August 11: Feast Day of St. Clare of Assisi
St. Clare, at the age of 15, refused to marry and decided to follow in the footsteps of her soon-to-be friend and spiritual advisor, St. Francis of Assisi. She escaped her home, took a plain, woolen habit, and was given the responsibility of Abbess at the age of 21. Her and her followers walked barefoot, slept on the ground, ate no meat, and observed almost complete silence. Francis always remained her great friend and inspiration. Clare was always obedient to his will and to the great ideal of gospel life which he was making real.
August 14: Feast Day of St. Maximilian Kolbe
This Polish Franciscan received a vision from the Blessed Virgin Mary at the age of 12 and remained devoted to her for the rest of his life. He founded the Militia Immaculata, a publishing company and newspaper promoting Mary, and two monasteries in Japan and India. During WWII he used his monasteries in Europe to hide more than 2,000 Jews. He was imprisoned and sent to Auschwitz where he was beaten for believing in Christ and, in the end, gave his life so that another prisoner could live.Assumption
Thursday, August 15 is the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
and a Holy Day of Obligation.
Mass will be celebrated at 12:00 N and 6:00 p.m.
Each week we recite in the Creed: “I believe…in the resurrection of the dead.” Our Christian hope is that just as Christ was raised from the dead, so too will those who believe in him. This general resurrection of the dead will happen at the end of time, when the Lord renders judgment upon the world. This is why the funeral rites of the Church so honor the body—because it is a sign of resurrection.
What we await at the end of time, the Virgin Mary has already experienced. The Solemnity of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin commemorates our belief that at the end of her life, the Mother of God was taken into heaven completely—body as well as soul. In this way, Mary’s Assumption follows closely upon the Resurrection of her Son. Thus, the Assumption fulfills God’s promise to raise us from the dead, after the example of Christ.
Deacons’ Ministry
You’ll notice that the deacons are now setting the altar, removing and replacing the chalice pall, making the announcements at Mass, and purifying the sacred vessels. The reason is that these tasks pertain to the deacon’s specific role at Mass.
According to the General Instruction of the Roman Missal, which contains the norms for the celebration of Mass, “After the Priest, the Deacon, in virtue of the sacred Ordination he has received, holds first place among those who minister in the celebration of the Eucharist. … At Mass the Deacon has his own part in proclaiming the Gospel, from time to time in preaching God’s Word, in announcing the intentions of the Universal Prayer, in ministering to the Priest, in preparing the altar and in serving the celebration of the Sacrifice, in distributing the Eucharist to the faithful, especially under the species of wine, and from time to time in giving instructions regarding the people’s gestures and posture” (no. 54; see also nos. 116, 171, 178–179, 181–182, 184).
The deacon’s role at Mass expresses his identity as a servant (the meaning of the term “deacon”). A deacon’s ministry (Greek: diakonia) is threefold: service in the liturgy (worship), service to the Word of God (preaching and teaching), and (3) the service of charity. —Fr. Tony Marques
You’ll notice that the deacons are now setting the altar, removing and replacing the chalice pall, making the announcements at Mass, and purifying the sacred vessels. The reason is that these tasks pertain to the deacon’s specific role at Mass.
According to the General Instruction of the Roman Missal, which contains the norms for the celebration of Mass, “After the Priest, the Deacon, in virtue of the sacred Ordination he has received, holds first place among those who minister in the celebration of the Eucharist. … At Mass the Deacon has his own part in proclaiming the Gospel, from time to time in preaching God’s Word, in announcing the intentions of the Universal Prayer, in ministering to the Priest, in preparing the altar and in serving the celebration of the Sacrifice, in distributing the Eucharist to the faithful, especially under the species of wine, and from time to time in giving instructions regarding the people’s gestures and posture” (no. 54; see also nos. 116, 171, 178–179, 181–182, 184).
The deacon’s role at Mass expresses his identity as a servant (the meaning of the term “deacon”). A deacon’s ministry (Greek: diakonia) is threefold: service in the liturgy (worship), service to the Word of God (preaching and teaching), and (3) the service of charity. —Fr. Tony Marques
Thank you Daniel Hudson!
After nearly 8 years of faithful service, Daniel Hudson will be moving on from the Cathedral. Although we are sad to see him go, we will be forever grateful for the immeasurable work he has done to maintain our Cathedral home over the years, always with the goal of glorifying God. Please remember him in your prayers and join us in wishing him well as he moves to a new position at the American Civil War Museum.
