Church of Saint Mary Parish Bulletin: April 9, 2023

CHURCH of SAINT MARY

Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord

Reverend Father Robert A. Romeo | Pastor

Reverend Father Dominik Wegiel | Parochial Vicar

Reverend Father Kingsley Nwanwa | Parochial Vicar

Parish Mission Statement

We, the community of Saint Mary’s, Manhasset, building on our rich heritage of Catholic faith and tradition, center ourselves in the Eucharist and honor God in proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Guided by the Holy Spirit, we seek to be the presence of Christ through our liturgical, educational and social ministries. We dedicate our time, talent and treasure to the service of all as we build the kingdom of God in our world. We commit to this mission in the name of Jesus Christ.

Church of Saint Mary

1300 Northern Boulevard

Manhasset, New York 11030

(516) 627-0385

Fax (516) 627-6070

www.saintmarysmanhasset.org

Schedule of Masses

Thursday 7:00 AM (when school is in session)

Monday–Friday 9:00 AM

Saturday 9:00 AM, 5:00 PM

Sunday 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:00 Noon

Sacrament of Penance

Saturdays from 4:00-4:45 PM and by appointment. Please call 627-0385.

Anointing of the Sick

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is celebrated in the Chapel on the second Sunday of the month following the 10:30 AM Mass. If you are unable to come to Church, please call the Parish Office to make arrangements for Anointing or to receive the Eucharist.

Parish Office

627-0385 | Fax 627-6070

Monday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Tuesday - Friday 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Saturday - (phone only) 10:00 AM–1:30 PM

Sunday 9:30 AM - 2:00 PM

E-mail: information@stmary.ws

Parish Social Ministry

365-2705

Monday-Wednesday-Thursday 11:00 AM-3:00 PM

E-mail: socialmin@stmary.ws

St. Vincent de Paul Society: svdp@stmary.ws

Religious Education

627-4028

Monday 12:00 Noon-8:00 PM

Wednesday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Tuesday and Thursday 9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Closed on Friday

PARISH DIRECTORY

Pastoral Staff

Rev. Fr. Robert A. Romeo Pastor

627-0385 | ext. 1004 pastor@stmary.ws

Rev. Fr. Dominik Wegiel

Parochial Vicar

627-0385 | ext. 1006 frdominik@stmary.ws

Rev. Fr. Kingsley Nwanwa

Parochial Vicar

627-0385 | ext. 1089 frkingsley@saintmarysmanhasset.org

Parish Staff

Jane Clifford Bulletin Editor bulletin@stmary.ws

Jennifer Fedele Office Manager 627-0385

Marie T. Granieri

Director of Religious Education

627-4028 | ext. 1127 releddirector@stmary.ws

Vincent Hartley

Facilities Manager

627-0385 | ext. 1002

Kathleen Kosciusko Director of Parish Social Ministry 627-0385 | ext. 1126 kkosciusko@stmary.ws

Robert Levulis Music Director 313-7606

Vanessa Quiros Parish Office 627-0385

vquiros@stmary.ws

Sr. Teresa Raftery, IHM

Adult Faith Formation 627-0385 | ext. 1010 traftery@stmary.ws

The Schools of Saint Mary Nursery through 12th Grade

Very Rev. Dom Elias Carr, Can. Reg., Ph.D. President 627-2711 president@stmary.ws

Norma Ragalli Stafford Director of Admissions 627-2711 | ext 1084 nstafford@stmary.ws

Edward Short Vice President of Development 627-2711 | ext 1120 eshort@stmary.ws

Eileen M. Symmons ’82, ’86 Director of Communications 627-2711

esymmons@stmary.ws

Kiera Gmelich Walsh Director of Alumni and Parent Relations 627-2711 | ext. 1162 kwalsh@stmary.ws

Sarah de Venoge Griffin ’02, ’06 Liaison for School Relations sgriffin@saintmarysmanhasset.org

St. Mary’s Elementary School 627-0184

www.stmary11030.org

Theresa A. Kemp Principal tkemp@stmary11030.org

St. Mary’s High School 627-2711

www.saintmaryshs.org

Gerard J. Buckley Principal gbuckley@saintmaryshs.org

Dear Parishioners, “Christ is Risen...He is truly Risen!”

For our Eastern Rite Catholics and the Orthodox, this is the greeting they offer to each other during the Easter Season. What a wonderful way to greet other believers...to proclaim the Resurrection of Jesus. These are my favorite days of the Church year. Easter is such a reminder of the new life that Jesus promises. One of the things I love is that the world around us usually proclaims that new life. If we look around in our gardens, we can see the crocuses and daffodils springing forth from the earth. The world that looked so dead is now bursting with the signs of spring life. Even in our Church, the images, which were shrouded in purple, have now been revealed in the power of the Resurrection.

