Mary, Mother of God

Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
Holy Day of Obligation

Tuesday, December 31
5:30 pm

Wednesday, January 1
8:00 am, 10:00 am, 12:00 noon

A Hidden Life

This year marked the 75^th anniversary of D-Day – the Liberation of Europe. The FDR Library in Hyde Park has a special exhibit examining D-Day – and the relationship between President Roosevelt and Winston Churchill.

The question was – What to do about Hitler and the Nazi’s? Leaders before Churchill tried to negotiate with him. Churchill famously said you don’t negotiate with the tiger when your head is in his mouth! Churchill understood exactly right the threat of Hitler and that Britain and the free world had to be defended at all costs. His challenge was to convince FDR and the Americans of the threat.

But what about those who lived under Hitler’s rule? That’s the subject of Terrence Malik’s new film – A Hidden Life. Based on a true story, Franz Jagenstatter and his wife Fanny live in Austria in the Alps. War has come, and Franz serves in the army until France is defeated. Farmers are sent home until needed again. But now he learns that all soldiers must swear an oath of allegiance to Hitler. Everyone in the village is prepared to do so, but not Franz. He cannot, in conscience, swear an oath to a man who is an invader of countries, who destroys life.

The film shows how this decision affects Franz, his village and his family. He most certainly will die if he does not change his decision. His sacrifice will change nothing. The war will go on. No one will follow his example. His family will be without him.

And yet, he cannot change his decision. He is a man of deep faith. He knows the truth. He must follow his conscience. Equally heroic is his wife. She stands by her husband while knowing the cost to her. She too understands that the hidden life, the moral life of a person, the inner integrity of a person, the sacredness of free will, is everything.

It is a very disturbing film. After 3 hours, no one moved at the end. It really made you think – about how Franz – a man who has been declared Blessed by the Catholic Church - stood for the truth at great cost. And what about me?

The church is in great need of cleansing and renewal, and it must begin with me. Corners cannot be cut. Life must be lived authentically. No one else may know – but God knows, and I know. I must strive to be the priest God has called me to be.

The same is true with our families. We need to become the best dads and best moms, the best husbands and the best wives possible. To love our spouses completely and totally. To be faithful to the teachings of Jesus. To live the hidden life in the light of God’s truth. St. Joseph knew what must be done. He had to protect his family at all costs. And he did so with great personal sacrifice. Mary and Joseph always asked – what does God want of us? And they tried to do it – no compromise – just the Truth.

Franz is told if he just changes his mind and swears loyalty to Hitler, he will be set free. He replies, “But I am free.” As George Eliot wrote – “The growing good of the world is partly dependent on unhistoric acts, and that things are not so ill with you and me as they might have been, is half owing to the number of people who lived faithfully a hidden life, and rest in unvisited tombs.”  Have faith – we will make a difference!

Funeral Mass - Frances Gurski

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered for the repose of the soul of Frances Gurski on Saturday, January 4 at 10:00 am. Please pray for her and for her family.

Funeral Mass - Loretta Menchen

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered for the repose of the soul of Loretta Menchen on Monday, December 30 at 11:15 am. Please pray for her and for her family.

Funeral Mass - Thomas Albanese

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered for the repose of the soul of Thomas Albanese on Monday, December 30 at 10:00 am. Please pray for him and for his family.

Christmas 2019

DECEMBER 24

Morning Advent Mass

8:00 am

Christmas Eve Mass

4:00 pm in

church and school

6:00 pm & Midnight

DECEMBER 25

Christmas Day Mass

8:00 am – 10:00 am

12:00 noon

DECEMBER 26

St. Stephen Day Mass

8:00 am

St. Joseph

St. Joseph is known for many things – my favorite is “The Terror of Demons.” But I have no idea how he became a seller of houses. Kits are available n line for $10.00. Thankfully I saw one with a burial cloth – because the custom is bury him upside down facing the home. This kit further instructs – when you sell the home, dig Joseph up and put him in a place off honor in your new home.

St. Joseph has a prominent place in our church – statue – beautiful stained glass window – because the Pastor was Msgr. Joseph Meehan – or – his Parochial Vicar – Father Colacicco – is a great fan of St. Joseph? There is much we can learn from the window.

Nativity – Joseph holding a lantern. Peaceful and serene – anything but. Joseph was betrothed to Mary – not like our engagement – they were legally promised to each other. Mary is greeted by the angel and told that she would bear a Son by the Holy Spirit. As if to give her strength: a sign – her cousin Elizabeth was also expecting.

Mary stayed there 3 months until John was born. When she came home, Joseph could immediately see that something was wrong. It was a disaster. What should he do? An angel appeared in a dream – Do Not Be Afraid. Take her home as your wife. This Child is by the Holy Spirit.   We learn of Joseph’s obedience. He always wanted to do God’s will. A just man – in right relation with God.

