THE CATHOLIC COMMUNITIES OF

ST. PIO OF PIETRELCINA REVEREND JEREMIAH N. MURASSO, PH.D., ED.D., PSY.D., PASTOR

REVEREND PATRICK KANE, PAROCHIAL VICAR REVEREND TIMOTHY MEEHAN, WEEKEND ASSISTANT DEACON WAYNE SANDFORD, PERMANENT DEACON DEACON GEORGE MCCARROLL, RETIRED DEACON

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Novena 25th Anniversary

The 9-day novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help will begin on: Tuesday, September 15 @ 7:00pm at Our Lady of Pompeii Church. This is the feast of Our Lady of Sorrows. The novena will conclude of Wed. Sept 23, which is the feast of our Patron, Padre Pio. The hour-long novena includes:

Novena Prayers Benediction Recitation of the Rosary Enrollment in the Brown Scapular.

The final day, Wed. Sept. 23, will conclude with Mass at 7:00pm followed by a rosary procession (weather permitting).

STEWARDSHIP

With public Masses cancelled, please continue to support the parish. We need your support as the

operations continue on a daily basis. In addition, we want to continue to pay our loyal staff. Please

mail-in your contributions. Online giving is also available at, https://stpioofpietrelcinaeh.com/ and click

on the GIVE button.

Regular Collection Total Regular $7,222.00*

Fuel & Electric Collection Total Fuel & Electric $1,942.00

*Representation of our 3 churches.

September 12 & September 13 Second Collection: Monthly

Thank you to the many of you who have been so generous and responsive in these difficult times.

Mass Intentions for the Week SATURDAY, September 12 - Vigil - 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time 4:00pm OLOP + Sophie Pesce by Family 4:00pm ST. B + Mr. & Mrs. Michael Genovese by Children & Grandchildren 4:30pm SVDP + Lucy Consolo by Daughter, Catherine SUNDAY, September 13 - 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time 8:00am OLOP + Filomena Lavorgna by Lavorgna Family 8:00am ST. B + Eleanor Onofrio (Birthday) by Family 9:00am SVDP + For Favors Granted by Rosalie Petrowski 10:00am OLOP + Gladys Bethke by Sons 10:00am ST. B + Philip & Madeline Minichino by Daughter, Grace Carrano & Family 11:00am SVDP + Louis Corrone by Wife & Family 11:45am OLOP + Deceased Members of Iovieno Family by Family 6:00pm ST. B + Fr. Robert Vargo MONDAY, September 14 - Exaltation of the Holy Cross 8:00am OLOP + Anna Apuzzo by Porto Funeral Home 8:00am SVDP + Nicholas, Raffaele & Peter Bertier by Ann Paolillo 8:00am ST.B + Bruno Moroniti by Family TUESDAY, September 15 - Our Lady of Sorrows 8:00am OLOP + Catherine Mauro by Anthony & Kathy Mauro 8:00am SVDP + Hank Luzzi by Judith & Jim Doolittle 8:00am ST. B + Ann Staples by Mike Cretella WEDNESDAY, September16 - Sts. Cornelius & Cyprian 8:00am OLOP + John Leary, Sr. & Helen Cook by Lisa Leary 8:00am SVDP + Kelly Anne Fee by Bob & Marie Lunney 8:00am ST. B + Liv. & Dec.’d Mem of Campbell & Parlato Families by Family THURSDAY, September 17 - St. Robert Bellarmine 8:00am OLOP + Charles Mack by Lou & Anne Pacelli 8:00am SVDP + Mario Truffa by Daughter, Frances 8:00am ST.B + Annette LaCava FRIDAY, September 18 - Weekday 8:00am OLOP + 8:00am ST. B + SATURDAY, September 19 - Vigil - 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time 4:00pm OLOP + Louise Kuczirka by Family 4:00pm ST. B + Albert Gilson (1st Ann.) by Wife & Children 4:30pm SVDP + Alexander Granata by Joan & Frank Wnek SUNDAY, September 20 - 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time 8:00am OLOP + Mary Martingano by Lou & Anne Pacelli 8:00am ST. B + Rose Mesite 9:00am SVDP + 10:00am OLOP +Anita Muro by Muro Family 10:00am ST. B + Dec’d. Mem. of LoRicco Family 11:00am SVDP + Margaret Amento by Family 11:45am OLOP + Edwin “Butch” Bates by Connie Bates 6:00pm ST. B +

