Third Sunday of Lent
March 7 - 13, 2010
Sanctuary Memorial / Honor Candles
The sanctuary candle is a reminder to us of the presence
of Christ reserved in the Tabernacle.
This week’s sanctuary candle is offered for the following intentions:
In Memory of Mrs. Michelle L. Predmore
(Family)
Stewardship
Your Gift of Time, Talent & Treasure
Sunday Collection for February 28, 2010:
$3,436.46
Weekly Goal to Meet Expenses:
$5,019.23
Difference:
- $1,582.77
Year-to-Date Budget Variance:
- $5,221.63
Many thanks for your continued support and generosity
as we strive to meet our parish expenses!
Parish Statistics...
The following statistics are for the weekend of February 28th
Weekend Number of People
Mass Attending Mass
5:00 PM 158
8:30 AM 166
11:00 AM 126
Total number of people
attending Mass 450
Number of registered
parishioners 932
Based on this past weekend’s attendance 48.28% of the total number of registered parishioners attended Mass this weekend.
Reflect on your gifts…and your giving!
The following statistics are a breakdown of the weekly collection for those families who used their envelopes for the weekend of February 28th. The statistics do not reflect any loose/cash contributions that were made without an envelope.
Amount Given # of Contributors % of Contributors
$0.00 332 71.09%
$0.01 – $1.00 0 0.00%
$1.01 – $5.00 24 5.14%
$5.01 – $10.00 19 4.07%
$10.01 – $15.00 13 2.78%
$15.01 – $20.00 38 8.14%
$20.01 – $25.00 15 3.21%
$25.01 – $50.00 17 3.64%
$50.01 – $75.00 3 0.64%
$75.01 - $100.00 3 0.64%
$100.01 – $500.00 3 0.64%
Total # of Envelopes: 467
Average contribution of those giving: $ 23.06
Average contribution of all families: $ 6.67
Eternal Rest Grant Unto Them, O Lord
Please remember in your prayers our parishioners
and friends of the parish who have recently died:
Sue Ruane, Mr. Harry "Jack" Willard, Mr. Johann Fraunhofer.
THE WEEK AHEAD
Monday, March 8th – St. John of God, religious
Tuesday, March 9th – St. Frances of Rome, religious
The readings for all daily and weekend Masses can be found online at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ website: www.usccb.org (then select ‘Readings’ from the top of the page).
POPE BENEDICT XVI NAMES NEW BISHOP OF SCRANTON DIOCESE
On Tuesday, February 23rd, Pope Benedict XVI named Monsignor Joseph Bambera the 10th Bishop of the Diocese of Scranton. Bishop-elect Bambera who is 53 years old, is a native of Carbondale and was ordained in 1983. He has served as a parish priest, Vicar for Priests, Episcopal Vicar, and most recently has served the last six months as delegate to Cardinal Justin Rigali. He will be installed as Bishop of Scranton at St. Peter’s Cathedral on Monday, April 26th at 2:00 p.m. Please pray for Bishop-elect Joseph Bambera and all the faithful in the Diocese of Scranton.
THANK YOU!
Fr. Chmil and the members of St. Peter’s Parish Called to Holiness and Mission Implementation Team (Colleen Hanson, Mr. Kevin Hritz, & Mrs. Anja Stam) would like to extend sincere thanks to all the parishioners who attended the Parish Renewal Workshop that was held on Wednesday, February 24th. It was encouraging and inspiring to witness the enthusiasm, dedication and positive energy that was shown for our parish. Numerous suggestions and helpful input were also received from parishioners who were unable to attend. We look forward to implementing many of these ideas in the year ahead. Every member of our parish is asked to find opportunities for involvement by reading the weekly bulletin and supporting our parish wherever your gifts and the Holy Spirit lead you. May God continue to bless our parish and all our parishioners!
CARE & EDUCATION OF PRIESTS
A second collection will be taken at all of the Masses this weekend in support of the Care and Education of Priests. Thank you for your generosity!
NEW ALTAR SERVER TRAINING
Attention students in grade 3 and higher and their parents: training for new Altar servers will be held this Sunday and next Sunday from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. in the church. Any student who is interested in becoming an Altar server is asked to attend.
