Our Mission Guided by the Gospel and strengthened by the
Transcription
Our Mission Guided by the Gospel and strengthened by the
The Sacrament of Matrimony To celebrate the Sacrament of Matrimony, please contact the Parish Office to make arrangements at least one year prior to the intended date of the wedding. Marriage preparation includes attending Pre-Cana and sessions with the priest or deacon. Our Mission Guided by the Gospel and strengthened by the Eucharist, we the Catholic people of St. Benedict worship God with joy, excitement and commitment. We welcome and reach out to each other and those beyond our community. Challenged by our call to stewardship we strive to receive God’s gifts gratefully; nurture God’s gifts responsibly; share God’s gifts generously and return God’s gifts with increase. Living our faith in Jesus Christ, we spread the Good News by providing hope, spirituality, education, hospitality and social justice. Very Reverend Daniel F. Swift, VF, Pastor Reverend Daniel E. Kirk, STL, Associate Pastor Deacon Richard L. Morris, Permanent Deacon Deacon Raymond R. Pelkowski, Permanent Deacon Deacon Stephen G. Scott, Permanent Deacon Parish Office Office Hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Voice: 732/264-4712; Facsimile: 732/264-9080 Mrs. Lorrie McGee, Administrative Assistant email: mcgee@stbenedictnj.org Mrs. Eileen Cannarozzo, Administrative Assistant email: cannarozzo@stbenedictnj.org Mrs. Margaret Roddy, Administrative Assistant email: roddy@stbenedictnj.org Mr. Bob Cognat, Facilities Manager Mr. Tony Malone, Business and Finance Manager Mrs. Jennifer DeBiase, IT & Help Desk Manager Mrs. Lori Ulrich, Minister of Evangelization and Marketing Masses Saturday Vigil: 5:00 p.m. Sunday: 8:00, 9:30, 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Monday - Saturday: 9:00 a.m. The Sacrament of Baptism The Sacrament of Baptism is celebrated on the second and fourth Sundays of the month at 2:00 p.m. Parents must attend a Baptismal Preparation Class at any Catholic Church. Baptismal Preparation Classes are held at St. Benedict on the first Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. in the Father Anderson Library. Godparents must obtain a sponsor eligibility certificate verifying they are practicing Catholics who have been confirmed. A date for Baptism will not be confirmed before sponsor eligibility certificates are received at the Parish Office. The Sacrament of Reconciliation First Friday: following the 9:00 a.m. Mass. Every Saturday: 4:00 – 4:30 p.m. and by appointment. 165 Bethany Road St. Benedict School St. Benedict School is staffed by a state certified lay faculty, and has earned Middle States Accreditation. They provide Catholic education from kindergarten through eighth grade, as well as an extended day program. Voice: 732/264-5578; Facsimile: 732/264-8679 Ms. Mary Ellen Lilly, Principal Mrs. Francine DeMuria, Administra ve Assistant email: demuria@stbenedictnj.org Mrs. Monica Hurni, Administra ve Assistant email: hurni@stbenedictnj.org Religious Education The Religious Education Program provides religious formation and sacramental preparation for children from first through eighth grade. Mrs. Denise Contino, Director of Religious Educa on email: contino@stbenedictnj.org Mrs. Carol Cesario, Administra ve Assistant email: cesario@stbenedictnj.org Catholic Youth Organizations (CYO) The Junior CYO is open to all students in Grades 6-8 for monthly meetings, as well as social and service activities. The High School CYO is open to all students in Grades 9-12 for monthly meetings, as well as social and service activities. Mrs. Lori McCahill, CYO Minister Voice: 732/264-4712, ext. 27 email: mccahill@stbenedictnj.org Music Ministry The Contemporary Choir sings every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. Mass and rehearses on Tuesday at 8:00 p.m. in the Choir Room. The Youth Choir sings at every Children’s Mass (offered approximately once a month) at the 9:30 a.m. Mass and rehearses on Friday at 4:00 p.m. in Church. To audition for the Contemporary Choir, please contact Tom O’Brien, Choir Director at 908/601-4366. If you are interested in the Youth Choir, please contact Ellen Remick, Choir Director at 732/888-1828. Ministry to the Sick and Homebound Please contact the Parish Office to request pastoral visits to those who are sick either at home, Bayshore Community Hospital or a local nursing home. Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are available to bring Holy Communion on a regular basis. St. Vincent dePaul Society A social ministry SVdP provides spiritual, food distribution, emergency financial and other services to those in need. For questions or to volunteer contact Patti Dickens – pattimd05@aol.com. For emergency assistance, please contact 732/264-4712, ext. 33, leave a message and your call will be returned. Holmdel, New Jersey 07733 www.stbenedictnj.org FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT DECEMBER 21, 2014 Saturday, December 27th 9:00 a.m. Packie McCabe req. The McGowan Family Mary O’Neill req. The Malone Family Kevin Martin req. The Martin Family MASS INTENTIONS FOR THE WEEK Saturday, December 20th 9:00 a.m. Pro Populo1 Patricia Sweeney req. Mary Reardon and Family Maryann Altobelli req. The Armstrong Family 5:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. Sunday, December 28th 8:00 a.m. Frank Sartiano req. The Sartiano Family 9:30 a.m. Carlie White req. Family 11:00 a.m. Charlotte and Daniel Vassallo req. The Vassallo Family 12:30 p.m. Salvatore Trentacoste req. Mr. and Mrs. Scott McBride Joseph Tropea req. Dominic and Marie Tropea Sunday, December 21st 8:00 a.m. Mary Freeman req. Jim and Marion Manning 9:30 a.m. Robert Swift req. Josephine Hoffman 11:00 a.m. Lee Steiner req. Glenn and Michele Puzo 12:30 p.m. Pro Populo Prayer Intentions Please pray for the sick, the homebound and those who have requested us to remember them in prayer, especially: Bishop O’Connell, Paula Abel, Catherine Anderson, Dino Angelli, Jennifer Aquiline, Margaret Arbuthnot, Carol Armanno, Diana Armenakis, Carol Atzingen, Doris Bachlet, Karl and Carla Baer, Bob Bark, Maureen Barry, Gloria Bebel, Syndi Bedle, Elizabeth Begin, Maureen Bender, Jackie Berrios, Kristen Billyer, Gary Bogdansky, John Bolendz, Dean Boturla, Arrol Borden, Father John Boyle, Elaine Bowen, Baby Niamh, Dennis Michael Brady, Jeanmarie Brady, Joyce and Ray Bradley, Ben Bravo, Fran Bucco, Helen Buczynski, Courtney Bulinsky, Edward Butler, Karen Burke, James Burke, Sheila Buxton, Emily Calabro, Henry Caldaro, Mary Caliendo, Helene Callari, Sal