Missionary Disciples | October 24

Living as Missionary Disciples

Last month you were given a quiz from the bible based on the infancy narratives of Matthew and Luke. Here are the answers to that quiz. The full quiz can be found in last month’s newsletter (September 2023).   

Quote from Living as Missionary Disciples

The community of faith is a place of invitation, welcome, and hospitality, especially for those who are inquiring or returning.” Pg. 16

Parish Agenda for Today

(Addressing Modern Americans)

Father Frank DeSiano did a terrific webinar last week entitled: Parish Agenda for Today. I am attaching the link to the presentation as well as a PDF of the slides. All pillars should watch this since it is based on creating vibrant parishes. 

In this presentation and slides you will learn:

  • The purpose of a parish
  • Marks of an evangelizing parish
  • The power of the Word and how to invite parishioners to reflect on it
  • The power of the Eucharist to draw people into discipleship.
  • The relationship between reverence and welcome
  • How to foster prayer among parishioners 
  • How to connect people 
  • Importance of small groups
  • How to evangelize “registered” members
  • Ways to reach out to those who have no faith or faith communities
  • Reaching out to seekers
  • The need for parishes to be about serving others, particularly the poor and frail
  • And much more . . .

Advent

Share the richness of the Family of Parishes (FoP): For each Sunday of Advent ask some parishioners from one of the parishes (or 2 if your family is more than 4 parishes) to reflect on one of the themes of Advent: hope, peace, love and joy.

For example – On the first Sunday of Advent, 10 people from parish A will finish this sentence: “A time I experienced hope was . . .” On the second Sunday 10 people from parish B will finish this sentence: “A time I experienced peace was . . .” Encourage them to be as personal as possible. 

Plan Ahead: Outdoor Nativity Set. 

Every Christmas we hear people bemoan the fact that Christ is being removed from Christmas. Why not ask every household to display a Nativity Scene either in their window or on their front lawn. Outdoor scenes can range in price from $30 to well over $100. As a FoP, encourage parishioners to accept the challenge – how many households will display their faith this Christmas? Click here to view Nativity Sets

Promote the Bible

Establish Dec. 3 as Bible Sunday. Use this Sunday (or another Sunday) to encourage people to consider giving Bibles or Bible books as Christmas gifts. Display bibles and books that appeal to all ages. Have a typed sheet of stores, gift shops and websites where these products can be purchased. Don’t forget the American Bible Society and USCCB. Good translations are: New American Bible, New International Version, Good New.

Starting now, challenge parishioners to read the bible: The Bible in a Year. Begin to plan on offering Bible study or small groups based on scripture after the first of the year. 

IMPORTANT NEWS

For those who started Alpha the week of Sept. 17 we are already halfway through the sessions. We shared meals, watched 5 videos and discussed these topics: 

  1. Is there more to life than this? 
  2. Who is Jesus? 
  3. Why did Jesus die? 
  4. How can I have faith? 
  5. Why and how do I pray?

For those unable to attend I draw your attention to the session entitled: “How can I have faith?” The group reflected on this picture asking the questions: 

  • What time of day do you think it is?
  • What could it mean that the vines are growing up over the door?
  • Any thoughts on why Jesus isn’t actually looking at the door?
  • If you could put yourself in this painting, what would you be doing?
  • Why is there no doorknob on the outside of the door?

Alpha Retreat: If you are doing Alpha, please be sure to sign up for the Retreat Day on Sat. Nov. 4. It will be held at Vincent de Paul Parish, Springbrook. 9:00 – 4:00. Free, lunch provided. The theme of the retreat will be the 4 sessions of the Holy Spirit that are part of the Alpha course. Registration for Alpha Retreat Nov. 4, 2023

Click here for a brief 2-minute video on Alpha. You may want to show it to the leaders of your parish. Introduction to Alpha

Ash Wednesday is Feb. 14, 2024. If your Family of Parishes is thinking of doing Life in the Eucharist during Lent, now is the time to be trained. Two training sites are remaining. Click here to register:


As always if there is some way that I can assist your parish in InReach/OutReach or any area of evangelization, please contact me. I look forward to hearing from you.

I would appreciate it if you would pass on this newsletter to others who may benefit from it.

Last Thought: A bible falling apart belongs to someone who isn't.

Missionary Disciples | August 23

Years ago, a man was shocked to read his own obituary in the morning paper. His death was mistakenly reported. But what shocked him most was how the obituary described him: as someone who had devoted his life to making weapons of war. That morning he resolved to turn his energies in a new direction: working for world peace and human betterment. That man was Alfred Nobel, founder of the Nobel Peace Prize. 

If you were to die today – what would your obituary say? What would you like it to say? So...

Quote from Living as Missionary Disciples

We cannot live a life of discipleship alone. Weneed others to model lives of discipleship and accompany us as we grow in the spiritual life and experience ongoing conversion. (pg. 15)

 

Parish Funerals

How many times have we said, “how do we share the richness of our faith with those who are inactive or have no faith community?” In my years of parish work, I know of several people who have become Catholic or returned to the Church because of the experience they had at a Catholic Funeral Mass. (One person even became a Religious Sister!) 

Click here for practical pastoral suggestions regarding grief and funerals:

  • Simple Ways to enhance the Funeral Liturgy
  • Other considerations and Suggestions 
  • Resources for Grief and Funerals. 

CREMATION

Nearly one in 3 Catholics opt for cremation today. If a Catholic family chooses cremation, the Church requires reverent disposition of the ashes. The Vatican says the ashes must be treated in the same way a body would be. The ashes are to be kept in a sacred place, not in one’s home, scattered, or divided among family members. Read Catholic Cremation Beliefs.

CREATE A WAILING WALL

This suggestion was in the Oct. 2022 newsletter. Fr. Rob Wozniak wrote to say his parish set up a Wailing Wall at St. Pius X Parish. (see picture). He said how successful it has been. This idea is inspired by the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem (properly called the Western Wall of the Old Temple.) For generations, people have put pieces of paper with prayers and petitions rolled up and inserted in the broken mortar between the bricks of the wall. The parish Wailing Wall serves the same purpose. Have a space (perhaps a corkboard) for people to tape their unsigned prayers and petitions. Encourage parishioners to stop and pray. People are invited to take a petition off the wall, keep it for a week and pray for the unknown writer whose heart is broken. Then you might initial it and put it back again so that the person who put it there originally may know that he or she is not alone. Mention the wall aloud at the Universal Prayers. A couple times a year have Compassion Sunday as a way of clearing off the wall. At each Mass on that weekend have a ritual where people gather a portion of the petitions and bring them forward in quiet process to be placed in a container and burned. (Taken from The Total Parish Manual)

GRANDPARENTS DAY – Sunday, Sept. 10.  Ideas on ways to celebrate this can be found in last month’s newsletter.

