An Introduction to
Sunday's Scripture ReadingsIn the hope that you will enter more fully into the Mass
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| | Would-be Followers of Jesus (Luke 51-62) |
"I WILL FOLLOW YOU WHEREVER YOU GO" At the end of last Sunday's Gospel, we heard Jesus admonish his followers, "If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." This Sunday, we learn what that means - let there be no distractions, let there be nothing that comes before the Lord. In our Gospel reading (Luke 9:51:62), we hear of the rejection of Jesus by a Samaritan town as he makes his way to Jerusalem. Jesus will not be distracted from his mission and destination. He demands nothing less from his followers. "When the days for Jesus' being taken up were fulfilled, he resolutely determined to journey to Jerusalem, and he sent messengers ahead of him. On the way they entered a Samaritan village to prepare for his reception there, but they would not welcome him because the destination of his journey was Jerusalem. When the disciples James and John saw this they asked, 'Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?' Jesus turned and rebuked them, and they journeyed to another village.
"As they were proceeding on their journey someone said to him, 'I will follow you wherever you go.' Jesus answered him, 'Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head.' And to another he said, 'Follow me.' But he replied, 'Lord, let me go first and bury my father.' But he answered him, 'Let the dead bury their dead. But you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God.' And another said, 'I will follow you, Lord, but first let me say farewell to my family at home.' To him Jesus said, 'No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God.'"
In our first reading (1 Kings 19:16, 19-21), we hear of Elisha's response to his calling by God and anointing by the prophet Elijah. A young man of significant wealth, he bids his family farewell and leaves everything behind to follow the lord.
"The LORD said to Elijah: 'You shall anoint Elisha, son of Shaphat of Abelmeholah, as prophet to succeed you.' Elijah set out and came upon Elisha, son of Shaphat, as he was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen; he was following the twelfth. Elijah went over to him and threw his cloak over him. Elisha left the oxen, ran after Elijah, and said, 'Please, let me kiss my father and mother goodbye, and I will follow you.' Elijah answered, 'Go back! Have I done anything to you?' Elisha left him, and taking the yoke of oxen, slaughtered them; he used the plowing equipment for fuel to boil their flesh, and gave it to his people to eat. Then Elisha left and followed Elijah as his attendant."
In our Epistle reading (Galatians 5:1, 11-18), St. Paul once again tells, in real world terms, how to live out our calling.
"Brothers and sisters: For freedom Christ set us free; so stand firm and do not submit again to the yoke of slavery. For you were called for freedom, brothers and sisters. But do not use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh; rather, serve one another through love. For the whole law is fulfilled in one statement, namely, You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
"But if you go on biting and devouring one another, beware that you are not consumed by one another. I say, then: live by the Spirit and you will certainly not gratify the desire of the flesh. For the flesh has desires against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; these are opposed to each other, so that you may not do what you want. But if you are guided by the Spirit, you are not under the law."
There is no doubt that each one of us has been called by God to be his disciple, to let nothing in our lives come before serving the Lord and loving one another. What remains is how we discern and respond to that call. God will grant us the grace if we but ask.
- Click Here to read, reflect and pray on the full readings for Sunday, June 26, 2016
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Pastor's Message
 "You will show me the path to life, Fullness of joys in your presence,
the delights at your right hand forever" Psalm 16
Last Wednesday we celebrated our annual end-of-school Blue and Gold Day. Lots of field games between classmates and former students; hot dogs and chips, and so much excitement - as summer vacation begins!
Thank you to all of our teachers, staff and parent volunteers for a wonderful time as we celebrate another successful school year and look forward to next fall.
Registration is underway for our annual St. Rita Vacation Bible School to be held July 25-29. Morning, afternoon, and all-day sessions are available. Register online at www.saintritawebster.org/vbs.html. Adult and teen volunteers are needed to help. Contact Elizabeth today: ekwiatkowski@dor.org or 671-1100 x 14
As mentioned last weekend at Masses, our St. Rita Roof Campaign is well under way! Almost 300 families have made gifts totaling $215,000 so far. We are presently collecting bids for the parish center roof which we hope to begin in the later part of summer. Please prayerfully consider making a pledge or donation to this much needed project to ensure the viability of our church buildings for years to come.
Have a Great Week!
Fr. Gonyo
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St. Rita School
Spirit of Learning Corner
Did You Know . . . .
This last week of school was so much fun!
+ Monday started with a Master Showcase. This talent show highlighted the skills of students who had taken lessons over the school year. From violin and piano pieces to dances, these students impressed the crowd.
+ In the afternoon, any student who met their Accelerated Reader (reading program) goals that were set by their teacher was awarded to a movie in the gym!
+ Tuesday was the annual field trip to Seabreeze for all graduating students and the day was great.
+ Wednesday was BLUE AND GOLD DAY! Parent volunteers set up the day. Spirits were high and games were played. Don't forget the TUG-OF-WAR!!!!! What a beautiful tradition to celebrate the last day of school.
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From the Desk of Father Shatzel . . .
