August 7, 2022

Jesus' instructions on how to be ready for the coming judgment continue in the stories and sayings found in today's Gospel. We are not to be like the greedy rich man in last Sunday's Gospel who planned to store his great harvest in barns rather than share it.

The other major way to be ready for the coming judgment is to be watchful. In Luke's Gospel, Jesus tells a parable about watchfulness to begin making this point. We must be like servants waiting for the master's return from a wedding banquet, which, even now, can last for a few days in the Middle East. We must be

watchful so that even if the master comes after midnight, we will be ready for him. This is what the coming of the Son of Man will be like.

Either way, the parables remind us that we should be found doing our jobs when the master arrives. If we are doing our jobs, our reward will be great. But if we relax, neglect our duties, and begin to act like the greedy rich man—eating, drinking, and making merry—we will not have a place in the Kingdom. Watchfulness means living in such a consistently moral and obedient way that we are always ready to give an account to God of how we have lived.

The opening of our church will be delayed beyond the weekend of August 13-14. Unfortunately, flaws in the new carpet have made the manufacturer redo our order. Hopefully, the replacement will arrive soon. The pews are ready to be assembled but have to wait for the floor to be completed. Thank you for your patience. All Masses and services will continue to be conducted in the Parish Hall till the project is finished.

A grateful note is extended to everyone who could and did support the 2022 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. To date, we have almost reached the parish's target of $193,229. Thank you to the 501 gifts, thus far, that are helping us achieve our goal. Please continue fulfilling these pledges. If anyone has not done so, please consider making a contribution. Every donation is appreciated and not only will help us make our goal but continue to do the charitable work it is making possible in the Diocese of Wilmington. Thank you for your cooperation and dedication. God reward your generosity.

Mass Intention Book is open. Please contact the Parish Office for the availability and scheduling of intentions for Masses in the Parish for the approaching year. Please be considerate of others who also want to make their intentions. Also, all “living” intentions will be sent to retired priests to be fulfilled in a timely period.
 

July 31

The readings for this Sunday force us to take a closer look at the whole concept of success.  In the Gospel reading, the man is convinced that he is a success because he is a rich farmer.  What should he do now that he has succeeded in harvesting more grain than he can store?  Build another silo, of course.  The basis of his success is his grain.  When he suddenly dies, his success remains here, and he goes on to God empty handed.

The whole mindset that success is predicated on salary is based on a fallacy that was very clear to the author of the first reading.  He is sometimes called Qoheleth, in the Old Testament book called Ecclesiastes. “Vanity of vanities,” says Qoheleth, “All is vanity.”  Many times one flatters oneself, incorrectly, by viewing him/herself successful by his or her appearance rather than growing rich in the sight of God.  A person is on the road to success if he or she can draw closer to God and attract others to do likewise.

More and more achievements, titles and possessions can render us successful to most of the world; but, what about ourselves?  We cannot avoid the emptiness.  Our scripture readings remind us of the futility of it all unless one becomes more of the Godly reflection we are created to be. Success is predicated on our ability to assume the person of Jesus Christ. Success is not a present reality; it is a goal, the goal of Christian life.  The goal is reached; life is successful, when every aspect of life reflects the person of Jesus Christ.  That is success.   All else is vanity.

A grateful note is extended to everyone who could and did support the 2022 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal.  To date, we have $183,244 pledged toward our parish’s target of $193,229.  Thank you to the 497 gifts, thus far, that are helping us achieve our goal.  Please continue fulfilling these pledges.  If anyone has not done so, please consider making a contribution.  Every donation is appreciated and not only will help us make our goal but continue to do the charitable work it is making possible in the Diocese of Wilmington.  Thank you for your cooperation and dedication.  God reward your generosity.

All Masses and services will be conducted in the Parish Hall until the 5 PM mass on August 13.  The old pews have been removed.  Because they were constructed mostly of particle board, the reuse of these pews was not recommended since they would have to be cut down in length.  The floor of the church is presently being recarpeted and then the new pews will be installed in the next two weeks.  Thank you to everyone who contributed to the New Pew Campaign. 

2023 Mass Intention Book is open.  Please contact the Parish Office for the availability and scheduling of intentions for Masses in the Parish for the approaching year.  Please be considerate of others who also want to make their intentions.  Also, all “living” intentions will be sent to retired priests to be fulfilled in a timely period.  

July 24

I cannot help but think that our modern conveniences of life have spoiled our sense of prayer. All you need is to Google a question and in seconds the answer comes up. Need cash, go to an AT&T machine. Hungry for something, call DoorDash for instant delivery. Think about it. We put in for what we desire and get what we want. “For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door is opened.” So in prayer, we are somewhat conditioned to tell God what we want and expect to get what we ask for.

All that works fine, until it doesn’t. Some will get angry. Some will feel hurt or betrayed, lose faith, and even leave the Church. I don’t know why some prayers are answered and others seem to go unanswered. “You didn’t have enough faith.” “You didn’t pray hard enough.” “It’s a mystery and someday we will understand.” These are some of the confusing misinformation out there.

In the midst of unknowing and need, we are desperate for God to do something. It is not a mechanical formula or transmission of information to God that will get us what we want. Jesus’ response to the request: “Lord, teach us how to pray” teaches us about WHO and HOW God is. When we pray, say: “Father, hallowed be Your Name. Your Kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone indebted to us. And do not bring us to the time of trial.”

Definitely, a dear relationship already exists between God and each of us. Prayer is about relationship and presence. We are reminding ourselves of what already is. That relationship depends on God who nourishes and sustains our life. Then there is only one answer to every prayer...GOD. God’s presence, life, love, beauty, generosity, compassion, forgiveness, wisdom, justice, mercy is the answer to our prayers. Perhaps the greatest difficulty of prayer is that sometimes we want instantaneous results. We don’t want God. We want something from God.

While God can and sometimes does change circumstances to what is desired, more often than not, God changes us to face the circumstances of life with HIM. It is a difficult lesson to meditate on and spiritually understand. On my better days, I know this and that’s enough. On those other days when you enter the cloud of unknowing...Its’ “Lord, teach me to pray.”

Property Next Door... For the past forty years, the parish has desired to obtain the 3 acre parcel next door in the hopes that we may expand as a parish campus. This property became available for sale and was purchased by the Parish. Our present location is central for many diocesan activities and possible growth. It was recommended by the diocese and our Parish Finance Committee to buy the property at the valued price for future needs. We thank everyone who studied the purchase of the land and made the recommendation to obtain it.

All Masses and services will be conducted in the Parish Hall until the 5 PM mass on August 13. For the next three weeks, the old pews will be removed, the floors recarpeted and then the new pews will be installed. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the New Pew Campaign.

2023 Mass Intention Book will open on Monday, July 25. Please contact the Parish Office for the availability and scheduling of intentions for Masses in the Parish for the approaching year. Please be considerate of others who also want to make their intentions. Also, all “living” intentions will be sent to retired priests to be fulfilled in a timely period.

July 17

"Martha, Martha" Usually when we use the word mystery, we think of a story that has an ending we try to solve before we get to the last page of the book or last five minutes of the movie. For the Church a mystery is a truth that is incomprehensible to the reason and knowable only through divine revelation.

