Our Monthly Bulletin and Calendar are available for reading online or for downloading as a pdf file. Individual pages or the whole bulletin can also be printed.

July 2009 Bulletin

July 2009 Bulletin

I have to admit that I am a bit at a loss of what to write about this month. I haven't traveled to any distant place on the face of the earth, just to visit my Mom and I need that material for homilies. Nothing really exciting has happened or is on the horizon as being unusually significant. A quick prayer to the Holy Spirit and a piercing look from Gail, our secretary, gave me the inspiration for my article this month.

In the sacristy where I vest for Mass, there is a small book [burgundy colored for 2009] which is called 'The Ordo' or it's full title, 'The Order of Prayer in the Liturgy of the Hours and the Celebration of the Eucharist 2009'. This small book is the official Liturgical Calendar of the Church issued each year containing a listing of the Mass to be celebrated each day, with its liturgical rank and color, together with the liturgical rubrics to be observed in the recitation of the Divine Office which each priest is obligated to pray daily. The Ordo also lists on the opposite page a necrology, a list of priests of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston and other dioceses of Texas who have died that particular day and the year of that priest's death. The month June has the anniversaries of death of priests that, I think, are important for us to remember.

What about you? Since I've been here at St. Mary's/St. Joseph's [believe it or not, it's been over nine months now!], I have on a number of occasions made reference to one of my favorite Biblical verses: St. Matthew wrote that Jesus "said to his disciples, 'The harvest is rich, but the laborers are few; so ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers to His harvest" [Matt 9:37]. All too often Catholics complain that the Church does not have enough priests today; I'm afraid, however, that all too few of us Catholics are actually responding to Jesus' request, asking God our Father in prayer to send us more workers for the harvest in the Church. While it is true that these workers include not only priests, but also deacons, religious, lay volunteers, teachers, musicians and others, our need for more priests is especially pressing. Simply put, without priests, we cannot celebrate the Mass, have our confessions heard, or receive the anointing of the sick.

Garage Sale

We wish to thank and congratulate Mildred Rosenberg, Chairman of St. Mary's 2009 Garage Sale, for an outstanding job. Mildred's innovative ideas, organizational skills, attention to detail and hard work created a unique experience for all attendees and workers. We truly appreciate her dedication, motivation, determination and commitment.

We also wish to thank the parishioners and non-parishioners for their generosity in contributing "slightly used" items and, especially their time sorting, moving, rearranging and selling the 10,000+ items we received. It takes hundreds of hours setting up and taking down the tables, benches, shelves, tents, signs, items, etc. in order to assemble such a large event. This year's
garage sale was a huge success due to their continued dedication!

Sonny & Stella Yorek
2009 Bazaar Chairmen

Mother's Day

The Ladies of St. Joseph's Altar Society extend hugs and kisses and many thanks to the men of St. Joseph's who served up some delicious food after mass on Mother's Day. It put smiles on the faces of many mother's who celebrated this special day!

St. Stanislaus CCE

The St. Stanislaus CCE Program thanks each and every one who supported their recent Spring Fest.

Raffle winners include:

Dell Inspiron 1525 Laptop
Judy LeFlore

Nintendo Wii
Cherry Smock

Apple IPOD Nano 8GB
J.D. Grinell

American Express $100 Gift Card
Zina Ulicnik

Miche Bag
Stella Sechelski

St. Joseph's Bazaar

Many thanks to all those who contributed, worked and supported the 100th Anniversary of St. Joseph's at the recent homecoming and bazaar.

Don't forget the Guardian Angels Monthly Officers' meeting on Tuesday, June 2, 10:00am in the SM FLC.

Also... it's BINGO this month ... come join us on Thursday, June 18, 2009 in the SM Hall from 10:00am--2:00pm for good food, good company and plenty of fun!

June
~~MONTHLY MEETING -- TUES., JUNE 14, 2009 -- 6:00 PM AT ST. MARY'S HALL~~
Monthly Meeting Hostesses: Nancy Smith, Shirley Stuckey, Dixie Puccetti, Cindy Olivieri

July
~~MONTHLY MEETING -- TUES., JULY 14, 2009 -- 6:00 PM AT ST. MARY'S HALL~~
Monthly Meeting Hostesses: Mary Ann Kloster, Chris Kocian, Betty Ann Tolbert, Freddie Seale

Help Wanted
St. Mary's Altar Society is in the process of accepting renewal forms for current members and is ALWAYS looking for new ladies. Help is needed to serve on Sundays and for other events throughout the year. We would love for you to join with us.

If you need a form or other information, call Ann Lambert at 936-448-4926 / 281-413-6406 or the parish office at 936-894-2223.

THERE WILL BE NO MEETING IN JUNE, JULY & AUGUST!

ST. MARY'S MEN'S CLUB will be holding their monthly meeting on Tuesday, June 16, 2009. Dinner will begin at 6:30 p.m. and the meeting will follow at 7:00 p.m. in the SM Hall.

St. Mary's Men's Club BLOOD DRIVE With Breakfast
SUNDAY, JULY 12 8:00AM - 1:00PM
in St. Mary's Parish Hall.

For more information, call
Neil Rosenberg at 936-873-2579.

The men of St. Mary's made their annual retreat at the Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center on the weekend of April 24-26, 2009. Our small parish in Grimes County ranked 6th overall out of 85 parishes represented during the Retreat year of 2009 a total of 848 men attended this year, which represents a small decrease from the previous year. It was truly a wonderful and rewarding experience had by all in attendance. If you have not attended this wonderful weekend please give it some thought for next year, it's an experience that should be on every parishioners calendar. Please keep the Passionist Fathers Retreat Ministry in your prayers for the wonderful service they provide. Next year's date is April 30-May 2, 2010.