IMPORTANT ALPHA NEWS:

Aug. 29 or Aug. 31: An Interactive Online Training to Experience What it is Like to Run Alpha.

Alpha is a space for people outside the church to explore faith within the context of the local church. Gather with other churches and leaders from across the country for interactive training to develop an understanding of Alpha and how to get the most out of running a course in your context. We will cover topics like ‘What is Alpha?’, the 7 best practices of Alpha, the Alpha small group and leading prayer ministry. 

August 30 –Nov. 27 (11:00): Alpha Administrators Meeting. Every Wednesday. This is for any parish that is running Alpha and wants to hear and share insights and best practices to maximize your opportunity to have a successful Alpha. 

September 5 (7-8:30). Alpha Host and Helper Training. Click here for more info.

September 7 (7-9:00 PM). Alpha Prayer Ministry Training. Click here for more info.

September 17: Start of Adult and Youth Alpha in FoP.  

November 4: Retreat day for Parishes doing Alpha. St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Springbrook. 9:00 – 4:00. Free, lunch provided. The theme of the retreat will be the 4 sessions of the Holy Spirit that are part of the Alpha course. Registration for Alpha Retreat Nov. 4, 2023

Click the following link for a brief 2-minute video on Alpha. You may want to show it to the leaders of your parish: Introduction to Alpha

Two new training locations: Alfred, NY and Mayville, NY. Click here for more information and registration. Remember: Lent begins Feb. 14, 2024. If you are planning on doing LITE during Lent, it is important to get your training in the Fall so you will be prepared. I will inform you of any additional training dates. 

One more special invitation: 

October 10: Webinar: A Pastoral Plan for Evangelization. This will be held twice: 3:00 and repeated at 7:00 PM. Presented by Fr. Frank De Siano, CSP. Click here for more information and registration. 

Living as Missionary Disciples | July 26, 2023

Did Jesus have grandparents?
While Jesus is the son of God, he also had earthly grandparents but only one is mentioned in the Bible. Tradition has it that Mary’s parents were Joachim and Anna. The Church celebrates their feast on July 26. We know nothing of Joseph’s mother but his father’s name was Jacob (Matthew 1:16).

Quote from Living as Missionary Disciples

Being a disciple means being constantly ready to bring the love of Jesus to others, this can happen unexpectedly and in any place: on the street, during work, on a journey.” (pg. 14)

Grandparents

Do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and their children after them. (Deut. 4:9)

Did you know?

  • In 2022, 486,000 children under the age of three lived in a household where both a grandmother and grandfather were present.
  • One tenth of American children live with a grandparent. Most of these households include at least two grandchildren, and many include more.
  • About 15% of grandparents care for grandchildren while the parents’ work.
  • The average American will be a grandparent for half of his or her adult life.
  • The average age of a U.S. grandparent is 48, and more than half are Baby Boomers.
  • Some people who were raised by their grandparents: Maya Angelou, Carol Burnett, Bill Clinton, Willie Nelson, Jack Nicholson, Barack Obama and Oprah Winfrey.

 

CELEBRATE GRANDPARENTS DAY!

When is Grandparents Day?

Pope Francis proclaimed the World Day for Grandparents to be celebrated on the fourth Sunday in July (The date was chosen to be near the liturgical memorial of Saints Anne and Joachim, July 26).

In the United States the national celebration of Grandparents Day is on the Sunday after Labor Day. This year – on September 10.

Roles that grandparents play in family life:

  • Storyteller, who passes down family history and preserves family traditions.
  • Mentor and teacher, who offers guidance and assistance in all areas of life.
  • Nurturer, who provides emotional support and unconditional love.
  • Role model, who demonstrates the importance of faith, morality, and personal integrity through the witness of their lives.
  • Playmate, who creates an element of fun and adventure. (Dr. Arthur Kornhaber)

 

This is one of the quotes from Pope Francis on Grandparents.

“Grandparents are the ring linking generations, to transmit to young people the experience of life and faith.”


How to Celebrate Grandparents in your Family of Parishes:

  • On Sunday, Sept. 10 – celebrate Grandparents Sunday (if this date doesn’t work in your FoP pick a Sunday of your choosing)
  • At a designated Mass in each parish, ask grandparents to bring their grandchildren to Mass*
  • Ask grandchildren to bring their grandparents to Mass
  • At some point of the liturgy invite grandparents and grandchild(ren) to stand.
  • Bless the grandparents (see possible prayer below). Have the community and the grandchildren raise their hands in a blessing over the grandparents.
  • Bless the grandchildren in a similar way. (possible prayer below)

Additional suggestions:

  • After Mass offer refreshments.
  • Tour the other parishes in your Family
  • Give out Holy Water so they can continue to bless each other

*Note:

  • Invite grandparents or grandchildren to live-stream the mass if they can’t be present.
  • If grandparents or grandchildren live far away and cannot attend, bring their pictures to hold up during the blessings.
  • If the grandparent figure is another relative or a significant friend, invite them.

Prayer for Grandparents 

Lord Jesus, you were born of the Virgin Mary, the daughter of Saints Joachim and Anne. Look with love on grandparents the world over. Protect them! They are a source of enrichment for families, for the Church and for all of society. Support them! As they grow older, may they continue to be for their families strong pillars of Gospel faith, guardians of noble domestic ideals, living treasuries of sound religious traditions. Make them teachers of wisdom and courage, that they may pass on to future generations the fruits of their mature human and spiritual experience. (Pope Benedict XVI)

Prayer for Grandchildren

Lord, thank You for my grandchildren. I pray that You would put Your hand on their lives. I pray that You would put inside their hearts a thirst to live by Your standards and to always seek Your love every single day of their lives. Lord, I thank You for the blessing that are these beautiful grandchildren. (Billy Hallowell)

Young Grandchildren

Lord, I pray for my grandchildren. Please be with and guide them. Please equip our family with the mental, physical and emotional resources to help raise their child up right. God, I don’t know what the future holds, but I do know that it’s in Your hands. Please guide us all and help this child each and every day. I pray for good influences in school and with friends. I pray You would put the right people in their path so that they can be further encouraged to make the right choices. Lord, I lift this child up to You. In Jesus’ name. Amen. (Billy Hallowell)

Teen and older grandchildren

Lord, it is never too late to pray for my grandchildren. I thank You for the blessing of having them in my life and I ash that you protect them from a chaotic culture. Help them to see through the fog of chaos to find the beacon of Your love. I pray, Lord, that You would protect them at work and at school. Give, give them the discernment to know what’s right and wrong and to understand Your truth. Thank you, Lord, for all You do. In Jesus’ name. Amen. (Billy Hallowell)

Here are three wonderful resources on Grandparents: 

We need your help: 

Here at the Road to Renewal, we would like to hear from the grandparents in your FoP to see how we can continue to support them in their role. Attached is a questionnaire. Please print out or connect people to the link so that we can hear from them. 

