Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Oct 13, 2013 | This Week

St. Luke, the Evangelist
October 18
The placement of circular paintings of the Four Evangelists in the pendentives supporting Blessed Trinity’s dome replicates a similar design from St. Peter’s in Rome. “Since Christ sent the Apostles out to preach the Good News of how much God loves us, this church rightly places the missionary emphasis of the Church in a prominent position.” (Rev. Walter Kern’s “Guidebook to Blessed Trinity R. C. Church,” page 21). Photo Credit: Gary Kelley.

October 13 – October 20, 2013

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

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

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

Saturday, October 19 from 12:00 Noon – 4:00 p.m. ~ Doors Open Niagara open house and tours of church.

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

Sunday, October 20 from 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.  ~ Doors Open Niagara open house and tours of church.

We now have: Red, White & Blue; carry over Bonus Ball; and a progressive Share-the-Wealth! To check the carry over amounts and progressive numbers for this week, click HERE and visit our Facebook page.

Mass Intentions

Sunday, October 13 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Margarita Padin (Requested by Penny Hererra) and William Blesnuk (Requested by Family)

Monday, October 14 ~ Pope St. Callistus I ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, October 15 ~ St. Teresa of Jesus ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Bernard H. Fix and Ruth R. Fix (Estate)

Wednesday, October 16 ~ St. Hedwig; St. Margaret Mary Alacoque ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish

Thursday, October 17 ~ St. Ignatius of Antioch ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Winifred Enright (Estate)

Friday, October 18 ~ St. Luke ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Saturday, October 19 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Art West (Family)

Sunday, October 20 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Gus Marien (Ed Marien) and Norine Hackney (Sharon Dunnigan)

News from our Parish Community

This interior photo of Blessed Trinity by Ray Ordinario of Ft. Erie, Ontario was awarded Honorable Mention in the 2008 Doors Open Photography Contest. Dr, Ordinario donated a framed copy of his photo to Blessed Trinity, and it was awarded as a prize at a fundraiser for the church’s “Under This Roof” preservation fund.

Our Parish Council will meet in St. Charles Hall at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 16.

Doors Open Niagara ~ On the weekend of October 19-20, 2013, Blessed Trinity will participate in the Bi-National Tourism Alliance’s Doors Open Niagara weekend. We will join dozens of sites all over WNY showcasing their landmark buildings. Click HERE to read more about this unique tourism opportunity. The Open House will take place on Saturday, October 19 from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. (before 4:30 Mass), and on Sunday, October 20 from 11:30 a.m. (after 10:00 Mass) to 3:30 p.m. When you visit Blessed Trinity on either of those days, you’ll receive a map showing the other WNY and nearby Canadian sites that are also open to the public. If you have volunteered to serve as a docent, greeter or sales associate, you should have received your assignment from Judy Casassa. Please remember to arrive 10 minutes before your start time.

Revival 2013 ~ The African American Commission of the Office of Cultural Diversity invites you to Revival 2013. The revival will be led by Buffalo native, Rev. Arthur Cavitt. The theme for this year’s revival is We Walk By Faith… in Faith… through Faith. The revival will be held on Monday, October 14 through Wednesday, October 16, at St. Martin de Porres, 355 Northampton Street. Service will begin each night at 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday is Teen Night. A reception will be held Wednesday following the service. The members of the African American Commission encourage attendees to bring a refreshment to share. Refreshments should be delivered by 5:30 p.m. For additional information please Click HERE to leave a message for Althea Porter.

The Ladies Sodality is now accepting nominations for the offices of president, vice president, treasurer, recording secretary and corresponding secretary. Elections will be held at the general membership meeting on October 27, preceded by a discussion of the Sodality’s Bylaws. To qualify for office, you must be a Sodality member in good standing. Those interested in running can make their intentions known by: (1) speaking to a member of the nominating committee; (2) placing your name and desired office in an envelope addressed to “Sodality” and placing it in the collection basket by October 20; or (3) placing your name in nomination at the October 27th meeting. Candidates unable to attend the October meeting must agree in writing to have their name placed in nomination. Nominating committee members are: Vera Andrew, Yvonne Andrew, Mickey Dick and Helen Roddy Gray. Dorothy Prystawski, who is on committee for the October meeting, is requesting your cooperation. Please Click HERE and let her know that you will be attending so she can plan for the luncheon.

World Mission Sunday is October 20. Please use the special envelope you received with your weekly envelopes and be as generous as possible. This year we are invited to act in solidarity with missionaries in India and throughout the world. Every day, faithful missionaries are reaching out in the name of Christ, offering practical, emotional and spiritual care to communities, children and families in desperate need, bringing the light of Christ to the darkest of circumstances. For more information, click HERE.

The Sisters of Social Service will continue to celebrate the 90th Anniversary of their founding with a dinner on Thursday, October 17, at 6:30 p.m. at Salvatore’s Italian Gardens, 6461 Transit Road in Depew. Recognition awards will be presented to: Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper for its outstanding work in restoring and preserving the waterways of WNY; The Victim Services Program of the International Institute of Buffalo for its advocacy and services for the victims of human trafficking in our area; and the Jericho Road Community Health Center which provides medical and social services to refugees and low-income individuals on the West and East Sides of Buffalo. For information and reservations, call 716-834-0197.

Congratulations to Catherine Ejimadu, daughter of parishioner Fidelia Ejimadu, who was one of two students from the Catholic Churches of Central Buffalo to receive a scholarship from the Albert Lenhard, St. Matthew, St. Martin de Porres Scholarship Fund. Father Ron Sajdak announced the awards  of $1,200.00 each to Ms. Ejimadu and Zoe Obstarczyk. He also extended his gratitude to the members of the Catholic African American Commission who received, studied and made the award recommendations to Father Ron who, as pastor of St. Martin de Porres, awarded the scholarships. Going forward, scholarships will be awarded yearly in January at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Annual Diocesan Celebration. New application forms will be forthcoming.

Christ the King Seminary will hold an Open House on Saturday, October 26, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.  The Knights of Columbus will be giving tours of the East Aurora campus beginning at 2:00 p.m. Following the tours, representatives of the Seminary will be available in the main dining room to answer questions about Seminary programs. Light refreshments will be served. The event is free and open to all. Visit the events section at www.ctk.edu or call 716-805-1438 for more information.

An Invitation from Bishop Malone ~ To all couples who celebrate their 50th, 60th or 70th Anniversaries of Marriage in 2013 – You are invited to a special Mass in St. Joseph Cathedral on Sunday, October 27, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. On this day the entire Diocese of Buffalo will join those celebrating in their joy and gratitude to God, who has set them among us as a sign of His constant and faithful love. During the Mass, couples will renew their marriage vows. A reception will follow at the Adam’s Mark Hotel.

Sister Maureen Harris is “still on cloud nine,” and wants to send out a huge THANK YOU to all who contributed in any way to the joyous occasion celebrating her 50th Jubilee. Adds Sr. Maureen: “My heart is overflowing with joy and gratitude for all God’s blessings.”

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Mount St. Mary Academy Hosts a Spaghetti Dinner and Concert on Saturday, October 26, 2013. Dinner starts at 5 p.m. and the concert is at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 presale and $14 at the door. Call 689-1100 for tickets. The concert includes Mount St. Mary Academy Jazz Ensemble, Dance Team and Jazz Ensemble. Also appearing will be the Buffalo Silver Band and a fashion show by OOO La La Boutiques.

“The Book of Genesis: To Begin Again” ~ Presented by Kathleen O’Connor on Saturday, October 26, from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at Millennium Airport Hotel, 2040 Walden Ave, Cheektowaga, NY 14225. Join us for a full day of rich reflection on the Book of Genesis. This year we welcome a new presenter, Kathleen O’Connor. Dr. O’Connor is the William Marcellus McPheeters Professor of Old Testament Emerita at Columbia University. She holds a Ph.D. from Princeton Theological Seminary and an M.A. from Providence College. She has taught at the Maryknoll School of Theology in Ossining, NY, has given courses on The Bible around the globe, and has written extensively. The Catholic Biblical Studies Program, 716-871-9180;info [at] cbstudies [dot] org or www.cbstudies.org.