Campanella, Alice Carroll, Adrienne Carroll, Carol Caruso, Aurora Castorina, Christine Cannavale, Fabian Ceballos, Lauren Cerra, Rose Chiaia, Cindy Chiarello, Vic Cipriaso, Joanne Clark, Steven Clarke, Catherine Connolly, Peggy Conover, Rosemary Conover, Thomas Conover, Lexis Contini, Christopher Coon, Karen Costa, Tina Costa, Roberta Cranmer, Will Cronrath, Lori Cuffari, Roesalia D’Angelo, Elizabeth Daley, Frank Dalton, Francine Danish, Jean Davidson, Mary Desmond, Margaret DeBevoise, Judy DeFeo, Celeste DeLeonibus, The DeSeta Family, Thomas DiCarlo, Pat Diemer, Natalie DiGennaro, Charlie Donaldson, Irene KolazDougherty, Robert Downey, Robbie Drescher, Cliff Drysielski, Linda Drysielski, Gloria Eebel, Jake Eggie, Caroline English, Katherine Engelhardt, Lucas Ertle, Joanne Ericson, Mary Fallon, Caitlin Faria, Michelle Farrell, Jean Fatigante, Sophia Fecher, Michael Fecile, Sharon Ferriole, Mary Finnigan, JoAnn Filippo, Kathleen Fitzpatrick, Cindy Flanngan, Lucy Flannery, Thomas Fox, Mary Alice French, Ron Galassa, Charlene Gallagher, Josie Gallo, Robert Gandy, Dolores Geise, Joan Gern, James Gibson, Pat Gilbert, James Gilligan, Jane Gleason, Maureen Glende, MaryAnn Goetz, Robert Greco, Carmine Grecco, Joseph Grena, J. Griffiths, Ltc. Charles Grinnel, Diane Gruber, Linda Guerra, Richard Scott Gunther, James Hall, Alice Halloran, Monday, December 22nd 9:00 a.m. Margeurite Healey req. Richard and Caroline Healey Jim and Catherine Manning req. Jim and Marion Manning Mary O’Neill req. The Schafer Family Tuesday, December 23rd 9:00 a.m. Thomas J. Falco, Sr.2 req. June C. Falco and Family Mary O’Neill req. Mike and Carol Byrne Sante Giulietti req. John and Denise Contino Wednesday, December 24th 4:00 p.m. Christmas Intentions 6:00 p.m. Christmas Intentions 8:00 p.m. Christmas Intentions Thursday, December 25th 12:00 a.m. Christmas Intentions 8:30 a.m. Christmas Intentions 10:00 a.m. Christmas Intentions 11:30 a.m. Christmas Intentions Friday, December 26th 9:00 a.m. Al Suarez req. Suarez and Velasco Family Christine Maneri req. Patricia Ambrosio Mary O’Neill req. The McNally Family 1 2 Leeann DeLuise req. The DeLuise Family For the People of St. Benedict 6th Anniversary of Death 2 Parish Meetings Prayer Intentions continued Regina Holland, Joe Handley, Anna Hoover, Leo Howrigan, Joseph Hunter, Leonard Hutchins, Andrew Hurni, Timothy Hussey, Cole Illions, Chris Illingworth, Gail Imbro, Constance Yahara-Joans, Olivia Jones, Lisa Johnson, Kim Jones, Linda Kaminsky, Francesca Karpicki, Donna Kendall, Stanley Kendall, Mary Kenny, Georgianne Kerr, Renee Kojola, Joseph Kondek, Kevin Kret, Evelyn Krzyston, John Ksenicz, Sheryl Ksenicz, Joan Labruno, Jeanne Labriola, Helen Lacosta, Rose Landi, Elizabeth Lamura, Jennifer Larkin, Lana Larkin, Larry Laws, Edward Leahy, Annie Leonard, Edward Linsky, Fay Lods, Victoria Lombarde, Pasqualino Lombardi, Rita Lomicky, Mildred Lomicky, David Long, Alex Long, Sue Lewan, Frank Loperena, Jennifer Louvavo, Joseph Lucciola, Eileen Lynch, Lou Magrino, Betty Maniscalco, Catherine Mannino, Anna Mantani, Anthony Marcelo, Diane Mariani, Kenneth Martin, Valerie Sullivan Mathews, Madeline Masi, Mauriello Family, Jim Mayer, Mathew McBride, Seana McCallam, Bill McCarthy, Christine McCollum, Eleanor McCoy, Lois McDowell, Eileen McGlynn, Brian McGuire, Sarah McHugh, Kathleen McKeever, Ann McMenamin, Bill Merritt, Raymond Michaud, Geraldine Mickley, Kathleen Milner, Brenda Mittenhuber, Frances Montagno-Adario, Keith Mohsinger, Nicole Montagna, Margaret Moreno, Father Morty, William Mueller, Sr., Dara Mullen, Kristin Murray, Carole Murphy, Eamon Nally, Christina Nanfeldt, Dolores Nanfeldt, Marie Nanfeldt, Steve Napolitano, Marcy Nicholson, Joy Nocek, Helen Nowak, Richard Oehling, Helen O’Connor, Thomas O’Hara, Ray Orpen, Frances Page, Regina Paglia, Angelo Paino Jr., Joy Palumbo, Jeanette Paone, Annmarie Pandolfino, Ernest Parod, Loucille Peterson, Walter Pilate, Sophie Piller, Frank Pino, Mary Plaza, Genevieve Polkosky, Tommy Pompei, Nicole Potochar, Bill and Alicia Powell, Eddie Power, Anna Power, Paula Pradhan, Barbara Priggre, Helen Radziewicz, Christian Rastelli, Edward Rath, Gregory Recco, Robert Reddington, Kenneth Reilly, Dolores Restivo, Domenica Reyes, Brian Rhatigan, Jane Rice, Delma Richardi, Vicky Rosa, Catherine Ross, Dolores Ruddy, Mimi Salek, Evan and Eric Sanborn, Jeanne Haralla-Scafiddi, Delfin SanJose, Lisa Schillizzi, Muriel Shea, Kathleen Shea, John Sheehy, Maureen Shepherd, Russell Shewchuk, David Silver, Gloria Sinacore, Cole Siegel, Robyn Simon, Steven Sirotic, Zachary Slane, Anna Slobodzian, Colleen Smialowitz, Joseph Smialowitz, Angelo Soldi, Joseph Sosidka, Carol Soviero, Lewis and Cynthia Spieler, David Storicks, Ann Spade, Mike Sullivan, Colleen Sullivan, Albert Sutter, Toni Marie Thaket, Carol Tafero, Raymond Thomas, Theresa Thorstensen, Margaret Thynne, James Tierney, Sabas Tordesillas, Daniela Toscano, Joyce Trasky, Dominic Tropea, Ronnie Tretola, Christopher Trubac, Fran VamVakas, Vita Varia, Gianluca Vasta, Chris Varriano, Ernest Veca, Hipolita Velazquez, Vittoria Ventura, Kristin Caparro-Vicari, Marie Walker, James Walsh, Jack Walsh, Brian Walsh, Morgan West, Samantha Whelan, Eleanor Wild, Claudia Williams, Kenneth Williams, Harry White, Andy Wojciechowski, Craig Wright, Debbie Yanchuk. Baptism Preparation Class The next Baptism Preparation class will be held on Monday, January 5th at 7:30 p.m. in the Church. Parish Council The next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on Tuesday, January 6th at 7:00 p.m. in the St. Benedict room of the Father Anderson Library. Advancement and Alumni Affairs There will be no meeting of the Advancement and Alumni Affairs Committee in December. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 20th at 7:00 p.m. in the St. Benedict room of the Father Anderson Library. School Board Meeting There will be no School Board meeting in December. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 20th at 8:00 p.m. in the St. Benedict room of the Father Anderson Library. Finance Council There will be no Finance Council meeting in December. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 27th at 7:30 p.m. in the St. Benedict room of the Father Anderson Library. Anointing of the Sick If for any reason you would like to receive the Anointing of the Sick, please see either Father Dan or Father Kirk before or after Mass. Blessing Your Marriage If you have been married civilly or in another religious tradition and would like to have your marriage blessed by the Catholic Church, please contact Father Dan or Father Kirk by calling the Parish Office. First Friday Confession Confession will be available on First Fridays immediately following the Mass. First Friday Holy Hour There will be Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament on Friday, January 2nd from 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Adoration will conclude with Benediction. Holiday Parish Office Closing The Parish Office will be closed from Wednesday, December 24th until Friday, December 26th in observance of Christmas. The office will reopen Monday, December 29th 3 Sunday Stewardship Sermon Fourth Sunday of Advent In today’s Gospel reading we hear proclaimed the story of the Annunciation, when the angel of the Lord announced to Mary that she would give birth to Christ through the intercession of the Holy Spirit. Mary allowed God’s messenger to speak to her. She was attentive, not afraid to enter into a dialogue, then unconditionally obedient. Mary’s acceptance of this mystery is a stewardship model for us. Good stewards remain open to the incursions of divine life into the normal course of their daily lives. How open are we to promptings of the Holy Spirit in our lives? What might we do this last week of Advent to be more attentive to the Lord? Parish Registration – All Are Welcome! “God is rich in mercy, because of His boundless love for us. ” Ephesians 2:4 tells us God’s love knows no boundaries and neither does St. Benedict. New parishioners, regardless of where they live, are always welcome and are encouraged to register at St. Benedict. Registration forms are available in the Gathering Space, the Parish Office and on our website at stbenedictnj.org. Shut-Ins Anyone? Inevitably there are parishioners in every parish who cannot come to Mass because of ill health or lack of transportation. If you know of someone like this, please contact the Parish Office so the parishioner will have the opportunity to pray with an extraordinary minister of the Eucharist and receive Holy Communion regularly, and on occasion, be visited by one of the priests. The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas Day) In today’s Christmas Mass at dawn we hear from the Gospel reading that God has entered quietly into the world. Not into the great city of Jerusalem, but into a small village about five miles south. Not into a noble family, but to an outcast couple keeping the newborn in a manger. Not announced by royal edicts, but to common shepherds, the first human heralds of Christ’s birth. As Christian stewards we simply allow Christ to live in us no matter what our circumstances happen to be. We allow Christ to share his love with us and reflect that love out to others. We now are the heralds of Christ’s Incarnation. What an unimaginable gift from a generous Lord. Good stewards rejoice in this gift and give glory to God. Prayer Shawl Ministry The Prayer Shawl Ministry meets on alternate Tuesday mornings to knit or crochet shawls for those who are ill or have lost a loved one. If you would like a shawl for someone or would like to join us on Tuesdays, please call Caroline Cattani at 732/566-2085 or Ann Piro at 732/264-8287. Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting There are three Alcoholics Anonymous meetings held at St. Benedict each week. Meetings are Monday at 8:00 p.m., Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and Friday at 5:45 p.m. Alcoholics Anonymous meetings will take place in the Monte Cassino room of the Father Anderson Library. Merciful Savior Prayer Group The St. Benedict Merciful Savior Group will meet every Monday, except when a holiday falls on a Monday, at 7:30 p.m. in the Chapel. For further information, please call Sal and Janice Alagona at 732/ 264-5744 or Geri Ventura at 732/566-6642. Adoption Connections Adoption Connections is a support group for all members of the adoption triad (birth parents, adoptive parents, adoptees) including pre-adoptive parents who are exploring the different pathways to adoption. Attendees can learn more about the adoption process, international vs. domestic and closed vs. open and semi-open options. We also explore issues related to raising children such as answering adoption related questions in an age appropriate way. The group facilitators are adoptive parents and St. Benedict parishioners. The group meets on the 2nd Friday evening of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the Monte Cassino room of the Father Anderson Library. For more information contact Tricia and Dan Zichello at 917/601-8866 or Tzichello@gmail.com. Please Note: The Adoption Support Group will not meet in December. Merry Christmas. Prayer Intention Group The Prayer Intention Group meets on the second Wednesday of each month after the 9:00 a.m. Mass in the Chapel to pray for one another’s special intentions. Disease of Celiac Sprue Those who have been diagnosed with Celiac Sprue have the opportunity to receive a low gluten host at Holy Communion. Please see one of the priests prior to Mass to identify yourself and so directions can be given for you to receive the Blessed Sacrament. Appreciating Our Military If anyone knows a member of the Military who has recently returned from their tour of duty and will be attending Mass here, please see Father Dan or Father Kirk before the Mass so he/she can be thanked and recognized for their service to our country from the altar. Offertory Collection Due to the Christmas Holiday, this bulletin was transmitted on Friday, December 12th. The details of last Sunday’s collection and the Christmas collection will be published in a future bulletin. 4 CHRISTMAS MASS SCHEDULE Pray for Vocations Christmas Eve: Wednesday, December 24th 4:00 p.m. Children’s Mass in Church featuring Gospel Re-enactment and the Children’s Choir 6:00 and 8:00 p.m. Mass in Church Midnight Mass in Church featuring Altar Server Procession and the Contemporary Choir with Brass Accompaniment St. Benedict parishioners are praying for vocations. Families have agreed to take an icon of St. Benedict and prayer cards home with them after Sunday Mass. The family will pray together for vocations every day for a week. The icon should be returned to the sacristy every Sunday so it can be taken by the next family. Please sign the roster in the Gathering Space to Pray for Vocations. Christmas Day: Thursday, December 25th 8:30, 10:00 and 11:30 a.m. in Church Confessions Confessions will be heard in the St. Benedict Chapel on Tuesday, December 23rd at 7:30 p.m. This week (December 21st-December 26th) The Mariano Family The Chivi Family The Lombarde Family The Brescia Family