Please take a minute to fill out his questionnaire and send it back to: lalff2@buffalodiocese.org; or send the hard copy to Sr. Louise Alff, Diocese of Buffalo, 795 Main Street, Buffalo, NY. 14203. Please return by August 31. 

Put this questionnaire on your website and/or Facebook page. 

IMPORTANT ALPHA NEWS:

Click on this link to: Train – Prayer – Launch Alpha in your parish. The link is customized to our diocese and will get you started in setting up Alpha for our September 17 launch, as well as provide the links to the training sessions for host and helpers, prayer ministry training and signing up for the Nov. 4 retreat.

Other Alpha events you may want to consider:

  • A NIGHT WITH ALPHA Thursday, Aug. 17. 8:00 – 9:30 PM. Eastern Time. (Note when you register it will say 7-8:30 PM because that is CDT). More Alphas are offered in the fall than at any other time of the year. On Thurs. Aug. 17 we invite you to join Alpha USA Executive Director John Wentz and special guests as we kick off the fall season with a night of celebration, prayer, and vision casting. You are encouraged to bring together anyone interested in Alpha so you can watch it as a group. Alpha will provide a watch party kit for you closer to the date of the event. Click here to register.
  • An Interactive Online Training to Experience: WHAT IT IS LIKE TO RUN ALPHA. August 29 or August 31. Alpha is a space for people outside the church to explore faith within the context of the local church. Gather with other churches and leaders from across the country for an interactive training to develop an understanding of Alpha and how to get the most out of running a course in your context. We will cover topics like ‘What is Alpha?’, the 7 best practices of Alpha, the Alpha small group and leading prayer ministry.

September 17: Start of Adult and Youth Alpha in FoP.

Please let the Road to Renewal know if you are thinking of doing the Alpha program in the Fall. Contact Sr. Louise at lalff2@buffalodiocese.org. Indicate Family of Parish and contact person.

 

WANT TO HOST A WORKSHOP?

I am looking for parishes to host the “Life in the Eucharist” training and “Do You Hear What I Hear?” Training. For more information contact S. Louise: lalff2@buffalodiocese.org. 

AROUND THE DIOCESE:  

Saint Bernadette Parish Open Doors Ministry invites you to their annual summer picnic party for adults and children with different abilities. August 26, 2023 from 11AM – 2 PM at Saint Bernadette Church Parish Ministry Center, 5930 S. Abbott Rd., Orchard Park, NY 14127. Lunch will be provided and served at noon. RSVP: 716-649-1051 or cozmo3631@gmail.com   

Missionary Disciples | June 28

July 4

  • Thomas Jefferson and John Adams both died on July 4, 1826 — on the 50th anniversary of the country’s independence. 
  • Americans eat around 150 million hot dogs each Independence Day.
  • In 1776 there were 25 thousand Catholics in the U.S.
  • In 2022 there are 73 million. 
  • Pray for those still under oppression. 

Quote from Living as Missionary Disciples

Once we have encountered Christ, as did the disciples, we are sent forth on mission “to the ends of the earth” to invite others to this encounter. (page 14)

RELIGIOUS LANDSCAPE OF AMERICA!

Fr. Frank DeSiano, the head of Paulist Evangelization ministries, did a webinar last week on the Religious Landscape of America. I am attaching the link to this 40-minute presentation and the slides he used. Some things you will learn from this presentation: 

  • 16% of Americans feel that religion is important in their lives. 
  • 40% attend religious services a few times a year. 57% attend seldom or never. 
  • 32% of Hispanic Catholics do not see the Church as welcoming. 
  • 43% of White Catholics see the Church as divided.

SINGLE ADULTS MAKE UP 46% OF YOUR PARISHIONERS

46% of Catholic adults in the US are single. This comprises of widowed (6.4%); never-married (27.7%), separated (3.3%) or divorced (8.7%). They range in years of age and variety of careers.

Sitting alone in the parish pew can be a lonely experience. Many singles have been unintentionally left out of family-focused church life. Parishes need to raise their awareness to the needs of this unique component of their population. Singles can bring an infinite number of gifts to the parish family.  They desire to share their gifts with the Church. Their experiences of their own family, religious education, youth programs, college and life have given them a key foundation to serve others. But if they come to church, feel unwelcome and leave discontented, a precious gift of a person has just left the building and maybe the parish. 

Ideas to reach out:  

  • Continue to support widows and widowers: This group often describe feeling abandoned by both friends and their church when a spouse dies.
  • If a single adult registers in the parish (Including single parents, divorced, widowed, never married) get them involved immediately. Even a small task with be beneficial to the whole parish. 
  • Invite single people to be engaged in liturgical ministries. Too often we look for families to do this. (Ministers of Hospitality, Eucharistic Ministers, Lectors, Choir, etc.) 
  • Don’t schedule all your activities around the school year. E.g., refreshments after Mass, adult faith formation, parish gatherings. 
  • When you see a single person sitting alone, join them at Mass or at a gathering. 

From your Mobile Phone – QR code. Open your camera on your phone and aim toward the QR code and the link should appear or search for “Diocese of Buffalo” through the App Store/Google Store. Tap the link with your finger and this will direct you to the app store. Then, Install and open the app and you’re ready to go!

From your Computer via this website: dioceseofbuff.vyten.app

IMPORTANT ALPHA NEWS:

Please read the following opportunities for running Alpha in your Family of Parishes. Please note when you register for any of the following events that it may give you CDT (Central Daylight Time). Which means the session will start an hour later for Eastern Daylight Time.

