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St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church

OUR LITURGY
In today’s first reading, David faces a choice: Should he kill his enemy Saul or follow his inner sense of what is right? Though perhaps less dramatic, we also face moral decisions in our own lives. In the Gospel Jesus asks much of us. Not only are we to do the right thing, but compassion and nonjudgmental love are to flow from us toward others.

ALTAR BREAD & WINE
Offered In Memory Of
Joseph Stapleton
Requested by
Loving Family

OUR PRIEST-CELEBRANTS
This Week End Mass Next Week
Fr Boyle 5:00 pm Fr Boyle
Fr Boyle 7:00 am Fr Boyle
Fr Tapel 9:00 am Fr Maffeo
Fr Maffeo 10:30 am Fr Thomas
Fr Tapel 12:00 pm Fr Tapel
Fr Maffeo 5:00 pm Fr Thomas
IF ANYONE WOULD LIKE TO BRIN G UP THE GIFTS AT THE MASSES ON SATURDAY OR SUNDAY, PLEASE CONTACT ONE OF THE USHERS WHEN YOU ARRIVE FOR MASS.

PARISH MISSION - RENEWAL
Your Life Renewed
In Christ
In Faith
In the Liturgy
In the Word of God
March 3 thru 8th
Preached by
the Passionists
Prayer for the Success of Our Parish Mission
Loving Father, you sent your Son Jesus into the world to tell us of your love and mercy.
Open our hearts so that Jesus’ message might come to us in a special way during our mission.
Stir our hearts in eager expectation. Come in your gentle power to heal our wounds and unite us in hope.
Give us your Holy Spirit and we shall be wonderfully renewed. We ask this through Jesus Christ your Son and our Lord. Amen.

MASS INTENTIONS
Sunday, February 18, Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
7:00 Aaron Ashuin Krueger requested by Lina DeLouisa
7:00 Patrick Dineen requested by Loving Family
9:00 Marie McHugh requested by Linda & Joe Savage & Family
9:00 Thomas Toscano requested by Mary Caron
10:30 Elizabeth Mulligan requested by Claire & Jim
10:30 Otto A Vitale requested by The Keller Family
12:00 Andrew A Monaco requested by Susan & Tim Grant
12:00 John Walsh requested by Margaret Walsh
5:00 Kenneth Hamilton Sr requested by Doreen Owen
5:00 Vincent Robert Joseph Heart requested by Loving Brother
Monday, February 19
7:00 Maria Camilitti requested by The Egan Family
9:00 Robert Turner requested by The Bureau of Nursing
9:00 Robert A Ramsdell requested by Loving Wife Nancy
Tuesday, February 20
7:00 For the People of the Parish
8:45 John Milani requested by The Burns Family
Wednesday, February 21, ASH WEDNESDAY
7:00 For the Intentions of the Celebrant
9:00 Mary & Tom Hackett requested by Jerry Griffith
9:00 Kathi Pagliuca requested by Loving Husband
12:10 Icelin Brandon requested by John Lesko & Linda Downing
5:00 Prayer Service - Distribution of Ashes
7:30 Prayer Service - Distribution of Ashes
Thursday, February 22, Chair of St Peter
7:00 For the Intentions of the Celebrant
9:00 George Raab requested by Loving Family
9:00 Ines Vargas Soto requested by Koreen DeBellis & Family
12:10 Brian Kenny requested by Diane Barello & Vito Rasimas
Friday, February 23, St Polycarp
7:00 For the Intentions of the Celebrant
9:00 Jane Favale requested by Loving Family
9:00 Robert Montgomery requested by The Mawn Family
12:10 George Seibel requested by The McCullagh Family
Saturday, February 24
8:00 Walter Jurkowski requested by Betty Reddington
8:00 Joyce Bluni requested by The Wissen Family
Anticipated Mass for Sunday
5:00 Roberta Colba Savastides requested by Joyce & Joe Ando
5:00 Patricia Stapelton requested by Edith Mandala
Sunday, February 25, First Sunday of Lent
7:00 Cornelius J Dunleavy requested by Loving Wife Anne
7:00 William J Schaudel requested by Loving Wife & Daughters
9:00 For Deceased Members of the St Regis
Knights of Columbus and Columbiettes
10:30 Helen Butkiewicz requested by
Loving Daughter In Law, Children & Grandchildren
10:30 Elizabeth Mulligan requested by Marie & Arthur Kruse
12:00 Monica Bonagura requested by Ann & Mark Freedman
12:00 George Sullivan requested by
Jim, Agnes, Edward & Thomas McKenna
5:00 Michael A DuBritz requested by Emma DuBritz
5:00 James Thompson requested by
John & Paula Martire & Family

