THE OFFICE WILL BE CLOSING AT NOON TODAY, FRIDAY, JULY 29TH.

18th Sunday in Ordinary Time 

Take care to guard against all greed.
Luke 12:15

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE –  QUESTIONS TO PONDER

– When have you benefitted from softening your hardened heart?
– What was your response when someone hardened their heart to you?
– How can someone’s industriousness be the result of vanity?

READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/073122.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays.
If you are interested in being involved in this ministry, please email Lisa at lisa.titus@saintpolycarp.org or Judy at communications@saintpolycarp.org.

PARISH WEBSITE: Visit: www.saintpolycarp.org/.

WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE .       BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE

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THIS WEEKEND, JULY 30/31 (& week of July 31)

TOMORROW! “DRIVE-THRU” BULL ROAST FUNDRAISER at St. DENNIS CHURCH – Tomorrow, Saturday, July 30^th
156 N. Main Street, Galena, MD 
MENU – Delicious PIT roasted beef, ½ a fried chicken, 2 locally grown ears of corn on the cob, homemade potato salad, and 2 rolls with butter and a beverage for $25 per meal. St Dennis Bake Sale will also be available for purchasing your dessert as you exit the property. Advance ticket purchases are recommended as a limited number of meals will be prepared. Tickets may be purchased at St. Dennis before and after the weekend Masses OR By calling Jim Bricker at 717-575-1235. Pick up of meals with curbside service is on July 30^th from 11am until 2pm. Please follow the directed traffic pattern.

SECOND COLLECTION THIS WEEK:  July 31 – Parish Maintenance

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Sunday, July 31 at the 10:30 am Mass – Moss Family – Please arrive 15 minutes before your mass time and pick up materials in the sacristy.

CHANGE THE WORLD: BECOME CATHOLIC! Is there someone you would like to invite to explore the Catholic faith— someone unbaptized, or baptized in a non-Catholic Christian tradition? Do you know someone who needs Confirmation and/or First Eucharist? Perhaps, the Catholic faith can fulfill their desires for a closer relationship with Our Lord. Then, the RCIA process is for them. Please invite them to one or all of our Inquiry Sessions that will take place on August 1 & 8; August 29 & September 12, 2022. Sessions take place in the Parish Library at 6:30 pm. Please contact Deacon Frank Weber for more information or to let him know that you will attend a session(s) You can reach him at DeaconFrank@saintpolycarp.org or leave a message with the Parish office at (302) 653-8279.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY:
You may be wondering what Christmas in July refers to. Well, the Liturgy Committee has come up with a Wish Book List for the following items to be purchased. Through the generosity of our parish, only one item remains to be purchased:
(1) Silver Oxidized Ciborium               Cost: $555.00
If you would like to purchase or donate towards the above item, please make your check out to St. Polycarp Church and in the memo area, please indicate what your money is going towards. Thank you in advance for your purchase or donation! It is greatly appreciated!!                                                        The Liturgy Committee

JOB OPPORTUNITIES: Part-Time Financial Manager, Part-Time Facilities Manager, Full-time Business Manager  https://saintpolycarp.org/job-opportunities-at-st-polycarp/

MINISTRY LEADERS! Thank you to those who attended the Annual Leadership Organizational Meeting this past Tuesday. It’s always a wonderful gathering!

BROTHER VINCENT COUNCIL 7517 meets in St Polycarp Library at 7:30 pm on the first Thursday of each month (August 4). The Rosary is prayed at 7:00 pm prior to each meeting. The Rosary and meeting proceedings will be zoomed for those who cannot attend in person. Brothers, your attendance at Council meetings is encouraged so that we may fulfill our mission.

FIRST FRIDAY: August 5th, 8:30 Mass followed by Sacred Heart Devotion

NEXT WEEKEND, AUGUST 5/6

Come join us for Agape’ next Sunday August 7^th following the 10:30 am Mass. Our Parish & Family Life Ministry will be hosting a “Summer Picnic” lunch, delicious deserts, and beverages.  This is a wonderful time to meet members from Parish & Family!

LOST AND FOUND: Our “LOST AND FOUND” is located on top of the file cabinet (across from the restrooms in the hallway near the Mother Drexel Hall). Maybe something of yours is in there. Take a look! Items left after August 6^th will be donated to those in need.

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CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – 2022 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL:  We continue to need your help. During these difficult economic times, we see great works of mercy for those struggling to make ends meet.  Our Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal allows us to reach out and help thousands of people in ways that bring them closer to the Lord. Support for Catholic Charities, Youth Programs, Faith Formation and Evangelization is critically crucial to the future of our Catholic Church. If you are so blessed, please make a donation to help the diocese assist those most impacted by this economic downturn. To date we have raised: $54,330. We are $5670 from our goal of $60,000..  Pledge cards can be found in the pews and at the doors of the church. Thank you to those who have already contributed to this year’s campaign. Participants who pledged to the campaign will receive monthly payment reminders mailed directly from the diocesan Development Office.  Please mail all payments in the self-addressed, return envelope provided with your pledge reminder.  To learn more about the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal, visit www.cdow.org; click “Giving” then “Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal”, or simply scan this QR code with your cellphone.

Your generosity in supporting this campaign enables the diocese to do the work of our Lord.
When our parish collects its goal amount, we will receive 50% of contributions over the assigned target.
In the past, the generosity of our folks has enabled us to do many projects around the campus.

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UPCOMING/ONGOING

SUMMER WEEKDAY MASSES: Tuesday through Friday at 8:30 am.

SHARE THE HARVEST:  Would you like to share vegetables from your bountiful garden, garden plants or house plants that need to go to a loving home, flowers that could brighten up someone’s day or your harvest with others? The Share The Harvest table is now under the Portico.  This allows our parishioners to share their abundant yield from their gardens with their Church family.  All are welcome to share and receive.

