Happy Friday!
Here’s what’s happening around the parish as we celebrate the Fifth Sunday of Lent:
THERE IS ONE COLLECTION THIS WEEKEND: Stewardship.
NEXT SUNDAY IS PALM SUNDAY: A NOTE FROM FR. REGGIE:
This is the day the Church recalls the entrance of Christ the Lord into Jerusalem to accomplish his Paschal Mystery. The memorial of this entrance takes place at all Masses and our Liturgy offers three forms: the Procession, Solemn Entrance or Simple Entrance.
Here at St. Mark, we will use the Procession at the 5 PM Vigil mass. All Parishioners who are interested can join the team outside at the center entrance. It begins like normal, followed by a blessing of the palms. The Deacon would read a Gospel reading. Then all who wish to participate would receive palms and process into church waving their palms.
At all Sunday Masses we will use either the Solemn Entrance or the Simple Entrance, which omit the procession.
We hope you will join us in these wonderful celebrations that begin our Holy Week.
Fr. Reginald D. Norman
LENT AND EASTER SCHEDULE: Please see the attached Lent and Easter schedule for St. Mark Church. This schedule includes information on Stations of the Cross.
RECONCILIATION MONDAY: The Diocese will once again hold “Reconciliation Monday” during Holy Week. This year, confessions will be heard on Monday, April 14, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM locally at St. James Parish, 2070 Main St., Stratford. Please see our church website or the attached document for a listing of all Reconciliation Monday parishes in the Diocese.
OUR 2025 IN-PEW BISHOP’S APPEAL WEEKEND will be this weekend, April 5th and 6th. We thank those who have already made their donation or pledge. We are hopeful that 100% of our registered households will respond to the 2025 Bishop’s Appeal. While the level of sacrifice will differ from parishioner to parishioner, an Appeal gift this year is within the reach of the majority of our people. Please prayerfully consider supporting the Bishop’s Appeal with a pledge, an automatic recurring gift, or one-time gift as your means allow. Your support is much needed and will be greatly appreciated! To make a gift or learn more please visit www.2025BishopsAppeal.org. Thank you for your support.
LENTEN LESSONS: A GUIDE TO THE BEAUTY OF THE LITURGY OF THE MASS: Please join Fr. Reggie in the church TONIGHT, Friday, April 4 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. for a beautiful and informative journey to learn about the Holy Mass and explain why we do what we do in church. All sessions will be live-streamed and available on our YouTube channel to watch live or at any time at your convenience. www.youtube.com/@StMarkChurch
PALMS AND PANCAKES: Please join the Knights of Columbus for their annual Palms and Pancakes breakfast on Palm Sunday (next Sunday), April 13, in the church basement, after all Sunday Masses. On the menu: pancakes, sausage, coffee/tea/juice! Breakfast is free, but monetary donations will be gratefully accepted!
A GOOD FRIDAY MESSAGE FROM THE ST. MARK KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS: Good Friday is a very special day for all Catholics. As part of the High Holy Days of the Church’s Holy Week Triduum, we reflect on the Passion and Death of our Lord Jesus which is reflected by the red vestments worn by the celebrants. We are touched in mind and heart with God’s infinite love for us. To think that Jesus died on a cross – we are overpowered by God’s compassion and mercy. God could have saved us with a single word and yet he wanted us to know the depth of His love.
On this day, Jesus shows his great love for us by freely accepting the indignities of scourging and crucifixion. He accepted the destiny of dying for each one of us. Despite Good Friday’s central role in the heart of Christianity, attendance at services does not reflect the importance of the day. The Good Friday liturgy is an excellent opportunity for the families in our parish to recognize God’s great love for us. Please consider bringing your family and friends to the Good Friday Services to reflect on God's great mercy and his love."
ANNUAL ST. MARK EASTER EGG HUNT: Put on your best Easter bonnet and “hop” on down to the annual Easter Egg Hunt which will take place on Easter Sunday, April 20, after the 9:30 a.m. Mass. The event is open to all children ages 2 through 10. Hosted by the St. Mark Youth Group, this event is free of charge and includes over 30 lbs. of candy, prizes, and an appearance by the Easter Bunny himself! The event will take place on the great lawn if we have good weather; otherwise, the hunt will be held in the Parish Center (gym). Mark your calendars, we hope to see you there! For more information, contact Jared Forcier at jared@stmarkyouthgroup.org.
