Church of Saint Mary Parish Bulletin: March 3, 2024

Reverend

Reverend

Reverend

Reverend Father Robert A. Romeo | Pastor

Father Dominik Wegiel | Parochial Vicar

Father Rafal Borowiejski | Parochial Vicar

Father Edward Obi, MSP | 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: kkosciusko@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. Rafal Borowiejski Parochial Vicar

Rev. Fr. Edward Obi, MSP Parochial Vicar fredward@saintmarysmanhasset.org

Parish Staff

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 Daniel Nash, Can. Reg. 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

Masses and Special Intentions

Theresa Fallon

Christine Marchese

Maria DeAngelis

Donna Chesney

Erica Klock

Jacob Rivera

Jaxson Rivera

Ronald Grubert

Dr. Michael O’Grady

Gladys Jean

Douglas Martocci, Sr.

Katharin Whelan

Carol Furciato

Mason

Tom Francess

Gabriel Romeo

Ann Shields

Mickey Kennedy

Sarah Horsham

Nina Principe

Cole Marguglio

Sandy Pittman

Richard Atkinson

Anthony Polizzi

Kathy Dellis-Stover

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

Eileen Mary Kilgallon

Helen Loretta Kennedy

Lorraine M. Scaramelli

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

Arnoux, Seraph, PFC, USA

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

Collins, Matthew, LT, USN

Fontanetta, Joseph, Maj, USMC

Hannan, Jack, ENS, USN

Hayes, Andrew, Capt, US MC

Hellman, Thomas, 2d Lt, USSF

Hernandez, Steven, SSgt, USAF

Higgins, James, GySgt, USMC

Hilton, Justin, SGT, USA

Hilton, Nathaniel, SGT, USA

Horner, Brian G., 1stLt, USMC

Howard, Edward M., GySgt, USMC

Jones, Scott B., LT, USN

Jones, Katherine L., LTJG, USN

Kennedy, Michael, Col, USAF

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

Landolphi, Michael, ENS, USN

Lanza, Anthony E., LtCol, USMC

Madden, Michael E., Major, USAF

Major, A. Edward, III, LTC, 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., ENS, 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

Saville, John A., ENS, 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

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, March 4th

St. Casimir

2 Kgs 5:1-15ab, Lk 4:24-30

9:00 AM | Jaime Yun

Tuesday, March 5th

Lenten Weekday

Dn 3:25, 34-43, Mt 18:21-35

9:00 AM | Deirdre Keating

Wednesday, March 6th

Lenten Weekday

Dt 4:1, 5-9, Mt 5:17-19

9:00 AM | Edwin Morales

Thursday, March 7th

Ss. Perpetua & Felicity, Martyrs

Jer 7:23-28, Lk 11:14-23

7:00 AM | Josephine Arkwright

9:00 AM | Connie Mills

Friday, March 8th

St. John of God, Religious Hos 14:2-10, Mk 12:28-34

9:00 AM | Kathleen O’Sullivan

Saturday, March 9th

St. Frances of Rome, Religious Hos 6:1-6, Lk 18:9-14

9:00 AM | Josephine Arkwright

5:00 PM | Frances Maher

Marie Iacono

The Molloy and Sheehan Families

Concetta & Carmelo Cataudella

Thomas J. Flynn, Sr.

James G. Sheridan

Josephine Arkwright

Sunday, March 10th

The Fourth Sunday of Lent

Laetare Sunday

2 Chr 36:14-16, 19-23, Eph 2:4-10, Jn 3:14-21

7:30 AM | Pierina DeMarinis

9:00 AM | People of the Parish

10:30 AM | Charles Vachris

12:00 Noon | Deceased Members of the Forlenza/ Claps Families

Casey Brosokas

Judith Lucente

William R. Flannery

Tom McCarney

Louis J. Burke

Martin Gately

From the Pastor’s Desk

Dear Parishioners,

“Zeal for Your house will consume me.” (John 2:17)

I am so taken by these words of Jesus and have been pondering them all week. Jesus was so filled with love for the Temple, the house of God, that when He saw it go from a house of prayer and worship to a market place, He was filled with righteous anger. This bible verse that was quoted originally came from Psalm 69:

“For I endure scorn for your sake, and shame covers my face. I am a foreigner to my own family, a stranger to my own mother’s children; for zeal for your house consumes me, and the insults of those who insult you fall on me. When I weep and fast, I must endure scorn; when I put on sackcloth, people make sport of me. Those who sit at the gate mock me, and I am the song of the drunkards.”

