Mary, Mother of God

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I continue to wish you and your loved ones the miracle of hope, the joy of sharing, the comfort of friendship, and the blessing of peace!

Today, the Church rings in the New Year by celebrating our most ancient feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary, honoring her with one of her most beautiful titles, Holy Mother of God. On this day so filled with the hope of new beginnings and good resolutions, Mary also stands before us as Queen of Peace, the woman of contemplative prayer who reflects in her heart on God’s ever-renewed presence in the world. She is likewise First among the Disciples, the woman of gospel action, who responds to God’s word with obedient faith and selfless charity. As we begin this New Year, she points to her Son and says to us what she told the servants at Cana’s wedding feast, “Do whatever he tells you.”

During a previous tumultuous time (1968), as Vietnam War protests raged in the United States and student demonstrations flared in Europe, Pope Paul VI designated New Year's Day as the World Day of Prayer for Peace. Educating young people in justice and peace is the theme of Pope Benedict XVI’s 2012 message for the World Day of Prayer for Peace. The message affirms the role of young people in working for justice, peace, and common good, and urges public policymakers to create institutions, laws and environments that allow young people to flourish. Take a look at the message on the bulletin boards in the church.

Many thanks to all who remembered me at Christmas with cards, gifts and prayers. God bless you!

Our Responsorial Psalm this week, “God, bless us with your mercy,” reminds us to praise God for the many blessings we have been given.

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven ... GO STEELERS!

Christmas

Merry Christmas! “Let us rejoice in the Lord, for our Savior has been born! Today true peace comes down to us from heaven: for a child is born for us, a son is given to us; and he is called Wondrous God, Prince of Peace, Father of Future Ages; and his reign will be with out end. As this Christmas Day and season fills our hearts with the radiance of God’s incarnate Word, let us pray that the light of our faith in Jesus may also shine forth in our lives.” As we rejoice in the angels’ song of “peace on earth to people of good will,” let us resolve to be faithful “heralds of Christ’s Gospel of peace.”

A special "thank you" to all who helped decorate the church and the grounds for Christmas!

Monday, December 26 is the feast of the first martyr, St. Stephen. The root of the word martyr is “witness,” and there are many ways we are called to testify to the gospel: being a good parent, a loving partner, honest in business dealings, and compassionate. During this Christmas week pray for a spirit of courage for that witness not only in words but with our lives.

Tuesday, December 27 is the Feast of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist. May we imitate his memory by telling others about our wonderful encounters with Christ!

Friday, December 30 is the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. This feast usually falls on the Sunday between Christmas and New Year’s Day except when Christmas falls on Sunday as it does this year. For some of us, this late in the holiday season, the burden of family may just be starting to express itself. (Will this houseful of relatives ever leave?) Yet many also find themselves away from their homes or families for reasons not entirely under their control, ranging from military service, education, employment, illness, divorce, loss or estrangement. For them even a lightly used and tarnished family would be better than none at all. This Christmas share your heart and home by inviting someone in to enjoy the gift of belonging.

Following the 5:00 PM Mass on Saturday, December 31, we will gather outside to bless the local community as we begin the year 2012 and enjoy a light reception in the Hall.

Our Responsorial Psalm this week, “A Light will shine on us: the Lord is born!” will help us to celebrate the light the birth of Jesus had brought to our world!

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven ... Go Steelers!

Advent 4

On this final Sunday of Advent, the Church’s liturgy and scriptures bid us rejoice as “the clouds prepare to rain down the Just One, and as the earth prepares to be opened and bring forth a Savior.” As we await the arrival of God, not in a palace but in a stable, let us pray for a spirit of gratitude for all that God has done.

In gratitude, I thank the Knights of Columbus for hosting the Breakfast with Santa last Sunday, and to Santa for the wonderful gifts he gave to the children. It was so nice to see the overflow crowd after the 10:00 AM Mass! It is so nice to see the parish community come together for fellowship and a good breakfast!

Beginning last Friday, CatholicsComeHome.org began to air commercials inviting those away from the practice of their faith to return “home.” I encourage you to pray for those who have left the Church and invite them to join us this Christmas Season at Holy Cross!

The Collect (opening prayer) for today’s Mass is the same Collect that traditionally concludes the Angelus. In ages past, this ancient prayer summoned the faithful at dawn, noon and dusk to pause and remember the great mystery of Mary’s daringly obedient faith, by which the eternal God took on our human flesh in the mystery of the Incarnation. Since, as we say so often, the way we pray both expresses and reinforces how we believe, might it not be a salutary end-of-Advent resolution to restore – to at least one daily observance – this central of our faith, whose ramifications certainly have the potential to renew, on many levels, our Christian witness in the world? Make an effort to pray at dawn, noon and dusk!

The Nativity scene is moving! The language of the Church is very strong that the Nativity scene should not be placed in front of the altar. Therefore the Nativity scene will be placed in the area of the Shrine of St. Joseph. Here it will remain a place of devotion, prayer and wonder! Come and help to prepare the church for Christmas on Thursday, December 22 beginning at 10:00 AM. Lunch will be served at Noon.

Our Responsorial Psalm this weekend, “Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord,” challenges us to proclaim God’s good news to the world.

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven ... GO STEELERS!

Advent 3

Today is Gaudete Sunday, which means that on this third Sunday of Advent we rejoice! We have much to rejoice in here at Holy Cross as we journey through Advent to Christmas.

We rejoice in all who attended Advent Family Day last Sunday and the lighting of the Tree of Hope. There were over 120 people in attendance and it truly was a blessed Advent evening! We look forward to Lenten Family Day coming up in Lent 2012!

We rejoice in our girls basketball team which won the Girls Basketball CYO 2011 Championship tournament on Sunday afternoon. I was there and it felt like March Madness in December. Congratulations to the team and coaches!

We rejoice in Phil and Virginia Ball who readied the church and rectory grounds for winter this past week. Thanks!

We rejoice in the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe on Monday, December 12. May we share Mary’s concern for the poor and powerless and learn to include them in our lives.

We rejoice in the Feast of Saint Lucy on Tuesday, December 13. During the Middle ages people suffering from eye trouble began invoking Lucy’s aid because her name is derived from the Latin word for “light” (lux). May we share her courage to witness to Christ with our lives.

Thanks to all who have participated in the Tree of Hope Project. Remember you have until January 1, 2012 to participate.

God of power and mercy, who blessed the Americas at Tepeyac with the presence of the Virgin Mary of Guadalupe, through her intercession, help all peoples to accept one another as sisters and brothers, and through your justice present in our hearts may your peace come to reign in the world. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

Our Responsorial Psalm this week, ”My soul rejoices in my God” reminds us to rejoice in God’s blessings and saving power.

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven ... GO STEELERS!

Advent 2

This Sunday, December 4 is our Advent Family Day from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. All are invited to come and partake of the events for adults, teens and kids. At 5:45 PM, the Tree of Hope will be illuminated! Take time out and come to celebrate with your Holy Cross Family the joy of Advent!

This Wednesday, December 7 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, I will be participating in "Tips for Tots" at the New Stanton Eat N’ Park. All tips collected will be donated to the Free Care Fund of Children’s Hospital. I was a maître d' for 7 years before entering the seminary. Come and see if I still have the skills!

This Thursday, December 8 is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a Holy Day of Obligation. Mass will be celebrated at 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

The Virgin Mary is Patroness on the United States and all the Americas, and we see, in her generous cooperation with God’s saving plan, a challenge to give ourselves unconditionally and unreservedly in the loving service of God and our neighbor.

