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St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church
Let us build the City of God!
Our Mission:
We strive daily to be a community of believers, alive in
Christ. In our diversity and in a spirit of reconciliation,
we journey toward God. Our faith finds expression in
worship. Our live is the center of care for all people.
Our hope is the longed for promise of union with God,
and with each other, as we continue the mission of
proclaiming the Kingdom at St Joseph’s in Ronkonkoma.
Come pray with us!
Masses
Saturday: 5:00pm
Sunday:
7:00, 9:00, 10:30, Noon, & 5:00 PM
Weekdays: 7:00 & 9:00 AM* Saturday 8:00AM
*During School year Tuesday mass is at 8:45AM
Eucharistic Adoration:
Mondays 2:00 - 6:45 PM (except holidays)
First Friday 7:30—8:30 PM (Sacred Heart Devotion)
Rosary: Daily after 9:00 Mass
Reconciliation: Mon, Wed, Fri: after morning mass
Sat: after morning mass and 4:00 - 4:45 PM
Priests
Rev. Michael J Rieder, Pastor
Rev. Juniper J. Thomas Rev. Henry Leuthardt
Rev. Peter T. Liu (retired)
Deacons
Dcn. James Altonji Dcn. Joseph Califano
Dcn. Michael DeBellis
Dcn. Frank Dell’Aglio
Dcn. Michael Devenney Dcn. William Dobbins
St Joseph Rectory Office
45 Church Street 588-8456
Fax 471-2569
Religious Education
35 Church Street 981-1805
Director: Mrs. Maryanne Trezza
Parish Outreach
2855 Pond Rd
981-6888
Director: Mrs. Anne Kelly
St Joseph School
25 Church Street 588-4760
Principal: Mr. Richard Kuntzler
March 1, 2015 — Second Sunday of Lent
March 1, 2015 — Second Sunday of Lent
Serving Your Sacramental Needs
Prayer and Devotion Opportunities
The Sacrament of Baptism
Our Lady of Fatima Devotion
The Sacrament is celebrated on Sundays at 1:30
PM. Parents, please call the parish office to arrange
a meeting with one of our priests or deacons to
begin to make arrangements.
Our Lady came to Fatima with a message from God
to every man, woman and child. She promised that
the whole world would be at peace, and that many
souls would go to heaven if her requests were
listened to and obeyed.
In response to her requests, the First Saturday of
each month is devoted to Our Lady of Fatima. This
devotion includes 8:00 AM mass, a novena to Our
Lady of Fatima, the Rosary, the opportunity to
celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and
fellowship in Carew hall at 9:00 AM.
All are welcome at this devotion.
The Sacrament of Eucharist
See front cover for mass times. If you are sick for
an extended period of time or are homebound,
please contact the parish office to arrange to have
someone bring Communion to you.
The Sacrament of Confirmation
School aged children can prepare for this Sacrament
by contacting our religious Education office. Adults
or older teens who have yet to be Confirmed should
contact the Parish Office
The Sacrament of Reconciliation
As listed on front cover or call rectory for an
appointment with one of our priests.
The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick
This Sacrament is for the living. We celebrate this
Sacrament each Spring and Fall for those who are
chronically ill, advanced in age, or who are about to
undergo surgery or hospitalization. We can arrange
the Sacrament at other times by calling the Parish
Office..
Emergencies: call the office to arrange a visit from
a priest.
Nighttime emergencies
(631) 585-1130
The Sacrament of Matrimony
Bride or Groom please call the office at least six
months before your desired wedding date to begin
preparations for marriage. Please make contact with
the parish before making other wedding day plans!
The Sacrament of Holy Orders
Anyone who is feeling called to service in the
church as a priest deacon or in consecrated religious
life should contact the parish office to speak to one
of the priests or deacons for guidance.
Interested in possibly becoming Catholic?
