Church of Saint Philip Neri

Pennsburg, PA 18073

May 16, 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.

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

Serving at Mass May 23

Extraordinary Ministers Lectors

5:00 pm – Janet Kendra Bob Piccone

Lee Johnson Pete Frank

Priest

Marci Jaman

Lisa Edleman

Michael Edleman

7:30 am – Wally Varallo Theresa Gilmore

Joan Varallo John Gilmore

Priest

Deacon

Pat Scheerbaum

Linda Franks

Chuck Rodgers

Maria Rodgers

Anna Murphy

Gerald Murphy

Paul Moser

Maureen Moser

9:30 am – Jeff Daley Matthew Horvath

Marianne Peters Mark Meinzer

Priest

Mary Weber

Michael Sledgen

Irene Novelli

11:00 am – Sandy Shellaway Luke Verna

Tony Shellaway D. McCausland

Priest

Anita Weilnau

Ken Mayer

Marilynn Mayer

SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

May 16, 2010

Monday, May 17

8:00 am – Mallon & Bauer Families, (Tony Bauer)

Tuesday, May 18, Saint John I, pope

8:00 am – For those enrolled in our

Building Memorial Society

Wednesday, May 19

7:00 pm – Patricia Cody,

(SPN Grade School Faculty & Staff)

Thursday, May 20, Saint Bernardine of Siena

8:00 am – Lila & Paul Smith, (Estate)

Friday, May 21, Saint Christopher Magallanes,

Priest & martyr & his companions

8:00 am – Norbert Mutter, (Tony Bauer)

Saturday, May 22, Saint Rita of Cascia

8:00 am – For Souls in Purgatory

5:00 pm – Joseph Carlisle, (Diane & Paul Bidez)

PENTECOST

May 23, 2010

Sunday, May 23

7:30 am – Alliene Hipszer, (Barbara & Neil Hipszer)

9:30 am – For the living & deceased members of the Parish.

11:00 am – Andrew & Margaret Mellon,

(Daughters Barbara, Kathy, Andrea & Families)

ROSE/FLORAL ARRANGEMENT

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

---------------------------------------------------------------

The floral arrangement placed on the Altar is in memory of Mary Jean Mikanowicz, requested by Husband, Edward Mikanowicz.

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.

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., Grace Guckin & Tony Interrante.

For those who have died, and in particular for Mary Garis, grant them eternal rest and peace.

SUNDAY COLLECTIONS

Our Sunday collections for May 9^th will be posted in next weekend’s Bulletin.

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.

In memory of Brian R. Lambert, requested by:

Pete and Linda Frank

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 20th – Team #4

All regular games pay $50

FINAL COVER – ALL SPECIAL PAYS: $500

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 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

Monday, May 17th

TOSCO Day – Home & School

Charismatic Prayer Group 7:00 pm Chapel

Tuesday, May 18th

Garden Club – Church Grounds 5:00 pm

Choir & Cantor Practice 6:00 pm –Church

SPN Craft Guild 1:00 pm - Gym

Parish Outreach Ministries Twilight Retreat:

3:30 – 7:30 pm; beginning in rectory meeting room

Boy Scouts 7:00 pm Gym

Wednesday, May 19^th

ALPHA 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm Rectory

Respect Life Ministry Meeting 7:30 pm Rectory

SPN School Spring Concert 7:00 pm Gym

Thursday, May 20^th

Bingo 6:30 pm Gym

Cub Scouts 6:45 pm School

Friendly Visitors Meeting 7:00 pm Rectory

SPN Grade School Grandparents Day:

8:00 am – 12:00 pm Gym

Friday, May 21st

SPN Quilting 1:00 pm Gym

SPN School Dance (Grades: 6^th, 7^th & 8^th):

7:00 pm -10:00pm Gym

Saturday, May 22nd

Parish Breakfast set-up Gym

Youth Ministry Car Wash – 9:00 am – 2:00 pm School

Sunday, May 23rd

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

Parish Breakfast – 7:00 am – 12:30 pm Gym

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

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

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

UPCOMING MEETINGS

St. Maria Goretti (Hatfield) Eighth Grade Class Retreat – Monday, May 24^th – Chapel & Gym of St. Philip Neri – 9:30 am -1:30 pm