Our Lady of Hope holds its Annual Fall Festival on Saturday, November 2, at 5:00 p.m. in O’Brien Hall, corner of Lafayette and Grant Sts., Buffalo, NY. Come and join us for a wonderful evening. Our kitchen will be serving up delicious foods including: hot roast beef sandwiches, BBQ Hamburgers, fried rice with egg roll, veggie plates, chips homemade desserts and more. We will have a Large Basket Auction with interesting baskets and various gift certificates, a Big Money Ticket Raffle with a grand prize of $1000, a large ticket table including a “Lottery Tree,” a Money Board, 50/50 Split Raffle, an International Bakery Table with many enticing goodies, music, a Festival Boutique Table with gifts for under $10 and much more! Admission Tickets available at the door are $5.00 and include one free dessert and coffee and one sheet of basket raffle tickets. Call 716-885-2469 for further information.

Yoga at Gerard Place ~ What can Yoga do for me? Improve circulation throughout your whole body! Tone arms, legs, waist and hips! Alleviate stiffness in your shoulders, arms and upper and lower back! Improve your digestion! Tone internal organs! Promote stability, strength and balance! Increase flexibility! Ease menstrual disorders! Alleviate depression and fatigue! Calm the mind and relieve anxiety! Join Sara on Monday afternoons at 3:30 p.m. for 60 minutes of Hatha Yoga. This is a free beginner class and all are welcome! For info call Lana at 897-9948 x 104. Gerard Place is located at 2515 Bailey Ave near Delevan Ave. Lots of off street parking.

The Family Justice Center of Erie County, Inc. — “Where Families Come First” — serves victims of Domestic Violence who are in need of access to safety planning, spiritual care, legal assistance, law enforcement, or limited medical assistance counseling. All services are free. All conversations are strictly private. For more information call 716-558-7233 or visit http://www.fjcsafe.org/.

Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

Oct 7, 2013 | This Week

St. Thérèse of Lisieux, France (St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus) is honored by the Church on October 1. She was canonized in 1925 – while our church was being built – and remains “one of the most popular saints of modern times because of her ‘Little Way’ of seeking holiness through the everyday things in the ordinary circumstances of life. The beautiful ceramic decorations around the shrine niche [in the right transept] are some of the most beautiful in the church.” Rev. Walter Kern’s Guidebook to Blessed Trinity R.C. Church, page 27. Photo credit: Margaret Dick.

October 6 – October 13, 2013

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

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

Saturday, October 12 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

We now have: Red, White & Blue; carry over Bonus Ball; and a progressive Share-the-Wealth! To check the carry over amounts and progressive numbers for this week, click HERE and visit our Facebook page.

Mass Intentions

Sunday, October 6 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – John J. Barry, III (Requested by Bob and Mary Kresse and Family)

Monday, October 7 ~ Our Lady of the Rosary ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, October 8 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Rosanne and Randy Burgio (Mickey Dick)

Wednesday, October 9 ~ St. Denis and Companions; St. John Leonardi ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Thursday, October 10 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Loretta Saxer (Estate)

Friday, October 11 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Saturday, October 12 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Edith Geiger Richards (James and Gayle Eagan) and Robin and Gilberto Collado (Judy and Rhonda Collado)

Sunday, October 13 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Margarita Padin (Penny Hererra)

News from our Parish Community

“Beautiful Music in a Beautiful Space” ~ Blessed Trinity Church’s outstanding concert series for 2013-2014 contains a full schedule of five excellent concerts – each one different, each one a gem. The series showcases the Buffalo Brass Choir, the Freudig Singers of WNY, Peter Gonciarz and Friends, the Buffalo Choral Arts Society and the Colored Musicians Club. We kick off this sterling season with a return visit from the very talented Buffalo Brass Choir on Sunday, October 6, at 3:00 PM in a program of Fanfares and Fugues. The sound is spectacular no matter where you sit, no matter where they stand! The program of fanfares and fugues is quite diverse and wholly entertaining. Bring your family and friends for a resounding afternoon! Free will offering; suggested donation $10 per person.

The Buffalo Brass Choir opens the 2013-14 Trinity Series at 3 p.m. on October 6.

Doors Open Niagara ~ On the weekend of October 19-20, 2013, Blessed Trinity will participate in the Bi-National Tourism Alliance’s Doors Open Niagara weekend. We will join dozens of sites all over WNY showcasing their landmark buildings. It’s an opportunity to welcome visitors from our own neighborhood and from across the river to our wonderful architecture and hospitality. However, WE NEED VOLUNTEERS!! The Open House will take place on Saturday, October 19 from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. (before 4:30 Mass), and on Sunday, October 20 from 11:30 a.m. (after 10:00 Mass) to 3:30 p.m. We will need docents, greeters/sellers, and general hosts. If you have worked any of our Open Houses in the past, you know everything you need to do. If you are new to Open House tours, we will happily train you. The “shifts” will be only two hours each and you will be able to move around. If you can help on either of these two days, please fill out one of the forms on the Communion rail indicating what type of role you are willing to play and which date/time you are available. Place the completed form in the basket. Judy Casassa will contact you with confirmation of your assignment. Please sign up to participate by Sunday, October 6. Thank you!!

Revival 2013 ~ The African American Commission of the Office of Cultural Diversity invites you to Revival 2013. The revival will be led by Buffalo native, Rev. Arthur Cavitt. The theme for this year’s revival is We Walk By Faith… in Faith… through Faith. The revival will be held on Monday, October 14 through Wednesday, October 16, at St. Martin de Porres, 355 Northampton Street. Service will begin each night at 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday is Teen Night. A reception will be held Wednesday following the service. The members of the African American Commission encourage attendees to bring a refreshment to share. Refreshments should be delivered by 5:30 p.m. For additional information please Click HERE to leave a message for Althea Porter.

An Invitation from Bishop Malone ~ To all couples who celebrate their 50th, 60th or 70th Anniversaries of Marriage in 2013 – You are invited to a special Mass in St. Joseph Cathedral on Sunday, October 27, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. On this day the entire Diocese of Buffalo will join those celebrating in their joy and gratitude to God, who has set them among us as a sign of His constant and faithful love. During the Mass, couples will renew their marriage vows. A reception will follow at the Adam’s Mark Hotel.

Phi Sigma Sigma Volunteers ~ Back Row, l. to r: Bridget Fallon, Shana Aiken, Christine Meyers, Kelsey Mawk, Ali Scudder, Allison Shubert, Gretchen Hershberger, Imani Roache, Mikki Wise and Monica King. Middle Row: Michela Finn, Sarah Bidwell, Alyssa Sabio, Sydney Thomas, Shannon Stephens, Heather Serio, Jane Grucella, Kristen Booth and Meredith Lenz; Front: Katie Farinacci, Rachael Bosal, Sarah Mecca, Chelsea Swanekamp, Robin Wagner, Courtney Donaldson and Cassie Dunner.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

St. Martin de Porres Gospel Choir Concert ~ The choir will be celebrating its 20th year anniversary “Through The Years” on Sunday October 13, 2013 at 5:00 PM at the church 555 Northampton Street Buffalo, New York. This choir has been blessed to have sung God’s praises for 20 years. Tickets are $5.00 and can be purchased at the door or in advance from the church office at 716-883-7729.

The World on Your Plate 10th Annual Conference on Food and Sustainable Living will be held on Friday evening, October 11 and Saturday, October 12 at the Wick Center of Daemen College in Amherst. Friday night (7-9:30 p.m.) features video clips of food programs, speaker Elizabeth Henderson and organic movie snacks. Saturday’s program (8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.) includes workshops, local vendors, information tables, an organic lunch, and a presentation by Dr. Jane Mt. Pleasant of Cornell University. Cost: $25 if pre-registered at http://www.worldonyourplate.org/, $30 at the door; free to students with ID.

Mount St. Mary Academy Hosts a Spaghetti Dinner and Concert on Saturday, October 26, 2013. Dinner starts at 5 p.m. and the concert is at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 presale and $14 at the door. Call 689-1100 for tickets. The concert includes Mount St. Mary Academy Jazz Ensemble, Dance Team and Jazz Ensemble. Also appearing will be the Buffalo Silver Band and a fashion show by OOO La La Boutiques.

