Paul Martin

“Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others.
If you have that awareness,
you have good manners,
no matter what fork you use.”

-Emily Post

The arts of hospitality and etiquette can be complicated or easy. There can be so much to attend to, things that seem small to us at first, can loom large when we try to make someone feel at home- is the person allergic to anything? Is our guest shy and sensitive or outgoing and boisterous? Does our guest like pets or perhaps are they bringing a dog or cat? It can knock us off our usual schedule and if they’re difficult, well… but if it’s a good friend or family member, it can be a wonderful experience as we share and receive joy, blessings, and love!

In the readings this weekend, we learn that a direct way to encounter God is to experience His presence in those we welcome into our lives. The God we love and serve wants to find a place in our hearts and lives, and at first, it may seem inconvenient and even difficult to welcome Him fully, but we will find that it’s worth everything. It can be surprising at first, but if we’re open to it,
God can and will transform us!

Please note that I’ll be out of state June 28- July 3.
If you need anything, please let Sr. Nancy know, or drop me a note at
jsheridan@stmarystcatherine.org or
stfrancis02129@gmail.com. Thanks!
-Fr. John

The month of July traditionally honors the Most Precious Blood of Jesus.

It is the blood of Christ, the Lamb of God, which cleanses from sin, therefore the Church developed a devotion to Jesus’ physical blood and its mystical power, just as it did for his Sacred Heart from which his blood poured out on the Cross. The Precious Blood of Jesus courses through the Church spiritually, giving eternal life to the Body of Christ through the sacraments. Many saints had a devotion to the Precious Blood of Jesus, most notably St. Catherine of Siena. Devotion to the Precious Blood spread greatly through the preaching of Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, a 19th century priest and founder of the Missionaries of the Precious Blood, and was later approved and recommended by the Holy See. The feast day of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus is July 1st.

It’s been a long road, to get from there to here.
It’s been a long time, but my time is finally here.
And I can feel a change in the wind right now. Nothing’s in my way.
And they’re not gonna hold me down no more.
No, they’re not gonna hold me down …

‘Cause I’ve got faith of the heart. I’m going where my heart will take me.
I’ve got faith to believe. I can do anything.
I’ve got strength of the soul, and no one’s going to bend or break me.
I can reach any star. I’ve got faith, faith of the heart.
Faith of the Heart, written by Dianne Warren

I took this picture on retreat years ago, and it’s one of my favorites. Some people tell me it looks dark and scary, but faith and hope are excited for what awaits. There may be darkness around us sometimes, but the light of Christ that awaits us is greater than any fear or doubt around us.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus doesn’t hold back- He knows what awaits His disciples, and He challenges them (and us) to keep going, that they’re not alone. In five months, shrouded in the dark November sky, we will begin our journey anew, following a star that will lead us to new hope, new joy. Everything would change, and we now await hope’s fulfillment in His return.

This is Commitment Weekend. We ask that you place your completed envelope in the collection basket. If you left it at home, or still thinking about it, feel free to either mail it to the Parish Office or place it in the collection basket the following weekend. I strongly encourage you to take advantage of the simplicity and convenience of online giving. Thank you!

On Sunday, July 2, please note that the Sunday 6 pm Mass is suspended, and daily Mass at St. Francis will be offered at 9 am on Monday & Tuesday, July 3 & 4. I’ll be out of state June 28-July 3.

We’re nearing our Catholic Appeal goal- 81%- but we need your help to get there- have you given yet? Every donation helps the Archdiocese, and our parish! Go to bostoncatholicappeal.org !

Fr. John Sheridan

You taught me how to love, what it took..
You never said too much, but still, you showed the way,
and I knew, from watching you….
Nobody else could ever know, the part of me that can’t let go…

From Everything I Own, written by David Gates

My father seemed different from other fathers in my neighborhood. He was a quiet man, not very tall, but strongly built, with piercing blue eyes. He was not one for emotional expressions, showing his devotion not so much in words, but in deeds. He didn’t say a lot, but my mother and us kids knew that we were loved- he worked endlessly to make sure that we had what we needed, and with our mother, he molded us to be people of Catholic conviction, in our thoughts, words, and actions.

I see St. Joseph is the way I see my father- and I cherish his memory as we mark 35 years since his passing this past month. I miss him, but I hear his quiet and strong voice in many places, moments, and other’s voices. I have been blessed with a happy memory.

Father’s Day gives us a chance to honor and remember our fathers, as well as those who are and have been father figures for us. May their memory, words and examples point us to our Savior. Joseph, pray for us.

-Fr. John Sheridan

Beginning June 22, the Feast of Saint Thomas More and John Fisher, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops celebrates Religious Freedom Week. Join us in promoting religious freedom For the Good of All.

All people desire to know their Creator. All people have a natural impulse to seek the good and to live in accordance with that good.

