Sunday, July 14, 2019

Dear Parishioners:

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 2019 Annual Catholic Appeal.  To date, we are a little short $9,542.40 in meeting our parish’s target of $179,000.  Thank you to the 560 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.

Sincerely, 
Father Joe 

Sunday, July 7, 2019

In today’s Gospel, the seventy-two who had been sent out to proclaim the Kingdom return exuberant.  You can feel their excitement in the reading. They had such wonderful experiences that they couldn’t wait to tell the Lord all about them.  Everybody was talking at once.  Jesus Himself joined right in, “I saw Satan falling like lightning from the sky.”  Who were these seventy-two?  We do not know even one of their names.  And there is a reason for that.  They are us.  We are the seventy-two.  We are the ones who have nursed on the Word of God and become strong.  We are the ones who have become so strong that other’s experience the Word of God within us.  The Kingdom is proclaimed.  Evil is destroyed.  The devil falls from the sky. 

The 5 p. m. Sunday Mass will be without music in July and August as a break for our music ministers for the summer.  Full music will resume at that evening Mass in September.   

Sunday, June 30, 2019

Throughout our lives, we often may have thought: “when will I be truly free?”

As we advanced in school, we probably viewed each class as a step to greater freedom. But then there seemed to be more responsibilities with each higher class. Most of us thought that when we get our driver’s license, we would be free to come and go as we want; then we were introduced to the concept of paying for gas and insurance. Similar duties fell upon each of us when we got to college and became more independent of our parents. And each vocation took on a deeper responsibility as we owed accountability to others. Then there is the dream of retirement and often the freedoms that were imagined are complicated with other concerns about health and security. Each stage of life has its liberation and consequences.

The Christian defines freedom as the ability to be the unique person God created each of us to be. We all know this and experience this. We are at our happiest when we are at our best. Our freedom comes from being our best selves. We can never expect freedom to be free of obligations or worse to allow licentiousness... lacking legal or moral restraints. This is what St. Paul tells us in the second reading this weekend. Christians have to be determined to follow the Lord despite growing responsibilities with each step of maturing. We are free not because we lack restrains but because our efforts are focused on the ultimate will of God. He alone sets us truly free by allowing us to be the person we are created to be. Jesus, in today’s Gospel, did not allow the rejection of some and the indecisiveness of others to alter His destination towards Jerusalem and accomplish the Father’s will. In doing so, Our Lord achieved true freedom, on the cross, for all of us.

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. Happy and safe 4th of July!

Please join us in welcoming our new associate pastor at St. John the Beloved Parish, Father Marek Szczur. Father comes to us from St. Hedwig Parish and after years of priestly ministry in Alaska and Poland. May God bless his ministry among us.

The 5 p. m. Sunday Mass will be without music in July and August as a break for our music ministers for the summer. Full music will resume at that evening Mass in September. 

Sunday, June 23, 2019

Today we celebrate the solemn feast of Corpus Christi.  Our gospel is Luke’s version of Jesus’ miracle of the multiplication of loaves and fish. Jesus instructs His disciples, to provide food for the multitude; they protest that this is clearly impossible since there are but few supplies. Having blessed the loaves and fish, Jesus asks them to distribute them to the hungry crowd. To their total amazement, there is enough for all those present, and twelve baskets filled with fragments remain.

The Church has chosen this gospel story for the feast of the Body and Blood of Christ, for the primary theme of this feast is the nourishment that Jesus offers us in the Blessed Sacrament. We are now the hungry multitude and we are reminded that Jesus offers us Himself who alone can satisfy our needs.

We can readily identify with the disciples as we face overwhelming problems in our own world. We can be paralyzed by the enormity of the challenge. Like the disciples, we feel that we have meager resources for dealing with these problems. Nonetheless, in the Mass, Jesus offers Himself under the appearance of a wafer and wine that can nourish the whole world. Jesus tells us also to take what little we have and to do what we can with it. There is an implied promise that God will join us and turn our meagerness into food for the multitude…with over abundance.

This feast is also about His presence in the tabernacle.  We believe Christ remains with us in the Eucharist after the divine meal.  A profound respect for His presence is only accomplished when we experience Who is in our midst.  He remains with us to be given glory, to hear our concerns and needs, to accept our sorrow and gratitude and to be nourishment for the sick and the dying.

Good Bye and God Bless…..On Wednesday, June 26^th, the changes in the diocesan priest assignments are taking place.  Father Lance Martin has been with us for three years as his first priestly assignment.  He is going as associate pastor to St. Ann Church in Bethany Beach. Father Christopher Coffiey has been with us for two years as his second priestly assignment.  He is going as associate pastor to St. Joseph on the Brandywine Parish in Greenville.  We thank them for their years of priestly ministry among us.  May the Good Lord enrich them in their new assignments.  Both priests will be available at the vestibule of the church at Masses, this weekend, to say good bye.  Go with God…

With summer here, the final project of The Sustaining Hope for the Future Campaign will be accomplished.  This final project is the improving of outside lighting in our parish parking lot.  Commercial lighting will be installed in strategic areas to illuminate the parking lot and create a safer atmosphere.  To one and all who contributed to the Sustaining Hope for the Future Campaign, Thank You.

This year, the solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity is celebrated on Father’s Day.  It is very appropriate because Jesus related to God the Creator as “Father” and some translations of Christ’s words are even more endearing by calling Creator God “Daddy.”  Jesus makes it clear in the Lord’s Prayer that our relationship with God is like that of a dear father; one who is highly regarded, respected, depended upon and most loved.  Today’s celebration of the Most Holy Trinity wants the faithful to rediscover Who God is…not What God is.  Jesus makes it clear that God is relational in our lives and in God’s self is a relationship.

God, who we call the Father, is the Creator.  With no beginning and no end, God created everything good even to our own human existence.  Not abandoning us even when humanity turned from Him, God continued to want a relationship with us and came Himself into our world to redeem us in who we call the Son.  When His mission was complete, Jesus the Redeemer returned to the Father and from their place in heaven sent us the Holy Spirit to enlighten and guide us in continuing the mission of Christ.

Therefore, our God is a pure relationship of Creator, Redeemer and Sanctifier who love and complement one another as One.  We are invited to model this relationship in our own lives and with one another.  That is why Father’s Day can be a real way for us to understand the Trinity a little better.  The example of a good father with his children is like that relationship that God wants with us.  Far from theological concepts and deeper than the apologetics, we experience God in our relationship with Him.   
 

Sunday, June 16, 2019

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, Coffiey & Martin;

Deacons Wuebbels & Fontana; and our staff

The 2019 Diocesan Annual Appeal is progressing very well throughout the diocese.  Our parish of Saint John the Beloved has $169,457 presently pledged toward our $179,000 goal.  If you have not made a pledge thus far, please consider making one.  Blue envelopes are available at the entrances of the church.  Any contribution is greatly appreciated and will help our parish make our target.  Thank You!

