Church of St. Raymond 1759 Castle Hill Avenue Bronx, New York 10462 Telephone: (718) 792-4044 Fax: (718) 863-8509 Email: [email protected] Website: www.straymondparish.org CLERGY

Perpetual Novena to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal after the 9 a.m. and 12:00 Noon Masses on Monday

MSGR. JOHN GRAHAM, PASTOR REV. WILLIAM BROGAN REV. RAMON LOPEZ REV. JOSEPH DARBOUZE MSGR. STEPHEN ADU-KWANING REV. FRED AGYEMAN

Exposition/ Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament every Friday after the 12:00 Noon Mass

PARISH STAFF

Mass for the Hearing Impaired the last Sunday of the month at 12:00 Noon

Director of Religious Education Pax Christi Sisters SR. TERESA AND SR. ELEAZAR Tel. 718-792-4044 x 2238

RECONCILIATION/CONFESSIONS: Saturdays 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

LifeTeen & Young Adult Ministry SR. MARY EILEEN JEWELL, P.V.M.I. Tel. 718-792-2393

Director of Music and Cantor MR. PATRICK CONNOLLY

Organist MS. DIANE MARAZZI

BAPTISMS

MASS SCHEDULE SATURDAYS 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 Noon 5:30 p.m. (SUNDAY ANTICIPATORY MASS)

Director of Spanish Liturgies MRS. ROSARIO GRANDA

PARISH SCHOOLS Principal of Elementary School, SR. PATRICIA BRITO, R.J.M. Tel. 718-597-3232

Principal of Boys High School, BR. DANIEL GARDNER, F.S.C. Tel. 718-824-5050

Principal of Girls Academy, SR. MARYANN D’ANTONIO, S.C. Tel. 718-824-4220

PARISH TRUSTEES MS. ELLEN MCDONOUGH MR. RAYMOND MIRANDA

SUNDAYS 8:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m. SPANISH, 10:30 a.m. FAMILY MASS, 12:00 p.m., and 4:30 p.m. WEEKDAYS Monday – Friday 7 a.m., 9 a.m. & 12:00 Noon WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS 7:00 p.m. - Spanish Mass

Second Sunday of LENT March 20, 2011

BY

APPOINTMENT:

Prior arrangements must be made with one of the Priests in the rectory. English Baptismal Class held the 1st Sunday of every month at 1:30 p.m. English Baptisms held the 3rd & 4th Sunday of every month at 1:30 p.m. Spanish Baptismal Class held the 1st Saturday of every month at 1:30 p.m. Spanish Baptisms held the 2nd Saturday of every month at 1:30 p.m. MARRIAGES

BY

APPOINTMENT:

Arrangements are to be made with Priest at least 6 months in advance of the proposed date and prior to the social arrangements. All couples are required to participate in the Pre-Cana Program.

March 20 –Second Sunday of Lent Genesis 12:1- 4a; 2 Timothy 1:8b-10; Matthew 17:1-9

Go out to encounter God There are many ways to embark on travel. People travel for a great variety of reasons: vacation, tourism, business, pilgrimage, or to seek a better life somewhere else just as many people have done here in the United States. But people normally do not leave their house because they feel a call from God or because they believe that they will find God in a new place. There are, on the other hand, ways to make interior journeys: coming out of ourselves, making an inner journey to find God. When you do this internally, in prayer, many times God grants the grace of contemplating his beauty and his glory. We know we have been in the presence of God when the experience is accompanied by peace, joy, calm, and fortitude. It is not the splendor of a moment , but the certainty that, even if like the disciples, we will have to come down and take care of our obligations and face the difficulties of life, God is present with his light and his power. It is the certainty that, even if getting out of ourselves and our own ego involves sacrifices and giving up our own comfort to go up to the mountain, the land God promises is much more abundant. It is the certainty of knowing you are where you should be: with God. And that means in love with others, in giving yourself to the service of others, in the creation of abundant life around you and receiving the gift of the abundant life God gives us. For reflection How much time do I spend in prayer? Which of my habits and comforts is God asking me to leave behind so I can meet him? What are my resistances? Have I had the experience of meeting God and feeling his protection, his presence, and power?

Mass Parts for LENT Holy, Holy, Holy Lord, God of Hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

MEMORIAL ACCLAMATION: We proclaim your death, O Lord, and profess your resurrection until you come again, until you come again.

