Happy Friday!
There is a lot of activity happening around the parish as we celebrate Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord!
THERE ARE TWO COLLECTIONS THIS WEEKEND: Stewardship, and Extraordinary Expenses.
THIS 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 in the Upper Room. 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. The Adoration Chapel will close at 5:00 p.m. on Holy Thursday, April 17, and remain closed until 8:30 a.m. on Easter Monday, April 21.
PALMS AND PANCAKES: Please join the Knights of Columbus for their annual Palms and Pancakes breakfast on Palm Sunday (THIS 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 welcomed!
RECONCILIATION MONDAY: The Diocese will once again hold “Reconciliation Monday” during Holy Week. This year, confessions will be heard this 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.
THE CHURCH OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED beginning Thursday, April 17, and remain closed through Monday, April 21. The Parish Nurses will NOT be checking blood pressures next weekend, blood pressure checks will resume in May.
HOUSEKEEPING AND LOST AND FOUND: Many thanks to Paula Mollica and her crew for cleaning the church, vestibule, sacristy, and Upper Room! They spent many hours making sure everything looks neat and tidy. In order to keep our church looking clean, we ask that you please do not leave pamphlets, prayer cards, religious items, pennies, etc. in the church, vestibule, sacristy, Upper Room, stairways or hallways. If you have something that you think St. Mark parishioners might want, please call the office and arrange to drop the items off in the office rather than leaving them in the church.
There is a table set up in the Upper Room with items found in the church over the past few months: hats, gloves, reading glasses, etc. If you are missing something, take a look at the table while you are at church this weekend. Items not claimed will be discarded next week.
LENTEN LESSONS: A GUIDE TO THE BEAUTY OF THE LITURGY OF THE MASS: Thank you to all who joined Fr. Reggie for his classes on why we do what we do at Mass. All sessions are available on our YouTube channel to watch at your convenience. www.youtube.com/@StMarkChurch
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.
Please also see the attached photo of Fr. Reggie when the Easter Bunny visited St. Mark School this week!
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.
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!
DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY, celebrated the week after Easter, is Sunday, April 27, 2025. Please join Deacon Paul Kurmay for Holy Hour in the church at 3:00 p.m. to pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. The message of The Divine Mercy is simple. It is that God loves us – all of us. And He wants us to recognize that His mercy is greater than our sins, so that we will call upon Him with trust, receive His mercy, and let it flow through us to others. Thus, all will come to share His joy.
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:
Why are women not permitted to occupy key leadership roles in the church?
The question of women's roles in the Church, particularly regarding leadership positions, is a complex topic that involves theological, historical, and cultural considerations. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the Church teaches that while men and women are equal in dignity, there are specific roles and functions within the Church that have traditionally been assigned based on the example of Jesus and the Apostles.
1. **Role of the Priesthood**: The Catechism states that the priesthood is reserved for men because Jesus chose only male apostles to be His closest followers and to carry on His mission (Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 1577). This has been interpreted by the Church as a model for the sacramental priesthood.
2. **Complementarity of Roles**: The Church teaches that men and women have different but complementary roles. While women may not be ordained as priests, they play vital roles in the Church's life and mission, including in areas of education, healthcare, and service (Catechism, paragraph 369). The dignity and contributions of women are recognized and valued in many ways.
3. **Theological Understanding**: The Church's teaching on this matter is rooted in its understanding of the sacramental nature of the priesthood and the significance of the male identity in the person of Christ. This is a theological perspective that the Church holds firmly, although it is subject to ongoing discussion and reflection within the broader context of the Church's mission.
In summary, the Catechism indicates that the Church's teaching on the roles of women, especially regarding leadership and the priesthood, is based on theological, historical, and sacramental foundations. While women may not occupy certain key leadership roles like the priesthood, their contributions to the Church are essential and deeply valued.
1. **Role of the Priesthood**: The Catechism states that the priesthood is reserved for men because Jesus chose only male apostles to be His closest followers and to carry on His mission (Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 1577). This has been interpreted by the Church as a model for the sacramental priesthood.
2. **Complementarity of Roles**: The Church teaches that men and women have different but complementary roles. While women may not be ordained as priests, they play vital roles in the Church's life and mission, including in areas of education, healthcare, and service (Catechism, paragraph 369). The dignity and contributions of women are recognized and valued in many ways.
