A Message from Father Henry |
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Fellow St Jude Parishioners:
As we grow in our faith life, Jesus is to become more and more important — just as predicted two-thousand years ago by John the Baptist (also known as simply “the Baptist”). The Baptist’s role in salvation history was one of literally pointing out the importance of Jesus, which he embraced from the very beginning of his existence. When in the presence of Jesus, he leapt for joy while still in the womb of his mother (Luke 1:41).
Later in his adulthood, he would baptize Jesus himself (Matthew 3).
When asked about Jesus, he explained “He must increase and I must decrease (John 3).”
The Baptist is still fresh in my mind, as we celebrated his feast day this past Saturday. And in particular, his example is fresh in my mind as a role model for all of us, especially us clergy, who embrace a life of pointing out the importance of Jesus.
After the infancy accounts of Matthew and Luke conclude, the Gospels immediately present Jesus and the Baptist as thirty year old adults, with the Baptist responsible for preparing for the coming of Jesus. “Prepare the way of the Lord… He is the one who comes after me, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie… He must increase and I must decrease.” Even though John had achieved some popularity among the people, he knew that he must redirect all attention to Jesus.
Imagine the humility that John possessed in order to say those words. Here he was preaching every day with a huge following and yet, when he saw Jesus, he immediately glorified Him and was at peace with his own role decreasing.
These recent months with the global pandemic have certainly taught us humility. Almost overnight our lives were changed and we were no longer able to do many of the things that we took for granted. It has been difficult and many of us have been impacted in very serious ways. What has our response been? Have we looked for an ‘increase’ of Jesus in our lives? Sometimes it only takes a few extra moments of prayer each day, or more frequent reception of the Sacraments or Mass to make a difference, to bring us the peace that is so necessary in challenging times. (A Sunday morning, outdoor parking-lot mass… drive-through, outdoor confessions in your car… and on-line virtual masses are available for those who cannot come into the church.)
Let the Baptist’s words, “Jesus must increase” be our prayer this week. Let us pray that our hearts be further opened so that the importance of Jesus increases in our lives!
Yours in Christ,
Fr Henry
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The St Jude Drive In Movie Nights were a great success. Thanks to all who attended and supported the event. A Special Thank You to the committee and volunteers who made this great community event possible!!
The raffle drawing took place last night after the conclusion of the movie and the results are as follows:
1st Prize winner $ 3,030.00 Bartolomeo Melchiommo
2nd Prize winner $ 1,030.00 Victoria Leonzi
3rd Prize winner $ 530.00 Dominican Sisters
Early Return Drawing $ 100.00 Stop and Shop Gift certificate Ella Balagtas
All of the above are Parishioners of St. Jude parish.
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Pope Francis: The cross reminds us of the sacrifices of...
Pope Francis said Sunday the crucifix we wear or hang on our wall is not supposed to be decorative, but a reminder of God's love and the sacrifices involved in the Christian life.
Read more
www.catholicnewsagency.com
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2020-21 Faith Formation for Children Update |
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Reminder to our Religious Education Families:
We are currently taking registrations for this year which begins in September. If you have not yet registered, please do so soon. Remember that there is an additional $15 late processing fee for registrations received after August 31. Click Here to Register https://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/5577960/Registration-Form
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Prayer for Vocations
O Lord, send workers for your harvest, so that the commands of your Only-begotten Son may always be obeyed and his Sacrifice be everywhere renewed.
Look with favor upon your family, the Church, and ever increase Her numbers. Enable Her to lead Her sons and daughters to the holiness to which they are called and to work for the salvation of others.
Through Christ Our Lord.
Amen.
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The St. Jude Religious Gift Shop is open in the Msgr. John Sabia Social Hall after the 9:30 AM Mass on Sundays and after the 5 PM Mass on Saturday night as well as by appointment Monday - Friday at 9:30 AM.
Gifts for all occasions include: Baptism, First Communion, Confirmation, Wedding, Ordination, baby gifts, bibles, statues, rosaries, medals, auto visors and a variety of cards such as Birthday, Get Well, Weddings and more.
Stop by, browse and find a truly meaningful gift for that special occasion. For information or an appointment please call Fran Cambra 203-261 2573 or the Parish office.
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Please join us as we resume praying our Monthly Parish Intention.
Our Petition for September is:
We pray, that thru the intercession of Our Blessed Mother, our scientists will find a safe and effective vaccine and treatment for COVID 19,
We pray to the Lord
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Mass Schedule and Registration |
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Masks should be worn at all times. Social distancing is required at all times. Please be sure to arrive 15 minutes before Mass.
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Church Hours for private prayer
Church is open Monday to Friday 8am - 10am for private prayer.
Live-streamed Mass Schedule
Confession Hours
Confessions are required to be outside at 3:00 pm on Saturdays until the bishop gives us permission to go back inside the church, which he has not, and probably will not for some time. Confessions are 3:00 pm outside, behind the church, and also by appointment, calling 203-261-6404, to set up and appointment or emailing.
First Friday Adoration 7- 8 PM
Mass Intentions 2021
The parish office will start taking Mass Intention requests for 2021 starting August 10th. Requests will only be taken by phone (203-261-6404) or by email ( parish.office@stjuderc.com). For more information, please click here.
Office Hours
The Office will be closed Thursday September 3, 2020 through Monday September 7, 2020, inclusive for Labor Day holiday
THE OFFICE HOURS ARE:
MONDAY - THURSDAY 9:00 – 3:00
It is suggested that you call (203-261-6404) or e-mail (parish.office@stjuderc.com) before coming to the office. Much can be accomplished through a phone call or email, such as requesting masses/mass cards; sacramental records; registering for Baptism; etc.
In the event you do come to the office, we will be following the state protocols:
- A face covering is required
- Social distancing will be followed
- If you are experiencing COVID-19 defined symptoms, or have had contact with someone with the symptoms please do not come to the office.
Signage will be posted on the front door with all directives to be followed when admitted to the office.
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St Jude Parish
707 Monroe Tpke
Monroe, CT 06468
203-261-6404
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