ST. LUKE THE EVANGELIST

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   PARISH TITHING March 24, 2016

Rice Bowls $1,547.70

March 25, 2016 Holy Land $1,053.00

March 27, 2016 Offertory $7,972.04 Easter $4,177.00

April 3, 2016 Offertory $6,954.55 Property Mgmt $1,713.00

Thank you for your generosity to your parish. Your weekly contribution helps ensure that the parish remains a vibrant community. Please remember to submit your weekly gift even if you will be away. We depend upon your support! 

UPCOMING SECOND & SPECIAL COLLECTIONS

April 10, 2016 No Second Collection April 17, 2016 Fuel April 24, 2016 No Second Collection

ST. LUKE THE EVANGELIST SCHOOL OF RELIGION Religious Education Registration for the 2016-2017 Academic Year for Grades 1 to 10 will soon take place. If your child is currently enrolled, a registration form will be sent home in the next few weeks. If your child is new to the Program, please call Joyce in the Religious Education Office at 603-382-8324 for more information.

PARISH DIRECTORY

Fr. Albert Tremblay fr.albert@stluketheevangelist.net Cathy Smith csmith@stluketheevangelist.net Joyce Szczapa jszczapa@stluketheevangelist,net Jackie Tremblay jtremblay@stluketheevangelist.net Thomas Kondel tkondel@stluketheevangelist.net Val Barczak mvmbarczak@comcast.net Robin Thompson rthompson@stluketheevangelist.net Julie Lamere jlamere@stluketheevangelist.net Parish Council parishcouncil@stluketheevangelist.net

Parish Office 382-8324 Parish Prayer Line 382-8324 x 314 St. Vincent de Paul Society 382-8324 x 315 St. Luke’s Food Pantry 819-4949 Preschool 382-9783 Presentation of Mary Convent 382-2744

MUSIC FOR THE LITURGY

Sunday, April 10, 2015 Third Sunday of Easter

4:00 PM 7:30 AM 11:00 AM Gathering: Hail The Day That Sees Him Rise BB186

Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 118)

This day was made by the Lord. Let us rejoice, let us be glad. This day was made by the Lord. Let us rejoice in salvation.

Sprinkling Rite: God, you have moved upon the waters, you have sung in the rush of wind and flame; and in your love, you have called us sons and daughters, make us people of the water and your name

Preparation You Have Called Us BB 652

Mass Parts Storrington Mass

Communion: Our Blessing Cup BB 319 Unlessd A Grain Of Wheat BB 509

Recessional: Festival Canticle: Worthy Is Christ BB 568

9:00 AM Gathering: Table Of Plenty BB 310

Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 118)

This day was made by the Lord. Let us rejoice, let us be glad. This day was made by the Lord. Let us rejoice in salvation.

Sprinkling Rite: If we have died to ourselves in Jesus, then we shall arise to new life in Him, Alleluia, Alleluia!

Preparation We Walk By Faith BB 490

Mass Parts Mass of God’s Promise

Communion: You Are Mine BB 454

Recessional: Join In The Dance BB 571

CONFIRMATION

Confirmation will take place in our parish on Sunday, April 17 at the 11:00 AM Mass in Plaistow. Please pray for our youth as they prepare to receive the Holy Spirit in the Sacrament of Confirmation.

HOLY IS HIS NAME

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APARTMENT NEEDED “Hello Parishoners! My name is Michael Klein. I am a Catholic engineering student at Benedictine College in Atchison, KS. I come from a devout Catholic family in St. Louis, MO. I am looking for a small apartment to rent for 2 months from June 5, 2016 to August 5, 2016 while working at an internship in Seabrook, NH. Please email ja.klein@sbcglobal.net or call 314-774-9774. Thank you & God bless you!”

PARISH NEWS

 

FOOD PANTRY HOURS

Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon Thursday from 6:00 to 7:00 PM

Friday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon

For more information call the St. Luke Food Pantry at 603-819-4949.

WHILE AWAY THIS SPRING…

We appreciate all of you who remember to send in your Parish Offertory during the spring even when on vacation or visiting other parishes. Thank you for remembering that our expenses also continue through the spring months. We invite others to consider doing the same before or even after you return home.

ST. LUKE THE EVANGELIST FOOD PANTRY

Food or care items are always needed – donations can be dropped off at Church or are welcome at the Parish Office during regular business hours. Cash donations for food are always welcome – make checks payable to St. Luke the Evangelist Food Pantry. All donations to the Food Pantry go toward helping the needy of our communities.