SCRIPTURE READINGS

Sunday: Sir 27:30—28:7/Ps 103:1-2, 3-4, 9-10, 11- 12 [8]/Rom 14:7-9/Mt 18:21-35 Monday: Nm 21:4b-9/Ps 78:1bc-2, 34-35, 36-37, 38 [cf. 7b]/Phil 2:6-11/Jn 3:13-17 Tuesday: 1 Cor 12:12-14, 27-31a/Ps 31:2 and 3b, 3cd -4, 5-6, 15-16, 20 [17]/Jn 19:25-27 Wednesday: 1 Cor 12:31—13:13/Ps 33:2-3, 4-5, 12 and 22 [12]/Lk 7:31-35 Thursday: 1 Cor 15:1-11/Ps 118:1b-2, 16ab-17, 28 [1]/Lk 7:36-50 Friday: 1 Cor 15:12-20/Ps 17:1bcd, 6-7, 8b and 15 [15b]/Lk 8:1-3 Saturday: 1 Cor 15:35-37, 42-49/Ps 56:10c-12, 13-14 [14]/Lk 8:4-15

St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish Address: 355 Foxon Road, East Haven, CT 06513

Phone Number: (203) 469-0764

Office Hours: Foxon Road: Mon-Fri 8:00-12:00 & 1:00-3:00

Taylor Avenue: Mon. & Fri. 10:00-2:00 Townsend Avenue: Temporarily Closed

E-Mail: stpioofpietrelcina@gmail.com

Live-Stream Mass

Monday-Friday at 8:00 AM Saturday at 4:00 PM Sunday at 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM & 11:45AM

To watch the live stream go to, https://www.stpioofpietrelcinaeh.com, then click on Online Mass and click on StreamSpot.

CONFESSION SCHEDULE:

St. Bernadette & Our Lady of Pompeii: Saturday at 3:00-3:30pm

St. Vincent de Paul: Saturday at 3:30-4:00pm

Twenty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

ALL ACTIVITIES CANCELLED

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20

ALL ACTIVITIES CANCELLED

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 14

Holy Hour - 8:30-9:30am in Our Lady of Pompeii Church

Bible Study - 7:00pm Contact Christine Sandford at 203-469-7823

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

Holy Hour - 8:30-9:30am in Our Lady of Pompeii Church

Bible Study - 7:00pm Contact Christine Sandford at 203-469-7823

Midnight Run - 7:00pm Contact Sue Stacy at 203-214-1762

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

Rosary Group - 8:00 pm on Zoom Contact Sally Mucka at 203-469-0764 ext. 8

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22

Rosary Group - 8:00 pm on Zoom Contact Sally Mucka at 203-469-0764 ext. 8

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

Bible Study - 10:00am Contact Christine Sandford at 203-469-7823

Rosary Group - 8:00 pm on Zoom Contact Sally Mucka at 203-469-0764 ext. 8

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23

Bible Study - 10:00am Contact Christine Sandford at 203-469-7823

Rosary Group - 8:00 pm on Zoom Contact Sally Mucka at 203-469-0764 ext. 8

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

Scriptural Rosary - 7:00pm Contact Sally Mucka at 203-469-0764 ext. 8

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24

Scriptural Rosary - 7:00pm Contact Sally Mucka at 203-469-0764 ext. 8

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

Prayer Shawl - 1:00-3:00pm in OLOP LOMR

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25

Prayer Shawl - 1:00-3:00pm in OLOP LOMR

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

Food Pantry - 10:00am-11:00am at St. Bernadette

Divine Mercy - 11:00am at Our Lady of Pompeii at St. Clare Garden

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

Food Pantry - 10:00am-11:00am at St. Bernadette

Divine Mercy - 11:00am at Our Lady of Pompeii at St. Clare Garden

MINISTRY & EVENT CALENDAR

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE RAFFLE

WINNERS OF ST. BERNADETTE’S RAFFLE!

Ticket # Winner’s Name 1st Prize $2,500 Cash 8345 Elizabeth Forcier 2nd Prize $1,000 Cash 0346 Alan Belchak 3rd Prize $500 Cash 0257 Tony Ferrara

Fr. Murasso’s Message Board

Parishioners who are confined to their homes and feel comfortable with having a visit from Fr. Patrick, Bernadette Lysaght or myself should contact Bernadette at (203)-907-8717 or Bernadette.Lysaght@yahoo.com.

