29^th Sunday in Ordinary Time 

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE –  QUESTIONS TO PONDER
– When you rely on God to help you, how does your disposition change?
– How can you patiently encourage another to live the faith?
-The widow sought a just decision.  Do you ever pray that God will help you live justly?

READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/101622.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays.
If you are interested in being involved in this ministry, please email Judy at communications@saintpolycarp.org.

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

WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE .       BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE

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THIS WEEKEND, OCTOBER 15/16 (& week of October 16)

ROSARY RALLY – TOMORROW: Please join the 2022 Rosary Rally.  Our nation needs public prayer, repentance and conversion.  We will be praying the Rosary tomorrow, Saturday, October 15^th, noon at Saint Polycarp Church outside by the statue of Mary.

The BLESSING OF MARRIED COUPLES will take place tomorrow, Saturday, October 15th, at the 4:00 pm Mass.

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD will be offered during the 10:30am Mass on the 1^st and 3^rd Sunday of the month (this Sunday, October 16).  All children ages PreK-4^th grade are welcome to join us. CLoW is a worship experience geared especially for their age level. It mirrors the worship experience of the larger community in an engaging and interactive style. This opportunity allows children to hear Scripture in words they understand and to share their own understanding of God’s Word. Children will be called to come forward before the First Reading. They will return to you after the General Intercessions. All catechists and assistants have a cleared background check. If you are interested in helping with this ministry, please contact Erica Taylor @ 653-4101.

ST. JUDE BIKE-A-THON: Our PSR program organizes a Bike-a-thon every year to raise funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which treats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. It is being held this Sunday, October 16, 2022 at 1pm. Our church, including both students and parishioners, raised over $3,500 last year! We are asking for your help to meet that goal once again. Please consider giving to this hospital where parents of very sick children never receive a bill. Donations will be collected at each exit after both Masses this weekend. Your generosity is greatly appreciated! Helmets are required. Donations may also be made online at  http://fundraising.stjude.org/stpolycarp2022  Thank you in advance for your continued support.

 

DON’T FORGET TO SHOP AT BOSCOV’S ON WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19TH! If you haven’t purchased your shopping pass yet, contact Beth Bishop at (845) 443-1799 or BishopLBV@aol.com; or ask any Brother Vincent Columbiette.. Profits from these sales help Brother Vincent Columbiettes support our many charitable activities. Your $5.00 shopping pass buys a full day of 25% Off Discount Shopping Pass and a chance to win fabulous door prizes.

ALTAR SERVER TRAINER NEEDED:  We are in need of someone to take over the training of interested students and adults who would like to become Altar Servers. Maybe you were an Altar Server in the past or maybe you would like to share your interest in training these young people and adults. We have interested students. Now we need someone to train them. Please search your soul and consider this great opportunity to serve our Lord in this endeavor! If interested, please contact Kathy MacDonald at (302) 653 – 8976 and leave a message.

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NEXT WEEKEND, OCTOBER 22/23 (& week of October 23)

EXTRAORDIANRY MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION: To coincide with the three-year National Eucharist Revival which began in June of this year, we will be holding a class on
Saturday, October 22^nd at 9:00 am for all people interested in the ministry of Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. This class is for Extraordinary Ministers of St. Polycarp who have not returned since pre-covid days, Extraordinary Ministers who have transferred here from another parish and new people who feel a love and desire for the Eucharist and want to be a part of this beautiful ministry. To attend you must contact Cindy Kennedy at kennedy-078@msn.com prior to this event to register and get further information.

SECOND COLLECTION NEXT WEEK: World Mission Sunday & Catholic Campaign for Human Development

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UPCOMING/ONGOING

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS AT SEA PROGRAM: Last year Saint Polycarp Parish was able to donate 50 “ditty” boxes to help the Seaman’s Center of Wilmington bring a little “Merry” into the Christmas of these crew members. This year we hope to donate even more. From October 1 through October 30, there is a collection bin in the hallway. Please consider donating the following NEW/FULL sized items: knit hats and scarves, winter gloves, warm socks, sewing kits, deodorant, hand lotion, soap, shampoo, shaving cream, disposable razors, toothbrush and toothpaste, combs, chapstick, playing cards. Monetary donations are welcome and will be used to purchase additional items to make certain each box is complete. Cash and Checks (payable to “St. Polycarp” should be placed in an envelope marked “Christmas at Sea” and can be put into the collection basket, or the black box located under the portico. We also have the option to accept donations through Faith Direct.  If you have any questions, please contact Tracie Bruno by phone (302)242-4150 or by email Tracie.Bruno@comcast.net

