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Weekend Update May 11/12
THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD
The Season of Easter began on Easter Sunday, March 31st, and will end next Sunday, May 19th, 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 13th – Friday, May 17th)
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 11th and at the 10:30 am Mass on Sunday, May 12th.
EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Saturday, May 11th Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament will take place at the end of the 4 pm Vigil Mass this Saturday, May 11th.
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 12th, 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 13th, is Deacon Frank’s 18th 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 31st. 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 20th – Friday, May 24th)
PENTECOST SUNDAY – May 18/19! WEAR RED! Be with the Spirit and remember to wear red next weekend, May 18th & 19th, 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-4th grade.
UPCOMING
ST. POLYCARP’S 5th 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 19th sponsored by Smyrna Wesleyan Church
RETREAT FOR CATHOLICS AFFECTED BY DIVORCE AND SEPARATION – Saturday, June 15th
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: August 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 11th, Saturday, June 8th, Saturday, July 13th, Saturday, August 10th
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 12th – Donna Adams; Sunday May 26th – 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 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month during the 10:30 am Mass. This is a wonderful opportunity for children in PreK-4th 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 11th, and James Gebhart’s Ordination to the Priesthood on May 18th.
NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS – BE THERE WHEN GOD MOVES: The 10th National Eucharistic Congress at Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN. From July 17th–21st, 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 17th-21st, 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
SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
The Season of Easter began on Easter Sunday, March 31st, and will end on Sunday, May 19th, 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 6th – Friday, May 10th)
FIRST EUCHARIST: Please pray for those children who will be receiving Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time this Saturday, May 4th at 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-4th 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 5th, 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 5th, 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 6th. 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 6th. Baskets will be ready for pick-up at St. Polycarp Church or delivered if needed on Friday May 10th. To place your order or for any questions contact: Jill Mercer- 518-795-7579 jll_mercer@yahoo.com or Darlene Sanphy – 302-270-3915 darpete87@comcast.net
THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD: Thursday, May 9, the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord, has been transferred to Sunday, May 12th.
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 31st. 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 13th – Friday, May 17th)
THE BLESSING OF MOTHERS will take place next weekend at the 4 pm Mass on Saturday, May 11th and at the 10:30 am Mass on Sunday, May 12th.
EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Saturday, May 11th Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament will take place at the end of the 4 pm Vigil Mass next Saturday, May 11th. 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 12th, 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 11th – 12th. 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 18th & 19th 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.
ST. POLYCARP’S 5th ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT & DINNER: JUNE 30, 2024
GARRISON LAKE GOLF CLUB, 101 West Fairways Circle, Smyrna, DE.
$130 per individual golfer includes lunch, Green fee, Golf Cart, on course beverages including beer, complimentary gift bags, prizes for best teams, long drive/closest to pin, followed by a buffet dinner.
Don’t golf? That’s ok. Join us at St. Polycarp Church for a delicious Italian Feast just $40.00 per person.
For more information and registration, Dennis Skinner (papadskinz@yahoo.com (302-981-8743) Anna Skinner (ANNA.SKINZ@gmail.com) (302-883-5647) or use this QR code. CLICK HERE TO SEE FLYER
FORMED: Thanks to a very generous and thoughtful parishioner, our FORMED Subscription has been RENEWED for another year! Please SIGN UP NOW and begin enjoying the abundant amount of Catholic content that FORMED has to offer! You won’t be disappointed! To gain full access to FORMED; follow these simple steps:
~Go to: www.formed.org or scan QR Code
~Enter our parish’s zip code (19977)
~Click on St. Polycarp Church
~Enter your name and your email address
ONGOING
THREE YEARS OF ABUNDANT GRACE AND TRANSFORMATION – EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL
MISSION: To renew the church by enkindling a living relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist.
VISION: To inspire a movement of Catholics across the United States who are healed, converted, formed, and unified by an encounter with Jesus in the Eucharist—and who are then sent out on mission “for the life of the world.”
