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E-Newsletter March 1, 2010
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 "Do you fast? Give me proof of it by your works.
If you see a poor man, take pity on him.
If you see a friend being honored, do not envy him.
Do not let only your mouth fast, but also the eye and the ear and the feet and the hands and all the members of our bodies.
Let the hands fast, by being free of avarice.
Let the feet fast, by ceasing to run after sin.
Let the eyes fast, by disciplining them not to glare at that which is sinful.
Let the ear fast, by not listening to evil talk and gossip.
Let the mouth fast from foul words and unjust criticism.
For what good is it if we abstain from birds and fishes, but bite and devour our brothers?
May He who came to the world to save sinners, strengthen us to complete the fast with humility! Have mercy on us and save us."
Amen."
(St. John Chrysostom, 347-407 AD) |
LENT 2010
Lenten Confession Times
Individual Confessions
Thursdays - 9:00-10:00 a.m. & 6:00-7:00 p.m.
Saturdays - 3:00-4:00 p.m.
Saturday, March 27 - 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Monday, March 29 - 4:00-6:00 p.m. and 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Communal Reconciliation Services
Saturday, March 6 - 10:00 a.m.
Wednesday, March 10 - 7:00 p.m.
Stations of the Cross - Fridays - 7:30 p.m.
Saturday Morning Mass - February 20 through March 27 - 8:30 a.m.
ANCIENT OFFICE OF TENEBRAE - WEDNESDAY, MARCH 31ST - 8:30 PM
THE PASCHAL TRIDUUM
HOLY THURSDAY - April 1, 2010
Morning Prayer (Lauds) - 8:30 AM
Lent ends in the late afternoon and the Paschal Triduum begins.
Evening Mass of the Lord's Supper - 7:30 PM
Eucharistic Vigil - after Mass until 12:00 Midnight (Chapel)
A chapter from the "Last Supper Discourse" from John's gospel will be read on each half hour.
Night Prayer (Compline) - 11:45 PM (Chapel)
GOOD FRIDAY - April 2, 2010
Morning Prayer (Lauds) - 8:30 AM
Liturgy of the Lord's Passion - 12:30 PM & 7:30 PM
HOLY SATURDAY - April 3, 2010
Morning Prayer (Lauds) - 8:30 AM
There are no 3:00 PM confessions or 4:30 PM Mass on this day.
The Easter Vigil - 8:45 PM (Gathering starting at 8:30 PM)
EASTER SUNDAY - April 4, 2010
Masses - 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM (church & gym) & 12:00 Noon (church & gym)
For those who will be out of town during the Paschal Triduum, you are strongly encouraged before you leave home to call and determine the Triduum schedule at the Catholic parish nearest your destination or consult MassTimes.org. While away, plan to attend those services on each of these holydays. The Paschal Triduum should never be a "vacation" from the Church and her liturgies. | |
MASS SCHEDULE
The Lord's Day
Saturday Vigil - 4:30 p.m.
Sunday - 8:00 a.m.,
10:00 a.m., 12:00 Noon
Weekdays
Monday through Friday -
8:30 a.m.
Holydays of Obligation
& Civic Holidays
As listed in the bulletin
SACRAMENT OF PENANCE
Saturday - 3:00-4:00 p.m.
Thursday before First Friday -
9:00-10:00 a.m. &
6:00-7:00 p.m.
Any time by appointment
DEVOTIONS
Eucharistic Adoration
Thursday 9:00 a.m-10:00 p.m.
Rosary
Monday through Friday -
8:00 a.m.
Divine Mercy Chaplet
Monday through Friday -
after daily Mass
PARISH OFFICE HOURS
Monday through Friday - 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Wednesday until 8:00 p.m. Closed for lunch 12:00 p.m. - 1 p.m. |
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Greetings!
Please remember the special opportunities for prayer that are being offered during Lent:
- Additional times for individual confessions on Thursdays after the morning Mass and from 6:00-7:00 p.m.
- Two communal reconciliation services on Saturday, March 6 at 10:00 a.m. and on Wednesday, March 10 at 7:00 p.m.
- Stations of the Cross on Fridays
- An additional weekday Mass on Saturdays at 8:30 a.m.
And remember, all Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence from meat.
In preparation for the celebration of the Sacrament of Penance, please go online for four age-appropriate examinations of conscience in preparation for our two upcoming communal reconciliation services this Saturday, March 6 and a week from Wednesday, on March 10. We strongly encourage to celebrate the Sacrament of Penance before the holydays of the Paschal Triduum.