Joseph in his workshop with Jesus. Time with his Son. A chance to teach Him. A time for Him to learn more about life and His faith. Jesus teaching have been passed down from generation to generations. He has had the most profound affect on cultures and societies. His teachings are the basis for many of our laws. Where did he get much of this from? His mother and his father. Probably the most came through their example. We cannot underestimate the role of parents in the lives of children.

 if a father does not go to church-no matter how faithful his wife’s devotions-only one child in 50 will become a regular worshipper. If a father does go regularly, regardless of the practice of the mother, between two-thirds and three-quarters of their children will become churchgoers (regular and irregular). One of the reasons suggested for this distinction is that children tend to take their cues about domestic life from Mom while their conceptions of the world outside come from Dad. If Dad takes faith in God seriously then the message to their children is that God should be taken seriously.

Unusual piece of art – death of Joseph. Patron of a peaceful death. He surrounded by his family. He has lived a faithful life – always trying to do God’s will. He is not afraid. He knows where he is going.

Arms around a church – St. Peter’s in Rome – Patron of the universal church. Joseph was the earthly father to Jesus and the husband of Mary – and he still is! He is a father to all of us – God’s Sons & Daughters.  He is a Guardian & Protector – so many entrusted with care of children – home, school, neighborhood and sports. May we care for them as Joseph cared for Mary & Jesus.

So, more than a seller of homes!!!  St. Joseph, pray for us!

Reconciliation Monday

All Churches here in the Archdiocese of New York will be open for Confessions on Monday, December 16 from 4:00 - 8:00 pm. This is a great way to prepare for Christmas!

Nativity

Baptist – prepare the way of the Lord.

Season – decorating, putting up trees and lights, buying gifts and sending cards

Focus today – Beautiful tradition of Preparing the Nativity.

Origin, of course – Bethlehem. Mary gave birth and placed her son in a manger – place where animals feed – hay was the first  bed of the One who would become food for us – Bethlehem – house of Bread

Idea of a Christmas Creche or Nativity – goes back to St. Francis – Greccio, Italy – 1223

Fifteen days before Christmas, Francis asked a local man named John to help bring to life how Jesus was born.

When Francis arrived on December 25, he found a manger full of hay, an ox and a donkey. Mass was celebrated, and, as a Deacon, Francis read the story of the first Christmas. All could see, hear and smell what it was like!   Here was God, God takes flesh, as a Baby!  How much God loves us to become one of us!

When we set up a Nativity in our homes or in our yards, we relive what happened in Bethlehem. It becomes part of us!

Some elements:

Stable or cave – simple, poor, comes for all of us

Background of starry sky – all seems dark , but God is with us!

Sometimes in midst of ruins of buildings – new life in a fallen world.

Shepherds – the first to see – the humble and the poor.  SEE

Mary – the one who always said YES to God. We bring Jesus when we say yes!

Joseph – with a staff or holding a lamp. Guardian and protector of family.

Three Kings – followed a star to bring Jesus gifts - Faith is a journey – kept their eyes on the star!

Christmas – we place Baby Jesus there – it all comes alive – God becomes a child – hold him. – there is joy and wonder.  God acts like we do – sleeps, takes milk from his mother, cries and plays.   Our life is part of God’s life.

For  adults – when we stand by the Nativity, we are reminded when we were children – had a beautiful child-like faith. This is what we want to pass on to children and grandchildren.

Nativity takes many forms – but it always teaches us of the love of God, who became a child to show how close He is to each one of us!

Funeral Mass - Anna Consalvo

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered for the repose of the soul of Anna Consalvo on Monday, December 9 at 10:00 am. Please pray for Anna and for her family.

John the Baptist

I waited – and waited – watching the tree lighting ceremony at Rockefeller Center. Finally, after about 1 hour and 10 minutes – a Christmas Carol – the First Noel – two verses - born is the King of Israel.  But still, no mention of the name. I would wait in vain – entertainers sold their Christmas albums – a network drew attention to their TV shows – a tree was lit – but no mention of his name. Christmas is about the birth of Jesus – yet the name of Jesus was not said – not even once.

So, imagine now talking about John the Baptist? What does he have to do with Christmas? On the way to Bethlehem – we must cross the Jordan River.

This is where we meet him – the Baptist.

Most consider him the last and greatest of the OT prophets.

Jesus took him very seriously “among those born of women none greater than JB”

He spent a great deal of time in desert – why? - no distractions – so he can listen to God.  Every now and then – put aside phone, turn off TV -just be with God

Here is fruit of his desert time:

1)    He learned about Humility

“I am not worthy to untie his sandals” & “he must increase, and I must decrease.”

Humility – this is not putting oneself down. It is putting God first. It is about having our priorities in order!

I Need a Savior.   I need Eucharist - I need prayer -   I need God!

2)    He learned about Repentance

The Christmas celebrated at Rockefeller Center was all about externals – and we can easily celebrate Christmas that way – decorate, put up trees, sing songs, send cards, go to parties, get gifts. But the Baptist knew it was about preparing a place Inside – in our hearts – a place where the Savior can be born. So, he said – turn to God. Not easy – but we can be forgiven!!!

Nothing like a good confession!!!  Reconciliation Monday Dec 16 from 4-8

3) He learned about Integrity

He was a person of principle & conviction – told the truth with love.

Soldiers – nonbelievers – do not practice extortion, do not accuse anyone falsely.

Tax collectors - believers but not practicing – stop collecting more than prescribed

Faithful ones – whoever has 2 cloaks should share with the person who has none. Whoever has food should do likewise. Not afraid to witness to his faith. Best way???

