FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
~ What signs of God’s covenantal faithfulness have you experienced in your life?
~ How will the journey of these forty days change your heart?
– What do Jesus’ words “Repent and believe in the Gospel” mean to you this Lent?

 

FASTING AND ABSTINENCE: Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting and abstinence for Catholics.  In addition, Fridays during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence.  For members of the Roman Catholic Church, the norms on fasting are obligatory from age 18 until age 59.  When fasting, a person is permitted to eat one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal.  The norms concerning abstinence from meat are binding upon members of the Roman Catholic Church from age 14 onwards.         ~USCCB

Stations of the Cross and Benediction – at St. Polycarp
Fridays in Lent at 7 pm

 

ST. DENNIS CHURCH (GALENA, MD): Stations of the Cross – Fridays in Lent at 5 pm and 7 pm (Hispanic) 

RECONCILIATION:
Saturdays, 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm at St. Polycarp
Sundays, 7:00 am – 7:30 am at St. Dennis

Deanery Lenten Penance Service – Thursday, March 21^st at 7 pm at Holy Cross, Dover  (Several priests will be available to hear confessions)

Reconciliation Monday, March 25^th – Monday of Holy Week
3 pm – 5 pm at St. Polycarp
6 pm – 8 pm at St. Polycarp

3 pm – 5 pm at St. Dennis
6 pm – 8 pm at St. Dennis – (Fr. Oscar – Hispanic & English)

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READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/021824.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

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THE PRECIOUS BLOOD: We begin this first weekend of Lent with a return of The Precious Blood. We are truly thankful for this blessing and for the many people who have come forward to serve as Eucharistic Ministers. Distribution of The Precious Blood will only be at the 2 stations by the railing (one near the ambo, the other near the sacristy door).

 

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: will take place this Sunday at the 10:30 am Mass. CLOW 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. Children will be called forward before the First Reading and will return to you after the General Intercessions. Our catechists and assistants have cleared background checks.

 

THE RESPECT LIFE MINISTRY  will be collecting items for Easter Baskets for patients at DHCI.  A box/bin will be outside Mother Drexel Hall February 17^th through March 17^th. We were asked to go very easy on candy due to dietary issues.  The patients cannot do actual jigsaw puzzles.  However, items we can supply:  Puzzle Books (Sudoku, Find a Word, etc.)  stuffed animals, cookies, crackers, hand lotions, books, socks and handmade crafts.

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NEXT WEEKEND, FEBRUARY 24/25  (and Monday, February 26^th – Friday, March 1^st)

NEW FAITH WITH FRIENDS! Do you have the desire to dive into the divine but find yourself caught in the whirlwind of multitasking? Fear not, for the salvation of scheduling has arrived! Introducing a new time for “Faith with Friends” – on Sundays in the library, starting next Sunday, February 25^th at 9:00 am. What’s in the holy mix? Sip on wisdom-infused coffee, donuts sent from the heavens, and sweet divine fellowship! 

 

IT’S ALMOST PRETZEL TIME! The Knights of Columbus will again be selling soft pretzels after Mass on February 24^th and 25^th. Pretzels are $2.00 each or 3 for $5.00.

 

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UPCOMING

LENTEN RETREAT: Saturday, March 2^nd, 2024 following an 8:30 am Mass.  Brother Vincent Columbiettes will be sponsoring a Lenten Retreat right here at St Polycarp Church on Saturday, March 2^nd, 2024.  Everyone is invited to attend an 8:30 am Mass and then come to the retreat.   It is entitled: FATIMA Miracle of the Sun Crossroads. It will identify two different paths that were taken after seeing the sun dance at Fatima. Our presenter, Alice Reis Israel, will once again bring her incredible remembrances of Fatima this time, via Zoom. We will begin at the crossroads and identify two paths taken which will help all of us understand our own spiritual journey. There is no charge for this retreat, but we will be accepting donations. Coffee and danish will be provided before the retreat and a light lunch afterward. We welcome everyone to take this spiritual journey with us. Contact Anna Skinner anna.skinz@gmail.com for reservations 302 883 5647.

 

March’s Agape will be held Sunday March 24^th (not March 3^rd) in conjunction with the Easter Egg Hunt by the Knights of Columbus. More details to come. .

 

 

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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

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WE NEED YOUR HELP!      ARE YOU BEING CALLED TO SERVE?