All people can flourish when they pursue the truth about God and respond to the truth. Religious freedom means that all people have the space to flourish. Religious freedom is both an American value and an important part of Catholic teaching on human dignity. When we promote religious freedom we promote the common good and thus strengthen the life of our nation and the community of nations. Learn more at www.usccb.org/religiousfreedomweek

WORLD REFUGEE DAY

On World Refugee Day we pause and remember the 25 million people who have had to flee their countries in search of safety for their families.

Learn more about refugees and Catholic teaching at justiceforimmigrants.org

A Father’s Day Prayer

God our father, we give you thanks and praise
for all fathers young and old , especially our
own fathers.
We pray for young fathers, newly embracing
their vocation; may they find courage and perseverance to balance work, family and faith in joy
and sacrifice.
We pray for fathers around the world whose children are lost or suffering; may they
know that the God of compassion walks with them in their sorrow.
We pray for men who are not fathers but still mentor and guide us with fatherly love
and advice.
We remember fathers, grandfathers, and great grandfathers who are no longer with
us but who live forever in our memory and nourish us with their love. Amen

A few years ago, I went on retreat with some priests. One of us, who was born and raised in Ethiopia, took a group of us out for supper to an Ethiopian restaurant. It was a great experience- I learned so much in a place that uses no cutlery. We used very different bread to wrap the delicious food and laughed and learned so much about the fraternity we shared from such different lives and cultures.

Sometimes we take for granted how diverse our Church is- we think everyone has the same way of looking at the world as “we” do, and we’re confronted by how diverse this world is, but what brings us together is so much more amazing and beautiful. The Eucharist, the sharing of bread and wine that is transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ, changes us every time we receive it and unites the Body of Christ, the Church, which we are.

Every culture in our earth may have a different understanding of bread, yet we share the precious gift of the Eucharist. We may speak in different languages, different music, dance, expressions, but we together share one faith. Let’s rejoice in this precious gift of unity that we hold in our hands, our hearts, our souls, our lives… our Lord, our Savior.

Fr. John Sheridan

The Archdiocese of Boston announced that Cardinal Seán has appointed Fr. Cristiano Barbosa as episcopal vicar for our region, on July 1. Fr. Jonathan Gaspar has been serving as vicar since Feb. 1.

A regional episcopal vicar assists the cardinal in the governance and oversight of the work of the Church within his region- Boston and its immediate towns, and celebrates the sacrament of confirmation. Thank you for taking on this important responsibility, Father Cristiano- we will pray for you!

Sometimes, people will ask me directions to a place I’ve known for years, and I won’t remember how to direct them. I know to take a left where the old pharmacy used to be, or to take a right at my childhood friend’s house in Newton, but I’ll look blankly at them, trying to recall the names of the streets or other markers that I have passed by a million times. I know it in my heart, but I can’t share the way there.

Last week, we celebrated the great feast of Pentecost, and Apostles (and we, too) are sent to teach the world what Our Lord taught us. Sometimes they, and we too, get confused on the way, as Thomas and Philip are lost is what Jesus is
saying to them in today’s Gospel- they don’t realize He has given them (and us) everything we need- our hearts and souls know the way there. May we trust the Lord and keep going on the way He has chosen for us- just like the beautiful
words from the song “Love is a Compass” by Sarah Griffiths:

When you need direction, look to the stars.
If you don’t know where you’re heading, follow your heart.
When you’re lost, I will guide you. I’m right there beside you,
like a map of your memories.

It’s going to be an honor for me to have a couple of roles in the upcoming Bunker Hill Day and Week festivities, remembrances, and memorials. As we look to Bunker Hill Day and remember those who have given their lives in the founding, defense, and protection of our country, may we always cherish and never take for granted the blessings we’ve received, but share them generously with others.

MORE FROM THE PASTOR

At St. Francis, we’re building an updated list of addresses, phone numbers and email addresses. Our collection envelope list is getting updated, so if you haven’t received envelopes, you’re new to the family or if you’re not sure that you’re registered, drop us a note at stfrancis02129@gmail.com or call Dianne Ludy at 617-242-4664 with your info (please specify that it’s for St. Francis), or fill out a sheet in the church and we’ll get you onboard! Soon we’ll have online giving

Our Installation and Inauguration Mass with Bishop O’Connell has been rescheduled for: Sunday, September 24 at 11 am at St. Mary’s Church! A collation will follow at Bishop Lawton Hall. Please invite everyone to join us!
Fr. John Sheridan

It is the Solemnity of Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit descended on the Apostles and sent them out to all nations! It’s a time to look within and see all the gifts the Holy Spirit has given us in so many different ways. The Spirit today gives us all the tools we each need to reflect the presence of God. It’s easy for us to compare, that others seem to have gifts that we perhaps wish we had, when we don’t appreciate what’s ready within and around us. May we never take for granted all that He has given us, may we find a way to give Him honor and
praise in own particular way!