Rehearsal for Children’s Christmas Eve Mass The 4:00 p.m. Mass on Christmas Eve will be a Children’s Mass. Rehearsal for this Mass will be on Tuesday, December 23rd from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. in Church. Next Week (December 28th-January 2nd) The Mariano Family The Chivi Family The Brescia Family The Lombarde Family Altar Server Rehearsal for Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve There will be a rehearsal for all the altar servers of the parish on Tuesday, December 23rd from 6:30-7:00 p.m. in Church. This rehearsal will be for the Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. “Vocations are born in prayer and from prayer; and only through prayer can they persevere and bear fruit.” Pope Francis Youth Choir Alumni Mass All graduates of the St. Benedict Youth Choir are invited to join us for an Alumni Mass on Christmas Eve! We welcome back our awesome singers from the past few years as we celebrate the Savior's birth! Please come to the choir room at 3:15 p.m. on Christmas Eve if you are able to join the choir for the 4:00 p.m. Mass. Legion of Mary ~To Jesus through Mary~ St. Benedict's Legion of Mary, entitled, “Our Lady of Victory Praesidium,” is accepting new members. The purpose of the Legion is to perform spiritual works of mercy. If interested, please contact Cathy Ahearn at 732/530-1087. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament Coming Soon When he began his pastoral ministry, Pope John Paul II cried out to the whole world, “Do not be afraid! Open, indeed, open wide the doors to Christ! He was pleading with us. Once you open the doors of your heart, of your life, Christ will speak to the “real” you. His words will bring life to your life. Why put off the healing of your heart! Make Christ an important part of your life. 5 Decorating the Church for Christmas Anyone, children and adults alike, interested in helping Father Dan decorate the Church for Christmas is asked to meet in Church on Wednesday, December 24th (Christmas Eve) at 9:30 a.m. Family Christmas Tree Ornaments The Christmas tree in the Gathering Space will be decorated with Christmas ornaments that were donated by parishioner families. If you are new to St. Benedict and would like a family ornament added to this year's Christmas tree, please put an ornament in the box in the Gathering Space. Prayer for Religious Liberty R E L IG IO U S E D U C A T IO N O God our Creator, from your provident hand we have received our right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. You have called us as your people and given us the right and the duty to worship you, the only true God, and your Son, Jesus Christ. Christmas Break Religious Education classes are not scheduled for December 24th and 31st Classes will resume on Wednesday, January 7th. We would like to wish all families a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Through the power and working of your Holy Spirit, you call us to live out our faith in the midst of the world, bringing the light and the saving truth of the Gospel to every corner of society. First Reconciliation Religious Education students will receive First Reconciliation on Tuesday, January 13, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. in the Church. St. Benedict School students will receive First Reconciliation on Tuesday, January 20, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. in the Church. All children are asked to arrive at 6:45 p.m. and report directly to the Church. We ask you to bless us in our vigilance for the gift of religious liberty. Give us the strength of mind and heart to readily defend our freedoms when they are threatened; give us courage in making our voices heard on behalf of the rights of your Church and the freedom of conscience of all people of faith. C A T H O L IC Y O U T H O R G A N IZ A T IO N Grant, we pray, O heavenly Father, a clear and united voice to all your sons and daughters gathered in your Church in this decisive hour in the history of our nation, So that, with every trial withstood and every danger overcome— for the sake of our children, our grandchildren, and all who come after us— this great land will always be “one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” We ask this through Christ our Lord. The Junior and High School CYO would like wish every member of the Parish a very Blessed and Joyous Christmas season. Is God Calling You? Christmas Open House Once again our Vocational discernment group will meet on the last Sunday of December. The format of this gathering will be a visit to the Diocesan House of Discernment where you will have the opportunity to meet and chat with some of the priests and some of our seminarians of the Diocese of Trenton. Amen If you are a faithful, single, Roman Catholic man, between the ages of 18 and 40, and are asking yourself whether God is calling you to be a priest, you are cordially invited to attend this month’s Open House Discernment meeting on December 28th from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at The Church of the Sacred Heart Rectory, 343 S. Broad Street, Trenton. Join Very Rev. Dennis Apoldite and some of the men of the House of Discernment, as they share their experiences of the priesthood. Please register with the Vocation Office at vocations@dioceseoftrenton or by calling 609/406-7449. 6 Respect Life News Washington, DC, December 8, 2014 (LifeNews.com) by Jennifer Christie Last January, I was traveling on business, staying in a little hotel in a college town. I like to think I'm usually more aware of my surroundings, but it was so snowy and windy that I wouldn't have heard his footsteps even if he had he been stomping. It happened so fast. I got the door open, turned around to close it, and he was there – a huge man. My first instinct wasn't fear, just confusion. In an instant, he punched me in the face. I don't remember being dragged from the room, but I was found in the stairwell. I don't know why — maybe I was trying to go for help. The rape kit came back negative for HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, herpes, and dozens of other things I'd never heard of. God is gracious. The following month, I was scheduled to work on a cruise ship. Struck with dysentery on day two and not getting better with antibiotics, I was taken to what passes for a hospital when we docked in Cartagena, Colombia. Concerned about intestinal obstruction, I was given an ultrasound. And we saw the pea — my son. Happy Valentine’s Day. Back on the ship, I told the doctors an abbreviated version of my story, which