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St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church

OUR LITURGY
Our readings today remind us of God’s promises to humanity and His faithfulness to those promises. They are readings filled with hope. The promises made to Abraham go beyond anything he could imagine, while the Transfiguration gives us a glimpse of the glorified Christ, the same glory in which we are given a share through baptism.

ALTAR BREAD & WINE
In Memory of
Joseph Stapleton
Requested by
Theresa & Timothy
Donovan

OUR PRIEST-CELEBRANTS
This Week End Mass Next Week
Fr Thomas 5:00 pm Fr Tapel
Fr Thomas 7:00 am Fr Tapel
Fr Rene 9:00 am Fr Maffeo
Fr Griffiths 10:30 am Fr Thomas
Fr Maffeo 12:00 pm Fr Boyle
Fr Boyle 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.

Recalling the Passion of Our Lord Jesus during Lent has become a tradition dating back to the early days of Christianity. One of the ways we recall Jesus’ way of the cross is by praying the Stations of the Cross. Join us each Friday during Lent at 7:30 PM in the Church as our Deacons lead us in praying the Stations.

My Lord and My God

MASS INTENTIONS
Sunday, March 4, Second Sunday of Lent
7:00 Angelo Iorio requested by Loving Wife
7:00 Julia Poy requested by Catherine & Jim
9:00 Joseph Onufrak requested by Loving Wife & Family
9:00 Rose Bianco requested by The Walsh Family
10:30 Margaret Gernstein requested by Terri & Ed Cronin
10:30 Richard Clarke requested by Joseph Briscoe
12:00 Victoria & Pasquale Pontieri requested by Elizabeth Seaman
12:00 Elizabeth DeMaio requested by Elizabeth Seaman
5:00 Stephen Salata requested by Loving Children
5:00 Rev Gregory Colucci requested by
Loving Niece Lisa & Kevin
Monday, March 5
7:00 Joseph Paradine requested by Andrea Majeski & Patrick Hait
7:00 Sadie Palma requested by The Barr Family
9:00 Elizabeth Cameron requested by Loving Husband & Family
9:00 Concetta Grucci requested by Joseph & Nancy DiFrancesca
12:10 Francis Albrecht requested by Jack Hough
Tuesday, March 6
7:00 Charlotte Rudy requested by Joseph Rohring
8:45 Helen Vann requested by Loving Family
8:45 Philip Puthumana requested by Loving Son
12:10 Frank Gambino requested by Laurie & James Widercrantz
Wednesday, March 7, Sts Perpetua & Felicity
7:00 For the People of the Parish
9:00 Rev David Clifford requested by Loving Family
9:00 Mrs Haddigan requested by Janet Bachman
12:10 Edward Hartmann requested by Frank, Linda & Family
Thursday, March 8, St John of God
7:00 For Our Beloved Dead
9:00 For the Intentions of the Celebrant
12:10 Paula Kromer requested by Loving Family
Friday, March 9, St Frances of Rome
7:00 For the Intentions of the Celebrant
9:00 Augusta Croce requested by The Jaconetti Family
9:00 Henry Mullaney requested by The Mawn Family
12:10 Theresa Bertucci requested by The McGarry Family
Saturday, March 10
8:00 Mercer Logan Williams II requested by Pat & Bruce
8:00 Antoinette Sanfilippo requested by Albert & Jennifer Inserra
Anticipated Mass for Sunday
5:00 William & Theresa Foy requested by Loving Family
5:00 James Thompson requested by Mike & Sue Martire
Sunday, March 11, Third Sunday of Lent
7:00 Patrick & Mary Dineen requested by Loving family
7:00 Joseph Ferrara requested by The Ferrara Family
9:00 Leona Demetillo requested by The Ambrosio Family
9:00 Richard Hughes requested by The Minter Family
10:30 Mr & Mrs LoBrutto requested by Loving Family
10:30 Betty Mulligan requested by St Joseph’s Catholic Seniors
12:00 Mr & Mrs Charles Nicotra requested by Roseann & Eddie
12:00 Pray for an End To Abortion requested by
St Joseph’s Respect Life
5:00 Antonino Borruso requested by Mr & Mrs Frank Buratti
5:00 Patricia Stapleton requested by The Trink Family

