shoulder and joint experts, Ryan Wilkins, MD and Joe Lorenzetti, DPT as they answer your questions on the causes of shoulder pain, home remedies, when it’s time to see a doctor, and surgical and non-surgical options. Space is limited. Reservations are required by calling Catholic Health’s HealthConnection at 44-6205 or by registering online at www.chsbuffalo.org/events.

Infant of Prague Lawn Fete, 921 Cleveland Drive, Cheektowaga, will be having their lawn fete on August 26-27 – rides and games, carnival food, games of chance, a beer tent, entertainment, a basket extravaganza and much more. On Friday the rides, midway and beer garden open at 5 pm; basket raffle extravaganza from 5-10 pm; “Party of Nine” in the beer garden from 7-11:30 pm. On Saturday the rides and midway open at 12 noon; basket raffle extravaganza from 12-10 pm; “Kids Zone” featuring Party Animals Petting Zoo, face painting and games from 1-6 pm; Krolick’s BBQ dinner from 4-6 pm (or sold out): “Hit ‘N Run” in the beer garden from 7-11:30 pm.

Artisan Fair & Farmers’ Market ~ Father Baker Manor, 6400 Powers Road, Orchard Park, will be sponsoring its Second Annual Artisan Fair & Farmer’s Market on Saturday, August 27, from 10 am – 4 pm. The event is open to the public and will be held rain or shine. The community is invited to enjoy local artisans, crafters, and market vendors. There will also be a Lucky Draw Raffle for a number of prizes. All proceeds to support special projects at Father Baker Manor, a Catholic Health Skilled Nursing Facility. For more information visit www.chsbuffalo.org/FBMfair or contact Jill Hirczak at jhirczak [at] chsbuffalo [dot] org or by calling 716-209-0744.

Summer Celebration Features Big Band Dance Under the Stars! Sunday, August 28 from 7-9 PM, St. Joseph University Church will host an outdoor Big Band Concert and Dance featuring the Jim Tudini Band with Bobby Militello. Join us for a great summer evening of music and dance under the stars! The Jim Tudini Band is an 11 piece contemporary big band perfect for dancing. Tudini has played with such notables as the Tommy Dorsey Band, Doc Severinson and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. The band specializes in traditional big band music as well as songs from the 70s through the 90s. Donation for the dance is $10 per person at the door. Beverages and light snacks will be available for purchase. For information contact 833-0298.

September Concert ~ The Evangelization Committee at St. Martin de Porres (“SMDP”) is sponsoring The George Scott Big Band in concert at the church on Saturday, September 10 from 5-7 p.m. Tickets are available for $10.  Tickets purchased before August 22 will be eligible for a $50 cash drawing! Please call the SMDP office at 883-PRAY for further information.

Uptown Fresh ~ A Healthy Lifestyle Market featuring fresh fruits and vegetables is now taking place every Saturday from 10 AM – 2 PM at the corner of Bailey and Dartmouth in Buffalo. It began operation on June 25 and will continue every Saturday (except Labor Day weekend, Sept. 3) through September 24.

“Griefshare” Support Group to meet at Our Lady of Pompeii Catholic Church ~ If you’ve experienced the death of a loved one, or know someone who has, please consider joining us on September 21 at 6:30 PM in our Ministry Center, 129 Laverack Avenue, Lancaster, NY. A different DVD will be shown on two Wednesdays of each month on how to cope with grief and loss. Coffee and an informal discussion will follow. Call Sister Joyce to register at 716-683-6522 x103.