A special "thank you" to all who shared of their time last Saturday in preparing the church for Advent and replacing all of the hymnals in the pews as we began to celebrate the Liturgy using the new Roman Missal.

This Second Sunday in Advent features scriptures that comfort our hearts with the assurance of the Shepherd’s tender compassion and patient love for us, the cherished sheep of God’s flock.

Tuesday, December 6: St. Nicholas, pray for us!

Saturday, December 9: St. Juan Diego, pray for us!

Our Responsorial Psalm this weekend, "Lord, let us see your kindness, and grant us your salvation" reminds us that our gracious and just God wants to give us many blessings.

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven ... Go Steelers!

Advent 1

Our trip to the National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis was truly an amazing experience! Anytime 25,000+ come together for one purpose, it is impressive. When the purpose is to share in the Eucharistic Feast, it is even more amazing. It was a sight to behold! During these three days we learned that everyone has a special story and God calls each person to a purpose, you just have to be sure you answer when He’s knocking! I hope many more of our youth will join us in Indianapolis for NCYC 2013: “Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I’m Yours!” A big thank you to the Holy Cross Family for your prayers and support!

Happy Advent and Happy New Year, Catholic Church! The new liturgical year begins on this First Sunday of Advent with Jesus’ repeated call to watchfulness for his coming in glory and judgment at the end of time and at the end of our lives, but also for his daily coming among us in the people and events that touch our lives and bid us bear witness. Such watchfulness is also our best preparation for the Christmas remembrance of Jesus’ “first coming among us in the lowliness of human flesh to fulfill God’s loving design and open for us the way to eternal salvation.”

The Advent wreath is a primary symbol of Advent. It originated with the Lutherans of eastern Germany a few hundred years ago. The custom of the lighting of the wreath during the four weeks preceding Christmas took place only in the homes of believers. Gradually, especially in Roman Catholic parishes, this custom made its way into the church. May Christ light your path as you prepare for the celebration of Christmas!

This weekend we welcome the New Roman Missal. After 40 years, the Church is giving us a new translation that it hopes will be more beautiful, more prayerful and more attuned to the scriptural connections in our prayers. The new translation will help us pray as one in Christ through the Holy Spirit as we offer praise and thanks to the Father and intercede for the life of the world.

Our Responsorial Psalm this weekend, ”Lord, make us turn to you; let us see your face and we shall be saved,” reminds us of God’s saving promise, fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven ... Go Steelers!

Christ the King

We warmly welcome back Fr. Pleban to Holy Cross as I am attending the National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis. Today, the final Sunday of the liturgical year, the parable in the Gospel proclamation presents a scene from the Last Judgment. There, the Son of Man separates those before him based upon the good they have done during their lives. Notably absent among the qualifications for attaining the kingdom are wealth, power, or even prayer. As we celebrate Christ the King, let us pray to our heavenly father for the grace to serve God’s people and work to meet their needs. Then we too may be judged worthy to enter into God’s kingdom. The original motivation for this feast was to celebrate the dominion of Christ that transcends national boundaries and that makes war a sacrilege against Christ’s body. A powerful image! Today as at its inception, war and terrorism torment many areas of the world. Let us pray for these nations, and victims of war and terrorism.

This Thursday is Thanksgiving Day. We will gather to celebrate the Eucharist at 9:00 AM. Thanksgiving Day is a day in which we pause in our busy lives to offer this prayer of gratitude for all God’s gifts. Even in the midst of hard times and unrest around the world, it is good to remember the Source of all, to give thanks, and to pray for those who suffer from war, want or injustice. Happy Thanksgiving!

Next Sunday, the First Sunday of Advent, the Catholic Church will begin to implement the Third Roman Missal. Let us pray that this time is truly a time of spiritual renewal in the Church.

A very special "thank you" to Barry Premoshis, the Tree of Hope engineer and the following firemen who are members of Holy Cross for decorating the Tree of Hope this past Saturday: Bill Helman, Dave Barlock and Ken Reger. May God bless you for sharing your time with Holy Cross!

Our Responsorial Psalm this week, "The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want" reminds us that Jesus is always with us, guiding us, even when we feel lost.

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven ... Go Steelers!

Ordinary Time 33

As we approach the end of the liturgical year, we hear more and more about our need to be ready for the Lord’s coming. This weekend, Saint Paul tells us to stay alert and sober. Even more, Jesus tells us in the parable of the talents that we have been given gifts that we must use in service of the Master. May our prayer be for discernment of the gifts that God had given us, and of the best ways that we may use them to build up the reign of God.

Next weekend is the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ the King, the final Sunday of the liturgical year. Fr. Pleban will be here celebrating the Mass as I, along with 7 of our youth and 3 adults will be attending the National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis, IN. Please keep us in your prayers that we, along with all the travelers, will enjoy a safe trip and a faith-filled experience. The theme of NCYC this year is "Called to Glory." As we all celebrate the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ the King, may we all be reminded that we are all called to glory!

Next week we will have the Little Blue Books (adults) and Little Purple Books (children) available in church. These Little Books are to assist you on your Advent journey. If possible we are asking for a $1 donation to help defray the costs. Also, please refer to today’s bulletin regarding the Advent Family Day on December 4.

We all know that Advent is the busiest time of the year with preparations for Christmas. Try and make every effort to include this event into your schedule of preparations.

Our Responsorial Psalm this week, "Blessed are those who walk in the way of the Lord," reminds us that we will receive many blessings if we follow the way of our Lord.

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven ... Go Steelers!

Ordinary Time 32

A consistent theme of these weeks leading to Advent is akin to the motto of the U.S. Coast Guard: Semper paratus (Always ready.) For what? The military remains ready for terrorist attacks or disasters like a tornado or flood, but Jesus’ call to be ready always is neither a threat nor a prediction of catastrophe. It is his expectation that we be aware of the presence of the sacred as we move through even the most ordinary day. Mary Oliver suggests the same in her poem “The Summer Day”: “I don’t know exactly what a prayer is. I do know how to pay attention.” Being prepared for the coming of Christ means keeping eyes and ears, hearts and minds open. The sacred, the Christ, is all around you.

Friday, November 11 is not only 11/11/11, but more importantly it is Veterans Day. Here is a Prayer for Veterans: Dear Lord, today we honor our veterans, worthy men and women who gave their best when they were called upon to serve and protect our country. We pray that you will bless them, Lord, for their unselfish service in the continual struggle to preserve our freedoms, our safety, and our country’s heritage, for all of us. Bless them abundantly for the hardships they faced, for the sacrifices they made, for their many different contributions to America’s victories over tyranny and oppression. We respect them, we thank them, we honor them, we are proud of them and we pray that you will watch over these special people and bless them with peace and happiness. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Tuesday is Election Day. Remember to vote!

Our Responsorial Psalm this week, "My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God," reminds us that only God can satisfy our deepest longings.

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven... Go Steelers!

Ordinary Time 31

Today’s readings describe a common trap in which believers often find themselves. We try to live according to the precepts and laws of the Church but, when we do so without regard for the poor and lowly of this world, we can find ourselves becoming smug and self-satisfied. The Lord Jesus warns his followers not to fall into this trap. Rather, he says, they must be humble themselves as they strive to live out the law of the Lord. This is the only path to exalted glory with the Lord. This message is the same for us today.

Tomorrow is Halloween. For the safety of the children who will be participating in the parade and then trick-or-treating, the Vigil Mass for All Saints Day will begin at 5:00 PM. All trick-or-treaters are invited to stop by the rectory’s front porch for a treat! I promise to wear my costume!