PRO-LIFE MEETING
The monthly meeting of your local pro-life group (Endless Mountains Pennsylvanians for Human Life) will be held this Thursday, March 11th at 7:30 p.m. at Soldiers and Sailors Hospital. All are welcome! For more information, visit www.empfhl.org or call Catherine Lannak at 724-6071.
CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES COLLECTION
Physical hunger is a terrible affliction and one that commands our attention and action. Please prayerfully reflect on the opportunity to support the poor and less fortunate. The annual Catholic Social Services Diocesan Collection will be held next weekend, March 13th & 14th. Please use the special envelope provided in your monthly packet. Thank you for your generosity.
FUNERAL LUNCHEON THANK YOU!
Thank you to the members of the Funeral Luncheon Committee, especially Calvin and Francia Reese, the committee facilitators, and to all the parishioners who have provided food or helped to prepare meals for recent funeral luncheons. We are currently looking for volunteers to join the Funeral Luncheon Committee. These positions include calling parishioners to contribute food and supplies, coordinating the set up, meal preparation, and clean up. If you are willing to become a part of this important ministry of comforting the sorrowful, please call the parish office at 724-3371.
TERMINATION OF FLU SEASON DIRECTIVES
Cardinal Justin Rigali has informed Bishop-Elect Joseph C. Bambera that effective Sunday, March 14, 2010, the exchange of the sign of peace and the distribution of the Precious Blood for the faithful will be reintroduced in the manner indicated by established liturgical norms. According to Cardinal Rigali, “The information available from the Center for Disease Control confirms that the 2009 H1N1 Flu has significantly dissipated throughout the country and especially in our region. However, individuals are encouraged to still use good sense if they are ill and have flu-like symptoms when they are in group settings.”
SPRING FORWARD!
Just a reminder, remember to turn your clocks ahead one hour next Sunday morning, March 14th.
CALLING ALL KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS!
St. Peter’s Parish will celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation on Saturday, March 27th at 10:00 a.m. Fourth Degree Honor Guards are needed. If you are able to attend, please arrive by 9:30 a.m.
ADOPT-A-PARISH UPDATE
During January and February, St. Peter’s Parish has collected $1,572 in support of our sister parish, St. Margaret Mary, in Lionel Town Jamaica. On behalf of the parishioners of St. Margaret Mary, thank you for your continued generosity and support.
CLOTHING, BOOK, & HOUSEHOLD SALE
Mark your calendar! St. Peter’s Parish will hold a Clothing, Book, & Household sale in the Parish Center on Tuesday, April 13th and Wednesday, April 14th from 8:00 till 6:00 p.m. and Thursday, April 15th (Take what you want for a donation this day.) from 8:00 till 5:00 p.m. Donations will be accepted Sunday, April 11th from 12:00 noon till 3:00 p.m. and Monday, April 12th from 8:00 till 5:00 p.m. Please, no early sales.
BAKED GOODS WANTED!
We are adding a bake sale to our Spring Clothing, Book, & Household Sale. We are looking for pies, cakes, cookies, bread, fudge, etc. All our wonderful bakers are asked to bring their baked goods to the Parish Center on Monday, April 12th and Tuesday, April 13th. Thank you for your support of this fundraiser!
TO ALL HOMEBOUND PARISHONERS
If you or someone you know is a parishioner who is homebound and would like to receive our weekly bulletin thru the mail, please contact the parish office.
Continuing Our Lenten Journey
LENTEN PRAYER
God of all mercy and steadfast love, we do not always love, we do not always live the way you want us to. Forgive us. Help us during this season of Lent to examine how we can be more faithful followers of Jesus Christ, your son. Guide us in our pilgrimage of discipleship. May our words and actions truly reflect your will for us. Amen.
STATIONS OF THE CROSS
During Lent, Stations of the Cross will be celebrated on Fridays at 3:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. in the church. The 3:30 p.m. Stations will be led by the youth of our parish but are open to all parishioners. (For students coming from school, light refreshments will be served in the Parish Center prior to the beginning of the 3:30 p.m. Stations.) All parishioners are encouraged to attend Stations of the Cross as part of this special time of prayer and penance.
