FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

The Season of Easter began on Easter Sunday, March 31^st, and will end on Sunday, May 19^th, with the Solemnity of Pentecost Sunday. The Easter Season lasts for 50 days.

During the Easter Season, we will be praying the Apostle’s Creed instead of the Nicene Creed. The Apostle’s Creed can be found on pg. 10 of Breaking Bread. It is the Baptismal symbol of our Church during this season.

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER

~ “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” How have you experienced God working in paradoxical ways in your life?
~ What does it mean to be a child of God?
~ How are you being called to lay down your life for others, following the Good Shepherd?

READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/042124.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.) 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!

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

Unfortunately, there will be NO Confessions prior to Mass (2:30-3:30 pm) tomorrow, Saturday, April 20^th, due to Fr. Jim’s attendance at Confirmation at Holy Cross. There was no priest available to come hear confessions at that time. Fr. Jim will be here for the 4:00 pm Mass. Please continue to pray for Vocations!

PLEASE PRAY: Please pray for the repose of the soul of Reverend Thomas A. Flowers who passed from this life into eternal life on Wednesday, April 17th at the age of 73. Fr. Tom was Pastor at St. Polycarp from 2002 to 2015. We will remember Fr. Tom and his deep faith and love of our Lord and his dedication to our parish. Thank you, Fr. Tom. May you rest in peace.
As funeral arrangements become available, we will share them with you.

THIS WEEKEND, APRIL 20/21 (and Monday, April 22^nd – Friday, APRIL 26^th)

Students in our Confirmation Class will be receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation this Saturday, April 20^th, at 1 pm at Holy Cross Church, Dover. Please keep our 15 Confirmandi in your prayers.

PRETZEL TIME! The Knights of Columbus will be selling soft pretzels after Masses this weekend, April 20^th and 21^st. Pretzels are $2 each or 3 for $5.

FAITH WITH FRIENDS (Adult Formation) will continue meeting on Sunday, 21^st and 28^th at 9 am in the library.

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD will take place this Sunday 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. Our leaders and assistants have cleared background checks.

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: This Sunday, April 21^st at the 10:30 am Mass, Iris Acosta will receive the Vocation Chalice. 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/

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS: Brother Vincent Columbiette’s, are now taking orders. Order a beautiful locally grown,11″ colorful hanging basket for only $25.00! Your choice of Petunias, Begonias or Geraniums. Orders need to be placed by Friday May 3rd. Baskets will be ready for pick-up at St. Polycarp Church or delivered if needed on Friday May 10th. To place your order or for any questions contact: Jill Mercer- 518-795-7579 jll_mercer@yahoo.com or Darlene Sanphy – 302-270-3915 darpete87@comcast.net

MOTHER’S DAY NOVENA: We are part of this world today because our mothers have given us life. Each one of us has several special women who have enriched our lives: Grandmothers, Aunts, Cousins, Caregivers, Godmothers, Friends, and others. Living or deceased, the best gift you can give a loved one is the gift of the Mass. Please use the Mother’s Day Mass Remembrance envelopes to enlist these special women in the masses offered by our parish.

JOB OPENING AT ST. POLYCARP: We are in need of someone to take care of cleaning the offices, the Church and being the housekeeper at the rectory. Hours can be worked almost anytime – negotiable. This is a paid position, generally around 15 hours a week. This position can be split into separate positions. If you are interested, please contact Fr. Jim at 302.653.8279 or email fr.hreha@saintpolycarp.org. A special thank you to Angela Gibson who has filled this ministry for the last several years.

FAITH AND CHARITY APPEAL – One Body, One Spirit in Christ: Join us in the spirit of unity and love as we launch our Faith and Charity Appeal this weekend under the theme “One Body, One Spirit in Christ”. Inspired by the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd, we are reminded that we are all part of one flock. Our Appeal is an opportunity to strengthen the bonds of our community and deepen our relationship with God.
This Appeal is not just a call for financial support; it is an invitation to actively participate in the shared journey of faith. Each contribution, big or small, is a meaningful step towards building a more connected and vibrant community. As we come together in generosity, let us embody the essence of being one body and one spirit in Christ. Help our parish show a good level of active participation.
We are all invited to follow the Good Shepherd’s example and support one another on this sacred journey. One Body, One Spirit in Christ is an invitation to participate as a community in the 2024 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. Please respond by pledging a sacrificial gift to this important campaign.
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.

THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/ Newspaper of the Diocese, the new edition is available as you leave Church this weekend. Published every other week.

NEXT WEEKEND, APRIL 27/28 (and Monday, April 29^th – Friday, May 3^rd)

Please pray for those children who will be receiving the Eucharist for the first time on April 27^th, April 28^th, and May 4^th.

UPCOMING

ST. POLYCARP’S 5^th ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT & DINNER: JUNE 30, 2024
GARRISON LAKE GOLF CLUB, 101 West Fairways Circle, Smyrna, DE.
$130 per individual golfer includes lunch, Green fee, Golf Cart, on course beverages including beer, complimentary gift bags, prizes for best teams, long drive/closest to pin, followed by a buffet dinner.
Don’t golf? That’s ok. Join us at St. Polycarp Church for a delicious Italian Feast just $40.00 per person.
For more information and registration, Dennis Skinner (papadskinz@yahoo.com (302-981-8743) Anna Skinner (ANNA.SKINZ@gmail.com) (302-883-5647) or use this QR code.

CLICK HERE TO SEE FLYER

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

ONGOING

THREE YEARS OF ABUNDANT GRACE AND TRANSFORMATION – EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL

MISSION: To renew the church by enkindling a living relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist.

VISION: To inspire a movement of Catholics across the United States who are healed, converted, formed, and unified by an encounter with Jesus in the Eucharist—and who are then sent out on mission “for the life of the world.”

HOLY COMMUNION TO THE SICK AND HOMEBOUND – Do you know someone who is sick or homebound and not able to make it to Mass? We would love to give them the opportunity to receive Holy Communion in their homes. Please contact April Corrales at (302) 220 – 9616 or Lori Ostrowski at (302) 540 – 6522

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.
Upcoming Saturday Eucharistic Adoration at St. Polycarp: Saturday, May 11^th, Saturday, June 8^th, Saturday, July 13^th, Saturday, August 10^th

TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9 am to 8 pm in the Chapel. 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/ Sunday, April 21^st – Iris Acosta; Sunday, May 12^th – Donna Adams; Sunday May 26^th – Garrity Family

CONNECTED IN CHRIST (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets every Tuesday after the 8:30 am Mass in the Parish Library – ALL are welcome. We begin with prayer, then watch a video, usually from FORMED and follow up with a discussion. We close with prayer by 11am. Come and share your faith with us. Any questions, call Cookie Ruane, 302-540-6429

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 10:30 am 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.

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. Due to the 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. No canned vegetables or beans are currently needed. Please, no expired items. Here at St. Polycarp we have bins under the coat rack in the hallway near the bathrooms to accept your donations.

BULLETIN SPONSORS: Thank you to all of our weekly bulletin sponsors for your support during the year!

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 CHURCH: http://www.stdennischurch.org 153 N. Main St. Galena, MD 21635 (410) 648-5145
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. Published every other week.
EWTN: ewtn.com

FROM THE DIOCESE:

BE THERE WHEN GOD MOVES: The 10^th National Eucharistic Congress at Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN. From July 17^th–21^st, 2024, thousands of passionate Catholics will gather for a transformative experience on a scale this generation has never seen. Whether you join us for one day or all five, the grace you receive will spill out into our community when you return home—deeply in love with the Eucharist and excited about the future of the Church in America. Visit EucharisticCongress.org to learn more about the event and explore the full schedule for each day.

BISHOP KOENIG INVITES YOU TO THE NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS, WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE ON JULY 17^th-21^st, 2024, IN INDIANAPOLIS, IN. To read the letter of invitation, CLICK HERE
FOR TRAVEL INFORMATION FLYER CLICK HERE

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO: Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. On Saturday, April 20^th, tune in as Mark and Leo Ugolini discuss the Troops of St. George, a new fraternal Catholic nonprofit apostolate for priests, men, and young men looking for a life of adventure coupled with virtue. 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.

BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Visit Bulletin Overflow https://saintpolycarp.org/overflow/ for details on the following and more!:
UNITY IN THE PARK: Sunday, May 19^th sponsored by Smyrna Wesleyan Church
ST. THOMAS MORE SOCIETY ANNUAL DINNER– Sunday, May 5^thRETREAT FOR CATHOLICS AFFECTED BY DIVORCE AND SEPARATION – Saturday, June 15^th

LET US PRAY:

St. Michael the Archangel,
defend us in battle.
Be our protection against
the wickedness and snares of the devil.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray,
and do thou,
O prince of the heavenly host,
by the power of God,
cast into hell Satan,
and all the evil spirits
who prowl about the world
seeking the ruin of souls.
Amen.

