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 T he month of May is dedicated to Mary, the Blessed Mother. As the Mother of God she has a unique position among the saints, indeed, among all creatures. She is exalted, yet still one of us. The Church honors her as the Mother of God, looks to her as a model of perfect discipleships, and ask for her prayers to God on our behalf.
In its Catechetical Corner for the month of May, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops highlight the Church's teaching on Mary and explain why she has a unique position among the saints. They provide excerpts from an important document that came out Vatican II and promulgated by Pope Paul VI in 1964. That document is the Lumen Gentium which means Light for the Nations:
Redeemed by reason of the merits of her Son and united to Him by a close and indissoluble tie, she is endowed with the high office and dignity of being the Mother of the Son of God, by which account she is also the beloved daughter of the Father and the temple of the Holy Spirit. Because of this gift of sublime grace she far surpasses all creatures, both in heaven and on earth. At the same time, however, because she belongs to the offspring of Adam she is one with all those who are to be saved. (Lumen Gentium, no. 53) The Blessed Mother recently has been topics of homilies by Pope Francis and Living the Truth in Love columns written by Bishop Barbarito. In March, Pope Francis' emphasized his devotion to Mary on the his second anniversary. He also announced his decision to have the Church's Jubilee Year of Mercy begin on the Feast of her Immaculate Conception as a sign of the mercy God extended to us through the intercession of Mary (Living the Truth in Love: the Week of Mercy).
Just a few weeks ago, Bishop Barbarito wrote in his column that we should also turn to Mary when we are weary:
"The Pope reminds us that we have another intercessor in times of weariness who leads us to the Lord. It is our Blessed Mother, Mary. In his Chrism Mass homily, the Pope expressed, 'Know that the Blessed Virgin Mary is well aware of this tiredness and she brings it straight to the Lord. As our Mother, she knows when her children are weary, and this is her greatest concern. 'Welcome! Rest, my child. We will speak afterwards... .' Whenever we draw near to her, she says to us: I am here with you, I am your mother (cf.Evangelii Gaudium, 268). And to her Son she will say, as she did at Cana, 'they have no wine' " (Jn 2:3)."
(Living the Truth in Love: Rest for the Weary)
Let us remember the Queen of Heaven during the month of May, as well as throughout the year.
*** To read the USCCB's Catechetical Corner, a one-page resource for the month of May, please click here
To read Bishop Barbarito's Living the Truth in Love columns, please see the listings for this column on the right of this E-Newsletter.
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On Sunday, May 10, as we celebrate Mother's Day, may we take time to thank our Heavenly Mother. May we also take the time to recognize the sacrifices our mothers have made for us and recognize they answered "yes" to the vocation of motherhood. May we remember their special love, understanding and important role they play in our upbringing and in bringing us into the Church and helping us to grow closer to God. Please pray to the Mother of God, and for your mothers, grandmothers and godmothers.
A Happy and Blessed Mother's Day to all!
Hail Mary
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death.
Amen.
A Blessing for Mothers from the Book of Blessings
Loving God, as a mother gives life and nourishment to her children, so you watch over your Church. Bless these women, that they may be strengthened as Christian mothers. Let the example of their faith and love shine forth. Grant that we, their sons and daughters, may honor them always with a spirit of profound respect. Grant this through Christ our Lord.
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Our Diocese & Faith in the News
The first Sunday in May the diocese's honors the Blessed Mother with its Annual Marian Rosary Festival held at Emmanuel Church in Delray Beach. The story and photos from the festival can be found in this week's Florida Catholic newspaper which is out today.
Here are a few of the other stories you can find in this issue:
- During this year as the Church celebrates The Year of Consecrated Life, the Florida Catholic presents stories on the faithful religious sisters and brothers and order priests. In this issue's Who's Who in the Catholic Church, meet a Sister whose ministry brings the Word to those who cannot hear.
- In "heaps and bounds" one religious education program helps out a special cause of the Florida Catholic.
View these great stories on our faith in the Florida Catholic. In every issue of the newspaper, you will find good news of our ministries and Church from around our diocese, state, nation and world. Click here to view the latest issue of the Florida Catholic
For $26 a year, you can receive 24 issues sent to your home. Or enjoy reading the paper on your tablet or PC. This e-edition subscription is also affordable at $20 a year. AND it includes three editions (Orlando, Venice and Palm Beach dioceses) for the price of one! Get your subscription started via our website or call toll free 1-888-275-9953.
