FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY OF JESUS, MARY & JOSEPH

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
~ Abraham and Sarah, Simeon and Anna, Mary and Joseph all do what God asks because of faith.  How does faith guide your actions?

 READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/123123.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am, Tuesdays & Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays. 

PARISH WEBSITE: Visit: www.saintpolycarp.org/.

WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE .  (New Bulletins are posted on Fridays.) 

BULLETIN OVERFLOW: There’s always information that doesn’t fit in our Bulletin –  Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE

---

THIS WEEKEND, DECEMBER 30/31  (and Monday, January 1^st – Friday, January 5^th) 

Weekend Masses December 30 & 31 – The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary & Joseph – Masses at 4 pm on Saturday, December 30^th and 10:30 am on Sunday, December 31^st.

THE SOLEMNITY OF MARY, HOLY MOTHER OF GOD (A Holy Day of Obligation) & New Year’s Day
Sunday, December 31^st, at 4 pm, Monday, January 1^st, at 10 am
The Blessing of Calendars will take place at the 4 pm Mass, on December 31^st and at the 10:00 am Mass on January 1^st.
The Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God is a Holy Day of Obligation.  This year, the obligation to attend Mass on this date is abrogated, in accord with the complementary norm to canon 1246 §2 confirmed for the dioceses of the United States of America. (Whenever the Solemnity of Mary falls on a Saturday or on a Monday, the precept to attend Mass is abrogated.)
While attending Mass for this solemnity is not an obligation, it’s certainly a wonderful way to honor Mary, our Savior’s Mother, our Mother. Attending the one hour Mass New Year’s Eve or New Year’s morning is a great time to thank God for the blessings of 2023 and  to ask God for His blessings in the coming year. (Something to think about: There are 8784 hours in the year 2024. If you took the time to attend Mass every Sunday and Holy Day of Obligation, that would be 58 hours total,  which is less than 1% of those 8784 hours. Think about it, less than 1%. If you watch TV or are on an electronic device 3 hours a day, that would be 1098 hours or 12% of  those 8784 hours. How will you use your time this year?)

 

GIVING TREE: Thank you, to all the parishioners of St. Polycarp who made this year’s Giving Tree Project a big success.  Every year we are amazed by the outpouring of love and generosity you show to the families in our community who need it the most.  This year you made the Christmas season extra special for so many of our children and families.  God bless you all!

 

BE BRAVE, ANSWER THE CALL: Are you a Catholic living in harmony with the teachings of the Church? Are you at least 18 years old? Have you received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist & Confirmation? Are you sufficiently mature to perform the duties of Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion at Mass or to the sick and homebound? These are the qualifications needed to be considered for Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. If this is a ministry you feel God calling you to, please contact Cindy Kennedy at Kennedy-078@msn.com. Formation and training will begin early January.

 

NEW CANDLES: We hope that you have noticed the new candle stands in the back of the Church. The aqua votive candles ($3 each) are available to be lit for your intentions.  Place your $3 in the slot and then just press the button in front of that candle that you would like lit. You must press and hold the button until it lights.

The white candles are memorial candles. These candles are available to be lit in memory of someone. The introductory fee of $120 includes the candle being lit continuously for a full year with a memorial name plate placed in front of that candle with the person’s name on it. This introductory fee is good until Ash Wednesday when the fee will be $150.  If you are interested in having one of these candles lit, please contact Kathy at the office. (302) 653-8279 or office@saintpolycarp.org

 

---

NEXT WEEKEND, JANUARY 6/7,

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: Next Sunday, January 7^th during the 10:30 am Mass. Children will be called forward before the First Reading and will return to you after the General Intercessions. Our lead catechist is Anna Skinner. She, along with her assistants, have cleared background checks.

AGAPE: Come join us next Sunday, January 7^th following the 10:30 Mass as we welcome in the New Year and celebrate the Epiphany of our Lord! Enjoy a delicious brunch, fellowship and fun! All are welcome.

---

UPCOMING

ROCK AND ROLL TRIBUTE:  Come join us on in the parish hall on Saturday, January 13^th, 2024 to ROCK in the New Year. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus along with our Columbiettes are sponsoring a ROCK AND ROLL TRUBUTE with an evening of dinner, show and dancing featuring Mr. Charisma! Tickets are $45. Contact Anna Skinner at ANNA.SKINZ@gmail.com  or (302) 883-5647. Make checks payable to Knights of Columbus #7517, 55 ransom Lane, Smyrna, DE  19977.

 

ANNUAL FORUM: The Saint Polycarp Annual Forum will take place on Sunday, January 21, 2024, following the 10:30 am Mass. Come and hear about our Parish accomplishments and voice your dreams for the coming year.

 

PARISH APPRECIATION DINNER: Reserve your spot for the Parish Appreciation Dinner.  If you are active in a church organization or serve in any ministry at Saint Polycarp Parish, the parish would like to show their appreciation by inviting you to the parish appreciation dinner. This year the event will take place on Saturday, February 10, 2024, following the 4:00 pm Mass. Seating will be limited, so reserve your spot today.  You may make your reservations using the link below or simply scan the QR code. Not a fan of online formats?  Call Kathy Curlett at 302 222 9326 to reserve your seats. https://forms.gle/TREWak6DL8JhndbA9

---

FORMED: Thanks to a very generous and thoughtful parishioner, our FORMED Subscription has been RENEWED for another year!  Please SIGN UP NOW and begin enjoying the abundant amount of Catholic content that FORMED has to offer! You won’t be disappointed! To gain full access to FORMED; follow these simple steps:
~Go to: www.formed.org or scan QR Code
~Enter our parish’s zip code (19977)
~Click on St. Polycarp Church
~Enter your name and your email address

---

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

NEEDED – NEW MINISTRY SCHEDULER: We are currently looking for someone to take over the scheduling of our ministers for the Weekend Masses and Holy Days of Obligation. This person must have good PC organization and computer skills. If you think you might be interested in this position, please call Frank Patton at  (302) 508-5268.

SACRISTAN NEEDED: We are still in need of someone to step forward to serve as sacristan.  Sacristans have the duty to arrive early to the Church in order to unlock the doors and prepare the Church for Mass.  Becoming a sacristan would be a great way to learn more about our beautiful liturgy and become more involved in carrying it out.  No previous knowledge is required. If you are interested, please contact the head sacristan Adam Bauer at ajpd.bauer@gmail.com.

DIRECTORY COORDINATOR: The Pastoral Council is looking for a parishioner to coordinate the preparation for a new directory for Saint Polycarp. Our last directory was published in 2018 and we understand there may be an interest in producing a new directory.  Please contact Kathy Curlett at (302) 222 – 9326 if you are interested.

---

ONGOING 

SATURDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION at St. Polycarp will take place monthly at the Vigil Mass for the Second Sunday of the month.  Eucharistic Adoration at St. Dennis Church (Galena MD) will take place on the Fourth Sunday of the month following the 8 am Sunday Mass.  Next Saturday Adoration is January 13^th, 2024.

TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel. We are still in need of people to fill in the following openings 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am; 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and people to fill in when others are ill or cannot attend. Do you have one hour to spend with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament? Call Cheryl Thomas at (302) 363 – 0404 or email her at salcrest7@gmail.com. All are welcome to stop in and adore Jesus between 9 am and 8 pm in the Chapel on Tuesdays. Stay for 10 minutes, 1 hour…

 

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Families and individuals are encouraged to sign up! Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/

CONNECTED IN CHRIST (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets every Tuesday at 9:00 am in the Parish Library – ALL are welcome. Please join us. If you have any questions, please call Cookie Ruane at (302) 540 – 6429.

FAITH WITH FRIENDS (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets the first Thursday of every month at 6 pm in Room 7. Everyone is invited. Questions?  Contact Ashley Wilson at (302) 535-4118.

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: Children’s Liturgy of the Word is offered every 1^st and 3^rd Sunday of the month during the 10:30am Mass. This is a wonderful opportunity for children in PreK-4^th grade. It mirrors the worship experience of the larger community in an engaging and interactive style. They will listen to Scripture and engage in discussions about what they have heard at their age level. Children will be called forward before the First Reading and will return to you after the General Intercessions. Our lead catechist is Anna Skinner. She, along with her assistants, have cleared background checks.

GLUTEN FREE? Do you have an intolerance to gluten? If so, our parish offers gluten-free wafers to be consecrated for you. Please see our Sacristan 10 – 15 minutes before Mass and let them know that you need a gluten-free wafer put in the pyx. At Communion, please proceed down the aisle to the priest who will have the pyx in his hand and let him know you need a gluten-free host.

IS THAT YOU, FR. JIM? If you receive emails or texts from Fr. Jim asking for favors, gift cards or gifts or stating something similar to “I am currently busy in a meeting now, no calls so just reply to my email.”, please ignore and delete. If an email looks suspicious and you’re not sure, give the office a call.