Please contact the rectory to arrange a meeting to
discuss your questions. We have regular classes to
help people learn about the faith and decide if
becoming Catholic is what you and God want for
you right now. This whole process of inquiry and
potential conversion is called RCIA—The Rite of
Christian Initiation of Adults.
St Joseph Parish Monthly Recollection
On the First Friday of every month, at 7:30 PM we
hold our Monthly Parish Recollection. This is an
hour of prayer (recollection) before our Lord present
in the Blessed Sacrament—whose heart is the
source of immense charity and generous love.
The foundation of this prayer is God’s presence in
our souls as Creator, Preserver, and Author of all
Graces (“In Him we live and move and have our
being.” Acts 17:28). God is our Father and our
Friend and is our sweet Guest.
We are called to acknowledge this great truth: God
is in each of us, our soul is His Temple.
This evening of recollection includes Exposition of
the Blessed Sacrament, praying the Psalms, Silence,
a Gospel reading and a reflection on many topics
including: the Cardinal Virtues of prudence, justice,
temperance, and fortitude; The Theological Virtues
of faith, hope and love; The gifts of the Holy Spirit:
wisdom,
understanding,
counsel,
fortitude,
knowledge, piety and awe & wonder in God’s
presence. The evening ends with Benediction.
Every soul, hungry and thirsty for God, is invited
to this holy hour every First Friday of the month to
adore, venerate and contemplate the Sacred Heart
of Jesus and to have a quiet dialogue with God.
St Joseph Men’s Prayer Group
We meet every Tuesday evening at 7:30 PM in the
Church where we pray the Rosary.
Afterward we move to the main vestibule for coffee,
donuts and fellowship.
This is a great opportunity to be strengthened in
your commitment as a Catholic man just by
spending time with others like you!
March 1, 2015
Additional Parish and School Contact
Information
Parish Website:
stjoronk.org
School Website:
stjoeronkelem.org
E-mail addresses
General:
[email protected]
Pastor:
[email protected]
Religious Ed: [email protected]
School:
[email protected]
Parish Trustees
Robert Koepper
Walter Poggi
Business Manager
Deacon Michael DeBellis
Music Ministry
Michael Keller, Director
Ann DeBellis, 9:00 Choir
Rectory Hours
Monday thru Friday 9:00 - 5:00 (closed for lunch
12:00 - 1:15)
Saturday 9:00 - 5:00 (closed for lunch 12:00 - 1:15)
Sunday 9:00 - 12:00
Altar Bread & Wine
In Loving Memory of
John Peaslee
Requested by
Anne Kelly & Mary Iorio
OUR LITURGY
The first reading recalls Abraham’s willingness to
sacrifice his son Isaac. In the second reading from
Romans, we are reminded once again that if God is
for us, who can be against us? The Gospel recounts
the Transfiguration, wherein Jesus’ identity as the
Son of God is confirmed.
Mass Intentions for the Week
Sunday, March 1 (Second Sunday in Lent)
7:00
James J. Heiman (Loving Sister Helen), Patrick
Chardavoyne (Beth & Steven Rossi)
9:00
William Phillips (Ellenita Mattera), Edward Dul Jr.