“The Book of Genesis: To Begin Again” ~ Presented by Kathleen O’Connor on Saturday, October 26, from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at Millennium Airport Hotel, 2040 Walden Ave, Cheektowaga, NY 14225. Join us for a full day of rich reflection on the Book of Genesis. This year we welcome a new presenter, Kathleen O’Connor. Dr. O’Connor is the William Marcellus McPheeters Professor of Old Testament Emerita at Columbia University. She holds a Ph.D. from Princeton Theological Seminary and an M.A. from Providence College. She has taught at the Maryknoll School of Theology in Ossining, NY, has given courses on The Bible around the globe, and has written extensively. The Catholic Biblical Studies Program, 716-871-9180;info [at] cbstudies [dot] org or www.cbstudies.org.

Our Lady of Hope holds its Annual Fall Festival on Saturday, November 2, at 5:00 p.m. in O’Brien Hall, corner of Lafayette and Grant Sts., Buffalo, NY. Come and join us for a wonderful evening. Our kitchen will be serving up delicious foods including: hot roast beef sandwiches, BBQ Hamburgers, fried rice with egg roll, veggie plates, chips homemade desserts and more. We will have a Large Basket Auction with interesting baskets and various gift certificates, a Big Money Ticket Raffle with a grand prize of $1000, a large ticket table including a “Lottery Tree,” a Money Board, 50/50 Split Raffle, an International Bakery Table with many enticing goodies, music, a Festival Boutique Table with gifts for under $10 and much more! Admission Tickets available at the door are $5.00 and include one free dessert and coffee and one sheet of basket raffle tickets. Call 716-885-2469 for further information.

Yoga at Gerard Place ~ What can Yoga do for me? Improve circulation throughout your whole body! Tone arms, legs, waist and hips! Alleviate stiffness in your shoulders, arms and upper and lower back! Improve your digestion! Tone internal organs! Promote stability, strength and balance! Increase flexibility! Ease menstrual disorders! Alleviate depression and fatigue! Calm the mind and relieve anxiety! Join Sara on Monday afternoons at 3:30 p.m. for 60 minutes of Hatha Yoga. This is a free beginner class and all are welcome! For info call Lana at 897-9948 x 104. Gerard Place is located at 2515 Bailey Ave near Delevan Ave. Lots of off street parking.

The Family Justice Center of Erie County, Inc. — “Where Families Come First” — serves victims of Domestic Violence who are in need of access to safety planning, spiritual care, legal assistance, law enforcement, or limited medical assistance counseling. All services are free. All conversations are strictly private. For more information call 716-558-7233 or visit http://www.fjcsafe.org/.

Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Sep 28, 2013 | This Week

St. Thérèse of Lisieux, France (St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus) is honored by the Church on October 1. She was canonized in 1925 – while our church was being built – and remains “one of the most popular saints of modern times because of her ‘Little Way’ of seeking holiness through the everyday things in the ordinary circumstances of life. The beautiful ceramic decorations around the shrine niche [in the right transept] are some of the most beautiful in the church.” Rev. Walter Kern’s Guidebook to Blessed Trinity R.C. Church, page 27. Photo credit: Margaret Dick.

September 29 – October 6, 2013

Tuesday, October 1 at 7:30 p.m. ~ NO Choir Practice; members are asked to rehearse in at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, October 6.

Thursday, October 3 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

Saturday, October 5 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

Sunday, October 6 at 9:30 a.m. ~ Choir Rehearsal in Church.

We now have: Red, White & Blue; carry over Bonus Ball; and a progressive Share-the-Wealth! To check the carry over amounts and progressive numbers for this week, click HERE and visit our Facebook page.

Mass Intentions

Sunday, September 29 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Richard and Elizabeth Stabler (Requested by Ed Marien) and Mary James (Requested by B.T. Ladies Sodality)

Monday, September 30 ~ St. Jerome ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, October 1 ~ St. Therese of Lisieux ~ Deceased Members of St. Gerard Parish

Wednesday, October 2 ~ The Holy Guardian Angels ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – William Condon (Estate of Mary Condon)

Thursday, October 3 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Anthony and Teresa Hafner (Estate)

Friday, October 4 ~ St. Francis of Assisi ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Gladys Kibler (Estate)

Saturday, October 5 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Sunday, October 6 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – John J. Barry, III (Bob and Mary Kresse and Family)

News from our Parish Community

The Ladies Sodality will resume their monthly meetings on Sunday, September 29.  All women of the parish are invited to join them in St. Charles Hall following the 10:00 a.m. Mass. If you wish to know more about becoming a member, please contact membership vice president, Mickey Dick or speak with any Sodality member.

Phi Sigma Sigma Volunteers ~ Back Row, l. to r: Bridget Fallon, Shana Aiken, Christine Meyers, Kelsey Mawk, Ali Scudder, Allison Shubert, Gretchen Hershberger, Imani Roache, Mikki Wise and Monica King. Middle Row: Michela Finn, Sarah Bidwell, Alyssa Sabio, Sydney Thomas, Shannon Stephens, Heather Serio, Jane Grucella, Kristen Booth and Meredith Lenz; Front: Katie Farinacci, Rachael Bosal, Sarah Mecca, Chelsea Swanekamp, Robin Wagner, Courtney Donaldson and Cassie Dunner.

Canisius Community Day ~ Our parish community is extremely grateful to Joe Van Volkenberg of the Canisius College Campus Ministry and the 26 women from Phi Sigma Sigma sorority who volunteered at Blessed Trinity on Saturday, September 28. Together, they donated 52 hours of woman power in helping parish volunteers Lawler Brown, Judy Casassa, Bud & Mickey Dick and Roy Laciura in a fall cleanup of our parish campus.

“Beautiful Music in a Beautiful Space” ~ Blessed Trinity Church’s outstanding concert series for 2013-2014 contains a full schedule of five excellent concerts – each one different, each one a gem. The series showcases the Buffalo Brass Choir, the Freudig Singers of WNY, Peter Gonciarz and Friends, the Buffalo Choral Arts Society and the Colored Musicians Club. We kick off this sterling season with a return visit from the very talented Buffalo Brass Choir on Sunday, October 6, at 3:00 PM in a program of Fanfares and Fugues. The sound is spectacular no matter where you sit, no matter where they stand! The program of fanfares and fugues is quite diverse and wholly entertaining. Bring your family and friends for a resounding afternoon! Free will offering; suggested donation $10 per person.

The Buffalo Brass Choir, under the direction of Nick DelBello, open the
2013-14 Trinity Concert Series at 3 p.m. on Sunday, October 6.

Come, rejoice and give thanks ~ Sister Maureen Harris invites you to the 4:00 p.m. Saturday Mass at St. Columba-Brigid on October 5 to help her celebrate her  50th Jubilee of Religious Profession. There will be a simple dinner reception after the liturgy in the parish hall. You are most welcome. Please sign-up so we can have a count of how many will stay for the reception or call Sr. Maureen at 897-9948, ext. 114, and leave your name and the number coming. No gift please, only the gift of your presence and support in prayer.

Doors Open Niagara ~ On the weekend of October 19-20, 2013, Blessed Trinity will participate in the Bi-National Tourism Alliance’s Doors Open Niagara weekend. We will join dozens of sites all over WNY showcasing their landmark buildings. It’s an opportunity to welcome visitors from our own neighborhood and from across the river to our wonderful architecture and hospitality. However, WE NEED VOLUNTEERS!! The Open House will take place on Saturday, October 19 from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. (before 4:30 Mass), and on Sunday, October 20 from 11:30 a.m. (after 10:00 Mass) to 3:30 p.m. We will need docents, greeters/sellers, and general hosts. If you have worked any of our Open Houses in the past, you know everything you need to do. If you are new to Open House tours, we will happily train you. The “shifts” will be only two hours each and you will be able to move around. If you can help on either of these two days, please fill out one of the forms on the Communion rail indicating what type of role you are willing to play and which date/time you are available. Place the completed form in the basket. Judy Casassa will contact you with confirmation of your assignment. Please sign up to participate by Sunday, October 6. Thank you!!