HOLY COMMUNION TO THE SICK AND HOMEBOUND – Do you know someone who is sick or homebound and not able to make it to Mass? We would love to give them the opportunity to receive Holy Communion in their homes. Please contact April Corrales at (302) 220 – 9616 or Lori Ostrowski at (302) 540 – 6522
SATURDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION at St. Polycarp will take place monthly at the Vigil Mass for the Second Sunday of the month. Eucharistic Adoration at St. Dennis Church (Galena MD) will take place on the Fourth Sunday of the month following the 8 am Sunday Mass.
Upcoming Saturday Eucharistic Adoration at St. Polycarp: Saturday, May 11th, Saturday, June 8th, Saturday, July 13th, Saturday, August 10th
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 12th – Donna Adams; Sunday May 26th – 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 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month during the 10:30 am Mass. This is a wonderful opportunity for children in PreK-4th 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:
NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS – BE THERE WHEN GOD MOVES: The 10th National Eucharistic Congress at Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN. From July 17th–21st, 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 17th-21st, 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 4th, Dr. Mark Giszczak will discuss his book: Suffering: What every Catholic Should know about suffering? CLICK HERE You can listen online at cdow.org/CatholicForum, or by searching “Catholic Forum” on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or Amazon Music podcasts. “Like” Catholic Forum on Facebook at facebook.com/CatholicForum @CatholicForum.
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Visit Bulletin Overflow https://saintpolycarp.org/overflow/ for details on the following and more!:
UNITY IN THE PARK: Sunday, May 19th sponsored by Smyrna Wesleyan Church
ST. THOMAS MORE SOCIETY ANNUAL DINNER– Sunday, May 5th
RETREAT FOR CATHOLICS AFFECTED BY DIVORCE AND SEPARATION – Saturday, June 15th
RETROUVAILLE: The Retrouvaille Program is for married couples facing challenges in their relationship. Upcoming programs: August 9th – 11th and October 4th – 6th , 2024 at the Family Life Center in Malver, PA
LET US PRAY:
God of all life,
Help us to appreciate the great gift that is human life
formed in your image, a reflection of your holiness.
Help us to recognize you in all whom you have created:
children not yet born,
families affected by poverty and war,
people of different abilities,
people from other lands, and
all who are victims of hatred and racism.
Help us to bear witness to the dignity of all whom you have created,
regardless of stage of life,
or wealth,
or ability,
or color, or creed,
for every person is fully equal in your loving eyes.
Share with us your holy knowledge
that we are all your children,
each bestowed with inherent dignity.
May your justice reign forever!
Amen.
Weekend Update April 27/28
FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
The Season of Easter began on Easter Sunday, March 31st, and will end on Sunday, May 19th, 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
~ How has your discipleship been strengthened by the mentorship of another?
~ How are you called to move from “word and speech” to put your faith into action this week?
~ What helps you to stay connected to Jesus, the true vine?
READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/042824.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
PLEASE PRAY: Please pray for the repose of the soul of Reverend Thomas A. Flowers who passed from this life into eternal life on Wednesday, April 17th at the age of 73. Fr. Tom was Pastor at St. Polycarp from 2002 to 2015. We will remember Fr. Tom and his deep faith and love of our Lord and his dedication to our parish. Thank you, Fr. Tom. May you rest in peace.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 6:30 pm this evening, Thursday, April 25, 2024 at St. Jude the Apostle Church, 152 Tulip Drive, Lewes, DE 19958. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 pm on Friday, April 26, 2024 at St. Elizabeth Church, Cedar and Clayton Streets, Wilmington, DE 19805, where family and friends may visit beginning at 10:00 am. Interment will be held in All Saints Cemetery.