In this Sunday’s second reading to the Colossians, Paul speaks about a mystery, “a mystery that has been hidden for ages is now manifested to God’s Holy Ones.” The mystery is this: Christ is in you. Sadly, when it comes to this Mystery many people are clueless. We go about our day, so busy that we overlook the purpose for our actions. We overlook the reason for our being. We forget about the presence of Christ. Like Martha in the Gospel we are concerned with doing instead of being. Martha was busy doing this and that in her valiant efforts to prepare for Jesus. Mary, her sister, was concerned with being, with being with Jesus.

These days, most people are overwhelmed with distractions. Even the technology meant to make communication easier seems to be engrossing more of our time. We need to stop and hear the Lord in the silence. Our many concerns, real as they are, should not consume us, nor should they rob us of the opportunity of the Divine Presence in and around us. When we choose to nurture the presence of the Lord within us, like Mary, to grasp the mystery and will be choosing the better part.

This is the last weekend that we will hold Masses and liturgies in the church until Saturday, August 13. All Masses and services will be conducted in the Parish Hall from Monday, July 18 to August 12. For the next four weeks, the old pews will be removed, the floors recarpeted and then the new pews will be installed.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the New Pew Campaign. The amount collected has exceeded the cost for the new pews; therefore allowing us to install a new carpet in church. The new carpet will be more enduring while eliminating any older markings from the previous pews. Thank you, again, for your assistance in achieving our needed sums and the task at hand.

Property Next Door... For the past forty years, the parish has desired to obtain the 3 acre parcel next door in the hopes that we may expand as a parish campus. This property became available for sale and was purchased by the Parish. Our present location is central for many diocesan activities and possible growth. It was recommended by the diocese and our Parish Finance Committee to buy the property at the valued price for future needs. We thank everyone who studied the purchase of the land and made the recommendation to obtain it.

July 10

We all know the parable of the Good Samaritan. We know it so well that we forget that it is pointed towards us. The parable is about living the Way of Jesus, the Law of Love. The Samaritan’s were seen by the Jews as outside of the Law. They had intermarried with pagans and their practice of the Jewish faith was not as pure as the Jews. And yet the Samaritan, in Jesus’ parable, warrants the title “Good” because he knew when God called him to action. He knew that he could not be a follower of the Lord and walk by that man who needed his help. This parable is real in our lives. Recall the times when you were the recipient of kindness when you least expected it but needed it most. It demanded someone’s time and resources to help; and we cannot forget the kindness.

The Law of the Lord is more than precepts that have to be memorized and followed; and indeed they should be. We are called to fulfill God’s Law of helping those who need our love at any given moment. We know that Jesus identified with those who were hurting and went to great lengths to relieve their pain or satisfy their need. And more than THE LAW... relieving the sufferings of others seems to be innate, inborn. Often we see it coming naturally from people whom we least expected. The Parable of the Good Samaritan answers the question: What must I do to inherit eternal life? We have only to look into our hearts. We know what we must do.

A grateful note is extended to everyone who could and did support the 2022 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. To date, we have $183,244 pledged toward our parish’s target of $193,229. Thank you to the 497 gifts, thus far, that are helping us achieve our goal. Please continue fulfilling these pledges. If anyone has not done so, please consider making a contribution. Every donation is appreciated and not only will help us make our goal but continue to do the charitable work it is making possible in the Diocese of Wilmington. Thank you for your cooperation and dedication. God reward your generosity.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the New Pew Campaign. The amount collected has exceeded the cost for the new pews; therefore allowing us to install a new carpet in church. The new carpet will be more enduring while eliminating any older markings from the previous pews.

The renovation will begin after next weekend, July 16-17. All Masses and services will be conducted in the Parish Hall from Monday, July 18th to August 13th. The demolition of the older pews, recarpeting of the floor and then installation of the new pews are major projects requiring that amount of time. Thank you, again, for your assistance in achieving our needed sums and the task at hand.

July 3

To see what we can learn from today’s Gospel of Jesus sending out the 72 disciples, we will go verse by verse:

Luke 10:1 “After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them on ahead of him, two by two.” When we go out to preach the gospel it is always best for two to go together because we have someone else, a partner, who can pray for and support each other. Jesus sent these disciples out to go ahead or go before Him in the places that “he himself was about to go.” Jesus is responsible for what happens after the gospel has been proclaimed by His disciples.

Luke 10:2 “And he said to them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” We hate to say this but we often remain silent when we refuse to share the gospel of Jesus Christ for fear of being rejected or ridiculed. Jesus tells us to pray for laborers because the harvest is so huge and there are so few laborers. We need to pray for more courage and boldness to speak about our faith.

Luke 10:3 “Go your way; behold, I am sending you out as lambs in the midst of wolves.” When we take the gospel to the world, we are lambs nearly being sent to the slaughter. The secular world too often does not want to hear about our Christ and His message. Just realize you will be attacked but remember that it is the Message that they really hate (Jesus) and not the messenger.

Luke 10:4 “Carry no moneybag, no knapsack, no sandals, and greet no one on the road.” This is a warning from the Lord not to overburden ourselves with practical things that may seem necessary. Living more freely, we can have the needed energy to work for the Lord.

Luke 10:5-9 “Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace be to this house!’ “Peace be to this house” is a Jewish customary greeting and farewell. It was also the great gift from the Resurrected Lord to his disciples. Where people accept the message, there will be peace. But if not, it will return to you. Also, Jesus asks the disciple to be stable, in one place, accepting hospitality for refreshment.

Luke 10:10-12 But if they do not receive you, go into its streets and say, ‘we shake the dust from of this town from our feet.” This is clearly what will happen most of the time. By shaking the dust off our feet we are simply leaving their eternal state to God and acknowledging that they have been warned. All that we can do is pray and hope that God sends them a change of heart.

Conclusion... Jesus is still sending out men and women today. We are called, as Christ’s disciples, to open the way, by word and example, for God. Remember, God is the evangelist. We simply need support to be bold in proclaiming the Gospel to a world often hostile to the Lord. Living simply, we may encounter a peaceful acceptance or a rejection that leaves the situation in the hands of God.

Mass on the Fourth of July is at 9 a.m. that day. All are invited to celebrate our Nation’s commemoration of independence and establishment as a new nation. It is a wonderful time to remember our freedoms and the task we have, as a Nation, to preserve those certain unalienable rights that we are endowed with by Our Creator. Please keep praying for our Nation that we may be guided in His way.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the New Pew Campaign. The amount collected has exceeded the cost for the new pews; therefore allowing us to install a new carpet in church. The new carpet will be more enduring while eliminating any older markings from the previous pews.

The renovation will begin after the weekend of July 16-17. All Masses and services will be conducted in the Parish Hall from Monday, July 18 to August 13. The demolition of the older pews, carpeting and then installation of the new pews are major projects requiring that amount of time. Thank you, again, for your assistance in achieving our needed sums and the task at hand.
 

June 26

Have you ever heard the expression, “Putting on our Game Face?” It is used in sports when an athlete is so determined to accomplish his or her goal, that you can see that determination is written all over his or her face.

In today’s Gospel reading from Luke, Jesus has His game face on. He is determined to journey to Jerusalem from this point on; for it is in Jerusalem that Jesus would suffer, die and rise again. Nothing was going to get in Jesus’ way. He was determined to complete the work of the Father and initiate the Kingdom of God. If the Samaritans didn’t want to join in, so be it. That would not stop Him.

