St. Patrick R.C. Church 280 East Main Street, Smithtown, New York 11787

“Christ with us. Christ before us. Christ behind us.” May 31, 2020 - Pentecost Sunday

St. Patrick Church 280 East Main Street, Smithtown, NY 11787

631-265-2271, rectory@stpatricksmithtown.org

Mass Times Weekdays: 6:45 A.M., 9:00 A.M., 12:10 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM, 5 and 8 PM Novena Mass (Miraculous Medal): Monday, 7:30 PM Sunday: 7:30, 9:00, 10:30 AM, 12 Noon, 5 PM

Marriage Couples should make arrangements at the Rectory

at least six months before the desired wedding date. Baptisms

Sundays at 1:30 P.M. For information, go to www.stpatricksmithtown.org > Sacraments > Baptism

Reconciliation Saturday: from 3:45 to 4:45 PM Sunday: from 8:15 to 8:45 AM

Monday: 6:45 to 7:15 P.M. before the Novena Mass Anytime by appointment in the Rectory

Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament Thursdays for one hour following 12:10 PM Mass

First Fridays after 12:10 Mass until 2:30 PM Benediction*

Nocturnal Adoration, third Saturday of the month from 9 PM to 7 AM Sunday

First Wednesday of the month from 7:30 to 9:00 PM in “A Quiet Place” Chapel located in the Parish Center

Pro-Life Holy Hour, third Tuesday of the month, 7:30 PM (*Watch bulletin for possible changes in concluding time)

No Public Masses, public Exposition, Baptisms or scheduled Confessions at the time. Daily Mass and Virtual Adoration are available on our website:

www.stpatricksmithtown.org

CONFESSIONS We will resume our Saturday afternoon confession times using social distancing protocols beginning

this Saturday, May 30th from 3:45 to 4:45 PM Please go to the St. Patrick Youth (old church) front entrance, seen at right. Greeters will be there to point the way to where confessions are being heard.

Please wear a face mask.

I ask you: have you ever thought that every time we go to the confessional, there is joy and celebration in heaven? Have you ever thought about that? It is beautiful … and fills us with great hope, because there is no sin to which we have stooped from which, by the grace of God, we cannot rise up again. There is no person who is beyond recovery, no-one is beyond recovery. Because God never ceases to want what is good for us, even when we sin. - Pope Francis

From the Pastor’s Desk

Not only is the coronavirus a serious health crisis, it has brought about economic hardship as well. Please know that our Parish Outreach office is open from 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM, Monday through Friday, should you be in need of food or other services. For the safety of all concerned, we will be serving people outside the rectory. Please call our office ahead of your visit at 631-265-2668 and speak through our intercom system at the side door of the rectory. Food items will be brought out to your car. If you are in the position to donate food, please bring donations to the Parish Outreach office between 9:30 AM and 2:30 PM. Please use our intercom system and we will pick up donations at the side door.

We are Here to Help!

One the most joyful experiences in life is discovering the traits, talents, goodness, and wisdom of those we love. It is so life giving to be open to seeing more and more in the people we love and who love us. Growth in love and commitment happens when we rise above preconceived notions and closed-minded judgements about others. As we celebrate Pentecost, the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples in tongues of fire, I think back to the Gospel from this past Monday where this exchange took place between Jesus and His apostles at the Last Supper: The disciples said to Jesus, “Now you are talking plainly, and not in any figure of speech. Now we realize that you know everything and that you do not need to have anyone question you. Because of this we believe that you came from God.” Jesus answered them, “Do you believe now? Behold, the hour is coming and has arrived when each of you will be scattered to his own home and you will leave me alone.” (John 16:29-32) The apostles had just celebrated the Last Supper, celebrated the first Mass, been ordained priests, and had their feet washed. Now they thought they had it all together. They thought they knew exactly who Jesus was, how they were part of His life, and how He was part of their lives. But in just a matter of a few hours, this beautiful vision was shattered. Jesus was arrested, crucified, and buried in less than 24 hours. But Jesus never stopped revealing who He was for them and who they were for Him. In the Resurrection appearances, He wished them peace, fed them on the shore when they came in from fishing, and trusted Peter to “Feed my sheep.” When He ascended His last words were, “Behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20) Still the revelation of who He was did not end. Today we celebrate the final step as Jesus imparts the Holy Spirit to His disciples. Now they believed completely that He loved them, that He forgave their faults and failures, that He was always present to them, and that they were forever in His heart. Herein lies our hope. We have been fed over and over again as Jesus comes into our very bodies in the Sacrament of Holy Communion. He forgives us always as we express our sorrow in the Sacrament of Penance, and He lifts our minds and hearts to Him with the gift of the Holy Spirit in the Sacrament of Confirmation. We all seek the assurance

that we are in the depths of His heart. We don’t have to ask if He forgives us, we just have to believe. We don’t have to convince Him, only believe. We don’t have to wonder if He listens to our prayers, but only know that He does with unconditional love. The model of faith for all is the Blessed Virgin Mary. Even before she was assumed into heaven, she was totally part of God’s life and He was totally part of Her life. She was crowned Queen of Heaven and Earth because the unconditional love of God radiated through her whole being, giving her the power to do all God trusted she would do. How blessed we are to have the gift of the Holy Spirit and the gift of His Mother.

Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of mercy,

our life, our sweetness and our hope. To thee do we cry,

poor banished children of Eve; To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning

and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious Advocate,

thine eyes of mercy towards us, and after this our exile show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary. Pray for us,

most holy Mother of God, that we made be made worthy

of the promises of Christ. Amen.

Let us pray. O God, whose only begotten Son, by His life, death, and resurrection has purchased for us the rewards of eternal life, grant, we beseech Thee, that meditating upon these mysteries of the Most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise, through the same Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Masses for the Week Saturday, May 30th: 5:00 PM John E. Haupert 8:00 PM Helen Patricia Nolan

Sunday, May 31st: 7:30 AM People of the Parish 9:00 AM Claire Higgins 10:30 AM Deborah Decchia 12:00 PM Bobby Kirschbaum 5:00 PM Claire Higgins

Monday, June 1st: 6:45 AM Jean Lawlor-Haggerty 9:00 AM Chelsea Jade Vasquez 12:10 PM Mary Keenan 7:30 PM Mary Zawislak

Tuesday, June 2nd: 6:45 AM Terri J. Corbishley 9:00 AM Dorothy DeSantis 12:10 PM Joseph Cucco

Wednesday, June 3rd: 6:45 AM Linda Ruderman 9:00 AM Salvatore Lorello 12:10 PM Richard Barba

Thursday, June 4th:

6:45 AM Daniel McNulty 9:00 AM Frank Bendl & Mary Jean Sobczyk 12:10 PM Richard Lynch

Friday, June 5th: 6:45 AM Patty Pecoraro 9:00 AM Linda Ruderman 12:10 PM Louis Giambertone

Saturday, June 6th: 9:00 AM Legion of Mary & Deceased Members of the Parish 12:10 PM John C. Walshe 8:00 PM Carmine Cascone

Sunday, June 7th: 7:30 AM Philip & Josephine Hampton 9:00 AM Teddy T. del Castillo 10:30 AM Stephen Lynch 12:00 PM People of the Parish 5:00 PM Pasquale Pastore

Our Pastoral Team Rev. Msgr. Ellsworth R. Walden, Pastor Rev. Thomas Acheampong, Associate Pastor

Rev. Abraham Thannickal, Associate Pastor Rev. Fred Hill, In Residence

Deacon Jerry Reda Mr. Joseph Menge, Business Manager

Mrs. Barbara Pellerito, School Principal Mrs. Elaina Kedjierski, Dir. of Religious Ed., Levels 1-4

Mrs. Peggy Soviero, Dir. of Religious Ed., Levels 5-8 Ms. Dianne Williams, Parish Social Minister

Ms. Cindy Marsh, Youth Administrator Mr. Josh Moore, Youth Minister

Contact Us Rectory - 265-2271

Rectory Fax - 863-1586 Parish Website: stpatricksmithtown.org

Outreach - 265-2668 Religious Forma on - 724-7454

St. Patrick School - 724-0285 School Website - spssmith.org Youth Community - 360-0185

Fr. Walden’s Email - ERWALDEN71@aol.com Parish Email - rectory@stpatricksmithtown.org Office Hours: Rectory 9 AM to 7 PM, Mon. - Fri.

9 AM to 5 PM Sat., 10 AM to 1 PM Sun. Parish Outreach:9:15 AM to 3:00 PM, Mon.—Fri.

Youth Community: 9 AM to 3 PM, Mon. - Fri. Religious Forma on: 9 AM to 3:30 PM, Mon. - Thurs.

St. Patrick’s Pastoral Council Email: pastoral_council@stpatricksmithtown.org Parish Organiza ons

Bereavement Support: Call Outreach at 265-2668 Catholic Daughters: 1st Tues., 7 PM

Choir: Thurs. evening, 8 PM Columbie es: 2nd Sat. 10:30 AM

Jus ce & Peace: Once a month, 7:00 PM Outreach Ctr. Knights of Columbus: 2nd & 4th Tues., 8 PM Legion of Mary: Tues. mornings at 9:30 AM

Nocturnal Adora on Society: 3rd Sat. from 9 PM-7AM Pro Life Family: Last Thursday, 10:30 AM , Parish Center R.C.I.A. (Rite of Chris an Ini a on for Adults); 265-2271 Something for Seniors; 2nd & 4th Wed., 1 PM, 265-0034

Treasure Communal Offering Sunday, May 24, 2020: $25,269.58. Offering Corresponding Sunday 2019: $26,925.63. Thank you for your generosity.

I place trust in God, my creator, in all things; I love Him with all my heart. - St. Joan of Arc

Religious Formation

Pro-Life Rose St. Patrick’s Pro-Life Family invites you to dedicate a Pro-Life Rose for any intention by contacting Lisa by email at lisapollicino@yahoo.com or call 656-6343.

