Weekend Update May 19/20

May 16, 2024

PENTECOST SUNDAY

The Season of Easter began on Easter Sunday, March 31^st, and ends this Sunday, May 19^th, with the Solemnity of Pentecost Sunday.

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
~ How have you experienced the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life?
~ What gifts of the Holy Spirit do you see in yourself? In others?
~ Why do you think the Spirit is thought of as the breath of God?

READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/051924.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am, Tuesdays & Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays.
We are experiencing some issues with our live streaming. We are trying to resolve these issues as soon as possible. The stream may not work for some Masses. Thank you for understanding. DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm

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

FAITH AND CHARITY APPEAL – One Body, One Spirit in Christ: Thank you to our generous parishioners who have participated in the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. Your contributions are not just financial, they are the building blocks of our vibrant community, making a significant impact on the lives of many.

As of May 6^th, our parish has pledged $32,094.52. This represents 52.19% of our goal of $61,500. $18,451.07 of the pledged amount has been collected. We have a long way to go to reach our goal. If you haven’t yet donated, we urge you to consider participating. Whether it’s your first time or a renewal of your past generosity, your support is crucial in helping us increase participation and strengthen our parish’s commitment to serving others. Together, as a united community, we can reflect our vibrant community’s values and ensure a bright future for all. Your participation is a crucial part of this collective effort.

Participants in the 2024 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal can expect to receive their first payment reminder on or about May 31^st. Additional reminders will continue through December. Please mail all payments in the self-addressed, return envelope provided with your mailing. Do not submit payments to the parish office or through the Offertory collection.

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.

THIS WEEKEND, MAY 18/19 (and Monday, May 20^th – Friday, May 24^th)

PORTICO CONCRETE REPLACEMENT WORK CONTINUES!
PORTICO DOORS INACCESSIBLE FOR MASSES/CONFESSION THIS WEEKEND INTO NEXT WEEK.
The portico and all portico doors will continue to be inaccessible this weekend, into next week. Even if the new concrete has been poured, the portico will remain closed. The concrete will need time to fully cure. If you are coming for Mass/Confessions, you can use the side, small, single door off the back parking lot; the front doors; or the double doors near the South Street parking area. If you need to access the office, hall, chapel, library, or meeting rooms, from 9am-4pm, please knock at the staff door. The staff door is the single door located to the left of the portico. If you have an evening meeting, you will need to use the PSR entrance located on the side of the classroom building along the driveway. Questions? Call or email the office. Thank you for your cooperation.

PENTECOST SUNDAY – THIS WEEKEND! WEAR RED! Be with the Spirit and remember to wear red this weekend, May 18^th & 19^th, as we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit. Flames of the Holy Spirit rested upon each Apostle and they received the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

SECOND COLLECTION THIS WEEKEND is for the Priest Retirement Fund. Now is our chance to give back to the many priests who have been instrumental in bringing God to us.

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD will take place this Sunday, May 19th at the 10:30 am Mass. This is a wonderful opportunity for all children in PreK-4^th grade. No registration needed. Just send your child forward when the children are called.

HELP WANTED: We are in need of front desk receptionists in the parish office. Could you possibly consider donating 3 hours of your time once a week? There are 2 shifts open: Tuesday mornings from 9 am to noon and Friday afternoons from noon until 3 pm. If you are interested, or would like more information, please call Kathy in the Parish Office, or send her an email at office@saintpolycarp.org. Our volunteers are invaluable, and we appreciate them immensely, the gift of your time is priceless!