3. **Theological Understanding**: The Church's teaching on this matter is rooted in its understanding of the sacramental nature of the priesthood and the significance of the male identity in the person of Christ. This is a theological perspective that the Church holds firmly, although it is subject to ongoing discussion and reflection within the broader context of the Church's mission.
In summary, the Catechism indicates that the Church's teaching on the roles of women, especially regarding leadership and the priesthood, is based on theological, historical, and sacramental foundations. While women may not occupy certain key leadership roles like the priesthood, their contributions to the Church are essential and deeply valued.
What type of Pet do you have?
I have a dog named Sammy. He is a boy and just turned 11. His breed is a Bijon Frise. He is a wonderful companion and very smart. He loves attention and walks and he loves everyone.
Why is love so important?
Love is very important because it helps us to be kind and caring to each other. When we love, we show that we care about others and want to help them. Love helps us to be happy and makes the world a better place.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that love is the greatest commandment. We are called to love God and love our neighbors (people around us). Love is what makes our relationships strong and helps us to live like Jesus.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that love is the greatest commandment. We are called to love God and love our neighbors (people around us). Love is what makes our relationships strong and helps us to live like Jesus.
I know we can't do it now, but after Lent could we sing the gloria more than once a month?
I will let our Music Director know of your request.
Is it ok to be asexual and still be catholic?
The Catechism of the Catholic Church does not specifically address asexuality as a distinct orientation; however, it does provide a framework for understanding human sexuality and the dignity of every person. The Church teaches that all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, are called to live a life of virtue and holiness.
1. **Human Dignity**: The Catechism emphasizes the inherent dignity of every person, created in the image and likeness of God (CCC 1700). This dignity is not contingent upon one's sexual orientation or activity but is a fundamental aspect of being human.
2. **Chastity**: The Church calls all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, to live a life of chastity. Chastity is understood as the integration of sexuality within the person, which involves respecting oneself and others (CCC 2337). For asexual individuals, this may mean living a life that aligns with their orientation while still embracing the call to love and respect others.
3. **Vocation**: The Catechism teaches that every person has a vocation, which may be to marriage, single life, or religious life (CCC 1601). Asexual individuals can still pursue these vocations, living out their call to love and serve others in ways that are consistent with their identity.
4. **Community and Support**: The Church is a community that welcomes all individuals, including those who identify as asexual. The call to love and support one another is central to the Christian life (CCC 1825). Asexual individuals can find a place within the Church, contributing to the community in meaningful ways.
In conclusion, it is indeed possible to be asexual and still be a practicing Catholic. The Church’s teachings on human dignity, chastity, and vocation affirm that all individuals are called to live a life of holiness, regardless of their sexual orientation. The Catechism invites all believers to embrace their identity in a way that fosters love, respect, and community. For further reference, see CCC paragraphs 1700, 2337, and 1601.
1. **Human Dignity**: The Catechism emphasizes the inherent dignity of every person, created in the image and likeness of God (CCC 1700). This dignity is not contingent upon one's sexual orientation or activity but is a fundamental aspect of being human.
2. **Chastity**: The Church calls all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, to live a life of chastity. Chastity is understood as the integration of sexuality within the person, which involves respecting oneself and others (CCC 2337). For asexual individuals, this may mean living a life that aligns with their orientation while still embracing the call to love and respect others.
3. **Vocation**: The Catechism teaches that every person has a vocation, which may be to marriage, single life, or religious life (CCC 1601). Asexual individuals can still pursue these vocations, living out their call to love and serve others in ways that are consistent with their identity.
4. **Community and Support**: The Church is a community that welcomes all individuals, including those who identify as asexual. The call to love and support one another is central to the Christian life (CCC 1825). Asexual individuals can find a place within the Church, contributing to the community in meaningful ways.
In conclusion, it is indeed possible to be asexual and still be a practicing Catholic. The Church’s teachings on human dignity, chastity, and vocation affirm that all individuals are called to live a life of holiness, regardless of their sexual orientation. The Catechism invites all believers to embrace their identity in a way that fosters love, respect, and community. For further reference, see CCC paragraphs 1700, 2337, and 1601.
Why should we not clap during mass?
Here are some considerations based on the teachings of the Church:
1. **Sacredness of the Liturgy**: The Mass is considered the highest form of worship in the Catholic Church, as it is the celebration of the Eucharist, the source and summit of Christian life (CCC 1324). The liturgy is a sacred action that involves the worship of God, and it is essential to maintain a sense of reverence and solemnity during this time.