SMYRNA-CLAYTON FOOD PANTRY: Due to increased need in the community, the Pantry is in great need of cereal, juice boxes or pouches, peanut butter & jelly, hamburger helper, tuna helper, canned tuna, sloppy joe sauce (Manwich), boxed spaghetti, spaghetti sauce, vegetable beef and chicken noodle soups, macaroni & cheese, and Chef Boy Ardee canned pastas. Please, NO CANNED vegetables or beans are currently needed.  Bins for your donations are located under the coat rack near the hall.

REDNER’S MARKETS 1% SAVE-A-TAPE FUNDRAISER: Turn your food shopping into cash for our parish. Simply be sure to obtain and scan your Redner’s Rewards Card each time you shop. Save your whole receipt. Bring your receipts to the Parish Office or put them into the collection basket. There is no expiration date – you can turn in receipts months old!

THE SMYRNA/CLAYTON MINISTERIUM FOOD PANTRY is located downstairs at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 22 N. Union St., Smyrna. The pantry is open from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, Monday thru Friday. Here at St. Polycarp we have bins under the coat rack in the hallway near the bathrooms to accept your donations.  Please, no expired items.

BULLETIN SPONSORS: Thank you to all of our weekly bulletin sponsors for your support during the year! Your support has not gone unnoticed by our parish community and is so appreciated!

                                                                               

---

USEFUL LINKS:

WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish.  For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit  faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS: http://www.stdennischurch.org
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm
FOR THE SAKE OF GOD’S CHILDREN: https://www.cdow.org/giving/fsgc/
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/  Newspaper of the Diocese, copies available as you leave Church or online
EWTN: ewtn.com

---

FROM THE DIOCESE:     

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM.  Catholic Charities’ Fritz Jones is the guest on the December 30^th Catholic Forum podcast.  CLICK HERE     You can listen online at cdow.org/CatholicForum, or by searching “Catholic Forum” on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or Amazon Music podcasts.   “Like” Catholic Forum on Facebook at facebook.com/CatholicForum @CatholicForum.

HAPPENING ELSEWHERE:
LET’S TALK HEALING – St. John-Holy Angels Parish, Newark
January 6, 13, 20, (not the 27^th) & Feb 3  Snow date make-up Feb 10, if needed
Is Jesus still healing people today? Are these healings real, and do they last? How can we pray for healing? Can my broken heart be healed as well as my body? In her new book, Dr. Mary Healy answers these questions and more.  Join St. John-Holy Angels Parish for an informal book study and conversation on the book, “Healing: Bringing the Gift of God’s Mercy to the World,” led by Terry Haar/aRise Healing Ministry. Discussions will be held at Holy Angels Church, 82 Possum Park Road, Newark, DE 19711, from 10 am-12 noon on each date. Use the San Damiano Center back entrance to the church.  You do not need to attend all of the dates. You can check in for the reading assignments missed before each week you attend. Please read the first 66 pages prior to the first meeting. Coffee/refreshments provided. All interested are welcome. Free. Preregistration is required. (302) 731-2219 or arise@holyangels.net.

---

LET US PRAY:

Lord, You make all things new
You bring hope alive in our hearts
And cause our Spirits to be born again
Thank you for this new year.
For all the potential it holds.
Come and kindle in us
A mighty flame
So that in our time, many will see the wonders of God
And live forever to praise Your glorious name.

– Author Unknown

The Work of Christmas Begins

When the carols have been stilled,
When the star-topped tree is taken down,
When family and friends are gone home,
When we are back to our schedules
The work of Christmas begins:
To welcome the refugee,
To heal a broken planet,
To feed the hungry,
To build bridges of trust, not walls of fear,
To share our gifts,
To seek justice and peace for all people,
To bring Christ’s light to the world.

– by Michael Dougherty, a variation on Howard Thurman’s ‘When the Song of the Angels is Stilled’

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
~Do you look upon God as your rock or do you seek refuge elsewhere?
~ Mary surrenders her life to God when she says, “I am the handmaid of the Lord.” Are you willing to surrender any part of your life to God?
~What virtues might Mary have relied upon in answering God’s call?

 READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/122423.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am, Tuesdays & Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays. 

PARISH WEBSITE: Visit: www.saintpolycarp.org/.

WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE .  (New Bulletins are posted on Fridays.) 

BULLETIN OVERFLOW: There’s always information that doesn’t fit in our Bulletin –  Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE

---

December 24^th is both the 4^th Sunday of Advent and Christmas Eve.
No one Mass fulfills the Sunday obligation and the Christmas obligation.

MASSES FOR THE 4^th SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Saturday, December 23^rd at 4 pm
Sunday, December 24^th at 10:30 am

You are cordially invited to join us for the 4pm Christmas Eve Mass and to watch our PSR 1^st graders bring to life our Nativity Pageant. The reenactment of the First  Christmas will take place  immediately following the 4 pm Mass. This performance will surely put you into the Christmas Spirit. 

 

 

READINGS FOR CHRISTMAS:https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/122523.cfm

---

Fr. Jim, Deacon Frank, Erica Taylor, CRE and all the staff here at St. Polycarp wish you a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year!

May you be blessed with hope, peace and love this Christmas and in the New Year. 

SEE ABOVE FOR THE MASS SCHEDULE FOR THE 4^th SUNDAY OF ADVENT AND THE CHRISTMAS MASS SCEDULE

RECONCILIATION – St. Polycarp Church:
Saturdays from 2:30 – 3:30 pm & following the 10:30 am Mass on Sunday, December 24^th.

 

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: December 24^th at 4 pm – Stephanie Roch. Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Families and individuals are encouraged to sign up! Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/

 

NATIVITY CRÈCHES FROM THE CATHOLIC CHURCHES OF DELAWARE AND MARYLAND’S EASTERN SHORE: Last Christmas, the diocese invited each of its 56 parishes and 18 mission churches to submit a photograph of their crèche to be included in the video that celebrates the 800^th anniversary of the very first Nativity scene. In 1223, wanting to emphasize the humble circumstances of Jesus’s birth and to inspire the local people to more deeply appreciate the Christmas story. St. Francis of Assisi set up a live Nativity scene in a cave in the quaint Italian village of Greccio.

On Sunday, December ^17th, 2023, a new video debuted on the Diocese of Wilmington’s YouTube channel. This video, produced by the Diocese of Wilmington, presents a montage of photographs of Nativity crèches from the Catholic churches of Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The video includes beautiful instrumental Christmas hymns as a background. Families are invited to watch the 12 ½ minute video together, discuss which scene they like best and why, maybe try to be the first to identify the scene from our parish. Visit www.YouTube.com/DioceseofWilm to view the video. (Pick-up a copy of this weekend’s Dialog as you leave Mass and check out the center page!)

 

WE HAVE A WINNER! The highest bidder in our annual parking spot auction wishes to remain anonymous and would like the parking spot to go to Deacon Frank Weber in gratitude for his ministry here at St. Polycarp.  Enjoy the parking spot for another year, Deacon Frank!  Thanks to everyone who submitted a bid.

 

BE BRAVE, ANSWER THE CALL: Are you a Catholic living in harmony with the teachings of the Church? Are you at least 18 years old? Have you received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist & Confirmation? Are you sufficiently mature to perform the duties of Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion at Mass or to the sick and homebound? These are the qualifications needed to be considered for Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. If this is a ministry you feel God calling you to, please contact Cindy Kennedy at Kennedy-078@msn.com. Formation and training will begin early January.

 

NEW CANDLES: We hope that you have noticed the new candle stands in the back of the Church. They are electric candles, which are safer and do not create soot.   The aqua votive candles ($3 each) are now available to be lit for your intentions.  After you put your money in the slot, you just need to press the button in front of that candle.   You must press and hold the button until it lights.

The white candles are memorial candles. These candles are available to be lit in memory of someone. The introductory fee of $120 includes the candle being lit continuously for a full year with a memorial name plate placed in front of that candle with the person’s name on it. This introductory fee is good until Ash Wednesday when the fee will be $150.  If you are interested in having one of these candles lit, please contact Kathy at the office. (302) 653-8279 or office@saintpolycarp.org  We hope you enjoy them.

 

CHRISTMAS NOVENA: Christmas is a time to reflect on the blessings of family and shared togetherness. We exchange gifts as an act of love and appreciation, but there is no greater gift we can give than the gift of the Holy Mass.  Although a loved one may no longer be present to share this time with us, let us remember that, now more than ever, they rely upon us for their spiritual well-being.   Please use the Christmas Novena envelope to show your loved ones they have not been forgotten. (Envelopes can be found at the doors of the Church.)

 

CHRISTMAS FLOWERS: Gifts are usually given at the birth of a child. Let us generously give the Holy Family beautiful flowers representing the intentions of our loved ones. Please consider using the Christmas flower envelope to help us proclaim our joy as we rejoice in the birth of our Lord. (Envelopes can be found at the doors of the Church.)

