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 Sept. 9, 2024

Stewardship Reflections for Bulletins

24th Sunday in Ordinary Time
“Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.” (Mark 8:34) Living a stewardship lifestyle means not only being responsible for my own life, but for the lives of others as well. We realize that our gifts are not intended for ourselves, rather they are meant to be shared with others. “Taking up my cross” means doing things when someone else needs me and not when it’s convenient for me.

24^o Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
“Si alguien quiere ser mi discípulo, que se niegue a sí mismo, tome su cruz y me siga.” (MARCOS 8:34) Vivir un estilo de vida de corresponsabilidad significa que no solo seré responsable por mi propia vida, sino también de la vida de los demás. Nos damos cuenta de que nuestros dones no fueron dispuestos para nosotros mismos, sino más bien para compartirlos con otros. “Cargar mi cruz” quiere decir hacer las cosas cuando alguien más las necesita y no cuando es conveniente para mí.

Vocations Reflections for Bulletins

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

Twenty-fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time 
“Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself.” Are you seeking a simplistic way of life? You may be called to take the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Discover that life as a priest or religious brother or sister. Talk to your priest or reach out to the Vocation Office at (508) 630-4473 or dinfante@saintpaulknights.org.

Vigésimo cuarto Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
"Quien quiera seguirme, debe negarse a sí mismo”. ¿Estás buscando una forma de vida simplista? Es posible que seas llamado a hacer votos de pobreza, castidad y obediencia. Descubra esa vida como sacerdote o hermano religioso o hermana religiosa. Hable con su sacerdote o comuníquese con la Oficina de Vocaciones al (508) 630-4473 o por correo electrónico:dinfante@saintpaulknights.org.

Nine-Week Novena to St. Peregrine for those battling cancer
Divine Mercy Parish, Blackstone invites you to a nine-week Novena each Friday, starting Friday, Sept. 6 through Friday, Nov. 1 from 8:30 until 9:00 am in the church (follows the8 am Mass).The Novena to St. Peregrine will be said for all those battling cancer, and for the souls of those whose lives were lost due to cancer.  All are invited to participate in the novena. If you would like to submit a name of a loved one, please email your intention to prayers@divinemercyparishma.org.  Questions, contact Toni Harvey at 508-883-6726 x3.

New monthly online study series!
Join us for “Bioethics Office Hours” - a one-hour lunchtime discussion forum on the third Wednesday of each month (Sept. – June) from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. beginning Sept. 18. In each session we will explore particular issues in bioethics important to Catholics.  We will base our discussions on select articles from renowned bioethicist Fr. Tad Pacholczyk’s “Making Sense of Bioethics” column.  Pre-registration is required in order to receive materials and login links. To register, send an email to aledoux@worcesterdiocese.org with subject line “Bioethics Office Hours Registration”. Please provide your name, email address, and parish in the body of the email.  For more information visit www.worcesterdiocese.org/respect-life.

Catholic Scouting Religious Emblem Program Information Sessions
Join us on Wednesday, Sept. 18 or Tuesday, Sept. 24 at 7:00 pm. You only need to attend one session at St. Christopher Church Hall, 950 West Boylston St., Worcester (Parking is available in the lot behind the church) Who should attend? Interested Catholic Scouts ages 13 – 17 (grades 7 – 12) who are seeking to learn more about their faith and their role as a Catholic Scout in today’s society, and how to register for our upcoming classes to earn the awards. Parents are asked to attend this info session to ask questions about the program and learn - along with the Scout - about the requirements for Scouts seeking to attain the Ad Altare Dei or Pope Pius XII Catholic Scouting Award. Scouts are asked to wear their complete Class ‘A’ uniform to this and all future classes. Questions? Please email John Atlas of the Diocesan Catholic Committee on Scouting, at JKARL1958@gmail.com.

Chris Brunelle in Concert in Northborough
Saint Rose of Lima Parish, 244 W. Main St., Northborough, is hosting Chris Brunelle in concert on Thursday, Sept. 26 at 7:00 pm. This will be a wonderful evening of music, stories, fellowship, and prayer. Admission is free; free-will offerings are welcome. A reception will follow. Follow him on YouTube @ChrisBrunelle.

