CHURCH of SAINT MARY The Third Sunday of Advent Gaudete Sunday December 17, 2023
Reverend Father Robert A. Romeo | Pastor Reverend Father Dominik Wegiel | Parochial Vicar Reverend Father Rafal Borowiejski | Parochial Vicar Reverend Father Edward Obi, MSP | Parochial Vicar
1300 Northern Boulevard | Manhasset, New York 11030 516 627 0385 | Fax 516 627 6070 www.saintmarysmanhasset.org
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
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. Rafal Borowiejski Parochial Vicar
Sacrament of Penance
Rev. Fr. Edward Obi, MSP Parochial Vicar
Saturdays from 4:00-4:45 PM and by appointment. Please call 627-0385.
Parish Staff
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
Jane Clifford Bulletin Editor bulletin@stmary.ws 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 Jennifer LaChance Office Manager 627-0385 information@stmary.ws Daniel Maimone Music Director 627-0385 | ext. 1021 dmaimone@saintmarysmanhasset.org 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
From the Pastor’s Desk Dear Parishioners,
“Make straight the way of the Lord.” (Mark 1:3) The third Sunday of Advent is traditionally called “Gaudete Sunday” or Rejoice Sunday. St. Paul begins his letter today with the words “Rejoice always.” There is a reason for our joy, the coming of the Lord. The Advent scriptures were, until this point, unclear about who this Messiah would be. St. John the Baptist is asked if he is the Christ, or Elijah, or one of the prophets. He tells them he is not. He tells them he is simply a voice that cries in the wilderness…a call to repentance in preparation for the coming of the Christ. As a prophet that calls for the new era, St. John the Baptist echoes the words of the prophet Isaiah in today’s Gospel. The people of the Old Testament waited in longing for the promised Messiah. He would be one who would proclaim and BE the presence of God in their midst. For this Messiah to come, the people were called to a deep and abiding repentance. The images of the valleys being filled and the mountains made low were a metaphor for the people of Israel themselves. For them and for us, in this holy Season of Advent, we are called to prepare for the coming of the Lord. St. Paul reminds us that, though time for God is different than it is for us, we must still search and wait for that Second Coming. The waiting is not a passive waiting, but an active call. St. Paul reminds us that it is a journey that should fill us with joy always. The awareness of our guilt should not fill us with despair but peace in the knowledge that Jesus has given us the opportunity and means by which we can repent. It should not be guilt that keeps us in our muck. The acknowledging of our sins should lift us from sin to the light of Jesus’ promise. This understanding of our failings can be found in St. Paul’s advice to us, “to pray without ceasing.” Prayer opens us to God’s will for us and the pinpointing of our own failings AND accomplishments. So again we turn to the image of the mountains and the valleys. The path that is separated by a mountain range or a deep valley makes travel difficult at best and impossible at worst. We are reminded that anything that hinders an open heart to God must be changed. So the road to our heart needs to be straight for the Lord to enter. We need to heed the call of St. John the Baptist so we can be converted. St. Paul tells us that Jesus “wants no one to be lost.” In order for us to be counted among the saved, we need to profess that Jesus is truly Lord of our lives. When we confess the lordship of Jesus, it then demands a response on our part. These weeks of Advent are the “wake up” call for each of us to take stock of who we are. St. Paul goes on to remind us that in order to be saved we also have to “change our ways” to straighten the paths that the Lord uses to enter our lives. I am sure most of us are aware of those areas that need the healing touch of Jesus. Like those times when we act contrary to the Gospel which keep the mountainous path to our hearts so high that Jesus’ light and voice cannot “get through.” Are the teachings of Jesus important enough that we want to incorporate them into our everyday experiences? Are we as loving, forgiving, and merciful as we can be? Do our words and actions about and to others reflect a deep-seated respect and concern for them? What are the mountains that keep the Lord out? What valleys make the pathway to your heart a difficult journey? Make every day of Advent count. Pray unceasingly; give thanks and rejoice always! Go to confession this Advent, feel the healing of Jesus, and continue to...PREPARE THE WAY OF THE LORD! Bishop Barres made his pastoral visit to the schools. It was an exciting day for the Schools of St. Mary as the Bishop toured the new Middle School and blest the Chapel in the High School. The students formed an honor guard as Bishop Barres carried the Blessed Sacrament from the church and reposed the sacrament in the High School Chapel. In Jesus, our long expected Savior, Fr. Bob
The Third Sunday of Advent | December 17, 2023
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Stewards of God’s Gifts In today’s Gospel John the Baptist says, “I am the voice of one crying in the desert; make straight the way of the Lord.” Let us ask for the grace to help others to know the love of the Lord. Christmas is a time of love and gift giving…please give to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul so that those who do not have clothes and food can share in the blessings of Christmas.