Have you had the opportunity to dive into FORMED?  To sign up visit www.formed.org. Type in our Parish zip code (19977) and follow the steps to sign up or you can use the QR code below. Take advantage of your free subscription to FORMED! Enjoy thousands of hours of quality Catholic content! This week’s suggestion:
The Search: Episode 1, What Do You Seek?

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR SATURDAY, AUGUST 20^TH. 
The Giving, Growing and Glorifying Landscaping Project will be dedicated after the 4 PM Mass on August 20, 2022.  The Pastoral Council and Liturgy Committee invite you to join us as Father Jim blesses our beautiful new plantings.  Photographers will be on hand to take photos and Mr. Softee will provide ice cream cones and cups.  We look forward l to seeing you there.

SAVE this Date—Sunday, September 11, 2022  for St. Polycarp’s 3^rd Annual Parish Dinner and Golf Tournament at Links at St. Anne’s in Middletown, DE.  Golf Tournament starts with lunch at 12:30 pm with Tee Off at 1 pm. Buffet dinner at 6 pm with golfers, friends, and parishioners from St. Polycarp.  You don’t have to golf to join us for dinner! (Buffet dinner is $40.00 per person.) CLICK HERE for more information or contact: Dennis Skinner at papadskinz@yahoo.com (302) 981-8743 or Anna Skinner anna.skinz@gmail.com (302) 883-5647 Register online at https://bit.ly/3HckNKW

PSR REGISTRATION: Registration is now open for 2022-2023 religious education classes. We offer religious education classes for children in Pre-K through Grade 9, Sacramental Preparation for First Reconciliation, First Eucharist and Confirmation.  We also offer Intermediate Sacramental Prep (ISP) for older children who have not yet received sacraments. Please register early to help us plan for next year & registering early helps you save money! (See form for tuition rates.  For information on how to register  CLICK HERE

CAN YOU HELP? Parish School of Religion (PSR)  With PSR plans underway for the Fall, we need your help in filling a few positions. Are you able to dedicate some of your time to help us grow and complete our PSR team? We’d love to welcome you to our PSR family! If God is calling you, contact Erica Taylor, CRE at 653-4101 or at dre@saintpolycarp.org.
Currently we need:
–Catechist & Assistant for Grade 3 (Sunday morning)
–Assistant for Grade 8 (Tuesday Evening)
–Desk Assistant (Tuesday Evening)

GLUTEN FREE? Do you have an intolerance to gluten? If so, our parish offers gluten-free wafers to be consecrated for you. Please see our Sacristan 10 – 15 minutes before Mass and let them know that you need a gluten-free wafer put in the pyx. At Communion, please process down the aisle to the priest who will have the pyx in his hand and let him know you need a gluten-free host

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: There is no summer break for the need to pray for vocations.  Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/
Sunday, July 31 – Moss Family, August 14 – Powell Family –  Please arrive 15 minutes before your mass time and pick up materials in the sacristy.

REDNER’S MARKETS 1% SAVE-A-TAPE FUNDRAISER: Turn your food shopping into cash for our parish. Simply be sure to obtain and scan your Redner’s Rewards Card each time you shop. Save your whole receipt. Bring your receipts to the Parish Office or put them into the collection basket. There is no expiration date – you can turn in receipts months old!

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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!

                                                                               

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USEFUL LINKS:

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

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FROM THE DIOCESE:     

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. Learn how to shield the children in your life from online perils, when Chris McKenna, founder of “Protect Young Lives” is interviewed on the July 30th Catholic Forum program. CLICK HERE You can listen online at cdow.org/CatholicForum, or by searching “Catholic Forum” on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or Amazon Music podcasts.   “Like” Catholic Forum on Facebook at facebook.com/CatholicForum @CatholicForum. 

MARRIAGE MOMENTS:  Sunday July 31: Complaining can be a release for negative emotions, but it can wear down the listener – usually your spouse.  Can you go one day without complaining?  Let your beloved check you and hold you accountable.

PARENTING POINTERS: Sunday July 31: Children might have snatches of time when they recognize the value of parental love and commitment, but they still like toys.  Challenge your family to a day without toys or tech stuff and create your own fun.  Can you do it?

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LET US PRAY:  The Transfiguration of the Lord – August 6
Jesus took Peter, James, and his brother John, and led them up a high mountain apart by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no fuller on earth could bleach them.  Mark 9:2-3

Lord, may I see Your glory and the glory that You have bestowed upon my own soul.
May my eyes forever remain fixed on that grace.
May I see You and Your glory especially in difficult times.
Jesus, I trust in You.

https://catholic-daily-reflections.com/

17th Sunday in Ordinary Time 

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.  Thy kingdom come.  Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 
Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us,
and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.  Amen

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE –  QUESTIONS TO PONDER

– Take time this week to slowly pray the Our Father to realize what each phrase means.
– What does it mean to ask God to forgive our sins as we forgive others?
– Are you able to extend forgiveness to the degree you ask to be forgiven?

READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/072422.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays.
If you are interested in being involved in this ministry, please email Lisa at lisa.titus@saintpolycarp.org or Judy at communications@saintpolycarp.org.

PARISH WEBSITE: Visit: www.saintpolycarp.org/.

WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE .       BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE

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THIS WEEKEND, JULY 23/24 (& week of July 24)

PASTOR’S PEN: Please make sure to read Fr. Jim’s “Pastor’s Pen” in this week’s bulletin. This week’s bulletin CLICK HERE

BLESSINGS: The Blessing of Grandparents will take place tomorrow at the 4pm Mass.

SHARE THE HARVEST:  Would you like to share vegetables from your bountiful garden, garden plants or house plants that need to go to a loving home, flowers that could brighten up someone’s day or your harvest with others? The Share The Harvest table is now under the Portico.  This allows our parishioners to share their abundant yield from their gardens with their Church family.  All are welcome to share and receive.

BUSINESS MANAGER: Please see this week’s Bulletin for update on this position.

ATTENTION MINISTRY LEADERS! Annual Leadership Organizational Meeting is THIS TUESDAY, July 26^th, at 7 pm in Mother Drexel Hall. Leaders (or leader representative) of all ministries need to be present at this meeting.

