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Weekend Update August 13/14
20th Sunday in Ordinary Time
My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord;
I know them and they follow me.
John 10:27
SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
– Do you trust that the Lord hears your cry?
– What has restored you when you have been tempted to grow weary and lose heart?
– When has your faith stirred you to action on behalf of another?
Pastoral Liturgy: July/August 2022
READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/081422.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 Lisa at lisa.titus@saintpolycarp.org or Judy at communications@saintpolycarp.org.
PARISH WEBSITE: Visit: www.saintpolycarp.org/.
WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE . BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE
THIS WEEKEND, AUGUST 13/14 (& week of August 14)
PASTOR’S PEN: Make sure to read the Pastor’s Pen in the Bulletin this weekend for information on our newest staff member! CLICK HERE
SECOND COLLECTION THIS WEEKEND – THE CATHEDRAL OF SAINT PETER: This annual collection supports the maintenance and ministry of the Bishop’s own parish and the center of Catholicism in our diocese. It was built over 200 years ago – 50 years before the founding of the Diocese of Wilmington. In 2015, Bishop Malooly, with the support of the priests of the diocese, instituted an annual special collection to support the maintenance and ministry of our Cathedral. This year, the collection will be held on August 13 & 14. More information is available at cathedralofstpeter.com… and at www.cdow.org/cathedral. Thank you for your generosity.
CHEER ON THE GOLFERS! If you can’t come to St. Polycarp’s 3rd Annual Golf Tournament, how about sending the golfers your cheers? Donation is $5 per square. Add your own personal wish. Boards will be outside the Church on August 13th and 14th. Bring your $5. Looking forward to seeing you on August 13th or 14th.
THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Sunday, August 14 at the 10:30 am Mass – Powell Family – Please arrive 15 minutes before your mass time and pick up materials in the sacristy.
THE ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (August 15) celebrates Mary’s assumption, body and soul, into heaven. Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, August 14th at 4:00 pm. (This Mass is for the Assumption and does not fulfill the obligation to attend the weekend Saturday, 4 pm /Sunday10:30 am Mass.) The Assumption of Mary is a Holy Day, but this year the obligation to attend Mass is lifted because it falls on a Monday. It is always a Holy Day!
THE OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED on the Holy Day, Monday, August 15, 2022.
ATTENTION PLEASE:
We’re looking for photographers (any level) to take digital pictures at the dedication of the the Giving, Growing and Glorifying Landscaping Project on Saturday, August 20th, following the 4 pm Mass. Please contact Kathy Curlett at kathleencurlett19@gmail.com if you can share your time and talent with us for this special dedication on the 20th.
ADULT FAITH FORMATION – CONNECTED IN CHRIST: Please join us as we begin a study on the Holy Spirit entitled “The Wild Goose” by Fr. Dave Pilonka on Tuesday, August 16 at 9:15 am in the library. There are fourteen sessions. Even if you cannot be present for all, you can see any missed session on Formed. The Holy Spirit will lead us to a place of mercy, healing, peace, and presence…a Person that will lead us to the Heart of God. For more information, please contact Cookie Ruane 302-540-6429.
PSR REGISTRATION: Registration is now open for 2022-2023 religious education classes. We offer religious education classes for children in Pre-K through Grade 9, Sacramental Preparation for First Reconciliation, First Eucharist and Confirmation. We also offer Intermediate Sacramental Prep (ISP) for older children who have not yet received sacraments. Please register early to help us plan for next year & registering early helps you save money! Use the QR code to register or visit https://membership.faithdirect.net/events/org/831
(See form for tuition rates. Tuition rates increase on August 16th – register today!) For information on how to register or to print a paper form CLICK HERE
CAN YOU HELP? Parish School of Religion (PSR) With PSR plans underway for the Fall, we need your help in filling a few positions. Are you able to dedicate some of your time to help us grow and complete our PSR team? We’d love to welcome you to our PSR family! If God is calling you, contact Erica Taylor, CRE at 653-4101 or at dre@saintpolycarp.org.