LIVE STREAM: The Mass of Christian Burial for Fr. Tom will be live streamed on the Diocesan you-tube channel, www.youtube.com/dioceseofwilm or click on this direct link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kH_I-e-qrbg
Fr. Tom’s obituary can be viewed at
https://www.dohertyfh.com/obituary/RevThomas-Flowers
THIS WEEKEND, APRIL 27/28 (and Monday, April 29th – Friday, May 3rd)
FIRST EUCHARIST: Please pray for those children who will be receiving Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time this Saturday, April 27th, Sunday, April 28th, and next Saturday, May 4th.
FAITH WITH FRIENDS (Adult Formation): We will meet this Sunday at 9 am in the library. This will be our last gathering before we break until September.
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 6th. Baskets will be ready for pick-up at St. Polycarp Church or delivered if needed on Friday May 10th. To place your order or for any questions contact: Jill Mercer- 518-795-7579 jll_mercer@yahoo.com or Darlene Sanphy – 302-270-3915 darpete87@comcast.net
MOTHER’S DAY NOVENA: We are part of this world today because our mothers have given us life. Each one of us has several special women who have enriched our lives: Grandmothers, Aunts, Cousins, Caregivers, Godmothers, Friends, and others. Living or deceased, the best gift you can give a loved one is the gift of the Mass. Please use the Mother’s Day Mass Remembrance envelopes to enlist these special women in the masses offered by our parish.
JOB OPENING AT ST. POLYCARP: We are in need of someone to take care of cleaning the offices, the Church and being the housekeeper at the rectory. Hours can be worked almost anytime – negotiable. This is a paid position, generally around 15 hours a week. This position can be split into separate positions. If you are interested, please contact Fr. Jim at 302.653.8279 or email fr.hreha@saintpolycarp.org. A special thank you to Angela Gibson who has filled this ministry for the last several years. Deadline to apply is May 1.
FAITH AND CHARITY APPEAL – One Body, One Spirit in Christ: Embracing the gospel message, “I am the vine: you the branches – he that abide in me and I in him, the same bears much fruit. For without me you can do nothing. I am the way, and the truth and the life. No man cometh to the Father but by me.” Let us come together as one Body and one Spirit in Christ for our Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. Just as the branches bear much fruit when connected to the vine, our collective generosity will bring forth abundant blessings for our community. Your giving is not only a response to the call of Christ but a tangible expression of our interconnectedness. Let us unite in giving, knowing that without each other and without Christ, we can do nothing. Join the Appeal and be a vital part of the fruitful journey we share in faith and charity.
Thank you to everyone who pledged to the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. Your participation strengthens our community. If you have not yet participated, please consider doing so today. Your gift makes a real difference in the lives of thousands of individuals and families who reside within our 12-county diocese. Pledge envelopes are available in the pews and at the doors of the Church and can be placed in the offertory basket. Thank you for your generosity and support.
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.
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.
NEXT WEEKEND, MAY 4/5 (and Monday, May 6th – Friday, May 10th)
MAY CROWNING: Please join us outside, in front of the statue of Mary, next Sunday, May 5th, following the 10:30 am Mass for a short ceremony to honor Mary “the Queen of Heaven”. It is tradition to bring flowers to Mary. Flowers represent a spiritual season of growth and new beginnings. 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 will be next Sunday, May 5th, 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
The portico and all portico doors will be inaccessible the week of May 6th. If you need to access the office, hall, chapel, library, or meeting rooms, please knock at the staff door. The staff door is the single door located to the left of the portico.
UPCOMING
ANNUAL MOTHER’S DAY ROSE SALE: Birthright of Delaware will host its Annual Mother’s Day Rose Sale at our parish. Please support Birthright’s pregnancy services by purchasing roses after Masses on Mother’s Day weekend which is May 10th – 12th. 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.
ST. POLYCARP’S 5th ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT & DINNER: JUNE 30, 2024
GARRISON LAKE GOLF CLUB, 101 West Fairways Circle, Smyrna, DE.
$130 per individual golfer includes lunch, Green fee, Golf Cart, on course beverages including beer, complimentary gift bags, prizes for best teams, long drive/closest to pin, followed by a buffet dinner.