“DRIVE-THRU” BULL ROAST FUNDRAISER at St. DENNIS CHURCH – Next, Saturday, July 30^th
156 N. Main Street, Galena, MD 
MENU – Delicious PIT roasted beef, ½ a fried chicken, 2 locally grown ears of corn on the cob, homemade potato salad, and 2 rolls with butter and a beverage for $25 per meal. St Dennis Bake Sale will also be available for purchasing your dessert as you exit the property. Advance ticket purchases are recommended as a limited number of meals will be prepared. Tickets may be purchased at St. Dennis before and after the weekend Masses OR By calling Jim Bricker at 717-575-1235. Pick up of meals with curbside service is on July 30^th from 11am until 2pm. Please follow the directed traffic pattern.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY:
You may be wondering what Christmas in July refers to. Well, the Liturgy Committee has come up with a Wish Book List for the following items to be purchased. They are as follows:
(2) 7.5 ft. Christmas trees w/bag         Cost: $156.00
(2) 9.0 ft Christmas trees w/bag          Cost: $209.00
(1) Silver Oxidized Ciborium               Cost: $555.00
(1) 3 ft. x 5 ft. Papal Flag                    Cost: $73.50
If you would like to purchase or donate towards one of the above items, please make your check out to St. Polycarp Church and in the memo area, please indicate what your money is going towards. Thank you in advance for your purchase or donation! It is greatly appreciated!!                                                        The Liturgy Committee

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CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – 2022 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL:  We continue to need your help. The Diocese relies on the people in each parish to support the Diocese. Through the generosity of our parishioners, we have received pledges in the amount of $54,330! We are $5670 from our goal of $60,000.. We are hoping that those who have not contributed will consider giving and perhaps those who have given could possibly help us a bit more toward reaching our goal. Even the smallest donations will help those in need. Pledge cards can be found in the pews and at the doors of the church. Thank you to those who have already contributed to this year’s campaign. Participants who pledged to the campaign will receive monthly payment reminders mailed directly from the diocesan Development Office.  Please mail all payments in the self-addressed, return envelope provided with your pledge reminder.  To learn more about the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal, visit www.cdow.org; click “Giving” then “Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal”, or simply scan this QR code with your cellphone.

Your generosity in supporting this campaign enables the diocese to do the work of our Lord.
When our parish collects its goal amount, we will receive 50% of contributions over the assigned target.
In the past, the generosity of our folks has enabled us to do many projects around the campus.

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UPCOMING/ONGOING

SUMMER WEEKDAY MASSES: Tuesday through Friday at 8:30 am.

SECOND COLLECTION NEXT WEEK:  July 31 – Parish Maintenance

“DRIVE-THRU” BULL ROAST FUNDRAISER at St. DENNIS CHURCH – Saturday, July 30^th
156 N. Main Street, Galena, MD 
MENU – Delicious PIT roasted beef, ½ a fried chicken, 2 locally grown ears of corn on the cob, homemade potato salad, and 2 rolls with butter and a beverage for $25 per meal. St Dennis Bake Sale will also be available for purchasing your dessert as you exit the property. Advance ticket purchases are recommended as a limited number of meals will be prepared. Tickets may be purchased at St. Dennis before and after the weekend Masses OR By calling Jim Bricker at 717-575-1235. Pick up of meals with curbside service is on July 30^th from 11am until 2pm. Please follow the directed traffic pattern.

Have you had the opportunity to dive into FORMED? If not, take some time to do so. You won’t be disappointed!! To sign up visit www.formed.org. Type in our Parish zip code (19977) and follow the steps to sign up or you can use the QR code below. Take advantage of your free subscription to FORMED! Enjoy thousands of hours of quality Catholic content! This week’s suggestion: Presence-Episode1

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR SATURDAY, AUGUST 20^TH. 
The Giving, Growing and Glorifying Landscaping Project will be dedicated after the 4 PM Mass on August 20, 2022.  The Pastoral Council and Liturgy Committee invite you to join us as Father Jim blesses our beautiful new plantings.  Photographers will be on hand to take photos and Mr. Softee will provide ice cream cones and cups.  We look forward l to seeing you there.

SAVE this Date—Sunday, September 11, 2022  for St. Polycarp’s 3^rd Annual Parish Dinner and Golf Tournament at Links at St. Anne’s in Middletown, DE.  Golf Tournament starts with lunch at 12:30 pm with Tee Off at 1 pm. Buffet dinner at 6 pm with golfers, friends, and parishioners from St. Polycarp.  You don’t have to golf to join us for dinner! (Buffet dinner is $40.00 per person.) CLICK HERE for more information or contact: Dennis Skinner at papadskinz@yahoo.com (302) 981-8743 or Anna Skinner anna.skinz@gmail.com (302) 883-5647 Register online at https://bit.ly/3HckNKW

PSR REGISTRATION: Registration is now open for 2022-2023 religious education classes. We offer religious education classes for children in Pre-K through Grade 9, Sacramental Preparation for First Reconciliation, First Eucharist and Confirmation.  We also offer Intermediate Sacramental Prep (ISP) for older children who have not yet received sacraments. Please register early to help us plan for next year & registering early helps you save money! (See form for tuition rates.  For information on how to register  CLICK HERE

 

CAN YOU HELP? Parish School of Religion (PSR)  With PSR plans underway for the Fall, we need your help in filling a few positions. Are you able to dedicate some of your time to help us grow and complete our PSR team? We’d love to welcome you to our PSR family! If God is calling you, contact Erica Taylor, CRE at 653-4101 or at dre@saintpolycarp.org.
Currently we need:
–Catechist & Assistant for Grade 3 (Sunday morning)
–Assistant for Grade 8 (Tuesday Evening)
–Desk Assistant (Tuesday Evening)

GLUTEN FREE? Do you have an intolerance to gluten? If so, our parish offers gluten-free wafers to be consecrated for you. Please see our Sacristan 10 – 15 minutes before Mass and let them know that you need a gluten-free wafer put in the pyx. At Communion, please process down the aisle to the priest who will have the pyx in his hand and let him know you need a gluten-free host

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: There is no summer break for the need to pray for vocations.  Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/
Sunday, July 31 – Moss Family, August 14 – Powell Family –  Please arrive 15 minutes before your mass time and pick up materials in the sacristy.