Sung Preface
The singing of the Preface to the Eucharistic Prayer, including its opening dialogue (“Lift up your hearts…”), is esteemed and recommended:“Great importance should… be attached to the use of singing in the celebration of the Mass… Every care should be taken that singing by the ministers and the people not be absent in celebrations that occur on Sundays and on Holy days of Obligation. …In the choosing of the parts actually to be sung, preference is to be given to those that are of greater importance and especially to those which are to be sung by the Priest or the Deacon or a reader, with the people replying, or by the Priest and people together” (General Instruction of the Roman Missal, no. 40).
The Preface, which varies from Sunday to Sunday and from feast to feast, is an expression of thanks to God and constitutes the introduction to the Eucharistic Prayer, “the center and high point of the entire celebration” (no. 78; see also no. 79).
Singing the texts of the Mass itself (for example, the Preface) is a deeper form of prayer. According to Vatican Council II, “Sacred music is to be considered the more holy in proportion as it is more closely connected with the liturgical action, whether it adds delight to prayer, fosters unity of minds, or confers greater solemnity upon the sacred rites” (Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, Sacrosanctum Concilium, no. 112).
The great St. Augustine of Hippo (354–430 AD) put it eloquently: “Singing is for the one who loves.”
Mega Yard Sale
August 24th | 8AM-2PM
The Mega Yard Sale is back for 2019 and the Knights of Columbus and the Cathedral need your help in making it a success once again. Please consider dropping off your gently used items in the Parish Hall from August 17th to 23rd. Contact Alex Nguyen at pnnguyen7@gmail.com or 804-366-6245 for more information or volunteer opportunities.
Letter to a Suffering Church
by Bishop Robert Barron
Please join us for discussions concerning the sexual abuse scandal that has gripped the Catholic Church. Many Catholics are understandably asking, “Why should I stay?” In the book “Letter to a Suffering Church” Bishop Robert Barron explains why this is not a time to leave, but to stay and fight. Reading the current crisis through the lens of Scripture and Church history, Bishop Barron shows we have faced such egregious scandals before; that the spiritual treasures of the Church were preserved by men and women who recommitted themselves to fighting evil; and that there is a clear path for us today.
For Catholics questioning their faith, searching desperately for encouragement and hope, this book will offer reasons to stay and fight for the Body of Christ.
For Catholics questioning their faith, searching desperately for encouragement and hope, this book will offer reasons to stay and fight for the Body of Christ.
Please come to these faith sharing sessions that will be held on the following dates from 7-8pm in the Parish Hall:
Session #1 August 22 - “The Devil’s Masterpiece”
Session #2 August 29 - “Light from Scripture”
Session #3 September 5 - “We Have Been Here Before”
Session #4 September 12 - “Why do I Remain Catholic?”
Session #5 September 26 - “The Way Forward”
Session #2 August 29 - “Light from Scripture”
Session #3 September 5 - “We Have Been Here Before”
Session #4 September 12 - “Why do I Remain Catholic?”
Session #5 September 26 - “The Way Forward”
Each person will receive a copy of the book “Letter to a Suffering Church”
Facilitators: Maria Thorsen
Josie Webster
Deacon Charles Williams
We welcome you.
Please contact Maria Thorsen with any questions: mthorsen@richmondcathedral.org
Women's Book Group
Please mark your calendar and come to the Women’s Book Group. Meet new people, enjoy conversation, nourish your soul, deepen your faith and have an enjoyable time. The book we will read is titled: “The Mystery of Faith: An Introduction to Catholicism” by Michael Himes. This book invites us to consider ten basic truths of Catholicism. Beginning with a discussion of the Trinity, Grace, the Incarnation and Salvation. Fr. Himes moves the reader into an exploration of Church as the continuing presence of Jesus Christ in the world.
Dates: September 16, 23, 30 October 7, 14
Time: 12:15 - 1:30pm
Place: Parish Hall
Lunch will be served and the Nursery is available
Catholic Youth Day @ Busch Gardens.
All families are welcome to come enjoy the day and attend Saturday Vigil Mass together right in the park! More details to follow, but for now please
Save the Date: October 5th.
Rector Installation
Bishop Barry C. Knestout will install Father Tony Marques as the rector of the cathedral at the 5:15 p.m. Mass on Saturday, August 17.
