Mar 9, 2015 | Upcoming Events
Blessed Trinity welcomes the Buffalo Mass Mob on Sunday, March 22nd. Rev. George L. Reger, the church’s pastor, will celebrate the 10:00 a.m. Liturgy of the Fifth Sunday of Lent. Congregational singing will be led by the Blessed Trinity Choir, under the direction of Nick DelBello.
From 9:15 – 9:45 a.m., church docents will be present to provide descriptions of the church’s architectural features and explanations of symbolism and artworks. They will also remain after the 10:00 a.m. Mass to answer questions about our Landmark Church, considered to be the purest replication of twelfth century Lombard Romanesque-style architecture in the United States.
Following the Mass, the parish will host a reception in the adjacent parish center, St. Charles Hall.
For those who are not familiar with the “Mass Mob,” it is simply an invitation extended via social media “to support and experience some of Buffalo’s wonderful churches….” The idea sprang from the successful Buffalo Cash Mob, which was an attempt to support locally owned businesses by encouraging people to shop there on a given weekend. Its organizers hope to “create more awareness and appreciation for sacred sites in Western New York through the simple act of experiencing them in their intended purpose and encourage people to attend Mass more at Buffalo’s historic churches.”
The first Mass Mob took place at St. Adalbert Basilica in November 2013. Since then, the Mass Mob has visited seven city churches from South Buffalo to Black Rock. Blessed Trinity will be the site of Mass Mob IX.
Anyone who attended Mass Mob VIII at St. Casimir will surely want to follow-up with a visit to Blessed Trinity. Like St. Casimir, the architect for Blessed Trinity was also Chester Oakley (along with Albert Schallmo). Both buildings were under construction at the same time, St. Casimir being completed in 1926 and Blessed Trinity in 1928. To read more about the outstanding architectural features of our Landmark edifice, Click HERE.
Mar 9, 2015 | Upcoming Events
THE TRINITY SERIES CONTINUES …
March 29th concert to be preceded by guided tours
The Camerata di Sant’ Antonio in concert at Blessed Trinity.
Photo credit: Margaret Dick
The Camerata di Sant’ Antonio Chamber Orchestra …
“celebrating community through music.”
Sunday, March 29, 2015 at 3:00 p.m.
On Sunday, March 29, 2015, the Camerata di Sant’ Antonio will perform at Blessed Trinity Church as part of the church’s Trinity Concert Series of “beautiful music in a beautiful space.” Under the direction of Christopher Weber, the professional music ensemble will present Mozart Noir, celebrating the music of gifted Black Composers.
Founded in 2002, the Camerata seeks to present concerts that preserve and celebrate the cultural heritage of our community, featuring premier works in every performance. Selections will include the U.S. premier of the Haitian Dance Suite by Samuel Coleridge Taylor (aka the “Black Mahler”), and works of the Chevalier de Saint George (known as the “Mozart noir”), whose music inspired the young Wolfgang Amadeus and made music history.
Blessed Trinity, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is considered to be the purest replication of twelfth-century Lombard-Romanesque architecture in the United States. The building has also gained international recognition for its “splendid acoustic,” making it an ideal setting in which to experience the music of the Camerata.
Church docents will provide pre-concert tours of the Buffalo Landmark and its “beautiful space” from 2:15 – 2:45 p.m. There will also be a reception in the parish hall following the concert, courtesy of the Amberleigh Retirement Community at Williamsville.
Tickets for the concert are $17 in advance (716-856-3626) or at the door. Funding from the City of Buffalo will provide free admission for students under the age of 15 when accompanied by an adult or high school students with valid school identification.
Blessed Trinity is located at 317 Leroy Avenue (between Fillmore and Grider) and is wheelchair accessible with secured off-street parking.
Mar 9, 2015 | Upcoming Events
Fifth Annual Sacred Sites Open House Weekend
Saturday, May 16, 2015 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Sunday, May 17, 2015 from 12:00 Noon – 2:00 p.m.
On May 16 and 17, Blessed Trinity will participate in the New York Landmarks Conservancy’s Fifth Annual Sacred Sites Open House Weekend, inviting the public to experience our house of worship as a repository of faith, art, and history. Members of our docent team will be on hand to explain the church’s unique features that make it the purest replication of Lombard-Romanesque architecture in the United States. You’ll be able to examine its handmade bricks set in a style dating back to the Middle Ages, learn about the elaborate display of medieval iconography on the terra cotta portico, and stand in awe at the more than 2,000 symbols summarizing Christian beliefs in ceramic tiles, paintings and sculpture. Watch for additional details as they become available.