CHANGE THE WORLD: BECOME CATHOLIC! If you know someone who is looking for a new beginning and wants to learn more about the Catholic Church, “personally invite” them to our RCIA sessions, Monday evenings at 6:30pm. The RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) is for individuals who are unbaptized, baptized in other faith traditions or Catholic adults wishing to receive Confirmation and Holy Eucharist and seeking full membership in the Catholic Church. We are all called to share the “Good News” and you can make a difference by simply asking! Please contact Deacon Frank Weber for more information at DeaconFrank@saintpolycarp.org or leave a message with the Parish office at (302) 653-8279.

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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!

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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!

                                                                               

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USEFUL LINKS:

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

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FROM THE DIOCESE:

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM. * Author, Dan DeMatte, will discuss his new book, “Dream Bigger,” on the July 23rd Catholic Forum program. CLICK HERE You can listen online at cdow.org/CatholicForum, or by searching “Catholic Forum” on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or Amazon Music podcasts.   “Like” Catholic Forum on Facebook at facebook.com/CatholicForum @CatholicForum. 

MARRIAGE MOMENTS: Sunday July 24: What worries and burdens are you carrying today?  (Money? Children? Health? Job? Let your beloved (your spouse and God) be a comfort to you.  Be present to who is most important to you today.

PARENTING POINTERS: Sunday July 24: Take a moment this weekend to remember why you so wanted a child.  Cherish each of your children in thought and words today.

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LET US PRAY:  Saints Joachim & Anne, Parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary – July 26

Dear Lord, we thank You for giving us Saints Joachim and Anne as examples of holiness. Help us to imitate the virtue they showed in continuing to hope despite many years of suffering.
Saints Joachim and Anne, you longed to serve God through parenthood in your marriage. Despite years of childlessness, you continued to ask God for a child and persevered in hope.
Please persevere in bringing my petitions before the throne of God!

Even though you grew to be very old, you did not waver in your hope that God would answer your prayers. He eventually rewarded your faithfulness by making you the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Pray for me, that I may grow in the virtue of hope. Pray that I may never give in to despair, no matter how much I might suffer. Please also pray for (mention your intentions here).

Saints Joachim and Anne, pray for us!                                (praymorenovenas)

16th Sunday in Ordinary Time 

“Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things.  There is need of only one thing.
Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her.”

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE –  QUESTIONS TO PONDER

  – How are acts of hospitality a way of doing God’s work?
  – The responsorial psalm speaks of one who “thinks the truth in his heart.” How does a pure heart reflect God’s love?
  – When has the necessary activity in your life challenged your prayer life?    

READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/071722.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays.
If you are interested in being involved in this ministry, please email Lisa at lisa.titus@saintpolycarp.org or Judy at communications@saintpolycarp.org.

PARISH WEBSITE: Visit: www.saintpolycarp.org/.

WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE .       BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE

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THIS WEEKEND, JULY 16/17 (& week of July 17)

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Saturday, July 16 at the 4:00 pm Mass – Janet Hovis – Please arrive 15 minutes before your mass time and pick up materials in the sacristy.

Have you had the opportunity to dive into FORMED? If not, take some time to do so. You won’t be disappointed!! To sign up visit www.formed.org. Type in our Parish zip code (19977) and follow the steps to sign up or you can use the QR code below. Take advantage of your free subscription to FORMED! Enjoy thousands of hours of quality Catholic content!

ADULT FAITH FORMATION – CONNECTED IN CHRIST: Connected in Christ is an adult faith sharing group that meets weekly, on Tuesdays, after Mass, at 9:15 in the Parish Library. Come join us as we study from our new FORMED platform. For more information, please contact Cookie Ruane at 302-540-6429.

BUSINESS MANAGER: We trust that God will touch the heart of someone to respond to our need for a Business Manager. Please spread the word, or perhaps it is you who He is calling! Interested candidates should have Business Management, Accounting and Bookkeeping experience with the appropriate educational credentials. Facilities management, or a willingness to learn, is also a necessary component of the position. Above all, the person must be willing to work collaboratively with our team of Professional ministries to build God’s Kingdom here at St. Polycarp. Inquiries should be sent to office@saintpolycarp.org.

ATTENTION MINISTRY LEADERS! Annual Leadership Organizational Meeting will be held on TUESDAY, July 26^th, at 7 pm in Mother Drexel Hall. Check your email for information about this meeting! Follow directions in the letter to RSVP by July 21^st. Leaders (or leader representative) of all ministries need to be present at this meeting.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY:
You may be wondering what Christmas in July refers to. Well, the Liturgy Committee has come up with a Wish Book List for the following items to be purchased. They are as follows:
(2) 7.5 ft. Christmas trees w/bag         Cost: $156.00
(2) 9.0 ft Christmas trees w/bag          Cost: $209.00
(1) Silver Oxidized Ciborium               Cost: $555.00
(1) 3 ft. x 5 ft. Papal Flag                    Cost: $73.50
If you would like to purchase or donate towards one of the above items, please make your check out to St. Polycarp Church and in the memo area, please indicate what your money is going towards. Thank you in advance for your purchase or donation! It is greatly appreciated!!                                                        The Liturgy Committee

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CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – 2022 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL:  We continue to need your help. The Diocese relies on the people in each parish to support the Diocese. NEW AMOUNTS: As of the latest report from the diocese, 90.55% of our goal has been pledged. Through the generosity of our parishioners, we have received pledges in the amount of $54,330! We are $5670 from our goal of $60,000.. We are hoping that those who have not contributed will consider giving and perhaps those who have given could possibly help us a bit more toward reaching our goal. Even the smallest donations will help those in need. Pledge cards can be found in the pews and at the doors of the church. Thank you to those who have already contributed to this year’s campaign. Participants who pledged to the campaign will receive monthly payment reminders mailed directly from the diocesan Development Office.  Please mail all payments in the self-addressed, return envelope provided with your pledge reminder.  To learn more about the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal, visit www.cdow.org; click “Giving” then “Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal”, or simply scan this QR code with your cellphone.