BIRTHRIGHT’S ANNUAL BOTTLES FOR BABIES FUNDRAISER: Throughout the whole month of October, “Respect Life month”, Birthright of Delaware hosts its Annual Bottles for Babies Fundraiser. Baby bottles are available at all the entrances to Church.  We ask you to please take one or two bottles home. Please read the insert, fill it out as neatly as possible (if you chose to do so for a tax credit) then fill the bottle with loose change, cash or a check!  Checks should be made payable to Birthright of Delaware. Return them at the end of October or sooner. Proceeds benefit pregnant women and their babies.  On behalf of our mothers, Birthright staff and volunteers, we graciously Thank You!

ALL SAINT’S PARADE “TRUNK OR TREAT”: Come out and enjoy our Annual All Saint’s Parade during PSR on October 30 at 9:00am. All children of the parish are welcome to attend. Children must dress as a saint and/or hold an object that represents their saint. Each child should wear a sign or tag saying what saint they are representing. After our Parade of Saints, the children will walk around to collect candy/goodies given out by the different ministries/committees and groups of our parish. If you would like to donate candy or hand out candy with your family, contact us at (302)653-4101 to reserve your spot. Set up begins at 8:30am. This is an exciting way to celebrate All Saints Day!

MASS SCHEDULE FOR ALL SAINTS DAY
St. Polycarp – Tuesday, November 1^st, 8:30 am and 7 pm
St. Dennis – Monday, October 31^st, 5 pm

ALL SOULS’ DAY MASS: There will be a special All Souls’ Day Mass on Wednesday, November 2^nd, at 7 pm. Parishioners from both parishes, whether you have lost a loved one or not, are invited to attend. Letters will be sent out to those parishioners who have lost a loved one. A table will be set up in the center aisle with a white cloth on it. Window boxes filled with sand will be placed on the cloth in the form of a cross. After the homily, the names of those who have died and had funerals at each respective parish will be called out. At this time, any parishioner who has lost a loved one will be asked to come forward and pick up a candle and light it from the Paschal Candle. Their candles will then be placed in the window boxes containing the sand and stay lit through the end of Mass. Holy cards will then be handed out.

2022 ST. POLYCARP CHURCH ORNAMENT FUNDRAISER: This unique glass Christmas Ornament is 3 1/4” in diameter and comes packaged in its own gift box for safe keeping. This year’s theme is “Eucharistic Revival” which was commissioned by the U.S.C.C.B. this year. Pictured on the ornament is St. Polycarp’s very own monstrance, altar, and crucifix. This beautiful ornament is also the perfect gift for friends or family that have moved out of the area. These ornaments are sure to become a cherished keepsake and heirloom. LIMITED EDITION – only $15 each ($18 with gold hanger). Order yours now before they are gone! All proceeds benefit Parish School of Religion (PSR). The last day to order is November 6. Order forms are available at the doors of the Church, online at https://forms.ministryforms.net/viewForm.aspx?formId=997e8e1e-67fe-4ece-afa8-58652f4d2d01 
or scan this QR code

 

 

CHANGE THE WORLD: BECOME CATHOLIC! Is there someone you would like to invite to explore the Catholic faith— someone unbaptized, or baptized in a non-Catholic Christian tradition? Do you know someone who needs Confirmation and/or First Eucharist? Perhaps, the Catholic faith can fulfill their desires for a closer relationship with Our Lord. Then, the RCIA process is for them. Please contact Deacon Frank Weber for more information. DeaconFrank@saintpolycarp.org or leave a message with the Parish office at (302) 653-8279.

CONNECTED IN CHRIST (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets every Tuesday at 9:30 AM in the Parish Library – ALL are welcome. Please join us. We are currently viewing and discussing the Wild Goose series about the Holy Spirit. If you have any questions, please call Cookie Ruane at 302-540-6429.

2022 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL UPDATE: WE REACHED OUR GOAL IN PLEDGES!  Please remember the importance of submitting your payments for these pledges so that we also reach our goal in payments received. The payments collected to date on those pledges is $57,663.53.  The payments received are at 96.11% of goal. Thank you for your generosity!