The collection amount for Sunday, December 10, 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.”
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 Ministry We care for our sisters and brothers through our Parish Social Ministry and Food Pantry. For information call 365-2705.
Marriage Youth Ministry
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.
We reach out to our teens though our Youth Ministry Program. For information email youth@stmary.ws or visit stmarysyouth.weebly.com.
Children’s Education
New Parishioners
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.
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.
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
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.
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Masses and Special Intentions Jane Hone Ronald Grubert Mickey Kennedy Dr. Michael O’Grady Sarah Horsham Gladys Jean Nina Principe Douglas Martocci, Sr. Theresa Fallon Cole Marguglio Katharine Whelan Christine Marchese Sandy Pittman Carol Furciato Maria DeAngelis Mason Donna Chesney Tom Francess Erica Klock Gabriel Romeo Jacob Rivera Helen Kennedy Jaxson Rivera Ann Shields Names will remain on the list for three months. Please email bulletin@stmary.ws if you would like to continue with the listing. Edward Wachowicz, Sr. Phil Quartararo Anna M. Forte Hilton, Nathaniel, SGT, USA Horner, Brian G., 1stLt, USMC Howard, Edward, PV2, USA Hussey, James M., GySgt, USMC Jones, Scott B., LT, USN Jones, Katherine L., LTJG, USN Kennedy, Michael, Col, USAF 125th Brigade Support Battalion LaManna, Vincent S., Jr., PVT, USA 23rd Marine Regiment Landolphi, Michael, ENS, USN 25th Marine Regiment Lanza, Anthony E., LtCol, USMC 2-4 GSAB Task Force Mustang Madden, Michael E., Major, USAF 2-211th GSAB Task Force Major, A. Edward, III, LTC, USA War Horse Marine Medium Tilt Rotor Squadron 161 51st Security Force Squadron Marine Transport Squadron 352 75th Ranger Regiment McGorry, Patrick F., HM2, USN 82nd Expeditionary Rescue Squadron McKievear, Gary, LT, USA Alacqua, Alexander, 1LT, USA Millau, Jeffrey, PFC, USMC Amerson, Jason, CPT, USA Morris, Jr., Brian J., MAC, USN Anderson, Michael, 1LT, USA O’Leary, Jason, SSgt, USAF Arnold, James, LCpl, USMC Petracca, Evan L., LTJG, USN Arnoux, Seraph, PFC, USA Quinn, Anthony, Jr., SGT, USA Avasthi, David, Capt, USAF Richardson, Timothy, PV2, USA Baber, Joseph, Maj, USAF Broderick, Evan, SGT, USA Radman, Paul Cpl, USMC Broderick, Steven, SN, USN Rodi, Caroline G., CAPT, USN Brodie, Virgina H., 2ndLt, USMC Saville, John A., ENS, USN Brown, Jason, SGT, USA Sharkey, John J., LtCol, USMC Collins, Matthew, LT, USN Spivak III, Edmund, Capt, USAF Fontanetta, Joseph, Maj, USMC Sweeney, Timothy, CPT, USA Hannan, Jack, ENS, USN Swersky, Roberto, Capt, USMC Tafone, Samantha, SGT, USA Hayes, Andrew, Capt, USMC Ullrich, Kenneth C., HN, USN Hellman, Thomas, 2d Lt, USSF Unger, Matthew J., SPC, USA Hernandez, Steven, SSgt, USAF Vachris, Madison, LTJG, USN Higgins, James, GySgt, USMC Wood, Kelly, BMSR, USN Hilton, Justin, SGT, USA 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.