Mass Attendance for the weekend of March 12th & 13th: 5:30 p.m. 142; 8:00 a.m. 70; 9:00a.m. 192;10:30 a.m. 325; 12:00 p.m. 270; 4:30 p.m. 87= 1086 Sunday Collection =$4,838.00

School Collection =$1,386.00

Mass Intentions for the Week Sunday – March 20 8:00 am William Deary 9:00 am Salvador Rosete 10:30 am Jamie Renteria 12:00 Living and deceased members of the Shaw Family 4:30 pm Luz Roman ___________________________________________ Monday – March 21 7:00 am Harriet Boege 9:00 am Lancy Little Jr. 12:00 ___________________________________________ Tuesday – March 22 7:00 am 9:00 am In thanksgiving to the Lord from the Afeli Family 12:00 Ousen Family (Living) ___________________________________________ Wednesday – March 23 7:00 am 9:00 am Victor C. Diaz 12:00 Life for the unborn babies 7:00 pm Argentina Rivera ___________________________________________ Thursday – March 24 7:00 am For the people of the Parish 9:00 am 12:00 Federico Colon ___________________________________________ Friday – March 25 7:00 am 9:00 am Gregory Marchese 12:00 Argentina Rivera 7:00 pm Maria De la Cruz ___________________________________________ Saturday – March 26 9:00 am Argentina Rivera 12:00 Clara Diaz Chateau 5:30 pm Jesse Saez

A Vigil Candle is being offered this week for the intentions of Ms. Sesame Street’s children, grand-

children and their mates. Congratulations to Ms. Juana Vasquez who won $151.00 in this week’s 50/50 raffle.

Dear Parishioners, THE HOLY SEASON OF LENT … the season of Lent is a time to think about our own baptism and to renew our life in Christ … we have been baptized into the life of Jesus and so we should act, speak and live as Jesus … the young people have a question that is a question for all of us: WHAT WOULD JESUS DO (WWJD)? Lent is a time to act more like Jesus and less like ourselves! ARCHBISHOP’S APPEAL … today you will receive a special envelope for the Archbishop’s Appeal … please take it home and consider a gift to help Archbishop Dolan with the schools, Catholic Charities, the retired priests and religious and the education of our seminarians, our future priests … you can use the special pink envelope in your envelope packet, if you prefer … we ask that you return your gift next week in the second collection for the Archbishop’s Appeal …so far, we have received gifts of $13,104.17 from 45 parishioners … our goal is $34,900 from 200 parishioners … please make your gift next week --- large or small to Archbishop Dolan’s Appeal.…if you wish to see the video, go to www.stewardshipappeal.org for the complete story. We will also distribute brochures about the Appeal. THANK YOU. 2nd ANNUAL PILGRIMAGE OF NEW YORK … Saturday, April 9 … walk from the churches of Washington Heights to the Cathedral to the Battery … sponsored by the Young Adults of St. Patrick’s Cathedral … to register go to www.pofnyc.org … proceeds from the pilgrimage will be donated to the Inner City Scholarship Fund for children in our Catholic schools … WALK, PRAY, VISIT AND HELP --a great Lenten Activity. ST. RAYMOND COMMUNITY OUTREACH … is our community based agency serving the Parkchester area … it is a multi-service agency located at 68 Metropolitan Oval, above the UNO RESTAURANT on the Oval on the second floor … help with social services, immigration issues, after school programs for youngsters and teens … call 718-824-0353 for more information. … THERE IS A NEW PROGRAM BEING ADDED --- FOR SENIORS AND TEENS --- WRITING FROM LIFE EXPERIENCE … THIS IS AN 8 WEEK COURSE … from 4 to 6 pm CATHOLIC MARRIAGE MOVEMENT … in Spanish … on May 21 at Cardinal Hayes High School, 650 Grand Concourse … please call Sister Veronica Sullivan or Ms. Denise D’Oleo at 212-371-1000 to register and to learn about your marriage. LENTEN FOLDERS … are available … you make a daily offering … and return the folder during Holy Week … this money is used for the poor of the parish, especially at Thanksgiving and Christmas times when we distribute food baskets … the LENTEN FOLDER is a great sacrifice for Lent. CONGRATULATIONS … to our 2 school bands for representing us in the Throggs Neck St. Patrick’s Day Parade last week … the Academy and the elementary school band did a great job in honor of St. Patrick … the Academy Band marches again today in the Pearl River Parade. TASTE OF ITALY … Friday, March 25 at 5PM—Academy Café. $5 in advance, $10 at the door. Your admission includes a food tasting, music, and entertainment. Raffle prizes include Gift certificates to some of the Bronx's finest Italian Restaurants. To reserve tickets, please call Arlene at 718-824-4220,x1038. BOYS HIGH SCHOOL … continues to celebrate its 50TH GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY … Gala Dinner at the Villa Barone Manor … Friday, April 1st … Cocktails at 7 pm … dinner at 8:30 pm … complete cocktail hour, open bar, dinner selections, music, dancing … tickets are $175 … please call 718-824-5050 or www.straymondhighschool.org for reservations … spread to the word to the graduates and join us as we celebrate 50 years of Catholic education here in Parkchester.