AMAZON SMILE You can help Saint Luke the Evangelist Parish every time you shop Amazon! AmazonSmile.com is the same market platform as Amazon.com, but with the added benefit of allowing customers to donate 0.5% of the price of items purchased to a charitable organization. Visit www.AmazonSmile.com and register to start shopping – and donating today!

Be sure to choose St Luke the Evangelist Parish, Plaistow

The Sanctuary Candle in Holy Angels Church

will burn this week for the In Memory of

Joseph Henault by his daughters, Janet & Patricia

We welcome into our faith community

Noah Carter Dermody who recently received the

Sacrament of Baptism.

HOLY ANGELS CEMETERY OPEN The Holy Angels Cemetery is now Open. Holy Angels Cemetery is a ministry of the Parish of St. Luke the Evangelist and is located on East Road in Plaistow. Please call the Parish Office at 603-382-8324 or email cemetery@stluketheevangelist.net for more information.

FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION STATEMENT

If you would like an “end of year” financial statement of your contributions to the parish for 2015, please call the Parish Office at 603-382-8324. Financial Statements are issued on a request only basis. 

   Out of respect, please remember to silence or turn off your cell phones during

Mass. Thank you!

RIDE NEEDED A 67 year old woman from Haverhill, who has Down’s Syndrome, is looking for a ride to Holy Angels Church so she can attend Mass on the weekends. If you can help, please call Carole at 603-887-2430.

THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER

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WEEKLY CALENDAR

Sunday, April 10 9:45 AM Religious Ed – 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 Plaistow 11:00 AM Confirmation II at Mass Plaistow 12:00 PM Confirmation II Rehearsal &

Reception Plaistow

Monday, April 11 4:00 PM Religious Ed – 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Plaistow 6:30 PM Religious Ed – 6, 7, 8 Plaistow 7:00 PM RCIA Plaistow

Wednesday, April 13 9:30 AM Eucharistic Adoration Begins Plaistow 9:30 PM Eucharistic Adoration Ends Plaistow

Thursday, April 14 8:30 AM Eucharistic Adoration Begins Newton 9:00 AM Intercessory Prayer Group Plaistow 8:30 PM Eucharistic Adoration Ends Newton

Saturday, April 16 3:00 PM Sacrament of Reconciliation Plaistow

Sunday, April 17 9:45 AM NO Religious Ed Plaistow

MASS INTENTIONS

Saturday, April 9 ~ Vigil / Third Sunday of Easter Acts 5:27-32, 40b-41; Rv 5:11-14; Jn 21:1-19 4:00 PM M. Clara Hammond by Mark & Colleen Hammond Plaistow

Sunday, April 10 ~ Third Sunday of Easter Acts 5:27-32, 40b-41; Rv 5:11-14; Jn 21:1-19 7:30 AM Patricia Carroll by Jeannie Sullivan Newton 9:00 AM Kathleen Marino by the Stanley family Newton 11:00 AM Carol Flaherty (5th Anniversery) by Nancy & Ron Breen Plaistow

Monday, April 11 ~ Stanislaus, Bishop & Martyr Acts 6:8-15; Jn 6:22-29 8:00 AM People of the Parish Newton

Tuesday, April 12 ~ Easter Weekday Acts 7:51—8:1a; Jn 6:30-35 8:00 AM Thanksgiving for Blessing Received Plaistow

Wednesday, April 13 ~ Martin I, Pope & Martyr Acts 8:1b-8; Jn 6:35-40 6:30 PM People of the Parish Plaistow

Thursday, April 14 ~ Easter Weekday Acts 8:26-40; Jn 6:44-51 8:00 AM Intentions of Theresa Skoczylas by Greg Pietroczynski Newton

Friday, April 15 ~ Easter Weekday Acts 9:1-20; Jn 6:52-59 No Mass

Saturday, April 16 ~ Easter Weekday Acts 9:31-42; Jn 6:60-69 (Daytime) Acts 13:14, 43-52; Rv 7:9, 14b-17; Jn 10:27-30 (Vigil) 4:00 PM Robbie Alberino by Ed & Susan Martin and family Plaistow

Sunday, April 17 ~ Fourth Sunday of Easter Acts 13:14, 43-52; Rv 7:9, 14b-17; Jn 10:27-30 7:30 AM Patricia Carroll by Don & Francis Harper Newton 9:00 AM People of the Parish Newton 11:00 AM Confirmation Plaistow

Drop-a-Dollar in the St. Vincent de Paul boxon your way out of church.

Remember ~ 100% of your donation is used to help those who need a hand up, not a hand out.

