october priests’ mailing from the archdiocese of
TRANSCRIPT
ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA
OFFICE OF THE MODERATOR OF THE CURIA 222 North Seventeenth Street ● Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103-1299
Telephone (215) 587-4507 ● Fax (215) 587-4545
OCTOBER PRIESTS’ MAILING
FROM THE ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA TABLE OF CONTENTS
a.) Moderator of the Curia
Letter: Retirement Fund for Religious Appeal Letter: Retirement Fund for Religious: Sister Gabrielle Mary Braccio Retirement Fund for Religious Packet
b.) Office for Divine Worship October 2021 Notes Flyer: Institute for Christian Initiation 2021 Flyer: Upcoming Retreat Opportunities 2022 Flyer: Pontifical Mass Feast of St. John Paul II
c.) Office for Clergy Clergy Notes October 2021
d.) Secretariat for Evangelization Office for Persons with Disabilities & The Deaf Apostolate Updates for October 2021 Office for Black Catholics Discussion on Police and Community Relationship Virtual Even Flyer: St. Martin de Porres Mass & Sacrament of Confirmation Office for Life and Family October 2021 Updates Office for Pastoral Care of Migrants and Refugees Flyer: African Catholic Community Mass of Thanksgiving Pontifical Mission Societies October 2021 Newsletter and 2021 World Mission Sunday Material
e.) Office for Catholic Education Flyer: Educator Career Fair October 2021
f.) Our House Ministries Pioneer Magazine: Venerable Matt Talbot Flyer: Matt Talbot Shrine
p. 2 p. 3 p. 4-7 p. 8-17 p. 18 p. 19 p. 20 p. 21-24 p. 25 p. 26 p. 27 p. 28 p. 29 p. 30-34 p. 35 p. 36-37 p. 38
ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA
222 North Seventeenth Street · Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103-1299
Telephone (215) 587-0506 · Fax (215) 587-4545
OFFICE of the ARCHBISHOP
December 2021
Dear Friends in Christ,
The annual appeal for the Retirement Fund for Religious will be held in our parishes the weekend
of December 4-5, 2021. This appeal benefits approximately 26,000 elderly Catholic sisters,
brothers, and religious order priests—women and men who have consecrated their lives to
serving God and the Church. Pope Francis often highlights the role older adults play in conveying
faith from one generation to the next. Recently, he noted that “there is no retirement age from
the work of proclaiming the Gospel.” (Pope Francis, Message of His Holiness Pope Francis for
the First World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, July 25, 2021)
The prayer and ministry of older religious are an ongoing witness to the Gospel. In their younger
years, they laid the foundation for Catholic schools, hospitals, and works of mercy. Today, many
serve in volunteer ministry. Others are frail and need assistance. Yet all remain wholly committed
to their vocations, accepting the limitations of aging and embracing the opportunity to spend
more time praying for our Church and world.
Many religious communities struggle to provide for their aging members. In 2018, 70 percent of
the religious communities providing data to the National Religious Retirement Office (NRRO)
had a median age of 70 or higher and it continues to grow.
I recognize you may be experiencing your own financial difficulties. I ask only that you give
what you can. Most importantly, please join me in praying for God’s continued blessing on our
nation’s elderly sisters, brothers, and religious order priests.
I ask prayers for our consecrated religious and encourage support for this national collection
scheduled for December 4-5, 2021 in our local parishes.
Thank you.
In the peace of Christ,
+Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.
Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.
Archbishop of Philadelphia
(Please communicate the contents of this letter to your parishioners in the most appropriate manner on the weekend
of November 27-28, 2021; the collection is taken up the following weekend of December 4-5, 2021. Collection
remittal should be made payable to ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA and sent to the Office for Financial
Services, 222 North 17th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103-1299.)
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OFFICE FOR DIVINE WORSHIP
OCTOBER 2021
Website for the Office for Divine Worship
Website: www.odwphiladelphia.org
Contact information for the Office for Divine Worship
Phone: 215-587-3537 Fax: 215-644-3940
Email: [email protected]
Reverend Gerald Dennis Gill, Director
Mrs. Mary Ann Johnson, Executive Secretary
Mrs. Barbara Chandler, Project Support Coordinator
MOST CURRENT LITURGICAL DIRECTIVES
WITH REGARD TO THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC
FOR THE ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA
Please see the website of the Office for Divine Worship,
http://www.odwphiladelphia.org/home-page/news/
for regular updates.
LITURGICAL and CIVIC CALENDAR ITEMS
RECURRING INFORMATION
THE YEAR OF SAINT JOSEPH
On December 8, 2020, Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, announced The Year of Saint
Joseph that began that day and will continue through December 8, 2021. The Year of
Saint Joseph commemorates the 150th anniversary of the proclamation of Saint Joseph as
the patron of the Universal Church. You can read the Holy Father’s Apostolic Letter,
Patris Corde, on Saint Joseph here:
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http://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_letters/documents/papa-francesco-
lettera-ap_20201208_patris-corde.html.
For Information on the Archdiocesan Observance of the Year of Saint Joseph, please see:
http://archphila.org/joseph/.
ONGOING PRAYER FOR HEALING AND PEACE
FOR OUR CITY AND COUNTRY
The following intention may be included regularly in the Universal Prayer (second
category) for Sundays.
THE PRAYER TO SAINT MICHAEL, THE ARCHANGEL
Many parishes and institutions within the Archdiocese have responded positively to
pray the prayer to Saint Michael in conjunction with the celebration of Mass. You are
reminded that this devotional prayer is to take place outside of Mass. It is not to be
prayed as the concluding prayer of the Universal Prayer nor as part of the Communion
Rite.
THE TIME FOR VIGIL MASSES AND ANTICIPATED MASSES
The time for Vigil Masses and Anticipated Masses in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia is
no earlier than 4:00 PM. This applies to Holy Days of Obligation as well, including
Christmas.
THE MASS SCHEDULE FOR HOLY DAYS WHEN THE OBLIGATION IS
SUSPENDED
In the United States, there are three Holy Days, Solemnities, when the obligation to
participate in Mass is suspended when the observance falls on a Monday or a
Saturday—the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God (January 1), the Solemnity of
the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (August 15), and the Solemnity of All Saints
For the eradication of all forms of racism among all peoples
and that all will open wide their hearts with the love of God and neighbor
so that healing and peace will mark our way of life.
Let us pray to the Lord/Lord, hear our prayer.
Por la erradicación de todas las formas de racismo entre todos los pueblos
y que todos abran sus corazones con el amor de Dios y del prójimo
para que la sanación interior y la paz marquen nuestro estilo de vida.
Roguemos al Señor/Te rogamos óyenos.
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(November 1). In these instances, the Mass schedule certainly can be modified.
However, there should at least be the celebration of one Mass for the benefit of the
faithful who desire to attend Mass.
TIME OF THE EASTER VIGIL 2022
The Easter Vigil is the first Mass of Easter Sunday and not in any way to be considered
an Anticipated Mass for Easter Sunday. This is why the discipline of the Church insists
that it should not begin before nightfall in any circumstance. It may be helpful to know
that sunset, according to a variety of models, occurs approximately at 7:40 PM on April
16, 2022. This information is provided at this time to assist with calendar planning for
2021-2022. In general, given the variable date for Easter, it seems best to schedule the
Easter Vigil each year for 8:00 PM or later.
