The Diocesan Dispatch

Please Cut & Paste items in your bulletin as appropriate to your parish.     
The Diocesan Dispatch is usually published on Monday mornings by 8 am via email. Submission must be received by the previous Friday for inclusion and should be at least 2 weeks before an event date in order to have an opportunity to be included in parish bulletins before your event. You can email submissions directly to rdelisle@worcesterdiocese.org.

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Have space available in your bulletin this week? Consider including one of the ongoing resources:  Click HERE for ONGOING RESOURCES

For September 25, 2023

Stewardship Reflections for Bulletins

26^th Sunday in Ordinary Time
“Do nothing out of selfishness; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves…” (Philippians 2:3) Pride and ego are hard things to control. We see how others act or dress and think we are superior to them. We idolize our own self-image. But, if we truly believe everything is a gift from God, we recognize all the people that God has put in our lives as gifts! We are grateful for how they enrich our lives. Pray every day for the people in your life: your family, your friends and those who make you angry.
26^o Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
“No hagan nada por rivalidad ni orgullo. Sean humildes y cada uno considere a los demás como más importantes que sí mismo…”  (FILIPENSES 2:3) El orgullo y el ego son difíciles de controlar. Vemos como se visten o actúan los demás y pensamos que somos superiores a ellos. Idealizamos nuestra propia imagen. Sin embargo, si realmente creemos que todas las cosas son dones de Dios, reconoceremos como regalos a todas las personas que Dios ha puesto en nuestras vidas. Estamos agradecidos por la forma en la que enriquecen nuestras vidas. Ore cada día por las personas de su vida: su familia, sus amigos y por aquellos que lo hacen enojar.

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Vocations reflections for Bulletins

Bulletin inserts in English and Spanish for vocations awareness.
For weekly Vocations Intercessions, CLICK HERE for English  (en espanol)

Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
“He humbled Himself and became obedient….” If the Lord invites you to follow Him in humble odedience as a priest or in the consecrated life, how will you respond? Contact the Vocation Office at (508)-630-4473 or email: dinfante@saintpaulknights.org.

Vigésimo Sexto Domingo de Tiempo Ordinario
“Él se humilló y se hizo obediente.” Si el Señor lo invita a seguirlo en humilde obediencia como sacerdote o en la vida consagrada, ¿Cómo responderá? Comuníquese con la Oficina de Vocaciones al (508)-630-4473 o envíe un correo electrónico a: dinfante@saintpaulknights.org.

40 Days for Life Fall Campaign
The Fall 2023 40 Days for Life campaign runs from Sept. 27 to Nov. 5.  Learn more about this effort that is saving lives and how you can participate. Visit www.40daysforlife.com/en/worcester.   


Healing Service and Mass in Upton
On the Feast of the Holy Archangels, Friday, Sept. 29 at 5:30 pm, St. Gabriel the Archangel Parish invites you to a Mass with Healing Serice, along with Benediction and confessions. Along with Fr. Larry Brault and Deacon Stephen Mullaney, Maureen Capistran, author of My Little Star with be there. Located at 151 Mendon St., Upton. You can learn more about Maureen Capistran's minitry at straphaeloil.com.

Become a Bernardian! 
Join us on Wednesday, Oct. 4 from 6-8:00 pm for St. Bernard's High School Fall Open House. Meet teachers, students, and families while getting a true sense of how much Northern Worcester County's only Catholic high school has to offer you and your family! Register online today: https://stbernardshighschool.org/openhouse.


Courage International to present in Webster
What should our response be to the ever-increasing number of friends, family and acquaintances who now say they identify as something other than who God made them? Did you know that the Catholic Church has only one canonically-approved apostolate which offers pastoral support to men and women experiencing same-sex attractions who have chosen to live a chaste life? That same apostolate also offers a group which provides pastoral care for families and friends of people who experience same-sex attractions and/or gender identity discordance. This group is called Courage International. All are welcome on Saturday, Oct. 7 at 7pm to Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Webster. Father Colin Blatchford, Associate Director of Courage, International will give a talk called “The Authentic Pastoral Response for LGBT.” Please come and bring any friends who may be interested in learning about this much needed ministry. Please be advised that the talk is geared to adults, not young children.