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Plan to Attend the Diocese's Jubilee Celebration
Join Bishop Barbarito for a special Mass as we celebrate the Jubilees of the Religious of the Diocese of Palm Beach on Saturday, May 9, at 4:30 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola. Everyone is invited to attend this Liturgy to celebrate these vocation milestones. This year we will be celebrating the following Jubilees: 50 Years: Sister Andrea Balconis, Op; Sister Patricia Leonard, OP; and Sister Ellen Murphy, RSM 60 Years: Sister Anne Meehan, SBS; and Sister Margaret Manners, OP 65 Years: Sister Jacqueline Hirsch, OSF
Following the Liturgy, there will be a special by-invitation-only dinner for only the Jubilarians, their family and friends, and fellow religious.
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Congratulations Graduates!
During the month of May, there will be many graduations for students graduating from middle schools, high schools and colleges. Below is a list of graduation dates for our diocesan Catholic high schools and our seminaries:
May 6 - Graduation at St. John Vianney College Seminary (by invitation)
May 7 - Graduation at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary (by invitation)
May 16 - Graduation for Pope John Paul II High School students
May 18 - Graduation for Cardinal Newman High School students
May 22 - Graduation for John Carroll High School students
The Diocese of Palm Beach congratulates all graduates.
May the Lord bless you in your next endeavors!
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Bishop Barbarito's Column
In this week's Living the Truth in Love column, Bishop Barbarito discusses another celebration that commonly takes place during the month of May: the celebration of marriage. Below is Bishop Barbarito's May 8 column published in this week's Florida Catholic newspaper, posted on the diocesan website and released now to our E-newsletter subscribers.
Living the Truth in Love: Marriage and the Month of May
by Most Reverend Gerald M. Barbarito May is a month commonly associated with marriage. Many a celebration of marriage takes place in May since it is a month associated with the new life of springtime and the beauty that accompanies it. Marriage gives life both in regard to the spouses who enter into it as well as to the children which are the result of it. The month of May is a good time to reflect upon the beauty of marriage as a natural reflection of the life of God, who is a Trinity of love. We will celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity on Sunday, May 31, the last day of May. Significant for us this Spring is the deliberation, which began on Tuesday, April 28, of our nation's Supreme Court on the constitutionality of the states' preserving the legal definition of marriage as the union of one man and one woman. The anticipated decision of the Supreme Court positions itself to be a critical juridical ruling in our nation in regard to the very definition of marriage. The decision will not undo same-sex marriages, as already established in many states, but will determine if the state has the right to prohibit such unions as is the case in certain states. If the court proceeds to strike down all state bans, it will legalize same-sex marriages nationwide and further confuse the very understanding of marriage itself. This is a time for all of us to join in prayer that our Supreme Court will be guided by the wisdom of the Holy Spirit in preventing same-sex marriages from becoming a national norm. Fervor in prayer, study, education and faith based persuasion are the true power of the believing Catholic in this regard. Prejudice, biased judgmental language and disrespectful presentation do not assist us in this important endeavor. Jesus promised that the truth will set us free (cf. Jn 8:32) and only by "speaking the truth in love" (Eph 4:15) will we be able to promote the truth regarding marriage according to the natural law of God Himself and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Truth and love go hand in hand and one cannot be present without the other. Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, has continually proclaimed in love the truth regarding marriage as a singular and lifelong union between a man and a woman. Most recently, during his Wednesday audiences in April, he has taught clearly and lovingly on the nature of marriage as established by God Himself from the very beginning. The Pope emphasized that the beginning of the book of Genesis states that God created man and woman in His own image. "In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them" (Gn 1:27). The complementarity between man and woman is meant for a communion between the two in marriage, in which the partners grow in relationship to each other and are able to bring forth new life into the world. In this manner, they cooperate with God in His creation. Marriage and family life are a reflection of the very life of God Himself who is the Father, Son and Holy Spirit for all eternity. When God created us, He created us to reflect His life which is one of eternal giving. Marriage does this in a very concrete manner as planned by God Himself. Marriage is a sublime vocation to which God calls most men and women and this vocation requires a sacrifice of each partner for the other in a lifetime union. It is this sacrificial giving in marriage, similar to that of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, which brings the very joy of God Himself. This is the beautiful reality we will celebrate this month, on the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity. Pope Francis has spoken clearly on the dangers which accompany the misunderstanding of marriage as other than an exclusive relationship between a man and woman. He said, "God entrusted the earth to the alliance between men and women: its failure deprives the earth of warmth and darkens the sky of hope. The signs are already worrisome, and we see them." He also pointedly said, "Man and woman are created to live a life of reciprocity, to enter