LENTEN ADULT CATECHETICAL SESSIONS
St. Peter’s Parish is holding Lenten Catechetical Sessions for adults. Theresa Delmotte will offer these Lenten reflections each Sunday throughout Lent from 9:45 until 10:45 a.m. in the Music Room (off the carport entrance of the church). Theresa, a parishioner who has worked as a lay professional in the Church for twenty years, has presented this apologetics workshop at many conferences for college age students as well as for the parishioners in the parishes where she has worked. This week's topic is "Being Called, Hearing the Call, Answering the Call." Everyone is invited to attend. Each topic/session is independent so it is not necessary to attend every session. Even if you can’t make every one, please join us for the ones you are able to attend! Coffee and snacks will be available. There is no need to register, just show up! Bring your Bible if you would like.
EASTER FLOWER MEMORIAL
Memorialize your deceased family members and friends this Easter by using the Flower Memorial Envelope provided in this month’s packet or write your name and those you wish to remember on a plain envelope. Place your envelope in the collection basket. A list of those we remember in prayer will be published Easter Sunday.
LENTEN REFLECTION MATERIALS
A selection of Lenten materials for your spiritual enrichment has been placed on the table at the back of the church.
PASCHAL CANDLE DONATION
On behalf of the entire parish, we would like to thank Mr. & Mrs. Eugene Goellner for donating this year’s Paschal Candle. The Paschal Candle has been donated in loving memory of Mrs. Alice F. Danuck. Many thanks for your generous donation!
FASTING
Fasting is a traditional form of penance. Fasting is traditionally understood as a way of purifying a person, making him or her open to the work of the Spirit. Fasting limits the quantity of food or drink. This is an ancient practice that can be found in many religious cultures. However, the Christian tradition uses the discipline of fasting as a way to focus a person’s attention on the spiritual life. When the results of fasting are experienced (a hunger and desire for that which is denied), those fasting are then reminded of the reason why they are adopting this practice.
EASTER DUTY
All parishioners are reminded of their obligation to fulfill their Easter Duty. A person’s Easter duty consists of receiving Holy Communion at least once between Ash Wednesday and Pentecost Sunday as well as going to the Sacrament of Reconciliation to confess any mortal sin.
DAYS OF FAST AND ABSTINENCE
Just a reminder that Good Friday is a day of fast and abstinence. All Catholics 18 years of age and over are bound by Church law to fast; only one large meal and two smaller meals. At the age of 60 (or if one is sick), a person is no longer required to fast. All Fridays during Lent are days of abstinence where all Catholics 14 years of age and older are required to abstain from meat.
OPERATION RICE BOWL
Operation Rice Bowl, the official Lenten program of Catholic Relief Services, begins on Ash Wednesday. Proceeds benefit the poor in our own diocese and throughout the developing world. You are asked to eat one sacrificial meal each week during Lent and to give the money you saved to the Rice Bowl program. Operation Rice Bowl Boxes have been placed at all of the entrances of the church. Please join in this meaningful Lenten observance.
EUCHARISTIC ADORATION
Every Tuesday, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament begins immediately following 7:30 a.m. Mass, continues all day, and concludes at 7:00 p.m. This Lent, commit to spending a few moments in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament each week.
IN LENT, WHY DO WE…???
Lent is a special season where the Church prepares for the great feast of Easter. In many ways, it is a forty-day retreat of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. At Mass, we mark this time of preparation with several different liturgical actions.
Why is the Gloria not sung during Lent?
The Gloria is always omitted during Lent, although it is sung on solemnities such as St. Joseph’s Day, the Annunciation, and on the feasts of our parish patrons, St. Peter and St. John Neumann. By suppressing the joyful song of the Gloria, the liturgy places greater emphasis on the Act of Penance This gives the whole liturgy a more somber air, suitable for a season of preparation and penance.
Why is the Gospel Acclamation different?