RESPECT LIFE SUNDAY
TWENTY-SEVENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Sunday, October 3, 2021
The USCCB Respect Life Program begins anew each year on Respect Life Sunday, the first Sunday in
October. The program is highlighted in liturgies and marked by special events. The USCCB
Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities publishes a program packet each year to call attention to numerous
human life issues. These materials are especially helpful for priests, parish groups, schools, and other
organizations. For more information or to request packets, visit:
http://www.usccb.org/about/pro-life-activities/respect-life-program/
Intentions for the Universal Prayer for Respect Life can be found on the website for the Office for
Divine Worship.
Priests and deacons may consider, in conjunction with Respect Life Sunday, using the Rite for
the Blessing of a Child in the Womb, published by the United States Conferences of Catholic
Bishops in 2012. For more information on this Rite and to order in English or Spanish, see:
http://www.usccb.org/about/pro-life-activities/prayers/pro-life-blessings.cfm.
OPTIONAL MEMORIAL OF SAINT FAUSTINA KOWALSKA
Tuesday, October 5, 2021
With the Decree of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments
dated May 18, 2020, Pope Francis established that the Optional Memorial of Saint Faustina
Kowalska be inserted into the General Roman Calendar and be observed on October 5.
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At present, there are no approved English or Spanish texts for the celebration. Appropriate
texts from the Common of Virgins or the Common of Holy Men and Women: For Religious
may be used at Mass and in the Liturgy of the Hours. More information will be provided
shortly on the USCCB website at: www.USCCB.org/about/divine-worship/liturgical-
calendar/saint-faustina-kowalska.cfm.
OPENING MASS FOR THE XVI SYNOD IN THE ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA
TWENTY-NINTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Sunday, October 17, 2021 at 6:30 PM at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul and
Shrine of Saint Katharine Drexel
The following intention is recommended for the Universal Prayer for all Sunday Masses on this Sunday
throughout the Archdiocese, for the first category for the Church:
For the Diocesan Phase of the next Synod of Bishops, that this consultation with the members
of our local church will bear fruit in a greater commitment to living out the demands of the
Gospel as we journey together with Christ as the Head of his Body, the Church.
Let us pray to the Lord/Lord, hear our prayer.
WORLD MISSION SUNDAY
THIRTIETH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Sunday, October 24, 2021
The Mass for the Evangelization of Peoples, number 18 of the Masses and Prayers for Various
Needs and Occasions in the Roman Missal, may be used on World Mission Sunday. The
Readings can be those of the Sunday or those for the Evangelization of Peoples in Volume IV of
the Lectionary for Mass.
SOLEMNITY OF ALL SAINTS
Monday, November 1, 2021
The Solemnity of all Saints is not observed as a Holy Day of Obligation this year since it falls
on a Monday. The liturgical observance of a Solemnity typically begins the evening before
with Evening Prayer I. The celebration of the Eucharist on the evening before would be the
proper Vigil Mass of the Solemnity or, if there is no proper Vigil Mass, the Anticipated Mass.
Since the Solemnity of All Saints is not a day of obligation this year and the day before is a day
of obligation, Sunday, the day of obligation takes precedence for the evening Mass. So, the
Parish Sunday evening Mass on October 31, 2021 would be of the Sunday. Evening Prayer
would be Evening Prayer I of the Solemnity of All Saints.
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SAVE THE DATE
Holy Mass for Deceased Priests
Thursday, November 11, 2021 at 4:00 PM
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
Archbishop Nelson J. Perez, celebrant and homilist
All priests are welcome to concelebrate.
SAVE THE NEW DATE
Upon the recommendation of the Pilgrimage Office at the National Shrine of the Immaculate
Conception, Washington DC, the anticipated Archdiocesan Pilgrimage scheduled for this fall,
Saturday, October 16, 2021, is re-scheduled for Saturday, October 15, 2022.
Planning details will follow at a later date. All parishes, religious communities and
institutions are asked to mark the date to allow for the broadest possible participation of clergy
and faithful from all throughout the Archdiocese.
CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS
The Office for Divine Worship has the responsibility for direction, guidance and support of
pastors and those who collaborate with them in the formation of adults for Christian Initiation.
Additional information on Christian Initiation for adults can be found on the website for the
Office for Divine Worship, under the heading Christian Initiation
Please see the attached flyer for more information for the Institute for Christian Initiation 2021:
Saturday, October 30, 2021 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, lunch included
Archdiocesan Pastoral Center
Auditorium A & B
222 North 17th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Parking available
Reverend Gerald Dennis Gill, Presenter
Director, Office for Divine Worship
Register by e-mail at [email protected]
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Also, please make check payable to - Archdiocese of Philadelphia
with the name(s) of the participant(s) in the amount of $50.00 per participant
and mail to - Office for Divine Worship, 222 North 17th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Registration deadline is October 15, 2021
CONFIRMATION FOR ROMAN CATHOLIC ADULTS
The ordinary minister of the Sacrament of Confirmation for baptized Roman Catholics is the
Bishop. Typically, this occurs during the pastoral visit of the Bishop to the parish. Every effort
should be made to prepare Catholic Adults for Confirmation to participate in the parish celebration with
the Bishop.
• Priests of the Archdiocese need to request the faculty from the Archbishop once
again as of September 1, 2021, to confirm Catholic adults (those who have completed
fourteen years of age and older).
• The 2016 edition of the Order of Confirmation must be used for the Conferral of the
Sacrament. A copy can be provided by the Office for Divine Worship.
• The celebration of Confirmation is recorded in the parish Confirmation Register and at
the church of Baptism.
PLEASE NOTE
Full Sacramental Initiation—Baptism, Confirmation and the first Reception of Holy Communion—
apart from the Easter Vigil, outside of the immediate danger of death, requires the permission of the
Archbishop (see RCIA, no. 331). Archbishop Perez delegates the Office for Divine Worship to give this
permission. Please contact the Office for Divine Worship for such circumstances.
UPCOMING WORKSHOPS
WORKSHOPS FOR LITURGICAL MINISTERS
The calendar for Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 workshops for liturgical ministers are posted on the website
for the Office for Divine Worship. Register for these workshops at [email protected].
If any parish or institution would like a workshop for liturgical ministers, especially Extraordinary
Ministers of Holy Communion, please contact the Office for Divine Worship.
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If a parish or institution conducts its own workshop for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion,
please contact the Office for Divine Worship for instructional materials and to obtain the mandate
letters from the Archbishop for the new Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.
The following resources is available from the Liturgical Institute at Mundelein for the formation of
parish liturgical ministers, https://liturgy.teachable.com/p/instructions-for-liturgical-ministers.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion Workshops
Tuesday, October 12, 2021
Central Association of the Miraculous Medal Shrine
475 E. Chelten Ave, Philadelphia
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM in Church
Please register at: [email protected]
Wednesday, October 27, 2021
Saint Jerome Church
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM in Church
Please register at: [email protected]
Tuesday, February 15, 2022
Saint Thomas the Apostle Church
Glen Mills, Pennsylvania
7:00 to 9:00 PM in Church
Please register at: [email protected]
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
Saint John Bosco Church
235 East County Line Road
Hatboro, Pennsylvania
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM in Church
Please register at: [email protected]
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Spanish Liturgical Ministry Workshop
Saturday, November 20, 2021
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul (Chapel)
10:00 AM to 12 Noon
18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Please register at: [email protected]
Lector Workshop
Wednesday, November 10, 2021
Saint Jerome Church
Philadelphia Pennsylvania
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM in Church
Please register at: [email protected]
EXTRAORDINARY MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION
• All Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are to have an appointment letter
from the Archbishop.
• Candidates are to be fully initiated practicing Catholics, high school graduates, validly
married (if married), recognized for faith and devotion to the Holy Eucharist as well as
for service in the parish/institution.