Mar 9, 2015 | Upcoming Events
2014-15 Trinity Series Concludes with
the Buffalo Brass Choir
Sunday, May 24 at 3:00 p.m.
The Buffalo Brass Choir in Concert at Blessed Trinity
On Sunday, May 24, Reflections on a Dance brings the concert season to a close as our resident ensemble, the Buffalo Brass Choir, under the direction of Nick DelBello, performs music inspired by the dance. Their repertoire will include Brahms’ Hungarian Dances, Ginastera’s Dances from Estancia and David Sampson’s imaginative Reflections on a Dance.
Mar 9, 2015 | Upcoming Events
In August, 2012, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced the creation of Path Through History Weekends, showcasing New York State’s history and cultural significance. Follow the Path to Blessed Trinity on the weekend of June 20-21. Our friendly docents will once again be available to lead tours of the exterior and interior of the church building, including descriptions of architectural features and explanations of symbolism and artworks. Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars and cameras. The event is free and open to the public. Details as they become available.
Mar 8, 2015 | This Week
Iconography in church facade symbolizing the Four Last Things: Death (skull), Judgment (scale, book of life, sword),
Heaven (crown, palm, stars), and Hell (not visible in photo). Photo credit: Chris Byrd
March 8 – March 15, 2015
Weekly Activities
Tuesday, March 10 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir rehearsal in St. Charles Hall.
Wednesday, March 11 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in St. Charles Hall ~ Simple Soup Supper
Thursday, March 12 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.
Saturday, March 14 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall.
Saturday, March 14 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.
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.
Click HERE to view our complete Schedule of Lenten Services.
Mass Intentions
Sunday, March 8 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Mary Reilly – Birthday Remembrance (Requested by the Ladies Sodality)
Monday, March 9 ~ Communion Service at 11:00 a.m.
Monday, March 9 ~ CCCB Lenten Journey Mass at 6:30 p.m. at St. Martin de Porres
Tuesday, March 10 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)
Wednesday, March 11 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Winifred Enright (Estate)
Wednesday, March 11 ~ Stations of the Cross at 7:00 p.m. in church
Thursday, March 12 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)
Friday, March 13 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)
Saturday, March 14 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Anne Szarejko – Wedding Anniversary Remembrance (Alexander, Husband)
Sunday, March 15 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Mary Hilliker (Angela Jost)
News from our Parish Community
Simple Soup Supper ~ Our lenten Simple Soup Supper is this Wednesday, March 11, from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. in St. Charles Hall. Please join us for fellowship and enjoy homemade soups. Then follow us to church for a special Way of the Cross at 7:00 p.m.
The Way of the Cross … A Light for my Path, Praying the Psalms on the Way of the Cross.
“My spirit is faint, my heart despairs, I stretch out my hands to you.” (Based on Ps. 143:4, 6a). During this Lenten Season, offer yourself the opportunity to meditate on the Station of the Cross in a different way. You are invited to gather to reflect on Jesus’ Way of the Cross by using the same prayers he used in his life: the Book of Psalms. The prayer service will journey through the traditional fourteen Stations of the Cross while providing time for personal reflection, an examination of conscience, and the communal singing of the psalms.
Buffalo Mass Mob Visits Blessed Trinity on March 22 ~ Many thanks to all the wonderful folks who volunteered to help before, during or after Mass Mob IX. If you didn’t get the chance to sign up and would like to, there are simple sign-up forms on the Communion rail. You may also sign-up on line by clicking HERE. We will get information to all volunteers on your assignments by next weekend. Our congregation has a reputation for making people feel welcome when they come here, so all of you are officially “welcomers,” with a warm smile and a sincere interest in our visitors. ALSO: The Mass Mob new initiative of making available t-shirts marking the event was very successful. They sold more than the necessary 50 shirts, with all the proceeds ($675) coming to Blessed Trinity! If you ordered a t-shirt, we expect it will be delivered to you on or about Monday, March 16 – in plenty of time for the Mass on March 22! We can have lots of bright safety green shirts throughout the Mass attendees – and later in the season as well. Thank you!!
Our Trinity Concert Series continues on Sunday, March 29, at 3:00 p.m., when the Camerata di Sant’ Antonio, under the direction of Christopher Weber, presents Mozart Noir celebrating the music of gifted Black Composers. Selections will include the U.S. premier of the Haitian Dance Suite by Samuel Coleridge Taylor (aka the “Black Mahler”) and works of the Chevalier de Saint George (known as the “Mozart noir”) whose music inspired the young Wolfgang Amadeus. Invite your friends and come early to enjoy a tour of the church (2:15-2:45 p.m.). There will also be an opportunity to meet the musicians at a post-concert reception in St. Charles Hall, hosted by the Amberleigh Retirement Community at Williamsville. Tickets for the concert are $17. Funding from the City of Buffalo will provide free admission for students under the age of 15 when accompanied by an adult or high school students with valid school identification.
