Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Aug 18, 2013 | This Week

August 18 – August 25, 2013

Tuesday, August 20 at 7:00 p.m. ~ School Alumni Committee Meeting in St. Charles Hall

Thursday, August 22 at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

Saturday, August 24 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 18 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Elizabeth Duffy (Requested by Family)

Monday, August 19 ~ St John Eudes ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, August 20 ~ St. Bernard ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Community)

Wednesday, August 21 ~ Pope St. Pius X ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Winifred Enright (Estate)

Thursday, August 22 ~ Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary ~ NO SERVICE

Friday, August 23 ~ St. Rose of Lima ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Virginia Saxer (Estate)

Saturday, August 24 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Carrie and Freddie Silmon (Family)

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

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.

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.

Project Homeless Connect ~ Sister Claire Edwards reports that we have collected just over 500 deodorants for the homeless people of our community. The deodorant will be included in gift bags that will be distributed September 5 at the 5th Annual Project Homeless Connect. Baskets for donations are at each end of the altar railing at the front of church. Thank you so much for your wonderful response!

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.

Seeking Employment? ~ Are you or someone you know an out of work job seeker? Facing the challenge of being unemployed and working through this tough economy is tough enough. You don’t have to go it alone. Contact your Office of Family Life Ministries for your FREE packet containing practical resources, prayers, scripture support and programs designed to support you on your journey. Just call us at 716-847-2210 or email familylife [at] buffalodiocese [dot] org. Know we care.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Mount St. Mary Academy will host its third annual Summer Music Festival on Saturday, August 24, 12 noon – 8 p.m. at Mount St. Mary Academy (3756 Delaware Avenue in Kenmore). Musical performances by: Mount St. Mary Academy Jazz Ensemble, JJ Swing and Mount St. Mary Academy Marching Band. Additional events include: car show, craft show, flea market, fashion show, pizza taste off, wine tasting, beer tent, meat raffle, food tent, bounce houses, Chivetta’s Chicken BBQ, and Theme Tray Raffles. Admission to the festival is free. (Please bring a lawn chair or blanket).

 

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. 

 

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.

 

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Aug 11, 2013 | This Week

August 11 – August 18, 2013

Thursday, August 15 ~ at 8:00 p.m ~ Bingo will be played in St. Charles Hall.

Saturday, August 17 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 11 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Virginia Saxer (Requested by Estate)

Monday, August 12 ~ St Jane Frances de Chantal ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, August 13 ~ Pope St. Pontian; St. Hippolytus ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Anthony and Teresa Hafner (Estate)

Wednesday, August 14 ~ St. Maximilian Kolbe ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Loretta Saxer (Estate)

Thursday, August 15 ~ Solemnity of the Assumption of Our Lady – Holy Day of Obligation ~ Mass at 12 Noon

Friday, August 16 ~ St. Stephen of Hungary ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Bernard H. Fix and Ruth R. Fix (Estate)

Saturday, August 17 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Mary C. Nelson (The Curtin Family)

Sunday, August 18 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Elizabeth Duffy (Family)

The Catholic Churches of Central Buffalo continued a tradition begun a number of years ago at St. Gerard’s by coming together for “Summer in the City,” a communal celebration of summer. the event took place on August 4 at SS. Columba-Brigid. Special thanks to Dan Korchowsky and Amy Johnson who coordinated Blessed Trinity’s participation.

News from our Parish Community

Flowers for Our Lady ~ This Thursday, August 15, the Church celebrates the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a Holy Day of Obligation. If you have a garden awash with summer flowers, Our Ladies Sodality invites you to honor Mary with a bouquet when you come to Mass at Noon on her feast day. We will have vases with water available at the Mary Shrine, so come a few minutes early to arrange your offering. (If you prefer, do the arranging at home and retrieve your vase at a later date). And on this feast day, take a moment to appreciate Joseph Mazur’s painting in the transept of our church (over the left side door) entitled “The Assumption of Mary into Heaven.”

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.

Catholic League Appeal ~ A Tradition of Faith, Love and Sharing ~ Founded almost seventy years ago, we thank Almighty God for all the clergy and laity who pioneered the cause. The continuation of the League is now our mission and challenge. Help provide for a strong leadership in the Church of Poland. Your contributions are primarily used to support two seminaries where talented priests are sent for further studies to help provide strong leadership now and in the future—the Polish Pontifical Institute and the Polish Pontifical College, both in Rome. The priests return to Poland to staff Chanceries, seminaries, universities and works of charity. You would be impressed to see these zealous priests. This collection takes place the weekend of August 17-18.