Currently we need:
–Catechist & Assistant for Grade 3 (Sunday morning)
–Assistant for Grade 8 (Tuesday Evening)
–Desk Assistant (Tuesday Evening)
PSR WISH LIST: It’s that time of year again! Our PSR catechists are beginning to prepare for the upcoming PSR school year. The excitement is building as we plan to welcome our students and their families back for another great year! Our catechists are committed to teaching and helping our children grow in love and faith by donating their time all year. Our catechists also donate their own money for supplies throughout the year. Please consider helping them out by purchasing an item or two from their wish list below. All items can be dropped off Monday-Friday at the parish office between 9 a.m. & 3 p.m., anytime in the bin under the black drop box, or after both weekend Masses in the marked bins under the coat racks near the bathrooms, across from the hall.
-Plastic Pencil/Supply Boxes (see picture above) – approx…8”x 5”x 2”
-Plastic Folders with pockets
-Card Stock…white and color
-White Poster Board (11×14)
-Crayola Crayons – (24ct.)
-Colored Pencils
-Small Paper Clips
-Boxed Tissues
-AA Batteries
-Monetary Donations & Gift Cards (Walmart, Target, Staples) are always appreciated
NEXT WEEKEND, AUGUST 20/21 (& week of August 21)
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR NEXT SATURDAY, AUGUST 20TH
The Giving, Growing and Glorifying Landscaping Project will be dedicated after the 4 PM Mass on August 20, 2022. The Pastoral Council and Liturgy Committee invite you to join us as Father Jim blesses our beautiful new plantings. Photographers will be on hand to take photos and Mr. Softee will provide ice cream cones and cups. We look forward l to seeing you there.
CHANGE THE WORLD: BECOME CATHOLIC! INQUIRY SESSIONS will take place on August 29, September 12. 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 invite them to one or all of our Inquiry Sessions that will take place on August 8; August 29 & September 12, 2022. Sessions take place in the Parish Library at 6:30 pm. Please contact Deacon Frank Weber for more information or to let him know that you will attend a session(s) You can reach him at DeaconFrank@saintpolycarp.org or leave a message with the Parish office at
(302) 653-8279.
CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – 2022 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL: We continue to need your help. Presently we need $4525 to reach our goal. Please read the “Pastor’s Pen” in this weekend’s bulletin. Pledge cards can be found in the pews and at the doors of the church. Thank you to those who have already contributed to this year’s campaign. Participants who pledged to the campaign will receive monthly payment reminders mailed directly from the diocesan Development Office. Please mail all payments in the self-addressed, return envelope provided with your pledge reminder. 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.
Your generosity in supporting this campaign enables the diocese to do the work of our Lord.
When our parish collects its goal amount, we will receive 50% of contributions over the assigned target.
In the past, the generosity of our folks has enabled us to do many projects around the campus.
UPCOMING/ONGOING
SUMMER WEEKDAY MASSES: Tuesday through Friday at 8:30 am.
SAVE this Date—Sunday, September 11, 2022 for St. Polycarp’s 3rd Annual Parish Dinner and Golf Tournament at Links at St. Anne’s in Middletown, DE. Golf Tournament starts with lunch at 12:30 pm with Tee Off at 1 pm. Buffet dinner at 6 pm with golfers, friends, and parishioners from St. Polycarp. You don’t have to golf to join us for dinner! (Buffet dinner is $40.00 per person.) CLICK HERE for more information or contact: Dennis Skinner at papadskinz@yahoo.com (302) 981-8743 or Anna Skinner anna.skinz@gmail.com (302) 883-5647 Register online at https://bit.ly/3HckNKW
SHARE THE HARVEST: The Share The Harvest table is now under the Portico. This allows our parishioners to share their abundant yield from their gardens with their Church family. All are welcome to share and receive.
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: There is no summer break for the need to pray for vocations. 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/
August 14 – Powell Family – Please arrive 15 minutes before your mass time and pick up materials in the sacristy.
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!
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. On tomorrow’s episode, Saturday, August 13th, learn about the Catholic Youth Ministry sports program and how it helps the youth of our community to learn valuable life lessons. 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: Sunday, August 14: Some bombs blast property and health. But in marriage, sometimes the “bombs” can be emotinal. Are there any comments you’d like to stop?
PARENTING POINTERS: Share with your child a time you had a success, a failure, and a time that was hard to keep a commitment. I wonder what your child will share.
LET US PRAY: The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary – August 15. Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, August 14, at 4:00 pm.