Lenten Journey Masses ~ The 2015 schedule of remaining Monday Lenten Journey Masses sponsored by the Catholic Churches of Central Buffalo (“CCCB”) is as follows:
March 9 at St. Martin de Porres Church
March 16 at St. Katharine Drexel Church
March 23 at Blessed Trinity Church
Each Mass will begin at 6:30 p.m. and is followed by a social with light refreshments. It is hoped that members from all the CCCB parishes will take part in this Lenten Journey and attend as many of the Monday evening Masses as possible.
Statement of Church Contributions ~ Anyone needing a Statement of Contributions for income tax purposes, please contact Roy Laciura at the rectory (833-0301).
Lenten Reflection Materials ~ Copies of The Word Among Us containing all the scripture readings for the Masses of Lent and Daily Reflections for Lent by Jay Cormier were distributed on February 21 and 22. We encourage you to use them daily as a means to “deepen your experience of this solemn season of prayer and penance and prepare you to participate more fully in the joy of the great Easter mystery.” Extra booklets can be found on the ushers’ pew. Please feel free to take them for family and friends.
Special Collection ~ Thank you to everyone who participated in the 131st annual National Black and Indian Mission Collection last weekend. Your prayerful support enables people to come to know Jesus Christ in African American, Native American, and Alaska Native communities all over the U. S. A. Spreading the Gospel couldn’t happen without your support!
Catholic Charities ~ Catholic Charities Appeal Week 2015 starts on March 21. Please help ensure that the Diocese will reach its goal of $10.9 million by responding with your contribution or pledge today. Your donation helps educate, counsel and train parents, provide basic assistance to families and the hope of a brighter future to youth through our workforce and education programs. Find Good Within. Share God’s Goodness. Please support the 2015 Catholic Charities Appeal. Find out more at http://www.ccwny.org or call 716-218-1400.
News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community
Catholic Charities Offers a Gathering Place ~ The Adult Day Program located in the city of Buffalo, NY near the historic Broadway Market has been in existence since 1973 and was the first social adult day center in upstate New York. Currently there are between 35-40 participants, with an average daily census of between 12 and 18. The program operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Its staffing ratio ranges from 5:1 to 6:1. Some of the unique activities offered include: Tai Chi classes (Falls Prevention), inter-generational programming (collaborations with Buffalo Schools), creative and expressive arts, music and movement. Please call 896-6388, ext. 212, to arrange a visit for lunch and a tour.
Feb 28, 2015 | This Week
Photo Credit: Sean Brodfuhrer
February 22 – March 1, 2015
Weekly Activities
Tuesday, March 3 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir rehearsal in St. Charles Hall.
Thursday, March 5 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.
Saturday, March 7 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall.
Saturday, March 7 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.
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.
Click HERE to view our complete Schedule of Lenten Services.
Mass Intentions
Sunday, March 1 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Fred Reger (Requested by Judy Casassa) and John Justin White (Requested by Mary and Cindy White)
Monday, March 2 ~ Communion Service at 11:00 a.m.
Monday, March 2 ~ CCCB Lenten Journey Mass at 6:30 p.m. at Nativity Miguel School (former St. James School)
Tuesday, March 3 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Winifred Enright (Estate)
Wednesday, March 4 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Allen Andrew – Anniversary (Wife and Family)Anna Snyder (Estate)
Thursday, March 5 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. Mass – John J. Horan, Jr. (Family)
Friday, March 6 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)
Saturday, March 7 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Bud and Anne O’Connor (Family)
Sunday, March 8 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Mary Reilly – Birthday Remembrance (Ladies Sodality)
News from our Parish Community
Buffalo Mass Mob Comes to Blessed Trinity ~ We are happy to announce that we have been chosen as the site for Buffalo Mass Mob IX on Sunday, March 22. Not quite sure what a “Mass Mob” is? Think of it as a community-wide response to an invitation extended via social media “to support and experience some of Buffalo’s wonderful churches….” The movement, which originated in Buffalo and has been adopted in a number of other U.S. cities, encourages Western New Yorkers to attend Mass at historic city churches, thereby experiencing them not just as landmarks but as treasured houses of worship. Since November 2013 the Buffalo Mass Mob has promoted attendance at 8 other Catholic churches from South Buffalo to Black Rock. Attendance has steadily increased with each Mass Mob event, as has its popularity with parishioners at the churches involved. Now it’s our turn as Mass Mob IX comes to Blessed Trinity on March 22.