ART SHOW … our three schools will be presenting an afternoon of Art … Sunday, April 3 at 12 noon in our SCHOOL AUDITORIUM … the auditorium will be transformed into an art studio, museum and exhibition area for your art pleasure … works by students from our three schools … judges will be present from several museums … there will be an auction of selected works … refreshments will be available for purchase. ELMSFORD DINNER THEATRE … Sunday, April 10 at noon … lunch and a show sponsored by the Academy 50th Anniversary Committee … the show is “SINGING IN THE RAIN” … tickets are limited … $75 … please call Ms. Arlene Alegre-Chin at 718-8244220, extension 1038 … first come, first served. FAMILY FAITH FORMATION … for families who have children in Grade 6 has been re-scheduled for Sunday, March 27 at 11 am in the auditorium … all parents must attend … Mass follows at 12 noon in the Lower Church. CONFESSIONS … every Saturday at 11:15 am in the Lower Church until 11:45 am … come to confession, the Sacrament of Reconciliation. AFRICAN COMMUNITY RETREAT … is scheduled for Saturday, March 26 at 9 pm in the Lower Church … all are welcome … please encourage your friends and neighbors to attend … more information from Father Fred. THANK YOU … to all who baked Irish Soda Bread … each loaf was different and all were delicious. COUPLES CELEBRATING THEIR 50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY... anytime during 2011 are invited to attend the Annual Golden Wedding Jubilee Mass with Archbishop Dolan at the Cathedral of St. Patrick on Sunday, May 22nd at 2:00 pm. Pre-registration is required. Please contact your parish for registration. The closing date to register for the Mass is Thursday, May 5, 2011. This event is sponsored by the Family Life/ Respect Life Office of the Archdiocese of New York. NEW ENVELOPES … you should have received new packets of envelopes … included in the packet is some information about TITHING (church contributions) and THE HOLY WEEK SCHEDULE … if you have not received your envelopes, please call Ms. McNally at the rectory … we must have a proper address INCLUDING THE APARTMENT NUMBER … all adults should be registered and should use the Sunday envelopes … if you are registered and coming to church, we can give you letters of recommendation to be godparents at Baptisms, sponsors for Confirmation, reports for your taxes and other forms of identification … if you are not registered, please come to the rectory office --- 7 days a week from 8:30 am until 8:30 pm except on Sundays until 2 pm to register … it is very easy to do … we ask that all adults be registered and use the Sunday envelopes. THE CHURCH … during this past week the entire floor of the church was replaced with beautiful ceramic tiles, the two side altars of Joseph and Mary were completed and the wooden doors and walls in the church were re-finished … it is looking magnificent! Our re-opening ceremony and Mass will be Saturday, May 7 at the 5:30 PM Mass BUT OUR PLAN IS TO BE IN THE CHURCH FOR HOLY WEEK. We will be sending you a brochure with giving opportunities and naming opportunities in the near future … a plaque will be erected in the church. BAPTISM … is your baby baptized? Why not? You will need to be registered in the church, attending Sunday Mass and have one or two godparents who are practicing Catholics (including marriage in the Catholic Church) … Catholic parents should have their children baptized as soon as possible … if your child is of school age, we have programs in our schools and religious education programs for Baptism … WHY NOT?

