16th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Week of July 17, 2016

Jul 17, 2016 | This Week

St. Mary Magdalene
July 22
The confessional on the right in the right (west) transept has a large carving of St. Mary Magdalene, arguably the second most important woman in the New Testament. Her feast is celebrated on July 22.
Photo credit: Margaret Dick

July 17 – July 24, 2016

Weekly Activities

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

Friday, July 22 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

Saturday, July 24 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

Saturday, July 24 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 17 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Catherine Floyd (Requested by Blessed Trinity Ladies Sodality) and Thomas Eldred – 4th Anniversary (Requested by Gary Weber)

Monday, July 18 ~ St. Camillus de Lellis ~ No Service

Tuesday, July 19  ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Wednesday, July 20 ~ St. Apollinaris ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Thursday, July 21 ~ St. Lawrence of Brindisi ~ Anna Snyder (Estate)

Friday, July 22 ~ St. Mary Magdalene ~ Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Saturday, July 23 ~ St. Bridget ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – John and Esther Horan (Family)

Sunday, July 24 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Michele Clemons (Shirley Blickensderfer) and Mildred and Jimmie Porter – Wedding Anniversary (Family)

Readings for the Week of July 17

Sunday: Gn 18:1-10; Ps 15:2-5; Col 1:24-28; Lk 10:38-42
Monday: Mi 6:1-4, 6-8; Ps 50:5-6, 8-9, 16-17, 21, 23; Mt 12:38-42
Tuesday: Mi 7:14-15, 18-20; Ps 85:2-8; Mt 12:46-50
Wednesday: Jer 1:1, 4-10; Ps 71:1-6, 15, 17; Mt 13:1-9
Thursday: Jer 2:1-3, 7-8, 12-13; Ps 36:6-11; Mt 13:10-17
Friday: Jer 3:14-17; Jer 31:10-13; Jn 20:1-2, 11-18
Saturday: Jer 7:1-11; Ps 84:3-6, 8, 11; Mt 13:24-30
Sunday, July 24: Gn 18:20-32; Ps 138; Col 2:12-14; Lk 11:1-13

News from our Parish Community

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.

Weekly Highlight from Faithful Citizenship: A message from Sister Maureen Harris ~ Actually I feel #14 of Part 1 from the Forming Consciences document is so important to reflect on as Christians that I am going to quote all of it. (To read the entire document, visit www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithfulcitizenship/upload).

• #14 “Unfortunately, politics in our country often can be a contest of powerful interests, partisan attacks, …, and media hype. The Church calls for a different kind of political engagement: one shaped by the moral convictions of well formed consciences and focused on the dignity of every human being, the pursuit of the common good, and the protection of the weak and the vulnerable. As Pope Francis reminds us, ‘Politics, though often denigrated, remains a lofty vocation and one of the highest forms of charity, inasmuch as it seeks the common good … I beg the Lord to grant us more politicians who are genuinely disturbed by the state of society, the people, the lives of the poor!’ (EG, #205) The Catholic call to the faithful citizenship which affirms the importance of political participation, should help transform the party to which we belong; we should not let the party transform us in such a way that we neglect or deny fundamental moral truths or approve intrinsically evil acts. We are called to bring together our principles and our political choices, our values and our votes, to help build a civilization of truth and love.” Do I take my voting responsibility this seriously?

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.

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

Chiavetta’s Chicken BBQ on Sunday, July 17 from 12-5 PM (or until sold out) at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 4263 St. Francis Drive, Athol Springs. Hot dog meal also available. For more information or pre-sale tickets, contact 627-3357. American Red Cross Blood Drive also held from 12-5 PM.

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.

15th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Week of July 10, 2016

Jul 12, 2016 | This Week

St. Benedict (c. 480-547)
July 11
St. Benedict, whose feast day the Church celebrates this week, is depicted as the kneeling figure at the far right in a group of twelve figures identified as “Monks, Hermits, and Religious” in this dome painting
by Buffalo-born artist Joseph Mazur. (More about St. Benedict below).
Photo credit: Gary Kelley

July 10 – July 17, 2016

Weekly Activities

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

Friday, July 15 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

Saturday, July 16 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

Saturday, July 16 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 10 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Joseph Kohn (Requested by Family) and Bridget Blesnuk – Birthday Remembrance (Requested by Donald Blesnuk)

Monday, July 11 ~ St. Benedict, Abbot ~ No Service

Tuesday, July 12  ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Wednesday, July 13 ~ St. Henry ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Thursday, July 14 ~ St. Kateri Tekakwitha ~ No Service

Friday, July 15 ~ St. Bonaventure ~ No Service

Saturday, July 16 ~ Our Lady of Mount Carmel ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Sunday, July 17 ~ Catherine Floyd (Blessed Trinity Ladies Sodality) and Thomas Eldred – 4th Anniversary (Gary Weber)

Readings for the Week of July 10

Sunday: Dt 30:10-14; Ps 69:14, 17, 30-31, 33-34, 36-37; Cor 1:15-20; Lk 10:25-37
Monday: Is 1:10-17; Ps 50:8-9, 16-17, 21, 23; Mt 10:34-11:1
Tuesday: Is 7:1-9; Ps 48:2-8; Mt 11:20-24
Wednesday: Is 10:5-7, 13b-16; Ps 94:5-10, 14-15; Mt 11:25-27
Thursday: Is 26:7-9, 12, 16-19; Ps 102:13-21; Mt 11:28-30
Friday: Is 38:1-6, 21-22, 7-8; Is 38:10-12, 16; Mt 12:1-8
Saturday: Mi 2:1-5; Ps 10:1-4, 7-8, 14; Mt 12:14-21
Sunday, July 17: Gn 18:1-10; Ps 15:2-5; Col 1:24-28; Lk 10:38-42

News from our Parish Community

Our long-time custodian and maintenance person, Jerry Gallisdorfer, will be retiring at the end of September. We owe him our deep thanks for his competence and dedication to Blessed Trinity and wish him a full and happy retirement……..
But, we would like to bring on board a new custodian before Jerry leaves so that he can show the new person around and train him/her in the main facets of the job. For that reason, we have advertised the position with the Diocese (http://www.buffalodiocese.org/job-opportunities) and have “put out the word” that we are looking to hire immediately. Below are some requirements for the position. If you know of someone qualified for the job, please have him/her submit a resume to the rectory as soon as possible. For detailed questions about the job, contact Bud Dick (832-2540). 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 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.