19th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Week of Aug. 7, 2016

Aug 7, 2016 | This Week

St. Clare of Assisi [1193-1253], whose feast is celebrated on August 11, “carried the Host in a monstrance to an upper window to ask the deliverance of her convent from marauding Saracen mercenaries of Frederick II….” She is one of six saints associated with the Eucharist who is depicted (center right) in silver relief on the doors of our Tabernacle. (Rev. Walter Kern’s Guidebook to Blessed Trinity R.C. Church, page 30).
Photo credit: Margaret Dick

August 7 – August 14, 2016

Weekly Activities

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

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

Saturday, August 13 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

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

*Please remember that we have instituted age restrictions for admission to Bingo in response to requests from our players. 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, August 7 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Frederick Zeitz – 100th Birthday Remembrance (Requested by Family) and Robert Delia and Emmanuel Marien – (Requested by Kathleen Marien)

Monday, August 8 ~ St. St. Dominic ~ No Service

Tuesday, August 9  ~ St. Teresa ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Wednesday, August 10 ~ St. Lawrence ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Thursday, August 11 ~ St. Clare ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Joseph Kohn (Family)

Friday, August 12 ~ St. Jane Frances de Chantal ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Dedication of the Basilica of St. Mary Major ~ Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Saturday, August 13 ~ Ss. Pontian and Hippolytus ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Sunday, August 14 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Mary Kinmartin (The Gallisdorfers) and Gregory DeLong (Bud and Mickey Dick)
Baptism of Elise Christine Chessher

Readings for the Week of August 7

Sunday: Wis 18:6-9; Ps 33:1, 12, 18-22; Heb 11:1-2, 8-19; Lk 12:32-48
Monday: Ez 1:2-5, 24-28c;; Ps 148:11-14; Mt 17:22-27
Tuesday: Ez 2:8 – 3:4; Ps 119:14, 24, 72, 103, 111, 131; Mt 18:1-5, 12-14
Wednesday: 2 Cor 9:6-10; Ps 112:1-2, 5-9; Jn 12:24-26
Thursday: Ex 12:1-12; Ps 78:56-59, 61-62; Mt 18:21 – 19:1
Friday: Ez 16:1-15, 60, 63 or 16:59-63; Is 12:2-6; Mt 19:3-12
Saturday: Ez 18:1-10, 13b, 30-32; Ps 51:12-15, 18-19, 9; Mt 19:13-15
Sunday, August 14: Jer 38:4-6, 8-10; Ps 40:2-4, 18; Heb 12:1-4; Lk 12:49-53

We had the greatest grill men for “Summer in the City” on Aug. 2nd!

News from our Parish Community

Who Doesn’t Like a Picnic! ~ On Tuesday, August 2^nd, we proved that we all do. But even something as “relaxed” as a picnic requires a lot of planning and hard work, and Blessed Trinity was up to the task. And so we send heartfelt thanks to everyone who played a part in making National Night Out and the CCCB’s “Summer in the City” such an enjoyable evening. We won’t name names, but you know who you are: the folks who arranged for donations; gathered the grill and tents and shopped for essentials; made sure there was ample ice to keep all the drinks cold; hauled tables and chairs; set up games and erected canopies; prepared side dishes and desserts; provided entertainment for the children; endured the fire and smoke to grill our hot dogs and hamburgers; made numerous trips up and down stairs with food and utensils – and then did it all in reverse at the end of the night as we put everything back in its place. Whew! In between, we hope you all enjoyed meeting and dining with neighbors and dancing to the music of J.J. Williams. Thanks again to a wonderful team of BT volunteers. Click HERE for a photo gallery from our National Night Out celebration.

Full-time Position Available ~ We are still hoping to bring on a new custodian before Jerry Gallisdorder leaves in September so that he can show the new person around and train him/her in the basic tasks of the job. If you know of someone qualified for the job, please have him/her submit a resume to the rectory as soon as possible.
The Custodian is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of several buildings and assisting with a variety of semi-skilled manual work in the maintenance, repair and energy management of the church and other parish buildings. Requires a high school education, completed police background check, basic knowledge of plumbing and electrical work, and ability to maintain the buildings and grounds of the parish. This is a full-time position, with salary commensurate with education and experience. For detailed questions about the job, contact Bud Dick (832-2540). More information about the position is available at http://www.buffalodiocese.org/job-opportunities. Look under under “Parishes/Other.”

