Nevaeh Alyssa Bravo, 10
Jacklyn Cazares, 9
Makenna Lee Elrod, 10
Jose Manuel Flores Jr.
Eliahna Garcia, 10
Uziyah Garcia, 10
Amerie Jo Garza, 10
Xavier Lopez, 10
Jayce Carmelo Luevanos, 10
Tess Meta, 10
Miranda Mathis, 11
Alithia Ramirez, 10
Annabelle Rodriguez, 10
Maite Rodriguez, 10
Alexandria “Lexi” Rubio, 10
Layla Salazar, 11
Jailah Nicole Silguero, 10
Eliahana Cruz Torres, 10
Rojelio Torres, 10
Jacklyn Cazares, 9
Makenna Lee Elrod, 10
Jose Manuel Flores Jr.
Eliahna Garcia, 10
Uziyah Garcia, 10
Amerie Jo Garza, 10
Xavier Lopez, 10
Jayce Carmelo Luevanos, 10
Tess Meta, 10
Miranda Mathis, 11
Alithia Ramirez, 10
Annabelle Rodriguez, 10
Maite Rodriguez, 10
Alexandria “Lexi” Rubio, 10
Layla Salazar, 11
Jailah Nicole Silguero, 10
Eliahana Cruz Torres, 10
Rojelio Torres, 10
Eva Mireles, teacher
Irma Garcia, teacher
Irma Garcia, teacher
Jesus, in John 17:20-26 is quoted as praying at the Last Supper for us: "Father, You loved them even as you loved me." Jesus teaches God the Father loves us - as God the Father loves Jesus! Certainly, Jesus cries with the parents, siblings and classmates over the massacre of the students and teachers in Uvalde Texas.
What are we doing?
People stop on a Saturday afternoon to pick up groceries should not have be afraid of being killed. People celebrating at parties should not have to worry about being killed. Black people should not have to worry about being killed. And, children growing in their use of fractions in fourth grade should not have to worry about being killed.
We can do better.
Florentine artist Antonio Tempesta captures the first reading this weekend, Acts 7:55-60: St. Stephen being stoned to death while Saul (on the right above) watches the stoning as well as keep an eye the attackers' cloaks to his left. Eventually, Saul leaves behind his bystander role. Converted, Saul as St Paul takes a stand with Christ and with Christians under attack. St Paul will give his life for Christ.
May St. Paul inspire us to be more than passive bystanders in face of gun violence in fourth grade classrooms, at parties and at supermarkets.
How would we able to help?
Seventh Sunday of Easter Mass
The Willinet Cable Mass is available through this link below:
Lectio Divina - Monday @ 9.30
How do you deal rejection?
Monday June 11 @ 9.30 am - 10.45 am on Zoom
Mark 6:7-13 Jesus sends his disciples on mission, Jesus gives them quite specific instructions about handling acceptance and rejection, success and failure. ‘If you are welcomed, stay. If you are not, shake the dust off your feet and move on.’ It’s simple enough advice – obvious, one might say – yet not always followed. When rejected, what helps to shake off the sting? We will explore discerning others' response to our efforts to further Jesus' mission - and where Jesus wants us to focus.
For the zoom link, reach out to saintspatrickandraphael@gmail.com
Looking for High Quality Catholic Videos?
Check out Word on Fire Engage
Access these films through Flocknote, a weekly message sent by text or email to Parishioners who have shared mobile or email contact.
If a family member or a friend is not receiving a weekly Flocknote, sign up in at least two ways:
1.) Go to https://williamstown.flocknote.com/
On the sign up form for Sts. Patrick and Raphael Parish Williamstown, enter your contact info.
2.) Send a text message to 84576.
Include in the text the one word:
WILLIAMSTOWN
WILLIAMSTOWN
An automatic response coming to your phone will offer a link to sign up to Flocknote Parish Network.
The annual cost for Parish wide access is only $1970 of which $400 have already been contributed. If you appreciate the Catholic films and are able to do so, consider helping the Parish defer the cost. Thank you. And, enjoy the films.
Fr Casey College Scholarship
Information on the Scholarship for the 2021-2022 academic year is available through the Parish office: saintspatrickandraphael@gmail.com
What was your experience of the pandemic like?
The Parish will be assembling narratives of dealing with Covid-19. A collection of them will be placed in a time capsule. Jeff Welch will assist in selecting a number of these memories (some difficult and others beautiful) to assemble into a booklet to be made available to parishioners. May we grow to appreciate even better each other's experience.
@ the Clark - a new exhibit:
Nikolai Astrup - Visions of Norway
Astrup began his career following a conventional path, studying painting in Kristiania (now Oslo) and Paris. On finishing his studies abroad, he made the unexpected decision not to settle in Kristiania, the artistic capital of Norway, but to return to Jølster, the region in western Norway where he spent his childhood.