If you’d like to join the St. Vincent de Paul Society and help us help the poor and needy, please come to our next meeting on Wednesday, April 20 at 7:00 PM. We meet downstairs in the Holy Angels Church Hall in Plaistow.

New members are always welcome!

If you seek assistance or need information about the St. Vincent de Paul Society, Please Call

603-382-8324 x315.

Hear, OH LORD, and answer me for I am poor and needy.

PLEASE HELP US

As you leave church, kindly take your Bulletin with you or return it to the basket at the entrance of the Church, return your music book and Mass card to their proper place, and pick up after yourself as you leave. Thank you for being attentive and respectful! Fr. Albert.

APRIL 10, 2016_ ____________________________

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FAITH FORMATION & PARISH INFORMATION

RCIA The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is the process by which people become members of the Roman Catholic Church. RCIA is intended to serve:

Those not Baptized who would like to learn more about the Catholic religion.

Those Baptized in another religion who think they might like to become Catholic.

Those Baptized Catholic but have not been raised in the Faith.

If you or someone you know is interested in inquiring about becoming a member of the Roman Catholic Church, please call Cathy Smith at 603-382-8324 or email her at csmith@stluketheevangelist.net.

ADORATION We are truly blessed to have times for perpetual Adoration of Our Lord in our Parish. This time of prayer and intercession is not only a source of great grace for the individual, but it is a great source of grace for us as a parish family, as well. We have many who have made the commitment to spend an hour each week with our Eucharistic Lord. If you can commit to one hour a week in Adoration of our Lord, please call Cathy Smith at 603-382-8324 or email her at csmith@stluketheevangelist.net.

ADULT CONFIRMATION Are you an adult who has been Baptized and received Eucharist, but has not celebrated the sacrament of Confirmation? The adult Confirmation process is an opportunity to complete the Sacraments of Initiation. If you would like to prepare for Confirmation, or if you have any questions, call Cathy Smith at 603-382-8324 or email her at csmith@stluketheevangelist.net.

PARENTS BAPTISM PREPARATION SESSION The monthly preparation session for infant Baptism will be held after the 11:00 AM Liturgy on Sunday, May 1 in the Parish Office living room. All parents planning to celebrate the Sacrament of Baptism are welcome.

Families wishing to celebrate Baptism in the Church must be registered (according to Church Canon Law) and practicing (attending Sunday Mass) for 3 full months before a Baptism can be scheduled. The use of the envelope system is always optional; however, it does guarantee a manner of accountability. For most families, the Pastor or staff can easily verify attendance during these three months.

Baptismal sponsors (godparents) are also regulated by Church Canon Law. Sponsors must be at least 16, fully initiated (having received Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation), and be practicing Catholics living Christian lives consistent with the Church’s teaching. Please see Fr. Albert with questions.  

The next Ultreya will be on Friday, April 29, 2016 at 7:00 PM in the Church Hall. The format of the Ultreya is designed to create an atmosphere of sharing with each other our life as a Christian and witnessing to each other how Christ is working through us in our families, neighborhood, and other environments. The Ultreya provide the ongoing conversion process that started in the three-day Cursillo weekend. If you have any questions about Ultreya or Cursillo, please call Cathy Smith at 603-382-8324 or email her at csmith@stluketheevangelist.net.

HE IS RISEN MAGNETS Celebrate Easter by displaying “He is Risen” magnets on

your car or any other appropriate surface. This is a tasteful way to express your love for the sacrifice

our Lord made for us.

Magnets cost $5.00 each and all proceeds support our Youth Ministry and their programs. To purchase one,

please see Robin Thompson or Jack Brotz

MARIAN MASS AND BREAKFAST The NH Diocesan Council of Catholic Women cordially invites all women of the Diocese to participate in the Marian Mass & breakfast on Saturday, May 7, 2016 at St. Joseph Cathedral in Manchester. The Rosary will be prayed at 7:30 AM and Mass will begin at 8:00 AM with Bishop Libasci presiding. A catered hot breakfast will follow. Space is limited for this event. Please register at marian2016.eventbrite.com.

PRAYER LINE St. Luke’s offers a prayer line as a resource for those seeking prayer assistance. You can submit your prayer request to Cathy Smith via email csmith@stluketheevangelist.net or call her at 603-382-8324, ext. 314.

THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER

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ANNUAL PRO-LIFE SEMINAR The public is invited for lunch and to hear Dr. Ryan Topping speak at St. Jospeh’s Cathedral Church Hall on Sunday, April 17, 2016 from 12:00 NOON – 4:00 PM. Contact Ron DiStasio for more information at 603-595-7837 or rddistasio@comcast.net.

