Saint Rita Church and School

The Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time - June 19, 2016  
 
 
Welcome to the e-Vangelism Newsletter of Saint Rita Church and School. This newsletter gives you a weekly introduction to the upcoming Sunday's Scripture readings as well as current information on our parish activities, news and notes from our pastor and / or pastoral staff, and educational / catechetical information to help you better understand and live your Catholic faith.


 
An Introduction to
Sunday's Scripture Readings

In the hope that you will enter more fully into the Mass

 
Peter's Confession about Jesus (Luke 9:18-24) 
"THE SON OF MAN MUST SUFFER GREATLY"   
    This Sunday, we are reminded that Jesus must suffer greatly in order to purify us from our sin.
    Our first reading (Zechariah 12:10-11; 13-1) is a prophetic proclamation by God to the people of Israel as they return from captivity and begin to rebuild their temple. They are instructed that their mourning and trials are the means to their purification from sin. It is a prophesy that can only be fulfilled by Christ himself.      "Thus says the LORD: I will pour out on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and petition; and they shall look on him whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him as one mourns for an only son, and they shall grieve over him as one grieves over a firstborn. On that day the mourning in Jerusalem shall be as great as the mourning of Hadadrimmon in the plain of Megiddo. On that day there shall be open to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, a fountain to purify from sin and uncleanness."
    In our Gospel passage (Luke 89:18-24) Jesus is identified by Peter as "the Christ of God". At hearing that, Jesus scolded his disciples to tell no one and he began to teach them what being the Christ really meant, that he must suffer greatly, be killed and be raised from the dead.  
.    "Once when Jesus was praying by himself, and the disciples were with him, he asked them, 'Who do the crowds say that I am?' They said in reply, 'John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, 'One of the ancient prophets has arisen.'' Then he said to them, 'But who do you say that I am?' Peter said in reply, 'The Christ of God.' He scolded them and directed them not to tell this to anyone.He also taught them what that would entail for them. 
   "He said, 'The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.' Then he said to all, 'If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.'" 
    In our Epistle reading (Galatians 3:26-29), St. Paul tells his community of the universality of Christ's church and that we all are heirs to the promise. 
    "Brothers and sisters: Through faith you are all children of God in Christ Jesus. For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's children, heirs according to the promise."
    It is only through the suffering, death and resurrection of Christ that we receive the Spirit of grace and petition, the fountain to purify us from sin and uncleanliness. Thus we become heirs to the promise, we, who through our baptism and through our actions, clothe ourselves with Christ. 
  • Click Here to read, reflect and pray on the full readings for Sunday, June 19, 2016 
Pastor's Message

June 19, 2016 
 

"Brothers and sisters: Through faith you are all children of God in Christ Jesus. For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's descendant, heirs according to the promise."  Galatians 3

 
Happy Father's Day!  Thank you to all the Fathers, Grandfathers, Godfathers and special men in our lives who have shared their love and care for us.  May God bless them on this special day!

 

We wish to congratulate all of our young people who have graduated or are ready to move on to a new grade.

 

We hosted our own Graduations and "moving up" ceremonies last Thursday and Friday evening at St. Rita School.  Our Principal, Mary Ellen Wagner, and your pastor, wish to thank all the parents and parishioners for the tremendous support you have shown to St. Rita School this year and over the years.  Our teachers have also been exemplary in their care shown to our students.  Thank you!  We look forward to the fall school season.  But, Summer vacation first!

 
Mark your calendar for this Tuesday, June 21 at 1:00pm for the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.  We will meet in Church and provide the Sacrament for those who are ill or facing challenging health issues or emotional difficulties.  Anyone is most welcome to attend.  Our local adult homes and health care facilities will be providing van and bus transportation.  After this service we will head down to the parish center to have our annual Strawberry Social!  This is a long-standing tradition here at St. Rita that includes delicious biscuits and whipped cream too!  

On a more somber note, we are all saddened by the recent tragedy in Florida as well as additional sad events in the news this past week in our own local area.  Together, we have much to pray for.

Have a Great Week!
Fr. Gonyo

Father's Day Prayer
 
Thank you, my friend Jesus, for my father who loves me, for my grandfather who cares for me, for all the father-figures in my life and especially for God, my eternal father, who made me and is always with me. How Blessed I am!
 
Happy Father's Day!
St. Rita Catholic School
St. Rita School 
Spirit of Learning Corner

Did You Know . . . .  
 
+   This week both the 5th and 6th grade classes graduated from St. Rita School during their Godspeed ceremonies.  So many wonderful, kind, smart kids are moving on from St. Rita's!
 
+   This week was also the last week for our Pre K students, who this year were located inside the school building (not in the barn). The Pre K teacher told one family on a tour that she incorporates the message of each week's Gospel into her theme for the week.  How wonderful that their kindness and faith have been intertwined into their daily lives through school!
 