The Music Ministry has a need for two lateral file cabinets and two metal 2-door storage cabinets. If you happen to have any cabinets you would be willing to donate to the Music Ministry office, please contact Linda Armstrong: 936-825-0565.

NEXT MEETING:
JUNE 18 - 4:00 P.M.

We are always happy to welcome new members to our St. Vincent de Paul conference. We meet once a month, and our purpose is to reach out to those in need while working to improve our own spirituality. If you are interested in learning more about our work, please contact our president, C. J. LeBlanc at (936) 597-7924.

Summer is definitely here. June is a great time to plant zinnia, lantana, verbena, salvia, petunias and marigold. For your shadier spots plant caladiums, coleus, impatiens and bedding begonias. Water transplants before and after planting. Of course we always love the tropical plants which sometimes survive the winter, but must be protected from cold winters. Some of my favorites are hibiscus, oleander, bougainvillea, agapanthus, mandevilla, trailing lantanas and plumbago. All are sun lovers that will brighten your yard for the summer.

Lantana, native of Americas and Africa, use the common names of shrub verbenas or lantanas. Their flower clusters (called umbels) are aromatic. The mix colors of pink and yellow has the nickname of ham and eggs or bacon and eggs. In some countries such as Asia, Southern Africa and Australia, some varieties have become invasive. In the US they are naturalized in the coastal regions. Being somewhat toxic, animal usually don't eat them, yet the ripen berries are edible. Green berries are mildly poisons. They can be propagated in mid summer from stem cuttings and also started by seeds.
It is time to put down mulch or newspaper and mulch, if you haven't already. With the heating of summer this will help keep roots from drying out. June is a busy time in the garden and kitchen. It is time for harvesting, freezing or canning our bounty. I prefer canning. To me it keeps the truer flavor of the vegetables.

Everything seems to ripen and the same time.

I like zucchini grilled, sliced and brushed with a mixture of olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder and rosemary. Lately, I just can't seem to eat enough squash. My mom was in the navy and she ate sparingly. Potato and onion soup was a daily meal. She passed away in 88 and her soup became my comfort food. Now I have discovered another version. While in a rush for work, I combined my leftover potato and onion soup, squash and rotisserie chicken in one container to fit in my lunch ice chest. You have got to try it. It is so delicious and quite easy. Boil potato, onions, salt, pepper and garlic powder, as if making mashed potatoes. If you are not eating white potatoes use sweet potatoes. While waiting on potatoes, I cook the squash in the micro wave. I don't like it too mushy so I fix it separate. Debone rotisserie chicken and cut into cubes. Of course you can use any kind of chicken this is just so tasty. Break up potatoes by lightly mashing with potato masher. When potatoes are ready add one to two cups of milk, the squash, chicken and some parsley. If you would like to spice it up a little, add one or two slices of pepper jack cheese. Soooo Goood! Enjoy!

GOD BLESS YOU AND THE GROUND HE WALKED UPON.
Send your gardening ideas to: Ronniebochat@consolidated.net

Please keep all of our men and women in the military in your prayers, especially -

Brian Perry E6 & Matthew Perry E5
(Brian, a Navy Seal in San Diego, and
Matthew, a Navy Cryptologist at Fort Meade, Maryland, are the sons of Marshall & Patrice Perry of Montgomery)
~~~~~~~~~~
Capt. John Adams
(An Installation Commander in the U.S. Army stationed at Pele Center in Pago, Pago
American Samoa, is the son of Joyce Adams)
~~~~~~~~~~
2nd Lt. USMC Jeff Vickers
(An Intel Officer stationed at Dam Neck,
Virginia Beach, VA. Jeff is the son-in-law of Rufus Pavlock.)

If you have a loved one serving in the armed forces and would like to include them in our prayers, please contact the parish office by phone at 936-894-2223 or e-mail at info@smsj.org

On the 4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00pm In the St. Mary's Family Life Center..

(Arthur Plessala -- June, 2009)

THE YEAR OF ST. PAUL COMES TO AN END

Ask Catholics about evangelization and you get a mumble and a shrug. Evangelization? That's what evangelicals do, isn't it? It's not that Catholics think it's bad. Rather, it is that most Catholics simply have no idea what to do. So we console ourselves with the saying of St. Francis of Assisi: "Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words when necessary."

Over 2000 years ago, St. Paul no more felt equal to the task of evangelism than you or I do. His secret was not a technique or philosophy. It was that Paul believed that if he trusted in the Spirit of Jesus to provide the power and the wisdom, the Spirit would come through. And he did. We can do the same. The great thing about being Catholic is that you can plagiarize and call it "being faithful to the Tradition." You do not have to have a theological brain when somebody asks you what Catholics believe. You don't have to be clever. Go find a Catechism of the Catholic Church or get a copy of the Compendium of the catechism (a Q & A format of the catechism) written by Benedict the XVI, our pope. (Both are available in St. Mary's Corner Shop.)

Are you currently a catechist in the CCE Program? RCIA? Sacramental preparation? Were you ever a catechist at your former parish??? Do you hear the call of the Holy Spirit to serve as a teacher, mentor, and witness of the faith? Catechesis is an indispensable stage in the rich, complex, and dynamic reality of evangelization (National Directory for Catechesis, USCCB, 2005, p. 41). Evangelizing is in fact the grace and vocation proper to the Church, her deepest identity. She exists in order to evangelize. (On Evangelization in the Modern World, Pope Paul VI, 1975).

MARK YOUR CALENDAR NOW !!!! Join Cheryl Schratwieser and Sharon Skeans for catechetical training...open to all adult parishioners from St. Mary's and St. Joseph's.

Tuesday, August 11 AND Wednesday, August 12, 2009
6:30 -- 9:00 pm; St. Mary's Family Life Center
More details to follow in the July bulletin!