  • A NIGHT WITH ALPHA Thursday, Aug. 17. 8:00 – 9:30 PM. Eastern Time. (Note when you register it will say 7-8:30 PM because that is CDT). More Alphas are offered in the fall than at any other time of the year. On Thurs. Aug. 17 we invite you to join Alpha USA Executive Director John Wentz and special guests as we kick off the fall season with a night of celebration, prayer, and vision casting. You are encouraged to bring together anyone interested in Alpha so you can watch it as a group. Alpha will provide a watch party kit for you closer to the date of the event. Click here to register.
  • An Interactive Online Training to Experience: WHAT IT IS LIKE TO RUN ALPHA. August 29 or August 31. Alpha is a space for people outside the church to explore faith within the context of the local church. Gather with other churches and leaders from across the country for an interactive training to develop an understanding of Alpha and how to get the most out of running a course in your context. We will cover topics like ‘What is Alpha?’, the 7 best practices of Alpha, the Alpha small group and leading prayer ministry.
  • Alpha Administrators Meeting. Every Wednesday starting Aug. 30 – Nov. 27. 11:00 to 12:00 EST. This is for any parish that is running Alpha and wants to hear and share insights and best practices to maximize your opportunity to have a successful Alpha. Hosted by Alpha Catholic Context. (These online gatherings will last one hour). Click here to learn more.
  • Sept. 5: 7-8:30 PM. Alpha Host and Helper Training. Click here to learn more.
  • Sept. 7: 7-9:00 PM. Alpha Prayer Ministry Training. Click here to learn more.

September 17: Start of Adult and Youth Alpha in FoP.

Nov. 4: Retreat day 10:00 – 4:00 P.M. for Parishes doing Alpha. There will be two tracks – a track for Adults and a Track for Youth. This will be held at St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Springbrook. The theme of the retreat will be the 4 sessions of the Holy Spirit that are part of the Alpha course.

Important:

Make the most of your Run Alpha experience and visit our online training center for leaders before you attend. Visit the site, click login and enter your email address—new users will be asked to create a password.

WANT TO HOST A WORKSHOP?

I am looking for parishes to host the “Life in the Eucharist” training and “Do You Hear What I Hear?” Training. For more information contact S. Louise: lalff2@buffalodiocese.org. 

AROUND THE DIOCESE:  

Sunday, June 25, there was a gathering of women from the 4 parishes that make up Family 21 – Blessed Trinity, St. Lawrence, St. Martin de Porres and Ss. Columba/Brigid. Parish representatives spoke about the women’s organizations, and they talked about how the Family parishes could support one another. They left knowing that it was only the beginning of a strong relationship. 

Prayer for July 4th

God of all nations and ages,

We recall the day when our country claimed its place among the family of nations;

for what has been achieved we give you thanks, for the work that still remains we ask your help, and as you have called us from many peoples to be one nation, grant that, under your providence, our country may share your blessings with all the peoples of the earth.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you

in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

Missionary Disciples | June 13, 2023

person holding a green plant

Flag Day – June 14 (established in 1917)
There are six American flags on the moon.
If you like to study flags, you are a Vexillologist!
Wave the symbol of your freedom
Wear the symbol of your freedom – the cross.

Quote from Living as Missionary Disciples
It is in the parish that one becomes engaged with the church community, learns how to become a missionary disciple of Christ, is nurtured by Scripture, is nourished by the sacraments, is catechized, and ultimately becomes a disciple of Christ. (pg. 13)

EIGHT SECRETS TO HELPING YOUR PARISH GROW!

George Gallup did a study on the top 100 growing Churches. Here are eight common denominators. Where does your parish fit in?

  1. Mission is to reach those who are not part of the community.
  2. Purpose of Church is to make disciples who will reach out.
  3. Develop friendship evangelism: encourages parishioners to build meaningful relationships with the unchurched.
  4. Trains parishioners to share their faith.
  5. Provides services and events to bring unchurched to the parish.
  6. Moves to family-centered catechesis.
  7. Encourages religious experiences (retreats, spiritual talks, prayer experiences, bible study)
  8. Develops small Christian Communities.

UNLOCKING THE SECRETS TO A MORE VIBRANT PARISH

Download this PDF booklet to find numerous suggestions on ways to reach out through hospitality, when new parishioners register and ways to make funerals points of encounter. You are free to duplicate any pages in the booklet for ongoing discussion with your Family of Parishes.

Webinar: The Religious Landscape of the US.

Wednesday, June 21 – 2:00 This free webinar is presented by Fr. Frank DeSiano. This webinar will provide information about trends in the United States and also reflect on opportunities for evangelization. Register here.

FATHER’S DAY (JUNE 18)

Just like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day can be a layered holiday to celebrate.
Be sure to acknowledge the following:

  • The Ones Who Are Fathers: Those men who are staying in the game with children of their own.
  • The Ones Who Stepped Up: Those men who have stepped in to take care of—and play a fatherly role—for the children who aren’t their own (stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, older brothers, foster dads, Godfathers, etc.).
  • The Ones Who Are Grieving Their Own Father: Those people in your congregation who are grieving the loss of a father, navigating a strained relationship with their father, or navigating a life lived with an absentee father.
  • The Ones Who Are Grieving Their Own Children: Those who have lost a child through death or through strained relationships, addictions or alienation.
  • Those Ones Who Want To Be Fathers: There are men who long to be fathers of their own. But for some reason, it hasn’t become a reality in their lives yet.

At Mass on Father’s Day:
Lift up every single group of people listed above. You’ll not only encourage them, but you’ll also let them know your church sees and loves them right where they are.

Remind your congregation that no matter where they are in the journey of fatherhood, or what feelings they have about their own fathers, they have access to a God who is Father to all. This is a great opportunity to not only share this message with people who may have never heard it but also to encourage people in your congregation who are struggling without a father in their lives. Let them know that God is there to meet their “Father” need.

Prayer:
Lord, on this Father’s Day we remember biological fathers, step-fathers, foster-fathers, grandfathers, Godfathers, fathers who are incarcerated, fathers who grieve the loss of their father, fathers who have lost a child to death, fathers alienated from their children and those who desire to be fathers. Strengthen them in their role, support them in their weaknesses and walk with them in their pain. We call upon God our Father to hear and answer this prayer. Amen.

WORTH REPEATING:

Offer a blessing for all young people with a drivers license. Ask them to attend a specific Sunday Mass. Give them a religious medal for their keychain. Prayer could be something like: “God of all protection, we place all of these young people in your care. We rejoice with them in their accomplishment, and challenge them to live up to this responsibility. Bless all of their comings and goings. May no harm come to them or to anyone else on the road. May they be open to the Holy Spirit who will give them the wisdom and prudence needed to make good and mature choices. We ask this through Jesus, your Son. Amen.” (Added suggestion: request their cell number for text messaging and send them weekly “hello’s” from the parish.)

Alpha Events and Timeline:

Alpha is working very closely with the Diocese of Buffalo this year. To understand their commitment to us watch the 16 min. orientation video. Also, view the Partnership Calendar with Alpha.