The Gospel Acclamation (the Alleluia) is a way of honoring Jesus Christ and elevating the Gospel reading above the others. However, during Lent the word Alleluia is not used. This is another sign of the season’s character as a time of restraint and sobriety, when we do penance and are conscious of sin and the need for conversion.
Why does the priest use the
Eucharistic Prayers for Reconciliation?
There are two Eucharistic Prayers for Reconciliation; both are appropriate for the season of Lent as a time of repentance and preparation for baptismal renewal. The first Eucharistic Prayer for Reconciliation reminds us: “Now is the time for your people to turn back to you and be renewed in Christ your Son, a time of grace and reconciliation.”
TRIDUUM SCHEDULE & EASTER SUNDAY
Holy Thursday – April 1st
7:00 p.m. Mass of Anticipation of the Lord’s Supper
Good Friday – April 2nd
12:10 p.m. Celebration of the Lord’s Passion
1:30 p.m. Sacrament of Reconciliation
7:00 p.m. Stations of the Cross
Holy Saturday – April 3rd
12:00 p.m. Blessing of Baskets
8:00 p.m. Easter Vigil
Easter Sunday – April 4th
9:00 a.m.
11:00 a.m.
THE JUBILEE YEAR OF THE PRIEST
His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI has proclaimed June 19, 2009 through June 19, 2010 “The Jubilee Year of the Priest.” All the faithful are encouraged to join with His Holiness to commemorate this special year with spiritual prayer for our priests.
This is a special year of grace for our Church as we become more aware of the essential role of the priests who continue to proclaim the Good News among us. It is also a special time for priests to grow in holiness in imitation of Jesus.
This jubilee year also marks the 150th anniversary of the death of St. John Vianney, the Cure of Ars, who was an extraordinary example of priestly holiness and service. The Holy Father has named St. John Vianney as the patron of all priests.
The Year of the Priest invites us to thank God for priests, who by their fidelity to their call, enrich us in so many ways – through the celebration of the Sacraments, through their prayers and encouragement, through their leadership and teaching, and by their examples of courage and charity.
As recipients of the many gifts of the priesthood, let us pray for our priests that they may continue to lead us in our own call to mission and holiness. Let us pray for seminarians as they prepare for this vocation to the priesthood. Let us pray that the Lord will bless our Church, and especially our Diocese, with men who are willing to follow the Lord in the priesthood.
May God strengthen our priests in their faithfulness in leading us to know, love, and serve the Lord!
St. John Vianney, patron of priests, intercede for our priests that they may grow in holiness and apostolic zeal in the service of Jesus and the Church!
He who honors a priest honors Christ; he who insults a priest insults Christ.
St. John Chrysostom
PRAYER FOR PRIESTS AND RELIGIOUS
Most Merciful Jesus, from whom comes all that is good, increase Your grace in men and women consecrated to Your service, that they may perform worthy works of mercy; and that all who see them may glorify the Father of Mercy who is in heaven.
Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the company of chosen ones in Your vineyard upon the souls of priests and religious; and endow them with the strength of Your blessing. For the love of the Heart of Your Son in which they are enfolded, impart to them Your power and light, that they may be able to guide others in the way of salvation and with one voice sing praise to Your boundless mercy for ages without end. Amen.
Faith Formation Information
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION SCHEDULE
Religious Education for Preschool and babysitting are held during the 8:30 a.m. Mass. Classes for grades K through 8th begin with the 8:30 a.m. Mass and continue with formal instruction immediately following Mass. High School grades 9th through 12th meet Sundays from 6:30 until 8:00 p.m. The schedule for Religious Education is as follows:
March 7th
- 8:30 a.m. Preschool
- 8:30 a.m. 8th Grade LIturgy
- 9:30 a.m. Classes K - 8th Grade
- 9:30 a.m. 8th Grade Penance
- 6:30 p.m. High School
March 14th
- 8:30 a.m. Preschool
- 8:30 a.m. 7th Grade LIturgy
- 9:30 a.m. Classes K - 8th Grade
- 9:30 a.m. 7th Grade Penance
- 6:30 p.m. High School
March 21st
- 8:30 a.m. Preschool
- 8:30 a.m. 6th Grade LIturgy
- 9:30 a.m. Classes K - 8th Grade
- 9:30 a.m. 6th Grade Penance
- 4:45 p.m. High School trip to Life Teen Mass and Life Night
- 6:00 p.m. Confirmation Prep Class
HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH GROUP NEWS
You are invited to attend a Life Teen Mass and Life Night with other high school students in Painted Post, NY on Sunday, March 21st. These evenings are geared especially for high school students. Attending this Mass will fulfill your Sunday obligation, so sleep in late that morning and join us for Mass Sunday evening! Meet at St. Peter’s parking lot at 4:45 p.m. and we’ll return at approximately 9:15 p.m. Anyone attending will need a permission slip signed by their parent. This will replace our regular Sunday evening class. RSVP to the Religious Education office (724-9789 or stpetersreled@epix.net) no later than Friday, March 19th, so that we can be sure we have enough drivers.