TWO NEW MINISTRIES AT ST. MARK:
ADULT ALTAR SERVERS
We are looking for volunteers to serve as Adult Altar Servers for: funerals, weddings, big occasions like Bishop visits, holy days like Easter, and any time children are not available. Full training will be provided by Fr Reggie.
SACRISTAN
Many of sacristan’s duties are related to taking care of Sacristy and the sacred items in the Sacristy.
The Sacristan usually arrives 30 minutes before Mass, makes sure chalice, cruets, linens, oils, crosses, candles, and celebration bells are present and in pristine condition. diligently arranges liturgical books, vestments and whatever else is needed for celebration of Mass. At end of Mass make sure everything is put back in its rightful place. These are the very basics. There are a few more duties. Full training will be provided by Fr Reggie.
We would love to have one sacristan for each Mass, or perhaps for each day.
Please call the office or contact ednaarthurs@gmail.com if you are interested and willing to serve in either ministry.
ANOINTING OF THE SICK: Fr. Reggie would be happy to administer the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick after any weekend Mass for anyone who is scheduled for an upcoming medical procedure or surgery, just let him know on your way out of Mass.
When the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is given, the hoped-for effect is that, if it be God’s will, the person be physically healed of illness. But even if there is no physical healing, the primary effect of the Sacrament is a spiritual healing by which the sick person receives the Holy Spirit’s gift of peace and courage to deal with the difficulties that accompany serious illness.
LEARN TO MAKE PALM CROSSES: Please join us in the Upper Room on Monday, April 7, from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. and learn how to make crosses from palm branches. Everyone is welcome and palm branches will be provided.
ST. MARK SCHOOL invites you to walk with Jesus. The 8th grade class will present “The Way of the Cross”, a solemn reenactment of Jesus’ final hours and His journey to Calvary, on Friday, April 11 at 12:45 p.m. in the church.
SAVE THE DATE: Friday, April 25 is the Feast Day of our Patron, St. Mark. Our school will host a 60th Anniversary Mass that morning at 9:00 a.m., celebrated by Bishop Frank Caggiano. All are welcome!
DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION FOR FR. REGGIE ABOUT OUR FAITH? Write it down and drop it in the “Ask your Pastor a Question” box, there’s one by each entrance of the church. Fr. Reggie will answer your questions in the weekly Flocknote.
Here’s what came in this week:
If God is omniscient and knows the future infallibly, including whether a person will choose salvation or damnation, how can human free will truly exist? If the outcome is already known and unchangeable from God's perspective as opposed to genuine free will?
The question of how God's omniscience and human free will coexist is a profound theological topic. The Catechism of the Catholic Church addresses the relationship between God's knowledge and human freedom, emphasizing that God’s knowledge does not impose necessity on human actions.
According to the Catechism, God knows all things, including the future, but this knowledge does not limit human freedom. It states that "God is the source of all truth" and that "the truth of the faith is the truth of the human person" (Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 170). This means that while God knows what choices we will make, we still have the genuine ability to choose freely.
In essence, God's foreknowledge does not interfere with our freedom; rather, it exists outside of time, encompassing all of our choices without causing them. This is a mystery of faith, where God's eternal perspective allows Him to know our decisions while we still have the freedom to make them.
In summary, the Catechism affirms that God's omniscience and human free will can coexist, as God's knowledge does not dictate or constrain our choices. This understanding invites believers to trust in God's plan while recognizing their responsibility for their actions.
According to the Catechism, God knows all things, including the future, but this knowledge does not limit human freedom. It states that "God is the source of all truth" and that "the truth of the faith is the truth of the human person" (Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 170). This means that while God knows what choices we will make, we still have the genuine ability to choose freely.
In essence, God's foreknowledge does not interfere with our freedom; rather, it exists outside of time, encompassing all of our choices without causing them. This is a mystery of faith, where God's eternal perspective allows Him to know our decisions while we still have the freedom to make them.
In summary, the Catechism affirms that God's omniscience and human free will can coexist, as God's knowledge does not dictate or constrain our choices. This understanding invites believers to trust in God's plan while recognizing their responsibility for their actions.