An Invitation from Bishop Malone ~ To all couples who celebrate their 50th, 60th or 70th Anniversaries of Marriage in 2013 – You are invited to a special Mass in St. Joseph Cathedral on Sunday, October 27, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. On this day the entire Diocese of Buffalo will join those celebrating in their joy and gratitude to God, who has set them among us as a sign of His constant and faithful love. During the Mass, couples will renew their marriage vows. A reception will follow at the Adam’s Mark Hotel. If you are one of these special couples and plan to participate in this Diocesan Celebration, please call Sr. Barbara Horan (833-0301) by October 1.

Revival 2013 ~ The African American Commission of the Office of Cultural Diversity invites you to Revival 2013. The revival will be led by Buffalo native, Rev. Arthur Cavitt. The theme for this year’s revival is We Walk By Faith… in Faith… through Faith. The revival will be held on Monday, October 14 through Wednesday, October 16, at St. Martin de Porres, 355 Northampton Street. Service will begin each night at 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday is Teen Night. A reception will be held Wednesday following the service. The members of the African American Commission encourage attendees to bring a refreshment to share. Refreshments should be delivered by 5:30 p.m. For additional information please Click HERE to leave a message for Althea Porter.

Tom Brodfuehrer interprets iconography
on church façade for alumni members.

Blessed Trinity School Alumni ~ On Sunday, September 22, Blessed Trinity welcomed more than 60 alumni of the former parish grammar school and their family members for the Annual Alumni Memorial Mass, which was followed by a reception in St. Charles Hall. The Alumni Association extends special thanks to Tom Brodfuehrer , Marianne Pernick and Jerry Powers, graduates of the school who are also parish docents, for conducting a mini-tour of the church for alumni prior to the 10 a.m. Mass.

Doors Open Niagara ~ The next opportunity to tour our church will be Saturday, October 19 and Sunday October 20, as we participate in the bi-national tourism event, Doors Open Niagara. Save the dates, and Click HERE to read more about it.

Attention Parents and Eighth Graders – We have received a great deal of information from various high schools re: information on their placement exams and review classes as well as schedules for Open House, Shadow Day, etc. For your convenience, all of this material is being displayed on the table in the front vestibule of church.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

The World on Your Plate 10th Annual Conference on Food and Sustainable Living will be held on Friday evening, October 11 and Saturday, October 12 at the Wick Center of Daemen College in Amherst. Friday night (7-9:30 p.m.) features video clips of food programs, speaker Elizabeth Henderson and organic movie snacks. Saturday’s program (8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.) includes workshops, local vendors, information tables, an organic lunch, and a presentation by Dr. Jane Mt. Pleasant of Cornell University. Cost: $25 if pre-registered at http://www.worldonyourplate.org/, $30 at the door; free to students with ID.

The Family Justice Center of Erie County, Inc. — “Where Families Come First” — serves victims of Domestic Violence who are in need of access to safety planning, spiritual care, legal assistance, law enforcement, or limited medical assistance counseling. All services are free. All conversations are strictly private. For more information call 716-558-7233 or visit http://www.fjcsafe.org/.

Knowledge is Power, and now is the time to start thinking about your future. Catholic Charities Education and Workforce Department helps to provide High School Equivalency test preparation and job readiness services to Erie County adults ages 16 and older. As of January 2014, changes by New York State to the High School Equivalency exam process, will make it more difficult and harder to obtain, so it is important to be prepared and take the exam before the end of this year. At Catholic Charities, after receiving an educational/career assessment, students attend classes and a counselor works with each student on job readiness skills, leadership training and potential college placement. For more information visit our website, http://www.ccwny.org/ or call (716) 893-3500. We’re also on Facebook at facebook.com/ccbuffalo and Twitter at twitter.com/ccbuffalo.

Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Sep 22, 2013 | This Week

The Church celebrates the feast of St. Vincent de Paul (1580-1660), “champion of the poor and patron of practical charity to the needy,”
on September 27. This statue of St. Vincent is located
in the left side aisle in the church nave. Photo credit: Margaret Dick

September 22 – September 29, 2013

Monday, September 23 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. ~ FLARE’s Spaghetti Dinner Extravaganza in St. Charles Hall.

Tuesday, September 24 at 7:30 p.m. ~ Choir Practice in St. Charles Hall.

Thursday, September 26 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

Saturday, September 28 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

Sunday, September 29 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Ladies Sodality Meeting in St. Charles Hall.

We now have: Red, White & Blue; carry over Bonus Ball; and a progressive Share-the-Wealth! To check the carry over amounts and progressive numbers for this week, click HERE and visit our Facebook page.

Mass Intentions

Sunday, September 22 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Alumni (Requested by B.T.S. Alumni) and Frances Pernick (Requested by Children)

Monday, September 23 ~ St. Pius of Pietrelcina ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, September 24 ~ Virginia Saxer (Estate)

Wednesday, September 25 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish

Thursday, September 26 ~ Sts. Cosmas and Damian ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Winifred Enright (Estate)

Friday, September 27 ~ St. Vincent de Paul ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Saturday, September 28 ~ St. Wenceslaus; St. Lawrence Ruiz & Companions ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – John and Rita Curtin (Curtin Family)

Sunday, September 29 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Richard and Elizabeth Stabler (Ed Marien) and Mary James (B.T. Ladies Sodality)

News from our Parish Community

Spaghetti Dinner ~ On Monday, September 23, The Fillmore-Leroy Area Residents (FLARE), our neighborhood community association, will host a Spaghetti Dinner Extravaganza Fundraiser from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. in St. Charles Hall. In addition to the dinner, which includes spaghetti and meatballs, salad, garlic bread, dessert and beverage, there will be door prizes and a silent auction. Tickets, priced at $10 for adults, $7 for seniors, $5 for children under 12, or $25 for a family of four, are available from Sister Barbara or Father Reger. Please join your neighbors for dinner and meet FLARE’s special guest, WKBW-Channel 7 News Anchor, Kendra Eaglin, on Monday, September 23. For more information, call FLARE at 838-6740.

The Ladies Sodality will resume their monthly meetings on Sunday, September 29.  All women of the parish are invited to join them in St. Charles Hall following the 10:00 a.m. Mass. If you wish to know more about becoming a member, please contact membership vice president, Mickey Dick or speak with any Sodality member.

The Buffalo Brass Choir opens the 2013-14 Trinity Series at
3 p.m. on Sunday, October 6, with “Fanfares and Fugues.”

“Beautiful Music in a Beautiful Space” ~ Blessed Trinity Church’s outstanding concert series for 2013-2014 contains a full schedule of five excellent concerts – each one different, each one a gem. The series showcases the Buffalo Brass Choir, the Freudig Singers of WNY, Peter Gonciarz and Friends, the Buffalo Choral Arts Society and the Colored Musicians Club. We kick off this sterling season with a return visit from the very talented Buffalo Brass Choir on Sunday, October 6, at 3:00 PM in a program of Fanfares and Fugues. The sound is spectacular no matter where you sit, no matter where they stand! The program of fanfares and fugues is quite diverse and wholly entertaining. Bring your family and friends for a resounding afternoon! Free will offering; suggested donation $10 per person.

Parish Council ~ Congratulations to Lorraine Riles, the newly elected president of our Parish Council for the 2013-14 term. Please offer Lorraine your support and assistance in the coming year.

Come, rejoice and give thanks ~ Sister Maureen Harris invites you to the 4:00 p.m. Saturday Mass at St. Columba-Brigid on October 5 to help her celebrate her 50th Jubilee of Religious Profession. There will be a simple dinner reception after the liturgy in the parish hall. You are most welcome. Please sign-up so we can have a count of how many will stay for the reception or call Sr. Maureen at 897-9948, ext. 114, and leave your name and the number coming. No gift please, only the gift of your presence and support in prayer.