Sunday, February 18, 2007

Sunday, December 31, 2006

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FROM THE DESK OF FR. MIKE

FROM THE DESK OF FR. MIKE

When I was a kid reading my Batman or Superman Comic Books, with great joy I might add, I can remember that in almost every issue they had a public service announcement about following the Golden Rule. They had the rule written in several different languages and from many different faith traditions, as they stressed that this was indeed a universal human standard. The rule is highly endorsed by historic figures like the Rabbi Hillel and Confucius, and basically it states: TREAT OTHERS AS YOU WISH TO BE TREATED! Really good words to live by, words of course which Jesus echoes in today’s Gospel as we continue with Luke’s Sermon on The Plain, however, Jesus does not stop with the Golden Rule. Jesus goes way beyond the rule as He says; “To you, who hear I say love your enemies, do good to those who mistreat you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. To the person who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other one as well.” “Do to others as you would have them do to you. For if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them.”
Now we may say Jesus is correct, we should try to treat everyone the way we want to be treated, but to treat those who are my enemies the same-why that’s crazy or down right impossible! Well yes, according to basic human actions and reactions, and it does seem natural to protect ourselves or not to allow our enemies to get an upper hand, and perhaps to even respond with revenge. And no, according to what Christ is calling us to. No, it is not impossible to forgive one’s enemies and to do good for them because we thanks to Jesus have seen a new way of living. A way that goes beyond the Golden Rule of Humanity to the Loving Rule of Jesus, the Son of God-the One whom we all belong to in His Living Body the Church! God becomes one of us in the person of Jesus to show us what we as humans can truly do. He reminds us that we are made in God’s image and likeness and therefore, we are to act as God acts not as the basic human actions and reactions would dictate us to act. For to act according to the basic human actions, is to follow Adam and Eve after they ate of the fruit from the forbidden tree, not Adam and Eve as they were when first created. Christ shows us and tells us that we can act just like Him the new Adam and just like His dear Mother Mary, the new Eve. We are not to seek vengeance and we are to offer forgiveness, for this is the only way that we can change the world. When one looks at the Middle East today and the continued attacks and counter attacks and suicide bombings, one
can see how useless vengeance is and how all it generates is more acts of violence. Are we not supposed to protect ourselves? Yes, most certainly, but in protecting ourselves we are not to seek an eye for an eye or a tooth for a tooth. No, it should be more, we will not allow you to harm us, and we will prevent you from harming others, but we likewise hope to settle our differences to make a change in how we treat each other and until you agree to talk, we will not allow us to seek vengeance on others. Granted this is very hard to do, especially when it is one sided, yet we must try and persevere if anything is going to change. Hopefully, by our actions we will be able to change the hearts and minds of others.
We see a good example of today’s Gospel in the actions of Pope John Paul II when he went to the cell of Mehmet Ali Agea the one who shot him in 1981 at St. Peter’s Square-Ali Agea was pardoned after serving 19 years of a life sentence at the behest of the late pope. Yes, it can be done, but we cannot do it without constant prayer and dedication to Jesus’ words to-“Be merciful just as your Father is merciful. Stop judging and you will not be judge. Stop condemning and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven.” With Lent starting this week with Ash Wednesday, perhaps this is something we all can pray about and work on this year. Allow the Holy Spirit to help us to stop judging, condemning and extend forgiveness. Please read the bulletin and consult the last parish mailing for information about our Ash Wednesday and Lenten Schedule. Remember that beginning the Thursday following Ash Wednesday right up to the Wednesday of Holy Week we will celebrate Mass at 12:10 PM (M-F). We will also have a wonderful Lenten Retreat Preached by Fr. Thomas Griffiths of the Passionist Fathers from March 3-8 so please join us!
Also don’t forget to make your pledge to the Catholic Ministries Appeal if you did not do so last weekend. Volunteers will be at the back of the Church this weekend as well and next weekend too, or you can mail your pledge to the Diocese directly or to the Rectory-remember together we can all make a difference.
God bless you always.
Fr. Mike