Father in heaven,
all creation rightly gives you praise,
for all life and all holiness come from you.
In the plan of your wisdom
she who bore the Christ in her womb
was raised body and soul in glory to be with Him in heaven.
May we follow her example in reflecting your holiness
and join in her hymn of endless love and praise.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Letter from Fr. Jim – Announcement
Dear People of God,
I hope and pray that all is well with you and your loved ones as we continue to enjoy the blessings of Summer!
Just as surely as we evidenced on that first Easter morning, passion, death and resurrection are but one event at St. Polycarp Church. God has provided a new Financial Manager to our parish. After interviews with viable candidates, our search committee has discerned the next member of our Professional Staff.
Laura Pajerowski is no stranger to our parish. She and her husband, Bob, are registered worshippers with our community. Laura has previously served as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion and Sacristan. She has always been a model of integrity and faith.
Laura has decades of experience with fiscal responsibilities. This will be an asset to our community. We are indeed grateful for her stewardship of the gifts that God has entrusted to her care. Please keep her in your prayers as she prepares to care for our material resources.
With this piece of our ministerial team stable, we will now focus on the Facilities Manager position. Applications should be sent to fr.hreha@saintpolycarp.org. Please continue to pray for our discernment of this important ministry in our parish.
May God continue to bless you and reward your goodness!
Fraternally,
Weekend Update August 6/7
19th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Stay awake and be ready!
For you do not know on what day the Lord will come. Matthew 24:42
SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
– How is faith the realization of what is hoped for?
– What does it mean to put your hope in God?
– Where is your treasure?
Pastoral Liturgy: July/August2022
READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/080722.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 Lisa at lisa.titus@saintpolycarp.org or Judy at communications@saintpolycarp.org.
PARISH WEBSITE: Visit: www.saintpolycarp.org/.
WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE . BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE
THIS WEEKEND, AUGUST 6/7 (& week of August 7)
Come join us for Agape this Sunday August 7th following the 10:30 am Mass. Our Parish & Family Life Ministry will be hosting a “Summer Picnic” lunch, delicious deserts, and beverages. This is a wonderful time to meet members from Parish & Family!
LOST AND FOUND: Our “LOST AND FOUND” is located on top of the file cabinet (across from the restrooms in the hallway near the Mother Drexel Hall). Maybe something of yours is in there. Take a look! Items remaining after August 6th will be donated to those in need.
CHANGE THE WORLD: BECOME CATHOLIC! INQUIRY SESSIONS will take place on August 8, August 29, September 12. 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 invite them to one or all of our Inquiry Sessions that will take place on August 8; August 29 & September 12, 2022. Sessions take place in the Parish Library at 6:30 pm. Please contact Deacon Frank Weber for more information or to let him know that you will attend a session(s) You can reach him at DeaconFrank@saintpolycarp.org or leave a message with the Parish office at
(302) 653-8279.
ATTENTION PLEASE:
We’re looking for photographers (any level) to take digital pictures at the dedication of the the Giving, Growing and Glorifying Landscaping Project on Saturday, August 20th, following the 4 pm Mass. Please contact Kathy Curlett at kathleencurlett19@gmail.com if you can share your time and talent with us for this special dedication on the 20th.
CHRISTMAS IN JULY: Update! Thanks to a generous parishioner, all items on the wish list have been purchased. Thank you for your ongoing generosity! You truly are an example of leading a life of stewardship!
NEXT WEEKEND, AUGUST 13/14 (& week of August 14)
SECOND COLLECTION NEXT WEEKEND – THE CATHEDRAL OF SAINT PETER: This annual collection supports the maintenance and ministry of the Bishop’s own parish and the center of Catholicism in our diocese. It was built over 200 years ago – 50 years before the founding of the Diocese of Wilmington. In 2015, Bishop Malooly, with the support of the priests of the diocese, instituted an annual special collection to support the maintenance and ministry of our Cathedral. This year, the collection will be held on August 13 & 14. More information is available at cathedralofstpeter.com… and at www.cdow.org/cathedral. Thank you for your generosity.
THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Sunday, August 14 at the 10:30 am Mass – Powell Family – Please arrive 15 minutes before your mass time and pick up materials in the sacristy.