CONGRATULATIONS … to Sister Patricia Brito, our elementary school principal, who is being honored as an Italian-American educator in the metropolitan area … Sister will be honored with a group of educators on Friday, April 8 at the Villa Barone Manor … for tickets, please call Ms. Joan Beck in our school office --- 718597-3232, extension # 2240 … we thank Sister for all of her hard work and dedication to the children and families of our school. VOCATION MASS … Friday, March 25 at St. Joseph’s Seminary for students interested in the priesthood … tours of the Seminary at 3:30 pm followed by Mass with Archbishop Dolan at 5 PM … if you are interested, please speak with one of the priests so that we can arrange transportation for you … more information about our high school program at www.cathedralprep.com …DISCERNMENT WEEKEND … April 15-17 for men 18 and older at the Seminary … call 914-968-1340 or [email protected] for reservations … is God calling you to be a priest? Are you listening? Will you answer God? FIRST COMMUNION MEETING … students and parents in our elementary school who are preparing for 1st Communion in May must attend a parent meeting on Thursday, March 24 at 7 PM … all must attend … your attendance will be taken. LIFETEEN CONFESSIONS … are scheduled for Sunday, March 27 at 7 PM in the auditorium … this a great opportunity for teenagers to come together, to pray and to receive the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation … mark your calendars, teens! SUMMER CAMP AND ACADEMICS PROGRAM — St. Raymond Elementary School will offer a Summer Camp and Academics Program beginning June 29—July 29 from 7:30 am—6:00 pm. Cost of Academics is $175.oo per subject … Camp ONLY—$775.oo. For those interested in Academics and Camp Programs there is a prorated fee. The camp includes. Arts & Crafts, Dance, Sports and weekly trips. Breakfast and lunch are included. Campers receive a Camp Shirt and Bag. There will be an information meeting on May 19 at 6:30 pm in the School Auditorium. For more information call 718-597-3232. CONGRATULATIONS … to Sister Mary Eileen and to her team of young people and adult volunteers for a successful YOUTH RALLY last week … despite the terrible rain and weather, there were more than 200 teens at the rally and the Mass … please continue to come to church and to Jesus. PARISH MISSION … at St. Francis Xavier Church on Lurting Avenue … March 21, 22 and 23 at 7:30 pm … the retreat master is Father Paul Fagan, a Passionist Father, from the Riverdale Retreat House … all are welcome to the Parish Mission. SCHOOL REGISTRATIONS CONTINUE … but soon students will be put on a waiting list … do not be disappointed … call the principals for an appointment to register … the telephone numbers are on the front of the bulletin … we thank God for our great enrollments and we thank you, parents and families, who make the sacrifice for a Catholic education for your children in the elementary school and the high schools. GREAT JOB … by the Academy with the Fashion Show … thanks to Sister Mary Ann, Ms. Arlene Alegre, the volunteer alumnae and the students … it was an enjoyable evening … thanks, too, to the sponsors of the Fashion Show. PARISH COUNCIL MEETING … Monday, March 28 at 7:30 pm in the Flynn Room … all members of the Council should attend … visitors are welcome. LITURGY COMMITTEE … meets on Tuesday, April 5 at 7 PM in the Rectory to finalize our celebrations for Holy Week and Easter … visitors are welcome to attend.

Please read and review the survey results. We had only about 85 people responding to the survey which was in the bulletin for 3 weeks. I was very disappointed with our response but “It is what it is!”

Sunday, March 20th- St. Raymond's LIFE TEEN youth have been invited to perform the two skits we did for our youth rally at the Diocesan Youth Congress on Sat. April 9th at Stepinac High School in White Plains. This is the second time our youth have been called upon to minister through drama at a Diocesan event. What a blessing for them to use their gifts and talents for the Lord! Thursday, March 24th - Discussion group for young men (juniors and seniors in high school or college age) at the Convent (1720 Metropolitan Ave.) 7-9pm. Saturday, March 26th - Travel to a soup kitchen in harlem run by the Franciscan Sisters of the Renewal to help out for the morning. Permission form required. Sunday, March 27th - Special Life Night on confession with the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation (confession) during Lent. We will have Eucharistic Adoration during confessions....asking the Lord for the graces we need to receive His mercy and renew our lives. St. Raymond's LIFE TEEN youth have been invited to perform the two skits we did for our youth rally at the Diocesan Youth Congress on Sat. April 9th at Stepinac High School in White Plains. What a blessing for them to use their gifts and talents for the Lord! LIFE TEEN is now on Twitter@strayslifeteen!!! This is for quick announcements, inspiration, links, and interesting info. Skit practice - continues on Fridays from 7-9:15pm in the Convent.

ST. RAYMOND’S LIFE LINE

(ages 18-29)

www.strayslifeline.org Thursday, March 24th - Discussion group for young men (college age or juniors and seniors in high school) at the Convent (1720 Metropolitan Ave.) 7-9pm. Saturday, March 26th - opportunity to help at a soup kitchen in Harlem...10am-2pm. Save the date if you are interested!!

Parish Name________________________________________ Parish ID________

PARISH SURVEY “Making All Things New” is a pastoral initiative of the Archdiocese of New York for strategic parish planning. The pre-planning stage of this program involves consultation with priests, religious, and laity concerning the planning process and the criteria that will be used to support and guide that process. This means that parish planning affects every parish in the Archdiocese of New York. In the Book of Revelation, Jesus says: “See! I make all things new!” (Rev. 21:5). In the spirit of Jesus’ words, this pastoral initiative seeks to energize, enrich and spiritually renew our parishes, both now and in the future. These words assure us that while things may change, Jesus never changes in His love for us. To help in this pre-planning process, please indicate your response to the statements below by circling your answer: 1. I am aware of the current situation facing the Archdiocese, particularly with such issues as the decline in Church attendance, shortage of priests, decreased financial stability, etc. For me this is a serious issue. Strongly Agree — 60

