saint rafka maronite 13 2016.pdf · saint rafka maronite announcement to zechariah ... pray for the...
TRANSCRIPT
Saint Rafka Maronite
Announcement to Zechariah
On this Sunday, the Lord’s promise of salvation is being made to Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth in their old age. The significance: God has not forgotten his promise to his people even if it seems that time has run-out on them. In his disbelief Zechariah (Hebrew: God has remembered) is literally caught dumb-founded; Elizabeth is also in a state of wondrous surprise!
This Gospel passage shows how God’s ways and times are different from ours; that God – in his own time – accomplishes his salvation according to his divine plan – not ours. Like the prophets of old, John the Baptist (Hebrew:
Catholics of the East in the Upstate! 1215 S. Highway 14, Greer, SC 29650 864.469.9119
www.saintrafka,net [email protected]
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6 Saint Rafka Maronite Church is a Catholic Parish of the Antiochene Syriac Maronite
Church, Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn, NY, Most Rev. Gregory John Mansour, Bishop, 109 Remsen Street,
Brooklyn, NY, 11201, 718.237.9913. [email protected]
Rev. Bartholomew Leon, Administrator, [email protected]
Rev. Christopher Henderson, Retired,
Pastor’s Advisory Council Ramiz Askar, Marlene Saad Secretary
Richard Sleiman, ChairmanPaul Sleiman, Linda Wickett, Jack Yacu
Finance Committee George Azan, Joseph Chebir Chairman
Tony Sleiman, Paula Howard
AdministrationRichard, Wickett, Financial Secretary
Nemr Farhat, Volunteer Administrative Assistant to the Pastor
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★Calendar
November 12, 4 PM, Vigil Liturgy 13, 11 AM, Divine Liturgy 7 PM, Divine Liturgy 14, 7 PM, KC Meeting 16, 7 PM, Divine Liturgy 19, 4 PM, Vigil Liturgy 20, 11 AM, Divine Liturgy 7 PM, Divine Liturgy 23, 7 PM, Divine Liturgy 24, 10 AM, Divine Liturgy 26, 4 PM, Vigil Liturgy 27, 11 AM, Divine Liturgy 7 PM, Divine Liturgy 30, 7 PM, Divine Liturgy December 3, 4 PM, Vigil Liturgy 4, 11 AM, Divine Liturgy 3 PM, Holy Hour 7 PM, Divine Liturgy 7, 7 PM, Divine Liturgy 8, 5:30 PM, Pasta Supper 7 PM, Divine Liturgy Holy Day of Obligation 10, 4 PM, Vigil Liturgy 11, 11 AM, Divine Liturgy 7 PM, Divine Liturgy 14, 7 PM, Divine Liturgy 15, 7 PM, Christmas Novena 16, 7 PM, Christmas Novena
Zechariah
Yohanan means God is compassionate,) will become the Herald of God’s Salvation – but only as a voice in the desert. The true Voice, the Word, and the Power of God, who comes to fulfill the liberation of his people will be manifested in Christ Jesus.
In his Letter to the Romans today, St. Paul, reminds everyone that true inheritance of God’s Promise comes through a receptive attitude of faith -- as with Abraham in the old covenant. Abraham (Hebrew & Aramaic: Merciful Father) is the father of all who believe. Christ, through his humble obedience and sacrificial act, will reconstitute this covenant of faith that had been broken through dis-belief. Today we also are being invited to renew our faith: by letting God’s promise renew itself in our lives in Christ and through the Holy Spirit.
Our Church’s prayers this Sunday are focused on the gifts of Speaking and Listening: “Let not our lips be silenced like Zechariah .. but rather let them give you thanksgiving and praises...”(Opening Prayer). The Hoosoyo reflects on how God who has spoken in various ways in the past – from Adam in the Garden, to Abraham, Moses and the prophets – now speaks to Zechariah as the expression of his continued compassion and mercy for his people (Sedro). As we come to proclaim our faith in the Creed this Sunday, let us inwardly ask that our faith may become ever more true and deeply-founded in God’s compassion; that Christ may renew his Spirit within the temples of our bodies and souls; and He may transform us into true Children of the Promise to Abraham.
