An Introduction to
Sunday's Scripture ReadingsIn the hope that you will enter more fully into the Mass
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ANYONE WHO DOES NOT RENOUNCE ALL HIS POSSESSIONS CANNOT BE MY DISCIPLE This Sunday's scripture readings ask us to consider the cost of discipleship. In our first reading (Wisdom 9:13-18), we begin with a reading about the unfathomable wisdom of God. It helps set the tone for our Gospel reading. This is the supreme God whom Jesus tells us must be before all else. "Who can know God's counsel, or who can conceive what the LORD intends? For the deliberations of mortals are timid, and unsure are our plans. For the corruptible body burdens the soul and the earthen shelter weighs down the mind that has many concerns. And scarce do we guess the things on earth, and what is within our grasp we find with difficulty; but when things are in heaven, who can search them out? Or who ever knew your counsel, except you had given wisdom and sent your holy spirit from on high? And thus were the paths of those on earth made straight." In our Gospel reading (Luke 14:25-33), Jesus cautioned the crowds following him to consider the cost of discipleship before following him. It is not for the weak hearted. The cost -- complete detachment - from every thing and every one. "Great crowds were traveling with Jesus, and he turned and addressed them, 'If anyone comes to me without hating his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. Which of you wishing to construct a tower does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if there is enough for its completion? Otherwise, after laying the foundation and finding himself unable to finish the work the onlookers should laugh at him and say, 'This one began to build but did not have the resources to finish.' Or what king marching into battle would not first sit down and decide whether with ten thousand troops he can successfully oppose another king advancing upon him with twenty thousand troops? But if not, while he is still far away, he will send a delegation to ask for peace terms. In the same way, anyone of you who does not renounce all his possessions cannot be my disciple.'" In our Epistle reading from the Letter to Philemon (9-10, 12-17), St. Paul gives us an example of the cost of discipleship we heard about in the Gospel. First, he is writing from prison, and secondly, he sends the former slave, Onesimus, to Philemon in Colossae. Onesimus is now "more tha a slave, a brother." "I, Paul, an old man, and now also a prisoner for Christ Jesus, urge you on behalf of my child Onesimus, whose father I have become in my imprisonment; I am sending him, that is, my own heart, back to you. I should have liked to retain him for myself, so that he might serve me on your behalf in my imprisonment for the gospel, but I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that the good you do might not be forced but voluntary. Perhaps this is why he was away from you for a while, that you might have him back forever, no longer as a slave but more than a slave, a brother, beloved especially to me, but even more so to you, as a man and in the Lord. So if you regard me as a partner, welcome him as you would me." What Jesus may really be saying is, whatever you love, detach yourself and love me more. Whomever you love, detach yourself and love me more. But as we see in our first reading, "thus were the paths of those on earth made straight."
- Click Here to read, reflect and pray on the full readings for Sunday, September 4, 2016
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Pastor's Message
"Blessed are the merciful,for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven." Matthew 5:7
St. Rita School teachers and area teachers as well, have been busy preparing for the start of school this coming week. It is a time of excitement and opportunity for the whole community as everyone moves into the month of September. School buses fill the roads, shiny new books are handed out, tidy classrooms are full of energy and excited children all indicate the beginning of a great new school year and the change of seasons. At some time in our life I'm sure we have all experienced this feeling. May we embrace this new season with open eyes and open hearts to God's gracious love.
A PARENT'S PRAYER
Dear God, I thank you for the chance to watch my child grow and mature. I am grateful for the joy of helping me fulfill the divine plan you have for him/her.
Help my child to adjust to this new time and start of school without undue anxiety. Help him/her see your constant care and love. Give me the ability to offer compassionate parental love, encouragement and wisdom. Bless the teachers of my child, help my child to make good friends, keep them safe, and bless children and parents everywhere. Amen.
Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz, president of the USCCB, has asked all dioceses in the United States to take part in a "Day of Prayer and Peace" in our communities this Friday, September 9, the Feast of Saint Peter Claver. Affirming his request for daily prayers for all the victims of violence and their loved ones and for peace in our world, our nation and our communities, Bishop Matano has requested that our parishes also take part in this special September 9 Day of Prayer for Peace. We will offer prayers at our daily Mass and ask you to personally take a moment this Friday to do the same.
This Sunday, September 4 is the canonization of Mother Teresa. While recovering from tuberculosis, Sister Teresa a consecrated missionary who had been teaching geography in a High School in Calcutta heard her vocational calling. Though already a member of the Sisters of Loretto, Sister Teresa had received an unmistakable request from the Lord: live and work among the poorest of the poor. Despite not knowing where or how she would accomplish His order, she obeyed. Mother Teresa stands as a pillar of compassion, an outspoken advocate for the protection of life -- from the sick and dying - to the unborn and the family.
May God bless you this week!
Fr. Gonyo
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FOOD COLLECTION ~ THIS WEEKEND
(Sept. 3 & 4)
Reminder - 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. Donations may be left in Church. Our September donations will be delivered to St. Peter's Soup Kitchen.