I hope that these days of celebration don’t pass us by without reflecting on the meaning of Easter. If we truly believe that the Jesus who died on the Cross was raised on Easter, then we have to ask ourselves “what does it mean for our lives?”

Easter is not a celebration of spring or even of chocolate (as much as I love chocolate); it is the promise of Jesus that, even if we die to this life, we have the promise of Life to come. But Eternal Life is a free gift that must be freely accepted on our part. In being accepted, it requires from us a response to God. That response is a turning from sin in our own lives and embracing God’s vision for our lives. It is participating at Mass each week to be nourished by the Real and True Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. It is also living, in truth, the Gospel, sowing the seeds of the love of Jesus and living each day knowing how much we ARE loved. It is turning to God in Jesus even when and especially when the world seems to prefer the darkness of sin and death. So that through the faith and power of the Resurrection, we can bring the healing and loving Light of Jesus to our sometimes hurting world. A world that longs for that promised peace. Never succumb to the powers of darkness; you have been enlightened by Jesus…TRUST. Let us reflect and ponder who Jesus is for us and how His presence is lived each day. Be bearers of His message of peace and hope to all you meet. Come to the Table of the Lord!

What a joy it is for me to celebrate Holy Week and Easter with you as your Pastor. I feel so blessed by God for all He has done for me. I am grateful to my staff for all they do to sow the seeds of the Gospel at St. Mary’s. I am also grateful and thankful for all those who give so much of themselves and yet, at times, seem to go unnoticed. I am so touched by the gifts that we share as stewards, and I know it makes this parish the wonderful community that it is.

May we never take our gifts and blessings for granted and may the joy of Easter remain with us long after the flowers have died and the Alleluias fade into the background. We are blessed and redeemed by a God who loves us. What joy that understanding should be for us!

On behalf of myself, Fr. Dominik, Fr. Kingsley, Fr. Matthew, the IHM, and Dominican Sisters, and the entire staff here at St. Mary’s, we wish you and your families a very blessed and prayerful Easter.

CHRIST IS RISEN...HE IS TRULY RISEN!

In the Resurrected Jesus and Mary, His Mother, Fr. Bob

J Stewards of God’s Gifts

In today’s Gospel, we read that Mary Magdalene went to the tomb where Jesus lay. When she got there, she found the tomb empty and then ran to alert Simon Peter of this mystery.

Living Stewardship ~ Pillar of Hospitality: Christ is Risen Indeed! As we enter into the joyous Easter season, let us be joyful and kind to everyone we meet—spreading the Good News.

The collection amount for Sunday, April 2, 2023 was not available at the time of the printing of this bulletin.

Have you enrolled yet? Visit www.faithdirect.net. Our parish code is NY281.

We Care for Our Parish Community

Baptism

We celebrate Baptism at 1:30 PM on the second Sunday of the month and at 12:30 PM on the fourth Saturday of the month as scheduled. Please call the Parish Office at least one month in advance to see if a date is available and to arrange to fill out pre-baptismal paperwork. New parents are required to attend a Baptism preparation session held once every month. Those chosen as sponsors for Baptism should lead lives in harmony with the Catholic faith and the role of Godparent.”

Marriage

At least six months before you plan to be married and before you make arrangements for the reception, please make an appointment with one of the priests to begin the necessary preparations.

Children’s Education

Saint Mary’s Elementary School offers excellent education in the spirit of the Gospel from grades N, Pre-K to Eighth grade. For information call 627-0184.

Empowering Character, Innovation and Leadership in our students, Saint Mary’s High School is a dynamic, contemporary, Catholic value-centered school, combining a commitment to academic excellence and educational innovation, with a passion for learning, and an emphasis on moral character development through the pursuit of truth and discovered in faith and reason. For information call 627-2711.

The Religious Education Program provides excellent formation in the Catholic Faith for children in public or private schools. Preparation for First Holy Communion and Confirmation requires two years. Classes are held at St. Mary’s for Grades 1 through 5 on Tuesdays and Thursdays

4:30-5:30 PM. Classes also meet on Sundays from 9:3010:20 AM for Grades 1 through 8 and on Mondays from 7:00-8:00 PM for Grades 6, 7 and 8. We also offer the option of an online home program for Grades 1 through 7. For information about Grades 1-8 call 627-4028 or email Mrs. Marie Granieri at releddirector@stmary.ws.