STEUBENVILLE EAST YOUTH CONFERENCE

IT’S TIME TO REGISTER! The dynamic Steubenville East weekend is full of opportunities to strengthen teens’ relationship with God, bond as a group, and exalt our Savior. This year’s Steubenville Youth Conference will take place at UMASS Lowell on the weekend of July 15 – 17, 2016 and is available to youth entering grades 9 -12. To register, please contact Robin Thompson at 603-382-8324 or rthompson@stluketheevangelist.net.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO SPONSOR A TEEN?

On July 15-17, 2016 eighteen teens from St. Luke the Evangelist Parish will attend the Steubenville East Youth Conference at UMass Lowell College. The cost per person is $265.00 which covers all expenses associated with the weekend. Evangelistic in nature, this conference is both a great “introduction” to the Gospel message for first time participants, while offering deep and moving experiences of prayer and fellowship for those who return each year. As members of this community, you have generously supported the youth of our parish in many ways. If you would like to sponsor a teen to attend the event or make a donation to help defray the cost, please contact Robin Thompson at 603-382-8324.

Parish News ~Youth News ~ Around The Diocese

First Communion will take place in our parish on Sunday, April 24 at the 11:00 AM Mass in Plaistow, and on Sunday, May 1 at the 9:00 AM Mass in Newton and at the 11:00 AM Mass in Plaistow. Please pray for our First Communicants and their families as they prepare for this joyous celebration!

FINANCIAL FITNESS WORKSHOP

Catholic Charities will facilitate a 3-session financial fitness workshop on April 18, May 2, and May 16. The sessions will be held at the Catholic Charities Salem NH office on Stiles Road in the afternoons from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM and then again in the evenings from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. If you or someone you know is interested in reviewing their financial fitness, please call 603-893-1971 or email Judy Nelson jnelson@nh-cc.org for more information or to register.

ST. PATRICK’S PARISH PENNY SALE

The Women’s Guild from St. Patrick’s Parish in Pelham, NH is holding a Penny Sale on Saturday, April 16 from 9:00 AM – 6 PM and Sunday, April 17 from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Come visit the Blarney Stone Café for mouthwatering food throughout the weekend. The drawings for the Penny Sale will be held Sunday,April 17 at 3:30 PM. (You do not need to be present to win.)

APRIL IS CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH All children deserve great childhoods! To reach this goal, each and every child needs a loving and supporting environment. This year the Diocese of Manchester has partnered with “Prevent Child Abuse America” and the “New Hampshire Children’s Trust to support their “Pinwheels for Prevention Campaign. This campaign provides an opportunity for all of us to take action by learning more about child absure prevention, supporting child and family friendly policies and services, and volunteering at the local, state and national levels. To learn more about how you can take action this April visit www.catholicnh.org/prevention.

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS

The Church throughout the world will pray for vocations the weekend of April 16-17, Good Sherpard Sunday. This is an opportunity of all Catholics to make a special effort to ask the Lord for more vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life. Pray for the priests who have ministered to you

throughout your life, both living and dead. Remember your parish priest in your prayers

throughout the week. Encourage your children, grandchildren, or other young

people to consider a vocation as a priest or religious brother or sister.

Pray that more men and women in our diocese will respond to God’s call.

Robert E. Cooper Mr. & Mrs. T. Ruthven

Mr. & Mrs. R. Cooper, Sr.

William C. Riley, Jr. Kevin W. and Brian C. Riley Rose & Charles Haggerty

Thomas A. Lacey Thomas H. Donohoe

Melissa Riley The Anderson & McKinnon Families

Margaret & Leon Cote Regina & Jesse Cote

Robert & Eleanora Davidson Jennifer Gaines

Anna Clapp Robert & Esther Bonin Mickey & Louis Inzero

Glenn & Dorothy Stanley Betty Nappi

Mary Nappi Phyllis Cahill

Anna Gambardella Ted & Mary Sweeney

Joe, Nancy, & Paul Murach John J. Meli

Joel & Rose L’Heureux Thomas Boudreau

Aunty Barb, Aunty Diz Pepe Bob

Grandma & Grampa Laliberte Meme & Pepe Lozeau

Dick, Anita, and Jeanne Lozeau Earl Stark

Yvonne Stark Connie Troy

   

Easter Flower Offerings Were Made In

Loving Memory / Honor of:

Jose Andrade II Norman Comeau

Patricia Urick Rose & Joe Urick Dan Mulqueeney

Ida & Charlie Stern Jim Sebastian Tommy Frink

Deceased Members of the DeSantis Family

Elizabeth Fritsche Peter & Florence Jones Mary & Walter Wozny

Lillian & Ted Karavedas Mr. & Mrs. Peter & Julia Belida

Wally Bergeron Mildred Tremblay

Nicole Rau Mr. & Mrs. R.W. Richards

Mr. & Mrs. Frederick Souza Colin P. Henderson

Donald D. Dane Dorrie Meile

Debbie Hammer Harvey Lee Irene Lee

The Kirkpatrick Family Sister Elizabeth Anne Lee, o.s.f.