Unfortunately, we are still unable to visit the

nursing homes and hospitals. Father Patrick and I will be happy to hear confessions or supply the

Anointing of the Sick. JNM

The Candles burn this week for these special intentions:

Our Lady of Pompeii Candles Sanctuary Lamp (Right Side) ~ In Memory of

Billy Richmond & For All the Souls in Purgatory Sanctuary Lamp (Left Side) ~ In Memory of

the Mauro & Elko Families Chapel ~

Sacred Heart of Jesus ~ Louise Kuczirka Our Lady of Perpetual Help Icon ~

Our Lady of Pompeii Picture ~ In Memory of Susan Finn

St. Vincent de Paul Candles Sanctuary Lamp (Right Side) ~ In Memory of

the Balzano & Avitable Families Sanctuary Lamp (Left Side) - In Memory of

Ronald Paolillo Our Lady’s Altar ~ Mary Camera by Madelyn & Vincent Camera

St. Joseph’s Altar ~ Alfie Esposito by Anna Marie Sabatino

St. Bernadette Candles Sanctuary Lamp (Right Side) ~ Sanctuary Lamp (Left Side) ~

PRAY FOR THE SICK OF OUR PARISH

Nick Vessicchio, Sally Ann Fallon, Lynette Ely, David T. Boyle, Richard Lucibello, Carmel Ferretti, Bryan Surprenant, Sharon Spadacenta, Marie & Charles Zambrano, Marie Sunderland, Helen Langello, Annette Brissette, Brian Savo, Gerry Andrea, John Umlauf, Alan Poirier, Joseph Benson, Connie Rasimas, Jane Pyka, Harry Clark, Lou DiNola, Peter Pepe, Vincent Perricone, Virginia Klump, Robert Savino, Geraldine Licciardi, Joanne Cretella, Joseph Anyzeski, Alice Tietjen-DeSenti, Faith Gibson, Fran Sofo, Elizabeth Kuen, Deborah Sanning, Paula Ferrara, Patricia Brasile, Joann Mazzucco, Tina Marie Fionia, Elizabeth Nucolo, Joseph Parise, Frank DelGrego, Moira Ferguson, Danielle Joubert, Nelson Eddy, Margaret Lendroth, Katherine Hungerford Picciano, Frances Polaski, Sharon Filion, Pauline Condon, Rose Marie Monaco, Anna Izzo, Angelo DeMatteo, Carmen & Patricia Riccitelli, Patricia Aulenti, Michael Pascale, Alyce Richmond, Catherine Leach, Mark Schettino, Patty DiMilo, Rose Rogalski, Elaine Smith, Karen Rescigno, Virginia Pisano, Joan Baisley, Deanna Baldassare, Kim Hughes, DJ DiVincenzo, Sgt. Anthony Rybaruk, Philip DeMilo & Sally DeMilo, Anna Concelmo, Sally Ann Corcoran, Paul Castiglione, Anna Marie Nappi, Brian Higney, Rich Tortora, Andrea Palmucci, Frances Randi, Denise Bailey, Peg Dmytruk, Mary Mack, Joseph Peterson, Judith Robbins, Marion Mahl, Gloria Ranfone, Paula Ruddock, Pamela Willis, Laura Luzzi, Jose Maisonet, Anita Della Ventura, Brian Wilson, Maureen Redmond, Pasquale Savo, Kristianne Argentino, Shirley Perrelli, Marion Schobert, Bill Izzo, Andrew & Catherine Criscuolo, Patricia Miles, Joe Coscia, Deborah Verab, Msgr. James Shanley, Barbara Nixon, Frank Camera, Angela Foster, Dona Marie, Louis Messina, Christina Meoli, Ed Piazza, Patty Peters,, Laura Luzzi, Michelle Smith, Ron Mattei, Angela Riccio, Charlene Tantalo, Al Forgione, Gabriella Garrity, Beverly Fucci, W.D. Merkle, Phyllis Anastasio, Cheryl Barbara, Carmine DelBasso, Laura-Phyllis Esposito, Diana Vitelli O’Brien, Peg Dmytruk, Meghan Keeney, Pamela Willis, Laura Luzzi, Gennaro Milone, Jo Vuolo, Felicia DeRoche, Christopher Grego, Brian Wilson, Marilyn Kozin, Bill Izzo, Mike Barnett, Richard Costanzo, Carole Casapulla, Frank Casapulla, John & Rose Fraenza Please send prayer requests to stpioofpietrelcina@gmail.com so that our parishioners and friends can be remembered in our prayers.