A huge Thank you to everyone who directed and supported our Carnival.  It was a great success because of the many people who pulled together, again, to create this parish event.  Being the 53rd year of its existence, the Carnival had the challenge to prove what it is made of.  A sudden wind storm, a few days before the start of the carnival, destroyed local trees that severed utility lines and destroyed the huge tent while it was being installed.  Without hesitation, the leaders of the Carnival rose to the occasion and proved their tenacity.  Therefore, a special, special thank you to the Carnival leaders and ALL workers, various committees and volunteers.  Your many efforts made this year’s Carnival a memorable one.  May you get rest now and know our true appreciation from the Parish Athletic Association and the Parish itself. 

Sunday, June 9, 2019

Pentecost literally means 50th and originally celebrated the 50th day after Passover for the Jews, as a post-harvest thanksgiving feast. After the Resurrection of the Lord, Pentecost took on a new meaning for the followers of Jesus. The promised Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles and Blessed Virgin Mary and transformed them into the beginning of the Church. They were empowered to preach, fearlessly, the Gospel. They were filled with gifts from the Holy Spirit that transformed human limitations.

Pentecost, this year, is the perfect time to consider the great gift we receive in the Church. These days, the increasing numbers of Catholic not practicing their faith and leaving the Church, in particular the younger generation, are troubling. For many of them, it seems natural to concentrate on the imperfections of the Church and unfortunately this reality can persuade some to find their spirit elsewhere.

Pentecost should remind us that it is not the vessels themselves that are important but the treasure within. The Church is made-up of various vessels: some are almost flawless while others are chipped and still others cracked and weak. It was that way, in the upper room in Jerusalem. Two thousand years ago, the Holy Spirit found the pure Virgin Mary, doubting Thomas, and the denier of Christ…St. Peter. It was God’s will to enter this early Church and thus be the nucleus where salvation is found. If we believe that Christ instituted this mission of His presence in a less than perfect world, then we hold fast to that divine treasure.

The same is true today. Our Church is the same Church founded with the apostles. The role of the Holy Spirit continues in His mission to indwell in the faithful as God’s living Temple. He strengthens us in our fight against temptations and in our mission of bearing Christ in our lives. He makes us holy through the Sacraments and reconciles us to God. He feeds us with food from heaven…the Eucharist.

We Catholics often fail to recognize and appreciate the value of the treasure within our Church. We fail to appreciate the infinite worth of the Holy Spirit living within each of us, sharing His gifts and fruits and charisms with us. On this major feast day, we are invited to experience and appreciate the transforming, sanctifying and strengthening presence of the Holy Spirit within us. This is also a day for us to renew the promises made for us and by us to God during our Baptism and Confirmation, to profess our Faith, and to practice it.

A word of appreciation to our Parish Athletic Association and everyone who brought us our 53rd Annual Parish Carnival and supported it. Your labors not only help our children in athletics but also support our parish,

Thank you one and all.

Sunday, June 2, 2019

The Ascension of the Lord is traditionally celebrated 40 days after Easter, on a Thursday. Our local Church has been celebrating this Solemnity on the following Sunday, today, to ensure greater participation for such a great feast. 

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 to our existence 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…and that is what we will celebrate next week…the great Solemnity of Pentecost. 

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. With this Spirit we are fully enabled to carry on the ministry of the Church. Let us prepare ourselves, once again, for the coming of the Holy Spirit. Like the early Church, when Our Blessed Mother and the Apostles were waiting in prayer for this Spirit, we need to be reflective, purged from sin and very prayerful…open to the grace that come with His arrival.

God knows everyone of us needs it. Last week, I personally needed and felt the power of the Holy Spirit when I became very ill with 2 kidney stones. I was hospitalized and they were surgically removed after all efforts to flush them out were unsuccessful…and painful. The right people at the right time entered the process and eventually healing started to take place. If anyone ever suffered with this particular pain, he/she knows what a blessing it is to have relief. So, that is my story to tell as we prepare for Pentecost. Be open to the Holy Spirit. He can do miracles! Come Spirit! Come!
 

Sunday, May 26, 2019

Last week, we heard in our readings how our faith is ever ancient and ever new:  non Jews, the Gentiles, were entering the early Church; The Lord proclaimed “I make all things new,” and in the Gospel, Jesus gave us a new commandment…” to love one another.”  Our readings, this Sunday, continue with the theme of newness.  

Initially, Christians were seen by many to be a form of Judaism.  The New Testament was the fulfillment of the Old Testament.  The earliest Christians did not reject Judaism, but many Jews rejected Jesus as Messiah and that is when the early Church allowed Gentiles into the fold and the blend created a new Christian culture.  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.

Today is a new time for our Church, our diocese and indeed our parish.  The new assignments of our diocesan priests are taking place on June 26th.  The assignments are a reflection of new needs for our diocese because of the death of a younger pastor, retirement of a pastor, withdrawal of a religious order serving in our diocese and the retirement of an associate pastor, as well as the assignment of a priest to another ministry outside of the diocese.  The challenge at hand is the decrease of five active priests and no ordinations this year. 

Thus, the luxury of three priests at St. John the Beloved Parish is affected.  I will remain as pastor and Father Mark Szczur will become our new associate pastor.  Father comes to us from St. Hedwig Parish and we welcome him in this new assignment.  Father Lance Martin is transferred as associate pastor to St. Ann Parish in Bethany Beach, Delaware and Father Christopher Coffiey is transferred as associate pastor to St. Joseph on the Brandywine Parish in Wilmington.  We will miss them and send our best wishes for their new assignments.

Please keep all of us in prayer as we do you.  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 30 is not a Holy Day of Obligation for us, we will celebrate the Ascension of the Lord next Sunday, June  2nd.   

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 27 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.  A special thank you to Terry and Veronica Tasker who framed the images, of some of those from Delaware and from St. John Beloved Parish, who were killed at war. The picture is at the entrance of our church.   

In addition, the Catholic Cemeteries of our Diocese will celebrate the 60^thannual Memorial Day Field Mass at All Saints Cemetery on Monday, May 27 at 10 a.m.  Bishop Malooly will be the main celebrant.  The annual Mass honors all the deceased of the Diocese of Wilmington, especially those who served in the military, heroes who died in the service of our country, and those first-responders who gave their lives in the name of public safety.  Newark VFW Post #475 will provide a brief military tribute immediately before the start of Mass. Students from Saint Elizabeth High School in Wilmington will serve as readers and musicians for the Mass.  The Memorial Day Field Mass is open to the public and will be held rain-or-shine as protection from the elements will be provided. Limited seating will be available and attendees are invited to bring lawn chairs.