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If you have someone in grades 6 -12 in your family, keep reading! We will be kicking off our brand new youth faith and fun group at St. Rita called FaithLine on:
Sunday, September 18
from 11:30am -1:00 pm in Room 1
Youth, parents, and siblings are all welcome to attend this introductory meeting to discuss service and social opportunities in our community. Pizza and snacks will be provided. Please let Elizabeth Kwiatkowski (ekwiatkowski@dor.org) know how many people will be coming and if you have any questions.
Spread the word - all are welcome!
Hope to see you there!
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REGISTER NOW FOR
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 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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Faith Formation Catechists Needed!
Our Faith Formation students will be returning in September and are in need of teachers to share their love of their faith by guiding and teaching them about our beautiful Catholic Church. The following classrooms are awaiting teachers:
Mondays at 4:30-5:45 Kindergarten
Grade 4 (2 teachers needed)
If you are interested in sharing faith with our young friends or 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 Preparation
Registration for Confirmation is open to any youth in 8th Grade or above who has received the Sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Reconciliation. This is a two year program. The first Parent/Youth Information Meeting will be
Sunday, September, 25 at 6:15 pm in Church. All parents and youth who are in their first or second year of preparation are expected to attend. Registration forms are on our website at www.saintritawebster.org Questions may be directed to Marie Marton at 671-1100 x 17 or MMarton@dor.org |
 FIRST RECONCILIATION ~ PARENT MEETING Wednesday, September 28 at 6:30 pm in Church Parents of children who are enrolled in this program need to attend this parent meeting. Children who are enrolled in the First Eucharist Program will also be preparing for and making their First Reconciliation as well as children entering Grade 3 and higher who have made their First Eucharist but not their First Reconciliation. Enrollment Forms are available in the Greeting Area, and on our Parish Website, www.saintritawebster.org. Any questions? Please contact Anita Wagner at 671-2079 or awagner@dor.org
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 CYO BASKETBALL Registration will be held IN-PERSON on Saturday, September 24 9:00-11:00 am in the Parish Center St. Rita's CYO Basketball program is open to boys in grades 3-12 and girls in grades 3-6. Priority placement goes to parishioners and students who attend St. Rita School. Space is limited. For more information, see our website at www.stritawebster.org/cyobasketball.html IF ANYONE IS INTERESTED IN COACHING please contact Elizabeth at 671-1100 x 14 or ekwiatkowski@dor.org ASAP please!
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 WOMEN'S BASKETBALL
This Wednesday (Sept. 7)
Are you looking for a fun activity to get you moving? All women ages 18 and up of any skill level are welcome to join us on Wednesday evenings, generally between 7:30-9:30 pm in the gym for some basketball fun. Join us this Wednesday, September 7 at 7:30pm in the Gym! To get reminders and exact times, send a note to Elizabeth at ekwiatkowski@dor.org or call the office at 671-1100 x14. All are welcome!
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 Breakfast Club Starts AGAIN Next Weekend! This is our 44th year! Our Fall activities are beginning and that means the start of Breakfast Club! You are invited each Sunday morning from 8:30-11:00am in the Parish Center for a delicious meal served with a smile! We offer a "Special" each Sunday but we always have our traditional menu as well with items such as eggs (any way you like 'em), bacon, sausage, pancakes, etc. So sit back and let Breakfast Club serve you breakfast on Sunday mornings from September through May! Next week's special: Western Egg Bake (ham, swiss, cheddar, peppers & onions) served with warm buttered toast and a bottomless cup of coffee. Our ministry runs on donations only which are greatly appreciated! * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * BREAKFAST CLUB WORKERS NEEDED! Breakfast Club is a volunteer ministry that provides a gathering place for fellowship after Mass along with a delicious meal! This is a great ministry for families to do together, teens needing community service, or anyone looking to help out and meet new people! Our Breakfast Club Teams work one Sunday morning each month from September - May. If you or your family are interested in helping out with cooking, setting tables, serving, or clean-up in a friendly and fun environment, your help would be greatly appreciated! Please call the Parish Office at 671-1100.
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 ST. RITA SOCIETY Pot Luck Supper & Auction Tuesday, September 20 at 6:00pm in the Parish Center Our first event of the season is our ever popular Pot Luck Supper and Chinese Auction! Please bring a small basket (or two) filled with 3-4 related items that can be raffled off in our Chinese Auction. $5 will buy you a strip of tickets and hopefully will win you one of the baskets. All proceeds will go to the Sisters at St. Rita's Convent to be used for their food cupboard. This tradition began decades ago when the Society was first started. The Society will provide beverages, but we ask that you bring a dish to share using the list below. A - I Salad J - R Casserole S- Z Dessert If you have any questions or need a ride please call Elaine at 671-4930.
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HOPE Ministry - Garage Sale!
PRE-SALE EVENT:
Wednesday, September 14 6:00-8:00pm.
