Charlestown Catholic Collaborative
Please donate!
2025 Catholic Appeal, tap arrow for more info
Faith Formation
Faith Formation will begin with a cookout on Tuesday, Sept. 23 at 4 pm. in the parking lot behind 46 Winthrop St.
Grade 1- 4 classes at 46 Winthrop St. will be held on Tuesdays 4 – 5 pm
More Information and Register here or call 617-242-4664
A word about Annunciation School
Regardless of who we are, our hearts are broken last week as we heard the news of the terrible shootings at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis. It is natural for us in this moment to attempt to put some reasons, and even though there may be clues and evidence that point to one reason or another, it’s important for us to focus on the horrible acknowledgement of the victims, those who died, were injured, the children, teachers and families whose lives have been forever altered by unspeakable terror in a place of safety and refuge, peace and hope. If we fail to put the children first in any discussion, we are failing miserably.
To those who disparage the call for prayers, I am reminded of the words of Dr. Martin Luther King that in all times, particularly times of crisis, doubt and fear, the church is not where we go to- it is where we come from, where we begin. Catholics- particularly emboldened and encouraged by the reception of the Eucharist and all people of good will- we must be witnesses and in Christ, transforming this all-too violent world. Christ is the King of our world- and first and last, He is the Prince of Peace. It is time, well past the time, to proclaim the end of this nightmare.
It has been made quite clear that laws aren’t working, and more guns won’t work, either. This crisis, these issues, are bigger than any government, any force on this earth. Too many children have been exposed to the cruelty that adults inflict on each other and themselves and to them, and in their name, in God’s name, together, we must find a way to bring that peace to the hearts and souls of those who misplace their anger, their frustration, their fear upon the lives of the most innocent and vulnerable in our midst.
This is our mission and our challenge, to bring Christ to the deeply divided, angry and troubled country- to defend the vulnerable, to protect each and every life, and to speak for justice and mercy and love as Christ commands and expects. In Deuteronomy 30, God challenges Israel to take a stand, to choose life. May our actions, based in our prayers, bring about a new revolution of hope, mercy, and life. If we fail, we have all failed, ourselves, our country and our children. May our lives, directed to hope and mercy, turn the tide and bring about that revolution.
Mary, Queen of peace, comfort of the afflicted, pray for us.
Please pray for the children of Annunciation school.
– Fr. John Sheridan
Regularly scheduled Mass times
The 8am Daily Mass is offered Monday through Friday at St. Catherine of Siena Chapel.
A note from our Music Director
St Mary-St Catherine Siena Parish
St. Augustine is often quoted as saying “he who sings, prays twice. I would like to invite any and all parishioners to share their talents with the music ministry here at St. Mary St. Catherine of Siena. We as Christians are called to make a joyful noise in song and praise – what better way to do just that than by joining us at the Mass? No prior singing ability or instrumental musical training is needed. All I ask is that you come with an eager mind and an open heart. Please see me after the Mass and let me know if you are interested.
St. Francis de Sales Church,
313 Bunker Hill St.
Click image for
St. Francis Carillon Schedule
St. Francis de Sales
313 Bunker Hill Street
617 242-0147
Led by the Holy Spirit, the Parish Family of Saint Francis de Sales seeks to know and celebrate Jesus through Mass, Prayer, Sacrament and Service.
Saint Francis de Sales Church is the oldest consecrated church in New England, the oldest in the city of Boston in continuous service, and the fourth oldest in America, built in 1859, on the top of Bunker Hill. Saint Francis is known affectionately as the Firefighter’s church – The statue of St. Florian, patron saint, is located in the bell yard next to the church.
St. Mary Church,
55 Warren St.
Collaborative Center
and
Eucharistic Center
46 Winthrop Street
617 242-4664
Our Mission is to make active disciples of Jesus Christ by creating a welcoming community rich in spirituality and by moving people to share their God-given talents in the service of others and the care of creation. We are an intentionally inclusive Roman Catholic parish that welcomes all those who make up our diverse community in a way that reflects God’s love. Nourished by the Gospel and the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, we strive to build a vibrant parish that strengthens our faith and elevates our worship.
The Sanctuary Lamp
This week the Sanctuary Lamp at St. Francis de Sales church is lit for
James & Grace McGoniagle
The Sanctuary Lamp
To light a Sanctuary Lamp in memory of a loved one, please call the Parish Offices at (617) 242-4664
Suspice – Take Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my entire will, all that I have and possess. Thou hast given all to me. To Thee, O lord, I return it. All is Thine, dispose of it wholly according to Thy will.
Give me Thy love and thy grace, for this is sufficient for me.
– Ignatius Loyola
September 8 – The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
The Church has celebrated Mary’s birth since at least the sixth century. A September birth was chosen because the Eastern Church begins its Church year with September. The September 8 date helped determine the date for the feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8.
Scripture does not give an account of Mary’s birth. However, the apocryphal Proto-evangelium of James fills in the gap. According to this account, Anna and Joachim are infertile but pray for a child. They receive the promise of a child who will advance God’s plan of salvation for the world. Such a story, like many biblical counterparts, stresses the special presence of God in Mary’s life from the beginning.