Don’t golf? That’s ok. Join us at St. Polycarp Church for a delicious Italian Feast just $40.00 per person.
For more information and registration, Dennis Skinner (papadskinz@yahoo.com (302-981-8743) Anna Skinner (ANNA.SKINZ@gmail.com) (302-883-5647) or use this QR code. CLICK HERE TO SEE FLYER
FORMED: Thanks to a very generous and thoughtful parishioner, our FORMED Subscription has been RENEWED for another year! Please SIGN UP NOW and begin enjoying the abundant amount of Catholic content that FORMED has to offer! You won’t be disappointed! To gain full access to FORMED; follow these simple steps:
~Go to: www.formed.org or scan QR Code
~Enter our parish’s zip code (19977)
~Click on St. Polycarp Church
~Enter your name and your email address
ONGOING
THREE YEARS OF ABUNDANT GRACE AND TRANSFORMATION – EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL
MISSION: To renew the church by enkindling a living relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist.
VISION: To inspire a movement of Catholics across the United States who are healed, converted, formed, and unified by an encounter with Jesus in the Eucharist—and who are then sent out on mission “for the life of the world.”
HOLY COMMUNION TO THE SICK AND HOMEBOUND – Do you know someone who is sick or homebound and not able to make it to Mass? We would love to give them the opportunity to receive Holy Communion in their homes. Please contact April Corrales at (302) 220 – 9616 or Lori Ostrowski at (302) 540 – 6522
SATURDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION at St. Polycarp will take place monthly at the Vigil Mass for the Second Sunday of the month. Eucharistic Adoration at St. Dennis Church (Galena MD) will take place on the Fourth Sunday of the month following the 8 am Sunday Mass.
Upcoming Saturday Eucharistic Adoration at St. Polycarp: Saturday, May 11th, Saturday, June 8th, Saturday, July 13th, Saturday, August 10th
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 12th – Donna Adams; Sunday May 26th – 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 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month during the 10:30 am Mass. This is a wonderful opportunity for children in PreK-4th 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.
REDNER’S MARKETS 1% SAVE-A-TAPE FUNDRAISER: Turn your food shopping into cash for our parish. Simply be sure to obtain and scan your Redner’s Rewards Card each time you shop. Save your whole receipt. Bring your receipts to the Parish Office or put them into the collection basket. There is no expiration date – you can turn in receipts months old!
THE SMYRNA/CLAYTON MINISTERIUM FOOD PANTRY is located downstairs at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 22 N. Union St., Smyrna. The pantry is open from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, Monday thru Friday. Due to the increased need in the community, the Pantry is in great need of cereal, juice boxes or pouches, peanut butter & jelly, hamburger helper, tuna helper, canned tuna, sloppy joe sauce (Manwich), boxed spaghetti, spaghetti sauce, vegetable beef and chicken noodle soups, macaroni & cheese, and Chef Boy Ardee canned pastas. No canned vegetables or beans are currently needed. Please, no expired items. Here at St. Polycarp we have bins under the coat rack in the hallway near the bathrooms to accept your donations.
BULLETIN SPONSORS: Thank you to all of our weekly bulletin sponsors for your support during the year!
USEFUL LINKS:
WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish. For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS CHURCH: http://www.stdennischurch.org 153 N. Main St. Galena, MD 21635 (410) 648-5145
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm
FOR THE SAKE OF GOD’S CHILDREN: https://www.cdow.org/giving/fsgc/
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/ Newspaper of the Diocese, copies available as you leave Church or online. Published every other week.