 

EARLY DEADLINE JANUARY 7^th BULLETIN: During the busy holiday season, the bulletin is due earlier to the publisher.  All submissions that you would like to appear in the bulletin, need to be submitted earlier than usual. If you plan on having an insert, please contact Judy immediately. Insert deadlines are sooner than the deadlines listed below!  ALL Submissions (including inserts or questions about inserts) should be emailed to submission@saintpolycarp.org. Judy can also be reached at the parish office (302) 653-8279. Bulletin for January 7^th – Submissions due by December 26^th end of day.

 

CONGRATULATIONS! 2023 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL:  Thank you to all those parishioners who contributed to the 2023 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. Our parish has achieved our goal in pledges and money collected for the appeal! Your generosity in supporting this year’s appeal once again demonstrates that you understand the mission of our Church.  Now that we have reached our goal in money collected, we will receive back half of the money collected above the goal for projects around our campus. We invite those who haven’t yet had the opportunity to give to the Appeal to join us in spreading the spirit of gratitude. Envelopes can be found at the doors of the Church You can also support the appeal online at www.cdow.org click “Giving” then “Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal,” or simply scan this QR code with your cellphone.

 

---

NEXT WEEKEND, DECEMBER 30/31,

Weekend Masses for The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary & Joseph – Masses at 4 pm on Saturday, December 30^th and 10:30 am on Sunday, December 31^st.

THE SOLEMNITY OF MARY, HOLY MOTHER OF GOD (A Holy Day of Obligation) & New Year’s Day
Sunday, December 31^st at 4 pm, Monday, January 1^st at 10 am
The Blessing of Calendars will take place at the 4 pm Mass, on December 31^st and at the 10:00 am Mass on January 1^st.

 

---

UPCOMING

AGAPE: Come join us on Sunday, January 7^th following the 10:30 Mass as we welcome in the New Year and celebrate the Epiphany of our Lord! Enjoy a delicious brunch, fellowship and fun! All are welcome.

ROCK AND ROLL TRIBUTE:  Come join us on in the parish hall on Saturday, January 13^th, 2024 to ROCK in the New Year. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus along with our Columbiettes are sponsoring a ROCK AND ROLL TRUBUTE with an evening of dinner, show and dancing featuring Mr. Charisma! Tickets are $45. Contact Anna Skinner at ANNA.SKINZ@gmail.com  or (302) 883-5647. Make checks payable to Knights of Columbus #7517, 55 ransom Lane, Smyrna, DE  19977.

---

INQUIRING MINDS WANT TO KNOW: WHY AND WHEN DO WE SIT, STAND AND KNEEL AT MASS? If you would like information on why we stand or sit or kneel during the Mass, please check out the following websites:

https://saintpolycarp.org/overflow/
www.formed.org: Explaining the Faith with Fr. Chris Alar – Part 6: Teaching Mass (Part 1); and Teaching Mass (Part 2)
www.eucharisticrevival.org: go to Blog: Do This in Remembrance of Me: A Step by Step Walk Through the Mass by Fr. Luke Spannagel (there are 52 Parts).

 

FORMED: Thanks to a very generous and thoughtful parishioner, our FORMED Subscription has been RENEWED for another year!  Please SIGN UP NOW and begin enjoying the abundant amount of Catholic content that FORMED has to offer! You won’t be disappointed! To gain full access to FORMED; follow these simple steps:
~Go to: www.formed.org or scan QR Code
~Enter our parish’s zip code (19977)
~Click on St. Polycarp Church
~Enter your name and your email address

---

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

NEEDED – NEW MINISTRY SCHEDULER: We are currently looking for someone to take over the scheduling of our ministers for the Weekend Masses and Holy Days of Obligation. This person must have good PC organization and computer skills. If you think you might be interested in this position, please call Frank Patton at  (302) 508-5268.

SACRISTAN NEEDED: We are still in need of someone to step forward to serve as sacristan.  Sacristans have the duty to arrive early to the Church in order to unlock the doors and prepare the Church for Mass.  Becoming a sacristan would be a great way to learn more about our beautiful liturgy and become more involved in carrying it out.  No previous knowledge is required. If you are interested, please contact the head sacristan Adam Bauer at ajpd.bauer@gmail.com.

DIRECTORY COORDINATOR: The Pastoral Council is looking for a parishioner to coordinate the preparation for a new directory for Saint Polycarp. Our last directory was published in 2018 and we understand there may be an interest in producing a new directory.  Please contact Kathy Curlett at (302) 222 – 9326 if you are interested.

---

ONGOING 

SATURDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION at St. Polycarp will take place monthly at the Vigil Mass for the Second Sunday of the month.  Eucharistic Adoration at St. Dennis Church (Galena MD) will take place on the Fourth Sunday of the month following the 8 am Sunday Mass.

TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel. We are still in need of people to fill in the following openings 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am; 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and people to fill in when others are ill or cannot attend. Do you have one hour to spend with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament? Call Cheryl Thomas at (302) 363 – 0404 or email her at salcrest7@gmail.com. All are welcome to stop in and adore Jesus between 9 am and 8 pm in the Chapel on Tuesdays. Stay for 10 minutes, 1 hour…

 

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Families and individuals are encouraged to sign up! Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/  December 24^th, 4 pm Mass – S. Roch.

CONNECTED IN CHRIST (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets every Tuesday at 9:00 am in the Parish Library – ALL are welcome. Please join us. If you have any questions, please call Cookie Ruane at (302) 540 – 6429.

FAITH WITH FRIENDS (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets the first Thursday of every month at 6 pm in Room 7. Everyone is invited. Questions?  Contact Ashley Wilson at (302) 535-4118.

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: Children’s Liturgy of the Word is offered every 1^st and 3^rd Sunday of the month during the 10:30am Mass. This is a wonderful opportunity for children in PreK-4^th grade. It mirrors the worship experience of the larger community in an engaging and interactive style. They will listen to Scripture and engage in discussions about what they have heard at their age level. Children will be called forward before the First Reading and will return to you after the General Intercessions. Our lead catechist is Anna Skinner. She, along with her assistants, have cleared background checks.

GLUTEN FREE? Do you have an intolerance to gluten? If so, our parish offers gluten-free wafers to be consecrated for you. Please see our Sacristan 10 – 15 minutes before Mass and let them know that you need a gluten-free wafer put in the pyx. At Communion, please proceed down the aisle to the priest who will have the pyx in his hand and let him know you need a gluten-free host.

IS THAT YOU, FR. JIM? If you receive emails or texts from Fr. Jim asking for favors, gift cards or gifts or stating something similar to “I am currently busy in a meeting now, no calls so just reply to my email.”, please ignore and delete. If an email looks suspicious and you’re not sure, give the office a call.

SMYRNA-CLAYTON FOOD PANTRY: Due to increased need in the community, the Pantry is in great need of cereal, juice boxes or pouches, peanut butter & jelly, hamburger helper, tuna helper, canned tuna, sloppy joe sauce (Manwich), boxed spaghetti, spaghetti sauce, vegetable beef and chicken noodle soups, macaroni & cheese, and Chef Boy Ardee canned pastas. Please, NO CANNED vegetables or beans are currently needed.  Bins for your donations are located under the coat rack near the hall.

REDNER’S MARKETS 1% SAVE-A-TAPE FUNDRAISER: Turn your food shopping into cash for our parish. Simply be sure to obtain and scan your Redner’s Rewards Card each time you shop. Save your whole receipt. Bring your receipts to the Parish Office or put them into the collection basket. There is no expiration date – you can turn in receipts months old!

THE SMYRNA/CLAYTON MINISTERIUM FOOD PANTRY is located downstairs at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 22 N. Union St., Smyrna. The pantry is open from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, Monday thru Friday. Here at St. Polycarp we have bins under the coat rack in the hallway near the bathrooms to accept your donations.  Please, no expired items.

BULLETIN SPONSORS: Thank you to all of our weekly bulletin sponsors for your support during the year! Your support has not gone unnoticed by our parish community and is so appreciated!

                                                                               

---

USEFUL LINKS:

WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish.  For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit  faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS: http://www.stdennischurch.org
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm
FOR THE SAKE OF GOD’S CHILDREN: https://www.cdow.org/giving/fsgc/
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/  Newspaper of the Diocese, copies available as you leave Church or online
EWTN: ewtn.com

---

FROM THE DIOCESE:     

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. Hear Bishop Koenig’s Christmas message on the December 23^rd Catholic Forum.  CLICK HERE     You can listen online at cdow.org/CatholicForum, or by searching “Catholic Forum” on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or Amazon Music podcasts.   “Like” Catholic Forum on Facebook at facebook.com/CatholicForum @CatholicForum.