The Catholic Church, according to scripture, wants marriage to be for life. Marriage Preparation is a requirement for ALL who are to be married in the Catholic Church.

It is a requirement but it is also meant to be a help to the couples to help them reaffirm their choice of lifelong mates, try to pinpoint areas where they might not agree or might not have even discussed with each other and, hopefully, reach agreement or compromises for those areas. All of this is to give the couple a clearer understanding of what they face in marriage beforehand so as to reduce any disillusionment after the wedding that could lead to divorce. Topics include problem solving, financial issues, parenting, sexual issues, etc.

Each couple preparing for marriage at St. Mary's/St. Joseph's has approximately 6 meetings to schedule (lasting from 1 1/2--2 hours) which averages to about 12 hours per couple. It is important that each couple start their Marriage Preparation Sessions, hopefully, 8 months to a year in advance. As you can see from the list of weddings included in the bulletin on another page, we have had (and it's the same every year) quite a few couples to work with on Marriage Preparation.

Trying to get through all these in a timely manner is sometimes quite a feat! Plus, it takes up quite a lot of time on the part of the Marriage Preparation workers. Marriage Preparation is a joy to those who do it -- meeting young people in love and helping them to strive for strong, faith-filled marriages. Challenging them to be the best lifelong partners to each other. We love it!

However, as it is with most everything in life, there are always downsides. The biggest downside we have found in doing Marriage Preparation is setting up an appointment to meet a couple at church, leaving home and making the 20 minute trip to church and then the couple never shows. Then we have to re-schedule and do it all over again. We could be meeting another couple during this time or we could be out working at our paying job. Since our time is somewhat flexible, we try to accommodate to the couples schedules and arrange meetings at their convenience. We always give them our contact numbers (home, both cells & email) and ask that they call in advance to re-schedule if need be (we realize that things come up unexpectedly). Thankfully, the greatest majority are keeping their appointments or, at least, calling to cancel and re-schedule in advance. The problem is with those who don't.

Couples, getting married is one of the most important things you will do during your whole life. The wedding is exciting to plan, but Marriage Preparation should take precedence over everything. There is no excuse for missing an appointment completely. You have all the information you need to contact us to re-schedule in advance if it is necessary.

Parents, yes, your children are all grown-up (possibly living away) but you are still in close touch and can help them keep their scheduled appointments.

If this gets to be too big of a problem for us we may have to send the no-show couples to Fr. Ed to complete their Marriage Preparation which will be very difficult for the couple as well as Fr. Ed as he is already stressed to the limits with pastoral duties. So this means if a couple's Marriage Preparation isn't completed before their set wedding date -- that date may have to be moved back.

Sincerely in the love of Christ,
Walter & Francell Busa

BAPTISM PREPARATION CLASSES are Scheduled for
Saturday, June 6th from 900-12:00 in St. Mary's Family Life Center with Baptisms to follow July 12th

Preparation classes for baptism are a requirement for parents or expectant parents of children up to 7 years old and are generally held every other month. Godparents are encouraged to attend as well.

We invite you to call early in your pregnancy to register for a class.

Call: Francell Busa (936) 870-4145 (fbusa@embarqmail.com),
or
Gaby Tryon (936) 448-1342
or
En espanol: Maria Pena, (936) 588-4765

Bringing Down The Bottom Line
Cutting Expenses

Are you going to be out of town Bazaar Day?
Are you unable to help set up/take down for the Bazaar?
Are you unable to work Bazaar Day?
Are you a Friend-of-St. Mary and want to help?

Consider being a Sponsor of:

Bazaar Tent [120x60] $3,000.00
Tent Air-Conditioning $3,000.00
Meat for Bazaar Dinner $3,000.00
Beer $2,500.00
Bingo $ 200.00
Coke & Tea Booth $ 400.00
Kids' Area $ 500.00
Grocery Booth $ 300.00
Concessions` $ 200.00
Hunting & Fishing $1,000.00
Kolache Booth $ 200.00
Plant Booth $ 500.00
Ring Toss Booth $ 100.00
Sausage Booth $ 250.00
Texas Shoot-out $ 500.00

If you would like to be a sponsor, please contact the church office
at 936-894-2223 or Sonny or Stella Yorek at 936-894-3161.

With Sponsors and Supporters like You,
Bazaar 2009 is going to be the best ever!!!!

54th Anniversary Bazaar

Sunday, July 19, 2009
11am til ? - KC Hall in Anderson

Auction at 1:00pm
Clown & Balloons ~ Ice Cream ~ Moon Walk
Train Rides ~ Snow Cones ~ Auction
Cash Prize Raffle ~ Bar-B-Que Plates, $7.00

Wednesday Night C.C.E.

Every year we are asked by some why we don't move C.C.E. to Sundays. We want you to know that your pleas are not falling on deaf ears. It's just that when we mull it over, there are too many reasons why we shouldn't. Some of these are: Space Limitations (The ISP Class and some Adult Classes meet on Sundays and use the rooms already); Time Commitment (Families would spend a good 3 hours attending Mass and then C.C.E.); C.C.E. Volunteers who are also lectors, greeters, extraordinary ministers, etc., and children who are altar servers would have scheduling conflicts as would the Children's Choir; C.C.E. volunteers would be expected to give up every Sunday for nine months (no out-of-town for the weekend trips); those who usually attend Saturday Mass would have to change or give up time on both days; and last but not least, where would we park that many cars at once?

Confirmation Program

Our Confirmation Program is adjusting just a little bit to bring us in line with Archdiocesan Guidelines. The Guidelines require a 2-year class pre-requisite to an Immediate Sacramental Preparation class (ISP). The ISP class can be taken concurrent with the second pre-requisite class. Cardinal DiNardo has specified that Confirmandi should be in the 10th or 11th Grade when celebrating the Sacrament.