Tuesday is the Solemnity of All Saints, a holy day of obligation. This is a day that is dear to the hearts of the faithful, for it gives us a glimpse of God’s promise of eternal life for all who put their hope in the Lord. May we always strive to pattern our lives on the Beatitudes.

Wednesday is the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls). We gather in a special way that evening at 7:00 PM to remember those whom we have known and loved and all the souls who have gone before us. For some of us, the pain of grief is still fresh, but for all of us the memories give us strength to carry on in our faith as we pray for those who have died. Let us always proclaim our hope in the resurrection and in the promise of Christ for all whose lives have touched us.

Today is Priesthood Sunday. A prayer for priests: Jesus, our high priest, you were human in all things except sin, so you understand the human frailties, fears and weariness of our priests. Reassure and comfort them, illumine and challenge them. Give them hope and wisdom and grace so that they may lead all of us home to you, and send more young people into the priesthood to follow after you. Amen.

Our Responsorial Psalm this week, "In you, Lord, I have found my peace," reminds us that in God’s presence we may always find rest and relief from our distress.

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven ... GO STEELERS!

Ordinary Time 30

A major hotel chain was doing extensive testing of its customers’ satisfaction with the hotel. Repeatedly, one particular hotel in the chain scored highest. Upon further investigation they discovered that the employees who dealt with the customers rarely consulted the extensive manual on customer service procedures. As one happy employee put it, “Our boss just told us to listen to the customers and treat them like we would want to be treated.” Manuals have their place and can come in handy. But the most important consideration, whether in customer service or living out our faith, is a question of the heart. If our hearts are in the right place – loving God and loving our neighbors – we’ll know just what to do.

We warmly welcome Fr. Pleban to Holy Cross this weekend as I am making my annual visit to Notre Dame.

The words we proclaim at Mass may be changing but our faith will remain constant. Million of Catholics will the celebrate the liturgy with deeper understanding and renewed vigor. Thousands of churches will echo with the sound of voices united in joyful songs of praise. Hundreds of families will gather with eager hearts, yearning to rediscover their faith. You are invited to a special presentation of the Third Roman Missal, which will be implemented on the First Sunday of Advent (November 27) on Saturday, November 5 at 9:00 AM in the church.

Saturday, October 22 is the first Memorial of Blessed Pope John Paul II. O God, who are rich in mercy and who willed that Blessed Pope John Paul II should preside as Pope over your Universal Church, grant, we pray, that instructed by his teaching, we may open our hearts to the saving grace of Christ the sole redeemer of the human race. Amen.

Our Responsorial Psalm this week, "I love you, Lord, my strength," reminds us to offer joyous praise, for our Lord will shelter and protect us.

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven... GO STEELERS!

Ordinary Time 29

Sometimes when we hear the words of today’s Gospel about repaying Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God we get caught up in the an accounting problem and lose sight of the fact that everything belongs to God. Let us remember that even when we think we have earned everything we have, it is still a gift – given to us by our loving God. How can we repay that?

All clergy from the Diocese of Greensburg will be attending our annual convocation this week, Monday through Wednesday, at Chestnut Ridge in Blairsville, PA. Please keep all of us in your prayers and we promise to pray for all of you!

Tuesday is the Feast of St. Luke the Evangelist. Luke’s gospel tells the story of Jesus sending out disciples ahead of him. The disciples are to take nothing with them, except peace. Their job: to prepare the way for Jesus. When most people go on a long trip, however, they usually pack a suitcase full of stuff. Luke’s story reminds us of the importance of our “spiritual suitcase.” That’s the piece of luggage that goes with us wherever you go. The contents – peace, respect, care for others – not only prepare us for what’s ahead in life, they also manifest the values of Jesus in a world greatly in need of them. What do you carry in your spiritual suitcase?

The words we proclaim at Mass may be changing, but our faith will remain constant. Million of Catholics will celebrate the liturgy with deeper understanding and renewed vigor. Thousands of churches will echo with the sound of voices united in joyful songs of praise. Hundreds of families will gather with eager hearts, yearning to rediscover their faith. You are invited to a special presentation of the Third Roman Missal, which will be implemented on the First Sunday of Advent (November 27, 2011), on Saturday, November 5 at 9:00 AM in the church.

Our Responsorial Psalm this week, "Give the Lord glory and honor," reminds us that we have been created to praise God on earth and in heaven.

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven... Go Steelers!

Ordinary Time 28

Jesus spoke to his disciples in parables. Parables compare something in a story to something outside a story. As a parable unfolds, the comparison becomes clear and listeners realize they are being challenged to change their behavior or outlook. The parable we hear this Sunday about a wedding feast is a masterpiece. It has two moments that challenge us. First, Jesus’ hearers realized he was pointing out how their rejection of him meant rejecting the Father and prophets as well. The lucky new invitees to the feast, however, don’t have it much easier, as they find out that merely showing up isn’t enough. What gets you a seat at the table is not who you are or aren’t, but whether you have faith and live it.

I invite all who worked the festival to stop by the Church Hall this Sunday between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM for a "thank you" for a Job Well Done Party! As you can see in this week’s bulletin, our profit was $3,653 over last year. And that would not have been possible without you! So, come and eat, drink, and cheer on the Steelers! May the tradition continue in 2012!

Sunday, October 9 is National Children’s Day. Let us pray for all the children of our parish:

Lord God, your Son, born of the Virgin Mary, gladly welcomed little children. He took them in his arms and blessed them, and held them up as an example for all. May you send your blessing down upon the children of our parish so that they may grow in Christian maturity and, by the power of the Holy Spirit become Christ’s witnesses in the world, spreading and defending the faith. Amen.

Our Responsorial Psalm this weekend, "I shall live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life," reminds us that we will always find kindness and guidance in God.

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven... Go Steelers!

Ordinary Time 27

Not many people would prefer conflict to harmony and unity, violence and war to friendly coexistence, anxiety to inner calm, and Sacred Scripture agrees. Jesus greets people with “peace be with you“ and bids them farewell with “go in peace.” Jesus also warned, “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. Faith can bring different priorities, decisions, and loyalties, some of which might be in conflict with the old; ultimate peace comes from turning to God.

Today is Respect Life Sunday. We are called to pray for greater concern and respect for all human life, especially that of the unborn, the elderly, persons with disabilities, the terminally ill and others whose lives are easily threatened.

We are very pleased to announce that beginning Sunday, October 9 at the 10:00 AM Mass, we will celebrate Children’s Liturgy of the Word (CLOW). Thanks to a few parents who came forward with the idea and the willingness to be leaders. Children from Pre-K to third grade will be dismissed after the Opening Prayer to the Sunday Morning Café area and hear the readings that are more appropriate to their understanding. The children will participate in discussion and activities on how the gospel relates to them today. It is very important for parents to realize that this time is not a baby-sitting service, but a time for your children to grow in their faith. If parents wish to accompany their child to see if CLOW is right for them, you are certainly welcome to do so. We are so blessed to have this opportunity to nurture God’s Word in our children. Let us all pray that this time is meaningful to all who attend.

Friday is the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. May we discover how praying the rosary nourishes our faith which flourishes again by meditation on the sacred mysteries, and raises minds to the truth revealed to us by God. We are pleased that one of our stained glass windows is that of Our Lady of the Rosary.

Our Responsorial Psalm this week, "The vineyard of the Lord is the house of Israel," reminds us that God will protect what God has created.

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven ... Go Steelers!

Ordinary Time 26

We warmly welcome Fr. Casimir to Holy Cross this weekend as part of our cooperation with the Diocese of Greensburg Mission Appeal Cooperative.