The Ladies Sodality is planning a board meeting on Sunday, July 31, following the 10 AM Mass. We will be organizing to assist the Holy Name Society in hosting “Summer in the City” on August 2 and planning programs for the coming year. Officers and board members are asked to contact Vera Andrew as soon as possible and let her know if you will be attending.

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

Summer in the City ~ On Tuesday, August 2, from 5:30-8:00 PM, we will be celebrating National Night Out with the other CCCB parishes here at Blessed Trinity. Please join us for FUN, FOOD, GAMES, MUSIC and FELLOWSHIP! We will be grilling hot dogs and hamburgers. If able, we ask you to prepare a side dish or dessert to share and be sure to bring a folding chair. We will need volunteers to help with set-up, clean-up and serving. Contact Daniel Korchowsky at 716-465-4771 or Click HERE for information. If you would like to volunteer or help in any way, you will find sign-up sheets on the altar rail near Our Lady’s shrine. Please add your name by July 24.

St. Benedict ~ “Once again our nation is mourning the loss of innocent life. As news from Dallas continues to unfold, we receive it with broken hearts, dismay, and concern for the direction in which our nation is heading. St. Benedict (whose feast we celebrate on Monday, July 11) understood political unrest, cultural decay, violence, fear, and confusion. He was born during the fall of the Western Roman Empire and his Rule can serve as an important guide to us as we navigate the unfamiliar waters of violence, anger, and fear within our contemporary nation and world. Author, speaker, and Benedictine Oblate Pamela Patnode will be discussing important truths found within the Rule of St. Benedict that can help us during these uncertain times. Tune into Relevant Radio on Monday, July 11 (7:00am ET)….” www.relevantradio.com. From Philomena Press, LLC

Faithful Citizenship: A message from Sister Maureen Harris ~ “Concerned about the upcoming election? I am. I hope to have a few remarks each week taken from the document 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.) There are three parts to the document. I will begin with highlights from Part 1 – the text stresses that ‘the work for justice requires that the mind and heart of Catholics be educated and formed to know and practice the whole faith.’ Among those teachings are the four basic principles of Catholic social doctrine: the dignity of the human person, the common good, subsidiarity, and solidarity.

• #7 – No one can tell us for whom or against whom to vote. The Bishops’ purpose is to help Catholics form their consciences in accordance with God’s truth.
• #8 – We encourage Catholics to seek those resources authorized by their bishops, their state Catholic conferences, and the USCCB.
• #9 – The Church’s obligation to participate in shaping the moral character of society is a requirement of our faith.
• #10 – At the center of these truths is respect for the dignity of every person. This is the core of Catholic moral and social teaching. We are called to practice Christ’s commandment to “love one another” (Jn. 13:34).

I hope you will find this helpful and encourage you to get out and vote.”

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.

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

One of four angels on the church facade symbolizing the Four Marks of the Church: One, Holy [Sanctitas], Catholic, and Apostolic.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Chiavetta’s Chicken BBQ on Sunday, July 17 from 12-5 PM (or until sold out) at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 4263 St. Francis Drive, Athol Springs. Hot dog meal also available. For more information or pre-sale tickets, contact 627-3357. American Red Cross Blood Drive also held from 12-5 PM.

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.

Medicine and Ethics series continues at St. Gregory the Great Parish, 200 St. Gregory Court, Williamsville. Join St. Greg’s Health Ministry and The Catholic Medical Association of Buffalo on Saturday, July 23 after the 8 AM Mass. Dr. Stanley Bukowski will speak on Abortion and its Aftermath. Many are affected by abortion which can leave psychological effects long after its occurrence. There is no cost to attend. Light refreshments will be served.

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.

News from the Nativity/Miguel School of Buffalo ~ Thank you St. Lawrence and St. Martin de Porres parishes for hosting our graduation ceremonies. The Class of 2016 received a prayerful and heartfelt send-off as they prepare to enter high schools such as Nardin, St. Joe’s, Bishop Timon, Canisius, St. Mary’s and Sacred Heart. Do you know a child entering fifth, sixth or seventh grade who would benefit from small classes, an extended day, and a summer program in a single gender setting? If so, please call Nancy Langer at 836-5188 or visit www.nativitymiguelbuffalo.org to learn how to apply.

14th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Week of July 3, 2016

Jul 3, 2016 | This Week

(Photos ©Char Szabo-Perricelli/13 Tigers Design Studio)

July 3 – July 10, 2016

Weekly Activities

Monday, July 4 ~ Independence Day Holiday

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

Friday, July 8 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

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

Saturday, July 9 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 3 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Linda Bosley (Requested by Bud and Mickey Dick) and Grace Marie Ptak (Requested by Margaret Laciura)

Monday, July 4 ~ Independence Day ~ No Service

Tuesday, July 5  ~ St. Anthony Zaccaria; St. Elizabeth of Portugal ~ Catherine Casassa (Judy Casassa)

Wednesday, July 6 ~ St. Maria Goretti ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Thursday, July 7 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Friday, July 8 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Saturday, July 9 ~ St. Augustine Zhao Rong and Companions ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Sunday, July 10 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Joseph Kohn (Family) and Bridget Blesnuk – Birthday Remembrance (Donald Blesnuk)

Readings for the Week of July 3

Sunday: Is 66:10-14c; Ps 66:1-7, 16, 20; Gal 6:14-18; Lk 10:1-12, 17-20 or 10:1-9
Monday: Hos 2:16, 17b-18, 21-22; Ps 145:2-9; Mt 9:18-26
Tuesday: Hos 8:4-7, 11-13; Ps 115:3-10; Mt 9:32-38
Wednesday: Hos 10:1-3, 7-8, 12; Ps 105:2-7; Mt 10:1-7
Thursday: Hos 11:1-4, 8c-9; Ps 80:2-3, 15-16; Mt 10:7-15
Friday: Hos 14:2-10; Ps 51:3-4, 8-9, 12-14, 17; Mt 10:16-23
Saturday: Is 6:1-8; Ps 93:1-2, 5; Mt 10:24-33
Sunday, July 10: Dt 30:10-14; Ps 69:14, 17, 30-31, 33-34, 36-37; Cor 1:15-20; Lk 10:25-37

Happy 4th of July!