Project Homeless Connect ~ Sister Claire Edwards reports that as of August 4, we have collected just over 400 deodorants for the homeless people of our community. Because the goal is about 700, we will be extending the collection through August 18. The deodorant will be included in gift bags that will be distributed September 5 at the 5th Annual Project Homeless Connect. Baskets for donations are at each end of the altar railing at the front of church. Thank you so much for your wonderful response!

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.

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.

Seeking Employment? ~ Are you or someone you know an out of work job seeker? Facing the challenge of being unemployed and working through this tough economy is tough enough. You don’t have to go it alone. Contact your Office of Family Life Ministries for your FREE packet containing practical resources, prayers, scripture support and programs designed to support you on your journey. Just call us at 716-847-2210 or email familylife [at] buffalodiocese [dot] org. Know we care.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

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.

Mount St. Mary Academy will host its third annual Summer Music Festival on Saturday, August 24, 12 noon – 8 p.m. at Mount St. Mary Academy (3756 Delaware Avenue in Kenmore). Musical performances by: Mount St. Mary Academy Jazz Ensemble, JJ Swing and Mount St. Mary Academy Marching Band. Additional events include: car show, craft show, flea market, fashion show, pizza taste off, wine tasting, beer tent, meat raffle, food tent, bounce houses, Chivetta’s Chicken BBQ, and Theme Tray Raffles. Admission to the festival is free. (Please bring a lawn chair or blanket).

Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Aug 6, 2013 | This Week

St. Dominic (1170-1221), whose feast day is celebrated on August 8, is depicted in this grouping of monks, hermits and religious in the dome of our church. He is the standing figure, second from the left, shown holding a book.
The painting is by Buffalo-born artist Joseph Mazur. Photo credit: Gary Kelley.

August 4 – August 11, 2013

Sunday, August 4 from 12 Noon – 4:00 p.m. ~ “Summer in the City” at SS. Columba-Brigid

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

Saturday, August 10 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 4 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Paul G. Horan (Requested by The Horan Family)

Monday, August 5 ~ Dedication  of the Basilica of St. Mary Major ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, August 6 ~ The Transfiguration of the Lord ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Gladys Kibler (Estate)

Wednesday, August 7 ~ Pope St. Sixtus II & Companions ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Thursday, August 8 ~ Mass of Christian Burial for Donna C. Schalberg at TBA

Thursday, August 8 ~ St. Dominic ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Lorettta Saxer (Estate)

Friday, August 9 ~ Wedding of Nicholas DelBello and Miranda Giangrosso at 3 p.m.

Friday, August 9 ~ St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Saturday, August 10 ~ St. Lawrence ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Edward J. Eagan – Birthday Remembrance (James and Gayle Eagan)

Sunday, August 11 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Virginia Saxer (Estate)

News from our Parish Community

Summer in the City, Sunday August 4, 12 Noon – 4:00 p.m. ~ The Catholic Churches of Central Buffalo continued a tradition begun a number of years ago at St. Gerard’s by coming together for “Summer in the City,” a communal celebration of summer. The event took place at SS. Columba-Brigid. Special thanks to Dan Korchowsky and Amy Johnson who coordinated Blessed Trinity’s participation — and to Angela Jost for bringing her magic bubble wands. For more photos from Summer in the City, click HERE.

Project Homeless Connect ~ As a way of showing homeless people and families that the community is aware of and cares for them, we are collecting deodorants for the Personal Items Bags that they will receive on September 5 at the 5th Annual Project Homeless Connect Day at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center. Baskets for your donations are at each end of the altar railing and will remain through the weekend of August 3/4. We thank Sister Claire Edwards, Daughter of Charity from Sisters Hospital, and our Parish Council for bringing this worthwhile project to our attention, and we thank you for your generous cooperation!!!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.

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.