King David wrote this psalm during his own persecution as the King of Israel. He wanted a place of permanent worship for the people of Israel, a place to house the Ark of the Covenant. His love or “zeal” for God’s house and his dedication to the Lord caused people to scorn and ridicule him. His desire for true worship was rejected by so many that he was even ostracized and insulted. The Hebrew people did want their actions to be questioned or challenged though. I would imagine that deep down they knew that turning from the Lord God was a behavior they needed to change. As always, change and that call to look inwardly are never easy. Isn’t it easier to condemn the voice that challenges rather than adapt unhealthy behavior?

Today, Jesus quotes the psalmist. He has experienced a Temple that has turned from a house of prayer to a market place. The silence of God’s House has been replaced with the noise and activity of chatter and bartering. This touches Jesus at the deepest part of His soul. So, in one of the few accounts in Sacred Scripture, Jesus reacts in violence. He makes a whip out of cords and chases out those who desecrate the Temple of God. So the description of being consumed by zeal for God’s house is applied to Jesus in St. John’s Gospel. Jesus had just proved Himself to be very zealous for the house (or temple) of the Lord. He had has cleansed the Temple of the wicked men who were extorting and cheating worshipers.

It is quite possible that others had felt “uncomfortable” about what was going on in the temple. However, Jesus was the only one on record who actually did something about it. In this case, “consuming zeal” may have a bit of a double meaning. Not only was Jesus’ zeal consuming in that it caused Him to take radical action, but it set Him on a collision course with the Jewish leadership that eventually ended with their delivering Him to Pilate for crucifixion.

A question I see in today’s Gospel is to maybe reflect on our feelings for God’s House, our church building. What is the attitude we bring to Mass? Is there a deep understanding that entering Church for the celebration of Mass is a time we set aside to worship the Triune God? Do we give ourselves enough time in silence before Mass to reflect on what we have been privileged to participate in? Certainly, there can be distractions in Church. Some are beyond our control. Are we patient with children who may be a little “fussy,” looking beyond our own needs and rather embracing a joy and gratefulness for the parents who may have had to struggle to get their families to Mass? Do we respect those most solemn moments, especially during the Eucharistic Prayer, attempting to focus our attention to the altar which, as St. Alphonsus Liguori says so beautifully, “is the place where heaven and earth meet?”

Church of Saint Mary | 4

From the Pastor’s Desk

I think we do a very good job here in our reverence for the “House of the Lord,” but it is always helpful to evaluate our actions. I know I find myself stopping for an instant before coming into the Church with a quick reminder of where I am. We can forget we are in the presence of the Lord in our talking and chatter with others, not realizing there may be people trying to pray. Sometimes we also can be ridiculed if we take our experience at Mass seriously and enter into a moment of prayerfulness. But the rewards are beyond what we can imagine.

The New Testament writers see many parallels between Jesus and David. Jesus’ zealous actions made Him rejected by His own people. David was also rejected, scorned, and mocked because of His zeal for God. This is simply one more line of evidence that Jesus really is the rightful heir of David—David’s Greater Son. Likewise, those who follow in the steps of Jesus may now face the same kind of rejection if they prove to be zealous for the things of God.

A reminder that Stations of the Cross are prayed each Friday at 7:00 PM in the Church.

