5th Sunday of Ordinary Time – Week of February 7, 2016

Feb 7, 2016 | This Week

Ash Wednesday is February 10, 2016.

February 7 – February 14, 2016

Weekly Activities

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

Saturday, February 13 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

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

Sunday, February 14 at 9:00 a.m. ~ Choir Rehearsal in the Loft

Sunday, February 14 at 3:00 p.m. ~ Trinity Series Concert, Celebration of Love, in church

*In response to requests from our players, we have instituted age restrictions for admission to Bingo. As of  Thursday, October 15, 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, February 7 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – James Hartzell (Requested by Bud and Mickey Dick) and Catherine Floyd (Requested by Blessed Trinity Ladies Sodality)

Monday, February 8 ~ St. Jerome Emiliani; St. Josephine Bakhita – Communion Service at 11:00 a.m. in Daily Mass Chapel

Robert L. Kinmartin

Tuesday, February 9 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Winifred Enright (Estate)

Wednesday, February 10 ~ Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. – Robert L. Kinmartin

Wednesday, February 10 ~ Ash Wednesday ~ Mass at 12:00 Noon – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Wednesday, February 10 ~ Ash Wednesday ~ Mass at 6:00 p.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds, and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Thursday, February 11 ~  Our Lady of Lourdes ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Friday, February 12 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Saturday, February 13 ~ St. Benignus ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Leo M. Townsell (Estate)

Sunday, February 14 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Bridget Blesnuk (Ed Marien) and Robert Dapp (The Gallisdorfers)

Readings for the Week of February 7

Sunday: Is 6:1-2a, 3-8; Ps 138:1-3, 4-5, 7-8; 1 Cor 15:1-11 or 15:3:3-8; Lk 5:1-11
Monday: 1 Kgs 8:1-7, 9-13; Ps 132:6-10; Mk 6:53-56
Tuesday: 1 Kgs 8:22-23, 27-30; Ps 84:3-5, 10-11; Mk 7:1-13
Wednesday: Jl 2:12-18; 2 Cor 5:20–6:2; Ps 51:3-6, 12-14, 17; Mt 6:1-6, 16-18
Thursday: Dt 30:15-20; Ps 1:1-4, 6; Lk 9:22-25
Friday: Is 58:1-9a; Ps 51:3-6, 18-19; Mt 9:14-15
Saturday: Is 58:9b-14; Ps 86:1-6; Lk 5:27-32
Sunday, February 14: Dt 26:4-10; Ps 91:1-2, 10-11, 12-13, 14-15; Rom 10:8-13; Lk 4:1-13

News from our Parish Community

And the winner is … Ed Marien, who made a lot of people happy by sharing the contents of his prize basket with
the Over-21 Crowd at Coffee Hour.

The Sodality Raffle and Coffee Hour is this Sunday, February 7, immediately following Mass. Please do not put raffle returns in the collection on Sunday, but bring them to St. Charles Hall where we will be celebrating both Mardi Gras and Super Bowl Sunday. If you still need raffle tickets, they’ll be available before the drawing.

This Wednesday, February 10, is Ash Wednesday. There will be two Masses including distribution of ashes at 12 Noon and 6 PM.

The Trinity Concert Series continues at 3 PM next Sunday, February 14, with Celebration of Love featuring soprano Amy Grable and tenor Robert Zimmerman, accompanied by pianist Dr. Lori Abbott. Bring your Valentine or your mom (or both) to enjoy this popular music program including some of the most cherished love songs from Broadway and the movies. We’ll follow this musical treat with a post-concert reception, giving you and your guests an opportunity to meet the performers. Suggested donation for the free will offering is $10.

Robert Zimmerman and Amy Grable in concert at Blessed Trinity on February 14, 2016

Our 2016 Lenten Program begins Wednesday evening, February 17, with our traditional Soup Supper, followed by the first of three Wednesday evenings devoted to prayer, meditation and discussion of Dr. Hugh Brady’s book, A Spirituality of Being Human. It is not necessary to have read the book to participate, but do take advantage of this opportunity for spiritual growth. We are still looking for soup makers (Feb. 17 only), cookie bakers, and folks to help with clean-up, so please use the sign-up boards near the rectory-side door to select the week that works for you. Click HERE for additional information about the 4-week program and CCCB Lenten Journey Masses.

Change in Parish Council Meeting ~ Because of the Wednesday evening Lenten Program, the date and time of the February Parish Council meeting has been changed. The Council will meet in St. Charles Hall from 5:30-6:30 PM on Wednesday, February 24. Sandwiches will be provided so that Council members will be able to stay for the 7 PM program.

