FOR OUR SPIRITUAL LIFE

Tilling the Soil of Your Heart https://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/first15-devotional/tilling-the-soil

-of-the-heart-scripture-first15

This week we'll look at a vital spiritual practice to all those seeking to grow in God:tilling the soil of the heart. Jesus spoke in Matthew 13 of two different types of soil—hard and soft. God longs for us to till the soil of our hearts that we might be receptive to the seed of his word and bear fruit. May your heart become more responsive to the presence, will, and love of God this week as you cultivate good soil with the help of the Holy Spirit.

Scripture:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to

God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in

Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

Devotional:

God makes an amazing promise to us in Philippians 4:6-7. Scripture says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to

God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” How incredible! If we will make our requests known to God in prayer, giving our burdens and

anxieties over to him, then he will swap those burdens for a guarding peace that surpasses all understanding. How much do you need his peace today? What areas of your life feel burdened? What do you feel anxious about?

God has an endless reservoir of peace that’s available to you when you place your trust in him through prayer. As we open our hearts to God in prayer, the Spirit produces the fruit of peace. When you lay your burdens at God’s feet, trusting that

he will take care of you as he

promised, peace overflows as a fruit

of the Spirit’s work in your life. That’s the assurance of your Father and the power of prayer.

For most of us, something like

trusting God and handing over all our burdens is much easier said than done. How can you pray effectively? How can you have communication with God? E.M. Bounds said, “The goal of prayer is the ear of God, a goal that can only be reached by

patient and continued and continuous waiting upon Him, pouring out our heart to Him and permitting Him to speak to us. Only by so doing can we expect to know Him, and as we come to know Him better we shall spend

more time in His presence and find that presence a constant and ever-increasing delight.”Effective prayer is a process, but it is a process completely worthy of your efforts. Corrie ten Boom said, "Don’t pray when you feel like it. Have an

appointment with the Lord and keep it. A man is powerful on his

knees."Make a daily time to set aside for prayer. Fight to keep it at all costs. Connecting to God through prayer, hearing his voice, and experiencing his presence will lead

you to a satisfied life. The Christian life without prayer is no different than a relationship with a person without communication. While your God will never fail you as people do, abundant relationship with him

requires constant communication.

Prayer is more about making time and space to commune with God than it is about what you do or say.

God can guide, speak, and give you his presence if you simply make space for him to do so. Don’t let a

feeling of insecurity, doubt, or lack of knowledge keep you from talking with God. He delights in the simplicity, vulnerability, and honesty of you just wanting to talk with him.

Open your heart to God as you enter into a time of guided prayer. Make

space to listen to the voice of your Helper, the Holy Spirit. And receive the wonder and peace that comes from casting your burdens on a loving Father who is waiting right

now to spend time with you.

Guided Prayer:

1. Take a moment to quiet your heart and mind. Make space in your heart to allow for the peace of God to fill.

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in

Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7

2. Now lay any burdens you have

at his feet. Think about anything you’ve been feeling anxious about, and talk to God about it. Tell him how you’ve been feeling.

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under

the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7

3. Now receive the peace God has

promised you over those situations. Trust God that when you ask for his guidance and help, he will

give it to you. Prayer changes things. While you may not be able to see it with your eyes, prayer moves the heart of God and men.

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28

The Bible tells us to “rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in

all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). The more

you practice prayer and see it work in your life to bring peace and change to your circumstances, the

more prayer will become a natural overflow for you. A simple thought to God at a tough or important time or even a quick act of giving God thanks for the good things around you are all are powerful, mood-altering prayers. Have a continual

conversation with God and allow him to transform lonely times into continuous communion with him.

Extended Reading: Philippians 4

31 March 2019 Fourth Sunday in Lent

IN THE PARISH

Helpful Information

Join the Parish

Anyone wishing to register for membership in the parish is asked to fill out a registration form and drop it in the collection basket.

Request Prayers

Our INTERCESSORY PRAYER MINISTRY provides prayer for anyone in need throughout the parish. Contact MARY ANN MAGDA at 570-820-0525 or make your intention known on our parish website at www.standrebessettewb.com

Remember your Parish

Your parish serves you faithfully throughout your life. Please remember your parish with a memorial gift or a Bequest in your will. Make a return to the Lord for all the good He has done for you.

SACRAMENTAL PREPARATIONS

Anointing of the Sick

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick may take place at any time, but, sadly, too many families wait until the last minute to call the priest to anoint their loved ones. If someone in your family is seriously ill, preparing for surgery, or suffering a prolonged illness, please contact the parish office to arrange a time for Fr. Ken to visit. IN THE CASE OF AN EMERGENCY—or if Fr. Ken is unavailable to visit immediately, we will contact the first available priest to celebrate the Sacrament of Anointing with your loved one.

Funeral Preparations

We collaborate with the local funeral directors in arranging the times of the funerals. Please be aware that

there is an additional fee for funerals on Saturdays imposed by most cemeteries in the area.

Baptismal Preparations

Parents of newly born infants may call the parish office to arrange a time for the Baptism of their child. Baptisms are celebrated, for the most part, on any Sunday, with the exception of the season of Lent.