resulted in me being quarantined. Suicide watch? In danger of a psychotic break that will have me running naked across the shuffleboard courts? Who knows. What I know is that I spent the next week listening to a team of very well meaning doctors and nurses console me with how “easy” it would be to “take care of it” — to kill the child. To start over. Easy??? There were a lot of things discussed over scratchy, tearful transatlantic phone calls home that week, but the possibility of “taking care of it” never came off my lips. Or my husband’s. When I told him I was pregnant, he said with his voice calm and steady, “Okay. Okay . . . all right . . . this is all right.” I asked him, “What do you MEAN this is all right?” “I mean we can do this. We'll get through this. It'll be okay. And, . . . I love babies. We're going to have another baby. Sweetheart, this is a gift. This is something wonderful from something terrible. We can DO this.” And I began to feel the stirrings of joy for the new life in my womb, blossoming under my heart. That new love that would grow so fierce it overwhelmed any trepidation or angst. And my husband was right. We could do it. On my last morning aboard the ship, I said to this caring team, “If you ever think about this again, if you ever wonder what happened to me — I had a beautiful baby in October 2014.” Their reaction . . . , the looks on their faces . . . , the doctor who had pushed abortion more vehemently than the others — she had tears in her eyes. For the first time, I thought of how God can use this, this nightmare I'd endured. Use me. I live in North Carolina. My OB who delivered my last two children was running in the Republican primary for U.S. Senate. He talks to people all the time who challenge him with the “What about in cases of rape?” question. What about them? My son will have a voice. Until he can use it, it’s my responsibility — my privilege — to speak for him. That’s my story. During my pregnancy, I was in and out of the hospital for a couple of months – more in than out. I had preeclampsia, high blood pressure and uncontrolled seizures. 7 It was terrifying at 26 weeks when they admitted me saying they might have to deliver that night — terrifying because I desperately wanted my son to live! We got past that fear. I had strict bed rest, but was home. Every week we made it further was awesome, knowing how glad I'd be once he got here safely in my arms. Emotionally, I was doing very well. We were working with a really godly team of doctors. It’s just a matter of trusting utterly. This wasn't new. I'd felt completely out of control since the assault in January — not that “control” is ever anything but an illusion, but, you know. 8-1/2 months ago the world upended and hadn't righted since — until my son was born. Our little boy may have been conceived in violence, but he is a gift from God — a delicious gift that filled the hole in our family that we never realized was there. He made us complete. I'm so thankful to have been connected to other mothers who became pregnant by rape as well. We are survivors. Not victims. My son has healed me. The pressure to abort from the medical community was extremely eye opening to me. So many times I was told how “simple” it would be and how quickly I could just “get on with my life” once it was over. It was heartbreaking to have to repeatedly hear it. Even some friends thought keeping the baby was a mistake — that I wouldn't be able to handle things emotionally. Every time we, as rape survivor mothers, share our stories, we are strengthened as we strengthen others. . . . And who knows what lives might be spared? LifeNews Note: Jennifer Christie is a wife and mother of 5, and a blogger for www.savethe1.com Healing the Wounds of Abortion Rachel’s Vineyard Post-abortive Retreat The psychological and spiritual wounds of abortion can be sharp, deep and crippling. You may feel a deep numbness and may not be able to name the pain or recognize any of the symptoms. It can also have a devastating impact on the father or grandparents of the aborted child and friend/s of the mother. You do not have to continue to hide in shame and fear. Rachel’s Vineyard’s Retreat is a chance to focus on this painful time in your life through a supportive nonjudgmental process, in an atmosphere of confidentiality, understanding, and compassion. It is designed to help both women and men experience the mercy and compassion of God. If you have suffered through an abortion and have isolated yourself from healing and forgiveness, you might consider attending one our retreat weekends. Upcoming retreat dates are February 27thMarch 1st and June 12th –June 14th. For more information, contact: Judy Warenkiewicz at 732/536-6871. All inquiries are strictly confidential. Reigning Mercy Have you suffered an abortion? Experience God’s love and mercy and begin the journey of healing. Please call the Sisters of Life 888/575-0075. Knights of Columbus K of C Meeting The next Knights of Columbus business meeting will be held on Thursday, January 8th at 8:00 p.m. in the Father Anderson Library. The meeting will be preceded by the praying of the Rosary at Bayshore Healthcare Center. Please meet in the Bayshore Healthcare Center lobby at 7:00 p.m. Items Collected by the K of C The K of C collects unwanted glasses, watches, hearing aids, and jewelry for Eyes for the Needy and canceled stamps for Hospitalized Veterans. Please place these items in the proper basket in the church storage closet by the candles in the rear of the church. Please do not combine eyeglasses and stamps as different members are responsible for these projects. Please do not deposit religious cards you receive from organizations that offer Masses for loved ones for a donation. THEY WILL BE DISCARDED. Phone Cards For Our Troops The Council is accepting donations in order to purchase phone cards for our troops serving overseas. Please contact Jim Manning at 732/739-9712 if you would like to make a donation. The Knights Want YOU The K of C has become the world's foremost Catholic fraternal benefit society. The Order has helped families obtain economic security and stability through its life insurance, annuity and long-term care programs, and has contributed time and energy worldwide to service in communities. Locally, the Knights include men from St. Benedict Parish who have given their time to support many charitable fund raising efforts for over 20 years. Please visit us at www.facebook.com/kofcholmdel for information on our charitable works and how you can become a member. Birthright Supplies