Church of Saint Philip Neri

Pennsburg, PA 18073

May 9, 2010

Rev. Robert A. Roncase, Pastor

Deacon Michael J. Franks, Permanent Deacon

Rev. Edmond J. Speitel, Pastor Emeritus

Rev. John J. Scarcia, Retired Pastor

Rev. Raymond W. Smart, Retired, Resident

Shirley Misiak, Office Manager

Mark J. Meinzer, Business Manager

Catherine E. Faust, Director of Music

Patricia A. Schleeweiss, School Principal

Jeffrey W. Daley, Director of Religious Education

Colleen Daley, Parish Youth Minister

Sister Patricia Kelly, M.S.B.T., Parish Outreach

Rectory Phone 215.679.9275

Rectory Fax 215.679.0386

School Phone 215.679.7481

Religious Education Phone 215.541.3120

Religious Education Fax 215.541.1398

Parish Social Hall Phone 215.679.8116

Parish Outreach Phone 215.679.2282

Neri Center Phone 215-679-6490

Church & Rectory Address:

1325 Klinerd Road

Pennsburg, PA 18073

Hours: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Email Address: spnofc@comcast.net

Website Address: www.spnparish.org

School Address:

6^th & Washington Streets

East Greenville, PA 18041

Hours: 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM

Website Address: www.spnelementary.com

Religious Education Center Address

565 Main Street

East Greenville, PA 18041

Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Neri Center Address

6^th & Washington Streets

East Greenville, PA 18041

ROSARY: Prayed in the Chapel

Every Saturday after the 8:00 AM Mass

Every 2^nd Monday at 1:00 PM

SCHEDULE OF MASSES

Saturday – Vigil Mass – 5:00 PM

Sunday – 7:30, 9:30, 11:00 AM

Weekdays – In the Chapel

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday,

Friday & Saturday – 8:00 AM

Wednesday – 7:00 PM

HOLY DAYS:

8:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 7:30 PM

Eve of Holy Days –5:00 PM

CHAPEL OPEN FOR VISITS

The Chapel will be opened Monday thru Saturday

until 7:00 pm for your visits to the Blessed Sacrament.

CONFESSIONS

Saturdays: 4:00 – 4:45 PM

Eve of Holy Days: 4:15 – 4:45 PM

BAPTISMS

Celebrated the 2^nd & 3^rd Sundays of each month.

Please call the Rectory to schedule.

2^nd Sunday Baptisms are held at the

11:00 AM Mass

3^rd Sunday Baptisms are held at 12:30 PM

PRE-JORDAN CLASSES

1^st Monday of every month at 7:00 PM in the

Rectory meeting room.

MARRIAGES

Arrangements should be made at least SIX

MONTHS before the date of the wedding.

NEW PARISHIONERS

Welcome to your new home! Please stop by the rectory between 9:00 am - 3:00 pm to fill out a registration card. We are happy to have you in our parish and want to get to know you.

SHUT-INS

Please call the Parish Outreach Office.

SACRAMENT OF THE ANOINTING

Please call the Rectory.

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

Every 1^st Friday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM in the

church, followed by Benediction.

FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS

If you wish to have a floral arrangement placed in front of the altar, please call the rectory.

OUR PARISH MISSION STATEMENT

WE ARE THE CATHOLIC PARISH COMMUNITY OF ST. PHILIP NERI, ANSWERING CHRIST’S CALL TO DISCIPLESHIP THROUGH WORD, SACRAMENT AND SERVICE.

WE PROCLAIM GOD’S HOPE AND LOVE TO ALL.

LET US PRAISE CHRIST TOGETHER

St. Philip Neri Parish is so very fortunate to have our own parish Cemetery. I was, however, confused when I first arrived at St. Philip Neri as to the name of our parish resting place…”Holy Cross Cemetery”. Most parish cemeteries (the majority of parishes do not have cemeteries) are given the name of the parish. Naturally, I thought ours would be called St. Philip Neri Cemetery. Our cemetery is almost ten (10) acres and as parish cemeteries go, it is rather large. We still have over six (6) acres of property which is available for burials. Most Catholic resting places are owned and administered by the diocese. These usually are hundreds of acres in size. One of the most beautiful spots is Resurrection Cemetery located in Bensalem. This cemetery gives the impression and appearance of a park, due to the fact that numerous Shade and Evergreen Trees have been planted throughout the grounds. In my twelve years assigned at Our Lady of Grace parish in Penndel, I was often at Resurrection Cemetery and was always impressed with the beauty and dignity of this sacred space. It is my desire that our parish cemetery have the same atmosphere as a final resting spot for our loved ones. I hope to begin this Project by beginning to plant trees throughout Holy Cross.