Have you had the opportunity to dive into FORMED?  To sign up visit www.formed.org. Type in our Parish zip code (19977) and follow the steps to sign up or you can use the QR code below. Take advantage of your free subscription to FORMED! Enjoy thousands of hours of quality Catholic content!

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 process down the aisle to the priest who will have the pyx in his hand and let him know you need a gluten-free host

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/  October 23 at the 10:30 am Mass – Biggs, November 5 at the 4pm Mass – Melesio, November 20 at the 10:30 Mass – Trias.

IS THAT YOU, FR. JIM? If you receive emails from Fr. Jim asking for favors 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. This applies to texts from Fr. Jim as well. One of our parishioners recently received a similarly worded text from “Fr. Jim” (of course it wasn’t Fr. Jim). Fortunately the person contacted the staff and then blocked the text.

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!

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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!

                                                                               

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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

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FROM THE DIOCESE:     

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. On the October 15th episode of the Catholic Forum program/podcast, meet two FOCUS Missionaries working at the University of Delaware.   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.

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LET US PRAY:  Please join the 2022 Rosary Rally.   We will be praying the Rosary tomorrow, Saturday, October 15^th, noon at Saint Polycarp Church outside by the statue of Mary.

Hail, Mary, full of grace,
the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women
and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners,
now and at the hour of our death.
Amen.

28^th Sunday in Ordinary Time 

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE –  QUESTIONS TO PONDER
– When have you asked God to heal you of an affliction?
– Did you remember to thank the Lord?
– Do you consider that you have a responsibility as a baptized person to give witness to God’s work?

READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/100922.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays.
If you are interested in being involved in this ministry, please email Judy at communications@saintpolycarp.org.

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

WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE .       BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE

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THIS WEEKEND, OCTOBER 8/9 (& week of October 9)

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: This Sunday, October 9 at 10:30 am Mass – B. Kaczorowski. Please arrive 15 minutes before your Mass time and pick up materials in the sacristy.

BROTHER VINCENT COLUMBIETTES are selling Boscov Passes again this year. Profits from these sales help Brother Vincent Columbiettes support our many charitable activities. The Columbiettes will be at the doors of the Church after Masses on the weekend of October 8/9. This event is Wednesday, October 19, 2022 at any Boscov store.

YOUR $5.00 SHOPPING PASS BUYS A FULL DAY OF
~ 25% Off Discount Shopping Pass
~ A Chance to Win Fabulous Door Prizes
Contact Beth Bishop at (845) 443-1799 or BishopLBV@aol.com; or ask any Brother Vincent Columbiette.

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: Thank you to all the pets (and their people) who ventured out in the rain to come to be blessed! Our event was held inside due to the rain and wind. Each pet received a treat bag with a St. Francis of Assisi prayer card and medal as well as an appropriate treat for each pet. The door prize, a $20 gift card to Tractor Supply, was won by Taffy Titus.
To see pictures visit https://saintpolycarp.org/blessing-of-the-animals-2022/

 PSR REMINDER: This week’s lessons will be posted on PSROnline.  Please see the email you received for information. There are no in-person classes for Grades P/K – 4, Sunday, October 9. There are no in-person classes for Grades 5 – 8 Tuesday., October 11.

IS THAT YOU, FR. JIM? If you receive emails from Fr. Jim asking for favors 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. This applies to texts from Fr. Jim as well. One of our parishioners recently received a similarly worded text from “Fr. Jim” (of course it wasn’t Fr. Jim). Fortunately the person contacted the staff and then blocked the text.

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NEXT WEEKEND, OCTOBER 15/16 (& week of October 16)

ROSARY RALLY: Please join the 2022 Rosary Rally.  Our nation needs public prayer, repentance and conversion.  We will be praying the Rosary on Saturday, October 15^th, noon at Saint Polycarp Church outside by the statue of Mary.

SECOND COLLECTION NEXT WEEK: Parish Maintenance

The BLESSING OF MARRIED COUPLES will take place on Saturday, October 15th, at the 4:00 pm Mass.