HAPPENING ELSEWHERE:
LET’S TALK HEALING – St. John-Holy Angels Parish, Newark
January 6, 13, 20, (not the 27th) & Feb 3  Snow date make-up Feb 10, if needed
Is Jesus still healing people today? Are these healings real, and do they last? How can we pray for healing? Can my broken heart be healed as well as my body? In her new book, Dr. Mary Healy answers these questions and more.  Join St. John-Holy Angels Parish for an informal book study and conversation on the book, “Healing: Bringing the Gift of God’s Mercy to the World,” led by Terry Haar/aRise Healing Ministry. Discussions will be held at Holy Angels Church, 82 Possum Park Road, Newark, DE 19711, from 10 am-12 noon on each date. Use the San Damiano Center back entrance to the church.  You do not need to attend all of the dates. You can check in for the reading assignments missed before each week you attend. Please read the first 66 pages prior to the first meeting. Coffee/refreshments provided. All interested are welcome. Free. Preregistration is required. (302) 731-2219 or arise@holyangels.net.

 

---

LET US PRAY:

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Gaudete Sunday – Rejoice!
December 16/17

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER

~ How can you cultivate an attitude of thanksgiving, no matter the circumstance?
~ Who needs you to bring them glad tidings?
~ As Christmas beckons, consider how you can join your heart to Mary’s and make the Magnificat part of your daily prayer.

 READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121723.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am, Tuesdays & Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays. 

PARISH WEBSITE: Visit: www.saintpolycarp.org/.

WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE .  (New Bulletins are posted on Fridays.) 

BULLETIN OVERFLOW: There’s always information that doesn’t fit in our Bulletin –  Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE

---

 

You are cordially invited to join us for the 4pm Christmas Eve Mass and to watch our PSR 1^st graders bring to life our Nativity Pageant. The reenactment of the First  Christmas will take place  immediately following the Mass. This performance will surely put you into the Christmas Spirit. 

 

RECONCILIATION – OPPORTUNITIES TO ATTEND CONFESSION DURING ADVENT. Need a refresher? CLICK HERE

St. Polycarp Church:
Saturdays from 2:30 – 3:30 pm & Following the 10:30 am Mass on Sundays during Advent –  17^th, and 24^th.

St. Dennis Church, Galena MD:
Sundays 7 – 7:30 am & 5:30 pm – 6 pm Thursday, December 21^st.

Reconciliation Monday,  at St. Polycarp Church* & at St. Dennis Church:
Monday, December 18^th, from 3 pm – 5 pm and 6 pm – 8 pm, *two priests will be present during each session.

 

---

THIS WEEKEND, DECEMBER 16/17  (and Monday, December 18^th – Friday, December 22^nd) 

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: Children’s Liturgy of the Word will take place this Sunday, December 17^th, during the 10:30 am Mass. This is a wonderful opportunity for children in PreK-4^th grade. Children will be called forward before the First Reading and will return to you after the General Intercessions.

 

BREAKFAST WITH JESUS:   Come join us, after Mass, this Sunday, December 17^th, for BREAKFAST WITH JESUS. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus will be serving a delicious breakfast to all. Let us celebrate the upcoming birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Breakfast is free, donations will be accepted. St. Nicholas (Santa) may be attending!

 

 

COLUMBIETTES COOKIE WALK  2023 will take place this weekend December 16^th and 17^th after the 4pm Mass on Saturday and after the 10:30 am Mass on Sunday. You will be able to purchase delicious cookies lovingly baked by our Columbiettes!  Only $1 per bag!

 

 

NATIVITY CRÈCHES FROM THE CATHOLIC CHURCHES OF DELAWARE AND MARYLAND’S EASTERN SHORE: Last Christmas, the diocese invited each of its 56 parishes and 18 mission churches to submit a photograph of their crèche to be included in the video that celebrates the 800^th anniversary of the very first Nativity scene. In 1223, wanting to emphasize the humble circumstances of Jesus’s birth and to inspire the local people to more deeply appreciate the Christmas story. St. Francis of Assisi set up a live Nativity scene in a cave in the quaint Italian village of Greccio.

On Sunday, December 17, 2023, a new video will debut on the Diocese of Wilmington’s YouTube channel. This video, produced by the Diocese of Wilmington, presents a montage of photographs of Nativity crèches from the Catholic churches of Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The video includes beautiful instrumental Christmas hymns as a background. Families are invited to watch the 12 ½ minute video together, discuss which scene they like best and why, maybe try to be the first to identify the scene from our parish. Visit www.YouTube.com/DioceseofWilm to view the video. (Pick-up a copy of this weekend’s Dialog as you leave Mass and check out the center page!)

RECONCILIATION MONDAY: Monday, December 18^th, from 3 pm – 5 pm and 6 pm – 8 pm, two priests will be present during each session.

 

BE BRAVE, ANSWER THE CALL: Are you a Catholic living in harmony with the teachings of the Church? Are you at least 18 years old? Have you received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist & Confirmation? Are you sufficiently mature to perform the duties of Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion at Mass or to the sick and homebound? These are the qualifications needed to be considered for Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. If this is a ministry you feel God calling you to, please contact Cindy Kennedy at Kennedy-078@msn.com. Formation and training will begin early January.

 

NOTICE ANYTHING DIFFERENT? We hope that you have noticed the new candle stands in the back of the Church. They are electric candles, which are safer and do not create soot.   The $3 aqua votive candles are now available to be lit for your intentions.  After you put your money in the slot, you just need to press the button in front of that candle.   You must press and hold the button until it lights.

The white candles are memorial candles. These candles are available to be lit in memory of someone. The introductory fee of $120 includes the candle being lit for a full year with a memorial name plate placed in front of that candle with the person’s name on it. This introductory fee is good until Ash Wednesday when the fee will be $150.  If you are interested in having one of these candles lit, please contact Kathy at the office. (302) 653-8279 or office@saintpolycarp.org  We hope you enjoy them.

 

CHRISTMAS NOVENA: Christmas is a time to reflect on the blessings of family and shared togetherness. We exchange gifts as an act of love and appreciation, but there is no greater gift we can give than the gift of the Holy Mass.  Although a loved one may no longer be present to share this time with us, let us remember that, now more than ever, they rely upon us for their spiritual well-being.   Take a moment to show your affection by praying on their behalf.   Living or deceased, the best gift you can give is the gift of the Mass.  Please use the Christmas Novena envelope to show your loved ones they have not been forgotten.

CHRISTMAS FLOWERS: Advent is a time of preparation.  Just like parents in every time and every location prepare for the birth of their child, Mary and Joseph did their best to welcome the Holy Child in the humble surroundings where our Lord entered the world.   Wouldn’t this be the ideal time to proclaim the birth of our Savior by decorating our Church with all the splendor befitting the birth of the King of Kings?  During this Advent season, please consider using the Christmas flower envelope to help us proclaim our joy as we rejoice in the birth of our Lord.

 

EARLY DEADLINES FOR DECEMBER & JANUARY BULLETINS: During the busy holiday season, the bulletin is due earlier to the publisher.  All submissions that you would like to appear in the bulletin, need to be submitted earlier than usual. Plan ahead!  If you plan on having an insert, please contact Judy immediately. Insert deadlines are sooner than the deadlines listed below!  ALL Submissions (including inserts or questions about inserts) should be emailed to submission@saintpolycarp.org. Judy can also be reached at the parish office (302) 653-8279. Bulletin Date December 31^st – Submissions due by December 19^th end of day; Bulletin January 7^th Submissions due by December 26^th end of day.

 

CONGRATULATIONS! 2023 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL:  Thank you to all those parishioners who contributed to the 2023 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. Our parish has achieved our goal in pledges and money collected for the appeal! Your generosity in supporting this year’s appeal once again demonstrates that you understand the mission of our Church.  Now that we have reached our goal in money collected, we will receive back half of the money collected above the goal for projects around our campus. We invite those who haven’t yet had the opportunity to give to the Appeal to join us in spreading the spirit of gratitude. Envelopes can be found at the doors of the Church You can also support the appeal online at www.cdow.org click “Giving” then “Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal,” or simply scan this QR code with your cellphone.

 

---

NEXT WEEKEND, December 23/24,

December 24^th is both the 4th Sunday of Advent and Christmas Eve.
Masses for the 4^th Sunday in Advent:
Saturday, December 23^rd at 4 pm
Sunday, December 24^th at 10:30 am. (This Mass is for the 4th Sunday of Advent. It is not a Christmas Eve Vigil Mass. No one Mass fulfills the Sunday obligation and the Christmas obligation.)

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Families and individuals are encouraged to sign up! Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/  Christmas Eve Vigil Mass, December 24th at 4 pm – Stephanie Roch

 

---

UPCOMING

AGAPE: Come join us on Sunday, January 7^th following the 10:30 Mass as we welcome in the New Year and celebrate the Epiphany of our Lord! Enjoy a delicious brunch, fellowship and fun! All are welcome.