In Jesus, our Crucified Lord, Fr. Bob

Book Club Participants Continue Their Journey as “Perfectly Imperfect” Persons

The Lenten Book Club, facilitated by Father Edward Obi, MSP, has now met for three sessions to discuss Matthew Kelly’s book entitled Perfectly Yourself. This publication, one of many by Mr. Kelly, speaks of accepting who we are in all aspects of our lives, and accepting ourselves as “perfect” creatures of God, because we have been “purposefully created, and created for a purpose” (p. 4). In his view, even our so-called “imperfections” are part of our perfection before God. From that point we learn to accept to become the “best version of ourselves”, as “perfectly imperfect” persons. Hopefully, and with God’s grace, we incrementally “approach this place of balance between accepting ourselves for who we are and challenging ourselves to be all we are capable of being…” (p. 7). This is a journey of selfdiscovery for which we must create time and space, in silence, and solitude.

This is by no means an easy idea or process, because each of us is called to wean themselves away from patterns of defeat, reinforced by the fear of losing yet again. This cycle, unfortunately, paralyzes our hope of ever becoming better versions of ourselves and fills us with disillusionment and, perhaps, disgust about ourselves. Kelly, therefore, invites each individual to calmly, yet courageously, identify their own perfect self and then make every effort to achieve that self until we are called to the Eternal Kingdom. This may demand of each person a throwing off of too much preoccupation with earthly matters, and a striving toward a more perfect communion with our God. It demands working toward self-awareness of what constitutes the perfect creation God has designed in us. Our Lenten Book Club is having lively conversations over these ideas in order to more clearly understand Kelly’s blueprint for reaching our personal goals during Lent and beyond.

We look forward to three more meetings during Lent, on March 7, 14, and 21, when we will conclude this Lenten exercise before Holy Week begins. Meetings are on Thursday mornings at 10:00 AM, for one hour, in the St. John Paul II Room. Even if you have not attended previously, you are welcome to sit in, listen, and share your thoughts on becoming Perfectly Yourself.

From Fr. Edward Obi and Valery Rodi

Stewards of God’s Gifts

Meditate on the words, “Zeal for your house will consume me.”

Living Stewardship ~ Pillar of Formation: When you enter church for Mass, are you conscious of the way you act and/or dress? This Lenten season, be sure to wear your Sunday best (and make that a habit even after Lent) and when you sit in your pew, pray before God—don’t scroll through text messages on your phone.

The collection for Sunday, February 25, 2024 amounted to $24,527.00.

The collection for Sunday, February 26, 2023 amounted to $24,750.00.

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 Ministry

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.

Church of Saint Mary | 6

Lent Soup Supper

Friday, March 15th

5:30 - 7:00 PM

in the Middle School Cafeteria, Immaculata Hall

The Daughters of Mary will serve a simple, delicious, meatless soup and bread supper

Proceeds will go to providing Easter dinners for our Good Samaritan families

$5.00 per person or free with food pantry donation SPACE IS LIMITED

RSVP REQUIRED by MARCH 12TH with NO. of ADULTS & CHILDREN UNDER 10 to cfmorriss@aol.com

Stations of the Cross will take place in the church at 7:00 PM

Join us for both events and bring a friend!

at St. Mary’s

DAILY MASS DURING LENT

is celebrated at 9:00 AM Monday through Saturday 7:00 AM on Thursday

EXPOSITION AND ADORATION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT WITH BENEDICTION is held on Mondays from 3:00 to 8:00 PM in the Church.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS are held in the Church every Friday at 7:00 PM.

SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION

Lent is a special time to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Priests are available for confession each Saturday from 4:00 to 4:45 PM and Monday from 7:00 to 7:45 PM or by appointment. Call the Parish Office at 627-0385 to make an appointment.

RECONCILIATION MONDAY

On the Monday of Holy Week, March 25th, confessions will be heard from 2:00 to 4:00 PM and 6:00 to 9:00 PM in all the churches in the Rockville Centre diocese, the Brooklyn diocese and the Archdiocese of New York.

Lenten Prayer Group led by Sr. Teresa, meets on Thursdays, at 1:00 PM, in the Msgr. Sharpe Library.

The Rosary Society Annual Day of Recollection is scheduled for Thursday, March 14th. See page 9 for details.

Lenten Soup Supper, hosted by the Daughters of Mary, will take place on Friday, March 15th, prior to the Stations of the Cross. See page 7 for details.