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD will be offered during the 10:30am Mass on the 1^st and 3^rd Sunday of the month. (October 16)  All children ages PreK-4^th grade are welcome to join us. CLoW is a worship experience geared especially for their age level. It mirrors the worship experience of the larger community in an engaging and interactive style. This opportunity allows children to hear Scripture in words they understand and to share their own understanding of God’s Word. Children will be called to come forward before the First Reading. They will return to you after the General Intercessions. All catechists and assistants have a cleared background check. If you are interested in helping with this ministry, please contact Erica Taylor @ 653-4101.

ST. JUDE BIKE-A-THON: Our PSR program organizes a Bike-a-thon every year to raise funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which treats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. It is being held on Sunday, October 16, 2022 at 1pm (rain date is October 23). Our church, including both students and parishioners, raised over $3,500 last year! We are asking for your help to meet that goal once again. Please consider giving to this hospital where parents of very sick children never receive a bill. Donations will be collected at each exit after Mass on Saturday, October 15 and Sunday, October 16. Your generosity is greatly appreciated! Helmets are required. Donations may also be made online at  http://fundraising.stjude.org/stpolycarp2022  Thank you in advance for your continued support.

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UPCOMING/ONGOING

WEEKDAY MASSES: Tuesday and Wednesday at 8:30 am..

EXTRAORDIANRY MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION: To coincide with the three-year National Eucharist Revival which began in June of this year, we will be holding a class on Saturday, October 22^nd at 9:00 am for all people interested in the ministry of Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. This class is for Extraordinary Ministers of St. Polycarp who have not returned since pre-covid days, Extraordinary Ministers who have transferred here from another parish and new people who feel a love and desire for the Eucharist and want to be a part of this beautiful ministry. To attend you must contact Cindy Kennedy at kennedy-078@msn.com prior to this event to register and get further information.

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS AT SEA PROGRAM: Last year Saint Polycarp Parish was able to donate 50 “ditty” boxes to help the Seaman’s Center of Wilmington bring a little “Merry” into the Christmas of these crew members. This year we hope to donate even more. From October 1 through October 30, there is a collection bin in the hallway. Please consider donating the following NEW/FULL sized items: knit hats and scarves, winter gloves, warm socks, sewing kits, deodorant, hand lotion, soap, shampoo, shaving cream, disposable razors, toothbrush and toothpaste, combs, chapstick, playing cards. Monetary donations are welcome and will be used to purchase additional items to make certain each box is complete. Cash and Checks (payable to “St. Polycarp” should be placed in an envelope marked “Christmas at Sea” and can be put into the collection basket, or the black box located under the portico. We also have the option to accept donations through Faith Direct.  If you have any questions, please contact Tracie Bruno by phone (302)242-4150 or by email Tracie.Bruno@comcast.net

BIRTHRIGHT’S ANNUAL BOTTLES FOR BABIES FUNDRAISER: Throughout the whole month of October, “Respect Life month”, Birthright of Delaware hosts its Annual Bottles for Babies Fundraiser. Baby bottles are available at all the entrances to Church.  We ask you to please take one or two bottles home. Please read the insert, fill it out as neatly as possible (if you chose to do so for a tax credit) then fill the bottle with loose change, cash or a check!  Checks should be made payable to Birthright of Delaware. Return them at the end of October or sooner. Proceeds benefit pregnant women and their babies.  On behalf of our mothers, Birthright staff and volunteers, we graciously Thank You!

2022 ST. POLYCARP CHURCH ORNAMENT FUNDRAISER: This unique glass Christmas Ornament is 3 1/4” in diameter and comes packaged in its own gift box for safe keeping. This year’s theme is “Eucharistic Revival” which was commissioned by the U.S.C.C.B. this year. Pictured on the ornament is St. Polycarp’s very own monstrance, altar, and crucifix. This beautiful ornament is also the perfect gift for friends or family that have moved out of the area. These ornaments are sure to become a cherished keepsake and heirloom. LIMITED EDITION – only $15 each ($18 with gold hanger). Order yours now before they are gone! All proceeds benefit Parish School of Religion (PSR). Order forms are available at the doors of the Church, online at https://forms.ministryforms.net/viewForm.aspx?formId=997e8e1e-67fe-4ece-afa8-58652f4d2d01 
or scan this QR code

 

 

CHANGE THE WORLD: BECOME CATHOLIC! Is there someone you would like to invite to explore the Catholic faith— someone unbaptized, or baptized in a non-Catholic Christian tradition? Do you know someone who needs Confirmation and/or First Eucharist? Perhaps, the Catholic faith can fulfill their desires for a closer relationship with Our Lord. Then, the RCIA process is for them. Please contact Deacon Frank Weber for more information. DeaconFrank@saintpolycarp.org or leave a message with the Parish office at (302) 653-8279.