We are now offering Memorial Trees to anyone who would like to have a tree planted and dedicated in memory of a loved one. A variety of Shade Trees and Evergreen Trees over the years will be planted throughout our cemetery property. These will be planted randomly where space is available. The cost of a Memorial Tree is $425.00. This price includes the cost of the tree and the metal memorial plaque (similar to the Stations of the Cross Plaques) that will be placed at the base of the tree.

To dedicate a Memorial Tree to a loved one, please call the rectory.

Praise Be Jesus Christ…Now and Forever!

Fr. Roncase

HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION

Ascension Thursday – May 13th

Vigil Mass:

Wednesday, May 12^th – 5:00 pm

Holy Day:

Thursday, May 13th – 8:00 am; 9:30 am &

7:30 pm

Serving at Mass May 9

Extraordinary Ministers Lectors

5:00 pm – LaRue Emmell Bob Ellis

Dawn Ellis S. Hunsberger

Priest

Dave Boone

Teri Boone

7:30 am – Denise Guckin Ernie Quatrani

Mary R. Giambrone John Guckin

Priest

Michael Duka

Peter D’Amico

Dina Corrado

9:30 am – John Nash Susan DiMarco

Monica Nash Eileen Koch

Priest

Linda Benko

Mary Ellen Paulk

Rose Anderson

11:00 am – Marlene Leidy Linda Franks

Sarah Franks M. Gehringer

Priest

Deacon

Bob Schwind

Barbara Schwind

Kevin Charlton

Maryanne Charlton

Amanda Charlton

Anna Kells

Robert Hermley

Jeanne Hermley

Serving at Mass May 12/13

Extraordinary Ministers Lectors

5:00 pm – Marci Jaman Bob Piccone

Priest

Alice Swift

Jim Quigley

Annemarie Quigley

8:00 am – Immaculata Barndt Joe Cassarella

LaRue Emmell

Priest

Jim Michels

Joan Pongia

Rita Tokarski

9:30 am – Michele Martin School

Marianne Peters

Priest

Jenny Josko

Bob Talbot

Kathryn Talbot

7:30 pm – Eleanor Brennan Matt Horvath

Bob Brennan

Priest

Deacon

Ken Mayer

Marilynn Mayer

Serving at Mass May 16

Extraordinary Ministers Lectors

5:00 pm – LaRue Emmell Mark Meinzer

Trish Dornisch Ed Tryon

Priest

Pat Meinzer

John Burke

Catherine Cahill

7:30 am – Michele Martin Michael Lynch

Mike Heveran Pete Frank

Priest

Jim Michels

Maureen Moser

Paul Moser

9:30 am – Lisa Gurgick Wendy Benner

Bill Gurgick Terry Benner

Priest

Deacon

Priest

Jenny Josko

Stephanie Greczek

Mary Godshall

Michael Dougherty

Colleen Daley

Eleanor Brennan

Bob Brennan

11:00 am – Mary Goodfellow Susan DiMarco

Marlene Leidy Donna Tarantino

Priest

Deacon

Priest

Mary Lavin

Linda DiTondo

Doug DiTondo

Anna Kells

Joshua Hewitt

Lillian Hewitt

SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

May 9, 2010

Monday, May 10, Blessed Damien Joseph de Veuster

8:00 am – Andrew & Anna Kotch, (Catherine Cressman)

Tuesday, May 11

8:00 am – Toly Shellaway,

(Paul & Vicki Shellaway and family)

Wednesday, May 12 – Saint Nereus & Saint Achilleus

8:00 am – Mary Hauck, (Henry & Rita Tokarski)

5:00 pm – Ruth Wojciechowski & William Mooney,

(Bob & Pat Kanya)

Thursday, May 13 – The Ascension of the Lord

8:00 am – Wayne Brinckman, (Mike & Paulette Macenka)

9:30 am –Jennie Virus, (Edward Mikanowicz)

7:30 pm – Anna Bogdon,

(Paul & Vicki Shellaway and family)