• Pastors and chaplains are encouraged to send new Extraordinary Ministers of Holy
Communion to the archdiocesan formation sessions. Current Extraordinary Ministers
of Holy Communion are also welcome to attend.
• Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion typically serve for three years.
Pastors/chaplains may renew terms, if agreeable and in consultation with the minister.
• Pastors and chaplains are reminded to inform the Office for Divine Worship if they
conduct their own formation and to send to this office their request for new
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.
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• Request forms can be found on the Office for Divine Worship website. Letters of
Appointment from the Archbishop will then follow.
• Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are appointed for a three-year term and
for the place where they are commissioned. Terms may be renewed if agreeable to both
the pastor/chaplain and the minister.
• All records of active Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are maintained by
the parish/institution.
• Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are commissioned after participation in
a training session, according to the form found in the Book of Blessings, Chapter 63,
“Order for the Commissioning of Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.”
• Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion only serve in the parishes/institutions for
which they are commissioned.
ON-LINE COURSES ON THE SACRED LITURGY
AVAILABLE FROM THE LITURGIAL INSTITUTE AT MUNDELEIN
This is a new online liturgy program as a resource for both church professionals and the laity.
This new online program extends the mission of the Institute to diocesan and parish
professionals as well as interested individual Catholics. Composed of five one-hour classroom
sessions followed by online quizzes, each course awards one-half Continuing Education Unit
and brings a fresh, energized approach to the study of liturgical renewal.
For additional information, please see: https://www.liturgicalinstitute.org/.
SPECIAL BUNDLES OF COURSES ON THE SACRED LITURGY DESIGNED
FOR THE ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA
Please take a moment and look at the link below:
https://liturgy.teachable.com/p/philadelphia
The Liturgical Institute at Mundelein (at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake) has made
available to the Archdiocese of Philadelphia a special bundle of their on-line courses at a most
reasonable rate. These courses provide foundational information on the Sacred Liturgy for
clergy and the lay faithful.
The summer may be an ideal time for many to take advantage of the opportunity to take these
on-line courses. They are excellent refresher courses as well as new learning opportunities for
liturgical ministers and catechists.
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STATEMENT OF THE OFFICE FOR DIVINE WORSHIP
WITH REGARD TO THE USE OF THE MUSIC COMPOSED
BY CESAREO GABARAIN
The liturgical music composed by Cesaréo Gabaráin will no longer be used for Archdiocesan
and Cathedral celebrations of the Sacred Liturgy. Parishes, religious communities and
institutions throughout the Archdiocese of Philadelphia are encouraged to do the same. This is
in response to the recent allegations of inappropriate conduct and the investigation of these
allegations. The Office for Divine Worship stands in solidarity with all victims of sexual
violence and harassment and is committed to promoting and maintaining safe environments.
For additional information, please see the statement of Oregon Catholic Press:
https://www.ocp.org/en-us/blog/entry/statement-regarding-father-cesareo-gabarain.
LINKS TO HELPFUL INFORMATION
FOR AN UPDATED SUPPLEMENT WITH NEW LITURGICAL OBSERVANCES
FOR THE LITURGY OF THE HOURS
Contact Dominican Liturgy Publications:
https://www.lulu.com/spotlight/athompsonatdsptdotcom it is the second item on the page.
FOR THE MOST RECENT NEWSLETTER FROM THE USCCB
Individual issues of the Newsletter are posted online around the fifteenth of the month
approximately three months after they have been released to subscribers.
For information on subscribing to the newsletter, visit:
http://www.usccb.org/about/divine-worship/newsletter/.
FOR PAST MONTHLY MAILINGS OF THE OFFICE FOR DIVINE WORSHIP
Visit: http://www.odwphiladelphia.org/sacred-liturgy/monthly-mailings/.
INSTITUTE FOR CHRISTIAN INITIATION 2021
OFFICE FOR DIVINE WORSHIP
ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA
Saturday, October 30, 2021
9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, lunch included
Archdiocesan Pastoral Center
222 North 17th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Parking available
Reverend Gerald Dennis Gill, Presenter
Director, Office for Divine Worship
All priests, deacons, DRE’s, Christian Initiation coordinators and teams, catechists
and liturgical musicians are welcome!
This Institute is a comprehensive, in-depth, and practical seminar, exploring the Rite of Christian
Initiation of Adults, including: • Liturgical and theological reflections on the steps and periods •
Demonstrations of liturgical rites • Plans for practical parish implementation • Discussion of pastoral
and canonical concerns • Models for catechetical formation sessions
SESSION I, 9:00 AM—10:30 AM
Overview of Adult Christian Initiation and the Period of Evangelization and Precatechumenate
Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens and the Period of the Catechumenate
SESSION II, 11:00 AM—12:30 PM
Election or Enrollment of Names and the Period of Purification and Enlightenment
Celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation (at the Easter Vigil)
and the Period of Postbaptismal Catechesis or Mystagogy
Lunch, 12:30 PM—1:15 PM
SESSION III, 1:15 PM—2:30 PM
Christian Initiation for Particular Circumstances—Children, Adults, and Danger of Death
Reception of Baptized Christians into Full Communion of the Catholic Church
Closing Remarks and Prayer, 2:30 PM—3:00 PM
Register by e-mail at [email protected]
Also, please mail a check (with the name of the participant) for fifty dollars
for the Institute to the Office for Divine Worship, 222 North 17th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103.
Registration deadline is October 15, 2021.
Please bring your own copy of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults with you.
A certificate of completion will be awarded to all participants.
Saint Mary of Providence Center 227 Isabella Road + Elverson, PA 19520
RETREAT for PRIESTS July 18-22, 2022
RETREAT for RELIGIOUS WOMEN August 1-5, 2022
Priests and religious are also welcome to arrange for a personal retreat at any time during the year.
Saint Mary of Providence Center is situated in the countryside along the beautiful rolling hills of Northern Chester County, approximately 45 miles outside of Philadelphia. Accommodations include an airconditioned private room with private bathroom for each retreatant. The Daughters of Saint Mary of Providence manage the retreat facility and look forward to welcoming you!
The names of the retreat directors will be announced in the Fall. Registration for these preached retreats will begin in October.
For additional information, please email [email protected]
UPCOMING RETREAT OPPORTUNITIES
Come by yourselves to a deserted place and rest awhile. (Mark 6:31)
PONTIFICAL MASSFEAST OF ST. JOHN PAUL II
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 22 - 7PM
AT THE CATHEDRAL BASILICA OF SS. PETER & PAUL18TH STREET & BENJAMIN FRANKLIN PARKWAY
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103PARKING AVAILABLE
CELEBRANT: GERHARD CARDINAL MÜLLERPREFECT EMERITUS OF THE CONGREGATION FOR THE DOCTRINE OF THE FAITH
Office for Clergy ♦ 215-587-4532 ♦ Fax 215-587-3807 ♦ [email protected]
OCTOBER 2021
Rev. Michael F. Hennelly
Vicar For Clergy
Rev. Brian M. Kean Assistant Vicar For Clergy
REMINDER: UPCOMING EVENTS 2021 & 2022 (Subject to Change)
October 4-5 Fall Workshop Saint Helena, Blue Bell October 21 Newly Appointed Pastors/Parochial
Administrators Meeting Archdiocesan Pastoral Center November 11 Mass for Deceased Priests 4:00 PM Cathedral Basilica SS. Peter & Paul November 18 Newly & Recently Ordained 2020 & 2021 1:00 PM Fall Day of Recollection (Session 2) IHM Conference Center, Bryn Mawr November 29 Day of Sanctification 2:00 PM Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary May 9-11, 2022 Priests’ Convocation Hershey Lodge & Convention Center
CALLED FOR MORE
October 2021 brings the return of the annual FALL WORKSHOP for all the clergy of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. After a one year hiatus due to the pandemic, we are grateful to once again host this annual gathering which provides an opportunity for the clergy of the Archdiocese to gather for prayer, fraternity and continuing formation and education. This year’s presentation will be focused on the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s collective participation in Called for More – A New Look at Thriving in Priestly Ministry. This two-year engagement of all the priests and parishes of the Archdiocese is in partnership with Catholic Leadership Institute. Our presenter this month is a very familiar face to many in the clergy, Dan Cellucci, Chief Executive Officer of CLI. We are very excited to partner and listen with all the clergy in the journey of discerning how each of us may be Called for More ~ in life and ministry. We look forward to seeing you either on Monday, October 4, 2021 beginning at 1:00 PM or Tuesday, October 5, 2021 beginning at 11:00 AM. Fraternally,
Mike Hennelly Brian Kean
HOLY FATHER’S PRAYER INTENTION FOR OCTOBER
Missionary Disciples
We pray that every baptized person may be engaged in evangelization, available to the mission, by being witnesses of a life that has the flavor of the Gospel.