Wedding Preparations

Couples contemplating Marriage are asked to contact the parish office at least one year prior to the contemplated date of marriage, before making other plans.

SOUP and STUDY for the

LENTEN and EASTER

SEASONS

Dates: April 3, 10, 24, May 1, 8, 22, 29, June 5.

Time: 6 –7:30 pm

Place: Fr. Zolcinski Hall

Our parish will begin a series of spiritual gatherings focused on the Sunday Scriptures as

well as Matt Kelly’s book, The Biggest Lie in Christianity. Copies of The Biggest Lie in Christianity are available for those who do not have them. The Format for these gatherings will be Faith-Sharing, rather than presentation. Active Listening and Discussion will be part of every session.

JUST A REMINDER: All Fridays of Lent are days of Penitence and Abstinence on which no meat is to be eaten.

This ordinance applies to anyone over the age of 14 until death. No one is exempt,

except for serious sickness.

Those under the age of 14 may abstain voluntarily.

JOIN US FOR AN EASTER BRUNCH

Sunday, April 28th (The Sunday after Easter)

from 9 am –1 pm in Fr. Zolcinski Hall.

The Menu will feature eggs, bacon, kielbasa,

apple fritters, homefries, and much more.

Tickets are $5.00 each and will go on sale this weekend!

Hope to see you there!

EASTER OFFERING As we approach the Sacred Paschal Season, we need to consider the many ways God touches our lives through the ministries of this parish. Mass is celebrated, the sick are visited, infants are baptized, the Gospel is preached in word and deed, We have a small, but dedicated community of individuals who have grasped the Gospel call and answered with generous hearts. Now consider what would happen if this parish were not here. How much different would our faith life be. You might think, well, I’ll just go to another parish. But what if that parish is 3 miles away, or 5, or 10? That is the reality in many dioceses

throughout our country. Churches do not exist on every corner, and those who want to grow in their faith have to travel, sometimes long distances, for Catholic Christian Community. So, in a sense, we are blessed here. We have a parish with a pastor who works to address our spiritual needs regularly. What price is this worth to you? How can you repay God for his goodness? We ask that you consider all this as you prepare your Easter Offering (which is in addition to your regular Sunday offering). Our goal, for our parish to meet its financial obligations, is, once again $15,000.00 for the EASTER Collection. We are counting on all our parishioners to assist us in meeting this goal. Without your help, our parish will not survive. With your help, our parish will thrive!

THERE WILL BE A DAY OF RECOLLECTION

for all members

of our Parish Faith Sharing Groups on

Sunday, April 7th beginning at the 11 am Mass and continuing until 4 p.m. All members of our Faith Sharing Community are asked to set this day aside.

The PARISH LENTEN RECONCILIATION SERVICE will take place at 2 pm on Sunday April 7th. There will be several priests available to

hear confessions. Please make every effort to use this

opportunity to be reconciled before the Paschal Triduum. Confessions are also heard every Monday during Lent from 4 –5:30 pm.

31 March 2019 Fourth Sunday in Lent

THE LITURGY

Lenten Schedule March 6—April 12, 2019

MONDAYS of LENT March 11—April 8

4-6 pm Sacrament of Reconciliation

WEDNESDAYS of LENT March 20– April 10

6 pm SOUP and STUDY

THURSDAYS of LENT March 7-April 11

NOON Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

6 pm Vespers (Evening Prayer) Benediction

FRIDAYS of LENT March 8 -- April 12

NOON Stations of the Cross

3 pm DIVINE MERCY DEVOTIONS

Palm Sunday Saturday, April 13

4 pm Solemn Mass of Palm Sunday There will be no 5:30 pm Mass today.

Sunday, April 14

8 am and 11 am Palm Sunday Mass

Paschal Triduum Thursday, April 18 8 am Morning Prayer 7 pm Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper 8:30—10:45 pm Adoration in Gethsemane

10:45 pm Night Prayer

Friday, April 19 8 am Tenebrae Noon—Noonday prayer 3pm Celebration of the Passion of the Lord

7 pm Prayers at the Tomb of Jesus

Saturday, April 20 8 am Tenebrae Noon—Noonday prayer and Blessing of Easter Foods 8 pm The Great and Solemn Easter Vigil

There will be no 4 pm or 5:30 pm Vigil Mass

Sunday, April 21 8 and 11 am Easter Morning Mass

7 pm Paschal Vespers.

ADORATION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT : http://www.uga.edu/cc/liturgy/adoration.htm

"The time you spend with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament is the

best time you will spend on earth. Each moment that you spend with

Jesus will deepen your union with Him and make your soul

everlastingly more glorious and beautiful in Heaven, and will help

bring about everlasting peace on earth,"

- St. Teresa of Calcutta

What is Adoration? It is highly fitting that Christ should have wanted to remain present to His Church in this unique way. Since Christ was about to take His departure from His own in His visible form, He wanted to give us His sacramental presence; since He was about to offer Himself on the cross to save us, He wanted us to have the memorial of the love with which He loved us "to the end,"

even to the giving of His life. In His Eucharistic presence He remains mysteriously in our midst as the one who loved us and gave Himself up for us, and He remains under signs that express and communicate this love: The Church and the world have a great need for Eucharistic worship. Jesus awaits us in this sacrament of love. Let us not refuse the time to go to meet Him in adoration, in contemplation full of faith, and open to making amends for the serious offenses and crimes of the world. Let our adoration never cease (Catechism Catholic Church; 1380).