Parish Social Ministryã

We care for our sisters and brothers through our Parish Social Ministry and Food Pantry. For information call 365-2705.

Youth Ministry

We reach out to our teens though our Youth Ministry Program. For information email youth@stmary.ws or visit stmarysyouth.weebly.com.

New Parishioners

We welcome new members to the Catholic Church and to Saint Mary’s Parish. If you are new in the area or interested in learning more about the Catholic faith, please call the Parish Office.

Opportunities For Prayer

The Church is open Monday to Friday until 8:45 PM, on Saturday until the end of the 5:00 PM Mass, and on Sunday until 6:00 PM so that we may have the opportunity for quiet prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. The Miraculous Medal Novena is said each Monday following the 9:00 AM Mass. Monday to Saturday the Rosary is said following the 9:00 AM Mass. Eucharistic Adoration is held every Monday from 3:00 to 5:00 PM in the Chapel. On First Saturdays, the Scriptural Rosary is recited following the 9:00 AM Mass.

Masses and Special Intentions

Ann Pardi

Stephen Sheehan

Sandy Pittman

Jeanette Albanese

Laarni Melliza

Donna Chesney

Erica Klock

Jacob Rivera

Masses for the Week

Monday, April 10th

Monday within the Octave of Easter Acts 2:14, 22-33, Mt 28:8-15

9:00 AM | Amor Bariso Reyes

Tuesday, April 11th

Theresa Fallon

Christine Marchese

Thomas Hyland

Nina Marie

Maria DeAngelis

James McCabe

Chuck Sockett

Moira Feely

Kristin O’Shea O’Keefe

Marguerite Barone

Robert Labriola

Vincent Nicky O’Donnell

Grace Williams

Jaxson Rivera

Irene Elber

Ronald Grubert

Fred Herman

Josephine Arkwright

Names will remain on the list for three months. Please email bulletin@stmary.ws if you would like to continue with the listing

Vincent Quayle

Irene Elber

John Edmonds

Hussey, James M., GySgt, USMC Jones, Scott B., LT, USN

Jones, Katherine L., LTJG, USN

LaManna, Vincent S., Jr., PVT, USA

Landolphi, Michael, ENS, USN

Lanza, Anthony E., LtCol, USMC

Tuesday within the Octave of Easter Acts 2:36-41, Jn 20:11-18

9:00 AM | Eugene G. Rorke

Wednesday, April 12th

Wednesday within the Octave of Easter Acts 3:1-10, Lk 24:13-35

9:00 AM | Pauline Antaki

Thursday, April 13th

Thursday within the Octave of Easter Acts 3:11-26, Lk 24:35-48

9:00 AM | Mary & Tony Cacciola

Friday, April 14th

Friday within the Octave of Easter Acts 4:1-12, Jn 21:1-14

9:00 AM | Dario Zovich

Saturday, April 15th

Saturday within the Octave of Easter Acts 4:13-21, Mk 16:9-15

9:00 AM | Marie & Al Iacono

5:00 PM | Kevin Driscoll, Jr.

Thomas J. Flynn, Sr.

