An Introduction to
Sunday's Scripture ReadingsIn the hope that you will enter more fully into the Mass
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| | Vigilant and Faithful Servants (Luke 12:32-48) |
YOU ALSO MUST BE PREPARED! This Sunday's readings focus on perseverance in faith and preparedness. Our first reading from the Book of Wisdom (18:6-9) highlights the Israelites preparedness and faith in God's promise as they awaited the first Passover. "The night of the passover was known beforehand to our fathers, that, with sure knowledge of the oaths in which they put their faith, they might have courage. Your people awaited the salvation of the just and the destruction of their foes. For when you punished our adversaries, in this you glorified us whom you had summoned. For in secret the holy children of the good were offering sacrifice and putting into effect with one accord the divine institution." In our Gospel reading (Luke 12:32-48), Jesus admonishes his disciples to be prepared always, for they know not the hour that the Son of Man will come. "Jesus said to his disciples: 'Gird your loins and light your lamps and be like servants who await their master's return from a wedding, ready to open immediately when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival. Amen, I say to you, he will gird himself, have the servants recline at table, and proceed to wait on them. And should he come in the second or third watch and find them prepared in this way, blessed are those servants. Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour when the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.'" In our Epistle reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (11:1-2, 8-12), the author teaches the meaning of faith and uses the story of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob to illustrate the model of faithful perseverance. "Brothers and sisters: Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen. Because of it the ancients were well attested. By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance; he went out, not knowing where he was to go. By faith he sojourned in the promised land as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs of the same promise; for he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and maker is God. By faith he received power to generate, even though he was past the normal age -and Sarah herself was sterile - for he thought that the one who had made the promise was trustworthy. So it was that there came forth from one man, himself as good as dead, descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sands on the seashore." The Scouts have a motto, "Be Prepared". It is a good motto for Christians as well, for we do not know when the master will come calling. May he find us watchful and ready.
- Click Here to read, reflect and pray on the full readings for Sunday, August 7, 2016
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Pastor's Message
"I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger,
and whoever believes in me will never thirst." John 6
Our annual Summer Mission Appeal will take place next weekend at all masses. Our guest presider will be Fr. Robert Bradler, who is also our Diocesan Director of Mission Outreach through the Propagation of the Faith. This annual mission appeal helps us to be aware of the needs of our global church community. Please see below the information about Fr. Bradler's work with the mission in Haiti, "Hands Together", and thank you for your generosity.
May God bless you this week!
Fr. Gonyo
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 The Church in Haiti is struggling to bring God's love to the many hurting people and we are the comfort. In Haiti there are 10.9 million people in an area smaller than Maryland. 70% of these cannot read, and 85% live below poverty level. In slum areas 4 out of 5 children do not reach the age of five, and nationally 1 in 3 children suffer from chronic malnutrition. The hurricanes in 2004 and 2008, along with the devastating January 12, 2010 earthquake and hurricane later that same year, have left Haiti severely damaged and in desperate need of our prayers and support.
Hands Together runs free schools, medical clinics, and nutrition programs in Cite Soleil, providing 25,000 daily school meals and helping thousands of people who struggle to survive. Their work among the violence and savage poverty there is founded upon the Catholic social teachings of the dignity of human life and a preferential option for the poor. Hands Together embraces a clear ethic of life based on Catholic teaching that proclaims God's infinite and absolute love for us. About one-third of Hands Together's mission work supports educational, health, charity, and developmental projects in the Dioceses of Gonaives and Cap Haitien where more than 1 million live in abject poverty.
Fr. Bradler is a faithful volunteer for Hands Together and makes service trips to Haiti. Thank you for your generosity to this special second collection next weekend.
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 HOPE Ministry Needs School Supplies HOPE Ministry will be having a back to school night before school begins for low income children in Webster. Children will come to HOPE House to select new school supplies. We will also be open for families to pick out clothing for their children. School supplies have become an expensive necessity. We are in need of: highlighters, pens, pencils, crayons, markers, dry erase markers, colored pencils, pencil cases, composition notebooks, binders in 1½ inch, 2 inch and 3 inch, filler paper in regular and college lines, folders, 3-5 subject spiral notebooks, dividers and book bags. We do not need 1 subject notebooks this year. We also would like to request children's and teen's underwear and socks. There is a bin for these items in the greeting area in church. Thank you!