into a covenant together. Yet sin introduces discord into their relationship, lack of trust and suspicion. We see throughout history the fruit of this sin ... . Most recently, this mistrust and skepticism has led our culture to disregard the marriage covenant between a man and a woman, that covenant which deepens communion and safeguards the dignity of their uniqueness. When the stable and fruitful covenant between a man and woman is devalued by society, it is a loss for everyone, especially the young." During this month of May, as many marriages are celebrated in harmony with the life of spring and the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity, let us all reflect upon the dignity of marriage as a permanent covenant which reflects the life of God Himself in the Trinity. We pray in a very special way that our Supreme Court will reflect properly the nature of marriage as established by God Himself. We pray that all men and women will be respected as unique gifts from God. As we proclaim the truth in love, we fully recognize that our commitment to preserving marriage as a union between a man and woman is not in any way a degradation of or a discrimination against anyone in regard to their sexual orientation. We realize the importance of Pope Francis' words, "Our vocation is to care for the covenant of marriage. It is a vital and energizing vocation, through which we cooperate with our Heavenly Father, who Himself always cares for and protects this great gift."
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Dozens of people gathered for prayer at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola. The vigil was a peaceful and powerful witness to defend traditional marriage as lawmakers begin to decide the legal definition of marriage for the future and for generations to come. (LINDA REEVES |FC)
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In June, the Supreme Court is expected to announce its ruling on the legal definition of marriage. On April 27, the eve before the Supreme Court heard oral arguments, and on April 28, the day the Supreme Court heard arguments on the case, many of the faithful held special prayer vigils or Masses. On the eve, the diocese held a prayer vigil at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola in Palm Beach Gardens. The intention of the prayers were for the good of marriage in our nation, to pray for our Supreme Court justices, and for the well-being of children. The group joined Bishop Barbarito in praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet and the Prayer for the Defense of Marriage before processing to Military Trail and Holly Drive to pray the rosary. As the Supreme Court deliberates, the faithful may wish to pray for the good of marriage. One such prayer is the Prayer in Defense of Marriage from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops : Prayer in Defense of Marriage: God our Father, we give you thanks for the gift of marriage: the bond of life and love, and the font of the family. The love of husband and wife enriches your Church with children, fills the world with a multitude of spiritual fruitfulness and service, and is the sign of the love of your Son, Jesus Christ, for his Church. The grace of Jesus flowed forth at Cana at the request of the Blessed Mother. May your Son, through the intercession of Mary, pour out upon us a new measure of the Gifts of the Holy Spirit as we join with all people of good will to promote and protect the unique beauty of marriage. May your Holy Spirit enlighten our society to treasure the heroic love of husband and wife, and guide our leaders to sustain and protect the singular place of mothers and fathers in the lives of their children. Father, we ask that our prayers be joined to those of the Virgin Mary, that your Word may transform our service so as to safeguard the incomparable splendor of marriage. We ask all these things through Christ our Lord, Amen. Saints Joachim and Anne, pray for us. En Español: Dios Padre nuestro, te damos gracias por el don del matrimonio: vínculo de vida y amor, y fuente de la familia. El amor de marido y mujer enriquece a tu Iglesia con hijos, llena el mundo con una abundancia de fecundidad espiritual y servicio, y es signo del amor de tu Hijo, Jesucristo, por su Iglesia. La gracia de Jesús brotó en Caná a petición de su Santa Madre. Concédenos que tu Hijo, por la intercesión de la Virgen María, derrame sobre nosotros una nueva medida de los Dones del Espritu Santo al unirnos con toda persona de buena voluntad para promover y proteger la belleza única del matrimonio. Concede que tu Santo Espritu ilumine a nuestra sociedad para que atesore el amor heroico de marido y mujer, y gue a nuestros líderes para que sostengan y protejan el puesto singular de padres y madres en la vida de sus niños. Padre, te pedimos que nuestras oraciones se unan con las de la Santsima Virgen María para que tu Verbo Divino transforme nuestro esfuerzo por salvaguardar el incomparable esplendor del matrimonio. Te pedimos todas estas cosas por Cristo nuestro Señor, Amén. San Joaquín y Santa Ana, rueguen por nosotros. *** Press Release: USCCB's Presiden Comments on Supreme Court's Oral Arguments on Marriage
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Catholic Relief Services Asking for Donations for its Relief Efforts in Nepal
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A Caritas member visits a village hit by the earthquake in Gorkha. Photo courtesy of AFP Photo / Matthieu Alexandre / Caritas Internationalis
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The Diocese of Palm Beach and Catholic Charities of the diocese are making it more convenient for people to make monetary donations to help earthquake victims and relief efforts in Nepal. The diocese and Catholic Charities has a direct link on their websites to make online or over the phone donations to Catholic Relief Services (CRS) which is part of the major relief effort currently underway in response to the devastating earthquake that struck Nepal on Saturday, April 24. You can make your donation now!