Adult Confirmation:  Are you over 18 years of age, received Communion but not confirmed?  Bishop Malooly will be confirming adults, in this situation, on Pentecost Sunday, June 9, at St. Margaret of Scotland Church, 2431 Frazer Rd. Newark, DE.  Please come to the necessary meeting at the Parish Office on Tuesday, May 28, at 7 p.m.  Bring your baptismal and communion certificates which are needed for documentation.  The lesson will be one hour.  Call the Parish Office if you need further direction at 999-0211.
 

Sunday, May 19, 2019

The Book of The Acts of the Apostles is an early history of the Church.  Written by St. Luke, it gives fascinating details of how the Gospel of Jesus was preached to and accepted by the early Christians; many who were unlikely to convert, non Jews, were precisely the ones who were convinced that Jesus was the Messiah.  God was calling gentiles to Himself.  It was all new. 

“Behold, I make all things New,” is proclaimed by the Lord Himself, in our second reading from the Book of Revelation, written by St. John.  And the theme of newness is continued in today’s Gospel where Jesus says, “I give you a new commandment:  love one another.” 

Our faith is ever ancient and ever new.  It began 2,000 years ago when the Holy Spirit of the Father and the Son, empowered the disciples on Pentecost Sunday to proclaim the Gospel of Christ to the whole world.  It is renewed every time each of us renews our relationship with God and lives this relationship in the way we treat others…precisely following what Jesus asks of us … to love one another. 

Adult Confirmation:  Are you over 18 years of age, received Communion but not confirmed?  Bishop Malooly will be confirming adults, in this situation, on Pentecost Sunday, June 9, 2019.   

Please come to the necessary meeting at the Parish Office on Tuesday, June 28 at 7:00 p.m. Bring your baptismal and communion certificates which are needed for documentation. The lesson will be one hour.  Call the Parish Office if you need further direction at 999-0211.
 

Sunday, May 12, 2019

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.

 

Sunday May 5, 2019

Our Parish children are receiving their First Holy Communion this weekend. It is always a wonderful celebration because there is such a transition that takes place. The children, averaging eight years old, are donned in their best, their mannerisms are controlled, and they exhibit a realm of innocence that reminds the older guests of that inner calling from God that calls us His “children.” 

Today’s Gospel is a continuation of Jesus lovingly calling His disciples “children.” This Gospel is a post resurrection scene where Jesus appears to His confused apostles on the shore at the sea. Mesmerized by Our Lord’s presence, they follow His direction to abundance and are then invited to a banquet prepared for them by Jesus Himself. Truly a decisive episode in the lives of His followers, the Resurrected Lord transforms their identity as they enter the fullness of Life given by Jesus. 

Two thousand years later, the Resurrected Lord enters our existence with the Easter message and desires us to taste the fullness of life, the abundant source of goodness that He has to offer. Jesus endears Himself to us by calling us “children,” He satisfies our senses in order for us to be welcomed to and share in a new realm of existence where life, real LIFE can be found. 

2019 Annual Catholic Appeal If you have not already made a pledge to the appeal, please consider to do so. The Diocesan Appeal assists Bishop Malooly, through the diocesan offices, to reach out in mercy and love to those in need --- the hungry, the homeless, the unemployed, the distressed, the unchurched, our children and our elderly. Each parish has a studied target, our target this year for St. John the Beloved Parish is $179,000. United as a parish we also unite with all the other diocesan parishes to create a resource that support the Church’s Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy. Thank you for your support of the 2019 Annual Catholic Appeal.

Birthright of Delaware Mother’s Day Rose Sale next weekend, at all the Masses to help support mothers and their babies who are in crisis. Single rose for $2; 3 Roses for $5; Dozen Roses for $18; 25 Roses for $35. Thank You and we deeply appreciate your support; it truly makes a difference!

 

Sunday April 28, 2019

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, that there would be an Easter Sunday or maybe he was tired of the antics of the other disciples that he just wasn’t going to believe anything they said. 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. Actually, Thomas didn’t touch Jesus’ hands and side as many paintings show. Instead, he just 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. 

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… 

Trust Him when dark doubts assail thee, 
Trust Him, when thy strength is small;
Trust Him, when to simply trust Him, 
Seems the hardest thing of all.
Trust Him.  
He is ever faithful, Trust Him!  
For His will is best; Trust Him!  
For the Heart of Jesus, Is the only place of rest.

On Divine Mercy Sunday we pray: “Jesus we trust in you.”

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

A huge Thank You to all our parish ministers, ministries, staff and volunteers for their extra efforts during the Lenten and Easter Season. They labored in the vineyard extra hard to ensure beautiful liturgies, aesthetic surroundings, additional coverage, more outreach, etc. Many hearts and hands came together to assist our parish and we are most grateful to one and all. Also, we are most appreciative to all those who contributed to the support of our parish. May the Risen Lord enrich you and yours in many blessed ways.

 

Sunday April 21, 2019

A Joyous Easter to everyone!

This is our most solemn feast because we celebrate the miracle of Christ’s Resurrection from the dead. Alleluia! Alleluia!

Alleluia is a Hebrew expression of praise to God. It has been preserved, untranslated, by the Early Christians as a superlative expression of thanksgiving, joy, and triumph...precisely at this great feast of Easter.

This feast touches each one of us at the deepest level because, weak as we humans are, we needed Divine intervention to save us. Not only did God accomplish this by sending His Son to instruct us but took on the penalty of sin upon Himself and laid down His innocent life for every one of us. The old order of sin and corruption is gone and in Christ’s Resurrection we are raised to the highest dignity.

May you share the endless Joy of what we celebrate today...
A Blessed Easter!
You are remembered in our Masses.
Fathers Piekarski, Coffiey & Martin;
Deacons Wuebbels, Fontana & Bailey; and the staff of Saint John the Beloved Parish

Remember the Celebration of Divine Sunday on April 28 in Saint John the Beloved Church. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament begins as 2 p.m., followed by confessions 2- 3:00 p.m. when the Chaplet of the Divine Mercy will be prayed. Benediction follows at 4:45 p.m., followed by Mass at 5 p.m.

 

Sunday, April 14, 2019 

Today, with the Universal Church, we enter our High Holy Days…the most important solemnity of our faith. The Passion, Death and Resurrection of Christ, together, are called the Paschal Mystery and that is what we celebrate. These coming days are the fulfillment of the Jewish Feast of Passover; a foreshadowing of God’s plan of salvation begun by Moses delivering Israel from Pharaoh’s slavery. Jesus by His death, burial and resurrection delivered humanity from the tyranny and slavery of sin and death.

+ Holy Week Schedule +
Monday: Mass at 6:30 & 8:00 a.m. 
Exposition from 3:00-7:00 pm. 

Tuesday: Mass at 6:30 & 8:00 a.m.

Wednesday: Mass at 6:30 & 8:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Holy Thursday: No morning Mass. 