Jesus told His followers that nothing can prevent the true disciple from journeying with Him to Jerusalem. Jesus did not take a shortcut by taking in the bad advice of James and John. Jesus forewarned some people who wanted to join Him that the journey would not be easy. Other people received a direct invitation from Jesus to join Him on the journey. But they had excuses.

We also need to journey with the Lord. We cannot allow anything to destroy our focus on the Kingdom of God. We can do all that God wants of us in our lives, but we have to be determined and look towards the ultimate goal of our lives. When it comes to living our Christianity, we have to have our game faces on.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the New Pew Campaign. The amount collected has exceeded the cost for the new pews; therefore allowing us to install a new carpet in church. The new carpet will be more enduring while eliminating any older markings from the previous pews.

The renovation will begin after the weekend of July 16-17. All Masses and services will be conducted in the Parish Hall from Monday, July 18th to August 6th. The demolition of the older pews, recarpeting of the floor and then installation of the new pews are major projects requiring that amount of time. Thank you, again, for your assistance in achieving our needed sums and the task at hand.

Called step by step: My Priestly Vocation at its Infancy Seminarian Dennis Stameza (Pastoral Year: 2022/ 2023)
Normally God allows his people to perceive and realize his call gradually. He leads them progressively as He will towards the fulfillment of his desired mission. This is evident to most of the Old Testament prophets such as Moses, Samuel, Elisha, Isaiah and Jeremiah. Even in the New Testament, Jesus allowed his apostles to realize their call gradually. Paul’s call and conversion gives us a clear picture of how God calls and leads his chosen people progressively in his mission. Thus, God does not only call an individual but also leads him and prepares him for the work. Therefore, we can say that vocation grows from infancy towards maturity. However, the person in question has to respond positively in order to allow such vocation to grow.

In our times we don’t perceive God’s call mysteriously as it was the case of most of the Old Testament prophets and St. Paul in the New Testament. God’s call is rather experienced in and through very normal life situations and to the very normal people. Sometimes it becomes even difficult to realize such a call in proper time due to lack of inner silence and the necessary faith.Even minute life experiences can be signs of God’s call to his mission.

Some 22 years back I developed some admiration on how the priest conducts the Mass, consecrates the Body and Blood of Christ and shares with those who are around him. I remember when I was 7 years old; I could call my fellow children and try to conduct artificial masses for them distributing pieces of banana for them as a sign of the Eucharist. By that time, I knew that the function of the priest is just to celebrate mass and that was all and that was my sole interest. But I have gradually moved from there and I am now in a far better understanding, and I am still moving towards more and more understanding of my call to priesthood especially in this pastoral year here at St. John the Beloved Parish. So, I can say that my journey towards priesthood is a transformation from ‘interest’ to ‘mission’... God bless you all.

June 19, 2022

Today we celebrate the solemn feast of Corpus Christi or Body and Blood of the Lord. It is the festival of the Roman Catholic Church in honor of the real presence of the body (corpus) of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.

To emphasize the supremacy of Christ’s real presence among us, the United States Bishops are launching a three year National Eucharistic Revival, starting today. Our Bishop Koenig is joining this effort for our Diocese today, Sunday, June 19th, with the Corpus Christi Mass at 2 p.m. at St. Peter’s Cathedral; followed by a Eucharistic Procession from the Cathedral. All are invited.

The focus is to reinstruct Catholics on the great depth of our faith. Unfortunately,
many have lost the faith required to believe the Eucharistic Presence, submitting
to the conventional mindset that Eucharist is metaphorically our oneness with
Christ. Recalling the words of Jesus, which relate the Last Supper with His
sacrifice at the cross, in Mt 26:26-28; Mk 14:22-24, Lk 22:17-20, 1 Cor 11:23-25, the Catholic Church professes that, in the celebration of the Eucharist, bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.

In the Gospel of John 6:51-55, after Jesus said His flesh is true food and His blood true drink, Jesus faced opposition by many who walked away from Him. Jesus responded with clarity and confidence: “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you eat the Flesh of the Son of Man and drink His Blood, you do not have life within you.”

Christ is present to His Church in many ways, but most especially through the sacrament of His Body and Blood. The presence of the Risen Christ in the Eucharist is an inexhaustible mystery that the Church can never fully explain in words. We must remember that the triune God is the creator of all that exists and has the power to do more than we can possibly imagine. At Mass, bread and wine are changed in essence from the physical to the spiritual, containing fully the Real Presence of the Resurrected Lord. We can then take the tangible presence of the Lord and consume Him ourselves and share this privilege with the sick and dying.

The sacredness of this Real Presence goes far beyond a sacred meal but actually unites us with Christ Himself. That is why we need to receive Communion respectfully in a state of grace, be reverent in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, and take special care not to ignore the One within us.

As we celebrate Father’s Day, we honor those men who parent us by passing on life in loving fulfillment of duty. We honor those men who selflessly support and guide us, regardless of their own aspirations, hopes and hardships. Knowing that these men protect us, their children, is a great source of security. And to a higher level, are those fathers who inspire us in faith. Saint Joseph, guardian of Jesus, models the attributes of a good father. May St. Joseph hear the prayers of our fathers and those who imitate them in our lives. And for those men who left this world, may they have the reward of the just and honorable servants of God.

Fathers Piekarski and Preston;
Deacons Bailey, Fontana & Oldiges; Seminarian Dennis and our staff

Dear Friends,
With an abundance of gratitude, I write to thank you for your support of the 2022 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. Your willingness to share and your commitment to serve others enables the diocese to do the work of Our Lord by providing the necessities of life to those in material need, peace and comfort to those in spiritual distress, religious instruction to eager minds and guidance for struggling families and individuals. On behalf of all those who will benefit from your generosity, I extend to you my gratitude in prayer and ask God’s blessing on you and those you love. Walking by Faith, we bring the face of God to those in need. Sincerely in Christ, Father Joe Piekarski

June 12, 2022

A few years back, Pope Francis pleaded with parents to “Teach children to make the Sign of the Cross!”  He lamented that many children do not know how to make it.  The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity is a proper time to remind all of us what we believe in by invoking the Trinity and signing our bodies with the sign of God’s eternal love for us, the Sign of the Cross.  Whether those prayers are when we bless ourselves with Holy Water or at the beginning or dismissal of Mass, at night prayer or blessing ourselves for a safe journey, we are invoking the Trinity.

Our belief in the Trinity encompasses who we are. The distinguishing characteristic of the ancient Hebrews was their belief in one God. While the rest of the world looked to stories about various gods to explain their questions about life, the ancient Hebrews believed in only one God.  We continue our faith in that one God who created humankind in God’s own image and likeness.

So the first reflection we make when we invoke the Trinity is that we believe in that Person of the Holy Trinity who created us and loves us, the Father. We make the sign of the cross as an affirmation that we have been saved by the Second Person of the Holy Trinity, the One who was crucified for us to free us from our sins, Jesus Christ, who is our Lord and Savior.  His Spirit and the Spirit of the Father, the Third Person, was given to us on Pentecost and remains within us.

As we grow in the knowledge that God created us and loves us, we want nothing more than to be a part of its greatness.  When we recognize that God forgives us, our guilt is lifted for His Love is infinitely greater than our sins.  As we are emptied in the presence of God, we open ourselves to the Power of God within us for we possess the Holy Spirit.  And so we begin and end our prayers with a statement of who we are. We are people of the Holy Trinity who are loved, forgiven and empowered.