Let us also take this opportunity to pray for good-will and peace among all of Abraham’s children in faith, particularly in the Holy Land, Lebanon, and the Middle East – even if that prospect seems incredible!
Let us prepare a pathway for the Lord to come in our midst by learning to listen better to each other. The saving power of God and his Kingdom are manifested in God’s Word dwelling in our midst.
Father Steve Bonian, S.J.
Church Office Hours
9 AM - 2 PM
Abouna’s Corner
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
Greetings in the Lord!
With gratitude to God, we can say finally that the election is over! This was one of the longest election cycles that I can remember in my lifetime. To say it was contentious is an understatement! Now, the people have voted and we await the peaceful transfer of power that our nation is known for. Pray for the President. Pray for the President-Elect. Pray for our country so that we move forward together in doing some of the hard work that we must do to continue to keep this great country a beacon of hope and stability.
This week, I prepared and emailed a preliminary letter to all the Maronite priests of the US preparing for the Clergy Conference that precedes NAM Convention. It is a smaller event in some ways, but the one that the host pastor has the most work to do! Thanks again to all who are volunteering to help with the NAM Convention. Pray for all who are helping us in this endeavor. It is the best support and gift you can give us!
In January, as a spiritual preparation for the upcoming NAM Convention, I will offer the Office of Ramsho (evening prayer) and the Novena prayer to Saint Rafka on Tuesdays at 6:30 PM. This new service will begin on Tuesday, January 17, 2017 and continue thru June 20. There are lots of large and small work pieces that need to fit together to put on the convention well, but the glue for us is prayer. We need the help of God and the inspiration of Saints Rafka and Sharbel to make this convention a fountain head of Grace for all who attend. As we know, conventions are about meetings, work, planning and sharing, but our NAM convention is also the work of our Maronite Church. Through NAM we gather to work and pray for the upbuilding of the Church and to have the Grace to bring the Gospel to the four corners of the world. Pray!
Have a great weekend! See you in Church!
Salaam!
Ab. Bart
Jubilee Year of Mercy - The Holy Door at St Mary’s - the pilgrimage church for the Greenville Deanery - will close on Sunday 13 November 2016.
The Annual Radiothon for Catholic Radio in South Carolina will be broadcast on Thursday and Friday November 17th and 18th on WCKI 1300 AM in the Upstate, and WLTQ 730 AM along the Coast, and on-line at www.CatholicRadioInSC.com. Radiothon gives listeners a chance to participate in the New Evangelization through their support of Catholic Radio Broadcasting. For more information about how to pledge your assistance to Catholic Radio during Radiothon, representatives can be reached at 864-877-8458 or donations can be accepted securely online at www.CatholicRadioInSC.com.
Rachel’s Vineyard Retreats bring spiritual healing and strengthening of faith to individuals who have had or participated in an abortion. Join us on the journey to healing, peace and reconciliation. Spanish Speaking - December 9-11, 2016 in Rock Hill, SC. For information and registration please call Sarah 803 6271209. Or email [email protected]
El retiro “Viñedo de Raquel” brinda la sanación espiritual y da fuerza de fe para aquellas personas quienes han tenido o han participado en un aborto provocado. Reúnese con nosotros en la jornada hacia la paz, la sanación y reconciliación, el 9-11 de diciembre del 2016 en el Oratorio en Rock Hill, SC. El retiro comienza el viernes, 9 de diciembre a las 6:30 de la tarde. Para más información y para ingresarse, favor de llamar a Sara al 803-627-1209 o pueden mandar correo electrónico a: [email protected].