Your generosity in supporting this campaign enables the diocese to do the work of our Lord.
When our parish collects its goal amount, we will receive 50% of contributions over the assigned target.
In the past, the generosity of our folks has enabled us to do many projects around the campus.

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UPCOMING/ONGOING

SUMMER WEEKDAY MASSES: Tuesday through Friday at 8:30 am.

“DRIVE-THRU” BULL ROAST FUNDRAISER at St. DENNIS CHURCH – Saturday, July 30^th
156 N. Main Street, Galena, MD 
MENU – Delicious PIT roasted beef, ½ a fried chicken, 2 locally grown ears of corn on the cob, homemade potato salad, and 2 rolls with butter and a beverage for $25 per meal. St Dennis Bake Sale will also be available for purchasing your dessert as you exit the property. Advance ticket purchases are recommended as a limited number of meals will be prepared. Tickets may be purchased at St. Dennis before and after the weekend Masses OR By calling Jim Bricker at 717-575-1235. Pick up of meals with curbside service is on July 30^th from 11am until 2pm. Please follow the directed traffic pattern.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR SATURDAY, AUGUST 20^TH. 
The Giving, Growing and Glorifying Landscaping Project will be dedicated after the 4 PM Mass on August 20, 2022.  The Pastoral Council and Liturgy Committee invite you to join us as Father Jim blesses our beautiful new plantings.  Photographers will be on hand to take photos and Mr. Softee will provide ice cream cones and cups.  We look forward l to seeing you there.

SAVE this Date—Sunday, September 11, 2022  for St. Polycarp’s 3^rd Annual Parish Dinner and Golf Tournament at Links at St. Anne’s in Middletown, DE.  Golf Tournament starts with lunch at 12:30 pm with Tee Off at 1 pm. Buffet dinner at 6 pm with golfers, friends, and parishioners from St. Polycarp.  You don’t have to golf to join us for dinner! (Buffet dinner is $40.00 per person.) CLICK HERE for more information or contact: Larry Borgman lborgaman007@gmail.com (302-38-6018) or Kathy Willes kdwilles@comcast.net (302-670-7330).  Register online at membership.faithdirect.net/events/details/7142.

PSR REGISTRATION: Registration is now open for 2022-2023 religious education classes. We offer religious education classes for children in Pre-K through Grade 9, Sacramental Preparation for First Reconciliation, First Eucharist and Confirmation.  We also offer Intermediate Sacramental Prep (ISP) for older children who have not yet received sacraments. Please register early to help us plan for next year & registering early helps you save money! (See form for tuition rates.  For information on how to register  CLICK HERE

Homeschool parents or those who have children in Catholic school – If you have a child old enough to receive the sacraments of First Reconciliation, First Eucharist or Confirmation and are interested in information about our Parish School of Religion program, please contact our office at  (302) 653 – 4101 or e-mail dre@saintpolycarp.org

IS GOD CALLING YOU? Every year our PSR looks to our parishioners to help us fill open positions and grow our PSR team.  PSR is currently in need of
– Assistants for Grades 6 & 8 (Tuesday evenings)
-Two Desk Assistants & a Greeter/Hall Monitor needed for Tuesday evening
We need you to build God’s Kingdom! If you feel God calling you toward this ministry, please contact Erica Taylor, CRE at 302-653 – 4101 or dre@saintpolycarp.org. There’s no greater joy than giving back and being a part of something bigger than yourself!!!

GLUTEN FREE? Do you have an intolerance to gluten? If so, our parish offers gluten-free wafers to be consecrated for you. Please see our Sacristan 10 – 15 minutes before Mass and let them know that you need a gluten-free wafer put in the pyx. At Communion, please process down the aisle to the priest who will have the pyx in his hand and let him know you need a gluten-free host

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: There is no summer break for the need to pray for vocations.  Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/
Sunday, Sunday, July 31 – Moss Family Please arrive 15 minutes before your mass time and pick up materials in the sacristy.

 

CHANGE THE WORLD: BECOME CATHOLIC! If you know someone who is looking for a new beginning and wants to learn more about the Catholic Church, “personally invite” them to our RCIA sessions, Monday evenings at 6:30pm. The RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) is for individuals who are unbaptized, baptized in other faith traditions or Catholic adults wishing to receive Confirmation and Holy Eucharist and seeking full membership in the Catholic Church. We are all called to share the “Good News” and you can make a difference by simply asking! Please contact Deacon Frank Weber for more information at DeaconFrank@saintpolycarp.org or leave a message with the Parish office at (302) 653-8279.

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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!

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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!

                                                                               

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USEFUL LINKS:

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

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FROM THE DIOCESE:

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM.  Meet Deacon Ben Feril from Immaculate Conception Parish in Elkton on the July 16th Catholic Forum program.  CLICK HERE You can listen online at cdow.org/CatholicForum, or by searching “Catholic Forum” on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or Amazon Music podcasts.   “Like” Catholic Forum on Facebook at facebook.com/CatholicForum @CatholicForum. 

MARRIAGE MOMENTS: Sunday July 17: It is summer and we expect to be hot.  But, it can also prompt short tempers and lethargy.  How do you and your beloved deal with heat?  What about folks who can’s afford air-conditioning?  Can you help someone for whom too much heat is more than inconvenient?

PARENTING POINTERS: Sunday July 17: Parents work hard – feeding, cleaning, working to support a family, etc. and it’s all necessary.  But sometimes we need to let go of our “Martha” side of serving and working.  Remember to take time to just play with your children too.