Agree — 20

Disagree — 2

Strongly Disagree — 2

2. I recognize the reality that some parishes will have to be closed or merged if the mission of the Archdiocese is to remain viable. Strongly Agree — 26

Agree — 45

Disagree — 8

Strongly Disagree — 9

3. To determine parish viability, I believe it is important to look at parish weekday and Sunday Mass attendance. Strongly Agree — 42

Agree — 27

Disagree — 9

Strongly Disagree — 4

4. To determine parish viability, I believe it is important to look at parish sacramentals, i.e., how many baptisms, communions, marriages, funerals, etc. Strongly Agree — 35

Agree — 30

Disagree — 11

Strongly Disagree — 5

5. To determine parish viability, I believe it is important to look at parish programs, i.e., religious education, RCIA, outreach to the poor, etc. Strongly Agree — 39

Agree — 32

Disagree — 5

Strongly Disagree — 5

6. To determine parish viability, you should look at significant changes in the Catholic population of parishes. Strongly Agree — 29

Agree — 39

Disagree — 12

Strongly Disagree — 3

7. To determine parish viability, you should examine if parish revenue is sufficient to support par ish ministries, Archdiocesan programs, and ordinary operating expenses Strongly Agree — 38 Agree — 29 Disagree — 12 Strongly Disagree — 3 ____________________________________________________________________ Archdiocese of New York,

“Making All Things New” Pastoral Planning

January 2011

8. For parish viability, you should also examine if parish revenue is sufficient to support its priests and members of its pastoral staff. Strongly Agree — 30

Agree — 39

Disagree — 6

Strongly Disagree — 3

9. To determine parish viability, I feel it is important to know if a parish has a consistent operating deficit or owes money for unpaid bills to outside vendors or to the Archdiocese. Strongly Agree — 29

Agree — 39

Disagree — 8

Strongly Disagree — 4

10. I think the following additional areas should be looked at to assess parish viability: __________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ 11. I believe that if a parish has to close or merge, it is important to investigate whether the pastoral ministries of that parish can be served by a neighboring parish. Strongly Agree — 42

Agree — 31

Disagree — 2

Strongly Disagree — 4

12. If a parish has to close or merge, I believe the parish council should be consulted. Strongly Agree — 50

Agree — 27

Disagree — 2

Strongly Disagree — 1

13. If a parish has to close or merge, I believe the finance council should be consulted. Strongly Agree — 44

Agree — 37

Disagree — 3

Strongly Disagree — 1

14. If a parish has to close or merge, I think the “Making All Things New” committee should assist the pastor to create and develop a response on behalf of the parish. Strongly Agree — 48

Agree — 30

Disagree — 4

Strongly Disagree — 0

15. An Archdiocesan advisory panel should review the responses of parishes that could poten tially close or merge and provide their opinion to the Archbishop. Strongly Agree — 46

Agree — 29

Disagree — 3

Strongly Disagree — 1

16. I think there are too many parishes in our area. Some could be closed or merged without pre senting a great inconvenience to people. Strongly Agree — 13

Agree — 9

Disagree — 34

Strongly Disagree — 19

17. I have confidence that, in the end, by God’s grace and our good efforts, the Church will not only “get through” but continue to grow. Strongly Agree — 61