Welcome Seminarian Dennis... My name is Dennis Stameza.  I am a seminarian for this diocese (Catholic Diocese of Wilmington). I am originally from Kilimanjaro Tanzania-East Africa. I have just finished my second year of theology, and I will be in this parish for my pastoral year (14 months).

Last week I had a chance to have orientation with Fr. Piekarski and Fr. Preston.  In that orientation I was blessed to speak with a few parishioners and I was very pleased in my heart to remember the words of St. Peter at the mountain, when he told Jesus that "It is good to be here!"

Thereafter, I said to Jesus "It is beautiful to be here at St. John the Beloved Parish for one year.”  Be blessed!  Thank you very much.  I am looking forward to seeing and talking to all of you.

June 5

Pentecost is not a once-a-year feast; rather, it is an ongoing celebration of the gift of God’s Spirit. The same fire that was ignited in the hearts of the disciples, gathered in that upper room in Jerusalem, continues to inflame the hearts of all who gather today. Pentecost came, for the disciples, after fifty days of uncertainty, not unlike the uncertainty and anxiety we experience. The disciples encountered the Risen Lord but were still overcome by doubts and fears behind locked doors.

We are locked down with on-going fears of the pandemic and war in Ukraine, paralyzed with economic uncertainty, divided into social and political camps, and have become committed to our own private addictions. As we could fall into despair, we must open ourselves to the power given to the Church because as Pope Francis reminds us: “We never emerge from a crisis just as we were. We come out either better or worse.” For this reason, we need to breathe in the refreshing breath of the Spirit that frees us from fear and gives us hope.

May the Holy Spirit awaken our slumbering hearts and open our eyes, so that we may see and hear the Risen Lord and boldly proclaim, today, His victory over sin and death... 

Heal our wounds, our strength renew; On our dryness pour your dew.

Wash the stains of guilt away; Guide the steps that go astray. 
Bend the stubborn heart and will; Melt the frozen, warm the chill. 
 
On the faithful, who adore; And confess you, evermore
 In your sevenfold gift descend;
Give them joys that never end. Give them virtue’s sure reward;
Give them your salvation, Lord; Amen

SJB Annual Carnival will be held Monday, June 6 through Saturday, June 11. Saturday evening Mass on June 11th is at 4 p.m. Confessions at 3 p.m.

Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal... If you have not yet participated, please consider doing so today. Thus far, $147,890 has been pledged with 417 gifts to reach our parish goal of $193,229. Your gift allows the Diocese to do charitable ministry in Delaware and Eastern Shore Maryland with social and community services, evangelization, youth ministry, Catholic education and the diaconate program. Pledge envelopes are available in the vestibule and doorways of the church and can be placed in the offertory basket. Thank you for your generosity and support.

May 29

Leonardo da Vinci had started to work on a large canvas in his studio – choosing the subject, planning the perspective, sketching the outline. Suddenly he stopped working on it. Summoning one of his talented students, the master invited him to complete the work. The horrified student protested that he was both unworthy and unable to complete the great painting which his master had begun. But da Vinci silenced him. “Will not what I have done inspire you to do your best?”

The feast of the Ascension completes the Paschal (Easter) Mystery where Christ died, was raised from the dead and ascended into heaven. Jesus had to enter into His passion and death but the story does not end there. He was raised by the Father on the third day and in time returned to the Father in heaven. His mission was completed. The Church then waited for the Holy Spirit to descend upon Her at Pentecost in order to be empowered to preach that Jesus is Lord.

The Ascension reminds us to look up because the Lord is in His heavens and it is from this grandeur that Christ will return again. In the mean time, He continues to send us the Holy Spirit. Why? Because we, the Church, need to complete what Christ started. Jesus our Master began to spread the Good News some two thousand years ago by what He said and did, and supremely by what He suffered. Jesus illustrated His message and left us to finish the picture. Will Jesus’ life not inspire us to finish the picture? This is the message of the Ascension.

Memorial Day is a befitting way to remember those men and women who lost their lives defending our Nation and the values of democracy. They paid the ultimate price. Saint John the Beloved Parish will begin this holiday in prayer, at Mass, on Monday, May 30th at 9:00 a.m. (the only Mass that day). We will unite our voices and hearts in offering our beloved dead to the Risen Lord who promises us Eternal Life. May they rest in peace.

There is no Memorial Day Field Mass at All Saints Cemetery this year.

Thank you to everyone who “Walking by Faith”, made a pledge to the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. If you have not yet participated, please consider doing so today. Thus far, $147,890 has been pledged with 417 gifts to reach our parish goal of $193,229. Your gift allows the Diocese to do charitable ministry in Delaware and Eastern Shore Maryland with social and community services, evangelization, youth ministry, Catholic education and the diaconate program. Pledge envelopes are available in the vestibule and doorways of the church and can be placed in the offertory basket. Thank you for your generosity and support.

Are you over 18 and need to be Confirmed? Baptized Catholics who have received Holy Communion but were never confirmed can inquire about receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation at St. Peter’s Cathedral with adults throughout the diocese on Pentecost Sunday, June 5th. A class will be held May 31st at 6:30 p.m. in St. John the Beloved Parish Office. Please bring your baptismal record. Please contact the parish office at 302-999-0211 to make arrangements.

It is with saddened hearts that we remember Joanne Capodanno who passed away on May 14th. Mrs. Capodanno was principal of St. John the Beloved School for 14 years. May she be rewarded for her many dedicated years in Catholic Education. May she rest in peace.
 

May 22

St. Augustine said that the Gospel is a “beauty ever ancient, ever new.” The depth of true beauty is ageless. For us, it is an admonition at a time when the Easter proclamation risks becoming old news and a fading echo.

Last week, we heard in our readings how our faith is ever ancient and ever new. The early Christian Church, initially, was seen by many to be a form of traditional Judaism. The earliest Christians did not reject Judaism, but many Jews rejected Jesus as Messiah and that is when the early Church allowed Gentiles, non Jews, into the fold and the blend created a new Christian culture. From the Book of Revelation, last week, the Lord proclaimed “I make all things new,” while in the Gospel, Jesus gave us a new commandment...” to love one another.” The old Jewish faith was blossoming into a new way of life.

Our readings, this Sunday, continue with the theme of newness. We hear how the traditional Jewish laws were altered as not to burden newcomers beyond the essentials. The Book of Revelation, also, points to the newness of God’s Kingdom where the sun and moon are no longer needed because the radiance of Christ will illuminate everything. Lastly, this week’s Gospel recalls Jesus’ promise of sending the Holy Spirit upon His Church to remind us of all He taught us. Even though our faith is ancient...it is always new...responding to different times, challenges and altering cultures. Christ is the Master of His Church. He knows where to take us.

Traditionally, forty days after Easter is Ascension Thursday. Our Diocese and our ecclesiastical Province have transferred the Solemnity to the following Sunday. So May 26 is not a Holy Day of Obligation for us, we will celebrate the Ascension of the Lord next Sunday, May 29.

Are you over 18 and need to be Confirmed? Baptized Catholics who have received Holy Communion but were never confirmed can inquire about receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation at St. Peter’s Cathedral with adults throughout the diocese on Pentecost Sunday, June 5th. A class will be held May 31st at 6:30 p.m. in St. John the Beloved Parish Office. Please bring your baptismal record. Please contact the parish office at 302-999-0211 to make arrangements.