Friday, May 14 – Saint Matthias

8:00 am – First Anniversary, Ronald Matecki,

(Ed & Joan Lampart)

Saturday, May 15 – Saint Isidore

8:00 am – Josephine & Theodore Mikanowicz,

(Stan & Betty Mikanowicz)

5:00 pm – Third Anniversary, Mary Jean Mikanowicz,

(Edward Mikanowicz)

SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

May 16, 2010

Sunday, May 16

7:30 am – For the living & deceased members of the Parish

9:30 am – Lillian Shellaway,

(Paul & Vicki Shellaway and family)

11:00 am – Sue Miley, (The family)

MASS GREETERS NEEDED

Greeters are needed for Saturday and Sunday Masses. Greeters arrive at Mass about 15 minutes before the start of Mass; greet parishioners at the door, help take care of any special needs; and distribute the Bulletins at the conclusion of Mass.

If you would like to be a Greeter on a regular basis or as a substitute, please call Dawn at: 215-679-2160, Shirley at the rectory: 215-679-9275 or email Doris at: gmomdecker@yahoo.com.

ROSE/FLORAL ARRANGEMENT

The red roses placed on the Blessed Mother and Sacred Heart Altars are in memory of Mary Jean Mikanowicz on her Third Anniversary, requested by Husband, Edward Mikanowicz.

WE INVITE YOUR PRAYERS

For the sick, those in hospitals, nursing homes, and also for their caregivers.

Please pray in particular for:

Rev. John J. Scarcia, Baby Robert Riegel Jr., Robert Rukstalis, Frances Cannon, Ethel Buck, Gary Lester Keller, Baby Lucy Littlefield, Charlotte Azarovich, George Bradford, Rick DeStefano, Tommy Slattery, Baby Olivia Enriquez, Carla Kozak, Janice Minnich, Christine Erb, Jean Kosich, Patrick Malloy, William McAffee, John Brazuk, Thomas Zappala, Adam Canigiani, Jr., Jo Maturo, Elsie Connelly, Charlotte Homan, Theresa Homan, Anna Hoffman, Colleen McMillar, Pete Duklis, Sr. Ron Leckey, Anthony Bonanno, Ben and Mary Finkbeiner, David Campbell & John Cahill, Jr.

For those who have died, and in particular for Joseph Fischer & Terry Rose, grant them eternal rest and peace.

SUNDAY COLLECTIONS

May 3, 2009 May 2, 2010

Envelopes: $ 10,319.00 $ 8,690.50

Loose 1,211.00 1,246.00

Children 75.50 67.23

Total: $ 11,605.50 $ 10,003.73

APRIL MONTHLY EXPENSES

Salaries: $ 37,809.52

Oil: 1,860.12

Electric: 4,155.52

Telephone: 427.05

Insurance: Parish 5,308.12

Insurance: Medical

Trash: 326.00

Assessment: 326.00

Maintenance/Supplies: 9,866.12

Water/Sewer - 292.00

(East Greenville)

Total: $ 60,370.45

Give a St. Philip Neri Memorial Gift!

For a donation of $35 or more, there is a beautiful folder recording the gift and donor to be presented to the family. A Mass is offered each month.

We also have “Living Memorials” for those special occasions in life.

PARISH BREAKFAST

Our next parish Breakfast is May 23rd. Save the date! If anyone would like to volunteer at the breakfast, please call Rita at 215-679-7009.

ACTIVITIES - *BINGO*

Kitchen opens 5:00 pm – Bingo – 6:30 pm

Working Thursday – May 13th – Team #3

All regular games pay $50

FINAL COVER – ALL SPECIAL PAYS: $500

Bingo: April 29^th – 59 players

Games: $ 189.00

Kitchen: 154.00

Total: $ 343.00

Please note: Brown paper bags are needed for Bingo. If you have any to spare, please drop them off at the Social Hall on Tuesday’s or Thursday’s between 8:30 am & 12:00 pm.