Agree — 16

Disagree — 2

Strongly Disagree — 0

___________________________________________________________ Archdiocese of New York,

“Making All Things New” Pastoral Planning

January 2011

Queridos Feligreses, LA TEMPORADA SANTA DE CUARESMA … la temporada de Cuaresma es un tiempo de pensar en nuestro propio bautismo y para renovar nuestra vida en Cristo … hemos sido bautizados en la vida de Jesús y por eso nosotros debemos actuar, hablar y vivir como Jesús … los jóvenes tienen una pregunta que es una pregunta para todos nosotros: ¿QUE HARIA JESUS (WWJD por sus siglas en inglės)? ¡La cuaresma es un tiempo de actuar más como Jesús y menos como nosotros mismos! PEDIDO DEL ARZOBISPO … hoy recibirá un sobre especial para el Pedido del Arzobispo … por favor llevar a la casa y considerar un regalo para ayudar al Arzobispo Dolan con las escuelas, Caridades Católicas, los sacerdotes y religiosos retirados y la educación de nuestros seminaristas, nuestros futuros sacerdotes … puede utilizar el sobre rosa especial en su paquete de sobres, si prefiere … pedimos que regrese su regalo la semana próxima en la segunda colección para el Pedido del Arzobispo … hasta ahora, hemos recibido regalos de $13,104.17 de 45 feligreses … nuestro objetivo es $34,900 de 200 feligreses … hacer por favor su regalo la semana próxima --- grande o pequeño al Pedido del Arzobispo Dolan. … Si desea ver el video, vaya a www.stewardshipappeal.org... para la historia completa. Nosotros también distribuiremos folletos acerca del Pedido. GRACIAS. SEGUNDO PEREGRINAJE ANUAL DE NUEVA YORK … el sábado, 9 de abril … caminata de las iglesias de Washington Heights a la Catedral al Battery … patrocinado por los Jóvenes Adultos de la Catedral de San Patricio … para registración ir al www.pofnyc.org … los beneficios del peregrinaje serán donados al Fondo de Becas de la Ciudad para los niños en nuestras escuelas católicas … CAMINAR, ORAR, VISITAR Y AYUDAR --- una gran Actividad Cuaresmal. COMMUNITY OUTREACH DE SAN RAMÓN ... es nuestra agencia basada en la comunidad que sirve el área de Parkchester … es una agencia de multi-servicios ubicada en el 68 Metropolitan Oval, encima del RESTAURANTE UNO en el Ovalo en el segundo piso … ayuda con servicios sociales, asuntos de inmigración, programas de después de la escuela para niños y jóvenes … llamar al 718-8240353 para más información. HAY UN NUEVO PROGRAMA SIENDO AGREGADO --- PARA ANCIANOS Y JOVENES --- ESCRIBIENDO ACERCA LA EXPERIENCIA DE VIVIR … ESTO ES UN CURSO DE 8 SEMANAS … de 4 a 6 pm. MOVIMIENTO DE MATRIMONIO CATÓLICO … en español … el 21 de mayo en la escuela secundaria Cardinal Hayes, 650 Grand Concourse … por favor llamar a la Hermana Veronica Sullivan o Ms. Denise D’Oleo al 212-371-1000 para registración y aprender acerca de su matrimonio. FOLDERS DE CUARESMA … están disponible … hacer una ofrenda diaria … y regresar el folder durante la Semana Santa … este dinero es utilizado para los pobres de la parroquia, especialmente en los días de Acción de Gracias y Navidad cuando distribuimos canastas de alimento …FOLDERS DE CUARESMA es un gran sacrificio para la Cuaresma. FELICITACIONES … a nuestras 2 bandas de la escuela por representarnos en el Desfile del Día de San Patricio de Throggs Neck la semana pasada … la Academia y la banda de escuela primaria hicieron un gran trabajo en honor a San Patricio … la Banda de la Academia marcha otra vez hoy en el Desfile de Pearl River. SABOR DE ITALIA ... El viernes, 25 de marzo a las 5 PM: Café de la Academia. $5 por adelantado, $10 en la puerta. Su admisión incluye una prueba de comida, música y entretenimiento. Premios de la rifa incluyen certificados de regalo a algunos de los mejores restaurantes italiano del Bronx. Para reservar boletos, por favor llame a Arlene al 718-824-4220, ext. 1038