Readings and Questions for Faith Sharing on the Fourth Sunday

of Lent

Reading I: 2 Chronicles 36:14-16, 19-23

“Whoever, therefore, among you belongs to any part of his people, let him go up, and may his God be with him!”

Reading II: Ephesians 2:4-10

By grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not from you; it is the gift of God.

Gospel: John 3:14-21

For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish, but might have eternal life.

Question for Adults:

We are more than halfway through Lent. How am I doing with my Lenten prayer, fasting, and almsgiving?

Question for Children:

How do I show my love for Jesus who loves me so much that He died for me?

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.

Monthly Meeting on Friday, March 8th

Our next meeting is on Friday, March 8th at 10:00 AM in the St. John Paul II Room. All are welcome to attend as we discuss our upcoming Spring events: Lenten Day of Recollection (see below) and the Communion Brunch scheduled for Saturday, April 20th. We hope you can join us at either or both events.

All Women of the Parish Are Invited to Join the Rosary Society

We welcome any woman of the parish who may be interested in joining the Rosary Society to attend the meeting on Friday, March 8th (see above). Learn more about who we are and what we do. If you or someone you know is thinking of becoming a Rosarian, but unable to attend the meeting, please reach out via email at rosarysociety@stmary.ws.

“The Rosary is a school of prayer, the Rosary is a school of faith!” - Pope Francis @ Pontifex

LENTEN DAY OF RECOLLECTION

THURSDAY, MARCH 14th

PRAY THE ROSARY AT 11:30 AM

12:00 NOON MASS CELEBRATED BY FATHER JOHN McCARTNEY

FOLLOWED BY A LENTEN REFLECTION

A LIGHT LUNCH WILL BE SERVED IN THE MARIAN ROOM IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING $40.00 Suggested Donation Payable at the Door

Please! Remember to RSVP to rosarysociety@stmary.ws or Prinzipia G Duggan 516-526-0790

The Third Sunday of Lent | March 3, 2024

Cheerful Catholic Academic Middle School Spotlight: Eighth Grade

THE SCHOOLS OF ST. MARY

Public Speaking Enrichment Class

With the addition of the unique dedicated Saint Mary’s Middle School facility on campus in the fall of 2023, one of the many enhancements spearheaded by the administration for students was bolstering the academic program for grades six through eight by introducing new enrichment classes for each class level.

Recently, the 8th-graders took the stage as a day of reflection, inspiration, and empowerment as they presented brown bag speeches in their Public Speaking Enrichment Class.

Assistant Principal Michelle Tripi noted that from “heartfelt tales of their past to passionate descriptions of their present pursuits and ambitious visions for the future, each student poured their heart and soul into their speeches. It was a testament to their growth, resilience, and aspirations.”

By reflecting on their past, they shared stories of triumphs, challenges, and defining moments that have shaped their journey thus far. In the present, they illuminated their passions, interests, and current endeavors, showcasing their diverse talents and interests within their class.

As each speaker gazed into the future, their eyes sparkled with hope, ambition, and endless possibilities as they shared dreams and aspirations that inspired their audience. With the guidance and support of their teacher, Mrs. Patricia Buckley, the instructor for the enrichment class, it was evident that these brown bag speeches weren’t just about public speaking. They were about self-discovery, empowerment, and the courage to share one’s voice with the world. St. Mary’s couldn’t be prouder of each one of these students for their bravery, authenticity, and unwavering dedication to personal growth. The reimagined Middle School student experience demonstrates success within less than a year of opening its doors.

For more information about the St. Mary’s Middle School academic, spiritual, extracurricular, and athletic programs, please contact the Office of Admissions at 516-627-0184 or send your email message to admissions@stmary11030.org.

RCIA and Adult Faith Formation

As of today, the Third Sunday of Lent, the RCIA group, now referred to as “ The Elect,” will be prayed over by prayers known as the Scrutinies. These prayers are meant to uncover and heal all that is weak, defective, or sinful that is in their hearts and to strengthen all that is strong and good. They are meant to deliver them from the power of sin and Satan, and to deliver them from temptation. Do keep them in your prayers.