We are also now beginning to publish summaries from all the Pulse of the Parish Neighborhood Meeting this past fall. You can see these by clicking here.
That's all for now. God bless one and all!
Fr. Geoff
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RCIA
The month of March will be very busy with many rewarding experiences for the men and women in the RCIA. On March 12-13 they will be on a overnight Retreat at the Milford Spiritual Center. The season of Lent is an intensely spiritual time for those who will be initiated. They need to prepare themselves for the significant sacramental encounter with Christ in the sacraments that they will receive at Easter. Through a retreat, a time alone with God and in prayer this encounter can happen. During Lent the elect as well as all of us, are Purified and Enlightened, which strengthens our relationship with God.
HOW DO WE AS A COMMUNITY HELP THOSE TO BE INITATED?
The ritual that we use during the Lenten Season is called Scrutiny. In the Scrutiny we the community, are asked to pray for the elect particularly during the time of silence. You are invited to affirm the prayers addressed to God with an "Amen."
WHAT ARE THE SCRUTINIES?
The Scrutinies which are solemnly celebrated on Sundays of Lent are rites for self-searching and repentance and have above all a spiritual purpose. The Scrutinies are meant to uncover then heal all that is weak, defective, or sinful in the hearts of the elect; and to bring out then strengthen all that is upright, strong and good.
WHY ARE THE SCRUTINIES CELEBRATED?
The Scrutinies are celebrated in order to deliver the elect from sin and to protect them against temptation; and to give them strength in Christ who is the way, the truth, and the life. These Rites should complete the conversion of the elect and carry out their decision to love God above all.
HOW MANY SCRUTINIES ARE THERE?
There are three. They are celebrated on the Third, Fourth, and Fifth Sundays of Lent. During the first scrutiny (March 7th at 8:00 AM Mass) their spirit is filled with Christ the Redeemer, who is the living water (Gospel of the Samaritan woman). The second scrutiny is March 14th at 10:00 AM Mass-"the light of the world" (referencing the Gospel of the man born blind), and the third scrutiny is March 21st at 12:00 PM Mass-the resurrection and the life (referencing the Gospel of Lazarus).
These next few weeks are a privileged time in our parish. Together as a community we will profess our belief in the power of God to overcome all evil-that which afflicts us personally and that which is part of our world. It is a time that we as a community examine the call of discipleship that is ours through Baptism. It is a time when together we acknowledge our responsibility to live faithfully as followers of Christ and members of the body of Christ. It is a time for our own personal refection, and continued prayer for the men and women and children in the RCIA process.
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Answer the Call
Catholic Men's Conference
The "Answer The Call" Men's Conference will be on Saturday, March 20. The program this year will be at Music Hall and begins at 8:30 and will end with Mass.
The day will be prayerful, spirit-filled and life changing. It is an opportunity to join thousands of other like-minded , Catholic men in a one day conference, You will hear talks that will challenge you, reawaken your spirit and lift you up; help to examine your priorities and rejuvenate your commitment to the Catholic Faith, Family and Fellowship.
The day will feature several speakers including Jack McKeon, former Cincinnati Reds and World Series manager; Brian Rooney, retired Marine and war veteran and currently a Pittsburgh Steelers board member. Jim Gruden, a lay Pastoral Minister and retired war veteran and Fr. Mark Burger, pastor of St. John's parish in West Chester.
During lunch, which is provided, there will be a special program for teenagers/young adults. If you are interested in attending with fellow St. Max parishioners, or have any questions, contact Ron Pfister @ 737-9949. If we want to sit together, we need to order the tickets early.
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Walking in Faith while Unemployed
March 4th, Thursday 7:30PM Room 7
If you or a family member are, have been or are pending unemployment and would like to share with others how our faith can help during these difficult times, please join Deacon Jeff and Janet Merrell at the above date and time. |
 MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
The dates for this next years St. Max Fish Fry are as follows! Fish Frys serve from 4:30-8:00.
WAY OF THE CROSS begins at 7:30 PM.
March 5
March 12
March 19
March 26
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ADULT FAITH FORMATION WILL HAVE IT'S OWN ELECTRONIC NEWSLETTER. LOOK FOR IT TO ARRIVE IN YOUR MAILBOX ON MARCH 22ND.