MAY – THIS WEEK AT A GLANCE

Sunday, May 9th

Children’s Liturgy of the Word 9:30 am Church

Knights of Columbus Meeting 7:30 pm Rectory

Mother’s Day Carnations – After Masses

Youth Ministry: EDGE (Grade School) 6:00 pm Gym

Youth Ministry: TLIC (High School) 7:30 pm Gym

Monday, May 10th

Pastoral Council Meeting 7:00 pm Rectory

Charismatic Prayer Group 7:00 pm Chapel

SPN Quilting 1:00 pm Gym

Tuesday, May 11

Garden Club – Church Grounds 5:00 pm

May Procession (PREP & School) 6:30 pm Church

Boy Scouts 7:00 pm Gym

Wednesday, May 12^th

Vigil Mass – Ascension Thursday 5:00 pm Church

ALPHA 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm Rectory

Ascension Thursday, May 13^th

Holy Day Masses: 8:00 am; 9:30 am & 7:30 pm Church

Bingo 6:30 pm Gym

Cub Scouts 6:45 pm School

Friday, May 14th

SPN Quilting 1:00 pm Gym

Chicken Barbque set-up all day Gym

Saturday, May 15th

Chicken Barbque 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm Gym

Sunday, May 16th

Children’s Liturgy of the Word 9:30 am Church

Archdiocesan Boy Choir 11:00 am Church

Men’s 30 & over Basketball 8:00 pm Gym

UPCOMING MEETINGS

TOSCO’S Day – Home & School – Monday, May 17^th

Charismatic Prayer Group – Monday, May 17^th – Chapel – 7:00 pm

Cantor & Choir Practice – Tuesday, May 18^th – Church – 6:30pm

Garden Club – Tuesday, May 18^th – Church grounds – 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Boy Scouts – Tuesday, May 18^th – Gym – 7:00 pm

ALPHA – Wednesday, May 19^th – Rectory – 6:30 pm

Respect Life Ministry Meeting – Wednesday, May 19^th – Rectory – 7:30 pm

St. Philip Neri Grade School Concert – Wednesday, May 19^th – Gym – 7:00 pm

Bingo – Thursday, May 20^th – Gym – 6:30 pm

Cub Scouts – Thursday, May 20^th – School – 6:45 pm

Friendly Visitors General Meeting – Thursday, May 20^th – Rectory – 7:00 pm

St. Philip Neri Grade School Grandparent’s Day – Thursday, May 20^th – Gym – 8:00 am -12:00 pm

Pennsburg Manor Nursing Home Mass – Thursday, May 20^th – 10:00 am

Friday, May 21^st – Saint Philip Neri Grade School Dance – 6^th, 7^th & 8^th Grades – Gym – 7:00 – 10:00 pm

Saturday, May 22^nd – Parish Breakfast set-up – Gym

Sunday, May 23^rd – Children’s Liturgy of the Word – at the 9:30 am Mass

Sunday, May 23^rd – Parish Breakfast – Gym – 7:00 am – 12:30 pm

Sunday, May 23^rd – Men’s 30 & Over Basketball – Gym – 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

May 11^th – Marian May Procession – Church at 6:30 pm

SCHOOL NEWS

Preschool – The preschool class took a trip to the Lehigh Valley Zoo. We had a delightful time. The children saw many of the animals they had been studying about in Science. Both classes brought home hand painted flower pots with marigolds for their mothers to celebrate Mother’s Day.

Kindergarten – This week the Kindergarten continued learning about geometric shapes. They worked with cubes, cylinders, cones and spheres.

1st – This week we will be learning about Mary. The students will learn what assumption means and why the church honors Mary.

2nd – The children have been learning about urban and rural communities. They created and built out of recycled milk and juice containers both a rural and an urban community.

3rd – Students have been learning about fractions. Students have used fraction strips to compare fractions and to find equivalent fractions. This week students are going to add and subtract fractions.

4th – Students are creating Power Point presentations as part of their study of the Civil War. They added backgrounds, inserted clip art and sounds, and transitions between slides.

5th – In Social Studies the fifth graders have begun a project. They are researching and preparing a presentation on an assigned region of Asia.

6th – The students just completed their study of the endocrine system. To quote the end of rap that they created “Now that we’ve shown you our awesome wisdom, this is the end of the endocrine system.”

7th – We are reading some narrative poems before we try writing one of our own. We have also begun our second literature circle selections.

8th – This week the 8th graders participated in the Archdiocesan wide Chastity Day. Each year Generation Life sponsors a presentation for all 8th grade students at local Catholic high schools. The presentation includes speeches, skills, and videos encouraging students to practice chastity.

PARISH NEWS

CARNIVAL CHANCES

Early Bird Drawing

Congratulations to Peter Sattler.