+   Kindergarten celebrated their big end-of-the-year occasion with their Songfest on Tuesday.  That was right after they led the Flag Day Ceremony for the school in the gym!  These busy little ones made everyone smile and be proud to wear their patriotic colors for this special dress down day.
 
+   Don't forget to join in on Blue and Gold Day if you are an alumni! Joins us this Wednesday, June 22!  The famous tug-of-war begins at 11:15am!  Wear your blue or gold and join in for the alumni tug-of-war!
 
From the Desk of Father Shatzel . . .
 
THE GOSPEL OF LUKE
 
Last week, we gave the author, his sources, and the basic division of his Gospel. Today, we list some of Luke's many themes:
 
1)    FORGIVENESS and MERCY - As noted before, Luke is often called the Gospel of Mercy - very fitting for Pope Francis' Jubilee Year of Mercy - only Luke has the parable of the Prodigal Son (15:11-32) and the Good Samaritan (10:30-37) also, the Good Thief on the cross, "Today you will be with Me": (23:42-43) and "Father, forgive them they know not: (23:24).
 
2)    UNIVERSALISM - Luke is a Greek Gentile - "All peoples shall see the salvation of God" adds Luke (3:6) - Jesus praises the faith of two Gentiles (the widow of Zarephath and Naaman the Syrian (4:25-27) - Luke situates the ministry of John the Baptist in terms of the Roman Empire (3:1-2).
 
3)    PRAYER - Jesus is shown praying at several key points; not mentioned by Matthew or Mark, e.g. before giving the Lord's Prayer (11:1-4) - at His Baptism (3:21) - all night before choosing His Apostles (6:12) - in today's Gospel, before asking the Apostles, "Who do you say that I am?" (9:18-19).
(to be continued next week)
 
"Protecting Our Future"
Saint Rita Roof Campaign ~ Information Sessions
 
Our 30-year-old Church roof and 22-year-old Parish Center roof are in need of major repairs. Please prayerfully consider supporting this project. Roof Campaign Information packets and pledge cards are available in the back of church or at the parish office.
 
You can donate online using your credit card or through your bank. Please go to www.saintritawebster.org and select the yellow Roof Campaign tab. Thank you for your prayers and support!
 
Roof Campaign Goal               $350,000
Pledges received                    $198,701
Number of Gifts                         261 

POT LUCK PICNIC SUPPER!
 
Thursday, June 30 at 6:00pm
In the Parish Center
 
Please join for this wonderful opportunity to gather together for a delicious shared meal followed by a special remembrance commemorating our loved ones who have gone before us in faith and love.
 
All who have experienced the loss of a loved one are invited to attend this wonderful gathering of love and support. PLEASE RSVP and for more details call Bev (872-2933) or Margie (671-4913).

STRAWBERRY SOCIAL
and ANOINTING OF THE SICK
 
Tuesday, June 21 at 1:00 pm
 
We will start at 1:00 pm in Church for prayers and Anointing of the Sick. Anyone facing illness or significant life challenges can be anointed. Then we will head over to the Parish Center for dessert and social. For reservations or if you need a ride please call the Parish Office at 671-1100. Volunteers are needed to help. For more information please call Kathy Foster at 671-4347. All are welcome!

St. Rita Vacation Bible School
July 25-29, 2016

Morning and/or Afternoon sessions!
 
Register online at www.saintritawebster.org/vbs.html    

Adult and teen volunteers needed to help. Contact Elizabeth today: [email protected] or 671-1100 x14
 
Are you on TEAM JESUS?
 
Get your body and spirit in shape this summer! Join us for a week of activities aimed at keeping faith strong within our families. Participate in physical and spiritual exercises with family and friends. This year, we will have afternoon options and evening family events, in addition to morning sessions.
 
Registration is now open!
 
Register as a family or a volunteer online at www.stritawebster.org/vacationbibleschool or pick up a form in the greeting area. Ready to get involved now? Adult and teen volunteers needed to help plan and run a successful week. Please contact Elizabeth today: [email protected] or 671-1100 x14

2nd Annual Meg's Gift Golf Tournament
with Silent Auction and Dinner
 
Saturday, August 13
at Shadow Lake and Greystone Golf Clubs
 
Last year we raised $60,000 for St. Joseph Neighborhood Center to help those suffering from mental illness and to provide assistance to those with inadequate health care coverage. These results exceeded our expectations, most likely because we have an angel in heaven working as she always did by serving those most in need.
 