CRS is the official international humanitarian agency and overseas relief and development agency of the Catholic Community in the United States. CRS was already in Nepal when the earthquake hit. Since that time, CRS has been working on the ground in some of the most affected areas with its local partner, Caritas Nepal, to provide emergency shelter, tarps, blankets, water treatment kits and hygiene kits. Currently, CRS and Caritas Nepal are providing support to 15,000 families. CRS has made an initial commitment of $10 million to relief efforts, a number that is expected to rise. More than 7,000 are reported dead.
Additionally, the diocese is answering a request from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) to take up a second collection for those affected in Nepal. Churches may select their own weekend to have the special collection. Most Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, Archbishop of Louisville and President of the USCCB, says the funds will be used to support the efforts of CRS as they respond to immediate emergency needs for such necessities as water, food, shelter and medical care as well as the long-term needs to rebuild the communities in the regions affected after widespread destruction.
Any amount you can donate to CRS to help the short and long-term needs of those in Nepal would be greatly appreciated. The agency estimates the following costs for relief items and what your donation -- of any amount -- can do:
Cost estimates for relief efforts items:
$8 provides a water kit for a family. This includes a jerry can, a pail and aqua tabs for water purification.
$15 provides an emergency shelter kit. This includes tarps and nails to use with local materials to build shelters.
$22 provides household living supplies. This includes sleeping mats, blankets, utensils, plastics, and a cooking pot.
$28 provides hygiene kits. This includes soap, laundry detergent, a toothbrush, toothpaste and towels.
CRS' ImpactWatch this video from Nepal from a CRS worker at a supply donation site to see the help CRS is able to provide with your support: |
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Click on the image to view the video
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*** CRS has on its website Prayers and Special Intentions for Nepal. They are available in English and Spanish. Please click here to view the page and make your prayerful selection. Follow the Relief Effort - Get and View the latest News & Videos from CRS. Click here
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Upcoming Diocesan Events
Below is a list of some diocesan events taking place this month and the next two. For more information on any event, please visit the diocesan online Events Calendar or Catholic Charities online Events Calendar.
May
School of Christian Formation Graduation
May 13
The diocese will celebrate those who have completed the School of Christian Formation with a special Mass on Wednesday, May 13, at 7 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola in Palm Beach Gardens. The community is invited to join in this celebration. Bilingual Encuentro (Encounter) May 17 The diocese's Hispanic Ministry will hold Encuentro (Encounter) from noon to 6 p.m. at St. Ann Catholic Church in West Palm Beach. This year's Encuentro is centered on families, encouraging the attendance to the Catechesis for preparation of the World Families Meeting in Philadelphia on September 2015, and to unite parish resources at a diocesan-wide level in order to carry out the mission of the Church and for the Kingdom of God. It will feature fellowship, breakout groups, discussions and presentations. Last year, more than 500 people representing 20 parishes attended Encuentro. World Communication Day & Catholic Communication Campaign May 16 & 17 Sunday, May 17 is World Communication Day. Pope Francis declared this year's theme to be Communicating the Family: A Privileged Place of Encounter with the Gift of Love. The weekend of May 16 & 17 is the collection for the Catholic Communication Campaign (CCC). This collection assists in communicating the Gospel through Catholic social media activities and enriches our faith through Internet, television, radio and print media. Half of all proceeds remain in our diocese and support our communication and evangelization efforts especially the Florida Catholic newspaper and our televised Mass. Scouting Mass May 31 The diocese will hold its annual Mass for our Catholic Scouting program at 2:30 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola in Palm Beach Gardens. The celebrant will be Bishop Barbarito. Families and friends are invited.