Sunday, March 4, 2007

Sunday, December 31, 2006

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FROM THE DESK OF FR. MIKE

FROM THE DESK OF FR. MIKE

“This is my chosen Son, listen to him.” This sound advice that comes from the Father is given to the Apostles on the mountain top as Jesus was transfigured before their eyes, and it is given to us likewise every single day.
Remember this event happens after Jesus asks the Apostles, “Who do people say that I am?” And after they tell Jesus what everybody else thinks, He then asks them “…but who do you say that I am?” After a period of silence, it is Peter who announces clearly that Jesus is the Messiah, The Son of God! Jesus tells Peter that he is correct and then tells the others that He is indeed the one they have been waiting for, but this is followed by Jesus telling them that He will go to Jerusalem where He will be betrayed, handed over to the authorities, then to the Romans who will Crucify Him! Talk about taking the good news with the bad! Here the Apostles are filled with joy to know that what they believed about Jesus was true, and now they hear He is going to be handed over suffer and die-this can’t be and Peter tells Jesus.
But God does not leave them in despair, and this is seen when Jesus brings them to Mt. Tabor to pray with Him. This is a special treat for them, because if you notice in the gospels they usually tell us that Jesus goes off by Himself to pray, but now He asks them to come along. Why now? Well as I have written in previous years, Jesus is giving the Apostles a pre-view of what they will see on the first Easter Morning-the Glorified Risen Lord. And just as Jesus appeared with Moses and Elijah on that day so will He appear to them on Easter. While they did not understand this on the day of The Transfiguration, they would understand on Easter and on each time they saw the Risen Lord before He ascended into Heaven. They also at first did not understand the voice of the Father on that day, but would after the Paschal Mystery was carried out and when they received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
And now those words are for us; “This is my chosen Son, listen to him.” Yes, listen to the Son for He is the way to the Father! Yes, listen to the Son for He has the words of everlasting life and He is always here to comfort us, heal us and lead us to the forgiveness He gained for us through His death and resurrection. Listen to the Son because He always shows us how the bad can be changed into the good. If you doubt it, don’t because that is what we are remembering today with this Gospel Account and what we will celebrate during Holy Week-why do you think we call it GOOD FRIDAY. This is
what keeps us going on our Lenten Journey, so as we use this holy season to prepare ourselves to rise to new life with Christ on Easter.
Speaking at all of the Masses this weekend is Father Thomas Griffiths a Passionist Priest who will be conducting a Lenten Mission for us during this week at 8 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings. Please join us for these wonderful evenings of prayer, reflection, and renewal.
Remember the Catholic Ministries Appeal is still going on and if you have not made a pledge to this worthwhile appeal that helps so many there is still plenty of time. Remember each time you help the CMA, you help your brothers and sisters throughout the Diocese and right here in our parish. Also the more we raise the more we get back, last year thanks to your generosity we were able to get back about $15,000. Thanks for your constant support and prayers.
Fr. Mike

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REMEMBER OUR SICK
Michelle Altonji William Barry
Marie Behling Oliver Bouchard
Hazel Boyce Mr Michael Boyle Sr
Cynthia Caesar Ryan Delaney
Joseph DeMaio Michael DePinto
Angelina DeSimone Msgr Donald Desmond
Pricilla DeStanfo Nancy DiTrapani
Mary Dougherty Debra Esposito
Richard Fahey Robert Filce
Vincent Fortunato Flavio Gabrielli
Frank Gaeta Sonny Grosso
Raymond Harold Philip Heilig
Mary Hickey Thomas Horvath
Frank E Kammerer Jack Kelleher
Cecelia Keller Steve Lindblad
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
Betty Reddington Elizabeth Ross
Dawn Saporito Louise Schaaf
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 LTCOL James Cersosimo
CPL Glenn Clacher SPC Thomas E. Corcoran
SPC Jason Crawford SGT Ryan Delaney
TSGT Timothy Dermody LTCOL Kurt Diehl
SGT Stephen 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
Alfred Stevenson, Michael D Ruggiero, Stephen J Bauer Jr, Mildred Thorman, Emma Bonilla,
Joan O’Keefe, 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, March 4, 2007

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St Joseph’s School
school@stjoronk.org
Welcome to Unity Sunday
Please be sure to visit our science fair in Carew Hall after the Masses today. Teachers will be available to talk with anyone who has an interest in our school. Our school is in the process of Middle States Accreditation. This is a two year self study of excellence in education. More information will follow as we continue in this process. Lobels will be here on Friday, March 9th to measure students for summer uniforms. If any one needs uniforms for summer the forms are available at the school office. Another date is set aside for measuring in the Fall. Our school will be participating in the St. Patrick's Day parade on Sunday, March 11. Please come to the parade and support our children. Registration is now open for the Fall 2007-2008 school year. Please contact the school office at 588-4760 for more information and to schedule a tour. Baskets and raffles that will be available at our Fashion Show are on display at the science fair today. You do not need to be present for some of the raffles to be a winner. Please stop by our Parent's Association table to see what we have. Tickets for the Fashion Show are also available.