Walk the walk -   be the same person at church, in school, at home & work.

On our way to Bethlehem – need to stop at the Jordan River.

John will be waiting for us

To teach us about humility - repentance - integrity.

To help us prepare the way for the Lord.

Advent

Time moves quickly! Thanksgiving has come and gone, and now the focus is on Christmas; shopping, decorating, sending cards, parties.

It is all good – but the church also urges us to prepare our souls, our hearts for Christmas – after all – Christmas means Mass of Christ, and Jesus is the reason for the season!

That’s why the church insists upon the season of Advent – Latin word – Adventus – Coming – the coming of Christ.

Most believe that he did come – in history – in Bethlehem – born of Mary. But what makes Bethlehem so important is what happened in Jerusalem.

Most again agree that he was put to death by Pontius Pilate - but then what? The Bible records 11 different appearances by the Risen Christ – once to 500 people. They began to realize that what happened in Bethlehem was no ordinary birth – but the coming of the Son of God.  The Word became flesh – God became one of us – which changes everything!

If he is Risen, he is still with us. So, we believe that Jesus comes to us even today, in Mystery.

1)    When the Bible is read, we say: The Word of the Lord or The Gospel of the Lord. God is still speaking to us – why the Bible is read to us every time we gather!

2)    When Sacraments are celebrated – Jesus is at work: Baptism – new life, Reconciliation – forgiveness, Confirmation – sending Spirit, Anointing – healing. Center is the Eucharist – Bread and Wine become his very Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity.

3)    When two or three gathers in his name

4)    In the poor – whatever you did, you did for me.

He will come again in glory -in Majesty – when – we do not know – we wait in joyful expectation – so we get ready.

Many paintings with Saints show a skull – the idea is – remember that life is short – live in the light of God. We call this “sub specie aeternitatis” View everything under the aspect of eternity – is this action going to get me into heaven or increase darkness in my life or the life of others. How will this appear on the day of judgment?  Very good to go to confession every now and then – to keep sin in check.

So – 3 comings – History – Mystery – Majesty. Advent keeps us focused on the true meaning of Christmas – to prepare the way of the Lord!

Thanksgiving

How can you be thankful if you are in a “living hell?”

Ravensbruck was the largest concentration camp for women in Germany. By the end of WWII it held 50,000 women.

Two sisters were brought there – Corrie and Betsie ten Boom. After a few months they were assigned to a new barracks – Barracks 28.  They quickly noticed it smelled of sewage and soiled bedding. When Corrie lay down to try to sleep, she felt a sharp pinch on her leg – “Fleas”: she cried. So many of them.  Betsie, how can we live with them?

It came to Betsie’s mind a verse from the Bible – Paul’s Letter to the Thessalonians - Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus.”

That’s the answer Corrie – we must give thanks – starting with every single thing in this new barracks.

Such as???

Such as being assigned here together.

Such as what you are holding in your hand (somehow they had been able to hold on to a Bible)

Thank you there was no inspection when we entered.

Thank you for the women with us. Thank you that we are crowded so that more may hear God’s Word.

Thank you for the fleas.

Corrie - Now you are going too far – there is no way I can be grateful for them.

Betsie – Paul says give thanks in all circumstances.

So Corrie gave thanks, but she was sure her sister was wrong.

Weeks wore on – more work, less food, more women. At night they would use their Bible to help everyone pray – to keep hope and love alive.

They were just waiting to be caught – and punished – or even put to death.  Yet, there was never an inspection. No guards ever came in.

For many, their work was knitting – knitting and knitting. One day there was confusion about sizes – they asked the supervisor to come in and settle it. But, the supervisor would not, and neither would the guards.

Why not?  They said – we are not going in there - the place is crawling with fleas!   Corrie remembered what Betsie said: – give thanks to God for the fleas!

And so – on this Thanksgiving Day – we give thanks – for the good, and even for the bad – even though we may not understand at the time.

And, it is wonderful that we give thanks at Mass.

Greek word for Thanksgiving - eucharisteo—it comes right out of the Gospel of Luke: “And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them … ” (Luke 22:19 NIV). In the original language, “he gave eucharisteo.”

The root word of eucharisteo is charis, meaning “grace.”

Jesus took the bread and saw it as grace and gave thanks. He took the bread and knew it to be gift and gave thanks. 

Eucharisteo, thanksgiving, envelopes the Greek word for grace, charis. But it also holds its derivative, the Greek word chara, meaning “joy.” Charis. Grace. Eucharisteo. Thanksgiving. Chara. Joy.

Deep chara joy is found only at the table of the euCHARisteo; the table of thanksgiving. The Eucharist is the central act of Christianity. Doesn’t the continual repetition of beginning our week at the table of the Eucharist clearly place the whole of our lives into the context of thanksgiving?

One of Christ’s very last directives He offers to His disciples is to take the bread, the wine, and to remember. Do this in remembrance of Me. Remember and give thanks.

This is the core of Christianity: to remember and give thanks, eucharisteo.

Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving

Eucharist means Thanksgiving! Join us for Thanksgiving Day Mass at 8:00 a.m. Mass on Friday will also be at 8:00 a.m. Our Parish Office and Adoration Chapel will be closed on Thursday and Friday. Happy Thanksgiving!