CHEER ON THE GOLFERS! If you can’t come to St. Polycarp’s 3rd Annual Golf Tournament, how about sending the golfers your cheers? Donation is $5 per square. Add your own personal wish. Boards will be outside the Church on August 13th and 14th. Bring your $5. Looking forward to seeing you on August 13th or 14th.
THE ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (August 15) celebrates Mary’s assumption, body and soul, into heaven. Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, August 14th at 4:00 pm. (This Mass is for the Assumption and does not fulfill the obligation to attend the weekend Saturday, 4 pm /Sunday10:30 am Mass.) The Assumption of Mary is a Holy Day, but this year the obligation to attend Mass is lifted because it falls on a Monday.
ADULT FAITH FORMATION – CONNECTED IN CHRIST
We recently used the platform, Formed, to listen to “The Holy Spirit – Third Person of the Trinity” Fr. Shannon Collins. We heard that when God wants to touch someone, He sends His Holy Spirit. One take away was to reflect on times when the Holy Spirit touched our lives.
Please join us as we begin a study on the Holy Spirit entitled “The Wild Goose” by Fr. Dave Pilonka, TOR on Tuesday, August 16 at 9:15 am in the library. There are fourteen sessions. Even if you cannot be present for all, you can see any missed session on Formed. The Holy Spirit will lead us to a place of mercy, healing, peace, and presence…a Person that will lead us to the Heart of God. For more information, please contact Cookie Ruane 302-540-6429.
CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – 2022 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL: We continue to need your help. Presently we need $4525 to reach our goal. Please read the “Pastor’s Pen” in this weekend’s bulletin. Pledge cards can be found in the pews and at the doors of the church. Thank you to those who have already contributed to this year’s campaign. Participants who pledged to the campaign will receive monthly payment reminders mailed directly from the diocesan Development Office. Please mail all payments in the self-addressed, return envelope provided with your pledge reminder. 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.
Your generosity in supporting this campaign enables the diocese to do the work of our Lord.
When our parish collects its goal amount, we will receive 50% of contributions over the assigned target.
In the past, the generosity of our folks has enabled us to do many projects around the campus.
UPCOMING/ONGOING
SUMMER WEEKDAY MASSES: Tuesday through Friday at 8:30 am.
SHARE THE HARVEST: The Share The Harvest table is now under the Portico. This allows our parishioners to share their abundant yield from their gardens with their Church family. All are welcome to share and receive.
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! This week’s suggestion:
Sacred Art: Sts. Joachim & Anne. Have you watched one of the programs and would like to share the title with others? Send the title to dre@saintpolycarp.org
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR SATURDAY, AUGUST 20TH.
The Giving, Growing and Glorifying Landscaping Project will be dedicated after the 4 PM Mass on August 20, 2022. The Pastoral Council and Liturgy Committee invite you to join us as Father Jim blesses our beautiful new plantings. Photographers will be on hand to take photos and Mr. Softee will provide ice cream cones and cups. We look forward l to seeing you there.
SAVE this Date—Sunday, September 11, 2022 for St. Polycarp’s 3rd Annual Parish Dinner and Golf Tournament at Links at St. Anne’s in Middletown, DE. Golf Tournament starts with lunch at 12:30 pm with Tee Off at 1 pm. Buffet dinner at 6 pm with golfers, friends, and parishioners from St. Polycarp. You don’t have to golf to join us for dinner! (Buffet dinner is $40.00 per person.) CLICK HERE for more information or contact: Dennis Skinner at papadskinz@yahoo.com (302) 981-8743 or Anna Skinner anna.skinz@gmail.com (302) 883-5647 Register online at https://bit.ly/3HckNKW
PSR REGISTRATION: Registration is now open for 2022-2023 religious education classes. We offer religious education classes for children in Pre-K through Grade 9, Sacramental Preparation for First Reconciliation, First Eucharist and Confirmation. We also offer Intermediate Sacramental Prep (ISP) for older children who have not yet received sacraments. Please register early to help us plan for next year & registering early helps you save money! (See form for tuition rates.) For information on how to register CLICK HERE
CAN YOU HELP? Parish School of Religion (PSR) With PSR plans underway for the Fall, we need your help in filling a few positions. Are you able to dedicate some of your time to help us grow and complete our PSR team? We’d love to welcome you to our PSR family! If God is calling you, contact Erica Taylor, CRE at 653-4101 or at dre@saintpolycarp.org.