Dates to Remember:

  • June 21 – 1:00 to 1:30. All are invited to come together via zoom to pray for the needs of the Family of Parishes in this diocese. Join us.
  • June 28: The Culture Conversation – (Online) – Wednesday, June 28th 10:30am-11:30am. Gather with diocesan and parish leaders to explore the challenges and opportunities facing the Catholic Church today. Discuss the importance of sharing values for evangelization that build a culture of making disciples and reaching the unchurched and unengaged in your unique ministry context. Register here. 

Alpha courses in the family of parishes (FoP):

  • September 17: Start of Adult Alpha in FoP. 
  • September 24: Start of Youth Alpha in FoP. 
  • Nov. 4: Retreat day for Parishes doing Alpha. There will be two tracks – a track for Adults and a Track for Youth. This will be held at St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Springbrook. The theme of the retreat will be the 4 sessions of the Holy Spirit that are part of the Alpha course. 

To learn more about Alpha go to: www.Alphausa.org  

One last thought...

We are really three persons: 
The person we think we are,
The person other people think we are,
And the person God knows we are.

Missionary Disciples | May 9, 2023

DOES THIS BOTHER YOU?

  • Catholics have lost more people to other religions or to no religion than any other single religious group. (Pew Research)
  • The number of Catholics leaving the church outnumbers joiners by 4-1. (Pew Research)
  • One in five Americans say they attend religious services in person less often than before pandemic. (Pew research)

Suggested Ways to Make Your family of parishes Become a Vibrant Community

  • Make weekend Liturgies outstanding (hospitality, homily, music) 
  • Have clear, visible signs with Mass times.
  • Offer faith sharing groups.
  • Address disabilities (ramps, hearing aid devices, Braille, large print)
  • Leave parish information at real estate offices, hotels.
  • Have attractive parish brochure.
  • Offer babysitting service at Sunday Masses
  • Put parish name and Mass times in local papers.
  • Have a bulletin board for notices and a suggestion box
  • Have a guest book for visitors. Follow up on information.
  • Reach out to new residents in the area.
  • Host or advertise annulment workshops.
  • Host a parish open house.
  • Show openness to new immigrant families. 
  • Welcome visitors during weekend liturgies.
  • Have a process for registration which is welcoming.
  • Assist those who are unemployed:
    1. Baby-sit during job interviews
    2. Assist those who may find it difficult to navigate the computer. 
    3. Offer assistance in writing and editing person’s resume.
    4. Offer to practice interviewing with the person.
    5. Write recommendation letters.
    6. Offer prayers.
    7. Take a person’s resume and give to your contacts. 

Alpha Events and Timeline:

Alpha is working very closely with the Diocese of Buffalo this year. To understand their commitment to us watch the 16 min. orientation video. Also, view the Partnership Calendar with Alpha.

Dates to Remember:

  • May 17 – 1:00 to 1:30. All are invited to come together via zoom to pray for the needs of the Family of Parishes in this diocese. 
  • May 19 or 20: Retreat “A God Who Hears His People”. Two locations: Clarence and Arcade. 
  • June 1: Alpha Preview for Catholic Leaders – (Online) – June – Tuesdays & Thursdays. Event Starting June 1. In each preview session, participants will have an experience of the Alpha sessions put on by parishes as well as understand the cultural values of Alpha: hospitality, listening, empowerment, evangelistic intentionality, and dependence on the Holy Spirit.  
  • June 28: The Culture Conversation – (Online) – Wednesday, June 28th 10:30am-11:30am. Gather with diocesan and parish leaders to explore the challenges and opportunities facing the Catholic Church today. Discuss the importance of sharing values for evangelization that build a culture of making disciples and reaching the unchurched and unengaged in your unique ministry context. Register here.
  • September 17: Start of Adult Alpha in parishes.
  • September 24: Start of Youth Alpha in parishes.
  • Nov. 4: Retreat day for Parishes doing Alpha. There will be two tracks – a track for Adults and a Track for Youth. Location and Time to be determined. The theme of the retreat will be the 4 sessions of the Holy Spirit that are part of Alpha.

Location Needed for Alpha Retreat
Saturday, November 4 there will be an Alpha Retreat that will gather all those who are doing Alpha in their Family of Parishes. We are looking for a place that can host two groups of people: youth and adults. We are uncertain of the numbers at this point but want to begin exploring the possibilities. If you have nice facilities for gathering and would consider hosting this, please contact Sr. Louise to discuss this further. Lalff2@buffalodiocese.org.

To learn more about Alpha go to: http://www.Alphausa.org

LIFE IN THE EUCHARIST

The next training will be Sat. June 3 from 9:00 – 1:00. at St. Joseph School Cafeteria, Batavia. Lunch included. Click here to register. Even if you are not sure when you are doing LITE it is good to be trained well in advance. 

AROUND THE DIOCESE

On Wednesday, May 10, 2023, Saint Bernadette Parish welcomes mothers of children with special needs and their families to a special Mother’s Mass at 7 PM. If you have questions, contact Paula Potteiger at 716-649-1051 or cozmo3631@gmail.com. 

 

APPROACHING MOTHER’S DAY WITH A HEART OF COMPASSION

Jayson D. Bradley

Here are a few ways your church can approach Mother’s Day with empathy and compassion:

Don’t make motherhood the epitome of womanhood
Being a mom is certainly something to celebrate but when we use language such as:  “Motherhood is the greatest calling,” those struggling with infertility or those who have had miscarriages are feeling less than “perfect”. Also remember those that are single without children. 

Acknowledge the diversity of motherhood
Motherhood takes many forms. In your congregation, there are step-moms, foster moms, adopted moms, grandmothers raising their grandchildren and moms who have been estranged from their children. Acknowledging that motherhood takes many forms.

Pray for those who are hurting
We can’t pretend Mother’s Day is a cheery holiday for everyone. It’s not. If you’ve experienced mom-related trauma like abuse, addiction, mental health issues, abandonment, or death, this is a time when people may feel like they have to secretly grieve something they lost or never had. Church should be a place where even in the midst of joy, we acknowledge and grieve with those who are in pain. By openly praying for people who struggle with motherhood or have been hurt by this relationship, you can use Mother’s Day to open the door to healing and position your church as a community where restoration happens.

Prayers for Mothers


As we celebrate Mother’s Day, let us remember all mothers: biological mothers, foster mothers, stepmothers, godmothers, aunts, mothers in prison, mothers living on the street, unwed mothers, mothers of political prisoners, mothers of the condemned, marginalized mothers, mothers of the homeless, mothers seeking sanctuary, undocumented mothers, mothers pregnant with hope, mothers centered in God, mothers fearful of giving birth, mothers who have lost a child, mothers who have suffered a miscarriage, mothers who have had abortions, abused mothers, divorced mothers, mothers of love.