Plans are starting to fall into place to host several hundred people on this special Sunday. A number of parishioners have already volunteered to help, but we need more greeters, ushers, reception helpers, and folks who are willing to pitch-in “wherever needed” on that day or in preparation for it. There are simple sign-up forms on the Communion rail. If you can share a little of your time – and your smiling personality – for the event, please fill out a form with your name, phone number, email (if you have it) and your preferred job and put it in the box. You may also sign-up on line by clicking HERE. Someone will contact you with specific information on the task(s) that need your assistance. Welcoming the stranger is a good Lenten practice!!
Lenten Journey Masses ~ The 2015 schedule of remaining Monday Lenten Journey Masses sponsored by the Catholic Churches of Central Buffalo (“CCCB”) is as follows:
March 2 at Nativity Miguel School (former St. James School)
March 9 at St. Martin de Porres Church
March 15 at St. Katharine Drexel Church
March 23 at Blessed Trinity Church
Each Mass will begin at 6:30 p.m. and is followed by a social with light refreshments. It is hoped that members from all the CCCB parishes will take part in this Lenten Journey and attend as many of the Monday evening Masses as possible.
Statement of Church Contributions ~ Anyone needing a Statement of Contributions for income tax purposes, please contact Roy Laciura at the rectory (833-0301).
Simple Soup Supper
March 11 in St. Charles Hall
Photo Credit: Phyllis Lobbins
Simple Soup Supper ~ This year we are planning one Simple Soup Supper on Wednesday, March 11. If you are able to make SOUP or COOKIES for this event, please sign up this weekend, and thanks to those who have already volunteered. To do so online, Click HERE and leave your contact information. Following the supper we will have a special Way of the Cross at 7:00 p.m. in church. We hope you can plan to join us for this service.
Lenten Reflection Materials ~ Copies of The Word Among Us containing all the scripture readings for the Masses of Lent and Daily Reflections for Lent by Jay Cormier were distributed on February 21 and 22. We encourage you to use them daily as a means to “deepen your experience of this solemn season of prayer and penance and prepare you to participate more fully in the joy of the great Easter mystery.” Extra booklets can be found on the ushers’ pew. Please feel free to take them for family and friends.
Black History Quiz ~ Here’s a little trivia question to test your knowledge of Black Composers. Match the composer, Chevalier de Saint George or Samuel Coleridge Taylor, with his composition: 1. Haitian Dance Suite or 2. Symphonie Concertante in G for Two Violins. Then be sure to attend our next concert in the Trinity Series on Sunday, March 29, and hear the Camerata di Sant’ Antonio perform both pieces.
Special Collection ~ Our parish will take up the 131st annual National Black and Indian Mission Collection on the weekend of February 28/March 1. Our support of this collection helps build the Church in African American, Native American, and Alaska Native communities from coast to coast. Schools, parish religious education programs, and diocesan ministries depend on your generosity to help them spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ! You can help meet unmet needs with a generous contribution today. Thank you for your support.
The Ladies Sodality is pleased to welcome their newest member, Dianne Riordan. And a gentle reminder: If you have not paid your 2015 dues, remember to do so as soon as possible so that our membership chair may update the roster and email group/telephone tree. To learn more about our women’s group, Click HERE.
Mardi Gras Raffle ~ Due to the extreme weather conditions on Sunday, Feb. 15, the Sodality’s coffee hour and raffle were held on Sunday, February 22. Congratulations to Ken and Marilyn Szczepanski who won the first prize Basket of Cheer donated by Bill Warren and Hertel Parker Liquor, and second prize winners Vontrese Draper and Florentina Dozier, who will enjoy shopping at Wegman’s and Dash’s Markets with their second prize gift cards.
Catholic Charities: Sharing God’s Goodness With Children. Help the family who fled their homeland consumed by civil war and violence before beginning a new life in Buffalo. Jackie Bemeriki arrived in the United States from Rwanda in 1999 in pursuit of independence and opportunity. Catholic Charities Immigration and Refugee Assistance Program assisted her with food, housing, clothes and documents, and she now runs her own child care center to help other refugee families. Give to the Catholic Charities 2015 Appeal and join us to “find good within” for these and the tens of thousands of others who benefit from Catholic Charities 70 programs and services. Remember the lives you are touching with your contribution. Last year, through the generous support of donors throughout Western New York, Catholic Charities was able to positively impact the lives of children, families and seniors in our community with basic needs like food, clothing and shelter, to mental health counseling and educational services. Bishop Richard Malone has announced our goal of $10.9 million and patron saint of the 2015 Appeal. St. Francis of Assisi was a man of action whose simplicity of life extended to ideas and deeds. When you support the Appeal, you are “finding good within” and offering comfort and relief to people in need. Find out more at our newly redesigned website, http://www.ccwny.org or call 716-218-1400.