Bereavement Support Group
Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, 111 Worcester Street, West Boylston will hold its next 6-part series of "A New Day" bereavement support group beginning Monday, Oct. 16, 1-2:30 pm.  For more information or to register (required prior to the start of the sessions) call Renate Isbell (508) 835-3286.

Blessing of pets and pet stuffed animals
A Blessing and Treat for Your Pet and stuffed animals will be held on Saturday, Oct. 21 from 9:30am - 10:30 am  (Rain or Shine) at St. George Church Parking Lot, 40 Brattle Street, Worcester. Bring your pet, a picture of a pet,  or even your Favorite Stuffed Animal.  For the safety of all animals, dogs must be on a leash or crated. For more Information JoAnn or Andrea 508-853-0183 emmaus.stgeorge@gmail.com.

Fall Fair in Milford
The women’s club of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Milford is having their 16th Annual Fall Fair Rummage Sale. The fair is on Saturday, Oct. 21 from 9 am to 2 pm in the bell tower room hall above the parish school building. It is free admission, free parking, and handicap, accessible. There will be the rummage sale consisting of jewelry, handbags and accessories, holiday decor and home decor, also a bake sale and many raffles!

St. Jude Novena in Leicester
Join us for the St. Jude Novena at Saint Aloysius-Saint Jude Church, 489 Pleasant St., Leicester on Sunday, Oct. 29 at 2:00 pm. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Homily, Litany to Saint Jude, Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick and Benediction.

september 18, 2023

Stewardship Reflections for Bulletins

25^th Sunday in Ordinary Time
“Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last.” (Matthew 20:16) You’ve heard the saying “it’s not where you start, but how you finish.” This certainly applies to this Bible passage. We have a responsibility not only for our own lives, but for the lives of others as well. We are called to generously share our gifts with others, not hoard them for our own use. Our sincere gratitude and cheerful generosity will help us live “God-centered” lives and not “self-centered” lives.

25^o Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
“Entonces, los últimos serán los primeros, y los primeros serán los últimos.”  (Mateo 20:16) Seguramente ha escuchado el dicho “no se trata de dónde empiezas, sino de cómo terminas”. Esto ciertamente se aplica a este pasaje de la Biblia. No solo somos responsables de nuestras vidas, sino también de las vidas de otras personas. Somos llamados a compartir nuestros dones con generosidad, no a acumularlos para nuestro propio uso. Nuestra gratitud sincera y nuestra alegre generosidad nos llevará a vivir una Vida “centrada en Dios” y no una vida “egocéntrica”.

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Vocations reflections for Bulletins

Bulletin inserts in English and Spanish for vocations awareness.
For weekly Vocations Intercessions, CLICK HERE for English  (en espanol)

Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
“Seek the Lord while He may be found…” While seeking Him in prayer and the sacraments, listen to Him. Could it be you are being called by Jesus to serve as a priest, deacon, sister or brother? If you think He may be offering you this grace, contact the Vocation Office at (508) 630-4473 or email: dinfante@saintpaulknights.org.

Vigésimo Quinto Domingo de Tiempo Ordinario
“Busca al Señor, y lo encontraras…” En lo que Lo buscas en la oración y en los sacramentos, escúchalo. ¿Puede ser que Jesús está llamándole a servirle como sacerdote, diácono, hermana o hermano? Si piensa que Él podría ofrecerle esta gracia, comuníquese con la Oficina de Vocaciones al (508) 630-4473 o envíe un correo electrónico a: dinfante@saintpaulknights.org.

St. Therese Novena in Leominster
All are welcome to the St. Therese of Lisieux Novena at Holy Family of Nazareth Church on September 22-30 at 7:00 pm weekdays,  Saturday, Sept. 23 at 5:15 pm, and Saturday, Sept. 30 with Mass at 9:00 am. Novena will consist of a different guest speakers within the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

Healing Mass in Douglas
All are invited to Mass with the Sacrament of the Sick on Friday, Sept. 29 at 11:30 am at Saint Denis in Douglas. Light refreshments will be served in the Gathering Room immediately after.