Barbara Greenwood Gail Rodrigues

Joseph & Theresa Bourque Louise R. LaFleur Lionel J. LaFleur Helen T. Sielicki

Charles F. Sielicki Jesus, Mary, Joseph Karl & Mary Brotz

John & Louise Szematowicz Joan Brotz Paul Brotz

Robert Senter Robin Trout

John & Lillian Senter, Sr. Wanda Domin

The Caporizzo Family Mary E. Guilmette Simone G. Matson

The Krajewski & Viles Families Harold Lloyd

Raymond Fournier

Deceased Members of the Bettencourt Family

John Rogers The Halko Family Frank J. Bukowski

Susanna G. Fairbrother Anna F. Heffler

Carl E. Fairbrother Family & Friends of the

Morse & Litwinovich Families Joseph Walsh

Virginia Walsh Kawano Brian J. Walsh Jay K. Walsh

Lillian Fair Colford Deceased Members of the

Zameirowski Family The Gagon Family

The Emerson Family Geraldine Miele

The Lanseigne Family The Charest Family Mrs. Mary Mullen

Mrs. Lena Lambert Mrs. Elaine Basque Lucienne Jacques

Mr. & Mrs. John Murphy Agnes Massei Patricia Dolan Beatrice Clark Mary Donahue

The Smith, Coco, Bengivenga, and Rapazzo Families

Norman Tremblay Philip & Danny Boyle

George Balzer Krystyna M. Smardz

John C. Kane Ralph Helms

Dan & Cecilia Duggan John Meuse

Richard Lozeau Elaine Wilson

Jannie Mestugrates Deceased Members of the

O’Hara Family Eileen Messina Johana Power

Norman B. Proulx Alfred Hamel

Marie Jeanne Hamel Ann & Joseph Manewicz

John & Faith McKay Thomas Gallagher

R.J. Desrocher Kathleen McCarthy

The Fred Santos Family Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Lajoie Deceased Members of the

Sheehan & Hofbauer Families John Marciano & Family The Muscianesi Family

Timothy Hercules Ben, Antonia, Stanely, Patrick, Irene,

Joe, & Lucy Zakiewicz Jo Chudzicki

Nancy Raymond Stan Plonowski Millie Gatinella Kevin A. Gallant

Mary A. Wentworth James A. Wentworth

Margaret Gallant Fred Gallant

Ralph & Eliza Ernst Bob & Emily Hoppler

Mr. & Mrs. Roland Chabot Our Special Angel Robert Tremblay Howard E. Foster

Margaret McDonald Anthony & Lena Calderone

Robert & Mary Foster Deceased Members of the

Ross & Santangelo Families William Scully

Deceased Members of the Sculloy & Belanger Families Albert & Anna Marcelonis Louis & Robert M. Caron

Donald Culbert, Jr. John Marcinkowski

Rene & Irene Bourgault Joan Marie Roy

John & Katie Cotter Nancy Cotter John H. Walsh

Dr. Albert & Delia Consentino Lewis & Rosa Feuer

Robert & Theresa Hughes

Mr. & Mrs. Leo Cronin, Sr. Leo Cronin, Jr. Alice Janvrin

Mr. & Mrs. Albert Gaucher Robert Valli, Sr. Everett Burke Mark Burke

Keith Willoughby Mr. & Mrs. Edmond LeBlanc

Bishop Anthony LeBlanc Mr. & Mrs. Costante Morigi

Hank Solerno The Ayers & Obert Families

Daniel J. Driscoll Margurite Driscoll

Emily Driscoll John Healey

John Holleran Deceased Members of the

Rona, Doherty, & O’Leary Families The Murphy Family The Lueders Family

The Martin & Lumnah Family Madeline McDermott

Fr. Roger Charbonneau Sean Foley

Debra Reault Gerry Cabral

My Loved Ones Robert Girard

Barbara Girard William Esposito Dorothy Zahar William Poist

Helen Araskiewicz Robert E. Cooper

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Ruthven Mr. & Mrs. C.R. Cooper, Sr.