News from our Parish Community

Annual Mission Appeal ~ This year our Annual Mission Appeal will take place on the weekend of July 9/10. Here at Blessed Trinity we will be welcoming Rev. Anthony Boothali from the Society for Faith and Children’s Education (S FACE). Father Anthony will share the vision of the Society to “hear the voice of the poor” through their mission activity as they seek to be the hands and feet of Christ in India. The primary goal of S FACE is to provide post-secondary education to young adults in developing countries. Over the last eight years S FACE has sponsored or is currently sponsoring over 300 students with a 3 year scholarship. They have also begun a new endeavor, building the S FACE Mission Center where further faith formation and retreats will continue to nourish the spiritual life of the young people.  Please be as generous as possible during our Annual Mission Appeal Weekend.

Compassion Ministry training ~ If you are interested in visiting those in the hospital, nursing homes or the homebound, either in person or by phone, training for this “compassion ministry” will be offered again this summer beginning on July 25 at 6:30 PM and continuing for five additional Mondays. To find out more or to sign-up, please call Sr. Maureen Harris (716-882-3129), Joyce Menefee (716-832-7728), or Pat Dyer (716-308-6302).

The Ladies Sodality is planning a board meeting on Sunday, July 31, following the 10 AM Mass. We will be organizing to assist the Holy Name Society in hosting “Summer in the City” on August 2 and planning programs for the coming year. Officers and board members are asked to contact Vera Andrew as soon as possible and let her know if you will be attending.

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

Summer in the City ~ On Tuesday, August 2, from 5:30-8:00 PM, we will be celebrating National Night Out with the other CCCB parishes here at Blessed Trinity. Please join us for FUN, FOOD, GAMES, MUSIC and FELLOWSHIP! We will be grilling hot dogs and hamburgers. If able, we ask you to prepare a side dish or dessert to share and be sure to bring a folding chair. We will need volunteers to help with set-up, clean-up and serving. Contact Daniel Korchowsky at 716-465-4771 for information and if you would like to volunteer or help in any way. A good time for all!

Keeping the children’s best interests a top priority is not always easy in the turmoil of divorce and separation. Parents can learn how to develop a “professional” relationship with their co-parent for the benefit of the children – and oneself. Our Kids: Parent Education and Awareness programs, offered in the 8 counties of the diocese, are designed for any parents who have experienced conflict regarding custody and/or visitation issues. For details, call your local Catholic Charities office or 896-6390. Check us out at www.ccwny.org. You can also find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

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.

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

Photo by Bridget Blesnuk – Floor Tile with Trinity Symbol

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Drama & Writing Camps at Cardinal O’Hara High School ~ Students in grades 5-8 are invited to join a Creative Writing Camp or an Acting and Singing Camp this summer at Cardinal O’Hara High School, 39 O’Hara Road, Tonawanda. Patrick Goatseay, an O’Hara English teacher and director of the school’s spring musical and drama club, will lead the Creative Writing Camp on July 11-15 from 9 AM-2 PM. For more information on registration and fees, contact Tammy Huber at 716-695-2600, ext. 357, or thuber [at] cardinalohara [dot] com, or visit the O’Hara website at www.cardinalohara.com.

Chiavetta’s Chicken BBQ on Sunday, July 17 from 12-5 PM (or until sold out) at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 4263 St. Francis Drive, Athol Springs. Hot dog meal also available. For more information or pre-sale tickets, contact 627-3357. American Red Cross Blood Drive also held from 12-5 PM.

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.

It is not too late to sign up for a week of summer camp. Camp Turner accepts registrations up until 10 days before arrival day of each session. Visit www.campturner.com to sign up. Our screened and trained staff awaits. Activities include horseback riding and grooming, archery, arts and crafts, wood shop, sports, low-ropes, beach trips, camp fires, hiking, outdoor living skills, creek walking, dances and much more!

Medicine and Ethics series continues at St. Gregory the Great Parish, 200 St. Gregory Court, Williamsville. Join St. Greg’s Health Ministry and The Catholic Medical Association of Buffalo on Saturday, July 23 after the 8 AM Mass. Dr. Stanley Bukowski will speak on Abortion and its Aftermath. Many are affected by abortion which can leave psychological effects long after its occurrence. There is no cost to attend. Light refreshments will be served.

News from the Nativity/Miguel School of Buffalo ~ Thank you St. Lawrence and St. Martin de Porres parishes for hosting our graduation ceremonies. The Class of 2016 received a prayerful and heartfelt send-off as they prepare to enter high schools such as Nardin, St. Joe’s, Bishop Timon, Canisius, St. Mary’s and Sacred Heart. Do you know a child entering fifth, sixth or seventh grade who would benefit from small classes, an extended day, and a summer program in a single gender setting? If so, please call Nancy Langer at 836-5188 or visit www.nativitymiguelbuffalo.org to learn how to apply.