Annual Life Chain in Worcester & Shrewsbury
Let your voice be heard in proclaiming the sanctity of life! All are invited to join the annual Life Chain on Sunday, Oct. 1 from 2:00 - 3:30 p.m.  This event of peaceful, prayerful witness to the sacredness of human life is held annually on Respect Life Sunday across the nation. Life Chain stations will be located at Elm Park/Highland St., at Denny's Restaurant on Lincoln St. in Worcester, and at White City Plaza in Shrewsbury.  You may bring a chair if you'd like to sit.  Signs will be available. Invite family, friends, and fellow parishioners to join you in proclaiming the Gospel of Life and reminding passers-by that life is a precious gift from God. The event will be held rain or shine. For more information, contact Joe Godek at 508-614-5971. All are welcome!

Webinar for Respect Life Month
The Respect Life Office of the Diocese of Worcester invites you to attend our webinar, “Celebrating Respect Life Month (and beyond)” on Wednesday, Oct. 4 at 11:00 a.m.  The webinar will explore the materials in the new edition of the annual Respect Life Program and offer practical suggestions for using them both during Respect Life Month and throughout the coming year.  Pre-registration is required to receive a login link.  To register, send an email to aledoux@worcesterdiocese.org with your name, parish, and email address and include the words “Webinar Registration” in the subject line. 

Discerning a Later Vocation to the Priesthood?
Is God calling you to be a priest?  If you are 30-60, you may be surprised!  Every month Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary in Weston hosts visits for men for whom priesthood is a later vocation.  The next visit is October 6.  Join the seminary community either virtually or in person for prayer and fellowship, holy hour and evening prayer.  In person visits also include dinner with the seminarians and a tour of the seminary.  To sign-up or receive more information, please contact Msgr. William Fay at 781-899-5500 ext. 134 or msgr.fay@psjs.edu. 

Family Dinner in Leicester
Join us for a Family dinner on Thursday, October 12 at 6 pm at Leicester Knights of Columbus, 91 Manville St. Leicester . Menu is choice of Mac'n Cheese with Pulled Pork or Baked Fish.  Cost is $15.00 and includes salad, entrée, and dessert and coffee. Call Don at 508-615-8434 or email at ohno7g7@yahoo.com by Friday, October 6 for reservations.

Rosary Rally in Leominster
America Needs Fatima yearly Rosary Rally will take place on Saturday, Oct. 14 at NOON at Leominster Carter Park,  Main St (across from St Leo Church) in the park Gazebo. All are welcome.

Hope for the Holidays: Renewing Our Joy in Jesus
Ever feel lost and hopeless around the holidays? Family gatherings at Thanksgiving and Christmas can be especially dark and challenging when loved ones have given up on God and/or the Church. Yet Jesus longs to shine through our lives so we can spread his love to others. Speaker: Paul Jarzembowski, Associate Director, US Conference of Catholic Bishops. Secretariat of Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth. Author of Hope from the Ashes: Insights and Resources for Welcoming Lenten Visitors and Hope for the Holidays: Finding Light at the Darkest Time of the Year. Tuesday, Oct. 17 from 7:00-9:00 pm BY ZOOM. Registration: NO COST. To receive the Zoom.com link, send your name and phone number in an email by Oct. 13 to: boucherjohn@hotmail.com. (Sponsored by the Parish Renewal and Evangelization Committee, Diocese of Worcester, MA)

Attention St. Bernard’s High Graduates!
The Bernardian Association is having a complimentary luncheon for the Classes of 1936 to 1963 on Friday, Nov. 10 at St. Bernard’s Elementary School.  This venue is handicap accessible.  Reconnect and celebrate being part of the Bernardian Community while enjoying a light lunch and entertainment.  We will also be celebrating our school’s veterans as part of the festivities. To RSVP by October 27 or find out more, please contact Kathy Krysiak ’90 at 781-718-0390 or BernardianAssociation@StBernardsHighSchool.org. Please do not wait as space is limited and you must register to attend!  You can also find out more, RSVP for this event, and update your contact information on the school website in the “Alumni and Friends” section.

Middle School Discipleship Team
Sign-ups are now open for our newest Diocesan youth program - The Middle School Discipleship Team! This program is similar to the current high school Discipleship Team and is designed to accompany young people in formation, Christian leadership, and ultimately fostering a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The team is open to any young person in 6th-8th grade from parishes or schools around the Diocese of Worcester. We’ll begin with a retreat day in October followed by 4 meetings during the school year. For complete dates, locations, and full details or to sign up, go to neworcester.org/middle-school-discipleship-team or contact Tim Messenger at 508-929-4360 or at tmessenger@worcesterdiocese.org.