Weekend Update April 13/14

April 12, 2024

THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER

The Season of Easter began on Easter Sunday, March 31^st, and will end on Sunday, May 19^th, with the Solemnity of Pentecost Sunday. The Easter Season lasts for 50 days.

During the Easter Season, we will be praying the Apostle’s Creed instead of the Nicene Creed. The Apostle’s Creed can be found on pg. 10 of Breaking Bread. It is the Baptismal symbol of our Church during this season.

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER

~ Has there ever been a time that ignorance or spiritual blindness kept you from seeing God at work in your life?
~ How do you feel about the idea that we have an advocate in Jesus when we’re struggling with weakness and sin?
~ How have you experienced the peace of Christ this Easter season?

READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/041424.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.) 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!

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

Unfortunately, there will be NO Confessions prior to Mass (2:30-3:30 pm) next Saturday, April 20^th, due to Fr. Jim’s attendance at Confirmation at Holy Cross. There was no priest available to come hear confessions at that time. Fr. Jim will be here for the 4:00 pm Mass. Please continue to pray for Vocations!

THIS WEEKEND, APRIL 13/14 (and Monday, April 15^th – Friday, APRIL 19^th)

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Saturday, April 13^thExposition of the Blessed Sacrament will take place at the end of the 4 pm Vigil Mass for the second Sunday of the month, this Saturday, April 13^th. Please plan to stay and spend some time with Jesus. Out of reverence for Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, please do not leave while the host is being placed in the monstrance and until Fr. Jim leaves. When you do leave, please leave silently as others are praying.

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: This Sunday, April 14^th at the 10:30 am Mass, Fatima Evangelista will receive the Vocation Chalice. 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/

FAITH WITH FRIENDS (Adult Formation) will continue meeting on Sunday, April 14^th, 21^st and 28^th at 9 am in the library.

FRATERNAL BENEFITS NIGHT: Brother Vincent Council 7517 is hosting a Fraternal Benefits Night on Wednesday, April 17^th, 2024, at 6:00 pm, in Mother Drexel Hall. Learn how the Knights of Columbus help protect Catholic families, proclaim the faith, and help those most in need in local communities and across the world. With the Knights, you can address your family’s insurance needs while supporting an organization that contributes to charities that align with our shared Catholic faith. The Knights of Columbus has products available that can benefit KofC families, our parishioners and the public including non-Catholics. Pete Marsico, our General Insurance Agent, will be the presenter. Please reach out to Pete, at Peter.Marsico@KOFC.ORG or his office at 609-927-5189 to register.

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS: Brother Vincent Columbiette’s, are now taking orders. Order a beautiful locally grown,11″ colorful hanging basket for only $25.00! Your choice of Petunias, Begonias or Geraniums. Orders need to be placed by Friday May 3rd. Baskets will be ready for pick-up at St. Polycarp Church or delivered if needed on Friday May 10th. To place your order or for any questions contact: Jill Mercer- 518-795-7579 jll_mercer@yahoo.com or Darlene Sanphy – 302-270-3915 darpete87@comcast.net

NEXT WEEKEND, APRIL 20/21 (and Monday, April 22^nd – Friday, April 26^th)

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Next Sunday, April 21^st at the 10:30 am Mass, Iris Acosta will receive the Vocation Chalice.

FAITH AND CHARITY APPEAL – One Body, One Spirit in Christ: Next weekend, our parish will participate in the 2024 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. Bishop Koenig requests our support for the works of the Church within our diocese. Funds raised through the Appeal provide the major source of financial support for more than 40 ministries and services that benefit the people of this diocese, including care for children, the sick, and the elderly; basic needs of the poor and marginalized; education for youth and adults; guidance for the troubled; and spiritual enrichment for families and individuals. Please give prayerful and thoughtful consideration to your resources and the needs of those served by this campaign. Kindly decide ahead of time the contribution you wish to make this year, and come to Church next weekend prepared to make your pledge.