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the collaboration of Indevco group ( Neemat Frem) launched on the 23rd of August a new website to help the Lebanese abroad recovering their Nationality http://www.lebanity.gov.lb/ This portal is very easy and works for the old and the new law .The Applicant should fill the application and will receive the answer within 2 days with his registration Number and the proof of his eligibility and all the documents requested. View the video here.
228Days till NAM!
How will you help?Contact Greg or
Mary Anne Lepak
WCKI 1300 AM www.catholicradioinsc.com
Oops!
Scouts are saving aluminum cans, bottles and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children.
Biblical Perspectives of Kids!
The seventh commandment is thou shalt not admit adultery.
Jesus enunciated the golden rule, which says to do unto others before they do one to you. He also explained a man doth not live by sweat alone.
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Prayer ListFather M. T. Phillips, Paul Cote and Family, Paul Bussemey, Ramza Sleiman, Jack Yacu, Moe Mercier, Joan Bussemey, Priscilla Watson, Denise Steinker, Special Intention by Abouna, Bob Brown, Joe Durham, Michael Bays, Patrick Lavelle, Tara Galvin, Susan Connor, Bill Hines, Beth Banks, Andrea Fiorni-Frazier, Shawn Sexton, Alice Howard, Robert Mercier, James and Kaleigh, Mark Pelletier, Antonella, Stephanie, Derek Gerard Solomon, Connie Brushaber, Billy, JoAn Salloum, Susie, Health and recovery of W. F. William B. (Bill) Rodgers, Jr., Jim Hopka, Family of Colbert Arthur, Berma Darlene Bell, Terry Vadnais, Elaine Gillen, Elizabeth Gallagher, Special Intention, Amy Hunter, Shawn Sexton, Cindy Miller, Deacon Bob Smith, Adrian Kassentar, Beth Hopsecger, Mark Barnard, Special Intention of MKS, Janice Radich, Paula Lemire, Becky Jarvis, Lillian Moon, Vito Fortuna, Sam Howard, Jr., Betty Braun, Deanne Valencia, Mary Yacu, Sister Mary Emmanuel, Katie Frank, Adelaide George, Beverley Davis, Maryanne Polidoro, John Fender, Katherine Dennman, Alan Howard, Intentions of Nancy Gegorian, Greg Howard, Thomas Shaluly,
Someone in need of prayer? Let me know!
Saints We CelebrateNovember 13, Saint John Chrysostom, Confessor Saint Francis Cabrini, Virgin- Confessor, Saint of the United States November 14, Saint Philip the Apostle November 16, Saint Matthew the Evangelist November 17, Saint Gregory the Wonderworker, Confessor November 18, Saint Romanos (Raymond), Martyr November 21, Presentation of the Virgin Mary in the Temple November 27, Saint James Intercissus, Martyr November 30, Saint Andrew the Apostle
November 12 & 13
Saturday, 4 PM Open
Sunday, 11 AM +Richard A. Kalata Tom and Ellen Deux
Sunday, 7 PM Open
Wednesday, 7 PM Open
November 19 & 20
Saturday, 4 PM Donna & Tom Zeimetz - 50th Anniversary
Sunday, 11 AM +Mary Yacu Aziz and Hanan Yacu
Sunday, 7 PM Intentions of the Parishioners
Wednesday, 7 PM Fr. Deacon Thomas Phillip, Ordination Abouna
Feast New Testament Gospel
Zechariah Rom. 4:13-25 Luke 1:1-25
English Linda Wickett
Arabic Afaf Sleiman
Liturgical Readings
If you would like a Mass offered for your loved ones, please call the church office at 864.469.9119 or send your request to [email protected]. You can also check the Mass Intention calendar on our webpage to see if dates are available.
Liturgical Items
Sanctuary Lamp
To have the Sanctuary Light for your relatives or intentions, please use the envelope provided at the entrance. Donation is $5.00.