Christ The King Of the Universe

Last Sunday of the Church Year   - Christ the King

Q - When was it 1^st celebrated?   You would think Middle Ages?   -   1925 

Time of Pius XI – old royal kingdoms were crumbling – instead of kings and queens, now they had the growth of:

Nazism – a dictator who argued for the superiority of his race.

Socialism – common sharing of property – without God

Communism – totalitarian, no God, no individual rights

Pope feared they would be worse than many kings of old & they were – tens of millions of lives lost.

Pope wanted to remind all people – ultimate loyalty is due to God – there is only one King!

If you think about it – Jesus is a strange sort of king –

-          sign   -   Latin - INRI - Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews

-          no regal clothing

-          crown of thorns

But kings and queens can learn much from this king.

1) Jesus is told: if you are the Son of God, get down from the cross! But because He is Son of God – stays on the cross   -   true power is in obedience to His Father.     Many people felt Kennedy could not be elected because he was Catholic – JFK had his famous meeting with Baptist Ministers – would not take orders from Rome – faith is about my private life only. Argument made today – Freedom of Worship vs Freedom of Religion – even affected Chick Fil A.

St. Thomas More would have disagreed – when King Henry VIII asked Thomas to agree that he was the head of the Church of England – Thomas refused -  right before Henry had him put to death – his last words were:  “I am the good King’s servant, but God’s first.”  True King is obedient to God.

2) Other thief told him to be quiet – we deserve this, but this man has done nothing wrong. Famous words: Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.

King Frederick the Great was visiting the jails of Potsdam – each inmate proclaims innocence -  only one said – “I am guilty and I am receiving the punishment I deserve”   king ordered him released – I don’t want this man to corrupt all the innocent people in here. Jesus told the thief – this day, you will be with me in Paradise.   True King is about mercy!

# There is a power to the Cross – every Catholic Church is expected to have a Crucifix visible for all to see – one can learn so much praying before the Cross of our King!

Bishop of Paris once was preaching in the Great Notre Dame in Paris.

He said - Once a young man came in here – who had fallen away from God - confessions going on – he thought: I will go in and try to fool the priest and make things up -  the priest wasn’t fooled -   told him – every confession requires a penance – so go into the church -  look up at the crucifix – look into the face of Jesus and say   “All this you did for me and I don’t give a ….”   Well, the young man tried. He stood there, looked into the face of Jesus and said -   all this you did for me - tried to complete the sentence but could not -     Bishop leaned over – that young man was me.    True King brings us back to God!

The obedience of God – the Mercy of God - The miracle of the cross --- Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews – he is! - Jesus Christ, King of the Universe.

Msgr. George Thompson 1941-2019

Your Excellencies – Bishop Peter, Bishop Dom, our Regional Dean Father Jay Backes, our now retired Dean Msgr. Jim Sullivan, brother priests, deacons, Religious sisters, parishioners of St. Columba, friends of Msgr. Thompson. Welcome, thank you for coming today to pray with us for Msgr. George Thompson. Bishop-Elect Colacicco is on retreat or he also would have joined us tonight.

The question was asked - Have you ever thought of becoming a priest? I had just finished lectoring the 5:15 pm Sunday Mass at St. John & Mary Church in Chappaqua.

Now, at that time, I have no idea what a vocation director was. All I knew was that he was Father Thompson – and he said Mass on the weekends at our parish – I served many Masses for him over the years, and that all our parishioners loved him – a wonderful homilist and a good priest.

Soon after, I entered college seminary and he would move on to forming young candidates for the priesthood at Cathedral Prep Seminary. What a great example he gave his students! During this time, he began his involvement with Cursillo – 40 years!

Eight years later, All Saints Day, 1981 – I offered my first Mass – with him by my side.

Msgr. Thompson had an interesting and varied priesthood. From the Prep he became Pastor of St. Denis in Yonkers, and 5 years later, Cardinal O’Connor asked him to work at the Office for Priest Personnel. He and the Cardinal worked very closely together, assigning priests, and working with priests who were having physical, spiritual or emotional issues. He admired Cardinal O’Connor for his compassion toward priests, and they made a great team together.

In 2002, he went back to parish ministry, and he spent 14 years at St. Patrick’s in Bedford. As it turned out, I was his last move as Personnel Director – off to St. Stephen, Warwick.

Years later Father George Hafemann and I started a Clergy Reflection Group, which still meets at Bishop Dom’s house, and Msgr. Thompson soon joined us. What a joy to see him each month!

In 2016 and close to retirement – he spoke with me - Can I come live with you?  Really?   What a blessing for the people of St. Columba. This was a priest who gave himself totally to God. He was centered completely in the Mass. He was a man of deep prayer. He loved to teach and taught both adults and children. He counseled many. At the same time, Cardinal Dolan asked him to represent Retired Priests on the Priest Council, and was asked to visit and counsel our newly ordained priests.

Now - To live with him – a new experience - education in wine (best wine from the Finger Lakes is Dry Riesling, better when Fr. Connolly imitates him) - Mets and Yankees – Barton Farm Apple Cider Donuts – his world travels – unfailing joy, laughter and good fun.