St. Joachim All Class Reunion. Friendship – the older it grows, the stronger it is. Let’s rekindle the friendships and embrace school-time and neighborhood memories at the All Class Reunion on Saturday, August 13 at 12 PM at Stiglmeier Park, Shelter #3, in Cheektowaga. Bring your families, chairs, food, drinks and a dish to share at about 2 PM. Please spread the word. We always have a great time. Any questions, email Pauline Zelma Williams ’74 at ewilliams2 [at] roadrunner [dot] com.

13th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Week of June 26, 2016

Jun 26, 2016 | This Week

St. Peter and St. Paul, Apostles
June 29
“The portrait heads, which appear between the arches [of the church], give some historical proof of the Church’s faithfulness to her mission. These ‘portraits’ are of the great apostles, saints, and teachers of the faith.” (Rev. Walter Kern’s Guidebook to Blessed Trinity R. C. Church, page 22). The portrait heads of St. Peter (shown here) and St. Paul are above the church narthex and best viewed from the choir loft.
Photo credit: Margaret Dick

June 26 – July 3, 2016

Weekly Activities

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

Friday, July 1 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

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

Saturday, July 2 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, June 26 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Deacon Jimmie Boyd (Requested by Ladies Sodality of Blessed Trinity) and Norman Stroth (Requested by Father George Reger)

Monday, June 27 ~ St. Cyril of Alexandria ~ No Service

Tuesday, June 28  ~ St. Irenaeus ~ Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Wednesday, June 29 ~ St. Peter and St. Paul, Apostles ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Thursday, June 30 ~ The 1st Martyrs of the Holy Roman Church ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Friday, July 1 ~ Blessed Junipero Serra ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Saturday, July 2 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Winifred Enright (Estate)

Sunday, July 3 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Linda Bosley (Bud and Mickey Dick) and Grace Marie Ptak (Margaret Laciura)

The Tabernacle is the place where the Eucharist is kept. One of the four statues on Blessed Trinity’s
Tabernacle represents the apostle, St. Paul,
who describes the Lord’s Supper in 1 Cor 11:17-34.
Photo Credit: Margaret Dick

Readings for the Week of June 19

Sunday: 1 Kgs 19:16b, 19-21; Ps 16:1-2, 5, 7-11; Gal 5:1, 13-18; Lk 9:51-62
Monday: Am 2:6-10, 13-16; Ps 50:16-23; Mt 8:18-22
Tuesday: Am 3:1-8; 4:11-12; Ps 5:4-8; Mt 8:23-27
Wednesday: Acts 12:1-11; Ps 34:2-9; 2 Tm 4:6-8, 17-18; Mt 16:13-19
Thursday: Am 7:10-17; Ps 19:8-11; Mt 9:1-8
Friday: Am 8:4-6, 9-12; Ps 119:2, 10, 20, 30, 40, 131; Mt 9:9-13
Saturday: Am 9:11-15; Ps 85:9-14; Mt 9:14-17
Sunday, July 3: Is 66:10-14c; Ps 66:1-7, 16, 20; Gal 6:14-18; Lk 10:1-12, 17-20 or 10:1-9

News from our Parish Community

Annual Mission Appeal ~ This year our Annual Mission Appeal will take place on the weekend of July 9/10. Here at Blessed Trinity we will be welcoming Rev. Anthony Boothali from the Society for Faith and Children’s Education (S FACE). Father Anthony will share the vision of the Society to “hear the voice of the poor” through their mission activity as they seek to be the hands and feet of Christ in India. The primary goal of S FACE is to provide post-secondary education to young adults in developing countries. Over the last eight years S FACE has sponsored or is currently sponsoring over 300 students with a 3 year scholarship. They have also begun a new endeavor, building the S FACE Mission Center where further faith formation and retreats will continue to nourish the spiritual life of the young people.  Please be as generous as possible during our Annual Mission Appeal Weekend.

Congratulations, Jonathan Sands! A junior in the college preparatory program at Canisius High School, Jonathan achieved First Honors during the fourth marking period.

2016 Catholic Charities Appeal ~ Bishop Malone will announce the 2016 total, hopefully achieving the $11 million goal, on June 30 during the Forte Tenors concert at Kleinhans Music Hall. The amount raised will go toward helping people of every faith and ethnicity. Catholic Charities empowers children, families and seniors to achieve meaningful, healthy and productive lives. Every donation will make a difference in someone’s life. If you have not contributed, please make your donation this week. Find Good Within. Open hearts follow Jesus’ lead. Visit http://www.ccwny.org or call 716-218-1400.

Compassion Ministry training ~ If you are interested in visiting those in the hospital, nursing homes or the homebound, either in person or by phone, training for this “compassion ministry” will be offered again this summer beginning on July 25 at 6:30 PM and continuing for five additional Mondays. To find out more or to sign-up, please call Sr. Maureen Harris (716-882-3129), Joyce Menefee (716-832-7728), or Pat Dyer (716-308-6302).

Save the Date ~ On Tuesday evening, August 2, in conjunction with the National Night Out community celebration, Blessed Trinity welcomes the CCCB for “Summer in the City.” Stay tuned for details.

Calix is a gathering of individuals who want to improve their spiritual program because they are afflicted or affected by the disease of alcoholism. Calix is for people who are putting together a spiritual program which uses the 12 step approach. It is a journey that brings Step 11 into a deeper and fuller meaning. The Buffalo Unit of the Calix Society meets the last Sunday of the month at 3 PM in the basement meeting room of St. Michael’s Church Rectory, 651 Washington Street, Buffalo. For more information, contact Rev. Martin Moleski at 716-888-2383. Their international website is www.calixsociety.org.

A Vocation View ~ Jesus still speaks the invitation, “Come, follow Me!” If God is calling you to priesthood or religious life, what is holding you back? If God is calling you to a Church vocation, call Fr. Andrew Lauricella at 847-5535. You can also check out the “Priest of the Month” stories on our website – www.buffalovocations.org.

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.