SOCIAL CONCERNS: The DHCI* ministry is in need of assistance to help Deacon Frank with the 10:30 am Communion Service on the 3^rd Tuesday of the month. Type of assistance needed: help with bringing residents to the prayer area and set up. If interested, contact Pablo Resto at  pabloresto@msn.com or Anne Marie at theaterowl@yahoo.com . (*Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill, located in Smyrna)

BULLETIN BOARDS:  We are looking for someone who will keep our Church bulletin boards up-to-date and add a few decorations to keep them eye-catching. The office will give you the up-to-date flyers to be posted. If you are interested, call or email Judy at the office: (302 )653 – 8279 or communications@saintpolycarp.org

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ONGOING 

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, March 9^th, Saturday, April 13^th, Saturday, May 11^th, Saturday, June 8^th, Saturday, July 13^th, Saturday, August 10^th

TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm 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, February 18^th at the 10:30 am Mass – Dee Lim. 

CONNECTED IN CHRIST (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets every Tuesday at 9:00 am in the Parish Library – ALL are welcome. Please join us. If you have any questions, please call Cookie Ruane at (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!

                                                                               

 

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USEFUL LINKS:

WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish.  For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit  faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS 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
EWTN: ewtn.com

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FROM THE DIOCESE:     

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

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. On the February 17^th, episode Fr. Sandy Pocetto, OSFS will be the special guest, author of  “Lenten Journey with Jesus Christ and St. Francis De Sales”.  CLICK HERE  You can listen online at cdow.org/CatholicForum, or by searching “Catholic Forum” on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or Amazon Music podcasts.   “Like” Catholic Forum on Facebook at facebook.com/CatholicForum @CatholicForum.

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BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Visit Bulletin Overflow  https://saintpolycarp.org/overflow/ for details on the following:

ST. JOSEPH CHURCH (MIDDLETOWN) PRESENTS – “WAY OF THE CROSS”  Sunday, February 18^th 2024, 4:00 pm
MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER – March 1^st -3^rd, 2024 at the Brighton Suites in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Learn tools to revitalize romance and deepen communication in your marriage!!!
25^th ANNIVERSARY CONFERENCE OF THE CATHOLIC MENS’S FELLOWSHIP OF MARYLAND Saturday, March 9^th, at Saint Philip Neri Church in Linthicum (Maryland)
A RACHEL’S VINEYARD CATHOLIC RETREAT Friday, April 19^th – Sunday, 21^st, 2024.  This retreat offers emotional and spiritual healing for anyone who has struggled with the pain of abortion.
“THE CHAIR”: The series tells the story of the Catholic Church in America today. It highlights each bishop, his cathedral, and important aspects of the diocesan history.  You can access the series here – https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPu38Ui5dTDIXL2dAlmSBBROUBx6DMGVK. To view the episode about our Diocese visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEjo2GtH-dM&t=51s

 

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LET US PRAY: 

 

 

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
~ Is it easy or difficult for you to trust that God wants to heal you?  Why?
~ Why does Jesus tell the leper to go and show himself to the priest?  What lesson can we take from this for our lives?
– Has there ever been a time that God has done something so wonderful in your life that you could not keep it to yourself?

ASH WEDNESDAY- FEBRUARY 14^{th
Mass and Distribution of Ashes at 8:30 am & 7 pm} 

 LENT BEGINS – a time of fasting, almsgiving, and prayer

ST. POLYCARP CHURCH:
Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinner – Tuesday, February 13^th 5 – 6:30 pm
Palms to Ashes Service – Tuesday, February 13^th, at 7 pm

Ash Wednesday Mass with Distribution of Ashes
Wednesday, February 14^th, at 8:30 am and 7 pm
(The Ash Wednesday collection will take place at both Masses on Ash Wednesday.)

FASTING AND ABSTINENCE: Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting and abstinence for Catholics.  In addition, Fridays during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence.  For members of the Roman Catholic Church, the norms on fasting are obligatory from age 18 until age 59.  When fasting, a person is permitted to eat one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal.  The norms concerning abstinence from meat are binding upon members of the Roman Catholic Church from age 14 onwards.         ~USCCB

Stations of the Cross and Benediction
Fridays in Lent, beginning February 16^th, at 7 pm

 

ST. DENNIS CHURCH (GALENA, MD):
Ash Wednesday Mass & Distribution of Ashes – Wednesday, February 14^th at 5:30 pm (Hispanic) and 7 pm
Stations of the Cross – Fridays in Lent, beginning on February 16^th  at 5 pm and 7 pm (Hispanic) 

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READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/021124.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

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 LITTLE SISTERS OF THE POOR: Please join us in welcoming the Little Sisters of the Poor to our parish this weekend. At Jeanne Jugan Residence in Newark, DE the Little Sisters offer hospitality and care for needy elderly men and women.  The Little Sisters of the Poor depend greatly on charity to carry on their mission to the aged and infirm.  Any assistance you can give will help them provide for the needs of the elderly entrusted to their care.  To learn more about the mission of the Little Sisters of the Poor see the website at www.littlesistersofthepoordelaware.org.