It was shocking when he came home one year ago last September acting confused. What had happened to him?

Could no longer celebrate Mass (can you imagine?) – he needed extra help – I did not need to ask - Staff stepped up to the plate, particularly – Laura (Diner) – Gary (dressing) - Father C. (many acts of kindness & wine!) and Bill Carey for doctor trips. I am grateful to all of them!

During this, we kept Bishop Walsh, Vicar for Priests & Deacon Steve DiMartino, Priest Wellness, in the loop. They came to visit and gave us their constant support. Thanks!  

It broke hearts to send him off to the St. John Vianny Clergy Residence – but received excellent care – and we knew he was safe. Special thanks to Mena, Shanaz and his nursing staff who provided 24 hour care.

Msgr. used to visit sick priests with Card O’Connor, especially those near death - The Cardinal would remind them that they were never more powerful, never more a priest, when they offered their sufferings for Christ.  During these last months, Msgr Thompson became even more like Christ - the Priest, the Altar, the Lamb of Sacrifice. All Saints Day, (38 years after my first Mass) he was called home.

Behold, I make all things new – stone is rolled away –why do you look for the living among the dead?

Thank you, Father, for this extraordinary priest – his work is done. May God in His mercy give him safe lodging, and holy rest, and peace at the last. Amen.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Timothy Cardinal Dolan for Msgr. George Thompson on Thursday, November 7 at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of St. Patrick in Bedford, NY. This was requested by Msgr. Thompson after having served as Pastor there from 2002-2016.

The Parish of St. Columba will offer a Memorial Mass for Msgr. Thompson on Wednesday evening, November 6 at 7:00 pm. The celebrant will be Bishop Peter Byrne, Episcopal Vicar for Dutchess County. Presiding will be Bishop Dominick Lagonegro, retired auxiliary bishop and former Pastor of St. Columba. The homilist will be Father Michael McLoughlin, Pastor. All are welcome as we pray for our beloved Senior Priest.

NOTES    

Wednesday – Adoration Chapel will close at 6:00 pm

Thursday – Rectory Office will be closed

Funeral Mass - Freida O'Leary

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered for the repose of the soul of Freida O'Leary on Wednesday, November 6 at 10:00 am. Please pray for her and for her family.

Zaccaeus

Let’s say took out $20 bill   crinkled it up, stepped on it, got it a bit dirty.

Would you still want it?  Why?  Does not lose its value. What about us – made in the image and likeness of God?

Zacchaeus means “righteous one”

Most felt he was not righteous - he worked for the Romans and he was a toll collector - he bid for the right to collect tolls. When he won the bid – his goal was to pay the bid in full and keep whatever else he could collect.

He had money – but something was missing.

1)He climbs a tree to see Jesus – goes out on a limb – this is an act of faith – Jesus sees him and calls him by name – how does crowd react?

Big step just to walk in here – what reception do they receive?

To welcome - ministry of greeter - How about all of us???

2) I will come to your house!!!  Hurries down at Jesus command – this is an act of hope – different than optimism - optimism is to believe that things will get better -   hope is to work to make things better.    He is moving from spectator to participant.   Allow Jesus into home.

3) A powerful, life changing experience He will give half of possessions to the poor - not 10% but 50%.   If I have taken advantage of anyone, I will restore it 4 x over -     this is an act of charity

College student visited by dad. Driving a wreck of a car. After dad left some friends began to make fun of the car.   He told them: Dad could have had a new car years ago, but he wants me to have a great education. I am here because he chooses to drive a wreck of a car. He has taught me about life, sacrifice and love. I love that car and the man driving it.

Old legend - Zac would leave house each day w bucket of water

One day wife followed him - to water an old sycamore tree – where it all began

Lessons of Faith – Hope – Love    a righteous person

Much to teach about how to live a life.

All Souls Day

All Souls Day Mass will be on Saturday at 8:00 a.m. A Novena of Masses will be offered beginning on Saturday. We will include all of the Intentions written on the All Souls envelopes. May our beloved departed Rest In Peace.

All Saints Day

Friday, November 1 is the Solemnity of All Saints. It is a Holy Day of Obligation. Masses will be offered on Thursday at 5:30 pm and on Friday at 7:00 am, 10:00 am and at 7:30 pm.

Funeral - Patricia Rickard

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered for the repose of the soul of Patricia Rickard on Thursday, October 31 at 10:00 a.m. Please pray for her and for her family.

Prayer

The boy knelt next to his bed and began to say his prayers. Very quietly and reverently he began to recite the alphabet  A B C D E F

Brother was listening, what are you doing? Well, I’m praying, but I can’t think of the right words. So, I’m saying letters and God will put the words together for me!

Good he was praying

(Adult) When the Son of Man comes, will he find any faith on earth? Well certainly less!

65% Americans Christian down from 77% 10 years ago.

26% Nunes – no religion up from 17 % 10 years ago

My parents did so much for me – but one of the best things – they taught me to pray

1)      Taught me formal prayers

2)      Dad at bedtime

3)      Prayer at meals

4)      Rosary

5)      Church & Mass

6)      Quiet visits to church.   Never doubted Presence of God.