So we are moving the program down to include the students in the 8th Grade. Bear with us during this 'Transition Year' while we adjust accordingly. The pre-requisite classes will remain on Wednesday nights and the ISP class will remain once-a-month on Sundays, but move to a 10:30 a.m. to Noon time slot. Students in the ISP class only, will be required to attend the new Youth Class' Activity Nights on some Wednesdays.

The New Youth Class!

A new Youth Class will be starting up in the Fall on Wednesday nights. This class will be for youth who have already celebrated the Sacrament of Confirmation and students who are in the ISP Class.

First Eucharist Program

Our First Eucharist (Communion) Program will also be adjusting to bring us in line with Archdiocesan Guidelines. To be eligible for this class, students must have prior completion of one year of C.C.E. Students will attend a 'regular' C.C.E. class on most Wednesdays and about once-a-month, they will attend the separate Sacramental Prep class instead. This class will include those who are in 2nd Grade through 5th Grade and have not celebrated the Sacrament.

Children Needing Sacraments

Children's Catechumenate Program & Out-of-Cycle Class:
This class is for children who: 1.) Have not been baptized and are in 3rd Grade or older, or 2.) Have not celebrated First Eucharist and are in the 6th Grade or older. Both of these classes are approximately once-a-month on Wednesday night and the participants will attend this class instead of their regular C.C.E. class on those nights. The Children's Catechumenate is a 2-year program and the Out-of-Cycle Class is 1 year.
The Children's Catechumenate is a 2-year program and the Out-of-Cycle Class is 1 year.

Friday Night at the Movies!

June 12th @ 7:00 p.m.

Come join us for a showing of "The Scarlet and The Black", starring Gregory Peck and Christopher Plummer. It's a movie based on the true story of Monsignor O'Flaherty, an Irish priest working at the Vatican during the German occupation. This is a great movie to let your teenagers come see when they tell you they want to go 'to the movies'.

Vacation Bible School
June 22nd -- 26th, 9:30 a.m. to Noon

Rome, Paul & The Underground Church, is the program
the children will be experiencing this summer. Sign up your Pre-School through 6th Grade students. (Registration Form in this bulletin.) We can also use some Adult and Confirmation Student volunteers. (Students who were in the 8th Grade can get a head-start by volunteering for service.)

Awards

Catechists-of-the-Year

Micki Kroeker & Wanda O'Brien

2008-2009 Outstanding Student

K: Jackson Giddens
1st: Logan Ramirez
2nd: Hannah Atkinson
3rd: Samantha Klawinsky
4th: Jose Miguel Cisneros
5th: Micki Olivieri
6th: Andrew Penshorn
7th: Ansley Maddox
8th: Maddie O'Brien
CI: Michael South
CII: Stephanie Fountain

2008-2009 Perfect Attendance

K: Tamra Mock
2nd: Hannah Atkinson
3rd: Tess O'Brien
6th: Kyle Beck
7th: Anthony Beck
8th: Maddie O'Brien
CII: Stephanie Fountain & Emma O'Brien

Students of the Month

Come join us in Rome!

Vacation Bible School
June 22nd -- 26th, 9:30 a.m. - Noon
Pre-K through 6th Grade Students

This year we're doing - Rome: Paul & The Underground Church

Volunteers needed! Contact the C.C.E. Office for information.
Registration Forms available in the C.C.E. Office or June Bulletin.

re@smsj.org or 936-894-2223

June 12th at 7:00PM in the Hall

The Scarlet and The Black

In 1943, German-occupied Rome witnessed many atrocities of the
Gestapo under the command of Colonel Herbert Kappler. Monsignor Hugh O'Flaherty, an Irish priest, was assigned to the Vatican under the pontificate of Pope Pius XII. Despite official Vatican neutrality and significant risk to his position within the church and personal safety, O'Flaherty organizes an enormous network of civilians to save Jewish refugees and Allied POWs from the Nazis. Based on a true story.

Starring Gregory Peck & Christopher Plummer.