Prayer at 8:00 a.m. and 12 Noon.
7:00 p.m. Mass of the Lord’s Supper.
Visitation to the Repository, concluding with Tenebrae at 10 p.m.

Good Friday: (Fast & Abstinence) 
Prayer at 8:00 a.m. & 12 Noon.
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: Prayer at 8:00 a.m.
10:00 a.m. Blessing of Food.
8:00 p.m. Easter Vigil- Mass of the Lord’s Resurrection No 5:00 p.m. Mass

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

The 2019 Annual Catholic Appeal theme, “As I have done for you, you should also do”, is taken from the Gospel of St. John when he recounts Jesus washing the feet of His Disciples. It is through this role of servant that Jesus gives us a model to follow. Thank you to everyone who has made a pledge to this year’s diocesan Annual 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 pews entrances of the church and can be placed in the offertory basket. Thank you for your generosity. To learn more about the Annual Catholic Appeal, visit cdow.org/annualcatholicappeal.

Help! The Easter Sunday Masses are overflowing with visitors. Once the church is full at the 9:30 a.m. Mass, the overflow must go into the gym/hall. Please be considerate and welcoming of our guests. Remember, a good experience for them, from you, is an invitation to come back. Please cooperate with our ushers who have to oversee the seating, safety and needs of people. Nobody can reserve seats. Lastly, there are plenty of parking spaces in the back of church, including handicapped spaces. Follow the direction of our parking lot attendants (from our Knights of Columbus). Cooperation from everybody will make it a safe and joyous holy day.

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 Mass, Christians remember Jesus’ Agony in the Garden and His arrest on that night. The altar is stripped and the Blessed Sacrament is placed in a tabernacle called the Repository on the Altar of Repose; and most churches are open late for silent adoration. This is in response to the request Jesus made to His apostles 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.

Sunday, April 7, 2019 

It is amazing how humans, so often, like to publicly humiliate other people.  We hear in today’s Gospel, the famous story of the woman caught in adultery where by the scribes and Pharisees bring her before Jesus for public ridicule and to test Jesus’ concept of the Jewish Law.  We will hear next week how, after Jesus’ triumphant entrance into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, He was publicly ridiculed and condemned to death on the following Friday.  Of course, this is the ploy of many people to turn the criticism off themselves. 

Jesus never humiliated others or rubbed their noses in their sins.  Jesus calls everyone to conversion.  He always challenges our own hearts before self-righteously judging others.  The woman in today’s Gospel was granted life; her physical body was spared a stoning and she was forgiven her sin while told to sin no more.  Those who wanted her publicly punished were themselves made aware of their own sins.  Lent brings us to the common denominator…we are all sinners and in need of God’s mercy.  Instead of bringing down the other we need to lift up each other.  The old adage is so true:  “When you point your finger to someone else…remember that four fingers are pointing back.” 

2019 Annual Catholic Appeal … This is Commitment Weekend… Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel. During this time of Lent we make every effort to distance ourselves from sin and more aggressively live out the Gospel in our daily lives.

As recipients of God’s love and compassion, we fervently make our way through life expressing our gratitude for Christ’s enduring presence and forgiveness. As Disciples of Christ, we demonstrate our gratitude through acts of love and kindness to others. One way, is through our support of the Annual Catholic Appeal.

The theme of the 2019 Annual Catholic Appeal is, “As I have done for you, you should also do.”  Those words recall the act of service Jesus performed for His Disciples on the night before He died.  He took the role of the servant and washed their feet, and then asked them to follow His example by doing the same for others. Jesus wanted the Disciples to understand the importance of humble service

and that to glorify God means to respond to the needs of others.  As followers of Our Lord, let us realize the true meaning of serving the least among us.

St. John the Beloved Parish’s target is $179,000.  The Circle of Honor contributors, from previous years, have already been contacted and asked to make a pledge for this year’s appeal.  We now encourage the additional parishioners and friends to help our parish make our goal.  Last year we reached our goal, and the overage money that was collected totaled $20,210.00 and was returned to our parish.

Where does this money go?  To the following ministries within the Diocese of Wilmington:  Catholic Education, The Office of Religious Education, The Catholic Youth and Young Adult Ministry, The Office for Marriage and Family Life, Catholic Campus Ministry, Deaf Ministry, Special Needs Ministry, Catholic Charities, Bayard House, Pro Life Activities, Behavioral Health, Addiction Recovery Support and Domestic Violence Services, Casa San Francisco and Office of Hispanic Ministry, Office for Black Catholics, Office for Religious, Office of Worship, Food Assistance, HIV Services, Legal Status Immigration Programs, Seton Center, Thrift Services, Pastoral Services for Institutions and Hospitals, Office of Public Relations and Media, Office of Safe Environment, The Dialog, and The Tribunal.

Sincerely, 
Father Joe

Sunday, March 31, 2019 

The Parable of the Prodigal Son naturally allows us to focus on the younger brother failing and returning home. Actually, all three characters in the parable play the important role. The younger son made a bad decision and had a change of heart. The Father is not concerned with how he was offended but that his son was lost and found his way home. The elder brother makes us realize that the Father’s forgiveness has to be embraced by all. 

Yet, there is something sinister within us. After all, the younger son had a right to his inheritance and what he did with it was his business. The elder son should get upset with his brother that caused so much pain. 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 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 and stubbornly did not enter the Father’s joy. 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 is not worth our time---especially when we can begin again each time in the Sacrament of Penance. After all, why would we want to look backward when we can focus on the future joys and hope that Christ won for us in the Easter Mystery? Do not let a grudge or past memories keep you from entering the Banquet of Heaven. 

Parish Reconciliation on Tuesday, April 9, in church. 
12 noon to 1:00 p.m. --- Confessions and that evening at
6:30 p.m. --- a short Penance Service and Confessions.  
Guest priests are invited. 

2019 Annual Catholic Appeal –“As I have done for you, you should also do” The 2019 Annual Catholic Appeal will be conducted in parishes throughout the diocese next weekend. Funds generated by the Appeal provide pastoral, charitable, and educational ministries to tens of thousands of people in our 12-County diocese. As members of St. John the Beloved Parish, we are proud to be part of the Church of Wilmington. As members, it is important that we reach out in service to others by sharing our resources. Just as we are one in the Body of Christ, we must remember that we are one with other parishes and the diocese. The Annual Catholic Appeal offers us a chance to work in collaboration to care for the Church by sharing the gifts God has granted us. Our Parish target is $179,000. Your financial support also provides funding for your parish since 100% of monies collected above our target will be returned for our own ministerial needs. Please give prayerful consideration to your resources as well as the thousands of individuals and families who receive needed assistance through the 37 ministries supported by the Annual Catholic Appeal. Decide ahead of time the contribution you wish to make this year and come to church next weekend prepared to offer your support. You can learn more about the 2019 Annual Catholic Appeal by picking up a copy of the campaign information handout located at the entrances of the church or by visiting the diocesan website at www.cdow.org/annualcatholicappeal. 