Msgr. Eugene Murphy Sister Anne St. George

The Baker Family The Lipomi Family The Ricker Family The Alaimo Family

Sophie Bengton Stephan Antkowiak

Ella Tomaselli Peter Tomaselli

Friends and Relative of The Harper Family

Andrew J. Miara Edward N. Herbert Mary C. Hostinsky Joseph Fitzpatrick Ryan Fitzpatrick

Molly Perin The O’Shea Family

Grant and Teresa Moulaison Mateo Intervalo Laura Intervalo Julito Intervalo

Magdalena Intervalo John & Katherine Daley

Sumner & Florence Amero Wayne Amero Rita Ahearn

Herbert Ahearn Normand Lessard

Mark Travis Joan Simpson

Dr. Julie Guilbert Maher Mr. Ronald R. Guilbert Carl Vincent Guilbert

Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Brady Dorathy Tully Virgilla Ryan Johana Brady Lea M. Roberts Richard Sullivan Mary G. Stevens

The Hammond & O’Leary Families Al Perrone

Ernie Picken Vincent Wood Hope Wood

Henry Martin Marjorie Martin

Ron, Larry, & Paul Martin Joseph D. Gibbs

Margaret & Ed Butler Buddy Butler

Thank You To Those Who Made Donations

Toward Our Paschal Candles:

Grace Bukowski & Alice

Litwinovich In Memory of Rev. Wilfred Demers

Mark & Colleen Hammond

Genevieve Helms

Patricia Zakiewicz

Jeanne Sullivan

Anonymous Donor

Third Sunday of Easter

Today’s Readings: Acts 5:27–32, 40b–41; Psalm 30:2, 4, 5–6, 11–12, 13; Revelation 5:11–14; John 21:1–19. Where have you seen the Risen Christ? The disciples encountered him again in Galilee while they were fishing. This story seems to have two parts. First, Jesus calls the disciples “chil-dren” and invites them to recast their nets to catch some fish. It seems that Jesus is reminding them that, though they are “fishers of people,” they still have a lot to learn.

Isn’t this true for us too? Each year we cycle through the Scriptures as pilgrims on a journey to share at the feast of life. During this pilgrimage, we encounter Christ and are confronted with sin. This deepens our communion with the living God and opens our hearts to know the path of disci-

pleship. This, in turn, propels us to share the Good News.The second scene recalls Peter’s denial of Jesus. Three

times Peter denied Jesus, and here, three times Peter con-fesses his love for Christ. This powerful image teaches us that no matter how badly we turn from Jesus, we are still loved. What does your love of the Lord look like? Sharing the Good News of the Resurrection isn’t easy for any of us. Like the early disciples, we too will be faced with ridicule and persecution, and yet, we must bear witness to the truth. That’s one reason we gather at Eucharist. There, we are strengthened in our faith so that we can go forth and witness the Paschal Mystery. Draw a timeline that shows your jour-ney of faith and witness.

PresenceGood and gracious God,in Baptism you call us out of darkness into

the light of life.Open our eyes to see your Sonand fill us with zeal so that, like Peter,who jumped into the sea to greet Christ,we may delight in your friendship.May the abundant love you share with

each of us overflow,and lead us to care for all your children.Grant that our Eucharistic sharingunite us in one heart and mindso that we can faithfully and joyfullyproclaim the Good News of salvation to

the ends of the earth.And may your Holy Spiritlead us always to accept your invitation

to feast at your table.Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Sunday, April 10, 2016Pilgrims Bearing Witness

Reproducibles for Lent–Triduum–Easter 2016

This Week at HomeMonday, April 11, 2016St. StanislausWhat do Sts. Stephen and Stanislaus have in common with Jesus? Each condemned corruption by political and religious leaders. Stephen and Stanislaus followed Jesus’ example. When you encounter the living God, you must authentically proclaim God’s justice and mercy. We need to pray for those who “work for the food that perishes” and we need to be mindful of our actions so that we follow Jesus, the Bread of Life. Take time to read a bit more about Stephen and Stanislaus. Today’s Readings: Acts 6:8–15; Psalm 119:23–24, 26–27, 29–30; John 6:22–29.

Tuesday, April 12, 2016Source of LifeStephen did not waver in sharing the Good News, and such steadfastness led to his death. We learn in the Gospel that Jesus is the source of life. When we are obedient to his will, we will have life and never thirst. Too often, we find our-selves unsatisfied and seeking fulfillment when all we need to do is turn to the Lord. Who is the Stephen in your life? In the coming weeks, consider setting aside time to bake some bread, bless it at dinner, and discuss Jesus, our sustenance. Today’s Readings: Acts 7:51— 8:1a; Psalm 31:3cd–4, 6 and 7 and 8a, 17 and 21ab; John 6:30–35.