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Complete Challenge #7 in this Month's
"The Family Fully Alive" Newsletter
The May edition of the The Family Fully Alive newsletter focuses on Discipleship Challenge #7- Guarding Your Castle as well as the meaning of Did you know: Families are called to be light in a dark world.
Available in English and Spanish, each month the newsletter features a Catholic Family Discipleship Challenge and a brief summary of what Catholics believe about human purpose, marriage and the family. Look for this newsletter each month as a parish bulletin insert or on the diocesan website to discover simple ways for your family to Keep it Catholic! The newsletter is a great resource for parishes, schools, families and individuals. You can read the issue at www.diocesepb.org/newslettersOr you can receive directly the newsletter as an E-newsletter as it is published. Sign up to be part of our Family Fully Alive address book. |
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Parents: Save this Date!
Registration is now underway for the June date of Leading & Loving -
A unique family-centered, Catholic approach for parents who want to raise virtuous children. Leading & Loving is designed for parents of young children, newborn through 5th grade. You will come away with practical techniques for developing virtue in your children and for answering some of your children's most challenging questions. This is organized by the diocese's Office of Marriage and Family Life.
Hosted by All Saints Catholic School in Jupiter, this session of Leading & Loving will take place Friday, June 26 from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. & Saturday, June 27 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. This is For Parents Only.
Register now on the diocesan website For more information, call the diocesan office of Marriage and Family Life at 561-775-9557.
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Catholic Charities Connection:
Are You Blessed with Time on Your Hands?
Catholic Charities always needs volunteers for our many programs and ministries including: Birthline/Lifeline; Elder Affairs; Hunger, Homeless and Outreach; Parish Social Ministry; and many others. Please come share your time and talents with us at Catholic Charities! For more information please contact Carly DeLoach, Volunteer Coordinator, via e-mail or phone at 561-345-2005.
Birthline/Lifeline Adoption Awareness Speakers Guild
The Adoption Awareness Speakers Guild is comprised of a trained team of people who themselves have experienced either adoption or the adoption of a child. The goal of the Adoption Awareness Speakers Guild is to educate parishioners through a short testimony about an adoption life experience. Invite this team of speakers to your parish by contacting Mary Rodriguez, Program Administrator of Birthline/Lifeline, via e-mail or at 561-278-0894.
9th Annual Bernard & Betty Egan Memorial Golf Classic
Samaritan Center is hosting the Annual Golf Classic on Saturday May, 30 at Grand Harbor Golf Club. The event starts with registration at 7:30 a.m., the shot gun start takes place at 8:30 a.m. Entry is $125 per person or $500 per foursome. If you don't play golf but want to participate, sign up to be a Phantom Golfer. Phantom players pay $125 and are matched with a playing team. If the team wins, so does the Phantom Player. Contact Samaritan Center at 772-770-3039 for additional information.
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Save the Dates for Fall 2015
Birthline/Lifeline's Annual Walk-a-Thon:
5:30 PM on October 3 at Emmanuel Parish in Delray Beach
Birthline/Lifeline's Annual Dinner Dance Gala:
6:00 PM on November 14 at the Okeechobee Marriott in West Palm Beach
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Save the Date: Family Day at the Rapids
Tickets on Sale Now!
The Diocese of Palm Beach invites all of our faith family to join us for a Family Fun Day ~ Connecting Family, Fun and Faith ~ at the Rapids Water Park in Riviera Beach on Saturday, August 22 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. This Family Fun Day is fun for everyone, especially for the whole family!
- Kids bring your parents and grandparents!
- Young Adults come with other YAs!
- Come with friends from your Church and ministries!
It truly is a day for our entire Church family to come together for some fun!
Discounted & Special Pricing
Just for the diocese, the Special Event Pricing* is $31.99 (+ tax) per person which includes:
- All-Day Admission Present your ticket voucher at Entrance to receive wristband for Buffet Lunch
- 1 Hr. Buffet Lunch (in a private pavilion) - Enjoy hotdogs, hamburgers and sides from Noon to 1 PM
- $5.00 Parking Voucher - When buying the tickets online, remember to print and bring your $5 parking voucher to save half of the $10 cash only parking fee!
*Regular admission price is $44.99 per person plus $10 price for parking
***When purchasing, be sure to use the Special Event Pricing Code: keepitcatholic
This Family Fun Day ~ Connecting Family, Fun and Faith ~ is sponsored by the Diocese of Palm Beach's Office of Marriage and Family Life & Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry. For more information, please contact Cathy Loh in the diocesan Office of Marriage and Family Life.