Lenten Journey Masses also begin next week with a 6:30 PM Mass on Monday, February 15, at St. Lawrence, 1520 E. Delavan. The Catholic Churches of Central Buffalo (CCCB) take turns hosting Monday evening Masses during Lent, each of which is followed by an opportunity for fellowship. Blessed Trinity will host on Monday, February 29.

Prayer Partners ~ Sister Barbara has received the names of our Lenten Prayer Partners. If you don’t receive yours this weekend, please check with her during the week.

Reminder to Sodality Members ~ February 7 is the deadline for receipt of your $5.00 dues in order to be sure you are included in the new member directory and updated telephone tree. Membership is open to all women of the parish. If you would like more information, please leave your inquiry for Membership VP Mickey Dick  by Clicking HERE. The next general meeting is March 6, following Sunday Mass.

Catholic Relief Services ~ Thank you for your generous support of the Catholic Relief Services Collection.  Through your generosity, families will be reunited, valuable life skills will be taught to those seeking a better life, and many will have vital humanitarian needs met.  Please visit www.usccb.org/catholic-relief to learn how your donations make a difference and help Jesus in disguise.

Catholic Charities Appeal ~ Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent and commemorates the start of a period of preparation for Jesus’ Resurrection on Easter Sunday. As you start your own Lenten Journey this week, remember the selfless sacrifice of Jesus. What can you sacrifice that will allow you to donate just $3.12? That’s the cost of feeding a family of four one meal through one of Catholic Charities’ eight food pantries. Remember the love you have for your neighbors in need, and give as generously as you can to the Catholic Charities 2016 Appeal, benefitting tens of thousands in Western New York. Find Good Within. Open hearts to follow Jesus’ lead.  Find out more at www.ccwny.org or call 716-218-1400.

The Choir returns for 10 AM Mass on the First Sunday of Lent, February 14.

The Choir of Blessed Trinity

Sunday TV Mass ~ Do you know someone who misses going to Mass because of an illness or injury? The Diocese provides a televised Mass from the Our Lady Chapel at St. Joseph Cathedral each Sunday at 7:30 AM on the WUTV-Fox Channel.

Blessed Trinity 2016 Calendars are still available in the Ushers’ Pew. Share one with a friend.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Ash Wed. Fish Fry ~ St. Katharine Drexel Parish invites you to “the best Ash Wednesday fish fry,”  February 10, 4-7 PM in the parish hall. Dinners are $10 pre-sale and $11 at the door. Mac & Cheese is available for $4. The church is located at 135 N. Ogden Street, Buffalo 14206.

BISON Children’s Scholarship Fund ~ This fund believes that all children, whether rich or poor, should have access to the widest array of educational opportunities as possible. By offering partial scholarship assistance to economically disadvantaged families, BISON is empowering parents, often for the first time, with the ability to choose the school which best meets their child’s needs. Visit the website at www.bisonfund.com and complete an electronic Scholarship Pre-Application for the 2016-17 school year. Please note the scholarship amounts very depending on the family’s income, household size and the school’s tuition cost. The highest scholarship amount for 2016-17 will be $1,800. Families will be expected to contribute partial tuition towards their child’s education. Time of the essence! Our first deadline is February 29, 2016. All pre-applications will be entered into a lottery drawing in early March. If your name is drawn in the lottery, you will received notification with instructions on how to proceed with the application. If you have questions or need further information, call the BISON Fund office at 716-854-0869.

Respite Weekend for Women with Cancer ~ March 4–6, 2016 at Stella Niagara. Application deadline is Thursday, February 18. If you know someone, applications are available by calling Sr. Maureen at 897-9948, x114.

4th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Week of Jan. 31, 2016

Jan 31, 2016 | This Week

The Presentation of the Lord
February 2
The Presentation, depicted in terra cotta oval relief in the church narthex

January 31 – February 7, 2016

Weekly Activities

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

Saturday, February 6 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

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

Sunday, February 7 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Coffee Hour Sodality Raffle in St. Charles Hall, hosted by our Ladies Sodality

*In response to requests from our players, we have instituted age restrictions for admission to Bingo. As of  Thursday, October 15, 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, January 31 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Norm Shoeing (Requested by Ed Marien) and Robert, Celia and Emmanuel Marien (Requested by Kathleen Marien)

Monday, February 1 ~ Communion Service at 11:00 a.m. in Daily Mass Chapel

Tuesday, February 2 ~ Presentation of the Lord ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Wednesday, February 3 ~ St. Blaise, St. Ansgar ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds, and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Thursday, February 4 ~  Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Friday, February 5 ~ St. Agatha ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Saturday, February 6 ~ St. Paul Miki and Companions ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Anne and Bud O’Connor (Family)