Wednesday, April 13, 2016PersecutionEven in the midst of persecution, Jesus’ disciples continue sharing the Gospel. Our world is filled with religious perse-cution from all directions. Much violence and war has been suffered because of the egos of individuals who hold differ-ing creeds. Today pray for all those who suffer because of their religious beliefs and practices; let each of us remain faithful to the proclamation of the Gospel, even when it’s dif-ficult. Today’s Readings: Acts 8:1b–8; Psalm 66:1–3a, 4–5, 6–7a; John 6:35–40.

Thursday, April 14, 2016CatechesisHow did you come to know Christ? Was it through a parent, friend, or teacher? Jesus, the Bread of Heaven, says whoever believes will have eternal life. Today’s story of Philip and the eunuch depicts how an encounter with the Risen Lord shapes belief. As Philip breaks open the Word, the eunuch is moved by the Spirit and requests to be baptized. We should follow Philip’s example and share the Good News so that others may be nourished by Jesus. As part of sharing Easter joy, perhaps you would like to write a thank-you note to your parish cat-echists. Today’s Readings: Acts:8:26–40; Psalm 66:8–9, 16–17, 20; John 6:44–51.

Friday, April 15, 2016EucharistWe have been reading through chapter 6 of John’s account of the Gospel for several days. We have learned Jesus is the one who gives us bread; he is the Bread of Revelation. John por-trays a Eucharistic Jesus. Every time we gather at Mass, we receive the Flesh and Blood of Christ in the sacrament. The Eucharist not only confirms our faith but challenges us to ongoing conversion. At the end of the liturgy, we are sent out to “tell the Good News.” How have you become Eucharist for the world? Today’s Readings: Acts 9:1–20; Psalm 117:1bc, 2; John 6:52–59.

Saturday, April 16, 2016Go OutIn the Gospel, Peter asks Jesus, “To whom can we go?” Not all the disciples believed that Jesus was God’s chosen one, but those who were convinced knew that Jesus brought life. After the Resurrection, we find Peter doing the Lord’s works and proclaiming God’s healing so that others may come to believe. He and the others went out sharing the Good News. What works does the Church do today to help others believe in Christ? Spend time praying for all those who do not believe in Christ. Today’s Readings: Acts 9:31–42; Psalm 116:12–13, 14–15, 16–17; John 6:60–69.

© 2016 Liturgy Training Publications. 1-800-933-1800. Written by Timothy A. Johnston. Illustrated by Steve Musgrave. Scripture quotations are from The New Revised Standard Version Bible: Catholic Edition, copyright © 1993 and 1989 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Permission to publish granted by the Archdiocese of Chicago on August 21, 2015.

Third Sunday of Easter April 10, 2016

Never Too Far GoneBy Janel Esker

We’ve all experienced awkward moments: You run into someone at the grocery

store whom you’ve been avoiding out of anger. A friend overhears a criticism that wasn’t intended for her ears. Your wife greets you dressed up for dinner, and you realize you’ve forgotten your anniversary…again. It can be difficult to smoothly navigate these moments—to minimize hurt feelings and reestablish intimacy.

So reflect on the more-than-awkward moment between Peter and Jesus in today’s Gospel reading. Peter did more than just forget a birthday or spread gossip; he denied ever knowing Jesus, and he did it when Jesus was at his most vulnerable. That kind of betrayal would permanently end most relationships. But Jesus comes back to Peter and asks three times whether Peter loves him—a threefold reversal of the three denials. Peter must be embarrassed, afraid and, at the end, even frustrated at being asked so many times. But Jesus persists and reestablishes their intimate friendship. In fact, he calls Peter to even greater leadership—such was the trust Jesus placed in his formerly cowardly friend.

In this episode Peter shows us that no one is too far gone to be redeemed by the Lord. Peter’s sin was great, but Jesus’ love was greater. Jesus doesn’t let awkwardness or discomfort get in the way of forgiveness and healing. Jesus calls even well-practiced sinners to greatness.

In the Easter season, we celebrate Jesus’ new risen life; at the same time, we’re challenged to rise to new life from our sin, betrayals, and failings. Jesus hasn’t given up on us, and he never will. †

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A Word From Pope FrancisWe say we must seek God, go to him and ask forgiveness, but when we go, he is waiting for us, he is there first

…To find someone waiting for you is truly a great grace. You go to him as a sinner, but he is waiting to forgive you.