What to do in Adoration? Sometimes we can be intimidated to go to Adoration. It is not because we fear being with Jesus in prayer but rather we have never been taught what to do in an extended period of prayer. Is it alright to read, pray a Rosary, or reflect upon the Scriptures? Or do I have to sit there- not moving or making a sound, staring at a gold monstrance with a Host inside? While visiting our Lord in Eucharistic Adoration, we can pray in a variety of different ways. Here are some suggestions:

1.Pray the Psalms Whether you are praising, giving thanks, asking for forgiveness or seeking an answer, you'll find an appropriate psalm. The ancient prayer of the Church called the Liturgy of the Hours presents an excellent way to pray through the Book of Psalms throughout the year. 2.Recite the "Jesus Prayer "Say "Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me, a sinner," repeatedly as you quiet your heart and mind.

3.Meditate using Scripture Choose a passage from the Bible. Read the words and ask God to let the passage speak to you. Pay special attention to anything that strikes you and ask God what He wishes for you to draw from that message. 4.Read the life of a saint and pray with him or her Most holy men and women have had a great devotion to Our Lord in the Eucharist. Therese of Lisieux, Catherine of Siena, Francis of Assisi, Thomas Aquinas, Peter Julian Eymard, and Mother Teresa of Calcutta are just a few. Read about them and pray their prayers before the Blessed Sacrament. 5.Pour out your heart to Christ

and adore Him Speak to Jesus, aware that you are in His presence, and tell Him all that comes to your mind. Listen for His response. 6.Ask for forgiveness and intercede for others Think of those who have hurt you and request a special blessing for them. Ask God to forgive you for all the times you have neglected or hurt someone else. Bring before the Blessed Sacrament all those who have asked you to pray for them. Ask the Lord to address their concerns. 7.Pray the Rosary Pope John Paul II reminds us, "...is not the enraptured gaze of Mary as she contemplated the face of the newborn Christ and cradled him in her arms that unparalleled model of love which should inspire us every time we receive Eucharistic communion?" (The Church and the Eucharist, 55) Ask Mary to join you as you gaze on Christ in the Eucharist and as you pray the Rosary. 8.Sit quietly and just "be" in the presence of God Think of a visit to the Blessed Sacrament as coming to see your best friend. Sit quietly and enjoy being in each other's company. Instead of talking to the Lord, try listening to what He wants to tell you.

31 March 2019 Fourth Sunday in Lent

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Thursday, April 4 Thursday, May 5 Thursday, June 6

1 pm

CATECHETICAL COUNCIL TBA

6:00 p.m.

FINANCE COUNCIL

Thursday June 20 6:00 pm

LITURGICAL COUNCIL Thursday, April 4 Thursday, May 2

6:00 p.m.

PARISH LIFE COUNCIL Thursday, May 16

6:00 pm

PASTORAL COUNCIL Thursday May 23

6:00 p.m.

SOCIAL JUSTICE COUNCIL Thursday, April 11 Thursday, May 9

6:00 p.m.

Development

Committee 6:30 pm

Monday, April 1 Monday, May 6 Monday, June 3

FAITH SHARING

DISCIPLES of the SPIRIT 10:30 am

Saturday, May 18 Saturday, June15

ST. ANDRE FAITH SHARERS

6:00 pm Monday, May 6 Monday, June 3

COMPANIONS ON THE JOURNEY

2:00 pm Sunday, May 19 Sunday, June16

For More Information,

please contact Sr.

Madonna at 570-823-

4988.

SEASON of LENT

Weekend of March 30-31 Fourth Sunday in Lent

4 pm Vigil Mass 5:30 pm Vigil Mass 8:00 am Mass 9:30 am FAITH FORMATION 11:00 am Mass Parish Social Justice Collection

Weekend of April 6-7 Fifth Sunday in Lent

4 pm Vigil Mass 5:30 pm Vigil Mass 8:00 am Mass 9:30 am FAITH FORMATION 11:00 am Mass

CLERGY COLLECTION

11 am—4 pm DAY of RECOLLECTION for Small Faith Communities

2 pm LENTEN RECONCILIATION

Monday, April 1

No Morning Mass 4-6 pm Confessions 5:30 pm Choir

Monday, April 8

No Morning Mass 4-6 pm Confessions (Last Opportunity)

Tuesday, April 2

8 am Mass 5:30 pm Choir

Tuesday, April 9

8 am Mass 5:30 pm Choir

Wednesday, April 3

8 am Mass 6:00 pm SOUP & STUDY

Wednesday, April 10

8 am Mass 6:00 pm SOUP & STUDY

Thursday, April 4

8 am Morning Mass Noon Exposition 6 pm Vespers/ Liturgy

Thursday, April 11

8 am Morning Mass Noon Exposition 6 pm Vespers/ Social Justice

Friday, April 5 FIRST FRIDAY

8 am Morning Mass Noon—Stations of the Cross 3 pm Divine Mercy Devotions 6 pm Confession 6:30 pm Sacred Heart Devotion 7:00 pm Mass