He lived in this relatively remote area for the rest of his life, producing an unparalleled body of work that celebrates Norway’s dramatic scenery, challenging climate, and rich local traditions. Despite his relative geographic isolation, he was acutely aware of, and interested in, contemporary developments in European art that nurtured his own style.
He also explored woodblock printing, adopting an increasingly complex process that resulted in almost every print being a unique impression. With intense colors, patterned surfaces, and illogical perspectives, Astrup’s art is decidedly individual and modern, and invites discovery and enjoyment.
In a number of paintings, the Norwegian artist captures contemplative moments including By the Open Door. (c 1911) Clark Institute.
Thanks
I appreciate Fr. Alex's coverage as I recovered from some vascular leg surgery this past weekend, as well as the assistance of Fr. Bill Cyr for coverage of weekday Masses. God bless them.
Weekday Masses to be held in the Parish Center June 21-28
While installation of larger fans in the Parish Center, weekday Masses will needed to be held in the Parish Center hall. Masses starting June 21 through June 28 will need to be held in the hall so as work can be proceeded unimpeded. Thank you for your understanding.
Mass -11th Sunday of Ordinary Time
Fr. Bill Cyr, Celebrant
Deacon Greg, Preacher
In the Spanish Renaissance sculpture by Diego de Pesquera who worked in Granada and Seville, completed "The Holy Family with Joachim and Ann" in 1568.
The painted wood shows two couples, with the men standing behind their seated wives - Mary and Joseph on then left and Mary's parents, Anne and Joachim on the left. Their glances and gestures focus us on the child Jesus sprawled across Mary's lap. Fingers touch and eyes glance with the ease and intimacy of a family gathering. In contrast to the adults stable stances, the Christ Child wriggles.Off balance, he causes the adults to react: they lean in and support him with their legs and hands. (Detail of the work on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art below.)
Yet, we need both: to go out to those in need and to return for renewal and recreation. We need to live compassionate action as well as take time for renewal. I am grateful that Fr. Bill Cyr will be assisting with daily Masses and weekend Masses the next two weeks, as I step apart for a break. I am looking forward to the rest. May you too find a restful and renewing break this summer.
Blessings,
Fr. John
The painted wood shows two couples, with the men standing behind their seated wives - Mary and Joseph on then left and Mary's parents, Anne and Joachim on the left. Their glances and gestures focus us on the child Jesus sprawled across Mary's lap. Fingers touch and eyes glance with the ease and intimacy of a family gathering. In contrast to the adults stable stances, the Christ Child wriggles.Off balance, he causes the adults to react: they lean in and support him with their legs and hands. (Detail of the work on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art below.)
Yet, we need both: to go out to those in need and to return for renewal and recreation. We need to live compassionate action as well as take time for renewal. I am grateful that Fr. Bill Cyr will be assisting with daily Masses and weekend Masses the next two weeks, as I step apart for a break. I am looking forward to the rest. May you too find a restful and renewing break this summer.
Blessings,
Fr. John
Say NO to Physician Assisted Suicide
The Massachusetts State Legislature is considering passing into law two deeply troubling bills this session which would legalize Physician Assisted Suicide.
The bills, House 2381 and Senate 1384, are identical in text and titled “An Act relative to end of life options”. “The Catholic Bishops of Massachusetts stand united in our strong opposition to Physician Assisted Suicide. It is an affront to life and a dangerous precedent for determining end of life issues. Physicians are trained to care for the ill, not to hasten death.”
Here are some facts to consider before you take action:
1) The bills would allow a physician to provide a deadly drug mixture to an individual diagnosed with less than 6 months to live that, when consumed, would cause death.
NOTE- That diagnosis could be wrong. Countless individuals have outlived that 6 month diagnosis and enjoyed many more precious months and years with family and friends.
2) No Real Safeguards - A vulnerable individual who is physically disabled, depressed, or fears being a “burden” may be subject to undue influence by others to take the drug mixture, especially if there is a financial benefit as an incentive.
3) The primary focus of elected officials should be dedicated to legislation providing quality health care, mental health care and palliative care to the sick and dying – particularly in the underserved, poor and minority communities that suffer the most at the time of need.
How can your voice be heard? Call or email your legislators, let them know you are a Massachusetts voter, and say NO Physician Assisted Suicide! Click the links below to find:
First Mass at the Parish Sunday, May 29 at 10.30 am Mass
Celebrate with Fr. Nolan, O.P., his family and the Parish this Sunday, May 29. Following the Mass, take time to ask Fr. Philip for his priestly blessing.