An Invitation from Bishop Malone ~ To all couples who celebrate their 50th, 60th or 70th Anniversaries of Marriage in 2013 – You are invited to a special Mass in St. Joseph Cathedral on Sunday, October 27, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. On this day the entire Diocese of Buffalo will join those celebrating in their joy and gratitude to God, who has set them among us as a sign of His constant and faithful love. During the Mass, couples will renew their marriage vows. A reception will follow at the Adam’s Mark Hotel. If you are one of these special couples and plan to participate in this Diocesan Celebration, please call Sr. Barbara Horan (833-0301) by October 1.

Tom Brodfuehrer interprets iconography
on the church façade for visiting alumni.

Blessed Trinity School Alumni ~ On Sunday, September 22, Blessed Trinity welcomed more than 60 alumni of the former parish grammar school and their family members for the Annual Alumni Memorial Mass, which was followed by a reception in St. Charles Hall. The Alumni Association extends special thanks to Tom Brodfuehrer , Marianne Pernick and Jerry Powers, graduates of the school who are also parish docents, for conducting a mini-tour of the church for alumni prior to the 10 a.m. Mass.

Doors Open Niagara ~ The next opportunity to tour our church will be Saturday, October 19 and Sunday October 20, as we participate in the bi-national tourism event, Doors Open Niagara. Save the dates, and Click HERE to read more about it.

Thank you for supporting Christ the King Seminary ~ Last weekend was the annual special collection for Christ the King Seminary. Thank you to everyone who donated for your generous support. If you missed the collection, it’s not too late to support our Seminary’s important work of educating our future priests, deacons and lay leaders who will serve in our diocese. Donations are still being accepted at http://www.cks.edu/ or by calling 716-847-8370 or 716-655-7089. Gifts may also be placed in the collection in a “Seminary Appeal” envelope or mailed to Christ the King Seminary, Attn: Parish Appeal, P.O. Box 607, East Aurora, New York 41052-0607.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

The Family Justice Center of Erie County, Inc. — “Where Families Come First” — serves victims of Domestic Violence who are in need of access to safety planning, spiritual care, legal assistance, law enforcement, or limited medical assistance counseling. All services are free. All conversations are strictly private. For more information call 716-558-7233 or visit http://www.fjcsafe.org/.

Knowledge is Power, and now is the time to start thinking about your future. Catholic Charities Education and Workforce Department helps to provide High School Equivalency test preparation and job readiness services to Erie County adults ages 16 and older. As of January 2014, changes by New York State to the High School Equivalency exam process, will make it more difficult and harder to obtain, so it is important to be prepared and take the exam before the end of this year. At Catholic Charities, after receiving an educational/career assessment, students attend classes and a counselor works with each student on job readiness skills, leadership training and potential college placement. For more information visit our website, http://www.ccwny.org/ or call (716) 893-3500. We’re also on Facebook at facebook.com/ccbuffalo and Twitter at twitter.com/ccbuffalo.

Twenty-fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Sep 15, 2013 | This Week

St. Peter Claver (1581-1654), whose feast the Church celebrates on September 9, was a servant and missionary to the newly-arrived African slaves in South America. Because of Christ’s command to the Apostles to preach the Good News, the Four Evangelists and other missionaries, including Peter Claver, are displayed prominently in Blessed Trinity’s artwork. They are depicted in paintings below the building’s great dome. Photo credit: Gary Kelley

September 15 – September 22, 2013

Wednesday, September 18 at 7:00 p.m. ~ Parish Council Meeting in St. Charles Hall.

Thursday, September 19 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

Saturday, September 21 at 8:00 p.m. ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

Sunday, September 22 following 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Blessed Trinity School Alumni Reception in St. Charles Hall.

Monday, September 23 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. ~ FLARE’s Spaghetti Dinner Extravaganza in St. Charles Hall.

We now have: Red, White & Blue; carry over Bonus Ball; and a progressive Share-the-Wealth! To check the carry over amounts and progressive numbers for this week, click HERE and visit our Facebook page.

Mass Intentions

Sunday, September 15 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – August and Clara Marien (Requested by Ed Marien) and Mary Nutt (Requested by Family)

Monday, September 16 ~ Pope St. Cornelius; St. Cyprian ~ NO Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, September 17 ~ St. Robert Bellarmine ~ Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. – Brenda E. Wynn Whatley

Wednesday, September 18 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Deceased Members of St. Gerard Parish

Thursday, September 19 ~ St. Januarius ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Friday, September 20 ~ Sts. Andrew Kim Tae-gon, Paul Chong Ha-sang and Companions ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Loretta Saxer (Estate)

Saturday, September 21 ~ St. Matthew, Apostle ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – John F. Curtin (Curtin Family)

Sunday, September 22 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Alumni (B.T.S. Alumni) and Frances Pernick (Children)

News from our Parish Community

Parish Council ~ Congratulations to Tom Brodfuehrer, Lawler Brown, Diane Riordan, Lorraine Riles and Jessie Wells who have been elected to our Parish Council. They will be welcomed at the Council’s first meeting at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 18. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank outgoing council members Sean Brodfuehrer, Amy Johnson, Gary Kelley, Ethelene Perry and Elizabeth Sands who have given of their time and talent.

Give So More Can Serve ~ Over 650 alumni of Christ the King Seminary are currently serving in our diocese. Last year over 150 students enrolled in academic programs at Christ the King – preparing to minister in our parishes and communities. Please help them answer God’s call. The annual collection for Christ the King Seminary will take place at our church on September 14 and 15. Please show your support for the mission of Christ the King by praying for our Seminary’s ministry and by giving generously to the annual appeal. Your prayers and your gift to Christ the King help to ensure the future of the church in our area. For more information on our Seminary’s mission or programs, go to http://www.cks.edu/.

Blessed Trinity School (1908-1975)

Blessed Trinity School Alumni ~ On Sunday, September 22, Blessed Trinity will welcome alumni of the former parish grammar school for their Annual Alumni Memorial Mass. Graduates of the school who are also parish docents will conduct a mini-tour of the church for alumni before the 10 a.m. Mass. Any parishioners who would like to participate are welcome. The tour will begin promptly at 9:30 a.m. at the front entrance. Following the Mass, there will be an Alumni Reception in St. Charles Hall. If you know anyone who attended Blessed Trinity School, please encourage them to worship with us on 9/22.

Spaghetti Dinner ~ On Monday, September 23, The Fillmore-Leroy Area Residents (FLARE), our neighborhood community association, will host a Spaghetti Dinner Extravaganza Fundraiser from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. in St. Charles Hall. In addition to the dinner, which includes spaghetti and meatballs, salad, garlic bread, dessert and beverage, there will be door prizes and a silent auction. Tickets, priced at $10 for adults, $7 for seniors, $5 for children under 12, or $25 for a family of four, are available from Sister Barbara or Father Reger. Please join your neighbors for dinner and meet FLARE’s special guest, WKBW-Channel 7 News Anchor, Kendra Eaglin, on Monday, September 23. For more information, call FLARE at 838-6740.

The Ladies Sodality will resume their monthly meetings following the 10:00 a.m. Mass on Sunday, September 29.

Come, rejoice and give thanks … Sr. Maureen Harris invites you to the 4:00 p.m. Saturday Mass at St. Columba-Brigid on October 5th to help her celebrate her 50th Jubilee of Religious Profession. There will be a simple dinner reception after the liturgy in the parish hall. You are most welcome. Please sign-up so we can have a count of how many will stay for the reception or call Sr. Maureen at 897-9948, ext. 114, and leave your name and the number coming. No gift please, only the gift of your presence and support in prayer.

The Trinity Series of “beautiful music in a beautiful space” opens its 2013-14 concert season on Sunday, October 6, with Music Director Nick DelBello’s own Buffalo Brass Choir. Join them at 3:00 p.m. and experience what brass does best: Fanfares and Fugues. Their exciting program will feature fanfares by Strauss, Ewazen, and Dukas; fugues by Bach and Elgar; and multi-movement works by Broughton and Tomasi.

An Invitation from Bishop Malone ~ To all couples who celebrate their 50th, 60th or 70th Anniversaries of Marriage in 2013 – You are invited to a special Mass in St. Joseph Cathedral on Sunday, October 27, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. On this day the entire Diocese of Buffalo will join those celebrating in their joy and gratitude to God, who has set them among us as a sign of His constant and faithful love. During the Mass, couples will renew their marriage vows. A reception will follow at the Adam’s Mark Hotel. If you are one of these special couples and plan to participate in this Diocesan Celebration, please call Sr. Barbara Horan (833-0301) by October 1.