(The Alfonso Family)
10:30 Dr. Patrick Napolitano (The Scotti Family), Sal
DiPrima (Jeanette & Ron Russo)
12:00 Pray to End Abortion (Right to Life), Thomasina
Cosimo (Carmela & Thomas D’Agostino)
5:00 Charles Salvietti (The Scotti Family), Linda
Sandstrom (Maureen Alfonso & Family)
Monday, March 2
7:00 Roseann Gillen (Bill & Blanca), George Lush
(Stephen Kelleher)
9:00
John Tigar (Phyllis & Lee), Jorge Alvarado
(Norma Saporito)
Tuesday, March 3
7:00 Joe Lombardi (Robert Stock), George Morfis (The
O’Brien Family)
8:45 Richard Fahey (Loving Family), Godofredo
Alcantara (Loving Wife & Son)
Wednesday, March 4
7:00 Tommy Fernandez (Mary & Ken Hoever & Carlos
Verardi
9:00 Laurentina Pego (Mr. & Mrs. Jose Pedra), Rita
Stellato (Nicholas Ferrara)
Thursday, March 5
7:00 Jennie Cavaliere (Loving Niece), Thomas Fernandez
(The Hornung Family)
9:00 William Grothaus & Frank Salamone (Margaret
Walsh & Family)
Friday, March 6
7:00 Ruth Lloyd (Nancy & Joe Cipriano)
9:00 Regina Ippolito (Maria Martins), Patricia McFadden
(Frank Paduano)
Saturday, March 7
8:00 Angelo & Theresa DeFilippo (Marie DeFilippo),
Mark Daniel Roden (Joanne & George Spatz)
5PM Maria Picinic (Marge & Ed Forsyth), Marion
Phillips (Debbie & Sal Maddaluno)
Sunday, March 8 (Third Sunday of Lent)
7:00 Louise Alessandro (Dolores & Bob Adams)
9:00 John & Mary Biglin (Loving Family), Charles
Salvietti (Janine & Dan Ferri)
10:30 Thomasina Cosimo (Cathy & Norm West), Mary
McGee (Mr. & Mrs. Richard Kelly)
12:00 Sarah Arellano (The Arellano Family), Gregory
Heraghty (George & Dorothy Lesnik)
5:00 Philomena Esposito (Nicholas & Jacqueline),
Patricia Rehr (Mr. & Mrs. Suli)
I’m glad you asked
Some of the religion teachers at McGann-Mercy High School have a “question box” in their room so that anyone can
ask any question anonymously. These are real questions from young people. Their honesty and curiosity are great, and
these questions and answers might help us all grow.
Q: What does integrity mean?
A: Integrity means simply being honest – living according to a true set of values or moral code. It means not
just "talking the talk" but "walking the walk too" which means integrity is a lifestyle of being trustworthy, not
just an approach to a specific situation.
Q: Why did God make earthquakes?
A: Just as human beings are growing and evolving, so is the planet earth. It changes because it is not dead and
unmovable. Earthquakes are like growing pains for the earth – shifts happen in the ongoing development of
the earth. All of this growth – ours, that of all living things, and of our planet are somehow moving toward
ultimate fulfillment in God.
Q: Was Jesus most likely and Arabian, and if so why do a lot of Americans dislike Arabians and Arabians dislike
Americans even though Jesus teaches us to love one another?
A: Jesus was a Palestinian Jew – he was Middle Eastern but not Arabian. There are many reasons for
animosity among peoples in that part of the world (Muslim conquest of the Holy Land, Crusades, creation of
the modern State of Israel and the treatment of the Palestinians, etc.) Also, at this point in our history fear
could be added to the list of reasons for hatred. Jesus does teach us to love one another. He taught it
frequently and he clearly communicated that this means everyone, not just those like us. But God will not
force us to love because of the gift of free will.
You can help this situation in the world by being a loving, peaceful person and by trying to recognize
whenever fear gets in the way of your ability to love. By living this way you are being a witness for Jesus.
Q: Is it bad to question your faith?
A: Absolutely not! It is important to ask questions because through questions you come to understand more
about God. Our faith grows through questions and investigations. Intelligent people ask questions, especially
about important things such as faith.
Q: What’s the big deal about circumcision?
A: God made a “covenant” with Abraham and his descendants. A covenant is a blood oath. The blood spilled
for this covenant is the blood spilled by the ritual action of circumcision. The Jewish ceremony for this is
called a “bris”. This also leaves a permanent mark that signifies membership in God’s chosen people.
As Christians, we share in the “New Covenant” in Jesus’ blood. We enter this community of God’s people
through Baptism which is ritually dying and rising with Christ. We also strengthen ourselves in this covenant
by sharing in the Body and Blood of Christ at Communion.
Q: Do gay people go to heaven or does God send them to hell?