September 11, 2023

 

August 28, 2023

Miraculous Medal Novena in Worcester
Our Lady’s Annual Miraculous Medal Novenagegins on Tuesday, Sept. 5 at 7:00 pm and continues for nine consecutive Tuesday nights, ending on Oct. 31st. Mark the dates and plan to come and bring a friend. This year’s speakers (in order) are: Rev. Lucas Laroche, Rev. Jonathan Slavinskas, Bishop Robert McManus, Rev. Richard Polek, Rev. Kenneth Cardinale, Deacon Donald Pegg, Deacon Paul Audette, Rev. Frederick Fraini and Rev.. Paul O’Connell

Holy Spirit in the Bible
 St. Cecilia Parish, 180 Mechanic St., will hold a course (online or in-person) based on the text The Holy Spirit in the Bible from Little Rock Scripture Study, Thursdays beginning Sept. 7 from 9:30-11 a.m. or 6-7:30 p.m.,. Contact Pat at psecino@stceciliachurch.net. To pre-register (required), email msgr@stceciliachurch.net. A donation of $25 is suggested.

St. Therese of Lisieux Study
St. Ceclia Parish, 180 Mechanic St., will offer a 4-week course on St. Therese’s spirituality of the little way in the 150th anniversary year of her birth, Mondays Sept. 11-Oct. 2 from 6:30-8 p.m. Father Leo LeBlanc will use “15 Days of Prayer with St. Therese of Lisieux,” by Constant Tonnelier, OCD. Call Father LeBlanc at 508-450-0281. To pre-register (required), email msgr@stceciliachurch.net. A donation of $25 is suggested.  

Family Dinner in Leicester
Knights of Columbus will hold a Family Dinner on Thursday, Sept. 14 at 6 PM at 90 Mandeville St. Leicester.  Cost is $15.00.  Menu is choice of Shepherd's Pie or Baked Fish and includes salad and dessert.  Call Don at 508-615-8434 or email ono797@yahoo.com by Friday Sept. 7 for reservations.

St. Boniface Parish Oktoberfest
Please join us for a day of family fun on Sept. 16 from 10 am - 6 pm.  We'll have raffles, prizes, crafts, chug-a-lug game, food, beer and wine and more.  We're located at 817 Mass Ave in beautiful Lunenburg!

Morning of Healing in Leominster
St. Cecilia Parish, 180 Mechanic St., will host a Morning of Healing, Saturday, Sept. 16, beginning with 9 a.m. Mass followed by Benediction, a healing service and confessions with Msgr. James P. Moroney, Father Laurence V. Brault, Deacon Stephen Mullaney and Maureen Capistran, author of “Heaven’s Helper, “My Little Star.’”  

A Pro-Life Morning of Reflection and Enrichment 
A Pro-Life Morning of Reflection and Enrichment will be held on Saturday, Sept.16 from 10:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Paul, 38 High St., Worcester.  The day will include Mass and light lunch.  There is no cost to attend but pre-registration is required.  To register, send your name, parish, and email address to aledoux@worcesterdiocese.org, or contact the Respect Life Office at 508-929-4311.  All are invited to attend! 

4th Annual St. Bernard's High School Athletics Golf Tournament
Join us for a fantastic day of golf to support the Athletics program at St. Bernard's High School, Fitchburg.  Tournament is on Monday, Sept. 25 at Northern Spy Golf Course, Townsend. With two shot guns (7:30a.m. or 1p.m.), cash prizes, STB giveaways, tasting holes, all day buffet, raffles and more, the tournament has something for everyone!  Donations and sponsors are always appreciated!  Register or donate at https://www.stbernardshighschool.org/golf   For more detailed information, contact cvaleri27@gmail.com or athletics@stbernardshighschool.org.