Birthright provides free and confidential support to women who are distressed by an unplanned pregnancy. Birthright provides emotional support, free pregnancy testing, maternity and baby clothes. It also provides information and referrals to help their clients meet legal, medical, financial and housing needs. There is a continuous need for newborn and size 4 diapers. Seasonal maternity clothes would also be appreciated. St. Catharine’s Employment Resource Committee St. Catharine’s Church, 108 Middletown Road, Holmdel offers an employment resource workshop at 7:00 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday of each month in Room 1. Guidance is offered for resume writing, networking and employment skills. Spiritual support is also provided. Breakfast Buffet Every Month Thank you, St Benedict Parishioners, for supporting our Pancake Breakfasts. The proceeds from EVERY K of C breakfast buffet support those in need, including Birthright, the Developmentally Disadvantaged, Manna House, Boy Scout Eagle Projects at St Benedict, our annual Basketball Free-Throw and Youth Soccer Challenges and other Church and community programs. Thank you to IHOP in Keyport for donating the pancake batter for our monthly breakfasts. We are pleased to continue the monthly Breakfast buffets on the 3rd Sunday of every month, year round. Prices are $6.00 per adult, $5.00 per child or $18.00 per family. Contact: Angelo DeRosa— angeloderosa23@hotmail.com, Vin Pizzolo—VPizzolo@gmail.com. Under GOD “T” Shirts for Sale To those of you who purchased our Under God T-shirts “Thank you very much for supporting us in this effort”. Because of the pending lawsuit against the Matawan/ Aberdeen Regional HS to remove the words “UNDER GOD” from the Pledge of Allegiance, St. Benedict K of C Council #11349 will be taking T-shirts orders at a low cost of $12.00 each. We will also continue to sell the T-shirts at our monthly Breakfast Buffet and on certain Saturdays/Sundays before and after Mass. If interested, please call Jack Lietz 732/583-4602. Assisted Transportation is provided to seniors who are not able to schedule with SCAT, shut-ins who are not able to get out or seniors who have just returned from a hospital stay. Transportation is provided to the pharmacy, to pick up prescriptions, to a doctor’s appointment, to the Food Pantry for low-income seniors, the grocery store and the bank. Contact Lorrie McGee at 732/264-4712 ext. 37. Knights of Columbus Community Service If you are a parishioner or know of any parishioners in our parish who need help with home maintenance tasks please contact Guido Scirvanich at 732/483-4127. 8 60 PLUS CORNER Help for People with Medicare (SHIP) is a State Health Insurance Program that provides FREE, objective, confidential help to Medicare beneficiaries who have problems or questions with Medicare, Medigap, Medicare Advantage Plans, Part D and LongTerm Care. Please call the Parish Office for more information. The Food Bank will provide a case manager for St. Benedict to assist anyone who is eligible or might be eligible for SNAP - Senior Nutrition Assistance Program. Please call the Food Pantry 732/264-4712 ext. 34 between the hours of 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. to make an appointment. SVDP Thank you The St. Vincent dePaul Board would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who gave so willingly of their time, talent and treasure this year. It is because of this continued generosity and support that the SVDP is able to fulfill its mission and continue its work. The efforts of all are very much appreciated. SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL Imagine how Mary felt at the birth of Jesus: excited, awed, frightened. Deep faith was her light in the darkness, for We would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Jesus was born during the night of the year when darkness happy and blessed Christmas and a bright and is the longest. In faith is found the real, lasting, and deep prosperous New Year. joy of Christmas. Virtual Thrift Shop St. Benedict Virtual Thrift Shop is a service for those wishing to donate clean, working household goods. Clothing may be donated via the clothing bin located behind the food pantry. We connect donors with individuals in need of goods. Donors and recipients should call 732/264-4712 ext.13 and leave a message. When leaving your message please speak slowly and clearly. Volunteers update our list weekly and will call if there is a match. A tax letter receipt for accepted donations will be provided. Due to space restrictions and limited volunteer help we are unable to pick up, deliver or warehouse any donations at this time. Please do not drop off any items at the pantry without prior approval. Food Pantry Hours The Food Pantry is closed on Mondays and Saturdays. The Food Pantry will be open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Tuesday evenings from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. SCRIP Cards The St. Vincent DePaul Society is providing food gift cards to area supermarkets for many of our pantry visitors. The holidays are fast approaching and a food card would add in providing a holiday meal to the less fortunate. Parishioners are asked to use Scrip envelopes in the back of Church and make a donation. Scrip envelopes can be placed in the collection basket or at the Parish Office. Have You Been Impacted by Hurricane Sandy? We may be able to help! The Diocese of Trenton in conjunction with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and several other Catholic agencies are prepared to assist you. Hurricane survivors are asked to call the St. Vincent de Paul helpline in their area for an appointment. You can find the helpline in your area by sending an email to helpwithsandy@gmail.com or by going to www.dioceseoftrenton.org and clicking on “Diocesan Hurricane Sandy Long Term Recovery Plan.” You can also call 609/267-3053, ext. 487. This will allow for sufficient time with each survivor. Volunteer Drivers / Loaders Volunteer help is needed: to assist in picking up food at ALDI'S, Hazlet and loading it onto church van; to drive church van to the Food Bank (Neptune) to pick up food; to help unload food as it comes to Food Pantry. This is mainly done on Monday mornings. Please call Jack Lietz at 732/583-4602. St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry-Bag Ministry For your convenience, bags are left at all the Church doors on the 1st Sunday of each month. We welcome any donations for our pantry. Please consider supporting this ministry by providing a few