Seeking Employment? ~ Are you or someone you know an out of work job seeker? Facing the challenge of being unemployed and working through this tough economy is tough enough. You don’t have to go it alone. Contact your Office of Family Life Ministries for your FREE packet containing practical resources, prayers, scripture support and programs designed to support you on your journey. Just call us at 716-847-2210 or email familylife [at] buffalodiocese [dot] org. Know we care.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

NativityMiguel Student Recognized as a “Man for Others” ~ The 2013 Higher Achievement Program (HAP) at Canisius High School concluded on Wednesday, July 25th with a graduation ceremony in the school auditorium. At the end of ceremony, The Pedro Arrupe Award for Service was presented to NativityMiguel student, Keith Mack, who was recognized as the student who conducted himself as a true “man for others.” The Canisius HAP is for boys who have just completed the 7th grade. Participation of NativityMiguel students in HAP was made possible through the generous support of those of you who donated gift certificates received at fundraisers or made contributions to The POLARIS Fund, our partner organization that provides tuition assistance to our graduates in high school. Each family contributed to the cost, as well. The recognition and achievements of these students would not have happened without you. Thank you for helping these young men on their journey toward success in high school and beyond!

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.

Mount St. Mary Academy will host its third annual Summer Music Festival on Saturday, August 24, 12 noon – 8 p.m. at Mount St. Mary Academy (3756 Delaware Avenue in Kenmore). Musical performances by: Mount St. Mary Academy Jazz Ensemble, JJ Swing and Mount St. Mary Academy Marching Band. Additional events include: car show, craft show, flea market, fashion show, pizza taste off, wine tasting, beer tent, meat raffle, food tent, bounce houses, Chivetta’s Chicken BBQ, and Theme Tray Raffles. Admission to the festival is free. (Please bring a lawn chair or blanket).

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Jul 28, 2013 | This Week

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

July 28 – August 4, 2013

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

Saturday, August 3 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.

Sunday, August 4 from 12 Noon – 4:00 p.m. ~ “Summer in the City” at SS. Columba-Brigid

Mass Intentions

Sunday, July 28 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Thomas P. Long (Requested by Thomas and Lisa Long)

Monday, July 29 ~ St. Martha ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, July 30 ~ St. Peter Chrysologus ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Winifred Enright (Estate)

Wednesday, July 31 ~ St. Ignatius of Loyola ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Deceased Members of St. Gerard Parish (St. Gerard Parish)

Thursday, August 1 ~ St. Alphonsus Liguori ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – William Condon (Estate of Mary Condon)

Friday, August 2 ~ St. Eusebius of Vercelli; St. Peter Julian Eymard ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Anthony and Teresa Hafner (Estate)

Saturday, August 3 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Pauline R. Viola (Joseph Viola)

Sunday, August 4 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Paul G. Horan (The Horan Family)

News from our Parish Community

Summer in the City, Sunday August 4, 12 Noon – 4:00 p.m. ~ Our host, SS. Columba-Brigid, requests volunteers from our cluster parishes to work one hour shifts at various stations/jobs during the party. By sharing the work everyone can enjoy the day. There is a Sign-Up Sheet listing the tasks that need to be staffed on the altar railing near Mary’s shrine. Note: Men are needed for set-up on Saturday, August 3; please sign up by Sunday, July 28. Thank you. Dan Korchowsky is serving as Blessed Trinity’s volunteer coordinator and can answer questions you may have.

Our parish will host a dessert tent during Summer in the City. We need your homemade desserts and your help staffing the tent during the afternoon. A Sign-Up Sheet is posted. Please, no refrigerated desserts or layer cakes. The desserts will be cut and apportioned into single serve plastic containers before we transport them to the party. You can deliver your dessert on Saturday, August 3, at the 4:30 PM Mass (to the sacristy) or before the 10 AM Mass on Sunday, August 4(to St. Charles Hall). Please sign up by July 28. Amy Johnson is coordinating our dessert tent challenge. Thank you to all who can help in any way. We hope to see you at Summer in the City.

Project Homeless Connect ~ As a way of showing homeless people and families that the community is aware of and cares for them, we are collecting deodorants for the Personal Items Bags that they will receive on September 5 at the 5th Annual Project Homeless Connect Day at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center. Baskets for your donations are at each end of the altar railing and will remain through the weekend of August 3/4. We thank Sister Claire Edwards, Daughter of Charity from Sisters Hospital, and our Parish Council for bringing this worthwhile project to our attention, and we thank you for your generous cooperation!!!