 

ROCK AND ROLL TRIBUTE:  Come join us on in the parish hall on Saturday, January 13^th, 2024 to ROCK in the New Year. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus along with our Columbiettes are sponsoring a ROCK AND ROLL TRUBUTE with an evening of dinner, show and dancing featuring Mr. Charisma! Tickets are $45. Contact Anna Skinner at ANNA.SKINZ@gmail.com  or (302) 883-5647. Make checks payable to Knights of Columbus #7517, 55 ransom Lane, Smyrna, DE  19977.

---

INQUIRING MINDS WANT TO KNOW: WHY AND WHEN DO WE SIT, STAND AND KNEEL AT MASS? If you would like information on why we stand or sit or kneel during the Mass, please check out the following websites:

www.formed.org: Explaining the Faith with Fr. Chris Alar – Part 6: Teaching Mass (Part 1); and Teaching Mass (Part 2)

www.eucharisticrevival.org: go to Blog: Do This in Remembrance of Me: A Step by Step Walk Through the Mass by Fr. Luke Spannagel (there are 52 Parts).

 

FORMED: Thanks to a very generous and thoughtful parishioner, our FORMED Subscription has been RENEWED for another year!  Please SIGN UP NOW and begin enjoying the abundant amount of Catholic content that FORMED has to offer! You won’t be disappointed! To gain full access to FORMED; follow these simple steps:
~Go to: www.formed.org or scan QR Code
~Enter our parish’s zip code (19977)
~Click on St. Polycarp Church
~Enter your name and your email address

---

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

NEEDED – NEW MINISTRY SCHEDULER: We are currently looking for someone to take over the scheduling of our ministers for the Weekend Masses and Holy Days of Obligation. This person must have good PC organization and computer skills. If you think you might be interested in this position, please call Frank Patton at  (302) 508-5268.

SACRISTAN NEEDED: We are still in need of someone to step forward to serve as sacristan.  Sacristans have the duty to arrive early to the Church in order to unlock the doors and prepare the Church for Mass.  Becoming a sacristan would be a great way to learn more about our beautiful liturgy and become more involved in carrying it out.  No previous knowledge is required. If you are interested, please contact the head sacristan Adam Bauer at ajpd.bauer@gmail.com.

DIRECTORY COORDINATOR: The Pastoral Council is looking for a parishioner to coordinate the preparation for a new directory for Saint Polycarp. Our last directory was published in 2018 and we understand there may be an interest in producing a new directory.  Please contact Kathy Curlett at (302) 222 – 9326 if you are interested.

---

ONGOING 

SATURDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION at St. Polycarp will take place monthly at the Vigil Mass for the Second Sunday of the month.  Eucharistic Adoration at St. Dennis Church (Galena MD) will take place on the Fourth Sunday of the month following the 8 am Sunday Mass.

TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel. We are still in need of people to fill in the following openings 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am; 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and people to fill in when others are ill or cannot attend. Do you have one hour to spend with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament? Call Cheryl Thomas at (302) 363 – 0404 or email her at salcrest7@gmail.com. All are welcome to stop in and adore Jesus between 9 am and 8 pm in the Chapel on Tuesdays. Stay for 10 minutes, 1 hour…

 

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Families and individuals are encouraged to sign up! Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/  December 24^th, 4 pm Mass – S. Roch.

CONNECTED IN CHRIST (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets every Tuesday at 9:00 am in the Parish Library – ALL are welcome. Please join us. If you have any questions, please call Cookie Ruane at (302) 540 – 6429.

FAITH WITH FRIENDS (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets the first Thursday of every month at 6 pm in Room 7. Everyone is invited. Questions?  Contact Ashley Wilson at (302) 535-4118.

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: Children’s Liturgy of the Word is offered every 1^st and 3^rd Sunday of the month during the 10:30am Mass. (This month – November 5^th and 19^th).This is a wonderful opportunity for children in PreK-4^th grade. It mirrors the worship experience of the larger community in an engaging and interactive style. They will listen to Scripture and engage in discussions about what they have heard at their age level. Children will be called forward before the First Reading and will return to you after the General Intercessions. Our lead catechist is Anna Skinner. She, along with her assistants, have cleared background checks.

GLUTEN FREE? Do you have an intolerance to gluten? If so, our parish offers gluten-free wafers to be consecrated for you. Please see our Sacristan 10 – 15 minutes before Mass and let them know that you need a gluten-free wafer put in the pyx. At Communion, please proceed down the aisle to the priest who will have the pyx in his hand and let him know you need a gluten-free host.

IS THAT YOU, FR. JIM? If you receive emails or texts from Fr. Jim asking for favors, gift cards or gifts or stating something similar to “I am currently busy in a meeting now, no calls so just reply to my email.”, please ignore and delete. If an email looks suspicious and you’re not sure, give the office a call.

SMYRNA-CLAYTON FOOD PANTRY: Due to increased need in the community, the Pantry is in great need of cereal, juice boxes or pouches, peanut butter & jelly, hamburger helper, tuna helper, canned tuna, sloppy joe sauce (Manwich), boxed spaghetti, spaghetti sauce, vegetable beef and chicken noodle soups, macaroni & cheese, and Chef Boy Ardee canned pastas. Please, NO CANNED vegetables or beans are currently needed.  Bins for your donations are located under the coat rack near the hall.

REDNER’S MARKETS 1% SAVE-A-TAPE FUNDRAISER: Turn your food shopping into cash for our parish. Simply be sure to obtain and scan your Redner’s Rewards Card each time you shop. Save your whole receipt. Bring your receipts to the Parish Office or put them into the collection basket. There is no expiration date – you can turn in receipts months old!

THE SMYRNA/CLAYTON MINISTERIUM FOOD PANTRY is located downstairs at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 22 N. Union St., Smyrna. The pantry is open from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, Monday thru Friday. Here at St. Polycarp we have bins under the coat rack in the hallway near the bathrooms to accept your donations.  Please, no expired items.

BULLETIN SPONSORS: Thank you to all of our weekly bulletin sponsors for your support during the year! Your support has not gone unnoticed by our parish community and is so appreciated!

                                                                               

---

USEFUL LINKS:

WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish.  For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit  faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS: http://www.stdennischurch.org
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm
FOR THE SAKE OF GOD’S CHILDREN: https://www.cdow.org/giving/fsgc/
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/  Newspaper of the Diocese, copies available as you leave Church or online
EWTN: ewtn.com

---

FROM THE DIOCESE:     

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM.  Author, Fr. Dwight Longenecker discusses “The Secret of the Bethlehem Shepherds” on the December 16th Catholic Forum podcast.  CLICK HERE     You can listen online at cdow.org/CatholicForum, or by searching “Catholic Forum” on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or Amazon Music podcasts.   “Like” Catholic Forum on Facebook at facebook.com/CatholicForum @CatholicForum.

---

LET US PRAY:

Blessing of a Crèche

God of every nation and people,
From the very beginning of creation
You have made manifest your love:

When our need for a Savior was great
You sent your Son to be born of the Virgin Mary.
To our lives he brings joy and peace,
Justice, mercy and love.

Lord,
Bless all who look upon this manger;
May it remind us of the humble birth of Jesus,
And raise up our thoughts to him,
Who is God-with-us and Savior of all,
And who lives and reigns for ever and ever.

Amen.

 

 

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT
December 9/10

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER

~ Where do you see kindness and truth meet?
~ What paths in your life do you need to seek God’s help in straightening this Advent?
~ How can you emulate the humility of John the Baptist, who proclaims, “One mightier than I is coming after me.”

 READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121023.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am, Tuesdays & Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays. 

PARISH WEBSITE: Visit: www.saintpolycarp.org/.

WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE .  (New Bulletins are posted on Fridays.) 

BULLETIN OVERFLOW: There’s always information that doesn’t fit in our Bulletin –  Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE

---

TOMORROW, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8^th IS A HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This day is also the Patronal Feast Day of the United States of America. On the Immaculate Conception we remember that Mary was conceived without sin, preparing her with special graces to be the mother of God.   Masses on Friday, December 8^th, at 8:30 am and 7 pm.    (not 7:30 am)

 

---

 

---

RECONCILIATION – OPPORTUNITIES TO ATTEND CONFESSION DURING ADVENT. Need a refresher? CLICK HERE

St. Polycarp Church:
Saturdays from 2:30 – 3:30 pm & Following the 10:30 am Mass on Sundays during Advent –  10^th, 17^th, and 24^th.

St. Dennis Church, Galena MD:
Sundays 7 – 7:30 am & 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm on Thursday, December 7^th & 5:30 pm – 6 pm Thursday, December 21^st.

Reconciliation Monday,  St. Polycarp & St. Dennis:
Monday, December 18^th, from 3 pm – 5 pm and 6 pm – 8 pm, two priests will be present during each session.