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REMEMBER OUR SICK
Michelle Altonji William Arabio
Florio Barello William Barry
Oliver Bouchard Hazel Boyce
Mr Michael Boyle Sr Cynthia Caesar
Joan DeCicco Ryan Delaney
Michael DePinto Angelina DeSimone
Msgr Donald Desmond Pricilla DeStanfo
Nancy DiTrapani Anthony Diubaldo
Marie Diubaldo Mary Dougherty
Debra Esposito Richard Fahey
Robert Filce Vincent Fortunato
Flavio Gabrielli Frank Gaeta
Sonny Grosso Raymond Harold
Philip Heilig Mary Hickey
Eugene Hornef Thomas Horvath
Frank E Kammerer Jack Kelleher
Cecelia Keller Georgiana Lopez
Marie Mangan Donna R Martinez
John J McCullagh, Sr Howard Meeks
Irene Meeks Sam Monteleone
Baby Aiden Muschter Joanora O'Donnell
Christopher Owen Grace C Peshkur
Baby Rebecca Petrellese Anna Petrone
Joseph Poirot Nicole Ramaglia
Ralph Raymond Dawn Saporito
Sharon Schneider Marie Scott
Lucielle Shaver Darryll Smith
Stacie Tizzard Lloyd Turnier
Joseph Vereline Jr Annette Vitalino
Theresa Vlahos Gerard Weber
PLEASE NOTE: To keep our prayer list current, we will keep names on the sick list for two months. We ask families to return the bulletin cut-out to include names of those who are ill for another two months.

REMEMBERING THE SICK
Please include the following in the bulletin sick list:
______________________________
Name of person who is ill:
_____________________________ ____________________
Person making this request: Relationship to ill person
Your Phone #: _____________________
(Please place in collection basket or return to Church Office)
(Friends can be placed on the silent prayer list only)

PRAY FOR OUR TROOPS
Please continue to remember them in your prayers.
CPL Deborah Alfieri
PFC Matthew Altonji Tech SGT Louis Barletta 2LT Stephen Bartoszak PFC Justin Browne SGT Michael Bruno CPL Glenn Clacher SPC Thomas E. Corcoran SPC Jason Crawford
SGT Ryan Delaney TSGT Timothy Dermody
LTCOL Kurt Diehl SGT Stephen Gene DiGirolamo
LT John Kenneth DiNero SSGT Tony Elliott
LT Kelly Fletcher PFC Adam Franciosa
CPT Evan Gotkin PVT2 Edward Johnston
SGT John W Keohane SSGT Steven Knight
CPL Andrew Kochman LCPL David Lindsey
PVT Thomas B McGinn SGT Patrick McNally
PFC William Meyer SGT Glenn Miller
2LT Heather Miras SGT Daniel Montville
SSGT Brian Moran CPT Gregory Mueller
LCPL Thomas Napolitano LCPL Michael Napolitano
Pvt Todd Nelson LCPL James Neubauer
LCPL Anthony Notaroberta PVT James Notaroberta
SGT Brian O'Leary SGT Brian Pacella
N/Seal Paul Padro ENS3 Lucy Padro
CPT Michael Parisi 2LT Anthony Parisi
MAJ Paul E Pinaud CTR2 Matthew Pistritto
SGT Edwin Rivera, II PFC William R Rodgers
LCPL Anthony M Sbrocco SSGT Jason Schiavo
LCPL W.Mason Shehan SPC James Stanek
PVT Erica Sweeney SSGT Nick Vicale
SGT John Thomas Vogt LCPL Brandon Waldon
SGT Randolph Weaver 2LT John Wolven
If you would like to include a soldier from your family who is serving, place their name and rank and branch of service on the cut -out and put it in the collection basket.

REMEMBERING OUR TROOPS
Please include the following soldier in your prayers :
______________________________
Name, Rank and Branch of Service
_____________________________ ____________________
Person making this request: Relationship to Soldier
Your Phone #: _____________________
(Please place in collection basket or return to Church Office)
(Friends can be placed on the silent prayer list only)

REMEMBER OUR DEAD
Maria Camilitti, Henry Mullaney, for our deceased soldiers and all of our deceased relatives and friends.
Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace.
May their souls and all the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen

Sunday, February 18, 2007

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St Joseph’s School
school@stjoronk.org
Dear Parishioners,
Community, cooperation, and mutual respect are the hallmarks of St. Joseph School. These attributes are part of the daily atmosphere that enable us to fulfill our mission as Christian educators. Because we are recognized as professionals, we are able to communicate the value of education to our students who in turn are empowered academically and morally. Additionally, the long term working relationships shared by our faculty attest to the dedication of our staff and teachers. Supported by our principal, pastor, priests, and staff, we are able to move ahead to provide an academic program that is "one step above."
God bless,
The Faculty of St. Joseph School
School News!
Our Valentine's Dance was a great success. Thank you to all who worked So hard to make it a fun evening for all.
Our students in grades Nursery thru Grade 8 will be on winter recess The week of Feb. 19. We will return to a prayer day on Tuesday, February 27th. We will attend Mass in the morning and then return to the classroom to do lenten activities for the remainder of the school day. What a great way to learn about lent.
Representatives from the Diocesan Office for Tomorrow's Hope will be here on Tuesday, evening Feb.27th at 7:30PM and Wednesday, afternoon Feb.28 at 4:00PM to train anyone who would be interested in assisting people complete the application for Financial Aide to our school. This would be a great opportunity for someone who is retired in the accounting field and available to assist families completing financial aid forms. We would offer this service to anyone who is interested in our school and applying for assistance.
Our school will host Unity Sunday on March 4th. Please plan to share Our hospitality in Carew Hall. We will also have our students display their Science Fair projects at this time. Come join us!
Registration is open for students in grades Nursery thru grade 8 for the 2007 - 2008 school year. Please call the school office for a tour and more information, 588-4760.
Fashion Show Tickets are now on sale. Tickets may be purchased after The Masses or thru the school office Monday - Friday 8:30 - 3:00.