MEMORIAL BRICKS: Adding your MEMORIAL BRICK to the walkway of our Blessed Mother is a unique way to keep your memories alive. It is a way to remind us of all those special loved ones forever. Baptism, First Communion, Confirmation, Graduation! Mother’s Day, Father’s Day! Honor family and friends! Share a favorite quote, and more! If you would like to become a part of the walkway to our Blessed Mother, with your name or the name of a loved one, now is a good time to do so! You can order through Faith Direct at: https://membership.faithdirect.net/events/org/831 Scroll down until you see “Memorial Bricks” (you do not need to sign up for Faith Direct), or use this QR code or return your form with payment of $100 to St. Polycarp Church. Envelopes marked with “Memorial Brick” may be placed in the Offertory collection, mailed or delivered to the Parish Office (place in black box).

Brother Vincent Council congratulates Rich Dezao on his reelection as Delaware State Deputy for the Knights of Columbus.
We look forward to another great year.
Our Council also congratulates Jill Mercer for her election as Delaware State President and Deanna Lail, State Sentinel for the Columbiettes.

St Polycarp Parish is truly honored to number among our parishioners, the State Deputy for the Knights of Columbus and the State President and Sentinel for the Columbiettes.

SAVE THE DATE: DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS IN OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND: On October 5, 2024, our Diocese of Wilmington will be hosting the Eucharistic Congress at the Ocean City Convention Center. We will gather under the theme “The Eucharist: The Source and Summit,” an opportunity to come together as a community to reflect on and celebrate the central mystery of our faith. The congress will feature an inspiring keynote address from Bishop Richard Henning of the Diocese of Providence. We will also have faith-based vendors, a variety of ministry showcases, and breakout sessions designed for different ages and interests. Plus, there will be ample opportunities for Adoration and Reconciliation as well as celebration of Mass. Please save the date and stay tuned for more details. We hope you can join us for this wonderful day of faith, fellowship, and renewal. Thank you!

PHYSICIAN ASSISTED SUICIDE HAS PASSED THE DELAWARE HOUSE AND IS NOW BEFORE THE STATE SENATE: Delaware is closer than ever to legalizing assisted suicide! It is an affront to our Catholic faith that calls for respect for life from conception to natural death! We need to help and support the elderly and physically and mentally ill in our community, not assist them in taking their own lives. We ask all Delaware Catholics to contact their Delaware State Senator to not support HB 140. For more information, and to send an email to your Senator, visit cdow.org/StopAssistedS. If you have already sent an email, please consider phoning them. www.cdow.org/StopAssistedSuicide.

NEXT WEEKEND, MAY 25/26 (and Monday, May 27^th – Friday, May 31^st)

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! May 26, 1968 – May 26, 2024. Next Sunday, May 26^th, is the Anniversary of the Dedication of St. Polycarp Church in Smyrna, Delaware.

VOCATION CHALICE: Next Sunday, May 26^th, at the 10:30 am Mass, the Garrity Family 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/

OFFICE CLOSED: The Parish Office will be closed on Monday, May 27^th, in observance of Memorial Day. The Parish Office will reopen at 9 am on Tuesday, May 28^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

DELAWARE KNIGHTS OF COULMBUS RAFFLE: The Delaware Knights of Columbus is sponsoring a raffle to benefit the charitable works and programs of the State Council. Five raffle winners will receive a $200 gift certificate usable at any production at Sights and Sound plus a $100 Visa gift card. Tickets are $10.00 each. The drawing will be September 8, 2024 at the KOC annual State picnic. The Winner need not be present. Contact Jack Barnas for raffle tickets (302)383-4175.

BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Visit Bulletin Overflow https://saintpolycarp.org/overflow/ for details on the following and more!:
SAY NO! PHYSICIAN ASSISTED SUICIDE
UNITY IN THE PARK: Sunday, May 19^th sponsored by Smyrna Wesleyan Church
RETREAT FOR CATHOLICS AFFECTED BY DIVORCE AND SEPARATION – Saturday, June 15^{th

NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS: The 10th National Eucharistic Congress at Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN. From July 17th–21st, 2024}^{RETROUVAILLE:}^{The Retrouvaille Program is for married couples facing challenges in their relationship. Upcoming programs: A}^{ugust 9th – 11th and October 4th – 6th, 2024}^{at the Family Life Center in Malver, PA}

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 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 Boyardee 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:

ORDINATIONS – Join the Diocese of Wilmington in a spirit of thanksgiving and joy for James Gebhart’s Ordination to the Priesthood on May 18^th.

NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS – 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, May 18^th, Dr. Helen Hoffner will discuss her book: Catholicism Everywhere. 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: Pentecost Sunday

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful.
And kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created.
And you will renew the face of the earth.

Lord, by the light of the Holy Spirit
you have taught the hearts of your faithful.
In the same Spirit,
help us to relish what is right
and always rejoice in your consolation.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Weekend Update May 11/12

May 10, 2024

THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD

The Season of Easter began on Easter Sunday, March 31^st, and will end next 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.

READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/051224.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am, Tuesdays & Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays.
We are experiencing some issues with our live streaming. We are trying to resolve these issues as soon as possible. The stream may not work for some Masses. Thank you for understanding. DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm

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, MAY 11/12 (and Monday, May 13^th – Friday, May 17^th)

CONCRETE REPLACEMENT WORK UNDER PORTICO CONTINUES!
PORTICO DOORS INACCESSIBLE FOR MASSES/CONFESSION THIS WEEKEND.
The portico and all portico doors will continue to be inaccessible this weekend, into next week. If you are coming for Mass/Confessions, you can use the side, small, single door off the back parking lot; the front doors; or the double doors near the South Street parking area. If you need to access the office, hall, chapel, library, or meeting rooms, from 9am-4pm, please knock at the staff door. The staff door is the single door located to the left of the portico. If you have an evening meeting, you will need to use the PSR entrance located on the side of the classroom building along the driveway. Questions? Call or email the office. Thank you for your cooperation.

HANGING BASKET PICK-UP – TODAY! If you ordered a hanging basket from the Brother Vincent Columbiette’s, baskets will be ready for pick-up at St. Polycarp Church this afternoon between 3 and 5 pm. Questions? Contact: Jill Mercer at 518-795-7579 jll_mercer@yahoo.com or Darlene Sanphy at 302-270-3915 darpete87@comcast.net

THE BLESSING OF MOTHERS will take place this weekend at the 4 pm Mass on Saturday, May 11^th and at the 10:30 am Mass on Sunday, May 12^th.

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Saturday, May 11^thExposition of the Blessed Sacrament will take place at the end of the 4 pm Vigil Mass this Saturday, May 11^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.

SECOND COLLECTION THIS SUNDAY is for the Ascension.

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: This Sunday, May 12^th, at the 10:30 am Mass, Donna Adams 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/

ANNUAL MOTHER’S DAY ROSE SALE – THIS WEEKEND: Birthright of Delaware will host its Annual Mother’s Day Rose Sale at our parish this weekend. Please support Birthright’s pregnancy services by purchasing roses after Mass. Roses cost: $3/one rose, $5/three roses, $20/dozen roses, $45/Twenty-five Roses (Bouquet).Your help will truly make a difference! Thank you! We deeply appreciate your support!! You can also make a donation to Birthright of DE in lieu of roses, our address is: 1311 North Scott Street Wilmington, DE 19806.

THANK YOU & CONGRATULATIONS: Monday, May 13^th, is Deacon Frank’s 18^th anniversary of his Ordination to the Diaconate as a Permanent Deacon. Thank you and may God bless you for all you!

MEMORIAL BRICKS: Adding your MEMORIAL BRICK to the walkway of our Blessed Mother is a unique way to keep your memories alive. It is a way to remind us of all those special loved ones forever. Baptism, First Communion, Confirmation, Graduation! Mother’s Day, Father’s Day! Honor family and friends! Share a favorite quote, and more! If you would like to become a part of the walkway to our Blessed Mother, with your name or the name of a loved one, now is a good time to do so! You can order through Faith Direct at: https://membership.faithdirect.net/events/org/831 Scroll down until you see “Memorial Bricks” (you do not need to sign up for Faith Direct), or use this QR code or return your form with payment of $100 to St. Polycarp Church. Envelopes marked with “Memorial Brick” may be placed in the Offertory collection, mailed or delivered to the Parish Office (place in black box).