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Please view, print and share our Family Fun Day event flier
(Stick it on your fridge, calendar and bulletin board!)
Place this Family Fun Day on your electronic calendar - visit our Family Fun Day listing on our online Events Calendar. Once on the page, click "add to calendar" to place this event on your mobile, tablet or computer calendar.
You'll find fun for every age -- from the Splish Splash Lagoon, to floating in the Lazy River, to those seeking adventure and thrills on water rides like Big Thunder and Rapid Racer! Check out the rides on water park's website.
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The Papal Visit to the U.S. in September
Anticipation is starting to build for the World Meeting of Families to take place in Philadelphia September 22-27. Held every three years and sponsored by the Holy See's Pontifical Council for the Family, the World Meeting of Families is the world's largest Catholic gathering of families. Each World Meeting of Families has a theme that energizes and enlivens the event while adding great depth of meaning to our understanding of families. There is daily Mass, devotions, keynote addresses and multiple breakout sessions. For young people ages 6 to 17 who attending with their families, there is also a Youth Conference.
The theme of the World Meeting of Families - Philadelphia 2015 is "Love Is Our Mission: The Family Fully Alive," emphasizing the impact of the love and life of families on our society.
Catholics are also excited for the visit to the United States by Pope Francis which will be September 23-27. The Holy Father will visit New York City, Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia. Before coming to America, Pope Francis will visit Cuba.
The Diocese of Palm Beach continues to receive calls from the faithful looking for information on the events. Though the diocese is not organizing a diocesan-led tour or trip, the Office of Marriage and Family Life continues to be in touch with organizers in Philadelphia and the office is providing referrals and suggestions. Here is some of the information we are sharing:
While the Vatican may not release the full details and schedule of Pope Francis' visit until midsummer, here are the dates and events that have been announced by the so far:
Washington, D.C.
September 23: Holy Father will celebrate an afternoon Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Catholic University of America's 3.6 acre university mall. Conception, where he will canonize Blessed Junípero Serra. Plans for the Mass are still pending, but the congregation will assemble in the area surrounding the Basilica, including The
September 24: Address to Joint Session of United States Congress
New York, NY
September 25: United Nations General Assembly Address
Philadelphia, PA
September 26 - Festival of Families
September 27 - Celebrate Sunday Mass on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Thousands are expected to attend the World Meeting of Families during the week as well attend the meeting's Festival of Families. Millions more are expected to attend the Sunday Mass.
- World Meeting of Families website
If you want to know more about the World Meeting of Families, there is a special website with tons of information including spiritual/catechetical, how to prepare, how to be involved (whether attending the event or not), registration information, where to stay & much, much more. Visit the World Meeting of Families website: www.worldmeeting2015.org
- Purchase tickets or book hotel rooms
Tickets to attend the World Meeting of Families must be purchased through the official website. The Archdiocese of Philadelphia has booked many rooms in local hotels. For tickets, packages and lodging information, visit the Plan Your Visit section of the website: www.worldmeeting2015.org/plan-your-visit
Young people who are registered with their families to attend the World Meeting of Families are admitted to the Youth Congress. Visit the section of the website: www.worldmeeting2015/about-the-event
At this moment, the Archdiocese of New York does not have any details for Pope Francis' upcoming visit. However, the archdiocese is suggesting that those with interest should sign up via its website to be included on its e-mailing. Once signed up, you will receive an e-mail as soon as the archdiocese has the itinerary details. Visit Archdiocese of New York's website:
www.archny.org/papal-visit-updates
- Pope's Visit to Washington, D.C.
As listed earlier, the Holy See Press Office confirmed that the Holy Father will celebrate an outdoor Mass on the afternoon of September 23 at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. You can also sign up on its website to receive updates via e-mail and texts. Visit the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C.'s website: www.adw.org/papavisit
Though the Diocese of Palm Beach is not scheduling a diocesan-led tour, we would like to share with others any other organized group tours or visits in which one may be able to join. One such tour opportunity we are aware is with St. Lucie West Cruises, Tours & More which has already been working with a few of our Churches to book guests. For information, call Joe Rissi at 772-340-1600. Deadline is May 31 to sign up for this planned Pilgrimage to Philadelphia Sept. 24-27.
Are You Going? Please Help the Diocesan Communicators!
