Masses for Christmas:
Sunday, December 24th at 4 pm and 9 pm
Monday, December 25th at 10 am.
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The Dialog News Feed
- Former St. Joseph’s head basketball coach Phil Martelli speaks in support of Father Trainor scholarships, Catholic education November 22, 2024
- Archmere Academy books 38 donors at fall semester blood drive in Claymont — Photo gallery November 22, 2024
- A medieval math Christmas in Delaware by Christ the Teacher Catholic School students November 21, 2024
- ‘Bishop’s 5K Run/Walk’ and more Christmas bazaars among upcoming events in the Diocese of Wilmington November 21, 2024
- As ‘Dashing Dialog Diner’ ponders next move, Dialog offers potato salad and ‘Owens Creamed Onions’ recipes November 21, 2024
- Students of Aquinas Academy remember Holy Souls during visit to Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery November 20, 2024
- Encountering Emmanuel this Advent with Heather Khym on this week’s episode of Catholic Forum in Diocese of Wilmington November 19, 2024
Weekend Update December 16/17
THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT
Gaudete Sunday – Rejoice!
December 16/17
SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
~ How can you cultivate an attitude of thanksgiving, no matter the circumstance?
~ Who needs you to bring them glad tidings?
~ As Christmas beckons, consider how you can join your heart to Mary’s and make the Magnificat part of your daily prayer.
READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121723.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.)
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: There’s always information that doesn’t fit in our Bulletin – Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE
You are cordially invited to join us for the 4pm Christmas Eve Mass and to watch our PSR 1st graders bring to life our Nativity Pageant. The reenactment of the First Christmas will take place immediately following the Mass. This performance will surely put you into the Christmas Spirit.
RECONCILIATION – OPPORTUNITIES TO ATTEND CONFESSION DURING ADVENT. Need a refresher? CLICK HERE
St. Polycarp Church:
Saturdays from 2:30 – 3:30 pm & Following the 10:30 am Mass on Sundays during Advent – 17th, and 24th.
St. Dennis Church, Galena MD:
Sundays 7 – 7:30 am & 5:30 pm – 6 pm Thursday, December 21st.
Reconciliation Monday, at St. Polycarp Church* & at St. Dennis Church:
Monday, December 18th, from 3 pm – 5 pm and 6 pm – 8 pm, *two priests will be present during each session.
THIS WEEKEND, DECEMBER 16/17 (and Monday, December 18th – Friday, December 22nd)
CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: Children’s Liturgy of the Word will take place this Sunday, December 17th, 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.
BREAKFAST WITH JESUS: Come join us, after Mass, this Sunday, December 17th, for BREAKFAST WITH JESUS. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus will be serving a delicious breakfast to all. Let us celebrate the upcoming birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Breakfast is free, donations will be accepted. St. Nicholas (Santa) may be attending!
COLUMBIETTES COOKIE WALK 2023 will take place this weekend December 16th and 17th after the 4pm Mass on Saturday and after the 10:30 am Mass on Sunday. You will be able to purchase delicious cookies lovingly baked by our Columbiettes! Only $1 per bag!
NATIVITY CRÈCHES FROM THE CATHOLIC CHURCHES OF DELAWARE AND MARYLAND’S EASTERN SHORE: Last Christmas, the diocese invited each of its 56 parishes and 18 mission churches to submit a photograph of their crèche to be included in the video that celebrates the 800th anniversary of the very first Nativity scene. In 1223, wanting to emphasize the humble circumstances of Jesus’s birth and to inspire the local people to more deeply appreciate the Christmas story. St. Francis of Assisi set up a live Nativity scene in a cave in the quaint Italian village of Greccio.
On Sunday, December 17, 2023, a new video will debut on the Diocese of Wilmington’s YouTube channel. This video, produced by the Diocese of Wilmington, presents a montage of photographs of Nativity crèches from the Catholic churches of Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The video includes beautiful instrumental Christmas hymns as a background. Families are invited to watch the 12 ½ minute video together, discuss which scene they like best and why, maybe try to be the first to identify the scene from our parish. Visit www.YouTube.com/DioceseofWilm to view the video. (Pick-up a copy of this weekend’s Dialog as you leave Mass and check out the center page!)
RECONCILIATION MONDAY: Monday, December 18th, from 3 pm – 5 pm and 6 pm – 8 pm, two priests will be present during each session.
BE BRAVE, ANSWER THE CALL: Are you a Catholic living in harmony with the teachings of the Church? Are you at least 18 years old? Have you received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist & Confirmation? Are you sufficiently mature to perform the duties of Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion at Mass or to the sick and homebound? These are the qualifications needed to be considered for Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. If this is a ministry you feel God calling you to, please contact Cindy Kennedy at Kennedy-078@msn.com. Formation and training will begin early January.
NOTICE ANYTHING DIFFERENT? We hope that you have noticed the new candle stands in the back of the Church. They are electric candles, which are safer and do not create soot. The $3 aqua votive candles are now available to 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.
The white candles are memorial candles. These candles are available to be lit in memory of someone. The introductory fee of $120 includes the candle being lit for a full year with a memorial name plate placed in front of that candle with the person’s name on it. This introductory fee is good until Ash Wednesday when the fee will be $150. If you are interested in having one of these candles lit, please contact Kathy at the office. (302) 653-8279 or office@saintpolycarp.org We hope you enjoy them.
CHRISTMAS NOVENA: Christmas is a time to reflect on the blessings of family and shared togetherness. We exchange gifts as an act of love and appreciation, but there is no greater gift we can give than the gift of the Holy Mass. Although a loved one may no longer be present to share this time with us, let us remember that, now more than ever, they rely upon us for their spiritual well-being. Take a moment to show your affection by praying on their behalf. Living or deceased, the best gift you can give is the gift of the Mass. Please use the Christmas Novena envelope to show your loved ones they have not been forgotten.
CHRISTMAS FLOWERS: Advent is a time of preparation. Just like parents in every time and every location prepare for the birth of their child, Mary and Joseph did their best to welcome the Holy Child in the humble surroundings where our Lord entered the world. Wouldn’t this be the ideal time to proclaim the birth of our Savior by decorating our Church with all the splendor befitting the birth of the King of Kings? During this Advent season, please consider using the Christmas flower envelope to help us proclaim our joy as we rejoice in the birth of our Lord.
EARLY DEADLINES FOR DECEMBER & JANUARY BULLETINS: During the busy holiday season, the bulletin is due earlier to the publisher. All submissions that you would like to appear in the bulletin, need to be submitted earlier than usual. Plan ahead! If you plan on having an insert, please contact Judy immediately. Insert deadlines are sooner than the deadlines listed below! ALL Submissions (including inserts or questions about inserts) should be emailed to submission@saintpolycarp.org. Judy can also be reached at the parish office (302) 653-8279. Bulletin Date December 31st – Submissions due by December 19th end of day; Bulletin January 7th Submissions due by December 26th end of day.
CONGRATULATIONS! 
2023 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL: Thank you to all those parishioners who contributed to the 2023 Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. Our parish has achieved our goal in pledges and money collected for the appeal! Your generosity in supporting this year’s appeal once again demonstrates that you understand the mission of our Church. Now that we have reached our goal in money collected, we will receive back half of the money collected above the goal for projects
around our campus. We invite those who haven’t yet had the opportunity to give to the Appeal to join us in spreading the spirit of gratitude. Envelopes can be found at the doors of the Church You can also support the appeal online at www.cdow.org click “Giving” then “Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal,” or simply scan this QR code with your cellphone.
NEXT WEEKEND, December 23/24,
December 24th is both the 4th Sunday of Advent and Christmas Eve.
Masses for the 4th Sunday in Advent:
Saturday, December 23rd at 4 pm
Sunday, December 24th at 10:30 am. (This Mass is for the 4th Sunday of Advent. It is not a Christmas Eve Vigil Mass. No one Mass fulfills the Sunday obligation and the Christmas obligation.)