Masses for the Week Monday, December 18th Jer 23:5-8, Mt 1:18-25 9:00 AM | Christine M. Regan, ’81 ’85 Tuesday, December 19th Jgs 13:2-7, 24-25a, Lk 1:5-25 9:00 AM | Mimi & Vincent de Venoge Wednesday, December 20th Is 7:10-14, Lk 1:26-38 9:00 AM | Patrick Edwards Thursday, December 21st St. Peter Canisius, Priest & Doctor of the Church Sg 2:8-14, Lk 1:39-45 7:00 AM | Juan Francisco Montalvo 9:00 AM | Regina Boscaino Friday, December 22nd 1 Sm 1:24-28, Lk 1:46-56 9:00 AM | Marie Proietto Saturday, December 23rd St. John of Kanty, Priest Mal 3:1-4, 23-24, Lk 1:57-66 9:00 AM | Charles Vachris 5:00 PM | Peter J. Calabretta, Sr. Thomas J. Flynn, Sr. Kenneth Smith James O’Brien, Sr. Harriet & Joseph Brensic John J. McIntyre, III Thomas C. Keating Sunday, December 24th The Fourth Sunday of Advent Christmas Eve 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16, Rom 16:25-27, Lk 1:26-38 7:30 AM | People of the Parish 9:00 AM | Teddy Newkirk 10:30 AM | Wally CasaNova 12:00 Noon | Steven Salerno Josephine Arkwright Mercedes Freund Gladys Henry John Hagerty Mary Corcoran 4:00 PM| Victoria Strocchia Al Pennisi Deceased Members of the Forlenza/ Claps Families Dolores & Joseph Marino Harriet & Thomas Hayes Martin Woody McHale Martin Gately 4:15 PM| Deceased Members of the Soden and Butler Families 5:30 PM | Tim & Timothy Dowd 11:00 PM | Robert Symmons
Cover: St. John the Baptist Preaching. Artist: Luca Giordano (1634-1705).
The Third Sunday of Advent | December 17, 2023
ST. MARY’S GIFT SHOP IS OPEN ON SUNDAYS AFTER THE 9:00, 10:30 AM, & 12:00 NOON MASSES WE HAVE BEAUTIFUL GIFT ITEMS FOR ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS We are in the Parish Ministry Center below the church. 516-627-0385 ext. 1033
Readings and Questions for Faith Sharing on the Fourth Sunday of Advent Reading I: 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16 “I will fix a place for my people Israel; I will plant them so that they may dwell in their place.” Reading II: Romans 16:25-27 The command of the eternal God, made known to all nations to bring about the obediance of faith.
Let the little children come to me... (Matt 19:14)
Children’s Liturgy of the Word Every Sunday at the 9:00 AM Mass
Gospel: Luke 1:26-38 “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.”
Business Owners: Please consider advertising in our bulletin. It’s a great way to support our parish. Call our printer, LPi at 1-800-477-4574 or visit their website www.4lpi.com for more information. We are in region 03.
Question for Adults: When God asks me to do extraordianry things, do I trust the way that Mary did? Question for Children: Who are the people around me that do extraordianry things for God? How can I follow their example?
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Celebrate Christmas at St. Mary’s Confessions Saturday, December 16th 9:45 to 10:45 AM Thursday, December 21st 9:45 to 10:45 AM 7:00 to 8:00 PM Friday, December 22nd 9:45 to 10:45 AM Saturday, December 23rd 9:45 to 10:45 AM 4:00 to 4:45 PM
Christmas Eve Masses Sunday, December 24th 4:00 PM in Church 4:15 PM in Elementary School Wiest Gym 5:30 PM in Church 11:00 PM Mass in Church Christmas Music begins at 10:30 PM
Christmas Day Masses Monday, December 25th 7:30 AM in Church 9:00 AM in Church 10:30 AM in Church 12:00 Noon in Church 12:15 PM in Elementary School Wiest Gym
Schedule is subject to change. There is an elevator for those who have difficulty with stairs at the south entrance to the Church and at the entrance to Wiest Gym. Please Note: “Midnight” Mass begins at 11:00 PM this year. The 7:30, 9:00, 10:30 AM and 12:00 Noon Masses on Sunday, December 24th will be for the 4th Sunday of Advent as will the 5:00 PM Mass on Saturday, December 23rd.