It has been 27 months since our beautiful daughter, Meg, lost her battle with depression. The pain of her loss is ever present to us and to so many others who knew and loved her. We have chosen not to dwell on that loss or that pain. Instead we recall her loving and generous spirit and want to carry it on through MEG's Gift. MEG's Gift is her legacy. Please join us in fostering this legacy. For a bird's eye view of our angel, visit our website at
http://www.megsgift.org/

This year we chose the Veterans Outreach Center (VOC) as our main beneficiary.
The VOC has worked hard to provide comprehensive resources and services to current and former members of the U.S. Armed Forces, many of whom suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and substance abuse. 
 
Slots fill up fast so register online for the tournament or just come for dinner. You can also make a donation to Meg's Gift, Inc. or become a Sponsor (see our brochure on our website). The Silent Auction will feature many items from sports, to dining, to overnight stays, and salons. Music this year will be provided by Chris Wilson whose pure and soft style is as refreshing as his values.
 
If you need help please contact Deacon Ray at Holy Spirit Church (585) 671-5520, [email protected] or Kathy at (585) 671-7988. Please pray for those who suffer from mental illness and related problems.
With blessings and warm regards to all,
Deacon Ray and Kathy Garbach

 
FAITH FORMATION

Students in Grades K-7, who do not attend a Catholic school, are strongly encouraged to be enrolled in the Faith Formation Program

You may enroll and pay for Faith Formation and Sacraments on-line, at our website, www.saintritawebster.org. Enrollment Forms for new students are available online and in Church.

A choice of two sessions will be offered weekly:                                 
  • Session 1: Mondays:   4:30 - 5:45 pm (Grades K-6)
  • Session 2: Mondays:   6:15 - 7:30 pm (Grades 1-7)
Year of Mercy Mass
Wednesday, June 22 at 6:30 pm 

You are invited to attend a special Year of Mercy Mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral, 296 Flower City Park, to be celebrated by Bishop Matano.
 
Wednesday, June 22, at 6:30 pm: The Feast of Saint John Fisher, the patron saint of the Diocese of Rochester, with Mass seeking his continued intercession for our Diocese.
 
Pope Francis has declared that passing through the Holy Door of Mercy, located in our Diocese at the inside center entrance of the Cathedral, will offer the possibility of obtaining a Plenary Indulgence, a remission of the temporal punishment due to sins, by participating in the Sacraments of Confession and Holy Eucharist, praying for the Holy Father's personal intentions, and praying the Profession of Faith (the Creed).
 
For more information and a complete schedule of the special Masses at the Cathedral, visit www.dor.org

Please Join Us . . .  

Every Saturday morning at 8:15 am in the Chapel,  we gather to pray the Rosary for persecuted Christians around the world, especially in the Middle East and especially by ISIS and Boko Horam. God knows they need our prayers.

We also pray for whatever other intentions the group may have.


DID YOU KNOW?   Some of our newer parishioners may wonder why we kneel after the recessional hymn at the end of Mass. It is a tradition at St. Rita Church to take a moment to say three Hail Mary's for the next person from our parish who will join the Lord in heaven.
ARE YOU NEW TO OUR PARISH?
 
To St. Rita Parish Community!
 
We are delighted that you have chosen to worship with us and hope that your time with us will be prayerful. Here at St. Rita we encourage everyone to participate as fully as possible in our Liturgical celebrations as well as in the ministries of our parish.

If you would like more information about St. Rita Church please go to our website at www.saintritawebster.org. If you would like to register with us please stop at the parish office and pick up a Welcome Packet.

Feel free to call the parish office 671-1100 at any time if you have questions. We are happy to have you with us!
 
Electronic Giving!
 
St Rita Church is pleased to announce our new electronic option for making regular offerings. Contributions can be debited automatically from your checking or savings account or processed using your credit or debit card. Our new electronic giving program offers convenience for you and much-needed donation consistency for our congregation. You can set up your donations on our website or if you'd rather, stop by the parish office for an authorization form.
 
To set up your electronic donation on our website:
 
1)       Go to http://www.saintritawebster.org/
2)       Click on the button
3)       Click on the "Create Profile" button, then 
4)       Follow the onscreen instructions to create an online profile and to schedule your recurring contributions.
 
  Or Scan here to contribute from your mobile device
PARISH FAMILY CENSUS

Family dynamics change and people relocate so in an effort to keep our family database current we have been conducting a Parish Family Census.

Please be sure to return a yellow census form to church or the parish office OR you can go online and complete the form at: www.saintritawebster.org. Yellow forms are also available in the greeting area in Church. If you are new to the parish ~ Welcome! We invite you to register with us!! Thank you for your help!
 
  Visit Our Website
 
 Check out our newly re-designed parish website at www.saintritawebster.org for up-to-date information about what is happening in the parish, school, and wider faith community. Find ministry contacts, download youth program registration forms, or catch up on a bulletin you may have missed. Is there something else you want to see on the website? Let us know!  Like your news in a shorter format? Follow our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/stritawebster
 
.
 