ESCUELA SECUNDARIA DE NIÑOS … continúa celebrando su 50 ANIVERSARIO DORADO … la Cena de Gala en Villa Barone Manor … el viernes, 1ro de abril … Cócteles a las 7 pm … la cena a las 8:30 pm … hora de cóctel completa, barra abierta, selecciones de cena, música, baile … boletos son $175 … llamar por favor al 718824-5050 o www.straymondhighschool.org para reservaciones … regar la voz a los egresados y únase a nosotros como celebramos los 50 años de educación católica aquí en Parkchester. SHOW DE ARTE … nuestras tres escuelas presentarán una tarde de Arte … el domingo, 3 de abril a las 12 del mediodía en nuestro AUDITORIO … el auditorio será transformado en un estudio de arte, museo y área de exposición para su placer de arte … trabajos de los estudiantes de nuestras tres escuelas … los jueces estarán presentes de varios museos … habrá un remate de trabajos seleccionados … refrigerios estarán disponibles para la compra. CENA EN EL TEATRO ELMSFORD … el domingo, 10 de abril al mediodía … el almuerzo y un show patrocinados por el Comité del 50 Aniversario de la Academia … el show "CANTANDO BAJO LA LLUVIA" … boletos son limitados … $75 … llamar por favor a Ms. Arlene Alegre-Chin al 718-824-4220, la extensión 1038 … por orden de llegada. FORMACIÓN EN LA FE DE FAMILIA … para familias de estudiantes en el 6to grado ha sido cambiada para el domingo, 27 de marzo a las 11 am en el auditorio … todos los padres deben asistir … Misa a seguir a las 12 del mediodía en la Iglesia de Abajo. CONFESIONES … todos los sábados a las 11:15 am en la Iglesia de Abajo hasta las 11:45 am … venir a la confesión, el Sacramento de Reconciliación. RETIRO DE LA COMUNIDAD AFRICANA … esta planificado para el sábado, 26 de marzo a las 9 pm en la Iglesia de Abajo … todos están bienvenidos … por favor animar a sus amigos y vecinos a asistir … más información del Padre Fred. GRACIAS … a todos los que hornearon Pan de Soda Irlandés … cada pan fue diferente y todos fueron deliciosos. PAREJAS QUE CELEBRAN SU 50 ANIVERSARIO DE BODA … en cualquier momento durante el 2011 están invitadas a asistir a la Misa Anual Dorada de Aniversario de Boda con el Arzobispo Dolan en la Catedral de San Patricio el domingo, 22 de mayo a las 2:00 pm. La pre-matriculación es requerida. Contactar por favor su parroquia para la registración. La fecha límite para registrarse en la Misa es el jueves, el 5 de mayo del 2011. Este evento esta patrocinado por la Vida en Familia/Oficina del Respeto a la Vida de la Archidiócesis de Nueva York. NUEVOS SOBRES … debe haber recibido nuevos paquetes de sobres … incluido en el paquete esta alguna información sobre DAR EL DIEZMO (contribuciones a la iglesia) y EL HORARIO DE SEMANA SANTA … si usted no ha recibido sus sobres, llamar por favor a Ms. McNally en la rectoría … debemos tener una dirección apropiada INCLUYENDO EL NUMERO DE APARTAMENTO … todos los adultos deben estar registrados y deben utilizar los sobres del domingo … si esta registrado y esta viniendo a iglesia, nosotros le podemos dar cartas de recomendación para ser padrinos en Bautismos, patrocinadores para la Confirmación, informes para sus impuestos y otras formas de identificación … si usted no es registrado, venir por favor a la oficina de la rectoría --- 7 días a la semana de 8:30 am hasta las 8:30 pm excepto los domingos que es hasta las 2 pm para registración … es muy fácil de hacer … le pedimos que todos los adultos estén registrados y utilizen los sobres del domingo. LA IGLESIA…durante esta semana pasada el piso entero de la iglesia fue reemplazado con hermosos mosaicos de cerámica, los dos altares de los lados de Josė y María fueron completados y las puertas y las paredes de madera en la iglesia fueron barnizadas… esta luciendo magnífico! Nuestra ceremonia y Misa de reapertura

NUESTRO PLAN ES DE ESTAR EN LA IGLESIA PARA LA SEMANA SANTA. Nosotros le enviaremos un folleto con oportunidades de dar y oportunidades de nombres en el futuro próximo … una placa será erigida en la iglesia. BAUTISMO … esta bautizado su bebé? ¿Por qué no? ¿Deberá estar registrado en la iglesia, asistir en la Misa del domingo y tener a uno o dos padrinos que son católicos practicantes (incluyendo el casamiento en la Iglesia Católica) … padres católicos deben tener a sus niños bautizados tan pronto como sea posible … si su niño es de edad escolar, nosotros tenemos programas en nuestras escuelas y programas de educación religiosa para el Bautismo … ¿POR QUE no? FELICITACIONES … a la Hermana Patricia Brito, nuestra directora de la escuela primaria, que esta siendo honorada como una educadora italiana-norteamericana en el área metropolitana … la Hermana será honorada con un grupo de educadores el viernes, 8 de abril en el Villa Barone Manor … para boletos, llamar por favor a Ms. Joan Beck en nuestra oficina de la escuela-718- 597-3232, la extensión 2240 … le damos las gracias a la Hermana por todo su trabajo dedicado y la dedicación a los niños y familias de nuestra escuela. MISA DE VOCACIÓN … el viernes, el 25 de marzo en el Seminario de San José para estudiantes interesados en el sacerdocio … tours del Seminario a las 3:30 pm seguido por Misa con Arzobispo Dolan a las 5 pm … si esta interesado, hablar por favor con uno de los sacerdotes para que podamos arreglar transporte para usted … más información sobre nuestro programa de la escuela secundaria en www.cathedralprep.com … FIN DE SEMANA DE DISCERNIMIENTO … 15-17 de abril para hombres de 18 años y mayores en el Seminario … llamar al 914-968-1340 [email protected] para reservaciones … le llama a Dios para ser un sacerdote? ¿Estas escuchando? ¿Contestarás a Dios? REUNIÓN DE PRIMERA COMUNIÓN … estudiantes y padres en nuestra escuela primaria que se preparan para la primera Comunión en mayo deben asistir a una reunión de padres el jueves, 24 de marzo a las 7 pm … todos debe asistir … su asistencia será tomada. CONFESIONES DE LIFETEEN … son planificadas para el domingo, 27 de marzo a las 7pm en el auditorio… esta una gran oportunidad para adolescentes para reunirse, orar y recibir el Sacramento de Penitencia y Reconciliación … marcar sus calendarios, los jóvenes. CAMPAMENTO Y PROGRAMA ACADÉMICO — La Escuela Primaria de San Ramón ofrecerá un programa de campamento de verano como también un programa en las áreas académicas desde el 29 de junio hasta el 29 de Julio comenzando a las 7:30am-6:30pm. El costo del programa académico es de $175 por asignatura. Para el campamento solamente el precio es de $775. Para todos los que se encuentren interesados en el programa académico y el campamento, habrá una cuota combinada. El campamento incluye programas de arte y manual, danza, deportes, y viajes semanales. El desayuno y el almuerzo también están incluidos. Los participantes del campamento reciben una camiseta y una bolsa. Para más información, habrá una reunión el 19 de mayo a las 6:30 pm en el auditorio de la escuela. Para más información favor de llamar a 718-597-3232. FELICITACIONES … a la Hermana Mary Eileen y a su equipo de voluntarios jóvenes y adulto por un exitoso RALLY DE JUVENTUD la semana pasada … a pesar de la terrible lluvia y clima, había más de 200 jóvenes en el rally y la Misa … continúa por favor asistiendo a la iglesia y a Jesús. MISIÓN DE LA PARROQUIA … en la Iglesia de San Francis Xavier en Lurting Avenue … el 21, 22, 23 de marzo a las 7:30 pm … el maestro de retiro es el Padre Paul Fagan, un Padre de Pasionista,