Weekly Highlight from Faithful Citizenship: A message from Sister Maureen Harris ~ How does the Church Help the Catholic Faithful to speak about Political and Social Questions? Part 1 of this document is so important in regard to forming moral consciences that I feel I am not doing justice to it and encourage you to read the document for yourself. (To read the entire document, visit www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithfulcitizenship/upload). Again, here are just a few highlights from Part 1 of A Well-Formed Conscience:

• #22  from Doing Good and Avoiding Evil – There are some things we must never do, as individuals or as a society, because they are always incompatible with love of God and neighbor. Such actions are so deeply flawed that they are always opposed to the authentic good of persons. They must always be rejected and opposed and must never be supported or condoned. A prime example is the intentional taking of innocent human life, as in abortion and euthanasia.
• #23 Other direct assaults on innocent human life, such as genocide, torture, and the targeting of noncombatants in acts of terror or war, can never be justified. Nor can violations of human dignity, such as acts of racism, treating workers as mere means to an end, deliberately subjecting workers to subhuman living conditions, treating the poor as disposable or redefining marriage to deny its essential meaning, ever be justified.

Knowledge is power, and now is the time to work on a brighter future. Catholic Charities Education and workforce programs offer High School Equivalency test preparation and job readiness services to Erie County adults ages 16 and older. At Catholic Charities, after receiving an educational/career assessment, students attend small classes and a counselor works with each student on job readiness skills, leadership training and potential college placement. For more information, call 893-3500 or visit our website www.ccwny.org.

Rectory office hours are Tuesday-Thursday from 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM. 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.

Our Helping Hands Food Pantry has extended its hours and now operates on both Friday and Saturday mornings from 9 AM – 12 Noon. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Luis Clay at 716-812-3461.

Just some of our stalwart volunteers from “Summer in the City,” Aug. 2, 2016.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Uptown Fresh ~ A Healthy Lifestyle Market featuring fresh fruits and vegetables is now taking place every Saturday from 10 AM – 2 PM at the corner of Bailey and Dartmouth in Buffalo. It began operation on June 25 and will continue every Saturday (except Labor Day weekend, Sept. 3) through September 24.

Our Lady of Victory Annual Pennies to Heaven/6^th Lawn Fete ~ 767 Ridge Road, Lackawanna, in Shrine parking lot. Saturday and Sunday, August 6 and 7. The event opens on Saturday at 5:30 PM. Food tent, beer tent, games of chance, silent auction, theme baskets. Treasure Chest (filled with lottery scratch-offs) raffle. “Wine Shelf” sure winner, children’s activities, bounce house and obstacle course, bell jar and split club raffles. Music provided by “Flipside” beginning at 7 PM. The day ends at 11:30 PM. On Sunday all activities continue and the “Kokomo Band” performs at 1 PM. Chicken Barbecue will take place from 1-5:30 PM serving Chiavetta’s chicken. Tickets are $11.00/adults and $6.00/children pre-sale. After July 24 they go up! Raffle prizes include an iPad Pro, airline vouchers for two, theater package, casino trip for two and more. Tickets are $1.00 each or a book of 15 for $10.00. Winners’ names will be drawn on Sunday, August 7, at 5:30 PM. We hope you will join us. Call 828-9444 for more information.

Burgers, Brews & Blues ~ The Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities will host their inaugural “Burgers, Brews & Blues” on Tuesday, August 16 from 5-9:30 PM at St. Mary of the Angels, 201 Reist Street, Williamsville. A performance by Janice Mitchell and the Jim Beishline Trio will highlight the event. The evening will include a social hour, dinner and live music. For additional information, call 716-632-2155 x687 or email cmunschauer [at] sosf [dot] org.

Free Dinner Program on Relieving Chronic Shoulder Pain ~ Catholic Health is sponsoring a free dinner program, “Why Live with Chronic Shoulder Pain?” on Tuesday, August 16 from 5:30-7:30 pm in the Community Room at Kenmore Mercy Hospital, 2950 Elmwood Ave. Kenmore. Joint local shoulder and joint experts, Ryan Wilkins, MD and Joe Lorenzetti, DPT as they answer your questions on the causes of shoulder pain, home remedies, when it’s time to see a doctor, and surgical and non-surgical options. Space is limited. Reservations are required by calling Catholic Health’s HealthConnection at 44-6205 or by registering online at www.chsbuffalo.org/events.