Religious Education
reled@stjoronk.org
Monday & Thursday 9 am to 4 pm
Tuesday & Wednesday
10 am to 3:30 pm
The office is closed on Fridays.
There will be NO religion classes this week - February 19th - Winter Break. There will also be NO Sunday School today and next Sunday, February 25th.
Reminder for Level 6 students, Reconciliation will be held on Monday, February 26. Tuesday students should arrive at Church at 7:15 pm. And Wednesday and Thursday students arrive at 7:45 p.m.
Banns of Marriage
(Second Time)
Andrea DeNezzo of Lake Grove and
Matthew Meehan of St Joseph’s
Kathy Matthews of Holtsville and
Kevin Gierloffe of St Joseph’s
Gina Capodieci of St Joseph’s and
John James DeFlumeri Jr

St. Vincent de Paul
In today’s Gospel, Jesus challenges us by saying “Give, and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap…”
When we give to the poor, God indeed pours His love, peace and joy into our hearts and into our lives.

Trevor Michael Carr
Brianna Grace Dubinsky

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Sunday, February 18, 2006
, 2005

RESPECT LIFE
While the debate rages over the ethical use of embryonic stem cells (esc) which as we know it today, is unethical as it presupposes the death of an embryo, and President Bush can be relied on to veto any such legislation, scientists are forced to study the effects of adult stem cell products against a range of specific medical needs.
While these investigations are going on, there are companies moving in to the commercial market to bring stem cell therapy, that for instance, generates new bone to treat spinal defects or hard-to-heal fractures in which the bone is shattered or pieces are missing. One company sells stem cells from donors not related to the patient, as if they were a type of drug. Another offers a service that multiplies stem cells taken from a particular patient, then send the cells back for that person’s use. Still another makes a device to be used in hospitals or clinics, that isolates stem cells from freshly drawn fat tissue.
Look in the future for a certain company’s biggest breakthrough- generating knee cartilage for the 800,000 Americans who tear their meniscus each year. The meniscus functions as the knee’s shock absorber. Most who tear it have the meniscus surgically removed or repaired and accept a higher risk of developing arthritis. The company plans to report on this next month, says their chief executive. Little Luis Rojo’s life was saved, his parents said, by the stem cell drug called Prochymal. (Luis was the baby near death after his tiny body rejected part of a marrow transplant for a rare bone disorder.) The company that makes the drug claims a cure, in a recent trial, for 23 of 31 patients who had graft-versus-host disease. Final-stage testing is under way. Newsday, January 16, 2007
The pro-life position supports and encourages adult stem cell research. Successful therapies to date include leukemia, sickle cell anemia, cancers, diabetes, Parkinson’s, heart damage, stroke, spinal cord injury, corneal scarring, autoimmune disease, etc. This after 30 years of research. Special adult-type stem cells from bone marrow and umbilical cord appear to be as flexible (make any cell type) as the embryonic type.
Now let’s be clear: What is a STEM CELL? A stem cell is really a “blank” cell, capable of becoming another more differentiated cell type in the body, such as a skin or nerve cell. Why are STEM CELLS important? Stem cells can be used to replace or heal damaged tissues and cells in the body. Adult stem cells are present in various tissues and organ systems; umbilical cords, placentas and amniotic fluids, bone marrow, liver, epidermis, etc. Even fat obtained from liposuction has been shown to contain significant numbers of adult type stem cells!
Sources: Rev. Dr. Tadeus Pacholczyk-Stem Cell Research, Cloning & Human Embryos;
NYSRTL-LifeWorks; Gerard Magill, Phd-The Truth About Stem Cell Research
PREGNANCY CRISIS HOTLINE - We are here to help you. Please call 981-6888.