No Rain,
No Rainbows

Looking at Lent
Our parish bookrack now includes new and informative booklets for the young and not so very young concerning these forty days of lent. Take a look at what is available - we never know when the Spirit will move us!

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.
Level 7 The Confirmation Preparation Meeting has been changed to March 14th and will be held in Fr. Carew Hall at 7:30 pm. This meeting is mandatory for parents or guardians of those receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation in the Fall.
Reminder for Level 1 – Activity in auditorium on March 19th at 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. You may take your choice of time.
Banns of Marriage
(First Time)
Kelly McHale of St Joseph’s and Christian Soto of St Raymond’s
Mary Rhea Woodcock of St Joseph’s and Mark Kitybida of St Peter the Apostle
Christiann Kelly of St Joseph’s and Chad Thomson of Ronkonkoma
Rosa Rivera of Good Shepherd and Steven Nave of St Joseph’s

St. Vincent de Paul
Lent is a call not just to “give up something” but more important to “give something for the poor.” Wherever you live in the parish, there are poor families within walking distance of your home. When in need, they ring the rectory bell. They are, in effect, ringing your doorbell.
Your gift in the St Vincent de Paul Poor Box will help the poor to celebrate the grace of God’s love this Easter.

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Sunday, March 4, 2007
, 2005

RESPECT LIFE
Last week we talked about legislation concerning life-related issues which the 110th Congress will consider this term. An important one is the Unborn Child Pain Awareness Act, which mandates that a woman seeking an abortion when she is at least 20 weeks into her pregnancy, be informed that the unborn child can feel pain. The mother may then seek medication to lessen that pain.
Then there is the Pregnant Women’s Support Act which will provide resources to help women make life-affirming choices for themselves and their children; among the many provisions, this bill will provide for health insurance for the women, infants and children and will also provide assistance to victims of domestic violence.
Sen. Elizabeth Dole, R-NC and Rep. Melissa Hart.R-PA (no longer in Congress) both introduced in the 109th Congress the Elizabeth Cady Stanton Pregnant and Parenting Student Support Act. This particular bill would offer students choices beyond the usual “abort or drop out of school”. Housing, daycare and academic accommodations would be offered to those who are “pregnant or parenting while pursuing their education”. This bill will be brought up again in the 110th Congress.
In the House of Representatives the legislation called the Child Custody Protection Act would make it illegal for an adult who is not a minor’s parent or legal guardian to take the minor across state lines for an abortion in order to avoid her own state’s parental notification or consent laws.
The United States Council of Catholic Bishops will continue to work for the Abortion Non-Discrimination Act which would guarantee the conscience rights of individuals and institutions who choose not to participate in abortions; it will oppose efforts to expand federal funding of stem cell research involving human embryos; it will work for the approval of the law known as Holly’s Law, which will remove the abortion pill from the market until its safety can be reviewed by the FDA. Holly Patterson, 18, died in California in 2003 after taking RU-486.
Long Island Catholic 2.14.04
Write to your congressperson if any of these pieces of legislation are of interest to you; hearing from their constituents keeps them on their toes.
CATHOLIC DAUGHTERS NEWS
On Tuesday, March 13th at 7 pm we will meet in Carew Hall. Gather up your baskets, ribbons, candy & cellophane as we will be making Easter Baskets, as we did last year, for Parish Outreach. (Easter is April 8th.) We also have scheduled our annual Birthright Baby Shower, which means so much to needy babies and moms. This will be a busy night! C. West, Regent 585-1719
M. Flood, Vice-Regent, 585-5352
PREGNANCY CRISIS HOTLINE - We are here to help you. Please call 981-6888.