Sunday, March 24, 2019

Doing my genealogy, recently, I was given more of an appreciation for what my ancestors went through. I suspect, you would find the same. Going back five generations I discovered numerous tragedies: infant mortality, youthful deaths, tragic accidents, forced relocation, casualties of war and disabilities from it. The past generations seemed stronger because they accepted that life can be cruel and unfair. And for the most part… the people before me… kept their faith. 

When people’s lives come to a sudden end due to circumstances, natural disaster or disease, we all ask questions like: “Where is God?” Jesus says in today’s Gospel, "God knows, but the time is not yet ready for Him to come to judge all people, to protect the innocent victims of evil in the world and to bring evildoers to their just ends. Just as the farmer gives the fig tree one more chance to bear fruit, God gives humanity in general and us in particular a little more time to change our ways.”

Then He will come with power, the power of His Name. Then all people will recognize Him just as the Pharaoh of Egypt was forced to recognize whom God was after Moses proclaimed God's name. When the power of God is revealed then we, “who are no longer under a cloud of uncertainly as our ancestors of the Old Testament times were,” as St. Paul says in today's second reading, then we will stand before God and present ourselves to Him.

Lent is the perfect time to put all those doubts and questions to rest and recall that from the time of our earliest ancestors… God was always faithful and eventually delivered His people to the Promised Land. 

Now is the time to repent of our failings and be faithful to the Lord … while we still have time.

Welcome, to the Little Sisters of the Poor who are with us this weekend to again inform us of their wonderful ministry to the elderly. Please be generous.
www.littlesistersofthepoor.org 150 years in America!

Sunday, March 17, 2019

There are objects and people in our lives that we have become so accustomed to that we take them 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 really feel bad about taking their presence for granted.

Perhaps we do the same regarding our Church.  We are so used to coming into the Church that we tend to forget that we are coming before a special presence of God, the Sacred Presence of the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. 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.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to be a new Chosen People.  Following Him involves a spiritual, mystical relationship that acknowledges the presence of God in our lives.  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.  Giving-in to the frustration cheats us to that which God wants to give us and blinds us of recognizing the generous giver.  Take advantage of all opportunities to pray.  It is the passport to the citizenship of heaven.       

Our Parish, this Lent, is focusing on the journey of following the Lord.  Everything we encounter in scripture has a correlation to Jesus’ deep Jewish roots.  Please take advantage of either retreat … one for men or one for women … that we are holding March 30^th.  They are addressing the basic religious tradition that Jesus came from and how He fulfilled the Old Testament as our Redeemer.  The Seder Meal is a unique Jewish Meal that is the base of our Eucharist.  Rich in symbolism, understanding the Passover Supper better allows one to understand the Mass more so. To register for the retreat and or the Seder Meal, please see the attached data in the bulletin, or simply call the Parish Office to register.  Seating is limited.

The Little Sisters of the Poor will be here next weekend at all the Masses.  The second collection will benefit the noble ministry they do for the elderly.

A Happy Saint Patrick’s Day to everyone! 

 

 

Sunday, March 10

For Saint Luke, Christians are called to walk with the Lord throughout the journey of our lives. The forty days of Lent reminds us of this journey and invite us to examine how well we are traveling. We begin the Lenten Journey, this Sunday with Our Lord tempted by the devil. “You are hungry. Command this stone to be turned into bread.” This is the temptation we all have to use God’s gifts in a selfish manner. We give in to this temptation when we put self-gratification before love. 

Shown all the kingdoms of the world… they could be Jesus’... if He worships the devil. This would be an abuse of power and repeatedly we see in our lives how people take advantage of their power over people. The final temptation of the devil was the one from the Parapet of the Temple. This parapet was the extension of the roof of the Temple over its wall. 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. 

At the end of today’s Gospel we hear that the devil left Jesus to return at a more opportune time. He returned when Jesus was facing the crisis we call the Agony in the Garden. The devil remained present throughout the crucifixion tempting the Lord to bring it all to a quick end. Jesus withstood. The devil’s temptations in our lives are particularly difficult when we are in crisis, when we are in turmoil, when we or a loved one are sick or die. Today we are warned about selfishness, power and pride. We call upon the Mercy of God to forgive us for the times we have given in to these temptations. We ask God to help us fight evil. We trust God to walk with us on this beautiful journey, not only of Lent, but our Christian lives. May you have a wonderful Lent.

Our Parish, this Lent, is focusing on the journey of following the Lord. Everything we encounter in scripture has a correlation to Jesus’ deep Jewish roots. Please take advantage of either retreat … one for men, or one for women … that we are holding Saturday, March 30th. They are addressing the basic religious tradition that Jesus came from and how He fulfilled the Old Testament as our Redeemer. The Seder Meal is a unique Jewish Meal that is the base of our Eucharist. Rich in symbolism, understanding the Passover Supper better allows one to understand the Mass. To register for the retreat and or the Seder Meal, please see the attached data in the bulletin, or simply call the Parish Office to register. Seating is limited.

Sunday March 3

The Gospel reminds us that good comes from good and evil comes from evil. We speak what is in our heart and let that be goodness.  This is the last Sunday in the winter section of Ordinary Time.  The season of Lent is at hand and it is time for us to evaluate what is in our heart.  Are there areas that just should not be there and can be altered for the good?  Do I surprise myself in what I say and do and grasp that my actions come from my soul?  Lent is the time to evaluate what causes the disturbance, even evil, and address it. 

The Church offers various practices that root out bad behavior…Confession.  It offers the opportunities needed to reflect and open oneself to prayer and grace…Masses, Stations of the Cross, Exposition, and Retreats.  This time of year, the Church is united in mortifying ourselves with fasts and abstinence.  The Church is the perfect area to distribute alms and serve the needy.  It is time to clean house and prepare a heart worthy for the Lord.

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, March 6, 2019. Masses on Ash Wednesday are 6:30, 8 and 9:30 a.m., 12:10 Noon and 6:30 p.m. The distribution of ashes takes place after the homily. The practice of wearing ashes comes from the ancient Jewish tradition of penance and fasting. It symbolizes the dust from which God made us and the grief that we have sinned.

Ash Wednesday is a day of abstinence from meat and also a day of fast, that is, limited to a single full meal. All Fridays in Lent are days of abstinence from meat. All those who are fourteen years old are bound to the law of abstinence. The law of fast binds all who are 18 years old and not yet 59.

Weekday Masses:  Monday & Tuesday 6:30 & 8:00 a.m. 

                                 Wednesday 6:30 & 8:00 a.m. 6:30 p.m.

                                 Thursday 6:30, 8:00 a.m. & 12:10 noon.

                                 Friday 6:30 & 8:00 a.m. Saturday 8:00 a.m.