Friday, April 12

8 am Morning Mass Noon—Stations of the Cross 3 pm Divine Mercy Devotions

Saturday, April 6

3 pm Confessions

VIGIL: Fifth Sunday in Lent

Saturday, April 13

3 pm Confessions

VIGIL: Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion

ADMINISTRATIVE COUNCILS

PARISH COMMITTEES

Loaves and Fishes

Food for April

Non-Dairy Creamer

Spring Oldies Dinner Dance Our next Social/Fundraising event will be held on Friday, May 17th from 6-10pm at St. Mary's Social Hall, 522 Madison St. Wilkes

Barre. Join us for dinner and live Oldies music by Millennium for your listening and dancing pleasure. Tickets are $20.00 each, and can now be purchased at the Parish Office during business hours. Homemade dinner and desserts will be offered, as well as water/soda/coffee. Responsible BYOB is

ok. Must be 21 years of age and older to attend.

Bountiful Basket Raffle Along with our Spring Oldies Dinner Dance, we'll once again be running our Bountiful Basket Raffle. Baskets and gift card prizes

are greatly needed to support this effort. Empty baskets are now available in the vestibule for you to "adopt", fill, and return to the Parish Office or sacristy. Gift card or monetary donations may be placed

in the weekend collection. Prize donations are due by no later than Easter Sunday,

April 21. Please note that alcohol cannot be raffled. Thank you for your support!

31 March 2019 Fourth Sunday in Lent

FROM THE UNIVERSAL CHURCH FAITH SHARING

Teach Us to Pray Message of Our Holy Father Francis

2 January 2019 www.vatican.va

The Gospel of Matthew places the text of the Lord’s Prayer strategically at the centre of the Sermon on the Mount (cf. 6:9-13).

Now, let us observe the scene: Jesus goes up the hill by the lake, and sits

down; he has his most intimate disciples circled around him, and then a

large crowd of anonymous faces. It is this heterogeneous assembly that receives the consignment of the ‘Our Father’ for the first time.

The location, as I said, is highly significant; because in this lengthy teaching, which falls under the title of

‘Sermon on the Mount’ (cf. Mt 5:1 - 7:27), Jesus summarizes the fundamental aspects of his message. The beginning is like an archway decorated for a celebration: the Beatitudes. Jesus crowns with happiness a series of categories of

people who in his time — but also in

ours! — were not highly regarded. Blessed are the poor, the meek, the merciful, people humble of heart.... This is the revolution of the Gospel. Where the Gospel is, there is revolution. The

Gospel does not leave us calm, it drives us: it is revolutionary.

All people capable of love, the

peacemakers who until now ended up at the margins of history, are instead the builders of the Kingdom of God. It is as Jesus would say: go forth, you who bear in your heart the mystery of a God who has revealed his omnipotence in

love and in forgiveness!

From this portal of entry, which

overturns historical values, blooms the newness of the Gospel. The Law does not need to be abolished but needs a new interpretation that leads it back to its original meaning. If a person has a good heart, predisposed to love, then he understands that every word of God

must be incarnated up to its ultimate results. Love has no boundaries: one can love one’s spouse, one’s friend, and even one’s enemy with a wholly new perspective. Jesus says: “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for

those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends

rain on the just and on the unjust” (Mt 5:44-45).

Here is the great secret underlying the whole

Sermon on the Mount: be children of your Father who is in heaven. Apparently these chapters of the Gospel of Matthew

seem to be a moral discourse; they seem to evoke an ethic so demanding as to appear unfeasible, and instead we discover that they are

above all a theological discourse. A Christian is not one who is committed to being better than others: he knows he is a sinner like everyone. A Christian

is simply a person who pauses before the new Burning Bush, at the revelation

of a God who does not bear the enigma of an unspeakable name, but asks his children to invoke him with the name of ‘Father’, to allow themselves to be renewed by his power and to reflect a ray of his goodness for this world so thirsty for good, thus awaiting good

news.

Thus, this is how Jesus introduces the

teaching of the ‘Our Father’ prayer. He does so by distancing himself from two groups of his time. First and foremost,

hypocrites: “you must not be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen

by men” (Mt 6:5). There are people who are able to compose atheistic prayers, without God, and they do so in order to be admired by people. And how often we see the scandal of those people who go to church and are there

all day long, or go every day, and then live by hating others or speaking ill of people. This is a scandal! It is better not to go to church: living this way, as if they were atheists. But if you go to church, live as a child, as a brother or

sister, and bear true witness, not a counter-witness. Christian prayer, however, has no other credible witness than one’s own conscience, where one

weaves a most intense dialogue with the Father: “when you pray, go into

your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret” (6:6).