UPCOMING

ST. POLYCARP’S 5^th ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT & DINNER:
GARRISON LAKE GOLF CLUB, 101 West Fairways Circle, Smyrna, DE.
$130 per individual golfer includes lunch, Green fee, Golf Cart, on course beverages including beer, complimentary gift bags, prizes for best teams, long drive/closest to pin, followed by a buffet dinner.
Don’t golf? That’s ok. Join us at St. Polycarp Church for a delicious Italian Feast just $40.00 per person.
For more information and registration, Dennis Skinner (papadskinz@yahoo.com (302-981-8743) Anna Skinner (ANNA.SKINZ@gmail.com) (302-883-5647) or use this QR code.

CLICK HERE TO SEE FLYER

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

ONGOING

THREE YEARS OF ABUNDANT GRACE AND TRANSFORMATION – EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL

MISSION: To renew the church by enkindling a living relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist.

VISION: To inspire a movement of Catholics across the United States who are healed, converted, formed, and unified by an encounter with Jesus in the Eucharist—and who are then sent out on mission “for the life of the world.”

HOLY COMMUNION TO THE SICK AND HOMEBOUND – Do you know someone who is sick or homebound and not able to make it to Mass? We would love to give them the opportunity to receive Holy Communion in their homes. Please contact April Corrales at (302) 220 – 9616 or Lori Ostrowski at (302) 540 – 6522

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.
Upcoming Saturday Eucharistic Adoration at St. Polycarp: Saturday, April 13^th, Saturday, May 11^th, Saturday, June 8^th, Saturday, July 13^th, Saturday, August 10^th

TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9 am to 8 pm in the Chapel. 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/ Sunday, April 14^th – Fatima Evangelista; Sunday, April 21^st – Iris Acosta; Sunday, May 12^th – Donna Adams; Sunday May 26^th – Garrity Family

CONNECTED IN CHRIST (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets every Tuesday after the 8:30 am Mass in the Parish Library – ALL are welcome. We begin with prayer, then watch a video, usually from FORMED and follow up with a discussion. We close with prayer by 11am. Come and share your faith with us. Any questions, call Cookie Ruane, 302-540-6429

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 10:30 am 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.

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. Due to the 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. No canned vegetables or beans are currently needed. Please, no expired items. Here at St. Polycarp we have bins under the coat rack in the hallway near the bathrooms to accept your donations.

BULLETIN SPONSORS: Thank you to all of our weekly bulletin sponsors for your support during the year!

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 CHURCH: http://www.stdennischurch.org 153 N. Main St. Galena, MD 21635 (410) 648-5145
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. Published every other week.
EWTN: ewtn.com

FROM THE DIOCESE:

BE THERE WHEN GOD MOVES: The 10^th National Eucharistic Congress at Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN. From July 17^th–21^st, 2024, thousands of passionate Catholics will gather for a transformative experience on a scale this generation has never seen. Whether you join us for one day or all five, the grace you receive will spill out into our community when you return home—deeply in love with the Eucharist and excited about the future of the Church in America. Visit EucharisticCongress.org to learn more about the event and explore the full schedule for each day.

BISHOP KOENIG INVITES YOU TO THE NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS, WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE ON JULY 17^th-21^st, 2024, IN INDIANAPOLIS, IN. To read the letter of invitation, CLICK HERE
FOR TRAVEL INFORMATION FLYER CLICK HERE

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO: Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. On Saturday, April 13^th, tune in as Felix Spitelli shares the winning vocations essays from this year’s Knights of Columbus Essay Contest. 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.

BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Visit Bulletin Overflow https://saintpolycarp.org/overflow/ for details on the following and more!:
HELP WANTED – CONFIRMATION COORDINATOR
MINI RETREAT on PADRE PIO at Immaculate Heart of Mary, Wilmington, on April 16^th.
A RACHEL’S VINEYARD CATHOLIC RETREAT Friday, April 19^th – Sunday, 21^st, 2024. This retreat offers emotional and spiritual healing for anyone who has struggled with the pain of abortion.
ST. THOMAS MORE SOCIETY ANNUAL DINNER– Sunday, May 5^thRETREAT FOR CATHOLICS AFFECTED BY DIVORCE AND SEPARATION – Saturday, June 15^th

LET US PRAY: DIVINE PRAISES

Blessed be God.
Blessed be his holy Name.
Blessed be Jesus Christ, true God and true Man.
Blessed be the name of Jesus.
Blessed be his most Sacred Heart.
Blessed be his most Precious Blood.
Blessed be Jesus in the most holy Sacrament of the altar.
Blessed be the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete.
Blessed be the great Mother of God, Mary most holy.
Blessed be her holy and Immaculate Conception.
Blessed be her glorious Assumption.
Blessed be the name of Mary, Virgin and Mother.
Blessed be Saint Joseph, her most chaste spouse.
Blessed be God in his angels and in his saints.