BAPTISMAL INSTRUCTION
Baptismal instruction is held on the 1st Monday of every month from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the Parish Office. Parents expecting their first child are asked to attend any time before the birth of their child. The next session will be held on Monday, April 5th. Please call the Parish Office to register.
From the Diocese of Scranton
Prayer for the Diocese of Scranton
Heavenly Father, hear our prayer. Moved by your Holy Spirit dwelling within our hearts, we humbly ask you, Father, to bless the Diocese of Scranton at this time of profound parish renewal. Send your Holy Spirit upon our clergy, religious and lay faithful, so that we may imitate the fidelity, love and zeal of the early Church. Grant us the humility to preserve and teach the Catholic faith which has been handed on to us, so that we may worship you in Spirit and in Truth. Increase our charity, so that we may generously attend to those who pass before us in need. Bless us with missionary zeal, so that through the proclamation of the Good News, we may be salt, light and leaven to those who are distant from your love.
Holy Mary, Mother of God and our Mother, Saint Joseph, Saint Peter, Saint John Neumann, Saint Katharine Drexel, St. Frances Cabrini, St. Andrew, St. Stanislaus, and all the saints, allow us to join our prayers to yours. Through our union with you in prayer, lead us to the glorious banquet of Heaven, where you praise the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ, who is Lord forever and ever. Amen.
RETROUVAILLE WEEKEND
Many couples who are experiencing trouble in their marriage are often afraid to ask someone for help. So often couples hope that time will make things better. Why not take a chance to bring healing and reconciliation to your marriage. Retrouvaille might be for you. For confidential information about this program or to register for the upcoming weekend, March 12-14, at the Fatima Renewal Center in Dalton, please call 587-0415 or visit the website at www.helpourmarriage.com.
The following Days of Reflection are offered through the Diocesan Office for Parish Life and will be held at the Fatima Renewal Center, Dalton. At each Day of Reflection Mass will be celebrated, there will be an opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and lunch will be provided. For more information or to register, please call Sr. Leonita Duhoski, RSM at 207-2213 x1107.
LENTEN DAY OF REFLECTION
The Sisters of Saints Cyril and Methodius will offer a Lenten Day of Reflection on Sunday, March 14th at the Villa Sacred Heart, Danville, from 9:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. The day includes Sunday Mass, celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, reflections, recitation of the rosary, dinner, and free time. The cost is $35 per person. To register or for more information, please call Sister Philothea, SS.C.M at 275-3581 x110.
“JESUS AS PROPHET, PRIEST, AND KING: MODEL FOR CATECHISTS”
Through an explanation of the three offices of Jesus as priest, prophet, and king, Monsignor David L. Tressler will lead catechists in an understanding of how they, through faith and Baptism, share in the Church’s mission of service, and how they are set apart as bearers of the Word in their parish religious education programs. This Day of Reflection may fulfill one of the requirements for those who are choosing to opt from the 601 Catechetical Methodology course. Saturday, March 20th. Cost is $20.
“TRANSFORMED BY THE CROSS – CHALLENGED BY NEW LIFE”
Through the cross of Jesus, we are challenged to embrace a deeper calling to the Christian life. Now, during the Easter season, we are challenged again to live fully that calling. Monsignor John A. Esseff will lead us in prayer and study to recognize the connection that exists between the cross and the glory of the resurrection. Saturday, April 10th. Cost is $30.