Academic ST. MARY’S HIGH SCHOOL
Student Government Visits County Seat
Members of the Student Government Association at St. Mary's High School went on a field trip on November 27, 2023, to the Nassau County Seat in Mineola. Nassau County Legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip, who represents Legislative District 10 – which includes Manhasset, invited the students to visit the Executive Offices of Nassau County and learn about the function of our local government. During the tour, the students visited the legislative chamber and had the opportunity to converse with multiple legislators. For many students who aspire to work in public service someday, this trip was an encouraging experience. We thank Legislator Pilip for the invitation and tour. (Photos courtesy of Nassau County).
In Session with Dr. Patricia Pitta “Let There Be Peace on Earth and Let It Begin with Me” “The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” (Deuteronomy 33:27) The title of this essay is one of my favorite songs. I love to hear and sing this song while attending Mass. When I do sing, my sense of calm and protection within increases immensely. In this Christmas season full of joy, hope and giving, how can we lift ourselves and those who struggle? The answer is simple: Get closer to God through Jesus and the Holy Spirit. How might you do this? Another simple answer: Through prayer while alone or with others. So, no matter what strife you are enduring, a relationship with God enables you to comfort your mind, body, and soul. A colleague of mine commented on something I said about fairness. He said, “Pat, life is not fair and if you want fair, go to an amusement park.” I was kind of shocked when he said that, but it is true, “Life is not fair.” Another statement that comes to mind is “Through God, all is possible.” That does not mean that you get all that you want. It
means that what you achieve both emotionally and physically comes through God. So, whatever comes your way, the way to deal with adversity is to look for God’s grace and wisdom to make the adjustments necessary to be able to move forward and manage the life that you have and at the same time be grateful for the positives you have. That is the definition of being resilient. Even in our darkest moments, there are positives in our midst. As the Bible says, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4) So, as you celebrate Christmas, whether alone or with a crowd, stay centered on the meaning of Christmas that Jesus was sent to us to show us the way. He is our greatest gift. He is always there and ready to help, receive, and save us. To demonstrate your readiness and willingness to share in the joy of Christmas, do acts of kindness for and with others. If you cannot do physical gifts of kindness, pray for all those who are afflicted with pain and loss which everyone experiences in different ways and degrees. We all struggle because we are all human, living in an imperfect world. Also, pray for yourself and join with Jesus in a crusade to bring peace within and for others.
To help with bringing peace on earth, calm your insides and mind and open your heart to the love of Jesus and you will envision the world through different glasses of hope, kindness and love towards others. Below is a prayer to promote inner peace within and between you and others. Merry Christmas from the Mental Health Ministry which means you are always loved and cared for by Jesus. I do embrace peace and I will not let it get away! (adaption of Psalm 34:14) My dear Jesus, keep me in a state where I am embraced by your love that no matter what happens, I can stay focused on loving myself and others as you love me. This way I can help those in need and serve as a model of hope and love for all. Amen. Dr. Pitta is a Clinical and Family Psychologist practicing in Manhasset and is the chair of the Mental Health Ministry of St. Mary’s. She is the former Director of the Integrative Couple and Family Therapy Post-Graduate Program of psychology at St. John’s University. Dr. Pitta is a graduate of the Pastoral Formation Institute of Rockville Centre. She is the author of Solving Modern Family Dilemmas: An Assimilative Therapy Model published by Routledge Publishers, and Integrative Couple and Family Therapy published by the American Psychological Association.