Bill and Gwen Warren

Thank You, Bill and Gwen! ~ On Sunday, June 12, the parish honored Bill and Gwen Warren at a special reception following the 10 AM Mass. Bill, a recent retiree and former owner of Hertel Parker Liquor, first became associated with our parish in the Fall of 1998 when he hosted our first wine tasting. He and Gwen subsequently became both parishioners and benefactors. Over the next sixteen years, their generosity allowed us to raise thousands of dollars for our parish and two community organizations we supported, the Interfaith Hospitality Network (now Family Promise) and The Bridge. Special thanks to Bob Heicklen and Jessie Wells for hosting such a wonderful luncheon for all of us. Click HERE for additional photos from our reception.

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.

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

Catholic Health will be sponsoring a free community dinner entitled  “Knowledge is Power: Straight Talk on Breast Cancer” on Tuesday, June 28 from 5:30-7:30 PM at the Millennium Hotel, 2040 Walden Avenue, Cheektowaga. Join women’s health experts, Dr. Kathy O’Donnell and Dr. Stacey Akers, for the latest information on risks, prevention, detection and new treatment options for breast cancer, including genetic testing and 1-125 seed localization. Space is limited and reservations are required by calling Catholic Health’s HealthConnection at 447-6205 or registering online at www.chsbuffalo.org/events.

Catholic Charities Benefit Concert ~ Do you have your tickets yet for a great evening of song? The Forte Tenors concert at Kleinhans Music Hall in Buffalo to benefit Catholic Charities is Thursday, June 30. It’s a terrific Father’s Day gift idea, too. Presented by LP Ciminelli and an anonymous donor, all proceeds will benefit the programs and services of Catholic Charities. Forte has quickly established itself as the hottest new crossover sensation and the most successful group to be launched from the reality series America’s Got Talent. There is even a special meet and greet VIP ticket opportunity. Find out more and purchase tickets at www.kleinhansbuffalo.org.

Buffalo Career Fair ~ Thursday, June 30 from 11 AM – 2 PM at the Embassy Suites, Buffalo/Downtown, 200 Delaware Avenue. Register today for this free 2016 National Career Fairs Hiring Event. Meet employers face-to-face; take advantage of multiple interview opportunities; apply for a position and perhaps even be hired before you leave. For information, call 1-877-561-5627; email contact [at] ncfairs [dot] com; visit www.nationalcareerfairs.com.

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.

It is not too late to sign up for a week of summer camp. Camp Turner accepts registrations up until 10 days before arrival day of each session. Visit www.campturner.com to sign up. Our screened and trained staff awaits. Activities include horseback riding and grooming, archery, arts and crafts, wood shop, sports, low-ropes, beach trips, camp fires, hiking, outdoor living skills, creek walking, dances and much more!

Drama & Writing Camps at Cardinal O’Hara High School ~ Students in grades 5-8 are invited to join a Creative Writing Camp or an Acting and Singing Camp this summer at Cardinal O’Hara High School, 39 O’Hara Road, Tonawanda. Patrick Goatseay, an O’Hara English teacher and director of the school’s spring musical and drama club, will lead the Creative Writing Camp on July 11-15 from 9 AM-2 PM. For more information on registration and fees, contact Tammy Huber at 716-695-2600, ext. 357, or thuber [at] cardinalohara [dot] com, or visit the O’Hara website at www.cardinalohara.com.

Medicine and Ethics series continues at St. Gregory the Great Parish, 200 St. Gregory Court, Williamsville. Join St. Greg’s Health Ministry and The Catholic Medical Association of Buffalo on Saturday, July 23 after the 8 AM Mass. Dr. Stanley Bukowski will speak on Abortion and its Aftermath. Many are affected by abortion which can leave psychological effects long after its occurrence. There is no cost to attend. Light refreshments will be served.

St. Joachim All Class Reunion. Friendship – the older it grows, the stronger it is. Let’s rekindle the friendships and embrace school-time and neighborhood memories at the All Class Reunion on Saturday, August 13 at 12 PM at Stiglmeier Park, Shelter #3, in Cheektowaga. Bring your families, chairs, food, drinks and a dish to share at about 2 PM. Please spread the word. We always have a great time. Any questions, email Pauline Zelma Williams ’74 at ewilliams2 [at] roadrunner [dot] com.

12th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Week of June 19, 2016

Jun 20, 2016 | This Week

Blessed Trinity’s Sacred Heart altar features this mural representing Christ as “a totally loving Person. The exposed Heart is merely the symbol of this insight and an invitation to return love for love.”(Rev. Walter Kern’s Guidebook to Blessed Trinity Roman Catholic Church, page 28).

June 19 – June 26, 2016

Weekly Activities

Sunday, June 19 ~ Father’s Day

Thursday, June 23 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*

Friday, June 24 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

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

Saturday, June 25 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, June 19 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Bob Kinmartin (Requested by Grandchildren) and Bridget Blesnuk – Anniversary of Death – (Requested by Judy Casassa)

Monday, June 20 ~ No Service

Tuesday, June 21  ~ St. Aloysius Gonzaga ~ Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Wednesday, June 22 ~ St. Paulinus of Nola; St. John Fisher; St. Thomas More ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Thursday, June 23 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Friday, June 24 ~ Nativity of St. John the Baptist ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Saturday, June 25 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – John F. Curtin (Family)

Sunday, June 26 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. ~ Deacon Jimmie Boyd (Ladies Sodality of Blessed Trinity) and Norman Stroth (Father George Reger)

Readings for the Week of June 19

Sunday: Zech 12:10-11; Ps 62:2-6, 8-9; Gal 3:26-29; Lk 9:18-24
Monday: 2 Kgs 17:5-8, 13-15a, 18; Ps 60:3-5, 12-13; Mt 7:1-5
Tuesday: 2 Kgs 19:9b-11, 14-21, 31-35a, 36; Ps 48:2-4, 10-11; Mt 7:6, 12-14
Wednesday: 2 Kgs 22:8-13; 23:1-3; Ps 119:33-37, 40; Mt 7:15-20
Thursday: 2 Kgs 24:8-17; Ps 79:1-5, 8-9; Mt 7:21-29
Friday: Is 49:1-6; Ps 139:1-3, 13-15; Acts 13:22-26; Lk 1:57-66, 80
Saturday: Lam 2:2, 10-14, 18-19; Ps 74:1-7, 20-21; Mt 8:5-17
Sunday, June 26: 1 Kgs 19:16b, 19-21; Ps 16:1-2, 5, 7-11; Gal 5:1, 13-18; Lk 9:51-62

News from our Parish Community

Happy Father’s Day to all fathers of families, all spiritual fathers, and all Christian men. May the Holy Spirit constantly inspire you with justice and mercy, wisdom and strength, fidelity and self-giving love.