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LET US PRAY:   Prayer to St. Mary Magdalene  – July 22

Saint Mary Magdalene,
woman of many sins, who by conversion
became the beloved of Jesus,
thank you for your witness
that Jesus forgives
through the miracle of love.

You, who already possess eternal happiness
in His glorious presence,
please intercede for me, so that some day
I may share in the same everlasting joy.

Amen.

Saint Mary Magdalen was one of the few who remained with Christ during His agony on the Cross.  She visited His tomb with two other women and found it empty.  It was to her that our Lord first appeared after His Resurrection.  He asked her to announce His Resurrection to the Apostles.

15th Sunday in Ordinary Time 

You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your being, and with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself. 

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE –  QUESTIONS TO PONDER

  – Have you ever considered God’s Law as something within your heart?
  – In light of today’s Gospel, should you reconsider your openness to granting mercy to others?
  – Why is it not enough to obey the law?

READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/071022.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays.
If you are interested in being involved in this ministry, please email Lisa at lisa.titus@saintpolycarp.org or Judy at communications@saintpolycarp.org.

PARISH WEBSITE: Visit: www.saintpolycarp.org/.

WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN: CLICK HERE .       BULLETIN OVERFLOW: Bulletin Overflow – CLICK HERE

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THIS WEEKEND, JULY 9/10 (& week of July 10)

Make sure to pick-up a bulletin as you enter Mass this weekend!  FORMED is coming to our Parish!   Watch, listen and read. Anywhere, anytime. FORMED provides the very best Catholic content from more than 60 organizations to help parishes, families and individuals explore their faith anywhere. Supporting thousands of movies, children’s programs, eBooks, audio, parish programs and studies direct to your browser, mobile or connected device. Have your phone ready at Mass on the weekend of July 9 & 10 to sign up for free!

SECOND COLLECTION THIS WEEKEND: Parish Utilities

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: Sunday, July 10 at the 10:30 am Mass – Bell Family – Please arrive 15 minutes before your mass time and pick up materials in the sacristy.

ADULT FAITH FORMATION – CONNECTED IN CHRIST: Connected in Christ is an adult faith sharing group that meets weekly, on Tuesdays, after Mass, at 9:15 in the Parish Library. Come join us as we study from our new FORMED platform. For more information, please contact Cookie Ruane at 302-540-6429.

2023 MASS INTENTION BOOK is now open.  Intention for Masses can be requested by calling the parish office between the hours of 9 am – 3 pm, or anytime via email at office@saintpolycarp.org.
– The Mass Intention is $10.00
– The Sanctuary Lamp may be lit for an entire week (Sunday through Saturday) either in the Church or Chapel for $10.00
– Bread and Wine Offering for daily Mass is $10.00
– Purgatorial Society Enrollment is $25.00 for Mass Intentions every 1^st Wednesday for one year.
The Maximum number of mass cards and/or offerings is 6 per person since the availability of mass intentions and offerings is limited.

BUSINESS MANAGER: We trust that God will touch the heart of someone to respond to our need for a Business Manager. Please spread the word, or perhaps it is you who He is calling! Interested candidates should have Business Management, Accounting and Bookkeeping experience with the appropriate educational credentials. Facilities management, or a willingness to learn, is also a necessary component of the position. Above all, the person must be willing to work collaboratively with our team of Professional ministries to build God’s Kingdom here at St. Polycarp. Inquiries should be sent to office@saintpolycarp.org.

SAVE this Date—Sunday, September 11, 2022  for St. Polycarp’s 3^rd Annual Parish Dinner and Golf Tournament at Links at St. Anne’s in Middletown, DE.  Golf Tournament starts with lunch at 12:30 pm with Tee Off at 1 pm. Buffet dinner at 6 pm with golfers, friends, and parishioners from St. Polycarp.  You don’t have to golf to join us for dinner! (Buffet dinner is $40.00 per person.) CLICK HERE for more information or contact: Larry Borgman lborgaman007@gmail.com (302-38-6018) or Kathy Willes kdwilles@comcast.net (302-670-7330).  Register online at membership.faithdirect.net/events/details/7142.

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You may be wondering what Christmas in July refers to.
Well, the Liturgy Committee has come up with a Wish Book List for the following items to be purchased.
They are as follows:

(2) 7.5 ft. Christmas trees w/bag         Cost: $156.00
(2) 9.0 ft Christmas trees w/bag          Cost: $209.00
(1) Silver Oxidized Ciborium                  Cost: $555.00
(1) 3 ft. x 5 ft. Papal Flag                        Cost: $73.50
If you would like to purchase or donate towards one of the above items, please make your check out to St. Polycarp Church and in the memo area, please indicate what your money is going towards. Thank you in advance for your purchase or donation! It is greatly appreciated!!                                                        The Liturgy Committee

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CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – 2022 FAITH AND CHARITY CATHOLIC APPEAL:  WE’RE GETTING THERE…but we need your help! As of the latest report from the diocese, 90.34% of our goal has been pledged. We are $5795 from our goal of $60,000.  If you haven’t already done so, please consider supporting this year’s appeal, no matter the amount. Pledge cards can be found in the pews and at the doors of the church. Thank you to those who have already contributed to this year’s campaign and to those parishioners who have signed pledge cards. Participants who pledged to the campaign will receive monthly payment reminders mailed directly from the diocesan Development Office.  Please mail all payments in the self-addressed, return envelope provided with your pledge reminder.  Do not make payments to the parish office or through the Offertory collection. To learn more about the Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal, visit www.cdow.org; click “Giving” then “Faith and Charity Catholic Appeal”, or simply scan this QR code with your cellphone.

Your generosity in supporting this campaign enables the diocese to do the work of our Lord.
When our parish collects its goal amount, a percentage of the excess will be returned to our parish to foster our charitable and ministerial work.

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UPCOMING/ONGOING

LOST AND FOUND: Our “Lost and Found” is located on the file cabinet (across from the restrooms in the hallway near the Mother Drexel Hall). Maybe something of yours is in there. Take a look!

SUMMER WEEKDAY MASSES: Tuesday through Friday at 8:30 am.