The Church’s Book of Blessings explains that, “When a new pastor is appointed for a parish it is appropriate that he be publicly installed by a liturgical rite” (no. 2012). This Rite of Installation includes the pastor’s pledge to seek his parishioners’ advice and his recitation of the Oath of Fidelity to the Church.
All are invited to a reception following the Mass of Installation in the Parish Hall
Wednesday Mass Change, Confessions,
and Adoration
Beginning on August 28, daily Mass on Wednesdays will move from 12:05 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., followed by confessions, beginning at approximately 7:30 p.m. (Mass on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays will continue to be celebrated at 12:05 p.m. Confessions will also continue to be heard on Saturdays at 4:00 p.m.)The reason for this change is to make daily Mass and the Sacrament of Penance more available to both VCU students and cathedral parishioners. I realize that this change in schedule may be inconvenient for some. For those who can only attend daily Mass at midday, there is a Mass nearby at St. Peter’s Church at 12:05 p.m. Thank you for understanding.
CCM Adoration, to which cathedral parishioners are invited, will now move to Tuesdays (7:00–8:00 p.m.) when classes are in session.
—Fr. Tony Marques
Please visit the Cathedral website to review the Adult Faith Formation programs for 2019-2020
www.richmondcathedral.org
Bible Study Program…...MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Galatians: Set Free to Live - When Paul began the church in Galatia he was weak and sick. Now everything is falling apart. Why? Paul is afraid the Galatians are trading in the true Gospel, based on faith in Jesus, for a false gospel.
Dates: September 16, 23, 30, October 7, 14, 21, 28 November 4
Time and Place: 7:00 pm / Parish Hall
Facilitators: Deacon Chris Malone and Deacon Charles Williams
To register please email Maria Thorsen - mthorsen@richmondcathedral.org
Register Today for the SpeakUp5K!
Saturday, September 7, 2019
When registering, join our group “Cathedral of the Sacred Heart”
The Dominion Payroll SpeakUp5k presented by Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU is a race designed by Cameron Gallagher to raise awareness of teenage depression and anxiety in a positive and active way. This race series serves as a primary vehicle to drive the SpeakUp message into the community. The race is held at Byrd Park. It is a FUN race meant for everyone, with plenty of on-course surprises. Join us as we “SpeakUp” for those who are battling depression and anxiety.
It’s Never Too Early to Register for PREK-HS Formation!
Download a registration form for PREK-HS formation, beginning in the fall, and get ahead on school paperwork! We now have one form for the whole family! All students will meet between the 9 and 11 am Masses
(10:05 to 10:55 am).
R.C.I.A. The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
RCIA is a process of conversion and spiritual formation for individuals who are interested in living the Christian life in the Catholic tradition. It is a time of prayer, study, reflection, faith sharing, ongoing discernment and participation in parish life.
Where do I begin?
Anyone who is interested in exploring the Catholic faith is welcome to come to one of the scheduled Inquiry Sessions, where individuals may ask questions and gather information.
Is the RCIA process like taking a course?
No. The RCIA process of faith formation, catechesis (teaching of the faith), and spiritual growth. While reading/resources will be suggested and recommended there are no requirements like one might have when taking a formal class.
What if I have to miss some Tuesday sessions because of family, work, school, or travel commitments?
No worries. We understand these conflicts. We will make sure that you receive missed handouts and that one of the facilitators can be available to you to answer questions and talk to you about the session you missed. Your sponsor will also be a resource for you.
To learn more about RCIA please contact Maria Thorsen or come to one of the scheduled Inquiry Sessions:
mthorsen@richmondcathedral.org
mthorsen@richmondcathedral.org
Last Summer RCIA Inquiry Session
August 20
at 6:30 pm
in the Parish Hall.
RCIA SPONSORS 2019-2020
Our Cathedral community supports the RCIA community each year with prayer and hospitality. RCIA members always express how thankful they are to our parish community. If you would like to join the RCIA ministry as a Sponsor please email Maria Thorsen: mthorsen@richmondcathedral.org
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Eucharistic Ministers to the Sick and Homebound
This is a wonderful ministry whereby you will meet some of the nicest and most grateful people imaginable. The time commitment is minimal but the reward is everlasting!