Artisan Fair & Farmers’ Market ~ Father Baker Manor, 6400 Powers Road, Orchard Park, will be sponsoring its Second Annual Artisan Fair & Farmer’s Market on Saturday, August 27, from 10 am – 4 pm. The event is open to the public and will be held rain or shine. The community is invited to enjoy local artisans, crafters, and market vendors. There will also be a Lucky Draw Raffle for a number of prizes. All proceeds to support special projects at Father Baker Manor, a Catholic Health Skilled Nursing Facility. For more information visit www.chsbuffalo.org/FBMfair or contact Jill Hirczak at jhirczak [at] chsbuffalo [dot] org or by calling 716-209-0744.

September Concert ~ The Evangelization Committee at St. Martin de Porres (“SMDP”) is sponsoring The George Scott Big Band in concert at the church on Saturday, September 10 from 5-7 p.m. Tickets are available for $10.  Tickets purchased before August 22 will be eligible for a $50 cash drawing! Please call the SMDP office at 883-PRAY for further information.

“Griefshare” Support Group to meet at Our Lady of Pompeii Catholic Church ~ If you’ve experienced the death of a loved one, or know someone who has, please consider joining us on September 21 at 6:30 PM in our Ministry Center, 129 Laverack Avenue, Lancaster, NY. A different DVD will be shown on two Wednesdays of each month on how to cope with grief and loss. Coffee and an informal discussion will follow. Call Sister Joyce to register at 716-683-6522 x103.

18th Sunday in Ordinary Time ~ Week of July 31, 2016

Jul 31, 2016 | This Week

St. Alphonsus Liguori (1695-1787) and St. Ignatius of Loyola (1491-1556), whose feast days we celebrate this week, are both depicted in a in a group of twelve figures identified as “Monks, Hermits, and Religious” in the dome of our church. St. Alphonsus, the first standing figure on the left, is pictured with a pen and book. Although he acquired fame as a writer, the founder of the Redemptorist Congregation is also remembered for his preaching and pastoral reforms. His feast is celebrated on August 1.
St. Ignatius, fourth from the left (standing), was on his way to military fame before a debilitating war injury. His conversion experience began during his convalescence, and his writings during that time culminated in his greatest work, the Spiritual Exercises. Founder of the Jesuits, his feast day is July 31.
The dome painting is by Buffalo-born artist Joseph Mazur; the photo by Gary Kelley.

July 31 – August 7, 2016

Weekly Activities

Sunday, July 31 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Ladies Sodality Board Meeting on the rectory porch

Tuesday, August 2, from 5:30-8:00 p.m. ~ Summer in the City, National Night Out Celebration at Blessed Trinity

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

Friday, August 5 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

Saturday, August 6 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

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

*Now that school is out for the summer,  please remember that we have instituted age restrictions for admission to Bingo in response to requests from our players. 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, July 31 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Intentions of the Mgbenka Family (Requested by Fidelia Ejimadu) and Gregory DeLong – (Requested by Judy Casassa)

Monday, August 1 ~ St. Alphonsus Liguori ~ No Service

Tuesday, August 2  ~ St. Eusebius of Vercelli, St. Peter Julian Eymard ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Wednesday, August 3 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Thursday, August 4 ~ St. John Vianney ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Friday, August 5 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Dedication of the Basilica of St. Mary Major ~ Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Saturday, August 6 ~ The Tranfiguration of the Lord ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Joan West (Family)

Sunday, August 7 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Frederick Zeitz – 100th Birthday Remembrance (Family) and Robert Delia and Emmanuel Marien – (Kathleen Marien)