Midnight Run Taylor Avenue Campus

The Midnight Run for September, will be the 3rd Monday, September 21st. Donations of brown bag lunches, water and toiletries can be dropped off to Sue Stacey, on Monday up until 7pm, at her home 82 Forbes Pl. Thankful for all donations. Thank you to all who donate to the Midnight Run!!! The Midnight Run for the month of September will be on September 21st, which is the 3rd Monday of the month, this is for September only! Until further notice PLEASE drop off all brown bag lunches to Sue’s home, 82 Forbes Pl, I can not at this time accept clothing or blankets, but toiletries are still acceptable Thank you God Bless You! Stay safe and well!!!

Midnight Run Foxon Road Campus

On the last Monday of each month, we bring 75 bagged lunches to the Columbus House Overflow Shelter.

Donations Needed: ShopRite Gift Cards or

Gallon Size Ziploc Bags Quart Size Ziploc Bags Peanut Butter & Jelly

Juice Pouches Raisin Boxes

Fruit Cups & Pudding Cups Granola Bars

Individual Packaged Cookies, Crackers or Chips

We are also looking for small amounts or full skeins of yarn, it will be used to make hats and scarves for the midnight run. Please leave your donations at any entrance of the church. Thank you.

Midnight Run is the LAST Monday of EVERY month from Our Lady of Pompeii Church from 6-7 pm.

Thank-you for being so generous!

September food collection for the East Haven Food Pantry for the month of September: canned fruit and chili.

Every Monday, immediately following morning Mass at Our Lady of Pompeii, there is one hour of Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. This Holy Hour is also streamed for those who cannot join us. Go to https://www.stpioofpietrelcinaeh.com

The St. Bernadette Food Pantry is open every Saturday from 10:00am-11:00am to receive or to donate non-perishable foods, for all of our communities.

From the Pen of Fr. M. Reverend Jeremiah N. Murasso, Ph.D., Ed.D., Psy.D.

Saint Januarius (Gennaro);

Bishop, Martyr and Patron Saint of Naples

On Saturday, September 19, the Church celebrates the feast of St. Januarius (St. Gennaro), bishop of Benevento, Italy, located outside the city of Naples. Januarius lived in the latter part of the second century and the first part of the third during which time, the Church saw some of the worst persecutions in the history of Christendom.

These persecutions were directed to Christians at the hands of the Roman emperor, Diocletian. In the first few centuries after Christ’s ascension into heaven, Christianity and Christians became a threat to the state-established practice of paganism and the worship of many gods. Those espousing belief in Jesus Christ were forced to renounce their faith in Jesus or face persecution and even death.

The St. Januarius story of steadfast faith in Jesus and his desire to joyfully accept severe torture and persecution is as fascinating as it is heroic and spiritually courageous. Januarius, like so many others of his day believed so fervently in Jesus Christ that he was willing to suffer persecution and even death, rather than renounce his faith in Jesus Christ and his allegiance to the Holy See.

Januarius’ faith is truly awe-inspiring because Christianity was less than three hundred years old; still in its infancy. What does this say about our faith, today, during times that are not so very different then the times in which when Januarius lived? How often are God’s Commandments watered-down to suit our perceived needs and desires? How often is the Word of God dismissed or ignored because it is out of sync with the values of our declining American culture?

The faith, the life and the martyrdom of Januarius become an example of Discipleship for postmodern men and women of faith. Januarius, like so many men and women throughout the history of salvation who willingly shed their blood, rather than give up their faith in Jesus Christ is a challenge as well as an indictment for each of us today, who live in postmodern times when our faith in God, our Judeo-Christian values and the practice of religion are all being tested and perhaps, even dismantled before our eyes.

Road to Martyrdom Januarius’ road to martyrdom begins with his

refusal to relinquish his faith in Jesus Christ. Diocletian, the emperor who ruled Rome from 284 BC to 305 BC., and who was responsible for some of the most gruesome persecutions directed toward Christians who refused to conform their lives to paganism ordered Januarius to appear before him.