News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community
Respite for Women Caregivers ~ If you are a woman providing care for an adult and would like a few hours to restore yourself in a quiet setting, we invite you to join the Women’s Respite Program on March 7. The $25 fee includes lunch; scholarships are available. This will take place on the campus of Stella Niagara, 4421 Lower River Road, Stella Niagara, NY 14144. Meet others who are caregivers, learn stress-reduction techniques, and enjoy a good meal with good conversation. For information or to make a reservation, call (716) 893-0931.
Feb 22, 2015 | This Week
February 22 – March 1, 2015
Weekly Activities
Sunday, February 22 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Sodality Coffee Hour and Raffle in St. Charles Hall (rescheduled from February 15).
Tuesday, February 24 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Choir rehearsal in St. Charles Hall.
Thursday, February 26 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.
Saturday, February 28 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall.
Saturday, February 28 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.
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.
Click HERE to view our complete Schedule of Lenten Services.
Mass Intentions
Sunday, February 22 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Intentions of Dan Kelly (Requested by Gary Weber)
Monday, February 23 ~ St. Polycarp – Communion Service at 11:00 a.m.
Monday, February 23 ~ CCCB Lenten Journey Mass at 6:30 p.m. – Ss. Columba-Brigid Church
Tuesday, February 24 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)
Wednesday, February 25 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)
Thursday, February 26 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. Mass – Winifred Enright (Estate)
Friday, February 27 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)
Saturday, February 28 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)
Sunday, March 1 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Fred Reger (Judy Casassa) and John Justin White (Mary and Cindy White)
News from our Parish Community
A t-shirt created by Buffalo Mass Mob for Blessed Trinity, with proceeds going to our parish.
Buffalo Mass Mob Comes to Blessed Trinity ~ We are happy to announce that we have been chosen as the site for Buffalo Mass Mob IX on Sunday, March 22. The group has even created a souvenir t-shirt to commemorate its visit to our Landmark church, with proceeds benefiting our parish. Priced at $20, the t-shirt is only available online UNTIL FEBRUARY 28. To order one, click HERE.
Not quite sure what a “Mass Mob” is? Think of it as a community-wide response to an invitation extended via social media “to support and experience some of Buffalo’s wonderful churches….” The movement, which originated in Buffalo and has been adopted in a number of other U.S. cities, encourages Western New Yorkers to attend Mass at historic city churches, thereby experiencing them not just as landmarks but as treasured houses of worship. Since November 2013 the Buffalo Mass Mob has promoted attendance at 8 other Catholic churches from South Buffalo to Black Rock. Attendance has steadily increased with each Mass Mob event, as has its popularity with parishioners at the churches involved. Now it’s our turn as Mass Mob IX comes to Blessed Trinity on March 22. Our parish committee is still working to finalize plans for the day, but we are looking for volunteers to: help as greeters and ushers; assist at the reception following the Mass; or just be available to help as needed. If you are willing to help on or before March 22 but did not have an opportunity to sign up at Mass this weekend, please call the rectory and leave your contact information. Someone from the committee will be in touch.
Lenten Journey Masses ~ The 2015 schedule of Monday Lenten Journey Masses sponsored by the Catholic Churches of Central Buffalo (“CCCB”) is as follows: February 23 at Ss. Columba-Brigid Church
March 2 at Nativity Miguel School (former St. James School)
March 9 at St. Martin de Porres Church
March 15 at St. Katharine Drexel Church
March 23 at Blessed Trinity Church
Each Mass will begin at 6:30 p.m. and is followed by a social with light refreshments. It is hoped that members from all the CCCB parishes will take part in this Lenten Journey and attend as many of the Monday evening Masses as possible.
Mardi Gras Raffle ~ Due to the extreme weather conditions on Sunday, Feb. 15, the Sodality’s coffee hour and raffle were held on Sunday, February 22. Congratulations to Ken and Marilyn Szczepanski who won the first prize Basket of Cheer donated by Bill Warren and Hertel Parker Liquor, and second prize winners Vontrese Draper and Florentina Dozier, who will enjoy shopping at Wegman’s and Dash’s Markets with their second prize gift cards.
The Ladies Sodality is pleased to welcome their newest member, Dianne Riordan. And a gentle reminder: If you have not paid your 2015 dues, remember to do so as soon as possible so that our membership chair may update the roster and email group/telephone tree. To learn more about our women’s group, Click HERE.