Sunday, February 7 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – James Hartzell (Bud and Mickey Dick) and Catherine Floyd (Blessed Trinity Ladies Sodality)

Readings for the Week of January 31

Sunday: Jer 1:4-5, 17-19; Ps 71:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 15, 17; 1 Cor 12:31-13:13 or 13:4-13; Lk 4:21-30
Monday: 2 Sm 15:13-14, 30; 16:5-13; Ps 3:2-7; Mk 5:1-20
Tuesday: Mal 3:1-4; Ps 24:7-10; Heb 2:14-18; Lk 2:22-40 or 2:22-32
Wednesday: 2 Sm 24:2, 9-17; Ps 32:1-2, 5-7; Mk 6:1-6
Thursday: 1 Kgs 2:1-4, 10-12; 1 Chr 29:10-12; Mk 6:7-13
Friday: Sir 47:2-11; Ps 18:31, 47, 50-51; Mk 6:14-29
Saturday: 1 Kgs 3:4-13; Ps 119:9-14; Mk 6:30-34
Sunday, February 7: Is 6:1-2a, 3-8; Ps 138:1-3, 4-5, 7-8; 1 Cor 15:1-11 or 15:3:3-8; Lk 5:1-11

News from our Parish Community

Sodality Raffle and Coffee Hour ~ Sunday, February 7, is (a) the last Sunday before Lent; (b) Super Bowl Sunday; or (c) the Ladies Sodality’s annual spring raffle? You guessed it – it’s all three! Be with us in St. Charles Hall to celebrate the occasions. In addition to the first prize Basket of Cheer courtesy of Bill Warren and Hertel Parker Liquor, there will be two second prize $50.00 gift cards: one each for Wegmans and Dash’s. If you haven’t already returned your chances, please be sure to bring them with you next weekend and stop by the Sodality’s special coffee hour after Sunday Mass to find out who wins. If you need additional chances, they’ll be available before the drawing.

Robert Zimmerman, Amy Grable and Lori Abbott in concert on Feb. 14 at 3 PM.
Photo credit: Margaret Dick

The Trinity Series of “beautiful music in a beautiful space…” continues with a Celebration of Love, Sunday February 14, at 3:00 p.m. Be with us on Valentine’s Day as Tenor Robert Zimmerman and Soprano Amy Grable, accompanied by pianist Dr. Lori Abbott, perform some of musical theater’s most cherished loved songs. Following this sweet treat for your heart and soul, you’ll be able to satisfy your sweet tooth AND meet our musical guests at a post-concert reception. A free-will offering will be taken, with a $10 suggested donation.

The Parish Council invites your participation in our 2016 Lenten Program, which begins on Wednesday evening, February 17, and continues each Wednesday through March 9. We will begin with our traditional Soup Supper on Feb. 17 and conclude with a Simple Supper on Mar. 9, followed by The Way of the Cross in church. The first three Wednesday evenings will be devoted to prayer, meditation and discussion of Dr. Hugh Brady’s book, A Spirituality of Being Human, led by his widow, Evelyn Brady. For additional information about the 4-week program, Click HERE. Please note the later start time on Feb. 24 and Mar. 2. Rest assured that you can join the discussion without having read the book. As in the past, we are looking for soup makers (Feb. 17 only ) and cookie bakers, so please indicate your willingness to contribute on the  sign-up boards near the rectory-side door of the church.

Prayer Partners for Lent ~ Lent is just around the corner, with Ash Wednesday falling on February 10 this year. Praying for another in need is one of the spiritual works of mercy. If you haven’t experienced being a prayer partner yet, we hope you will try this Jubilee Year of Mercy. During the Lenten season you will be given a name of someone from within the participating parishes to pray for during Lent and Easter. How do you do it? It can be a simple prayer of remembrance for your prayer partner’s needs. You can include their intentions in a decade of the rosary, at Mass time, or use the special prayer we will provide this year. If they give their phone number, you can make a personal contact to introduce yourself and exchange intentions with one another, but it is not required. It is up to the individual and how the Spirit leads them. Please sign-up by January 31, using the convenient sheet on the altar rail. Homebound persons can sign-up by calling Sr. Maureen at 897-9948 x 114 or 882-3129.

Reminder to Sodality Members ~ February 7 is the deadline for receipt of your $5.00 dues in order to be sure you are included in the new member directory and updated telephone tree. Membership is open to all women of the parish. If you would like more information, please leave your inquiry for Membership VP Mickey Dick  by Clicking HERE. The next general meeting is March 6, following Sunday Mass.