Our Lenten Prayer Group Will Meet on Tuesday at 1:00 PM in the Msgr. Sharp Library

For more information about RCIA, the prayer group, and other aduly faith formation programs, please contact Sr. Teresa at 516-627-0385, ext. 1010. Her office hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM and other times by appointment.

Parish Social Ministry

Our pantry is running low on the following items:

Peanut Butter

Grape Jelly

Canned Fruit

Small Bags of Rice

Pancake Mix

Pancake Syrup

Juice

Instant Coffee

Boxed Potatoes

Thank you so much for your continued generosity!

Society of St. Vincent de Paul

THE NEXT SVDP MEETING IS MONDAY, MARCH 4TH at 7:00 PM in the Saint John Paul II Room. New members are always welcome!

We invite you to explore the St. Vincent de Paul Society of St. Mary’s Church. There are no special qualifications to join, other than the desire to join with others in helping Neighbors in need. As a group, we meet monthly. Come decide for yourself if God is calling you to this special Ministry.

In today’s Gospel Jesus is asked “What sign can you show us?” Every day we can see signs of how God has visited us in the blessings of our lives. Let us be a sign of God’s love by being a blessing to others. Is there a family you know who needs assistance? Please call the Society of St. Vincent de Paul so that together we can be a sign of God’s love to the suffering and poor.

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.

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

Anointing of the Sick

Next Sunday after the 10:30 AM Mass in the Chapel

In

Session with Dr. Patricia Pitta

Loving Through Expressing Gratitude

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.” (Psalm 28:7)

The month of February has come and gone. There was vacation for many and the celebration of LOVE as demonstrated by offering good wishes, candies, presents, and flowers. In my mind, every month and day is an opportunity to feel, act, and show love for yourself and others. You might say, “How do I show love?”

One of the most powerful ways of expressing your love is through expressing gratitude for all the gifts that you have and all the challenges that were and are presented to you.

You might ask, “How come I should be grateful for the challenges?” With each challenge that is presented, you are given the opportunity to learn how to resolve a new set of problems. If the challenges are a repeat of past challenges, it is an opportunity for you to question and work with what is happening again. For example: If you find yourself repeating the same behaviors, you might need to examine how come you keep repeating these behaviors.

Or another way of putting it is: How come you keep subjecting yourself to the same types of interactions with the same people or similar situations? We repeat behaviors with the hope of healing, forgetting, or doing things differently, but we just keep repeating past behaviors and thinking patterns. If that happens to you, that is a gift that hopefully awakens you

to start examining your behaviors and thinking. This is the first step to changing your thoughts, actions, and feelings by beginning to contemplate how come you do what you do.

This is an opportunity to pray to the LORD for guidance. If you allow yourself to be truly contemplative, you might be able to figure out what is happening. If not, speak with a friend. If you still can’t understand what is happening, you might speak with a psychologist. Many troublesome behaviors stem from our unconscious. The goal of therapy is to make the unconscious, conscious. Not until we can understand what makes us do what we do, can we change our thinking, feelings, and behaviors.

It is not uncommon for people to say that problems are not gifts. I can understand that, but developing the skills to deal with issues and managing your emotions are gifts that you can develop so you can become stronger and more resilient to deal with life’s “ups and downs.” And for sure, life has many challenges for all. Gratitude sets you free to change your course as you work through problems.

When you get in touch with gratitude, you can develop a positive mindset that allows you to find joy in life’s simple pleasures like taking a walk or having an earnest conversation with a friend where compassion and empathy can be felt and experienced. When gratitude is expressed, kindness and support of others can be felt. Feeling gratitude is a great stress reliever and leaves you with a more optimistic perspective and the ability to show love to yourself and others.

For many, experiencing challenges sets you up to be less trusting of life

in general. With the LORD as your guide and your strength, you trust in HIM and HIS love which is right within you. As you get in touch with the LORD and HIS LOVE, you can develop the courage to overcome challenges and be able to love.

Take a moment to strengthen your relationship with the LORD through saying daily prayers that open your heart to the LORD and yourself and others. Below is a prayer you can say to connect to the Love of the LORD. Also, keep a gratitude journal where you answer the following questions below. Write these statements in a book and at times when you feel down, lost, or question where is love for you, pull out your journal to remind yourself what you are grateful for. Feeling gratitude is a very important expression of love for you and others.