ATTENTION MINISTRY LEADERS! Mark your calendar now for our Annual Leadership Organizational Meeting on TUESDAY, July 26^th, at 7 pm in Mother Drexel Hall. Leaders (or leader representative) of all ministries need to be present at this meeting (letter from Fr. Jim is forth coming).

“DRIVE-THRU” BULL ROAST FUNDRAISER at St. DENNIS CHURCH – Saturday, July 30^th
156 N. Main Street, Galena, MD 
MENU – Delicious PIT roasted beef, ½ a fried chicken, 2 locally grown ears of corn on the cob, homemade potato salad, and 2 rolls with butter and a beverage for $25 per meal. St Dennis Bake Sale will also be available for purchasing your dessert as you exit the property. Advance ticket purchases are recommended as a limited number of meals will be prepared. Tickets may be purchased at St. Dennis before and after the weekend Masses OR By calling Jim Bricker at 717-575-1235. Pick up of meals with curbside service is on July 30^th from 11am until 2pm.
Please follow the directed traffic pattern.

PSR REGISTRATION: Registration is now open for 2022-2023 religious education classes. We offer religious education classes for children in Pre-K through Grade 9, Sacramental Preparation for First Reconciliation, First Eucharist and Confirmation.  We also offer Intermediate Sacramental Prep (ISP) for older children who have not yet received sacraments. Please register early to help us plan for next year & registering early helps you save money! (See form for tuition rates.  For information on how to register  CLICK HERE

Homeschool parents or those who have children in Catholic school – If you have a child old enough to receive the sacraments of First Reconciliation, First Eucharist or Confirmation and are interested in information about our Parish School of Religion program, please contact our office at  (302) 653 – 4101 or e-mail dre@saintpolycarp.org

IS GOD CALLING YOU? Every year our PSR looks to our parishioners to help us fill open positions and grow our PSR team.  PSR is currently in need of
– Assistants for Grades 6 & 8 (Tuesday evenings)
-Two Desk Assistants & a Greeter/Hall Monitor needed for Tuesday evening
We need you to build God’s Kingdom! If you feel God calling you toward this ministry, please contact Erica Taylor, CRE at 302-653 – 4101 or dre@saintpolycarp.org. There’s no greater joy than giving back and being a part of something bigger than yourself!!!

 

GLUTEN FREE? Do you have an intolerance to gluten? If so, our parish offers gluten-free wafers to be consecrated for you. Please see our Sacristan 10 – 15 minutes before Mass and let them know that you need a gluten-free wafer put in the pyx. At Communion, please process down the aisle to the priest who will have the pyx in his hand and let him know you need a gluten-free host

 

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY: There is no summer break for the need to pray for vocations.  Please consider signing up to host the vocation chalice in your home for a week.  Text or call Alice Gaston at (302) 670 – 7924. For more information visit https://saintpolycarp.org/vocation-chalice/
Sunday, July 10 – Bell Family; Sunday, July 31 – Moss Family Please arrive 15 minutes before your mass time and pick up materials in the sacristy.

 

CHANGE THE WORLD: BECOME CATHOLIC! If you know someone who is looking for a new beginning and wants to learn more about the Catholic Church, “personally invite” them to our RCIA sessions, Monday evenings at 6:30pm. The RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) is for individuals who are unbaptized, baptized in other faith traditions or Catholic adults wishing to receive Confirmation and Holy Eucharist and seeking full membership in the Catholic Church. We are all called to share the “Good News” and you can make a difference by simply asking! Please contact Deacon Frank Weber for more information at DeaconFrank@saintpolycarp.org or leave a message with the Parish office at (302) 653-8279.

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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!

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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!

                                                                               

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USEFUL LINKS:

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

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FROM THE DIOCESE:

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640AM.  Local author, Michele Chynoweth, discusses her new novel, “The Wise Man,” on the July 9th Catholic Forum program. CLICK HERE You can listen online at cdow.org/CatholicForum, or by searching “Catholic Forum” on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or Amazon Music podcasts.   “Like” Catholic Forum on Facebook at facebook.com/CatholicForum @CatholicForum. 

MARRIAGE MOMENTS: Sunday July 10: Of course my spouse is my closest neighbor; but often, because we are so close, it can be tempting to take each other for granted. Don’t overlook your beloved’s needs today. Be compassionate.

PARENTING POINTERS: Sunday July 10: As your children mature and become emerging adults the way you share your faith must mature also. Their questions may deepen your faith. That is good.

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LET US PRAY: 

St. Kateri Tekakwitha – July 14

O Great Lily of the Mohawks, we ask that you take our intentions to the foot of the cross. Ask Jesus to bring healing to those who are heavily burdened. Through your intercession, may this favor be granted if it is according to the will of God. By your prayer, help us always to remain faithful to Jesus and to his Holy Church. St. Kateri Tekakwitha, pray for us. Amen.

Franciscan Media

Fourth Sunday of Advent

Behold, a Virgin shall conceive and bear a son; and his name will be called Emmanuel.

READINGS FOR THE WEEKEND:  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/12192021.cfm

LIVE-STREAMING: Visit https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE for live stream at 8:30 am on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and 4 pm on Saturdays. Please bear with us as we work through the challenges with our live streaming. If you are interested in being involved in this ministry, please email Lisa at lisa.titus@saintpolycarp.org or Judy at communications@saintpolycarp.org.

DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON – LIVE STREAMING https://www.youtube.com/user/DioceseofWilm

PARISH WEBSITE: Visit: www.saintpolycarp.org/. Don’t forget to checkout our BULLETIN OVERFLOW for information that doesn’t fit in our weekly Bulletin!  Bulletin Overflow – Saint Polycarp Church

CHRISTMAS MASS SCHEDULE:
Christmas Eve – Friday, December 24th at 4 pm and 9 pm,
Christmas Day – Saturday, December 25th at 10 am.