125th Brigade Support Battalion

23rd Marine Regiment

25th Marine Regiment

2-4 GSAB Task Force Mustang

2-211th GSAB Task Force

War Horse

51st Security Force Squadron

75th Ranger Regiment

82nd Expeditionary Rescue Squadron

Alacqua, Alexander, 1LT, USA

Amerson, Jason, CPT, USA

Anderson, Michael, 1LT, USA

Arnold, James, LCpl, USMC

Avasthi, David, Capt, USAF

Baber, Joseph, Maj, USAF

Broderick, Evan, SGT, USA

Broderick, Steven, SN, USN

Brodie, Virgina H., 2ndLt, USMC

Brown, Jason, SGT, USA

Fontanetta, Joseph, Maj, USMC

Hayes, Andrew, Capt, USMC

Hernandez, Steven, SSgt, USAF

Higgins, James, GySgt, USMC

Hilton, Justin, SGT, USA

Hilton, Nathaniel, SGT, USA

Horner, Brian G., 1stLt, USMC

Howard, Edward, PV2, USA

Madden, Michael E., Major, USAF

Major, A. Edward, III, MAJ, USA

Marine Medium Tilt Rotor Squadron 161

Marine Transport Squadron 352 McGorry, Patrick F., HM2, USN

McKievear, Gary, LT, USA

Millau, Jeffrey, PFC, USMC Morris, Jr., Brian J., MAC, USN

O’Leary, Jason, SSgt, USAF

Petracca, Evan L., LTJG, USN

Quinn, Anthony, Jr., SGT, USA

Richardson, Timothy, PV2, USA

Radman, Paul Cpl, USMC

Rodi, Caroline G., CAPT, USN

Sharkey, John J., LtCol, USMC

Spivak III, Edmund, Capt, USAF

Sweeney, Timothy, CPT, USA

Swersky, Roberto, Capt, USMC

Tafone, Samantha, SGT, USA

Ullrich, Kenneth C., HN, USN Unger, Matthew J., SPC, USA

Vachris, Madison LTJG, USN Wood, Kelly, BMSR, USN

Peter J. Calabretta, Sr.

Catherine Camera

Salvatore & Provvidenza Asaro

Giuseppe Sbuttoni

Sunday, April 16th

Second Sunday of Easter Sunday of Divine Mercy Acts 2:42-47, 1 Pt 1:3-9, Jn 20:19-31

7:30 AM | Evanthia Boukas

9:00 AM | Ruth Marchese

10:30 AM | People of the Parish

12:00 Noon | Dominick & Maria Cordi

Edward John Gaus, III

Catherine Camera

Richard Rice

Marie Louise Gadaleta

Francesca Gioia

If you have a service member that you would like to add to this list please e-mail bulletin@stmary.ws. Please include name, rank and branch of service.

Cover: The Resurrection.

Artist: Carl Heinrich Bloch (1834-1890).

Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord | April 9, 2023

The hours are after the 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, & 12:00 Noon Masses.

It is located in the Parish Ministry Center below the church.

Any inquiries, please call 526-627-0385 ext. 1033

Bread & Wine are offered this week in loving memory of Anthony Spinetta

Readings and Questions for Faith Sharing on the Second Sunday of Easter

Reading I: Acts of the Apostles 2:42-47

They devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles and to the communal life, to the breaking of the bread and to the prayers.

Reading II: 1 Peter 1:3-9

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who in his great mercy gave us a new birth to a living hope.

Gospel: John 20:19-31

Second Time

Elizabeth Bunger and Thomas DePaola

St. Mary, Holy Family, Manhasset, NY Hicksville, NY

There will be no 7:00 AM Mass on Thursday, April 13th, due to school recess for Easter Week.

“My Lord and my God!”

Question for Adults:

Is my own life marked by membership in a loving Christian community, attending to the Word of God and the teaching of the Church, service, and prayer?

Question for Children:

How can I be a witness to the Risen Christ?

Church of Saint Mary | 6

The Gift Shop is open on SUNDAYS

We have beautiful items for All Occasions

Rosary Society

Our Mission Statement:

The Rosary Society fosters devotion to Mary through prayer and good works for causes that would be dear to her heart

Invest 20 minutes of your day to pray the Rosary, and see the difference it will make in your life.

If you would like the Rosarians to pray for a special intention, please e-mail us at rosarysociety@stmary.ws.

SATURDAY, APRIL 22ND

ST. MARY’S ROSARY SOCIETY

ANNUAL COMMUNION BRUNCH

11:00 AM Mass with Induction of New Members Brunch Immediately Following at the Strathmore-Vanderbilt Country Club Guest Speaker: Rosarian Michele Bernic Raffle Baskets - Spring Plant Sale

New members of the Rosary Society will be inducted on April 22nd. Any woman of the parish interested in becoming a Rosarian can contact the Rosary Society at rosarysociety@stmary.ws for more information.

IMPORTANT! Any Rosarian who was never FORMALLY inducted (did not receive a blessed medal) may come forward and receive their medal at the April 22nd Mass. Please contact us by email at rosarysociety@stmary.ws if you wish to do so.

HAPPY EASTER FROM ST. MARY’S ROSARY SOCIETY!

“It is through the most Blessed Virgin Mary that Jesus Christ came into the world, and it is also through her that he will reign in the world.” - St. Louis de Montfort

RCIA and Adult Faith Formation

Do You Know Someone Who Would Like to Become a Catholic?

Our door is open for anyone who is interested in joining the Catholic Church, Learning more about the Faith we practice and becoming a fully initiated Catholic for anyone who has not received First Communion or Confirmation. In order to qualify as a Godparent in Baptism the person must have received all the Sacraments of Initiation. They include Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Communion.