Weekly Offering
Sunday, February 25, 2007 Offerings $17,216
Same collection last year 16,921
Number of envelopes 606
Poor Box last weekend $376
Fuel Oil Collection YTD $8738
Same time last year 2006 9412
Snow Removal $1690
Same time last year 2006 2025
Central & Eastern European Churches 2007 $862
Same collection last year 840
Thank you for your generous response to the appeal for
increased giving.
God Bless You Always, Fr Mike
Paschal 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
Mar 5 - 8 Parish Lenten Retreat 8PM in the Church Mar 6 Bible Study 10 AM & 7:30 PM Carew Hall
Mar 9 Stations of the Cross 7:30 PM
Mar 11 K of C St Patrick’s Day Parade
Mar 13 Bible Study 10 AM & 7:30 PM Carew Hall
Mar 16 Stations of the Cross 7:30 PM
Mar 17 St Joseph Day Dinner 6:30 Carew Hall
Mar 19 Feast of St Joseph Mass 7:30 PM
Mar 20 Bible Study 10 AM & 7:30 PM Carew Hall

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The Feast of Saint Joseph

On Saturday, March 17th 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 Monday, 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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2007

Ashes, Prayers & Stations

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:
During one night of the Parish Mission
Monday of Holy Week - April 2 - after the 7 & 9 AM masses , 4-5PM and 7-8:30PM
Wednesday of Holy Week - April 4 - after the 7 & 9AM masses
Holy Saturday - April 7 - 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: March 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th and April 6th.

The Lenten Retreat
Our Lenten Retreat is a time for spiritual renewal and growth and will be conducted by Fr. Thomas Griffiths, C.P. Fr. Griffiths will be speaking at all the Masses on March 3rd & 4th and will begin the Mission on Monday, March 5th at 8:00 PM continuing on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at the same time. During the mission we will be celebrating the Sacrament of reconciliation. Fr. Griffiths is an outstanding missionary and a man of prayer. We invite you to set aside this time of prayer. May the retreat be a truly meaningful experience for you.

Lenten Feast Days
Celebrate with us two of our favorite patron saints - St Patrick & St Joseph. There will be a St Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, March 11th sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. On Saturday, March 17th we will be celebrating the Feast of St Joseph with a dinner in Carew Hall following the 5PM Mass.

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 31
5:00
Sunday April 1st
7,9,10:30 AM
12 Noon
5:00PM

Holy Thursday
April 5th
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
April 6th
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
April 7th
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

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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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A Look At Our Progress
Diocese of Rockville Centre - PO Box 4000, Rockville Centre, NY 11571-4000
P 516-379-5210 ext. 2 F 516-379-5043 e-mail catholicministries@drvc.org
Thank you for your support. Please make checks payable to: Catholic Ministries Appeal
Pledge $_____________Payment $______________Balance $___________
Name:___________________________________________________________
Address:________________________________________________________
City:_________________________State:_________Zip:_______________
Telephone:________________________ Parish: 146-St Joseph
Every Gift Counts!
Can we count on you?

Catholic Ministries Appeal 2007

Dear Parishioners,
Our 2007 Catholic Ministries Appeal is off and running. I am very encouraged by the generous pledges received so far. I want to thank all of those who have already sent in a pledge. I am humbled each week as I receive and enter the pledges. They range in size, but I know that the spirit in which they are given is all the same; one of great love and prayerful response to God’s call to share what you have with others.
During Lent, Christians are to pray, fast and give alms. How appropriate that we can carry this out by giving all that we can to those in need through Catholic Ministries Appeal. I invite all of you to participate this year. To make a pledge, use the tear off below and return it to the rectory or in the collection basket. Remember that you can pay your pledge over ten months. A pledge of $200 would be only $20 per month. I ask that you be as generous as possible.
Thank you and may God bless you always in all ways!

Our Goal Is $83,700 —_―

What a Great Start to our Campaign!

Pledges as of February 24, 2007

$24,648

2007

Touching the lives of many through
Diocesan & Parish
ministries and
services.

A GUIDE TO GIVING
Other $_______

Pledge
$5000
2500
1500
1000
500
300
200
100

10 Payments $500
250
150
100
50
30
20
10

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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
$50 / Fred Amerino / # 224	$25 / Phil & Geraldine LePage / # 205	$25 / Michael & Blanche Kubik / # 440	$25 / Karen Mulligan / # 369	$25 / Ed & Doris Straub / # 531	$25 / Joseph P Ryan / # 594	$25 / Marilyn Reed / # 312
$50 / Pat & Ramona Gaudett / # 775	$ 25 / Linda Perniciaro / # 431	$25 / Barbara Curry / # 668	$25 / The McCabe Family / # 816

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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PARISH MISSION - RENEWAL
Your Life Renewed
In Christ
In Faith
In the Liturgy
In the Word of God 8:00 PM
March 5 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.