The Buffalo Public School System has extended the deadline to transfer a child within the District until Wednesday, July 31. If you need an application form for transfer to a school in good standing, call Sister Barbara at the parish office, 716-833-0301.

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.

Seeking Employment? ~ Are you or someone you know an out of work job seeker? Facing the challenge of being unemployed and working through this tough economy is tough enough. You don’t have to go it alone. Contact your Office of Family Life Ministries for your FREE packet containing practical resources, prayers, scripture support and programs designed to support you on your journey. Just call us at 716-847-2210 or email familylife [at] buffalodiocese [dot] org. Know we care.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Sisters of St. Mary of Namur celebrate 150th Jubilee Year in North America ~ Alumnae/Alumni of the Sisters of St. Mary of Namur and friends from the Buffalo Parishes are invited to join together in celebration of the order’s North American founding in 1863. Mass at Mount St. Mary Auditorium (3756 Delaware Avenue in Kenmore) Thursday, August 15, 2013 at 4:30 p.m. Picnic following Mass 6:00-8:00 p.m. Reservations are required and are due by July 31. The Picnic reservation is priced at $20 person includes dinner provided by BW’s Barbecue. For additional details please contact Alexandra Kogler Fussell at Mount St. Mary Academy,(716) 877-1358 extension 414 or afussell [at] msmacademy [dot] org.

 

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.

Mount St. Mary Academy will host its third annual Summer Music Festival on Saturday, August 24, 12 noon – 8 p.m. at Mount St. Mary Academy (3756 Delaware Avenue in Kenmore). Musical performances by: Mount St. Mary Academy Jazz Ensemble, JJ Swing and Mount St. Mary Academy Marching Band. Additional events include: car show, craft show, flea market, fashion show, pizza taste off, wine tasting, beer tent, meat raffle, food tent, bounce houses, Chivetta’s Chicken BBQ, and Theme Tray Raffles. Admission to the festival is free. (Please bring a lawn chair or blanket).

Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Jul 23, 2013 | This Week

Mary of Magdala
July 22
Mary of Magdala, in spite of the undeservedly tarnished reputation she held for fifteen centuries, is arguably the second most important woman in the New Testament. She is mentioned a total of fourteen times in all four accounts of the Gospel – more than most of the apostles — and modern scripture scholarship has now redeemed her reputation, embracing the earlier view of Saint Augustine who was the first to call her “the Apostle to the Apostles.” Mary is depicted in both painting and woodcarving in our church. Here, in a grouping of “Virgins and Widows” in the great dome, she appears as the first kneeling figure on the left. Photo credit: Gary Kelley.

July 21 – July 28, 2013

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

Saturday, July 27 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, July 21 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Deceased Members of Then and Ferella Families (Requested by Family)

Baptism of Sophia Marie Aungst at the 10 a.m. Mass

Monday, July 22 ~ St. Mary Magdalene ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, July 23 ~ St. Bridget ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Maude Alexis (Altar and Rosary Society, St. Bartholomew Church)

Wednesday, July 24 ~ St. Sharbel Makhluf ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Anna Snyder (Estate)

Thursday, July 25 ~ St. James, Apostle ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Memorial Service for Mary Kay Harren

Friday, July 26 ~ St. Joachim and St. Anne ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Deceased Members of Blessed Trinity Parish (Blessed Trinity Parish)

Saturday, July 27 ~ Baptism at 1 p.m. ~ Adelinde Grace Long

Saturday, July 27 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Mary C. Nelson (Ithrene and Lorna Cameron)

Sunday, July 28 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Thomas P. Long (Thomas and Lisa Long)

News from our Parish Community

Project Homeless Connect ~ As a way of showing homeless people and families that the community is aware of and cares for them, we are collecting deodorants for the Personal Items Bags that they will receive on September 5 at the 5th Annual Project Homeless Connect Day at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center. Baskets for your donations are at each end of the altar railing and will remain there during the month of July. We thank Sister Claire Edwards, Daughter of Charity from Sisters Hospital, and our Parish Council for bringing this worthwhile project to our attention, and we thank you for your generous cooperation!!!