It’s going to be an honor for me to have a couple of roles in the upcoming Bunker Hill Day and Week festivities, remembrances, and memorials. As we pause as a nation on Memorial Day, look to Bunker Hill Day, and remember those who have given their lives in the founding, defense, and protection of our country, may we always cherish and never take for granted the blessings we’ve received, but share them generously with others. Anne Frank wrote: “No one ever has become poor by giving.” To all of us who have given so much- in this
country who has so very much- we owe in return the gift of being generous to the poor, the needy, the homeless, the refugee. It’s more than just kindness- it’s our human responsibility.

At St. Francis, we’re building an updated list of addresses, phone numbers and email addresses. Our collection envelope list is getting updated, so if you haven’t received envelopes, you’re new to the family or if you’re not sure that you’re registered, drop us a note at stfrancis02129@gmail.com or call Dianne Ludy at 617-242-4664 with your info (please specify that it’s for St. Francis), or fill out a sheet in the church and we’ll get you onboard! Soon we’ll have online giving!

American Anthem

All we’ve been given by those who came before
the dream of a nation, where freedom would endure.
The work and prayers of centuries have brought us to this day…
What shall be our legacy? What will our children say?

Let them say of me, I was one who believed
in sharing the blessings I received.
Let me know in my heart when my days are through
America, America… I gave my best to you.

Each generation from the plains to distant shores;
with the gifts what they were given, were determined to leave more.
Battles fought together; acts of conscience fought alone
these are the seeds from which America has grown.

For those who think they have nothing to share
who fear in their hearts there is no hero there.
Know each quiet act of dignity is that which fortifies
the soul of a nation that will never die.

Let them say of me, I was one who believed
in sharing the blessings I received.
Let me know in my heart when my days are through,
America, America… I gave my best to you.

written by Gene Scheer
used with permission.

Some years ago, I was the chaplain of a high school, and before games I would pray with the teams, that God would protect and help them to play to the best of their abilities- not that they would win or lose (that drove the coaches nuts).

One time, our football team was playing another Catholic school, and the opposing coach asked if I would pray for their students, too. We gathered both teams in the center of the field – the referees too – and we prayed, and I blessed them all- it was a beautiful moment.

I always think of that when I call to mind this weekend’s Gospel, as Jesus prays for His disciples. They had no idea what was ahead of them, but Jesus was sending them everything they needed- the Spirit would guide them, protect them, and teach them the truths that we hold to this day. I can imagine this as being a very emotional prayer for Jesus, as He prepares them for what’s next.

Next weekend we will celebrate the triumphant victory that is Pentecost- what was ahead for them was not known then nor what will happen for us is not known today. It’s easy to panic and worry, but we know that Jesus is a prayer away, the Holy Spirit is here. In the midst of the uncertain nature of this world, the winds of change are blowing- they’re blowing warm and welcoming.

Fr. John

It Takes A Village…

Every pastor and pastoral staff know that a parish cannot run without the involvement of its parishioners. And so, this is a
call to all of our parishioners to volunteer your time in various ministries and activities in our Parish. Some of the ministries in need of your presence are:
The Baptism Committee,
The Funeral Team,
Hospitality Committee,
Faith Formation,
Liturgical Ministries
and more!

Please contact Sr. Nancy at 617-242-4664 or ncitro@stmarystcatherine.org for more information.
We look forward to your involvement in continuing to make our Parish a vibrant and welcoming community!

Be born in me, be born in me.
Trembling heart,
somehow I believe,
that You chose me.
I’ll hold You in the beginning,
You will hold me in the end
Every moment in the middle,
make my heart Your Bethlehem.
Be born in me.
written by Nichole Nordeman, Bernie Herms

Saying goodbye is one of the harshest things about life, and as we walk from Ascension this week ahead to Pentecost and Jesus’ promise fulfilled in the Holy Spirit, I think of all the people I’ve loved in my life who’ve passed. At the same time, I am grateful for everything all these wonderful people who have given me so much, taught me so much, modeled the Christian faith to me so well. I will never forget them, and our faith reminds me I will, be it God’s will, see them again, see their smiles and hear their laughter forever.

It’s beautiful that, as we mark Mother’s Day, celebrate our Blessed Mother, and honor all the women in our lives, those with us, and those who have gone before us, who have taught us all that truly matters, we may follow their lead of courage, grace, and love. Mary, Queen of peace, pray for us.

MORE FROM OUR PASTOR

We are collecting clothes for our St. Vincent de Paul Society- we’re taking in clean, lightly worn clothes (new underwear and socks in packages only, please), at the Masses, the St. Mary- St. Catherine Parish Center and Harvest on Vine food pantry located in the basement of St. Catherine’s Rectory. Thanks for your generosity!