MEMORIAL CANDLES: The white candles on the top row are Memorial Candles.  The introductory fee will be $120.00 for a candle to be lit for one year continuously. The introductory fee is good until Ash Wednesday when the fee will be $150. A small memorial name plate will be placed in front of your candle, with the name of your loved one engraved on it.  If you are interested in having one of these candles lit, please contact Kathy at the office. This would be a lovely way of remembering someone close to your heart. The $3 aqua votive candles can be lit for your intentions.  After you put your money in the slot, you just need to press the button in front of that candle.   You must press and hold the button until it lights.

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NEXT WEEKEND, FEBRUARY 17/18  (and Monday, February 12^th – Friday, February 16^th)

A NEW CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL IN KENT COUNTY – Bishop Koenig has given permission for a Catholic High School in Kent County.  Please come for coffee, donuts and a short briefing about this exciting and important opportunity for our students following Mass next Saturday and Sunday February 17^th and 18^th in Mother Drexel Hall.

 

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Sunday, February 18^th at the 10:30 am Mass – Dee Lim. 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/

LENTEN RICE BOWLS: Please pick up a rice bowl as you leave Mass. Rice bowls are returned to Church at the end of Lent. Through Catholic Relief Services Rice Bowl, families learn about how our sisters and brothers across the globe overcome hardships like hunger and malnutrition, and how through Lenten alms, we have the power to make the world a better place for all.

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UPCOMING

THE RESPECT LIFE MINISTRY  will be collecting items for Easter Baskets for patients at DHCI.  A box/bin will be outside Mother Drexel Hall February 17^th through March 17^th. We were asked to go very easy on candy due to dietary issues.  The patients cannot do actual jigsaw puzzles.  However, items we can supply:  Puzzle Books (Sudoka, Find a Word, etc.)  Stuffed animals, cookies, crackers, hand lotions, books, socks and handmade crafts.

IT’S ALMOST PRETZEL TIME! The Knights of Columbus will again be selling soft pretzels after Mass on February 24^th and 25^th. Pretzels are $2.00 each or 3 for $5.00.

 

NEW FAITH WITH FRIENDS! Do you have the desire to dive into the divine but find yourself caught in the whirlwind of multitasking? Fear not, for the salvation of scheduling has arrived! Introducing a new time for “Faith with Friends” – on Sundays in the library, starting on February 25th at 9:00 am. What’s in the holy mix? Sip on wisdom-infused coffee, donuts sent from the heavens, and sweet divine fellowship! 

LENTEN RETREAT: Save the date for Columbiettes Lenten retreat. Saturday, March 2^nd, 2024 right after an 8:30 am Mass.  FATIMA : MIRACLE OF THE SUN

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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

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WE NEED YOUR HELP!      ARE YOU BEING CALLED TO SERVE?

SOCIAL CONCERNS: The DHCI* ministry is in need of assistance to help Deacon Frank with the 10:30 am Communion Service on the 3^rd Tuesday of the month. Type of assistance needed: help with bringing residents to the prayer area and set up. If interested, contact Pablo Resto at  pabloresto@msn.com or Anne Marie at theaterowl@yahoo.com . (*Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill, located in Smyrna)

BULLETIN BOARDS:  We are looking for someone who will keep our Church bulletin boards up-to-date and add a few decorations to keep them eye-catching. The office will give you the up-to-date flyers to be posted. If you are interested, call or email Judy at the office: (302 )653 – 8279 or communications@saintpolycarp.org

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ONGOING 

THE MASS SETTING FOR ORDINARY TIME will be the Mass of Spirit and Grace (#925) and the Memorial Acclamation will be “When We Eat This Bread”.

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.  The next Saturday Adoration at St. Polycarp is February 10^th, 2024.
Upcoming: Saturday, March 9^th, Saturday, April 13^th, Saturday, May 11^th, Saturday, June 8^th, Saturday, July 13^th, Saturday, August 10^th

TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm 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, February 18^th at the 10:30 am Mass – Dee Lim. 

CONNECTED IN CHRIST (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets every Tuesday at 9:00 am in the Parish Library – ALL are welcome. Please join us. If you have any questions, please call Cookie Ruane at (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!

                                                                               

 

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USEFUL LINKS:

WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish.  For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit  faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS: http://www.stdennischurch.org
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm
FOR THE SAKE OF GOD’S CHILDREN: https://www.cdow.org/giving/fsgc/
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/  Newspaper of the Diocese, copies available as you leave Church or online
EWTN: ewtn.com

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FROM THE DIOCESE:     

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

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. On the February 10^th, episode Deacon Craig & July Bickel will discuss how Retrouvaille can be a Lifeline for Married Couples.  CLICK HERE  You can listen online at cdow.org/CatholicForum, or by searching “Catholic Forum” on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or Amazon Music podcasts.   “Like” Catholic Forum on Facebook at facebook.com/CatholicForum @CatholicForum.