Weekly Offering
Sunday, February 11, 2006 Offerings $16,993
Same collection last year (snow storm) 8,956
Number of envelopes 620
Poor Box last weekend $536
Fuel Oil Collection YTD $8286
Same time last year 2006 8979
Snow Removal $1282
Same time last year 2006 1955
Thank you for your generous response to the appeal for
increased giving.
God Bless You Always, Fr Mike
Pascal Candle
Memorials
If you would like to memorialize
the Pascal Candle for the upcoming year please fill out
and return this tab with your
payment of $100 to the Rectory.
In Memory of:_____________________________
From:______________________________
Telephone:___________________

Mark Your Calendars
Feb 20 Bible Study 10 AM & 7:30 PM Carew Hall
Feb 20 Prayer Service & Distribution of Ashes 7:30PM
Feb 21 Ash Wednesday - ashes will be distributed at all the Masses - 7 & 9AM, 12:10,5 & 7:30PM
Feb 23 Stations of the Cross 7:30 PM in the Church
Feb 27 Bible Study 10 AM & 7:30 PM Carew Hall
Mar 2 Parish Recollection & Stations of the Cross
7:30 PM in the Church
Mar 5 - 8 Parish Lenten Retreat 8PM in the Church

The Feast of Saint Joseph

On Saturday, March 14th we will be celebrating the Feast of St Joseph - our Parish’s Patron Saint - with a dinner in Carew Hall following the 5PM Mass. While there is no charge, reservations are necessary so please call the Rectory and leave your name, the number of people attending and your phone number.
On Thursday, March 19th, the Feast of St Joseph, we will celebrate Mass in his honor at 7:30 PM. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to join us.

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2008

Ashes, Prayers & Stations

Ash Wednesday - A Call to Conversion
On Tuesday , February 5th at 7PM we will share Hot Cross Buns and fellowship followed by our very moving Prayer Service and distributing of Ashes at 7:30. The Eucharist will be celebrated on Ash Wednesday, February 6th at 7 and 9 AM. Ashes will be distributed after the homily at each of these celebrations. Ashes will also be distributed at the Service of the Word at 12:10, 5 and 7:30 PM.

Rules of Fast and Abstinence
During the season of Lent the Church calls us to fast and abstain. The days of fast are Ash Wednesday and Good
Friday. Fast means that those between the ages of 18 and 59 limit themselves to one full meal and eat nothing between meals. The other meals on a fast day are light meals. All the Fridays of Lent, as well as Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, are also days of abstinence, which means that those 14 years of age and older are to abstain from eating meat.

Daily Mass—A Lenten Tradition
Monday through Friday 7AM, 9AM and 12:10 PM.
Saturday at 8AM
Sunday Masses remain the same at 5PM on Saturday, 7, 9 & 10:30 AM, 12 Noon and 5PM on Sunday

The Sacrament of Reconciliation
Daily as we pray the “Our Father “ we petition our God to “forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” These simple words recall the basic need that each of us has to experience forgiveness and to share it with others. As a faith community the Sacrament of Reconciliation has long served to seek forgiveness of God and to be reconciled with one another. Celebrating the Sacrament of Reconciliation provides us with an encounter with our Compassionate God. Lent is an especially opportune time to experience God’s mercy in this sacramental way.
The parish offers weekly celebrations of the sacrament each Monday, Wednesday & Friday after the 7 & 9 AM Masses and on Saturday after the 8AM Mass and from 4-4:45 PM.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation will also be celebrated at the following times:
Monday of Holy Week - March 17th - after the 7 & 9 AM masses , 4-5PM and 7-8:30PM
Wednesday of Holy Week - March 19th - after the 7 & 9AM masses
Holy Saturday - March 22 - 10-12 Noon for those unable to attend other services.

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Stations of the Cross
Recalling the Passion of our Lord Jesus during the season of Lent has nourished Catholics from the earliest days of Christianity. One of the traditional ways in which we recall Jesus’ way of the cross is the praying of the Stations of the Cross. Join us for the Stations on each of the following Fridays at 7:30: February 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th, March 7th, 14th, and 21st.

Lenten Feast Days
Celebrate with us two of our favorite patron saints - St Joseph & St Patrick. On Saturday, March 8th, we will be celebrating the Feast of St. Joseph with a dinner in Carew Hall following the 5PM Mass. There will be a St Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, March 9th, sponsored by the Knights of Columbus.

Seven Last Words
Good Friday is a time of deep recollection and prayer. For centuries Christians have prayed over the Passion of the Lord in many ways. As a parish community, On Good Friday at 12 Noon, our prayer service will be structured around “The Seven Last Words” a very powerful and moving reflection presented by members of our parish family. Come pray with us.