Then Jesus distances himself from the prayer of pagans: “do not heap up empty phrases ...; for they think

that they will be heard for their many words” (6:7). Here perhaps Jesus is alluding to that ‘captatio benevolentiae’ that was the necessary introduction to

many ancient prayers: divinity had to be in some way adapted from a long

series of praises, of prayers too. Let us consider that scene on Mount Carmel,

when the Prophet Elijah challenged the priests of Baal. They shouted, danced,

and asked for many things, that their god would listen to them. But Elijah instead remained silent and the Lord revealed himself to Elijah. Pagans think that one prays by speaking, speaking, speaking, speaking. I also think of many Christians who think that praying

is — pardon me — “talking to God like parrots”. No! One prays from the heart, from within. You instead — Jesus says — when you pray, address God as a child to his father, who knows the things that are needed before he even

asks him for them (cf. Mt 6:8). The ‘Our Father’ could also be a silent prayer: it is essentially enough to place yourself under God’s gaze, to remember his Fatherly love, and this is all it takes to be satisfied.

It is beautiful to think that our God does not need sacrifices in order to win his favor! Our God needs nothing: in

prayer, he only asks that we keep a channel of communication open with him in order to always recognize that we are his most beloved children. He loves us very much.

31 March 2019 Fourth Sunday in Lent

IN THE DIOCESE

Notice Regarding the Sexual Abuse of A Minor It is the policy of the Diocese of Scranton to report any allegation of sexual abuse of a minor to law enforcement. If you are a victim of sexual abuse, you are encouraged to immediately report the matter to law enforcement. If any priest, deacon, religious, lay employee or volunteer of the Diocese of Scranton has cause or reason to suspect that a minor has been subjected to any form of abuse, including child sexual abuse, the matter will be reported to law enforcement. In accordance with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Child Protective Services Law, reports of suspected child abuse should also be made immediately by phone to the 24 hour Child Abuse Hotline (ChildLine) at 1-800-932-0313 or electronically at www.compass.state.pa.us/cwis. It is also the policy of the Diocese to adhere to all civil and state regulations. To this end, the Diocese is equally committed to adhering to the norms of the Code of Canon Law and to upholding the tenets of the USCCB Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, which includes supporting victims of sexual abuse in their pursuit of emotional and spiritual well-being. As such, information regarding an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor should also be reported to the Victim Assistance Coordinator, Mary Beth Pacuska at 570-862-7551 or to Diocesan Officials, including the Vicar General, Msgr. Thomas M. Muldowney, V.G. at 570-207-2269.

Scranton NPM 2019 Events

Mark your 2019 calendars now and plan on attending the upcoming spiritual and informative events of the Scranton Chapter of the National Association of Pastoral Musicians. Here is a listing of what’s in store:

Cathedral Art, Music &

Architecture Tour — Monday, May 13 at 6:00PM at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Scranton

42nd Annual NPM

Convention—July 16-19 in Raleigh, NC

Resources for Selecting

Liturgical Music—Monday, September 16 at 6:00PM at St. John Neumann Parish (Holy Name site), Scranton

Creating Effective Worship

Aids—Tuesday, November 12 at 6:00PM at Holy Name of Jesus, West Hazleton

For more information about any of these events, visit ScrantonNPM.com.

ANNUAL APPEAL

Parish Goal: $32,000.00 Pledges/Gifts: $20,508.00 Still Needed: $11,492.00 If you have not yet made your pledge you may do so by contacting the Development Office at 570-207-2250 or sending your pledge directly to Diocesan Annual Appeal Development Office Diocese of Scranton 300 Wyoming Ave. Scranton, PA 18503

Evening Recollection

for Extraordinary Ministers of Communion

Wednesday, April 3, 2019 St. Leo Parish

Ashley beginning at 6 pm

The Body of Christ:

Our Identity and Purpose Presenter: David Baloga

Director for Worship

To Register, contact St. Leo’s Parish at 570-825-6669.

Prayer for an End to Infanticide

The U.S. Senate recently failed to pass the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act— legislation that prohibits infanticide by ensuring that a child born alive following an attempted abortion would receive the same degree

of care to preserve her or his life and health as would be given to any other child born alive at the same gestational age. Please join us in prayer for an end to infanticide:

“Jesus, Lord of Life, transform the hearts of all elected leaders to recognize that infanticide is wrong and must not be tolerated. Open

hearts and minds to recognize and defend the precious gift of every human life.”

CATHOLIC MEN’S CONFERENCE

The Fifth Annual Catholic Men's Conference for the Diocese of Scranton will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2019, from 8am to 3pm at Holy Redeemer High School, 159 South Pennsylvania Ave. Wilkes Barre, PA 18701. Our fantastic lineup of speakers includes Fr. Philip G. Bochanski, the executive director of Courage International who will speak on how manly virtue involves living chaste lives, along with well-known psychologist, speaker, and EWTN TV host, Dr. Ray Guarendi. Our third speaker will be motivational speaker, apologist, and TV host of “Battle Ready”, Doug Barry. There will be opportunities for Eucharistic Adoration, the celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation as well as Rosary. Additionally, exhibitors will be present with a full array of Catholic books and publications. Fathers, sons, grandsons and friends are all most welcome to register for the event. Bishop Joseph C. Bambera will celebrate the closing Mass. Register on line at: www.beamanconferencecom , or mail the completed conference brochure application with your check to Attn: Men’s Conference, Office for Parish Life, 330 Wyoming Ave, Scranton, PA. 18503. The cost of the conference is $40.00 regular, $30 for early birds(until 4/1/19), and $15 for Students. Priests and Deacons are free. For further information call Chris Calore @ 570-824-5621. C

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CHRISM MASS

All the faithful of the dioceses are invited to attend the Chrism Mass at the Cathedral of St. Peter on Tuesday, April 16, 2019 at 4 pm. At this Mass the diocesan priests renew their priestly promises and the oils used for the Sacraments are consecrated. Participation in the Chrism Mass is a beautiful way to pray for and support the priests of the Diocese. Contact Diane Franklin at 570-207-2213 ext 1103 for reserved seating.