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BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Visit Bulletin Overflow  https://saintpolycarp.org/overflow/ for details on the following:

RETROUVAILLE:  REDISCOVER THE LOVE IN YOUR MARRIAGE –  February 16^th – 18^th (Friday – Sunday) at the Family Life Center in Malvern, PA.Tens of thousands of couples have healed their marriages through Retrouvaille.
ST. JOSEPH CHURCH (MIDDLETOWN) PRESENTS – “WAY OF THE CROSS”  Sunday, February 18^th 2024, 4:00 pm
MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER – March 1^st -3^rd, 2024 at the Brighton Suites in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Learn tools to revitalize romance and deepen communication in your marriage!!!
25^th ANNIVERSARY CONFERENCE OF THE CATHOLIC MENS’S FELLOWSHIP OF MARYLAND Saturday, March 9^th, at Saint Philip Neri Church in Linthicum (Maryland)
A RACHEL’S VINEYARD CATHOLIC RETREAT Friday, April 19^th – Sunday, 21^st, 2024.  This retreat offers emotional and spiritual healing for anyone who has struggled with the pain of abortion.

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LET US PRAY:  Our Lady of Lourdes (February 11^th) – Prayer for healing

O ever-Immaculate Virgin, Mother of Mercy,
health of the sick, refuge of sinners,
comforter of the afflicted,
you know my wants, my troubles, my sufferings;
look with mercy on me.

By appearing in the Grotto of Lourdes,
you were pleased to make it a privileged sanctuary,
whence you dispense your favours;
and already many sufferers have obtained
the cure of their infirmities, both spiritual and corporal.

I come, therefore, with complete confidence
to implore your maternal intercession.
Obtain, O loving Mother, the grant of my requests.
(mention your petition)

Through gratitude for your favours,
I will endeavour to imitate your virtues,
that I may one day share your glory,
and bless you in eternity. Amen.

FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
~ When have you experienced Jesus’ healing touch in your life?
~ Why do you think Jesus prevented the demons he cast out from speaking about him?
– In the midst of the busyness of his ministry, Jesus took time to pray.  How do you make space for prayer in your life?

 READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/020424.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

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WHO LOVES CHOCOLATE? LAST DAY TO ORDER IS FEBRUARY 4^th! PSR is selling the World’s Finest Chocolate Bars again!  You can order through Faith Direct @ faith.direct/DE831 (click on EVENTS), fill out an order form (found at the doors of the Church or at the office) and place it in the collection basket or drop box, or simply use this QR Code. HURRY! PLACE YOUR ORDER TODAY!

 

COLLECTING PALMS / PALMS TO ASHES SERVICE: Palms from previous years are being collected!  Please place your old palms in the baskets in the vestibule or under the coat rack in the hallway.  The burning of the old palms (Palms to Ashes) will take place on Tuesday, February 13^th.  Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent, falls on Wednesday, February 14^th.  (See below for Mass times.)

 

FROM THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS: The Knights of Columbus, Our Lady Queen of Peace Assembly, is inviting the wives, including widows, of our 3^rd and 4^th degree Knights to enjoy dinner on Tuesday February 6^th at 6:30 pm. The dinner will be held at St Polycarp, Mother Drexel Hall. Please notify Tom Boscher or Jack Barnas if you are able to attend.

PARISH APPRECIATION DINNER: Due to limited seating for our Appreciation Dinner on Saturday, February 10^th, , we are no longer taking online reservations.  Please call Kathy Curlett at 302 222 9326 to check availability. We look forward to seeing everyone who has reserved their seats.  Doors will open after the 4 pm Mass on February 10, 2024. Catering by the Smyrna Diner. IMPORTANT: Please be aware that Adoration will be in the church after Mass on February 10^th. We ask that you maintain a respectful silence in the hallway

 

ANNUAL FORUM: Were you unable to attend the Annual Forum?  Visit www.saintpolycarp.org/pastoral-council
to view the information that was shared by our Pastoral and Finance Councils. While you’re visiting the Pastoral Council webpage, you can also view bios of the members of the Pastoral Council.

 

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NEXT WEEKEND, FEBRUARY 10/11  (and Monday, February 12^th – Friday, February 16^th)

ASH WEDNESDAY, LENT BEGINS – FEBRUARY 14^th

 

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Saturday, February 10^th    Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament will take place at the end of the 4pm Vigil Mass for the Second Sunday of the month, next Saturday, February 10^th. Please plan to stay and spend some time with Jesus.