Currently we need:
–Catechist & Assistant for Grade 3 (Sunday morning)
–Assistant for Grade 8 (Tuesday Evening)
–Desk Assistant (Tuesday Evening)
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: There is no summer break for the need to pray for vocations. 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/
Sunday, July 31 – Moss Family, August 14 – Powell Family – Please arrive 15 minutes before your mass time and pick up materials in the sacristy.
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!
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. On tomorrow’s episode, Saturday, August 6th, the rector of St. Peter’s Cathedral, Father Joseph McQuaide, will tell us about the history of our cathedral and what’s new and at this beautiful and historic church. 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:
Prayer to St. Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr – Feast Day, August 10
O Generous patron of the Church’s poor, St. Lawrence, pray to the One God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit that all the poor of the Church in need in every corner of the world may feel the effect of the love of their brothers and sisters who seek to help them.
Deliver the Church from the greed and envy of the powerful and protect her rights and property so that she may serve the needy in freedom, giving them good things for soul and body.
May we come some day with all those whom we helped on earth to the bright mansions of heaven where we will enjoy the riches of God’s house and the company of the Savior who lives and reigns forever and ever.
Amen
taken from Aletia.org.
Weekend Update July 30/31
THE OFFICE WILL BE CLOSING AT NOON TODAY, FRIDAY, JULY 29TH.
18th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Take care to guard against all greed.
Luke 12:15
SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
– When have you benefitted from softening your hardened heart?
– What was your response when someone hardened their heart to you?
– How can someone’s industriousness be the result of vanity?
READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/073122.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 Lisa at lisa.titus@saintpolycarp.org or Judy at communications@saintpolycarp.org.
PARISH WEBSITE: Visit: www.saintpolycarp.org/.
WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE . BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE
THIS WEEKEND, JULY 30/31 (& week of July 31)
TOMORROW! “DRIVE-THRU” BULL ROAST FUNDRAISER at St. DENNIS CHURCH – Tomorrow, Saturday, July 30th
156 N. Main Street, Galena, MD
MENU – Delicious PIT roasted beef, ½ a fried chicken, 2 locally grown ears of corn on the cob, homemade potato salad, and 2 rolls with butter and a beverage for $25 per meal. St Dennis Bake Sale will also be available for purchasing your dessert as you exit the property. Advance ticket purchases are recommended as a limited number of meals will be prepared. Tickets may be purchased at St. Dennis before and after the weekend Masses OR By calling Jim Bricker at 717-575-1235. Pick up of meals with curbside service is on July 30th from 11am until 2pm. Please follow the directed traffic pattern.
SECOND COLLECTION THIS WEEK: July 31 – Parish Maintenance
THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Sunday, July 31 at the 10:30 am Mass – Moss Family – Please arrive 15 minutes before your mass time and pick up materials in the sacristy.
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 invite them to one or all of our Inquiry Sessions that will take place on August 1 & 8; August 29 & September 12, 2022. Sessions take place in the Parish Library at 6:30 pm. Please contact Deacon Frank Weber for more information or to let him know that you will attend a session(s) You can reach him at DeaconFrank@saintpolycarp.org or leave a message with the Parish office at (302) 653-8279.
CHRISTMAS IN JULY:
You may be wondering what Christmas in July refers to. Well, the Liturgy Committee has come up with a Wish Book List for the following items to be purchased. Through the generosity of our parish, only one item remains to be purchased:
(1) Silver Oxidized Ciborium Cost: $555.00
If you would like to purchase or donate towards the above item, please make your check out to St. Polycarp Church and in the memo area, please indicate what your money is going towards. Thank you in advance for your purchase or donation! It is greatly appreciated!! The Liturgy Committee
JOB OPPORTUNITIES: Part-Time Financial Manager, Part-Time Facilities Manager, Full-time Business Manager https://saintpolycarp.org/job-opportunities-at-st-polycarp/
MINISTRY LEADERS! Thank you to those who attended the Annual Leadership Organizational Meeting this past Tuesday. It’s always a wonderful gathering!