EWTN: ewtn.com
FROM THE DIOCESE:
BE THERE WHEN GOD MOVES: The 10th National Eucharistic Congress at Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN. From July 17th–21st, 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 17th-21st, 2024, IN INDIANAPOLIS, IN. To read the letter of invitation, CLICK HERE
FOR TRAVEL INFORMATION FLYER CLICK HERE
CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO: Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. On Saturday, April 27th, Catholic Christian music legend, John Michael Talbot, is the guest on this week’s Catholic Forum podcast. CLICK HERE You can listen online at cdow.org/CatholicForum, or by searching “Catholic Forum” on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or Amazon Music podcasts. “Like” Catholic Forum on Facebook at facebook.com/CatholicForum @CatholicForum.
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Visit Bulletin Overflow https://saintpolycarp.org/overflow/ for details on the following and more!:
UNITY IN THE PARK: Sunday, May 19th sponsored by Smyrna Wesleyan Church
ST. THOMAS MORE SOCIETY ANNUAL DINNER– Sunday, May 5th
RETREAT FOR CATHOLICS AFFECTED BY DIVORCE AND SEPARATION – Saturday, June 15th
RETROUVAILLE: The Retrouvaille Program is for married couples facing challenges in their relationship. Upcoming programs: August 9 – 11 and October 4 -6 , 2024 at the Family Life Center in Malver, PA
LET US PRAY: Prayer for Vocations
Loving and Generous God,
it is You who call us by name and ask us to follow You.
Help us to grow in the Love and Service of our Church
as we experience it today.
Give us the energy and courage of Your Spirit
to shape its future
Grant us faith-filled leaders who will embrace Christ’s Mission
of love and justice.
Bless the Church of St. Polycarp
by raising up dedicated and generous leaders
from our families and friends
who will serve Your people as Sisters,
Priests, Brothers, Deacons and Lay Ministers.
Inspire us to know You better
and open our hearts
to hear Your call.
We ask this through our Lord. Amen.
Weekend Update April 20/21
FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
The Season of Easter began on Easter Sunday, March 31st, and will end on Sunday, May 19th, with the Solemnity of Pentecost Sunday. The Easter Season lasts for 50 days.
During the Easter Season, we will be praying the Apostle’s Creed instead of the Nicene Creed. The Apostle’s Creed can be found on pg. 10 of Breaking Bread. It is the Baptismal symbol of our Church during this season.
SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
~ “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” How have you experienced God working in paradoxical ways in your life?
~ What does it mean to be a child of God?
~ How are you being called to lay down your life for others, following the Good Shepherd?
READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/042124.cfm
LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am, Tuesdays & Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays.
PARISH WEBSITE: Visit: www.saintpolycarp.org/.
WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE . (New Bulletins are posted on Fridays.) Thank you to all of our weekly bulletin sponsors for your support during the year! Your support has not gone unnoticed by our parish community and is so appreciated!
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: There’s always information that doesn’t fit in our Bulletin – Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE
Unfortunately, there will be NO Confessions prior to Mass (2:30-3:30 pm) tomorrow, Saturday, April 20th, due to Fr. Jim’s attendance at Confirmation at Holy Cross. There was no priest available to come hear confessions at that time. Fr. Jim will be here for the 4:00 pm Mass. Please continue to pray for Vocations!
PLEASE PRAY: Please pray for the repose of the soul of Reverend Thomas A. Flowers who passed from this life into eternal life on Wednesday, April 17th at the age of 73. Fr. Tom was Pastor at St. Polycarp from 2002 to 2015. We will remember Fr. Tom and his deep faith and love of our Lord and his dedication to our parish. Thank you, Fr. Tom. May you rest in peace.
As funeral arrangements become available, we will share them with you.
THIS WEEKEND, APRIL 20/21 (and Monday, April 22nd – Friday, APRIL 26th)
Students in our Confirmation Class will be receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation this Saturday, April 20th, at 1 pm at Holy Cross Church, Dover. Please keep our 15 Confirmandi in your prayers.
PRETZEL TIME! The Knights of Columbus will be selling soft pretzels after Masses this weekend, April 20th and 21st . Pretzels are $2 each or 3 for $5.