of the items listed. Items Needed: Diapers—all sizes Baby Food—stages 2/3 Coffee Juice (all kinds) Toilet Tissue Dish Detergent Used Cars Needed for Transportation Love In the Name of Christ (INC) since 1995 has been giving out cars to verified needy people in Monmouth County that desperately need transportation. There is no other program that we offer that changes lives as quickly as providing a car for transportation. The donor gets the full fair market value of the car as a tax deduction. If you would like to make a difference for one of “our neighbor’s in need” please call 732/542-7012 ext. 206. Baby Wipes Kid’s Cereal Tea Soup (variety) Toothpaste and Brushes Laundry Detergent Please return your donation in the bags provided. If you would like more information about the Bag Ministry or the works of St. Vincent de Paul, please contact our President, Patti Dickens at pattimd05@aol.com. Donate Your Used Furniture Donate your good used furniture to “Furnished With Love” a ministry of Love INC. Free pickup and tax receipt is issued. Call 732/222-1923 to schedule pickup at our “Furnished With Love Store.” Or come shop in our store located at 583 Broadway, Long Branch. The quality of our merchandise is excellent and at great prices and we also carry NEW mattresses. With a purchase you will know that the money helps others with rent assistance and other areas of need in Monmouth County. www.loveincnj.org 9 Christmas Poinsettias St. Benedict Parish gratefully acknowledges the gifts that accompanied the following prayer intentions for the beautiful Christmas Poinsettias. These following intentions will be remembered at all Masses throughout the Christmas Season. In Memory of: Julius Caprio req. Marie Caprio Cynthia Racioppi req. Marie Caprio Jerry O’Leary req. Chris and Carol Baker Charles Baker req. Chris and Carol Baker Kathleen O’Leary req. Chris and Carol Baker Charles Benjamin req. Chris and Carol Baker Anna and John Ricci req. Frances Fox and Family Charles and Audrey Ewald req. Susan Skidmore James M. Feuker req. Mildred Feuker Deacon Michael McCabe req. The McCabe Family Patricia Ann McCabe req. The McCabe Family David and Olga Mathews req. Joseph and Joyce Muller Joseph and Elizabeth Muller req. Joseph and Joyce Muller John and Sally Higgins req. The DeBeVoise Family Wilbur DeBeVoise req. The DeBeVoise Family Carolyn Harkins req. The DeBeVoise Family John Hroncich req. The Reilly Family Michael Denboske req. The Reilly Family Michael DiMauro req. Joanne Bunzel Edythe DiMauro req. Joanne Bunzel Louis DiMauro req. Joanne Bunzel Mr. and Mrs. S. DiMaggio req. Mr. and Mrs. D. Ciavarro Mr. and Mrs. D. Ciavarro req. Mr and Mrs. D. Ciavarro Elma and Patrick Higgins req. James and Lucy Higgins Nancy and Frank Spinelli req. James and Lucy Higgins Ray Thomson req. Bobbie Thomson Raymond and Frances Pignato req. Marguerite Pignato Joseph and Eleanor DiFalco req. Margeurite Pignato Joseph DellaBella req. Margeurite Pignato Carmela Marzigliano req. The Wintjen Family Janice Vitale req. The Wintjen Family Richard Pannell req. Lillian Pannell Eda Gilligan req. Jean and Bill Fiorelli Nancy Walsh req. Jean and Bill Fiorelli Fr. William Anderson req. Jean and Bill Fiorelli Matthew Marabito req. Maria Marabito and Family Joseph A. Pomara Sr req. Josephine Pomara Capt. Michael McGreevy USMC req. The McGreevy Family McGreevy Family req. McGreevy Family Cully Family req. McGreevy Family Josephine Demma req. Maureen Tornabene and Family James D. Lynch req. Family Maryann Cannarozzo req. Family 10 Albert Douglass req. The Heite Family Fr. Vincent Douglass CSSR req. The Heite Family Anna Abbate req. The Heite Family Antonio and Concetta Crudele req. The Heite Family Philip and Josephine Romano req. The Heite Family Anna and Daniel Murphy req. Patricia Liptzin Boe Family req. Mary Boe McPartland Family req. Mary Boe McCaughey Family req. Mary Boe Clifford Family req. Mary Boe Tegins Family req. Mary Boe Trepain Family req. Mary Boe Terry and Mollie Allocco req. Maria Allocco Sergio, Susanna, Vincent and Charlie Valente req. James and Rose Allocco Eda M. Gilligan req. John Gilligan James Gilligan req. John Gilligan Mary Gilligan req. John Gilligan Grace Pangia req. John Gilligan Albert Pangia req. John Gilligan Charles J. Carroll req. Carroll Family Alfio and Therese Fioranelli req. Susan Benson Doris and Elizabeth Oblazney req. Chester Oblazney Marjorie and Bill Johnston req. Tom and Sue Chodakiewicz Frank and Catherine Townsend req. Tom and Sue Chodakiewicz Jack and Vera Fromm req. Tom and Sue Chodakiewicz Andy and Helen Dalton req. Betty Dalton Buddy and Fran Lauriat req. Betty Dalton Ray and Loretta Delavan req. Betty Dalton Ralph and Eleanor Delavan req. Betty Dalton Bury and Viscide Family req. Joan and Michael Bury Anthony Palumbo req. Joseph and Chris Flynn Arlene E. Kondek req. The Kondek Family Christine Cavalli req. Her Loving Family Ignacy Sosnowski req. Viola and Margaret Peter Mary Sosnowski req. Viola and Margaret Peter Andrew Peter req. Viola and Margaret Peter Alice Kearney req. Albertson Family Dorothy Kearney req. Albertson Family Francis Swiney req. Albertson Family Margie and Joe Clark req. Children John and Darlene Shea req. The Family Patrick Coyle req. Mom, Dad and Elizabeth Richard Driscoll req. Robin A. Serpico and Family Michael Driscoll req. Robin A. Serpico and Family Charles and Edith Driscoll req. Robin A. Serpico and Family Pat Serpico req. Robin A. Serpico and Family Ben and Lucy Pomara req. Mr. and Mrs. Eduardo Jackson Rachel Jackson req. Mr. and Mrs. Eduardo Jackson Anthony J. and Dorothy Latacz req. T. Frank and Suzanne Dalton Christmas Poinsettias continued Thomas F. and Gertrude Dalton req. T. Frank and Suzanne Dalton Schafer and Schaetzle Family req. Schaefer Family Pat and Dorothy Carrano req. Mr. and Mrs. Richard Healey and Family Anthony and MaryAnn Coniglario req. Mr. and Mrs. Richard Healey and Family Genito Family req. Mr. and Mrs. Richard Healey and Family The Healey Family req. Mr. and Mrs. Richard Healey and Family The Podgorski Family req. Mr. and Mrs. Richard Healey and Family Carol Wegrzynowicz and Joshua Mooney req. Tom Mooney Joe and Jean Wegrzynowicz req. Tom Mooney John and Mary Mooney req. Tom Mooney Charles and Miriam Mooney req. Tom Mooney Robert McMenamin req. Ann McMenamin Elizabeth and August Wollenhaupt req. Dennis and Marie Costa Vincenzenia and Anthony Costa req. Dennis and Marie Costa Robert Buta req. Dennis and Marie Costa Robert Matkowski req. Dennis and Marie Costa Nancy and Louis DeMattia req. Dennis and Marie Costa Nicolo Cirnigliaro req. The