31 March 2019 Fourth Sunday in Lent

STEWARDSHIP

Stewardship of Prayer by Kenneth M. Seegar

Sometimes, living our daily life seems like a struggle. We try to do good. We try to be good. We struggle to make ends meet. We struggle to find time. Everything seems to take us away from our inner selves and thrust us out in to the world around us. There is no peace. There is no joy. There is only struggle.

The problem with this mindset, however, is that it places too much emphasis on us and on what we are capable to do. We become overwhelmed and that robs us of the joy of living. One crisis follows on the heels of the other and we do not know how to deal with it. We get frustrated. Then we get angry. Then we burn-out.

No matter whom you talk to, it is the same story. Too much to do and no time to do it. We have enough trouble trying to manage our own lives—let alone worry about things like world hunger, poverty, or the environment. “There’s enough on my plate already” we are tempted to say. “NO MORE!”

So what’s the solution???

Actually, the solution has been staring us in the face all along. And its sooo simple—perhaps that’s why we don’t see it. It’s too simple. Simplistic, really. Could not possibly be valid—or even adequate.

So what’s the answer?

LET GO.

That’s it. LET GO.

But… But… but… a thousand buts.

What about feeding my family?

What about providing for my children?

What about taxes, bills, utilities?

Who’s going to take care of all of that stuff?

LET GO.

Recall the story of Martha and her sister Mary, siblings to the infamous Lazarus. Martha invites Jesus into her home. Of course, he comes with his whole retinue—apostles, disciples, the curious, the sick, the sinner, etc. Quite a houseful!

So what does Martha do? She tries to be a good hostess, tending to everyone’s needs. In fact, she’s so good at her job that it start to drive her batty. She sees Mary sitting in the living room at Jesus’ feet, seemingly unconcerned with all the details of hospitality. (She was the Martha Stewart of her day!) Everything had to be perfect—and Mary wasn’t lifting a finger to help. And when she complained she was the one who

received the rebuke: “Martha, Martha, You are upset and anxious about many things. Only one thing is required. Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be denied her.” I like to think that poor Martha picked up a pot and shied it at Jesus after that remark. But what was our Lord’s point…

YOU CAN’T BE RESPONSIBLE FOR EVERYTHING.

Martha was so busy trying to be a good hostess that she forgot to be a good hostess. She paid little, if any, attention to her guest of honor. AND HE NOTICED.

Sometimes we can get that way with our lives as well. We’re so busy trying to make sure that everything is perfect—that we are perfect—that we lose sight of the real goal: a personal relationship with Jesus. We get caught up in so many little details and we lose sight of the bigger picture.

So how do we overcome this type of mindset:

PRAYER.

Prayer?

Yes, Prayer.

OH, PRAYER! Ok. How many Our Fathers and Hail Marys do I have to say to get some peace of mind?

Well, its not quite that easy.

Why not?

Mainly because I’m talking about prayer and not saying prayers.

What’s the difference?

In saying prayers we mouth words as quickly as we can so that we can get it over with and move on to other, more interesting things. That’s not praying. That’s saying prayers, mouthing words.

True prayer is an openness of the heart and mind to God. We open ourselves up to God’s presence and allow Him to enter into our lives. We surrender everything into his hands and allow Him to show us what is really important. We LET GO of our egos and allow God to take control of our lives. Every thought. Every decision. Every movement is made at His behest. We do nothing without Him. When we enter into prayer, we move out of the driver’s seat and into the passenger seat. God is not my co-pilot. He’s the pilot and I’m just along for the ride. And this is where it gets scary!

As human beings, we want to be in control.

This is the original sin of our first parents. They were tempted to believe that they could be in control of their own destinies, apart from God. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way. God is in charge. Always has been. Always will be. Our task, if we choose to accept it (and we would be fools not to) is to listen for God’s inspiration and then move according to HIS Plan. This is the lesson Abraham learned when he left Ur of the Chaldeans to go to “a land I will show you.” There was no roadmap. Abraham had to trust in Faith. He did and, we are told, it made him a “righteous man.”

The person who learns to let God lead is happy indeed! They begin to see how all the pieces of their life fit together. They learn how and when to say “YES” and how and when to say “NO”. Their lives are ordered according to God’s way. They view their possessions not so much as things they possess but more as tools that are given to them so that they can be in service to others.

The person who enters into a personal relationship with God begins to assess all things according to God’s thinking, so that, when all is said and done, everything is recognized as gift and everything is used as gift. It’s no longer “my money” but “God’s money to be used according to God’s plan.” It’s no longer “my time”, but time, given by God so that I may do good and proclaim His Kingdom through a life of service. Even our family and friends become people whom God has placed in our life to offer us support and comfort and companionship along the way. There is a sense of the impermanence of all things. Everything is given for a season, and when that season is past, we gracefully surrender it so that new things may appear.