FAITH WITH FRIENDS (Adult Formation) will continue meeting on Sunday, 21st and 28th at 9 am in the library.
CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD will take place this Sunday during the 10:30 am Mass. This is a wonderful opportunity for children in PreK-4th grade. Children will be called forward before the First Reading and will return to you after the General Intercessions. Our leaders and assistants have cleared background checks.
THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: This Sunday, April 21st at the 10:30 am Mass, Iris Acosta will receive the Vocation Chalice. Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week. Families and individuals are encouraged to sign up! Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/
APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS: Brother Vincent Columbiette’s, are now taking orders. Order a beautiful locally grown,11″ colorful hanging basket for only $25.00! Your choice of Petunias, Begonias or Geraniums. Orders need to be placed by Friday May 3rd. Baskets will be ready for pick-up at St. Polycarp Church or delivered if needed on Friday May 10th. To place your order or for any questions contact: Jill Mercer- 518-795-7579 jll_mercer@yahoo.com or Darlene Sanphy – 302-270-3915 darpete87@comcast.net
MOTHER’S DAY NOVENA: We are part of this world today because our mothers have given us life. Each one of us has several special women who have enriched our lives: Grandmothers, Aunts, Cousins, Caregivers, Godmothers, Friends, and others. Living or deceased, the best gift you can give a loved one is the gift of the Mass. Please use the Mother’s Day Mass Remembrance envelopes to enlist these special women in the masses offered by our parish.
JOB OPENING AT ST. POLYCARP: We are in need of someone to take care of cleaning the offices, the Church and being the housekeeper at the rectory. Hours can be worked almost anytime – negotiable. This is a paid position, generally around 15 hours a week. This position can be split into separate positions. If you are interested, please contact Fr. Jim at 302.653.8279 or email fr.hreha@saintpolycarp.org. A special thank you to Angela Gibson who has filled this ministry for the last several years.
FAITH AND CHARITY APPEAL – One Body, One Spirit in Christ: Join us in the spirit of unity and love as we launch our Faith and Charity Appeal this weekend under the theme “One Body, One Spirit in Christ”. Inspired by the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd, we are reminded that we are all part of one flock. Our Appeal is an opportunity to strengthen the bonds of our community and deepen our relationship with God.
This Appeal is not just a call for financial support; it is an invitation to actively participate in the shared journey of faith. Each contribution, big or small, is a meaningful step towards building a more connected and vibrant community. As we come together in generosity, let us embody the essence of being one body and one spirit in Christ. Help our parish show a good level of active participation.
We are all invited to follow the Good Shepherd’s example and support one another on this sacred journey. One Body, One Spirit in Christ is an invitation to participate as a community in the 2024 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. Please respond by pledging a sacrificial gift to this important campaign.
To learn more about the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal, visit
www.cdow.org; click “Giving” then “Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal”,
or simply scan this QR code with your cellphone.
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/ Newspaper of the Diocese, the new edition is available as you leave Church this weekend. Published every other week.
NEXT WEEKEND, APRIL 27/28 (and Monday, April 29th – Friday, May 3rd)
Please pray for those children who will be receiving the Eucharist for the first time on April 27th, April 28th, and May 4th.
UPCOMING
ST. POLYCARP’S 5th 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.
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 11th, Saturday, June 8th, Saturday, July 13th, Saturday, August 10th
TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9 am to 8 pm in the Chapel. Do you have one hour to spend with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament? Call Cheryl Thomas at (302) 363 – 0404 or email her at salcrest7@gmail.com. All are welcome to stop in and adore Jesus between 9 am and 8 pm in the Chapel on Tuesdays. Stay for 10 minutes, 1 hour…
THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week. Families and individuals are encouraged to sign up! Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/ Sunday, April 21st – Iris Acosta; Sunday, May 12th – Donna Adams; Sunday May 26th – 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 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month during the 10:30 am Mass. This is a wonderful opportunity for children in PreK-4th grade. It mirrors the worship experience of the larger community in an engaging and interactive style. They will listen to Scripture and engage in discussions about what they have heard at their age level. Children will be called forward before the First Reading and will return to you after the General Intercessions. Our lead catechist is Anna Skinner. She, along with her assistants, have cleared background checks.