Deanery Penance Service at  Holy Cross Church, Dover: Thursday, December 14^th, at Holy Cross Church, Dover at 7 pm. Multiple priests will be in attendance to hear confessions.

---

WEEKDAY MASSES: 
Weekday Morning Masses will return to the original days/times. During the week, morning Masses will be celebrated only on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 8:30 am.
Holy Days of Obligation will be scheduled when needed.

 

---

 

THIS WEEKEND, DECEMBER 9/10  (and Monday, December 11^th – Friday, December 15^th) 

SATURDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION will take place this Saturday, December 9^th  (the Vigil Mass before the 2^nd Sunday of the month) at the 4 pm Mass.  Please do not leave before Fr. Jim exits the Church.) Silent prayer continues until 6. Spend some time quietly with Jesus as we prepare to celebrate His birth. When you leave, please do so quietly as others are praying to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. .

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Families and individuals are encouraged to sign up! Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/  This Sunday, December 10, 10:30 am Mass – Donna Adams.

 

BE BRAVE, ANSWER THE CALL: Are you a Catholic living in harmony with the teachings of the Church? Are you at least 18 years old? Have you received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist & Confirmation? Are you sufficiently mature to perform the duties of Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion at Mass or to the sick and homebound? These are the qualifications needed to be considered for Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. If this is a ministry you feel God calling you to, please contact Cindy Kennedy at Kennedy-078@msn.com. Formation and training will begin early January

TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel.  All are welcome to stop in and adore Jesus between 9 am and 8 pm in the Chapel on Tuesdays. Stay for 10 minutes, 1 hour…  We are still in need of people to fill in the following openings 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am; 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and people to fill in when others are ill or cannot attend. Do you have one hour to spend with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament? Call Cheryl Thomas at (302) 363 – 0404 or email her at salcrest7@gmail.com.

 

NOTICE ANYTHING DIFFERENT? Next time you go to Mass, please notice the new candle stands in the back. They are electric candles, which are safer and do not create soot.   The aqua candles are the $3 votive candles.    After you put your money in the slot, you just need to press the button in front of that candle.   You must press & hold the button until it lights. The white candles are the memorial candles.   There will be a fee to have the church light them, which will enable that candle to be lit for an entire year.  We will have a memorial name plate place in front on that candle.  We will post that fee soon. We hope you enjoy them.

 

 

EARLY DEADLINES FOR DECEMBER & JANUARY BULLETINS: During the busy holiday season, the bulletin is due earlier to the publisher.  All submissions that you would like to appear in the bulletin, need to be submitted earlier than usual. Plan ahead!  If you plan on having an insert, please contact Judy immediately. Insert deadlines are sooner than the deadlines listed below!  ALL Submissions (including inserts or questions about inserts) should be emailed to submission@saintpolycarp.org. Judy can also be reached at the parish office (302) 653-8279.
Bulletin Date December 24^th – Submissions due December 12^th end of day; Bulletin Date – Submissions due by December 19^th end of day; Bulletin January 7^th Submissions due by December 26^th end of day.

 

CHRISTMAS NOVENA: Christmas is a time to reflect on the blessings of family and shared togetherness. We exchange gifts as an act of love and appreciation, but there is no greater gift we can give than the gift of the Holy Mass.  Although a loved one may no longer be present to share this time with us, let us remember that, now more than ever, they rely upon us for their spiritual well-being.   Take a moment to show your affection by praying on their behalf.   Living or deceased, the best gift you can give is the gift of the Mass.  Please use the Christmas Novena envelope to show your loved ones they have not been forgotten.

 

CHRISTMAS FLOWERS: Advent is a time of preparation.  Just like parents in every time and every location prepare for the birth of their child, Mary and Joseph did their best to welcome the Holy Child in the humble surroundings where our Lord entered the world.   Wouldn’t this be the ideal time to proclaim the birth of our Savior by decorating our Church with all the splendor befitting the birth of the King of Kings?  During this Advent season, please consider using the Christmas flower envelope to help us proclaim our joy as we rejoice in the birth of our Lord.

 

 

2023 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL: Update coming soon. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all those parishioners who have already contributed to our parish Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. Your commitment matters greatly.  Thank you for your continued support. Once we reach our goal in collected donations, we will receive back half of the money collected above the goal for projects around our campus. We invite those who haven’t yet had the opportunity to give to the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal to join us in spreading the spirit of gratitude. Envelopes can be found at the doors of the Church. 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 cellphone.

---

NEXT WEEKEND, December 16/17 (and Monday, December 18^th – Friday, December 22^nd)    

BREAKFAST WITH JESUS:   Come join us, after Mass, next Sunday, December 17^th, for BREAKFAST WITH JESUS. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus will be serving a delicious breakfast to all. Let us celebrate the upcoming birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Breakfast is free, donations will be accepted. St. Nicholas (Santa) may be attending!

 

COLUMBIETTES COOKIE WALK  2023 will take place next weekend December 16^th and 17^th., after Mass. You will be able to purchase delicious cookies lovingly baked by our Columbiettes!  Only $1 per bag!

 

---

UPCOMING

ROCK AND ROLL TRIBUTE  “SAVE THE DATE”:  Come join us on Saturday, January 13^th, 2024 to ROCK in the New Year. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus along with our Columbiettes is sponsoring a ROCK AND ROLL TRUBUTE with an evening of dinner and dancing.
Mr. Charisma will be back to entertain us.

 

---

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

HELP NEEDED: The Parish Office is looking for someone to help at the front desk on Tuesday mornings from 9 to noon. If you are willing and able to serve in this ministry, please contact Kathy in the parish office at (302) 653-8279 or office@saintpolycarp.org.

NEEDED – NEW MINISTRY SCHEDULER: We are currently looking for someone to take over the scheduling of our ministers for the Weekend Masses and Holy Days of Obligation. This person must have good PC organization and computer skills. If you think you might be interested in this position, please call Frank Patton at  (302) 508-5268.

SACRISTAN NEEDED: We are still in need of someone to step forward to serve as sacristan.  Sacristans have the duty to arrive early to the Church in order to unlock the doors and prepare the Church for Mass.  Becoming a sacristan would be a great way to learn more about our beautiful liturgy and become more involved in carrying it out.  No previous knowledge is required. If you are interested, please contact the head sacristan Adam Bauer at ajpd.bauer@gmail.com.

DIRECTORY COORDINATOR: The Pastoral Council is looking for a parishioner to coordinate the preparation for a new directory for Saint Polycarp. Our last directory was published in 2018 and we understand there may be an interest in producing a new directory.  Please contact Kathy Curlett at (302) 222 – 9326 if you are interested.

---

ONGOING 

SATURDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION at St. Polycarp will take place monthly at the Vigil Mass for the Second Sunday of the month.  December 9^th. Eucharistic Adoration at St. Dennis Church (Galena MD) will take place on the Fourth Sunday of the month following the 8 am Sunday Mass. (November 26^th).

TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel. We are still in need of people to fill in the following openings 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am; 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and people to fill in when others are ill or cannot attend. Do you have one hour to spend with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament? Call Cheryl Thomas at (302) 363 – 0404 or email her at salcrest7@gmail.com. All are welcome to stop in and adore Jesus between 9 am and 8 pm in the Chapel on Tuesdays. Stay for 10 minutes, 1 hour…

 

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Families and individuals are encouraged to sign up! Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/  December 10, 10:30 am Mass – Donna Adams, December 24, 4 pm Mass – S. Roch.

CONNECTED IN CHRIST (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets every Tuesday at 9:00 am in the Parish Library – ALL are welcome. Please join us. If you have any questions, please call Cookie Ruane at (302) 540 – 6429.

FAITH WITH FRIENDS (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets the first Thursday of every month at 6 pm in Room 7. Everyone is invited. Questions?  Contact Ashley Wilson at (302) 535-4118.

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: Children’s Liturgy of the Word is offered every 1^st and 3^rd Sunday of the month during the 10:30am Mass. (This month – November 5^th and 19^th).This is a wonderful opportunity for children in PreK-4^th grade. It mirrors the worship experience of the larger community in an engaging and interactive style. They will listen to Scripture and engage in discussions about what they have heard at their age level. Children will be called forward before the First Reading and will return to you after the General Intercessions. Our lead catechist is Anna Skinner. She, along with her assistants, have cleared background checks.

GLUTEN FREE? Do you have an intolerance to gluten? If so, our parish offers gluten-free wafers to be consecrated for you. Please see our Sacristan 10 – 15 minutes before Mass and let them know that you need a gluten-free wafer put in the pyx. At Communion, please proceed down the aisle to the priest who will have the pyx in his hand and let him know you need a gluten-free host.

IS THAT YOU, FR. JIM? If you receive emails or texts from Fr. Jim asking for favors, gift cards or gifts or stating something similar to “I am currently busy in a meeting now, no calls so just reply to my email.”, please ignore and delete. If an email looks suspicious and you’re not sure, give the office a call.