Your participation helps bring a greater awareness of the sacredness of all human life, especially the unborn. The cost is $10.

Bread & Wine Memorial

To arrange a memorial for Altar Bread and Wine, please call Diane Sperzel at 265-3307. Donation for the week is $50. Cards will be sent to the family.

The Pro-Life Rose was dedicated this week

in loving memory of Carl Valentino.

From the Miller Family.

Spread the Word! Many St. Patrick parishioners are receiving daily reflections from Fr. Walden as well as the weekly bulletin via email. If you are one of those

parishioners, feel free to spread the word. Encourage your family, friends and neighbors to join us online by contacting us at:

stpatrickssmithtown@gmail.com And, feel free to invited family and friends to join us at Mass online via our YouTube channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoHv0moL3X07oAm5ve3rFAQ

The Catholic Faith Network is available on Optimum channel 29/137, Verizon FiOS TV channel 296, and Charter Spectrum channel 162/471 throughout the New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut area. You can also watch live on your computer or tablet by going to:

www.catholicfaithnetwork.org

All sacramental celebrations are on hold until we can once again gather for Mass. Please check the Religious Formation website for updates. Go to www.stpatricksmithtown.org and click on “Formation.”

We always encourage our St. Patrick parishioners to support our bulletin advertisers, but during this time when so many businesses are struggling to survive, we encourage it even more. Please take the time to take a look at the advertising pages at the back of the bulletin

and should you be in need of one services or products found there, please make our advertisers your first call. And, if you are a business in need of customers, the St. Patrick’s bulletin is a great place to advertise. Just call 1 -800-524-0263.

During this time when many of us are at home for much more than usual, you may want take a look at Catholic Faith Network (CFN). Formerly known as Telecare, CFN offers live Masses, talk shows, devotional programs, educational programming, entertainment, and children's programs. It also presents coverage of special events at the Vatican and of papal journeys.

Programming includes shows such as: Catholic Perspectives, hosted by Bishop Emeritus William F. Murphy with Msgr. Jim Vlaun. The show features in depth discussions on current topics. CFN Live features uplifting stories and discussion of the latest issues facing the Church. CFN News offers the latest in Church and social news with guest interviews and compelling discussion. Conversation with Cardinal Dolan with co-host Fr. Dave Dwyer offers discussion of religious issues, current events, and other relevant topics, and featuring a variety of guests. Real Food with Msgr. James Vlaun brings faith into the kitchen, focusing on the spiritual nature of sharing a meal. Also, Daily Mass from St. Patrick’s Cathedral and St. Agnes Cathedral as well as prayer opportunities. All this and much, much more!

Support our Bulletin Advertisers!

Join Us Online for our next

Virtual XLT Holy Hour Friday, June 5th at 7:00 PM

XLT (for exalt) Holy Hours are a time to grow closer to Christ through song, word, and adoration. Take some time to step away from the world and into a face-to-face encounter with Jesus.

To join in our XLT Holy Hour just go to our YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoHv0moL3X07oAm5ve3rFAQ

Or click on “Watch on YouTube”

on our website:

www.stpatricksmithtown.org

Gracious God, we are your people embraced by your love. We thank you for your presence with us throughout all time. Create us anew. Liberate us from that which keeps us from you. Enable us to recreate our world and restore justice. Heal us from every form of sin and violence. Transform us to live your Word more profoundly. Reconcile us so enemies become friends. Awaken us to the sacred; nurture our relationships; enliven our parishes; reunite our families. Fill us with joy to celebrate the fullness of life. Empower us to be a community of love growing in your likeness. Amen.

Please continue to say the following prayers each day as we seek God’s guidance, strength and courage

We are a People of Prayer

Thank you Father for the gift of life. Thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus. May my gratitude inspire and sustain me in doing everything I can to respect the lives of all people and to do all in my power to end abortion and everything else that harms, abuses, or threatens human life. Give me the courage and strength to live in your image each day. Amen.

Lord, the plight of our brothers and sisters is deep and the suffering of Christians is severe and frightening. Therefore, we ask you Lord to spare their lives to grant them patience and courage to continue their witness of Christian values with trust and hope. Lord, peace is the foundation of life; Grant us the peace and stability that will enable us to live with each other without fear and anxiety, and with dignity and joy. Amen.

The symbol to the right (the Arabic letter “N” for Nazarene) is being used to mark Christians in Iraq for persecution.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

To register, go to: www.campquovadis.com/

register

To submit a prayer request, go to: https://www.drvcmissionarygrowth.org/prayer-request

Come for a Blessing On Sundays between 8:30 and 11:30 AM, all are welcome to come to St. Patrick’s in your cars, Our priests will be blessing people with the Blessed Sacrament.

The Holy Spirit would appear to create disorder in the Church, since he brings the diversity of charisms and gifts; yet all this, by his working, is a great source of wealth, for the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of unity, which does not mean uniformity, but which leads everything back to harmony. - Pope Francis

A normal school day at St. Patrick School begins with Morning Prayer and even a worldwide pandemic has not prevented that. Now students lead Morning Prayer on St. Patrick School’s Facebook page. Some are pictured here.