Charismatic Prayer Group – Monday, May 24^th – Chapel – 7:00 pm

Cantor & Choir Practice – Tuesday, May 25^th – Church – 6:00 pm

Garden Club – Tuesday, May 25^th – Church Grounds – 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Boy Scouts – Tuesday, May 25^th – Gym – 7:00 pm

ALPHA – Wednesday, May 26^th – SPN Rectory – 6:30 pm

St. Philip Neri School Play: Fifth, Sixth & Seventh Grades – Wednesday, May 26^th – Gym – 7:00 pm

Rosary at the Pennsburg Manor – Thursday, May 27^th – 1:15 pm

Bingo – Thursday, May 27^th – Gym – 6:30 pm

Respect Life: Food PREP for the Homeless – Thursday, May 27^th – rectory – 5:15 pm

Cub Scouts – Thursday, May 27^th – School – 6:45 pm

SPN Quilting – Friday, May 28^th – Gym -1:00 pm

FREE DAY – NO ACTIVITIES – Saturday, May 29^th

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

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

Youth Ministry – Sunday, May 30^th – Gym: EDGE (Grade School) – 6:00 pm TLIC (High School) – 7:30 pm

SCHOOL NEWS

The students at St. Philip Neri Grade School enjoyed their special “MUFFINS WITH MOM” morning! It was nice to see everyone having breakfast together and enjoying each others company. We are looking forward to Grandparent’s Day next week and “DONUTS WITH DAD” in June!

PARISH NEWS

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

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.

WANTED!! WANTED!! WANTED!!

DUNKIN DONORS

If you have ever had a dream of sitting on a metal seat about 4-5 feet over water with people throwing baseballs at a target to “DUNK’ you in the water. WE WANT YOU! WE NEED YOU!

The Carnival is in need of individuals who would like nothing more than to ‘DONATE’ their time and help out “IN” our Dunk Tank. YOU MAY WANT TO CALL ASAP SINCE WE KNOW THERE WILL BE A WAITING LIST!

Please call Shirley at: 215-679-9275 OR email Doris a: gmomdecker@yahoo.com.

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.

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 ____________________________________

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.

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 – June 14^th.

YOUTH MINISTRY CAR WASH!

Saturday – May 22nd

9:00 am – 2:00 pm

St. Philip Neri Grade School

East Greenville

Please contact Colleen Daley for more information at: 215-541-1716.

Save the date; come out and support our Youth Ministry!

CEMETERY MEMORIAL TREES

Memorial Trees are available for purchase to be planted throughout our Parish Cemetery “Holy Cross”. The cost is $425; this covers the price of the tree, its planting and the Memorial Plaque.

Shade and Evergreen Trees will be planted throughout the cemetery where space is available. To purchase a Memorial Tree, please call the rectory.

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 RESPECT LIFE SUMMER CLOTHING DRIVE

St. Philip Neri Respect Life Ministry is collecting used summer clothing. (tee shirts, summer jackets, lightweight pants) and new men’s underwear. These can be dropped in the main vestibule of Church the weekend of May 22^nd/23^rd.

Office of the VICAR for Montgomery County

May 1, 2010

Dear Father Roncase,

Prayerful best wishes to you, Father Smart and all of the parishioners of Saint Philip Neri Parish as you celebrate your Patronal Feast. It is my hope that this special day in the life or your parish will be a source of grace for all of the members of your parish family.

Your intentions will be in my prayers on May 26^th. God bless you.

Reverend Monsignor Arthur E. Rodgers

Vicar for Montgomery County

THANK YOU

Stanley & Betty Mikanowicz would like to thank everyone for the Mass Cards, Memorials and Prayers they received during the recent loss of their grandson, Michael Mikanowicz.

Blessings to all of you!

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!

Saint Philip Neri Parish

Jeffrey Daley, DRE

565 Main Street ~ East Greenville, PA 18041

Office 215-541-3120 ~ Fax 215-541-1398 ~ Email- Egneri@comcast.net

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

AUGUST 2^ND THRU AUGUST 6^TH

BAOBOB BLAST

K – 4^TH GRADES

AT LEAST 12 ADULT VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED TO ASSIST WITH PROGRAM.