Pete won the Early Bird Drawing of $250 on Tuesday, May 4^th. Carnival Drawing will take place of the last day of the Carnival, Sunday, June 6^th.

Get those Chances in for the prize money!

PARISH CARNIVAL

WED JUNE 2^nd – SAT JUNE 5^th – 6-10 PM

SUNDAY JUNE 6^th – 1-6 PM

ADVANCED FOOD TICKETS can be purchased April 24^th to May 30^th at the SCRIP table or at the rectory until Thursday, May 28^th.

For every $5 purchased, you receive $6 in food tickets.

CARNIVAL SET-UP – Help is needed with setting up stands and tents, roping off areas, moving tables and getting the grounds ready for the Carnival. If you can help, either call Shirley at 215-679-9275, email Doris at gmomdecker@yahoo.com or just come to the Church grounds at 6:00 pm on any of the following dates: Monday, May 17^th, Tuesday, May 18^thand Tuesday, June 1^st.

Rain dates are: Monday, May 24^th and Tuesday, May 25^th.

RIDE BRACELETS – We will be selling Ride Bracelets for Carnival Rides on three (3) days this year; Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday. Cost of the Bracelet is $15.00. Individual Ride Tickets will also be available. With a Ride Bracelet, you can ride all night.

PARISH GARAGE SALE

Our Parish Garage Sale will be held from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm on Wednesday, May 12^th; Saturday, May 15^th; Sunday, May 16^th; Wednesday, May 19^th; Sunday, May 23^rd; Wednesday, May 26^th; Saturday, May 29^th; and June 2^nd thru June 6^th during the Carnival.

GARAGE SALE VOLUNTEERS – To volunteer, please call Shirley at 215-679-9275 (9:00 am – 3:00 pm), Rich at 215-679-8256 or you may email Rich at richnruthrod@enter.net

NEW FOR THE CARNIVAL

HOT WINGS

Two volunteers will be needed each day to prepare the wings. The carnival will be held from 6-10 pm on June 2, 3, 4, 5 and on Sunday June 6^th from 1-6 pm. Please contact Shirley at 215-679-9275 or email Doris at gmomdecker@yahoo.com, if you would like to prepare the Hot Wings anytime during the Carnival.

CARNIVAL DECORATING HELP

May 26, 2010

The Carnival Committee has decided to brighten up our stands and the stand area with lights and flags. If you would like to help, contact Shirley at 215-679-9275, email Doris at gmomdecker@yahoo.com or come to the Church grounds at 6:00 pm.

H.O.P.E.

ATTENTION H.O.P.E. RECIPIENTS! Until further notice, when you need help, please call Sister Patricia Kelly, M.S.B.T. in the Parish Outreach Office: 215-679-2282. DO NOT CALL Kathy or Bob Talbot because they will be moving soon.

If you need service, and do not get an answer at the Parish Outreach Office, you MUST leave your name and number on the recording. Say the number, twice.

ATTENTION: Are you aware that the Parish Outreach Office is ALSO a Catholic Social Services Office? In these trying economic times, with many unemployed and underemployed, there may be many of our sisters and brothers who have social service needs. If so, please call Sister Patricia Kelly, M.S.B.T. at the Parish Outreach Office: 215-679-2282. Say your number twice, if there is no answer.

TWILIGHT RETREAT

Don’t forget to respond about the Twilight Retreat time. Respond on or before May 11, 2010.

COMING-COMING-COMING-SOON!

What’s coming soon? CHANGE for CHANGE!

You will soon see large water bottles at the entrances to the Church building. We are asking that you drop your CHANGE into them.

Why are we asking for CHANGE??? To help change people’s lives who are having difficulty during these hard, economic times! So that is why we are starting CHANGE for CHANGE.

The CHANGE for CHANGE will go into a separate, special fund call the Dorcas Fund. St. Dorcas is a Saint in the Biblical times of St. Paul. She was a dress maker who made clothes for the poor people; also, she collected money to give to poor people.

The Dorcas Fund will help people who are temporarily facing hard, economic times. They are brothers and sisters in Christ.

REMINDER…Put a note on your favorite mirror that reminds you to bring change to Church next weekend. It will be CHANGE FOR CHANGE beginning next week.