A: At our celebrations of mass we use the words of Jesus at the last supper and we say that Jesus’ Blood has
been shed for many so that sins may be forgiven. Our celebration and our understanding of salvation do not
exclude anyone unless they choose to be excluded. A gay person is invited to salvation in the same way that
everyone else is. We believe that the gift of salvation (heaven) is offered to all. Those who accept this gift
will go to heaven. We show our acceptance of this gift by the life we lead. So, whether a gay person goes to
heaven or hell depends upon the life they lead in response to Jesus, just like everyone else.
Q: Do nuns and priests make money?
A: Yes but the answer is a little more complicated than just "yes" or "no".
"Consecrated religious" (nuns and brothers) have made a vow of poverty. This is really a bond with their
religious community. They get paid for the work they do and give a certain percentage of that to the religious
order and are given some sort of living expenses from the order. This way, everyone in the order, whether
working or sick or retired is cared for by the community.
Some priests are also members of religious orders and follow basically the same rule.
Diocesan priests (aka secular priests because they are not members of a religious order) do not make a vow of
poverty (they don't get rich either). In our diocese all priests are guaranteed a minimum annual salary and
about 60% of that is to be used for ministry related expenses that they personally are responsible for .
When it comes to God, there is always room for us to grow. Questions help us grow. Keep asking!
Help feed the hungry for free!
Check out this web site: www.freerice.com. When
you log on you will find a simple multiple choice
vocabulary question. For every correct answer, 10
grains of rice is donated to the UN World Food
Program to help end hunger. Other subjects include
Foreign Languages, Math, Chemistry, English
Vocabulary, Geography and even SAT test prep
questions. Feed your mind and the world at the
same time!
“NO” can lead to growth!
A spiritual director at the seminary told us that the one
word in the English language that can have the most
positive influence on our spiritual lives is “NO”. He
said sometimes, in order to say “Yes” to something of
greater value, we need to say “No” to something less
important. Here is an example of how God can say “No”
and help us grow:
God said, “No.”
I asked God to take away my habit.
God said, No.
It is not for me to take away,
but for you to give it up.
I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, No.
His spirit is whole, his body is only temporary.
I asked God to grant me patience.
God said, No.
Patience is a byproduct of tribulations;
it isn't granted, it is learned.
I asked God to give me happiness..
God said, No.
I give you blessings;
Happiness is up to you.
I asked God to spare me pain.
God said, No.
Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares
and brings you closer to me.
I asked God to make my spirit grow.
God said, No.
You must grow on your own,
but I will prune you to make you fruitful.
I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said, No.
I will give you life,
so that you may enjoy all things.
I asked God to help me LOVE others, as much as
He loves me.
God said... Ahhhh,
finally you have the idea.
“Whose shoes are you wearing?”
A week or so ago I was with a few of our students at
St Joseph School. I was wearing my blue suede
shoes - yes I really have a pair of them! I bought
them because they were inexpensive, pretty cool,
and mostly - comfortable!
One of the students asked me a question that I
thought was the strangest question I had ever heard,
“Whose shoes are you wearing?” I thought for a
second and responded, “Mine!” (I’m not in the
habit of borrowing shoes - maybe a sweatshirt if I
get caught by surprise on a cold day but never
shoes!) He said to me, “No! I mean whose name is
on them?” I explained, as mentioned above, my
reasons for buying these shoes.
He looked
disappointed. I think he thought they were cool (or
whatever word they use today to mean cool) but
when he found out there was no famous name
attached to them he lost interest.
This conversation has stuck with me and worries
me. The power of peer pressure on the young is so
strong. I know when I was a teen we had standards
for cool and to some extent those standards covered
shoes. I remember spending $70 of my own money
(a ton of money) for a pair of Frye boots. They
were very cool. But a few days after I bought them
I discovered that they were the most uncomfortable
boots I ever owned - they were calf high and
chaffed against my legs. I learned a painful lesson
with those boots. But it seems the pressure is even
greater these days because it is not just a brand
name but a person’s name (who can fall out of favor
in the blink of an eye) that is important.