2. **Focus on God**: The primary purpose of the Mass is to honor and glorify God, rather than to celebrate human achievements or expressions. Clapping can sometimes shift the focus from the divine to the human, potentially undermining the sacrificial nature of the Eucharist (CCC 1382). The liturgy calls for a disposition of humility and reverence before God.
3. **Community and Unity**: The Mass is a communal celebration where the faithful are united in prayer and worship. The Catechism emphasizes the importance of the communal aspect of the liturgy (CCC 1136). Clapping, especially in response to a performance or individual contribution, may disrupt the sense of unity and collective worship that the Mass aims to foster.
4. **Liturgical Norms**: The General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM), which provides guidelines for the celebration of the Mass, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a proper liturgical order and decorum. While it does not specifically prohibit clapping, it encourages expressions of reverence and respect that align with the sacred nature of the liturgy.
5. **Appropriate Expressions of Joy**: While clapping may be appropriate in certain contexts, such as celebrations or gatherings outside of Mass, the liturgy calls for specific forms of expression that align with its sacred character. Joy can be expressed through song, prayer, and participation in the Eucharist itself, rather than through applause.
1. **Sacredness of the Liturgy**: The Mass is considered the highest form of worship in the Catholic Church, as it is the celebration of the Eucharist, the source and summit of Christian life (CCC 1324). The liturgy is a sacred action that involves the worship of God, and it is essential to maintain a sense of reverence and solemnity during this time.
2. **Focus on God**: The primary purpose of the Mass is to honor and glorify God, rather than to celebrate human achievements or expressions. Clapping can sometimes shift the focus from the divine to the human, potentially undermining the sacrificial nature of the Eucharist (CCC 1382). The liturgy calls for a disposition of humility and reverence before God.
3. **Community and Unity**: The Mass is a communal celebration where the faithful are united in prayer and worship. The Catechism emphasizes the importance of the communal aspect of the liturgy (CCC 1136). Clapping, especially in response to a performance or individual contribution, may disrupt the sense of unity and collective worship that the Mass aims to foster.
4. **Liturgical Norms**: The General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM), which provides guidelines for the celebration of the Mass, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a proper liturgical order and decorum. While it does not specifically prohibit clapping, it encourages expressions of reverence and respect that align with the sacred nature of the liturgy.
5. **Appropriate Expressions of Joy**: While clapping may be appropriate in certain contexts, such as celebrations or gatherings outside of Mass, the liturgy calls for specific forms of expression that align with its sacred character. Joy can be expressed through song, prayer, and participation in the Eucharist itself, rather than through applause.
Does your parish use the crotalus (clapper) during Lent?
Throughout the season of Lent, parishes have the option of using the crotalus as a replacement for the bells during the liturgy.
The Church’s liturgical rubrics don’t prescribe a replacement for altar bells, but there is a long-standing tradition of using a wooden clapper or noise-maker in its place. This serves to mark the same events as the altar bells, but in a less “sweet” way, and thus, maintain the somber tone.
According to Catholic Encyclopedia and the old Latin Rite, the Church did not ring the altar bells “from the end of the ‘Gloria in excelsis’ on Maundy Thursday to the beginning of the ‘Gloria in excelsis’ on Holy Saturday. During this interval the Memoriale Rituum (Tit. iv, sec. 4, n. 7) prescribed that the clapper (crotalus)be used to give the signal for the Angelus, but it is nowhere prescribed in the liturgical functions.”
The crotalus was universally used but fell out of use in the last few decades. It seems, however, to have made a little bit of a comeback due to an increase of interest in traditional liturgy.
Why do we veil statues during holy week?
The practice of veiling statues and images during Holy Week, particularly from the Fifth Sunday of Lent (Passion Sunday) until the Easter Vigil, is rooted in the liturgical tradition of the Catholic Church and is not explicitly detailed in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. However, we can understand the significance of this practice through the lens of the Church's teachings on the liturgy, the nature of the Paschal Mystery, and the preparation for the celebration of Easter.
1. **Preparation for the Paschal Mystery**: Holy Week is a time of intense preparation for the commemoration of the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. The veiling of statues serves as a visual reminder of the somber and penitential nature of this period. It reflects the Church's focus on the suffering and sacrifice of Christ, inviting the faithful to enter more deeply into the mystery of salvation.