LIVE STREAM: Christmas Eve – Friday, December 24th at 4 pm, (Can also be viewed at a later time.) https://www.youtube.com/c/StPolycarpSmyrnaDE

FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY, Sunday, December 26th: Mass at 10:30 am only on Sunday the 26th. There is no Saturday, 4 pm Vigil Mass on December 25th.

THE SOLEMNITY OF MARY MOTHER OF GOD (New Year’s): Masses will be celebrated on Friday, December 31st at 4pm and Saturday, January 1st at 10am. Our Church calendars will be blessed and available at these Masses.

THIS WEEKEND, DECEMBER 18/19

BLESSED STRAW: This weekend, bags of Blessed Straw will be available for parishioners to take home for their Nativities.

PSR GRADES P/K – 8: In person classes – Sunday, December 19th for Grades P/K – 4 and Tuesday, December 21st for Grades 5-8.
PSR GRADE 4 families attend 10:30 am Mass this Sunday, December 19th.

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD will take place during the 10:30 am Mass this Sunday, December 19th. All children ages PreK-4th grade are welcome to attend.

CHRISTMAS NOVENA REMEMBRANCE  AND CHRISTMAS FLOWER OFFERING: Christmas is a time to reflect on the blessings of family and shared togetherness. We exchange gifts as an act of love and appreciation. Find the peace that only God can provide by enrolling all your loved loves, living and deceased, in the most powerful of all prayers, the gift of Holy Mass, or through a contribution towards the beautiful Christmas flowers.   Please use the Christmas Novena Remembrance and Christmas Flower Offering envelopes as gifts to show your loved ones they have not been forgotten. Envelopes can be found at the doors of the Church.

WEEK of DECEMBER 19TH

THE DEANERY PENANCE SERVICE will be held at Holy Cross, Dover on Monday, December 20^th, at 7 pm.
Various priests will be available to hear confessions.
Need a refresher? See the insert in this weekend’s Bulletin or visit https://saintpolycarp.org/reconciliation-refresher/

ST. POLYCARP 2021 CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT SALE: Don’t miss out. We have five – 2021 ornaments left!  If you are interested in purchasing an ornament, email Mrs. Taylor at dre@saintpolycarp.org or call (302)653-4101.

MEMORIAL BRICKS: Do You Have Someone on Your Gift List Who Has Everything? Give the gift of a memorial brick as a Christmas gift. Perfect moments can be had, but not preserved except in memory. Order forms can be found at the doors of the Church or order through Faith Direct at https://membership.faithdirect.net/events/details/5644, (you do not need to sign up for Faith Direct). You can also CLICK HERE FOR ORDER FORM 

THE PARISH OFFICE will close at noon on Wednesday, December 22nd  and remain closed until 9 am on Tuesday, December 28^th.  The office will also be closed on Friday, December 31^st.

DIVINE MERCY: We will not gather to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet on Friday, December 24th or Friday, December 31st.

RECONCILIATION: Confessions will not take place here at St. Polycarp on Saturday, December 25th.

UPCOMING/ONGOING

CHANGE THE WORLD: BECOME CATHOLIC! If you know someone who is looking for a new beginning and wants to learn more about the Catholic Church, “personally invite” them to our RCIA sessions, taking place at the Parish campus on Monday evenings at 6:30pm. The RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) is for individuals who are unbaptized, baptized in other faith traditions or Catholic adults wishing to receive Confirmation and Holy Eucharist and seeking full membership in the Catholic Church. We are all called to share the “Good News” and you can make a difference by simply asking! Please contact Deacon Frank Weber for more information at DeaconFrank@saintpolycarp.org or leave a message with the Parish office at (302) 653-8279.

THE VOCATION CHALICE MINISTRY:  Each week a family will receive the Vocation Chalice at Mass and take it home with the promise to “pray for vocations” during that week.  The family should place the chalice in a prominent place in their home and gather together each day to pray for the awareness of vocations.  At the end of the week, the family will bring the chalice back to church so the next family can take it home.  A booklet will accompany the chalice that has prayers and instructions.  We need your prayers and for you to sign up. Call or text Alice Gaston 302-670-7924 to sign up. See the Bulletin for schedule.  This weekend, December 19th – the Taylor Family. January 2nd – The Ruane Family

LONG TERM PLANNING:  The Finance Council here at Saint Polycarp Parish is looking towards the future with the development of a long-range plan.  While we have always had an annual plan, the long-range plan will help steer and direct the parish for the next 3 – 5 years and longer. To help make this endeavor a success, we want to have several parishioners who would bring different viewpoints and perspectives and would be willing to actively participate in the 3 sessions we are anticipating.  The sessions would take place on weekends for 2 – 3 hours.  There will also be some prayer, reading and thinking to take place in between sessions. If you would like to participate or to learn more, please reach out to John Fcasni.  He can be reached at john.fcasni@gmail.com or call or text him at (609) 529-1986.

DECEMBER 26TH: Don’t put those decorations away yet!
The joy and wonder of Christmas is not limited to just Christmas Day but lasts for a period of time. The Christmas Season begins with the Nativity of the Lord (Christmas – December 25th) and ends with the Baptism of the Lord, this year, January 9th.  Celebrate the true Christmas Season!

 

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 receipts months old in!

 

Thank you to our Bulletin advertisers! We appreciate your support!

 

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USEFUL LINKS:

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

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FROM THE DIOCESE:

CATHOLIC FORUM/RELEVANT RADIO:  Saturdays at 1:30 pm on Relevant Radio 640. On tomorrow’s episode, December 18, 2021, tune-in to hear Bishop William Koenig’s first Christmas message as Bishop of Wilmington and greetings from priests and deacons from across Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Listen anytime at cdow.org/CatholicForum or search Catholic Forum on Apple, Spotify or iHeartRadio podcasts.

THE DIALOG: Don’t miss the Christmas edition of The Dialog that will be available at the door this weekend. The first Dialog edition in the new year will be Jan. 14. The newspaper will not have a print edition on Friday, Dec. 31.

LET US PRAY: AN ADVENT WREATH BLESSING