Questions for Your Journal: What or who inspired me today? What brought me happiness today? What brought me comfort and deep peace today?

My Dear Lord, I am grateful for your love and example that you show me daily. You were given to me so I may be saved from succumbing to negativity. Through being in relationship and connection with YOU, I am strengthened that I may realize that I can work with all challenges no matter how big or small. Through YOUR love for me, I am forever grateful, I feel loved, and can move forward to solve my issues that trouble me. 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. For more about Dr. Pitta, visit her website drpatriciapitta.com.

ST. MARY’S GIFT SHOP IS OPEN ON S U N D A Y S AFTER THE 9:00, 10:30 AM, & 12:00 NOON MASSES WE HAVE BEAUTIFUL ITEMS FOR LENT AND EASTER

Located in the Parish Ministry Center 516-627-0385 ext. 1033

Let the little children come to me... (Matthew 19:14)

All Children Are Invited to Participate in Children’s Liturgy of the Word Every Sunday at the 9:00 AM Mass

FAST AND ABSTINENCE - Those who have reached their fourteenth year are bound to abstain entirely from meat on Ash Wednesday and all the Fridays of Lent. All Catholics between the ages of eighteen and fifty-nine are also bound to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. This means to limit oneself to a single full meal and avoid food between meals. Two other light meals, which together do not equal a full meal, may be taken during the day.

Second Collection Next Weekend

Next week our parish will take up The Catholic Relief Services Collection. Funds from this collection provide food to the hungry, support displaced refugees, and bring Christ’s love and mercy to vulnerable people here and abroad. Next week, please give generously to the collection and reveal Christ’s love to those most in need. Learn more about the collection at www.usccb.org/catholic-relief.

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 26-28, 2024

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

FEBRUARY 2024

ST. MARY’S WELCOMES

Those who registered in our parish:

Mr. & Mrs. Paul Spoonhower and Family Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Edick

Those who were baptized:

Caroline Miller Papa

Those who were enrolled* in our Purgatorial Society:

Bertie Bann

Marina Ramirez Morales

Edward John Gaus III

Maria O’Reilly

Patricia Brennan

Gus Panopoulos

Domenico Capranzano

Marylou Papa

Dr. Thomas Nicosia

*enrollment begins March 1, 2024

Bread & Wine

are offered this week in loving memory of Victor Manuel Castillo

GIRL SCOUT SUNDAY IS BACK MARCH 10TH

9:00 AM MASS

Sunday, March 10th, is Girl Scout Sunday, a day of recognition for Girl Scouts across the country. St. Mary’s will be celebrating Girl Scout Sunday at the 9:00 AM Mass, with a reception for all Girl Scouts and their families in the Marian Room following Mass. All Girl Scouts are invited to attend the Mass in uniform. It is the start of Daylight Savings Time, so don’t forget to turn your clocks ahead!

Third Sunday of Lent

1 Corinthians 1:22-25: “Brothers & Sisters: Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we proclaim Christ crucified...For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than hunan strength.” Ask Jesus for wisdom and strength in your marriage. He will give you all you need for a fulfilling lifegiving marriage. Sign up for a Worldwide Marriage Encounter Experience and learn how to listen better, communicate more, and love each other. You will be glad you did! You can find one by looking up WWME.org. Some of the dates to sign up are:

March 15-17, 2024 in Upton, MA

April 26-28, 2024 (non-residential weekend) in Connecticut

June 21-23, 2024 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 Kevin & Regina Hickson at 516-554-3835 or https://wwmenyli.org/. Visit the parish website: www.saintmarysmanhasset.org

Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

Petitions to the Lord during the Lenten Season

Let us praise our loving Redeemer, who gained for us this season of grace, and pray to him, saying:

Lord, create a new spirit in us.

Christ, our life, through baptism we were buried with you and rose to life with you, - may we walk today in newness of life.

Lord, you have brought blessings to all mankind, - bring us to share your concern for the good of all.