The Choir is now on its winter break. They’ll be individually backing up our sung praise for another week. We thank Music Director Nick DelBello and all the choir members for their dedication over the past months and look forward to their return on the First Sunday of Lent, February 14.

The Catholic Relief Services Collection will take place in our parish on the weekend of January 30 & 31. “Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me” (Mt 25:40). Today, we are reminded that Jesus identified himself with our poorest brothers and sisters. The Catholic Relief Services Collection serves Jesus in the victims of human trafficking, those who suffer from unjust laws, and those who need pastoral care and humanitarian assistance across the globe. Through supporting today’s collection, you help Jesus in disguise. Please be generous.

Find Good Within. Open hearts follow Jesus’ lead. During the typical chaos of separation and divorce, it’s important to remember that this impacts children. Parents can learn how to develop a “professional” relationship with their co-parent for the benefit of the children – and oneself. Catholic Charities’ Our Kids: Parent Education and Awareness programs, offered in the eight counties of the Diocese, are designed for any parents who have experienced conflict regarding custody and/or visitation issues. For details, call you local Catholic Charities office or 716-896-6390. Please give to the 2016 Catholic Charities Appeal. Find out more at www.ccwny.org or call 716-218-1400.

Sunday TV Mass ~ Do you know someone who misses going to Mass because of an illness or injury? The Diocese provides a televised Mass from the Our Lady Chapel at St. Joseph Cathedral each Sunday at 7:30 AM on the WUTV-Fox Channel.

Blessed Trinity 2016 Calendars are still available in the Ushers’ Pew. Share one with a friend.

Robert Zimmerman and Amy Grable in concert
at Blessed Trinity on February 14, 2016

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Mardi Gras Party and Wine Tasting & Pairing at Assumption Church, 425 Amherst St., Buffalo, on Friday, February 5, from 6-9 PM. Wines crafted by O-Neh-Da and Eagle Crest Vineyards. Refreshments available and also Games of Chance. Call 716-875-7626 for tickets and more information.

Ash Wed. Fish Fry ~ St. Katharine Drexel Parish invites you to “the best Ash Wednesday fish fry,”  February 10, 4-7 PM in the parish hall. Dinners are $10 pre-sale and $11 at the door. Mac & Cheese is available for $4. The church is located at 135 N. Ogden Street, Buffalo 14206.

BISON Children’s Scholarship Fund ~ This fund believes that all children, whether rich or poor, should have access to the widest array of educational opportunities as possible. By offering partial scholarship assistance to economically disadvantaged families, BISON is empowering parents, often for the first time, with the ability to choose the school which best meets their child’s needs. Visit the website at www.bisonfund.com and complete an electronic Scholarship Pre-Application for the 2016-17 school year. Please note the scholarship amounts very depending on the family’s income, household size and the school’s tuition cost. The highest scholarship amount for 2016-17 will be $1,800. Families will be expected to contribute partial tuition towards their child’s education. Time of the essence! Our first deadline is February 29, 2016. All pre-applications will be entered into a lottery drawing in early March. If your name is drawn in the lottery, you will received notification with instructions on how to proceed with the application. If you have questions or need further information, call the BISON Fund office at 716-854-0869.

Respite Weekend for Women with Cancer ~ March 4–6, 2016 at Stella Niagara. Application deadline is Thursday, February 18. If you know someone, applications are available by calling Sr. Maureen at 897-9948, x114.

2016 Lenten Program

Jan 31, 2016 | This Week

3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time – Week of January 24, 2016

Jan 24, 2016 | This Week

Requiescat in pace – Rest in peace
Deacon Jimmie L. Boyd
August 22, 1940 – January 20, 2016

January 24 – January 31, 2016

Weekly Activities

Sunday, January 24 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Coffee Hour in St. Charles Hall, hosted by our Holy Name Society

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

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

Saturday, January 30 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  Thursday, October 15, 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, January 24 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Bridget Blesnuk (Requested by Duffy Sisters) and John Allen (Requested by Bud and Mickey Dick)

Monday, January 25 ~ Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle ~ Communion Service at 11:00 a.m. in Daily Mass Chapel

Tuesday, January 26 ~ St. Timothy and St. Titus ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Wednesday, January 27 ~ St. Angela Merici ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds, and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Thursday, January 28 ~  St. Thomas Aquinas ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Friday, January 29 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

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

Sunday, January 31 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Norm Shoeing (Ed Marien) and Robert, Celia and Emmanuel Marien (Kathleen Marien)