PLEASE CHECK YOUR CALANDAR AND HELP WITH THIS GREAT WEEK OF FUN, SCRIPTURE, CRAFTS AND SAINTS.

PLEASE CALL 215-541-3120

OR EMAIL WITH ANY QUESTIONS

MEETING MAY 5^TH - 7 P.M. AT

THE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION OFFICE

565 MAIN STREET, EAST GREENVILLE

PARISH OUTREACH – H.O.P.E.

(Helping Other People Enthusiastically)

Are you in need of a service that H.O.P.E. can provide? In addition to transporting people to doctors’ appointments, dialysis, and chemotherapy, H.O.P.E. volunteers can take you to the grocery store, post office, drug store, etc.

If you need H.O.P.E. assistance, please call Sister Patricia Kelly, M.S.B.T. in the Parish Outreach Office: 215-679-2282. If no answer, you MUST leave a message. Say your and number slowly. Say your number, twice.

SHOWBOAT CASINO

Saturday – July 31^st

Cost is $30 with $25 in Slot Play return.

Leave St. Philip Neri Church parking lot at 10 am.

Please call Kathy at: 267-923-5173 with your reservation requests.

Bus fills during the summer months. Please save the date!

ENRICH YOUR CATHOLIC FAITH THRU HISTORY – IN PHILADELPHIA

Why not enhance your knowledge with our Adult Faith Formation Team and visit the Shrines with us in Philadelphia on Wednesday, August 18^th. You will visit St. Kathrine Drexel, have a boxed lunch, go to Mass at St. John Neumann and a guided tour of both upper and lower churches; then we go to St. Rita Cassia Shrine and have a guided tour as well. We will finish the day at Crackerbarrel Restaurant on the way home.

All three (3) sites have gift shops to browse in.

The cost is $65 that includes the boxed lunch and all Shrine admissions. Dinner will be on your own.

Please call Kathy at 215-272-2130, or leave a message at the rectory for any other information you may want.

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

SAFE ENVIRONMENT PROGRAM

Protecting God’s Children for Adults Awareness Sessions.

Unless otherwise indicated, all sessions begin at 7pm. Sessions are approximately 2.5 hours in length.

www.virtus.org or call: 215-587-2466 to register.

5.19.10 – Archdiocesan Office Center – Phila. – 6:30 pm

ST. CHARLES BORROMEO SEMINARY

Religious Studies Division

How well do you know your faith? Consider taking a class or making a retreat at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary this summer.

Go to www.scsrsd.org for details.

LANGUAGE INSTITUTE OF:

SAINT CHARLES BORROMEO SEMINARY

In response to the increasing Spanish-speaking population in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary opens its Language Institute for a three week session of instruction in the Spanish language from June 21 thru July 9. Sessions run Monday thru Friday for three hours (9 am – 12 pm). The cost is $300 for the three week session. Applications are now being accepted. You may download an Application from the Seminary website at www.scs.edu. Please direct phone inquiries to Mrs. Susan Heppler at 610-785-6525.

PRE-8^TH GRADE

SUMMER ENRICHMENT PROGRAM

FOR BOYS AND GIRLS

June 28 – July 28

8:45 am – 1:00 pm

St. Joseph’s Preparatory School

1733 Girard Avenue

Philadelphia, PA

Spend part of your summer at the PREP and participate in the Pre-8^th Grade Summer Enrichment Program!

PROGRAM TOPICS INCLUDE:

Algebra

Athletics

Computer Science

Creative Writing

Drama

Transportation is available in Philadelphia, New Jersey and the Five County area.

For more information, call the Summer School Office at: 215-978-1954 or visit our website: WWW.SJPREP.ORG/PRE8

Society of St. Vincent de Paul

CLOTHING DRIVE – May 2010

Individuals are invited to take donations on May 22^nd & May 23^rd from 9am – 2pm:

St. Eleanor Church

647 Locust Street – Collegeville

CORPUS CHRISTI CELEBRATION –

FIRST HOLY COMMUNICANTS & FAMILIES

His Eminence, Cardinal Justin Rigali will celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ on Sunday, June 6^th with a Mass at 2:00 pm at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, 654 Ferry Road, Doylestown, followed by a procession and Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament. Cardinal Rigali is inviting all of the First Holy Communicants of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to join him for this special Event. A personal invitation was mailed to each First Holy Communicant. Families are asked to respond to the invitation by Monday, May 3^rd. If you did not receive your invitation or if you have any questions, please contact the Office for Special Projects at: 215-587-3519 or visit the Archdiocesan website at www.archphila.org

AREA NEWS

ST. PIUS X ALL CLASS REUNION UPDATE:

Baseball Alumni: All former players and coaches should bring their glove and play softball on Saturday, May 22^nd from 9:00 am until 1:00 pm at Edward J. Sweeney on the campus of St. Pius. Have some fun moments and renew old friendships!