School Open Houses ~ Information on fall Open Houses and other School Material is beginning to arrive at the church office. All school-related material will be displayed on the table in the front vestibule of church.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Caring for a Loved One? Learn to reduce stress, improve self-confidence, balance your life, and locate helpful resources to assist in making tough decisions. Catholic Charities is presenting Powerful Tools for Caregivers, a six (6) class series on Wednesdays, beginning September 11 through October 16 from 1 – 3:30 p.m. at St. Stanislaus, 128 Wilson St., Buffalo. On-site Respite Care is available. For more information or to register, please call 716-858-2177.

Blood Drive at St. Katharine Drexel Parish, 135 Ogden St., Buffalo, will take place Sunday, September 15 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Donate Life Express Bus. To schedule an appointment, contact Mary Riley at 895-6813 or visit www.unytsblooddonor.org and enter Sponsor Code 1458. All donors during September will be entered into a drawing for a pair of tickets to a Buffalo Bills game in October. One winner will be picked each week. Photo identification is required. Walk-ins always welcome.

Sisters of St. Joseph Oktoberfest ~ Sunday, September 22, 2013, 5:00 – 9:30 p.m. at St. Aloysius Gonzaga Church, 157 Cleveland Drive, Cheektowaga, NY (corner of Century Rd.) featuring the music of THE AUSLANDERS. German food, including Knockwurst and Bratwurst, limburger cheese sandwiches and German potato salad will be served. Dancing, door prizes, a raffle and a Chinese Basket Raffle will be part of the event. Any questions or request for tickets, please call 759-6454 Ex. 20, Marilyn Peterson.

The Family Justice Center of Erie County, Inc. — “Where Families Come First” — serves victims of Domestic Violence who are in need of access to safety planning, spiritual care, legal assistance, law enforcement, or limited medical assistance counseling. All services are free. All conversations are strictly private. For more information call 716-558-7233 or visit http://www.fjcsafe.org/.

Knowledge is Power, and now is the time to start thinking about your future. Catholic Charities Education and Workforce Department helps to provide High School Equivalency test preparation and job readiness services to Erie County adults ages 16 and older. As of January 2014, changes by New York State to the High School Equivalency exam process, will make it more difficult and harder to obtain, so it is important to be prepared and take the exam before the end of this year. At Catholic Charities, after receiving an educational/career assessment, students attend classes and a counselor works with each student on job readiness skills, leadership training and potential college placement. For more information visit our website, http://www.ccwny.org/ or call (716) 893-3500. We’re also on Facebook at facebook.com/ccbuffalo and Twitter at twitter.com/ccbuffalo.

Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time

Sep 12, 2013 | This Week

St. Peter Claver (1581-1654), whose feast the Church celebrates on September 9, was a servant and missionary to the newly-arrived African slaves in South America. Because of Christ’s command to the Apostles to preach the Good News, the Four Evangelists and other missionaries, including Peter Claver, are displayed prominently in Blessed Trinity’s artwork. They are depicted in paintings below the building’s great dome. Photo credit: Gary Kelley

September 8 – September 15, 2013

Tuesday, September 10 at 7:30 p.m. ~ Choir Rehearsal in St. Charles Hall.

Thursday, September 12 at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

Saturday, September 14 at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

We now have: Red, White & Blue; carry over Bonus Ball; and a progressive Share-the-Wealth! To check the carry over amounts and progressive numbers for this week, click HERE and visit our Facebook page.

Mass Intentions

Sunday, September 8 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Margaret Harris (Requested by Blessed Trinity Parish Community)

Monday, September 9 ~ St. Peter Claver ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, September 10 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Deceased Members of St. Gerard Parish

Wednesday, September 11 ~ Anna Snyder (Estate)

Thursday, September 12 ~ The Most Holy Name of Mary ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – William Stiffler (Family)

Friday, September 13 ~ St. John Chrysostom ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Loretta Saxer (Estate)

Saturday, September 14 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Pauline R. Viola (Joseph Viola)

Sunday, September 15 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – August and Clara Marien (Ed Marien) and Mary Nutt (Family)

News from our Parish Community

Parish Council Elections will take place at weekend Masses on September 7 and 8. The newly elected Council will hold its first meeting on Wednesday, September 18, at 7:00 p.m. in St. Charles Hall.

Give So More Can Serve ~ Over 650 alumni of Christ the King Seminary are currently serving in our diocese. Last year over 150 students enrolled in academic programs at Christ the King – preparing to minister in our parishes and communities. Please help them answer God’s call. The annual collection for Christ the King Seminary will take place at our church on September 14 and 15. Please show your support for the mission of Christ the King by praying for our Seminary’s ministry and by giving generously to the annual appeal. Your prayers and your gift to Christ the King help to ensure the future of the church in our area. For more information on our Seminary’s mission or programs, go to http://www.cks.edu/.

Blessed Trinity School Alumni ~ On Sunday, September 22, Blessed Trinity will welcome alumni of the former parish grammar school for their Annual Alumni Memorial Mass. Graduates of the school who are also parish docents will conduct a mini-tour of the church for alumni before the 10 a.m. Mass. Any parishioners who would like to participate are welcome. The tour will begin promptly at 9:30 a.m. at the front entrance. If you know anyone who attended Blessed Trinity School, please encourage them to worship with us on 9/22.

The Ladies Sodality will resume their monthly meetings following the 10:00 a.m. Mass on September 29.

The Buffalo Brass Choir opens the 2013-14 Trinity Series with
“Fanfares and Fugues” at 3 p.m. on Sunday, October 6,

The Trinity Series of “beautiful music in a beautiful space” opens its 2013-14 concert season on Sunday, October 6, with Music Director Nick DelBello’s own Buffalo Brass Choir. Join them at 3:00 p.m. and experience what brass does best: Fanfares and Fugues. Their exciting program will feature fanfares by Strauss, Ewazen, and Dukas; fugues by Bach and Elgar; and multi-movement works by Broughton and Tomasi.

An Invitation from Bishop Malone ~ To all couples who celebrate their 50th, 60th or 70th Anniversaries of Marriage in 2013 – You are invited to a special Mass in St. Joseph Cathedral on Sunday, October 27, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. On this day the entire Diocese of Buffalo will join those celebrating in their joy and gratitude to God, who has set them among us as a sign of His constant and faithful love. During the Mass, couples will renew their marriage vows. A reception will follow at the Adam’s Mark Hotel. If you are one of these special couples and plan to participate in this Diocesan Celebration, please call Sr. Barbara Horan (833-0301) by October 1.

School Open Houses ~ Information on fall Open Houses and other School Material is beginning to arrive at the church office. All school-related material will be displayed on the table in the front vestibule of church.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Caring for a Loved One? Learn to reduce stress, improve self-confidence, balance your life, and locate helpful resources to assist in making tough decisions. Catholic Charities is presenting Powerful Tools for Caregivers, a six (6) class series on Wednesdays, beginning September 11 through October 16 from 1 – 3:30 p.m. at St. Stanislaus, 128 Wilson St., Buffalo. On-site Respite Care is available. For more information or to register, please call 716-858-2177.

Blood Drive at St. Katharine Drexel Parish, 135 Ogden St., Buffalo, will take place Sunday, September 15 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Donate Life Express Bus. To schedule an appointment, contact Mary Riley at 895-6813 or visit www.unytsblooddonor.org and enter Sponsor Code 1458. All donors during September will be entered into a drawing for a pair of tickets to a Buffalo Bills game in October. One winner will be picked each week. Photo identification is required. Walk-ins always welcome.

Sisters of St. Joseph Oktoberfest ~ Sunday, September 22, 2013, 5:00 – 9:30 p.m. at St. Aloysius Gonzaga Church, 157 Cleveland Drive, Cheektowaga, NY (corner of Century Rd.) featuring the music of THE AUSLANDERS. German food, including Knockwurst and Bratwurst, limburger cheese sandwiches and German potato salad will be served. Dancing, door prizes, a raffle and a Chinese Basket Raffle will be part of the event. Any questions or request for tickets, please call 759-6454 Ex. 20, Marilyn Peterson.