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/ Christmas Eve Vigil Mass, December 24th at 4 pm – Stephanie Roch
UPCOMING
AGAPE: Come join us on Sunday, January 7th following the 10:30 Mass as we welcome in the New Year and celebrate the Epiphany of our Lord! Enjoy a delicious brunch, fellowship and fun! All are welcome.
ROCK AND ROLL TRIBUTE: Come join us on in the parish hall on Saturday, January 13th, 2024 to ROCK in the New Year. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus along with our Columbiettes are sponsoring a ROCK AND ROLL TRUBUTE with an evening of dinner, show and dancing featuring Mr. Charisma! Tickets are $45. Contact Anna Skinner at ANNA.SKINZ@gmail.com or (302) 883-5647. Make checks payable to Knights of Columbus #7517, 55 ransom Lane, Smyrna, DE 19977.
INQUIRING MINDS WANT TO KNOW: WHY AND WHEN DO WE SIT, STAND AND KNEEL AT MASS? If you would like information on why we stand or sit or kneel during the Mass, please check out the following websites:
www.formed.org: Explaining the Faith with Fr. Chris Alar – Part 6: Teaching Mass (Part 1); and Teaching Mass (Part 2)
www.eucharisticrevival.org: go to Blog: Do This in Remembrance of Me: A Step by Step Walk Through the Mass by Fr. Luke Spannagel (there are 52 Parts).
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!
NEEDED – NEW MINISTRY SCHEDULER: We are currently looking for someone to take over the scheduling of our ministers for the Weekend Masses and Holy Days of Obligation. This person must have good PC organization and computer skills. If you think you might be interested in this position, please call Frank Patton at (302) 508-5268.
SACRISTAN NEEDED: We are still in need of someone to step forward to serve as sacristan. Sacristans have the duty to arrive early to the Church in order to unlock the doors and prepare the Church for Mass. Becoming a sacristan would be a great way to learn more about our beautiful liturgy and become more involved in carrying it out. No previous knowledge is required. If you are interested, please contact the head sacristan Adam Bauer at ajpd.bauer@gmail.com.
DIRECTORY COORDINATOR: The Pastoral Council is looking for a parishioner to coordinate the preparation for a new directory for Saint Polycarp. Our last directory was published in 2018 and we understand there may be an interest in producing a new directory. Please contact Kathy Curlett at (302) 222 – 9326 if you are interested.
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.
TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel. We are still in need of people to fill in the following openings 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am; 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and people to fill in when others are ill or cannot attend. 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/ December 24th, 4 pm Mass – S. Roch.
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.
FAITH WITH FRIENDS (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets the first Thursday of every month at 6 pm in Room 7. Everyone is invited. Questions? Contact Ashley Wilson at (302) 535-4118.
CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: Children’s Liturgy of the Word is offered every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month during the 10:30am Mass. (This month – November 5th and 19th).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.
SMYRNA-CLAYTON FOOD PANTRY: Due to 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. Please, NO CANNED vegetables or beans are currently needed. Bins for your donations are located under the coat rack near the hall.
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. Here at St. Polycarp we have bins under the coat rack in the hallway near the bathrooms to accept your donations. Please, no expired items.
BULLETIN SPONSORS: Thank you to all of our weekly bulletin sponsors for your support during the year! Your support has not gone unnoticed by our parish community and is so appreciated!
USEFUL LINKS:
WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish. For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS: http://www.stdennischurch.org
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm
FOR THE SAKE OF GOD’S CHILDREN: https://www.cdow.org/giving/fsgc/
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/ Newspaper of the Diocese, copies available as you leave Church or online
EWTN: ewtn.com
FROM THE DIOCESE:
CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO: Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. Author, Fr. Dwight Longenecker discusses “The Secret of the Bethlehem Shepherds” on the December 16th 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.
LET US PRAY:
Blessing of a Crèche
God of every nation and people,
From the very beginning of creation
You have made manifest your love:
When our need for a Savior was great
You sent your Son to be born of the Virgin Mary.
To our lives he brings joy and peace,
Justice, mercy and love.
Lord,
Bless all who look upon this manger;
May it remind us of the humble birth of Jesus,
And raise up our thoughts to him,
Who is God-with-us and Savior of all,
And who lives and reigns for ever and ever.
Amen.
Weekend Update December 9/10
SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT
December 9/10
SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
~ Where do you see kindness and truth meet?
~ What paths in your life do you need to seek God’s help in straightening this Advent?
~ How can you emulate the humility of John the Baptist, who proclaims, “One mightier than I is coming after me.”
READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121023.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.)
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: There’s always information that doesn’t fit in our Bulletin – Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE
TOMORROW, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8th IS A HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This day is also the Patronal Feast Day of the United States of America. On the Immaculate Conception we remember that Mary was conceived without sin, preparing her with special graces to be the mother of God. Masses on Friday, December 8th, at 8:30 am and 7 pm. (not 7:30 am)
Masses for Christmas:
Sunday, December 24th at 4 pm and 9 pm
Monday, December 25th at 10 am.
December 24th is both the 4th Sunday of Advent and Christmas Eve.
Masses for the 4th Sunday in Advent:
Saturday, December 23rd at 4 pm
Sunday, December 24th at 10:30 am. (This Mass is for the 4th Sunday. It is not a Christmas Vigil Mass.)
RECONCILIATION – OPPORTUNITIES TO ATTEND CONFESSION DURING ADVENT. Need a refresher? CLICK HERE
St. Polycarp Church:
Saturdays from 2:30 – 3:30 pm & Following the 10:30 am Mass on Sundays during Advent – 10th, 17th, and 24th.
St. Dennis Church, Galena MD:
Sundays 7 – 7:30 am & 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm on Thursday, December 7th & 5:30 pm – 6 pm Thursday, December 21st.
Reconciliation Monday, St. Polycarp & St. Dennis:
Monday, December 18th, from 3 pm – 5 pm and 6 pm – 8 pm, two priests will be present during each session.
Deanery Penance Service at Holy Cross Church, Dover: Thursday, December 14th, at Holy Cross Church, Dover at 7 pm. Multiple priests will be in attendance to hear confessions.
WEEKDAY MASSES:
Weekday Morning Masses will return to the original days/times. During the week, morning Masses will be celebrated only on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 8:30 am.
Holy Days of Obligation will be scheduled when needed.
THIS WEEKEND, DECEMBER 9/10 (and Monday, December 11th – Friday, December 15th)
SATURDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION will take place this Saturday, December 9th (the Vigil Mass before the 2nd Sunday of the month) at the 4 pm Mass. Please do not leave before Fr. Jim exits the Church.) Silent prayer continues until 6. Spend some time quietly with Jesus as we prepare to celebrate His birth. When you leave, please do so quietly as others are praying to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. .
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/ This Sunday, December 10, 10:30 am Mass – Donna Adams.
BE BRAVE, ANSWER THE CALL: Are you a Catholic living in harmony with the teachings of the Church? Are you at least 18 years old? Have you received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist & Confirmation? Are you sufficiently mature to perform the duties of Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion at Mass or to the sick and homebound? These are the qualifications needed to be considered for Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. If this is a ministry you feel God calling you to, please contact Cindy Kennedy at Kennedy-078@msn.com. Formation and training will begin early January
TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel. 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… We are still in need of people to fill in the following openings 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am; 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and people to fill in when others are ill or cannot attend. 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.
NOTICE ANYTHING DIFFERENT? Next time you go to Mass, please notice the new candle stands in the back. They are electric candles, which are safer and do not create soot. The aqua candles are the $3 votive candles. After you put your money in the slot, you just need to press the button in front of that candle. You must press & hold the button until it lights. The white candles are the memorial candles. There will be a fee to have the church light them, which will enable that candle to be lit for an entire year. We will have a memorial name plate place in front on that candle. We will post that fee soon. We hope you enjoy them.