May we work together to build up the earthly city, - with our eyes fixed on the city that lasts forever.

Healer of body and soul, cure the sickness of our spirit, - so that we may grow in holiness through your constant care.

Praise to Jesus, our Savior; by his death he has opened for us the way of salvation. Let us ask him:

Lord, guide your people to walk in your ways.

God of mercy, you gave us new life through baptism, - make us grow day by day in your likeness.

May our generosity today bring joy to those in need, - in helping them may we find you.

Help us to do what is good, right and true in your sight, - and to seek you always with undivided hearts.

Forgive our sins against the unity of your family, - make us one in heart and spirit.

Our Lord Jesus Christ has saved us from our sins. As his people, let us call out to him:

Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on us.

Lord Christ, we pray for your holy Church; you gave yourself up to make it holy, cleansing it with water and the life-giving word, - renew it constantly and purify it by penance .

Good Master, show young people the way you have chosen for each of them,

- may they walk in it, and find fulfillment.

Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament with Closing Benediction

Mondays 3:00 - 8:00 PM in the Church

Please note the extension of Adoration to 8:00 PM for the weeks of Lent. Confession is also available on Mondays from 7:00 to 7:45 PM during Lent.

In your compassion you healed all forms of sickness; bring hope to the sick and raise them up, - teach us to love and care for them.

Make us mindful of the dignity you gave us in baptism, - may we live for you at every moment.

May the dead rise to glory in your peace,

Memorial Mass Set for Fr. Damian Halligan, S.J. at Our Lady of Grace Spiritual Center

On Saturday, March 9th, there will be a Memorial Mass for Fr. Damian Halligan, S.J. who died on January 10th. Fr. Damian had been living at Murray Weigel in the Bronx. Many St. Mary’s parishioners were blessed to know Fr. Damian when he was at St. Ignatius Retreat House (Inisfada) or while he served at other parishes on Long Island. Please bring your stories, memories, and any photos you may have. Gathering at 10:30 AM, Mass at 11:00 AM followed by a sharing of memories. Lunch to follow. Our Lady of Grace Spiritual Center is located at 29 Shelter Rock Road in Manhasset. RSVP to Mary Fran Jeffrey at 516-220-7836 or mfjeffrey6@gmail.com.

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO JOIN YOUR FELLOW ALUMNAE TO WITNESS

S AINT MARY’ S ALUMNI GAME ’24 HOCKEY BKR

FEATURING

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2024

6:00 PM

ALUMNI RECEPTION MARIST HALL SPORTS NIGHT IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING

BR. KENNETH ROBERT GYMNASIUM

SCAN QR CODE FOR INFO & TICKETS OR VISIT SAINTMARYSHS.ORG

JOIN US FOR THE SECOND ANNUAL

BR. KENNETH ROBERT, FMS MEMORIAL HOCKEY GAME

SATURDAY, MARCH 9, 2024

5:00 PM - 7:30 PM

CANTIAGUE PARK ICE RINK 480 WEST JOHN STREET | HICKSVILLE

ALUMNI POST GAME RALLY TO FOLLOW 8:00 PM AT WILLISTONS‘ 17 HILLSIDE AVENUE | WILLISTON PARK

SCAN THE CODE FOR EVENT INFO & REGISTRATION

Cooking with the Saints

Enjoy a cooking demonstration and a chef-prepared lunch in honor of the Feast of Saint Joseph while learning about the patron saint of fathers, craftspeople, and immigrants. special guest presenter: Cathy Morrissey

Thursday, March 21, 2024 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

29 Shelter Rock Road | Manhasset, NY 11030

Presented by: Chef Rob Scott | $50.00 per person

Simply Creative Chef Rob Scott has been the head chef at many restaurants in the Hamptons since 1980 and has previously worked as a private chef on the North Fork. For over 11 years now, he has been teaching cooking and baking classes full time at more than 95 libraries across Long Island. He enjoys teaching people that come from all levels of experience and are seeking new recipes, tips, and tricks. (See registration page for menu.)

Call (516) 627-9255 or visit www.olgretreat.com to register

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