FAITH AND CHARITY APPEAL – One Body, One Spirit in Christ: Participants in the 2024 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal can expect to receive their first payment reminder on or about May 31^st. Additional reminders will continue through December. Please mail all payments in the self-addressed, return envelope provided with your mailing. Do not submit payments to the parish office or through the Offertory collection.

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.

SAVE THE DATE: DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS IN OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND: On October 5, 2024, our Diocese of Wilmington will be hosting the Eucharistic Congress at the Ocean City Convention Center. We will gather under the theme “The Eucharist: The Source and Summit,” an opportunity to come together as a community to reflect on and celebrate the central mystery of our faith. The congress will feature an inspiring keynote address from Bishop Richard Henning of the Diocese of Providence. We will also have faith-based vendors, a variety of ministry showcases, and breakout sessions designed for different ages and interests. Plus, there will be ample opportunities for Adoration and Reconciliation as well as celebration of Mass. Please save the date and stay tuned for more details. We hope you can join us for this wonderful day of faith, fellowship, and renewal. Thank you!

PHYSICIAN ASSISTED SUICIDE HAS PASSED THE DELAWARE HOUSE AND IS NOW BEFORE THE STATE SENATE: Delaware is closer than ever to legalizing assisted suicide! It is an affront to our Catholic faith that calls for respect for life from conception to natural death! Advocates for those with disabilities oppose physician assisted suicide. The most vulnerable Delawareans need protection from dangerous House Bill 140. It would fundamentally change Delaware’s legal approach to medical ethics, medical practice, and health care decision-making. The Psychiatric Society of Delaware, the American Medical Association and the American College of Physicians oppose involving practitioners of the healing arts in the intentional ending of a person’s life by medically assisted suicide. Physician assisted suicide legalizes and normalizes the taking of a human life. There are enough tragic suicides in our community already. What message are we giving our young people when the state sanctions suicide? We need to help and support the physically and mentally ill in our community, not assist them in taking their own lives. We ask all Delaware Catholics to contact their Delaware State Senator to not support HB 140. For more information on HB 140 and to send an email to your Senator, visit www.cdow.org/StopAssistedSuicide.

NEXT WEEKEND, MAY 18/19 (and Monday, May 20^th – Friday, May 24^th)

PENTECOST SUNDAY – May 18/19! WEAR RED! Be with the Spirit and remember to wear red next weekend, May 18^th & 19^th, as we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit. Flames of the Holy Spirit rested upon each Apostle and they received the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

SECOND COLLECTION NEXT WEEKEND is for Priest Retirement. Now is our chance to give back to the many priests who have been instrumental in bringing God to us.

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD will take place next Sunday, May 19th at the 10:30 am Mass. This is a wonderful opportunity for all children in PreK-4^th grade.

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

BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Visit Bulletin Overflow https://saintpolycarp.org/overflow/ for details on the following and more!:
SAY NO! PHYSICIAN ASSISTED SUICIDE
WORLD COMMUNICATIONS DAY – May 12, “Sign up Sunday”. Please subscribe to The Angelus, the e-newsletter produced by The Dialog, go to thedialog.org “Get Our Newsletter” tab at the top of every Dialog web page and enter your email address.
UNITY IN THE PARK: Sunday, May 19^th sponsored by Smyrna Wesleyan Church
RETREAT FOR CATHOLICS AFFECTED BY DIVORCE AND SEPARATION – Saturday, June 15^{th

NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS: The 10th National Eucharistic Congress at Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN. From July 17th–21st, 2024}^{RETROUVAILLE:}^{The Retrouvaille Program is for married couples facing challenges in their relationship. Upcoming programs: A}^{ugust 9th – 11th and October 4th – 6th , 2024 at the Family Life Center in Malver, PA}

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, 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:

ORDINATIONS – Join the Diocese of Wilmington in a spirit of thanksgiving and joy for Dennis Stameza’s Ordination to the Diaconate on May 11^th, and James Gebhart’s Ordination to the Priesthood on May 18^th.

NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS – 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

LET US PRAY: The Ascension of the Lord

My Ascended Lord, forty days after You rose from the dead You ascended to the right hand of the Father in Heaven, taking up Your throne from which You pour forth both judgment and mercy. As we honor this great mystery of Your divine and human life, I beg for mercy upon me and upon the whole world. Free us from all sin, and open the floodgates of Your mercy so that all people will share one day, body and soul, in the glory of Your Beatific Vision. Jesus, I trust in You.

Weekend Update May 4/5

May 3, 2024

SIXTH 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
~ When have you seen the Holy Spirit at work in people very different from yourself? How has this enriched your own faith?
~ How are you being called to imitate divine love this week?
~ What does friendship with Jesus require of us?

READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/050524.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am, Tuesdays & Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays.
We are experiencing some issues with our live streaming. We are trying to resolve these issues as soon as possible. The stream may not work for some Masses. Thank you for understanding.
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm

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, MAY 4/5 (and Monday, May 6^th – Friday, May 10^th)

FIRST EUCHARIST: Please pray for those children who will be receiving Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time this Saturday, May 4^that the 4 pm Mass

PSR CLASSES – Last Class Celebration for all Grades PK/K – 8, this Sunday at 9am. We ask that at least one parent attend with student.

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.

MAY CROWNING: Everyone is invited! Looks like it’s going to be a rainy Sunday, so chances are that we will be holding our May Crowning in the Church. Join us this Sunday, May 5^th, following the 10:30 am Mass for a short ceremony to honor Mary “the Queen of Heaven”. All are invited to bring a single flower or bouquet of flowers and place them in the baskets in front of the altar before Mass begins. Our young children of the parish will carry these flowers during the procession and will place them in front of the statue of Mary during the ceremony. Everyone is invited to the May Crowning! Join us for lunch afterwards in the hall. The May Agape is hosted by the Blessed Virgin Mary Sodality.

Our next AGAPE is this Sunday, May 5^th, following the May Crowning. Come join us as we enjoy food, fun, and fellowship. All are invited. May’s Agape is hosted by the Blessed Virgin Mary Sodality.

CONCRETE REPLACEMENT WORK UNDER PORTICO THIS COMING WEEK!
The portico and all portico doors will be inaccessible the week of May 6^th. If you need to access the office, hall, chapel, library, or meeting rooms, during office hours, please knock at the staff door. The staff door is the single door located to the left of the portico. If you have an evening meeting, you will need to use the PSR entrance located on the side of the classroom building along the driveway. Questions? Call or email the office. Thank you for your cooperation.

LAST CHANCE TO ORDER! 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 Monday, May 6^th. Baskets will be ready for pick-up at St. Polycarp Church or delivered if needed on Friday May 10^th. 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

THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD: Thursday, May 9, the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord, has been transferred to Sunday, May 12^th.

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.

MEMORIAL BRICKS: After the cold dark days of winter, spring season brings new life. Adding your MEMORIAL BRICK to the walkway of our Blessed Mother is a
unique way to keep your memories alive. It is a way to remind us of all those special loved ones forever. Baptism, First Communion, Confirmation, Graduation!
Mother’s Day, Father’s Day! Honor family and friends! Share a favorite quote, and more! If you would like to become a part of the walkway to our Blessed Mother, with your name or the name of a loved one, now is a good time to do so! You can order through Faith Direct at: https://membership.faithdirect.net/events/org/831 Scroll down until you see “Memorial Bricks” (you do not need to sign up for Faith Direct), or use this QR code or return your form with payment of $100 to St. Polycarp Church. Envelopes marked with “Memorial Brick” may be placed in the Offertory collection, mailed or delivered to the Parish Office (place in black box).