Esquisite Dunnigan (left) celebrates with Tapestry teammates
Photo Credit: Harry Scull Jr./Buffalo News

Congratulations are in order for Esquisite Dunnigan, a member of Tapestry Charter School’s track and field team. Esquisite and her teammates placed first in the 4×100 relay in the Division II competition at the New York State Public High Schools Athletic Association championship meet held at Cicero-North Syracuse High School on June 10. They ran the relay in 49.3 to claim Tapestry’s second straight title in that event.

Compassion Ministry training ~ If you are interested in visiting those in the hospital, nursing homes or the homebound, either in person or by phone, training for this “compassion ministry” will be offered again this summer beginning on July 25 at 6:30 PM and continuing for five additional Mondays. To find out more or to sign-up, please call Sr. Maureen Harris (716-882-3129), Joyce Menefee (716-832-7728), or Pat Dyer (716-308-6302).

Catholic Communication Campaign ~ Thank you for your contributions to the Catholic Communication Campaign. Your generosity helps us to grow in faith, worship, and witness.

Bill and Gwen Warren

Thank You, Bill and Gwen! ~ On Sunday, June 12, the parish honored Bill and Gwen Warren at a special reception following the 10 AM Mass. Bill, a recent retiree and former owner of Hertel Parker Liquor, first became associated with our parish in the Fall of 1998 when he hosted our first wine tasting. He and Gwen subsequently became both parishioners and benefactors. Over the next sixteen years, their generosity allowed us to raise thousands of dollars for our parish and two community organizations we supported, the Interfaith Hospitality Network (now Family Promise) and The Bridge. Special thanks to Bob Heicklen and Jessie Wells for hosting such a wonderful luncheon for all of us. Click HERE for additional photos from our reception.

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.

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

The Soul of Compassion will be presented on Monday, June 20 at 4 PM at St. Aloysius Gonzaga Church, 157 Cleveland Drive, Cheektowaga. During times of grief, the need for understanding yourself and others and acting with compassion is imperative. Realizing that everyone has a deep, shared desire for goodness and that nobody wants to suffer, allows you to respond to life’s challenges with greater wisdom and kindness. Presenter, Jesse Wicher, is the founder of Holistic Arts Buffalo. This program is part of the bereavement lecture series at the Catholic Diocesan Cemeteries. There is no charge to attend. For more information or to reserve your spot, call 873-6500.

It is not too late to sign up for a week of summer camp. Camp Turner accepts registrations up until 10 days before arrival day of each session. Visit www.campturner.com to sign up. Our screened and trained staff awaits. Activities include horseback riding and grooming, archery, arts and crafts, wood shop, sports, low-ropes, beach trips, camp fires, hiking, outdoor living skills, creek walking, dances and much more!

Catholic Health will be sponsoring a free community dinner entitled  “Knowledge is Power: Straight Talk on Breast Cancer” on June 28 from 5:30-7:30 PM at the Millennium Hotel, 2040 Walden Avenue, Cheektowaga. Join women’s health experts, Dr. Kathy O’Donnell and Dr. Stacey Akers, for the latest information on risks, prevention, detection and new treatment options for breast cancer, including genetic testing and 1-125 seed localization. Space is limited and reservations are required by calling Catholic Health’s HealthConnection at 447-6205 or registering online at www.chsbuffalo.org/events.

Catholic Charities Benefit Concert ~ Do you have your tickets yet for a great evening of song? The Forte Tenors concert at Kleinhans Music Hall in Buffalo to benefit Catholic Charities is Thursday, June 30. It’s a terrific Father’s Day gift idea, too. Presented by LP Ciminelli and an anonymous donor, all proceeds will benefit the programs and services of Catholic Charities. Forte has quickly established itself as the hottest new crossover sensation and the most successful group to be launched from the reality series America’s Got Talent. There is even a special meet and greet VIP ticket opportunity. Find out more and purchase tickets at www.kleinhansbuffalo.org.

Medicine and Ethics series continues at St. Gregory the Great Parish, 200 St. Gregory Court, Williamsville. Join St. Greg’s Health Ministry and The Catholic Medical Association of Buffalo on Saturday, July 23 after the 8 AM Mass. Dr. Stanley Bukowski will speak on Abortion and its Aftermath. Many are affected by abortion which can leave psychological effects long after its occurrence. There is no cost to attend. Light refreshments will be served.

Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time, Week of June 12, 2016

Jun 13, 2016 | This Week

One of four angels on the church facade symbolizing the Four Marks of the Church: One, Holy [Sanctitas], Catholic, and Apostolic.