As we walk through the season of Lent, maybe we
can ask ourselves another question instead of
“Whose boots are you wearing?” Maybe the better
question is “Whose footsteps are you following?”
In Baptism we are all called to be disciples
(followers) of Jesus. He tells us “I am the way and
the truth and the life” (Jn 14:6) and that if we are to
be His disciples we are to take up our cross and
follow him (Mt 16:24).
There is another version of “Footprints in the sand”
that alludes to the times when we are following
closely and there are two sets of footprints but ours
are actually inside of His - that is our goal as
disciples - that we follow so closely in the footsteps
of the Master that we are actually standing in his
footprints. We all have work to do to achieve that.
So, “Whose footsteps are you following this Lent?
His lead to salvation!
If you haven't purchased your 2015 Calendar Club yet,
don’t miss out because everyday you can be a winner!
Sunday, March 1, 2015
Weekly Offering
Respect Life
Death with Dignity? No…both bills are anti-life!
The New York End-of-Life Options Act S.36852015 introduced on 2/13/15 in the N.Y.S. by
Senators Savino and Hoylman would allow adults to
obtain a prescription from a physician for a lethal
dose of medication that a patient can take on his/
her own to end his/her life. The bill requires the
patient be terminally ill and mentally competent, two
physicians to confirm the prognosis is terminal, two
witnesses to attest the request is voluntary, and
includes felon penalties for coercing or forging a
request. Physician participation would be voluntary.
The Death With Dignity Act A.2129 introduced by
Assemblywoman Rosenthal in relation to legalizing
physician-assisted suicide would add a new section
of the Public Health Law to allow physicians to
prescribe lethal doses of medication for the express
purpose of ending a patient's life.
The New York State Catholic Conference in
opposing A.2129 stated: ”the title of the legislation
itself - the ‘death with dignity act’ - is biased against
those persons who allow a natural death to occur,
inferring that a natural death is somehow less
dignified than assisted suicide. Similarly, language
used throughout the legislation references ‘ending
life in a humane and dignified manner’, suggesting
that allowing natural death to occur is ‘inhumane
and undignified’. We find this language to be
biased and insulting.
The Catholic Conference continues – “Legalizing
physician-assisted suicide would: Blur longstanding
medical, moral and legal distinctions between
withdrawing extraordinary medical assistance and
taking active steps to destroy human life. One lets
people die a natural death; the other is the
deliberate and direct act of hastening death.”
And, “Undermine the physician's role as healer,
forever alter the doctor-patient relationship, and
lessen the quality of care provided to patients at the
end of life. Patients are best served when medical
professionals, together with families and loved
ones, provide support and care with dignity and
respect, not lethal doses of drugs.
View the 8 min. video “Now and at the Hour of Our
Death” Catholic Guidance for End-of-Life Decision
Making at www.catholicendoflife.org
Fiscal Year Beginning 9/1/2014 - 8/31/15
Sunday, Feb. 22 , 2015 Offering
(Includes Faith Direct ($3,203)
$17,726
Last Year
$18,463
Ash Wed.
2015
2014
$5,659
$6,838
Fuel Collection 2015
2014
$9,732
$7,031
Poor Box Last Week
$362
Dioc. Church in Need
2015
2014
$1,313
$1,421
*Pay Down Debt Donations
This Month $ 5,599
Total Funds
435,645
Less Payments made to RVC 417,500
Fund Balance $18,145
RVC Loan
Less Payment
Balance
605,000
417,500
$187,500
*Includes Faith Direct Collections for February
(77 Participating Households)
If you missed last week , please try to make it up this
week. Thank you.
Envelope users : Please enter the amount of your donation on
the envelope in the space provided. This will be a big help to
us when counting the collection. Also, it is not necessary to
tape or staple the envelope closed. Your help is appreciated.