Morning Prayer

O Mary, you shine on our path as a sign of salvation and hope. We entrust ourselves to you, Health of the Sick. At the foot of the Cross you participated in Jesus’ pain, with steadfast faith. You, Salvation of the Roman People, know what we need. We are certain that you will provide, so that, as you did at Cana of Galilee, joy and feasting might return after this moment of trial. Help us, Mother of Divine Love, to conform ourselves to the Father’s will and to do what Jesus tells us: He who took our sufferings upon Himself, and bore our sorrows to bring us, through the Cross, to the joy of the Resurrection. Amen. We seek refuge under your protection, O Holy Mother of God. Do not despise our pleas – we who are put to the test – and deliver us from every danger, O glorious and blessed Virgin.

St. Patrick Parish Social Ministry

Suffolk County Executive Steven Bellone

Individuals Reaching Out for Domestic Violence Assistance

If you are in immediate danger, call 911 immediately. If you or someone you know is being hit, pushed, verbally and/or sexually assaulted, help is available. The numbers below can provide information, resources and a listening ear. Call anytime 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Crime Victims Hotlines: Crime Victims 24 Hour Hotline: 631-332-9234 Hate Crimes Hotline: 631-626-3156 Sex Offender Tip Line Call: 1-855-PFML TIP or 631-316-3237 V.I.B.S. Victims Information Bureau, Suffolk: 631-360-3730, x 112 L.I. Against Domestic Violence Hotline: 631-666-8833 L.I. Against Domestic Violence Office Phone: 631-666-7181 Brighter Tomorrows Inc.: 631-395-1800, ext. 110 Crime Victims Center (formerly Parents for Megan’s Law): 631-689-2672 All Violent Crime Hotline: 631-626-3156 Crime Victim Center (formerly Parents for Megan’s Law) Rape Crisis Hotline: 631-332-9234 The Retreat: 631-329-4398

NYS Domestic Violence Hotline New Yorkers in Need of Help or Assistance Can Text 844-997-2121 or Can Go to the New Confidential Online Site to Reach a Professional on www.opdv.ny.gov In the face of a dangerous uptick of domestic violence incidents, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced the immediate modernization of the state’s domestic violence hotline with a new text program and confidential online service to aid victims of abuse and provide potential lifesaving ways to get help. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the necessary social distancing guidelines, domestic violence victims are even more vulnerable and unsafe while isolated at home without being able to get away from their abuser. You are not alone…Help is available.

Sunday Blessings

All are invited to come for a blessing with the Blessed Sacrament between 8:30 to 11:30 AM on Sunday. Pictures are parishioners at last Sunday’s blessing.

Let Us Pray Together

The world is in need of prayer and we ask all in out parish to unite in prayer, even though we are physically separated. At certain times during the day, Fr. Walden is inviting all those are able to join him in prayer: At 12:00 noon: Say an Our Father and this prayer that comes after it at Mass: Deliver us, Lord we pray, from every evil, graciously grant peace in our days, that, by the help of your mercy, we may be always free from sin and safe from all distress, as we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior Jesus

Christ. For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen. At 3:00 PM: Pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. This is a very simple and beautiful prayer using the rosary as a guide. Information is attached on how to do this. At 7:30 PM: Pray the rosary for all suffering from the coronavirus and for those who are heroically caring for them. Also attached is information about the Mysteries of the Rosary. Fr. Walden will follow this program until the threat is over. How good and easy it is to pray together for our own needs and the needs of all the people of our nation and our world at this time.

Here are two links to information on the Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet: http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/prayers-and-devotions/rosaries/how-to-pray-the-rosary.cfm http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/how-we-teach/new-evangelization/year-of-faith/how-to-pray-the-chaplet-of-divine-mercy.cfm

Other Resources For Spiritual Enrichment

Our St. Patrick’s Daily Mass, Monday through Friday plus the Sunday Mass over the weekend - are available on our YouTube channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoHv0moL3X07oAm5ve3rFAQ or access our YouTube channel by visiting our website: www.stpatricksmithtown.org

(A time of Virtual Adoration is also on our YouTube channel.)

Additionally, Fr. Walden is sending daily reflections to everyone on our parish email list. You will also receive our weekly church bulletin.

To be added to our email list, email us at stpatrickssmithtown@gmail.com

Vatican News: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxIsefyl9g9A5SGWA4FvGIA/ Catholic Faith Network: catholicfaithnetwork.org

or Optimum channel 29/137; Verizon FiOS TV channel 296; Spectrum channel 162/471 (See more on page 10.)