BLESSING OF NEW DRIVERS OF ANY AGE: Saturday, February 10^th, during the 4pm Mass.

 

SHROVE TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 13^th – The Knights of Columbus will be serving pancakes and sausage in Mother Drexel Hall from 5 pm – 6:30 pm. All are welcome. (Donations accepted.)

 

PALMS TO ASHES – Will take place on Tuesday, February 13^th.
The service begins in Church and ends with the burning of palms outside, weather permitting.

 

 

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ASH WEDNESDAY IS FEBRUARY 14^th           LENT BEGINS – a time of fasting, almsgiving, and prayer

ST. POLYCARP CHURCH:
Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinner – Tuesday, February 13^th 5 – 6:30 pm
Palms to Ashes Service – Tuesday, February 13^th, at 7 pm

Ash Wednesday Mass with Distribution of Ashes
Wednesday, February 14^th, at 8:30 am and 7 pm

FASTING AND ABSTINENCE: Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting and abstinence for Catholics.  In addition, Fridays during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence.  For members of the Roman Catholic Church, the norms on fasting are obligatory from age 18 until age 59.  When fasting, a person is permitted to eat one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal.  The norms concerning abstinence from meat are binding upon members of the Roman Catholic Church from age 14 onwards.         ~USCCB

 

Stations of the Cross and Benediction
Fridays in Lent, beginning February 16^th, at 7 pm

 

 

ST. DENNIS CHURCH (GALENA, MD):
Ash Wednesday Mass & Distribution of Ashes – Wednesday, February 14^th at 5:30 pm (Hispanic) and 7 pm
Stations of the Cross – Fridays in Lent, beginning on February 16^th  at 5 pm and 7 pm (Hispanic)

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UPCOMING

A NEW CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL IN KENT COUNTY – Bishop Koenig has given permission for a Catholic High School in Kent County.  Please come for coffee, donuts and a short briefing about this exciting and important opportunity for our students following Mass on Saturday and Sunday February 17^th and 18^th.

 

NEW FAITH WITH FRIENDS! Do you have the desire to dive into the divine but find yourself caught in the whirlwind of multitasking? Fear not, for the salvation of scheduling has arrived! Introducing a new time for “Faith with Friends” – on Sundays in the library, starting on February 25th at 9:00. What’s in the holy mix?  Sip on wisdom-infused coffee, donuts sent from the heavens, and sweet divine fellowship! 

LENTEN RETREAT: Save the date for Columbiettes Lenten retreat. Saturday, March 2, 2024 right after 8:30 am Mass.  FATIMA : MIRACLE OF THE SUN

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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

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WE NEED YOUR HELP!      ARE YOU BEING CALLED TO SERVE?

SOCIAL CONCERNS: The DHCI* ministry is in need of assistance to help Deacon Frank with the 10:30 am Communion Service on the 3^rd Tuesday of the month. If interested, contact Pablo Resto at  pabloresto@msn.com or Anne Marie at theaterowl@yahoo.com . (*Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill, located in Smyrna)

BULLETIN BOARDS:  We are looking for someone who will keep our Church bulletin boards up-to-date and add a few decorations to keep them eye-catching. The office will give you the up-to-date flyers to be posted. If you are interested, call or email Judy at the office: (302 )653 – 8279 or communications@saintpolycarp.org

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ONGOING 

THE MASS SETTING FOR ORDINARY TIME will be the Mass of Spirit and Grace (#925) and the Memorial Acclamation will be “When We Eat This Bread”.

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.  The next Saturday Adoration is February 10^th, 2024.

TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm 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/       February 4^th at the 10:30 am Mass – Lelito Family, Saturday, February 18^th at the 4 pm Mass – Dee Lim. 

CONNECTED IN CHRIST (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets every Tuesday at 9:00 am in the Parish Library – ALL are welcome. Please join us. If you have any questions, please call Cookie Ruane at (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!

                                                                               

 

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USEFUL LINKS:

WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish.  For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit  faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS: http://www.stdennischurch.org
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm
FOR THE SAKE OF GOD’S CHILDREN: https://www.cdow.org/giving/fsgc/
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/  Newspaper of the Diocese, copies available as you leave Church or online
EWTN: ewtn.com

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FROM THE DIOCESE:     

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

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. Tune-in to hear an interview with Lisa Ritchie, Program Manager of Catholic Charities’ Behavioral Health Services. on the February 3^rd 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.