June 12 – June 19, 2016

Weekly Activities

Sunday, June 12 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Reception honoring Bill & Gwen Warren in St. Charles Hall

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

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

Friday, June 17 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

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

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

Sunday, June 19 ~ Father’s Day

*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, June 12 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Mary Margaret Schmatz (50th Anniversary of Death) and Paul Vincent Schmatz (Requested by James M. Schmatz)

Monday, June 13 ~ St. Anthony of Padua ~ No Service

Tuesday, June 14  ~ Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Wednesday, June 15 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Thursday, June 16 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Friday, June 17 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Saturday, June 18 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Winifred Enright (Estate)

Sunday, June 19 ~ Bob Kinmartin (Grandchildren) and Bridget Blesnuk – Anniversary of Death (Judy Casassa)

Readings for the Week of June 12

Sunday: 2 Sm 12:7-10, 13; Ps 32:1-2, 5, 7, 11; Gal 2:16, 19-21; Lk 7:36-8:3 or 7:36-50
Monday: 1 Kgs 21:1-16; Ps 5:2-7; Mt 5:38-42
Tuesday: 1 Kgs 21:17-29; Ps 51:3-6, 11, 16; Mt 5:43-48
Wednesday: 2 Kgs 2:1, 6-14; Ps 31:20-21, 24; Mt 6:1-6, 16-18
Thursday: Sir 48:1-14; Ps 97:1-7; Mt 6:7-15
Friday: 2 Kgs 11:1-4, 9-18, 20; Ps 132:11-14, 17-18; Mt 6:19-23
Saturday: 2 Chr 24:17-25; Ps 89:4-5, 29-34; Mt 6:24-34
Sunday, June 19: Zech 12:10-11; Ps 62:2-6, 8-9; Gal 3:26-29; Lk 9:18-24

News from our Parish Community

Bill and Gwen Warren

Thank You, Bill and Gwen! ~ On Sunday, June 12, the parish honored  Warren at a special reception following the 10 AM Mass. Bill, a recent retiree and former owner of Hertel Parker Liquor, first became associated with our parish in the Fall of 1998 when he hosted our first wine tasting. He and Gwen subsequently became both parishioners and benefactors. Over the next sixteen years, their generosity allowed us to raise thousands of dollars for our parish and two community organizations we supported, the Interfaith Hospitality Network (now Family Promise) and The Bridge. Special thanks to Bob Heicklen and Jessie Wells for hosting such a wonderful luncheon for all of us.

The Parish Council will meet on Wednesday, June 15, at 7 PM in St. Charles Hall. This is the last regularly scheduled meeting until September. Please make every effort to attend so that we can finalize plans for summer events and coordinate committee follow-up.

Esquisite Dunnigan (left) celebrates with Tapestry teammates
Photo Credit: Harry Scull Jr./Buffalo News

Congratulations are in order for Esquisite Dunnigan, a member of Tapestry Charter School’s track and field team. Esquisite and her teammates placed first in the 4×100 relay in the Division II competition at the New York State Public High Schools Athletic Association championship meet held at Cicero-North Syracuse High School on June 10. They ran the relay in 49.3 to claim Tapestry’s second straight title in that event.

Compassion Ministry training ~ If you are interested in visiting those in the hospital, nursing homes or the homebound, either in person or by phone, training for this “compassion ministry” will be offered again this summer beginning on July 25 at 6:30 PM and continuing for five additional Mondays. To find out more or to sign-up, please call Sr. Maureen Harris (716-882-3129), Joyce Menefee (716-832-7728), or Pat Dyer (716-308-6302).

Catholic Communication Campaign ~ Your contributions to the CCC collection continue the work of communicating the Gospel around the world. In addition, 50% of CCC funds collected in our diocese remain in the diocese to support local communication efforts. Thank You for your generosity.

Care for Creation ~ June 18 is the one year anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical, Laudato Si, Care for Our Common Home. “The urgent challenge to protect our common home includes a concern to bring the whole human family together to seek a sustainable and integral development, for we know that things can change. The Creator does not abandon us; he never forsakes his loving plan or repents of having created us. Humanity still has the ability to work together in building our common home. I urgently appeal, then, for a new dialogue about how we are shaping the future of our planet. We need a conversation which includes everyone, since the environmental challenge we are undergoing, and its human roots, concern and affect us all.” (13 and 14) www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/environment/index.cfm.

Our Sacred Sites Open House ~ A thousand THANKS to all the wonderful volunteers who helped with BT’s Sacred Sites Open House on the weekend of May 21-22. We hosted more than sixty people, and every single visitor was positively impressed by the church – and by the kindness, knowledge, helpfulness and enthusiasm of all the volunteers. We heard nothing but good things from everyone who came! And we also learned some new facts and heard some interesting stories from folks who’ve been part of the parish’s history over the years. Everybody had a good time – with a big THANK YOU to all of you. To view photos from the Sacred Sites Open House, click HERE.

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.

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

Gun Violence and Mental Health ~ On Wednesday, June 15 at 7 PM in the St. Joseph University Parish Community Room, Michael Ranney, Erie County Commissioner of Mental Health, and Dr. Jeffery Grace, psychiatrist will address this topic. The presentation is free and open to the public. It is being sponsored by the St. Joseph Committee Against Gun Violence and New Yorkers Against Gun Violence.

The Soul of Compassion will be presented on Monday, June 20 at 4 PM at St. Aloysius Gonzaga Church, 157 Cleveland Drive, Cheektowaga. During times of grief, the need for understanding yourself and others and acting with compassion is imperative. Realizing that everyone has a deep, shared desire for goodness and that nobody wants to suffer, allows you to respond to life’s challenges with greater wisdom and kindness. Presenter, Jesse Wicher, is the founder of Holistic Arts Buffalo. This program is part of the bereavement lecture series at the Catholic Diocesan Cemeteries. There is no charge to attend. For more information or to reserve your spot, call 873-6500.

Catholic Charities Benefit Concert ~ Do you have your tickets yet for a great evening of song? The Forte Tenors concert at Kleinhans Music Hall in Buffalo to benefit Catholic Charities is Thursday, June 30. It’s a terrific Father’s Day gift idea, too. Presented by LP Ciminelli and an anonymous donor, all proceeds will benefit the programs and services of Catholic Charities. Forte has quickly established itself as the hottest new crossover sensation and the most successful group to be launched from the reality series America’s Got Talent. There is even a special meet and greet VIP ticket opportunity. Find out more and purchase tickets at www.kleinhansbuffalo.org.