Last weekend the tradition of the Holy Cross Festival continued in grand style. The weather was perfect, the crowds were huge and a good time was had by all. I wish to say "thank you" to all who worked hard in preparing the festival and those who worked in the many different areas of the Festival. A special "thank you" to the festival committee for another year of great dedication and hard work coordinating all the events for the festival. With everyone’s hard work and effort and God leading us, the festival would not have been the great success that it was! May the tradition continue in 2012!

Tuesday is the Feast of St. Vincent de Paul, patron saint of charities. He is renowned for his compassion and generosity. Thank you for your contributions throughout the year in helping those in need in our local community.

Thursday is the Feast of the Archangels: Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. Michael is the protector of police officers. Gabriel, patron of postal workers and ambassadors, delivers divine messages to those who listen to God’s word and keep it. Raphael, guardian of the blind and of teenagers, is the companion we seek in the confusing times of our lives. Don’t leave home without your guardian angel.

Our Psalm response this week, "Your ways, O Lord, make known to me," encourages us to ask God to teach us and guide us to God’s truth.

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven... Go Steelers!

Ordinary Time 25

Our celebration at Mass this weekend reminds us of God’s lavish and generous love. As we celebrate our annual parish festival this weekend, a big "thank you" to all who are sharing their generosity through their time, talent and treasure!

The first words of today’s first reading are “Seek the Lord while he may be found, call on him while he is near.” In the proclamation of the sacred word we find the Lord, whose justice and compassion reach out to all. Today’s gospel reminds us that it is never too late to seek God’s mercy. As the sacred word is proclaimed, let us pray that God’s mercy will reach even the hardest hearts.

Next weekend we will welcome Fr. Casimir from the Holy Ghost Fathers who will be here as part of the Diocese of Greensburg Mission Appeal. Also next weekend we will kick off our Faith Formation year. All are asked to meet in the church at 9:00 AM for a special blessing to begin the new year.

This Wednesday is the Feast of St. Matthew the Apostle. Matthew left his customs work when Jesus called him. What might we need to leave behind to follow Jesus today?

Wednesday is also the International Day of Peace. How will you celebrate, share the spirit of peace?

Our Responsorial Psalm this week, "The Lord is near to all who call upon him," reminds us that our gracious Lord is only a prayer away.

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven ... Go Steelers!

Ordinary Time 24

We gather this weekend very much mindful that it has been ten years since that terrible day when the Twin Towers fell in New York, a plane crashed in western Pennsylvania, and yet another jet breached the walls of the Pentagon in Washington, DC. Recalling that devastation and loss of life, today’s lesson of forgiveness is challenging indeed. Let us pray for the courage and strength to meet the challenge. On this National Day of Mourning and Remembrance: We Remember, We Celebrate and We Believe. God Bless America!

This Wednesday is the Feast Day of Holy Cross Church, the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. “The cross has set free all who were slaves of sin. It has redeemed all humanity.” We celebrate our Feast Day each year with a festival: the Holy Cross Festival. Yes, next weekend is our festival. Your help is greatly needed with set-up this week, with working the festival on Saturday and Sunday as well as inviting your family and friends to stop over and enjoy the food and entertainment... and to watch the Steeler game in the Black and Gold Szone. Please pray for nice weather!

Today is Grandparents Day ... if it were not for our grandparents, where would some of us be? If it were not for their sacrifices, where would some of us have landed? And so, let's pray for all of our grandparents (Big Mama & Paw-Paw, Memaw & Pop Pop, Grams & Poppie, Nanna & Grandpa).

Our Responsorial Psalm this weekend, "The Lord is kind, merciful, and rich in compassion," reminds us to be thankful that God’s mercy and kindness are limitless.

Six rings are great but 7 would be heaven ... GO STEELERS!

Ordinary Time 23

Happy Labor Day weekend! They say it’s the end of summer, but it’s my favorite time of year: autumn and football! On this Labor Day weekend, we gather to praise and thank God even as we remember with gratitude all who work to make it possible for us to live the way that we do. In today’s scriptures we hear of the importance of using the appropriate processes to address grievances and determine responsibilities. As we celebrate this final summer holiday let us keep in mind these lessons in justice and pray to be able to apply them to the working world around us.

Printed materials have been placed on our vehicles (including mine) throughout the summer by Fr. Bernie Survil. Please note that these messages are not from me or a reflection of Holy Cross Church. Fr. Survil makes his way through the area on Sunday mornings and it is hard to stop him. So, I apologize for my brother priest for placing these printed materials on our vehicles.

This Thursday, September 8, is the Feast of the Nativity (Birth) of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Pope Benedict XVI said, “Mary’s birth constitutes a fundamental stage for the Family of Nazareth, cradle of our redemption, an event that touches all of us, because every gift that God has given her, the Mother, God has given thinking also of each one of us, her children.”

Faith Formation classes will begin on Sunday, September 25. Registration forms are available at the entrances to the church and online. Parents are reminded of their responsibility of making sure your child is trained in the practice of the faith. New to Faith Formation this year will be Sunday Morning Chat for youth in grades 7-12. More information to follow.

Our Responsorial Psalm this week, "If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts..." reminds us to open our hearts and pay attention to God’s presence in the world all around us.

Ordinary Time 22

Well, it's "Back To School" Weekend. Best wishes to all who are returning to school this week. These words from Psalm 25 may be your prayer for the school year: "Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me."

As we listen and reflect on our readings this weekend, I think we are being called to "Be a Fool for God." Prophets sometimes complain that their job description is too demanding. But one of the strangest of these laments is that of Jeremiah who claimed that God had tricked him into his vocation! “You duped me, O Lord, and I let myself be duped!” or as another translation says – perhaps even more poignantly - “You seduced me!” And when the prophet tries to ignore his calling, it burns inside him until it succeeds in bursting forth to do the work for which it was sent. While we may not rank with a biblical prophet, each of us does have a vocation to speak and act with compassion, justice and tolerance when anyone is deprived of these basic dignities.

Monday is the Feast of the Martyrdom of John the Baptist. It is a feast to remind us that we are to prepare the way for peace in our lives. The Palestinian city of Nablus is an important hub of urban life in the West Bank. If ancient tradition is to be believed, it is also the burial place of John the Baptist. Mention of his relics being honored there dates to the fourth century. Today the revered tomb is housed in the Nabi Yahya Mosque, or "John the Baptist Mosque." So it is that one of Christianity’s most revered prophets and saints occupies a special place of respect in the Islamic world. Perhaps John has not stopped proclaiming a prophetic message. If he has earned the respect of Muslims as well as Christians, surely we can follow his example today in these troubled times for interfaith relations. Be a voice for peace and toleration!

Faith formation classes will begin on Sunday, September 25. Registration forms are available at the church entrances and online. Parents are reminded of their responsibility of making sure your child is trained in the practice of the faith. New to Faith Formation this year will be Sunday Morning Chat for youth in grades 7-12. More information to follow!

Ordinary Time 21

Certain questions change lives, depending on our answer: “Do you take this person to be your husband/wife?” ... “Do you want this job?” ... “Can you forgive me?” The question Jesus asks today, “Who do you say that I am?”, is one that certainly changes lives. Our response is not simply an academic exercise, a matter of knowing the right answer we learned from a book. Our answer must lead to a commitment that is to be lived out each day of our lives. His question asks for a response of mind, heart and spirit. It may well be the most important question in our lives.