EWTN (Eternal Word Television Network): ewtn.com or Cablevision channel 135/1097; Verizon channel 285/1741

Relevant Radio: relevantradio.com Word on Fire: wordonfire.org

Bishop Robert Barron's homilies, blog, videos Understanding the Scriptures podcast, mp3: catholicboard.com

A great online resources for understanding the "big picture" of the Bible St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology: stpaulcenter.com

Excellent audio and video Bible studies Catholic Productions Video Blog: catholicproductions.com

Dr. Brant Pitre, Dr. John Bergsma and others offer excellent audio, video and books Scott Hahn: scotthahn.com An excellent Biblical scholar

The Thomistic Institute—audio: thomisticinstitute.org/tracks High level, extremely rich theological lectures.

We also invite you to take advantage of our parish subscription to FORMED.

See more information on page 15.

June 7, 2020 Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity

Readings: Exodus 34: 4B-6, 8-9 2 Corinthians 13: 11-13; John 3: 16-18

Reflections on the Sunday Scriptures

Focus Questions:

Children & Family Reflection:

Giving Made Easier Churches now routinely offer online giving for church donations. There are many reasons for this. Fewer people are using cash and checks. Mass attendance at your home parish is usually interrupted by vacations, business trips, illness, snow storms, etc. And many people find it easier (and greener) to not have to deal with church envelopes.

St. Patrick’s offers several forms of online giving:

(1) Faith Direct: Signing up for Faith Direct allows you to indicate a weekly contribution amount that is automatically withdrawn from your account. Just go to faithdirect.net or download the Faith Direct app from the App Store. Our Parish code is NY51.

(2) Our website: You can contribute at any time by going to our website: stpatricksmithtown.org. Just click the “Donate” button at the top right.

(3) Our Parish App: In addition to its many other features, the OneParish App has a donation page that allows quick and easy one-time or recurring donations. You can download the One Parish App at the App Store.

(4) Our newest electronic giving option is “Text to Give a program set up by the Diocese of Rockville Centre. Just send a text message to 516-271-3338. In the message, type 155parishstpatrick - you will receive a message back with a link that you can use to make a donation.

Another Saint for Our Time We all long for an end to the coronavirus pandemic, just as generations past have longed for an end to previous pandemics. Another saint whose intercession people have relied upon for help during a plague is St. Edmund. St. Edmund was born in 841 and at a young age became king of East Angelia in eastern England. Know to be a faithful Christian and a model king, St. Edmund was captured when the Danes attacked East Angelia. He refused to renounce his faith even as he was beaten, shot with arrows and eventually beheaded. St. Edmund’s connection to pandemics came after his death. It is thought that people asked for his intercession because of the manner of his death. He, like St. Sebastian (also known for intercession during plagues), was shot with arrows. People compared the random nature of disease with the randomness of being shot by an arrow. St. Edmund’s intercession is credited with bringing an end to a plague in the 1600s in the City of Toulouse in France.

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. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him will not be condemned, but whoever does not believe has already been condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.

1. Describe a time when you helped bring unity to a relationship at home, with friends, or at work. 2. Relate how our belief that God wants everyone to be saved affects how you treat other people, especially those who are different. 3. What impact does the Trinity have on your everyday life? On the way you live your faith?

Talk about the relationships you have. How do relationships make you a better person?

O Holy Spirit, descend plentifully into my heart. Enlighten the dark corners of this neglected dwelling and scatter there Thy cheerful beams. - St. Augustine

Please Keep our Parishioners Serving in the Military in Your Prayers

GY SGT Bradley Baran LT Michael R. Beggins, EOD, U.S. Navy

E6 Christopher Bobrowski Pfc Christopher Bonenfant, USMC

PV1 Michael A. Brescia SSgt Sarah L. Brown, USAF

CPT John C. Burk, U.S. Army PVT Douglas Butera

LT Alex Buschor, USN SGT John P. Byrne Cpl. Claude Castille

2nd Lt. Matthew James Correa USAF Sgt Eric J. Coyne, Air Force

Lt. James D’Aprile, U.S. Army LCpl. Richard Dekanchuk, USMC

PVT Patrick Fagan LTC Andrew Fetherston LTC Kristin Fetherston LT John Joseph Foley

MM1 Stephen P. Foster SGT James Fowler CPT David Geller

Lt. Salvatore DiGiacomo, USAF CPT Bret Guglielmi

MAJ Thomas Hanifen CPT Erin Hayde

MAJ Ryan Hayde Senior Master SPvt. Donald Henley

CPT Kyle Higgins CPT Michael Huggins

WO Christopher Kaminsky SSgt. Travis Kendall, Air Force A1C Jacob Kendall, Air Force

Cpl. Michael J. Knipper, US Marines LCpl. Kurt Kusterbeck. US Marines Pfc. Connor Russ Lang, US Army