Weekend Update April 6/7

April 5, 2024

SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER
SUNDAY OF DIVINE MERCY

The Season of Easter began on Easter Sunday, March 31^st, and will end on Sunday, May 19^th, with the Solemnity of Pentecost Sunday. The Easter Season lasts for 50 days.

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER

~ What is one thing the Church could do to better exemplify the unity and love of the early Christians?
~ How would you define mercy?
~ When have you experienced the Lord calling you to deeper faith and trust?

READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/040724.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.) 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!

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

THIS WEEKEND, APRIL 6/7 (and Monday, April 8^th – Friday, APRIL 12^th)

THE APOSTLES’ CREED: During the Easter Season, we will be reciting the Apostle’s Creed instead of the Nicene Creed. The Apostles’ Creed can be found on page 10 of Breaking Bread. It is the Baptismal symbol of our Church during this season.

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD will take place this Sunday 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. Our leaders and assistants have cleared background checks.

DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY: On Divine Mercy Sunday, April 7^th and the vigil on Saturday, April 6^th, please stay for about 10 minutes after Mass to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet. Literature will be provided so that you can follow along. See this weekend’s bulletin to learn about the Graces of Divine Mercy.

AGAPE: Join us this Sunday, April 7^th, following the 10:30 am Mass to enjoy food, fun, and fellowship. All are invited. April’s Agape is hosted by the members of Liturgy Ministry.

ADULT FAITH FORMATION – CONNECTED IN CHRIST: Come have coffee and refreshments with fellow parishioners this coming Tuesday, April 9^th, following the 8:30 am Mass. This is an open invitation to all St. Polycarp and St. Dennis parishioners. We will be meeting in the library. Bring a treat to share if you would like. Find out what is going on every Tuesday morning in the Adult Faith Formation CIC (Connected in Christ) group. If you have questions or would like to let us know that you will be there, call Cookie Ruane at (302) 540 – 6429.

NEXT WEEKEND, APRIL 13/14 (and Monday, April 15^th – Friday, April 19^th)

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Saturday, April 13^thExposition of the Blessed Sacrament will take place at the end of the 4 pm Vigil Mass for the Second Sunday of the month, next Saturday, April 13^th. Please plan to stay and spend some time with Jesus. Out of reverence for Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, please do not leave while the host is being placed in the monstrance and until Fr. Jim leaves. When you do leave, please leave silently as others are praying.

FRATERNAL BENEFITS NIGHT: Brother Vincent Council 7517 is hosting a Fraternal Benefits Night on Wednesday, April 17^th, 2024, at 6:00 pm, in Mother Drexel Hall. Learn how the Knights of Columbus help protect Catholic families, proclaim the faith, and help those most in need in local communities and across the world. With the Knights, you can address your family’s insurance needs while supporting an organization that contributes to charities that align with our shared Catholic faith. The Knights of Columbus has products available that can benefit KofC families, our parishioners and the public including non-Catholics. Pete Marsico, our General Insurance Agent, will be the presenter. Please reach out to Pete, at Peter.Marsico@KOFC.ORG or his office at 609-927-5189 to register.

UPCOMING

ST. POLYCARP’S 5^th ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT & DINNER:
Save the date! Sunday, June 30^th 2024 at Garrisons Lake Golf Club, Smyrna & Dinner at St. Polycarp Church
Look for more information in this weekend’s bulletin.

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

ONGOING

THREE YEARS OF ABUNDANT GRACE AND TRANSFORMATION – EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL

MISSION: To renew the church by enkindling a living relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist.

VISION: To inspire a movement of Catholics across the United States who are healed, converted, formed, and unified by an encounter with Jesus in the Eucharist—and who are then sent out on mission “for the life of the world.”