ALTERNATIVE CHRISTMAS CARDS FOR PRIESTS
The Community Food Program of Nutritional Development
Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia is offering an
Alternative Christmas Card suitable to be sent by priests.
Your purchase of these cards provides a direct contribution to
the poor and hungry of the Archdiocese. This donation is
noted on each card that you send. They are sold in packs of
10 cards for $15 or 20 cards for $25. Please consider the
Community Food Program and the good that purchasing your
Christmas cards from them will do for our hungry sisters and
brothers. For more information, contact Denise Hopkins at
215-895-3470 ext. 77823 or [email protected]
PRIEST PORTAL
Access the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Priest Portal was
recently updated and is available by visiting phillypriests.org
A new feature was added to the portal giving you the ability
to request a letter of Suitability/Celebret online. Please
complete all fields to assist us in completing your request.
Please note that an email was sent to all priests on September 13, 2021 with the login credentials needed to access the portal. If you need assistance with accessing the portal please contact us.
ONGOING FORMATION OPPORTUNITY
PRESENTATIONS FOR RECENTLY APPOINTED PASTORS AND PAROCHIAL ADMINISTRATORS will be held on Thursday, October 21, 2021 at the Archdiocesan Pastoral Center. These gatherings will afford the newly appointed Pastors/Parochial Administrators an opportunity to become more acquainted with the staff and programs of the offices at the Pastoral Center who can assist them in their new roles.
SABBATICAL OPPORTUNITIES SAINT MEINRAD SEMINARY AND SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY INSTITUTE FOR PRIESTS AND PRESBYTERATES offers several programs to assist priests with their ongoing formation needs: www.saintmeinrad.edu Check out the IPP Calendar
UPDATE YOUR DESIGNATED BENEFICIARY - The PRIESTS’ GROUP LIFE INSURANCE BENEFIT is intended to pay for funeral and burial expenses. Unless your burial expenses have already been arranged, the Executor of your Estate should be listed as the primary beneficiary and the benefit designated for your funeral and burial expenses. It is important to have an up-to-date Beneficiary Enrollment/Change Form on file to ensure a smooth claim process when the time comes. The most current signed and dated beneficiary form from each priest will be the prevailing document by CIGNA when the claim for Life Insurance benefits is submitted. The life insurance benefit is not taxable to a named (and living) beneficiary; however, if there is no living beneficiary, the life insurance benefit must be paid to your estate and may be subject to probate tax. For a Beneficiary Enrollment/Change Form, questions, or inquiries about this benefit, contact the Office for Insurance Services through their Call Center at 1-877-852-5246, where their customer service staff is prepared to assist you. A Beneficiary Enrollment/Change Form can be downloaded from the Priests’ Portal under Benefits Information.
VISITING PRIESTS Reminder that arrangements for extern priests r equesting hospitality or pastoral assignments in the Archdiocese should be initiated in the Office for Clergy, which carries responsibility for confirming the extern’s status, standing in the priesthood, permission of the extern’s legitimate superior for service/residence in the Archdiocese, criminal background checks and child abuse record checks, etc. If you receive any inquiries of this nature, please contact the Office for Clergy. A celebret or a letter of proof of good standing/faculties in his own (Arch)diocese/Institute of Consecrated Life/Society of Apostolic Life is necessary for any priest or deacon to minister in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. NOTE to all Pastors and heads of the institutions: All Priests and Deacons that are visiting from another (Arch)diocese to assist in the celebration of a Liturgy, other sacraments/ministries in any way should have a celebret or letter of good standing to give to you for your files. Thank you for your time completing and submitting a PRIESTS PERSONAL PLANNING RECORD for your Personnel File. It is most sincerely appreciated, especially if it’s been more than five years since your last update or if you don’t have one on file yet. The form is available on-line in the Priests’ Portal or by calling or e-mailing the Clergy Office.
RETREAT OPPORTUNITIES
SAN ALFONSO RETREAT HOUSE – 2021 Fall Retreats for Clergy (Conducted by Redemptorist Retreat Team) are available for the following date: Retreats for Priests and Deacons $390 (Click Here for registration form) - October 4 - 7, 2021 Our capacity may be limited, but our hospitality is boundless! Due to pandemic restrictions, space is limited on these retreats. Compliance with mask-wearing and all social distancing protocols is expected. Please click on the Safety Guidance to read the health and safety information to prayerfully discern whether attending a retreat will be safe for you and for the other guests and staff. San Alfonso Retreat House 755 Ocean Avenue, Long Branch, NJ 07740 • Phone: 732-222-2731, ext. 140 E-mail: [email protected] Web: sanalfonsoretreats.org
JESUIT RETREAT CENTER - Explore their upcoming Retreats & Programs. Jesuit Retreat House of Cleveland – Parma, OH 44134 | (440) 884-9300 www.jesuitretreatcenter.org
Office for Clergy ♦ 215-587-4532 ♦ Fax 215-587-3807 ♦ [email protected]
THE UPPER ROOM CRISIS HOTLINE - is a pastoral service available to priests, deacons, and men religious. The program reaches out to those living alone or in small groups and may be especially appealing to those who have retired from active ministry, who are isolated from their peers, or who are dealing with health issues. The program is staffed by trained volunteers and operates in a strictly confidential fashion. For additional information, you may visit their website at: https://www.catholichotline.org
Please remember in your prayers the relatives of our brother priests and deacons who have died.
Michael Emeh, father of Reverend Wilfred E. Emeh
Peggy Grant Malone, sister of Reverend James A. Grant Sister Helen McCormac, sister of Reverend Monsignor
Michael P. McCormac
In the tradition of the Purgatorial Society, priests are
requested to offer two Masses for the repose of the soul of
a brother priest.
Reverend Dennis P. Boyle, August 30, 2021
Reverend Monsignor Bernard J. Trinity, September 2, 2021
Reverend Thomas F. Shea, September 8, 2021
May they rest in peace!