The Ministry of Care will meet on Monday, August 22 at 6:30 PM in the Church Hall. All current members of this ministry and anyone who has an interest in joining this ministry is invited to attend. The Ministry of Care is involved in a wide variety of issues: visiting homebound and nursing home residents, welcoming new members to our parish, All Souls Day Liturgy, Christmas Angel Tree Project, etc. If you have in interest in joining the Ministry of Care, please attend the meeting this coming Monday.

Back-to-school shopping is in full gear as classes will begin next week. So, we will extend a Back-To-School Blessing upon all who are returning to school next weekend.

Next weekend we will celebrate the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick following the 8:00 AM Mass.

This Tuesday is the memorial of Saint Rose of Lima. St. Rose Parish in Derry Township is my home parish. Born to Spanish immigrants in Lima, Peru, while still young Rose began a rigorous life of prayer and penance, subjecting her body to austerities as well as deprivation of food and sleep. She joined the Third Order of St. Dominic and lived in a hut in her parents garden, working to help support them and helping the poor and the sick in a makeshift infirmary. While ill for the last three years of her life, she was cared for in the house of a government official and his wife. She was the first canonized saint for the “New World” (1671). Like her, let us pray, “Lord, increase your love in my heart.”

Ordinary Time 20

As mentioned at Mass last weekend, Bishop Brandt named me Chaplain and Instructor of Religion at Greensburg Central Catholic Junior High and High School while remaining Pastor of Holy Cross Church. The assignment took effect this past Wednesday, August 10. Please pray for me as I balance being Pastor and Chaplain.

This coming Thursday, August 18, will mark my one-year anniversary as Pastor of Holy Cross Church. It has been an incredible year, that included reception of the Precious Blood during Holy Communion, the First Annual Fr. Straub Service Award celebration, New Year's Blessing over the local communities, the Tree of Hope, Lenten Family Day, Youth Group Activities, installation of the stained glass windows, and renovation of the interior of the church. There are many to thank, you know who you are. Thanks! There are many I befriended, you know who you are. I love you! And yes, there are some who think I have failed, you know who you are. Peace! May year 2 be filled with many prayerful experiences.

Monday, August 15 is the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the patroness of the Diocese of Greensburg. Because it falls on a Monday it is not a holy day of obligation, but we do pray as people of the Diocese of Greensburg to realize, as Mary did, the great blessings we receive from the Lord. May we see in Mary’s assumption into heaven a sign of our promised glory!

Jesus had a weak spot for the downtrodden, as we hear in this weekend's Gospel. He was always on the lookout to bring a word of hope and healing to persons who were struggling. We continue Jesus’ mission by opening our doors too and seeking out people who could use a helping hand. Consider ways that you can help extend a word of hope and healing to a stranger.

Things to look forward to:

• Back to School Blessing, weekend of August 27/28
• Youth ministry (grades 7-12) kickoff, TBA
• Parish Festival, September 17 & 18
• First Day of Religious Faith Formation for Children, Teens and Adults, September 25.

Ordinary Time 19

Three men are sinking in today’s readings: the discouraged Elijah is sinking into a cave on Mount Horeb, Paul is sinking into "great sorrow and constant anguish" as he grieves over his own people’s rejection of Jesus, and Peter is sinking into the sea as fear overtakes faith. In all three cases, God raises them up! We all have sinking moments when we are feeling "down": times of loss, fear, anxiety, discouragement, depression, (fill in the blank). By being one with Jesus, God will raise us up!

Here is a prayer you can use when you feel like you are sinking: Save me, God, for the waters have reached my neck. I have sunk into the mire of the deep where there is no foothold. Do not let the floodwaters overwhelm me, nor the deep swallow me, nor the mouth of the pit close over me. Answer me, Lord, in your generous love; in your great mercy turn to me. Amen.

Monday, August 15 is the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is not a Holy Day of Obligation this year. I invite you to bring flowers, preferably from your garden, and place them in the Shrine to Mary in the Church next weekend. Vases will be provided.

Monday, August 8 is the Memorial of Saint Dominic, founder of the Dominicans. May we follow his advice to "practice charity in common, remain humble, and stay poor willingly."

Tuesday, August 9, is the Memorial of St. Theresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein). Even before the rise of Nazism, Theresa Benedicta, a Jewish convert to Catholicism who was gassed at Auschwitz in 1942, saw the cross as central in her own life. She said, "I understand the cross as the destiny of God’s people ... I felt that those who understood the cross of Christ would take it upon themselves on everybody’s behalf." My friends, how willing are we to take up the cross on behalf of others? What would we risk for the sake of what is right and just?

If you are interested in becoming a Lector, Minister of Holy Communion, Cantor or would like to join the Choir, please see me or contact me.

Ordinary Time 18

Wow, the end of July is upon us. Where did that month go? As August begins so does back-to-school shopping, and before you know it the stores will be celebrating “creeping Christmas.” As we try to beat the heat during these summer days, think back to February 7 and 8 when we were shoveling snow and the temp was frigid. Enjoy the summer!

Thursday, August 4 is the memorial of St. John Mary Vianney, Patron Saint of Parish Priests. Please take a moment to pray for all priests in the Diocese of Greensburg, especially those who have faithfully served Holy Cross over the years: Fr. John Szczesny (1998-2010), Fr. Al Pleban (1973-1982), Fr. Tom Lukac (1985-1992), Fr. Damian Warnock, OSB (1988-2002), as well as the deceased pastors of Holy Cross. Also take a moment and say a prayer for an increase in vocations to the priesthood.

We need to build the Liturgical Ministry team. So if you have an interest in becoming a lector, Minister of Holy Communion, cantor, or music minister (instrumentalist or vocalist), please see me!

Hampered by the security of food they have at hand, the disciples of Jesus are unable to feed the hungry crowd. Jesus takes and blesses the loaves and fish, the disciples themselves do feed the crowd and “all ate and were satisfied.” This miracle is essentially a sign of God’s kingdom. In that kingdom there is never scarcity or lack of power to respond to others but always the superabundance of God’s nourishing and satisfying presence among and within us. There were twelve baskets left over – an image of the abundance God gives us and the fullness of life we are offered.

Ordinary Time 17

Many, many, many thanks for making my 44th birthday happy! A special thank you for all the well wishes, the gifts, and for the ice cream social that included 3 birthday cakes, including one decorated in M&M’s! God bless you all for your kindness and generosity!

In today’s first reading the Lord asks Solomon, “Ask something of me and I will give it to you.” Rather than asking for riches and long life, Solomon humbly asks for an understanding heart. This becomes a real treasure for him. In the Gospel, the kingdom of God is compared to a great treasure buried in a field and a pearl of great price. Let us be attentive to the treasures God shares with us daily in our lives.

Monday is the Feast of St. James the Apostle. He is known as James the Greater to distinguish him from the other apostle of the same name. Patron saint of Spain and of pilgrims, he is venerated at Santiago de Compostela, a famous medieval pilgrimage destination in Spain. May we imitate his eagerness to follow Jesus and change our lives in order to make this happen.

Tuesday is the Feast of Saints Anne and Joachim, parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary. May we imitate their example as loving parents and do all we can so that children might flourish as Mary did.

Friday is the Feast of Saint Martha. She is a model of hospitality as well as of fidelity in her discipleship. She is the patroness of housewives and of waiters and waitresses. May we imitate her care for others needs and trust in Jesus’ power to give new life.

Continue to have a blessed summer! Let's Go Bucs!