Readings for the Week of July 31

Sunday: Eccl 1:2, 2:21-23; Ps 90:3-6, 12-14, 17; Col 3:1-5, 9-11; Lk 12:13-21
Monday: Jer 28:1-17; Ps 119; Mt 14:13-21
Tuesday: Jer 30: 1-2, 12-15, 18-22; Ps 102; Mt 14:22-36 or Mt 15:1-2, 10-14
Wednesday: Jer 31:1-7; Jer 31:10-12ab, 13; Mt 15:21-28
Thursday: Jer 31:31-34; Ps 51; Mt 16:13-23
Friday: Na 2:1, 3; 3:1-3, 6-7; Dt 32:35-36, 39, 41; Mt 16:24-28
Saturday: Dn 7:9-10, 13-14; Ps 97:1-2, 5-6, 9; 2 Pt 1:16-19; Lk 9:28b-36
Sunday, August 7: Wis 18:6-9; Ps 33:1, 12, 18-22; Heb 11:1-2, 8-19; Lk 12:32-48

News from our Parish Community

Ladies Sodality ~ Officers and directors are reminded of our board meeting on Sunday, July 31, following the 10 AM Mass. Agenda includes plans for August 2 “Summer in the City” picnic and scheduling programs for the coming year. Lunch will be served on the front porch of the rectory.

CCCB Summer in the City ~ On Tuesday, August 2, from 5:30-8 PM, we will be celebrating “National Night Out” at Blessed Trinity. It’s your chance to enjoy a summer evening with parishioners, neighbors, and friends from the other CCCB parishes. Beside a picnic supper, there will be games for the skilled and not-so-skilled, and J.J. Williams will be providing music for your listening and dancing pleasure. Even if you are not able to prepare a side dish or assist with setup, our grill men still need to know if you are planning to attend. If you haven’t already, please SIGN UP THIS WEEKEND! And it’s not too late to volunteer. There are sign-up sheets on the altar rail near Our Lady’s shrine. Then bring your folding chair and join us on Tuesday night. For last minute info, contact Daniel Korchowsky at 716-465-4771.

Full-time Position Available ~ We are still hoping to bring on a new custodian before Jerry Gallisdorder leaves in September so that he can show the new person around and train him/her in the basic tasks of the job. If you know of someone qualified for the job, please have him/her submit a resume to the rectory as soon as possible.
The Custodian is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of several buildings and assisting with a variety of semi-skilled manual work in the maintenance, repair and energy management of the church and other parish buildings. Requires a high school education, completed police background check, basic knowledge of plumbing and electrical work, and ability to maintain the buildings and grounds of the parish. This is a full-time position, with salary commensurate with education and experience. For detailed questions about the job, contact Bud Dick (832-2540). More information about the position is available at http://www.buffalodiocese.org/job-opportunities. Look under under “Parishes/Other.”

Weekly Highlight from Faithful Citizenship: A message from Sister Maureen Harris ~ How does the Church Help the Catholic Faithful to speak about Political and Social Questions? Again, just a few highlights from Part 1 of A Well-Formed Conscience concerning this issue: (To read the entire document, visit www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithfulcitizenship/upload).

• #17 “Catholics have a serious and lifelong obligation to form their consciences in accord with human reason and the teaching of the Church. Conscience is not something that allows us to justify doing whatever we want, nor is it a mere “feeling” about what we should or should not do.  Rather, conscience is the voice of God resounding in the human heart, revealing the truth to us and calling us to do what is good while shunning what is evil.”
• #19 The Virtue of Prudence – The Church fosters well-formed consciences not only by teaching moral truth but also by encouraging its members to develop the virtue of prudence.  (Prudence enables us “to discern our true good in every circumstance and to choose the right means of achieving it” – Catechism of the Catholic Church).
• #20 We have a responsibility to discern carefully which public policies are morally sound.  Catholics may choose different ways to respond to compelling social problems, but we cannot differ on our moral obligation to help build a more just and peaceful world through morally acceptable means, so that the weak and vulnerable are protected and human rights and dignity are defended.