Summer in the City, Sunday August 4, 12 Noon – 4:00 p.m. ~ Our host, SS. Columba-Brigid, requests volunteers from our cluster parishes to work one hour shifts at various stations/jobs during the party. By sharing the work everyone can enjoy the day. There is a Sign-Up Sheet listing the tasks that need to be staffed on the altar railing near Mary’s shrine. Note: Men are needed for set-up on Saturday, August 3; please sign up by Sunday, July 28. Thank you. Dan Korchowsky is serving as Blessed Trinity’s volunteer coordinator and can answer questions you may have.

Our parish will host a dessert tent during Summer in the City. We need your homemade desserts and your help staffing the tent during the afternoon. A Sign-Up Sheet is posted. Please, no refrigerated desserts or layer cakes. The desserts will be cut and apportioned into single serve plastic containers before we transport them to the party. You can deliver your dessert on Saturday, August 3, at the 4:30 PM Mass (to the sacristy) or before the 10 AM Mass on Sunday, August 4(to St. Charles Hall). Please sign up by July 28. Amy Johnson is coordinating our dessert tent challenge. Thank you to all who can help in any way. We hope to see you at Summer in the City.

God Knows Parenting is a Wild Ride! If you ever wished for practical tools, resources, skill building techniques, and lots more, one of these FREE parenting packets is designed just for you. Parenting Packet I addresses the basic tough tasks of raising children in today’s world. Parenting Packet II is for those separated or divorced. It focuses on positive ways to co-parent well in order to help children of all ages who are profoundly affected by their parents’ divorce deal with the pain and upheaval in their lives. Parenting Packet III: Death and grief are inescapable; if you feel ill-prepared to discuss death with a child, you are not alone. This packet offers useful tools from preschool through teens. For your free packet, please call your Office of Family Life Ministries at 716-847-2210 or email familylife [at] buffalodiocese [dot] org.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Sisters of St. Mary of Namur celebrate 150th Jubilee Year in North America ~ Alumnae/Alumni of the Sisters of St. Mary of Namur and friends from the Buffalo Parishes are invited to join together in celebration of the order’s North American founding in 1863. Mass at Mount St. Mary Auditorium (3756 Delaware Avenue in Kenmore) Thursday, August 15, 2013 at 4:30 p.m. Picnic following Mass 6:00-8:00 p.m. Reservations are required and are due by July 31. The Picnic reservation is priced at $20 person includes dinner provided by BW’s Barbecue. For additional details please contact Alexandra Kogler Fussell at Mount St. Mary Academy,(716) 877-1358 extension 414 or afussell [at] msmacademy [dot] org.

 

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.

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Jul 14, 2013 | This Week

July 14 – July 21, 2013

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

Saturday, July 20 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, July 14 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Nancy Rose (Requested by Beverly Howard) and Thomas and Robert Eldred – (Requested by Gary and Family)

Monday, July 15 ~ St. Bonaventure ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, July 16 ~ Our Lady of Mount Carmel ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Virginia Saxer (Estate)

Wednesday, July 17 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Olga Burns (Altar and Rosary Society, St. Bartholomew Church)

Thursday, July 18 ~ St. Camillus de Lellis ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Anthony and Teresa Hafner (Estate)

Friday, July 19 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Eleanora Herrmann, (Altar and Rosary Society, St. Bartholomew Church)

Saturday, July 20 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Paula R. Viola (Joseph Viola)

Sunday, July 21 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Deceased Members of Then and Ferella Families (Family)

Baptism of Sophia Marie Aungst at the 10 a.m. Mass

News from our Parish Community

Project Homeless Connect ~ As a way of showing homeless people and families that the community is aware of and cares for them, we are collecting deodorants for the Personal Items Bags that they will receive on September 5 at the 5th Annual Project Homeless Connect Day at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center. Baskets for your donations are at each end of the altar railing and will remain there during the month of July. We thank Sister Claire Edwards, Daughter of Charity from Sisters Hospital, and our Parish Council for bringing this worthwhile project to our attention, and we thank you for your generous cooperation!!!

Summer in the City, organized by the churches of Central City, will take place Sunday, August 4, at Ss. Columba-Brigid Church, 75 Hickory at Eagle. There is a need for many volunteers to bake desserts, work at our parish food tent, and to help with set-up, parking, serving and clean-up, etc. If you can lend a hand, there is a sign-up sheet on the altar railing near Mary’s shrine.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Annulment Workshop – If you’d like to apply for an annulment but don’t know where to start, plan to attend the Annulment Workshop on Tuesday, July 16, from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the UB Newman Center, 495 Skinnersville Road (the traffic light just past Sweet Home High School) in Amherst. To register, call Barbara Wyse at 716-633-7786.