Bread & Wine are offered this week in loving memory of
John Hagerty
First Time Kevin Miller and Sabina Jargilo St. Mary, St. Mary, Manhasset, NY Manhasset, NY
Father Bob announces a change in leadership at the Schools of Saint Mary A new president will take the helm on January 1, 2024, as Father Elias assumes a new post in Austria. Rev. Fr. Robert A. Romeo, pastor of the Church and Schools of St. Mary, announces that the Most Reverend Anton Höslinger, Can. Reg., provost of Stift Klosterneuburg, has appointed his confrère, Father Elias Carr, Can. Reg., to succeed him as the abbey’s kämmerer, its chief financial officer. “This appointment came as a complete surprise to me. I felt totally overwhelmed,” Fr. Elias said, adding, “The confidence of the provost and the Chapter Council humbles and honors me.” The final approval for the appointment took place on December 6, 2023. “I am grateful to the wonderful members of the Schools of Saint Mary for these three and a half years of service – first as a substitute teacher, then as chair of the theology department, and lastly, as president.” Fr. Elias added, “I feel well prepared for my new role as kämmerer because I have learned much from Fr. Bob, who is an exemplary pastor, leader, brother priest, and most of all, friend.” In addition to his primary responsibility as kämmerer, Fr. Elias will also serve as the pastor of the parish of Saints Peter and Paul in Weidling, a village within the city of Klosterneuburg. “Although I am sad to leave St. Mary’s, which I have grown to love as a school and parish, I am happy to assure you that you will be in good hands with the next president.” While it is with much sadness that Fr. Bob and the Schools of St. Mary wish Fr. Elias well in his future endeavors, our pastor is happy to announce a seamless transition to the new president, the Very Reverend Dom Daniel Nash, Can. Reg., Prior of the Canonry of Saint Leopold in Glen Clove, and Fr. Elias’ confrère. “We are deeply grateful for the ongoing engagement of the Canons Regular of Saint Augustine…” Fr. Bob said, “…even though they are now one fewer. Their willingness to support the educational mission of St. Mary’s is a wonderful sign of their commitment to the future success of our schools.” Fr. Daniel brings a wealth of experience to the Schools of Saint Mary. A priest for over 25 years, Fr. Daniel served seven years in three parishes in the Archdiocese of Washington, DC, before his novitiate in Klosterneuburg. He became pastor of
the third largest church in Vienna, St. Leopold in Donaufeld, where he served for six years. He co-founded the Canonry of St. Leopold with Fr. Elias in 2011 and served as pastor of St. Patrick for six years before becoming pastor of St. Rocco in 2017 and St. Hyacinth in 2020. “I am so thrilled to be able to serve at St. Mary’s and now get to know personally the schools about which I have heard so much from Fr. Elias. And having the opportunity again to work in Catholic education with Fr. Bob is as exciting as it is unexpected.” Growing up on Long Island, he attended Catholic schools. During his undergraduate days at the Catholic University of America, Fr. Daniel was a master of ceremonies for the sacred liturgy at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and editor of the student newspaper, The Tower. After completing pre-theology at Catholic University, James Cardinal Hickey sent him to the North American College for Seminary in Rome for five years. He earned his bachelor’s degree in sacred theology and then his licentiate in moral theology at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas (Angelicum) before his 1997 ordination to the priesthood in St. Matthew’s Cathedral in Washington, DC. Thanks to his extensive linguistic abilities – he speaks several languages – Fr. Daniel regularly celebrates Mass in English, Spanish, Italian, and Latin, and whenever possible, in German. Besides his work as a Latin teacher, Fr. Daniel served as Fr. Bob’s successor as the executive pastor of the Board of Pastors at All Saints Regional Catholic School and as an ombudsman to facilitate communication and relationships among the various constituencies of the school community. “I am extremely grateful for the many gifts and talents Fr. Elias brought to our schools…” Fr. Bob commented, “…including honing academic excellence, engagement, and listening to faculty to forge a sustainable future, and deepening the Catholic dimension of student life.” Having worked with Fr. Daniel for many years as his local dean and as executive pastor of All Saints Regional Catholic School, Fr. Bob stated that he is confident of Fr. Daniel’s aptitude for this critical leadership position, “With my appointment of Fr. Daniel, I am confident that he will build on the vision of Fr. Elias and previous presidents as he brings to bear his personal gifts and pastoral experience to face the future with strength and certainty. Please join me in welcoming Fr. Daniel to our wonderful St. Mary’s family.”