Permanent Deacons Deacon Michael Pascarella, Jr. Associate to the Vicar For Clergy For Permanent Deacons
SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL (SVDP) HELPING WIDOWS AND ORPHANS AND THOSE IN NEED By Deacon Kevin Harrington Assistant to the Associate to the Vicar for Clergy for Permanent Deacons In my early years of Formation, I got involved with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul at my parish. It was interesting in that what looked like a simple committee was indeed not simple but complex. Then I thought that every parish must have a version of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul; I was wrong again. Although they are in many parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, they are not in all of the parishes. I learned early on the one side of the equation, the side that gives help when needed. There is a process for all those who call the parish for support. Each person or family is assigned a case number, and then one or two caseworkers (volunteers) are assigned to visit with the person or family that reached out for help. In the face-to-face meeting, the family's financial position is verified, and a discussion takes place to see what has happened recently that may have caused the trouble they are currently experiencing. From there, it is identified what the family needs in their immediate future. The family needs can range from car repairs, transportation assistance, utility bills, rent payments, and other family members' financial needs. Then the group meets, sometimes immediately over text messages or in-person once a month, and decides what they can do for the family. A typical example is they need assistance with their utility bills, and the Treasurer will contact PECO and make a payment over the phone to avoid any service disruption. This is only one example of many scenarios that the Society of St. Vincent de Paul helps within a parish. Another area the Society of St. Vincent de Paul helps is through the parishes with a Food Pantry. The one at my former parish started when I was part of the committee. Being part of the SVDP committee was a great learning experience and one that showed just how much the parish is willing to help. They started with a small food inventory; then, it grew through donations from the parishioners who donated bags of food or money. Also, the surrounding parishes helped with food donations, and then a great help is the Boy Scouts and their annual food drives. The pantry grew from seeing 10-15 families a week to over 60 families served each week. You get the picture; the Society of St. Vincent de Paul really can help people in your parish in a significant way. Well, let's take it a little further. In the families that are served are many widows and orphans that are helped all the time. There are many instances where there is a single person that lost
REMINDER: UPCOMING EVENTS 2021 (Subject to Change)
October 8-10 Ave Maria Retreat House (Fully Booked) Our Lady of Czestochowa Shrine, Doylestown Director: Reverend Michael Kelly October 12 Permanent Diaconate Information Night 7 PM to 9 PM Webinar October 30 Annual Memorial Mass & Fall Workshop Saint Helena Parish, Blue Bell November 5-7 Saint Mary of Providence Retreat, Elverson (Limited Availability) Director: Reverend Matthew K. Biedrzycki December 5 Deacon Dinner Social 5 PM to 8 PM Saint Helena Parish, Blue Bell
Office for Clergy ♦ 215-587-4532 ♦ Fax 215-587-3807 ♦ [email protected]
SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL Cont. their loved one recently. They need not only someone to talk to, but someone to help them get back on track. Also, there are many times where grandparents are taking care of their grandchildren. This is an excellent opportunity to help the families that are still intact and those who have been disrupted and looking for balance, unity, acceptance, understanding, groceries, basically the love of our neighbors to help them get their lives back on track. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul handles many areas of assistance for those in need in our parishes. The services range from helping to set up chapters in your parishes to leading the way toward growth and revitalization, leadership resources for your parish, helping to develop a task force in your parish, and helping with the youth and multicultural diversity. Lastly, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is an Accredited Charity through the Better Business Bureau and received the GuideStar Gold Seal of Transparency in 2020. This is an excellent opportunity to volunteer where a chapter already exists or help start one from the ground up. Archbishop Pérez is asking for everyone to help the widows and orphans. What better way to help them and all those in need and all that we have to do is to build it, and they will call looking for help. It is so rewarding that it will be a continuous reminder of God's influence in our lives and help us love our neighbor as ourselves. If you want to inquire about starting up a Society of St. Vincent de Paul in your parish or need help with one already existing, please feel free to reach out to the main chapter at 314-576-3993. Or, if you want to speak to the local team, you can call Tom Chenoweth, head of the Regional SVDP, at 610-574-4609 or Pat Walsh, who supports Philadelphia, Montgomery, Bucks, and Delaware Counties at 267-614-6342.
UPCOMING EVENTS 2021 PERMANENT DIACONATE INFORMATION NIGHT Our Permanent Deacon Information Night for the next admissions cycle to the School of Diaconal Studies will take place by webinar on Tuesday, October 12, 2021, at 7:00 PM. See www.archphila.org/deacon for more information. We are also planning in-person events in a few local parishes, and we may have one event online. We will have more information soon. So, please talk to men from your parish, about whom you believe has the character and qualifications to pursue ordained ministry as a permanent deacon.
ANNUAL MEMORIAL MASS AND FALL WORKSHOP - will be held on October 30, 2021 beginning with Mass at 9 AM at Saint Helena Parish, Blue Bell, followed by the annual fall workshop in the Empress Room on ministry to the disabled and mentally ill. More details to follow in the coming weeks.
DEACON DINNER SOCIAL - will be held on Saturday, December 5, 2021 beginning at 5 PM at Saint Helena Parish, Blue Bell. More details to follow in the coming weeks.
PERMANENT DIACONATE VOCATIONS AND MINISTRY PROGRAM FUND
The Fund was created to provide resources to build and support the Diaconate in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, from ministry and vocation awareness to continuing formation of Deacons. Your contribution to this Fund will help secure a vibrant community of Permanent Deacons for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Contributions are made through The Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia.
Donations can be sent to: Deacon Fund c/o The Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia 100 North 20th Street, Suite 301 Philadelphia, PA 19403
Please make your tax deductible donation checks payable to The Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia with Deacon Fund noted on the memo line. To make your gift online, please visit: https://thecfgp.org/donate/permanent-diaconate-vocations-and-ministry-program-fund
Office for Clergy ♦ 215-587-4532 ♦ Fax 215-587-3807 ♦ [email protected]
SPIRITUAL DIRECTION - The list of approved spiritual directors has been revised. The Office for Clergy, through the Associate to the Vicar for Clergy for Permanent Deacons, will gladly assist deacons in obtaining a personal spiritual director. Please contact Deacon Michael Pascarella for more information about finding an approved spiritual director.
DEACON RELATED FORMS - For those in need of the Funeral Guidelines, Database Information Form, Commitment to Ministry, Parish Contract, and 2021 Ongoing Formation/Retreat Reporting Form, please email Laura Nimmons at [email protected]
REMINDER ABOUT THE DEATH OF A DEACON OR A DEACON’S WIFE - In the event of the death of a deacon or spouse, families should notify the Office for Clergy as soon as possible, and before final funeral arrangements are made. As the funeral of a deacon is an Archdiocesan event, the music selection needs to be reviewed by the Office for Divine Worship. This should be done by having the parish music director contact the Office for Divine Worship directly. Also, when possible, the Archbishop would prefer to be the principal celebrant at the funeral of a deacon or spouse of a deacon. In his absence, an auxiliary bishop may be the principal celebrant, based on availability. Any questions should be directed to via email to Deacon Michael Pascarella at [email protected]
OFFICE FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES & THE DEAF APOSTOLATE Updates for October 2021
OCTOBER BULLETIN ANNOUNCEMENT
Universal Prayer: October is Disability Awareness Month
Include one petition per week during October Masses:
That families with members who have Down Syndrome and other disabilities will find a
welcoming home within our parish community, let us pray to the Lord.
That members of our parish community will reach out lovingly to all our parishioners, especially
those with disabilities, new parents, older parishioners, busy families, and veterans and their
families, let us pray to the Lord.
For our parish family, that our community will model the welcoming and inclusive ministry of
Jesus, seeking always to see the image of God in every person, let us pray to the Lord.
That growth in understanding of Down Syndrome and other disabilities will lead to relationships
of support and increase a sense of belonging for those who live with disabilities and their families,
let us pray to the Lord.
That families and all who live with disabilities will find their faith to be a source of strength,
community, and hope, let us pray to the Lord.