EARLY DEADLINES FOR DECEMBER & JANUARY BULLETINS: During the busy holiday season, the bulletin is due earlier to the publisher. All submissions that you would like to appear in the bulletin, need to be submitted earlier than usual. Plan ahead! If you plan on having an insert, please contact Judy immediately. Insert deadlines are sooner than the deadlines listed below! ALL Submissions (including inserts or questions about inserts) should be emailed to submission@saintpolycarp.org. Judy can also be reached at the parish office (302) 653-8279.
Bulletin Date December 24th – Submissions due December 12th end of day; Bulletin Date – Submissions due by December 19th end of day; Bulletin January 7th Submissions due by December 26th end of day.
CHRISTMAS NOVENA: Christmas is a time to reflect on the blessings of family and shared togetherness. We exchange gifts as an act of love and appreciation, but there is no greater gift we can give than the gift of the Holy Mass. Although a loved one may no longer be present to share this time with us, let us remember that, now more than ever, they rely upon us for their spiritual well-being. Take a moment to show your affection by praying on their behalf. Living or deceased, the best gift you can give is the gift of the Mass. Please use the Christmas Novena envelope to show your loved ones they have not been forgotten.
CHRISTMAS FLOWERS: Advent is a time of preparation. Just like parents in every time and every location prepare for the birth of their child, Mary and Joseph did their best to welcome the Holy Child in the humble surroundings where our Lord entered the world. Wouldn’t this be the ideal time to proclaim the birth of our Savior by decorating our Church with all the splendor befitting the birth of the King of Kings? During this Advent season, please consider using the Christmas flower envelope to help us proclaim our joy as we rejoice in the birth of our Lord.
2023 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL: Update coming soon. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all those parishioners who have already contributed to our parish Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. Your commitment matters greatly. Thank you for your continued support. Once we reach our goal in collected donations, we will receive back half of the money collected above the goal for projects around our campus. We invite those who haven’t yet had the opportunity to give to the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal to join us in spreading the spirit of gratitude. Envelopes can be found at the doors of the Church. 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.
NEXT WEEKEND, December 16/17 (and Monday, December 18th – Friday, December 22nd)
BREAKFAST WITH JESUS: Come join us, after Mass, next Sunday, December 17th, for BREAKFAST WITH JESUS. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus will be serving a delicious breakfast to all. Let us celebrate the upcoming birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Breakfast is free, donations will be accepted. St. Nicholas (Santa) may be attending!
COLUMBIETTES COOKIE WALK 2023 will take place next weekend December 16th and 17th., after Mass. You will be able to purchase delicious cookies lovingly baked by our Columbiettes! Only $1 per bag!
UPCOMING
ROCK AND ROLL TRIBUTE “SAVE THE DATE”: Come join us on Saturday, January 13th, 2024 to ROCK in the New Year. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus along with our Columbiettes is sponsoring a ROCK AND ROLL TRUBUTE with an evening of dinner and dancing.
Mr. Charisma will be back to entertain us.
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
HELP NEEDED: The Parish Office is looking for someone to help at the front desk on Tuesday mornings from 9 to noon. If you are willing and able to serve in this ministry, please contact Kathy in the parish office at (302) 653-8279 or office@saintpolycarp.org.
NEEDED – NEW MINISTRY SCHEDULER: We are currently looking for someone to take over the scheduling of our ministers for the Weekend Masses and Holy Days of Obligation. This person must have good PC organization and computer skills. If you think you might be interested in this position, please call Frank Patton at (302) 508-5268.
SACRISTAN NEEDED: We are still in need of someone to step forward to serve as sacristan. Sacristans have the duty to arrive early to the Church in order to unlock the doors and prepare the Church for Mass. Becoming a sacristan would be a great way to learn more about our beautiful liturgy and become more involved in carrying it out. No previous knowledge is required. If you are interested, please contact the head sacristan Adam Bauer at ajpd.bauer@gmail.com.
DIRECTORY COORDINATOR: The Pastoral Council is looking for a parishioner to coordinate the preparation for a new directory for Saint Polycarp. Our last directory was published in 2018 and we understand there may be an interest in producing a new directory. Please contact Kathy Curlett at (302) 222 – 9326 if you are interested.
ONGOING
SATURDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION at St. Polycarp will take place monthly at the Vigil Mass for the Second Sunday of the month. December 9th. Eucharistic Adoration at St. Dennis Church (Galena MD) will take place on the Fourth Sunday of the month following the 8 am Sunday Mass. (November 26th).
TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel. We are still in need of people to fill in the following openings 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am; 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and people to fill in when others are ill or cannot attend. 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/ December 10, 10:30 am Mass – Donna Adams, December 24, 4 pm Mass – S. Roch.
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.
FAITH WITH FRIENDS (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets the first Thursday of every month at 6 pm in Room 7. Everyone is invited. Questions? Contact Ashley Wilson at (302) 535-4118.
CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: Children’s Liturgy of the Word is offered every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month during the 10:30am Mass. (This month – November 5th and 19th).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.
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
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. Here at St. Polycarp we have bins under the coat rack in the hallway near the bathrooms to accept your donations. Please, no expired items.
BULLETIN SPONSORS: Thank you to all of our weekly bulletin sponsors for your support during the year! Your support has not gone unnoticed by our parish community and is so appreciated!
USEFUL LINKS:
WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish. For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS: http://www.stdennischurch.org
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm
FOR THE SAKE OF GOD’S CHILDREN: https://www.cdow.org/giving/fsgc/
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/ Newspaper of the Diocese, copies available as you leave Church or online
EWTN: ewtn.com
FROM THE DIOCESE:
CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO: Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. Author, Michael Foley and Sr. Ann David Strohminger discuss Christmas traditions on the Dec. 9th 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.
LET US PRAY: Magnificat
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed:
the Almighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm,
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones,
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers,
to Abraham and his children forever.
Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.
Weekend Update December 2/3
FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT
December 2/3
SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
~ How can you make Advent an opportunity to share your faith with another?
~ What daily practices in your home will help you turn to God during these weeks of anticipation?
~ Could you schedule a time during the day to be especially alert to God’s presence?
READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/120323.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.)
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: There’s always information that doesn’t fit in our Bulletin – Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE
December 24th is both the 4th Sunday of Advent and Christmas Eve.
Masses for the 4th Sunday in Advent:
Saturday, December 23rd at 4 pm
Sunday, December 24th at 10:30 am. (This Mass is for the 4th Sunday. It is not a Christmas Vigil Mass.)
Masses for Christmas:
Sunday, December 24th at 4 pm and 9 pm
Monday, December 25th at 10 am.
RECONCILIATION – OPPORTUNITIES TO ATTEND CONFESSION DURING ADVENT. Need a refresher? CLICK HERE
St. Polycarp Church:
Saturdays from 2:30 – 3:30 pm & Following the 10:30 am Mass on Sundays during Advent – December 3rd, 10th, 17th, and 24th.
St. Dennis Church, Galena MD:
Sundays 7 – 7:30 am & 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm on Thursday, December 7th & 5:30 pm – 6 pm Thursday, December 21st.
Reconciliation Monday, St. Polycarp & St. Dennis:
Monday, December 18th, from 3 pm – 5 pm and 6 pm – 8 pm, two priests will be present during each session.
Deanery Penance Service at Holy Cross Church, Dover: Thursday, December 14th, at Holy Cross Church, Dover at 7 pm. Multiple priests will be in attendance to hear confessions.
WEEKDAY MASSES:
Weekday Morning Masses will return to the original days/times. During the week, morning Masses will be celebrated only on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 8:30 am.
Holy Days of Obligation will be scheduled where needed.
HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION: Friday, December 8th, is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This day is a Holy Day of Obligation. This day is also the Patronal Feast Day of the United States of America. On the Immaculate Conception we remember that Mary was conceived without sin, preparing her with special graces to be the mother of God.