The Lenten Bible Study Group had its final session on March 30th and discussed the possibility of continuing through the Easter Season. They decided to recess for Holy Thursday and Easter Week. They will resume on Thursday, April 20th, as the Easter Season Group and continue until Thursday, May 25th, which is the Thursday before Pentecost Sunday. All are welcome to attend.

Sister Teresa can be contacted about our RCIA and other Adult Faith Formation programs at 516-627-0385, ext. 1010. Her office hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday between 10:00AM and 4:00PM and other times by appointment.

Church of Saint Mary |

Sunday of Divine Mercy

April 16, 2023

Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament after the 12:00 Noon Mass.

Three Consecutive Holy Hours: 1:00-2:00pm 2:00-3:00pm 3:00-4:00pm (Join in any one).

Closing Benediction at 4:00pm.

Jesus’ Message of Mercy is summarized as ABC:

A- Ask for God’s Mercy

B- Be merciful to others

C- Completely trust in God’s mercy.

The Five Elements of the Message are summarized as FINCH:

F- Feast of Divine Mercy

I- Image of Divine Mercy

N- Novena of Divine Mercy

C- Chaplet of Divine Mercy

H- Hour of Mercy

We wish to feature the Chaplet of Divine Mercy this year. Jesus revealed it to Sr. Faustina as a powerful prayer He wants everyone pray. Sr. Faustina was interceding in her own words about a dire situation – to no avail. Then the Lord gave her the words of the chaplet, and as she began to pray those words the hand of the ‘angel of punishment’ was stayed! The Lord directed her to pray in those words, and to teach others to do the same.

“Encourage souls to say the chaplet which I have given you…Whoever will recite it will receive great mercy at the hour of death…When they say this chaplet in the presence of the dying, I will stand between My Father and the dying person, not as the Just Judge but as the Merciful Savior…Priests will recommend it to sinners as their last hope of salvation. Even if there were a sinner most hardened, if he were to recite this chaplet only once, he would receive grace from My infinite mercy. I desire to grant unimaginable graces to those souls who trust in My mercy…Through the Chaplet you will obtain everything, if what you ask for is compatible with My will” (Diary, 687, 1541, 1731).

The Chaplet can be prayed anytime, anywhere. The Lord also asked that it be recited as a novena over the 9 days before the Feast of Mercy (Divine Mercy Sunday). We can pray it for our own personal intentions, for others, for the Lord’s intentions. “By this novena [of chaplets] I will grant every possible grace to souls” (Diary, 796).

HAPPY DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY! May the Divine Mercy ever bless you and yours! And may you ever come to Him with the vessel of Trust – and draw!

The Chaplet of Mercy

Recite this chaplet on the beads of the Rosary in the following manner:

First of all, say one Our Father, one Hail Mary, and the I Believe in God.

On the Our Father Beads, say the following words:

Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood Soul and Divinity of Your dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.

On the Hail Mary Beads, say the following words:

For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

In conclusion, recite these words three times:

Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

The Schools of Saint Mary Elementary School Blood Drive a Success!

Congratulations to Mrs. Schnatz and her 4th-grade students who served as “Little Doctors” for the day and did a fantastic job running the Blood Drive on March 22, 2023, in collaboration with New York Blood Center. Thank you to all the parishioners, friends, families, teachers, and staff who donated to help work towards closing the gap on the critical blood shortage in our area. Thanks to their generosity, there were 61 donations, which will save 183 lives! In addition, we are grateful to all the St. Mary’s Elementary School students who donated $5 to “Dress in Red.” They raised $1,373.00 to give to the *Clever Cricket Cure Team, who, in turn, will present the money to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Great job, St. Mary’s!

*The Clever Cricket Cure Team was founded by St. Mary’s Elementary students (now alums), who began their campaign in memory of their fourth-grade teacher, Mrs. Annie Salzman, after she courageously lost her battle with leukemia. Katie Miller, Farrell Duffy, and Ryann Duffy are Student Visionaries of the Year with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Students Strengthen Bonds Celebrating International Week

St. Mary’s Elementary School was proud to hold its annual International Week, where the entire school community participated, making it a fun-filled week of learning, celebration and strengthening bonds. To kick off International Week, students went soaring around the school. Each classroom created a flag to display information about their country’s geography, history, cuisine, and unique, fun facts. Students traveled to different classrooms where they learned about each country and stamped their passport books with the locations they visited.

A favorite highlight of the week was the International Feast, filled with delicious dishes from around the world. Students and families took their taste buds on an adventure and sampled food from various cultures.