Januarius was commanded to renounce his belief in Jesus Christ and in addition, to offer sacrifices to the pagan gods. Januarius was then expected to instruct his congregation to do likewise. When Januarius refused, the emperor had him imprisoned during which time, the furnaces were ignited and heated for three days. On the third day, Bishop Januarius was led in shackles to the furnaces where it was presumed that he would meet his fate.

Not so. Although it was the desire of Diocletian that Januarius would meet death by burning in the furnace, it was not the will of God. Praising the name of God and chanting hymns of joy, it was reported by the guards that Januarius was accompanied by legions of angels. Fearing their own fate at the hands of Januarius’ God, the soldiers ran off to report the incredible event to Diocletian.

September 13, 2020

The furnace doors were opened and as Januarius emerged unharmed, a burst of fire consumed the pagan onlookers, some of whom were Diocletian’s guards. Furious at this unbelievable turn of events, the emperor ordered Januarius to spend his days in prison while he awaited, not a return to the furnaces but this time, a beheading.

Desiring that Bishop Januarius should experience public torture and humiliation, and as a way of frightening Christians to renounce their faith in Jesus Christ, Diocletian had Januarius bound hand and foot and then dragged by a chariot pulled by horses to the amphitheater where he was met by several wild and ferocious lions. Watching the beasts violently making their way to where Januarius stood, and with shackles on his hands and feet, the crowds, also heard the bishop once again singing praises to God. Upon their approach, the animals became like lambs lying at Januarius’ feet and purring like kittens.

Outraged, Diocletian ordered his governor, also a pagan to have Januarius beheaded. As the guards took the bishop to where the beheading was to take place, Januarius prayed to God that He would punish the governor for all the Christian lives that he took and those that he continued to persecute. At that moment, the governor experienced excruciating pain in his eyes and then lost his sight. Infuriated at such an attack but also, somewhat repentant and perhaps a bit fearful of Januarius’ God, the governor ordered Januarius to be brought to him at which time, he pleaded with Januarius to ask God to restore his vision.

St. Januarius prayed to God in the name of Jesus Christ to restore the sight of the governor who although not worthy, Januarius believed that such a miracle would result in the conversion of many pagans. Januarius’ invocation to the Lord was heard and his prayer was answered. As Januarius spoke, the governor received his sight. The response of the pagan witnesses was overwhelming as many recognizing the mercy of Jesus Christ immediately began to believe.

However, instead of praising God for the miracle of sight, the governor became anxious and somewhat fearful at the tremendous conversion that took place among the pagan witnesses. He feared what would happen to his career and to his very life once the Diocletian become aware of what had taken place. Therefore, the governor dispatched the soldiers to once again shackle Januarius and drag him to the gallows to be beheaded.

Upon their arrival at the place where Januarius would finally meet his fate, covering his eyes, he placed his hand to his neck and while invoking the name of Jesus, instructed the executioner to strike his neck. In doing so, the executioner also cut off one of Januarius’ fingers. At the very hour that Januarius had died, the governor began to become tormented. It is reported that he whaled aloud beseeching God to have mercy on him for having tormented God’s priest and bishop. The governor eventually died.

St. Januarius’ Blood

Little is known about the life and even the death of Januarius. Actually, more is known about his blood, preserved in a clear glass vial, which along with the saint’s bones are kept at the Basilica in Naples. Each year since 1389, the dry blood liquefies on the feast of the saint’s death, September 19, and during the eight days that follow this feast. Each year, the vial is brought out for public viewing and in the context of the Mass, celebrated on St. Januarius’ feast day, the dry blood, believed to be that of Januarius, liquefies.

I have been present on several feast days at the Mass celebrated at the Basilica in Naples on the 19th of September. I sat in amazement as I watched what initially appeared to be dry blood actually liquefy into a red substance. I also remember the year (1976) that the Neapolitans elected a Communist mayor, who defeated the incumbent social democrat. This was the year that all the prayers and all the Masses did nothing to liquefy the blood.

The people were fearful that their choice of mayor was displeasing to God; thus, they actually ran the Communist mayor out of the city prior to his taking office. The incumbent was immediately reinstated. On the following Sunday, Mass was celebrated by the bishop of Naples and the vial was placed on the altar. As the Mass progressed, before my eyes, the blood liquefied.