Masses at St. Polycarp for the Holy Day:
Thursday, December 7th, at 4 pm (Vigil Mass)
Friday, December 8th, at 8:30 am and 7 pm. (not 7:30 am)
THIS WEEKEND, DECEMBER 2/3 (and Monday, December 4th – Friday, December 8th)
SECOND COLLECTION THIS WEEKEND is for the Retirement Fund for Religious. Support a lifetime of service. Women and men religious have spent their lives serving others in prayer, ministry, education, and care for those in need-usually for little or no pay. Today, their religious communities do not have enough retirement savings. As they age, they require essential care and medications. Please support them by giving to the Retirement Fund for Religious. Please give generously.
CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: Children’s Liturgy of the Word is offered every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month during the 10:30am Mass. (This month – December 3rd and 17th).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.
THE GIVING TREE – Please return gifts to the hall by this Sunday, December 3rd. Questions? Contact Fran Walls at (302) 653 – 1450.
ANNUAL TURKEY & HAM DRIVE – The St Vincent De Paul Society, along with the Knights of Columbus, will be conducting the Annual Christmas Gift Program. Parishioners are asked to donate a turkey or ham. Gift cards (not to exceed $30.00) are also greatly appreciated. Kindly bring your frozen turkey, ham or gift card to St. Polycarp’s Church parking lot on Thursday evening, December 7th between 6:30 to 7:30 pm. St Vincent de Paul members will deliver the turkeys, hams and gift cards Saturday morning, December 9th, between 9 am to noon, to those in need within the parish boundaries. Someone must be home to receive these gifts. If you know of anyone who is in need of a turkey/ham/gift card, please call St. Vincent de Paul at (302) 264-6630.
BE BRAVE, ANSWER THE CALL: Are you a Catholic living in harmony with the teachings of the Church? Are you at least 18 years old? Have you received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist & Confirmation? Are you sufficiently mature to perform the duties of Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion at Mass or to the sick and homebound? These are the qualifications needed to be considered for Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. If this is a ministry you feel God calling you to, please contact Cindy Kennedy at Kennedy-078@msn.com. Formation and training will begin early January
TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel. 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… We are still in need of people to fill in the following openings 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am; 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and people to fill in when others are ill or cannot attend. 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.
HELP NEEDED: The Parish Office is looking for someone to help at the front desk on Tuesday mornings from 9 to noon. If you are willing and able to serve in this ministry, please contact Kathy in the parish office at (302) 653-8279 or office@saintpolycarp.org.
EARLY DEADLINES FOR DECEMBER & JANUARY BULLETINS: During the busy holiday season, the bulletin is due earlier to the publisher. All submissions that you would like to appear in the bulletin, need to be submitted earlier than usual. Plan ahead! If you plan on having an insert, please contact Judy immediately. Insert deadlines are sooner than the deadlines listed below! ALL Submissions (including inserts or questions about inserts) should be emailed to submission@saintpolycarp.org. Judy can also be reached at the parish office (302) 653-8279.
Bulletin Date December 17th – Submissions due December 6th by noon; Bulletin Date December 24th – Submissions due December 12th end of day; Bulletin Date – Submissions due by December 19th end of day; Bulletin January 7th Submissions due by December 26th end of day.
CHRISTMAS NOVENA: Christmas is a time to reflect on the blessings of family and shared togetherness. We exchange gifts as an act of love and appreciation, but there is no greater gift we can give than the gift of the Holy Mass. Although a loved one may no longer be present to share this time with us, let us remember that, now more than ever, they rely upon us for their spiritual well-being. Take a moment to show your affection by praying on their behalf. Living or deceased, the best gift you can give is the gift of the Mass. Please use the Christmas Novena envelope to show your loved ones they have not been forgotten.
CHRISTMAS FLOWERS: Advent is a time of preparation. Just like parents in every time and every location prepare for the birth of their child, Mary and Joseph did their best to welcome the Holy Child in the humble surroundings where our Lord entered the world. Wouldn’t this be the ideal time to proclaim the birth of our Savior by decorating our Church with all the splendor befitting the birth of the King of Kings? During this Advent season, please consider using the Christmas flower envelope to help us proclaim our joy as we rejoice in the birth of our Lord.
2023 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL: We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all those parishioners who have already contributed to our parish Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. We are $4,409.92 above the $60,000 goal in pledges; however, we have not yet met our goal in amounts collected. If you’ve pledged, kindly ensure your payments are up to date. Your commitment matters greatly. Thank you for your continued support.
Once we reach our goal in collected donations, we will receive back half of the money collected above the goal for projects around our campus. We invite those who haven’t yet had the opportunity to give to the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal to join us in spreading the spirit of gratitude. Envelopes can be found at the doors of the Church. 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.
NEXT WEEKEND, December 9/10 (and Monday, December 11th – Friday, December 15th)
SATURDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION will take place next Saturday, December 9th (the Vigil Mass before the 2nd Sunday of the month) at the 4 pm Mass. Please do not leave before Fr. Jim exits the Church.) Silent prayer continues until 6. We begin Advent this weekend. Spend some time quietly with Jesus as we prepare to celebrate His birth. When you leave, please do so quietly as others are praying to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. .
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/ Next Sunday, December 10, 10:30 am Mass – Donna Adams, December 24, 4 pm – Stephanie Roch.
UPCOMING
BREAKFAST WITH JESUS: Come join us, after Mass, on Sunday, December 17th, for BREAKFAST WITH JESUS. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus will be serving a delicious breakfast to all. Let us celebrate the upcoming birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Breakfast is free, donations will be accepted. St. Nicholas (Santa) may be attending!
COLUMBIETTES COOKIE WALK 2023 will take place the weekend of December 16th and 17th. You will be able to purchase delicious cookies lovingly baked by our Columbiettes! Details to follow in future bulletins!
ROCK AND ROLL TRIBUTE “SAVE THE DATE”: Come join us on Saturday, January 13th, 2024 to ROCK in the New Year. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus along with our Columbiettes is sponsoring a ROCK AND ROLL TRUBUTE with an evening of dinner and dancing.
Mr. Charisma will be back to entertain us.
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
NEEDED – NEW MINISTRY SCHEDULER: We are currently looking for someone to take over the scheduling of our ministers for the Weekend Masses and Holy Days of Obligation. This person must have good PC organization and computer skills. If you think you might be interested in this position, please call Frank Patton at (302) 508-5268.
SACRISTAN NEEDED: We are still in need of someone to step forward to serve as sacristan. Sacristans have the duty to arrive early to the Church in order to unlock the doors and prepare the Church for Mass. Becoming a sacristan would be a great way to learn more about our beautiful liturgy and become more involved in carrying it out. No previous knowledge is required. If you are interested, please contact the head sacristan Adam Bauer at ajpd.bauer@gmail.com.
DIRECTORY COORDINATOR: The Pastoral Council is looking for a parishioner to coordinate the preparation for a new directory for Saint Polycarp. Our last directory was published in 2018 and we understand there may be an interest in producing a new directory. Please contact Kathy Curlett at (302) 222 – 9326 if you are interested.
ONGOING
SATURDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION at St. Polycarp will take place monthly at the Vigil Mass for the Second Sunday of the month. December 9th. Eucharistic Adoration at St. Dennis Church (Galena MD) will take place on the Fourth Sunday of the month following the 8 am Sunday Mass. (November 26th).
TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel. We are still in need of people to fill in the following openings 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am; 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and people to fill in when others are ill or cannot attend. 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/ December 10, 10:30 am Mass – Donna Adams, December 24, 4 pm Mass – S. Roch.
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.
FAITH WITH FRIENDS (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets the first Thursday of every month at 6 pm in Room 7. Everyone is invited. Questions? Contact Ashley Wilson at (302) 535-4118.
CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: Children’s Liturgy of the Word is offered every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month during the 10:30am Mass. (This month – November 5th and 19th).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.
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
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. Here at St. Polycarp we have bins under the coat rack in the hallway near the bathrooms to accept your donations. Please, no expired items.
BULLETIN SPONSORS: Thank you to all of our weekly bulletin sponsors for your support during the year! Your support has not gone unnoticed by our parish community and is so appreciated!
USEFUL LINKS:
WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish. For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS: http://www.stdennischurch.org
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm
FOR THE SAKE OF GOD’S CHILDREN: https://www.cdow.org/giving/fsgc/
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/ Newspaper of the Diocese, copies available as you leave Church or online
EWTN: ewtn.com
FROM THE DIOCESE:
CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO: Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. Learn about “Triumph: The Power and the Glory of the Catholic Church” when author, H. W. Crocker is interviewed on the Dec. 2nd 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.
LET US PRAY: BLESSING OF THE ADVENT WREATH
The use of the Advent Wreath is a traditional practice which has found its place in the Church as well as in the home. The blessing of an Advent Wreath takes place on the First Sunday of Advent or on the evening before the First Sunday of Advent. When the blessing of the Advent Wreath is celebrated in the home, it is appropriate that it be blessed by a parent or another member of the family.
All make the Sign of the Cross as the leader says:
Our help is in the name of the Lord.
Response (R/.) Who made heaven and earth.
Then the Scripture, Isaiah 9: (lines 1-2 and 5-6) or Isaiah 63 (lines 16-17 & 19) or Isaiah 64 (lines 2-7) is read:
Reader: The word of the Lord.
R/. Thanks be to God.
With hands joined, the leader says:
Lord our God,
we praise you for your Son, Jesus Christ:
he is Emmanuel, the hope of the peoples,
he is the wisdom that teaches and guides us,
he is the Savior of every nation.
Lord God,
let your blessing come upon us
as we light the candles of this wreath.
May the wreath and its light
be a sign of Christ’s promise to bring us salvation.
May he come quickly and not delay.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
The blessing may conclude with a verse from
“O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”:
O come, desire of nations, bind
in one the hearts of humankind;
bid ev’ry sad division cease
and be thyself our Prince of peace.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
shall come to thee, O Israel.
(taken from USCCB)
Weekend Update November 25/26
OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, KING OF THE UNIVERSE
November 25/26
SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
~ Have you looked to the Lord for rescue when you have felt lost?
~ Do you trust in the Lord as sheep trust in their shepherd?
~ What does it mean to see the face of Christ in the stranger, the hungry, and the thirsty?
READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/112623.cfm
LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 7:30 am, Tuesdays – Friday* and 4 pm on Saturdays.
PARISH WEBSITE: Visit: www.saintpolycarp.org/.
WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE . (New Bulletins are posted on Fridays.)
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: There’s always information that doesn’t fit in our Bulletin – Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE
ADVENT RECONCILIATION SCHEDULE & CHRISTMAS MASS SCHEDULE 2023 CLICK HERE
Weekday Masses at St. Polycarp are now celebrated at 7:30 am on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Weekday Masses at St. Dennis are celebrated at 9:30 am on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. (No 8:30 am Masses) In conjunction with the National Eucharistic Revival, the addition of weekday Masses will allow greater opportunity to receive the Eucharist. Come join us! A wonderful way to start your day! Weekend Masses remain the same.
THANKSGIVING MASS WILL BE CELEBRATED AT ST. POLYCARP on Thursday, November 23rd at 9 am. (No 7:30 am Mass on Thursday, November 23rd or Friday, November 24th)
SMYRNA-CLYATON MINISTERIUM community Thanksgiving Eve Service, Wednesday, November 22nd at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 22 N. Union Street, Smyrna. Everyone is welcome! A time of fellowship will follow the service.
THIS WEEKEND, November 25/26 (and Monday, November 27th – Friday, December 1st)
BLESSED VIRGIN MARY SODALITY ADVENT RETREAT – THIS Saturday, November 25th, 8:30 am until 1 pm. The retreat will begin with Mass at 8:30 am celebrated by our Retreat Master, Msgr. George Brubaker. Lunch will be provided. Those interested in attending must register. Please call Betty Sloven at (302) 547 – 8174 or email her at churchladybetty@gmail.com. This is a free retreat but we are accepting love offerings.
ST. POLYCARP ANNUAL FALL CLEANUP – THIS Saturday, November 25th, 9 am – Noon. Come join us for the Annual Fall Cleanup. We need you to help beautify the campus by clearing the ground of leaves, branches, and debris. Please bring a rake, blowers, gloves, and your friends. Great opportunity for Confirmandi volunteer hours. We welcome folks on riding mowers that can vacuum up the leaves. We appreciate any amount of time you are able to give. Light refreshments will be available. Please text or call Michael Pyle at (302) 423 – 9732 or email him at mjpyle58@msn.com so we can know how many folks to expect.
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/ This Saturday, November 25, 4 pm Mass – K. Kelvin
COMMISSIONING OF EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS: The Commissioning of Eucharistic Ministers will take place on November 25th at the 4 pm Mass.
ATTENTION: THOSE INTERESTED IN ANSWERING THE CALL TO JOIN THE MINISTRY OF EXTRAORDINARY MINISTER OF HOLY COMMUNION: The Chairperson of EMOHC, Cindy Kennedy, will start a special training session for anyone who would like to be a part of this beautiful ministry. If you feel the calling to help us, please contact Cindy Kennedy @ kennedy-078@msn.com. Training will start soon.
EUCHARISTIC ADORATION WEEK – NOVEMBER 26 – DECEMBER 2: This is a week when we, as a Diocese, will be especially united in our Eucharistic prayer. To hear a message from Bishop Koenig visit: www.youtube.com/watch?v=3572Xl766QI&t=22s
THE DIALOG: Pick-up the Dialog as you leave Mass. This issue contains times and dates where you can attend Adoration during Eucharistic Adoration Week – November 26 – December 2.
TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel. Will you visit during Eucharistic Adoration Week? 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… We are still in need of people to fill in the following openings 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am; 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and people to fill in when others are ill or cannot attend. 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.
DEADLINE FOR COMPLETING THE DEANERY SURVEY IS NOVEMBER 28:www.iccmarydel.org/survey. (See Fr. Lentini’s letter toward the end of this post.) As part of the Diocesan Planning process, the various Deaneries of the Diocese of Wilmington, are seeking ways in which Parishes within a Deanery can more effectively work together to provide services to the faithful (and, conversely, identifying those areas where that is not practical). Please take a few minutes to complete this short survey.
RESERVED PARKING SPOT – GOING ONCE, GOING TWICE – NOW’S THE TIME TO SEND IN YOUR BID! Help out the Church with annual fundraiser and Parish tradition of putting up a parking spot to the highest bidder! You will have the reserved spot (with your name on it) for one year. With the winter weather coming, maybe you will want to have that close spot for you or loved one (maybe as an early Christmas gift). Please submit your bid amount by Friday, December 1st at 3pm by emailing financialmanager@saintpolycarp.org with the Subject Line: “Parking Spot Bid” or dropping it in the collection basket or black drop box under the portico labeled “Parking Spot Bid” with your name & phone number on it. Individual parishioners as well as parish groups are welcome to bid. All bids MUST be in writing.
THE GIVING TREE – Our Giving Tree Committee coordinates the Christmas gifts for needy children in our community. We work closely with our Parish School of Religion and the Smyrna School District to identify children in need. The Giving Tree is now set up inside the Main Entrance of the Church with the children’s requests. Please purchase a gift for the child on the tag you choose and return it to the Parish Hall no later than next Sunday, December 3rd. Contact Fran Walls at (302) 653 – 1450, if you have any questions. Thank You!