Readings for the Week of January 17

Sunday: Is 62:1-5; Ps 96:1-2, 2-3, 7-8, 9-10; 1 Cor 12:4-11; Jn 2:1-11
Monday: Acts 22:3-16 or 9:1-22; Ps 117:1-2; Mk 16:15-18
Tuesday: 2 Tm 1:1-8 or Ti 1:1-5; Ps 96:1-3, 7-8, 10; Mk 3:31-35
Wednesday: 2 Sm 7:4-17; Ps 89:4-5, 27-30; Mk 4:1-20
Thursday: 2 Sm 7:18-19, 24-29; Ps 132:1-5, 11-14; Mk 4:21-25
Friday: 2 Sm 11:1-4a, 5-10a, 13-17; Ps 51:3-7, 10-11; Mk 4:26-34
Saturday: 2 Sm 12:1-7a, 10-17; Ps 51:12-17; Mk 4:35-41
Sunday, January 31: Jer 1:4-5, 17-19; Ps 71:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 15, 17; 1 Cor 12:31-13:13 or 13:4-13; Lk 4:21-30

News from our Parish Community

Deacon Jimmie L. Boyd ~ We at Blessed Trinity wish to thank all who came together this past week to mourn the loss of our Deacon, Jimmie L. Boyd, who passed from death into life on January 20, 2016. On behalf of the Boyd family, our parish family, and his many friends, we express gratitude for your comforting presence.  We would also like to acknowledge the members of the deacon community for their prayerful remembrance of Jimmie at our church on Friday evening, and for all who helped to make the Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday such a meaningful “homecoming” and celebration of his life.

“A Celebration of Love,”
Sun., Feb. 14 at 3 PM

The Trinity Series of “beautiful music in a beautiful space…” continues with a Celebration of Love, Sunday February 14, at 3:00 p.m. Be with us on Valentine’s Day as Tenor Robert Zimmerman and Soprano Amy Grable, accompanied by pianist Dr. Lori Abbott, perform some of musical theater’s most cherished loved songs. Following this sweet treat for your heart and soul, you’ll be able to satisfy your sweet tooth AND meet our musical guests at a post-concert reception. A free-will offering will be taken, with a $10 suggested offering.

Coffee Hour ~ Our January Coffee Hour is Sunday, January 24, following the 10 AM Mass. It will be hosted by the Holy Name Society.

MLK Scholarships ~ If you would like to support the mission of the Martin Luther King Scholarship Fund – extending quality Catholic education to all – please use the “Thank You” envelope found in each pew and place your donation in the collection on January 23/24. You may direct any questions regarding the Fund or how to apply for a scholarship to parishioner Jessie Wells.

Are you ready to join the discussion? Our Lenten program is taking shape, with three of four Wednesday evenings – February 17 and 24 and March 2 – devoted to prayer, meditation and discussion led by Evelyn Brady.  We encourage everyone to participate, whether or not you have read A Spirituality of Being Human by  Dr. Hugh Brady. Copies of the book, which will be basis of the meditation and discussion, are still available after Sunday Mass from Dianne Riordan or during the week at the rectory. A portion of the $20 purchase price is being donated to the Little Portion Friary. Additional information about the Lenten program will be provided in the weeks to come.

Prayer Partners for Lent ~ During this Jubilee Year of Mercy, members of the Catholic Churches of Central Buffalo will once again join as Lenten prayer partners. If you would like to participate, please use the sign-up sheet found on the altar rail. You will receive a “partner” from one of the other parishes to pray for during the Lenten season and a special prayer that you can recite when remembering their needs. And someone in another parish will be praying for you. If you are willing to be contacted by your prayer partner, you may include your phone number when signing up, but this is not required. Homebound persons can sign-up by calling Sr. Maureen at 897-9948, ext. 114, or 882-3129.

The Catholic Relief Services Collection will take place in our parish next weekend, January 30 & 31.  You can “help Jesus in disguise,” providing food to the hungry, support to displaced refugees, and Christ’s love and respect to all people. Please give generously to this collection which supports six Catholic agencies that touch more than 100 million lives around the world.

Basket of Cheer Raffle
Sunday, February 7 at Coffee Hour

Basket of Cheer Raffle ~ Please support the Ladies Sodality’s annual raffle, which will take place in two weeks on Sunday, February 7, at a special coffee hour. If you need additional chances, you will find the purple sheets on a table at the church divide. Thank you for returning your raffle tickets.