Palm Sunday
Distribution of Palm at all Masses
Saturday, March 15
5:00
Sunday March 16th
7,9,10:30 AM
12 Noon
5:00PM

Holy Thursday
March 20th
9:00
Morning Prayer
7:30 PM
Mass of the Lord’s
Supper followed by
Solemn Procession with the Blessed Sacrament to the Repository
11:00 PM
Closing of Repository

Good Friday
March 21st
9:00
Morning Prayer
Noon
Reflection on the Seven Last Words
3:00
Commemoration of the Passion and Death of the Lord Jesus
7:30PM
Stations of the Cross

Holy Saturday
March 22nd
9:00
Morning Prayer and Blessing of Easter food
10-12 Noon
Confessions for those unable to attend other services.
7:30
Easter Vigil Liturgy

SAVE THE DATE:
DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY, APRIL 30TH , 3-4PM IN THE CHURCH
PARISH RETREAT—APRIL 19TH & 20TH FR. CRONIN WILL BE SPEAKING AT ALL MASSES.
APRIL 21ST, 22ND, AND 23RD 7-9PM IN CHURCH

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Catholic Ministry Appeal Update
The Catholic Ministry Appeal for 2006 has very successful. Not only did we surpass our goal of $74,800 in pledges, we received the total goal in payments. That means that St. Joseph’s will receive the full parish rebate of $14,960! That is awesome and you should be very happy and proud that you, the loyal and generous parishioners of St. Joseph have made it possible. We thank you so much for your continued support. If you still owe money on your pledge, it’s not to late to send in your final payment. All money received by January 31st will be credited and we’ll receive a final rebate of 80% of the total over the goal.
Goal: $74,800
Pledges: $78,836
Received to date: $75,114
We have begun the Appeal for 2007. We are hopeful that the response will be even better than last year’s. There will be a Diocesan mailing followed by presentations at this weekend’s masses. We need volunteers to help make this year’s Catholic Ministry Appeal even more successful. If you are interested and would like to volunteer, please call the rectory and leave your name and telephone number. It is very rewarding to be part of something so vital to this parish and the Dioceses. We thank you and look forward to a great year.
WE DID IT !!

Catholic Ministries Appeal 2006

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And the Winners Are….

February 2007

Sun	Mon	Tue	Wed	Thu	Fri	Sat
				1 $25 / Elaine Mazziotti / # 660	2 $25 / Anthony Misa / # 503	3 $25 / Ron & Christine / Firestone / # 806
4 $50 / Alfonse / Nunziata / # 55	$25 / Kathleen Schmidt / # 401	$25 / William & Joan Mangan / # 35	$25 / Anne / DiGregorio / # 749	$25 / Carol Fischer / # 709	$25 / Anne Kelly / # 695	$25 / Anne / DiGregorio / # 768
$50 / Mary Ann / Mullahey / # 636	$25 / Elio & Gilda Zanoni / # 785	$25 / Clare & Lou Antonucci / # 154	$25 / Sheila Straface / # 280	$25 / Theresa Weik / # 835	$25 / Diane Bonserio / # 842	$25 / Frances / Romagnuolo / # 80
18	19	20	21	22	23	24
25	26	27	28

The Calendar Club
Everyday for the next year we will draw one number. The owner of that number will win the prize for that day. Then the number is put back into the mix for the next day’s drawing, giving you another opportunity to WIN! A donation of only $25 buys you 1 number and 362 chances to win.
A donation of $100 will buy you 1,810 chances to win !!!!
Your donation must accompany this form. We ask you to return your request as soon as possible so you can get in on the winning. Thank you and Good Luck!
MAIL ALL DONATIONS TO: St Joseph Church, 45 CHURCH STREET, RONKONKOMA, NY 11779
MEMBERS NAME: ____________________________
ADDRESS: ____________________________________
TELEPHONE NUMBER: ________________________
NUMBER OF CALENDARS: X $25 = $ ______ 5 FOR $100 TOTAL ENCLOSED $ __________

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Saint Patrick’s
St. Regis’ Annual
St. Patrick’s Dinner Dance
Honoring
Henry Melchiona, Grand Marshal
February 24, 2007
8:00 PM to Midnight
Dinner & Open Bar
Live Band & much more Entertainment
50/50 Raffle at the Door
$35 per person
See Jimmy Tallman
For tickets or call
588-1837

REMEMBERING
Friends and LOVED ONES

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Help Us Grow the
Tree Of Life
At
St Joseph’s
Throughout the ages, trees have symbolized life. The Tree of Life at St Joseph’s represents our parish’s commitment to life by providing for the spiritual, educational and social needs of our parish. The beautiful sculptures, leaves and stones render a tale of support, friendship, remembrance and dedication.
Occupying a prominent position in our Baptistry, and All Saints Shrine, the Tree of Life commemorates our support of St Joseph’s Parish. Leaves and stones may be engraved to honor benefactors, highlight or memorialize people or events with special significance in life, or express the sentiments of donors.
The Leaves
Each inscribed leaf on The Tree of Life represents a gift of $1,000 or more. Inscriptions may recognize a valued friend and supporter of St Joseph’s Church, celebrate a significant event in your family, or memorialize a loved one.
The Stones
Each inscribed stone permanently recognizes a contribution of $5,000 or more given by an individual benefactor, foundation or corporation.