NOTE TO BULLETIN EDITORS:  Please include the following in your bulletin weekly through Oct. 8 to ensure people can register prior to deadline.  You are also invited to utilize this information as a pulpit announcement if customary in your parish. 
Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass – October 22, 2023  
Bishop Robert J. McManus will celebrate the Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 22, 2023 at the Cathedral of St. Paul, Worcester.  This liturgy of thanksgiving to God for many years of faithful witness to the sacredness of Christian marriage honors couples who are marking significant anniversaries (25^th, 40^th, 50^th, etc.) this year. A light reception will follow downstairs in the Cenacle.  Family and friends are welcome! Couples wishing to attend should pre-register no later than October 13 so that commemorative certificates may be issued.  To register, complete the registration form at www.worcesterdiocese.org/wedding-anniversary-mass, or contact the Office of Marriage and Family at 508-929-4311 or email aledoux@worcesterdiocese.org to request that a copy of the registration form be sent to you.  

Aug. 21, 2023

American Heritage Girls Informational Meeting
American Heritage Girls Troop 0716 invites girls ages 5-17 to join in a year of faith, fun, and service. Informational meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 12 from 5-6:30 pm at Our Lady of Mt Carmel and Our Lady of Loreto Parish in Worcester. For more information, contact troop0716ahg@gmail.com or visit https://sites.google.com/view/ahg-troop-0716 .

Special Religious Ed Open House
SPRED (SPecial Religious EDucation) is holding the annual open house on Sunday, Sept. 17, from 1:00 to 3:00 pm. This will be at the Emmaus Center, 17 East Main Street, Webster across from Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, with parking on the Day Street lot. The program is for our intellectually challenged friends ages 7 and up. Please contact Nicole at nwerbecki@yahoo.com or Linda at Lbrink2019@gmail.com for any further questions. All family members are welcome!

Adoration Chapel Schedule in Gardner
A Eucharist Adoration Chapel located the new parish center at Holy Rosary Church opened in mid August.  We are looking for adorers to answer God's call.  Please come and spend an hour with Christ and obtain God’s extraordinary blessings. You have the opportunity to participate in His friendship by being an adorer for one hour each week.  The Adoration Chapel will be opened on Wednesdays 6 am to 8 pm, Thursdays and Fridays 8 am to 8 pm.  Please email Maryann Lindgren at calltoadoration@aol.com or call *82-508-341-9132 if you are interested.

Aug. 14, 2023

Learn more about the Dead Sea Scrolls

St. Mary’s University is presenting, Qumran and the Dead Sea Scrolls, on Mondays, Sept. 11, 18, 25, and Oct. 9, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm in the Parish Hall. The discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls is possibly the greatest archaeological discovery of the 20th century. These ancient manuscripts were discovered in eleven caves near Khirbet Qumran and they are almost two thousand years old. This course will include the history of how the scrolls were discovered, the origin of the writings, and discussion about whether John the Baptist and Jesus were part of the community. There is no cost and no need to register. Classes will be held at St. Mary’s Church, 77 Mendon Street, Uxbridge. For more info, please call 508-278-2226.

Grief Support Workshop in Uxbridge
St. Mary Church is offering “Grieving with Great HOPE,” a five-week grief support workshop every Thursday evening beginning Sept. 22 and ending on Oct 19 from 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm. It is from Good Mourning Ministry, a Catholic Apostolate ministering to those mourning the loss of a loved one including a spouse, child, parent, sibling, cousin, etc. As Catholics, we have hope for eternal life in the risen Lord for ourselves and for our loved ones. In this workshop, practical tools for intentional mourning will be introduced and we will seek to become disciples of hope. Cost is $12.00 and includes an accompanying workbook. To register, please call the office, register on-line at stmaryuxbridge.org/grieving-with-great-hope or email: dmoriarty@stmaryuxbridge.org.  All are welcome to attend, no matter when your loss occurred. If you feel you need support, but cannot join the workshop, please reach out to Diane in the parish office at 508-278-2226 X23. St. Mary’s Church is located at 77 Mendon Street, Uxbridge.

Certificate program in Bible Studies online accepting registrations
Embrace a love for time with God and sacred Scripture. Join the New England Catholic Biblical School’s accredited Certificate in Advanced Biblical Studies program to study and pray with all the books in the Bible. Enrollment is now open until August 31 for virtual classes that begin Sept. 20. Visit: www.NewEnglandCatholicBiblicalSchool.com or call 860-242-5573.
 