Altar Servers

We are beginning training of new Altar Servers. If you have a child (boys and girls) who will be in the 4^th grade or above beginning in the September 2010 school year who would like to become an Altar Server please fill out the section below and mail it to the rectory or drop it in the Sunday Collection basket. You can also send an e-mail to let us know that you are interested (spnlm@verizon.net). If you reply by e-mail please make sure the information required below is provided.

Your child will be required to come to two training sessions to be held in the church. You can choose from the following dates:

(1) Saturday May 22, 2010 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

(2) Monday May 24, 2010 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM

(3) Saturday May 29, 2010 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

If your child is interested and these dates do not work for you, please send us an e-mail and we will work with your child to make sure they are properly trained.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Name of Child _________________________________________

Current Age

Grade in September 2010

Date of Birth

Signature of Parent ____________________________________

Phone number ________________________________________

Please tell us what training sessions you will try to attend. _____________________________________________

(Please return no later than May 16, 2010)

RCIA News

Congratulations to Sharon McMullen and David Patterson who were received into the Church at the Easter Vigil. Sharon and David were baptized, confirmed and received their 1^st Holy Communion. We welcome them as they begin new life in our Catholic faith!

Our next RCIA opportunity will begin in September 2010 and run through next Easter. If you or someone you know would like information about our RCIA please send an e-mail to Deacon Mike Franks. He will schedule an appointment for you to come in and discuss. You can reach Deacon Mike at: deaconmikefranks@verizon.net.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY COMMITTEE

Are you updating your digital camera or video camera? The Historical Committee could put your “old” one to good use.

If you have a camera you would like to donate, please call Shirley at 215-679-9275 or email spnhistory@comcast.net.

ST. PHILIP NERI PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

For those who are not familiar with knitting, crocheting or quilting, or are struggling, we will teach you! The Prayer Shawl Ministry will have training on the following Monday’s this month at the old rectory located at 565 Main Street, East Greenville on May 10^th, May 17^th & May 24^th, 7:00 pm at the Old Rectory – 565 Main Street – East Greenville. Please call Jo Ellen Carr, 215-679-6547 with any questions.

SPN ROSARY SOCIETY

Come and pray the Rosary every 2^nd Monday of each month at 1:00 pm in the Chapel.

Our next prayer gathering is Monday – May 10^th.

Congratulations Edward Felix and Bryan Washko

on receiving:

THE ST. TIMOTHY AWARD

The St. Timothy Award, sponsored by the United States Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry, is presented to juniors and seniors in high school for outstanding leadership to their Church and community. This is the highest form of recognition given to youth at the diocesan level. The recipients of this award have been nominated by their parish community who has recognized them as young people who live as Disciples of Christ, setting positive examples for their peers. They have been actively involved in ministry, service and special events on both the parish and archdiocesan levels. Nominators of this award commented on the award recipients’ demonstration of Gospel values through service to others as well as demonstration of Gospel values through service to others as well as Christian leadership in their parish, school and community. We respectfully honor these young people for their growing dedication to the Catholic faith and for selfless service to others.

Elizabeth Ministry Announcement

The Elizabeth Ministry is sponsoring a Babysitting 101 class for all interested youth between the ages of 11-14. It will be held on Wednesday, June 23, 2010 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM in the Social Hall. Class size is limited to 20 so get your reservation in early! Please read the details for the fee and the reservation form in the flyer in this Sunday’s bulletin. Any questions, please call LaRue Emmell at 215-679-3086.

CALLING ALL YOUTH AGES 11-14!

Babysitting 101

Wednesday – June 23

9:00 am – 3:00 pm

St. Philip Neri Gym

Cost: $55-certificate awarded upon completion

Drinks and snacks provided, but bring your own lunch.

Class sponsored by Elizabeth Ministry.

Email LaRue Emmell at lemmell2@comcast.net

Program provided by Child, Home & Community Incorporated. Class taught by experienced, trained workshop facilitators. www.chcinfo.org

Please detach and return with payment

Make check payable to “CHC”

144 Wood Street, Doylestown 18901

Due by: June 11, 2010

Name ___________________________ Age __________

Parent’s name _________________________________

Phone number ______________________

Address ________________________________________

Class site: St. Philip Neri Parish, Pennsburg, PA

Any questions, call Becky at 215-348-9770

Class size limited to 20!

ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA

Priest’s Convocation

All priests of the Archdiocese will be in Hershey, PA Monday afternoon to Wednesday afternoon. The priests are gathering for a Convocation in this Year of the Priest.

Both Father Roncase and Father Smart will be away from the parish on these days.

Father Robert Kosek from Bethlehem will be saying Mass here at St. Philip Neri on these days.

Please remember the priests of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia in your prayers especially on these days.

A THANK YOU FROM FR. MINISCALCO

Dear Fr. Roncase,

Thanks very much for sending along the collection from the parish Mission. You folks came to mind especially today – the last Sunday of April where breakfast was a cup of coffee and piece of toast.

No, really, you and your parishioners remain in my thoughts and often, daily practically in my holy hour. Keep a joyful heart.

Sincerely,

Fr. Miniscalco

CHICKEN BARBQUE & BAKE SALE

St. Philip Neri Social Hall

Saturday – May 15, 2010

3:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Cost: $8.00

Eat-in or Take-out

For more information, please call Rita: 215-679-7009; Connie: 610-287-9829 or Joan: 215-234-4813.

BAKED GOODS WILL BE APPRECIATED!

More details will be available – so please save the date!

SHOWBOAT CASINO

Saturday – July 31^st

Cost is $30 with $25 in Slot Play return. Leave St. Philip Neri Church parking lot at 10:00 am.

Please call Kathy at: 267-923-5173 with your reservation requests. Bus fills during the summer months. Please save the date!

RIGHT TO LIFE COMMITTEE

We are asking for used summer clothing (i.e. T-shirts, jeans, light pants, used blankets), new underwear (men’s briefs size 38-42 waist) and used shoes (sneakers/casual) for the homeless. Items will be collected on weekends of May 15-16 & May 22-23. The clothing will be directly distributed to the homeless in Philadelphia. Thank you all for your efforts/donations to put the Gospels into action.

ARCHDIOCESAN NEWS

For Survivors of Clergy Sexual Abuse

A NEW SUPPORT GROUP

Facilitated by: Network of Victim Assistance of Bucks County (NOVA)

Call if you are looking for a safe place to talk with others. Adult men and women, who were sexually abused as children by Clergy, regardless of where the abuse occurred, are invited to attend. There is no fee for the group. Funding is provided through the Victim Assistance Program of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO ENROLL:

PLEASE CALL NOVA DIRECTLY AT:

1-800-675-6900

AREA NEWS

CHEERLEADING

Pope John Paul II Cheerleading Head Coach Erin Tolan will be having an Informational Meeting on May 10^th at 7:00 pm at St. Eleanor School in the gym. This meeting is for all parents/guardians of those students interested in cheering at PJPHS. Students are invited to attend, but they must be with a parent/guardian. Try-outs will be held on June 1^st, June 3^rd, & June 4^th – 5:30 pm at St. Eleanor School Gym in Collegeville.

RED HILL BAND

Greetings from the Red Hill Band! We are writing to announce the date of our 110^th Annual Spring Concert.

Please come out on May 16^th to the Upper Perkiomen High School at 2pm to enjoy the sounds of the Red Hill Band; plus it’s absolutely FREE!

TEA & QUILT SHOW

Join us for some female fun & fellowship on May 14. Tea begins at 7pm. Your $5 entry fee entitles you to some free gifts, including a ticket for a chance at a Quilt that will be raffled at our Colonial Crafts Picnic in October. Call 610-282-2652 or 610-378-9815 to reserve your seat!

Invest just five minutes a day, and your faith will deepen and grow—a day at a time.

Sunday, May 9, 2010

Sixth Sunday of Easter

Living stones unite

For centuries Christians have built places of worship. From the most ornate cathedrals to the simplest meeting houses, faith communities have recognized the need for a space in which to come together to feel close to God. It’s good to remember, though, that church is more than a building. Jesus said he would be present where two or three gather in his name—regardless of where they were; Saint Peter in his first letter called Christ a living stone and told believers to be “like living stones . . . built into a spiritual house”: The emphasis is less on the bricks and more on the living stones—the people who assemble. It’s wonderful to have beautiful places to worship God. But don’t let the building do all the work. You belong to a church of living, breathing people who in this season of Easter follow their risen Lord.

Today’s readings: Acts 15:1-2, 22-29; Revelation 21:10-14, 22-23; John 14:23-29

“I saw no temple in the city, for its temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb.”