Ordinary Time 16

“God reigns” is the message of the scriptures this weekend. God’s word assures us that the rule of God is a reality, though it might not seem that way. The gospel speaks of the patience and power of God. Jesus says God’s active presence in the world is something as small as a mustard seed and as fragile as a pinch of yeast, yet each contains a power that, when released, will bring about growth and expansion. We are called to reflect God’s patient kindness in life.

As we near the completion of the interior renovation of the church I would like to thank you for your patience during this capital campaign and DLA project. I am well pleased with the outcome and I hope that you are, too!

It is hard to believe, but our festival is only two months away. This year’s entertainment will include the local country music band Saddle Up, playing on Sunday from 3-7. Also the Knights of Columbus will be hosting the Black 'N Gold Zone in the Church Hall, which will include Big Screen TVs to (hopefully) watch the Steeler game. There will also be Adult Table Games. It may be too early to get excited but start to spread the news to family and friends about the Holy Cross Church Festival on September 17 and 18!

Our weekly collections have increased steadily throughout the year compared to last year. Thank you for your generosity and keep up the good work! God bless you!

Finally, Faith Formation on all levels will begin in September, and we are in need of a kindergarten and 4th grade instructor as well as classroom aides. Please pray and see if this is where God may calling you to ministry. If interested, please contact me in person or e-mail.

Continue to have a blessed summer!

Ordinary Time 15

I hope you all enjoyed a wonderful Independence Day holiday weekend! As the summer moves along, I look forward to attending the Pirate game on July 19. The response was great and we sold all the tickets! I also am looking forward to traveling with the youth to Sandcastle Water Park for some "fun in the sun" on July 25. The trip is free for all altar servers and chaperones and $20 for youth and guests. I also look forward to the Youngwood Fireman’s carnival this week. Let us show our support to this courageous group by supporting the carnival!

Beginning this weekend in the bulletin we will list the names of those on the parish prayer list. We will include their names in the bulletin once a month. If you have a name to place on the list please call Helen Brown (724-925-9226) or Mary Lou Allemeier (724-925-2427). This ministry is part of the Holy Cross Ministry of Care. Soon we will introduce some new ideas for this ministry and we hope you will answer the call to serve in this very important ministry in our parish.

Monday is the memorial of St. Benedict. He emphasized moderation, humility, obedience, prayer and manual labor as the way to holiness. Let us pray for the Benedictines from St. Vincent Archabbey in nearby Latrobe who have faithfully served Holy Cross and the former St. Gilbert in Hunker for many years.

Thursday is the memorial of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha. She had a strong devotion to the Eucharist and a deep concern for others. She died in 1680, and was the first native American to be beatified (blessed). She is called the “Lily of the Mohawks” and is patroness of ecology and the environment. May we follow her example of courageous dedication to faith.

Saturday is the Memorial of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for us!

Ordinary Time 14

Happy birthday, America! July 4th, Independence Day is not a liturgical occasion, but it is a good time to reflect on all the blessings we have in this country. It is a time to consider what we might do for those who are less fortunate. The inscription at the base of the Statue of Liberty proclaims, “Give me your tired, your poor.” The call to care for refugees and those who suffer poverty and injustice is not a political agenda but a gospel imperative. July 4th is much more than a day for fireworks; it’s a day to remember that “to those to whom much has been given, much will be expected.”

A Blessing for the Fourth of July

While the red flame of sunset warms each of you and snow white clouds point to heaven’s door, may you be wrapped in Mary’s mantle blue that your land be free forever more. May God grant you long years of life and liberty to serve each other’s need. May happiness chase all foolish strife. May you seek his peace in each word and deed. Amen.

A special word of gratitude to all who attended the Holy Cross Family Picnic last Sunday. And a special word of thanks to all who volunteered! A good time was had by all!

In the Gospel this weekend uses the words, “Learn from me.” Each week the sacred word of God is shared in this holy place as a means of instruction. Each week in the bulletin is a section called "The Inner Word," questions and reflections for your personal use based on the readings. I hope you take time out each week to reflect on the Word of God and its impact on your life.

The interior church renovation is coming along. Thank you for your patience! I’m sure you will be pleased with the finished product!

Enjoy a safe Independence Day weekend!

Most Holy Body & Blood of Christ

This weekend, we celebrate the Solemnity of The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. When the people of Israel cried out to God in hunger, God fed them, first with manna in the desert, a holy food that foreshadowed the holy food that the Lord Jesus left as an everlasting gift – his body and blood. Saint Paul reminds us that when we eat and drink of Christ’s body and blood, we become his body. Jesus reminds his followers that he is the living bread that came down from heaven. Let our hunger for Christ be satisfied as he is made present through the proclamation of the sacred word.

This coming week we celebrate three wonderful feast days:

1. Wednesday, June 29, Solemnity of Apostles Peter and Paul: An odd couple but a good team. Peter was one of the first called and Paul the last. Paul was educated and Peter was illiterate. What linked them together was their passion to tell the world the good news about Jesus. Oh, both of these pillars were flawed by bad choices, stubbornness disloyalty, hotheadedness. They were made saints my God’s grace, just as you and I will be if we commit ourselves entirely to Jesus and his mission.

2. Friday, July 1, Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus: This Feast has two primary aspects -- thanksgiving to God for the infinite love of Christ, represented by his heart on fire with love; and reparation for that love rejected by human beings, represented by the pierced heart, surrounded with thorns.

3. Saturday, July 2, Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary: Help me, dearest Mother, to acquire the virtues that God wants of me: to forget myself always, to work solely for him, without fear of sacrifice. I shall rely on your help to be what Jesus wants me to be. I am his; I am yours, my good Mother! Give me each day your holy and maternal blessing until my last evening on earth, when your Immaculate Heart will present me to the heart of Jesus in heaven, there to love and bless you and your divine Son for all eternity.

If you will be traveling this week in celebration of the Fourth of July, may all your journeys be safe!

Most Holy Trinity

Today we celebrate the feast of the Most Holy Trinity, or should I say the mystery of the Most Holy Trinity. The Gospel today contains the verse John 3:16 -- "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life." At sporting events, usually football games, we see fans holding up signs that say "John 3:16." Let's pray we have football to watch in the fall!

This Feast is a good time to thank God for the power of the saving word proclaimed in our midst when we gather for worship. Through the word we know that God created us in goodness. Through the word we know that God has redeemed us and saved us from our sins. Through the word we know that the Holy Spirit sanctifies and strengthens us. Let us open our hearts to the power and presence of God in the holy word.

Today is also Father’s Day. Happy Father’s Day to all Dads. Fathers come in all shapes and sizes; some are strict, others lenient; some are very present in the lives of their children, others absent; some have left inspiring legacies for their children; others have left scars; some mean well, others do well. Children and fathers expect a lot from each other. Fathers: do your best to make yourself known to your children; above all be kind and merciful to your sons and daughters. Children: Do your best to embrace the life given to you; above all be understanding and forgiving of your father’s shortcomings.

Summer officially begins Tuesday! Let us pray that we may use well our summer respite for rest and recreation and recollection. May the Lord protect us all from summer dangers and help us to see in the heat of summer a hint of the passion of your love.

Pentecost

We warmly welcome back Fr. Pleban as I am celebrating a wedding in Pittsburgh and then departing for retreat. Fr. Jonathan Wisneski will be celebrating the daily Mass in the church hall during the week.

In the upper room that first Easter day, Jesus appeared to the disciples and said, “Peace be with you.” As we gather here on this Pentecost Sunday, Jesus again speaks peace to us through the Holy Spirit. As we bring the glorious Easter Season to a close and return to Ordinary Time, may our prayer be that we will be agents of peace to all whom we meet, and so continue the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on all the world. Our fifty days are fulfilled, our season of joy is complete. Filled with the Holy Spirit may we continue to love and serve the Lord faithfully here at Holy Cross!