FAITH AND CHARITY APPEAL – One Body, One Spirit in Christ: Participants in the 2024 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal can expect to receive their first payment reminder on or about May 31^st. Additional reminders will continue through December. Please mail all payments in the self-addressed, return envelope provided with your mailing. Do not submit payments to the parish office or through the Offertory collection.

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.

SAVE THE DATE: DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS IN OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND: On October 5, 2024, our Diocese of Wilmington will be hosting the Eucharistic Congress at the Ocean City Convention Center. We will gather under the theme “The Eucharist: The Source and Summit,” an opportunity to come together as a community to reflect on and celebrate the central mystery of our faith. The congress will feature an inspiring keynote address from Bishop Richard Henning of the Diocese of Providence. We will also have faith-based vendors, a variety of ministry showcases, and breakout sessions designed for different ages and interests. Plus, there will be ample opportunities for Adoration and Reconciliation as well as celebration of Mass. Please save the date and stay tuned for more details. We hope you can join us for this wonderful day of faith, fellowship, and renewal. Thank you!

PHYSICIAN ASSISTED SUICIDE HAS PASSED THE DELAWARE HOUSE AND IS NOW BEFORE THE STATE SENATE: Delaware is closer than ever to legalizing assisted suicide! It is an affront to our Catholic faith that calls for respect for life from conception to natural death! Advocates for those with disabilities oppose physician assisted suicide. The most vulnerable Delawareans need protection from dangerous House Bill 140. It would fundamentally change Delaware’s legal approach to medical ethics, medical practice, and health care decision-making. The Psychiatric Society of Delaware, the American Medical Association and the American College of Physicians oppose involving practitioners of the healing arts in the intentional ending of a person’s life by medically assisted suicide. Physician assisted suicide legalizes and normalizes the taking of a human life. There are enough tragic suicides in our community already. What message are we giving our young people when the state sanctions suicide? We need to help and support the physically and mentally ill in our community, not assist them in taking their own lives. We ask all Delaware Catholics to contact their Delaware State Senator to not support HB 140. For more information on HB 140 and to send an email to your Senator, visit www.cdow.org/StopAssistedSuicide.

NEXT WEEKEND, MAY 11/12 (and Monday, May 13^th – Friday, May 17^th)

THE BLESSING OF MOTHERS will take place next weekend at the 4 pm Mass on Saturday, May 11^th and at the 10:30 am Mass on Sunday, May 12^th.

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Saturday, May 11^thExposition of the Blessed Sacrament will take place at the end of the 4 pm Vigil Mass next Saturday, May 11^th. Please plan to stay and spend some time with Jesus.

SECOND COLLECTION NEXT SUNDAY is for the Ascension. (The Feast of the Ascension is celebrated next weekend.)

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Next Sunday, May 12^th, at the 10:30 am Mass, Donna Adams 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/

ANNUAL MOTHER’S DAY ROSE SALE: Birthright of Delaware will host its Annual Mother’s Day Rose Sale at our parish next weekend. Please support Birthright’s pregnancy services by purchasing roses after Masses on Mother’s Day weekend, May 11^th – 12^th. Roses cost: $3/one rose, $5/three roses, $20/dozen roses, $45/Twenty-five Roses (Bouquet).Your help will truly make a difference! Thank you! We deeply appreciate your support!! You can also make a donation to Birthright of DE in lieu of roses, our address is: 1311 North Scott Street Wilmington, DE 19806.

UPCOMING

PENTECOST SUNDAY – May 18/19! WEAR RED! Be with the Spirit and remember to wear red May 18^th & 19^th as we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit. Flames of the Holy Spirit rested upon each Apostle and they received the gifts of the Holy Spirit.