Bricks For The Future
Bricks For the Future welcome our
parishioners and friends alike as they enter St Joseph’s Church each day. Some stop to read the inscriptions, others to say a prayer in memory. As we hear The Word proclaimed inside the Church building, outside on the step we are witnesses to that faith.
The growth of the Bricks for the Future program at St Joseph’s Church through your gift, allows you to have a significant and meaningful part in developing and sharing our Community of faith and love in Jesus. Your contribution helps St Joseph sustain our parish plant and buildings to keep them from deteriorating now and in the future as major projects arise.
Your tax deductible gift gives you the opportunity to share with others those special persons and meaningful events that touch, shape and illuminate your life.
Each brick in the walk represents a gift of $1,800. Brick inscription allows up to 4 rows of characters, symbols and spaces as shown above (approx 28). If you wish to have a special symbol (shamrock, cross, heart) on the tab of the brick, please contact the rectory.

Name________________________________________
Address______________________________________
Town__________________State______Zip_________
Phone _______________________________________

	Single	Annual	Semi Annual	Quarterly	Monthly
Tree of Life Leaf	$1000	$334	$167	$84	$28

Tree of Life Stone	$5000	$1667	$834	$417	$139
Brick For the Future	$1800	$600	$300	$150	$50

Upon receipt of your down payment we will send you a form for the exact wording of the inscription. For your convenience we will mail you a statement according to your payment schedule.

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Spring Fling Fashion Show
Sponsored by
St. Joseph’s Parents Association

Thursday, March 29, 2007
At Villa Lombardi’s Holbrook
7PM to 11PM

*Raffle Baskets* Door Prizes* Grand Raffle Baskets*
**Grand 50/50 CASH Prize

$50.00 per person includes:
Salad, dinner, dessert, coffee/tea/beer/wine/soda. Valet parking available.

To purchase show tickets please remit your name, return address, number of tickets requested and names of all attendees. If you are a school parent, please note your child’s name and grade.
Checks are made payable to St. Joseph’s School.

Credit Cards
Are Accepted:

Remit the above information with your
Name, Phone Number, Zip Code, Credit Card #, Expiration Date & Security Code (if you need assistance, please call the School at (631) 588-4760 and ask for Mrs. Ambrosio

Please mail your ticket request to:
St. Joseph School
25 Church Street
Ronkonkoma, NY 11779
Attn: Ann Ambrosio, PA Treasurer

**If there is a specific group you would like to sit with, please
request. Our best efforts will be made to accommodate you.

***Show Tickets Must Be Purchased In Advance****

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“Spring Ahead”
…with the Grand 50/50

Drawing will be held
At the St. Joseph’s Fashion Show
Thursday, March 29, 2007

?

?

The more tickets sold,
The bigger the CASH prize.

$

WATCH THE POT GROW…

Signs will be posted in the school and church lobbies
for the current prize amount.

Last year’s winner
Took home over
$3,000.00 CASH!

Donation: $5.00/each or 6 for $25.00
(YOU NEED NOT ATTEND THE FASHION SHOW TO WIN!!!)

To purchase tickets please remit payment and form below to:
St. Joseph School, 25 Church Street, Ronkonkoma, NY 11779
Attn: Ann Ambrosio, PA Treasurer

Name:_____________________________ Phone___________
Address:____________________________________________
# of Tickets:__________ Amount Enclosed________________
Child’s Name & Grade: (St. Joseph School Only)______________________________________________

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Blood Drive
Monday, February 19th
from
4PM to 9PM
Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, St Regis Council at their Council Hall on Pond Road.
Babysitting Provided by the
Girl Scouts.
Persons 18 years of age or older may call Karl Sundquist at
631-265-2691 to schedule an appointment or just stop in.

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For the Young at Heart

YOUTH IN MINISTRY
Every Sunday at 5:00 PM, St. Joseph’s Parish offers a modern, upbeat, worship experience designed
especially for youth and their families.
Everyone in grades 7-12 is invited to participate.
We’re looking for: Lectors Ushers Musicians/Singers Altar Servers
Eucharistic Ministers (Eucharistic ministers must be over 18)
For more information about joining Youth in Ministry, contact YIM@StJoRonk.org

Christ was one child Who knew more than His parents --
yet He obeyed them.
Venturing Events
In Carew Hall after 5:00 PM Mass
Open to all young men & women from 9th grade to age 20. Join Crew 272 as they venture into 2007 !!
March 16, 17 & 18th
Venturing Leadership Skills Course at Clear Lake
Reservation in Putnam Valley , NY
E-mail: Crew272@StJoRonk.org Phone: Advisor Mike Keller (631) 467-6468