 

FORMED: Thanks to a very generous and thoughtful parishioner, our FORMED Subscription has been RENEWED for another year!  Please SIGN UP NOW and begin enjoying the abundant amount of Catholic content that FORMED has to offer! You won’t be disappointed! To gain full access to FORMED; follow these simple steps:
~Go to: www.formed.org or scan QR Code
~Enter our parish’s zip code (19977)
~Click on St. Polycarp Church
~Enter your name and your email address

REDNER’S MARKETS 1% SAVE-A-TAPE FUNDRAISER: Turn your food shopping into cash for our parish. Simply be sure to obtain and scan your Redner’s Rewards Card each time you shop. Save your whole receipt. Bring your receipts to the Parish Office or put them into the collection basket. There is no expiration date – you can turn in receipts months old!

THE SMYRNA/CLAYTON MINISTERIUM FOOD PANTRY is located downstairs at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 22 N. Union St., Smyrna. The pantry is open from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, Monday thru Friday. Here at St. Polycarp we have bins under the coat rack in the hallway near the bathrooms to accept your donations.  Please, no expired items.

BULLETIN SPONSORS: Thank you to all of our weekly bulletin sponsors for your support during the year! Your support has not gone unnoticed by our parish community and is so appreciated!

                                                                               

---

USEFUL LINKS:

WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish.  For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit  faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS: http://www.stdennischurch.org
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm
FOR THE SAKE OF GOD’S CHILDREN: https://www.cdow.org/giving/fsgc/
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/  Newspaper of the Diocese, copies available as you leave Church or online
EWTN: ewtn.com

---

FROM THE DIOCESE:     

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. Author, Michael Foley and Sr. Ann David Strohminger discuss Christmas traditions on the Dec. 9th Catholic Forum podcast. CLICK HERE     You can listen online at cdow.org/CatholicForum, or by searching “Catholic Forum” on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or Amazon Music podcasts.   “Like” Catholic Forum on Facebook at facebook.com/CatholicForum @CatholicForum.

---

LET US PRAY:  Magnificat

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed:
the Almighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm,
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones,
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers,
to Abraham and his children forever.
Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.

FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT
December 2/3

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER

~ How can you make Advent an opportunity to share your faith with another?
~ What daily practices in your home will help you turn to God during these weeks of anticipation?
~ Could you schedule a time during the day to be especially alert to God’s presence?

 READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/120323.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am, Tuesdays & Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays. 

PARISH WEBSITE: Visit: www.saintpolycarp.org/.

WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE .  (New Bulletins are posted on Fridays.) 

BULLETIN OVERFLOW: There’s always information that doesn’t fit in our Bulletin –  Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE

---

 

---

RECONCILIATION – OPPORTUNITIES TO ATTEND CONFESSION DURING ADVENT. Need a refresher? CLICK HERE

St. Polycarp Church:
Saturdays from 2:30 – 3:30 pm & Following the 10:30 am Mass on Sundays during Advent –  December 3^rd, 10^th, 17^th, and 24^th.

St. Dennis Church, Galena MD:
Sundays 7 – 7:30 am & 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm on Thursday, December 7^th & 5:30 pm – 6 pm Thursday, December 21^st.

Reconciliation Monday,  St. Polycarp & St. Dennis:
Monday, December 18^th, from 3 pm – 5 pm and 6 pm – 8 pm, two priests will be present during each session.

Deanery Penance Service at  Holy Cross Church, Dover: Thursday, December 14^th, at Holy Cross Church, Dover at 7 pm. Multiple priests will be in attendance to hear confessions.

---

WEEKDAY MASSES: 
Weekday Morning Masses will return to the original days/times. During the week, morning Masses will be celebrated only on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 8:30 am.
Holy Days of Obligation will be scheduled where needed.

 

---

HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION: Friday, December 8^th, is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This day is a Holy Day of Obligation.  This day is also the Patronal Feast Day of the United States of America. On the Immaculate Conception we remember that Mary was conceived without sin, preparing her with special graces to be the mother of God.

 

Masses at St. Polycarp for the Holy Day:
Thursday, December 7^th, at 4 pm (Vigil Mass)
Friday, December 8^th, at 8:30 am and 7 pm.    (not 7:30 am)

---

THIS WEEKEND, DECEMBER 2/3  (and Monday, December 4^th – Friday, December 8^th) 

SECOND COLLECTION THIS WEEKEND is for the Retirement Fund for Religious. Support a lifetime of service.  Women and men religious have spent their lives serving others in prayer, ministry, education, and care for those in need-usually for little or no pay.  Today, their religious communities do not have enough retirement savings.  As they age, they require essential care and medications.  Please support them by giving to the Retirement Fund for Religious.  Please give generously.

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: Children’s Liturgy of the Word is offered every 1^st and 3^rd Sunday of the month during the 10:30am Mass. (This month – December 3^rd  and 17^th).This is a wonderful opportunity for children in PreK-4^th grade. It mirrors the worship experience of the larger community in an engaging and interactive style. They will listen to Scripture and engage in discussions about what they have heard at their age level. Children will be called forward before the First Reading and will return to you after the General Intercessions. Our lead catechist is Anna Skinner. She, along with her assistants, have cleared background checks.

 

THE GIVING TREE –  Please return gifts to the hall by this Sunday, December 3rd. Questions? Contact Fran Walls at (302) 653 – 1450.

 

 

 ANNUAL TURKEY & HAM DRIVE – The St Vincent De Paul Society, along with the Knights of Columbus, will be conducting the Annual Christmas Gift Program. Parishioners are asked to donate a turkey or ham. Gift cards (not to exceed $30.00) are also greatly appreciated. Kindly bring your frozen turkey, ham or gift card to St. Polycarp’s Church parking lot on Thursday evening, December 7^th between 6:30 to 7:30 pm. St Vincent de Paul members will deliver the turkeys, hams and gift cards Saturday morning, December 9^th, between 9 am to noon, to those in need within the parish boundaries. Someone must be home to receive these gifts. If you know of anyone who is in need of a turkey/ham/gift card, please call St. Vincent de Paul at (302) 264-6630.

 

BE BRAVE, ANSWER THE CALL: Are you a Catholic living in harmony with the teachings of the Church? Are you at least 18 years old? Have you received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist & Confirmation? Are you sufficiently mature to perform the duties of Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion at Mass or to the sick and homebound? These are the qualifications needed to be considered for Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. If this is a ministry you feel God calling you to, please contact Cindy Kennedy at Kennedy-078@msn.com. Formation and training will begin early January

TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel.  All are welcome to stop in and adore Jesus between 9 am and 8 pm in the Chapel on Tuesdays. Stay for 10 minutes, 1 hour…  We are still in need of people to fill in the following openings 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am; 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and people to fill in when others are ill or cannot attend. Do you have one hour to spend with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament? Call Cheryl Thomas at (302) 363 – 0404 or email her at salcrest7@gmail.com.

HELP NEEDED: The Parish Office is looking for someone to help at the front desk on Tuesday mornings from 9 to noon. If you are willing and able to serve in this ministry, please contact Kathy in the parish office at (302) 653-8279 or office@saintpolycarp.org.

 

EARLY DEADLINES FOR DECEMBER & JANUARY BULLETINS: During the busy holiday season, the bulletin is due earlier to the publisher.  All submissions that you would like to appear in the bulletin, need to be submitted earlier than usual. Plan ahead!  If you plan on having an insert, please contact Judy immediately. Insert deadlines are sooner than the deadlines listed below!  ALL Submissions (including inserts or questions about inserts) should be emailed to submission@saintpolycarp.org. Judy can also be reached at the parish office (302) 653-8279.
Bulletin Date December 17^th – Submissions due December 6^th by noon; Bulletin Date December 24^th – Submissions due December 12^th end of day; Bulletin Date – Submissions due by December 19^th end of day; Bulletin January 7^th Submissions due by December 26^th end of day.

 

CHRISTMAS NOVENA: Christmas is a time to reflect on the blessings of family and shared togetherness. We exchange gifts as an act of love and appreciation, but there is no greater gift we can give than the gift of the Holy Mass.  Although a loved one may no longer be present to share this time with us, let us remember that, now more than ever, they rely upon us for their spiritual well-being.   Take a moment to show your affection by praying on their behalf.   Living or deceased, the best gift you can give is the gift of the Mass.  Please use the Christmas Novena envelope to show your loved ones they have not been forgotten.

 

CHRISTMAS FLOWERS: Advent is a time of preparation.  Just like parents in every time and every location prepare for the birth of their child, Mary and Joseph did their best to welcome the Holy Child in the humble surroundings where our Lord entered the world.   Wouldn’t this be the ideal time to proclaim the birth of our Savior by decorating our Church with all the splendor befitting the birth of the King of Kings?  During this Advent season, please consider using the Christmas flower envelope to help us proclaim our joy as we rejoice in the birth of our Lord.