Job Opportunity

Pastoral Associate Position
St Mary Parish in Jefferson, Mass. is seeking a Part-time Pastoral
Associate. Candidates should have a background in Pastoral Ministry, RCIA and Liturgical Ministry Training. To request a job description please contact us a
tbrewer@stmaryjeff.com.

Aug. 7, 2023

An Evening with Elvis in Douglas
On Saturday, Sept. 16 please join us for An Evening with Elvis at St. Denis Parish, Douglas. Doors open at 5 pm, performance starts at 5:30 pm. $20 per person (21+) includes finger sandwiches, pasta salad, chips, veggies and dip, baked goods, coffee, tea, soda, water. Beer and Wine available for $5 each (limit 2 drinks per person). Raffle Baskets • 50/50 Cash Raffle • 50s theme (dressing for the era is encouraged!). For more information or to reserve your ticket(s), visit SaintDenisChurch.com. 

To Parish Administration

Using your eCatholic website or Flocknote emails for selling tickets for evens or for sign-ups.
Your eCatholic website and Flocknote emails both offer the option to let parishioners or visitors buy tickets for dinners and/or sign up for events. If you want to learn how, please email Ray at rdelisle@worcesterdiocese.org. We will schedule a training class online and/or send you a simple step-by-step instruction. You never have to be limited to rectory hours to give people access to tickets again!.

 

Job Opportunities

Director of Liturgical Music
St. Anne St. Patrick Parish, Fiskdale is seeking a Director of Liturgical Music. The successful candidate should have credentials in music and an understanding of Roman Catholic liturgy. Responsibilities include planning, coordination and execution of music with the liturgical celebrations of the parish especially Sunday liturgies and other major feasts and celebrations, such as Christmas, Easter Triduum and the St. Anne Novena; organizing and rehearsing with parish choirs (adult and children) as well as cantors, etc. This is a part time (20-25 hours per week) position. If interested, please submit a cover letter and resume to stannestpatoffice@gmail.com.

Groundskeeping Crew at St. John Cemetery System
We are currently looking for additional Groundskeeping crew people to assist with general yard work and funeral assistance. For more information contact James Brasco at508-757-7415. St. John Cemetery is located at 260 Cambridge St., Worcester.

June 26, 2023

Volunteer Opportunities for Adults 50+ yrs.
Ignatian Volunteer Corps (IVC) New England is interviewing applicants now for fall openings. IVC Service Corps Members combine direct service opportunities at non-profits serving those in need in our communities with monthly spiritual reflection in the Jesuit tradition. Volunteers, 50 years of age and better, serve two full days/week from September through June. For more information and an application, contact IVC New England Director Dave Hinchen: dhinchen@ivcusa.org.

Pilgrimage to Ireland

Our Lady of Hope Parish’s Pilgrimage to Ireland will be led by Fr. Anthony Mpagi and Fr. Derek Mobilio on April 8-19, 2024.  We will visit Galway, Glenstal Abbey, the Aran Islands, Our Lady of Knock Shrine, Cobh, Glendalough, and Dublin. Tour includes round trip airfare, hotel accommodations for 10 nights, 9 dinners and 11 breakfasts, transportation on a private motor coach, and admission fees as per itinerary. Double Occupancy Price per Person: $4750  For information and to sign up, please contact Fr. Derek Mobilio - fr.mobilio@gmail.com - 508-556-0553.

Job Oppportunity

Accompanist Needed in Grafton
Organist, pianist or guitar player needed for 9:00 am Sunday Mass weekly at St. James Catholic Church in Grafton.  Singing as well is helpful, but not required.  Paid position.  Must know Catholic Mass and traditional hymns and be able to commit to weekly service. Contact Pam Cross at p.cross@shoplegacy.com or 978-265-7264.

June 5, 2023

Trip to the Holy Land
Join Fr. Bob Grattaroti (St. Joseph's Charlton) for a trip to the Holy Land.  October 23-November 5, 2023.  Flight from Boston to Tel Aviv/Holy Land.  Spend 7 days in the Holy Land before heading off to Rome with a papal audience.  Then off to visit Florence and Assisi and Venice.  Price includes Roundtrip airfare from Boston, 2 meals a day, 4/5 star accommodations, luxury buses and a lifetime of memories. Cost is $5,599.00 per person.  For more information please reach out to Proximo Travel, 855-842-8001.