HELP NEEDED: The Parish Office is looking for someone to help at the front desk on Tuesday mornings from 9 to noon. If you are willing and able to serve in this ministry, please contact Kathy in the parish office at (302) 653-8279 or office@saintpolycarp.org.
EARLY DEADLINES FOR NOVEMBER, DECEMBER & JANUARY BULLETINS: As we enter the busy holiday season, the bulletin is due earlier to the publisher. Therefore, all submissions that you would like to appear in the bulletin will need to be submitted earlier than usual. Plan ahead! If you plan on having an insert, please contact Judy immediately. Insert deadlines are sooner than the deadlines listed below! ALL Submissions (including inserts or questions about inserts) should be emailed to submission@saintpolycarp.org. Judy can also be reached at the parish office (302) 653-8279.
Bulletin Date December 10th – Submissions due November 29th by noon; Bulletin Date December 17th – Submissions due December 6th by noon; Bulletin Date December 24th – Submissions due December 12th end of day; Bulletin Date – Submissions due by December 19th end of day; Bulletin January 7th Submissions due by December 26th end of day.
2023 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL: UPDATE! We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all those parishioners who have already contributed to our parish Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. We are $4,409.92 above the $60,000 goal in pledges; however, we have not yet met our goal in amounts collected. If you’ve pledged, kindly ensure your payments are up to date. Your commitment matters greatly. Thank you for your continued support.
Once we reach our goal in collected donations, we will receive back half of the money collected above the goal for projects around our campus. We invite those who haven’t yet had the opportunity to give to the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal to join us in spreading the spirit of gratitude. Envelopes can be found at the doors of the Church. 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 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. Here at St. Polycarp we have bins under the coat rack in the hallway near the bathrooms to accept your donations. Due to 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 and spaghetti sauce, the pantry is also in need of vegetable beef and chicken noodle soups, macaroni and cheese and Chef Boyardee canned pastas. Please NO CANNED vegetables or beans are currently needed. Please, no expired items.
NEXT WEEKEND, December 2/3 (and Monday, December 4th – Friday, December 8th)
ANNUAL TURKEY & HAM DRIVE – The St Vincent De Paul Society, along with the Knights of Columbus, will be conducting the Annual Christmas Gift Program. Parishioners are asked to donate a turkey or ham. Gift cards (not to exceed $30.00) are also greatly appreciated. Kindly bring your frozen turkey, ham or gift card to St. Polycarp’s Church parking lot on Thursday evening, December 7th between 6:30 to 7:30 pm. St Vincent de Paul members will deliver the turkeys, hams and gift cards Saturday morning, December 9th, between 9 am to noon, to those in need within the parish boundaries. Someone must be home to receive these gifts. If you know of anyone who is in need of a turkey/ham/gift card, please call St. Vincent de Paul at (302) 264-6630.
UPCOMING
BREAKFAST WITH JESUS: Come join us, after Mass, on Sunday, December 17th, for BREAKFAST WITH JESUS. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus will be serving a delicious breakfast to all. Let us celebrate the upcoming birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Breakfast is free, donations will be accepted. St. Nicholas (Santa) may be attending!
COLUMBIETTES COOKIE WALK 2023 will take place the weekend of December 16th and 17th. You will be able to purchase delicious cookies lovingly baked by our Columbiettes! Details to follow in future bulletins!
ROCK AND ROLL TRIBUTE “SAVE THE DATE”: Come join us on Saturday, January 13th, 2024 to ROCK in the New Year. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus along with our Columbiettes is sponsoring a ROCK AND ROLL TRUBUTE with an evening of dinner and dancing.
Mr. Charisma will be back to entertain us.
FROM FR. LENTINI, Dean – Silver Lake Deanery DEADLINE TO COMPLETE SURVEY IS NOVEMBER 28TH
Dear Parishioners of St. Polycarp Parish,
The Silver Lake Deanery is Church’s administrative territory covering the areas overseen by St. Dennis (Galena), St. Polycarp (Smyrna), Holy Cross (Dover), Immaculate Conception (Marydel), and St. John the Apostle (Milford/Harrington). As part of the Diocesan Planning process, the various Deaneries of the Diocese of Wilmington, are seeking ways in which Parishes within a Deanery can more effectively work together to provide services to the faithful (and, conversely, identifying those areas where that is not practical).
To that end, as Dean of the Silver Lake Deanery, I have compiled a survey to get parishioner assessment regarding areas/topics that have been reviewed by our Deanery Committee or by the Diocesan Pastoral Planning process. The survey is fairly simple, and should take only a few minutes to complete.
I would like to compile the results of this survey to present to our Bishop and the steering committee of this Pastoral Planning process by early December. Thus, I would set the deadline for submissions to this survey at Tuesday, November 28th, 2023. The survey itself is housed at the Immaculate Conception website, which provides a simple link for all to use: www.iccmarydel.org/survey.
On behalf of my brother priests in the Silver Lake Deanery, I thank you for your faithfulness and your participation. I remain,
Yours in Christ,
Vy, Rev. James Lentini, VF
Dean – Silver Lake Deanery
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
NEEDED – NEW MINISTRY SCHEDULER: We are currently looking for someone to take over the scheduling of our ministers for the Weekend Masses and Holy Days of Obligation. This person must have good PC organization and computer skills. If you think you might be interested in this position, please call Frank Patton at (302) 508-5268.
SACRISTAN NEEDED: We are still in need of someone to step forward to serve as sacristan. Sacristans have the duty to arrive early to the Church in order to unlock the doors and prepare the Church for Mass. Becoming a sacristan would be a great way to learn more about our beautiful liturgy and become more involved in carrying it out. No previous knowledge is required. If you are interested, please contact the head sacristan Adam Bauer at ajpd.bauer@gmail.com.
DIRECTORY COORDINATOR: The Pastoral Council is looking for a parishioner to coordinate the preparation for a new directory for Saint Polycarp. Our last directory was published in 2018 and we understand there may be an interest in producing a new directory. Please contact Kathy Curlett at (302) 222 – 9326 if you are interested.
ONGOING
SATURDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION at St. Polycarp will take place monthly at the Vigil Mass for the Second Sunday of the month. December 9th. Eucharistic Adoration at St. Dennis Church (Galena MD) will take place on the Fourth Sunday of the month following the 8 am Sunday Mass. (November 26th).
TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel. We are still in need of people to fill in the following openings 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am; 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and people to fill in when others are ill or cannot attend. 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/ November 25, 4 pm Mass – K. Kelvin; December 10, 10:30 am Mass – Donna Adams, December 24, 4 pm Mass – S. Roch.
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. We begin to gather at 8:40 am in the parish library, following the 7:30 am Mass, Rosary, and Divine Mercy Chaplet. We will begin promptly at 9:00 am with our faith-sharing lessons.
FAITH WITH FRIENDS (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets the first Thursday of every month at 6 pm in Room 7. Everyone is invited. Questions? Contact Ashley Wilson at (302) 535-4118.
CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: Children’s Liturgy of the Word is offered every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month during the 10:30am Mass. (This month – November 5th and 19th).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.
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
REDNER’S MARKETS 1% SAVE-A-TAPE FUNDRAISER: Turn your food shopping into cash for our parish. Simply be sure to obtain and scan your Redner’s Rewards Card each time you shop. Save your whole receipt. Bring your receipts to the Parish Office or put them into the collection basket. There is no expiration date – you can turn in receipts months old!
BULLETIN SPONSORS: Thank you to all of our weekly bulletin sponsors for your support during the year! Your support has not gone unnoticed by our parish community and is so appreciated!
USEFUL LINKS:
WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish. For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS: http://www.stdennischurch.org
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm
FOR THE SAKE OF GOD’S CHILDREN: https://www.cdow.org/giving/fsgc/
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/ Newspaper of the Diocese, copies available as you leave Church or online
EWTN: ewtn.com
FROM THE DIOCESE:
CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO: Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. Bishop Koenig talks about Eucharistic Adoration Week on the Nov. 25th 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.