This is not so much a story about the liquefaction of a saint’s blood, as much as it is a story of how God works through his faithful disciples. Throughout the summer weeks, we have been listening to St. Matthew’s account of Jesus’ call to Discipleship and the conditions, or rather, the prerequisites for following Jesus. St. Januarius and many like him were willing to sacrifice everything, even their lives, rather than deny the sovereignty of Jesus Christ. The true disciple of Jesus puts his hand to the plough and never looks behind (Luke 9:62).

What are we willing to relinquish for our faith? When distracted by the world, by society, by others and by what we think we need or desire, what are we willing to sacrifice in order that our relationship with Jesus may flourish? I suppose each of us should respond to two questions:

(1) What will Discipleship cost me? (2) Can I afford to ignore Jesus’ call? The answer

to these questions will determine the extent to which each of us experiences true peace in the midst of a confused and violent world. JNM

From the Pastor’s Pen Reverend Jeremiah N. Murasso, Ph.D., Ed.D., Psy.D.

A Renewed Commitment to Christ:

The Need to Prioritize new Beginnings

Another Fleeting Summer Labor Day, the unofficial end to the summer has come

and gone. As the summer becomes a fleeting memory, the sound of school bells has already begun to be heard ringing in the distance; although for many children and teachers the classroom may continue to be virtual.

Yet, even though uncertainty looms before us on so many different levels with regard to so many aspects of our lives, each of us yearns to move forward, to begin again and to re-start and re-kindle those daily schedules that enable each of us to discover meaning in who we are and what we do.

Autumn, or at least September and the annual celebration of Labor Day, which we celebrated last Monday, in many ways, marks the unofficial end to summer and the beginning of renewed activities and agendas as curtailed as this may be at least for the moment.

It is a new beginning for all of us as we attempt to get back on schedule and pick up where we may have left off way back around Memorial Day. New beginnings remind me of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount and the message of the Beatitudes. Like the Beatitudes, getting a kick-start to what lies ahead means that each of us begins to prioritize; deciding what of the many things that have to get done, should in fact, take preference.

One way to recognize the extent to which we are on the right path is to access the degree to which God’s Word becomes the Master Value in our lives. Jesus is God’s Word. Will Jesus be a priority for you as you begin again and re-embrace a more demanding daily schedule?

Too often, our children, our young adults and we too, as adults begin each new day by entering into our world, whether it be the workplace or the academic environment, spiritually unprepared for the subtle and not so subtle secular themes that wait to distract and consume us.

Parents work hard to provide for their children. Yet, sometimes, they overlook that which children really need:

• A way to God through the sacramental life of the Church, i.e., a spiritual/psychological access to God on a daily basis and also, during those times when life becomes difficult such as right now!

Parents and caregivers must not consciously neglect the spiritual wellbeing of their child(ren) in the same way that they would never neglect the physical and emotional needs of child-rearing.

• Children must not be kept from establishing a relationship with Jesus through the Eucharist. This needs to take place on a weekly basis because everything else parents and caregivers do for their children is for naught unless it is rooted-in and…. flows-from a relationship with Jesus Christ….and the role that he should play in family life.

• Families must re-cultivate and re-energize the family Soul. This means:

Come back to church. Spiritual health is indispensable for family life. Without a spiritual dimension, the family lacks real purpose for what they must become in relation to God. Participation in religious rituals and the adherence to traditions provide our children with spiritual resources especially during difficult times like right now!

2. Develop your family’s Soul by re-organizing your priorities so that Jesus is at the center. Make room in your very busy week for one hour of worship in order to share your faith with others who believe as you believe, and who want to share their faith with you.

Adherence to the Beatitudes Adherence to the Beatitudes is one way for each of us

to assure ourselves that we are connected to God’s Word. Some reflections follow with regard to focusing on our priorities; those priorities that include adherence to and the living-out of God’s Word. Ask yourself:

• Does my daily schedule include time for God? We make time for everything else in our lives that we consider to be important.

• What part will God play in my life and in the life of my family as I return to work, to school, or to other types of activities?

• What part will God play in my life as I make plans to visit friends and relatives, go out to dinner, frequent the shopping malls and prepare for the upcoming holidays?

• Will I make time in my very busy week to worship God, listen to His Word and receive the Body and Blood of Jesus by attending Mass on a weekly basis?