Serving Older Adults in 7 WNY Counties ~ Catholic Charities strives to assist the community through various stages of a person’s life, including as an older adult. There is the seven-county Alzheimer’s Disease Caregiver Support Initiative offering education and resources, Project HOPE for care coordination, telephone assurance programs, friendly visitor programs, A Gathering Place in Buffalo with weekday socialization for adults age 60 and older, and the Foster Grandparent Program offering eligible seniors the chance to work with young students. For more information about which services are offered in your area, call 716-896-6388 or your local office. For more details on other adult programs or any of our services, visit http://www.ccwny.org. You can also find us on Facebook, Twitter and You Tube.

Rectory office hours are Tuesday-Thursday from 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM. 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.

Our Helping Hands Food Pantry has extended its hours and now operates on both Friday and Saturday mornings from 9 AM – 12 Noon. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Luis Clay at 716-812-3461.

Summer in the City
Tuesday, August 2, at BT!

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Uptown Fresh ~ A Healthy Lifestyle Market featuring fresh fruits and vegetables is now taking place every Saturday from 10 AM – 2 PM at the corner of Bailey and Dartmouth in Buffalo. It began operation on June 25 and will continue every Saturday (except Labor Day weekend, Sept. 3) through September 24.

Our Lady of Victory Annual Pennies to Heaven/6^th Lawn Fete ~ 767 Ridge Road, Lackawanna, in Shrine parking lot. Saturday and Sunday, August 6 and 7. The event opens on Saturday at 5:30 PM. Food tent, beer tent, games of chance, silent auction, theme baskets. Treasure Chest (filled with lottery scratch-offs) raffle. “Wine Shelf” sure winner, children’s activities, bounce house and obstacle course, bell jar and split club raffles. Music provided by “Flipside” beginning at 7 PM. The day ends at 11:30 PM. On Sunday all activities continue and the “Kokomo Band” performs at 1 PM. Chicken Barbecue will take place from 1-5:30 PM serving Chiavetta’s chicken. Tickets are $11.00/adults and $6.00/children pre-sale. After July 24 they go up! Raffle prizes include an iPad Pro, airline vouchers for two, theater package, casino trip for two and more. Tickets are $1.00 each or a book of 15 for $10.00. Winners’ names will be drawn on Sunday, August 7, at 5:30 PM. We hope you will join us. Call 828-9444 for more information.

Burgers, Brews & Blues ~ The Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities will host their inaugural “Burgers, Brews & Blues” on Tuesday, August 16 from 5-9:30 PM at St. Mary of the Angels, 201 Reist Street, Williamsville. A performance by Janice Mitchell and the Jim Beishline Trio will highlight the event. The evening will include a social hour, dinner and live music. For additional information, call 716-632-2155 x687 or email cmunschauer [at] sosf [dot] org.

September Concert ~ The Evangelization Committee at St. Martin de Porres (“SMDP”) is sponsoring The George Scott Big Band in concert at the church on Saturday, September 10 from 5-7 p.m. Tickets are available for $10.  Tickets purchased before August 22 will be eligible for a $50 cash drawing! Please call the SMDP office at 883-PRAY for further information.

“Griefshare” Support Group to meet at Our Lady of Pompeii Catholic Church ~ If you’ve experienced the death of a loved one, or know someone who has, please consider joining us on September 21 at 6:30 PM in our Ministry Center, 129 Laverack Avenue, Lancaster, NY. A different DVD will be shown on two Wednesdays of each month on how to cope with grief and loss. Coffee and an informal discussion will follow. Call Sister Joyce to register at 716-683-6522 x103.

17th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Week of July 24, 2016

Jul 24, 2016 | This Week

“Give us each day our daily bread….” Lk 11:3
Detail of church facade above main doors:
bread on an altar among symbols for The Lord’s Prayer.
Photo credit: Margaret Dick

July 24 – July 31, 2016

Weekly Activities

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

Friday, July 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

Saturday, July 30 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

Saturday, July 30 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*

*Now that school is out for the summer,  please remember that we have instituted age restrictions for admission to Bingo in response to requests from our players. 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, July 24 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Michele Clemons (Requested by Shirley Blickensderfer) and Mildred and Jimmie Porter – Wedding Anniversary (Requested by Family)

Sunday, July 24 ~ Memorial Mass for Catherine Dial at 2:00 p.m.