Church Offerings and Attendance
November 6 Saturday 4 PM Sunday 11 AM Sunday 7 PM Total Budget +/- Wed. 7 PM
People 49 68 36 153 150 3 21
Collection $421.00 $561.00 $406.00 $1388.00 $2,243.00 -$855.00 0
Average per person $8.59 $8.25 $11.28 76.9433333333333 Holy Hour 25
Average Attendance 48.76 67.69 34.65 151.1 0
Building Fund $167.00 $256.00 $265.00 $688.00 Year to Date $96,282.00
Average per person $3.41 $3.76 $7.36 $4.50
Attendance Year to Date 4:00 PM 2536 11:00 AM 3520 7:00 PM 1802 Wednesday 7 PM 598 First Sunday 182 Holy Day 254
How are these totals calculated?
One total graphed above is through envelope usage for each week.
The totals to the left and above are counted by the ushers during the Divine Liturgy and tabulated.
March 4, 2017 Prince of Peace Catholic Church | 1209 Brushy Creek Road | Taylors, SC
Do you want to:
Grow in your Catholic Faith? Deepen your relationship with Christ? Be a better father, son, husband and
man? Be a spiritual leader in your family,
church, work place, and community? This conference is for you!
Come and fill your spiritual toolbox with the information you need to build your faith and lead your family.
REGISTRATION: On-line at www.sccatholicmensconf.org or mail check to: Daniel E. Barton | 1510 Alric Court | Charleston, SC 29412-8436 Registration at 7:30 a.m., Mass 8:30 a.m., Presentations 19:45 a.m., Conclude 4:00 p.m. Hotel Accommodations: Wingate by Wyndham 33 Beacon Drive Greenville, SC 29615 (864) 281-1281
Room Rate: $89.00 plus tax Reservation: Prior to February 17, 2017
The South Carolina Catholic Men’s Conference is sponsored by the South Carolina Knights of Columbus State Council in support of the Diocese of Charleston Office of Family Life & Youth Ministry
Men’s Issues
COST: $40 Pre-Registration / $50 at the door Discounts for: Knights of Columbus ● Knights of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem ● Knights of Peter Claver ● Ancient Order of Hibernians ● College/HS Students ● Early Registration Includes light breakfast and lunch
Steve Ray Author, Evange-list, International Speaker, Pilgrim Guide
Most Reverend Robert E. Guglielmone Bishop of Charleston
Dr. Bill Thierfelder President of Belmont Ab-bey, Former US Olympic Committee, Two time All American, Charlotte, NC
Fr. Jeffery Kirby Author and National Speaker, EWTN Dioceses of Charleston
Fr. Renaurd West Parochial Vicar, St Mary Help of Christian Catholic Church,
Ashy Pavilion Please remember that registered and supporting parishioners are free to use the Ashy Pavilion for family events, reunions, parties, etc. Others are welcome to rent the facilities. More information? Contact Richard Wickett here.
Coffee Socials If you would like to sponsor a Coffee Social In Memory Of or In Honor Of someone, please call or email the office to let us know. Abouna
Wickett HallWickett Hall - Wickett Hall can be used by our registered and supporting parishioners for family events, reunions, etc. Others may request permission to rent the Hall. Contact Richard Wickett.
Masses OnlineWhere to go to Mass when traveling? Look here!
MassTimes.org The Catholic Directory Parishes Online
Birthdays12, Victor Farah 12, Saleh Salfiti 13. Susan Burman 14, Tony Howard 14, Ken Migut 14, Hezar Rafkah 16, Steven Hage 16. Dee Kalata 17, Mary Leonardi 19, Soraya Chackal 22, Yousif Askar 27. Elizabeth Lepak 27. Patricia Washnock 28, Hanna Souri 28, Melanie Spano 29, Joanna Davis
Anniversaries 18,Sandra and Wayne Reece 29, Greg and Mary Anne Lepak 29, Majed and Sura Farah
NecrologyNo recorded deaths in November
Prayers to Saint Sharbel and Saint Rafka You can always have your intentions prayed for at the monastery where Saint Sharbel is buried. Click here. Prayers to Saint Rafka, click here.