BROTHER VINCENT COUNCIL 7517 meets in St Polycarp Library at 7:30 pm on the first Thursday of each month (August 4). The Rosary is prayed at 7:00 pm prior to each meeting. The Rosary and meeting proceedings will be zoomed for those who cannot attend in person. Brothers, your attendance at Council meetings is encouraged so that we may fulfill our mission.
FIRST FRIDAY: August 5th, 8:30 Mass followed by Sacred Heart Devotion
NEXT WEEKEND, AUGUST 5/6
Come join us for Agape’ next Sunday August 7th following the 10:30 am Mass. Our Parish & Family Life Ministry will be hosting a “Summer Picnic” lunch, delicious deserts, and beverages. This is a wonderful time to meet members from Parish & Family!
LOST AND FOUND: Our “LOST AND FOUND” is located on top of the file cabinet (across from the restrooms in the hallway near the Mother Drexel Hall). Maybe something of yours is in there. Take a look! Items left after August 6th will be donated to those in need.
CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – 2022 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL: We continue to need your help. During these difficult economic times, we see great works of mercy for those struggling to make ends meet. Our Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal allows us to reach out and help thousands of people in ways that bring them closer to the Lord. Support for Catholic Charities, Youth Programs, Faith Formation and Evangelization is critically crucial to the future of our Catholic Church. If you are so blessed, please make a donation to help the diocese assist those most impacted by this economic downturn. To date we have raised: $54,330. We are $5670 from our goal of $60,000.. Pledge cards can be found in the pews and at the doors of the church. Thank you to those who have already contributed to this year’s campaign. Participants who pledged to the campaign will receive monthly payment reminders mailed directly from the diocesan Development Office. Please mail all payments in the self-addressed, return envelope provided with your pledge reminder. 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.
Your generosity in supporting this campaign enables the diocese to do the work of our Lord.
When our parish collects its goal amount, we will receive 50% of contributions over the assigned target.
In the past, the generosity of our folks has enabled us to do many projects around the campus.
UPCOMING/ONGOING
SUMMER WEEKDAY MASSES: Tuesday through Friday at 8:30 am.
SHARE THE HARVEST: Would you like to share vegetables from your bountiful garden, garden plants or house plants that need to go to a loving home, flowers that could brighten up someone’s day or your harvest with others? The Share The Harvest table is now under the Portico. This allows our parishioners to share their abundant yield from their gardens with their Church family. All are welcome to share and receive.
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! This week’s suggestion:
The Search: Episode 1, What Do You Seek?
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR SATURDAY, AUGUST 20TH.
The Giving, Growing and Glorifying Landscaping Project will be dedicated after the 4 PM Mass on August 20, 2022. The Pastoral Council and Liturgy Committee invite you to join us as Father Jim blesses our beautiful new plantings. Photographers will be on hand to take photos and Mr. Softee will provide ice cream cones and cups. We look forward l to seeing you there.
SAVE this Date—Sunday, September 11, 2022 for St. Polycarp’s 3rd Annual Parish Dinner and Golf Tournament at Links at St. Anne’s in Middletown, DE. Golf Tournament starts with lunch at 12:30 pm with Tee Off at 1 pm. Buffet dinner at 6 pm with golfers, friends, and parishioners from St. Polycarp. You don’t have to golf to join us for dinner! (Buffet dinner is $40.00 per person.) CLICK HERE for more information or contact: Dennis Skinner at papadskinz@yahoo.com (302) 981-8743 or Anna Skinner anna.skinz@gmail.com (302) 883-5647 Register online at https://bit.ly/3HckNKW
PSR REGISTRATION: Registration is now open for 2022-2023 religious education classes. We offer religious education classes for children in Pre-K through Grade 9, Sacramental Preparation for First Reconciliation, First Eucharist and Confirmation. We also offer Intermediate Sacramental Prep (ISP) for older children who have not yet received sacraments. Please register early to help us plan for next year & registering early helps you save money! (See form for tuition rates. For information on how to register CLICK HERE
CAN YOU HELP? Parish School of Religion (PSR) With PSR plans underway for the Fall, we need your help in filling a few positions. Are you able to dedicate some of your time to help us grow and complete our PSR team? We’d love to welcome you to our PSR family! If God is calling you, contact Erica Taylor, CRE at 653-4101 or at dre@saintpolycarp.org.