Weekend schedule of Events:

Friday – May 21^st:

6:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Alumni Basketball Pick Up Games – Father Doyne Hall

Saturday – May 22^nd:

9:00 am -1:00 pm: Alumni Baseball Games on the Edward J. Sweeney Field

Saturday –May 22^nd:

6:30 pm -10:30 pm: All Class Reunion at the

Coach Mich Stadium; $40/person

Sunday – May 23^rd:

10:30 am: Memorial Mass in Father Doyne Hall

Sunday – May 23^rd:

12:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Family Picnic on the

St. Pius Campus; $5/family

St. Pius X Alumni Golf Outing:

Saturday, June 12^th – 1:00 pm at the:

Hickory Valley Golf Course;

Shotgun Start – Cost $100 – includes golf, cart, food and prizes.

For additional information, please call: 610-326-8990 – ext. 26.

MARRIED COUPLE PRAYER RETREAT

Marriage Retorno, a couple prayer Retreat will be held July 10-11 at Daylesford Abbey in Paoli. Marriage Retorno is a Scripture based Couple Prayer Retreat for married couples wanting to deepen their relationship with one another in the Lord. While it is the second step of Marriage Encounter, couples do not need to attend ME first. The cost is $290/couple (overnight) or $165/couple (commuting). Space is limited. For information, call Joe & May Ward: 215-362-8699 or the website at: www.marriageretorno.org.

FREE CAR SEATS

Through a Grant from the state of Pennsylvania, Grand View Hospital is able to provide free car seats to individual s who:

Do not currently have a car seat and cannot afford one.

Have an unsafe car seat and cannot afford a replacement.

To receive a free car seat, the individual must register for a car seat check appointment through the Grand View Information Line at: 215-453-4300, informing the operator that he/she cannot afford a car seat. Our representatives will then make the necessary arrangements with the caller.

B0YS BASKETBALL

Pope John Paul II Boys Basketball will be having an “Open Gym” this Sunday, May 16^th from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Visitation B.V.M. School Gym.

The meeting is open to all interested players that will be attending Pope John Paul II next school year 2010-2011.

Montgomery County Health Department’s

2009 Rabies Clinics

Date Place Time

June 5^th Abington Recycle Ctr 9am -11am

Florey Lane

(off of Easton Road)

Abington

June 12^th Collegeville 9am - 11m

Community Park

4^th & Park Avenue

Collegeville

June 19^th Harleysville Sr. Ctr. 9am -11am

312 Alumni Ave

Harleysville

June 26^th Burnside Oakland 9am – 11am

Park

Burnside Avenue & Oakland Drive

West Norriton

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

Sunday, May 16, 2010

Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord

The sky’s the limit

The old logo of the paint manufacturers Sherwin-Williams shows the planet being colored by their product and the words: “We cover the earth.” The image is apt as we celebrate the Ascension of the Lord. The angels in the story chide the disciples for their “verticality”: Stop standing around gazing up into the sky. Close your gaping mouths and get to work. The effect of the Paschal Mystery is to breathe into us the very Spirit of God, which impels us to get “horizontal.” That is where we are sent to continue Christ’s Easter work of healing, forgiving, and taking the part of the broken and excluded. May the angels catch us not staring into the sky but into the eyes of our sisters and brothers.

Today’s readings: Acts 1:1-11; Ephesians 1:17-23 or Hebrews 9:24-28; 10:19-23;

Luke 24:46-53

“Why do you stand looking up toward heaven?”