Exposition & Benediction: Mondays at 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

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

Parish Penance Services on Tuesday, April 9^th at noon and 6:30 p.m.

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


The Mass that celebrates the closing of the Sesquicentennial Anniversary of the Diocese of Wilmington is this Sunday, March 3^rd at 3:00 p.m. in St. Elizabeth Church in Wilmington.  All the various members of our entire Diocese are being represented.  If you plan to attend and want to represent St. John the Beloved Parish, please meet in the front of St. Elizabeth Church no later than 2:45 p.m. and we will plan to be seated together.  Congratulations, again, to the Catholic Diocese of Wilmington. 

Sunday February 24

I think that of all the things the Lord asks us to do in our following Him, nothing is more difficult than what is in today’s Gospel:  “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, pray for those who mistreat you, turn your cheek, and give to anyone who asks of you.”   Hatred is not easy to overlook, especially when you have been injured, and yet that is what Jesus is calling us to do. 

Hatred is not only destroying the world but our communities, families and even individual people…who hate themselves.  To end this malignancy, to fight off hatred…we begin with the anger that is within us.  It is good to know why you feel the way you do about someone.  Truly admit what is the problem.  Perhaps it was an injustice that someone did to me that altered my life drastically or it may be the remembrances of how someone tormented or created misery for me.  It is sometimes worse when we hate the person who wronged a loved one of mine.  And this nemesis is the person we are called to forgive.

Is the Lord asking too much?  Of course not…He is God.  I guess the problem is within us and it is not avoidable.  It is not normal for a human not to object when being hurt.  Even animals will retaliate.  It is the “better angels of our nature (A. Lincoln)” that call us to let go of the bitterness and move on in life; otherwise you will carry an unnecessary burden and never advance.  That being said … how do you forgive?  You can’t.   But God can and that is why Jesus said “pray for those who maltreat you.”

To admit that you were legitimately wronged is healthy and to bring it to prayer is the solution.  By naming the person who causes you pain and praying for their conversion as well as your own healing of heart is the formula.  It is difficult at first but God sees the broken heart and somehow heals that which you cannot even describe.  In time, you start to pity that person and may even see a conversion of heart going on in him/her.  This is what Jesus asks from us….be as “compassionate as Our Father in heaven is compassionate”.  By entering this Godly realm, healing takes place…and the heart and the world can be a better place.

Another shout of “Thank You” to everyone who thus far contributed to the “Raise the Roof Campaign.”  Thus far, what is collected has replenished what was taken from our savings to make the necessary repairs for the roof and ceiling.  Thank You.  More work on the hall/gym will take place in the near future.  Your support and donations are appreciated.

Ash Wednesday will begin on March 6.  Easter is later this year.  Enjoy yourself these last days before the discipline of Lent and have a safe Mardi Gras.

 

Sunday, February 17

Ever since the Enlightenment, the concept that disciplined human beings can make this world nearly perfect has expanded. The twentieth century witnessed many horrific attempts to create a pure race, a new social order. It involved the eradication of family unity, religion and even humans themselves. It promoted complete allegiance to the system.

In the first reading for this Sunday, Jeremiah says, “Cursed be he who trusts in human beings.” It is impossible to create an ideal society if that society does not have God as its foundation, its supreme good. Jeremiah was a prophet who lived during the Babylonian Captivity when the king wanted to compromise the power of the Babylonians through military treaties.

Jeremiah was told by God to proclaim that man could not solve his own problems. Man needed to trust in God. But the king, Zedekiah, put his trust in himself and foreign alliances whereby the people of Judah would have to recognize pagan gods. In 588 BC Jerusalem fell to the Babylonians and the king was led into slavery.

Ultimate reliance upon human capabilities is a sham. It didn’t work for the people of Jeremiah’s day. It didn’t work in the last century. It won’t work today. The one lesson we need to learn from history is that our only true hope must be in God. We cannot even approach the creation of the perfect society ourselves. “Creation without the Creator fades into nothingness.” Vatican II
St. Luke tells us the poor are blessed became they have no choice but to trust in God. St. Luke addressed his gospel to the downtrodden, the lowly who recognize their need for God. Luke also claims “woe to the rich” because they often have a false sense of security that money and possessions give.

We live in an age of expanding technological marvels. The next hundred years will be a time beyond the imagining. It will also be an empty age unless we are determined to put the spiritual in the center of our lives. We can harness the advancements in technology to serve the Lord in this Life. Rich or poor in material possessions, Jesus Christ is the reason for our being.
 

Sunday, February 10, 2019

Saint Peter was a fisherman. He knew the sea. He knew where to find fish, at least most of the time. He was a big man. He was the leader of a fishing group. He probably did not have much education but was a driven, blue collar worker. He was likely the least to lead an international movement. He never was outside Galilee and Judea, yet he was called by the Lord to bring the Gospel message all the way to Rome. Peter was the perfect choice because God made him the perfect choice.

Saint Paul, on the other hand, was shorter in stature and was brilliant, educated and scholarly. He studied under Gamiliel, one of the most important rabbinical teachers of the ancient world. Paul knew the scriptures well, and was passionate for his Hebrew religious law. He was so enthusiastic about the Jewish faith that he would hunt down followers of Christ and intended to stop them. 

Paul was certainly not someone you would choose to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was considered a traitor to the Jewish people and a persecutor to the Christians. What is more, he is the last person you would expect who would argue that the gentiles did not have to first become Jewish before becoming Christian. But Christ called Paul as he traveled on the road to Damascus. He was the perfect choice to spread the Gospel to non Jews. 

All of us have times that we are convinced we are the least likely to perform a role that God has set for us, perhaps as a parent, perhaps as a care giver, certainly as a committed Christian. We might think we are the most unlikely to serve God. But we are wrong. Like Peter and Paul…God has called us. In God’s mind, with God’s help with Divine Mercy, we are each the perfect choice. 

The quality of the paper used for our Parish Bulletins was upgraded to render clearer photos. This is provided by our bulletin company at no extra charge. Please sponsor the advertisers in our bulletin who totally pay for the bulletin and support our parish.

The severe weather that we have experienced in the last weeks has given rise to many questions regarding the obligation to attend Mass when driving and walking are dangerous. Here is a statement from our Diocese: “Canon law (1247) states that on Sundays and other holy days of obligation, the faithful are obliged to participate in the Mass. However, the law does not expect the impossible nor can the fulfillment of the obligation according to the norm of the law be burdensome or dangerous. There is no obligation to attend Mass if weather and/or road conditions are unsafe or make travel dangerous or difficult, or, if one is unable to get out of their driveway or parked space. Those persons who are unable to attend Mass under such conditions may view the celebration of Mass on television. Prayers should be offered for those affected by the storm.”