Currently we need:
–Catechist & Assistant for Grade 3 (Sunday morning)
–Assistant for Grade 8 (Tuesday Evening)
–Desk Assistant (Tuesday Evening)
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: There is no summer break for the need to pray for vocations. 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/
Sunday, July 31 – Moss Family, August 14 – Powell Family – Please arrive 15 minutes before your mass time and pick up materials in the sacristy.
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!
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 how to shield the children in your life from online perils, when Chris McKenna, founder of “Protect Young Lives” is interviewed on the July 30th Catholic Forum program. 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: Sunday July 31: Complaining can be a release for negative emotions, but it can wear down the listener – usually your spouse. Can you go one day without complaining? Let your beloved check you and hold you accountable.
PARENTING POINTERS: Sunday July 31: Children might have snatches of time when they recognize the value of parental love and commitment, but they still like toys. Challenge your family to a day without toys or tech stuff and create your own fun. Can you do it?
LET US PRAY: The Transfiguration of the Lord – August 6
Jesus took Peter, James, and his brother John, and led them up a high mountain apart by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no fuller on earth could bleach them. Mark 9:2-3
Lord, may I see Your glory and the glory that You have bestowed upon my own soul.
May my eyes forever remain fixed on that grace.
May I see You and Your glory especially in difficult times.
Jesus, I trust in You.
Letter from Fr. Jim – Posting for 2 part time staff positions
Dear People of God,
I hope and pray that all is well with you and your loved ones as we enjoy the blessings of summer!
As you are aware, St. Polycarp lost her Business Manager last month. Despite advertising for weeks, no candidates have emerged for this full time position. Thankfully, one of our parishioners knows how to process checks and has been a good steward of the gifts given by God. Yet, this temporary sacrifice only ensures that our bills get paid. It does not enable us to fully manage our fiscal affairs. Further, while our fine staff has been assisting with some of the facilities responsibilities, this too is a non-sustainable long term solution.
Following the recommendations of our Professional Staff and our Finance Council, we now need to consider separating the financial responsibilities from the facilities management. This will create 2 new part time positions on our staff. Separate job descriptions have been developed for a Facilities Manager and a Financial Manager. Both positions would require appropriate skills for the specific duties. Each is envisioned to entail about 20 hours of ministry each week. Accordingly, while some duties for each position require specific times, each will also provide some flexibility of scheduling.
Certainly, this change will entail growth for all of us. Yet the Paschal Mystery of suffering, death, and resurrection is the bedrock of our journey of faith. New life is guaranteed! In this, as in so many things, we must trust in the wisdom of the Holy Spirit guiding the Church.
I ask all to pray for our Parish during this time of transition. Further, I ask all to listen to God’s inspiration for this new phase in our community who have the gifts needed for these positions. If you feel God is calling you, please have the courage to step forward. Accordingly, if you know someone who has the gifts, please ask them to pray about serving St. Polycarp.
Interested applicants should send inquiries to fr.hreha@saintpolycarp.org.
May God continue to bless us as His people and reward our trust in His providential care!
Part Time Financial Manager – St. Polycarp Church, Smyrna, Delaware
St. Polycarp Church in Smyrna, DE is seeking a part time Financial Manager. Interested candidates should have accounting and bookkeeping experience with the appropriate educational credentials. Position is for approximately 20 hours per week with some duties requiring specific times and others allowing for some flexibility of scheduling. The person must be willing to work collaboratively with our team of Professional ministries to build the Kingdom of God at St. Polycarp. Inquiries should be sent to fr.hreha@saintpolycarp.org
Part Time Facilities Manager – St. Polycarp Church, Smyrna, Delaware
St. Polycarp Church in Smyrna, DE is seeking a part time Facilities Manager. Interested candidates should have the appropriate skills and related experience in facilities management including interfacing with outside contractors, supervising, directing, organizing and making recommendations regarding the facilities of the parish. Position is for approximately 20 hours per week with some duties requiring specific times and others allowing for some flexibility of scheduling. The person must be willing to work collaboratively with our team of Professional ministries to build the Kingdom of God at St. Polycarp. Inquiries should be sent to fr.hreha@saintpolycarp.org