(Just $5.00 at the door allows you to shop early)
Regular Sale Days:
Thursday, September 15 10:00am to 4:00pm
Friday, September 16 10:00am to 4:00pm
HALF PRICE Day:
Saturday, September 17 10:00am to Noon
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 Do you have a loved one serving in the military? We invite you to bring in a photo to hang on our Military Prayer Board in the greeting area. Photo paper or cardstock is preferred. New or updated photos can be dropped off at the Parish Office or put in an envelope in the Donation slot in the entrance of Church.
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 CHILDREN'S LITRUGY OF THE WORD This is offered September through June during the 9:00am Sunday Mass for our young children. If you would like to participate in this program as a leader please contact Teri Bucks at tbucks@rochester.rr.com. No experience is necessary and all the materials and training are provided. This a great way to share your faith with our young ones!
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 Do you Knit or Crochet? Do you want to help others? Join our prayer shawl ministry We come together each month in prayer and create Prayer Shawls and Lap Blankets which are blessed by Father. These items are given to members of our parish, or those we hear of who are going through hard times in their life medically or emotionally. It provides them with a reminder of our love and support. All are welcome! Please join us on Tuesday, September 6 in Room 1 from 10:30 am - 12:00 Noon
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LADIES ~ PLEASE JOIN US
AS WE BEGIN A NEW BOOK STUDY
"Created to Relate - God's Design for Peace & Joy"
By Kelly M. Wahlquist
Are you ready to get back into a routine now that summer is winding down? Ready to take some time for you? Do you desire the keys to building a life that is radically relational, one that teems with joy, fulfillment, and the peace that surpasses all understanding then this book study is for you!
We will explore the natural gift we have as women for building and maintaining life-giving relationships. We will also learn practical tips to stay focused in the midst of distractions and responsibilities that can lead to superficial connections!
This is a great opportunity to connect with some amazing women and to fill your cup and soul! You will love the "Women Enjoying Rediscovering Our Catholicism"!
- WHEN: Tuesday's September 13 - November 1
- TIME: 9:00 am - 10:00 am
- WHERE: St. Rita's Church Meeting Room
For more information or to reserve your spot please contact: Terezeja Lemieux at terezeja@gmail.com or call 703-606-6794 or Darlene Piersall at jpiersal@rochester.rr.com or call 585-787-0983. Open to all parishes - All are welcome!
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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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 Annual Women's and Men's Retreat Days At the Notre Dame Retreat House overlooking Canandaigua Lake The theme for the Men's and Women's retreat this year 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; the importance of Catholicism for us now and in the future.
WOMEN'S RETREAT WEEKEND is coming soon!
Friday, September 16 - Sunday, September 18
For reservations or more information please call
Darlene Piersall at 787-0983 or Jane Murray at 734-6061. MEN'S RETREAT WEEKEND will be held Friday, October 28 - Sunday October 30 For reservations or more information please call Jim Lajoie at 236-5716 or Nancy Lynch at Notre Dame 585-394-5700.
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Rochester Rhinos Faith & Family Night
Saturday, September 10 at 5:05 pm
vs. New York Red Bulls II
Tickets are $15 each for Midfield or Premium seats (regularly priced $24 / $22)
To order tickets, call Joe Scofero at (585) 454-3000 x 148 and say you are from St. Rita Church. To order online, visit www.rhinossoccer.com and use promo code FAITH to receive the discounted offer. If you are purchasing online, add your name to the list in the greeting area in church or send an email to ekwiatkowski@dor.org so we will know how many people from St. Rita will be attending. Thanks and enjoy the game!
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 Saint Rita Roof Campaign "Protecting Our Future" Ongoing maintenance of our property is a reality, and after an architectural review of our buildings, it has been determined that our 30-year-old Church and our 22-year-old Parish Center are in need of major repairs. Please prayerfully consider supporting our much needed Roof 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 continued prayers and support! - Roof Campaign Goal $350,000
- Pledges/Donations received $287,493
- Number of Gifts: 424
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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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 You're Invited: Upcoming celebrations at the
Holy Door of Mercy at Sacred Heart Cathedral
Friday October 7: 6:30 pm First Friday Mass followed by Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Confession until 8pm. Homily: "Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness, our hope." Bishop Matano, celebrant. Wednesday November 2: 6:30 pm All Souls Day Mass followed by Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Confessions until 8pm. Homily: "Through the Mercy of God, may they rest in peace." Bishop Matano, celebrant. Friday November 4: 6:30 pm First Friday Mass followed by Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Confession until 8pm. Sunday. November 20: Closing of the Holy Door of Mercy at the 5:00 pm Mass. Bishop Matano, celebrant. 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). |
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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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.
Next week's special (Sept 10 & 11): Western Egg Bake (ham, swiss, cheddar, peppers & onions) served with warm buttered toast and a bottomless cup of coffee. Our ministry runs on donations only which are greatly appreciated!
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Food Collection
(THIS Weekend Sep. 3&4)
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 GROUPFor 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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