CONNECTED IN CHRIST (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets every Tuesday at 9:30 AM in the Parish Library – ALL are welcome. Please join us. We are currently viewing and discussing the Wild Goose series about the Holy Spirit. If you have any questions, please call Cookie Ruane at 302-540-6429.

2022 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL UPDATE: WE REACHED OUR GOAL! WAY TO GO ST. POLYCARP PARISH!  You, our parish family, have been extremely generous in supporting our Bishop in the Annual Catholic Appeal. Thank you for your generosity and sacrifice in reaching our parish target of $60,000. The parishioners of St. Polycarp Church continue the noble heritage of supporting the Diocese and are an example to be followed! Now that we have met our target, ½ of the money over our target, will come back to our Church to be used for special projects here at St. Polycarp.  Please remember the importance of submitting your payments for these pledges.  If you have not participated in this Annual Appeal, we ask that you please consider supporting the diocese and St. Polycarp Church by pledging now.

 

Have you had the opportunity to dive into FORMED?  To sign up visit www.formed.org. Type in our Parish zip code (19977) and follow the steps to sign up or you can use the QR code below. Take advantage of your free subscription to FORMED! Enjoy thousands of hours of quality Catholic content!

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 process down the aisle to the priest who will have the pyx in his hand and let him know you need a gluten-free host

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/  October 9 at 10:30 am Mass – Kaczorowski.

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!

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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!

                                                                               

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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

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FROM THE DIOCESE:     

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. On tomorrow’s episode, Saturday, October 8th, Ms. Eileen Gaus will discuss the Diocese of Wilmington’s Footprints Ministry and the upcoming Mass (Oct. 14) and Wave of Light (Oct. 15).   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. 

MARRIAGE MOMENTS:  “Has none but this foreigner returned to give thanks to God?”  (Luke 17:19) Don’t be a stranger to your spouse.  Say one new thing to thank each other for today.

PARENTING POINTERS:  October is Respect Life Month.  Respecting Life means valuing all human life-especially the lives of the weak, vulnerable, unborn, the poor even those with whom we disagree.  With political speech becoming less civil, let children hear you speak respectfully even of those with whom you disagree.

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LET US PRAY:  Prayer for Peace by St. John XXIII, Pope – October 11

Lord Jesus Christ,
who are called the Prince of Peace,
who are yourself our peace and reconciliation,
who so often said, “Peace to you,”
grant us peace.
Make all men and women witnesses of
truth, justice, and brotherly love.
Banish from their hearts whatever might endanger peace.
Enlighten our rulers that they may guarantee
and defend the great gift of peace.
May all peoples of the earth becomes as brothers and sisters.
May longed-for peace blossom forth
and reign always over us all.
Amen.

Rain didn’t stop these brave pets from coming for their blessing! But we did move inside!

27^th Sunday in Ordinary Time 

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE –  QUESTIONS TO PONDER
– Have you hardened your heart to a person or situation?
– Is God calling you to open your heart in those instances?
– What gifts has god Given you as a child of God?  How do you use those gifts?

READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/100222.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays.
If you are interested in being involved in this ministry, please email Judy at communications@saintpolycarp.org.

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

WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE .       BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE

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THIS WEEKEND, OCTOBER 1/2 (& week of October 2)

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD will be offered during the 10:30am Mass on the 1^st and 3^rd Sunday of the month. All children ages PreK-4^th grade are welcome to join us. CLoW is a worship experience geared especially for their age level. It mirrors the worship experience of the larger community in an engaging and interactive style. This opportunity allows children to hear Scripture in words they understand and to share their own understanding of God’s Word. Children will be called to come forward before the First Reading. They will return to you after the General Intercessions. All catechists and assistants have a cleared background check. If you are interested in helping with this ministry, please contact Erica Taylor @ 653-4101.