The week concluded with a Prayer Service where faculty, administration, students, and parents joined together and prayed the Rosary

in over 15 languages! St. Mary’s had a blast adventuring around the world and, as with all things gave thanks to God for blessing a week well spent learning, embracing diversity and shining together as a school family.

Audiences Enchanted by Cinderellaon Stage

Spanning four spectacular performances, the Saint Mary’s High School Performing Arts Program enchanted its audiences with this year’s spring production of Rodger’s and Hammerstein’s Cinderella. With resounding applause, the multi-talented students – actors, set designers, and production crew transformed the Immaculata Hall Auditorium into a magical space where, no matter what age, the fairytale immersed theatre-goers. Under the direction of Brian Stalter, who also serves on the faculty of the School, the show was a tremendous success. Congratulations to all for a fantastic run! The God-given talents of these students truly bless us.

Parish News

St. Mary’s Opens the Door of Good Samaritan House

After months of planning, designing, and renovations, the collaborative efforts of this project came to life, bearing much fruit for what is now known as the “Good Samaritan House” of the Church of Saint Mary.

OnSunday, March 26, 2023, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, blessing, and open house took place with clergy, staff, volunteers, parishioners, and guests in attendance. Our pastor, Fr. Bob, welcomed all present and joyfully cut the ribbon for the new Parish Social Ministry and Society of St. Vincent de Paul Office – Good Samaritan House. Fr. Bob blessed the outdoor signage and the interior space with Holy water and offered praise and gratitude to those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this historic day a reality for the underserved in our local community.

Thanks to the design expertise of local architect TJ Costello of Hierarchy Designs and Elizabeth Blaney of Maidstone Lane Designs, who donated their time and talents for the renovations, which skillful staff members of the facilities team at St. Mary’s completed.

Fr. Bob noted, “we are especially grateful to Richard Salat, who, through his parent’s legacy, the Joseph A. and Dorothy A. Salat Charitable Foundation, underwrote the renovation cost. St.

Mary’s is truly blessed to receive such generous gifts that enable us to provide aid in a warm, welcoming office space, which ensures the dignity of those who enter our door.”

Director of Parish Social Ministry Kathleen Kosciusko was elated during the open house festivities as she greeted guests and donors. “As a service group, we are blessed to minister to our parishioners and the surrounding community members

who face daily challenges making ends meet. Through this new office, we will continue to expand our services and the scope of our work as good samaritans. Whether it be our outreach for those to receive the most Holy Eucharist at home, bereavement support, providing clothing or food, the breadth of the missionary work we do in God’s name to reach the elderly, homebound, the poor, those at most risk will continue and expand as we move ahead in our new headquarters.”

| Photos by Chris Mare for the Office of

In Session with Dr. Patricia Pitta

“Let There Be Peace on Earth and Good Will To Men.”

(Luke

2:14)

In this time of Christ’s resurrection, I am reminded of Christ’s birth. He came to us to be the light that helps his followers save themselves and humanity. He died for us to show us the way of redemption proven by His resurrection.

In this time of heightened anxiety on community, state, national and global levels, people feel helpless. Many say they don’t listen to the news any longer because it makes them anxious, and they feel helpless. What can you do about the many events in our world that seem so destructive and out of our control?

As I see it, we can do something, each one of us, by building peace within you through developing the strongest relationship you can with GOD. You might ask, “How can this help bring about peace in your local world or in far reaching lands?” The stronger your relationship with GOD, the more centered you will be in strength and goodness to help yourself and those around you. You never know who you touch and how that connection will influence another. They will

integrate the love you show them and share with another; and before you know it, positive actions and reactions are shared with others.

As I interact with you in a positive and loving way, you will internalize that and your next interaction with someone, somewhere, can be positive and loving, too. That person you interacted with will share the love with someone else through a word, gesture, or some act. This is known as a “transmission process”. In families, psychologists talk about generational transmission processes. Families influence the next generation by how they interact with them and then the next generation repeats many patterns and, of course, puts their own signature on it, and the hope is that the good continues.

So, as you work on developing your own inner peace, you are creating more peace on earth. As you share in the Easter celebration of Christ’s resurrection and new beginnings, you can create new beginnings right in your own environment with your family, friends and community.

Be sure to make prayer a part of your celebration. You can also ask each person to think about beginning something positive for themselves in this season of Christ’s resurrection

that will not only influence their own personal life, but those they touch. Do make prayer a focus with the intent of creating a safer and less violent world with peace at its center. Below is a prayer you can say alone or in community.

Happy Easter from the St. Mary’s Mental Health Ministry.