Monday, July 25 ~ St. James, Apostle ~ No Service

Tuesday, July 26  ~ Ss. Joachim and Anne ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Wednesday, July 27 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Thursday, July 28 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Friday, July 29 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – St. Martha ~ Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Saturday, July 30 ~ St. Peter Chrysologus ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Paul Horan (Family)

Sunday, July 31 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Intentions of the Mgbenka Family (Fidelia Ejimadu) and Gregory DeLong – (Judy Casassa)

Readings for the Week of July 24

Sunday: Gn 18:20-32; Ps 138; Col 2:12-14; Lk 11:1-13
Monday: 2 Cor 4:7-15; Ps 126; Mt 20:20-28
Tuesday: Jer 14: 17-22; Ps 79; Mt 13:36-43
Wednesday: Jer 15:10, 16-21; Ps 59; Mt 13:44-46
Thursday: Jer 18:1-6; Ps 146; Mt 13:47-53
Friday: Jer 26:1-9; Ps 69; Jn 11:19-27 or Lk 10:38-42
Saturday: Jer 26: 11-16, 24; Ps 69; Mt 14:1-12
Sunday, July 31: Eccl 1:2, 2:21-23; Ps 95:1-2, 6-9; Col 3:1-5, 9-11; Lk 12:13-21

News from our Parish Community

Memorial Mass for Catherine Dial ~ On Sunday, July 24 at 2:00 PM, there will be a Memorial Mass for our parishioner, Catherine Dial, preceded by the recitation of the Rosary by members of the Ladies Sodality at 1:30 p.m. A reception will follow in St. Charles Hall.

CCCB Summer in the City ~ Tuesday, August 2 from 5:30-8:00 PM is National Night Out at Blessed Trinity Church. Fun, food, games, music and fellowship! We’ll be grilling hot dogs and hamburgers and, if able, we ask you to prepare a side dish or dessert to share. Be sure to bring a folding chair. Contact Daniel Korchowsky at 716-465-4771 or Click HERE for information. We’ll need volunteers to help with food (side dishes and desserts) and to help with chores. There are sign-up sheets on altar rail near Our Lady’s shrine. Please sign up by July 24. Thank you.

Full-time Position Available ~ We are still hoping to bring on a new custodian before Jerry Gallisdorder leaves in September so that he can show the new person around and train him/her in the basic tasks of the job. If you know of someone qualified for the job, please have him/her submit a resume to the rectory as soon as possible.

• The Custodian is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of several buildings and assisting with a variety of semi-skilled manual work in the maintenance, repair and energy management of the church and other parish buildings. Requires a high school education, completed police background check, basic knowledge of plumbing and electrical work, and ability to maintain the buildings and grounds of the parish. This is a full-time position, with salary commensurate with education and experience. For detailed questions about the job, contact Bud Dick (832-2540). More information about the position is available at http://www.buffalodiocese.org/job-opportunities. Look under under “Parishes/Other.”

Ladies Sodality ~ Officers and directors are reminded of our board meeting on Sunday, July 31, following the 10 AM Mass. Agenda includes plans for August 2 “Summer in the City” picnic and scheduling programs for the coming year. Lunch will be served. If you have not already done so, please contact Vera Andrew to confirm your attendance.

Poverty in America ~ A recent study revealed that 4 out of 5 Americans will face poverty in their lifetime. Across Western New York, Catholic Charities works to reduce poverty and help those in need through basic/emergency assistance, counseling, education and job readiness services. For more information about these services, call 716-856-4494, any office near you, or go to www.ccwny.org. You can also find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Training Courses for Day Care Providers ~ Fruits of Labor Training Center on Harlem Road, Cheektowaga, offers courses for licensing and training of day care workers including: Health & Safety, Child Development, CPR and First Aid Training. For questions or further information contact sbates [at] folca [dot] org or call 716-602-9640. Pick up an “information fan” on the table in the front vestibule of the church.