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: Join us along with your furry, fuzzy, scaly, hard shelled, long haired, short haired beloved pets this Sunday, October 2nd at 12:15 pm for the Blessing of Animals as we celebrate and honor St. Francis of Assisi. Gather on the grass triangle across from the main church entrance. There is a good chance of rain on Sunday. If we need to cancel this event, it will be announced at the 10:30 am Mass and posted on our Parish Website www.saintpolycarp.org.

 

AGAPE: This Sunday, October 2nd following the 10:30 am Mass in the hall. All are invited to come join us as we “Welcome the Fall Season”. Come and enjoy a delicious lunch, fun and fellowship! Hosted by our PSR program. Hope to see you there!

 

RESPECT FOR LIFE MINISTRY: What does baby formula, coat drives and blanket drives all have in common? Please join a Respect for Life Ministry meeting this Tuesday, October 4th at 7 pm in the Parish Library to discuss possibilities for this new ministry. OCTOBER IS REPECT FOR LIFE MONTH

 

BIRTHRIGHT’S ANNUAL BOTTLES FOR BABIES FUNDRAISER: Throughout the whole month of October, “Respect Life month”, Birthright of Delaware hosts its Annual Bottles for Babies Fundraiser. Beginning this weekend, baby bottles will be available at all the entrances to Church.  We ask you to please take one or two bottles home and/or give it to a loved one. Please read the insert, fill it out as neatly as possible (if you chose to do so for a tax credit) then fill the bottle with loose change, cash or a check!  Checks should be made payable to Birthright of Delaware. Return them at the end of October or sooner. Proceeds benefit pregnant women and their babies.  On behalf of our mothers, Birthright staff and volunteers, we graciously Thank You!

DID YOU MISS THE ANNUAL FORUM? Visit https://saintpolycarp.org/annual-forum-september-25-2022/ to view the PowerPoint presentation and pictures from this parish event.

ADULT FAITH FORMATION – CONNECTED IN CHRIST: Parishioners are continuing to view the video series, The Wild Goose every Tuesday after the 8:30 Mass. Come join us. If you have any questions, please call Cookie Ruane at 302-540-6429.

BROTHER VINCENT COUNCIL 7517 meets in St Polycarp Library at 7:30 pm, THIS Thursday, October 6th. The Rosary begins at 7:00 PM and is followed by the meeting at 7:30 PM. Meeting proceedings are zoomed for those who cannot attend in person. A meeting reminder with zoom instructions will be sent by KofC.org email. Brothers, your attendance at Council meetings is encouraged so that we may fulfill our mission.

Brother Vincent Council is now running a fund raiser. Delicious TerriLynn nuts and confections. https://council-7517-kofc.terrilynn.com/ They make great gifts. Please support your Council.

 

SHARE IN THE SPIRIT: Thanks to everyone who has contributed to the diocesan Share in the Spirit tuition assistance collection last week. For those of you who have not yet participated, you may still contribute to the Share in the Spirit collection for tuition assistance.  Please drop your envelope in the collection basket or parish office or, visit the Share in the Spirit website at www.cdow.org/sharespirit.html and click on “Ways to Give.”  This important collection supports the mission and ministry of our Catholic schools by assisting parents who seek a Catholic education for their children but who struggle to afford the full cost of tuition.  Your support is gratefully appreciated.

2022 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL UPDATE: WE REACHED OUR GOAL! WAY TO GO ST. POLYCARP PARISH! A huge “Thank you” to everyone who graciously donated to the appeal. Special thanks to our anonymous donor whose offer to match recent gifts aided us tremendously in attaining our goal! You, our parish family, have been extremely generous in supporting our Bishop in the Annual Catholic Appeal. Thank you for your generosity and sacrifice in reaching our parish target of $60,000. The parishioners of St. Polycarp Church continue the noble heritage of supporting the Diocese and are an example to be followed! Now that we have met our target, ½ of the money over our target, will come back to our Church to be used for special projects here at St. Polycarp.  Please remember the importance of submitting your payments for these pledges. Our budget this year continues to be challenged by the drop in offertory income. If you have not participated in this Annual Appeal, we ask that you please consider supporting the diocese and St. Polycarp Church by pledging now.

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NEXT WEEKEND, OCTOBER 8/9 (& week of October 2)

BROTHER VINCENT COLUMBIETTES are selling Boscov Passes again this year. Profits from these sales help Brother Vincent Columbiettes support our many charitable activities. The Columbiettes will be at the doors of the Church after Masses on the weekend of October 8/9. This event is Wednesday, October 19, 2022 at any Boscov store.