Thank you to everyone who “Walking by Faith”, made a pledge to the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. If you have not yet participated, please consider doing so today. Your gift makes a real difference in the lives of thousands of individuals and families who reside within our 12- county diocese. Pledge envelopes are available in the vestibule and doorways of the church and can be placed in the offertory basket. Thank you for your generosity and support.

May 15

Tradition says that our patron, St. John, was exiled on the island of Patmos when he wrote our second reading today in the Book of Revelation. Saint John lived to an old age and was carried to the assembled communities of the early Church. When asked to speak, John said: “Little children love one another.” His disciples, wearied by the constant repetition, asked him why he always said this. “Because,” he replied, “it is the Lord’s commandment, and if it only be fulfilled, it is enough.” -- John knew that thegreatest truth was most apt to be forgotten because it was taken for granted.

The first reading, taken from the Acts of the Apostles, describes how the small Christian communities lived that commandment and helped the work of renewal in their members by their agápe love...an unconditional love that transcends any reciprocation and persists to be charitable regardless of circumstances. This renewal was initiated by Jesus’ new commandment in today’s Gospel: “Love one another as I have loved you.” Unlike the old commandment (Lv 19:1-2, 9-18) says: “Love your neighbor as yourself,” Christ’s new commandment is a true test of discipleship by loving sacrificially, selflessly, all-encompassing as He did.

Hence, the renewal of Christian life means a radical change of vision and a reordering of our priorities in life. First, we must learn to love ourselves. We cannot learn to cherish others if we disrespect ourselves. We live in a world that is eroding our human sacredness. We reclaim our basic worth when we learn to love ourselves properly, acknowledging the fact that we are children of God who resides in us. Next, let us love others by responding to them as God’s children. Each person is more than a being at our disposal. He/she deserves respect and caring attention. People must see Christians as people who interact with a love and concern for one another that reveals their strong love and appreciation for each other. They should see in us a quickness to appreciate and readiness to forgive, even as Christ has forgiven us.

Flowers at the Holy Family Shrine are in memory of Walter & Marie Mousley.

Are you over 18 and need to be Confirmed? Baptized Catholics who have received Holy Communion but were never confirmed can inquire about receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation at St. Peter’s Cathedral with adults throughout the diocese on Pentecost Sunday, June 5th. A class will be held May 31st at 6:30 p.m. in St. John the Beloved Parish Office. Please bring your baptismal record. Please contact the parish office at 302-999-0211 to make arrangements.

Thank you to everyone who “Walking By Faith”, made a pledge to the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. If you have not yet participated, please consider doing so today. Your gift makes a real difference in the lives of thousands of individuals and families who reside within our 12-county diocese. Pledge envelopes are available in the vestibule and doorways of the church and can be placed in the offertory basket. Thank you for your generosity and support. To learn more about the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal, visit www.cdow.org; click “Giving” then “Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal.”

May 8

A few years back, I witnessed the birth of a lamb, via audio technology on my phone.  My friends wanted me to experience the event.  Within minutes after birth, the lamb stood and walked alone and appeared rather fluffy.  He stayed close to his mother and was surprisingly attentive to the voice of his owner who had the camera.

Jesus used a similar analogy concerning His followers:  “My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me.”  Just like a shepherd takes care of his sheep, The Good Shepherd, Jesus, calls, guides, feeds, and protects His flock the Church.  The Church depends on her shepherds to guide, feed and protect her faithful. 

This is World Day of Prayer for Vocations and we must be alert to the growing need for holy and committed men and women to serve in the consecrated life of the Church.  Vocation means “calling.”  The Lord appropriately “calls” those needed for priestly and religious lives.  Most often, this “calling” is realized first at home. Our responsibility is to respond positively in following and or fostering religious vocations.  Please keep this need in your daily prayers and foster a positive atmosphere where men and women can discern whether the Good Shepherd is calling them to ministry in His Church.

The bright month of May reflects the glory of our Blessed Mother in heaven and also the beauty of our natural mothers. As we celebrate Mother’s Day, we salute all our mothers who gave us life, nurture us and guide us along the heavenly way. As God’s instruments, may they be blessed in their vocation and at last be rewarded with eternal life.

Happy Mother’s Day to all of our mothers! We will remember each of you at our Masses this weekend.

In today’s Gospel Jesus tells us, “My sheep hear my voice, I know them, and they follow me”. It is important to listen. When we listen to Jesus and follow Him, we are Walking By Faith.  Everyone is welcome to walk with Jesus and follow Him in faith. As followers of Christ, we must act faithfully to reach out to others as Jesus does.  As Christ committed His life to being the “one shepherd”, we too must commit ourselves to providing service to all.

Thank you to everyone who “Walking By Faith”, made a pledge to the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal.  If you have not yet participated, please consider doing so today.  Your gift makes a real difference in the lives of thousands of individuals and families who reside within our 12-county diocese.  Pledge envelopes are available in the vestibule and doorways of the church and can be placed in the offertory basket. Thank you for your generosity and support. To learn more about the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal, visit www.cdow.org; click “Giving” then “Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal.”

Synod 2021–2023 for a Synodal Church…    “Pope Francis has called this Synod to be a time for the Church to focus on the topic of synodality (which means journeying together) itself.”  Bishop Koenig has invited everyone in the Diocese of Wilmington to participate in listening sessions as part of the Synod. There have been dozens of group listening sessions held throughout the Diocese over the last three months. The listening session experience provides an opportunity for the faithful to listen to scripture, share experiences, and then to listen to others, helping to discover new pathways forward guided by the Holy Spirit.

Catholics of Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore who are not able to attend one of the in-person Synod listening sessions now have the option to participate online.  Individuals, couples, families, or small groups who would like to answer Pope Francis’ invitation to participate in Synod 2021–2023, can watch a video and then complete the online form. This option will be available until the end of May on the Diocese of Wilmington’s Synod website –cdow.org/Synod.

May 1

Dear Parishioners,

The crucial moment in our Gospel today is the dialogue between Jesus and Peter. Imagine the fear and humiliation Peter must have felt when he was suddenly in the presence of the
Resurrected Lord – the Lord whom he had previously denied. Despite this, Jesus asked
Peter – “Do you love me?” Specifically, Jesus asks Peter, “Do you love me more than
these?”...more than boats, nets, fish, food, and friends. We are all challenged in this same way. Do we love the Lord above all else?

Peter responds, “Lord, You know that I love You;” and his relationship with Jesus is
restored. Then Jesus invites Peter to "Follow Me" and to "Feed my sheep.” Peter
is called again to do God's work. The disciples show us time and time again,
Walking By Faith, ordinary people accomplish extraordinary things. This Gospel message reminds us that Jesus asks each of us to care for those around us, particularly those in need. We are to minister to the physically and spiritually hungry; to sustain and encourage each other. As men and women of faith, we are like those disciples, living in the real world, walking along with Jesus.

Bishop Koenig is inviting the Diocese of Wilmington to participate in the 2022 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal, with its theme, “Walking By Faith.” This diocesan effort is so important and vital to sustaining

ministries that go beyond each parish’s ability to serve locally. Those who benefit from your gift to the Appeal are those needing social and community care services offered by Catholic Charities; those who partake in evangelization and faith formation programs; the next generation who are enlightened by Youth, Young Adult and Campus Ministries; those in the Permanent Diaconate Formation and those advancing in Catholic Education.