The Family Justice Center of Erie County, Inc. — “Where Families Come First” — serves victims of Domestic Violence who are in need of access to safety planning, spiritual care, legal assistance, law enforcement, or limited medical assistance counseling. All services are free. All conversations are strictly private. For more information call 716-558-7233 or visit http://www.fjcsafe.org/.

Knowledge is Power, and now is the time to start thinking about your future. Catholic Charities Education and Workforce Department helps to provide High School Equivalency test preparation and job readiness services to Erie County adults ages 16 and older. As of January 2014, changes by New York State to the High School Equivalency exam process, will make it more difficult and harder to obtain, so it is important to be prepared and take the exam before the end of this year. At Catholic Charities, after receiving an educational/career assessment, students attend classes and a counselor works with each student on job readiness skills, leadership training and potential college placement. For more information visit our website, http://www.ccwny.org/ or call (716) 893-3500. We’re also on Facebook at facebook.com/ccbuffalo and Twitter at twitter.com/ccbuffalo.

Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time

Sep 1, 2013 | This Week

This week we celebrate Labor Day, and so we feature the woodcarvings in the rear of the church which honor the trades. This shoemaker’s awl is one of six symbols carved on the doors of the large wooden cabinet designed as the ushers’ office. All of the building’s original woodcarvings were done by two brothers from Bowmansville, NY, Richard and Albert Lippich. (Rev. Walter Kern’s Guidebook to Blessed Trinity R. C. Church, pages 23 & 24. Photo credit: Margaret Dick).

September 1 – September 8, 2013

Thursday, September 5 at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

Saturday, September 7 at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

We now have: Red, White & Blue; carry over Bonus Ball; and a progressive Share-the-Wealth! To check the carry over amounts and progressive numbers for this week, click HERE and visit our Facebook page.

The building trades are represented by this angle or “carpenter’s square.”

Mass Intentions

Sunday, September 1 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Agnes and Cleveland Witherspoon (Requested by Family)

Monday, September 2 ~ Labor Day Holiday Observance – NO Communion Service

Tuesday, September 3 ~ St. Gregory the Great ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Gladys Kibler (Estate)

Wednesday, September 4 ~ Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. – Cynthia A. Braun

Thursday, September 5 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Loretta Saxer (Estate)

Friday, September 6 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Bernard H. Fix and Ruth R. Fix (Estate)

Saturday, September 7 ~ Marriage of Mary E. Schmelzer and Robert G. Karlis at 1 p.m.

Saturday, September 7 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – John and Rita Curtin (Curtin Family)

Sunday, September 8 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Margaret Harris (Blessed Trinity Parish Community)

News from our Parish Community

Parish Council Elections ~ It’s time for Parish Council elections. There are four vacancies this year. You will find copies of a questionnaire in every pew, asking you to suggest someone in the parish that you feel might be a good candidate. Members of the nominating committee will take your suggestions seriously and contact the individuals you have selected to see if they would consider running for election to a three-year term on our Parish Council.

Important Sacramental Information for Parents ~ Arrangements have been made for our children to participate in St. Joseph University Church programs to prepare to receive First Reconciliation (Confession) or First Communion. We are grateful for the warm welcome extended to us by Ms. Dianne Brennan, Director of Lifelong Faith Formation, and all the staff of St. Joseph Parish. Requirements are as follows: For First Reconciliation Program – Child must have received the Sacrament of Baptism and currently be in Grade 2 and up. For First Communion Program – Child must have received the Sacraments of Baptism and First Reconciliation and currently be in Grade 3 and up. The First Reconciliation Program will begin November 7. 2013, and the First Communion Program will begin February 6, 2014.. If your child meets these requirements, please call Sister Barbara at 833-0301 no later than September 1 to register. Thank you.

Labor Day is the nation’s tribute to the contributions of American workers in our country. Not only do you work hard to help this country remain strong and prosperous, you also show compassion and generosity by returning a portion of that hard-earned money to help others in need through your support of Catholic Charities. Thank you for helping Catholic Charities to exceed its 2013 goal! Enjoy your Labor Day and accept our gratitude for your dedication and your gifts. Find us at http://www.ccwny.org/or on Facebook at facebook.com/ccbuffalo and Twitter at twitter.com/ccbuffalo.

Project Homeless Connect ~ A Message from Sister Claire Edwards: “My Dear Fellow Parishioners, You are so generous! Our deodorant collection drive went ‘over the top.’ We were hoping for 700 and you donated 749! Thank you so very much on behalf of the Project Connect, WNY Coalition for the Homeless and our neighbors who are without a home.”

The weaver or textile worker is represented by the spinning wheel.

Give So More Can Serve ~ Over 650 alumni of Christ the King Seminary are currently serving in our diocese. Last year over 150 students enrolled in academic programs at Christ the King – preparing to minister in our parishes and communities. Please help them answer God’s call. The annual collection for Christ the King Seminary will take place at our church in two weeks. Please show your support for the mission of Christ the King by praying for our Seminary’s ministry and by giving generously to the annual appeal. Your prayers and your gift to Christ the King help to ensure the future of the church in our area. For more information on our Seminary’s mission or programs, go to http://www.cks.edu/.

An Invitation from Bishop Malone ~ To all couples who celebrate their 50th, 60th or 70th Anniversaries of Marriage in 2013 – You are invited to a special Mass in St. Joseph Cathedral on Sunday, October 27, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. On this day the entire Diocese of Buffalo will join those celebrating in their joy and gratitude to God, who has set them among us as a sign of His constant and faithful love. During the Mass, couples will renew their marriage vows. A reception will follow at the Adam’s Mark Hotel. If you are one of these special couples and plan to participate in this Diocesan Celebration, please call Sr. Barbara Horan (833-0301) by October 1.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Our Lady of Black Rock School Enrollment ~ Summer is flying by, but there’s still time to enroll your child for Pre-K (age 4) through Grade 8 in Our Lady of Black Rock School (O.L.B.R.). We are a diverse school community where great minds grow. We have dedicated teachers, small class sizes, a technology supported curriculum, and strong Catholic values. The school is located at 16 Peter Street, off of Amherst Street, in the City of Buffalo. Contact us today at (716) 873-7497 or visit our website at www.olbrschool.com to learn more.

Sisters of St. Joseph Oktoberfest ~ Sunday, September 22, 2013, 5:00 – 9:30 p.m. at St. Aloysius Gonzaga Church, 157 Cleveland Drive, Cheektowaga, NY (corner of Century Rd.) featuring the music of THE AUSLANDERS. German food, including Knockwurst and Bratwurst, limburger cheese sandwiches and German potato salad will be served. Dancing, door prizes, a raffle and a Chinese Basket Raffle will be part of the event. Any questions or request for tickets, please call 759-6454 Ex. 20, Marilyn Peterson.

 

Agricultural workers are represented by the farmer’s sickle.

Knowledge is Power, and now is the time to start thinking about your future. Catholic Charities Education and Workforce Department helps to provide High School Equivalency test preparation and job readiness services to Erie County adults ages 16 and older. As of January 2014, changes by New York State to the High School Equivalency exam process, will make it more difficult and harder to obtain, so it is important to be prepared and take the exam before the end of this year. At Catholic Charities, after receiving an educational/career assessment, students attend classes and a counselor works with each student on job readiness skills, leadership training and potential college placement. For more information visit our website, http://www.ccwny.org/ or call (716) 893-3500. We’re also on Facebook at facebook.com/ccbuffalo and Twitter at twitter.com/ccbuffalo.

Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time

Aug 25, 2013 | This Week

St. Augustine of Hippo (354-439), whose feastday we celebrate on August 28, appears in the dome of our church in a painting by Buffalo-born artist Joseph Mazur. He is depicted standing at the far right in this photo and is part of a group of 14 figures identified as “Confessors, Bishops, and Missionaries.” (Rev. Walter Kern’s “Guidebook to Blessed Trinity R. C. Church,” p. 39). Photo credit: Duane Held.