Divine Mercy Ministry to Seniors

Volunteers are needed to spread Jesus’ message of Divine Mercy to seniors in local nursing homes and assisted living facilities. As a volunteer prayer group leader, you would lead a weekly 30-minute Divine Mercy prayer group using a simple prepared model of readings, prayers, and the Chaplet of Divine Mercy.  If you feel that the Lord is calling you to this ministry of mercy, please contact Mary Higgins at (413) 552-7231 or email Mary at DivineMercyMinistryToSeniors@gmail.com to receive an digital flyer about the program.

Promote Vocations through Serra Club

The Serra Club of the Worcester Diocese North is inviting local parishioners to consider joining their group. The Serrans who formed the first club in 1935, took as their patron, Fr. Junipero Serra, OFM, who established the chain of missions along the California coast. Serra is an international organization for lay Catholics who accept as their responsibility the promotion of vocations to the priesthood, diaconate, and the vowed religious life. Serrans come from all walks of life: lawyers, homemakers, doctors, business people, and retirees to name a few. They also support local diocesan priests, deacons, members of religious orders, and seminarians. This is accomplished by prayers, notes of support, holiday gifts, and visits. For more information about membership Serra Club North, please contact membership co-chairs, John Shannon, St. Leo Parish, Leominster at john_shan5@hotmail.com or Stephen Sonia, Holy Trinity Parish, Harvard/Bolton at stevesonia283@comcast.net. 

 

TO Parish Administration

NEVER Trust emails that just don't "feel" right!
If you see an email that SEEMS to be from someone you know that is asking for gift cards, or cash, or something that simly reads out of character. Look closely - the email is actually a scam. Don't blindly trust email requests without verifying addresses.

Vigilance against Fraud
A parish shared with us how someone tried to redirect an employee's paycheck via an alternate direct deposit account. ALWAYS BE CIRCUMSPECT! Before even considering such a change, never act just from an email. Consider the following:

1. Have the employee complete a properly signed form along with the bank information Routing # , account  etc 
2. Provide a voided check to be kept on record which matches that information
3. Process the request thru the payroll service.  
4. Keep the information in the employee's personnel file.

Looking to offer a unique praise and worship concert?

Mary Verdi of Western Massachusetts has frequently presented concerts of inspirational music in New England and has been featured on Catholic TV and Reel to Real in September. You can learn more by viewing https://youtu.be/wC72l1GSnYA or visiting her website at maryverdi.com. She is looking for a parish in the Worcester Diocese which would be interested in hosting her. Contact her directly at 413-841-1140 or by email at mary@maryverdi.com.

Coming to Chancery for Appointments - Protocol
The chancery remains closed to the public except for scheduled appointments. The front vestibule is OPEN during business hours and a phone is present to call your appointment to notify them of your arrival. If you are dropping off material for a department (e.g., Marriage Tribunal, Partners in Charity or Finance, please call that department to let them know. Phone messages will be checked regularly and we encourage parish staff to use the direct dial numbers for each department which are listed in the Diocesan Directory.

eCatholic tip: online payments and donations
The monthly fee to use eCatholic payments is waived for parishes in the diocese and transaction fees are as low as it gets in the industry.  The site is very secure, and the money goes right into your parish bank account and you get a report letting you know! You can also use eCatholic Payments for one time or recurring payments and donations for offertory, religious education tuition and more! But, if you already have an online offertory platform you can use eCatholic Payments with their web forms alongside that platform for one time donations for events, etc. Questions: email worcester@ecatholic.com anytime.

Promoting events? Use your eCatholic and Flocknote Resources!

It is EASY to set up an event announcement and registration/ticket form on your eCatholic website. If you have not yet done so, contact them for an online account to accept credit cards via your site. Not only will it make it more convenient than “come to the rectory for tickets;” you can reach more people and plan better for your event. Costs are as low as it gets in the industry, the site is very secure, and the money goes right into your parish bank account and you get a report letting you know! PLUS you can then send everyone a link by Flocknote to go to the site with one click from their phone, tablet or computer and get the tickets, make the donation or at least be aware of the event details to share with family and friends. Let your Communications Ministry tools work for you! Contact Luke at worcester@eCatholic.com if you need to get set up or to learn more.