Ordinary Time
Jun 1 St. Justin (Ninth Week in Ordinary Time): Tb 1:3;2:1a-8 * Ps 112:1-2,3-4,5-6 * Mk 12:1-12
Jun 2 [Sts. Marcellinus and Peter]: Tb 2:9-14 * Ps 112:1-2,7-8,9 * Mk 12:13-17
Jun 3 St. Charles Lwanga and Companions: Tb 3:1-11a,16-17a * Ps 25:2-3,4-5,6,7,8-9 * Mk 12:18-27
Jun 4: Tb 6:10-11;7:1bcde,9-17,8:4-9a * Ps 128:1-2,3,4-5 * Mk 12:28-34
Jun 5 St. Boniface: Tb 11:5-17 * Ps 146:1-2,6-7,8-9,9-10 * Mk 12:35-37
Jun 6 [St. Norbert]: Tb 12:1,5-15,20 * Tb 13:2,6,6,7-8 * Mk 12:38-44
Jun 7 The Most Holy Trinity: Dt 4:32-34,39-40 * Ps 33:4-5,6,9,18-19,20,22 * Rom 8:14-17 * Mt 28:16-20
Jun 8: 2 Cor 1:1-7 * Ps 34:2-3,4-5,6-7,8-9 * Mt 5:1-12
Jun 9 [St. Ephrem]: 2 Cor 1:18-22 * Ps 119:129,130,131,132,133,135 * Mt 5:13-16
Jun 10: 2 Cor 3:4-11 * Ps 99:5,6,7,8,9 * Mt 5:17-19
Jun 11 St. Barnabas: Acts 11:21b-26,13:1-3* * Ps 98:1,2-3,3-4,5-6 * Mt 5:20-26
Jun 12: 2 Cor 4:7-15 * Ps 116:10-11,15-16,17-18 * Mt 5:27-32
Jun 13 St. Anthony of Padua: 2 Cor 5:14-21 * Ps 103:1-2,3-4,9-10,11-12 * Mt 5:33-37
Jun 14 The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ: Ex 24:3-8 * Ps 116:12-13,15-16,17-18 * Heb 9:11-15 * Mk 14:12-16,22-26
Jun 15: 2 Cor 6:1-10 * Ps 98:1,2,3,3-4 * Mt 5:38-42
Jun 16: 2 Cor 8:1-9 * Ps 146:2,5-6,6-7,8-9 * Mt 5:43-48
Jun 17: 2 Cor 9:6-11 * Ps 112:1-2,3-4,9 * Mt 6:1-6,16-18
Jun 18: 2 Cor 11:1-11 * Ps 111:1-2,3-4,7-8 * Mt 6:7-15
Jun 19 The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus: Hos 11:1,3-4,8c-9 * Is 12:2-3,4,5-6 * Eph 3:8-12,14-19 * Jn 19:31-37
Jun 20 The Immaculate Heart of Mary: 2 Cor 12:1-10 * Ps 34:8-9,10-11,12-13 * Lk 2:41-51*
Jun 21Twelfth Sunday of Ordinary Time: Jb 38:1,8-11 * Ps 107:23-24,25-26,28-29,30-31 * 2 Cor 5:14-17 * Mk 4:35-41
Jun 22 [St. Paulinus of Nola, St. John Fisher, St. Thomas More]: Gn 12:1-9 * Ps 33:12-13,18-19,20,22 * Mt 7:1-5
Jun 23: Gn 13:2,5-18 * Ps 15:2-3,3-4,5 * Mt 7:6,12-14
Jun 24 The Nativity of St. John the Baptist: Is 49:1-6 * Ps 139:1-3,13-14,14-15 * Acts 13:22-26 * Lk 1:57-66,80
Jun 25: Gn 16:1-12,15-16 * Ps 106:1-2,3-4,4-5 * Mt 7:21-29
Jun 26: Gn 17:1,9-10,15-22 * Ps 128:1-2,3,4-5 * Mt 8:1-4
Jun 27 [St. Cyril of Alexandria]: Gn 18:1-15 * Lk 1:46-47,48-49,50,53,54-55 * Mt 8:5-17
Jun 28 Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time: Wis 1:13-15;2:23-24 * Ps 30:2,4,5-6,11,12 13 * 2 Cor 8:7,9,13-15 * Mk 5:21-43
Jun 29 Sts. Peter and Paul: Acts 12:1-11 * Ps 34:2-3,4-5,6-7,8-9 * 2 Tm 4:6-8,17-18 * Mt 16:13-19
Jun 30 [First Holy Martyrs of the Holy Roman Church]: Gn 19:15-29 * Ps 26:2-3,9-10,11-12 * Mt 8:23-27

I know that you have been on the edge of your seat waiting for my escapades in Australia and New Zealand. My bulletin article last month was all about my anticipation of my upcoming cruise to the other side of the world where I'd never been before: Australia and New Zealand. Well, the best laid plans of mice and men....

The Saturday evening before the trip was to begin on the following Thursday, I was told that the cruise was canceled because the ship had been put in dry dock. It seems that the cruise line has had trouble with this particular fleet of ships and this ship in particular. Just my luck that I'd be assigned chaplain on a ship going nowhere.

Help us make the Annual Homecoming & Bazaar Celebrating the 100th Year on May 24, 2009 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church a special event!

We need volunteers, cakes, pies, fruit, toys, groceries, plants, auction items, monetary donations, etc.

CONSIDER MAKING SOMETHING SPECIAL COMMEMORATING 100 YEARS AT ST. JOSEPH'S FOR THE AUCTION.

If you can help out in any way, contact:

Bo Imhoff at 936-672-4555 or Mike Wetuski at 936-870-6836

This year's bazaar is dedicated to Fr. Ed and Fr. Kelly!

ST. JOSEPH'S RAFFLE TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE! BUY THEM FROM ANY SJ MEMBER OR COME BY THE PARISH OFFICE.

(TO ALL PARISH MEMBERS . . . SELL, SELL, SELL!)

The month of May is traditionally dedicated to Mary in many cultures. May crowning became popular in the United States, especially prior to Vatican II. This practice continues in many parishes today. A statue of Mary is honored with a wreath of blossoms to indicate Mary's virtues, virtues that were to be imitated by the faithful.

The Blessed Virgin Mary will be crowned at St. Joseph's Church and St. Mary's Church on Mother's Day Sunday, May 10 during the 10:30am mass.

IF YOU ARE A PARENT, YOU SHOULD 'BE VIRTUSED'!

'Virtus' is a National Catholic Program required for our volunteers who work with children, but ANYONE can take it.

The session is called 'Protecting God's Children'. You will learn what to look for in a child who is being or has been abused. You will learn what to look out for in a potential abuser. You will learn things you can do to help keep children safe. So, if you are a parent, here is your chance!

We are having a Virtus Session in the St. Mary Parish Hall, on Saturday, May 16th, from 9:00 a.m. to Noon. You must register ahead of time, online at www.virtus.org to attend. You will need to arrive BEFORE 9:00 a.m. to be admitted. Call the Church Office if you need assistance.

Anyone who intends to help with Vacation Bible School, a Children's Music Group, C.C.E. or is a part of ANY CHILDREN'S ORGANIZATION OR GROUP that uses Church facilities and has not already taken this, needs to sign up and attend this session!

Come join us in Rome!