CAPT Anthony LaVecchia, Jr., USN SPC Andrew Steven Lawler, US Army

SGT Patricia Heikkila MAJ Timothy MacGinley Cpl. Vincent Martinelli

Cassandra McCarthy, US Army SGT Kyle T. McCarthy, US Army

CPT Chris McLoughlin LT Anthony Mercado

COL John K. Meehan. U.S. Army SPC Edward Meraglia

COL Mark Nordstrom SFC Philip Nordstrom 1LT Joel Nordstrom

Lt. Kristen Noviello, USMC LCpl Sondra Nowack, USMC

PFC Jorge Rostra Obando

Sgt August R. Oetting, III, USMC SFC Thomas O’Carroll

LTJG Patrick O’Hea, U.S. Navy Capt. Daniel J. O’Sullivan, USAF

Stephen Outcault, USMC Pvt. Vincent Patrizio

Cpl Brian Plunkett, USMC LCpl Jean Prou

SFC William Pullar, Jr. SGT Andrew Rea

Private Eric Roehrig SGT Michael William Rousseau

Cpl. Patrick Sheridan PFC Richard N. Silecchio

SF1 Corey Slattery SSG Zachary A. Small

SPC Edward Stephenson Timothy Sweeney, Navy Seals Cpt. Kathleen Thomas, USAF

GEN Kenneth E. Tovo LT Amanda J. Towey EDO U.S. Navy

GySgt Matthew Vergara GySgt Richard Derek Vergara

Senior Chief Kenneth Virgilio EOD US Navy PO1 Steven Virgilio, EOD, U.S. Navy GM1Class Instr. James W. Vigliotti

Pray for our Military

As parishioners came in their cars for a blessing last Sunday, Fr Abraham noticed sparrows playing in a grassy area in the parking lot in front of the church. It serves as a fitting reminder that God is watching over us, even as he is mindful of the sparrows. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. - Matthew 10: 29-31

His Eye is on the Sparrow

Did you know . . . .

If you have not had an opportunity to make a gift to the 2020 Catholic Ministries Appeal, we prayerfully ask you to make a gift today if you are able. All gifts - no matter the size - make a difference in the lives of others! You can “Text to Give” by texting 1-516-271-3338 and using our parish code: 155stpatrick. Checks may be mailed to:

Catholic Ministries Appeal PO Box 4000

Rockville Centre, NY 11571-4000

St. Patrick’s has had five pastors since becoming a parish in 1952. Prior to that, St. Patrick Church was a mission church of Sts. Philip and James in St. James (which was founded in 1907). And prior to 1907, St. Patrick’s was served by priests who would travel out to Long Island as often as possible from Brooklyn and Queens. For those of you who have never heard the names Fr. Adam Willman and Fr. Joseph Canning (yes, that is who Canning Hall is named after), here is a look back at our first two pastors.

Fr. Adam Willman: When St. Patrick’s became a parish in July 1952, the first pastor was Fr. Adam Willman. At the time, our church was located at the corner of Mayflower and Edgewater Avenues in Smithtown, the current site of the Byzantine Catholic Church of the Resurrection. Parishioners remember Fr. Willman as a loving, quiet, spiritual man who loved to play the piano. During the eleven years he served as pastor, the parish would double in size. He is also remembered as a pastor who carefully saved money, enough to give the parish a good start on the building project that was in its future. It was an exciting time for St Patrick’s. As a newly formed parish, it had, for the first time, its own priest. Fr. Willman was given a warm reception party in the church basement. Initially he lived in the Sts. Philip and James rectory, until the diocese purchased a home for him on Juniper Avenue. The home was in need of repairs and parishioners jumped into action, repairing and redecorating before Fr. Willman moved in. The parish grew by leaps and bounds and

soon the church was becoming too small for its congregation. Parishioners also longed for a Catholic school. Several parishioners met with Bishop Kellenberg’s secretary to discuss their desire for a new church and school. It would be a huge undertaking, but it would be St. Patrick’s second pastor who would take on the challenge of building a church and school. Fr Joseph Canning: On June 26, 1963, Fr. Joseph Canning became our second pastor. Parishioners described him as a wonderful priest, very kind and supportive. Initially, he took steps to reduce the overcrowding at Masses as congregants were spilling out of the church and onto the sidewalks on Sunday mornings. Fr. Canning added additional Masses that were celebrated in the basement. Then on May 26, 1964 a fire caused heavy damage to the church. For the next few months, while the church was repaired, Mass was said at Smithtown General Hospital (which was located on Route 347), at the Smithtown Movie Theater (now the Smithtown Center for Performing Arts), and in tents. Masses eventually returned to the church, but plans for a bigger church and a school were moving forward. Land was purchased on Jericho Turnpike by the diocese, plans were drawn up and the church and school became reality. Both were dedicated in November of 1966 by Bishop Walter Kellenberg. St. Patrick School opened in September of 1967. After a busy 13 years as pastor, Fr. Canning was transferred to Immaculate Conception in West Hampton Beach.

An Act of Spiritual Communion

My Jesus, I believe that You

are present in the Most Holy Sacrament. I love You above all things,

and I desire to receive You into my soul. Since I cannot at this moment

receive You sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart.

I embrace You as if You were already there and unite myself wholly to You.

Never permit me to be separated from You. Amen

Focus on Religious Freedom

From Catholics For Freedom of Religion

www.cffor.org

A Prayer for Persons Suffering from the Coronavirus

Merciful God, hear our fervent prayer for all who suffer from the coronavirus.

May those who are infected receive the proper treatment and the

comfort of your healing presence. May their caregivers, families and neighbors be shielded from the onslaught of the virus.