YOUR $5.00 SHOPPING PASS BUYS A FULL DAY OF
~ 25% Off Discount Shopping Pass
~ A Chance to Win Fabulous Door Prizes
Contact Beth Bishop at (845) 443-1799 or BishopLBV@aol.com; or ask any Brother Vincent Columbiette.

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UPCOMING/ONGOING

WEEKDAY MASSES: Tuesday and Wednesday at 8:30 am..

The BLESSING OF MARRIED COUPLES will take place on Saturday, October 15th, at the 4:00 pm Mass.

ROSARY RALLY: Please join the 2022 Rosary Rally.  Our nation needs public prayer, repentance and conversion.  We will be praying the Rosary on Saturday, October 15^th, noon at Saint Polycarp Church outside by the statue of Mary.

EXTRAORDIANRY MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION: To coincide with the three-year National Eucharist Revival which began in June of this year, we will be holding a class on Saturday, October 22^nd at 9:00 am for all people interested in the ministry of Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. This class is for Extraordinary Ministers of St. Polycarp who have not returned since pre-covid days, Extraordinary Ministers who have transferred here from another parish and new people who feel a love and desire for the Eucharist and want to be a part of this beautiful ministry. To attend you must contact Cindy Kennedy at kennedy-078@msn.com prior to this event to register and get further information.

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS AT SEA PROGRAM: Last year Saint Polycarp Parish was able to donate 50 “ditty” boxes to help the Seaman’s Center of Wilmington bring a little “Merry” into the Christmas of these crew members. This year we hope to donate even more. From October 1 through October 30, there will be a collection bin in the hallway. Please consider donating the following NEW/FULL sized items: knit hats and scarves, winter gloves, warm socks, sewing kits, deodorant, hand lotion, soap, shampoo, shaving cream, disposable razors, toothbrush and toothpaste, combs, chapstick, playing cards. Monetary donations are welcome and will be used to purchase additional items to make certain each box is complete. Cash and Checks (payable to “St. Polycarp” should be placed in an envelope marked “Christmas at Sea” and can be put into the collection basket, or the black box located under the portico. We also have the option to accept donations through Faith Direct.  If you have any questions, please contact Tracie Bruno by phone (302)242-4150 or by email Tracie.Bruno@comcast.net

CHANGE THE WORLD: BECOME CATHOLIC! Is there someone you would like to invite to explore the Catholic faith— someone unbaptized, or baptized in a non-Catholic Christian tradition? Do you know someone who needs Confirmation and/or First Eucharist? Perhaps, the Catholic faith can fulfill their desires for a closer relationship with Our Lord. Then, the RCIA process is for them. Please contact Deacon Frank Weber for more information. DeaconFrank@saintpolycarp.org or leave a message with the Parish office at (302) 653-8279.

 

Have you had the opportunity to dive into FORMED?  To sign up visit www.formed.org. Type in our Parish zip code (19977) and follow the steps to sign up or you can use the QR code below. Take advantage of your free subscription to FORMED! Enjoy thousands of hours of quality Catholic content!

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 process down the aisle to the priest who will have the pyx in his hand and let him know you need a gluten-free host

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/  October 9 at 10:30 am Mass – Kaczorowski.

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!

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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!

                                                                               

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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

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FROM THE DIOCESE:     

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. On tomorrow’s episode, Saturday, October 1st, learn about Maryland Catholic Conference Executive Director, Jenny Kraska’s recent visit to war-torn Ukraine.   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. 

MARRIAGE MOMENTS:  October is Domestic Violence Month.  Hopefully violence does not directly impact your marriage, but perhaps you are called to help someone else – a neighbor, relative, or stranger.  Click the Domestic Violence hotline(the hotline.org/…) to find out how to help.

PARENTING POINTERS:  Jesus healed 10 lepers but only 1 returned and thanked Him.  (Luke 17:11-19)  Although few people see lepers today, it’s always worth thanking our family members and God for an act of kindness.  Do it today.

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LET US PRAY:   St. Francis of Assisi

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy.

O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Amen.

Thank you to all who took the time and attended our Annual Forum.

To view the PowerPoint from our 2022 Annual Forum, CLICK HERE