August 25 – September 1, 2013

Thursday, August 29 at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

Saturday, August 31 at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

We now have: Red, White & Blue; carry over Bonus Ball; and a progressive Share-the-Wealth! To check the carry over amounts and progressive numbers for this week, click HERE and visit our Facebook page.

Mass Intentions

Sunday, August 25 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Elizabeth Dick – Birthday Remembrance (Requested by Family)

Monday, August 26 ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, August 27 ~ St. Monica ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Deceased Members of St. Gerard Parish (Blessed Trinity Community)

Wednesday, August 28 ~ St. Augustine ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – William Condon (Estate of Mary Condon)

Thursday, August 29 ~ The Passion of St. John the Baptist ~ Cleveland Witherspoon (Family)

Friday, August 30 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Anthony and Teresa Hafner (Estate)

Saturday, August 31 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Emily Resinger (Beverly Howard)

Sunday, September 1 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Agnes and Cleveland Witherspoon (Family)

St. Augustine (354-430)
Bishop of Hippo (present day Algeria)

Prayer Attributed to St. Augustine

Watch with those, O Lord,
who wake, or watch, or weep tonight,
and give your angels charge over those who sleep.
Tend you sick ones, O Lord Christ.
Rest your weary ones,
Bless your dying ones.
Soothe your suffering ones,
Pity your afflicted ones,
Shield your joyous ones
and all for your love’s sake. Amen.

News from our Parish Community

Parish Council Elections ~ It’s time for Parish Council elections. There are four vacancies this year. You will find copies of a questionnaire in every pew, asking you to suggest someone in the parish that you feel might be a good candidate. Members of the nominating committee will take your suggestions seriously and contact the individuals you have selected to see if they would consider running for election to a three-year term on our Parish Council.

Important Sacramental Information for Parents ~ Arrangements have been made for our children to participate in St. Joseph University Church programs to prepare to receive First Reconciliation (Confession) or First Communion. We are grateful for the warm welcome extended to us by Ms. Dianne Brennan, Director of Lifelong Faith Formation, and all the staff of St. Joseph Parish. Requirements are as follows: For First Reconciliation Program – Child must have received the Sacrament of Baptism and currently be in Grade 2 and up. For First Communion Program – Child must have received the Sacraments of Baptism and First Reconciliation and currently be in Grade 3 and up. The First Reconciliation Program will begin November 7. 2013, and the First Communion Program will begin February 6, 2014.. If your child meets these requirements, please call Sister Barbara at 833-0301 no later than September 1 to register. Thank you.

Project Homeless Connect ~ A Message from Sister Claire Edwards:
“My Dear Fellow Parishioners,
You are so generous! Our deodorant collection drive went ‘over the top.’ We were hoping for 700 and you donated 749! Thank you so very much on behalf of the Project Connect, WNY Coalition for the Homeless and our neighbors who are without a home.”

An Invitation from Bishop Malone ~ To all couples who celebrate their 50th, 60th or 70th Anniversaries of Marriage in 2013 – You are invited to a special Mass in St. Joseph Cathedral on Sunday, October 27, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. On this day the entire Diocese of Buffalo will join those celebrating in their joy and gratitude to God, who has set them among us as a sign of His constant and faithful love. During the Mass, couples will renew their marriage vows. A reception will follow at the Adam’s Mark Hotel. In early fall we will be receiving registration information for this event.

“God Bless You – Bog Zaplac” from The Catholic League ~ In appreciation for your prayers and contribution, may the revered Black Madonna of Poland, Our Lady of Czestochowa, intercede before her Son for all your personal petitions. If anyone has not contributed and still cares to do so, simply mark a plain envelope “CATHOLIC LEAGUE” and place it in the Sunday collection. Thank you all contributors! The seminary students in Rome will remember you in prayer.

Knowledge is Power, and now is the time to start thinking about your future. Catholic Charities Education and Workforce Department helps to provide High School Equivalency test preparation and job readiness services to Erie County adults ages 16 and older. As of January 2014, changes by New York State to the High School Equivalency exam process, will make it more difficult and harder to obtain, so it is important to be prepared and take the exam before the end of this year. At Catholic Charities, after receiving an educational/career assessment, students attend classes and a counselor works with each student on job readiness skills, leadership training and potential college placement. For more information, call (716) 893-3500 or visit our website, http://www.ccwny.org/. We’re also on Facebook at facebook.com/ccbuffalo and Twitter at twitter.com/ccbuffalo.

Summer in the City was a fine success. The weather was great – the music games and food (especially the desserts) were enjoyed by all. We are most grateful for the work done by Amy Johnson and Dan Korchowsky who attended all the planning meetings and coordinated our B.T. volunteers. Dan wishes to thank Elsieta Chapman, Angela Jost, Althea Porter, Sister Liz Savage, SSJ, Sister Claire Edwards, DC, Judy Casassa, Vontrese Draper, Martha Bobo and Jackie Korchowsky who helped with a variety of activities/jobs. And a word from Amy Johnson: “A BIG THANK YOU to our bakers and tent staffers. We were able to provide a tasty assortment of home baked desserts – 150 servings and all sold! I express special thanks to my team of Elseita Chapman, Althea Porter and Lucille Venezia who met last Sunday morning to cut, box and transport the baked goods to SS. Columba-Brigid. Our dessert tent was staffed by Sister Claire Edwards, Helen Roddy-Gray, Vontrese Draper and Judy Casassa who welcomed those of you who stopped by to lend a hand and socialize.” For more photos from Summer in the City, click HERE.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Our Lady of Black Rock School Enrollment ~ Summer is flying by, but there’s still time to enroll your child for Pre-K (age 4) through Grade 8 in Our Lady of Black Rock School (O.L.B.R.). We are a diverse school community where great minds grow. We have dedicated teachers, small class sizes, a technology supported curriculum, and strong Catholic values. The school is located at 16 Peter Street, off of Amherst Street, in the City of Buffalo. Contact us today at (716) 873-7497 or visit our website at www.olbrschool.com to learn more.

Congrega Society of Buffalo’s Biannual Mass in honor of the Crowned Virgin is scheduled for Saturday, September 7, at 9:00 a.m. at St. Lawrence Church, Buffalo. A meeting and breakfast will follow in the parish hall and includes a short DVD presentation and discussion entitled What Every Catholic Needs to Know about Mary: Marian Apparitions. If you are not a regular member and would like to attend, please call Mary J. D. Steinhauser at 716-656-7195 to be added to the breakfast count. 

The Brothers of Mercy Campus Foundation will host the annual Oktoberfest and 5K Run/Walk on Friday, September 13 behind the Brothers of Mercy Sacred Heart Adult Home, 4520 Ransom Road, Clarence. The Oktoberfest will begin at 5:30 and the run will start at 6:30 p.m. At the Oktoberfest enjoy great German food; domestic, imported and craft beer; music by the Auslanders; raffles; a Chinese auction; and fun with KISS Radio’s Nicholas Picholas. The first 400 run registrants will receive a long-sleeve runners t-shirt, admission to the Oktoberfest, beverages, a food item, and more! ChampionChip timing on a USTAF certified course. Visit BrothersOfMercy.org or call 716-759-7808 for Oktoberfest run information. To register for the run on-line, visit RunningGuru.com/Event/brothersofmercy5k.

 

Meals on Wheels for Western New York needs more volunteers to help feed the growing number of homebound elderly and disabled individuals in Erie County. It’s easy to volunteer and takes just 60 minutes a day. Individuals 16 years of age or older can volunteer once a month, once a week or even everyday. Meals on Wheels needs both servers and drivers. To learn more about volunteering, call 716-822-2002, ext. 21.

 

Compeer for Senior Citizens ~ Become a caring friend to a senior. Compeer volunteers demonstrate that friendly encouragement and caring support can truly enrich a lonely life. So often many seniors lose many of their longstanding relationships that they have counted on for years. Family moves, friends pass away, neighbors change. Struggling with loneliness and isolation they often lack the supportive friendships that so many of us take for granted. Currently over 80 volunteers are making a huge difference, but there are also 65 seniors throughout Erie County waiting for a friend. Contact 716-883-3331 or email staff [at] compeerbuffalo [dot] org.