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BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Visit Bulletin Overflow  https://saintpolycarp.org/overflow/ for details on the following:

WEDDING ANNIVERSARY MASS: RESERVATION REQUIRED BY FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2: Sunday (February 11^th) at 1 pm at St. Margaret of Scotland Church in Newark, DE.  For all couples celebrating their 5^th, 10^th, 15^th, 20^th, 25^th, 30^th, 35^th, 40^th, 45^th, 50^th, wedding anniversary, or any anniversary beyond 50th.
WORLD DAY OF CONSECRATED LIFE: Saturday February 3, 2024 at 5:00 pm Mass at Holy Family Parish, 15 Gender Road, Newark, Delaware.
RETROUVAILLE:  REDISCOVER THE LOVE IN YOUR MARRIAGE –  February 16 – 18^th (Friday – Sunday) at the Family Life Center in Malvern, PA.Tens of thousands of couples have healed their marriages through Retrouvaille.
ST. JOSEPH CHURCH (MIDDLETOWN) PRESENTS – “WAY OF THE CROSS”  Sunday, February 18, 2024, 4:00 pm
MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER – March 1-3, 2024 at the Brighton Suites in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Learn tools to revitalize romance and deepen communication in your marriage!!!
25^th ANNIVERSARY CONFERENCE OF THE CATHOLIC MENS’S FELLOWSHIP OF MARYLAND Saturday, March 9, at Saint Philip Neri Church in Linthicum (Maryland)
A RACHEL’S VINEYARD CATHOLIC RETREAT Friday, April 19 – Sunday, 21, 2024.  This retreat offers emotional and spiritual healing for anyone who has struggled with the pain of abortion.

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LET US PRAY:  St. Blaise – February 3 – Blessing of Throats

 “Through the intercession of St. Blaise, bishop and martyr, may God deliver you from every disease of the throat and from every other illness, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”

FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
~ Who are the modern-day prophets that speak God’s Word to us?
~ How do we prevent our hearts from becoming hardened to God’s Word?
– What teaching of Jesus most astonishes you?  How does it lead to a deeper awareness of who Jesus is?

 READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/012824.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

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WHO LOVES CHOCOLATE? Our PSR is selling the World’s Finest Chocolate Bars again!  The last day to order is February 4^th, so place your order soon. You can order through Faith Direct @ faith.direct/DE831 (click on EVENTS), fill out an order form (found at the doors of the Church or at the office) and place it in the collection basket or drop box, or simply use this QR Code.

 

PALMS: Palms from previous years are being collected!  Please place your old palms in the baskets in the vestibule or under the coat rack in the hallway.  The burning of the old palms (Palms to Ashes) will take place on Tuesday, February 13^th.  Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent, falls on Wednesday, February 14^th.

2023 TAX STATEMENTS were sent via email this past Tuesday, January 23^rd. If you did not receive one and would like one, please contact the office at (302) 653 – 8279 or email office@saintpolycarp.org. There were 2 emails sent out with your tax statement.  Please use the most recent version and disregard the first.  This pertains mainly to those who eGive.  There was a small glitch and it has been fixed. Thank you for your patience and understanding!

 

PARISH APPRECIATION DINNER: This is your last chance to reserve online for our Appreciation Dinner on Saturday, February 10^th, 2024, following our 4:00 pm Mass.  Seating is limited, so place your reservations today.  Deadline is January 28^th, 2024.  You may also call Kathy Curlett at (302) 222 – 9326 to reserve your seats. To reserve your seat online use the QR code below or visit https://forms.gle/TREWak6DL8JhndbA9

 

ANNUAL FORUM: Were you unable to attend last weekend’s Annual Forum?  Visit www.saintpolycarp.org/pastoral-council
to view the information that was shared by our Pastoral and Finance Councils. While you’re visiting the Pastoral Council webpage, you can also view bios of the members of the Pastoral Council.

 

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

 

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NEXT WEEKEND, FEBRUARY 3/4  (and Monday, February 5^th – Friday, February 9^th)

BLESSING OF THROATS – Next weekend at both Masses. This will be a general blessing.

FROM THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS: The Knights of Columbus, Our Lady Queen of Peace Assembly, is inviting the wives, including widows, of our 3^rd and 4^th degree Knights to enjoy dinner on Tuesday February 6^th at 6:30 pm. The dinner will be held at St Polycarp, Mother Drexel Hall. Please notify Tom Boscher or Jack Barnas if you are able to attend.

 

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UPCOMING

BLESSING OF NEW DRIVERS OF ANY AGE: Saturday, February 10^th, during the 4pm Mass.

 

 

SHROVE TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 13^th – The Knights of Columbus will be serving pancakes and sausage in Mother Drexel Hall from 5 pm – 6:30 pm. All are welcome. (Donations accepted.)