…Moreover, when we seek him, we discover that he is waiting to welcome us, to offer us his love. And this fills your heart with such wonder that you can hardly believe it, and this is how your faith grows— through encounter with a Person, through encounter with the Lord.

— Address, May 18, 2013 (Pentecost Vigil)Sunday ReadingsActs 5:27-32, 40b-41 “We must obey God rather than men….We are witnesses of these things.”

Revelation 5:11–14“Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches, wisdom and strength, honor and glory and blessing.”

John 21:1–19“Simon Peter went over and dragged the net ashore full of one hundred fifty-three large fish.”

• What emotions and assumptions hold me back from new life?

• Where can I grow in trust, love, and mercy?

Because God is the chief architect of evangelization, in order to promote and implement the Gospel, we must be open to God’s power through prayer and sacramental life. For a parish, this means implementing programs that help to deepen the spirituality of the community. It means the whole Christian community must renew its inner life, and its members must energize each other by sharing their faith. It means submitting ourselves as willing instruments of God’s saving action in the world. Indeed, the advance of God’s kingdom is first of all God’s gift.

Many may find evangelization a bit scary, but effective evangelization is not difficult or risky. There is no need for academic degrees, religious training, or public-speaking experience. It involves no coercion, charm, or casting fear. True evangelization relies on God’s love and the truth and power of his word. It is both gentle and friendly. When we share our faith, Jesus is our model. He had

compassion on the unbeliever. He met people on their own level, and he spoke their language—in parables and stories they could understand. The way we can evangelize is solidly rooted in the way we live and relate to other people.

If our relationship with Jesus Christ is genuine, it will show. People will see us celebrating something wonderful with them, mourning with them in their grief, and comforting them in times of hardship. Being a friend, one who empathizes and supports, is the first step in helping people discover the secret to your happiness—an intimate union with Jesus Christ, your Lord and Savior.

Reflection Questions 1. How has God revealed himself and empowered you as a disciple?

2. Why should a layperson, evangelize?

3. How can you begin to share the Good News with those around you? †

Adapted from Catholic Update Guide to the New Evangelization, © 2012 Liguori Publications

WEEKDAY READINGS

April 11–16

April 10, 2016

© 2016 Liguori Publications, One Liguori Drive, Liguori, MO 63057. 1-800-325-9521. Liguori.org. Editor: Julia A. DiSalvo. Designer: John Krus. Scripture quotations in this publication are from the New American Bible, revised edition, © 2010, 1991, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Washington, DC. Pope Francis quotation is used with permission and copyright © 2016 Libreria Editrice Vaticana. For licensing information, call 1-800-488-0488. All rights reserved. Distribution rights granted only to license holders. BHW001

What IsEvangelization?

W hen we think of evangelization, images that may spring to mind

are pastors in pulpits, revival events, televangelists addressing packed stadiums, or going door to door passing out leaflets and seeking to gain converts by persuasive words. Yet it is a common error to restrict the meaning of evangelization to preaching or proselytizing.

Actually, many people are already evangelizing without knowing it: parents who teach their children Gospel values by embodying them in their daily lives; citizens who write their senators and representatives to urge better housing for the poor; coaches, mentors, and therapists who counsel troubled youth; nurses who treat and comfort fearful patients; volunteers who work with charitable agencies and organizations. All these people are engaged in evangelization.

To share our faith more effectively with today’s world, we first have to get a clearer and richer understanding of evangelization. The word comes from the Latin word evangelium (Greek, euangelion) meaning “good news” or “gospel.” To evangelize, therefore, means to do the Gospel—to live it, to carry it out, and to proclaim it. Challenging others by one’s example and lifestyle, upholding true values, opening people’s hearts to God’s saving power, building community, struggling against injustice, and working to transform society are all vital elements of evangelization.

Mon. St. Stanislaus: Acts 6:8–15 / John 6:22–29Tue. Easter Weekday: Acts 7:51—8:1a / John 6:30–35Wed. Easter Weekday: Acts 8:1b–8 / John 6:35–40

Thu. Easter Weekday: Acts 8:26–40 / John 6:44–51Fri. Easter Weekday: Acts 9:1–20 / John 6:52–59Sat. Easter Weekday:

Acts 9:31–42 / John 6:60–69

Risen Lord, you gave your life to save the world. Help me

to be a selfless servant of love and peace in the world. —From Hopeful Meditations for

Every Day of Easter Through Pentecost, Rev. Warren J. Savage

and Mary Ann McSweeny