2. **Symbolism of Veiling**: The act of veiling is symbolic of the hiddenness of God’s glory during the Passion. Just as Jesus' divinity was obscured by His suffering and death, the veiling of images serves to remind the faithful of this profound mystery. The veils can also represent the sorrow and mourning of the Church as it contemplates the events of Christ's Passion.
3. **Encouragement of Reflection**: By veiling statues and images, the Church encourages the faithful to reflect on the significance of these sacred symbols. The veils serve to draw attention away from the physical representations of the divine, prompting a more profound contemplation of the spiritual realities they signify. This practice aligns with the liturgical call to focus on prayer, penance, and preparation during the Lenten season.
4. **Anticipation of the Resurrection**: The veiling of statues is also a way to heighten the anticipation of the Resurrection. When the veils are removed during the Easter Vigil, it symbolizes the unveiling of the glory of the Risen Christ and the triumph of light over darkness. This moment is a powerful expression of the joy of Easter and the hope of new life.
5. **Liturgical Tradition**: The practice of veiling is part of the broader liturgical tradition of the Church, which includes various customs and rites that have developed over centuries. These traditions serve to enrich the worship experience and deepen the understanding of the liturgical seasons.
In summary, while the Catechism of the Catholic Church does not specifically address the veiling of statues during Holy Week, the practice is deeply rooted in the Church's liturgical tradition and serves multiple purposes: it emphasizes the somber nature of the Passion, encourages reflection, and heightens the anticipation of the Resurrection. This practice aligns with the overall themes of Holy Week and the celebration of the Paschal Mystery. For further insights, one may refer to the General Instruction of the Roman Missal and other liturgical texts that discuss the customs associated with the liturgical year.
1. **Preparation for the Paschal Mystery**: Holy Week is a time of intense preparation for the commemoration of the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. The veiling of statues serves as a visual reminder of the somber and penitential nature of this period. It reflects the Church's focus on the suffering and sacrifice of Christ, inviting the faithful to enter more deeply into the mystery of salvation.
2. **Symbolism of Veiling**: The act of veiling is symbolic of the hiddenness of God’s glory during the Passion. Just as Jesus' divinity was obscured by His suffering and death, the veiling of images serves to remind the faithful of this profound mystery. The veils can also represent the sorrow and mourning of the Church as it contemplates the events of Christ's Passion.
3. **Encouragement of Reflection**: By veiling statues and images, the Church encourages the faithful to reflect on the significance of these sacred symbols. The veils serve to draw attention away from the physical representations of the divine, prompting a more profound contemplation of the spiritual realities they signify. This practice aligns with the liturgical call to focus on prayer, penance, and preparation during the Lenten season.
4. **Anticipation of the Resurrection**: The veiling of statues is also a way to heighten the anticipation of the Resurrection. When the veils are removed during the Easter Vigil, it symbolizes the unveiling of the glory of the Risen Christ and the triumph of light over darkness. This moment is a powerful expression of the joy of Easter and the hope of new life.
5. **Liturgical Tradition**: The practice of veiling is part of the broader liturgical tradition of the Church, which includes various customs and rites that have developed over centuries. These traditions serve to enrich the worship experience and deepen the understanding of the liturgical seasons.
In summary, while the Catechism of the Catholic Church does not specifically address the veiling of statues during Holy Week, the practice is deeply rooted in the Church's liturgical tradition and serves multiple purposes: it emphasizes the somber nature of the Passion, encourages reflection, and heightens the anticipation of the Resurrection. This practice aligns with the overall themes of Holy Week and the celebration of the Paschal Mystery. For further insights, one may refer to the General Instruction of the Roman Missal and other liturgical texts that discuss the customs associated with the liturgical year.
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 VETERANS MUSEUM’S mission is to recognize those veterans from Stratford who have served our country honorably in war and in peace and to act as a repository for their stories. The museum is designed to accommodate schoolchildren to foster their appreciation of United States history and the sacrifices of those men and women who made our country possible. The Museum is seeking information about any present of former Stratford residents who served our country, especially any who served in World War II. Please call 203 583 4484 or email svm5952@gmail.com if you have information on veterans to share with the museum’s volunteers. You can read more on their website: www.stfdveteransmuseum.org
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, can attend high school outside of Stratford. 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.
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