As I sit with others in humble gratitude for JESUS’ suffering, death, and resurrection, may I be inspired to touch another with the love and compassion that JESUS bestows on me. Amen.

Dr. Pitta (drpatriciapitta.com) is a Clinical and Board-Certified Couple and Family Psychologist practicing in Manhasset and is the chair of the Mental Health Ministry of St. Mary’s. She is a professor of psychology at St. John’s University and a graduate of the Pastoral Formation Institute of Rockville Centre. Dr. Pitta is the author of Solving Modern Family Dilemmas: An Assimilative Therapy Model published by Routledge and Integrative Couple and Family Therapy published by the American Psychological Association.

Let the little children come to me... (Matthew 19:14) Church of Saint Mary

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• TREE OR FLOWERS PLANTED AT YOUR HOME

• LOCAL RESTAURANT GIFT CERTIFICATES

• FINE WINES/LIQUOR

• DANCE/MUSIC LESSONS/CLASSES

MISCELLANEOUS

• DESIGNER CLOTHING/HANDBAG/SUNGLASSES

• SPORTING/EXERCISE EQUIPMENT

• LUGGAGE

• FINE JEWELRY/WATCHES

• SKIS/SNOWBOARD

• SMART TV/DVD/BLU-RAY PLAYERS

• COMPUTERS/LAPTOPS/PRINTERS

• IPAD/IPHONE/IPOD

• WII/XBOX/PLAYSTATION

• ART/PAINTINGS/SIGNED PRINTS

• FINE CHINA/CRYSTAL

• FURNITURE/OUTDOOR FURNITURE

• GARDEN SCULPTURES/PLANTERS

• TOYS/JUVENILE FURNITURE

• GARDEN TOOLS/SUPPLIES

• KINDLE/NOOK

• CAMERAS/COMPUTER GAMES

• HOOKED RUGS/QUILTS

• HOLIDAY GIFT BASKETS

• BABY GIFTS

SPECIAL PACKAGES/EXPERIENCES

• DAY SPA

• LUNCH/DINNER ON A BOAT

• CELEBRITY MEMORABILIA

• AUTOGRAPHED CDS/BOOKS/SCRIPTS

• CONDO/CABIN/SKI RESORTS

• LOCAL LIMO/DINNER/OVERNIGHT HOTEL

• CATERED DINNERS

• GOLF PACKAGES

Celebrating Our 170th Anniversary

Parish Social Ministry

“And He departed from our sight that we might return to our heart, and there find Him. For He departed, and behold, He is here” – St. Augustine

May the joyful news of Christ’s resurrection bring peace to you and your loved ones. Blessed Easter from the Office of St. Mary’s Parish Social Ministry

The Office of Parish Social Ministry would like to thank everyone who participated in the Easter candy drive. Your kindness and generosity are greatly appreciated!

Society of St. Vincent de Paul

Today as we celebrate the feast of Easter, we find the challenge of also seeing and believing the resurrection that comes through our own lives of self-sacrifice. It is then that we are truly Easter people! As you place your gift in the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Poor Box, know that you are a sign of God’s love to those who are suffering, and you give them Easter hope and joy.

Our St. Vincent de Paul Conference is able to help our neighbors in need through the generosity of our St. Mary’s parishioners. Each time you donate, either through the collection slots at the doors of the church, or in an envelope marked for St. Vincent de Paul, you are helping our neighbors within St. Mary’s Parish. If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, contact the St. Vincent de Paul Society at 516-627-0385, ext. 1125, or email SVDP@stmary.ws. To donate furniture, clothing or household items, please call the store in Garden City Park at 516-746-8250. Thank you for your continued support.

CYO Basketball

St. Mary’s 6th Grade Boys Win Diocesan Championships

On Sunday, March 26th, the St. Mary’s 6th Grade CYO Boys’ teams clinched the diocesan championship in both the “A” and “B” divisions in great games played at Holy Trinity High School. Congratulations!

Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

Easter Prayer of Saint Hippolytus of Rome

Christ is Risen: The world below lies desolate Christ is Risen: The spirits of evil are fallen Christ is Risen: The angels of God are rejoicing Christ is Risen: The tombs of the dead are empty Christ is Risen indeed from the dead, the first of the sleepers, Glory and power are his forever and ever.

EASTER PRAYERS

Good and gracious God, Our most glorious Creator, As we greet the signs in nature around us: Of Spring once again regaling us in bloom, In the songs of returning birds and fields soon to be planted, We give you praise for an even greater sign of new life: the resurrection of your Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, that we especially celebrate at this time. The sadness and despair of his death has given way to the bright promise of immortality.