The diocesan goal this year is $5 million. As parishioners of St. John the Beloved, we are being asked to participate in this important effort, the mission of the Church here in the Diocese of Wilmington. Our goal here at St. John the Beloved Parish is $193,229. We are most grateful to those who already contributed through the Circle of Honor and Advanced Giving. We have already raised $46,985 fully from 116 parishioners and $78,220 has been pledged by 118 parishioners. The diocesan clergy have contributed $100,000. When our parish collects its goal amount, the parish will receive a rebate. All funds over goal - 100% will be returned to our parish to foster our ministerial work.

Please prayerfully consider your generous gift to this Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal and offer your support to our parish, and the Diocese of Wilmington. To learn more about the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal, visit www.cdow.org; click “Giving” then “Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal”, or go to > https://www.cdow.org/catholic-diocese-of-wilmington-offices-and-ministries/development-office/development-annual-catholic-appeal/development-annual-catholic-appeal-how-to-donate/

Father Joe Piekarski

Prayer: 
Lord, You call all people to walk with You and to walk with our brothers and sisters in need. You walked into the homes and villages where those most in need of You waited for Your coming. Let us walk in Your footsteps.

I pray that Walking By Faith, you guide me in hope, peace and joy.
As I walk with compassion, lead me to those who are in need and guide me in my charity.
As I am Walking By Faith, I ask that you walk beside me Lord – so that your love is shared and received by those most in need. Amen

April 24

Saint Thomas is often labeled the doubter because he was not with the apostles when Jesus appeared to them on Easter Sunday. After surviving the scandalous trial and brutal death of Jesus, Thomas was naturally hiding and skeptical when he heard the apostles’ retelling of Jesus’ appearance; attributing it to hysteria.

Even Thomas’ past experiences of God’s power working in Jesus and through the apostles did not convince him that resurrection was possible. Maybe Thomas lost hope after the crucifixion or maybe he was tired of the antics of the other disciples or perhaps Thomas was not as committed to God as he thought.

Thomas had said that he wouldn’t believe unless he touched Jesus’ wounded hands and put his hands in Jesus’ pierced side. And then, a week later, Jesus appeared. He told Thomas to do what He said he needed to do ... to believe. Thomas didn’t touch Jesus but instead, he said to Jesus, “My Lord and My God.”

We who were not at this miraculous moment were in Jesus’ eyes simply because we are here: “Blessed are those who have not seen but who believe.” He continues to look at us and sees our fears, hears our questions, knows how often we struggle with doubts...and He has mercy on us, just as He had mercy on Thomas.

Flowers at the Holy Family shrine are in memory of Joseph F. Cieniewicz, Jr.

The 2022 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal, “Walking By Faith,” will be conducted in parishes throughout the diocese next weekend. Once a year, our Bishop asks each of us to make a commitment to support the work of diocesan programs and ministries that provide services that no one parish can offer on its own. Your gift helps our Church to serve the poor, the sick, the distressed, our children and our elderly.

As parishioners of St. John the Beloved, we are being asked to serve others by sharing our resources. Your generosity enables us to accompany our brothers and sisters in need. Our parish target is $ 193,229.00. Your financial support of the Appeal also provides funding for our parish since once achieving the goal assigned to our parish, once we are over goal, we receive 100% of monies collected for our own parish and ministry needs.

Please prayerfully consider your generous gift to this Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. Kindly decide ahead of time the contribution you wish to make this year and come to church next week prepared to complete your pledge and offer your support to our parish, and the Diocese of Wilmington. To learn more about the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal, visit www.cdow.org; click “Giving” then “Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal”, or simply scan this QR code with your cell phone. 

This is Divine Mercy Sunday. Looking at this image of Jesus we read: Jesus, I trust in You. We cannot let our many, many doubts get in the way of Jesus’ love and mercy for us. Others may fail us, the world around us can make us incredulous but God is always faithful and ultimately wants our good...

Remember the Celebration of Divine Mercy in Saint John the Beloved Church: Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament begins at 2 p.m. followed by confessions to 3:00 p.m. when the Chaplet of the Divine Mercy and rosary will be prayed. Benediction follows at 4:45, followed by Mass at 5 p.m.

“Thank You” to everyone who, thus far, contributed to the “New Pew Campaign.” We have collected 96% of the funds needed for the installation of our pews in late July. Your gracious support and donations ensure us that the campaign is successful. Thank you one and all...

April 17

Dear Brothers & Sisters,

Unlike Christmas always being on the twenty-fifth of December, Easter varies from year to year. The earliest possible date for Easter is March 22 and the latest is April 25. Why is that? Because the Church determines the date of Easter, each year, by this formula: Easter is the first Sunday, after the first full moon, after the first day of spring. The date varies according to the cycle of the moon each year.

In any case, Easter is the grand Christian festival of spring. It coincides around the Jewish feast of Passover when we Christians celebrate the Passover of the Lord...from Sacrificial Lamb on the cross to Resurrected

Lord from the dead. Like this beautiful season of renewal in nature, Easter for all Christians is the ultimate recreation of our existence. The penalty of sin is death. Jesus sacrificed Himself to pay that debt for humanity and was gloriously raised from the dead.

NOW is the time of renewal. NOW is the time to share in the triumph of Our Lord, Jesus Christ. We are no longer prisoners to sin. We are no longer finite in death. We are one with Christ and He shares this victory with us....Alleluia!

From all of us to each of you, may the great impact which occurred in Jerusalem from a simple grave open our hearts and minds to the Master of eternal life.

You and your loved ones will share in our Easter Masses. Have a Holy and Joyous Easter!

Fathers Piekarski & Preston; Deacons Bailey, Fontana & Oldiges and the staff of St. John the Beloved Parish

“Thank You” to everyone who, thus far, contributed to the “New Pew Campaign.” Thus far, we have collected 90% of the funds needed for the installation of our pews in late July. Your gracious support and donations ensure us that the campaign is successful. Thank you one and all...

2022 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal – “Walking By Faith”

In the Resurrection of Jesus we find hope in the prospect of everlasting life in heaven. But to obtain eternal life, we must accept the Lord’s invitation to follow Him. When we follow Jesus we are invited to Walk with Him. Walking By Faith, we trust in God and we are called to share.

During the weekend of April 30 & May 1, our parish will participate in the 2022 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal – a campaign conducted each year throughout the Diocese of Wilmington. Funds generated through the Appeal help provide critical financial support to nearly forty pastoral, charitable and educational programs and ministries.

The theme of the 2022 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal is “Walking by Faith”. When you walk by faith and participate in the Appeal – you enable programs and ministries to mobilize in service to the underserved. Together, “Walking By Faith” we will transform lives.

You can learn more about the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal by reading about the campaign insert in this week’s Dialog or visiting the diocesan website at www.cdow.org; click “Giving,” then “Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal.”

April 10

As Jesus entered Jerusalem, just four days before His arrest, He was received with joy and given a kingly welcome. He was greeted with shouts of “Hosanna” as the crowds spread their cloaks and strewed palm branches before Him.

Jerusalem itself was the place of the Temple where so many of the ancient kings of Israel o As Jesus entered Jerusalem, He entered as a King. Within days the sentiment changed to “Crucify Him!” and Jesus offered Himself as the High Priest and died as the Sacrificial Lamb. What a turn of emotions. The evil one was manifested in the souls of some of the religious leaders, one of the Apostles, the  actions of the civil authorities and in the confused emotional crowd.