Reminder to Sodality Members ~ Please remember to pay your annual dues (still only $5) by the end of the month. Mickey Dick hopes to have the member directory and telephone tree updated before the March 6 general meeting, but she needs accurate information from all. Membership is open to all women of the parish, and forms are available on a table at the church divide.  If you would like more information, please leave your inquiry for Membership VP Mickey Dick  by Clicking HERE.

The Choir is now on its winter break. For the next 2 weeks, they’ll be individually backing up our sung praise. We thank Music Director Nick DelBello and all the choir members for their dedication over the past months and look forward to their return on the February 14, the First Sunday of Lent.

Find Good Within. Open hearts follow Jesus’ lead. The reach of Catholic Charities extends throughout the eight counties of Western New York. Thousands in our area struggle daily to provide food for their family, complete their education or start a new life away from abuse. Have you made a contribution reflecting your care and concern? Support our efforts to improve the lives of those in need. Please watch for your letter and card from Catholic Charities and promptly respond. Give hope to those in need. Please give to the 2016 Catholic Charities Appeal. Find out more at ccwny.org to call 716-218-1400.

Prisoner Gift Project ~ Peaceprints has received many thank you notes from the inmates of Wende and Albion Correctional Facilities for the Christmas gift bags assembled in our church. Here are a few of their comments: “Being here is hard but being here during the holidays is even harder. Your bag was uplifting…. Your gift each year truly warms my heart and soul…. You put a lot of smiles on the ladies of Albion…. It is nice to know that we are not forgotten – we were touched…. It was a surprise to me because I don’t have family to help me. I’ll wait until next year for that special bag…. It means a lot to those of us who have no family on the outside…. Your prayers will strengthen me in these hard times.”

Docent Mickey Dick offers visitors a primer
on medieval iconography.

“Explore Buffalo” invites “[v]isitors, residents, and students of all ages…to experience Buffalo’s unique architectural and historical legacy up-close with expert volunteers…dedicated to providing the city’s friendliest, most comprehensive, best informed tours.” On December 29 and 30, Explore Buffalo came to Blessed Trinity, and a total of 65 WNYers did just that as Judy Casassa, Mickey Dick, Sr. Liz Savage, Eleanor Ash and Nancy Yager welcomed them and provided facts and a few fables about the church building as well as parish and neighborhood history. Tour admissions resulted in proceeds of $985.00 for the Under This Roof Fund. Thanks to our dedicated docents and Explore Buffalo’s Brad Hahn for helping more folks discover Blessed Trinity.

Blessed Trinity 2016 Calendars are still available in the Ushers’ Pew. Share one with a friend.

Robert Zimmerman and Amy Grable in concert
at Blessed Trinity on February 14, 2016

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Mardi Gras Party and Wine Tasting & Pairing at Assumption Church, 425 Amherst St., Buffalo, on Friday, February 5, from 6-9 PM. Wines crafted by O-Neh-Da and Eagle Crest Vineyards. Refreshments available and also Games of Chance. Call 716-875-7626 for tickets and more information.

BISON Children’s Scholarship Fund ~ This fund believes that all children, whether rich or poor, should have access to the widest array of educational opportunities as possible. By offering partial scholarship assistance to economically disadvantaged families, BISON is empowering parents, often for the first time, with the ability to choose the school which best meets their child’s needs. Visit the website at www.bisonfund.com and complete an electronic Scholarship Pre-Application for the 2016-17 school year. Please note the scholarship amounts very depending on the family’s income, household size and the school’s tuition cost. The highest scholarship amount for 2016-17 will be $1,800. Families will be expected to contribute partial tuition towards their child’s education. Time of the essence! Our first deadline is February 29, 2016. All pre-applications will be entered into a lottery drawing in early March. If your name is drawn in the lottery, you will received notification with instructions on how to proceed with the application. If you have questions or need further information, call the BISON Fund office at 716-854-0869.

2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time – Week of January 17, 2016

Jan 17, 2016 | This Week

Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Observed
January 18
Photo credit: Phil Woods

January 17 – January 24, 2016

Weekly Activities

Wednesday, January 20 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Parish Council Meeting in St. Charles Hall

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

Saturday, January 23 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall

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

Sunday, January 24 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Coffee Hour in St. Charles Hall, hosted by our Holy Name Society

*In response to requests from our players, we have instituted age restrictions for admission to Bingo. As of  Thursday, October 15, 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, January 17 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Geraldine Waters (Requested by the Gallisdorfers) and James Hartzell (Requested by Judy Casassa)

Monday, January 18 ~ Communion Service at 11:00 a.m. in Daily Mass Chapel

Tuesday, January 19 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Wednesday, January 20 ~ St. Fabian; St. Sebastian ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Winifred Enright (Estate)