HOLY COMMUNION TO THE SICK AND HOMEBOUND – Do you know someone who is sick or homebound and not able to make it to Mass? We would love to give them the opportunity to receive Holy Communion in their homes. Please contact April Corrales at (302) 220 – 9616 or Lori Ostrowski at (302) 540 – 6522

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.
Upcoming Saturday Eucharistic Adoration at St. Polycarp: Saturday, April 13^th, Saturday, May 11^th, Saturday, June 8^th, Saturday, July 13^th, Saturday, August 10^th

TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9 am to 8 pm in the Chapel. 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 after the 8:30 am Mass in the Parish Library – ALL are welcome. We begin with prayer, then watch a video, usually from FORMED and follow up with a discussion. We close with prayer by 11am. Come and share your faith with us. Any questions, call Cookie Ruane, 302-540-6429

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 10:30 am 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.

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. Due to the 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. No canned vegetables or beans are currently needed. Please, no expired items. Here at St. Polycarp we have bins under the coat rack in the hallway near the bathrooms to accept your donations.

BULLETIN SPONSORS: Thank you to all of our weekly bulletin sponsors for your support during the year!

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 CHURCH: http://www.stdennischurch.org 153 N. Main St. Galena, MD 21635 (410) 648-5145
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. Published every other week.
EWTN: ewtn.com

FROM THE DIOCESE:

BE THERE WHEN GOD MOVES: The 10^th National Eucharistic Congress at Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN. From July 17^th–21^st, 2024, thousands of passionate Catholics will gather for a transformative experience on a scale this generation has never seen. Whether you join us for one day or all five, the grace you receive will spill out into our community when you return home—deeply in love with the Eucharist and excited about the future of the Church in America. Visit EucharisticCongress.org to learn more about the event and explore the full schedule for each day.

BISHOP KOENIG INVITES YOU TO THE NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS, WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE ON JULY 17^th-21^st, 2024, IN INDIANAPOLIS, IN. To read the letter of invitation, CLICK HERE
FOR TRAVEL INFORMATION FLYER CLICK HERE

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO: Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. On Saturday, April 6^th, tune in to learn about Catholic Charities, when Program Manager, Gary Belkot is interviewed. 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.

BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Visit Bulletin Overflow https://saintpolycarp.org/overflow/ for details on the following and more!:
HELP WANTED – CONFIRMATION COORDINATOR
DELAWARE STATE COLUMBIETTES’ LADIES RETREAT AT ST. JUDE PARISH IN LEWES, DE on Saturday, April 13^th.
MINI RETREAT on PADRE PIO at Immaculate Heart of Mary, Wilmington, on April 16^th.
A RACHEL’S VINEYARD CATHOLIC RETREAT Friday, April 19^th – Sunday, 21^st, 2024. This retreat offers emotional and spiritual healing for anyone who has struggled with the pain of abortion.
ST. THOMAS MORE SOCIETY ANNUAL DINNER– Sunday, May 5^thRETREAT FOR CATHOLICS AFFECTED BY DIVORCE AND SEPARATION – Saturday, June 15^th

LET US PRAY: The Annunciation of the Lord (This year – April 8^th)

THE ANGELUS

The Angel of the Lord declared unto Mary,
And she conceived of the Holy Spirit.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you;
blessed are you among women,
and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners
now and at the hour of our death.
Amen.

Behold the handmaid of the Lord,
Be it done unto me according to your Word.
Hail Mary…

And the Word was made flesh,
And dwelt among us.
Hail Mary…

Pray for us, O holy Mother of God,
That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let us pray. Pour forth, we beseech you, O Lord, your grace into our hearts: that we, to whom the Incarnation of Christ your Son was made known by the message of an Angel, may by his Passion and Cross be brought to the glory of his Resurrection. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

Weekend Update March 30/31

March 27, 2024

The summit of the Liturgical Year is the Easter Triduum—from the evening of Holy Thursday to the evening of Easter Sunday. Though chronologically three days, they are liturgically one day unfolding for us the unity of Christ’s Paschal Mystery. The single celebration of the Triduum marks the end of the Lenten season, and leads to the Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord at the Easter Vigil.