Jesus entered Jerusalem with perfect determination to begin the Sacrifice that would conquer sin and death  and defeat the evil one. And that is exactly what He did. Make every effort to partake of our High Holy Days; enter into the Passion and Death of Our Lord who sacrificed Himself to save us.

+ Holy Week Schedule +

Monday, April 11: Mass at 8:00 a.m. Confessions available from 3:00-8:00 pm.

Tuesday, April 12: Mass at 8:00 a.m.

Wednesday, April 13: Mass at 8:00 a.m.

Holy Thursday, April 14: No morning Mass. Prayer at 8:00 a.m.
7:00 p.m. Mass of the Lord’s Supper.
Visitation to the Repository, concluding with Tenebrae at 10 p.m. 

Good Friday, April 15: (Fast & Abstinence) Prayer at 8:00 a.m.
3:00 p.m. Celebration of the Lord’s Passion. 6:00 p.m. Confessions.
7:00 p.m. Stations of the Cross.

Holy Saturday, April 16: Prayer at 8:00 a.m.
10:00 a.m. Blessing of Food.
No 5:00 p.m. Mass

Easter Sunday, April 17, 2022: 7:30 a.m. (church) 9:30 (church & hall) 11:30 (church) 
 No Mass at 5 p.m.

Visiting Churches on the evening of Holy Thursday is a pious tradition that originated when pilgrims walked to the seven basilicas of Rome as a penance. The custom became popular throughout the world and is still observed locally when the faithful drive to neighboring churches; reminiscent of when families and friends walked within the close proximity of seven churches throughout the city.

Lent ends at the Mass of the Lord's Supper and the Triduum begins.

After celebrating the Lord’s Supper, Christians remember Jesus’ Agony in the Garden and His arrest on that night. After the Mass, the altar is stripped and the Blessed Sacrament is placed in a tabernacle called the Repository on the Altar of Repose; and churches are open late for silent adoration. While they were in the Garden (Matt 26:40), "Could you not, then, watch one hour with me? “ An indulgence is attached to this devotion.

At our parish, adoration ends with the celebration of Tenabrae at 10 p.m. This prayerful service, from the Middle Ages, depicts the “darkness” that overcomes the world when the disciples depart and Jesus enters His Passion. All are welcomed to join us in this old, yet new, service that concludes our Holy Thursday. 

April 3, 2022

Life is like a constant game of mirrors: we project our frustrations onto others, we condemn them for things we don’t dare see in ourselves. Other people constantly show us a reflection of ourselves and reveal parts of us that surprise and frustrate ourselves. Intoday’s Gospel, Jesus finds Himself in the middle of this game.

The adulteress woman thrown into the center becomes a projection of all the men that surround her. In her they see all of their inability to be faithful to God’s Law. They vent upon her the rage they have towards themselves upon seeing that they too are unfaithful observers of the Word of God.

We can’t be sure what Jesus wrote on the ground, but it seems that in those words, written in the sand, the scribes – experts in scripture – could read about themselves, as if Jesus had placed a mirror in front of their eyes. Jesus reveals to them the unexpected truth whether they like it or not.

Then Jesus stood up. “Didn’t even one accuser condemn you?” “No Lord”, she replied. Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.” Jesus is not saying here that sin does not have consequences. Nor is He rejecting the Law. In this situation, He sees that the woman’s sin is incidental to the political games being played by the Pharisees. According to the rule set by Jesus Himself, He alone was qualified to stone her. Jesus is qualified to condemn each one of us, but in His grace, He chooses not to. Grace brings responsibilities. “Go and sin no more.”

Once again, this woman is a reflection of each of us. We all have the potential to be unfaithful to ourselves, our vocations, unfaithful to life, traitors to our most dear relationships. We strive constantly to find new lovers to deceive us with their false promises. Only with great difficulty can we stay where life has placed us for we are constantly running away, seduced by other loves. This woman does not deserve forgiveness and neither do we. And yet God has given it to us. In her freedom we see ourselves freed.

Life is a game of mirrors that we cannot escape from, mirrors that can fuel our rage, and mirrors that we would often like to smash. But there can also be mirrors that, providentially, initiate a conversion in our hearts.

Reconciliation Monday in the Diocese of Wilmington is April 11, 2022.

Our church, and all the parish churches in Delaware and Maryland's Eastern Shore, will be open for the Sacrament of Reconciliation from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. This is a great opportunity to prepare our hearts for Easter. All Catholics – whether it has been months, years, or decades since their last confession - are welcome to experience God's love and forgiveness. Please tell your friends and family.

March 27

The familiar Parable of the Prodigal (or Reckless) Son allows us to meditate on redemption...being saved from error or sin. The immediate focus is on the younger son, who made a careless decision and went on his own depleting his inheritance. Realizing his absurdity, he has remorse and humbly returns home to his father. We feel the boy’s regret and admire his trust in returning to where he belongs. We feel for the father who is loving and forgiving to his returning son. It is the older son that we need to keep an eye on. He watches his father’s magnanimous response to the younger son’s return home. He is full of anger, resentment, jealousy and stubbornness. He needs a change of heart.

There is something sinister within us that allows the older brother’s hurt to resonate with us; after all, he was the faithful and dutiful son. He was reduced to feeling like a “slave” and not a son. He witnessed the disruption and pain his kid brother’s immature whim caused his father. The father allows more heartache by giving in to the brat; going overboard by welcoming him home. Most people would never do that and most likely think they have a right to hold a grudge.

Another way of looking at it, through the eyes of Jesus, is to question ourselves. Is there not a part of the younger son, in each of us, when we do not consider our responsibilities or obligations and even justice towards the love and benevolence of the Father (God)? Too often we are the older son, also, who resents reconciliation and exclude ourselves from entering the banquet of love. Remember, justice was served; the elder brother still owned the rest of the farm. He just refused to welcome back the sinner into the family. Finally, the part of us that gives a little credence to the thought that the forgiving father was all too forgiving is that part of us that is so selfish it considers every action as it impacts on ourselves.

Lent is the time to let go of the past. The past is the past. Dwelling on things that we can no longer control or change or forgive is not worth our time---especially when we can begin again each time in the Sacrament of Penance. Do not let a grudge or past memories keep you from entering the Banquet of Heaven.

Reconciliation or Confession is offered: Saturday in church from 4:00-4:45 p.m.

Tuesday, April 5th in church from 12 noon to 1 p.m.

Reconciliation Monday, April 11 in our church and all parishes from 3 to 8 p.m. This is new to our Diocese, giving everyone the opportunity to go to a local church that day to make reconciliation with the Lord.

Deacon Dennis Wuebbels is celebrating his last liturgy with us this weekend at the 7:30 a.m. Mass. Deacon Dennis is relocating to Florida in April. He was ordained a Deacon for our Diocese of Wilmington on October 24, 2009. Assigned to St. John the Beloved Parish, Deacon Dennis was instrumental in our Baptismal Program and especially our Adult Religious Education Program. We are appreciative of his faithful ministry to us. May Our Lord reward Deacon Dennis’ service to our community and diocese...and bless him and his wife, Nancy, in their new home in Florida. Go with God...