Dear God, help all the mothers in this world. Help guide them with their children and bring them peace. A mothers work can be hard and comes with little reward. Whisper your love and encouragement into each mothers heart. Let every mother know they are blessed. (author unknown)

Missionary Disciples | April 25

Did you know?
Why is St. Mark’s gospel identified with a lion, Luke’s with a oxen, Matthew’s with a person, and John’s with an eagle?

Go to the opening lines of each gospel and there you will find the answer. Mark’s gospel begins with John the Baptist in the desert where his voice is like a lion’s roar; Luke’s gospel begins with Zachariah in the temple offering sacrifice (an oxen); Matthew’s gospel begins with Jesus’ lineage (listing of people); John’s gospel begins with “in the beginning” thus he begins with a lofty prologue and rises (like an eagle) to pierce the mysteries of God.

Quote from Living as Missionary Disciples


Evangelization invites people to experience the gradual and lifelong process of conversion: to draw all people into a deeper relationship with God, to participate in the sacramental life of the Church and to develop a mature conscience. (p. 12)

AN EXPERIENCE YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS
A God who hears his people retreat
Two separate options: May 19th or May 20th

Join parish leaders from across the diocese as we take a page out of the Book of Ezra that will inspire us to listen and create a space to share our joy and lament while we seek to rebuild and renew the Church in the Diocese of Buffalo. This free retreat is being offered in two locations: Our Lady of Peace in Clarence and St. Mary’s in Arcade.

The retreat will have 4 parts:

  • Part 1: A People Cry Unto Their God.
  • Part 2: A God Who Comes To His People
  • Part 3: A God Who Empowers His People
  • Part 4: A God Who Inspires His People

Click here to learn more and how to register for this special event.

Please advertise and share with anyone you feel would benefit from this unique experience.

Radical Hospitality Videos

“Radical hospitality is hospitality that goes beyond being friendly; it is welcoming guests with a warmth, openness, and authenticity that significantly exceeds expectations. It is intentional hospitality that surprises and delights people by making them feel noticed, giving them personal attention, and providing excellent follow-through. It is hospitality that makes guests feel so welcome they want to return again and again. Radical Hospitality is the easiest way to pursue growth.” (Gentile and Nixon)

Take time to watch these 3 short videos on Radical Hospitality (RH) from Rebuilt

  • Video 1: Belonging Happens First, Not Last. What does Disney Land and Chick-fil-A, have in common? Radical Hospitality. (10 min. video)
  • Video 2: Not a Committee but a Discipleship Experience. RH deepens our baptismal call to ministry. It’s more than just a nice nod of greeting. (10 min. video)
  • Video 3: Layers of Hospitality and What They Look Like. From the parking lot to the Liturgy, from baptism to the funeral, from stranger to friend – these are all few of the many layers of radical hospitality. (10 min. video)

To watch one or all of the videos click here: Radical Hospitality video 1, 2 and 3

Pentecost Sunday
May 28: Simple Suggestions to Celebrate the Day

After Easter, what could be more exciting than the feast of Pentecost. This is the day we celebrate the explosion of the Spirit upon the world. Not only the birthday of the Church but the day when we are reminded that the name “Christian” means “anointed”, that is, to live as missionary disciples. It is our day and Church voices should be raised all over the diocese.

  • Put a red ribbon at the end of each pew.
  • Encourage all those who come to Mass to wear something red. For those who do not wear red, give them a small red ribbon to pin on.
  • Read the petitions in different languages.
  • Invite parishioners to wear clothing that reflect their heritage.
  • Pray the Our Father in different languages all at the same time.
  • Give out a red balloon to each family and ask them to attach to the outside of their home as a sign to the community that this house is filled with the Holy Spirit.
  • Have a potluck supper with dishes from different countries.
  • List the 7 gifts of the Holy Spirit on sheets of paper, cut them out and invite people to pick one as they leave Church. (wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, knowledge, piety (devotion) and fear of the Lord (honor, respect).
  • Have a birthday cake for the Church’s beginnings.

Want to host a workshop?
Do You Hear What I Hear is an advent event to help people understand the richness of Christmas using Christmas Carols. This workshop trains people to put this on in their Family of Parishes. I would like to offer this in late Spring. If you would like to host this workshop please contact me and we will set up a date. Lalff2@buffalodiocese.org.

LITE & Alpha Information

LIFE IN THE EUCHARIST (LITE)
Family 4: St. Patrick, Randolph, St. James, Jamestown; Sacred Heart, Lakewood; and Holy Apostles, Jamestown started LITE on Sat. April 22. The remaining weeks are April 29, May 6, 13 and 20 at 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM at St. James Church Hall, Jamestown. For more information contact Renee Sparry srtsperry@verizon.net. All are invited to attend. (on a personal note, I attended the first session on April 22 and was very impressed with the time and attention given to make this morning of reflection such a great success.) This is the video that the FOP’s put out advertising the LITE.

Upcoming Workshop for Life in the Eucharist.
Saturday June 3, St. Joseph’s School in Batavia. 9:00 – 1:00. More details to follow.

Plan on Starting Alpha the week of September 17
We encourage all parishes to consider doing Alpha in the Fall starting the week of September 17. As you know Alpha is an 11-week process with an additional 3 sessions that are conducted “away from the Parish”. The Alpha national office will be coming to Buffalo Saturday, Nov. 4 to conduct these 4 additional sessions which are based on the Holy Spirit. All Family of Parishes that are doing Alpha at this time will be invited to participate in this special gathering. The location has not yet been determined.

ALPHA
Family 25: The Three Sisters of the Foothills (Holy Name of Mary, Ellicottville, St. Philomena, Franklinville and Our Lady of Peace, Salamanca) began their 11-week Alpha program on Monday, April 17. They meet from 6:30 – 8:45 PM. Please keep them in your prayers. For more information contact Deacon Mark Hooper 716-627-4566 pilgrim333@aol.com. All are invited to attend. 

Prayer

While I was deciding which oat bran cereal to eat this morning,
you were searching the ground for leftover grains from the passing wheat truck.
While I was jogging at the health center,
you were working in the wealthy landowner’s field under a scorching sun.
While I was choosing between diet and regular soda,
your parched lips were yearning for a sip of clean water.
While I complained about the poor service in the gourmet restaurant,
you were gratefully eating a bowl of rice.
While I poured my “fresh and better” detergent into the washing machine,
you stood in the river with your bundle of clothes.
While I read the newspaper and drank my cup of steaming coffee,
you walked the long, dusty miles to a crowded schoolroom to learn how to read.
While I scanned the ads for a bargain on an extra piece of clothing,
you woke up and put on the same shirt and pants that you have worn for many months.
While I built a fourteen-room house for the three of us,
your family of ten found shelter in a one-room hut.
My brothers and sisters, forgive me for my arrogance and my indifference.
Forgive me for not doing my part to change the unjust systems
that keep you suffering and impoverished.
I offer you my promise to become more aware of your situation
and to change my lifestyle as I work for the transformation of our world.”