This past week we began improvements to the interior of the Church. The improvements include cleaning of the interior brick, plaster repair, cleaning and Urethane coating of the wood ceiling, painting, and new carpet. Because the replacement of windows for the school building was cancelled in favor of installing new blinds, we have a balance remaining from the Today’s Challenge-Tomorrow’s Hope Campaign. That, along with

the 2011 DLA, will cover the cost of these projects. Thank you for your patience during the next weeks.

Monday, June 13, is the Memorial of St. Anthony of Padua. His reputation drew enormous crowds and the power of his words converted many people. Exhausted and ill, he died at age 36, so beloved that he was canonized within the year. He is best known for his help in finding lost objects. May we learn from him that “Actions speak louder than words, let your works teach and your actions speak.”

Tuesday, June 14, is Flag Day. Fly the USA flag with honor and say a prayer for peace!

Easter 7

Happy 7th Sunday of Easter!

This past Thursday we celebrated the Ascension of the Lord, a day of great promise that the Lord will be with us always until the very end. On this 7th Sunday of Easter, we hear how the apostles gathered in Jerusalem and devoted themselves to prayer. As we draw near the end of our 50-day celebration of Easter, let us emulate the apostles and devote ourselves to prayer.

As we prepare to celebrate Pentecost next Sunday, one of the greatest days on the Church calendar, here is a prayer to the Holy Spirit:

Gracious God, your Holy Spirit enabled Jesus’ disciples to preach the Good News among all nations. Grant that the same Holy Spirit will continue to live among us and inspire us to share the Good News in our families and communities. We make this and all our prayers in the Holy Spirit and in Jesus’ name, who is Lord forever and ever. Amen.

I encourage you to pray it daily for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on all the world. I also encourage you to wear red to Mass next weekend. Red is the liturgical color of Pentecost. Let us show others that we are on fire with the Holy Spirit! Come, Holy Spirit, come!

The Diocesan Lenten Appeal comes to end this weekend. Thanks to all who participated in this year’s appeal. May God bless you for your generosity to the Diocese of Greensburg and Holy Cross Church.

Easter 6

We warmly welcome back Father Pleban to Holy Cross this weekend as I am in Bethlehem, PA celebrating a wedding.

Memorial Day is the unofficial start of the summer season, and so we offer this prayer for Summer: May our loving God watch over you and keep alive in your heart all that you have learned this year. Keep your mind on God. Remember to pray often and to celebrate your faith, at home with your family and at Mass with your faith family. Keep your faith in God. Let all the joys of summer remind you of God’s goodness. Never forget that God is always with you, no matter what. May the God of all creation, who comes to us in Jesus, and lives among us in the Holy Spirit, keep you safe, happy and holy this summer and always. Amen.

The Psalmist beckons us to come and see the great works of God. Last Saturday a nice group of parishioners worked together to make the grounds here at Holy Cross look great for summer. I personally would like to thank the following for a job well done: Margie Altshaffl, Richard Griffin, Tom and Lois Horan, Eleanor Hamrock, Stephanie Coletta, Josh Coletta, Beth Reger, Jim, James and Lauren Garris. And thanks to Phil and Virginia Ball for trimming the shrubs.

On Saturday, June 4 at 11:00 AM, we will celebrate a Mass of Anointing and administer the Sacrament of the Sick. The Sick of all ages and the elderly are invited to attend. Children and adults who are ill, facing surgery or experiencing weakness that comes with old age. The primary effect of the sacrament is spiritual healing by which the person receives the Holy Spirit's gift of peace and courage to deal with their difficulties. Come and rejoice in the healing which the Lord’s death and resurrection brings upon us all.

Have a safe Holiday weekend!

Easter 5

Happy 5th Sunday of Easter!

“Thomas said to him, ‘Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” (John 14:5)

You probably heard about doubting Thomas. The label refers to the skeptical nature of the apostle of the same name. But the “doubting” tagline is a bit unfair. A healthy skepticism is fully compatible with deep faith. In fact it can keep us from falling into the hands of all manner of spiritual charlatans, of which there is no shortage in any time and place. Questioning helps us distinguish the genuine article from the imitation, and because Jesus is the real thing we have nothing to fear from it. Cultivate a curious, inquiring mind on all things religious – your faith will be stronger for it.

On Saturday, June 4 at 11:00 AM, we will celebrate a Mass of Anointing and administer the Sacrament of the Sick. Those who are invited to attend are children and adults who are ill or facing surgery, and the elderly who are experiencing weakness that comes with old age. The primary effect of the sacrament is spiritual healing by which the person receives the Holy Spirit’s gift of peace and courage to deal with their difficulties. Come and rejoice in the healing which the Lord’s death and resurrection brings upon us all.

Easter 4

The Fourth Sunday of Easter is traditionally referred to as “Good Shepherd Sunday.” We are called to love the sound of his voice, and to allow him to guide and protect us as we respond to his invitation to continue his mission in the world.

Today is World Day of Prayer for Vocations, a day to recognize that we all have a call. No one denies the shortage of priests and religious, and we do indeed need to pray that more young people consider consecrated life. But perhaps we should also pray that our notions be broadened about what church is and how the living body of Christ may be ministered to and by whom. We cannot pray that “it all go back to the way it used to be” or even that it remains as it is, any more than we can pray that we will be forever young. Lay men and women have been trained in theology, scripture, and church administration, yet to some the door of practicing those gifts fully seems to be closing. When we pray that God “call” people to service, we must get out of the way of that call and keep the door open to whatever form it takes. “The promise is made to you and ... to all those ... whomever the Lord or God will call” (Acts 2: 39).

Saturday, May 21 is Armed Forces Day! This day grants us the opportunity to say thank you and to recognize the outstanding contribution the Armed Forces make to our country. Thank you!

Easter 3

Happy 3rd Sunday of Easter and Mother's Day! The Risen Lord is made present in this holy place in many ways; in the persons gathered here, the sacrament of the Eucharist, in the persons of those who minister to us, and in the living word of God proclaimed. We who have renewed our joy at the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ know what it means to have our hearts burning within us. Let us eagerly listen to God’s word, break bread and share it as he commanded us to do, and then, like the first disciples on the road to Emmaus, let us go out and share the Good News.

Mother’s Day was first observed soon after the turn of the 20th century in the Methodist Church as a memorial service for those who had lost their mothers. The observance spread to other churches, and in 1914 became a civic holiday. We pray on this Mother’s Day weekend that God blesses all Mothers with happiness, protect them from harm, and care for them. HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

Tuesday is the feast of Saint Damien Joseph De Veuster of Moloka’i. He ministered to the Leper Colony on the Hawaiian Island of Moloka’I where he himself was afflicted with leprosy. A Honolulu pastor publicly called Damien a “coarse, dirty man” whose leprosy should be attributed to his “carelessness,” Novelist Louis Stevenson rebutted him saying “You are one of those who have any eye for faults and failures; that you take a pleasure to find and publish them; and that having found them and publish them, you make haste to forget the virtues and the real success which had alone introduced them to your knowledge. It is a dangerous frame of mind.” Not all are called to Damien’s heroism, but every Christian must reject a narrow-mindedness that sees only the faults and failures of others.

Divine Mercy Sunday

THIS IS THE DAY THE LORD HAS MADE, LET US REJOICE AND BE GLAD! ALLELUIA!