Above all else, the person who enters into a relationship with God begins to experience a grateful heart. And from that gratitude flows a multitude of blessings.

So what about poor Martha? What happened to her?

I believe that her encounter with Jesus was cathartic—it occasioned a change in her. In many ways she was still Martha, expressing her mind as she saw fit. But, in the end, she could say to Jesus: “I Believe that

whatever you ask of God He will grant you.” And, more importantly, “I Believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of the Living God who has come into the world.” She had found her inner peace. She had entered into an intimate relationship with God.

31 March 2019 Fourth Sunday in Lent

FINANCES

Your Gift to God

March 23-24, 2019

Over $100.00 4 $20 50

$100.00 3 $16-19 0

$76-99 2 $15 26

$75 1 $11-14 8

$51-74 2 $10 67

$50 8 $6-9 5

$26-49 17 $5 43

$25 16 under $5 27

$21-24 0 Total Envelopes used

279

Is your gift to the parish each week an honest reflection of God’s goodness to you?

Mass Attendance

March 23-24, 2019

People In-Church Collection

Average Offering

per person

4:00 p.m. 131 1,907.00 14.56

5:30 p.m. 56 783.00 13.99

8:00 a.m. 75 904.00 12.06

11:00a.m. 83 1,238.00 14.92

Total 345 4,832.00 14.01

REMINDER: In order for our parish to remain solvent, the average weekly offering per person MUST equal or be greater than $15.00 consistently.

Votive Offerings

Bread and Wine

Intention Fr Ziobro

Offered by Marion & David Baloga

Sanctuary Candle

Intention Fr Ziobro

Offered by Marion & David Baloga

INCOME

EXPENSES

March 23-24, 2019 March 21-27, 2019

PARISH COLLECTION Administration 895.99

In Church Mailed In Clergy Residence -0-

Loose 204.50 -0- Liturgy 467.50

Offering 3,815.00 1,332.00 Religious Education -0-

Holy Days -0- 100.00 Social Justice -0-

Initial -0- -0- Maintenance 350.23

Dues 140.00 308.00 Parish Assessment -0-

Debt Reduction 319.00 27.00 Insurance -0-

Holiday Flowers 354.00 270.00 Taxes -0-

TOTAL PARISH COLLECTION

$4,832.50 $2,037.00 Transfer -0-

DIOCESAN COLLECTIONS Diocesan Collections -0-

Diocesan Collection

615.05 84.00 Debt Service

(Principal + Interest) -0-

TOTAL DIOCESAN

615.05 84.00 School Subsidy -0-

OTHER INCOME TOTAL EXPENSES $1,713.72

Candles 39.00

Rental of Properties

-0-

Perquisites -0- Previous Balance $1,228.79

Miscellaneous -0- + Income this week +7,607.55

Transfers -0- -Expenses this week -1,713.72

TOTAL OTHER INCOME

39.00 Balance Forward $7,122.62

TOTAL INCOME $7,607.55

DIOCESAN ASSESSMENTS (July 1, 2018-June 30, 2019)

Diocesan

Assessment

School

Assessment

BALANCE

Prior

Balance 0.00 93,788.02 93,788.02

Current

Assessment 71,471.00 56,659.62 128,130.62

Amount

Paid 37,605.00 1,099.95 38,704.95

BALANCE DUE

33,866.00 149,347.69 183,213.69

The Monthly Assessment Installment for the Diocese is $5,956.00. (that is a little over 1 Weekend’s collection per month)

The Monthly School Assessment Installment is $4,724.40 (another weekend’s collection per month)

To pay off the total current and past Schools Assessment, the monthly installment would be $12,537.30 (3 weekend collections per month.)

PARISH DEBT SERVICE

Parish Loan Amount Paid BALANCE

Due

BALANCE 412,000.00 80,907.83 331,092.17

Please Note: The Parish Debt service has been paid to

date. This Account is current.

31 March 2019 Fourth Sunday in Lent

LOCAL EVENTS

American Cancer Society’s

ROAD TO RECOVERY

PROGRAM

For those who cannot drive

themselves, or have no other means of getting to cancer-related medical appointments, volunteers donate their time to give patients a much needed ride. If you would like to volunteer, you need a good driving record, a current driver’s license, Proof of adequate auto insurance, a safe and reliable vehicle, schedule availability, and regular laptop/tablet/computer access. To ensure quality drivers, the American Cancer Society screens every volunteer. Volunteers must also complete online training courses to prepare them for their new role.

For more information,

please call

1-800-227-2345

or visit

www.cancer.org/driver.

HAM & KIELBASI BINGO Sunday, April 7

Doors open at Noon

Bingo starts at 1 pm $5.00 per person

Includes 15

Ham and Kielbasi games

and specials

Food and Beverages will be

available for purchase

St. Leo’s/Holy Rosary Church 33 Manhattan St.,

Ashley, PA

THE GREAT POTATO PANCAKE SALE

at ST. LEO’S/HOLY ROSARY

33 Manhattan St. Ashley, PA

570-825-6669

LENTEN FOOD SALE Fridays of Lent

April 5, 12 Beginning at NOON

Clam Chowder, Cream of Mushroom Soup haluski, potato pierogi, tuna hoagies

a weekly special soda, water or coffee.