EMAIL NOTICES
We often hear from pastors and parishes saying they are not getting emails from us, even when we have a correct address. No Email system is foolproof (Gmail, MSN, Outlook, aol, Charter.net, Verizon.net,  etc.) and your provider may be very aggressively blocking emails from your inbox based on general algorithms. Please remember to check your junk mail regularly to see if emails from our Flocknote system or from worcesterdiocese.org or other sources are being inadvertently blocked. You can always use your email system’s rules when this happens to “always accept email from this sender.” Usually that option appears when you “Right Click’ on the email in question with your mouse.

Senior Fraud Hotline
RSVP’s Senior Fraud HelpLine is a toll-free resource for seniors and their families to call when they are concerned that they are being targeted by scammers.  If they are in doubt, they should check it out by calling 1-800-297-9760. Confidential. Knowledgeable. Local. Supportive.

Volunteer To Help With Food Distribution In Our Food Pantry
Catholic Charities Emergency Stabilization Services located on Hammond Street in Worcester is looking for volunteers who might be able to assist them with distributing food in our food pantry. Volunteers must be available once a week from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm and be able to lift cases of food. Volunteer days: Monday - Friday. Thank you for your consideration. All help is much needed and appreciated! Contact: Maydeé Morales at 508-860-2206 or via e-mail to mmorales@ccworc.org.

REDUCED-FEE LEGAL SERVICES IN WORCESTER 
The Worcester County Bar Association has a Reduced Fee Program where household income exceeds the requirements for free legal assistance but makes hiring an attorney unfeasible. You must be a Worcester County resident and legal services include bankruptcy, mortgage foreclosures, wills, divorces, custody and evictions. Call 800-622-9700 800-622-9700 for more information, indicating your interest in the Reduced Fee Program. 

UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON ONLINE LEARNING (DIOCESAN PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM) 
Have you ever had a desire to expand your knowledge of the faith in areas such as Scripture, Liturgy and Worship, Prayer and Spirituality, Sacraments, Creed, or Church History? Check out the on-line courses available to adults through our Diocesan Partnership Program with U Dayton and the Virtual Community for Faith Formation. You can receive a substantial discount while learning in your own space during your personal hours of availability. If you have any questions, please call Barbara Ramian at 508-929-4308.

PROJECT RACHEL CAN HELP WITH THE PAIN OF A PAST ABORTION 
Hurting from a past abortion? We can help. Project Rachel is the Catholic Church’s ministry of healing and reconciliation to those who have been wounded by abortion. Our services are free and strictly confidential. Call Project Rachel at (508) 791-HOPE. 

FERTILITY CARE PROGRAM 
There is an alternative to artificial methods of birth control and IVF. Learn about The Creighton Model System of FertilityCare, the reproductive science that is 99% effective to avoid pregnancy, highly effective to achieve pregnancy and offers couples who are experiencing infertility hope to achieve their dream of pregnancy without artificial reproductive technologies. This is accomplished while following the teachings of the church. To learn more about the program contact Barbara Meier, RN, FertilityCare Practitioner at 609-457-0108 609-457-0108 or fertilitycare@ymail.com.

CAR DONATION PROGRAM
Did you know you can donate your car, truck, motorcycle or boat to Catholic Charities and help us help your Worcester County neighbors?  It’s quick and easy to do.  Just visit our website to donate your vehicle online atwww.ccworc.org or call 1-888-CAR-7308 1-888-CAR-7308 to arrange a convenient pickup time and confirmation of your donation from Catholic Charities Donation Angel Program.  The car in your driveway can help us to continue to offer many services to children, families and elders in our community so that they may regain home for a brighter future.  Thank you!

Mental Health Providers Directory
An extensive directory of mental health providers in Worcester who serve children and families, as well as bilingual providers, is available from the Worcester Community Action Council, Main St. Worcester.

Employees or Independent Contractors?
The Office of the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has issued new guidance on the classification of hired personnel as employees or independent contractors. Hired personnel are considered employees unless: (1) the individual is free from the employers direction and control in connection with the performance of the service, both under his or her contract for the performance of service and in fact; (2) the service the individual performs is outside the usual course of business of the employer; and (3) the individual is customarily engaged in an independently established trade, occupation, profession, or business of the same nature as that involved in the service performed.