New rectory office hours ~ Please remember that since May, we have new rectory office hours: Tuesday-Thursday from 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM. Please call our secretary, Barbara Sercu, at 716-833-0301 if you have changes to your phone number or mailing address or would like to register as a parishioner.

Our Helping Hands Food Pantry has extended its hours and now operates on both Friday and Saturday mornings from 9 AM – 12 Noon. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Luis Clay at 716-812-3461.

Summer in the City
Tuesday, August 2, at BT!

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Uptown Fresh ~ A Healthy Lifestyle Market featuring fresh fruits and vegetables is now taking place every Saturday from 10 AM – 2 PM at the corner of Bailey and Dartmouth in Buffalo. It began operation on June 25 and will continue every Saturday (except Labor Day weekend, Sept. 3) through September 24.

Annual St. Ann Triduum at St. Ann Church and Shrine in Buffalo ~ Annual triduum of celebrations for the feast of St. Ann will take place on July 24, 25 and 26 at St. Ann’s Church and Shrine (651 Broadway and Emslie St.) in Buffalo. Outdoor Rosary and prayers at St. Ann Church at 7 PM each evening, rain or shine. All are welcome to join the celebration.

Women’s Respite Program for low income moms over 25 who need a vacation/respite away from the stress of everyday. Dates are July 28, 29, 30, 2016 at the Center of Renewal on the Stella Niagara Campus, near Lewiston, NY.  The Program provides a modest private bedroom, all meals, linens, plus great recreational activities that are all optional. It takes place in a beautiful, peaceful setting along the Niagara River.  We can even provide transportation. To apply: Fill out a 2-page application. A $15 donation is  encouraged.   For  an  application call  Sr. Maureen at 897-9948, x114, and leave a message  or go  online  http://www.womensrespite.wordpress.com.  Hurry, don’t delay.  It’s coming fast.

Our Lady of Victory Annual Pennies to Heaven/6^th Lawn Fete ~ 767 Ridge Road, Lackawanna, in Shrine parking lot. Saturday and Sunday, August 6 and 7. The event opens on Saturday at 5:30 PM. Food tent, beer tent, games of chance, silent auction, theme baskets. Treasure Chest (filled with lottery scratch-offs) raffle. “Wine Shelf” sure winner, children’s activities, bounce house and obstacle course, bell jar and split club raffles. Music provided by “Flipside” beginning at 7 PM. The day ends at 11:30 PM. On Sunday all activities continue and the “Kokomo Band” performs at 1 PM. Chicken Barbecue will take place from 1-5:30 PM serving Chiavetta’s chicken. Tickets are $11.00/adults and $6.00/children pre-sale. After July 24 they go up! Raffle prizes include an iPad Pro, airline vouchers for two, theater package, casino trip for two and more. Tickets are $1.00 each or a book of 15 for $10.00. Winners’ names will be drawn on Sunday, August 7, at 5:30 PM. We hope you will join us. Call 828-9444 for more information.

September Concert ~ The Evangelization Committee at St. Martin de Porres (“SMDP”) is sponsoring The George Scott Big Band in concert at the church on Saturday, September 10 from 5-7 p.m. Tickets are available for $10.  Tickets purchased before August 22 will be eligible for a $50 cash drawing! Please call the SMDP office at 883-PRAY for further information.

“Griefshare” Support Group to meet at Our Lady of Pompeii Catholic Church ~ If you’ve experienced the death of a loved one, or know someone who has, please consider joining us on September 21 at 6:30 PM in our Ministry Center, 129 Laverack Avenue, Lancaster, NY. A different DVD will be shown on two Wednesdays of each month on how to cope with grief and loss. Coffee and an informal discussion will follow. Call Sister Joyce to register at 716-683-6522 x103.