Potato Pancakes hot off the Grill

pre-order by calling Kevin at 570-824-6346

Calvin and Hobbes by Bill Waterson

TAIZE Prayer Around the Cross

Friday, April 12, 2019 7:00 pm

St. Andrew Parish at

St. Patrick’s Church 316 Parrish St. Wilkes-Barre PA

Lovingly presented by

Kings College Cantores Christi Regis

Admission is Free

All are Welcome

A Free-Will offering to benefit Cantores Christi Regis will be

gratefully accepted.

Bus Trip to PINES DINNER THEATER

Allentown Pa

Thursday, June 27, 2019 “ROCK AROUND THE CLOCK”

St. Ignatius Parish Mary Ministry Cost: $85.

Checks payable to St. Ignatius of Loyola Parish, Memo: PINES. Contact: Elaine Whipple 570-288-3564 for menu, details and to reserve your seat. Seats will be assigned as payments are received.

CHOMAN’S MOBILE CARE

Cemetery Care His services include steam cleaning of headstone,

manicuring the lawn around the stone, mulching, flowering

and more! He offers one time, seasonal and monthly

packages. He also offers military and veteran discounts.

Automobile Detailing We love our cars and rely heavily on them. But giving them

the care they deserve is no easy task! Even dropping it at

the detailing shop can be an obstacle. That’s why we bring

the detailing shop to you! We supply the water, power, tools

and come right to your home or office! We’ll have your vehicle looking like new with no worry or hassle to you!.

Power Washing Buildings lose their pristine look due to dirt, grime and

motor exhaust. These can build up and severely damage

your property and destroy its value. We’ll restore your investment and help prevent the mess for coming back as

well as increase the curb value of your property overnight.

We build our service based on your desire and your budget.

We remove mold, graffiti, tar, gum, oil and more. We clean

buildings, houses, sidewalks, balconies, porches, rain

gutters, decks and patios, windows, parking lots, garages

and much more. Commercial and Residential services

available.

You can contact Chris at

(570) 262-3109,

or Book your appointment online at

ChomanCares.com

or by e-mail at

ChomanCares@gmail.com.

ECO-FRIENDLY CARE FOR YOU

AND YOUR INVESTMENTS

31 March 2019 Fourth Sunday in Lent

Join Us for Eucharistic Adoration

every Thursday from Noon to 6 pm.

The Day concludes with

Vespers and Benediction at 6 pm.

WEEKLY CALENDAR

LITURGICAL MINISTRY SCHEDULE

April 6—7, 2019

Fifth Sunday in Lent

4:00 pm 5:30 pm 8:00 am 11:00 am

Rosemary

Shedlock

Sr. Tina

Hanrahan AJ Kondracki

Aiden Burridge

Kayla Gianelli Servers

John Bednarz

Diane Gregor

Mary Ann

Slavinski David Alusick Lectors

Diane Gregor William

Klukoske AJ Kondracki Jim Zoccola EMOC

Carol Zukowski Geri Ulichney Brian Clarke Matt Kurtz Cantors

Ann & Dennis Bozinski

Dolores

Dlugosh Roxanne Degnan

Joe Stone

Sr. Madonna Hospitality

Fourth Week in Lent April 1—7, 2019

Day and Date Time Intention Offered by Events

Monday, April 1 Lenten Weekday

4– 5:30 pm Confessions 5:30—7:30 pm Choir

No Morning Mass Scheduled

Tuesday, April 2 Lenten Weekday

(St. Francis of Paola)

8 am John M Yencha Mr. & Mrs. Al Kondracki 5:30 pm Choir

Wednesday, April 3 Lenten Weekday

8 am Theresa Sapp Bill & Sue Ott & Family 6 pm Soup & Study

Thursday, April 4 Lenten Weekday

(St. Isidore of Seville)

8 am Elaine Tomczyk Frances Romanowski Noon: Exposition 6 pm Vespers/Liturgy

Friday, April 5 Lenten Weekday

(St. Vincent Ferrer)

FIRST FRIDAY 8 am For the Health and

Conversion of Friends and Family

Anonymous

8 am Mass Noon Stations 3 pm Divine Mercy Devotions 6 pm Confessions 6:30 pm Sacred Heart Devotions 7:00 pm Mass

Saturday, April 6 Lenten Weekday

No Morning Mass Scheduled 3:00 pm Confessions

Fifth Sunday in Lent

VIGIL 4 pm George Amesbury Mary Ann & Nancy

Amesbury 9:30 am Faith Formation Clergy Collection 11 am—4 pm Day of Recollection for Faith Sharing Communities 2 pm Lenten Reconciliation

VIGIL 5:30 pm Parishioners Pastor

SUNDAY 8 am Mary Mulvey The Alfano Family

SUNDAY

11 am

Living & Deceased Members of the Faith Sharing Communities

especially Arthur Stofey & AJ Dreier

SAB Parish

31 March 2019 Fourth Sunday in Lent