Simple Soup Supper
March 11 in St. Charles Hall
Photo Credit: Phyllis Lobbins
Simple Soup Supper ~ This year we are planning one Simple Soup Supper on Wednesday, March 11. We will need volunteer soup makers and cookie bakers. Beginning February 21, we will have a sign-up board on a table near the piano. It will help us with our planning if you would sign up as soon as possible. Thank you for your help. Following the supper we will have a special Way of the Cross at 7:00 p.m. in church. We hope you can plan to join us for this service.
Statement of Church Contributions ~ Anyone needing a Statement of Contributions for income tax purposes, please contact Roy Laciura at the rectory (833-0301).
Lenten Reflection Materials ~ Copies of The Word Among Us containing all the scripture readings for the Masses of Lent and Daily Reflections for Lent by Jay Cormier were distributed on February 21 and 22. We have sufficient copies of both for each parishioner to receive them. If you were unable to attend Mass this weekend, look for your copy in the ushers’ pew. We encourage you to use them daily as a means to “deepen your experience of this solemn season of prayer and penance and prepare you to participate more fully in the joy of the great Easter mystery.”
Black History Quiz ~ Here’s a little trivia question to test your knowledge of Black Composers. Match the composer, Chevalier de Saint George or Samuel Coleridge Taylor, with his composition: 1. Haitian Dance Suite or 2. Symphonie Concertante in G for Two Violins. Then be sure to attend our next concert in the Trinity Series on Sunday, March 29, and hear the Camerata di Sant’ Antonio perform both pieces.
Scholarship Money Available for Catholic School Education ~ The BISON Children’s Scholarship Fund, a privately funded tuition assistance program for children in grades K-8, has scholarships available for the 2015-16 school year. Financially eligible families can fill out an eligibility form on the BISON website. The eligibility form deadline is February 28. With a maximum award of $1,500.00, this is a great opportunity for families who desire a Catholic education for their children but may be unable to afford it. For more information, visit http://www.bisonfund.com or call 1-888-216-8380.
Canisius High School Honors – The following students achieved honors during their second marking period: Marquis Draper – 12th Grade – Third Honors; Jonathan Sands – 10th Grade – First Honors; and Robert Sands – 12th Grade – Second Honors. Congratulations to you and your families!
Catholic Charities 2015 Goal ~ Find Good Within. Share God’s Goodness. Last year, through the generous support of donors throughout Western New York, Catholic Charities was able to positively impact the lives of children, families and seniors in our community with basic needs like food, clothing and shelter, to mental health counseling and educational services. Bishop Richard Malone has announced our goal of $10.9 million and patron saint of the 2015 Appeal. St. Francis of Assisi was a man of action whose simplicity of life extended to ideas and deeds. When you support the Appeal, you are “finding good within” and offering comfort and relief to people in need. Find out more at our newly redesigned website, http://www.ccwny.org or call 716-218-1400.
News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community
Free Tax Help ~ VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance), a program of the University at Buffalo’s Beta Alpha Psi Accounting and Finance students is offering FREE TAX HELP for those with annual incomes under $ 53,000 on Wednesday, February 25, 2015 from 2:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Black Rock School (OLBR), 16 Peter Street, behind Assumption Church. (VITA will stop accepting clients at 6:00 p.m.) Call OLBR at 873-7497 or visit www.OLBRSchool.com. For married couples filing jointly, both spouses must be present. For VITA you must bring the following:
- All W-2 and 1099 forms;
- Information about other incomes;
- Information for all deductions/credits;
- A copy of last year’s tax return;
- Proof of bank account for direct deposit of refund (check or bank account/routing number);
- Social Security cards for you AND your dependents;
- Proof of identification for you and your spouse (State license or passport);
- Total paid to daycare provider and provider’s tax ID number;
- Birth dates for you, spouse and/or dependents on the return;
- Proof of foreign status if applying for ITV;
- Forms 1095-A, B, or C (Affordable Health Care Statements).
Respite for Women Caregivers ~ If you are a woman providing care for an adult and would like a few hours to restore yourself in a quiet setting, we invite you to join the Women’s Respite Program on March 7. The $25 fee includes lunch; scholarships are available. This will take place on the campus of Stella Niagara, 4421 Lower River Road, Stella Niagara, NY 14144. Meet others who are caregivers, learn stress-reduction techniques, and enjoy a good meal with good conversation. For information or to make a reservation, call (716) 893-0931.
Feb 15, 2015 | This Week
Photo Credit: Bridget Blesnuk
February 15 – February 22, 2015
Weekly Activities
Sunday, February 15 ~ Due to the extreme weather conditions, the Sodality’s coffee hour and raffle have been postponed until NEXT Sunday, February 22. Both will take place in St. Charles Hall, following the 10:00 a.m. Mass.