March 20

Welcome Bishop William Koenig -- We welcome Bishop William Koenig to our parish this weekend. Bishop Koenig is celebrating for us the 11:30 a.m. Mass this Sunday. We are most grateful for his presence and leadership among us.

The escalating war in Ukraine is definitely present to us today because of instantaneous technology exposing pictures of fleeing people, bombed out homes and graphic images of carnage. The natural question arises: “Where is God?”

In today’s Gospel Jesus relates disastrous events of His time to the lives of His disciples. He speaks about a massacre, by Pontius Pilate’s soldiers, of Galileans seeking independence from Rome. How could anyone make sense of this useless slaughter? Jesus also mentions a construction tragedy that occurred locally and horrified the crowds. How can anyone make sense of their loss? People have always suffered whether through violence, or the result of natural disasters.

The time is not yet ready for God to come to judge all people, to protect the innocent victims of evil in the world and to bring evildoers to their just ends.

On Ash Wednesday we were reminded that all earthly things come to an end. Jesus, today, gives us the example of the fig tree that has so long to produce fruit before it is cut down. Just as the farmer gives the fig tree one more chance to bear fruit, God gives humanity a little more time to change our ways.

Lent is the time for us to face up to the evil that is around us and within us. Lent is the time for us to recognize our own participation in the cumulative effects of evil in the world. Lent is the time for reconciliation; setting ourselves right in our relationships with God and His Presence in His people. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is the ideal opportunity to evaluate the deficit of our lives, bring it to the Lord and ask for forgiveness ... while we have time.

Reconciliation / Confession is offered:
Saturday in church from 4:00-4:45 p.m.
Tuesday, April 5 in church from 12 noon to 1 p.m.
Reconciliation Monday, April 11 in our church and all parishes from 3 to 8 p.m.

This is new to our Diocese, giving everyone the opportunity to go to a local church that day to make reconciliation with the Lord.

March 13

There are objects and people in our lives that we have become so accustomed to that we take their presence for granted. For example, we are so used to water being readily available that we assume it will always be there. And then when a line breaks we panic. The same thing with relationships. We are so accustomed to our loved ones being at home that when they leave for college or go on their own or worse, when they pass away; then we acknowledge his/her importance.

Perhaps we do the same regarding our relationship with God. Maybe we are so bound in the physical world that we overlook the reality of the spiritual. Today’s readings help us to refocus on the spiritual in our lives, to refocus on the mystical. St. Luke tells us that Jesus was in prayer, opening Himself to the presence of the Father. In that, He is transformed into a state that reflects the radiance, the glory of God that is always there when we enter prayer.

On this Second Sunday of Lent, let us consider the way we are following the Lord. It is absolutely necessary to take the time and...Pray, because it anchors a mystical reality in the individual’s life, allowing the person to appreciate God’s presence. Praying takes practice and is easily discouraged with the distractions of everyday life. Take advantage of all opportunities to pray. It is the passport to our citizenship of heaven.

To Help Us with Our Lenten Journey... Rev. Edward Ogden, OSFS, is our homilist at all the Masses this week. Father is an Oblate of St. Francis de Sales and the pastor of St. Margaret of Scotland Parish in Glasgow, DE. We welcome Father Ed as he prepares us for our journey toward Easter. After the 5 p.m. Saturday evening Mass, this weekend, there will be a light meal in the parish hall for fellowship and sharing. All are welcome.

New Pew Campaign: Most of us realize the breakage of kneelers in our church that regularly are brought to the staff’s attention. Our pews are 45 years old; the structure of the kneelers and seats is simply splitting and becoming dangerous. They are not assembled with enduring solid wood, but mostly constructed with particle board and outer laminated wood, limiting the number of repairs. The selected new pews resemble what we presently have but are a stronger quality and will be replaced in late July and early August. Next weekend, after the homily, members of our parish New Pew Committee will explain our situation at every Mass to inform our faithful of the need for pew replacement and the campaign to fund this project.

Second Collection, the people of Ukraine need our help! Bishop Koenig has asked that all parishes in the Diocese of Wilmington conduct a special collection this weekend of March 12/13 to aid the Church in Eastern Europe – especially Ukraine. There is great risk of additional suffering both within Ukraine and for those who may flee to neighboring countries for safety. Additionally, you may help by making a secure on-line donation to Catholic Relief Services (CRS) at www.crs.org. Thank you for your generosity.

In the vestibule of our church is the icon of Our Lady of Kyiv or Kiev. This icon has been of great devotion to the Russian and Ukrainian people since the 12th century. Known also as Our Lady of Vladimir and Our Lady of Tenderness, she was and continues to be called upon in times of great need. Our Lady, pray for us...

March 6

Saint Luke’s Gospel invites us to walk with the Lord throughout the journey of our lives. This first Sunday of Lent invites us to examine how well we are traveling. We begin the Lenten Journey this Sunday with Our Lord entering the dryness of the desert, like all of us when we retreat, in order to refocus on who we are, where we are going and how to get there. And three times, the devil tempted Him.

First, the devil tried to weaken Jesus’ conviction by stimulating His natural hunger. “You are hungry. Feed your hunger and turn stones into bread.” This would require Jesus to forfeit His spiritual path of purification. Repeatedly we see this in our own lives, especially today, when our sensual appetites are amplified in the commercial world. We put self gratification before God or chose to use God’s gifts in a selfish manner.

Second, the devil tempted Jesus by alluring Him with the grandeur of this world, including power and glory. This would require Jesus to change His allegiance from His Father to that which is evil and make the devil His god. For Jesus, this would be an abuse of power and

this comes to play in our lives when we give ourselves over to other powers or take advantage of our power over people.

The final temptation was on the high roof of the Temple, the Parapet. It must have been a scary place to stand. There, the devil tempts Jesus to force His Father to go into action and save Him from falling. True arrogance in tempting God, we often threaten the Lord to compromise in serving our pride.

Sensuality, Idolatry and Pride follow the order of temptations that a soul suffers when it decides to move forward with living a spiritual life. We are tempted with things of the flesh...bodily appetites; then we are trapped by the world...allurements that surround us. If these are resisted, the final danger is pride. Why remain humble in obscurity when so much recognition can be ours?

Let us begin this Lent by journeying with Jesus into our own wilderness. There we will face our weaknesses and overcome them by standing with the Lord. We ask Him to help us fight the devil in our life and walk with us for the rest of the journey. May you have a life changing Lent.

To Help Us with Our Lenten Journey... Rev. Edward Ogden, OSFS, will be our homilist at all the Masses next week. Father is an Oblate of St. Francis de Sales and the pastor of St. Margaret of Scotland Parish in Glasgow, DE. Father will stimulate our spiritual journey as we travel toward Easter.

After the 5 p.m. Mass that weekend, on March 12, there will be a light meal in the parish hall for fellowship and sharing. All are welcome.

Lenten Observances at St. John the Beloved Church:

All Fridays in Lent are days of abstinence from meat. All those who are fourteen years old are bound to the law of abstinence.

Weekday Masses: Monday to Saturday at 8:00 a.m.

Exposition: Fridays at 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Benediction at 10:00 a.m. 

Confessions: Saturdays, 4:00 to 4:45 p.m.

Parish Penance Services: Tuesday, April 5, 12 Noon to 1 p.m. Monday, April 11, 3 to 8 p.m.

Stations of the Cross: Friday evenings at 7 p.m.