Also…..The flu, virus and cold season is upon us. Please remember that if you are seriously ill, there is no sin in avoiding Sunday Mass and recuperating. Stay at home and get well without spreading any sickness. The health department always reminds us that in order to limit illness at this time, wash your hands more often, and avoid close physical contact with other people. As for the sign of peace at Mass, simply avoid hand shaking or embracing. Also, please abstain from taking the Precious Blood from the chalice. This thoughtful consideration will keep us healthier.
 

Sunday, February 3, 2019

In today’s first reading, the Lord said to Jeremiah, “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you.”  The overwhelmingly Good News is that before each of us was born, or even conceived, God knew us, each of us.  Think about that.  God knew you and knew me before our mothers and fathers ever met. 

And He calls us to proclaim His Truth. But His call comes with the warning that was given to Jeremiah, “They will fight against you, but I am with you to deliver you.”  God will be with us as we proclaim the authentic way of life, living for the Kingdom of God. 

Jesus proclaimed the truth in the Synagogue in Nazareth.  The people there wanted Him to perform miracles for them, but they didn’t have any faith in Him.  They couldn’t get past His family background.  So He told them that as in the past, with Elijah and Elisha, He would only perform miracles for those with faith.  They wanted to kill Him for saying this.  They rushed Him to a cliff and were about to push Him off but it wasn’t His time to die yet.  What a scene!

The prophecy about the results of proclaiming the truth given in Jeremiah and witnessed in Jesus’ life on earth continues with us.  Some people don’t want to hear us when we proclaim God’s truth with our lives as well as our words.  They mock insult and vilify us.  The recent New York signed bill that legalizes abortion up to birth for any reason is an example.  What the bill permits is contrary to the Catholic faith.  Once truth is separated from fiction and people come to realize the impact of the bill, it may be too late to save the countless lives that will be lost or spare countless lifelong regret. Many will want to push us off the cliff but the One who called us from before we were conceived, will not desert us. 

We have to proclaim all that is right and moral and God’s way with charity and not arrogance, jealousy, selfishness, and vengeance.  If we let our anger determine our actions, even over horrible things like abortion, we will get nowhere.

To each of us, God is saying today, “I knew you Sharon, Bob, Phil and Mary; add your own name here.  I knew you from before you were even conceived.  I have called you to proclaim my truth, to be authentic to whom you are, my daughter, my son.  I have called you to proclaim the Truth with love.  And I promise you, no matter what results from your proclamation, I will always be with you.”

To recall the World Day of the Sick, for the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes… next Sunday, February 10 at the 5 p.m. Mass… we will offer the Sacrament of Anointing to those who are seriously ill, physically, emotionally or spiritually.  Please join us by following the instructions of where to sit and register when you come to this special Mass.   

Congratulations to our Saint John the Beloved School as we just celebrated National Catholic Schools Week.  May God continue to Bless us!
 

Sunday, January 27, 2019

In today’s Gospel, Jesus returns to His hometown of Nazareth.  Going to the synagogue, Jesus reads a passage from the Prophet Isaiah that foretells the coming of the Messiah.  Among His own people, Jesus tells them that the Messiah is in their midst.  There is something mystical, to think, that we are connected with those people in that synagogue.  We too…are people of faith.  We have the same yearnings that people in ancient Israel had.  Like with them, indeed, the Savior is in our midst.  We proceed, together, toward His Kingdom.

Continuing from last week’s bulletin, St. John the Beloved Parish is a vibrant community of faith.  This virtue is put into action in many ways like the outstanding attention given to our children in athletics.  Our families support the extracurricular activities of our children to promote their growth.  We are second to none in this area and in the outreach we give to charity.   Just this past year, we served 1100 people a month in food, clothing and supplies; not to mention the additional outreach of our St. Vincent de Paul Society and Family Promise.  Our parishioners are charitable and generous.  This truly models the Gospel message.

Grace builds on nature.  Therefore, we have to look at our physical campus because we rely heavily on it.  Our problem is a good one… we never have sufficient room for all the good we wish to accomplish.  Therefore the facility calendar has to be precise to eliminate confusion.  Maintaining these 43 and 64 year old buildings is an on-going task. 
 
The following projects have been addressed within the past 3-4 years:  

A new phone system in Parish office, school and hall has been installed.  A necessary fire alarm system now protects the hall and gym.  The school has a new boiler and pump, and a new music room was created (with sound proof) within the school.  The school had air conditioning and heating units replaced where needed.  The recent flooding of our school is an example of corroded lines.   The school also received a new networked copier system.  For the safety of our children and all parishioners, access and camera security systems have been installed in strategic areas.  Two way digital security radios have also been implemented for staff and the police.

Our Parish Hall had upgrades for the kitchen along with a new air conditioning unit.  Our parking lot was resealed and relined.  The recent need for a new roof and ceiling for the hall has been accomplished.  The Parish Office received a new copier while the rectory had two exterior doors installed and the former rectory offices were painted and received new carpeting.  These improvements were necessary for safety, energy efficiency and practicality.  These tasks were accomplished from ordinary income.  The church renovations were accomplished from the specific capital campaign called “Sustaining Hope.”  From the remainder of what was given to that campaign, new outside lighting will be installed in the spring.

Where we are today is a tribute to YOU.  Thank you for all you do in keeping St. John the Beloved alive and well in our mission to preach and spread the Gospel of Jesus.  We all know that the challenge is more prominent these days.  With God’s help…we will continue our mission in an ever changing world.

In honor of Saint Blaise, whose feast day is normally on February 3rd, throats will be blessed after all Masses next weekend in our church.  St. Blaise, a physician and bishop in Armenia, healed a boy of throat difficulties while being led to martyrdom.  Traditionally throats are blessed this day. 

The severe weather that we have experienced in the last weeks has given rise to many questions regarding the obligation to attend Mass when driving and walking are dangerous.  Here is a statement from our Diocese: “Canon law (1247) states that on Sundays and other holy days of obligation, the faithful are obliged to participate in the Mass.  However, the law does not expect the impossible nor can the fulfillment of the obligation according to the norm of the law be burdensome or dangerous.  There is no obligation to attend Mass if weather and/or road conditions are unsafe or make travel dangerous or difficult, or, if one is unable to get out of their driveway or parked space.  Those persons who are unable to attend Mass under such conditions may view the celebration of Mass on television.  Prayers should be offered for those affected by the storm.”

Also…..The flu, virus and cold season is upon us.  Please remember that if you are seriously ill, there is no sin in avoiding Sunday Mass and recuperating.  Stay at home and get well without spreading any sickness.  The health department always reminds us that in order to limit illness at this time, wash your hands more often, and avoid close physical contact with other people.  As for the sign of peace at Mass, simply avoid hand shaking or embracing.  Also, please abstain from taking the Precious Blood from the chalice.  This thoughtful consideration will keep us healthier.