Last Chance to RSVP for Savor it! - Enrichment Breakfast
Join us on Saturday, March 13 from 9-11amMary Cummins Wlodarski speaking on "God in the Everyday." The cost is $6 a person. Childcare is available on request. Contact Colleen Gerke at 777-4322 ext. 106 or cgerke@saint-max.org to RSVP. See the St. Max Adult Faith Formation webpage for more information.
Way of the Cross
On the Fridays of Lent, March 12, 19 (Respect Life), 26 (High School Youth Ministry) from 7:30-8:15pm in St. Max Church. Contact Colleen Gerke at 777-4322 ext. 106 for questions or information.
Bible Study for Beginners
March 10,17,24, 31 from 7-8:30pm at Coffee, Beans & Brew at The Shoppes of Yankee. For questions or more information contact Mike Lippman at mlippman@saint-max.org.
What Parents Want
"Every Day Creativity" with Dewitt Jones (another in series with "Celebrate What's Right with the World" from National Geographic). Learn how the way you view challenges can lead to going beyond getting by to successful soluntions. Contact Colleen Gerke at 777-4322 ext. 106 or cgerke@saint-max.org for information.
Special Needs Ministry
Monthly Bible Study
Get a spiritual boost monthly as well as the opportunity to network on how faith feeds your soul during the daily struggles of caring for a loved one with special needs. We meet on the third Saturday (March 20th) of the month from 8 - 9:30am in the Hospitality Room. For more information contact Sheryl Hudson at 310-0883 or Sheryl_Hudson@cargill.com.
Remarkable Families Symposium
St. Max will have a table at the "Remarkable Families Symposium" This is a conference held each year at the Cintas for families raising children with disabilities. Check out Facebook Page http://www.facebook.com/l/8ecc4 or website page at www.xavier.edu/familyresiliency . The conference is held in the Cintas on March 26th. From 12:30 PM to 8:30 PM
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HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH MINISTRY
SPRING RETREAT is here! Come away with us for a great weekend March 5-7. Permission slips and information are available online and in the gathering space.
Please join us as we present the Stations of the Cross Friday, March 26. We need readers, still actors, and candle lighters! Please contact Gwen if you would like to help.
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Junior High 1X1 Upcoming Events
· Stations of the Cross on 3/12, meet at the Fish Fry table with the balloon at 7:00 and have dessert as a group or meet outside the church at 7:25.
· Theater of the Word field trip to Little Sisters to see a play 3/19. Permission slips in rack in Gathering Space. Cost is $8.
· Note - There is no March 1X1 Monthly meeting because it is the start of Holy Week.
· April JrHigh 1X1 meeting, arrive at 6 to the gym and depart at 7:30 from the Gathering Space. We'll be doing our own version of the new game show 'A Minute to Win It'. Donations of baked goods, bags of chips/pretzels/etc. and liters of soda are always welcome!
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Confirmation Retreat Information
What to wear - casual but functional clothing, we will be moving around and playing games...DO NOT WEAR FLIP FLOPS (I'm not that great at first aid)
What to bring - an open mind and a smile
What we'll eat - pasta and salad, you may pack a lunch if you wish
March 14th - leaves from Lakota East parking lot promptly at 11am, arrives back to St. Max at 5:45pm
March 20th - leaves from St. Max promptly at 8am, arrives back to St. Max at 2:45pm
March 21st - leaves from Lakota East parking lot promptly at 11am, arrives back to St. Max at 5:45pm
March 27th - leaves from St. Max promptly at 8am, arrives back to St. Max at 2:45pm
Confirmation
Third Session 3/23, Fouth Session 4/13
Spring is just around the corner, spring bulbs are already starting to push up through the ground. The Small Faith Group sessions in February were full of energy that will build as we approach May 1st. We have much yet to do (retreats and sessions in March and April, interviews, rehearsals). We pray that you stay healthy and focus time and energy to this process in these final months. Don't get behind on your portfolio. You should be finished with pages 1 and 2. Please start on the reflection questions, this is the longest part of the portfolio.
We will see many of you on one of the retreats on March 14 or 20 or 21. These will be held before our next session on 3/23 and our final retreat on 3/27. Until then, we pray that the Lord send you good health and peace.
Sessions begins promptly at 7:30 in the church. Candidates please attend with your sponsor or proxy. Bring your red folder with your portfolio. We will work on page 3 'Personal Reflection' during SFG.
Remaining prayer services are 3/23 and 4/13.
Interview/alb fitting is 4/11. Bring your completed portfolio with you.
Rehearsals are 4/29.