Pro-Life Morning of Reflection
All are invited to attend A Morning for Life to be held on Saturday, Sept. 28 from 9:30 am-1:00 pm at the Cathedral of St. Paul, 38 High St., Worcester.  Monsignor James Moroney will offer a reflection on “Cain and his brother Abel: Reflections on Why We Kill the Innocent”. 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.

Mini Retreat For Women in November
The Commission for Women of the Diocese of Worcester will host Mary's Fiat, Faith and Fellowship, a Mini-Retreat for Women with Francesca LaRosa on Saturday, Nov. 16, 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at St. Anne Parish, Shrewsbury.   Francesca is an internationally recognized Catholic composer, with her sheet music being played in churches all over the world.   She is most well known for her settings of the Psalms and prayers set to music, as she composes music to God's Word to help people memorize and proclaim the Word of God.   To receive a registration flyer or more information, please email Susan Zybert at susan.zybert@gmail.com or  worcestercommissionforwomen@gmail.com.

Job Opportunities

Assistant Organist
St. Rose of Lima Parish, Northborough, is seeking an Assistant Organist to provide music for one Mass on each Saturday afternoon. For more information, including a complete job description, please contact David Moulton, Director of Music: dmoulton@saintroseoflima.com.

TO: Parish Administration

Still Room Available for any parishioner!:
One hour workshop on lifesaving techniques in conjunction with an AED.
St. Anne in Southborough is holding a training program on Saturday, Sept. 21 at 10 AM. It is being offered for FREE with UMASS Chan School staff. They still have slots open for people from other parishes to learn about life saving techniques in conjunction with use of an AED.  This is free and open to anyone in a parish or school who wants to learn more about how to help save a life at a time of need. For more information contact Wayne Webster at wayne.webster@aol.com.

Sept. 3, 2024

Stewardship Reflections for Bulletins

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
“Did not God choose those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom that he promised to those who love him?” (James 2:5) What is more important – being rich in faith or rich in possessions? Society tells us that possessions are most important. God te aches a different lesson. When we are rich in faith, we keep God first and experience true joy and peace. When we put possessions first, we soon realize we can never have enough and happiness is fleeting. When we put faith over possessions we truly realize it is better to give than receive.

23^o Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
“¿No ha elegido Dios los pobres de este mundo, para que sean ricos en fe, y herederos del Reino que prometió a los que le aman?” (Santiago 2:5) ¿Qué es más importante -ser rico en la fe o rico en posesiones? La sociedad nos dice que las posesiones son lo más importante. Dios nos enseña una lección diferente. Cuando somos ricos en la fe, mantenemos a Dios en primer lugar y experimentamos la verdadera alegría y la paz. Cuando ponemos las posesiones en primer lugar, pronto nos damos cuenta de que nunca tendremos suficiente y la felicidad es pasajera. Cuando ponemos la fe por encima de las posesiones nos damos cuenta de que realmente es mejor dar que recibir.

Vocations Reflections for Bulletins

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

Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time 
“He makes the deaf hear and the mute speak.” If you feel Christ encouraging you to be a transformative instrument as a priest or religious brother or sister, talk to your priest or reach out to the Vocation Office at (508) 630-4473or via email: dinfante@saintpaulknights.org. 

Vigésimo tercer Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
“Él hace oír a los sordos y hablar a los mudos.” Si siente que Cristo lo anima a ser un instrumento transformador como sacerdote o hermano o hermana religioso, hable con su sacerdote o comuníquese con la Oficina de Vocaciones al (508) 630-4473 o por correo electrónico: dinfante@saintpaulknights.org .  

Mass for Heroes in Auburn
Members of the Armed Forces, Fire, EMS, Veterans, and their families are invited to join us for Mass on Wednesday,  Sept. 11 at 6:00 pm at North American Martyrs Church, 8 Wyoma St., Auburn. Reception to follow.

Family Dinner in Leicester
Leicester Knights of Columbus, 90 Manville St., Leicester will have a Family Dinner on Thursday, Sept. 12 at 6:00 pm.  Cost is $15.00 and includes choice of Lasagna or Baked Fish, Salad and Dessert.  Call Don at 508-615-8434  by Thursday, Sept. 5 for reservations.