Give solace to those who grieve the loss of loved ones.

Protect and guide those who strive to find a cure, that their work may conquer the disease and restore

communities to wholeness and health. Help us to rise above fear. We ask all this

through the intercession of Our Lady of Lourdes, and in the name of your Son, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, now and forever. Amen.

5-20-2020: The bishops of Minnesota have permitted parishes to resume public Masses, and to defy a statewide order prohibiting religious gatherings exceeding 10 people. “An order that sweeps so broadly that it prohibits, for example, a gathering of 11 people in a Cathedral with a seating capacity of several thousand defies reason, “the bishops of Minnesota’s six dioceses said in a May 20 statement. “Therefore, we have chosen to move forward in the absence of any specific timeline laid out by Governor Walz and his Administration. We cannot allow an indefinite suspension of the public celebration of the Mass,” the bishops added. “We can safely resume public Masses in accordance with both our religious duties and with accepted public health and safety standards.” The bishops’ letter permits parishes to resume public Masses May 26. (1) "The Constitution and the rights enshrined therein are not suspended during a pandemic, and neither is our religion," said Pastor Ionescu, Romanian Pentecostal Church in Chicago.(2) A group of Romanian pastors joined a growing number of churches in Illinois and across the country by opening their churches, following guidelines, and defying stay-at-home orders, which they consider unconstitutional. The Chicago mayor had threatened, "we will take you to jail," if churches opened, reminding Ionescu of communist Romania where he saw pastors thrown into jail as criminals for preaching and gathering in ways forbidden by the government. Liberty Counsel, representing the Chicago pastors said, "The virus doesn't prefer churches over liquor stores, or shopping malls, or big box centers, or abortion clinics." (3) In California, 3,000 churches plan to defy shutdown orders and open on May 31 because it marks Pentecost, the birth of the Christian church, making it fitting for a "rebirth" of services. "Our churches are part of the answer, not part of the problem," said Pastor Danny Carroll. "We're an essential part of this whole journey and we've been bypassed - kicked to the curb and deemed nonessential. (4) The shutdown of houses of worship across the country has raised questions about the constitutionality of the orders and whether they infringe upon civil liberties. Attorney General Barr has said he will crack down on possible religious freedom violations.

(CatholicNewsAgency.com, 5/20/20 (1); theepochtimes.com, 5/12/20(2)(3);

vvdaily.press.com,5/17/20; CNBC.com,4/2/20; dailycaller.com, 5/8/20(4)

“In practice, no law and no constitution can protect religious freedom unless people actually believe and live their faith… But it’s also true that no one can finally take our freedom unless we give it away.” - Archbishop Charles Chaput

Churches Reopen in Some States in Defiance of Stay-At-Home Orders

Remember, then, that you received a spiritual seal, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of knowledge and reverence, the spirit of holy fear. Keep safe what you received. God the Father sealed you, Christ the Lord strengthened you and sent the Spirit into your hearts as the pledge of what is to come. - St. Ambrose

SUGGESTIONS FOR THE WEEK ON FORMED

One of the great advantages of the Internet is having access to so many resources. This includes spiritual resources. During this time when many are eliminating or greatly reducing their contact with the outside world, consider taking some time for spiritual renewal. St. Patrick’s pays an annual fee so that all our parishioners can sign up for FREE to FORMED. FORMED is an online platform that offers 24/7 access to the best Catholic content on almost any device, including your computer, smartphone and tablet. You will have instant access to thousands of books, audio talks, movies, documentaries, studies and more. FORMED also includes excellent content for children.

Take this time to grow closer to Christ.

To sign up for FORMED, go to https://stpatricksmithtown.formed.org

LISTEN UP! IF FINDING THE TIME TO SIT DOWN WITH A BOOK IS SEEMINGLY IMPOSSIBLE, TRY OUT SOME OF THE AUDIO OFFERINGS ON FORMED.

Fr. Michael Schmitz tackles some of the most difficult topics in the Church today with humor, clarity, and theological truth. In this talk, he challenges us not to settle for mediocrity and to allow Christ to change our lives. Once we are changed by the love of Jesus, then together we can change the world.

Jennifer Fulwiler is a popular writer and speaker from Austin, Texas. In this compelling presentation, she recalls her spiritual journey—one that ultimately led her to enter the Catholic Church after a life of atheism. Jennifer is a regular contributor to the National Catholic Register and frequently appears on Catholic radio and EWTN. She chronicles her experiences of faith and family life on her popular blog, ConversionDiary.com.

Summers at St. Patrick’s We all hope that by the time summer arrives, the coronavirus will be a thing of the past. You can start your summer planning now. St. Patrick’s Youth Community has a variety of programs for children and young people.

Camp St. Patrick runs from June 29th to August 14th, Monday through Friday. Kiddie Camp for ages 3 to 5; Main Camp for ages 6 to 12; and Teen Travel Camp for ages 13 to 15 offer programs geared for their age groups. The camp features on-site activities as well as trips to destinations such as Splish Splash, Adventureland, Fire Island, and more. Flexible scheduling available. Before and After Care available. For more information, go to www.stpatsyouth/summer-camp.