The liturgical services that take place during the Triduum are:
Mass of the Lord’s Supper
Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion
Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord

Holy Thursday – Thursday, March 28^th
Mass of the Lord’s Supper at St. Dennis – 7 pm
(No Mass at St. Polycarp)

Good Friday – Friday, March 29^th
Passion of the Lord at St. Polycarp – 3 pm
(No Stations of the Cross at 7 pm)

Good Friday is an obligatory day of fasting and abstinence for Catholics. For members of the Roman Catholic Church, the norms on fasting are obligatory from age 18 until age 59. When fasting, a person is permitted to eat one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal. The norms concerning abstinence from meat are binding upon members of the Roman Catholic Church from age 14 onwards.

(Collection on Good Friday is for the support of the Franciscans working in the Holy Land. The Franciscans of the Custody of the Holy Land have the unique responsibility to care for the Holy Places as well for the “Living Stones,” the Christians living there.)

Holy Saturday – Saturday, March 30^th
No Confessions either Parish
The Easter Vigil in the Holy Night at St. Polycarp – 7:30 pm

Please pray for our OCIA Catechumen and Candidates as they are fully initiated into the Catholic faith at the Easter Vigil.

Easter Sunday – Sunday, March 31^stEaster Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord – Masses
St. Polycarp at 8:00 am and 10:00 am
St. Dennis at 8 am, 9:30 am and 11 am (Spanish)

EASTER SUNDAY OF THE RESURRECTION OF THE LORD

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER

~How does your life bear witness to Jesus’ resurrection?
~What can you do to keep your mind and heart focused on heavenly things?
~What helps you to put your faith in Jesus even when you might not fully understand?

READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/033124.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am, Tuesdays & Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays. The live stream will be scheduled for the 3pm Good Friday Service at St. Polycarp and for the 8 am Mass on Easter Sunday at St. Polycarp. Holy Thursday will be streamed from St. Dennis. CLICK HERE

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

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

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

THE OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED Thursday, March 28^th through Monday, April 1^st . The Office will reopen at 9 am on Tuesday, April 2^nd.

THIS WEEKEND, MARCH 30/31 (and Monday, March 25^th – Friday, March 29^th)

SECOND COLLECTION this weekend is the Easter Offering.

LENTEN RICE BOWLS: Rice bowls should now be returned to Church. Containers can be found near the doors of the Church.

NEXT WEEKEND, APRIL 6/7 (and Monday, April 8th – Friday, April 5th)

DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY: On Divine Mercy Sunday, April 7^th and the vigil on Saturday, April 6^th, please stay for about 10 minutes after Mass to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet. Literature will be provided so that you can follow along. See this weekend’s bulletin to learn about the Graces of Divine Mercy.

AGAPE: Join us on Sunday, April 7^th, following the 10:30am Mass to enjoy food, fun, and fellowship. All are invited. April’s Agape is hosted by the members of Liturgy Ministry.

ADULT FAITH FORMATION – CONNECTED IN CHRIST: Come have coffee and refreshments with fellow parishioners on Tuesday, April 9^th, following the 8:30 am Mass. This is an open invitation to all St. Polycarp and St. Dennis parishioners. We will be meeting in the library. Bring a treat to share if you would like. Find out what is going on every other Tuesday morning in the Adult Faith Formation CIC (Connected in Christ) group. If you have questions or would like to let us know that you will be there, call Cookie Ruane at (302) 540 – 6429.

UPCOMING

ST. POLYCARP’S 5^th ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT & DINNER:
Save the date! Sunday, June 30^th 2024 at Garrisons Lake Golf Club, Smyrna & Dinner at St. Polycarp Church
Look for more information in this weekend’s bulletin.

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

ONGOING

THREE YEARS OF ABUNDANT GRACE AND TRANSFORMATION – EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL

MISSION: To renew the church by enkindling a living relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist.

VISION: To inspire a movement of Catholics across the United States who are healed, converted, formed, and unified by an encounter with Jesus in the Eucharist—and who are then sent out on mission “for the life of the world.”

HOLY COMMUNION TO THE SICK AND HOMEBOUND – Do you know someone who is sick or homebound and not able to make it to Mass? We would love to give them the opportunity to receive Holy Communion in their homes. Please contact April Corrales at (302) 220 – 9616 or Lori Ostrowski at (302) 540 – 6522

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 – no Adoration on Palm Sunday.
Upcoming Saturday Eucharistic Adoration at St. Polycarp: Saturday, April 13^th, Saturday, May 11^th, Saturday, June 8^th, Saturday, July 13^th, Saturday, August 10^th