 

PALMS TO ASHES – Will take place on Tuesday, February 13^th. The service begins in Church and ends with the burning of palms outside, weather permitting.

 

 

ASH WEDNESDAY, LENT BEGINS – February 14^th

 

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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

---

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

SOCIAL CONCERNS: The DHCI* ministry is in need of assistance. If interested, contact Pablo Resto at  pabloresto@msn.com or Anne Marie at theaterowl@yahoo.com . (*Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill, located in Smyrna)

BULLETIN BOARDS:  We are looking for someone who will keep our Church bulletin boards up-to-date and add a few decorations to keep them eye-catching. The office will give you the up-to-date flyers to be posted. If you are interested, call or email Judy at the office: (302 )653 – 8279 or communications@saintpolycarp.org

 

---

ONGOING 

THE MASS SETTING FOR ORDINARY TIME will be the Mass of Spirit and Grace (#925) and the Memorial Acclamation will be “When We Eat This Bread”.

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.  The next Saturday Adoration is February 10^th, 2024.

TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel. Do you have one hour to spend with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament? Call Cheryl Thomas at (302) 363 – 0404 or email her at salcrest7@gmail.com. All are welcome to stop in and adore Jesus between 9 am and 8 pm in the Chapel on Tuesdays. Stay for 10 minutes, 1 hour…

 

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Families and individuals are encouraged to sign up! Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/

CONNECTED IN CHRIST (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets every Tuesday at 9:00 am in the Parish Library – ALL are welcome. Please join us. If you have any questions, please call Cookie Ruane at (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!

                                                                               

 

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USEFUL LINKS:

WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish.  For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit  faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS: http://www.stdennischurch.org
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm
FOR THE SAKE OF GOD’S CHILDREN: https://www.cdow.org/giving/fsgc/
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/  Newspaper of the Diocese, copies available as you leave Church or online
EWTN: ewtn.com

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FROM THE DIOCESE:     

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. Scott Wilson, principal of Saints Peter & Paul High School in Easton is the guest on the January 27^th 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.

HAPPENING ELSEWHERE:

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LET US PRAY: St. John Bosco – January 31

Friend of the young,
Teacher in the ways of God,
Your dedication to empowering the needy inspires us still.
Help me to work for a better world,
where the young are given the chance to flourish,
where the poor’s dream for justice can come true, and where God’s compassion is shown to be real.
Intercede for me as I bring my needs to you
and to our heavenly Mother, the Help of Christians.
Saint John Bosco,
Pray for us!

THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
~ Where in your life are you hesitant to follow God’s call?
~ Can you imagine leaving all that you know to follow God’s call?
~ Is there a habit or way of doing things that you would like God’s help changing?

 READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/012124.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

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WHO LOVES CHOCOLATE? Our PSR is selling the World’s Finest Chocolate Bars again!  Place your order soon. You can order through Faith Direct @ faith.direct/DE831 (click on EVENTS), fill out an order form (found at the doors of the Church or at the office) and place it in the collection basket or drop box, or simply use this QR Code.

PALMS: Palms from previous years are being collected!  Please place your old palm in the baskets in the vestibule or under the coat rack in the hallway.  The burning of the old palm (Palms to Ashes) will take place on Tuesday, February 13^th.  Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent, falls on Wednesday, February 14^th.

CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS: If you purchased a Christmas Ornament from PSR and have not picked it up, please stop by the office (M-F 9am to 3pm).

CALENDARS: 2024 Church Calendars are available at the doors of the Church or you can stop by the office to get one. A special thank you to Matthew-Bryson Funeral Home and Cremation Services for donating our yearly calendars!

2023 TAX STATEMENTS will be sent out via email the week of January 21^st.  If you do not receive one within a reasonable time frame, then please contact the office at (302) 653 – 8279.
Thank you for your patience and understanding!

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

 

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NEXT WEEKEND, JANUARY 27/28  (and Monday, January 29 – Friday, February 2)

POLAR BEAR PLUNGE for SPECIAL OLYMPICS – Special Collection at the doors of the Church – Next Weekend: Thiis year’s Polar Bears will once again be in-person and virtual.  More than ever, the Special Olympics still needs our support.   So, no matter how you Plunge, what’s most important is that you Plunge in support of 4,200 Special Olympics Delaware athletes.  The funds raised from the Polar Bear Plunge help Special Olympics Delaware provide people of all abilities uncompromising inclusion – in sports, school, social activities, healthcare, and employment. The Plunge will take place on Sunday, February 4^th, at 1 pm in Rehoboth Beach. The Knights team that participates under the ‘Polar Knights’ include family members throughout the state, as well as, members from our local Brother Vincent Council.
Our Knights of Columbus will once again be collecting donations to support this annual plunge. The Polar Bear Plunge/Special Olympics collection will take place next weekend, January 27^th and 28^th.  Your generous donations should be placed in an envelope marked Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics and then placed in the collection basket or handed to one of the Knights and their families on your way out the door.  Checks should be made out to Knights of Columbus-Brother Vincent Council.  Please make all donations by Sunday, January 28^th.  100% of all money collected goes to the Delaware Special Olympics.  Thank you for your generous support

BVM SODALITY SOUP & BAKE SALE: Next weekend after Masses in the Hall.  Please support the ladies in their annual fundraiser with purchasing baked goods and homemade soups.  Thank you!