(Taken from Out of the Ordinary 2000 by Joyce Rupp.)

Living as Missionary Disciples | March 21, 2023

Practical Ways to Make your Parish Better - empty your own trash can!

Ought we not, in the face of so many daunting challenges, adapt a humbler, simpler, and more missional approach to our service in the parish. Pope Francis has already effectively communicated this message in a powerful way. His visible simplicity is changing people’s hearts. We can follow his example in our parishes. Who empties your trash can? When we are willing to humble ourselves in small tasks, we will see that God will exalt our ministry in big ways. (Tools for Rebuilding)

Quote from Living as Missionary Disciples

Conversion is the moment in which a person’s life is reoriented to Christ, when he or she – by grace – enters into a relationship with Christ and thus enters into a relationship with the community of believers, the Church. (pg. 11)

The American Church – A quick review:

Location

  • 1950: Northeast: 46% of Parishes
  • 2017: Northeast: 24% of Parishes

Catholic Marriages in the U.S.

  • 1970: 426,309
  • 2018: 143,082

Infant Baptism in the U.S.

  • 1970: 1,089,000
  • 2018: 615,119

Elements that attract parishioners to a parish:

  • 68% – welcoming spirit
  • 64% – sense of belonging
  • 62% – quality of preaching
  • 60% – quality of liturgy 

For a fuller picture of the U.S. Church click here.

The Diocese of Buffalo – A quick review:


This is taken from a 30-minute video entitled: Trending Data. It was put out by the Road to Renewal.
Diocesan Wide Past Trends

Practicing Households
2012: 130,000 • 2021: 90,000

Contributing Households
2012: 118,000 • 2021: 70,000

Average weekend Mass attendance
2012: 155,000 • 2021: 60,000

Baptisms
2012: 4,000 • 2021: 2,100

Number enrolled in Rel. Education
2012: 32,000 • 2021: 10,000

 This video (Trending Data) could be viewed and discussed in your family of parishes. It will help them to understand the need for Renewal and what the Road to Renewal hopes to accomplish in the diocese through your Family of Parishes. It will lead you through past and future trends.

In this video you will:
  • See the various changes in parish and diocesan life from 2012 – 2021.
  • Look at 2 Families of Parishes (7 and 20) and analyze numbers of parishioners, contribution levels, percentage of young people in relation to the older population, etc.
  • Discuss the importance of passing on the Faith to the younger generation.
  • Understand how the finances of the parish impact the Diocese.
  • Clarify the priestly assignments in the Road to Renewal, comparing the single pastor model and the solidum model.
  • The timeline for the Road to Renewal.
  • Share the spiritual component of the Road to Renewal.
  • And more . . .

Easter Suggestions

Practice radical hospitality: A lot of inactive Catholics come to church on Easter Sunday. Don’t miss this opportunity. Here are 2 suggested handouts as people leave church:

Easter Water

Give out small plastic containers of the Easter water. (You can use old medicine bottles.) On each bottle put: an address label with the message: “May this Easter water remind you of your baptism. Daily bless yourself with this holy water.” (name of parish, website, phone number)

Flower Seeds

Hand out Butterfly seeds. (these could also be used for Mother’s Day) Possible message on seed packet: The seed is the word of God. The soil is you. Receive this seed with a desire to grow in the Lord.

Alpha News

Questions about Alpha?

The national Alpha office will be offering a zoom meeting on Tuesday, March 28 at 11:00 AM and repeated at 7:00 PM. Each session will last around 30 minutes. It will be an overall orientation of Alpha as well as a Q & A session. Registration is needed (Please click on “RSVP REQUESTED” first).

 

Saturday, March 25, 2023

Life in the Eucharist

Comments from those doing LITE during Lent:

  • “Wow best Lenten program that I can remember in all my years of ministry! The laity have been inspiring indeed and have strengthened my faith and ministry.” – Pastor
  • “I was so amazed at the number of people present when I walked into the Church. I haven’t seen it that full in a long time.” – Parishioner
  • “We had 130 the first week and 140 the second. People were still talking about it days later.” – Pastor

Learn how you can do Life in the Eucharist by attending the training session on Sat. March 25 at Annunciation in Elma. There’s still time to register. Click here to learn more about LITE and you will also find the link to register.

Around the Diocese

  • March 22 – Theology on Tap. 7:00 pm at Hamburg Brewing Company. Topic: Your Conversion is your Faith.
  • April 12 – Inclusive Easter Mass for people with special needs. St. Bernadette Church starting at 7:00 pm

Holy Week Prayer

 

Lord, Jesus Christ, You became human and took on the realities of humanity in our world. During Your life on earth, You gave hope, perspective and salvation to many. Your words are challenging, uplifting, encouraging and guiding. At the end of your earthly life here in our world, You took upon yourself all suffering and made the cross a sign of hope. At this time when the whole world is suffering, when people are isolated and left to themselves, when people mourn for their loved ones, where people are sacrificing their physical and psychological strength to help others, we pray in solidarity and entrust ourselves to You. Amen.

Adapted from prayers by Sister Ulrike M., SDS – Austria

Living as Missionary Disciples | March

Please share this newsletter with anyone else who may benefit from its content. If you would like any additional information Sister Louise Alff’s contact information is below. 

Why someone became a Catholic

the Power of the Cross

Edith Stein (St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross). Born in 1891 in Germany, she grew up in a devout Jewish family. As a teenager, she abandoned her faith and considered herself an atheist. She pursued a career in philosophy, which led to her quest for truth. She was drawn to the mystery of the cross. “It was then that I first encountered the cross and the divine strength which it inspires in those who bear it. My unbelief was shattered, Judaism paled, and Christ streamed out upon me.” She converted to Catholicism in 1922. In 1935 she entered the Carmelite order. On Aug. 9, 1942 she was killed in a Nazi concentration camp. (Taken from A Century of Catholic Converts, Lorene Hanley Duquin)

Quote from Living as Missionary Disciples

Social justice and direct service opportunities can be powerful experiences that lead people to intimacy with Christ.  (pg. 11)

How to cope with change when parishes cluster 

(Our Sunday Visitor – Fr Robert J. Hater)

  • Maintain hope in changing times.
  • Recognize that change is difficult.
  • Realize that changes cannot be solved by reason alone.
  • Recognize that paradigm shifts take time to achieve.
  • Create a trusting climate where parishioners believe that their opinion is important.
  • Acknowledge that what is happening occurs within the framework of God’s designs.
  • Be patient with those who cannot immediately recognize that change is inevitable.
  • Focus pastoral efforts on the domestic church and the call to missionary discipleship.
  • Evangelization, catechesis and work for justice are essential aspects of parish ministry.
  • Prioritize the importance of Mass and the sacraments. 