Thursday, January 21 ~  St. Agnes ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. -Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Friday, January 22 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Saturday, January 23 ~ Baptisms at 1:30 p.m. – Abigail Rose Arnold and Daniel Benjamin Sperandeo

Saturday, January 23 ~ St. Vincent; St. Marianne Cope ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Deceased Members of the Ryan, Reilly, Reynolds, and Pfeiffer Families (Estate of Mary Reilly)

Sunday, January 24 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Bridget Blesnuk (Duffy Sisters) and John Allen (Bud and Mickey Dick)

Readings for the Week of January 17

Sunday: Is 62:1-5; Ps 96:1-2, 2-3, 7-8, 9-10; 1 Cor 12:4-11; Jn 2:1-11
Monday: 1 Sm 15:16-23; Ps 50:8-9, 16-17, 21, 23; Mk 2:18-22
Tuesday: 1 Sm 16:1-13; Ps 89:20-22, 27-28; Mk 2:23-28
Wednesday: 1 Sm 17:32-33, 37, 40-51; Ps 144:1-2, 9-10; Mk 3:1-6
Thursday: 1 Sm 18:6-9; 19:1-7; Ps 56:2-3, 9-13; Mk 3:7-12
Friday: 1 Sm 24:3-21; Ps 57:2-4, 6, 11; Mk 3:13-19
Saturday: 2 Sm 1:1-4, 11-12, 19, 23-27; Ps 80:2-3, 5-7; Mk 3:20-21
Sunday, January 24: Neh 8:2-4a, 5-6, 8-10; Os 19:8, 9, 10, 15; 1 Cor 12:12-30 or 12:12-14, 27; Lk 1:1-4; 4; 14-21

News from our Parish Community

Celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King ~ The Diocesan Mass celebration of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is Sunday, January 17, at 10:30 AM at St. Martin de Porres Church, 555 Northampton St., Buffalo. The celebrant and homilist, Rev. Bishop Martin D. Holley from the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., will expand on the theme of “Do You Know Mercy?” and the concept of love as the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend. The annual event is sponsored by the African American Commission of the Office of Cultural Diversity of our diocese. A reception featuring theme baskets will follow the Mass, with proceeds benefiting the MLK Scholarship Fund.

MLK Scholarships ~ At this Sunday’s Diocesan Mass celebrating the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., three young women – Mikaila Frazier, Mikeisha Frazier and Adalia Romero-Horta – will receive awards from the Martin Luther King Scholarship Fund, giving them the opportunity to continue their education in a Catholic High School of their choice. We join in congratulating them, and extend our sincere thanks to parishioner Jessie Wells, who has served on the scholarship committee for many years. You will find special “Thank You” envelopes in the pews this weekend for the Scholarship Fund, which will mark its  30^th anniversary in 2017. Please be generous in supporting its mission of extending quality Catholic education to all. If you are not in a position to donate today, please keep the envelope and make your contribution next weekend.

The Parish Council meets Wednesday, January 20, at 7 PM in St. Charles Hall.
Summary of the December 16, 2015 Parish Council Meeting: The Finance Council meets weekly. Repair to St. Charles Hall is completed and the FLARE Building has a new boiler. Insurance covered both, after our deductible ($1,000 each). Parishioners are urged to get a copy of A Spirituality of Being Human in preparation for discussion during Lent. The plan to increase parish membership is in process. Thanks to all who contributed hot chocolate for the Prison Ministries project. Special thanks to Judy Casassa, Amy Johnson and Dan Korchowsky for their extensive work on the project. Council members include: Vera Andrew, Thomas Brodfuehrer, Bud Dick, Mickey Dick (V. Pres.), Darvan Draper, S. Peggy Gallagher, (Pres.), Helen Roddy Gray, Madonna Hartzell, Robert Heicklen, S. Barbara Horan, Daniel Korchowsky, Father Reger, Dianne Riordan, S. Elizabeth Savage (Secty.), Jessie Wells, and Palma Zanghi.

The Choir is now on its winter break. For the next 3 weeks, they’ll be individually backing up our sung praise. We thank Music Director Nick DelBello and all the choir members for their dedication over the past months and look forward to their return on the February 14, the First Sunday of Lent.

Coffee Hour ~ Our January Coffee Hour is Sunday, January 24, following the 10 AM Mass. It will be hosted by the Holy Name Society.