Rosary Society Christmas Dinner 2023 On December 6th, our Rosarians celebrated the beginning of the Advent season together at our annual Christmas fundraiser, held at Strathmore Vanderbilt Country Club. This festive event included pop up boutiques and a plethora of raffle baskets donated by our Rosarians, local businesses and vendors in attendance. Thank you to all who donated basket items, time, and talent. Thank you to those Rosarians who couldn’t attend, as well as parishioners who are not members, but contributed because they believe in our mission. So many people had a hand in making this event, our only fundraiser of the year, such a success. Funds raised enable us to continue to support our charitable causes throughout the parish, especially scholarships to the Schools of St Mary. The evening was a great opportunity to catch up with old friends and meet new ones. We were treated to a special rendition of Christmas Songs, sung by students from St. Mary’s High School, under the direction of Brian Statler. A special raffle was held to benefit the high school music program. A Vintage bottle of Pierrier Jouet was anonymously donated and raffled off. The Rosarians gave generously and raised $1,000.00 for the program. Lastly, thank you to all who participated in the Champions for Charity on behalf of the Rosary Society and the Schools of St Mary this season. Twenty five percent of your pretax purchase will be donated back to us by the Americana. The Rosary Society board of St. Mary wishes each member, our Daughters of Mary, every parishioner and their family a joyous Advent season and a blessed Christmas. May we remember to keep Christ in Christmas. Prinzipia G. Duggan, President
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Rosary Society
Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament The Real Presence of Jesus
Prayer before the Blessed Sacrament
-St. Francis of Assisi (1181-1226)
-St. Pope John XXIII (1881-1963)
The whole world should tremble and heaven rejoice, when Christ, the Son of the living God, is present on the altar in the hands of the priest. What wonderful majesty! What stupendous condescension! O sublime humility! O humble sublimity! That the Lord of the whole universe, God and the Son of God, should humble himself like this and hide under the form of a little bread for our salvation. Look at God’s condescension, my brothers, and pour out your hearts before him, humble
O Jesus, present in the Sacrament of the Altar, teach all nations to serve you with a willing heart, knowing that to serve God is to reign. May your sacrament, O Jesus, be light to the mind, strength to the will, joy to the heart. May it be the support for the weak, the comfort for the suffering, the wayfaring bread of salvation for the dying and, for all, the pledge of future glory
Prayer for Lighting the Advent Wreath Candles Third Week Lord God, may we, your people, who look forward to the birthday of Christ experience the joy of salvation and celebrate that feast with love and thanksgiving. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament with Closing Benediction Mondays 3:00 - 5:00 PM in the Church
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? x Are you separated or divorced, or thinking about separation or divorce? x x x x
THE CHURCH OF ST. MARY, MANHASSET HISTORY ARCHIVES PROJECT
YOUR HELP IS NEEDED! At Fr. Bob’s direction, a new project has begun to update and add to the history of the parish of St. Mary, Manhasset. ALL PARISHIONERS are asked to support this endeavor, as we search for documents, photos, and other items related to events during the past 170 years of St. Mary. If you have any of the following from any event, ministry, or of any of the Schools of St. Mary’s, sharing these would be greatly appreciated: Photos Journals, Programs Announcements Newspaper articles Family remembrances Information regarding: The Elementary and High School (s) Past pastors, priests, nuns, school principals Clergy & Religious who were parish residents Knights of Columbus, Rosary Society, and other ministries Celebrations, graduations, sacraments, galas, etc. Any and all of these would be very helpful. PLEASE NOTE: Any article of information which you wish to be returned can be “digitized” (scanned) and saved, then returned to you. Please include this request with your item with the contact information for its return to you. There will be a box placed in the Parish Office to receive these valuable pieces of our parish’s history. We appreciate any aid as we look forward to the Centennial of the Elementary School (in 2026) and the Parish’s 175th Anniversary (in 2028). For more information, please contact either Mary Lou de Venoge 516-993-2706 doggonelab@msn.com or Marijo Lantier 917-496-5640 MALantier510@gmail.com
Another marriage-saving weekend is coming to the Metro/New York Area: January 19-21, November, 4-62024 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
Third Sunday of Advent: Rejoice Always! Issiah 61:1: “The spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24: “May the God of peace make you perfectly holy and may you entirely, spirit, soul, and body, be preserved blameless for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will also accomplish it.” Let the Lord transform your marriage. Give your spouse a gift. Attend a Worldwide Marriage Encounter Experience. You can find one by looking up WWME.org Some of the dates to sign up are: January 26-28, 2024 in Derby Line, VT February 9-11, 2024 in Huntington, NY March 15-17, 2024 in Upton, MA 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 Kevin & Regina Hickson at 516-554-3835 or https://wwmenyli.org/.