LET US PRAY: THANKSGIVING IS:
Thanksgiving is
a time of gratitude to God, our Creator and Provider,
whose guidance and care go before us…
and whose love is with us forever.
Thanksgiving is
a time to reflect on the changes,
to remember that we, too, grow and change
from one season of life to another.
Thanksgiving is
a time of changing seasons, when leaves turn golden
in Autumn’s wake and apples are crisp
in the first chill breezes of fall.
Let us remember the true meaning of Thanksgiving.
As we see the beauty of Autumn,
let us acknowledge the many blessings which are ours…
let us think of our families and friends..
and let us give thanks in our hearts.
Amen.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Weekend Update November 18/19
33rd SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
November 18/19
SUNDAY SCRIPTURE – QUESTIONS TO PONDER
~ Do you make it a point to dedicate your day to God?
~ How do you seek to stay alert to God’s presence?
~ When do you share the grace God has given to you, and when are you tempted to ignore God’s goodness in your life?
READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/111923.cfm
LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 7:30 am, Tuesdays – Friday* and 4 pm on Saturdays.
PARISH WEBSITE: Visit: www.saintpolycarp.org/.
WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE . (New Bulletins are posted on Fridays.)
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: There’s always information that doesn’t fit in our Bulletin – Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE
ATTENTION: Staff will not be able to access their email after 3 pm today until tomorrow, around noon. (Staff does not regularly check email on the weekends.) We will get any messages on Monday.
ADVENT RECONCILIATION SCHEDULE & CHRISTMAS MASS SCHEDULE 2023 CLICK HERE
Weekday Masses at St. Polycarp are now celebrated at 7:30 am on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Weekday Masses at St. Dennis are celebrated at 9:30 am on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. (No 8:30 am Masses) In conjunction with the National Eucharistic Revival, the addition of weekday Masses will allow greater opportunity to receive the Eucharist. Come join us! A wonderful way to start your day! Weekend Masses remain the same.
THIS WEEKEND, November 18/19 (and Monday, November 20th – Friday, November 24th)
GOOD LUCK TO OUR ST. POLYCARP FLAMES! The Bishop’s 5K is this Saturday at St. Mark’s High School (2501 Pike Creek Road, Wilmington). It’s not to late to join the walk/run or make a donation. The Bishop’s 5K benefits Catholic Charities.
https://runsignup.com/RaceGroups/35468/Groups/1386989. Call or email Michael Pyle (302-423-9732 / mjpyle58@msn.com) for more information!
HELP NEEDED: The Parish Office is looking for someone to help at the front desk on Tuesday mornings from 9 to noon. If you are willing and able to serve in this ministry, please contact Kathy in the parish office at (302) 653-8279 or office@saintpolycarp.org.
CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: CLOW will be offered this Sunday, November 19th, during the 10:30 Mass
THE DIALOG: Pick-up the latest edition of the Dialog as you leave Mass this weekend. This issue contains times and dates where you can attend Adoration during Eucharistic Adoration Week – November 26 – December 2.
CHRISTIANS OF THE HOLY LAND – OLIVE WOOD: CANCELLED. .Our representative from the Holy Land has had to cancel his upcoming visit for this weekend, November 18th and 19th. Please continue to pray for peace in the Holy Land. We will try to reschedule the visit in 2024. Thank you for your understanding
UPCOMING SMYRNA-CLYATON MINISTERIUM EVENTS: Community Thanksgiving Dinner, Sunday, November 19th from 2-5 pm at Smyrna Elementary School Cafeteria (the school across form our St. Polycarp Church). Everyone is welcome! Come and celebrate what the Lord has provided together with our community, friends and family!
Community Thanksgiving Eve Service, Wednesday, November 22nd at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 22 N. Union Street, Smyrna. Everyone is welcome! A time of fellowship will follow the service.
THANKSGIVING MASS WILL BE CELEBRATED AT ST. POLYCARP on Thursday, November 23rd at 9 am. (No 7:30 am Mass on Thursday, November 23rd or Friday, November 24th)
THE GIVING TREE – Our Giving Tree Committee coordinates the Christmas gifts for needy children in our community. We work closely with our Parish School of Religion and the Smyrna School District to identify children in need. The Giving Tree is now set up inside the Main Entrance of the Church with the children’s requests. Please purchase a gift for the child on the tag you choose and return it to the Parish Hall no later than Sunday, December 3rd. Contact Fran Walls at (302) 653 – 1450, if you have any questions. Thank You!
EARLY DEADLINES FOR NOVEMBER, DECEMBER & JANUARY BULLETINS: As we enter the busy holiday season, the bulletin is due earlier to the publisher. Therefore, all submissions that you would like to appear in the bulletin will need to be submitted earlier than usual. Plan ahead! If you plan on having an insert, please contact Judy immediately. Insert deadlines are sooner than the deadlines listed below! ALL Submissions (including inserts or questions about inserts) should be emailed to submission@saintpolycarp.org. Judy can also be reached at the parish office (302) 653-8279.
Bulletin Date December 3rd – Submissions due November 21st end of day; Bulletin Date December 10th – Submissions due November 29th by noon; Bulletin Date December 17th – Submissions due December 6th by noon; Bulletin Date December 24th – Submissions due December 12th end of day; Bulletin Date – Submissions due by December 19th end of day; Bulletin January 7th Submissions due by December 26th end of day.
TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel. We are still in need of people to fill in the following openings 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am; 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and people to fill in when others are ill or cannot attend. 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…
2023 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL: We extend our heartfelt appreciation to each and every one of you who have already contributed to our parish Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. We are $3,939.30 above the $60,000 goal in pledges. $57,214.64 has been collected, leaving $2,785.36 to still be collected to reach the $60,000 goal. Our parish has raised significant funds for the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal. If you’ve pledged, kindly ensure your payments are up to date. Your commitment matters greatly. Thank you for your continued support.
Once we reach our goal in collected donations, we will receive back half of the money collected above the goal for projects around our campus. We invite those who haven’t yet had the opportunity to give to the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal to join us in spreading the spirit of gratitude. Envelopes can be found at the doors of the Church. 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 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. Here at St. Polycarp we have bins under the coat rack in the hallway near the bathrooms to accept your donations. Due to 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 and spaghetti sauce, the pantry is also in need of vegetable beef and chicken noodle soups, macaroni and cheese and Chef Boyardee canned pastas. Please NO CANNED vegetables or beans are currently needed. Please, no expired items.
NEXT WEEKEND, November 25/26 (and Monday, November 26th – Friday, December 1st)
BLESSED VIRGIN MARY SODALITY ADVENT RETREAT – Next Saturday, November 25th, 8:30 am until 1 pm. You are invited to join the Sodality in spiritual reflection and prayer for an Advent Retreat. The retreat will begin with Mass at 8:30 am celebrated by our Retreat Master Msgr. George Brubaker. Lunch will be provided. Those interested in attending must register. Please call Betty Sloven at (302) 547 – 8174 or email her at churchladybetty@gmail.com by Monday, November 20th. There are also sign-up sheets on bulletin boards. This is a free retreat but we are accepting love offerings.
ST. POLYCARP ANNUAL FALL CLEANUP – NEXT Saturday, November 25th, 9 am – Noon. Come join us for the Annual Fall Cleanup. We need you to help beautify the campus by clearing the ground of leaves, branches, and debris. Please bring a rake, blowers, gloves, and your friends. Great opportunity for Confirmandi volunteer hours. We welcome folks on riding mowers that can vacuum up the leaves. We appreciate any amount of time you are able to give. Light refreshments will be available. Please text or call Michael Pyle at (302) 423 – 9732 or email him at mjpyle58@msn.com so we can know how many folks to expect.
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/ Next Saturday, November 25, 4 pm Mass – K. Kelvin
COMMISSIONING OF EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS: The Commissioning of Eucharistic Ministers will take place on November 25th at the 4 pm Mass.