June 22nd -- 26th, 9:30 a.m. - Noon
Pre-K through 6th Grade Students

This year we're doing - Rome: Paul & The Underground Church

Volunteers needed! Contact the C.C.E. Office for information.

Registration Forms available in the C.C.E. Office or June Bulletin.
re@smsj.org or 936-894-2223

St. Joseph's Altar Society Stew Super Raffle Winners

Chrissy Wolfson ~ Quilt
Thomas Nickleson ~ Swing
Tim Williams ~ Adult Bicycle
Felix Kimich ~ Wind Chimes
Megan Rubach ~ $100 Gift Certificate
Gail Sowell ~ $100 Gift Certificate
Geralyn Backhus ~ $100 Gift Certificate

Thanks again to all who supported our annual Stew Supper!

Don't forget the Guardian Angels Monthly Officers' meeting on Tuesday, May 5, 10:00am in the SM FLC.

Also... it's GAME DAY this month ... come join us on Thursday, May 21, 2009 in the SM Hall from 10:00am--2:00pm for good food, good company and plenty of fun!

~~MONTHLY MEETING -- TUES., MAY 12, 2009 -- 6:00 PM AT ST. MARY'S HALL~~

Monthly Meeting Hostesses: Mimi Loftus, Pam Alexander, Pat Brownlee, Nancy Schlottman

The St. Joseph's Altar Society will meet this month at the hall after the 9:00am mass on May 12, 2009. (THERE WILL BE NO MEETING IN JUNE, JULY & AUGUST!)

. . . will be holding their monthly meeting on Tuesday, May 19, 2009. Dinner will begin at 6:30 p.m. and the meeting will follow at 7:00 p.m. in the SM Hall.

The St. Mary's Men's Club would like to thank all who played, sponsored a hole, donated a gift or volunteered in our Eighth Annual Golf Tournament at Walden Golf Course last month. Thanks to the support of so many, the tournament was a huge success.

It was a tough start to the vegetable garden this year due to hail and a German Shepherd puppy that weighs a ton. I spent a lot of time getting things planted. He snuck into the garden during the night and dug it back up. Jealousy or just having fun? Needless to say he hasn't messed with them again. Now we are enjoying the fruits of our labor and anticipating more. My garden is about 100 feet from my door so I have planted some cilantro (coriander), parsley and green onions in pots closer to the house for easy access. I love the smell of cilantro and herbs when they get wet from watering. Their fragrance just fills the air.

At this time of year it will be getting hotter and hotter. Time to transplant or seed summer annual flowers such as sunflowers, zinnia, marigold, morning glory, cosmos, periwinkles and gourds. Plant Vinca at the end of the month in a sunny spot. In the shade plant Impatiens, coleus, begonias and caladium.

Summer flowering perennials include garden mums, Shasta daisy, dusty miller, mallow, coreopsis, summer phlox, daylily and salvia of many kinds and colors. Summer bulbs include achimenes, cannas, caladiums dahlias can be planted at the end of this month. Lantana loves the heat. It blooms all summer.

Firebush has bright orange and red blooms that attract hummingbirds. A few more plants that attract hummingbirds are Cherry sage, Mountain sage, Big Red sage, Red Yuka, Turk's cap, Rose Mallow, Coral vine, Trumpet vine and Cross vine.

Fertilize your roses every four to six weeks with small amounts of fertilizer. You can still set out container shrubs and trees. They will need regular watering this summer but don't over do. If you do it now you can still fertilize your yard. Testing the soil is always best to know the right fertilizer to use. Keep it watered regularly.

Looking forward to all those fresh veggies. I'm on a squash kick. Just can't seem to get enough of it lately. Enjoy the rest of spring.

GOD BLESS YOU AND THE GROUND HE WALKED UPON.

A book filled with hope and inspiration for caregivers has just been released. "Upside Down and Back Again: Hope for the Caregiver" is a unique book for caregivers written from a Christian perspective, comprised of practical tips, prayers, bible verses, and inspiration by author Barbara J. Cooper. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Franciscan Poor Clare Nuns.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
For more information or to order your signed copy, you may contact the author though her website at: www.barbarajcooperbooks.com or you may send a check in the amount of $13.95 to B.J. Cooper-Schonert, P.O. Box 9077, College Station, Texas 77842

It's the birthday of the Catholic Church!!

Please join us on Pentecost Sunday in celebrating the beginning
of the Catholic Church.

There will be an Easter Egg hunt after all the Masses at St. Joseph's and St. Mary's on Sunday, May 31 for the children in attendance.

Bring a basket or one will be provided.

At St. Mary's, join us for the usual Coffee Service in the Hall after all the Masses. There will be a special Birthday Cake for all to share.

(Arthur Plessala -- May, 2009)

The month of May brings the feast of Pentecost, a time to celebrate the gifts that God's Spirit bestows on the Church in and through its members. God's gifts are given to each of us and we are expected to share them with others. When we recognize our gifts and talents and use them in the service of others, only then are we being the persons that God created us to be.
St. Paul reminds us that the Holy Spirit is the Giver of gifts: You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you: and you will be my witnesses (Acts 1:8).

Gifts of the Holy Spirit received at Confirmation: Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Fortitude, Knowledge, Piety, Fear of the Lord.
Fruits of the Holy Spirit: Charity, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Generosity, Gentleness, Faithfulness, Modesty, Self-Control, Chastity.