THE GOSPEL OF LUKE
Last week, we noted 3 themes of Luke that we should look for as his Gospel is read the rest of this year. Today I would like to give a partial list of Luke's EXCLUSIVE passages (that is, they are NOT found in Matthew, Mark or John - but only in Luke):
- Baby Jesus adored by angels and shepherds (2:8-20)
- Presentation of Jesus in the Temple (2:22-39) 40 days after birth
- Finding Jesus in the Temple (2:41-52) at 12 years of age
- Famous Parables: The Good Samaritan (10:30-37) The Prodigal Son (15:11-32) Rich Man and Lazarus (16:19-31) Publican and the Pharisee (18:9-14)
- Jesus on trial before King Herod (23:6-12)
- "Good Thief" on the Cross (23:39-43)
- Disciples on the road to Emmaus on Easter afternoon (24:13-35)
So, as we can see, we owe much to Luke and his Gospel for these well-known and beloved passages. Now, it is up to us to "read and heed" Luke's Gospel this year.
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 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).
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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: ekwiatkowski@dor.org or 671-1100 x14
Are you on TEAM JESUS?
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.
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: ekwiatkowski@dor.org or 671-1100 x14
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 New Altar Server Training
Any boy or girl who will be entering 4th grade or above in the fall and have made First Communion and Reconciliation is ready to be trained as an altar server! Regular attendance at church, an ability to make a commitment, and valuing worshipping together are all important characteristics of a successful server. Please contact Elizabeth today at ekwiatkowski@dor.org or 671-1100 x14 to schedule your training session.
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 "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 $215,000
Number of Gifts 297
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 Confirmation Registration
Registration for Confirmation is open to any youth in 8th Grade or above who has received the Sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Reconciliation. He or she is invited to start preparation to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. This is a two year program. The first Parent/Youth Information Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, September, 25 at 6:15pm in Church. All parents and youth who are in their first or second year of preparation are expected to attend. Please contact Marie Marton at 671-1100 x 17 if you have any questions. Registration forms are found on-line on our website www.saintritawebster.org
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 FOOD COLLECTION - NEXT WEEKEND
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 next weekend.
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 KICKBALL TUESDAYS and other outdoor games! JOIN US ON TUESDAYS! (July 5 - mid August) from 6:00-8:00pm Everyone is invited to come play kickball (or other outdoor games) on Tuesday evenings from 6-8 pm on the soccer field at St. Rita, starting July 5 and continuing until mid-August. This is a free event for all ages - families, teens, young adults. Those younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult or older sibling. Bring a water bottle with your name on it. Feel free to bring additional sports equipment (soccer ball, Frisbee, etc.) -- just make sure it is labeled if you want it back. This is an outdoor-only event; it will be cancelled in case of heavy rain or thunder. All skill levels welcome! No RSVP Needed! For more information contact Elizabeth at ekwiatkowski@dor.org or 671-1100 ext. 14. --------------------------------------------------
Seeking Young Adults ages 18-35 Are you a college student home for the summer? A recent graduate? Do you know someone looking for a group of people to try out some FUN new activities? Send your name, email address, and ideas to Elizabeth at ekwiatkowski@dor.org. Let's get together! |
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Looking for
Fiesta Feedback!
Did you enjoy th e Fiesta this year? Please take a few minutes to go online to www.saintritawebster.org and fill out a survey to provide the planning committee with some valuable feedback.
We want to hear your thoughts!
Fiesta T-Shirts Still Available
Volunteer shirts and Race shirts from this year's Fiesta are available at the Parish Office. Please consider making a small donation and be sure to wear some advertisement all year round for our biggest event .
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From the Desk of Marie Marton . . .
BOOK REVIEW
"Return: How to Draw Your Child Back to the Church" by Brandon Vogt
Frequently, when I write these bulletin articles, I shake my head in wonder and frustration. Why am I writing this article? It really does not apply to anyone sitting in the pews. I am really, as the saying goes, preaching to the choir. These are not the people that need this information. Those who are not here will never get what they need. But, not this time! This time I know I am directing this to the correct audience! You are the exact individuals I want share this with.
I can't count the number of times I have heard the statement from family, friends and fellow parishioners: "I am so sad that my child (friend) has left the Church. I have tried everything to bring him/her back. What am I missing? What else should I try?" I have to admit that the answer has always evaded me. There are so many reasons or excuses people use to explain their departure. Each reason requires a different response. Where does anyone start? Well, now I know exactly what to do. I will direct them to read and ponder the suggestions made in this excellent book.
"Return" is written by Brandon Vogt. Vogt works as the Content Director for Bishop Robert Barron's Word on Fire Catholic Ministries. His work is no stranger to NPR, Fox News, CBS, EWTN, Vatican Radio, Our Sunday Visitor, National Radio and Christianity Today. He is often spotlighted on Catholic Radio and has written a number of books about Catholicism and the Church. He is the founder of StrangeNotions.com, the central place of dialogue between Catholics and atheists. Read More . . .
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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)
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FIRST EUCHARIST
and
FIRST RECONCILIATION
 First Eucharist candidates must be in Grade 2 or higher and be enrolled in either the Faith Formation Program or attend a Catholic school. Children enrolled in the First Eucharist Program will also be preparing for and making their First Reconciliation.
All children entering Grade 3 and higher who have made their First Eucharist but not their First Reconciliation should be enrolled in the First Reconciliation Program. Enrollment Forms are available in the Greeting Area, and on the Parish Website, www.saintritawebster.org.
If you would like more information about Faith Formation, First Eucharist or First Reconciliation Preparation please contact Anita Wagner at 671-2079, or at AWagner@dor.org
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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, rgarbach@dor.org 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
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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. |
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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.
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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!
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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
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 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!
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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
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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.
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Breakfast Club News
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!
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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.
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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.
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COMPANIONS IN GRIEF
SUPPORT GROUP
POT LUCK PICNIC SUPPER!
Thursday, June 30 at 6:00 pm
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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