 

Annual Men’s Retreat at the Columban Center in Derby, NY will be September 6-8. The theme is “Religion vs Faith.” Open to all men, it begins with registration at 4 p.m. on Friday and ends with Mass and Brunch on Sunday. For more information or reservations, contact Rev. Paul P. Sabo at (716) 604-4948 or the Holy Name Office at (716) 847-2201. Reservations are limited to 55 men.

Volunteer Opportunities at Sisters Hospital ~ Guardian Angel Ministry Program: The Long Term Care Homes of the Catholic Health Care System in WNY are currently expanding our Guardian Angel Ministry Program. This unique and challenging ministry provides companionship for residents as they enter their final stages of living. This distinctive End of Life Program, offers support for family members who are unable to be with their loved ones during the overnight hours (11 p.m. – 7 a.m.) as the resident approaches death. The program is designed to give families a brief respite and peace of mind knowing that someone is offering spiritual support and companionship to their loved one. The loved one will not die alone. Volunteers sign up for a 4 hour shift and average no more than one shift per month. For more information or to volunteer, please contact: Chaplain Jonathan Moran at Saint Catherine Labourè 862-1538.

Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Jul 8, 2013 | This Week

July 7 – July 14, 2013

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

Saturday, July 13 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, July 7 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Robert Herrera (Requested by Penny Herrera) and Caitlin Homan (Requested by Don and Bonnie Williams)

Monday, July 8 ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, July 9 ~ St. Augustine Zhao Rong & Companions ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Catherine M. Maher (Estate)

Wednesday, July 10 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Loretta Saxer (Estate)

Thursday, July 11 ~ St. Benedict ~ NO SERVICE

Friday, July 12 at 11 a.m. ~ Memorial Service for Mary Kay Harren

Saturday, July 13 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Mary C. Nelson (The Curtin Family)

Sunday, July 14 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Nancy Rose (Beverly Howard) and Thomas and Robert Eldred – (Gary and Family)

News from our Parish Community

Bingo Workers Honored ~ The parish honored its unsung heroes and heroines — Thursday and Saturday night bingo workers — at an outdoor brunch hosted by Father Reger, following Sunday Mass on June 30. Appreciative parishioners and friends feted the workers with a fabulous buffet served under a tent (just in case) on the church lawn. For more photos from this event, click HERE to visit our Facebook page.

Project Homeless Connect ~ As a way of showing homeless people and families that the community is aware of and cares for them, we are collecting deodorants for the Personal Items Bags that they will received on September 5 at the 5th Annual Project Homeless Connect Day at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center. Baskets for your donations are at each end of the altar railing and will remain there during the month of July. We thank Sister Claire Edwards, Daughter of Charity from Sisters Hospital, and our Parish Council for bringing this worthwhile project to our attention, and we thank you for your generous cooperation!!!

Summer in the City, organized by the churches of Central City, will take place Sunday, August 4, at Ss. Columba-Brigid Church, 75 Hickory at Eagle. There is a need for many volunteers to bake desserts, work at our parish food tent, and to help with set-up, parking, serving and clean-up, etc. If you can lend a hand, there is a sign-up sheet on the altar railing near Mary’s shrine.

Congratulations to Charlotte Ellis-Chamberlain, a member of the Blessed Trinity family, who graduated from Catholic Academy of West Buffalo on June 20. Members of the class earned over $ 70,000 in academic scholarships. Sixty-two percent of the graduates will be going to area private high schools, with the remaining 38% earning admission to top notch public or charter schools. Charlotte will be attending Tapestry Charter School in the fall.

School Related Materials ~ Attention Parents: We are beginning to receive Back-to-School Information. The material will be placed on the table in the church’s front vestibule.

