Saint Rita Church and School

The Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time - July 10, 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

Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 15:25-37)
AND WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?
    This question was easily answered in the Jewish tradition of Jesus' time - someone of my own clan, tribe or family. Certainly not an enemy. Not so, said Jesus. It is even, perhaps especially, your enemy, the downtrodden and the outcast..
    In this Sunday's Gospel (Luke 15:25-37), Jesus is tested by a religious lawyer about how one merits eternal life. In Jesus' response, he shows the true nature of God's mercy, which we are all to emulate. Jesus placed the despised Samaritan as the hero in his story, in contrast to the Jewish priest and the Levite who were following Jewish custom and law.. 
    "There was a scholar of the law who stood up to test him and said, 'Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?' Jesus said to him, 'What is written in the law? How do you read it?' He said in reply, 'You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your being, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.' He replied to him, 'You have answered correctly; do this and you will live.' But because he wished to justify himself, he said to Jesus, 'And who is my neighbor?'
   "Jesus replied, 'A man fell victim to robbers as he went down from Jerusalem to Jericho. They stripped and beat him and went off leaving him half-dead. A priest happened to be going down that road, but when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. Likewise a Levite came to the place, and when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. But a Samaritan traveler who came upon him was moved with compassion at the sight. He approached the victim, poured oil and wine over his wounds and bandaged them. Then he lifted him up on his own animal, took him to an inn, and cared for him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper with the instruction, 'Take care of him. If you spend more than what I have given you, I shall repay you on my way back.' Which of these three, in your opinion, was neighbor to the robbers' victim?' He answered, 'The one who treated him with mercy.' Jesus said to him, 'Go and do likewise.'"
    Our first reading (Deuteronomy 30:10-14) highlights the simplicity and purity of God's law as originally transmitted by Moses. It is already in our hearts; we have only to carry it out. 
    "Moses said to the people: 'If only you would heed the voice of the LORD, your God, and keep his commandments and statutes that are written in this book of the law, when you return to the LORD, your God, with all your heart and all your soul. 'For this command that I enjoin on you today is not too mysterious and remote for you. It is not up in the sky, that you should say, 'Who will go up in the sky to get it for us and tell us of it, that we may carry it out?' Nor is it across the sea, that you should say, 'Who will cross the sea to get it for us and tell us of it, that we may carry it out?' No, it is something very near to you, already in your mouths and in your hearts; you have only to carry it out.'"
    In our Epistle reading (Colossians 1:15-20), St. Paul refutes the false teachers of his day (and as yet in our day) by reminding his listeners of the primacy of Jesus, the "first born of all creation". It is this same God who was the giver of the Mosaic Law as it was the teller of the parable of the Good Samaritan.
    "Christ Jesus is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For in him were created all things in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things were created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. He is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things he himself might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile all things for him, making peace by the blood of his cross through him, whether those on earth or those in heaven"
    It really is that simple, we should not over complicate it, It is already "in our mouths and in our hearts." We have only to carry it out. 
  • Click Here to read, reflect and pray on the full readings for Sunday, July 10, 2016 
Pastor's Message

July 10, 2016  

"I pray to you, O LORD, for the time of your favor, O God!
In your great kindness answer me with your constant help. Answer me, O LORD,
for bounteous is your kindness; in your great mercy turn toward me."    Psalm 69
 
This weekend we will have a punch and cookie reception after all the masses as we bid farewell to Mary Jo Dinoto. She has accepted a new pastoral position at Holy Cross Church and will be very close to her new home in Irondequoit. We thank her for her many contributions to our parish over the years. We wish her our best and will all miss you!
 
A few items to consider as summer is here: (detailed information on all of these is in the bulletin today)
  • Vacation Bible School
  • Tuesday night Kickball and Outdoor games
  • Registration for Fall Faith Formation
  • Registration for the Confirmation Program
A number of repairs are underway or are soon to begin at St. Rita. We are currently finishing a new ceramic floor in the parish center bathrooms. In regards to our capital roof campaign project, we hope to finalize roofing contracts for the repair of the parish center roof in the next couple of weeks. Thank you to all who have been so generous in helping us move forward with this task.
Have a Great Week!
Fr. Gonyo

Message from Bishop Matano
Requesting Prayers
for Victims and an End to Violence
 
Bishop Matano has asked that prayers continue to be offered for an end to the violence now plaguing our country and our world. While renewing our prayers for the victims of the horrific violent tragedy in Orlando and united in prayer with the families of all who mourn their loss, we also pray for the victims and families of the terrorist attacks in Istanbul, Bangladesh and Baghdad, and throughout the world where the family of God is being torn apart because we do not acknowledge that all life is sacred and we are all God's children.

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.

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

There's still time to register
Go online at www.saintritawebster.org/vbs.html
 
Are you on TEAM JESUS?
 
Anyone can help support this year's program by donating a snack item. Please see the display in the greeting area for specific items, including pretzels, goldfish, animal crackers, popcorn, granola bars, and Ziploc bags. Soccer balls (used or new), items for care packages, and craft supplies for children will also be collected - see next weekend's bulletin for more details.
Thank you for your generosity
and your prayers for a successful week!

From the Desk of Father Shatzel . . .
 
CHALICE PRESENTATION to our 3 newly ordained priests was held a week ago on Thursday, June 30th at the Columbus Center on Barrett Drive in Webster. The members of the Rev. Paul Cuddy 4th Degree Assembly of the Knights of Columbus made a presentation of a chalice to each of the new priests who had been ordained by Bishop Matano on Saturday, June 4th. These priests are:   Rev. Jainer Erick Viloria, Rev. Jorge Ivan Ramirez, and Rev. Justin Miller.
 
We are grateful to the Knights of Columbus for their generous and prayerful support of our priestly vocations. We also congratulate and offer our prayers for these 3 new priests as they have begun their first assignments this month.   GOD BLESS!

Theology on Tap - Summer Four Pack
 
   Date: Monday Nights, August 1, 8, 15 and 22
   Time: 7:00 pm
   Location:  The Beale New Orleans Grille & Bar
                   689 South Ave Rochester, NY 14620
   Cost: None - FREE!
 
Theology on Tap is an opportunity for young adults to gather to discuss and reflect on issues of faith. We meet in the back room to learn about topics relevant to our lives and faith. Come early to save a seat and meet other young adults in the area.

CYO SOCCER REGISTRATION
 
CYO soccer registration for the upcoming fall season has begun! Children from St. Rita Parish in grades 3-6 may sign up for this league, which will play in September and October. Register and pay online at www.saintritawebster.org/cyosoccer. The fees are $60 for 3/4 grade and $80 for 5/6 grade players ($140 family maximum). Deadline is August 17, 2016.
 
Save the Date!
Rochester Catholic Men's Conference
 Saturday October 1st, 2016
 
"Strengthen Your Brothers"

8:00am - 4:00pm at St. Jude the Apostle

Featuring EWTN's Fr. Mitch Pacwa, "The Dynamic Deacon" Harold Burke-Sivers, and Patrick Coffin - host of "Catholic Answers Live"
Early-bird discount before September 1st
is $45 per person - Students are only $25
Contact John Matina with any questions: [email protected] or 585.314.6096
Details and registration at: www.exultrochester.org
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 [email protected]

Confirmation
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

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 [email protected] or 671-1100 ext. 14.
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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 [email protected]. Let's get together!

"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

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

 
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
 
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Join Our Newsletter Mailing List
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fantastic page it is!

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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

Weekend of:
August 6 & 7 
 
     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
   
For more information, please 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.
 
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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