NOTE - Please make sure the fourth session on 4/13 is on your calendars! |
RFY NEWS:
MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!
ATHENAEUM FIELD TRIP:
5th Grade Monday, March 15
- 5:15-attendance in the Gathering Space
- 5:45-bus leaves St. Max
- 8:15-bus arrives back at St. Max (approx. time)
- 8:15-dismissal from Gathering Space to parents
- NO BOOKS OR FOLDERS NEEDED
- NO FORMAL CLASSES for 5th grade on 3/15 or 3/17
TEN COMMANDMENTS RELAY:
4th Grade Monday, 3/8 & Wednesday, 3/17
- Current & Summer Home Study 4th graders who wish to participate in this event should call the RFY Office to register.
LENT:
- Please return Rice Bowls to RFY Office by Easter
REMINDER!! All Current & Summer Home Study Students: Please check the list of Parish Activities on the website for the remaining opportunities to complete your Home Study commitment for RFY. It is necessary that families call the RFY Office to register for these activities IN ADVANCE of the event. Thank you.
Questions? Concerns? Please contact Mary Montour, 777-4322, X-120. |
All children who have fully prepared by participating in four prayer/preparation sessions are welcome to celebrate Reconciliation at the Parish Services on:
Sat., March 6-10:00 am OR Wed., March 10-7:00 pm
First Eucharist Preparation Sessions for Winter:
Session Two: CHURCH-Tuesday, March 2, 7:00 pm-8:00 pm
Session Three: CHURCH-Tuesday, March 9, 7:00 pm-8:00 pm
Session Four: CHURCH-Tuesday, March 16, 7:00 pm-8:00 pm
Children who are fully prepared for First Eucharist will be invited to celebrate with family and parish community during select Mass times during Easter season.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!!
March 6 & 7 ALL Masses-Candidates for First Communion presented to the parish community. No sign ups-just go to your preferred mass.
All families of children registered to prepare for First Communion were mailed a First Communion Mass Choice Form. We would like these forms returned to the RFY Office by Jan. 31, 2010.
The sacrament of First Communion will be celebrated with the St. Max community on the following weekends:
DATE MASS CURRENT Availability
April 17 4:30 Mass FULL
April 18 12:00 Mass Openings
May 1 4:30 Mass FULL
May 2 8:00 Mass Openings
May 2 10:00 Mass FULL
May 2 12:00 Mass Openings
May 8 4:30 Mass FULL
May 9 12:00 Mass Openings
If you have any questions about the sacrament preparation program, please call Mary Montour, 777-4322, ext. 120. Thank you!.
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 2010 FESTIVAL NEWS
The St. Max Festival Committee is in need of a trainee who loves games! Specifically, we would like to have help with choosing our on site games, working with the booth captains, and coordinating with the prize committee. This year's trainee would hopefully help with next year's festival as well. For more information, contact Kevin Ricke at 779-8824 or email kmricke@fuse.net
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 SAVE THE DATE!
The 18th Annual 'Girls Night Out'
"Pretty in Pink"
Friday, April 16th
Fashion Show 2010 "Girls' Night Out" is looking for silent auction and merchandise for the Basket Extravaganza. Over 300 women attend this annual fundraiser! Could you donate tickets to a sporting event? How about theater tickets or a unique piece of art? This is a great opportunity to make an individual contribution or to highlight your business. Please contact Jane at 777-4322 ext. 111 or email Jane@saint-max org for additional information.
***We are also in need of baskets...any size any shape. If you have some to donate please drop them off at the parish office.
Thank You! | |
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Upcoming Events
Pastoral Council Discernment - Nominations the week on March 20th/21st
Traveling Vocations Cross: Contact Lori Lutz at lolutz@fuse.net to sign up for a week to hose the cross in your home Holy Week - Palm Sunday, March 27/28; The Ancient Office of Tenebrae March 31st; Mass of the Lord's Supper (Holy Thursday) April 1st; Good Friday, April 2nd; Easter Vigil, April 3rd; Easter Sunday, April 4th.
Holy Thursday Dinner, Thursday, April 1st
"Celebrate Our Priests" Dinner & Fr. Porter's 80th Birthday Celebration - Sunday, April 18th
Diaconate Ordination Celebration: Sunday, April 25th from 1:30-3:00 PM in the Gym
Andrew Dinner for Junior and Senior High School Boys interested in Vocations to the Priesthood - Wednesday, May 5
Reschedule of Healing and Remembrance Service cancelled due to snow will be in May |
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