OUTREACH
sjpo@verizon.net
Feinstein Matching Grant - This foundation will match all donations made to the Outreach Program during the months of March and April. The more of a donation you send the more Feinstein money Outreach will get. This is a great way to make your contribution dollar go farther.
Here’s the letter we received from Mr. Feinstein:
Dear Friend: Please use MY money to help your neighbors in need!
My name is Alan Shawn Feinstein. For the past 9 years, I have been giving away $1 million each year to anti-hunger agencies throughout the country.
This year, I am doing it again...WHATEVER YOU DONATE TO OUTREACH, I WILL ADD MONEY TO IT. THE MORE YOU GIVE, THE MORE OF MY $1 MILLION THEY’LL GET– THANKS TO YOU!
Why am I doing this? Because I believe each of us was put here on earth to do what we can to help those in need. This letter is written because we feel that YOU believe that, too.
This has become the greatest grass roots campaign ever to fight hunger in our country. Your donation makes you a partner in it with me!
My money started this campaign but it is YOU who will help decide how many needy people in your city or town will be fed this year. I’m only here to give you some support and to remind you of this: That all that will matter to us someday is what we did while we were here to help those who needed us.
We Are Needed Now!
Please give whatever you can– I will gladly add some of my money to yours. My $1 million will be divided in full proportionately among the agencies receiving donations toward my offer.
Thank you for sharing my heart, and the hope that-someday-no one will ever go hungry.
Sincerely Yours,
Alan Shawn Feinstein

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St. Regis’ Knights of Columbus
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Henry Melchiona, Grand Marshal
Sunday, March 11, 2007 2:00PM
Beginning with a blessing from Fr.Maffeo, the parade will step off from the corner of Portion Rd & Patchogue-Holbrook Rd - Ending at St Joseph’s Church. For information contact parade chairman Martin P. Gaughan,PGK at 981-4887

Venturing Crew 777, BSA
Will hold their 4th Annual Spaghetti Dinner & Chinese Auction on Saturday, March 24th from 6-9PM in Carew Hall
Funds raised go directly to the youth in order to subsidize their yearly activities. The tickets are $6 each and can be purchased by contacting 981-1399.

And
Chinese Auction

On Sunday
March 25th
Canadian Catholic singer/ songwriter Mark Mallett will be giving a concert at
St Joseph’s Parish 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 !
We Hope to see you all there!

IRISH MUSIC
BENEFIT
Sunday, March 4,2007
3:00-6:00 PM
Our Lady of the
Miraculous Medal Church
Wyandanch, NY
By popular demand, The Bob Morris Irish Band will return for an eighth annual benefit concert at our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Church,
1434 Straight Path, Wyandanch.
Also featured will be Fr. Bill’s Banjo Group and Mise Eire step-dancing school troupe from Babylon.
Admission is free. Voluntary donations will be gratefully received. All proceeds go to the parish outreach programs. For more information contact Peter
Murphy at 631-547-0466

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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

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 4
Project Development Meeting - Living Stations
March 11
Pius XII Discussion Group & Business Meeting
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
HELP WANTED - Mary Immaculate Church in Bellport is looking for a PT Secretary, 3 Days per week. Duties include Rectory office work, telephones and weekly bulletin. Must be computer literate. Please call 286-0154.
- St Hugh of Lincoln Parish Outreach in Huntington Station, is in need of a Secretary. Monday thru Friday, 9am to 4pm beginning April 2nd. Computer knowledgeable, good phone and people skills. Spanish speaking a plus. Contact Fran Leek at 427-0638 or e-mail outreach@sthugh.org for an interview.
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.
Forever Irish Concert featuring Andy Cooney - Sunday, March 18th at 3:00 PM at the North Fork Theatre to benefit The Pilgrimage Miracle Fund. For reservations call Susan or Peter Bies at 516-804-6196.
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.
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.
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.
Cenacle Retreats - Walking Toward Calvary: A reflection on the events of Holy Week - Friday, March 16th registration between 4-7:15 PM dinner and close on Sunday March 18th after lunch. Presenter Mary Ann Massey,EDD.
- A Day of Silence & Solitude- Sunday, March 11 from 9:30 to 3PM - Brown Bag Lunch
For more information call 631-588-8366.

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!!!

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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