Sometimes would ask God for things – but did not always get them. I realized I was always asking my parents for things – did NOT always give them to me. Many times, NO – for my own good – or for their own reasons.   Sometimes do not understand, but I trust.

Began to learn – prayer does not change God – prayer changes me!

Good way to remember how to pray:

A – Adoration

C – Contrition

T – Thanksgiving

S – Supplication (Petition)    Lift each other up!!!

Little girl would sometimes get scared at night – would hear the wind – squeaks – window rattle – so would get up and go to parents’ bedroom.  Would know where dad was sleeping because he always snored!  She would reach up and touch her daddy’s hand and everything was all right. She did not have to wake him up or say anything. Just knowing Dad was there helped her to go back to her room and go to sleep.

So, pray always, and do not lose heart – God is there!

Two New Bishops for New York!

Pope Francis today appointed two of the archdiocese’s most well-respected priests, Msgr. Edmund J. Whalen, the vicar for clergy, and Msgr. Gerardo L. Colacicco, the pastor of St. Joseph-Immaculate Conception parish in Millbrook, as auxiliary bishops of the Archdiocese of New York.

The appointments were announced by Archbishop Christophe Pierre, the apostolic nuncio to the United States.

Cardinal Dolan, thanking the Holy Father for the appointments, said in a statement, “Pope Francis has selected two outstanding priests, both with rich pastoral experience, to serve the people of God of this archdiocese as auxiliary bishops. I look forward to working even more closely with Bishop-elect Colacicco and Bishop-elect Whalen, as they undertake this new role in their priesthood.”

Cardinal Dolan introduced the newly named prelates at a 7 a.m. Mass he celebrated with them in St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Also on the altar were New York Auxiliary Bishops John O’Hara and Peter Byrne, Retired Auxiliary Bishop Dominick Lagonegro and Msgr. Robert Ritchie, rector of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

The cardinal, in opening remarks at the Mass, said, “It’s a day of special joy and thanksgiving here in the Archdiocese of New York. Just an hour ago, Pope Francis announced that two of our great priests were named auxiliary bishops in the archdiocese.”

The congregation responded with a round of applause for the new prelates.

The bishops-elect are both in their fourth decade as priests of the archdiocese and have served with distinction in numerous leadership positions, including as parish pastors, in seminary formation and as priest secretaries under Cardinal John O’Connor.

Bishop-elect Colacicco and Bishop-elect Whalen will assist Cardinal Dolan in a special way in the pastoral care of the people of the archdiocese. Their ordination as bishops will take place at a Mass to be celebrated Tuesday, Dec. 10, at St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Since Jan. 1, Bishop-elect Whalen, 61, has been vicar for clergy in the archdiocese, and Bishop-elect Colacicco, 64, has served since 2015 as pastor of St. Joseph-Immaculate Conception in Millbrook.

Bishop-elect Whalen had served as principal of Msgr. Farrell High School, Staten Island, 2010-2018.

He was pastor of St. Joseph and St. Thomas parish, Staten Island, 2007-2010, and St. Benedict, the Bronx, 2001-2007. He served as rector of St. John Neumann Residence, the Bronx, 1998-2001. He was professor of moral theology and vice rector of development and related activities at St. Joseph’s Seminary, Dunwoodie, 1995-1998.

He was priest-secretary to Cardinal O’Connor, 1990-1992, and served on the Msgr. Farrell faculty, 1987-1990. He was parochial vicar of Resurrection parish, Rye, 1985-1987.

A native of Staten Island, he studied for the priesthood at Cathedral College and Gregorian University in Rome and was ordained in 1984 by Cardinal O’Connor. He holds a licentiate and doctorate in moral theology from St. Alphonsus Academy in Rome. He was named a monsignor in 1999.

Bishop-elect Colacicco served as administrator of St. Joseph in Millbrook for a year before becoming pastor of St. Joseph-Immaculate Conception. He also was pastor of St. Columba, Hopewell Junction, 2002-2014, and Sacred Heart, Newburgh, 1996-2002.

He served as a judge on the Metropolitan Tribunal, 2007-2010, and was defender of the bond and judge, 1992-1996.

He served as director of pastoral formation at St. Joseph’s Seminary, Dunwoodie, 1992-1996. He was priest secretary to Cardinal O’Connor, 1989-1990.

He was parochial vicar of St. Denis-St. Columba, Hopewell Junction, 1987-1989; Our Lady of Fatima, Scarsdale, 1984-1987; and Good Shepherd, Rhinebeck, 1982-1984.

A native of Poughkeepsie, he studied for the priesthood at St. Joseph’s Seminary. He was ordained by Cardinal Terence Cooke in 1982 and named a monsignor in 1999. He holds a licentiate in canon law from the University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum) in Rome.

Give Thanks

Three men used to visit the Pastor once a year. They came from New jersey, Oklahoma & California. They just wanted to make sure a certain widow was doing OK. They reminded the Pastor that if any need should arise, call one of them.

They always made sure her house was taken care of, including yard work and repairs. They would help her with her taxes and made sure she drove a safe car.

Years before, the three men were standing in a house in Normandy just after D-Day. A grenade was tossed down the stairs. A fourth soldier, this woman’s husband, threw himself on the grenade. He did not survive. They did.