Easter is a season for rejoicing in the new creation God has brought about in the Resurrection of Christ. But that does not mean that we pretend that there is no darkness in the world. Easter is not about leaving suffering behind, forgetting where we have been. Quite the reverse. The disciples can only recognize the risen Christ by his wounds. In Easter, the season of the new creation, we learn to find hope and joy not by forgetting the sufferings of our daily lives, but by recognizing that Christ is with us in those very sufferings. Death no longer has the last word. We are dying, Saint Paul said, “and behold we live” (2 Corinthians 6:9).

Today is Yom Hashoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day. Let us pray for God’s ancient people, our Jewish sisters and brothers, the first to hear the word of God, for greater understanding between Christian and Jew, for the removal of our blindness and bitterness of heart. That God will grant us grace to be faithful to his covenant and to grow in love of his name.

May 5 is National Day of Prayer. We Pray to Almighty God to remember America and its foundations on which it was built, remember the prayers of our mothers and fathers and do not forget us in our time of need.

As the Church celebrates today the Beatification of Pope John Paul II, we pray, "John Paul the Great, pray for us!"

Easter Sunday

Christ is risen, truly risen, and we are witnesses to God's glorious deeds throughout the world. As we celebrate Easter let us pray that we may carry this joy with us wherever we go, so that all the world may be transformed by God's saving grace. The Easter mystery is so preposterous, unbelievable, absurd. Who ever heard of someone rising form the dead? The Easter mystery is this: we want to see and believe, but since resurrection is so out of our human experience we simply can't understand. Belief came gradually to those first witnesses, and then only when they had a personal encounter with Jesus. We encounter Jesus the Risen Christ in the following ways: the Eucharist, when we eat and drink with him; when we witness by the goodness of our lives to Gospel values; in the sure joy that comes from reconciled relationships with each other that witness to our reconciled relationship with God; when we “clear out the old yeast" and “receive forgiveness of sins." All of this assures us that we are a new creation in this resurrection life – the source of our Easter joy.

THIS IS THE DAY THE LORD HAS MADE, LET US REJOICE AND BE GLAD!

I rejoice in those who PRAYED: Those who attended Stations of the Cross and Lenten Reflection on Fridays; attended the Lenten Book Study & meager meal on Tuesdays; attended the Diocesan Youth Celebration on April 10. Those who attended Daily Mass during Lent; who attended the Lenten Family Day; who attended the Lenten Luncheon and Services at the Churches in Youngwood; and those who celebrated the Sacrament of Reconciliation during the Season of Lent.

I rejoice in those who SHARED: Those who made a gift to the Diocesan Lenten Appeal; who donated paper products for the Youngwood Food Bank; who made a contribution through the Lenten Coin Folders (the money collected will be donated to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund who assisted our neighbors affected by the recent tornado.) Those who shared their time to help prepare the Church and the grounds for the Triduum and Easter; all ministers who participated in the Triduum and Easter Liturgies; all who worked behind the scenes in various ways to make Lent, Triduum and Easter a glorious celebration!

I rejoice in those who FASTED and ABSTAINED throughout the forty days of Lent.

Palm Sunday

Today we begin the holiest and most solemn week of the year. We are called to celebrate this week with reverence and awe. Our Lenten journey of conversion and reconciliation has led us to the gates of Jerusalem, where Jesus was greeted by the crowd and set in motion the sequence of events that ultimately led to his passion, death and resurrection. This week we stand before the Lord Jesus, who suffered and died to save us from our sins. We are overwhelmed by this great act of love that brings new life to all who call out to God in faith.

As we begin this Holy Week, we pledge our prayerful support and love for Alan Fox, Sara Lazar, Bill Helman and Tim Iverson as they prepare to celebrate the Sacraments of Initiation next Saturday during the Easter Vigil.

Lent 5

On this 5th Sunday of Lent we hear the amazing story of how our Lord raised Lazarus from the dead and instructed those around him to untie him and let him go free. Today’s great miracle is this: the Lord releases you from the bondage of sin and promises resurrection and new life to all who believe. Do you believe God can bring life out of death? Do you believe that Christ is the Resurrection and the life? As our Lenten journey continues let us pray that the Lord will strengthen us to grow in our faith.

Holy Week and Easter are fast approaching. We will celebrate the passion and resurrection of Jesus made real in the Eucharist. As St. Paul reminds us over and over, without faith in the resurrection of Christ faith makes no sense. The Christian writer C.S. Lewis said a similar thing: “The first fact in the history of Christendom is a number of people who say they have seen the resurrection.” Every Sunday and every Mass reminds us how the resurrection, and the stories of Jesus’ life we see through the lens of his resurrection, is the starting point of the Christian faith. So do you believe this?

At the beginning of the season of Lent you received a Lenten Coin Folder. All money collected from the Lenten Coin Folders will be forwarded to the Red Cross who has provided assistance to our neighbors who suffered loss during the recent local tornado disaster. Let us continue to pray for our neighbors that God will give them the strength they need during this period of recovery.

Next Sunday is Palm Sunday. Weather permitting we will begin the Palm Sunday Liturgy in front of the school building. If you are physically able, please gather in front of the school building at 10:00 AM for the blessing of Palms and Procession.

Lent 4

Happy Lent! On this Fourth Sunday of Lent we hear the familiar story of the healing of the man who had been born blind. We continue to pray as we journey through Lent to conquer the darkness of our lives and world and rejoice in God’s marvelous light!

The Light certainly shined here at Holy Cross last Sunday as we celebrated the First Holy Cross Lenten Family Day. The day was enjoyed by all 100+ parishioners who attended. The day was filled with Lenten Joy as the youth made beautiful Easter cards for the homebound and nursing home residents and cookies for the local Meals on Wheels. We all enjoyed a wonderful variety of chili for dinner. Thanks to the 16 families who provided the chili. A special "thank you" to all who participated and to all who made the day a wonderful experience.

We pray today that the Light of Christ may continue to lead our Catechumen, Alan and our Candidates, Sara, Tim and Bill as they continue their journey through Lent preparing for the celebration of the sacraments at the Easter Vigil. Alan, Sara, Bill and Tim, be assured of our prayers.

The light will certainly shine next Sunday at the Diocesan Youth Celebration with Jesse Manibusan. Youth in grades 8-12 can still register for the day’s events (or even part of the day) by Wednesday, April 6 by calling or e-mailing me.

Finally, it is good to see the light shining on the Pittsburgh Penguins as they enter the playoffs. Let us pray the light will finally shine on the Buccos (Pittsburgh Pirates) as they begin the season this Thursday.

Lent 3

Happy Lent! Not all journeys take place in the outer world; there are important inner journeys that we need to make. We witness one in the story of the Samaritan woman in today’s gospel. She thought she was only going out to get water. She ended up going on a journey of faith. Lent calls us to journey with this woman and recognize Jesus in his fullness: as one who thirsts for us, who also brings us the life-giving water of baptism, who is a prophet speaking for God, who is the promised Messiah, and most especially, who had come to save us.

This weekend’s second collection will benefit the people of Japan whose lives have been devastated by the Pacific Ocean Natural Disaster. All funds collected will be forwarded through Catholic Relief Services to Caritas Japan (the social service arm of the Church of Japan).

Lord God, Creator of the earth, sea, sky, be present to the people of Japan in their time of need. Receive those who have died into your loving embrace, and grant their families comfort and peace. May those who have lost homes and livelihood feel your love through the help of friends and strangers. Give them courage and hope as they rebuild their communities. We ask this through Christ our Lord.

HOLY CROSS FAMILY LENTEN DAY - THIS SUNDAY @ 3:00 PM!