 
Join Our Newsletter Mailing List
St. Rita is now on Facebook and a
fantastic page it is!

Check us out and receive updates and inspirational commentary directly to your Facebook.

Like us on Facebook
 
Breakfast Club News
Breakfast Club after Mass on Sundays
 
Served Sundays 
8:30-11:00 am
In the Parish Center
September thru May
 
Join us for breakfast Sunday mornings from 8:30-11:00 am in the Parish Center. We offer a "Special" each Sunday as well as a traditional menu.

Thank you to all the volunteer cooks, servers and helpers who gave so generously of their time on Sunday mornings so we can all enjoy a great meal with new and old friends!   Thank you also to all the patrons who enjoyed breakfast and donated to help defray the cost of the upkeep to our parish center kitchen.  

Please join us in the Fall on Sunday, September 11 when we begin serving again!
 
Thanksgiving Food Collection

Food Collection
Next Collection- July 2 & 3  
 
     On the first Sunday of each month, parishioners are asked to bring in food for the needy in our area. Food may be left in the greeting area of Church. Also needed are paper towels, toilet paper, pan spray and condiments.
   
    Please remember to bring your nonperishable foods to church with you.
 

 

Life Can Be Hard
Stephen Ministers Can Help

   

   Life can be very hard when we lose the things we love and need, when we get lonely, or when a loved one dies.   

   If you already have someone bringing the Lord's compassion to you, thank God for that person.  If you don't, please know that a Stephen Minister is ready and waiting to be a trusted, compassionate friend.   

   Please consider that a Stephen Minister could be part of God's plan for you.  If you want to talk about that possibility, please call 586-0674 ext. 130.

Grief Support Group
 COMPANIONS IN GRIEF
SUPPORT GROUP 

POT LUCK PICNIC SUPPER!
 
Thursday, June 30 at 6:00pm
In the Parish Center
 
We will do a helium balloon release after our shared meal. All who have experienced the loss of a loved one through death are invited to attend this wonderful gathering of love and support. PLEASE RSVP and for details call Bev at 872-2933 or Margie at 671-4913.
 
 

Visiting the Sick

Parish Visitation

 

Do you have a loved one at home, in a nursing home, or in the hospital that is in need of a visit?  Our pastoral staff is here for you.  Please call Mary Jo DiNoto at 671-1100 ext. 13 if you have a visitation need.

St. Rita's Prayer Line

 

Did you know that we have a very active Prayer Line here at St. Rita Parish? Your request of any kind can be passed along to over 100 people who will remember your need in their daily prayer. If you would like to have a special intention remembered in prayer through our Prayer Line, please call Mary Jo DiNoto at 671-1100 Ext. 13. 

 

Pray The Rosary Together

 

All are welcome to join in praying the rosary every Wednesday morning that school is in session at 8:45am. We meet in the chapel following the 8:15am Daily Mass.

 

Also, Saturdays at 8:15 am

We gather in the Chapel to pray the Rosary for persecuted Christians, especially in Africa and the Middle East.

 

Our Prayer Shawl Ministry is Here for You! 

  

Prayer Shawls are given to anyone we hear of who is in need including those facing serious illness, major surgery, or extended treatments. It can be someone who has suffered a significant loss in their lives or those who are just going through a hard time.   Father has blessed the shawls and there is a prayer included with a reminder of God's love for them. It serves as their connection with St. Rita's parish even though they're not able to be with us physically. If you or someone you know is in need of a prayer shawl please contact Mary Jo at 671-1100 ext. 13.   

 

Our prayer shawl group meets each month to gather and make blankets for those who need to feel the loving presence of God and the love of our parish family.

 

DID YOU KNOW?
 
Some of our newer parishioners may wonder why we kneel after the recessional hymn at the end of Mass. It is a tradition at St. Rita Church to take a moment to say three Hail Mary's for the next person from our parish who will join the Lord in heaven.
 
Parish Life Links
Other Quick Links
 
Parish Support 
 
Thank You For Your Generosity! 
We all grow spiritually
when we share.

CATHOLIC MINISTRIES APPEAL STATUS:
 
Goal: $147,317
 
Pledges Received to Date:  $143,112

Balance: $4,205
 
# of Donors: 694 Households
 
ACT Now ~Automatic Contribution Transfer
 
It is easy to make your financial contribution to St. Rita Church by automatic withdrawal directly from your bank account - with no charge to you! Please sign up at the parish office or for more information call Lisa at the parish office at 671-1100 x 12.
 
You can also initiate "Direct Bill Payment" through your own electronic banking account by directing your bank to mail your monthly/weekly contribution to St. Rita Church at 1008 Maple Dr., Webster, NY 14580.
  
St. Rita School Banner

St. Rita School Welcomes You   

 

Where Faith and Knowledge Meet

Like us on Facebook