For other resources visit: www.opdarchphilly.org and www.RisingTogetherAlliance.org
Does your parish have a Parish Contact/Advocate for Persons with Disabilities?
www.opdarchphilly.org/parish-contact-program/
OFFICE FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES & THE DEAF APOSTOLATE
Phone: 215-587-3530; Email: [email protected] Web: www.opdarchphilly.org / www.deafcatholicphilly.org / www.LilysGift.org
Call to Kindness Day: October is Disability Awareness Month. The
Office for Persons with Disabilities and the Rising Together Alliance
(RTA) of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia are inviting families to
celebrate a Call to Kindness Day in our Schools, Parish Religious
Education Programs and homes. RTA has put together a wonderful
resource of children's literature, coloring pages, and discussion
points. Go to: www.risingtogetheralliance.org/kindness to learn
more about the Call to Kindness Day and how you can participate.
Archdiocese of Philadelphia Invites you
to a discussion onPolice and Community Relationship
Police CommissionerCity of Philadelphia
Law Professor
Irene Oritseweyinmi Joe
Saturday, October 23, 2021 @ 2:30 p.m.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER https://tinyurl.com/nsr4e6s2
UC Davis School of Law
Black Catholic Apostolate African Catholic ApostolateJames E Andrews
215-587-3541Sr. Florence Enechukwu, MSHR
267-282-3487
Danielle M. Outlaw
VIRTUAL EVENT
St. Martin de Porres Mass &Sacrament of Confirmation
Office for Black Catholic Apostolate
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 72:00 P.M.
CATHEDRAL BASILICA OF SAINTS PETER & PAUL
1723 RACE STREETPHILADELPHIA, PA 19103
Archbishop Nelson J. Perez
Principal Celebrant
All are welcome
Office for Life and Family
Respect Life Month
Archdiocesan Family Festival
October 2021 Updates
OCTOBER IS RESPECT LIFE MONTH
Your parish should have received a Respect Life Kit from USCCB with a poster
and prayer card. Learn more about what your parish can do by downloading the
Parish Action Guide HERE and free resources HERE.
PHILADELPHIA ARCHDIOCESAN FAMILY FESTIVAL
Save the date! Saturday April 30, 2022
Cardinal O’Hara High School
Office for Life and Family
Phone: 215-587-0500; Email: [email protected]
www.phillycatholiclife.org
African Catholic Community
Archdiocese of Philadelphia
Invites you to our Thanksgiving Mass
Celebrating our Gift of Faith that unites us Together
Celebrant: Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D. Archbishop of Philadelphia
Date: Sunday, October 10, 2021 Time: 2: 00 pm Place: Cathedral Basilica of Ss. Peter & Paul & Shrine of
St. Katherine Drexel 18th Street & the Benjamin Franklin Parkway Philadelphia, PA 19103
Parking Available
…………………………………..............................................................................................................................
For more information contact:
Sr. Florence Enechukwu, MSHR [email protected] 267-282-3487 Fr. Rene Againglo [email protected] 267-298-0355 Fr. Celestine Madubuko [email protected] 862-357-0665
ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA Office for African Catholic Community Apostolate
CELEBRATING OUR 110TH ANNIVERSARY
WORLD MISSION SUNDAY, 2021 ● PARISH COMMUNICATION MATERIALS
FOR THE MONTH OF OCTOBER, 2021 ● For 110 Years, the Societies in Philadelphia with prayers and help from
your parish and the faithful in the Archdiocese, have supported Missionaries and the people they serve around the globe. In this Mission month and the celebration of this special Anniversary, please help us communicate our MISSION, which is at the core of the Church supporting the young Churches throughout the world who are filled with a passion for the faith, but lacking resources for its outreach to families and those in need.
It would be incredible if for the month of October, each of your parish faithful actually heard our accomplishment
in helping Missionaries for 110 Years! Please help us make this happen!
Plan to communicate to your parish faithful with:
•A World Mission Sunday Communication Kit was sent to your Parish the week of September 27, 2021. Please contact our office immediately if you have not received this mailing. Included in the mailing were posters, to be placed at entrances during October or elsewhere in prominent display, envelopes and brochures to be made available at the entrances of your parish [or where you place your parish bulletins at this time] at each Mass for the weekend of October 17 & 18. These are in addition to your parish’s Mailed envelopes.
•Universal Prayer & Homily Helps: Plan to incorporate the Universal Prayer in your World Mission Sunday Masses, as well as any Mass throughout the Mission month of October. Ideas for your message on the weekend of Mission Sunday are also included here.
•Virtual World Mission Video: This short video HERE will also be sent electronically to your parish and parish Mission contacts—please plan on including it with your electronic parish communications, place it on your website and if possible add it to your video screens during October.
•Month of Mission Liturgical Materials: Information for Parish Announcements, Bulletin features and more. Paper copies are included in this mailing and will also be sent on a regular basis electronically to Parish Mission Coordinators.
Thank you for your help in making your faithful aware of World Mission Sunday in the Societies 110th Year.
With prayers, in Christ’s Mission,
Reverend Monsignor James D. Beisel Archdiocesan Director
PONTIFICAL MISSION SOCIETIES Society for the Propagation of the Faith • Missionary Childhood Association • Saint Peter Apostle 222 N. Seventeenth Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103 • 215-587-3944• www.phillymissions.org
WORLD MISSION SUNDAY, 2021 ● PARISH COMMUNICATION MATERIALS
Bulletin Announcements: Please save room and plan to place messages in your bulletin each October
weekend and for the weekend of World Mission Sunday:
For 110 Years, Philadelphia has helped through prayer and support . . .
IN LATIN AMERICA . . . where catechists travel to remote areas to bring the Good News of God’s love to families. With Sunday Mass usually only once a month, Catechists are a essential part of the local Mission Church – helping to transmit the faith visiting remote villages, teaching and praying with people. It is the Catechists who help keep the Catholic faith flourishing.
In October and into next year, will you CONTINUE YOUR HELP? PRAY a Hail Mary or Rosary Daily for Missionaries. LEARN MORE to tell others. Connect with us on social media-Facebook, Instagram and
Twitter@missionsphilly or at phillymissions.org. HELP with a donation on World Mission Sunday, October 24th.
IN AFRICA . . . where those who are sick are provided loving care at 6,800 Catholic hospitals and clinics. Your World Mission Sunday prayers and support helps Missionaries like Father Joachim provide treated mosquito netting to protect moms-to-be from malaria in Ghana. It helps Father Eugene provide needed medical care to poor children in Uganda. It helps Religious Sisters care for expectant mothers in Nigeria. PRAY a Hail Mary or Rosary Daily for Missionaries. LEARN MORE to tell others. Connect with us on social media-Facebook, Instagram and Twitter@missionsphilly
or at phillymissions.org
IN ASIA . . . where more than 5.5 million children receive an education in 16,200 Church-run Schools. They are built in remote villages like Bintulu, Malaysia to assist poor families in the education of their children. At present, only few Catholic children are being educated by two sisters in small rooms, but the kindergarten ALONE needs to hold at least 70 children. The Catholic parents truly want a place where their children will receive an education and learn about God. Will you help this classroom to be built, as you have for 110 Years? PRAY a Hail Mary or Rosary Daily for
Missionaries. LEARN MORE to tell others. Connect with us on social media-Facebook, Instagram and Twit-ter@missionsphilly or at phillymissions.org. HELP with a donation on World Mission Sunday, October 24th.
Place in your bulletin the Weekend of October 23/24:
This year, World Mission Sunday on October 24 celebrates the Pontifical Mission Societies 110th Anniversary of service to the Missions. With the prayers and support of you, the faithful in Philadelphia, the Societies has helped provide for the needs of Missionaries world-wide for 110 Years. Continue this great heritage with a donation to Missionaries world-wide this weekend.