A reception will follow in the Hall of the Parish Center following the Mass. Let us enjoy celebrating Fr. Philip's generous response to the Lord. Below, the Blessed Sacrament Chapel at Thompson Chapel - a special place, in addition to, Sts. Patrick and Raphael Parish which helped him to hear God's call. Thank him for stepping up and responding so generously.
Fr Philip, shortly before ordination last Saturday, wrote a short reflection about the poet's appreciation of God as "the hound of heaven": In every priestly vocation there are moments when the divine baying rings in man's ear's and he hears those running paws right behind him. Fr. Philip writes.
In this day and age, it is not hard to see all the reasons that could make the priesthood seem a waste of time: clerical lukewarmness and hypocrisy, shrinking numbers of churchgoers, secularization, parish mergers, scandal . . . the list goes on. But the relentless pursuit of the living God is far more convincing than any depressing statistic.
As all of us, priest or lay, have sensed God as "the hound of heaven" prompting us to act in one way or another. And, as Father Philip writes, we ourselves become the hound for God, too. Check out Fr. Philip's well written reflection in the link below:
"Go and teach all nations," says the Lord. Do you feel a calling to be a teacher of the Word as a priest or a consecrated religious?
Call Fr. Jonathan Reardon 413-248-7034, or write: vocations@diospringfield.org
Lectio Divina
Resumes following the Memorial Day Weekend on
Monday June 6 @ 9.30 am - 10.45 am
Pentecost Sunday
Acts 2:1-11
1 Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13
John 20:19-23
1 Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13
John 20:19-23
Despite the locked doors, Jesus comes and stands with his disciples greeting them "Peace be with you." This peace sends them on a mission to bring forgiveness to others. To whom can we bring Jesus' peace?
Zoom Link:
Parish Council
Next Meeting Monday, June 20 @ 6 pm
Hall, Parish Center
Check out Word on Fires available through the video link below
July 3 2022 @ 10.30 am - 125 Anniversary of Sts. Patrick and Raphael Parish Church
St Raphael Church on Cole Avenue, and the Missions of Holy Family and Incarnation as well as two previous St Patrick's Churches (both on the same site on Massachusetts Avenue next to the College's "President's House" are part of the tapestry of Sts Patrick and Raphael Parish. Today, I want to focus on the current Sts. Patrick and Raphael Church, which is actually "the third Parish Church" under the title of St. Patrick.
Previous Churches
Both earlier churches were located at Mass Ave and Park Street. The first, originally housed Williamstown HIgh School Academy. The later brick Church, the Parish built at the same site. Next time, I will write about those earlier Churches, but I turn to the 3rd Church today.
Groundbreaking
When the second Church had been sold to Williams College, Fr. O'Sullivan immediately broke ground for a new Church on July 4, 1896. Six days later, the Bishop Beaven transferred him to Deerfield (!) and Fr. John Fallon assumed responsibility for the construction of the 3rd Church on Southworth Street.
Placing the Cornerstone
The Saturday edition of the Springfield Republican newspaper reported September 19, 1896 that the cornerstone of the current Church would be put in place the following day at 2.30 pm. A morning Mass was held in "the old" and smaller church on Main Street. Bishop Beaven from Springfield was to preside for laying of the cornerstone and Rev. J. P. Leahy, SJ President of Holy Cross College to deliver the sermon. Items placed in the corner stone included coins then in circulation and current newspapers.
Constructed and open for Masses
H.J. Bishop& Company began excavating for the Church July 11, 1896, marble from Adams Quarry was used for parts of the exterior, the roof was put ob OCtober 30, 1896. The contractors finished the Church quickly and on February 7, 1897, Fr. Charles Burke from North Adams celebrated the First Mass in the new Church. The Transcript on February 8, 1897. The concelebrated Mass included Fr. Burke, Fr George Flynn from North Adams as well and Fr J.J. Fallon, the Pastor. Choirs from both North Adams and Troy assisted with the music.
The Transcript raved about the new Church, the following day calling it "a handsome and commodious structure and one of which the Parish may reasonably feel proud.
The interior is handsomely finished in natural wood, the pews and kneeling benches being of oak."
Seating
"The pews will seat 444 people and the gallery has a seating capacity of 125." (Were they that thin?)
Gas lighting
"The church is lighted by gas and the fixtures are wired for electric lights, but electric lights have not been put in. The chandeliers, instead of being suspended from the ceiling, are supported by brass rods from the floor, a style that is now common in large cities."
Not consecrated until July 1, 1897
Local travel during winter time could be very challenging before snow plows and accurate weather forecasting. Long distance travel before snow plows and a Massachusetts Turnpike offered even more challenges. Bishop Thomas Beaven of Springfield consecrated the Church in the height of the summer: Thursday, July 1 1897.