How much our world needs a renewed outpouring of the Holy Spirit! There are still many who have not heard the Good News of Jesus Christ; while many others, for whatever reason, have not recognized in this Good News the saving truth that alone can satisfy the deepest longings of their hearts. The psalmist prays: When you send forth your Spirit, they are created, and you renew the face of the earth" (Ps 104:30). It is my firm belief that young people are called to be instruments of that renewal, communicating to their peers the joy they have experienced through knowing and following Christ, and sharing with others the love that the Spirit pours into their hearts, so that they too will be filled with hope and with thanksgiving for all the good things they have received from God, our heavenly Father. Many people today lack hope. They are perplexed by the questions that present themselves ever more urgently in a confusing world, and they are often uncertain which way to turn for answers. They see poverty and injustice and they long to find solutions. They are challenged by the arguments of those who deny the existence of God and they wonder how to respond. They see great damage done to the natural environment through human greed and they struggle to find ways to live in greater harmony with nature and with one another.

Where can we look for answers? The Spirit points us towards the way that leads to life, to love, and to truth. The Spirit points us towards Jesus Christ. There is a saying attributed to Saint Augustine: If you wish to remain young, seek Christ. In him we find the answers that we are seeking; we find the goals that are truly worth living for; we find the strength to pursue the path that will bring about a better world. Our hearts find no rest until they rest in the Lord, as Saint Augustine says at the beginning of the Confessions, the famous account of his own youth. Our prayer is that our hearts will truly find rest in the Lord, and that we will be filled with joy and fervor for spreading the Good News among our friends, our families, and all whom we meet.

The single, most important pre-condition for participating in the saving events of the Bible is PERSONAL HONESTY AND INTEGRITY. We must accept the full truth about ourselves. We naturally tend to be selfish, which is in fact a radical form of bondage, but there is no real happiness at the end of this path. We are always moving through the painful process of authentic conversion from selfish ego-centricity to unconditional love of others. All our prayers need to be focused on the need to move from selfishness to love of others. We have a constant need of conversion. The "big lie" of Satan is that we can achieve happiness by being self-centered and by avoiding painful conversion. The original meaning of the word, "devil," is deceiver. That is why Jesus declares, When he {the devil} tells a lie, he speaks in character, because he is a liar and the father of lies (John 8:44).

It is so difficult to embrace the full truth about ourselves that it is very likely that we will find excuses for not taking the challenge of the scriptures seriously. Since the journey that we Christians are on is UNION with God---enjoying beatific vision---we must be dedicated to truth and have nothing to do with deception. We know that marriage doesn't work if we live in deception. If God is love and God is Jesus Incarnate who is the way, the truth, and the life, we believe that Union with God excludes deception. The Hebrew slaves were delivered from bondage because God loved them, not because they were attractive, but because God is good. Moses risked his life by returning to Egypt and accepting what seemed to be a "mission impossible." He did it because he loved those who needed his help. But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth (John 16:13).

The Cemetery Association of St. Mary's Catholic Community invites all to a MEMORIAL DAY CELEBRATION in the Cemetery MONDAY, MAY 25, 2009 at 9:00 AM to pay respects to those who gave their life in the service of our country.

Please keep all of our men and women in the military in your prayers, especially -

Brian Perry E6 & Matthew Perry E5
(Brian, a Navy Seal in San Diego, and
Matthew, a Navy Cryptologist at Fort Meade, Maryland, are the sons of Marshall & Patrice Perry of Montgomery)
~~~~~~~~~~
Capt. John Adams
(An Installation Commander in the U.S. Army stationed at Pele Center in Pago, Pago
American Samoa, is the son of Joyce Adams)
~~~~~~~~~~
2nd Lt. USMC Jeff Vickers
(An Intel Officer stationed at Dam Neck,
Virginia Beach, VA. Jeff is the son-in-law of Rufus Pavlock.)

If you have a loved one serving in the armed forces and would like to include them in our prayers, please contact the parish office by phone at 936-894-2223 or e-mail at info@smsj.org.

St. Mary and St. Joseph's Catholic Communities congratulate our newest members who received the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Eucharist):

Karen Ann Klawinsky
Samantha Lea Theresa Klawinsky
Rex Wayne Sebastian Pixley
Tasha Lea Francis Willis

and

Kayla Rene Mary Magdalene Blummer
who celebrated the Rite of Reception (Confirmation and Holy Eucharist) into full communion with the Roman Catholic Church at Easter Vigil.

The message of the liturgy in proclaiming the passion narratives in full is to enable the assembly to see vividly the love of Christ for each person, despite their sins, a love that even death could not vanquish. The crimes during the Passion of Christ cannot be attributed indiscriminately to all Jews of that time, nor to Jews today. The Jewish people should not be referred to as though rejected or cursed, as if this view followed from Scripture. The Church even keeps in mind that Jesus, his mother Mary, and the Apostles all were Jewish. As the Church has always held, Christ freely suffered his passion and death because of the sins of all, that all might be saved.

We need your help!
Please consider a donation for prizes for the Raffle.

Donations of prizes help keep our cost down and make the
Bazaar more profitable. If interested in donating larger
prizes, please consider forming a group. We will have a Wish List available outside of the church after all Masses on
May 9, 10, 16, 17, 23 and 24.

Contacts:
Linda Armstrong
936-825-0565
or
St. Mary’s Church
936-894-2223

Movie Night
May 1st at 7:00 p.m. in the Hall

Friday Night at the Movies! Come join us for a classic, family film.

First Wednesdays
May 6th

Our youth will be meeting in the Hall at 6:00 p.m.

Virtus
May 16th at 9:00 a.m.

Virtus will be held at St. Mary's in the Hall. All C.C.E. and VBS volunteers need to attend Virtus if they haven't already.

Register online: www.virtus.org

C.C.E. Volunteer Party
May 17th at 3:00 p.m.

Volunteers and their families are invited to an end-of-the-year party in the Hall. Bring a side dish or dessert.

Vacation Bible School
June 22nd - 26th, 9:30 a.m. - noon

Registration forms will be in the June Bulletin. Volunteers are still needed.