Thank you,
Deacon Mike DeBellis
Thank you and God Bless You Always,
Fr. Mike
Pray for the Sick
Lynn Abe-Zaid
Louise Alessandro
Frank Ambrosio
Philip Ambrosio
Robert Aglialoro
Anthony Bernardo
Jeffrey Bratisax
Janet Belz
Mary Ann Bonitz
Elaine Catenaccio
Louise Cipolla
Martin Condit
Cathy Connolly
Eileen Cross
Rick Crotta
Csaba Csaszar
Michael D’Orio
Joanne DeBellis
Michael DePinto
Rita Diubaldo
Eva Dayton
Baptist Eichelsdorfer
Sharon T. Eichler
Lois & Michael Emma
Sally & Phil Enright
Donna Evers
Philip Fava
Amelia Fava
Helen Fenyak
Mary & Frank Ferrigno
Robert Filce
Patrick Flynn
Roseanne Gabriel
Patricia Geiser
Loretta Gerstner
Michael Heuler
Edward Hoffman
David Hoffman Sr.
Jasper & Margaret Indelicato
Richard & Thomas Jankay
Emily Jensen
Kevin Krivacsy
MaryJo L’Ambrose
Alfred LaRocca
Kevin Latini
Grace Loud
Louis Lopez
Ida Lucivero
Vito Lucivero
Agnes Ludwigson
Carolyn Martins
Pamela Makely
Andrea Maloney
Philip Masi
Isabel McAdams
Maureen Melchiona
Dana Monteanu
Helene Nieswandt
Joseph Nicosea
Joanora O’Donnell
Joseph Olivieri
Helen Onufrak
Anna Pepe
Eileen Perrino
Barbara Petersen
Dorothy Pistritto
Joan Plouffe
Donna Marie Priolo
Kathy Purcaro
Nicole Ramaglia
Evelyn Rosario
Victoria Rosenblum
Mary Ann Rossi
Angela Russo
Mary Ann Russo
Ann Sabourin
Norma Salazar
Franciso Sanchez
Dawn Saporito
Linda Savage
Denise Savage Harper
Joan Scanlon
Ben Scannella
Krista & Nancy Schramm
Nancy Schramm
Maryann Schaudel
Janet Shapiro
Jamie Smith
Michele Smith
Reno Staffa
Dennis Staufenberg
Abe Stegman
Angela Stoner
Richard Stroup
Matthew Swenson
Richard Tizzard
George Tizzard
Analea Torborg
Richard Troiano
Lloyd Turnier
Regina Turnier
Anna Urizzo
James Waldner Sr.
Mary Webb
Linda Weber
Peter Wrins
Joseph Yasso
Richard Zwirblis
Pray for Our Troops
PFC Eric Lange, USMC
SGT Deborah Alfieri
SGT Matthew Altonji
SPC Andrew Altonji
LCPL Matthew Balestrieri, USMC
TSGT Louis Barletta
LT Michael-Jon Bonacorsa
LCPL John Brown
PFC Justin Browne
LTCOL James Cersosimo
CPL Glenn Clacher
SPC Thomas E. Corcoran
SPC Jason Crawford
CPT Edward Cuevas
PFC John B Cuneo
CPT Ryan Delaney
TSGT Timothy Dermody
SGT Stephen DiGirolamo
SSGT Tony Elliott
LT Kelly Fletcher
SPC Adam Franciosa
CPT Mark Gillman
CPL RJ Hartmann
MAJ Sean P Kilkenny
CW2 Steven Knight
LCPL William Langdon
SPC Christopher Leone
SGT Wade Lynch
MAJ Kevin McCue
PVT Thomas B McGinn
SGT Patrick McNally
PFC William Meyer
CPL Brian G Meyer
CPO Gregory Migliore
SGT Glenn Miller
LT Heather Miras
SPC4 George Monica
SPC4 John Monica
SGT Daniel Montville
GYSGT Brian Moran, USMC
LTCOL Gregory Mueller, USMC
LCPL Thomas Napolitano
LCPL Michael Napolitano
LCPL James Neubauer
SGT Brian Pacell
CPT Stephen Bartoszak
PFC Matthew Pandolfi
SFC James Munro Army
CPT Michael Parisi
2LT Anthony Parisi
MAJ Paul E Pinaud
CTR2 Matthew Pistritto
LT David A Rewkowski
SGT Edwin Rivera, II
SGT Anthony M Sbrocco, USMC
SSGT Jason Schiavo
LCPL W. Mason Shehan
SSGT Timothy McGoyne
SPC James Stanek
EO3 Taylor Taranto
MM3 Gregory Taranto
PFC Greg Terrish
SGT Jason Tulowitzki