The diocesan Office of Communications would like to know of any groups that plan to attend the World Meeting of Families or any of the other events planned in other cities during Pope Francis' visit to the United States. If you are a ministry, a family, a group of students please let us know. This information will help us in future newspaper stories and in our promotion of this large Catholic event!
We request such information to be sent via e-mail to the Dianne Laubert, Director of Communications or via phone at 561-775-9529. Information given to Dianne will be shared with the Florida Catholic. We thank you in advance for your assistance.
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National Day of Prayer on May 22
The National Day of Prayer and Remembrance for Mariners and People of the Sea will be celebrated May 22. The day is observed in conjunction with National Maritime Day in the United States, which has been celebrated since 1933, to recognize merchant mariners and others in the maritime industry.
View more information
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Annual Memorial Day Mass & Military Tribute
The diocesan cemetery, Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery, will be celebrating its annual Memorial Day Mass on Monday, May 25, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. with His Excellency, the Most Reverend Gerald M. Barbarito, as the main celebrant. All clergy, parishioners, and families of the Diocese of Palm Beach are invited to attend this Mass.
This Mass is offered for all of those who have died in service to our country and for all of those who have served in the military. There will be a special military tribute, a tribute to all of our Priests who have served our country, and the dedication of the final phase of our Priest Memorial. A light reception will follow. A limited amount of seating will be provided so you are invited to bring your own chair, if so desired. The cemetery is located exactly one mile west of State Road 7 (US-441) and is three miles west of the Florida Turnpike at 10941 Southern Boulevard, in Royal Palm Beach. For additional information, please call us at 561-793-0711 or e-mail or visit us our website. |
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Upcoming Events
Below are just a few of the upcoming events. For more information on any events listed below, please visit the diocesan online Events Calendar or call the phone number listed for each event. You can also submit your events on the Events Calendar.
Grief and Loss Support Group
Dates & Time: May 5, 12, 19 & 26 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola
The group is a SUPPORT GROUP that is group led and group focused.
Phone: 561-622-2565
Day of Reflection
Date & Time: May 6 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Location: Our Lady of Florida Spiritual Center, North Palm Beach
Phone: 561-626-1300
Presenter: Maureen Hackett. "Abiding in the Heart of God".
Month's Mind Requiem Mass
Date & Time: May 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Location: Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery
Held in the outdoor chapel, this memorial Mass is held monthly and is offered for those laid to rest in the previous month, all of the deceased at Our Lady Queen of Peace, and for all the Souls in Purgatory.
Phone: 561-793-0711
Healing Retreat
Dates: May 22 - 24
Location: Our Lady of Florida Spiritual Center, North Palm Beach
This retreat is led by Fr. Robert Richardson.
Phone: 561-626-1300
Rummage Sale
Date & Time: May 30 7:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: St. Peter Church, Jupiter
Rain or Shine Indoor Rummage Sale
Phone: 561-575-0837
For more information any of the above events, please call the number listed or read more on each on our online Events Calendar
June Events
Deacon Study Week
Date: June 7-12
Location: St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary, Boynton Beach
Fortnight for FreedomJune 21 - July 4The Fortnight for Freedom: Freedom to Bear Witness takes place at a time when our liturgical calendar celebrates a series of great martyrs who remained faithful in the face of persecution by political power. The theme of this year's Fortnight will focus on the freedom to serve the poor and vulnerable in accord with human dignity and the Church's teaching. View website
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Coming This Summer and Fall
Deacon Appreciation Mass
August 10 at 6 p.m.
Cathedral of Saint Ignatius Loyola in Palm Beach Gardens
This Mass will be held at 6 p.m. A by-invitation only dinner for Deacons and their wives will be held afterward.
Ordination to the Permanent Diaconate
Cathedral of Saint Ignatius Loyola in Palm Beach Gardens
Share Your Events - Submit Once; Reach Two Audiences
Want to publicize your 2015-2016 events like parish fairs, fish fry dinners, ministry meetings and other special events? Reach beyond your parish walls to the entire faith community via the diocesan Events Calendar. Submissions are welcomed!
Information submitted online is automatically sent to the Office of Communications and the Florida Catholic for inclusion in the newspaper, on the diocesan website and for thoughtful consideration in E-News Communications and parish bulletin announcements sent to all parishes from the diocesan Office of Communications. Anyone checking out the Events Calendar section on the diocese's website will see your event.
With just one visit & click, you can submit your item to TWO places! Submit now on using our online Event Submission Form.