After the war, these three men made sure to look after his widow. Great story – but there is one more thing – there were eighteen soldiers in that room. All were spared by that courageous act. Only three returned to give thanks.

Why did only one return to give thanks? Perhaps:

-          One waited to see if the cure was real

-          One waited to see if it would last

-          One said he would see Jesus later

-          One said he never had leprosy in the first place

-          One said he would have gotten well anyway.

-          One gave glory to the priests

-          One said Jesus really didn’t do anything

-          One said any rabbi could have done it

-          One said I was already much improved

Eucharist means thanksgiving. Sometimes we pray or come to Mass thinking – what am I getting out of it? What’s in it for me? – when in fact it should be the very opposite – what return do I make to the Lord for my very life, my existence, my blessings, for all the good God has done for me???  To live in thanksgiving changes how I look at my life!

I spoke last week about Bill Gates – 2^nd richest billionaire. The very first American billionaire was a man intent on success, riches and power. At 23 he was a millionaire, at 50, 1 billion. At age 53, he was a very sick man. His body was racked with pain. A man who could buy anything he wanted, he could only digest milk and crackers. He could not sleep; he did not smile, and he lost the will to live. Doctors gave him less than one year.

One night he had a dream, and it was revealed that he could take nothing with him into the next world. It was time for a choice.

He called his lawyers, accountants and managers and told them he wanted to use his assets for good. On that day the John D Rockefeller Foundation began. This would lead to the discovery of penicillin, cures for strains of malaria, tuberculosis and diphtheria. It is estimated that he may have saved up to one billion lives.

The moment he began to give back, his body chemistry began to change. He recovered and lived to be 98.   He learned to give thanks and it made him whole. What shall it be – like the nine or like the one? May we never cease giving thanks!!!!

Faith

Recently watched a 3 part series on Netflix – Inside Bills Brain -  Decoding Bill Gates

Bill Gates rank #2 among richest Americans - # 1 is founder of Amazon.

Gates is worth 100 Billion Dollars.

Series shows how he rose to create Microsoft and provides an inside look at his life and relationships.

To his credit, he realized he needed to do something positive with his wealth.

In 2008 he created Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

They have already given away $45 Billion.

The show focused on 3 Projects

Provide clean drinking water in the poorest areas of the world by focusing in on sanitation – building a better toilet.

To get rid of polio throughout the world.

To help the environment – how to make safe nuclear power.

He has incredible faith in science and technology – seek the answer - work harder – there must be an answer

You have to admire him in many ways.    He really wants to help people and make a difference.   What if we had the same faith in God as Mr. Gates does in science? – Faith the size of a mustard seed? - who knows what we could accomplish???

It is challenging to grow faith:

1)      Bill has had many ups and downs in life, just like us  – death of friends, parents, business challenges,  - but he has stayed the course – for us, some days seem perfect, other days nothing goes right. Do we give up on faith during difficult times? – or do we hold on tighter?!

2)      Bill is always learning. He always is carrying a bag of books and he reads and reads. He is trying to grow in knowledge. How can our faith grow if we neglect it? We must have a discipline of prayer, reading the Bible, good spiritual practices, feeding our minds and souls with good food.

Now, where many of us part with Bill Gates is their Foundation’s funding of population control. Melinda is a Catholic, but she has chosen to ignore Catholic teaching – Catholic teaching, which has been confirmed by science!

Many people say the only truth comes from science – but what does science tell us?

5 weeks after conception – the human heart begins to beat

6 weeks – the nose, mouth and ears begin to take shape

7 weeks – hands and feet are forming

8 weeks – baby is moving

10 weeks – all organs and structures are in place, ready to grow.

13 weeks – baby has fingerprints and foot prints.

We agree with science – this is the description of a human life – and that life deserves protection. To ignore that is poor science.  

As so many work to better human life – remember where it all begins – who knows –

one of these little children might have the best answer to clean water, to eliminating disease, to provide safe and clean energy for us all.

Respect Life.

Watch the Gap!

I was down in NYC last week for a foot treatment – decided to go to San Gennaro Feast – say a prayer at MPB and the Old Cathedral and get a zeppole!

Take 6 Train – get off at Canal – we are reminded – watch the Gap - and there he is yelling – I’m hungry – what do you do??? There is a Gap!

Experiences like that always make me think of today’s parable – found only in Gospel According to Luke.

Rich Man – where did he get his wealth? – inherited? – worked hard? – went to night school? – Invested wisely? – stole it? Was dishonest?   Did he use people?  Did not pay a decent wage? Was a slum lord? Does not say.

He received what was good – notice - did not say that God had blessed him – what, that God did not bless the poor?

Now - How did Lazarus get so poor? – was he born into poverty? – Injured? – Physical problems? – mental problems? -    Nothing is said.

Once someone gave me money at the door after Mass – Father, please give this to the deserving poor.  Put me in a terrible position – you mean I must judge who is deserving? How can I judge that?

Lazarus just another one of the many poor people – unnoticed -   Harry Potter had invisibility cloak – Lazarus did not need one – he was unseen.     Rich man no longer notices.

Interesting – only parable of Jesus where the person is named – Lazarus “one who God has helped.”    No one else has noticed but God has noticed!

Now comes the next life – there is a next life!