SGT John Thomas Vogt
CPL Brandon Waldon
SGT Randolph Weaver
MSTR Robert Casey
ILT Richard Lutz
SPC Darian L. Clark/Army
SAMN Bill Ried
CPL Michael Casonova
SPEC4 David Cooper
ENS Michael Cristiano, USN
SGT Brian P. O’Leary
PFC Gregory Caplan
MPS Timothy Caplan
E6PO1 Gerard McGarrity
LT John Cox II
PFC Nicholas Barbieri
LCPL Jim A. Mock
SGT Maj. John A. Krumholz
LCPL Joseph R. DeGroot, USMC
RCT Dustin A. Whitton, USMC
SPC Peter Reilly
SMAN T.J. Waldhauser, US Navy
LCPL Brian Kolarik, USMC
PVT Chris Dorn, Army
SSGT Ray C. Sigman ll
CPL Sean Rainone, USMC
SGT Thomas Lupo
SSGT Mike Hengerle, USMC
Kelly R. Denimarck ENS Navy
SFC James Munro Army
CPL Kristen M. Saporito USMC
Captain Sean Lavigne USAF
LCPL Daniel Pfeifer USMC
MSGT Thomas J. Valentino USAF
CSM Lawrence Doughterty, USArmy
PFC Thomas Conran USArmy
SRA Matthew Maisano USAF
SPJonathan G. Romano USANG
PFC Daniel R. Hayes USMC
PFC Allecia N. Ahearn USMC
Lt. James Ciccarello US ARMY
Sal Evangelista, US ARMY
Nick Vicale SFC ARMY
PFC. Michael A. Davison USMC
CAPT. Glenn Miller
—REMEMBER THOSE WHO HAVE DIED—
Jennie Tierno, Mary Webb
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
Mark your calendars
Parish Lenten Retreat:
“Life is the Song God is Singing”
March 9 - 12, 2015 7PM
This retreat will be four evenings (Mon - Thurs) of prayer, story and song. Each evening will
last about an hour (the penance service may take a little longer). Join us for as many of these
evenings as you can.
 Monday (March 9): Being in Rhythm with God
 Tuesday (March 10): Our Story: The Musical
 Wednesday (March 11): What do I do with the song that is stuck in my head? (Penance
Service)
 Thursday (March 12): People who sing in harmony (Mass)
Retreat preacher: Our Pastor Fr. Mike Rieder
Our entire parish is invited to be on retreat together during this time. If your organization has
a meeting during these four evenings, please come to the retreat in place of your meeting.
Three Pillars of Lent
Prayer, Fasting, Almsgiving
During Lent, we are asked to focus
more intently on almsgiving which
means “donating money and goods to
the poor and performing other acts of
Charity”. Giving alms to the poor is a
witness to fraternal charity: it is also a
work of justice pleasing to God.
(Catechism of the Catholic Church,
n.2462)
What better way to fulfill the call for
almsgiving during Lent than to make
your donation to the Catholic Ministries
Appeal? So we ask that you please pray
about it; what can you give up (fast
from) during Lent that will allow you to
make a charitable contribution to the
2015 Catholic Ministry Appeal?
201 Catholic Ministries Appeal
Comparison as of 2/25/2014
2014 Goal : $107,800
2014 Goal: $110,000
2014 Pledges #139
2015 Pledges #132
2014 Amount Pledged 29,106
2015 Amount Pledged $34,173
2014 Percent of Goal 27%
2015 Percent of Goal 31%
The final numbers for last year are in:
# of pledges: 389
Amount pledged: $128,425
Parish Rebate: $37,856
Thank you for your generosity. Please
help us to make this year as successful!