“Proclaim It with Joy . . . We cannot but speak about what we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:20—the 2021 Mission Sunday international theme, is a perfect reflection of the Missionary spirit of the faithful in the Archdiocese over the last 110 years. It is a summons to each of us to bring to others what we bear in our hearts. This Mission has always been the hallmark of the Church, for “she exists to evangelize.” And YOU have been perfect examples of this!
THANK YOU for your prayers and support for these 110 YEARS!
CELEBRATING OUR 110TH ANNIVERSARY
Use the images above in your bulletin to relay the Missionary spirit of your faithful over the past 110 Years!
WORLD MISSION SUNDAY, 2021 ● WEEKLY UNIVERSAL PRAYERS FOR OCTOBER
Twenty-Eighth Sunday In Ordinary Time
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2021
Introduction/Priest Celebrant: My brothers and sisters: The Lord indeed fills us with his love and we joyfully sing his praises Now, let us turn to him with confidence as we bring him all our intentions.
Intentions/Deacon/Lector: For all the members of the Church, that they will be prompted by the power of the Gospel to leave behind anything that separates us from Christ and his kingdom. Let us pray to the Lord. R † Lord hear our prayer.
For peace in every part of the world, that it will come quickly to those regions most afflicted by war and violence. Let us pray to the Lord. R † Lord hear our prayer.
For all the prayers and petitions that fill our heart, especially to do our part in making Christ and his Gospel known, that they may ascend to our loving Father in heaven as we make them one with the Sacrifice of his Son on earth. Let us pray to the Lord. R † Lord hear our prayer.
For ourselves, that we may gain wisdom of heart and live according to the way of the Lord, and for the sick, the suffering and all those who have died, that they may pass over to the glory of heaven. Let us pray to the Lord. R † Lord hear our prayer.
Concluding Prayer Priest Celebrant Almighty Father, you give us your grace to prosper the work of our hands. We pray you will also show us your favor as we ask you to hear these and all our prayers through Christ our Lord. All: Amen.
Prepared by Father G. Dennis Gill Office for Divine Worship
Twenty-Ninth Sunday In Ordinary Time
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2021
Introduction/Priest Celebrant: My brothers and sisters: The kindness of the Lord is upon us and so we place our hope in him. Let us turn to our Father in faith trusting he will hear our prayers.
Intentions/Deacon/Lector: For all the Missionaries throughout the Church, that they may know the benefit of our prayers and support so to continue to proclaim the saving Word of God in every circumstance. Let us pray to the Lord. R † Lord hear our prayer.
For all people surrounded by violence and war, that they may soon be rescued for safety and peace by the mercy and compassion of the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord. R † Lord hear our prayer.
For all the many petitions and intentions that we bring to the altar, especially for the renewed holiness of all the members of the Church, that as they are joined to the priestly offering of Christ in this Eucharist they will be pleasing to our Father as He receives this sacrifice from the Church. Let us pray to the Lord. R † Lord hear our prayer.
For ourselves, that we may imitate more closely the example of Jesus, servant of all, and for the sick, the suffering and all those who have died, that they may have the promises of Christ in heaven. Let us pray to the Lord. R † Lord hear our prayer.
Concluding Prayer Priest Celebrant Almighty God, you are our help and our shield. We ask you with confidence to listen to our needs and grant them according to your holy will through Christ our Lord. All: Amen.
Universal Prayers: Please recite these for the weeks leading up to World Mission Sunday.
WORLD MISSION SUNDAY, 2021 ● WEEKLY UNIVERSAL PRAYERS FOR OCTOBER
Thirtieth Sunday In Ordinary Time
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2021
Introduction/Priest Celebrant: My brothers and sisters: The Lord does great things for us and we are filled with joy. Let us ask the Lord now to hear our many prayers.
Intentions/Deacon/Lector: For Christians all throughout the world, that they may be renewed in their Missionary vocation to bear witness to all that Christ Jesus makes known to us. Let us pray to the Lord. R † Lord hear our prayer.
For all people afflicted by natural disasters that they may have a swift relief from their distress and may have every type of assistance in their need. Let us pray to the Lord. R † Lord hear our prayer.
For all the prayers and concerns that fill our hearts at this time, especially for Missionaries all throughout the Church and the on-going work of the Pontifical Mission Societies, who in Philadelphia has served the Missions for 110 Years. May they be raised in union with this offering of Christ and find a pleasing hearing by our Father in Heaven. Let us pray to the Lord. R † Lord hear our prayer.
For ourselves, that we will have eyes to see the way to follow Jesus in all things, and for the sick, the suffering and all those who have died, that they may rejoice with all the angels and saints in glory. Let us pray to the Lord. R † Lord hear our prayer.
Concluding Prayer Priest Celebrant Almighty Father,
in your goodness we ask you to hear and answer
these and all our prayers through Christ our Lord. All: Amen.
Prepared by Father G. Dennis Gill Office for Divine Worship
Universal Prayers: Please recite these for the weekend of World Mission Sunday.
WORLD MISSION SUNDAY, 2021 ● PARISH COMMUNICATION MATERIALS
Homily Helps: Reflections on the readings for the Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time October 24, 2021: Jer 31: 7-9; PS 126: 1-2, 2-3, 4-5, 6; Heb 5: 1-6, Mt 10: 46-52
Committed to take courage, get up and share the words and work of the Lord with everyone
On this World Mission Sunday, we recall with gratitude all those men and women who by their testimony of life help us to renew our baptismal commitment to be generous and joyful apostles of the Gospel. Let us remember especially all those who purposefully set out, leaving home and family behind, to bring the Gospel to all those places and people thirsty for its saving message. For those of us who remain at home, we can contribute to our Father’s plan through prayer and the example we offer in our own community.
In today’s readings, we see God’s desire to console and guide His people, as we hear: “I will gather them from the ends of the world, with the blind and the lame in their midst. They departed in tears, but I will console them and guide them.” Jr 31: 8 And then, God asking them, and each one of us, to take courage to grasp what Jesus is calling us to do and respond.
In the Gospel, we hear, “Take courage; get up, Jesus is calling you.” What a beautiful expression, something that should be part of our vocabulary with everyone in the Church!
“Take courage, get up, Jesus is calling you.” It would have been very easy for Jesus to come to meet Bartimaeus exactly where he was begging. But Jesus loved him too much and understands the human heart too well to do that. Instead he drew near, he got close, but then he had Bartimaeus get up to come to him, to exercise Bartimaeus’ freedom, to give him greater participation in the miracle Jesus was about to accomplish. It takes courage to get up and leave our comfort zone to respond to the Lord. Bartimaeus had that courage and did.
Similarly, on many occasions, we need a similar courage to respond to the Lord. It might be getting up and going to the Church rather than remaining in the comfort of our homes. It might be helping out with some form of charity rather than remaining isolated. But when Jesus calls he always challenges us to move. He never says to us, “Stay exactly where you are. Don’t budge.” Rather He, who is always on the move, He who is always passing by waiting for an invitation, perpetually invites us to get up from where we are and follow Him. That’s the fundamental moment of the call to be Missionary. The call to embrace His truth. He expects those who have faith to communicate it to others.
Just as the Bartimaeus and the Apostles saw, heard and touched the saving power of Jesus cf. 1 Jn 1:1-4, we too can daily touch the sorrowful and glorious flesh of Christ. There we can find the courage to share with everyone we meet a destiny of hope, the sure knowledge that the Lord is ever at our side. As Catholics, we cannot keep the Lord to ourselves: the Church’s evangelizing Mission finds outward fulfilment in the transformation of our world. An invitation to each of us . . .