Healing Service and Mass in Upton 
On Thursday, Sept. 12 at 6:00 pm, St. Gabriel the Archangel Parish will offer a Healing service and Mass with Fr. Larry Brault, Fr. Stephen Mullaney and Maureen Capistran. Located at 151 Mendon St., Upton. Visit straphaeloil.com/schedule/ 

Lecture at Assumption University
The upcoming lecture is open to the public: "Contemplation and the Art of Friendship in a Polarized Age" on Monday, Sept. 16 at 5:00 pm in Curtis Performance Hall, Assumption University, 500 Salisbury St., Worcester. Dr. Brian D. Robinette is Associate Professor of Theology at Boston College and the author of numerous scholarly and popular articles. His lecture will explore the spiritual and social implications of contemporary contemplative practices and the question of meaningful friendship in a moment when genuine, fruitful dialogue is a pressing concern.

Ask him anything about the Catholic faith!
Please join us Tuesday Sept. 24 at 6:30 pm in the church basement at Immaculate Conception, Worcester for Dessert and Discussion: Ask a Theologian! Dr. Christopher Klofft, Associate Professor of Theology at Assumption University and of Pope St. John XXIII Seminary will field all your questions and curiosities about the Catholic faith, the Scriptures and theology. No question is too tough or too silly! This event is for Catholics, 18 and older, and sponsored by the Immaculate Conception Women’s Prayer, Group. Baked goods and coffee will be served.

Middle School Amplify Night
All Middle Schoolers (6th-8th grade) are invited to join us for the first Middle School Amplify of the year on Friday, Sept. 27 from 6-8:30pm at Sacred Heart in Webster. Join us for pizza, games, witness talks by members of the high school Discipleship Team, music, and Eucharistic Adoration! There is NO COST to attend! However, to help us prepare for food, please register your group at neworcester.org/ms-amplify-9-27 or contact Tim Messenger, Director of Youth & Young Adult Ministry, at 508-929-4360 or at tmessenger@worcesterdiocese.org. Deadline to sign up is Sept. 25.
 
Diocesan Middle School Discipleship Team
Sign-ups are now open for the Diocesan Middle School Discipleship Team! This program is open to all in grades 6 to 8 and is designed to accompany young people in formation, Christian leadership, and ultimately fostering a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The program begins 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.
 
Single Catholic Young Adult Women's Discernment Retreat 
Sept. 27-29 “Be Still and Know That I am God.” Unsure of your direction in life? This retreat at the Little Sisters of the Poor in Enfield CT is for you! No registration fee. Transportation between the airport or train station and the retreat location is provided. Contact Sr. Carolyn at sc@littlesistersofthepoor.org.

Job Opportunities

Director of Faith Formation
St. Anne St. Patrick Parish in Fiskdale (Sturbridge) is seeking a Director of Faith Formation. This is a full-time position which can include weekends and evenings.

August 26, 2024

Multicultural Festival in Milford
Saint Mary of the Assumption Parish will hold its Second Annual Multicultural Festival on Saturday, Sept. 14 from Noon to 7 pm in the large hall of the Parish Center at 17 Winter Street, Milford. Each community of the parish will prepare its favorite or famous delicacy from BBQ pulled pork, to roasted Ecuadorian Cuy to Brazilian Pasteles, Portuguese Tripe, Hulitas, Empanadas, Chivil, Guatemalan pupusas, pellenitos de platano and taquitos dorados. Of course, for the unadventurous, hot dogs, popcorn, and familiar sweet treats will also be on sale. There will be live entertainment during the day. Try one's luck on a variety of raffle baskets or a motorized child sized sportscar.  Admission is free, the public is invited to travel the world in an afternoon, without ever needing a passport!  All proceeds benefit Saint Mary Parish, Milford.

Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass
Bishop Robert J. McManus will celebrate the Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass on Sunday, October 20 at 3:00 p.m.  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 (25th, 40th, 50th, 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 10 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.
NOTE TO BULLETIN EDITORS:  Please include the above notice in your bulletin weekly through Oct. 6 to ensure people can register prior to Oct. 10 deadline.  You are also invited to utilize this information as a pulpit announcement if customary in your parish.