Tuesday, February 17 ~ NO Choir rehearsal this week; rehearsals resume on Tuesday, Feb. 24 at 7:00 p.m. in St. Charles Hall.
Thursday, February 19 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.
Saturday, February 21 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 Noon ~ Helping Hands Food Pantry in St. Charles Hall.
Saturday, February 21 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.
Sunday, February 22 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Sodality Coffee Hour and Raffle in St. Charles Hall (rescheduled from February 15).
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 15 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Mary Hilliker (Requested by Angela Jost)
Monday, February 16 ~ Communion Service at 11:00 a.m.
Tuesday, February 17 ~ The 7 Holy Founders of Servite Order ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)
Wednesday, February 18 ~ Ash Wednesday
Mass at 12:00 Noon – George McNamara (Effie and Casey McNamara)
Mass at 6:00 p.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)
Thursday, February 19 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. Mass – Winifred Enright (Estate)
Friday, February 20 ~ Mass at 11:00 a.m. – Anthony and Teresa Hafner (Estate)
Saturday, February 21 ~ St. Peter Damian ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – John and Esther Horan (Family)
Sunday, February 15 ~ Mass at 10:00 a.m. – Intentions of Dan Kelly (Gary Weber)
News from our Parish Community
Wednesday, February 18, is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the holy season of Lent. There will be two opportunities to attend Mass and receive Ashes: 12 Noon and 6 p.m.
Lenten Reflection Materials ~ Copies of The Word Among Us containing all the scripture readings for the Masses of Lent and Daily Reflections for Lent by Jay Cormier were distributed on February 14 and 15. We have sufficient copies of both for each parishioner to receive them. If you were unable to attend Mass this weekend, look for your copy in the ushers’ pew. We encourage you to use them daily as a means to “deepen your experience of this solemn season of prayer and penance and prepare you to participate more fully in the joy of the great Easter mystery.”
A t-shirt created by Buffalo Mass Mob for Blessed Trinity, with proceeds going to our parish.
Buffalo Mass Mob Comes to Blessed Trinity ~ We are happy to announce that we have been chosen as the site for Buffalo Mass Mob IX on Sunday, March 22. The group has even created a souvenir t-shirt to commemorate its visit to our Landmark church, with proceeds benefiting our parish. To purchase a shirt — they are $20 — click HERE. If you’re not quite sure what a “Mass Mob” is, view our “Upcoming Events” post. Additional details about what to expect on March 22 and how you can help will be provided as they become available.
Mardi Gras Raffle ~ Due to the extreme weather conditions on Sunday, Feb. 15, the Sodality’s coffee hour and raffle have been postponed until Sunday, February 22. Winning tickets for the first prize Basket of Cheer and second prize gift cards for Wegman’s and Dash’s Markets will be drawn at the Sodality’s coffee hour following the 10 a.m. Mass on February 22. Additional chances are available at the rectory, on the table near the ushers’ pew, or at coffee hour prior to the drawing. Please do not deposit raffle returns in the collection on the day of the raffle, but bring them to St. Charles Hall or ask someone who is attending coffee hour to do it for you. This is the Sodality’s only scheduled 2015 fundraiser, so please support their efforts. The parish — and maybe you — will be the winner. Tickets are only $1 each or six for $5.
Sodality Dues Reminder ~ Membership in the Ladies Sodality runs with the calendar year. Please remember to pay your dues by February 22 so that our membership chair may update the roster and email group/telephone tree. To learn more about our women’s group, Click HERE.
Lenten Journey Masses ~ The 2015 schedule of Monday Lenten Journey Masses sponsored by the Catholic Churches of Central Buffalo (“CCCB”) is as follows: February 23 at Ss. Columba-Brigid Church
March 2 at Nativity Miguel School (former St. James School)
March 9 at St. Martin de Porres Church
March 15 at St. Katharine Drexel Church
March 23 at Blessed Trinity Church
Each Mass will begin at 6:30 p.m. and is followed by a social with light refreshments. It is hoped that members from all the CCCB parishes will take part in this Lenten Journey and attend as many of the Monday evening Masses as possible.
Simple Soup Supper
March 11 in St. Charles Hall
Photo Credit: Phyllis Lobbins
Simple Soup Supper ~ This year we are planning one Simple Soup Supper on Wednesday, March 11. We will need volunteer soup makers and cookie bakers. Beginning February 21, we will have a sign-up board on a table near the piano. It will help us with our planning if you would sign up as soon as possible. Thank you for your help. Following the supper we will have a special Way of the Cross at 7:00 p.m. in church. We hope you can plan to join us for this service.