 

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UPCOMING

FROM THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS: The Knights of Columbus, Our Lady Queen of Peace Assembly, is inviting the wives, including widows, of our 3^rd and 4^th degree Knights to enjoy dinner on Tuesday February 6^th at 6:30 pm. The dinner will be held at St Polycarp, Mother Drexel Hall. Please notify Tom Boscher or Jack Barnas if you are able to attend.

 

PARISH APPRECIATION DINNER: Reserve your spot for the Parish Appreciation Dinner.  If you are active in a church organization or serve in any ministry at Saint Polycarp Parish, the parish would like to show their appreciation by inviting you to the parish appreciation dinner. This year the event will take place on Saturday, February 10, 2024, following the 4:00 pm Mass. Seating will be limited, so reserve your spot today.  You may make your reservations using the link below or simply scan the QR code. Not a fan of online formats?  Call Kathy Curlett at 302 222 9326 to reserve your seats. https://forms.gle/TREWak6DL8JhndbA9

BLESSING OF NEW DRIVERS: Saturday, February 10^th during the 10:30 am Mass.

 

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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

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WE NEED YOUR HELP!

SOCIAL CONCERNS: The DHCI* ministry is in need of assistance. If interested, contact Pablo Resto at  pabloresto@msn.com or Anne Marie at theaterowl@yahoo.com . (*Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill, located in Smyrna)

BULLETIN BOARDS:  We are looking for someone who will keep our Church bulletin boards up-to-date and add a few decorations to keep them eye-catching. The office will give you the up-to-date flyers to be posted. If you are interested, call or email Judy at the office: 302.653.8279 or communications@saintpolycarp.org

 

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ONGOING 

THE MASS SETTING FOR ORDINARY TIME will be the Mass of Spirit and Grace (#925) and the Memorial Acclamation will be “When We Eat This Bread”.

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.  The next Saturday Adoration is February 10^th, 2024.

TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel. Do you have one hour to spend with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament? Call Cheryl Thomas at (302) 363 – 0404 or email her at salcrest7@gmail.com. All are welcome to stop in and adore Jesus between 9 am and 8 pm in the Chapel on Tuesdays. Stay for 10 minutes, 1 hour…

 

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Families and individuals are encouraged to sign up! Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/

CONNECTED IN CHRIST (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets every Tuesday at 9:00 am in the Parish Library – ALL are welcome. Please join us. If you have any questions, please call Cookie Ruane at (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 10:30am 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!

                                                                               

 

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USEFUL LINKS:

WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish.  For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit  faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS: http://www.stdennischurch.org
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm
FOR THE SAKE OF GOD’S CHILDREN: https://www.cdow.org/giving/fsgc/
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/  Newspaper of the Diocese, copies available as you leave Church or online
EWTN: ewtn.com

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FROM THE DIOCESE:     

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. Learn about the work of LaPlaza in Sussex County on the January 20^th 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.

HAPPENING ELSEWHERE:
LET’S TALK HEALING – St. John-Holy Angels Parish, Newark
January 6, 13, 20, (not the 27^th) & Feb. 3^rd  Snow date make-up Feb 10^th, if needed.
Is Jesus still healing people today? Are these healings real, and do they last? How can we pray for healing? Can my broken heart be healed as well as my body? In her new book, Dr. Mary Healy answers these questions and more.  Join St. John-Holy Angels Parish for an informal book study and conversation on the book, “Healing: Bringing the Gift of God’s Mercy to the World,” led by Terry Haar/aRise Healing Ministry. Discussions will be held at Holy Angels Church, 82 Possum Park Road, Newark, DE 19711, from 10 am-12 noon on each date. Use the San Damiano Center back entrance to the church.  You do not need to attend all of the dates. You can check in for the reading assignments missed before each week you attend. Please read the first 66 pages prior to the first meeting. Coffee/refreshments provided. All interested are welcome. Free. Preregistration is required. (302) 731-2219 or arise@holyangels.net.

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LET US PRAY:   Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children (January 22^nd)