Job Opportunities

Director of Faith Formation
St. Anne St. Patrick Parish in Fiskdale (Sturbridge) is seeking a Director of Faith Formation. This is a full-time position which can include weekends and evenings. The program provides faith formation, catechetical instruction, and sacramental preparation for children, teens and adults, in conjunction with the pastor. The Director is responsible for the recruiting and ongoing training of volunteer catechists. The Director will coordinate the preparation and instruction for the sacraments of First Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation. The Director will develop a Youth Ministry program to engage middle-school and high school students which can include activities such as mission trips, service opportunities and retreats. The Director will develop a program for the on-going faith formation of adult members of the parish community.
Job requirements: A minimum of a bachelor’s degree is required. Prior experience in faith formation/religious education is required. The Director must have both strong organizational and communication skills. Please submit a letter and interest and resume to: Fr. Luc Martel, AA, Pastor, St. Anne-St. Patrick Parish, 16 Church St., Fiskdale, MA 01518 or email: Stannestpatpastor@gmail.com.

August 19, 2024

Miraculous Medal Novena at Our Lady of Loreto Church
Our Lady’s Annual Miraculous Medal Novena begins on Tuesday, Sept. 3 at 7:00 pm and continues for nine consecutive Tuesday nights, ending on Oct. 29. Mark the dates and plan to come and bring a friend. This year’s speakers are (in order) Rev. Jonathan Slavinskas,  Rev. Alfredo Porras, Most Reverend Robert J. McManus, Rev. Edward Niccolls, Deacon Paul Audette, Rev. Paul O’Connell, Rev. Frederick Fraini, III, Rev. Juan Echavarria, and Rev. Jose Rodriquez. All are welcome to participate in this special yearly devotion to our Blessed Mother, Mary.

Learn more about American Heritage Girls
Do you know of a girl aged 6-18 drawn to Christ-centered scouting? Come explore American Heritage Girls (AHG)! AHG Troop 0716, located at Our Lady of Loreto, 33 Massasoit Road in Worcester is hosting an information and registration night on Sept. 10 from 5:00-6:30 pm. Come learn more about the programs which celebrate the hearts and lives of girls and how her gifts, service, talents and abilities can lead her and others to a closer relationship to Christ. Please email troop0716ahg@gmail.com for more information.

Grief Support Workshop in Uxbridge
St. Mary Parish, Uxbridge will be offering a workshop entitled, “Grieving with Great HOPE” on Sept. 12, 19, 26, Oct. 3, and 10, 6:30 – 8:30 pm . This five-week Catholic Apostolate seeks to assist those mourning the loss of a loved one. As Catholics we are given hope for eternal life in the risen Lord for ourselves and for our loved ones. The workshop is for anyone who has lost a loved one including a spouse, child, sibling, cousin, etc. and will include video presentations, sharing, and prayer. This updated workshop teaches practical tools for intentional mourning and participants will journey together to become disciples of hope. Cost is $18.00 and includes an accompanying workbook. To register, please call the office at 508-278-2226, access the website at stmaryuxbridge.org/grieving-with-great-hope, or email dmoriarty@stmaryuxbridge.org.  St. Mary’s is located at 77 Mendon Street, Uxbridge.  

“Introducing the Roman Catholic Faith” a 15-session program to be held on Tuesday evenings this fall at Christ the King Church, 1052 Pleasant St., Worcester, will introduce learners to all the major beliefs held by the Roman Catholic Church. It is designed especially for those inquirers unfamiliar with the belief of Catholics and/or who may be considering receiving the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist at Easter (April 19, 2025) or later. However, all interested parties can join in, especially if they would like a “refresher.” The program will be held from 7:15 to 8:30 pm, on the following Tuesdays: September 17 & 24; October 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29; November 5, 12 & 19; December 3, 10 &17; and January 6 & 14. Thereafter, from mid-January through Lent those wishing to pursue joining the Church will be offered the support customarily offered to “catechumens.” For further information, please contact Monsignor Thomas J. Sullivan by calling him at 508-450-2556 or emailing him at tsullivan5@mac.com. There is no cost to participate. And each participant will be given a free copy of United States Catholic Catechism for Adults.