Religious Education Dear St. Mary’s Family, One can only imagine the joy the Mother of God experienced during the time of Advent. Hidden from the world, she knew that Divine Love was growing in silence within her. God would not ask blessed Mary to leave or change the ordinary circumstances of her life. Weaving, washing, cooking meals, and tending the home were all carried out with tenderness to prepare for his coming. Christ’s hands became hers –and she took Him into every part of the home with a mother’s love. St. Mary’s Religious Education students continue to journey through this season of Advent. All classes have spent time studying the beautiful significance of the Advent wreath and its candles. Advent Blessings, Mrs. Granieri
Music Ministry ATTENTION! All 3rd through 8th Graders St. Mary’s Youth Choir Is BACK! WE NEED YOU!
Our Adult Choir Is Recruiting New Members High Schoolers and Up All Voice Parts
Rehearsals are on Wednesdays in the church 6:00 PM for the Youth Choir 7:30 PM for the Adult Choir Come join us as we prepare for Christmas! For more information, please email our Music Director, Daniel Maimone dmaimone@saintmarysmanhasset.org
Society of St. Vincent de Paul Imagine how Mary felt at the birth of Jesus: excited, awed, frightened. Deep faith was her light in the darkness, for Jesus was born during the night of the year when darkness is the longest. Your gift to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul brought light into the darkness surrounding the heart of those living in poverty bringing them the real, lasting, and deep joy of Christmas. 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 V 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.
Get Ready for Christmas! Advent Prayer Group Last Meeting on Tuesday at 1:00 PM All are welcome to come on December 19th even if you were not at the other meetings. The group will meet in the parish library. Please contact Sr. Teresa at 516-627-0385, ext. 1010 with any questions or for more information.
ST. MARY’S ELEMENTARY SCHOOL EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM Registration for the St. Mary’s Early Childhood Program featuring Cherubs (2s), Nursery (3s), Pre-K (4s), and Kindergarten classes is now open for 2024!
Enroll by Jan. 1 for “Early Bird” Tuition Incentive
1340 Northern Blvd. Manhasset, NY 516-627-0184
TO LEARN MORE SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT SAINTMARYSES.ORG
Knights of Columbus Father William A. Daly S.J. Council #2122 Serving St. Mary’s Parish in Manhasset and St. Aloysius Parish In Great Neck www.kofc2122.org
What is a Knights of Columbus Family? We are Catholic families building a bridge to our faith. Our lives, time, efforts, and resources are dedicated to these values: Charity. Unity. Fraternity. Patriotism. We come from different places, backgrounds, and all stages of life. But the common thread is our Catholic faith. We are Catholic families seeking to improve ourselves and the world. It’s one thing to say who you are. It’s another thing is to live it. Put your values into practice. Become a Knights of Columbus family. Interested? Please call: Tony Racioppo 917 539 0859 Dan Garcia 516 358 1817 Ladies interested in joining the Columbiettes Please contact Maura Clifford at Macliff56@gmail.com
Venerable Anthony Vincent Gallo Diocesan Priest, Oblate of the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart Montforte Irpino: 11 January 1899 - Rome: 2 May 1934
O Most Holy Trinity, Who deigned to raise Venerable Anthony Vincent Gallo to the priesthood, and endowed him with precious gifts, especially that of a burning love for suffering and immolation, we humbly beseech You, if it be Your will, that he may be glorified on earth, and that we may obtain through his intercession the particular grace which we ask for with living faith. Amen.