A Prayer of Thanksgiving for all who braved the snow squall on Tuesday evening, January 12, and helped remove and store our Christmas decorations for another year: Tom, Drew and Nik Brodfuehrer; Judy Casassa, Darvan and Vontrese Draper, Bud and Mickey Dick, Sister Barbe, Dan Korchowsky, Dorothy Manuppelli, Kathleen Marien, Kathy Press, Father George, Sister Liz Savage, Suzanne and Gary Tocke, and Sue Trabert.

Basket of Cheer Raffle ~ By now you should have received chances in the mail for the Ladies Sodality’s annual raffle, which will take place on Sunday, February 7. If you did not or would like additional sheets, you will find them on a table at the church divide. Thank you for supporting our parish fundraiser.

Reminder to Sodality Members ~ Membership in the Ladies Sodality runs with the calendar year, and annual dues of $5.00 for 2016 are now due. Please return the request form you received in the mail along with your dues and contact information by the end of January so that Mickey Dick can update the member directory and telephone tree. Membership is open to all women of the parish, and this is the best time to join. If you would like more information, please leave your inquiry for Membership VP Mickey Dick  by Clicking HERE. The next general meeting is March 6, following Sunday Mass.

Prisoner Gift Project ~ Peaceprints has received many thank you notes from the inmates of Wende and Albion Correctional Facilities for the Christmas gift bags assembled in our church. Here are a few of their comments: “Being here is hard but being here during the holidays is even harder. Your bag was uplifting…. Your gift each year truly warms my heart and soul…. You put a lot of smiles on the ladies of Albion…. It is nice to know that we are not forgotten – we were touched…. It was a surprise to me because I don’t have family to help me. I’ll wait until next year for that special bag…. It means a lot to those of us who have no family on the outside…. Your prayers will strengthen me in these hard times.”

Docent Mickey Dick offers visitors a primer
on medieval iconography.

“Explore Buffalo” invites “[v]isitors, residents, and students of all ages…to experience Buffalo’s unique architectural and historical legacy up-close with expert volunteers…dedicated to providing the city’s friendliest, most comprehensive, best informed tours.” On December 29 and 30, Explore Buffalo came to Blessed Trinity, and a total of 65 WNYers did just that as Judy Casassa, Mickey Dick, Sr. Liz Savage, Eleanor Ash and Nancy Yager welcomed them and provided facts and a few fables about the church building as well as parish and neighborhood history. Tour admissions resulted in proceeds of $985.00 for the Under This Roof Fund. Thanks to our dedicated docents and Explore Buffalo’s Brad Hahn for helping more folks discover Blessed Trinity.

The Trinity Series continues ~ Our next concert is February 14 at 3 PM when soprano Amy Grable and tenor Robert Zimmerman bring us their Celebration of Love. The husband and wife duo who opened our 2014-15 Series are back by popular demand singing some of musical theater’s most cherished love songs – and just in time for Valentine’s Day. Mark you calendars, and plan to be with us on February 14.

Blessed Trinity 2016 Calendars are still available in the Ushers’ Pew. Share one with a friend.

Many thanks to all of the parishioners from Blessed Trinity Church who came to the Catholic Central Helping Hands Food Pantry (CCHHFP) to lend their support. During the year 2015 these included the following: Luis Clay, Cathy Cummings, Darvan Draper, Marquis Draper, Vontrese Draper, Sharon “Shammy” Dunnigan, Nashelle Gittens, Lorena James, Miles James, Dan Korchowsky, Dianne Riordan, Elizabeth Bailey Sands and Palma Zanghi. I am especially grateful for those who gave their support during the months of May to September on many Saturdays. Due to the lack of participating school programs during this time period, we relied on parishioners plus regular volunteers who come weekly to carry us through the summer. Sincerely, Richard Plunkett.

Robert Zimmerman and Amy Grable in concert
at Blessed Trinity on February 14, 2016

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

BISON Children’s Scholarship Fund ~ This fund believes that all children, whether rich or poor, should have access to the widest array of educational opportunities as possible. By offering partial scholarship assistance to economically disadvantaged families, BISON is empowering parents, often for the first time, with the ability to choose the school which best meets their child’s needs. Visit the website at www.bisonfund.com and complete an electronic Scholarship Pre-Application for the 2016-17 school year. Please note the scholarship amounts very depending on the family’s income, household size and the school’s tuition cost. The highest scholarship amount for 2016-17 will be $1,800. Families will be expected to contribute partial tuition towards their child’s education. Time of the essence! Our first deadline is February 29, 2016. All pre-applications will be entered into a lottery drawing in early March. If your name is drawn in the lottery, you will received notification with instructions on how to proceed with the application. If you have questions or need further information, call the BISON Fund office at 716-854-0869.