GED Opportunities ~ Summer is in full swing! High school graduation for many is a memory, but some students, for whatever reason, did not make it to this finish line. There is hope for a new start at Catholic Charities. In Erie County, we offer valuable help with high school equivalency and career counseling. For more information, call our GED and job readiness program at 716-893-3500 or 716-856-4494. Check us out at www.ccwny.org. Thank you for supporting Appeal 2013! Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/ccbuffalo.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Mount St. Mary Academy is hosting a Chiavetta’s Barbeque on Sunday, July 14. Bring the family for an afternoon picnic or take dinner home for your crew. Dinners will be served from noon to 4:00 p.m. Drive-through only at 3756 Delaware Avenue, Kenmore, NY 14217. Tickets are priced at $10 and are available on-site or by pre-sale. To purchase pre-sale tickets, please contact Mount St. Mary Academy at (716) 877-1358. All proceeds will benefit the Mount St. Mary Academy Alumnae Scholarship.

 

Annulment Workshop – If you’d like to apply for an annulment but don’t know where to start, plan to attend the Annulment Workshop on Tuesday, July 16, from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the UB Newman Center, 495 Skinnersville Road (the traffic light just past Sweet Home High School) in Amherst. To register, call Barbara Wyse at 716-633-7786.

 

Annual Men’s Retreat at the Columban Center in Derby, NY will be September 6-8. The theme is “Religion vs Faith.” Open to all men, it begins with registration at 4 p.m. on Friday and ends with Mass and Brunch on Sunday. For more information or reservations, contact Rev. Paul P. Sabo at (716) 604-4948 or the Holy Name Office at (716) 847-2201. Reservations are limited to 55 men.

Volunteer Opportunities at Sisters Hospital ~ Guardian Angel Ministry Program: The Long Term Care Homes of the Catholic Health Care System in WNY are currently expanding our Guardian Angel Ministry Program. This unique and challenging ministry provides companionship for residents as they enter their final stages of living. This distinctive End of Life Program, offers support for family members who are unable to be with their loved ones during the overnight hours (11 p.m. – 7 a.m.) as the resident approaches death. The program is designed to give families a brief respite and peace of mind knowing that someone is offering spiritual support and companionship to their loved one. The loved one will not die alone. Volunteers sign up for a 4 hour shift and average no more than one shift per month. For more information or to volunteer, please contact: Chaplain Jonathan Moran at Saint Catherine Labourè 862-1538.

Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Jun 30, 2013 | This Week

June 30 – July 7, 2013

Bingo workers enjoy a buffet luncheon in their honor on Sunday, June 30.

Sunday, June 30 following the 10:00 a.m. Mass ~ Brunch Honoring Bingo Workers.

Thursday, July 4 ~ Independence Day Holiday Observance ~ NO BINGO GAMES.

Saturday, July 6 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!

Mass Intentions

Sunday, June 30 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Janice Weber (Requested by Gary)

Monday, July 1 ~ Blessed Junipero Serra ~ Communion Service at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, July 2 ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Rita Poorten (Altar and Rosary Society of St. Bartholomew Church)

Wednesday, July 3 ~ St. Thomas, Apostle ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – William Condon (Estate of Mary Condon)

Thursday, July 4 ~ Independence Day Holiday Observance ~ NO SERVICE

Friday, July 5 ~ St. Anthony Zaccaria; St. Elizabeth of Portugal ~ Mass at 11 a.m. – Gladys Kibler (Estate)

Saturday, July 6 ~ Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m. – Pauline R. Viola (Joseph Viola) and Rose Pernick (Altar and Rosary Society of St. Bartholomew Church)

Sunday, July 7 ~ Mass at 10 a.m. – Robert Herrera (Penny Herrera) and Caitlin Homan (Don and Bonnie Williams)

News from our Parish Community

Bingo Workers Honored ~ The parish honored its unsung heroes and heroines — Thursday and Saturday night bingo workers — at an outdoor brunch hosted by Father Reger, following Sunday Mass on June 30. Appreciative parishioners and friends feted the workers with a fabulous buffet served under a tent (just in case) on the church lawn. For more photos from this event, click HERE to visit our Facebook page.