Sport for all Seasons
ST. JOSEPH CYO CYO

Travel Soccer:
Gene (467-0541
Intramural Soccer:
Beth (737-6299
Track
Karen (588-8636
Chairman: Henry
Baseball:
Gene (588-1879
Girls Basketball:
Christine (275-8321
Boys Basketball:
Frank (585-6921
Melchiona (467-6091

St Joseph's Play Group
Calling all babies, toddlers and pre schoolers - Come meet new friends at the St Joseph’s Playgroup! Bring your Mom, Dad, Grandparents or caregiver to Father Carew Hall on Thursday’s at 9:30 AM. There you’ll meet other St Joseph’s families and spend an hour of fun with other children from birth to age 5. For more information please call Sally Miller at 737-5120. Hope to see you there!

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Courtesy Announcements
On Sunday, March 25th, Canadian Catholic singer/ songwriter Mark Mallett will be giving a concert at St Joseph’s Parish here in Ronkonkoma as part of a 2-month US Concert Tour. Mark tours extensively throughout North America and recently sang at the Vatican and presented his ministry to Pope Benedict XVI. His music and message appeals to ALL ages, so please show your support for a very gifted Catholic musician & plan to go on March 25th !
Lake Nutrition Meals on Wheels provides food to elderly and homebound Monday thru Friday two meals a day. Hot meals & cold meals for a charge of $6 for both meals. Call 467-8948 for more information.
American Sign Language Classes - Cleary School for the Deaf is offering evening Adult Education classes in American Sign Language, levels 1-5. The Spring Sessions begin on March 12 thru May 14. Adults only (age 16 & up). Call Carolyn Kelly at 588-0530 for more information.
Life In Christ, an Adult Education Course, will be presented at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church Hall, Crown Acres Rd, Centereach by Msgr Joseph Curley, Pastor, on Tuesdays starting February 27th to April 3 at 9:30 AM & 7:30 PM. All are welcome to attend. For more information please call 631-585-8760.
Siol na hEireann Pipe Band is starting a new student class for those who are interested in learning to play the bag pipes. Lessons are provided free every Wednesday night at 7:30 at the AOH hall located on Magnolia Dr. and Washington Heights St in Selden. We look forward to seeing you. For more info contact Band Mgr. Phil Sullivan at 467-0629.
The Beginning Experience - Help for the heartache of divorce, separation, and widowhood. A weekend away for a lifetime of change. The next weekend is February 16-18. For more information call Connie at 516-735-1720.
Irish Tenor Concert - the world famous Irish Tenors will perform a concert at St Michael’s Church, (4th Ave Brooklyn) on Sunday, March 4th at 3:30 PM. Donation $50. Includes concert and cocktail reception. Honorees are Sr Lorna Colin CSJ and Cpt John McKenna IV (posthumously). All seats reserved. For more information please call 718-768-6065.
Smithtown Central School District Adult Basic Education Program–Free Classes ! All Welcome! Learn English, Earn your GED (High School Equivalency Diploma, Prepare for Citizenship, Gain Basic Computer Skills (Seniors & ESL Students) & Receive Career Counseling! For more info call 382-2181 or www.smithtown.k12.ny.us
St John’s Bohemian Singles - 55 & Up meets on the 1st & 3rd Sunday of every month in the lower level of our church. Coffee & cake is served. If you are interested in a very active group that offers a full calendar of social events every month. Please call Mary Ann at 563-8982. Admission is $4.00. (St John Nepomocene Church)
Professional Therapy & Counseling provided by NYS licensed psychologists are available to our parish. You may be seen at any of the other 70 participating parishes. This program, under the direction of Dr George Giuliani, has been conducted in the diocese for the past 34 years for the convenience of parishioners. It is provided by the Catholic Counseling Center, a propriety professional corporation, which is independent of and not controlled or supervised by the parish or diocese. Most insurance policies are honored. For confidential information and appointment, call Dr Giuliani at 243-1550.

We’re Looking For…
BOX TOPS - from cereals for Educational purposes are always welcomed. Please drop them in the collection.
DEPOSIT BOTTLES AND CANS- Please place them in the baskets that are located on the school side of the Church on weekends or behind the rectory during the week.
CELL PHONES - Please bring your no longer used or needed cell phones and deposit them at the Scrip table in the Church lobby.
INKJET CARTRIDGES - Drop them off (in a plastic baggie) when you come to mass. We will send them to a company who reuses them and gives the parish a bounty for each. One note, to clear confusion, if it is larger than a fist, it is not an inkjet cartridge!!!

Page 19

Page 7

Prayer:
Saint Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church, watch over the Church as carefully as you watched over Jesus, help protect it and guide it as you did with your adopted son. Amen