• Will I make time for prayer, on a daily basis and thus, make Jesus a part of my daily routine? With so many hours in the course of a week, why not

spend less than one hour each week at Mass? As Catholic Christians, it is important to ground our

lives and our activities in the Eucharist. It is only through the Eucharist, in the context of the worshiping community that we can renew and replenish God’s grace.

Weekly participation at Mass is so important. Your fellow parishioners need you and rely on your faith to carry out the work that the Spirit has intended for each of us individually and for all of us collectively as a contributing member of society and as a member of an extended family: the parish of St. Pio of Pietrelcina.

As a member of St. Pio of Pietrelcina, you are very important to the faith of this congregation. Do you realize this fact? I know that these past few months has prevented many from venturing out of their homes, but now that our churches have reopened, it’s time to make new priorities, placing weekend worship on the top of your list.

We all must re-think our busy schedules and make room in our busy lives to worship with those of us who need to worship with you.

Family Life

Raising children in the twenty-first century presents some very challenging moments. In society today, our children are confronted, on a daily basis with a multitude of conflicting and confusing themes that give rise to additionally confusing and conflicting choices. Each of us must strive to re-discover, re-establish and re-cultivate our faith in Jesus Christ; a faith that is rooted in God’s Word; in Gospel values that are nourished weekly at the Eucharistic Table of the Lord.

FR. MURASSO’S MESSAGE BOARD Parish Nursing

The Role of a Parish Nurse I would like to bring on-board to our parish community of St.

Pio a parish nurse, which is quite common in many of our parish communities. What exactly is a parish nurse and what role does he/she play in the parish?

A parish nurse is a registered nurse (R.N.) who also, holds certification in parish nursing. His/her role is to promote and to encourage health, healing and wholeness in the parish community on many different levels.

The role of the parish nurse is to promote the integration of faith and health in a variety of ways that reflect the context of the faith community. The ministry of the parish nurse includes the following:

Health Educator Focuses on a variety of educational activities for all ages and explores with them the relationship between values, attitudes, lifestyle, faith and health.

Personal Health Counselor Assists individuals to deal with health issues and problems, which may include a hospital admission, homebound issues, convalescent home concerns, etc.

Referral Agent Provides congregational and community resources for healing and wellness, recommending possible healthcare options.

Health Advocate Encourages all systems: parish community, city/state, primary health resources, families, etc., to find the best solutions for the healing and wholeness of the body, mind and spirit.

Facilitator of Volunteers Recruits and coordinates resources within the faith community to serve in its various health ministries.

Develops Support Groups Facilitates the development of support groups to meet the needs of parishioners and those of the larger community.

Integrator of Faith and Health Promotes a better and more concise understanding of the relationship between the health of mind, body and spirit and the link between the three.

Qualifications R.N. licensed in CT. Certified in parish nursing. Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a pariah setting and functioning as a parish nurse.

Resume’s should be e-mailed to Fr. Murasso at

jeremiah.murasso@aol.com

Worship provides each of us with the opportunity for sharing our beliefs as well as receiving nourishment and strength from God’s Word. Parents provide and participate in a multitude of activities for and with their children. Re-discover the spiritual power available to each of you as you participate at Sunday Mass.

Nourishment from God’s Word and participation around His Eucharistic Table helps the family realize that they are part of something bigger, which in turn gives each of us a new perspective, renewed hope, revitalized optimism and greater confidence.

3. Pray as a Family. Start with the basics: Grace before meals. This is very healing, especially for younger children. It also sets a peaceful tone prior to the beginning of the evening meal. Thanking God for our food, for our family and for our lives provide nourishment to the Family Soul because it reinforces purpose and meaning to our lives.

Different faiths employ different models for personal and family prayer; however, the reading of the New Testament, the Word of God is a good place to start. Pick a passage and share its message among family members. Have each member of the family share their personal interpretation of the passage and how it might speak to their daily lives. Encourage your children to remember their morning and evening prayers. We don’t have to be formal or even eloquent in expressing gratitude for another day, numerous blessings from the Lord and to be alive and productive.

4. Focus on Truth. Concentrate on those aspects of wholesome family life that reinforce vitality, security, harmony, peace, trust, intimacy, growth and respect. Families need to filter through the raw materials; the conflicting themes and experiences that on a daily basis threaten and endanger wholesome family values.