For the Resurrection is our guarantee that justice will triumph over treason, Light will overcome darkness, and love will conquer death. As we celebrate, we also dare to ask for your grace that we may live the promise given to us,

By imitating the life of Jesus in reaching out to the poor, the marginalized, the least among us, As we strive to be neighbor to all those we meet, We ask your special blessings each and every day on our civic leaders. Working with them may we strive to make this great country of ours a beacon of hope and justice in a world hungry for peace and so in need of your love. We praise you in this Easter season. Change our lives, change our hearts to be messengers of Easter joy and hope. We make our prayer through Jesus Christ, Our Risen Lord forever. Amen.

Draw Us Forth

Draw us forth, God of all creation. Draw us forward and away from limited certainty into the immense world of your love. Give us the capacity to even for a moment taste the richness of the feast you give us. Give us the peace to live with uncertainty, with questions, with doubts. Help us to experience the Resurrection anew with open wonder and an increasing ability to see you in the people of Easter.

Liturgical Ministry

Are You Interested in Serving St. Mary’s as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (EM) or a Lector?

The Diocese of Rockville Centre has announced Spring Training Dates and Locations

Please Note:

Only candidates recommended by the Pastor are eligible for the training

Send an email to Fr. Bob at pastor@stmary.ws to tell him of your interest in becoming an EM and/or Lector and give the date and location of the training session(s) you prefer

For Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, Part A* and Lectors

Tuesday, April 25th - St. Elizabeth in Melville - 7:00 - 10:00 PM

Saturday, June 3rd - St. Paul the Apostle in Brookville - 9:00 AM - 12:00 Noon

For Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, Part A*

Saturday, May 6th - Christ the King in Commack - 9:00 AM - 12:00 Noon

For Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, Part B* (presented in conjunction with Catholic Health)

Saturday, May 6th - Christ the King in Commack - 1:00 - 4:00 PM**

Tuesday, May 16th - St. Elizabeth in Melville - 6:30 - 9:30 PM

Saturday, June 3rd - St. Paul the Apostle in Brookville - 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM**

*Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, Part A Training - This “BASIC” training is required of all those beginning as Ministers. Those wish to minister in hospitals, nursing homes, eldercare facilities, and to the homebound are required to attend Part B Training in addition to BASIC Training. BASIC Training must be taken before the Part B Training. If you have taken the Part A Training only in the past, but would now like to serve in hospitals, etc. you should indicate your interest in EM Part B Training only. Questions about EM training and service may be directed to Jane Clifford, Coordinator of EMs at St. Mary’s, at bulletin@stmary.ws.

**We are offering Part A and Part B on the SAME day. Those who attend Part A in the morning are welcome to bring lunch or leave for lunch and return for the 1pm Part B session. Only those pre-registered for part B will be allowed to stay for this second session.

Lector training may be taken by both new and experienced lectors. Questions about serving as a Lector at St. Mary’s may be directed to Rich Bentley, Coordinator of Lectors at St. Mary’s, at RBentley@downstate.edu.

Marriage Struggling?

Do you feel alone?

Are you frustrated or angry with each other?

Do you argue or have you just stopped talking to each other?

Does talking about it only make it worse?

Are you separated or divorced, or thinking about separation or divorce?

Another marriage-saving weekend is coming to the Metro/New York Area:

April, 21-23 2023

November, 4-6 2022

The Retrouvaille Program helps couples through difficult times in their marriages. To be connected directly and confidentially to someone who can help, or to register, contact:

1-800-470-2230

or

www.helpourmarriage.org

Long Island/Metro Retrouvaille is a 5013c non-profit, peer ministry. Couples of all faiths, or no faith, are encouraged to attend, and no one is ever turned away for lack of funds.

Retrouvaille

(Retro vi – French for rediscover)

Because No Marriage is Beyond Hope

Let us celebrate Christs Ressurection. Let us also celebrate our relationship. Psalm 104: “Lord, send out your Spirit and renew the face of the earth.” As you renew your faith, your baptismal promises, also renew your loving relationship with your spouse by signing up and attend a Worldwide Marriage Encounter Experience.

June 23-25, 2023 in Huntington, NY

Worldwide Marriage Encounter sponsors a variety of in-person and virtual marriage experiences, some on weekends and some on seven weekdays. Couples explore their relationship with each other, God, and the Church. Registration is limited; there is a $100 application fee. For more information or to apply, call Chuck & Maria Reiss at 631-486-8607 or https:// wwmenyli.org/.