Secular Franciscans – Charlton
St. Joseph Church, 10 H Putnam Road Ext., hosts a Secular Franciscan Community every third Thursday evening (Sept. 19) at 6:30 pm. All are invited to attend. Join us as we seek to pattern our lives after Christ in the spirit of Francis of Assisi by living a life of community, prayer, simplicity, humility, poverty, peace and justice.  Visit sthosephcharlton.com/order-franciscan-seculars or email st.joseph.ofs@gmail.com 

Fall Harvest Festival in Oakham
All are welcome to the Fall Harvest Festival at the Dismas Family Farm on Saturday, Oct. 5 from Noon - 4 pm at 687 Lincoln Road, Oakham. Come join us for hay rides, pumpkins, and delicious fall treats at the farm! Free Admission.

August 12, 2024

Welcome to ALPHA in Hopedale
ALPHA is being offered on Monday evenings beginning Sept. 9 at the Catholic Community of Sacred Heart Hopedale. For more information, please check the parish website (sacredhearthopedale.org) or contact the parish office at 508-473-1900.

Murder Mystery Dinner in Webster
St. Louis Parish is hosting a Murder Mystery on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 6:00 pm in the church hall, 14 Lake Street in Webster.  Come join us for dinner, fun, and laughs. It is an interactive show where guests are involved in working together to try solving a fake murder. Cocktail hour starts at 6:00 with cash bar, then dinner catered by Monte Bianco. Tickets are $40.00 and are available after all masses through September or at the Pastoral Center. (508-943-0240) (Monday – Friday 9 to 2). You may reserve a table of 8. This is an over 18 event. We hope to see you there!

Road Race Fundraiser in Millbury
The Second Annual Knights of Columbus 5K Road Race will be held on Saturday, Sept. 28 at 9 am from Wheelock Inn, 82 Wheelock Ave, Millbury.  Food, music and fun for all. Raffle entries for all pre-registered participants. Valuable awards for top finishers in each age group. Proceeds will benefit many charitable causes in the community. To register visit https://tinyurl.com/KofC5k

Job Opportunities

SECRETARY/ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT NEEDED
Immaculate Conception Church in Worcester is seeking a part-time Parish Secretary. Skills required: Good communication and computer skills. Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, including Microsoft Publisher. Excellent organizational skills. Bookkeeping knowledge is beneficial but not mandatory. A successful candidate must have an appreciation for the Catholic Faith. To apply, please submit a resume to icworc@live.com

August 5, 2024

Fall Festival in Westminster
St Edward’s Annual Fall Festival will be held on Saturday, Sept.14 from 10 am to 4 pm on the church grounds and feature their Chicken BBQ Dinner at Noon. Come join us for a day of fun! Attic Treasures (early bird entry at 9:30-10AM - $5 per person); Eddie’s Auction Room; Theme Baskets; Jewelry Room; Holiday Room Raffle tickets/Big Raffle; Kids Games; Grocery Wheel Bakery Room; Corn Hole Contest; Food (burger & hot dog lunch meals); Chicken BBQ Dinners by reservation: Call St. Edwards office, 978-874-2362 by Sept. 5. Eat in or to go. Music (all day) & Entertainment on the lawn at 1:00 pm: Westminster Strummers will play live ukelele music. Visit www.stedwardconf.org. St. Edward the Confessor Parish, 10 Church St. ,Westminster.

Volunteers needed!
Is God calling you to do more to help women choose life? Problem Pregnancy, a pro-life crisis pregnancy center in Worcester, is seeking volunteers to join their team. They are in need of caring individuals to distribute baby clothes and diapers on Wednesdays. Training is also available for those who would like to volunteer as counselors. Hours are flexible. For more information, or to volunteer, contact Kathy at 508-308-1664.  