Sunday, January 20, 2019

Although the Christmas Season is officially over, today’s Gospel of the Wedding Feast of Cana, is an Epiphany. We tend to only think of the arrival of the Magi as this specific feast but actually, the Church recognizes three episodes in Christ’s life that point to Who Jesus Is. The Arrival of the Magi foretells the global recognition of Jesus as the Messiah. At the Baptism of the Lord, God the Father’s voice clearly announces that Jesus is His Beloved Son. And at the Miracle of Cana, who but God can change water into the best of wine. An epiphany simply acknowledges: “Now, I get it.”

As we begin Ordinary Time in the Church, it is a good time to be informed … something like an epiphany… of our particular Parish of Saint John the Beloved. Let us begin with the faithful themselves. We are an active community that will be celebrating our 64th anniversary. We are a composite of around 3,000 families and probably the second largest parish in the Diocese of Wilmington (Holy Cross in Dover being the largest). The beach parishes are growing rapidly with many people retiring to our southern and western locations. However, the average weekend attendance at most of these parishes is dropping considerably. 

The average weekend attendance at St. John the Beloved Parish in 2005 was 3,078 at all the Masses. In 2011 the weekend attendance fell to 1,827 and in 2018 to 1,553. It reflects the loss of the faithful who have passed away (remember we had 125 funerals last year alone) and the less consistent attendance of the younger generations. This trend is true for most faith denominations today.

The number of baptisms for our parish is steady and even increasing. Last year, we had 78 baptisms. The First Communion and Confirmation numbers are stable with an average of 90 to 100 in each program. Most recently, the numbers of weddings have increased slightly but generally have dropped from previous decades. Destination weddings are decreasing the number of Church weddings.

This decrease in Church participation is reflected naturally in the numbers of religious and priestly vocations. We are fortunate, now, to have three priests and three deacons. The number of our diocesan seminarians has increased to 11. From our parish, we have 1 seminarian studying for our Diocese and 1 studying for the Franciscans. But the future numbers are not sufficient for what we are presently serving. 

In the oldest seminary in the United States, St. Mary’s in Baltimore where our Diocese sends most of our seminarians for training, there are less than a total of 55 seminarians representing a number of dioceses. There were around a total of 175 seminarians studying there in the early 1980s. In our parish school, we have one religious sister. Therefore, we heavily rely on the laity to take part in the different ministries of the parish and will even more so in the near future. We are indebted to the many well qualified men and women who are employed by the school or volunteer for the parish to teach and lead in our many parish programs.

Our Parish School Program is in excellent condition and holds the honor of being a National Blue Ribbon School. Presently, the competition for a parish school is fierce. Charter and other well qualified programs, currently, are competing with the parochial school system. Tuition, for St. John the Beloved School, is around $6,850 a year per student. The rise in tuition, with the lessening number of children per family, has dropped our parish school enrollment from 557 to 532 just this past year. 

Although this seems to be the trend with all schools today, the enrollment and tuition affects our parish budget. With many variables, we still supply a quality education for our school families. Our Religious Education Program allows our children, who attend other schools, to receive proper catechesis. This religious program is very accommodating to see the needs of every family and is holding its enrollment at 304 children. We offer catechesis for adults in sessions throughout the year and equally for those interested in entering the Church with our RCIA program. 

Next week, we will continue with the state of affairs for our parish.

Sunday, January 13, 2019

Many Greek Orthodox parishes celebrate the Baptism of the Lord by recreating the scene by having a boy jump into a pool or body of water.  He arises from the water with a cross representing Jesus who at His baptism, by John the Baptist, publicly accepted His mission that would end with the cross.  Like last week’s feast of the arrival of the Magi, the Baptism of the Lord is an Epiphany…identifying Who Jesus is…the Divine King, the Savior of the World, God’s Beloved Son.

Today’s feast encourages us to reflect on the main mission God has assigned for each of us.  Our main mission in life is to love God with our whole mind, our whole heart and our whole soul and to love our neighbor as ourselves.  Each of us are called to do this in a way that is most in keeping with our spiritual individuality, our unique reflection of God…marriage, priesthood and consecrated religious life, single or widowed life. 

From there, our missions are even more diversified with family responsibilities, careers, talents and even particular situations that rely solely on us.  Many times, God gives us a mission when we least expect it and simply cannot ignore.  God’s plan is that you and I will make a difference in the world by gifting the world with the unique reflection of His love that only each of us could provide.  In many ways, you and I might be the only place where others meet God by meeting us.

Jesus entered the waters of baptism in order to accept the mission the Father had set for Him.  We also share the same baptism and call to mission where the Lord needs us.  We pray that we may be open, aware and determined to complete the course of action that fulfills our destination.   

The Christmas Season ends this Sunday evening.  Thank you, again, for all that you have contributed in allowing all of us to have a wonderful Christmas Season.  This weekend is the last chance to visit the crèche.  The Christmas display will be disassembled this week. 

Sunday, January 6, 2019

In the early Church, what we know as Christmas now was not celebrated. Easter was, and still is, the pivotal celebration of the Liturgical Year. Before, the traditional date of December 25th was designated by the Pope as the Nativity of the Lord, the Eastern Church had the custom of the Arrival of the Magi and popularized the tradition of Christ’s Incarnation. The Western Church meshed this beautiful tradition into what we now celebrate as the Christmas Season.

Many cultures, to this day, regard the Epiphany as “Little Christmas” by exchanging gifts on January 6th. Matthew’s Gospel states that three gifts were given to Jesus by the Magi…Gold, the precious metal of royalty, symbolizing Christ’s Kingly status; Frankincense, a resin that when burned raises the mind to enlightenment, thus Christ’s Priestly dignity; and Myrrh, also a resin used for mummification and associated with the transcendence from this to the next life, foretelling His suffering and death. 

                         

Talking about gifts, I want to take this opportunity to extend my appreciation to you, as parish, who are a gift to St. John the Beloved Parish. During the holidays, you met the challenges of our Outreach Programs with contributions, food, supplies, gifts, energy. Thank You. To those who volunteered in this tedious and often stressful capacity…may you be richly rewarded. The chair people, volunteers and workers of our Christmas Bazaar, again, did a phenomenal job. For example, the pasta dinner is a laborious chore and many of us benefited from our parishioner’s labor of love. Again, Thank You. 

These past holy days require much more dedication and effort on the part of various ministries. Planning, scheduling and serving required dedication and we had it. Our environmental volunteers did a fantastic job again. Whatever you contributed in time, talent and treasure publicly or quietly…Thank You. Our youth, in all programs, truly extended themselves in singing, transporting, serving, cleaning, etc. They make us very proud of them. Our Knights of Columbus controlled the traffic in our parking lot. God sees everything and knows the goodness you radiate. God reward you in His limitless benevolence. 

From all of us to all of you… Thank You for being the gift you are to us.