Monday, May 17

Easter weekday

Believe it or not

The disciples confidently assured Jesus they believed in him, suggesting an unshakeable faith. Jesus knew better; he knew they would flee at the first sign of the trouble that was coming his way. When we are most sure of ourselves and most persuaded by our own arguments, we most need to be careful. When it comes to faith, Jesus knows we can talk a good talk, but can we walk the walk—especially when it leads us to risk or hardship? The Easter season is a good time to bring to mind both our own limitations and God’s limitless power to help our unbelief. Pray for an extra dose of humility mixed with a little courage.

Today’s readings: Acts 19:1-8;

John 16:29-33

“You will be scattered . . . and you will leave me alone.”

Tuesday, May 18

Feast of John I, pope, martyr

The spirit of sacrifice

You might think that martyrdoms always mean dying violently for faith. Some deaths, however, are slow—but they are martyrdoms nonetheless. Take Pope Saint John I’s death, for example. In the sixth century he got caught up in the rivalry between two emperors. As a result he was put in prison, where he died slowly of starvation. Whatever form it takes, martyrdom involves the willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice for what you believe and to remain faithful to what you hold to be important. Let some of that spirit into your life.

Today’s readings: Acts 20:17-27;

John 17:1-11a

“I do not count my life of any value to myself, if only I may finish my course . . . to testify to the good news of God’s grace.”

Wednesday, May 19

Easter weekday

The way of the world

In the Marian prayer Salve Regina we call the world “this vale of tears,” an image not so different from Saint Paul’s when he warns us of “savage wolves” who will not spare believers. In John’s gospel Jesus, too, refers to the world as a place where believers will find the rejection that he experienced. It’s easy to become cynical, to see salivating wolves lurking everywhere. But it is precisely this valley of tears that God so loved as to give us his Son. Jesus never promised, “Let me take you away from all this,” like some cornball movie hero. He promised to be with us so that we could continue the good fight. As a matter of fact, he prays to his Father, “As you sent me into the world, so I sent them into the world”—into the fray, not as victims but as lovers.

Today’s readings: Acts 20:28-38;

John 17:11b-19

“We must support the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus, for he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”

Thursday, May 20

Feast of Bernardine of Siena, priest

Finding strength in weakness

Bernardine had the makings of a saint from an early age. In 1400 at the age of 20 he voluntarily nursed the sick and dying during a devastating plague. Later he cared for an ill aunt. Eventually Bernardine joined the Franciscans, an order of missionary preachers—a seemingly odd choice for a poor speaker! Nevertheless, after years of prayer and meditation he went to Milan where he astounded the crowd with his eloquence. He spent the rest of his life traveling around Italy spreading the word of God through his inspired preaching. Bernardine reminds us that God makes use of our weaknesses as well as our strengths. Can I accept my limitations today?

Today’s readings: Acts 22:30; 23:6-11;

John 17:20-26

“That night the Lord stood near him and said, ‘Keep up your courage!’ ”

Friday, May 21

Breakfast is served

The gospel contains a lovely story we can take with us from this Easter season, which ends this Sunday with the celebration of Pentecost. Peter and the other disciples were at a loss as to what to do with themselves after Jesus’ death, so they did the only thing they knew how to do: They went fishing. After a fruitless night on the sea, they returned to shore to find the risen Christ cooking breakfast for them over a charcoal fire. Jesus serves the hungry fishermen and they share a meal. Wouldn’t you love to have been there? The fact is, we have a standing invitation. The kitchen is open, the cook is available. Have a seat at the table.

Today’s readings: Acts 25:13b-21;

John 21:15-19

“Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my sheep.’ ”

Saturday, May 22

Feast of Rita of Cascia, religious

The patience of a saint

When Saint Paul went to Rome a prisoner, he lived under a lengthy house arrest, awaiting word of his fate but also receiving all who visited him and sharing the Good News with them. Life also called Saint Rita (1381-1457) to patient endurance. First was her marriage to an abusive husband. Then, after becoming a widow, several refusals on the part of religious communities who didn’t want her. When she finally did become a nun, she suffered the daily pain and indignity of a forehead wound that did not heal. But, like Saint Paul, she remained patient and generous. When she died, a local official wrote of her as “having spent 40 years as nun . . . . desiring to show all the faithful a model of life.” Try to meet your own difficulties with the same spirit of serenity and service.

Today’s readings: Acts 28:16-20, 30-31; John 21:20-25

“He lived there two whole years . . . and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God.”