Contact the C.C.E. office for information at:
Email: re@smsj.org
Phone: (936) 894-2223

Students of the Month - March

Congratulations to the following students who received the award for March!

K - Jackson Giddens
1st - Katie Beth Dowell
2nd - Courtney Wyrwich
3rd - Joseph LeBlanc
4th - Jason Goulait
5th - Eli Yarrito
6th - Trenton Moy
7th - Ty Smith
8th - Jonathan LaRose
C I - Cole Imhoff
C II - Chelsea Bailey

What's New?

Coming this Fall:

A new High School Youth Class on Wednesday nights with 'Spotlight' classes focusing on Teen Issues plus special interest nights for drama, arts & crafts, music & puppetry!

Adjustments to our Sacrament Programs as we conform to Archdiocesan Guidelines.

More information will be in the June Bulletin.

BAPTISM PREPARATION CLASSES

are Scheduled for Saturday, June 6th from 900-12:00 in St. Mary's Family Life Center with Baptisms to follow July 12th

Preparation classes for baptism are a requirement for parents or expectant parents of children up to 7 years old and are generally held every other month.

Godparents are encouraged to attend as well.

We invite you to call early in your pregnancy to register for a class.

Call: Francell Busa (936) 870-4145 (fbusa@embarqmail.com),
or
Gaby Tryon (936) 448-1342,
Anita Thornton (936) 582-2618
or
En espanol: Maria Pena, (936) 588-4765

May 1 [St. Joseph the Worker]: Acts 9:1-20 * Ps 117:1,2 * Jn 6:52-5914
May 2 St. Athanasius: Acts 9:31-42 * Ps 116:12-13,14-15,16-17* Jn 6:60-69
May 3: Fourth Sunday of Easter: Acts 4:8-12 * Ps 118:1,8-9,21-23,26,28,29 * 1 Jn 3:1-2 * Jn 10:11-18
May 4: Acts 11:1-18 * Ps 42:2-3;43:3,4 * Jn 10:1-10
May 5: Acts 11:19-26 * Ps 87:1-3,4-5,6-7 * Jn 10:22-30
May 6: Acts 12:24----13:5a * Ps 67:2-3,5,6,8 * Jn 12:44-50
May 7: Acts 13:13-25 * Ps 89:2-3,21-22,25,27 * Jn 13:16-20
May 8: Acts 13:26-33 * Ps 2:6-7,8-9,10-11 * Jn 14:1-6
May 9: Acts 13:44-52 * Ps 98:1,2-3,3-4 * Jn 14:7-14
May 10 Fifth Sunday of Easter: Acts 9:26-31 * Ps 22:26-27,28,30,31-32 * 1 Jn 3:18-24 * Jn 15:1-8
May 11: Acts 14:5-18 * Ps 115:1-2,3-4,15-16 * Jn 14:21-26
May 12 [Sts. Nereus and Achilleus, Spt. Pancras]: Acts 14:19-28 * Ps 145:10-11,12-13,21 * Jn 14:27-31a
May 13 [Our Lady of Fatima]: Acts 15:1-6 * Ps 122:1-2,3-4,4-5 * Jn 15:1-8
May 14 St. Matthias: Acts 1:15-17,20-26 * Ps 113:1-2,3-4,5-6,7-8 * Jn 15:9-17
May 15 [St. Isidore]: Acts 15:22-31 * Ps 57:8-9,10,12 * Jn 15:12-17
May 16: Acts 16:1-10 * Ps 100:1-2,3,5 * Jn 15:18-21
May 17 Sixth Sunday of Easter: Acts 10:25-26,34-35,44-48 * Ps 98:1,2-3,3-4 * 1 Jn 4:7-10 * Jn 15:9-17
May 18 [St. John I]: Acts 16:11-15 * Ps 149:1-2,3-4,5-6,9 * Jn 15:26----16:4a
May 19: Acts 16:22-34 * Ps 138:1-2,2-3,7-8 * Jn 16:5-11
May 20 [St. Bernardine]: Acts 17:15,22----18:1 * Ps 148:1-2,11-12,13,14 * Jn 16:12-15
May 21 The Ascension of the Lord: Acts 1:1-11 * Ps 47:2-3,6-7,8-9 * Eph 1:17-23 * Mk 16:15-2015
May 22 [St. Rita of Cascia]: Acts 18:9-18 * Ps 47:2-3,4-5,6-7 * Jn 16:20-23
May 23: Acts 18:23-28 * Ps 47:2-3,8-9,10 * Jn 16:23b-28
May 24 Seventh Sunday of Easter: Acts 1:15-17,20a,20c-26 * Ps 103:1-2,11-12,19-20 * 1 Jn 4:11-16 * Jn 17:11b-19 or Ascension (see May 21)
May 25 [St. Bede, St. Gregory VII, St. Mary Magdalene de Pazzi]: Acts 19:1-8 * Ps 68:2-3,4-5,6-7 * Jn 16:29-33
May 26 St. Philip Neri: Acts 20:17-27 * Ps 68:10-11,20-21 * Jn 17:1-11a
May 27 [St. Augustine of Cantebury]: Acts 20:28-38 * Ps 68:29-30,33-35,35-36 * Jn 17:11b-19
May 28: Acts 22:30;23:6-11 * Ps 16:1-2,5,7-8,9-10,11 * Jn 17:20-26
May 29: Acts 25:13b-21 * Ps 103:1-2,11-12,19-20 * Jn 21:15-19
May 30: Acts 28:16-20,30-31 * Ps 11:4,5,7 * Jn 21:20-25
May 31 Pentecost Sunday: Acts 2:1-11 * Ps 104:1,24,29-30,31,34 * 1 Cor 12:3b-7,12-13 * Jn 20:19-23