TO: Parish Administration

Why you should use the Mass Times module on eCatholic websites
At the National Eucharistic Congress, the new "FindaMass.org" website was announced for people who are traveling or simply looking for a Mass time in a nearby church. That site is a collaboration between the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and  eCatholic, which has the technology to pull the Mass times, Confession times and Adoration times from your "Mass Times module" on your eCatholic websites. It's another reason to not only keep them up to date, but also to use the module and NOT just list them as text on a page or use a graphic with the information. Thank you.

July 29, 2024

Volunteer Opportunities
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.

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.

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.

TO: Pastors & Administrators

Third Party Usage of Parish Property
As a reminder, any and all third parties who are using Parish property, whether for a fee or not, are required to sign the Catholic Mutual Facility Usage/ Indemnity Agreement and provide proper insurance. (see attached) This agreement provides a level protection from liability by having indemnification language as well as requiring the 3rd party user to provide the parish with general liability coverage, naming the Parish as additional insured, in the amount of $1,000,000 per occurrence. This policy applies to all third parties that use Parish property. This includes such things as: civic groups, parishioner and non-parishioner families that rent or use parish facilities for wedding receptions, family reunions, anniversary parties or other similar activities; as well as any other organization, municipality or county organization that uses parish facilities for a meeting or function that is non-parish sponsored. Parish ministries or parish affiliated events/groups are generally covered under the Diocesan insurance coverage with Catholic Mutual and do not need to sign the form or provide additional insurance.  However, there are clear guidelines of what constitutes a “parish entity”.  Generally, the parish has to have control of the group, both financial control and organizational control; lead by parish staff or Priest designated volunteers; must be open to all parishioners; and promote a mission of the church. Groups that do not fit the definition of a parish controlled group are required to sign the 3rd party agreement and provide proper insurance. 
Please keep a file of these 3rd party documents for a period of time greater than a year, but less than 7 years from the event date. In the unlikely event of a claim made by the 3rd party, the parish may be asked for the signed Facility Usage Agreement and and insurance document.       
For full definitions, insurance requirements and details, as well as the document itself, please see the Diocesan website, under Finance, Facility Usage Forms. For additional information or further assistance, including a cursory review of any related documents,  please contact Parish Liaison Officer, Stephen Sycks.  ssycks@worcesterdiocese.org    

Worcester Catholic Women's Conference

Register Now! All women are invited to this exciting Conference, “Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart”, to be held at St. Joseph School in Webster on Saturday, October 5. Hear dynamic talks from outstanding Catholic leaders, Fr. Carlos Martins, Pamela Acker, and Ester Munt Brooks. Diocesan and religious priests will hear confessions and there will be many interesting exhibitors. Bishop McManus will celebrate Mass. For more information and to register, visit our website at www.wcwconference.com or call Corinn Dahm at 508-277-3969. Seating is limited, register today!

TO: Pastors & Administrators

Department of Unemployment Letters & Notices 
Many parishes have been receiving letters from the State Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) informing them of a delinquency in submitting quarterly DUA forms. Please do not ignore these.  While the Diocese and all parishes are exempt from paying for State DUA, as we are self-insured through our transitional assistance program, we ARE required to submit quarterly payroll reports. As all known 3rd party payroll companies provide this as a routine service, it appears that the parishes who are self-producing payroll (either through a bookkeeping system or bookkeeper) have been contacted by the DUA.
If you have received a letter, please:

1. Register your parish on the DUA website. 
2. Complete all required forms.
3. If you have been levied a fine, you may dispute it or may consider paying it as you file the delinquent forms.
4. Please confirm with your payroll person all quarterly DUA forms have been filed.
5. Please let Stephen Sycks at the Diocese know, as he will assemble a master list.     

Here is the State DUA website:  www.mass.gov/unemployment-insurance-ui-for-employers. For additional information or further assistance, please contact Parish Liaison Officer, Stephen Sycks at ssycks@worcesterdiocese.org. Thank you.

Young Adult Prayer Group in Gardner
Join with other young adults age 18 - 35 and pray the St. Michael Chaplet!Greater Gardner Young Adult Group meets every 1st and 3rd Thursday at 7 pm at Annunciation Parish Center located just behind Holy Rosary Church in Gardner. For more information about this event and/or about the greater Gardner Young Adult Group, please reach out to Jonah Kattau at jdkattau@gmail.com.

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.

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!

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.