Why are mass intention names no longer included in the Eucharistic Prayer?
The practice of including names of individuals for whom mass is offered in the Eucharistic Prayer has changed over time. The Catechism of the Catholic Church does not specifically address this particular liturgical practice or the reasons behind it. However, it does emphasize the importance of the Eucharist and the communal aspect of the Mass.
The General Instruction of the Roman Missal indicates that the Eucharistic Prayer is a prayer of the whole Church, and while it is appropriate to remember the living and the dead, the focus is on the unity of the Church and the offering of Christ (Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 1382). The names of individuals for whom mass is offered are typically mentioned in the Prayers of the Faithful or at the beginning of the mass, allowing the community to pray for them without interrupting the flow of the Eucharistic Prayer itself.
This change helps to maintain the solemnity and focus of the Eucharistic Prayer as a prayer of thanksgiving and consecration, while still allowing the community to express their intentions in other parts of the liturgy.
The General Instruction of the Roman Missal indicates that the Eucharistic Prayer is a prayer of the whole Church, and while it is appropriate to remember the living and the dead, the focus is on the unity of the Church and the offering of Christ (Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 1382). The names of individuals for whom mass is offered are typically mentioned in the Prayers of the Faithful or at the beginning of the mass, allowing the community to pray for them without interrupting the flow of the Eucharistic Prayer itself.
This change helps to maintain the solemnity and focus of the Eucharistic Prayer as a prayer of thanksgiving and consecration, while still allowing the community to express their intentions in other parts of the liturgy.
Also in the funeral mass there is a special part of the Eucharistic Prayer where the name of the deceased is mentioned, but that is not to be confused with masses that are not for funerals as all masses give honor to Jesus Christ.
I know that humans can't be perfect, but what about animals/pets?
The Catechism of the Catholic Church does not specifically address the perfection or imperfection of animals or pets in the same way it discusses human beings. However, it does affirm the goodness of creation and the unique role of humans within it.
According to the Catechism, God created all things and saw that they were good (Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 299). Animals are part of God's creation and have their own value and purpose. While humans are called to a special relationship with God and are made in His image, animals are part of the broader creation that reflects God's goodness.
In terms of perfection, animals do not possess the same moral responsibility as humans. They act according to their nature and instincts, which means they are not capable of sin in the way humans are. Therefore, while animals may not be "perfect" in a moral sense, they fulfill their role in creation as part of God's design.
According to the Catechism, God created all things and saw that they were good (Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 299). Animals are part of God's creation and have their own value and purpose. While humans are called to a special relationship with God and are made in His image, animals are part of the broader creation that reflects God's goodness.
In terms of perfection, animals do not possess the same moral responsibility as humans. They act according to their nature and instincts, which means they are not capable of sin in the way humans are. Therefore, while animals may not be "perfect" in a moral sense, they fulfill their role in creation as part of God's design.
If God created animals, how did he create them if they were not there yet?
The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains that God is the creator of all things, including animals, and that He created the world out of nothing (ex nihilo). This means that before God created anything, there was nothing—no time, no space, no matter.
In the creation narrative found in the Book of Genesis, it is described that God created the world in a series of days, bringing order and life into existence. The Catechism emphasizes that God created everything with purpose and intention (Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 299).
The idea is that God, being eternal and outside of time, does not create in the same way humans do. His act of creation is not limited by time or space. When the Scriptures say that God created animals, it means that He brought them into existence by His will and command.
In summary, God created animals by His divine will, and they came into being at His command during the creation process, even though they did not exist prior to that moment. This reflects the belief in God's omnipotence and the nature of creation as described in the Catholic faith.
In the creation narrative found in the Book of Genesis, it is described that God created the world in a series of days, bringing order and life into existence. The Catechism emphasizes that God created everything with purpose and intention (Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 299).
The idea is that God, being eternal and outside of time, does not create in the same way humans do. His act of creation is not limited by time or space. When the Scriptures say that God created animals, it means that He brought them into existence by His will and command.
In summary, God created animals by His divine will, and they came into being at His command during the creation process, even though they did not exist prior to that moment. This reflects the belief in God's omnipotence and the nature of creation as described in the Catholic faith.