de la Casa de Retiros de Riverdale … todo están invitados a la Misión de la Parroquia. MATRICULACIONES EN LA ESCUELA CONTINUAN … pero nosotros pronto pondremos estudiantes en una lista de espera … no este decepcionado … llamar a los directores para hacer una cita para registración … los números telefónicos están en la frente del boletín … damos gracias a Dios por nuestras muchas matriculaciones y nosotros les damos las gracias, a los padres y familias, que hacen el sacrificio de dar una educación católica a sus niños en la escuela primaria y escuelas secundarias. GRAN TRABAJO … por la Academia en el Desfile de Modas … gracias a la Hermana Mary Ann, la Sra. Arlene Alegre, las exalumnas voluntarias y las estudiantes … fue una tarde agradable … gracias, también, a los patrocinadores del Desfile de Modas. REUNIÓN DEL CONCILIO DE LA PARROQUIA … el lunes, 28 de marzo a las 7:30 PM en el Salón Flynn … todos los miembros del Concilio deben asistir … visitantes están bienvenidos. COMITĖ DE LA LITURGIA … se reúne el martes, 5 de abril a las 7 PM en la Rectoría para completar nuestras celebraciones para la Semana Santas y Pascua … visitantes están bienvenidos en asistir.

20 de Marzo — Segundo Domingo de Cuaresma Génesis 12:1-4a; 2 Timoteo 1:8b-10;Mateo 17:1-9

Salir al encuentro con Dios Hay muchas maneras de ir de viaje. Se puede salir de casa literalmente, para pasear, para turismo, para peregrinar a un lugar sagrado, o para emigrar, como muchos de nosotros. Pero normalmente la gente no deja su tierra porque siente que es una llamada de Dios, o porque crea que en el nuevo lugar va a encontrar a Dios. También hay, por otra parte, una manera de hacer viajes interiores: de salir de nosotros mismos, de hacer un camino interior para encontrarnos con Dios. Cuando se hace esto internamente, en oración, muchas veces Dios concede la gracia de la contemplación de su belleza y de su gloria. Se sabe que se ha estado en la presencia de Dios cuando a la experiencia la acompaña la paz, la alegría, la serenidad y la fortaleza. No es un resplandor de un momento, sino una seguridad de que ese Dios que nos ha llamado a estar con Él no nos abandona nunca. Es la seguridad de que, aunque, como los discípulos, tengamos que bajar de la montana y atender a nuestras obligaciones, y enfrentarnos a todas las dificultades que nos trae la vida, Dios está presente con su luz y su fuerza. Es la seguridad de que , aunque salir de nuestra propia comodidad par subir a esa montana, la vida prometida es mucho más abundante. Es la seguridad de estar donde se debe: con Dios, que significa en el amor a los demás, en la entrega al servicio de los demás, en la oración de vida abundante a nuestro alrededor, y en el recibir el regalo de vida abundante que nos da Dios. Para la reflexión ¿Qué tiempo le dedico a la oración? ¿De cuales de mis costumbre, hábitos y comodidades me pide Dios que salga para encontrarme con Él? ¿Qué resistencia opongo?¿He tenido la experiencia de encontrarme con Dios y de sentir su protección, su presencia y su fuerza?