Tenth Sunday in Ordinary Time – Week of June 5, 2016

Jun 5, 2016 | This Week

Blessed Trinity’s Sacred Heart altar features this mural representing Christ as “a totally loving Person. The exposed Heart is merely the symbol of this insight and an invitation to return love for love.”(Rev. Walter Kern’s Guidebook to Blessed Trinity Roman Catholic Church, page 28). Photo credit: Margaret Dick

June 5 – June 12, 2016

Weekly Activities

Sunday, June 5 at 9:00 a.m. ~ Choir rehearsal in the loft

Wednesday, June 8 at 6:00 p.m. ~ Sodality Dinner at Sean Patrick’s Restaurant

Thursday, June 9 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall*

Friday, June 10 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

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

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

Sunday, June 12 at 9:00 a.m. ~ Choir rehearsal in the loft

Sunday, June 12 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Reception honoring Bill & Gwen Warren 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, June 5 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Robert Dapp (Requested by Great-Grandchildren) and Anne McNally (Requested by Kathleen Marien)

Tuesday, June 7  ~ No Service

Wednesday, June 8 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Thursday, June 9 ~ St. Ephrem ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Friday, June 10 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Saturday, June 11 ~ St. Barnabas, Apostle ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Joseph Kohn (Family) and Rita Curtin (Family)

Sunday, June 12 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Ann Schmatz – 50th Anniversary of Death (James Schmatz)

Readings for the Week of June 5

Sunday: 1 Kgs 17:17-24; Ps 30:2, 4-6, 11-13; 1 Gal 1:11-19; Lk 7:11-17
Monday: 1 Kgs 17:1-6; Ps 121:1-8; Mt 5:1-12
Tuesday: 1 Kgs 17:7-16; Ps 4:2-5, 7-8; Mt 5:13-16
Wednesday: 1 Kgs 18:20-39; Ps 16:1-5, 8, 11; Mt 5:17-19
Thursday: 1 Kgs 18:41-46; Ps 65:10-13; Mt 5:20-26
Friday: 1 Kgs 19:9a, 11-16; Ps 27:7-9, 13-14; Mt 5:27-32
Saturday: Acts 11:21b-26; 13:1-3; Ps 98:1-6; Mt 5:33-37

News from our Parish Community

The Ladies Sodality Dinner is this Wednesday, June 8, at Sean Patrick’s Restaurant, 3480 Millersport Hgwy. in Getzville. All women of the parish are invited to attend and friends are welcome. There will be a cash bar beginning at 6 PM with dinner served at 6:30 PM.  Payment for your reservation is due this Sunday, June 5. Please see Mickey Dick or Amy Johnson. Checks should be made payable to “Ladies Sodality of Blessed Trinity.”

Sommelier Bill Warren uncorks wine and wisdom at a BT 2012 winetasting.

Gwen Warren

On Sunday, June 12, the parish will honor Bill and Gwen Warren at a special reception following the 10 AM Mass. Bill, a recent retiree and former owner of Hertel Parker Liquor, first became associated with our parish in the Fall of 1998 when he hosted our first wine tasting. He and Gwen subsequently became both parishioners and benefactors. Over the next sixteen years, their generosity allowed us to raise thousands of dollars for our parish and two community organizations we supported, the Interfaith Hospitality Network (now Family Promise) and The Bridge. Please plan to join us in honoring the Warrens on Sunday, June 12. If you’ve never met Bill and Gwen, it’s all the more reason to make their acquaintance and join in the celebration.

The Parish Council will meet on Wednesday, June 15, at 7 PM in St. Charles Hall.

Our Sacred Sites Open House ~ A thousand THANKS to all the wonderful volunteers who helped with BT’s Sacred Sites Open House on the weekend of May 21-22. We hosted more than sixty people, and every single visitor was positively impressed by the church – and by the kindness, knowledge, helpfulness and enthusiasm of all the volunteers. We heard nothing but good things from everyone who came! And we also learned some new facts and heard some interesting stories from folks who’ve been part of the parish’s history over the years. Everybody had a good time – with a big THANK YOU to all of you. To view photos from the Sacred Sites Open House, click HERE.

Please welcome Barbara Sercu, who began working as our part-time parish secretary/receptionist on April 26. A Kenmore resident, Barb is a high-energy retiree who had two previous medically-related careers at ECMC and Kenmore Mercy. She’s had fun mastering the idiosyncrasies of our scanner-copier as she prepares the bulletin, and is now working on several areas of record keeping that need serious attention. With Barbara’s arrival, we have instituted new rectory office hours: Tuesday-Thursday from 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM. If you are in the neighborhood, please stop by to introduce yourself and welcome the newest member of our parish family.

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.

Visitors try to take it all in as docent Nancy Yager interprets
the symbols about the Sacred Heart altar.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Buffalo Choral Arts Society will celebrate its 50^th Anniversary with a concert on Sunday, June 5 at 3 PM at St. Joseph Cathedral, 50 Franklin Street, Buffalo. This 120-voice chorus is proud to bring to Western New York the world renowned composer and conductor, Dr. Z. Randall Stroope for a special concert with brass choir and Mr. Tim Socha, Cathedral Organist, under the direction of Dr. Stroope. The concert will feature works by Vierne, Vaughn Williams, Finzi, and Stroope as well as the premiere performance of “O Lux Beatissima,” a commissioned piece written by Dr. Stroope for the chorus’ anniversary. In addition to performances in Canterbury Cathedral (England), Berliner Dom (Germany), Carnegie Hall and National Presbyterian Cathedral (Washington, DC), Dr. Stroope has conducted 5 performances in The Vatican in the past 4 years. Tickets are available by calling 775-7664 or online at www.BuffaloChoralArts.org.

Respite Weekend for Grandmothers raising their grandchildren is scheduled from 3 PM on Friday, June 10 through 3 PM Sunday, June 12. Applications are available at our church. Questions may be directed to Sr. Maureen Harris at 716-882-3129.