Cultivating the Family Soul requires daily vigilance on the part of adults in order to assure and re-assure children that safety and security will not be compromised, particularly in times where uncertainty reigns. We can no longer risk losing the Family Soul by depriving our children from the spiritual well-being that results from initiating and maintaining spiritual values. We as a world, as a nation, as a community, as a culture and as a Church must undergo much healing if we are to survive together on this great planet called Mother Earth.

Authentic healing will begin first and foremost by strengthening the family unit and nourishing the Family Soul. This is accomplished by re-discovering the Hidden God within our lives and once discovered, cultivating His presence at the deepest core of our being: at the level of the soul; Family Soul through prayer through prayer and lives rooted in Jesus. JNM

September 12 & 13

4:00pm OLOP Vigil: Fr. Patrick 4:00pm SB Vigil: Fr. Murasso 4:30pm SVDP Vigil: Fr. Borino 8:00am OLOP: Fr. Borino 8:00am SB: Msgr. Walker 9:00am SVDP: Fr. Murasso 10:00am SB: Msgr. Walker 10:00am OLOP: Fr. Patrick 11:00am SVDP: Fr. Charman 11:45am OLOP: Fr. Murasso 6:00pm SB: Fr. Patrick ******* ******* ********

September 19 & 20 4:00pm OLOP Vigil: Fr. Borino 4:00pm SB Vigil: Fr. Patrick 4:30pm SVDP Vigil: Fr. Murasso 8:00pm SB: Fr. Murasso 8:00am OLOP: Msgr. Walker 9:00am SVDP: Fr. Patrick 10:00am SB: Fr. Murasso 10:00am OLOP: Msgr. Walker 11:00am SVDP: Fr. Patrick 11:45am OLOP: Fr. Murasso 6:00pm SB: Fr. Patrick ********* ******** *******

September 26 & 27 4:00pm OLOP Vigil: Fr. Borino 4:00pm SB Vigil: Fr. Patrick 4:30pm SVDP Vigil: Fr. Murasso 8:00pm SB: Fr. Patrick 8:00am OLOP: Msgr. Walker 9:00am SVDP: Fr. Murasso 10:00am SB: Fr. Borino 10:00am OLOP: Msgr Walker 11:00am SVDP: Fr. Patrick 11:45am OLOP: Fr. Murasso 6:00pm SB: Fr. Patrick ********* ******** *******

October 3 & 4 4:00pm OLOP Vigil: Fr. Murasso 4:00pm SB Vigil: Fr. Patrick 4:30pm SVDP Vigil: Fr. Borino 8:00pm SB: Fr. Patrick 8:00am OLOP: Msgr. Walker 9:00am SVDP: Fr. Murasso 10:00am SB: Fr. Charman 10:00am OLOP: Msgr Walker 11:00am SVDP: Fr. Patrick 11:45am OLOP: Fr. Murasso 6:00pm SB: Fr. Patrick

Fr. Murasso’s Message Board

Saint Bernadette Church 1.Sanctuary Lamps: The Sanctuary Lamps newly purchased that hang in the sanctuary can be memorialize to a loved-one. The lamps burn continuously except on Good Friday and during the day on Holy Saturday. As you know, the lamp signifies the presence of Jesus in the tabernacle. These lamps, which that hang on the walls in our beautiful sanctuary add to the beauty and dignity of the altar and crucifix. A wonderful way to remember a loved-one. Cost: $2,500 each 2. Vestments: The vestments that we currently have are in very bad shape. They apparently have not been replaced in a long time as they are stained and frayed. We need at least 2 sets. A set consists of four vestments for each of the liturgical seasons: white, green, purple and red. Vestments are $590.00 each 3. Chalices and Ciborium: The chalice is what the priest consecrates the blood of Christ in and the ciborium is what we use distribute communion in. We only have one chalice, which is in dire need of being re-glazed because of is years of use. In addition, we only have two ciboria to distribute communion and are in dire need of some new ones. These too, can be engraved with the name of a loved-one. Chalice: $750.00 each Ciborium: $750.00 each 4. Statue of St. Clare: I would like to purchase a statue of Saint Clare; it would be on either side of the picture of Saint Bernadette at the front of the church. This is a wonderful opportunity to memorialize a deceased loved-one. The statue is $985.00