 

2023 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL:  We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all those parishioners who have already contributed to our parish Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. We are $4,409.92 above the $60,000 goal in pledges; however, we have not yet met our goal in amounts collected.  If you’ve pledged, kindly ensure your payments are up to date. Your commitment matters greatly.  Thank you for your continued support.

Once we reach our goal in collected donations, we will receive back half of the money collected above the goal for projects around our campus. We invite those who haven’t yet had the opportunity to give to the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal to join us in spreading the spirit of gratitude. Envelopes can be found at the doors of the Church. 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 cellphone.

 

---

NEXT WEEKEND, December 9/10 (and Monday, December 11^th – Friday, December 15^th)    

SATURDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION will take place next Saturday, December 9^th  (the Vigil Mass before the 2^nd Sunday of the month) at the 4 pm Mass.  Please do not leave before Fr. Jim exits the Church.) Silent prayer continues until 6. We begin Advent this weekend. Spend some time quietly with Jesus as we prepare to celebrate His birth. When you leave, please do so quietly as others are praying to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. .

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Families and individuals are encouraged to sign up! Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/  Next Sunday, December 10, 10:30 am Mass – Donna Adams, December 24, 4 pm – Stephanie Roch.

---

UPCOMING

BREAKFAST WITH JESUS:   Come join us, after Mass, on Sunday, December 17^th, for BREAKFAST WITH JESUS. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus will be serving a delicious breakfast to all. Let us celebrate the upcoming birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Breakfast is free, donations will be accepted. St. Nicholas (Santa) may be attending!

 

COLUMBIETTES COOKIE WALK  2023 will take place the weekend of December 16^th and 17^th. You will be able to purchase delicious cookies lovingly baked by our Columbiettes!  Details to follow in future bulletins!

 

ROCK AND ROLL TRIBUTE  “SAVE THE DATE”:  Come join us on Saturday, January 13^th, 2024 to ROCK in the New Year. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus along with our Columbiettes is sponsoring a ROCK AND ROLL TRUBUTE with an evening of dinner and dancing.
Mr. Charisma will be back to entertain us.

 

---

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

NEEDED – NEW MINISTRY SCHEDULER: We are currently looking for someone to take over the scheduling of our ministers for the Weekend Masses and Holy Days of Obligation. This person must have good PC organization and computer skills. If you think you might be interested in this position, please call Frank Patton at  (302) 508-5268.

SACRISTAN NEEDED: We are still in need of someone to step forward to serve as sacristan.  Sacristans have the duty to arrive early to the Church in order to unlock the doors and prepare the Church for Mass.  Becoming a sacristan would be a great way to learn more about our beautiful liturgy and become more involved in carrying it out.  No previous knowledge is required. If you are interested, please contact the head sacristan Adam Bauer at ajpd.bauer@gmail.com.

DIRECTORY COORDINATOR: The Pastoral Council is looking for a parishioner to coordinate the preparation for a new directory for Saint Polycarp. Our last directory was published in 2018 and we understand there may be an interest in producing a new directory.  Please contact Kathy Curlett at (302) 222 – 9326 if you are interested.

---

ONGOING 

SATURDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION at St. Polycarp will take place monthly at the Vigil Mass for the Second Sunday of the month.  December 9^th. Eucharistic Adoration at St. Dennis Church (Galena MD) will take place on the Fourth Sunday of the month following the 8 am Sunday Mass. (November 26^th).

TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel. We are still in need of people to fill in the following openings 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am; 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and people to fill in when others are ill or cannot attend. Do you have one hour to spend with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament? Call Cheryl Thomas at (302) 363 – 0404 or email her at salcrest7@gmail.com. All are welcome to stop in and adore Jesus between 9 am and 8 pm in the Chapel on Tuesdays. Stay for 10 minutes, 1 hour…

 

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Families and individuals are encouraged to sign up! Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/  December 10, 10:30 am Mass – Donna Adams, December 24, 4 pm Mass – S. Roch.

CONNECTED IN CHRIST (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets every Tuesday at 9:00 am in the Parish Library – ALL are welcome. Please join us. If you have any questions, please call Cookie Ruane at (302) 540 – 6429.

FAITH WITH FRIENDS (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets the first Thursday of every month at 6 pm in Room 7. Everyone is invited. Questions?  Contact Ashley Wilson at (302) 535-4118.

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: Children’s Liturgy of the Word is offered every 1^st and 3^rd Sunday of the month during the 10:30am Mass. (This month – November 5^th and 19^th).This is a wonderful opportunity for children in PreK-4^th grade. It mirrors the worship experience of the larger community in an engaging and interactive style. They will listen to Scripture and engage in discussions about what they have heard at their age level. Children will be called forward before the First Reading and will return to you after the General Intercessions. Our lead catechist is Anna Skinner. She, along with her assistants, have cleared background checks.

GLUTEN FREE? Do you have an intolerance to gluten? If so, our parish offers gluten-free wafers to be consecrated for you. Please see our Sacristan 10 – 15 minutes before Mass and let them know that you need a gluten-free wafer put in the pyx. At Communion, please proceed down the aisle to the priest who will have the pyx in his hand and let him know you need a gluten-free host.

IS THAT YOU, FR. JIM? If you receive emails or texts from Fr. Jim asking for favors, gift cards or gifts or stating something similar to “I am currently busy in a meeting now, no calls so just reply to my email.”, please ignore and delete. If an email looks suspicious and you’re not sure, give the office a call.

 

FORMED: Thanks to a very generous and thoughtful parishioner, our FORMED Subscription has been RENEWED for another year!  Please SIGN UP NOW and begin enjoying the abundant amount of Catholic content that FORMED has to offer! You won’t be disappointed! To gain full access to FORMED; follow these simple steps:
~Go to: www.formed.org or scan QR Code
~Enter our parish’s zip code (19977)
~Click on St. Polycarp Church
~Enter your name and your email address

REDNER’S MARKETS 1% SAVE-A-TAPE FUNDRAISER: Turn your food shopping into cash for our parish. Simply be sure to obtain and scan your Redner’s Rewards Card each time you shop. Save your whole receipt. Bring your receipts to the Parish Office or put them into the collection basket. There is no expiration date – you can turn in receipts months old!

THE SMYRNA/CLAYTON MINISTERIUM FOOD PANTRY is located downstairs at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 22 N. Union St., Smyrna. The pantry is open from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, Monday thru Friday. Here at St. Polycarp we have bins under the coat rack in the hallway near the bathrooms to accept your donations.  Please, no expired items.

BULLETIN SPONSORS: Thank you to all of our weekly bulletin sponsors for your support during the year! Your support has not gone unnoticed by our parish community and is so appreciated!

                                                                               

---

USEFUL LINKS:

WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish.  For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit  faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS: http://www.stdennischurch.org
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm
FOR THE SAKE OF GOD’S CHILDREN: https://www.cdow.org/giving/fsgc/
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/  Newspaper of the Diocese, copies available as you leave Church or online
EWTN: ewtn.com

---

FROM THE DIOCESE:     

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM.  Learn about “Triumph: The Power and the Glory of the Catholic Church” when author, H. W. Crocker is interviewed on the Dec. 2nd Catholic Forum podcast. CLICK HERE     You can listen online at cdow.org/CatholicForum, or by searching “Catholic Forum” on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or Amazon Music podcasts.   “Like” Catholic Forum on Facebook at facebook.com/CatholicForum @CatholicForum.

---

LET US PRAY:  BLESSING OF THE ADVENT WREATH

The use of the Advent Wreath is a traditional practice which has found its place in the Church as well as in the home. The blessing of an Advent Wreath takes place on the First Sunday of Advent or on the evening before the First Sunday of Advent.  When the blessing of the Advent Wreath is celebrated in the home, it is appropriate that it be blessed by a parent or another member of the family.

---

All make the Sign of the Cross as the leader says:

Our help is in the name of the Lord.
Response (R/.) Who made heaven and earth.

Then the Scripture, Isaiah 9: (lines 1-2 and 5-6) or Isaiah 63 (lines 16-17 & 19) or Isaiah 64  (lines 2-7) is read:

Reader: The word of the Lord.
R/. Thanks be to God.

With hands joined, the leader says:

Lord our God,
we praise you for your Son, Jesus Christ:
he is Emmanuel, the hope of the peoples,
he is the wisdom that teaches and guides us,
he is the Savior of every nation.

Lord God,
let your blessing come upon us
as we light the candles of this wreath.
May the wreath and its light
be a sign of Christ’s promise to bring us salvation.
May he come quickly and not delay.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.

The blessing may conclude with a verse from
“O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”:

O come, desire of nations, bind
in one the hearts of humankind;
bid ev’ry sad division cease
and be thyself our Prince of peace.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
shall come to thee, O Israel.

(taken from USCCB)