Questions? Call the Director of Communications at 561-775-9529.
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Year of Consecrated Life
The Catholic Church continues to celebrate a Year of Consecrated Life invoked by Pope Francis. Begun on the First Sunday of Advent and concluding on February 2, 2016, the Year of Consecrated Life is a time for all to celebrate: it is a renewal for men and women in consecrated life and a time of thanksgiving among the faithful for the men and women in the Diocese of Palm Beach who live a consecrated life. The theme for the Year of Consecrated Life is "Wake Up the World."
In addition to praying the Prayer for the Year of Consecrated Life, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops is encouraging the faithful to spend these months promoting "Days with Religious" initiatives and resources to help families learn about the consecrated life of religious men and women. To learn more, visit www.usccb.org/cclv
Prayer for the Year of Consecrated Life
O God, throughout the ages you have called women and men to pursue lives of perfect charity through the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience. During this Year of Consecrated Life, we give you thanks for these courageous witnesses of Faith and models of inspiration. Their pursuit of holy lives teaches us to make a more perfect offering of ourselves to you. Continue to enrich your Church by calling forth sons and daughters who, having found the pearl of great price, treasure the Kingdom of Heaven above all things. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
Oración para el Año de la Vida Consagrada
Oh Dios, tú que a través de los tiempos has llamado a mujeres y hombres a fin de que vivan la caridad perfecta por medio de los consejos evangélicos de la pobreza, la castidad y la obediencia. Durante este Año de la Vida Consagrada te damos gracias por estos valientes testigos de la fe, que son también modelos de inspiración. Con su empeño por lograr la santidad ellos nos enseñan a ofrecerte nuestra vida de una manera más perfecta. Te pedimos que continúes enriqueciendo a tu Iglesia con hijos e hijas que, habiendo encontrado la perla de gran valor, atesoran el Reino de los cielos por encima de todas las cosas. Por nuestro Señor Jesucristo, tu Hijo, que vive y reina contigo en la unidad del Espíritu Santo y es Dios por los siglos de los siglos, Amén.
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Living the Truth
in Love:
Read Bishop Barbarito's Columns
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Resources & Prayers
Peace Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi
view the prayer
Pray Daily for Our Diocesan Priests
view calendar and prayer
Pray Daily for Our Diocesan Deacons
view calendar and prayer
Daily Readings
click here to read
Prayer of the
Florida Catholic -
For the ministry of the Florida Catholic...that God will continue to utilize this ministry - as it has since 1939 - as a tool for evangelization and communication for the years to come.
We pray to the Lord.
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World Meeting of Families 2015
Official Website of the World Meeting of Families
(to be held Sept. 22-25, 2015 in Philadelphia)
view website
The Prayer for the World Meeting of Families read the prayer |
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Catholic News
Pope Unveils Logo, Details for Year of Mercy
view the details
The Florida Legislature Concludes; Special Session is Now Needed
The Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops (FCCB) provides updates on action taken by the legislature on priority bills. Read the why a special session is needed, and find out what passed, and failed to pass this session.
view the report
Week After Quake, Supplies & Aid Begin Reaching Remote Areas in Nepal
After Two Hours on a Dirt Road, CRS Arrives in Outer Villages, Bringing Aid & Supplies to Earthquake Victims
watch the video
For Catholics in West Baltimore, the Only Answer to Violence is Community
read the article
Writer, Sister, Friend: Sr. Mary Ann Walsh Remembered
read the article
Supreme Court Doesn't Tip Hand: Asks Tough Questions on Both Sides of Marriage Issue
read the article
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TV & Movies
Another Episode: The TV special series "A.D. the Bible" continues on Sunday, May 10. In this upcoming episode, Caiaphas Confronts the Rumor Mill,
See a sneak peak of the episode and catch all the past episodes online or check your local cable system guide.
Little Boy:
A moving film about a young boy who will do anything to bring his Dad home from World War II.
Learn more about the film/view clips and find theaters playing the film
NBC Airs Early Story of Christian Church in "A.D. the Bible Continues"
view the story
What Movies to Watch?
Before grabbing popcorn, read the Catholic News Services' reviews of recently released (like 'Cinderella', 'Do you believe', 'Furious 7') and "older movies"
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Current Action Alerts
Learn about other Action Alerts!
Sign Up to Receive Action Alerts from the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops
click here to sign up now!
Sign Up to Receive Action Alerts from the USCCB
click here to sign up now!
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