To be on Mission is to be willing to think as Christ does, to believe with Him that those around us are also my brothers and sisters. May His compassionate love touch our hearts and make us all true Missionary disciples, especially in this, the celebration of the 110th Anniversary of the Pontifical Mission Societies. With your prayers and support over these 110 years, you have answered the call and helped Missionaries and the people they serve around the world.
“The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.” Psalm 126: 1,3
PONTIFICAL MISSION SOCIETIES
OFFICE OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION 222 North Seventeenth Street • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103-1299
Telephone: 215-587-3976 • Fax: 215-933-5235
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia is hiring Permanent & Substitute TEACHERS
EDUCATOR CAREER FAIR
Friday, October 8th, 2021 Noon to 2:00 pm
Biology Chemistry Physics Engineering Math Fine Arts Special Education Business Technology World Language
Teachers are invited to attend
Please visit www.AOPcatholicschools.org for information about Secondary Schools, Schools of Special Education, and the Office of Catholic Education.
Candidates should possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
Pennsylvania Teacher Certification is preferred.
All clearances and Safe Environment Training are required to be current for hiring.
Administrators representing AOP Schools and the Office of Catholic Education will be available to interview candidates and answer your questions about joining AOP team
Teaching is not a remote opportunity - In person teaching at school locations Candidates need to submit resume and transcripts prior to event, if not already on file
with the Office of Catholic Education. Please provide updated resume for interview.
Click Here for REGISTRATION LINK to Career Fair
For questions concerning the application process, please contact Barbara Guiliano, HR Assistant for Secondary Schools at
2222
A South Philadelphia parish dedicated a shrine to a former alcoholic now on the path to sainthood. Some 160 faithful gathered on 2
May at St Gabriel in the City’s Grays Ferry section, where a new statue of Venerable Matt Talbot – commissioned with the generous assistance of the DiCocco Family’s St Jude Shop in Havertown – was unveiled after the 10am Mass.
The Irish laborer, who died in 1925, renounced a life of addiction and went on to become “a great example of what it means to remain in our Lord and bear much fruit,” said Norbertine Father Carl Braschoss, celebrant and pastor.
Born in 1856, Talbot started drinking at age twelve, and for more than sixteen years afterwards, was mired in addiction, even “pawning his own clothing and boots” for alcohol, said Father Braschoss. When friends refused to buy him a drink one evening, a penniless twenty-eight year old Talbot took a three-month sobriety pledge, eventually extending it to a lifetime commitment through the Dublin- based Pioneer Total Abstinence Association of the Sacred Heart. Talbot went on to lead a quiet, ascetic life that included daily Mass, prayer, Scripture reading and charitable works. Fatally collapsing on a Dublin street en route to church, he was discovered to have regularly worn chains under his garments.
Pope Paul VI declared Talbot ‘venerable’ in 1975, and the Irishman is now invoked as an intercessor
by a number of ministries for those suffering from addiction, including the Calix Society, which was founded in the US some twenty years after Talbot’s death. The global Catholic recovery group, based in Glenside and named after the Latin word for ‘cup’” ensures twelve-step-based sobriety by promoting sanctification through the sacraments. Meetings generally feature Mass, Eucharistic adoration, the Rosary, reflection and fellowship. Calix Society treasurer and ‘Saints and Sinners’ radio show host, Ken Johnston, said St Gabriel has long been a ‘hub’ for Matt Talbot devotion. In addition to featuring a local Calix chapter, the parish is home to a Third Order Secular Franciscan fraternity named for Talbot. That group, in turn, emerged from ‘Our House Ministries’, a Catholic recovery outreach founded by Father Douglas McKay, an archdiocesan priest who grew up in St Gabriel’s and began praying to Talbot while a seminarian.
“When I first found out about him, I wanted to get all the materials on him I could”, said Father McKay, who along with Monsignor Francis Carbine concelebrated the 2 May Mass. “I always carried a Matt Talbot prayer card”. Having witnessed addiction’s long impact on both his own family and the Grays Ferry area, Father McKay said he “started going into the bars and handing out the life of Matt Talbot”. Over time, those efforts culminated in the founding of ‘Our House Ministries’, which today
South Philadelphia Shrine to
Venerable Matt Talbot
A South Philadelphia parish has dedicated a shrine to Venerable Matt Talbot, patron of addiction recovery. Gina Christian of CatholicPhilly.com
reports on this very special occasion
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operates several recovery homes adjacent to St Gabriel.
The Irishman’s unlikely journey from self- destruction to saintliness “will enlighten the way for so many people who are struggling in darkness”, said Monsignor Carbine. Calix member and Our House staffer Patrick Kennedy agreed, saying he prays to Matt Talbot “every day.” Kennedy credits that intercession with keeping him sober – as well as alive after a fourteen- hour emergency surgery for an intestinal rupture.
Following his hospitalisation, he attended a Matt Talbot-themed retreat, where he was able to release manyoftheresentmentsthathadfuelledhisaddiction. “I literally used to get high behind where the Calix meetings are now,” said Kennedy, speaking from the St. Gabriel lawn after Mass. “Matt Talbot enabled me to be a part of this, from getting high over there to be here doing this work.” Now a daily communicant, Kennedy led the final construction phases of the Talbot shrine at St Gabriel, coordinating with artisans and contractors to revamp the former baptistery into
Pope Paul VI declared Talbot ‘venerable’ in 1975, and the Irishman is now invoked as an intercessor by a number of ministries for those suffering from addiction, including the Calix Society, which was founded in the US some twenty years after Talbot’s death.
a bright, welcoming alcove containing the statue, prayer cards, medals, and a book of intentions. Ultimately, said Johnston, the goal is to have the site become a national shrine – “but there are a few steps involved”, he noted.
On a 2014 visit to Philadelphia from Ireland, Father Brian Lawless, vice postulator of Talbot’s cause for canonisation, suggested the church could become the venerable Matt’s US national shrine. Prior to being named as such, however, the shrine must first receive archdiocesan approval, and later the endorsement of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops. The process starts with faithful making regular visits to the new shrine, said Johnston, and St Gabriel will be open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 am until at least 6 pm for that purpose. The shrine’s urban location mirrors the chaotic environment in which Talbot paradoxically nurtured a genuine “mysticism”, said Father McKay. “He was a worker in Dublin, and there were all kinds of craziness around him”” he said. “And there are all kinds of craziness around us ... profanity, alarms going off, helicopters flying over, and gunshots”.
The “light in the darkness” is Jesus, Father McKay said – something Talbot knew from his own experience. On trading addiction for mystical oneness with Christ, said Father McKay, Talbot’s advice was as plainspoken as the man himself: “If I can do it, you can do it, by the grace of God”.
A statue of Venerable Matt Talbot stands at the centre of a new shrine in his honour, which was dedicated 2 May 2021 at St Gabriel Parish in Philadelphia, where the Irish labourer- turned-mystic has long been a popular patron, particularly for those in addiction recovery.
“IF I CAN DO IT, YOU CAN DO IT, BY THE GRACE OF GOD”
- Venerable Matt Talbot
Come visit the new
Venerable Matt Talbot Shrine!
The shrine is located in
Saint Gabriel Church
29th & Dickinson Streets
(Grays Ferry neighborhood)
Shrine is open before and after
weekend Masses as well as Tuesdays
and Thursdays following the daily
8:30 AM Mass until 6:00 PM.
There is also a Holy Hour on
Tuesday at 1:00 PM.
Come and pray for all those that
struggle with or have succumbed to
addiction and their loved ones!
Visit our website at www.matttalbotshrine.org for more details or call
Our House Ministries @ 267-928-3173