We’ve Conquered Cocoa! Now What ??? ~ Sister Claire Edwards, Daughter of Charity from Sisters Hospital, B. T. Parishioner, Member of the Choir and Member of Parish Council, offers us a challenge. For the past four years, Sister has been involved with Project Homeless Connect, an initiative of the WNY Alliance for the Homeless. Each year a day is set aside to provide many services to homeless people. This year on September 5 they will have the 5th Annual Project Homeless Connect Day at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center. Almost 75 service providers – from barbers and hair stylists to Veteran’s Benefits and Dental Care to Social Services to Family Service, etc. – all gathered together that day volunteering services to our neighbors who are homeless. Last year they served almost 700 people. This project doesn’t solve the problem of homelessness (the Alliance is also working on this larger issue), but it does show homeless people and families that the community is aware of and cares for them, – and it exposes many volunteers and service providers to this needy group in our midst. And Now OUR Challenge: As each homeless person leaves “Connect Day,” they are given a bag of personal items, donated from a variety of sources: socks, soap, tooth brushes, toothpaste, first aid kits, shaving cream for men and hygiene products for women. One item that is needed is (are you ready?): DEODORANT. Sister Claire asks: “Could we ask our parishioners at Blessed Trinity to collect deodorant for this purpose on the weekends of July? The Parish Council responded affirmatively. So, we ask you to become a part of this effort to reach out to our needy neighbors in this very simple, basic way. We will have containers placed in church during July for your contributions. We will need deodorants for men and women. And do note: deodorants can be purchased from The Dollar Store for $1.00. Thank you for your generous cooperation!!!

Summer in the City, organized by the churches of Central City, will take place Sunday, August 4, at Ss. Columba-Brigid Church, 75 Hickory at Eagle. There is a need for many volunteers to bake desserts, work at our parish food tent, and to help with set-up, parking, serving and clean-up, etc. If you can lend a hand, there is a sign-up sheet on the altar railing near Mary’s shrine.

GED Opportunities ~ Summer is in full swing! High school graduation for many is a memory, but some students, for whatever reason, did not make it to this finish line. There is hope for a new start at Catholic Charities. In Erie County, we offer valuable help with high school equivalency and career counseling. For more information, call our GED and job readiness program at 716-893-3500 or 716-856-4494. Check us out at www.ccwny.org. Thank you for supporting Appeal 2013! Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/ccbuffalo.

News from our Vicariate Cluster and the Wider Community

Mount St. Mary Academy is hosting a Chiavetta’s Barbeque on Sunday, July 14. Bring the family for an afternoon picnic or take dinner home for your crew. Dinners will be served from noon to 4:00 p.m. Drive-through only at 3756 Delaware Avenue, Kenmore, NY 14217. Tickets are priced at $10 and are available on-site or by pre-sale. To purchase pre-sale tickets, please contact Mount St. Mary Academy at (716) 877-1358. All proceeds will benefit the Mount St. Mary Academy Alumnae Scholarship.The Annulment Process ~ If you or someone you know is thinking about applying for an annulment, plan to attend the Annulment Workshop on Tuesday, July 16 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the UB Newman Center, 495 Skinnersville Road (the traffic light just past Sweet Home High School) in Amherst. To register, call Barbara Wyse at 633-7786.

Annulment Workshop – If you’d like to apply for an annulment but don’t know where to start, plan to attend the Annulment Workshop on Tuesday, July 16, from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the UB Newman Center, 495 Skinnersville Road (the traffic light just past Sweet Home High School) in Amherst. To register, call Barbara Wyse at 716-633-7786.

Annual Men’s Retreat at the Columban Center in Derby, NY will be September 6-8. The theme is “Religion vs Faith.” Open to all men, it begins with registration at 4 p.m. on Friday and ends with Mass and Brunch on Sunday. For more information or reservations, contact Rev. Paul P. Sabo at (716) 604-4948 or the Holy Name Office at (716) 847-2201. Reservations are limited to 55 men.

Volunteer Opportunities at Sisters Hospital ~ Guardian Angel Ministry Program: The Long Term Care Homes of the Catholic Health Care System in WNY are currently expanding our Guardian Angel Ministry Program. This unique and challenging ministry provides companionship for residents as they enter their final stages of living. This distinctive End of Life Program, offers support for family members who are unable to be with their loved ones during the overnight hours (11 p.m. – 7 a.m.) as the resident approaches death. The program is designed to give families a brief respite and peace of mind knowing that someone is offering spiritual support and companionship to their loved one. The loved one will not die alone. Volunteers sign up for a 4 hour shift and average no more than one shift per month. For more information or to volunteer, please contact: Chaplain Jonathan Moran at Saint Catherine Labourè 862-1538.