Lazarus is doing well – angels carry him away - rich man is not – he is dead and buried.

One thing hasn’t changed – rich man still wants to treat a poor man as servant – tell Lazarus  to fetch me water!

No – there is a Gap?! Then go and tell my brother – us!

This parable is like an alarm clock – It make us think!

Riches and comfort are not proof of God’s love – and - having a lot does not show that I am in God’s good grace.

But it reminds us – there is still time – take notice & act!

Any parish must do 3 things:  worship God --proclaim the Good news – and serve the poor.

St. Vincent de Paul feeds over 150 families – Food baskets at Thanksgiving, Christmas & Easter – Christmas Giving Tree – School Veg Garden- Midnight Runs -  Men’s Group Bunk Beds – Ministry of Care – phone calls, visits – voice for the unborn - Many other ways

The alarm bell is going off - Watch the Gap!!!

Father Russel Fernandes

Father Russel Fernandes has served our parish this summer. On Friday, he returns to Rome to continue his graduate studies in Moral Theology. We are grateful for his service to our parish, and we pray many blessings upon his priesthood.  

Stewardship

This seems like a strange parable! A steward is about to be fired, but now he is being praised?

We must step back and understand this culture. Owners often had stewards who looked after their property. Now, stewards made money by charging a commission. This is over and above what the item was sold for, whether it be olive oil or wheat.

This steward is about to be fired, but he has an idea – I will give up my commission – the owner will not lose anything, and the purchaser will owe me for this kindness!

This is what the owner is praising – smart use of this world goods! We are encouraged to do the same – not to just deepen friendship with others – but deepen friendship with God!

Interesting use of words here – owner and steward. We often act as if we own – when in fact, all comes from God – we are stewards!

This is what young people are concerned about – we act as if we own the earth and can do what we want with it. Instead, we are called to be good stewards, seeing it as a gift!

A couple of examples of good stewardship from this past week:

Every two weeks now I travel to Hospital for Special Surgery for shockwave treatments on my foot. This week I had a new technician – Jai. She was born in Queens. Her dad and mom emigrated to the US from Korea. In time, her dad opened a 24-hour deli in Hell’s Kitchen. She said at one time, she was embarrassed to tell her friends her dad owned a deli – their parents were doctors and lawyers. But she began to realize what he had accomplished – working every day – no vacations – to provide for his family – to give her a chance at college and a career. Money, not for it’s own sake, but to care for others.

Owner admires steward – made good use of the money! 

Men’s Group great story about Mattress Mack of Houston – Jim McIntyre.  He owns a mattress and furniture store. This week there was terrible flooding in Houston from Tropical Storm Imelda. He decided to send out his furniture trucks to rescue people – the third time he has done so in the last few years. – He ended up rescuing over 120 people – 20 people spent night in his store.

He said I am ½ capitalist and ½ social worker. I can’t let my people drown.   I am a practicing Catholic and I should practice what I preach!

He’s got the right balance!  He is not an owner but steward – he is making money, but the money is used to build up treasure in heaven.

So how, does this parable apply to us? Only you can answer that one!

Discipleship

Difficult to see the scenes from the Bahamas. As of last night, 43 lives were lost and an estimated 70,000 are homeless.

It was good to see cruise lines helping. Usually they are making money from their cruises. Now they are bringing food and aid. One cruise line is offering free evacuation from Grand Bahama Island.

I’m sure there were some unhappy cruisers when the routes changed – hey, this is not the cruise I signed up for! That’s why you must read the terms and conditions.

Jesus is giving us his terms and conditions – if we wish to be his disciples – and they are not easy ones!

1)     If anyone comes without hating father, mother, family, cannot be my disciple – what?  What about love one another as I have loved you?

Gale Sayers was a great running back for the Chicago Bears. He used to wear a medal around his neck – I Am Third. His track coach at Kansas used to keep a plaque on his desk with those words. He asked coach what did that mean?

“The Lord is first, my friends are second and I am third. “ From that point on, it became Gale Sayer’s motto.  Jesus is telling us – put God first – always!!!

2)     Renounce all your possessions – how can I live? Of course we need things – but we can be possessed by possessions! How much do we really need.

When St. Francis began to turn his life to God, he noticed that the poor struggled to have clothing and his dad had lots of cloth. He began to give it away to the poor. His dad became very angry and complained to the Bishop of Assisi. In a famous moment, Francis took off all his clothes and gave them to his father – now I have only one father – Our Father In Heaven.  Do not be possessed by possessions!

3)     Take up your cross – the burdens of life big and small and come follow me. Sometimes I complain about my crosses – will my foot ever get better – Doc told me this week it may be at least another year!

But then I went to see Corey at NYU Hospital. He was 2 months without a seizure but last Monday, he was clobbered. Now they have to change the meds again. And there was Corey and his mom trying to stay positive, trying to keep their faith strong – and I think I have a heavy cross??? 

The theologian Deitrich Bonhoeffer used to speak about “cheap grace.” Costs nothing. There has to be a cost to be worth anything. When Jesus spoke of these things, he was on his way to Jerusalme to accept his own cross. 

Now he is looking for real disciples – who will put God first – who will carry crosses with him. He has laid out the terms and conditions – do you wish to join him?