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 FOOD COLLECTION THIS WEEKEND (Aug. 6 & 7)
On the first Sunday of each month, parishioners are asked to bring in non-perishable food and paper supplies for the needy in our area. These donations 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. Our August donations will be delivered to: Sts. Peter & Paul Soup Kitchen
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 Companions in Grief Group Wednesday, August 24 7:30pm at Holy Spirit Church (1355 Hatch Rd / Corner of Plank Rd) All who have experienced the loss of a loved one through death are invited to attend. All are welcome! |
 Linen Ministry
Did you know that we have a Linen Ministry team that washes the small white hand towels and washes and irons the small altar cloths used by the Priests, Deacon and Communion Ministers at our liturgies? At this time we are looking for some extra helpers! The time commitment is only twice per year - done at home. For more information and if you would like to be part of this rewarding way to help out, please call Mary Ann at 671-7469.
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The 2nd Annual Field of Honor®
Again Pays Tribute
Friday, September 9 through
Sunday, September 11
The Field of Honor will be held on Patriot's Weekend and open to the public
from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm each day at Mercy Center (1437 Blossom Rd. Brighton)
Across the country, Fields of Honor® are created to provide families and friends an opportunity to honor current Military personnel and Veterans, Fire Department Personnel, Law Enforcement Personnel, and First Responders. The FOH is set up with symmetrical rows of 3 x 5 flags, on 8 ft. poles, with each flag bearing a Tribute Tag displaying the name of the honoree and information about his/her service to his/her country or community. Last year's Field of Honor®, at the Mercy Center, included tribute flags for: Firemen from various local districts, military who served in both World Wars, loved ones who served in Korea, Vietnam, those who are serving in the Middle East, and anyone who served during the Cold War and/or post-war situations.
During this three-day event, visitors come to walk the Field, read the tags, reflect, and appreciate the sacrifices made by those for whom the flags fly. The flags fly for 72 continuous hours. There will be an Opening Ceremony on Friday, September 9, at 10:00am and a Closing Ceremony on Sunday, September 11 at 2:00 pm.
The Field of Honor® will be open to the public during the 3-day event; and the flags will be illuminated and guarded until dawn.
Last year's event was described by one volunteer as: "... such an extraordinary experience and one we would truly like to participate in again. There was such a sacredness present."
If you, or someone you know, would like to purchase a Tribute Flag to honor a loved one or an entire service group, order forms and tribute tag forms are available from Natalie Depew at Mercy Bridges, 585-288-2710 x 121. A tribute flag can be purchased for $25 (previously flown) or $40 for a flag you can take home at the end of the event. The deadline for Tribute Flag orders is Monday, August 22. We would, also love to send a letter to your honoree upon your request.
A walk through the Field will be peaceful, inspiring and educational.
For more information, please contact Linda Almeter, the Volunteer Chairperson at: lindashw@frontiernet.net.
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 SAVE THE DATE! ST. RITA'S WOMEN'S RETREAT WEEKEND Friday, September 16 - Sunday, September 18 To be held at the Notre Dame Retreat House overlooking beautiful Canandaigua Lake The theme for the Women's retreat is "Our American Catholic Heritage, Past, Present, and Future". Conferences will focus on: - How Catholicism came to America
- How Catholicism has evolved, shaped and influenced us as a nation and individually over the years.
- The importance of Catholicism for us now and in the future
Come away for a weekend with the Lord. The weekend is sure to be a special one! For reservations or more information please call Darlene at 787-0983 or Jane at 734-6061. |
 "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 $266,883
Number of Gifts 389
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FAITH FORMATION
For Kindergarten thru Grade Seven
Enrollment for Faith Formation classes for the 2016-2017 school year is underway. 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)
Don't forget to return your enrollment forms, or enroll on-line as soon as possible!
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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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 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. Confirmation questions may be directed to Marie Marton at 671-1100 x 17 or MMarton@dor.org. Registration forms are found on-line on our website www.saintritawebster.org
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 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. |
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Theology on Tap - Summer Four Pack
Date: Monday Nights, August 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.
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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: jmatina@rochester.rr.com or 585.314.6096
Details and registration at: www.exultrochester.org
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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.
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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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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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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
THIS WEEKEND 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.
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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
For more information, please 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 Julie Cohn, Pastoral Minister 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 Julie Cohn, Pastoral Minister at 671-1100 Ext. 13 or email at jcohn@dor.org.
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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 Julie Cohn, Pastoral Minister at 671-1100 ext. 13 or email at jcohn@dor.org.
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.
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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