Vacation Bible School, for children ages 3 through 8, will be held August 3rd to 7th from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM. This year’s theme is “Knights of North Castle.” North Castle is hidden in a frozen land. The King’s valiant Knights are on a quest in search of the King’s Armor. But the armor isn’t what they think it is. Kids will take on the role of brave Knights and begin their quest each session by opening the King’s Book. For more information, go to www.stpatsyouth/summer-camp and scroll down to the Vacation Bible School Registration Form.

Summer Literacy Adventure - Join us in a reading adventure as teachers assist children in honing and maintaining their reading skills throughout the summer. Two hour sessions from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Classes begin on July 7th and end on July 31st. For information, call or email Cindy at 631-360-0185 or spyouth@optonline.net.

Watch for more information on our summer sports!

Deck Hockey

Basketball

Cheer Camp

St. Patrick’s Youth web address is: stpatsyouth.com

All forms and registrations are available on our website.

Youth Office email is spyouth@optonline.net Our phone is 631-360-0185

VIRTUS Training

All volunteers/coaches are required to attend a VIRTUS class if they have not done so. On-line

registration must be completed before you attend. See VIRTUS.org for information and registration.

CPR/First Aide Training courses are available and will be

available throughout the year. You may call the office for more information

Read the Bible in a year challenge! St. Patrick’s Youth challenges you to read the

Bible in a year! Just go to the website and you will find the link with daily readings

Enrichment/Before and Aftercare Program Before Care – Our program is offered Monday through Friday following the St. Patrick School

schedule. It begins at until 8:20 AM After Care- Our program is offered Monday

through Friday following the St. Patrick School schedule, from 2:20 to 6:00 PM You must register in advance.

You may download forms from our website 3,4,5 year old Enrichment Program –

Our program offers NY State guided curriculum along with daily religion, music, arts and crafts

and gross motor play. Playtime with Mommy/Caregiver –

Children ages 18 months through 2 years. Creative fun, play, crafts, light snack & music time

Separation Class – Children ages 2 to 3 years old

Circle time, music, playing and sharing Small group instruction, crafts and snack time

Music Ministry Folk Group (Grades 6 -12)

Children’s Choir (Grades 1-5) Children’s Choir practice:

6:15 to 7:00 PM in Keegan Hall Folk Group practice:

7:15 to 8:30 PM in the church New members always welcome!

Junior Catholic Daughters JCDA is a young women’s service organization

Young women grades 5 -11 are welcome! JCDA meet every 3rd Tuesday of the month in our

modular classroom from 6:30 to 7:30 PM Call Patty Davis at 631-780-6313 for details

Learning Center Tutoring for Pre-K through High School

All areas of study, catholic entrance exam and SAT preparation

St. Patrick Youth SPORTS PROGRAMS

Spring/Summer Basketball Registration is open. Please visit our website for

Information and registration online CAMP ST. PATRICK

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR CAMP 2020 PLEASE REGISTER ONLINE AT:

stpatsyouth.com 2020 SUMMER LITERACY ADVENTURE

PROGRAM Please see our website to download registration form

and mail or bring in to Youth Office stpatsyouth.com

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL August 3 – 7, 2020

Registration form online under Summer Camp Mail in or bring to Youth Office

Regarding Sports Parking Please park only on the east side of the property.

Enter sports court at east gate entrance.

Pray for the Sick Laura Alam J.M.A. Grace B. Judith Bartley Ann Bono Anthony Borrelli Agnes Black George Bruckbauer Francis C. Rick C. Daniel Carrano Tom Clark Maria Clarke Carly Colvell Anthony Costaro, III Marie Crowley Joseph Cuccia

Angela M. Chris M. Dustin McGranahan James McLean Joseph Merriam Kathleen N. Amanda Ooten Ariel Ruvinsky James Michael Ryan Lawrence Savery Joan Schiavoni Tankyard Schiavoni Theresa Soriano Christine Strecker John Weiss JoAnna Wilson

Pray for the Dead

Those listed under “Prayers for the Sick” remain on the list for a limited period of time. If you would like to add a name or return a name to the list, please call Parish Outreach at 631-265-2668.

Thomas Conte Linda Ferrantelli

Robert Dacey Grace Demille Karen Dempsey Rose DeSalvo Matthew DiStefano Richard DeVilla Salvatore Esposito Marilyn Gast Mary Gorman Geraci Elinor Glasser Thomas Gould Bob Heimink Robert Heimink, Jr. Cynthia Kambos Patrick Kinane Matthew LaTorre

Imagine what could happen when the Holy Spirit comes to us. We will be united with people who we didn’t even think that we could be united with. And that is a testament to the catholicity of the Church. - St. Josemaria Escriva

Parting Shot . . . . The flag in front of St. Patrick’s flies at half mast in honor of those killed by the coronavirus. Please keep those who died, their families, and all those affected by the virus in your prayers.