Black History Quiz ~ Here’s a little trivia question to test your knowledge of Black Composers. Match the composer, Chevalier de Saint George or Samuel Coleridge Taylor, with his composition: 1. Haitian Dance Suite or 2. Symphonie Concertante in G for Two Violins. Then be sure to attend our next concert in the Trinity Series on Sunday, March 29, and hear the Camerata di Sant’ Antonio perform both pieces.
Scholarship Money Available for Catholic School Education ~ The BISON Children’s Scholarship Fund, a privately funded tuition assistance program for children in grades K-8, has scholarships available for the 2015-16 school year. Financially eligible families can fill out an eligibility form on the BISON website. The eligibility form deadline is February 28. With a maximum award of $1,500.00, this is a great opportunity for families who desire a Catholic education for their children but may be unable to afford it. For more information, visit http://www.bisonfund.com or call 1-888-216-8380.
Canisius High School Honors – The following students achieved honors during their second marking period: Marquis Draper – 12th Grade – Third Honors; Jonathan Sands – 10th Grade – First Honors; and Robert Sands – 12th Grade – Second Honors. Congratulations to you and your families!
Thank you for your generous contributions to the Collection for the Church in Central and Eastern Europe. Your gift is an expression of solidarity with the suffering people of this region. Through joining in the work of this collection, you are helping to restore the Church and build the future. Please visit www.usccb.org (search “Church in Central and Eastern Europe”) to learn more about what your donations have accomplished.
Catholic Charities 2015 Goal ~ Find Good Within. Share God’s Goodness. Last year, through the generous support of donors throughout Western New York, Catholic Charities was able to positively impact the lives of children, families and seniors in our community with basic needs like food, clothing and shelter, to mental health counseling and educational services. Bishop Richard Malone has announced our goal of $10.9 million and patron saint of the 2015 Appeal. St. Francis of Assisi was a man of action whose simplicity of life extended to ideas and deeds. When you support the Appeal, you are “finding good within” and offering comfort and relief to people in need. Find out more at our newly redesigned website, http://www.ccwny.org or call 716-218-1400.
News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community
Free Tax Help ~ VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance), a program of the University at Buffalo’s Beta Alpha Psi Accounting and Finance students is offering FREE TAX HELP for those with annual incomes under $ 53,000 on Wednesday, February 25, 2015 from 2:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Black Rock School (OLBR), 16 Peter Street, behind Assumption Church. (VITA will stop accepting clients at 6:00 p.m.) Call OLBR at 873-7497 or visit www.OLBRSchool.com. For married couples filing jointly, both spouses must be present. For VITA you must bring the following:
- All W-2 and 1099 forms;
- Information about other incomes;
- Information for all deductions/credits;
- A copy of last year’s tax return;
- Proof of bank account for direct deposit of refund (check or bank account/routing number);
- Social Security cards for you AND your dependents;
- Proof of identification for you and your spouse (State license or passport);
- Total paid to daycare provider and provider’s tax ID number;
- Birth dates for you, spouse and/or dependents on the return;
- Proof of foreign status if applying for ITV;
- Forms 1095-A, B, or C (Affordable Health Care Statements).
Respite for Women Caregivers ~ If you are a woman providing care for an adult and would like a few hours to restore yourself in a quiet setting, we invite you to join the Women’s Respite Program on March 7. The $25 fee includes lunch; scholarships are available. This will take place on the campus of Stella Niagara, 4421 Lower River Road, Stella Niagara, NY 14144. Meet others who are caregivers, learn stress-reduction techniques, and enjoy a good meal with good conversation. For information or to make a reservation, call (716) 893-0931.
Feb 15, 2015 | This Week
Lent 2015
Blessed Trinity Church
Ash Wednesday – February 18
Mass and Imposition of Ashes
12:00 Noon and 6:00 p.m.
Weekday Masses
February 19 – March 27
Tuesday through Friday at 11:00 a.m.
Daily Mass Chapel
Stations of the Cross
Wednesday, March 11 at 7:00 p.m. in Church
Preceded by Simple Soup Supper
5:30 – 6:30 p.m. in St. Charles Hall
Lenten Journey Masses
Mondays at 6:30 p.m.
February 23 at Ss. Columba-Brigid
March 2 at Nativity Miguel School (former St. James School)
March 9 at St. Martin de Porres Church
March 16 at St. Katharine Drexel
March 23 at Blessed Trinity
Penance Services
Tuesday, March 24, 7:00 p.m. at St. Joseph University Church
Monday, March 30, 6:30 p.m. at St. Lawrence Church
Holy Week, March 29 – April 5
Schedule to be announced