EUCHARISTIC ADORATION WEEK – NOVEMBER 26 – DECEMBER 2: This is a week when we, as a Diocese, will be especially united in our Eucharistic prayer. To hear a message from Bishop Koenig visit: www.youtube.com/watch?v=3572Xl766QI&t=22s The November 17th Dialog will have a list of times/dates of when/where Adoration is available throughout the Diocese.
RESERVED PARKING SPOT – Help out the Church with annual fundraiser and Parish tradition of putting up a parking spot to the highest bidder! You will have the reserved spot (with your name on it) for one year. With the winter weather coming, maybe you will want to have that close spot for you or loved one (maybe as an early Christmas gift). Please submit your bid amount by Friday, December 1st at 3pm by emailing financialmanager@saintpolycarp.org with the Subject Line: “Parking Spot Bid” or dropping it in the collection basket or black drop box under the portico labeled “Parking Spot Bid” with your name & phone number on it. Individual parishioners as well as parish groups are welcome to bid. All bids MUST be in writing.
UPCOMING
ANNUAL TURKEY & HAM DRIVE – The St Vincent De Paul Society, along with the Knights of Columbus, will be conducting the Annual Christmas Gift Program. Parishioners are asked to donate a turkey or ham. Gift cards (not to exceed $30.00) are also greatly appreciated. Kindly bring your frozen turkey, ham or gift card to St. Polycarp’s Church parking lot on Thursday evening, December 7th between 6:30 to 7:30 pm. St Vincent de Paul members will deliver the turkeys, hams and gift cards Saturday morning, December 9th, between 9 am to noon, to those in need within the parish boundaries. Someone must be home to receive these gifts. If you know of anyone who is in need of a turkey/ham/gift card, please call St. Vincent de Paul at (302) 264-6630.
BREAKFAST WITH JESUS: Come join us, after Mass, on Sunday, December 17th, for BREAKFAST WITH JESUS. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus will be serving a delicious breakfast to all. Let us celebrate the upcoming birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Breakfast is free, donations will be accepted. St. Nicholas (Santa) may be attending!
ROCK AND ROLL TRIBUTE “SAVE THE DATE”: Come join us on Saturday, January 13th, 2024 to ROCK in the New Year. Brother Vincent Knights of Columbus along with our Columbiettes is sponsoring a ROCK AND ROLL TRUBUTE with an evening of dinner and dancing.
Mr. Charisma will be back to entertain us.
FROM FR. LENTINI, Dean – Silver Lake Deanery
Dear Parishioners of St. Polycarp Parish,
The Silver Lake Deanery is Church’s administrative territory covering the areas overseen by St. Dennis (Galena), St. Polycarp (Smyrna), Holy Cross (Dover), Immaculate Conception (Marydel), and St. John the Apostle (Milford/Harrington). As part of the Diocesan Planning process, the various Deaneries of the Diocese of Wilmington, are seeking ways in which Parishes within a Deanery can more effectively work together to provide services to the faithful (and, conversely, identifying those areas where that is not practical).
To that end, as Dean of the Silver Lake Deanery, I have compiled a survey to get parishioner assessment regarding areas/topics that have been reviewed by our Deanery Committee or by the Diocesan Pastoral Planning process. The survey is fairly simple, and should take only a few minutes to complete.
I would like to compile the results of this survey to present to our Bishop and the steering committee of this Pastoral Planning process by early December. Thus, I would set the deadline for submissions to this survey at Tuesday, November 28th, 2023. The survey itself is housed at the Immaculate Conception website, which provides a simple link for all to use: www.iccmarydel.org/survey.
On behalf of my brother priests in the Silver Lake Deanery, I thank you for your faithfulness and your participation. I remain,
Yours in Christ,
Vy, Rev. James Lentini, VF
Dean – Silver Lake Deanery
.WE NEED YOUR HELP!
NEEDED – NEW MINISTRY SCHEDULER: We are currently looking for someone to take over the scheduling of our ministers for the Weekend Masses and Holy Days of Obligation. This person must have good PC organization and computer skills. If you think you might be interested in this position, please call Frank Patton at (302) 508-5268.
SACRISTAN NEEDED: We are still in need of someone to step forward to serve as sacristan. Sacristans have the duty to arrive early to the Church in order to unlock the doors and prepare the Church for Mass. Becoming a sacristan would be a great way to learn more about our beautiful liturgy and become more involved in carrying it out. No previous knowledge is required. If you are interested, please contact the head sacristan Adam Bauer at ajpd.bauer@gmail.com.
DIRECTORY COORDINATOR: The Pastoral Council is looking for a parishioner to coordinate the preparation for a new directory for Saint Polycarp. Our last directory was published in 2018 and we understand there may be an interest in producing a new directory. Please contact Kathy Curlett at (302) 222 – 9326 if you are interested.
ONGOING
SATURDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION at St. Polycarp will take place monthly at the Vigil Mass for the Second Sunday of the month. December 9th. Eucharistic Adoration at St. Dennis Church (Galena MD) will take place on the Fourth Sunday of the month following the 8 am Sunday Mass. (November 26th).
TUESDAY EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Tuesdays from 9am to 8pm in the Chapel. We are still in need of people to fill in the following openings 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am; 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and people to fill in when others are ill or cannot attend. 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/ November 25, 4 pm Mass – K. Kelvin; December 10, 10:30 am Mass – Donna Adams, December 24, 4 pm Mass – S. Roch.
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. We begin to gather at 8:40 am in the parish library, following the 7:30 am Mass, Rosary, and Divine Mercy Chaplet. We will begin promptly at 9:00 am with our faith-sharing lessons.
FAITH WITH FRIENDS (ADULT FAITH FORMATION) meets the first Thursday of every month at 6 pm in Room 7. Everyone is invited. Questions? Contact Ashley Wilson at (302) 535-4118.
CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD: Children’s Liturgy of the Word is offered every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month during the 10:30am Mass. (This month – November 5th and 19th).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.
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
REDNER’S MARKETS 1% SAVE-A-TAPE FUNDRAISER: Turn your food shopping into cash for our parish. Simply be sure to obtain and scan your Redner’s Rewards Card each time you shop. Save your whole receipt. Bring your receipts to the Parish Office or put them into the collection basket. There is no expiration date – you can turn in receipts months old!
BULLETIN SPONSORS: Thank you to all of our weekly bulletin sponsors for your support during the year! Your support has not gone unnoticed by our parish community and is so appreciated!
USEFUL LINKS:
WEBSITE: www.saintpolycarp.org.
BULLETIN: https://www.jppc.net/onlinebulletins/301template.pdf
BULLETIN OVERFLOW: https://saintpolycarp.org/this-weeks-bulletin/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SaintPolycarpCatholicChurch/
ONLINE GIVING: Please consider becoming an e-giver. It is easy to make your weekly or one time contributions in support of the Parish. For more information and to sign up for online giving, visit faith.direct/DE831
ST DENNIS: http://www.stdennischurch.org
DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm
FOR THE SAKE OF GOD’S CHILDREN: https://www.cdow.org/giving/fsgc/
THE DIALOG: http://thedialog.org/ Newspaper of the Diocese, copies available as you leave Church or online
EWTN: ewtn.com
FROM THE DIOCESE:
CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO: Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. Paul Yoder will discuss his book, “Maryland’s Eastern Shore Historic Churches,” on the November 18th Catholic Forum podcast, episode of 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.
LET US PRAY:
Dear Lord, on Thanksgiving Day, we bow our hearts to You in prayer. We give You thanks for all You have done, mostly for the gift of Jesus Christ, Your Son. For beauty in nature, in which we see Your Glory, for joy and health, friends, and family. For our daily sustenance, Your mercy and care, these are the blessings You kindly share. So today we offer this response of praise with a promise to follow You all of our days. Amen.”