GLUTEN FREE? Do you have an intolerance to gluten? If so, our parish offers gluten-free wafers to be consecrated for you. Please see our Sacristan 10 – 15 minutes before Mass and let them know that you need a gluten-free wafer put in the pyx. At Communion, please proceed down the aisle to the priest who will have the pyx in his hand and let him know you need a gluten-free host.
IS THAT YOU, FR. JIM? If you receive emails or texts from Fr. Jim asking for favors, gift cards or gifts or stating something similar to “I am currently busy in a meeting now, no calls so just reply to my email.”, please ignore and delete. If an email looks suspicious and you’re not sure, give the office a call.
REDNER’S MARKETS 1% SAVE-A-TAPE FUNDRAISER: Turn your food shopping into cash for our parish. Simply be sure to obtain and scan your Redner’s Rewards Card each time you shop. Save your whole receipt. Bring your receipts to the Parish Office or put them into the collection basket. There is no expiration date – you can turn in receipts months old!
THE SMYRNA/CLAYTON MINISTERIUM FOOD PANTRY is located downstairs at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 22 N. Union St., Smyrna. The pantry is open from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, Monday thru Friday. Due to the increased need in the community, the Pantry is in great need of cereal, juice boxes or pouches, peanut butter & jelly, hamburger helper, tuna helper, canned tuna, sloppy joe sauce (Manwich), boxed spaghetti, spaghetti sauce, vegetable beef and chicken noodle soups, macaroni & cheese, and Chef Boy Ardee canned pastas. No canned vegetables or beans are currently needed. Please, no expired items. Here at St. Polycarp we have bins under the coat rack in the hallway near the bathrooms to accept your donations.
BULLETIN SPONSORS: Thank you to all of our weekly bulletin sponsors for your support during the year!
USEFUL LINKS:
WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish. For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS CHURCH: http://www.stdennischurch.org 153 N. Main St. Galena, MD 21635 (410) 648-5145
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm
FOR THE SAKE OF GOD’S CHILDREN: https://www.cdow.org/giving/fsgc/
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/ Newspaper of the Diocese, copies available as you leave Church or online. Published every other week.
EWTN: ewtn.com
FROM THE DIOCESE:
BE THERE WHEN GOD MOVES: The 10th National Eucharistic Congress at Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN. From July 17th–21st, 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 17th-21st, 2024, IN INDIANAPOLIS, IN. To read the letter of invitation, CLICK HERE
FOR TRAVEL INFORMATION FLYER CLICK HERE
CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO: Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. On Saturday, April 20th, tune in as Mark and Leo Ugolini discuss the Troops of St. George, a new fraternal Catholic nonprofit apostolate for priests, men, and young men looking for a life of adventure coupled with virtue. CLICK HERE You can listen online at cdow.org/CatholicForum, or by searching “Catholic Forum” on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or Amazon Music podcasts. “Like” Catholic Forum on Facebook at facebook.com/CatholicForum @CatholicForum.
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Visit Bulletin Overflow https://saintpolycarp.org/overflow/ for details on the following and more!:
UNITY IN THE PARK: Sunday, May 19th sponsored by Smyrna Wesleyan Church
ST. THOMAS MORE SOCIETY ANNUAL DINNER– Sunday, May 5th
RETREAT FOR CATHOLICS AFFECTED BY DIVORCE AND SEPARATION – Saturday, June 15th
LET US PRAY:
St. Michael the Archangel,
defend us in battle.
Be our protection against
the wickedness and snares of the devil.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray,
and do thou,
O prince of the heavenly host,
by the power of God,
cast into hell Satan,
and all the evil spirits
who prowl about the world
seeking the ruin of souls.
Amen.