At St. Francis, we’re building an updated list of addresses, phone numbers and email addresses. Our collection envelope list is getting updated, so if you haven’t received envelopes, you’re new to the family or if you’re not sure that you’re registered, drop us a note at stfrancis02129@gmail.com or call Dianne Ludy at 617-242-4664 with your info (please specify that it’s for St. Francis) and we’ll get you onboard! Soon we’ll have online giving!

Pentecost is May 27-28. Please make sure to wear red- any shade- at all the Masses that weekend!

Pentecost is May 27-28. Please make sure to wear red- any shade- at all the Masses that weekend!
Please note that the 6 pm Mass will be suspended on June 4.

“I have always dreamed of a far-off place,
where a great, warm welcome will be waiting for me.
Where the crowds will cheer, when they see my face,
and voice keeps saying, this is where I’m meant to be.
I will find my way. I can go the distance.”

From Go the Distance, from Hercules

“Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again,
this time more intelligently.”- Henry Ford

The internet is filled with stories of inventors, writers, businesspeople, athletes, artists, and other folks who, like Henry Ford, failed in countless endeavors, but never gave up until they succeeded. It’s very inspiring to read these stories, especially when we can feel overwhelmed or frustrated by our own limitations, but I always think of the words of Pope Benedict XVI that each of us, in our own way, have been called to greatness- not as the world sees it, but the greatness that Christ has prepared for us.

Will it be easy? Nothing great is easy, but in Christ all is possible. In today’s Gospel, Thomas doesn’t understand the promise of the Kingdom of Heaven, but Jesus comforts him with the promise that awaits him- all he needs to do is to stay focused on the promise and live his life, as St. Paul writes, worthy of the calling we have received. We may fail at times, and feel like that the stone that builders rejected, but as Christ is our cornerstone, we will not fail.

It Takes A Village…

Every pastor and pastoral staff know that a parish cannot run without the
involvement of its parishioners.
And so, this is a call to all of our parishioners to volunteer your time in various ministries and activities
in our Parish.
Some of the ministries in need of your presence are:
The Baptism Committee,
The Funeral Team,
Hospitality Committee,
Faith Formation,
Liturgical Ministries and more!

Please contact Sr. Nancy at 617-242- 4664 or ncitro@stmarystcatherine.org for more information.
We look forward to your involvement in continuing to make our Parish a vibrant and welcoming community!

JOB OPENING:

Pastoral Assistant for Faith Formation

Are you willing and able to share your time and talent with our parish?

We are hiring!

The Pastoral Assistant for Faith Formation coordinates the Religious Education program for students in grades K-8, including Youth Group, along with Confirmation 1 and 2. The Program Coordinator attends meetings with parish staff and meets and works regularly with the Pastor, Pastoral Associate and the Parent Advisory Council to plan classes,
Masses and Family Formation activities.

Please reach out to jsheridan@stmarystcatherine.org or
ncitro@stmarystcatherine.org if you are interested in applying!

A word of sincere congratulations to our young women who received the Sacrament of
Confirmation from Very Rev. Jonathan Gaspar, and the girls and boys who are receiving first Holy
Communion this weekend- it’s extra special to have Fr. Jim Ronan with us to concelebrate!

Thanks to those who prayed with us last Saturday on the feast of St. Catherine of Siena for so
many troubled people who gathered in Boston. May the peace of Christ reign in the hearts of all
people of good will.

Please note that I will be away May 10-18 on a family trip.

If you haven’t done so, please consider giving online to our Parish Family- it’s very simple and tax deductible!
Give Dianne a call at the parish offices and she can guide you through the steps. It will help us through the long summer months to keep our ball rolling!

Please remember to mark your calendars and join us on Sunday, June 4th for the 11 am Mass at St. Mary’s for the Inauguration of our Collaboration of St. Mary– St. Catherine & St. Francis de Sales parishes and the installation of the pastor- a collation will follow at St. Francis de Sales.

-Fr. John

The house I grew up in was just off routes 128 and 9, and we often had people show up at our front door at all hours looking for directions or make a phone call, in the days before cell phones and GPS (yes, young people, there were those days). We were taught to be careful, yet courteous to these unexpected visitors, understanding how it can be confusing and what a small amount of kindness and help can do.

This weekend some troubled, very lost people are gathering in Boston, looking for something. It would be easy for us to disregard these people, to pity them, even to resent their presence, disrespect, and vitriol. By our prayers and actions, offered in love, we can help these soul-sick people find the way.

There will be those who will reject us, as we seek to hear and follow the voice of the shepherd, and many may say hurtful, angry, and sad words, but I pray they will find in our concern and love for them the true Shepherd of our hearts and our world. Please remember them in your prayers this weekend and always. Mary, Queen of peace, pray for us.