Vasta Family Robert LaSala req. The Vasta Family Allen G Miller req. Mary Lou Miller Conway and Ventura Families req. Tom and Geri Ventura Fricano Family req. Michael and Christine Mullaney Mullaney Family req. Michael and Christine Mullaney Conway Family req. Michael and Christine Mullaney Calibert Family req. Michael and Christine Mullaney Shaun Walsh req. Betty Walsh Audrey Nardone req. The Martini Family John Martini req. The Martini Family John Aldermeshian req. Marie Aldermeshian Anisse Yehya req. Marie Aldermeshian Aloysius Beatty req. Beatty/Knauffman Families Modesta Beatty req. Beatty/Knauffman Families George Beatty req. Beatty/Knauffman Families Charles Brierley req. Diane, Kristen and Jennifer Vera and Joseph Falvo req. Ron and Judy Cleary Norine and Charles Cleary req. Ron and Judy Cleary Patrick Hogan req. Family James Cena req. William and Tina Costa Our parents and grandparents req. The King Family The Wisnewski and Clarke Families req. The Wisnewskis Deceased members of the Pucciariello Family req. loving Niece Jo Nobile Alphonse and Concetta Nobile req. Loving daughter Jo Nobile 11 Anna and Ralph Anzano req. Walling/Fecher Family Mary and Joseph Yelpo req. Walling/Fecher Family Tenah and Ralph Anzano req. Walling/Fecher Family Kathy and Raymond Deveney req. Walling/Fecher Family Constance and Ray Deveney req. Walling/Fecher Family Vernon, Irene and Kenneth Walling req. Walling/Fecher Family Helen and Bill Fecher req. Walling/Fecher Family Steve Fecher req. Walling/Fecher Family Gino and Elvira Coletta req. Umberto and Susan Coletta Joseph and Maria Gambone req. Umberto and Susan Coletta John and Anna Kolp req. Umberto and Susan Coletta Amaddio and Caroline Lucchesi req. Umberto and Susan Coletta Henry and Elizabeth Pelletier req. Umberto and Susan Coletta Geraldine Kozak req. John Kozak John Redling req. Heidi and Steve O’Rourke John and Bea O’Rourke req. Heidi and Steve O’Rourke Beatrice Cawley req. Heidi and Steve O’Rourke Calvin Simmons req. Mr. and Mrs. R. Principe Sr. John Principe req. Mr. and Mrs. R Principe Sr. William Hunter Shea req. Mr. and Mrs. R. Principe Sr. Nicholas Coniglio req. Libby Coniglio George Kielce req. Bernice Kielce Mary Jane Miller req. Elaine and Harold Dale Mary Skorka req. The Karpie and Doxbeck Families The Falco Family req. The Karpie and Doxbeck Families Martin and Flanigan Families req. Betty and Gene Martin Kozicki Family req. Mr. and Mrs. David J. Smith Smith Family req. Mr. and Mrs. David J. Smith Barbara and Anthony Ritti req. Anne T. Malcolm and Sons John J. and Anne E. Murphy req. Margaret Trudeau Mary Catherine Murphy Boffa req. Margaret Trudeau Anne Keith req. The Malloy Family Valerie Alexa Castillo req. Michaud Family Denis Daly req. Joan Donaldson Denise Collopy req. Joan Donaldson Madeline Carey req. Charles Donaldson Joseph Sinacore req. The Talamo Family Michele Talamo req. The Talamo Family Joseph Reardon req. Mary Reardon and Family Ann and Mike Cwik req. Monforte Family John Pavonne Sr. req. The Pavonne Family Carmela Benigno req. The Pavonne Family Mary Benigno req. The The Pavonne Family Rose Pluchino req. The Pavonne Family Michael Pluchino req. The Pavonne Family Eufemius Pluchino req. The Pavonne family Christmas Poinsettias continued David Moyer req. Angie, Michael and Lisa Moyer Charles Benjamin req. Una Benjamin John and Jessica Gillen req. Jerry Gillen Robert Roddy req. The Roddy and Donchik Families Kevin Herron req. The Roddy Family Maureen and Packie McCabe req. The Roddy Family Prayer Intentions For families who have lost family members req. Maria Marabito and Family Thanksgiving for answered prayers req. Lydia and John Javora Good health for Alice Carroll req. MaryAnn and Bill Hopler Spiritual and emotional growth req. Mary Lou Miller God Bless America req. The Martini Family Peaceful Soul req. Diane, Kristen and Jennifer Costa and Cena Families req. William and Tina Costa Worldwide Marriage Encounter For a truly meaningful Christmas present, one that lasts long after the cedorations have been put away, have been put away, why not give your spouse the gift of a Marriage Encounter Weekend? A Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend gives you the time and tools to revitalize romance, deepen communication, and nourish the spirituality in your marriage. The next Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend will be held January 16-18. Early registration is advisable as space is limited. Please call 732/904-9636 for information and registration. Christmas Trees vs. Holiday Trees Father Dan is pleased to announce that St. Benedict is one of the first parishes in the Diocese of Trenton to once again surpass its Annual Catholic Appeal goal of $90,000 by pledging to date $138,863. Since the goal has been surpassed, fifty percent of all gifts received going forward will be returned to St. Benedict in a parish rebate. Finally, 141 families have made a first time gift of at least $25. Our goal for “first time” families to make a pledge has been reached and St. Benedict will receive an additional $6,750 in the parish rebate. Pledge forms are available at the doors of the church or you may make your gift on line at dioceseoftrenton.org/catholicappeal. Thank you again for your support and generosity! Annual Catholic Appeal in Action Mount Carmel Guild Mount Carmel Guild has been helping Mercer County community members in their times of need since 1920 regardless of race or religion. Our services are offered free to those who need them. Home Health Nursing The Guild’s Home Health Nursing provides in-home nursing services to seniors whose Medicare insurance has been exhausted and have no alternative means of care. Our nursing care allows patients to stay in the comfort of their own homes, in familiar surroundings. Services can include: pre-filling insulin syringes for the sight impaired, pre-pouring medications weekly, monitoring vital signs, blood sugars and cardiopulmonary status, administering injections, and assisting with pacemakers. Patient referrals are always welcome. Emergency Assistance Program Each day, our staff members assess the needs of Mercer County families and distribute bags of groceries based on nutritional requirements. We assist approximately 700 heads of households each month. Our Comprehensive Nutritional Care program provides high-protein food packages, vitamin supplements and nutritional counseling to those who are HIV+. We also provide help for emergency prescriptions. Your gift gives them a place to turn to in their need. 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21