The number of parishes in the U.S. without a resident priest pastor: 
1970–571; 
2020 – 3,544. 

For full article

Leading Renewal in small parishes (taken from Divine Renovation)

Renewal in a small parish is not the same as a big parish. Small staffs, little resources, and smaller congregations can sometimes be discouraging for those who desire to see radical change. The truth is you don’t need to be in a huge, urban parish to make your church a place of life and transformation where people can come to know and love Jesus and encounter him in the sacraments. Four points to consider:

Ask: “Do I really believe God wants to work in my parish and can use my parish to impact the community?”

God can do anything! The belief that God can’t work in your parish reflects less of what you believe about your parish, and more of what you believe about God. If you’re thinking of renewal as a hobby or experiment, you probably won’t see much change. Ask God for a big vision and conviction about what is possible in your parish. Don’t ask “how big is my parish? ” But instead, “what is the direction of my parish?”

Vision: No matter the size of your parish, you must take the time to hash out a vision, which is a picture of a preferred future. Where do you want to lead people? What could be? What are the dreams of your parish and your ministry?

Leaders: Good leaders are necessary to identify and raise up. Begin praying that God shows you the people and who God wants to call.

Key Principals: The 3 main keys to renewal are the same no matter your size, location, or how much money you have: Primacy of Evangelization; Best of Leadership; Power of the Holy Spirit.

 

Family of Parish Ideas:

  • Each Sunday, at the universal prayers, pray for one of the families in the diocese. Mention the family number and the parishes within that Family. It will be a wonderful sign of unity among the diocese. 
  • Easter is coming – other than Christmas, Easter has many guests in your parishes. Prepare your congregations now to welcome all in a radical way. For the importance of this read: For heaven’s sake, say hi to new parishioners.
  • Pray this petition every week: For those who are struggling to believe in God, for those who have felt disappointed by or excluded from the Catholic Church, for those seeking God with sincere hearts, and for those looking to deepen their relationship with Jesus, that all may find a welcome home here at [church name], let us pray to the Lord.

Lenten Message from Pope Francis


Fast from hurting words and say kind words.
Fast from sadness and be filled with gratitude.
Fast from anger and be filled with patience.
Fast from pessimism and be filled with hope.
Fast from worries and have trust in God.
Fast from complaints and contemplate simplicity.
Fast from pressures and be prayerful.
Fast from bitterness and fill your hearts with joy.
Fast from selfishness and be compassionate to others.
Fast from grudges and be reconciled.
Fast from words and be silent so you can listen.

Living as Missionary Disciples | Feb 8, 2023

Josephine Bakhita 
Slave to Saint

Bakhita (which means fortunate) was born in South Sudan. At seven she was kidnapped and sold into slavery. After being resold several times she eventually landed in Italy. Exposed to the teaching of the Catholic Church she requested baptism and took the name Josephine. Since in Italy slavery was illegal, she was finally freed from her master in 1890. “She who worked under many masters was finally happy to address God as master and carry out everything that she believed to be God’s will for her.” She was canonized in 2000. Josephine Bakhita is the patron saint for all those caught up in human trafficking.

Quote from Living as Missionary Disciples


The Eucharist is the most intimate way in which Jesus Christ is present to us because he himself is the sacrament. He is fully present in the Eucharist. By participating in the Mass, each one of us has the opportunity to encounter Jesus Christ in the most profound way possible. (pg. 10)

When They Come, What Makes them Stay?


Our Churches are full on Ash Wednesday but will they be full the following Sunday? What are you doing now to make Ash Wednesday a real encounter with Christ for those who enter your doors. Here are three valuable Lenten resources:

 

Life in the Eucharist

Life in the Eucharist (LITE) is a 5 session retreat experience to empower Catholics to deepen their personal and communal relationship with Jesus Christ. It has 5 specific themes that explores the Eucharistic mystery. The 5 themes are: Nourishment, Reconciliation, Transformation, Abiding Presence and Mission. Through the Eucharist, Jesus invites us to a deep experience of all of these aspects. Life in the Eucharist is an excellent way to unite your Family of Parishes (FoP) in a deeply spiritual and communal experience. Therefore, every FoP is expected to offer a Life in the Eucharist retreat.

To learn more about LITE attend the workshop click here.

Scheduled Life in the Eucharist Retreats

  • Family #14 (Silver Springs, East Bethany, Perry, Pavilion, Warsaw). Saturdays (Feb. 25, Mar. 4, 11, 18, and 25). 10:00 – 11:30 AM. They will be rotating the location within the FoP. See flyer for details.
  • Family #31 (South Buffalo) will be offering LITE on the Wednesdays of Lent (1, 8, 15, 22, 29) at 6:30 PM. They will be rotating the location within the FoP. See flyer for details.

 

ALPHA | Invitation to Launch in your parish the week of September 17

We hope that every Family of Parishes will consider doing Alpha in the Fall of 2023. Attached is a flyer that explains Alpha more fully. In the upcoming newsletter you will be hearing about the many ways to learn more about Alpha. As a remote preparation, we (the Alpha national staff and anyone from our diocese) have a zoom prayer gathering for 30 minutes where we pray for all of the FoP in the Diocese of Buffalo. This takes place the third Wednesday of every month. The next one will be Wed. Feb. 15 from 1-1:30 PM. I invite you to come join us in prayer, click here for the link.

Begin the Year with a New Dose of Hope

Physicians tell us that the human body can survive four to six weeks without food, up to three days without water and for about 10 minutes without oxygen. How long can a human being survive without hope? Our own experience suggests that without hope the human spirit begins to die almost immediately. Even our bodies show signs of sagging when our horizons show no future or purpose. Read more.

 

Prayer against Human Trafficking

Loving Father,
We seek your divine protection for all who are exploited and enslaved.
For those forced into labor, trafficked into sexual slavery, and denied freedom.
We beseech you to release them from their chains.
Grant them protection, safety, and empowerment.
Restore their dignity and provide them a new beginning.
Show us how we might end exploitation by addressing its causes.
Help us reach out in support of victims and survivors of human trafficking.
Make us instruments of your spirit for their liberation. For this we pray through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.