“THE RETURN OF THE PRODIGAL SON – A PARABLE OF HOMECOMING”
Through the gospel story of the Prodigal Son, Rev. Philip A. Altavilla, V.E. will address the themes of homecoming, affirmation, and reconciliation that are found within the segments of this parable. These include the younger son’s return, the father’s restoration of sonship, the elder son’s vengefulness, and finally, the father’s compassion. For those who have experienced anger, jealousy, loneliness, and dejection, this reflection day will lead him/her into the love and compassion of God the Father. Saturday, May 15th. Cost is $30.
SPIRITUAL RESOURCES AVAILABLE!
The Office for Parish Life Resource Center (400 Wyoming Ave, Scranton) has a variety of resources for your spiritual development and catechetical needs. Topics such as Sacraments, Saints, Social Justice, Respect Life, Morality, Liturgy, Prayer, and Family Life are found in a variety of media directed to all age levels. The center is available to parishioners during the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday or, call the Resource Center at 207-2204, or visit www.diocesofscranton.org for assistance in selecting materials. For those at a distance, materials can be delivered UPS.
WATCH IT ON THE WEB!
The Diocese of Scranton’s website has added video of certain programs broadcast by CTV: Catholic Television including Daily Mass from St. Peter’s Cathedral, the monthly news program, “Our Faith, Our Diocese,” and other special programs. Watch these programs at any time by visiting the Diocesan website at www.dioceseofscranton.org then selecting the “Watch Video” link on the homepage.
WORLDWIDE MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER
Are you looking for a way to make your good marriage even better? Attend a Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend where you can get away from jobs, kids, chores, and phones – and focus only on each other. If you would like greater depth, growth, and enrichment in your relationship, you’ll like the difference this weekend can make! An upcoming weekend is scheduled in Bethlehem from February 12th – 14th. For more information or to register, please visit wwme-nepa.org or telephone 1-800-787-7679.
In Our Community
WELLSBORO FOOD PANTRY
Throughout the year, St. Peter’s Parish does a wonderful job of supporting the Wellsboro Area Food Pantry. Please continue to remember the Food Pantry. It is through your generosity that the Food Pantry continues to serve those who are in need. Non-perishable items such as: canned goods, cereal, baby formula with iron (either milk or soy variety), diapers, and paper products may be placed in the box at the main entrance of the church. For those who would like to do so, monetary donations can be dropped in the weekly collection basket in an envelope marked “Wellsboro Food Pantry”. Please make checks payable to “Wellsboro Food Pantry.”
WELLSBORO SENIOR CENTER VOLUNTEERS
The Area Agency on Aging needs several volunteers to assist the Wellsboro Senior center Manager in daily tasks such as helping to pack meals for home delivery, helping to serve daily hot lunches at the Center, helping in general clean up and in other activities. We ask our volunteers to give only as many hours and/or days as possible; volunteers may choose a flexible schedule to suit their available time. To offer your help, please contact Loretta Tascione, Volunteer Coordinator at 723-5335 with your interest and questions.
HOME-DELIVERED MEAL DRIVERS NEEDED!
Drivers and Substitutes are urgently needed for meal deliveries in the Wellsboro area. Home Delivered Meal drivers/substitutes make deliveries daily between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. or occasionally to substitute when a regular driver cannot deliver the meals. Drivers are reimbursed for mileage, currently at fifty cents per delivery mile. Retired or soon-to-be retired persons, persons new to the area, or those just plain interested in meeting and helping people are invited to join the Area Agency on Aging’s Community Service Program. The Area Agency welcomes you for as little or as much time as you have to contribute. For more information, please contact Loretta Tascione, Tioga County Volunteer Coordinator at 723-5335 or 1-800-822-6793.
PLEASE SAVE YOUR CAMPBELL SOUP LABELS & BOX TOPS FOR EDUCATION
We are collecting Campbell soup labels and Box Tops for Education in support of Trinity Lutheran School. A special container has been placed near the main entrance of the church. Thank you for your support!