Monday, May 10

Feast of Damien Joseph de Veuster of Moloka’i, priest

The way of gratitude

Joseph de Veuster joined the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts in Belgium at age 18 and took the name Damien. He traveled to the Hawaiian Islands where he volunteered to minister to lepers who had been abandoned on the island of Moloka’i. It was in that place of isolation and suffering that Damien found his life’s work—and his joy. When you’ve found your calling, even the most difficult, tedious, or dangerous work becomes joyful. Have you discovered your life’s purpose? One way to tell is if you live in persistent gratitude. If not, offer a prayer to the Holy Spirit for guidance.

Today’s readings: Acts 16:11-15;

John 15:26-16:4a

“The Spirit of truth who comes from the Father, he will testify on my behalf.”

Tuesday, May 11

Easter weekday

A friend in high places

“The gift and presence of the Holy Spirit is the most magnificent and wonderful thing that can happen to us, the human community, all living things, and this earth,” wrote German theologian Jürgen Moltmann. The disciples didn’t see it that way at first. They were filled with grief when Jesus told them he would soon be departing from them. They did not understand the gift they were about to receive in the Holy Spirit, the Advocate that Jesus promised to send upon his departure. An advocate “pleads the cause of another,” “supports or promotes the interests of another.” When the going gets tough, it is nice to know we have one at our side. We have Jesus to thank for the Advocate—let’s do so today.

Today’s readings: Acts 16:22-34;

John 16:5-11

“But if I go, I will send him to you.”

Wednesday, May 12

Feast of Nereus and Achilleus, martyrs; Pancras, martyr

Anonymous Christians

Did you ever have one of those days when you felt that your life wasn’t worth anything because you hadn’t done anything important? If you ever think that no one cares, just remember today’s saints, Nereus, Achilleus, and Pancras. We have almost no idea who they were or what they did. Their ancient grave markers say they were martyred some time during the first three Christian centuries. The rest remains a mystery. But God knew them and cared for them, and to God their lives had great value. Your importance is not a function of what you do or even who you are. Your value lies in what God has done and will do for you.

Today’s readings: Acts 17:15, 22-18:1;

John 16:12-15

“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth.”

Thursday, May 13

Easter weekday

While you wait

When Jesus told his disciples, “A little while, and you will no longer see me, and again a little while, and you will see me,” they were puzzled—as they were many times about their master’s words. What’s more, while they were scratching their heads, Jesus upped the ante. He made it clear they were about to be caught up in a drama—the resurrection of Christ—much larger than their own personal grief over losing him: “You will weep and mourn, but the world will rejoice.” People may have to wait longer than a little while—perhaps years—for loss to become acceptance, a wound to heal, a bad situation to turn into a better one. But remember that Christ’s victory over death will gather up your grief in the great transformation of death to new life.

Today’s readings: Acts 18:1-18;

John 16:16-20

“You will have pain, but your pain will turn into joy.”

Friday, May 14

Feast of Matthias, apostle

Your turn at bat

So maybe you’re no number-one draft choice in the league of saints. That doesn’t mean you won’t yet be called to higher things. Matthias was one of many who were with Jesus the whole time since Christ’s baptism by John. Only 12 became the original apostles, but that didn’t make the second-stringers any less valuable to the team. In the end, because of the defection of Judas from their ranks, Matthias got a chance to show what he was made of. We all need to keep our spiritual muscles toned. Our turn to lead could be right around the corner.

Today’s readings: Acts 1:15-17, 20-26;

John 15:9-17

“Show us which one of these two you have chosen to take the place . . . from which Judas turned aside . . . .”

Saturday, May 15

Feast of Isidore

Does your kindness need some work?

Saint Isidore (1070-1130) was canonized not because of a heroic martyrdom, or a stunning contribution to philosophy or theology, or for holding a significant position in the church. He was canonized because he was holy in his everyday life. Isidore was a day laborer who, though he was poor, gave whatever he could to others who were poor. He was also kind to animals. Legend has it he even shared the gleanings from a cornfield with a flock of hungry birds. Isidore always made time for prayer and also used his work in the fields as an opportunity to talk with and listen to God. We can learn much from Isidore about kindness, generosity, care for creation, and living a life that integrates prayer and work.

Today’s readings: Acts 18:23-28;

John 16:23b-28. “Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete.”