125th Anniversary Celebration July 3 2022 @ 10.30 am Mass
Plan on celebrating the 125th Anniversary of the Parish's current Church on Sunday, July 3, 2022 at 10.30 am with the liturgy celebrated by Bishop William Byrne, Bishop of Springfield. So many baptisms, weddings, funerals, confirmations and even this weekend a First Mass have blessed the sacred space. A lot of people and more than a number of priests made that possible. We have much to thank God. A summer time reception is in the works. Why not step up and assist, meeting people again in the summer?
Your contribution matters
Thank you parishioners who have contributed $ 18,470 to date to the Annual Catholic Appeal. Your assistance to the ministry of the Catholic Church in Western Massachusetts is appreciated. Your contribution matters.
Why not give directly to one of the charities?
We certainly encourage individuals to support charitable endeavors which reflect our Catholic values. The ACA offers a unique opportunity in which your donation helps more than 40 ministries and agencies, reaching out to our neighbors in every stage of life, many facing critical challenges. In addition we have an Allocation Board, made up of Church and community leaders who advise us on awarding funds and selecting new recipient agencies. Donors do have the option of specifying a particular agency for their gift to be targeted toward.
Catholic Communication Campaign this Weekend Please prayerfully consider supporting the collection this year. Half of the collected funds stay right here in the Diocese of Springfield and the other half support the collective communication work of the bishops as well as other national projects in the United States and around the world.
Not only does Catholic Communication help spread the faith, but it also helps form young disciples and gives them the practical skills they need to navigate today’s digital media environment. Consider giving at Mass or through your parish online giving platform. This weekend, please support the collection and build community.
July 3 2022, Sunday @ 10.30 - Celebrating the 125th Anniversary of the Parish Church
Due to winter conditions, before road plows and the opening of the Massachusetts Turnpike, delayed the consecration of Church for months. The BIshop and the Parish chose a summer holiday weekend to consecrate the Church 125 years ago as a sacred space. How many baptisms, weddings, funerals, masses have been celebrated over the decades...how many people contributed their time, talent and support fostering faith in the love of Jesus Christ. So many blessings to thank God.
Consider being part of the festivities including a reception following Mass celebrated by Bishop Byrne.
The next day, in an effort to present our Parish in town at the Fourth of July Parade (starting on Southworth Street), participation is welcome to be part of the day: to help carry banners, distribute prayer cards inviting people to share their intention for our faith community to take up in prayer. A musical competent would be fun, too.
Look for more details.
Steubenville East Conference (hosted by Life Teen) Springfield MA
July 29-31, 2022 - Over 500 teens already registered!
Springfield MA
Check out the video introducing this exciting event for New York and New England Catholic Teens.
Scholarships available
Registration and more info available:
If you are, or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800.273.8255 or Text "help" to Crisis Help Text Line at 741-741
A note on ultraviolet light in the ceiling fans
The near silent ceiling mounted Haiku-UV-C fans, manufactured by Big Ass Fans of Kentucky, use disinfecting ultraviolet (UV) lights built into the base and aimed up at the ceiling. As the fan circulates air throughout the room, the UV lights kill airborne pathogens that cross their path. As the UV light can be dangerous to eyes if viewed directly, fans direct light to the ceiling. The manufacturer released results of a study from Innovative Bioanalysis, a California lab that tested the fan against the coronavirus this April. The testing report ,written by Kevin Noble, COO of Innovative Bioanalysis, states, “It can be concluded that between 10 and 20 minutes there was an overall [pathogen] reduction of 99.99 per cent or greater.” Thank you to everyone for your good spirits and continual cooperation.
MASSES
SATURDAY @ 4.30 PM
SUNDAY @ 8.30 AM & 10.30 AM
MONDAY @ 8.30 am
TUESDAY @ 8:30 am
WEDNESDAY @ 8.30 am Communion Service
WEDNESDAY @ 8.30 am Communion Service
THURSDAY @ 8.30 am
CONFESSIONS
SATURDAY @ 3-4 pm on the porch of the Parish Rectory, 54 Southworth St
In your kindness, please remember in your prayer
Colleen Jeanne Stiers Little, whose service was held locally Saturday, May 28 at Thompson Chapel, Williams College @ 11 am. A service will also be held in New Jersey Saturday, June 4 at St Barnabas Catholic Church, Bayville @ 11 am. May Colleen who suffered from breast cancer, rest in peace. And may her husband, David, her son, Willie, and her granddaughter, Tesla and her large extended family know support at the time of their loss.
Congratulations Fr. Philip
"It was not I who chose you; it was I who chose you." - John 15:16