Why does Joseph only show up twice in the Gospel?
The Catechism of the Catholic Church does not specifically address the frequency of Joseph's appearances in the Gospels. However, it does highlight the importance of Joseph in the context of the Holy Family and his role in salvation history.
Joseph is recognized as the earthly father of Jesus and the husband of Mary. His role is significant because he accepted God's plan for his life, demonstrated obedience, and provided for and protected Mary and Jesus. The Catechism acknowledges Joseph's virtues, such as his faithfulness and righteousness (Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 437).
The Gospels of Matthew and Luke provide the primary accounts of Joseph, particularly in the context of the Nativity and the early life of Jesus. His limited appearances can be understood in light of the focus of the Gospels, which center on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
While Joseph may not appear frequently, his role is essential in the story of Jesus' early life, and he serves as a model of faith and obedience for all believers. The emphasis is on Jesus as the central figure of the Gospels, and Joseph's presence supports that narrative without being the main focus.
What does it mean to "on fire" for Jesus?
The phrase "on fire" for Jesus typically refers to a deep passion and enthusiasm for one's faith in Christ. It describes a person who is very committed to living out their Christian beliefs and sharing their love for Jesus with others. This can manifest in various ways, such as through prayer, worship, service to others, and evangelization.
While the Catechism of the Catholic Church does not use the exact phrase "on fire" for Jesus, it does speak about the importance of love and zeal in the Christian life. For example, it emphasizes that love for God and neighbor is at the heart of the Christian faith (Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 1822).
Being "on fire" for Jesus can also imply a desire to grow in holiness and to actively participate in the mission of the Church. It reflects a vibrant faith that seeks to live out the teachings of Jesus and to be a witness to His love in the world.
In summary, being "on fire" for Jesus means having a passionate and active faith, characterized by love, commitment, and a desire to share that faith with others.
What is the significance of the cloak being the color purple?
The Catechism of the Catholic Church does not specifically address the significance of the color purple in relation to cloaks or garments. However, purple is traditionally associated with royalty, penitence, and preparation in the Christian liturgical context.
In the Bible, purple is often linked to wealth and nobility. For example, in the Gospel of Mark, when Jesus is mocked by the soldiers, they dress Him in a purple cloak to signify a false claim to kingship (Mark 15:17). This use of purple highlights the irony of Jesus' true identity as the King of Kings, even as He is being humiliated.
In the liturgical calendar, purple is used during Advent and Lent, seasons of preparation and penance, which further emphasizes its significance in the context of waiting for Christ's coming and reflecting on His sacrifice.
While the Catechism does not provide a specific explanation for the color purple in relation to cloaks, it is clear that the color carries rich symbolism within the Christian tradition, representing both the kingship of Christ and the call to repentance and preparation in the life of faith.
What was the draw to the Catholic Church from the Baptist (For me Fr. Reggie)?
The Catholic Church answered my questions in a more fuller way than the Baptist Church and as I was searching I learned and fell in love with the Sacraments, especially the Eucharist.
What is your mission and goal at St. Mark?
Very deep question but the short answer is to align with the mission statement that St. Mark RC Church as adopted and by the ministry of Priesthood to serve this community in many facets including the sacraments, teaching, preaching and pastoral care. Proclaim and try to live the Word of God. Teach the word of God and help parishioners embrace and live it. Spiritual guidance and support to the community. Ensure the spiritual and financial well being of the parish. The list goes on.
Thank you all for the great questions.
Fr. Reggie
GROCERY GIFT CARDS NEEDED: Deacon Paul is collecting grocery gift cards for the needy at The Lord’s Kitchen, Merton House, and Bethlehem House. Grocery gift cards should be from Stop and Shop or Shop Rite in $25 denominations and should be brought to the rectory office or put in the collection basket in an envelope marked "Grocery Gift Cards". Please make sure your name and address or envelope number are included so that we can properly credit your contribution. Deacon Paul thanks you for your endless generosity, the need is so great. May you be blessed many times over.