If you can commit to spending a few moments once a month, bringing the Eucharist to those who would otherwise not receive it, contact the Eucharistic Minister Coordinator.
If you can commit to spending a few moments once a month, bringing the Eucharist to those who would otherwise not receive it, contact the Eucharistic Minister Coordinator.
John Aune
jraune@outlook.com | (217) 649-5566
The Gift Shop needs your help!
Looking for a new way to help your parish family? Want to secure an EXCELLENT parking spot before Mass? We are looking for volunteers to staff the Gift Shop before and after the 9:00am and 5:15pm Sunday Masses. We can schedule one Sunday or more as your schedule allows. This would involve arriving 30 minutes before Mass and staying for 30 minutes after Mass. Volunteers ensure that this ministry can be available for our parishioners.Contact Jody Taylor at myzooty1@gmail.com
Updated Weekend Bulletin
Give with Vanco
You can give:
• online through QR code or visit
www.richmondcathedral.org/give/
• through Mobile App by downloading the
‘GivePlus Church’
• or by texting the amount you wish to give to 804-315-0903. You will have to enter your credit card or bank account number the first time you give. For more information please call the church office 804-212-3898
Parking Voucher
The parking vouchers for the VCU Decks have been updated. Please use this QR code to vacate the decks and avoid paying for parking.
Bulletin Update!
Please check out our weekly bulletin for more in-depth information regarding events at your Cathedral!
Bulletin Update
More events and information found here:
Wednesday, August 15, is the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and is a Holy Day of Obligation. Please join us for a Solemn Mass at 12:00 Noon with special music sung by the Cathedral Schola Cantorum or a sung Mass at 6:00p.
"When speaking of families, often the image of a treasure comes to my mind.
Today's rhythm of life, stress, pressure at work, and also the little attention paid by institutions, could put them in danger.
It's not enough to talk about their importance: it's necessary to promote concrete means and to develop their role in society with a good family policy.
Today's rhythm of life, stress, pressure at work, and also the little attention paid by institutions, could put them in danger.
It's not enough to talk about their importance: it's necessary to promote concrete means and to develop their role in society with a good family policy.
Together, let us ask Jesus that any far-reaching decisions of economists and politicians may protect the family as one of the treasures of humanity."
-Pope Francis
HOLY SMOKES!
PREK-Middle School Open House
Sunday, Sept. 9 | 10:00 - 11:00 am
Join us in our new church offices on the first floor to learn about our wonderful year of children’s formation and middle school youth group. You will get a chance to meet your child’s catechist or group leader. Coming from the church, go past the bathrooms through the hall and two sets of doors to reach the new office. Coming from the street, you can enter directly through the double doors at 823 S. Cathedral Place.
High School and Confirmation Open House
Sunday, September 9 |12:00-1:00pm
Join us in our new church offices on the first floor to learn about our high school youth group meetings and the chance for service hours. If you are in your sophmore year or older and would like information on the Sacrament of Confirmation, please attend this open house. Coming from the church, go past the bathrooms through the hall and two sets of doors to reach the new office. Coming from the street, you can enter directly through the double doors at 823 S. Cathedral Place.
Bible Timeline: A Story of Salvation History
*Now Mondays* 7:00p - 8:30p | Parish Hall (New Location)
Dates: September 17th, September 24th, and October 1st
“To fall in love with God is the greatest of all romances; to seek Him, the greatest adventure…” St. Augustine. The Bible Timeline is a Catholic approach to Scripture that invites us into a transformative encounter with Jesus Christ.
Everyone is invited. Please attend and bring a friend!
Please note temporary change of location:
The Nursery will be located in the large classroom on the lower level for about 4 weeks. All nursery supplies have been stored as the rooms are cleaned and painted, so we are asking that you bring a bag of toys that the children can share each week. Please have diapers available, if needed.If you have any questions please email:
mthorsen@richmondcathedral.org
Women's Book Group
Fridays at 10am | Parish Hall
Sept 28, Oct 5, Oct 12, and Oct 19
“Through her unique gift for
storytelling, combined with profound
spiritual insight, Sr. Bridget
Haase's Doors to the Sacred will invite
readers to open the door to the room of
daily experience, stand under its
ceiling of providence, walk the floors of
faith, and explore its nooks and
crannies of divine surprises and
disguises. By so doing, they will
discover that each event of life is holy,
saturated with God, and filled with
hope.” – Paraclete Press