THE STRATFORD JUNIOR WOMENS CLUB awards a $500 scholarship annually to a high school senior pursuing higher education. The applicant must be a Stratford resident, however, they can attend high school outside of Stratford. The application deadline is May 15. For additional information and an application, please email stratfordjuniorwomensclub@gmail.com
THE NATIONAL HELICOPTER MUSEUM in Stratford (at the Railroad Station Northbound side) is looking for volunteers to become docents. Basic duties are to sign-in visitors and direct them to exhibits. No helicopter experience is required. The Museum is open from June 1 through October 15, Wednesday through Sunday from 1-4 p.m. You can volunteer as much or as little as you want. Call Mike at 203 218 4087 to tour the Museum and meet the other volunteers.
THE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY OF STRATFORD is offering a Lenten program: “Into the Desert”, the final session is tomorrow, April 5. Please see the attached flyer.
FOLLOW ME TO THE CROSS: Bishop Frank Caggiano invites High School Youth to a Lenten Encounter on Saturday, April 5, from 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m at St. Joseph High School in Trumbull. Please see the attached flyer for all details.
LENTEN MISSION ABOUT FORGIVING: Holy Name of Jesus Church will hold a Lenten Mission About Forgiving, beginning on March 11, 2025. The Mission will consist of five Tuesday evening presentations:
· Forgiveness: A Gospel Mandate by Father Michael A. Boccaccio of the Tribunal Staff of our Diocese of Bridgeport (March 11)
· Jesus Said, “Father Forgive Them…” also by Father Boccaccio (March 18)
· Who or What Do We Need to Forgive? by Father Thomas Lynch and Barbara Mariconda, co-authors of After the Diagnosis…a Guide for Living: The Transformative Power of Love During Sickness, Dying and Death (March 25)
· Why Is Forgiving So Difficult? by Father Lynch and Barbara Mariconda (April 1)
· God’s Role in the Process of Forgiving and Healing by Father Lynch and Barbara Mariconda (April 8)
The presentations will begin at 6:30 and conclude at 7:30 followed by Questions in Heritage Hall at Holy Name of Jesus Church, 50 College Street, Stratford. A light Lenten meal will be available starting at 6 (“free-will” donations gratefully accepted). Please register at ParishOffice@HNOJchurch.org. In the event of dangerous weather, the presentation will be moved to the following Tuesday.
PIEROGI AND PANCAKE DINNER: Holy Name of Jesus in Stratford is hosting a Pierogi and Pancake dinner during Lent, on Friday April 11, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Take-out orders are available, and reservations are required. Please see the attached poster for all details.
UPCOMING DIOCESAN RETREAT:
Women’s Retreat: A Spiritual Spa, Come to the Living Waters, Saturday, April 12, 2025, at St. Matthew Church, Norwalk, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The program will include Mass with Bishop Caggiano, inspirational talks, confession, prayer teams, adoration, shopping, lunch, raffles, and chocolate. On Friday, April 11 from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. there will be a special evening with the retreat speakers for anyone feeling called to lead women to Christ. Please visit CatholicVineyard.com for more information.
EXCURSION TO PENNSYLVANIA! St. James is planning a trip to Sight and Sound to see the production of Noah and other various activities in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The trip will take place June 25th-26th. Please see the attached poster and call Karen Smith at 203-209-4223 or karen.smith@stjct.org for more information.
DIOCESE OF BRIDGEPORT VIRTUS SAFE ENVIRONMENT: The Diocese of Bridgeport is committed to the safety and welfare of our children! As all volunteers are aware, an updated background check and five-year renewal training session is imperative to keeping our children and community safe. For your information, you may visit the St. Mark website, click on “links,” click on “Diocese of Bridgeport” tab, click on “Safe Environment,” and read and review the most current data regarding safety for our children, and elderly, in the community. For those who are volunteers, please make sure you are updated in VIRTUS by visiting your existing account at www.VIRTUSonline.org. Or you may phone the Office of Safe Environment: 203-416-1407.
Additional resources are available and free to all parents at our parish. These resources include articles on human trafficking, youth protection, and care for vulnerable adults. Please visit the Virtus website Resources page for information:
The Diocese of Bridgeport also offers all parents the opportunity to attend Safe Environment training to supplement the Safe Environment training your child receives in public school. Please visit the Diocese of Bridgeport website to learn more and to sign up for this free and valuable training: https://www.bridgeportdiocese.org/safe-environments/home/.
Enjoy the week!
Laura and Joan