Make Checks payable to the Catholic Ministries Appeal 2015
Name: _________________________________________________________________
Address:____________________________________City:________________Zip_____
Pledge:$_________ Payment: $________ Monthly or Quarterly circle one
Parish: St. Joseph’s Ronkonkoma #146
RELGIOUS EDUCATION NEWS…
LEVELS 7 & ST2 CONFIRMATION CANDIDATES -All Level 7 & ST2 students celebrate
the Sacrament of Reconciliation on Monday, March 2, 2015
Tuesday classes arrive at 7:15pm
Wednesday classes arrive at 7:35pm
Thursday classes arrive at 7:45pm.
REMINDER: If you have not handed in your Confirmation
Workbook, please do so this week. Thank you!
LEVEL 5 MASS originally scheduled for February 28 , 2015 has been
rescheduled. New Date: Saturday, March 7, 2015, 5:00pm
Remember to place your Works of Mercy slip
in the Offertory (collection) basket at Mass.
LEVEL 2 PARENTS & CHILDREN -First Eucharist Activity Day
Saturday, March 7, 2015, in Fr. Carew Hall.
At this session you receive the child’s First Eucharist banner kit.
Religious goods vendors will be on site this day for items you may
purchase for your First Communion child.
Catechists, Are you looking for a spiritual helper this Lent?
Register at these websites to guide and pray with you on your journey:
Have you ever had a life-changing Lent?
Join Matthew Kelly on a life-changing journey through
your Best Lent Ever. You receive weekly short videos
and inspiration. Sign up at bestlentever.com

Join Fr. Barron and over 200,000 people this Lent. You receive
daily email reflections from Ash Wednesday (February 18)through
Easter Sunday (April 5). Sign up at lentenreflections.com

Additional websites to guide you and your class through the Lenten season:
crsricebowl.org. , loyolapress.com, and holyheroes.com (click Lenten Adventure).

OR...you may find your favorite site by simply typing the word “Lent”!
ATTENTION TO ALL PARENTS:
ALL Classes are canceled on March 10, 11, &12, 2015
Everyone is encouraged to attend the Parish Lenten Retreat:
“Life Is the Song God Is Singing” on March 9 - 12, 2015, 7PM
Retreat Preacher: Our Pastor, Fr. Mike Rieder
Calendar Club 2015
Congratulations to our Winners.
Thank you for your generous support!
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
2/1
#774
Michael Lawlor
$50
2/2
#772
Jacqueline
Scannella
$25
2/3
#413
Madeline Sicoli
$25
2/4
#259
Anthony & Lina
DeLouisa
$25
2/5
#471
Barbara Mickelson
$25
2/6
#529
Mary Greek
$25
2/7
#673
Gail Flood
$25
2/8
#223
Jim & Liz Kay
$50
2/9
#306
Ed & Pat Nelson
$25
2/10
#393
Catherine Hickey
$25
2/11
#138
Kathleen Simmons
$25
2/12
#534
The Evola Family
$25
2/13
#323
Andrew Peshkur
$25
2/14
#88
Madelyn Haussner
$25
2/15
#639
George & Marie
Hunt
$50
2/16
#81
Marjorie Cecere
$25
2/17
#660
Thomas & Rita
Booras
$25
2/18
#578
John J. White
$25
2/19
#314
Rick & Pat Alvanos
$25
2/20
#694
Arlene Shaffer
$25
2/21
#27
Frank & Maureen
Ingarra
$25
Cenacle Retreat
Thanks to everyone who participated in our 2nd annual
Dine around, especially the following Vendors: Akropolis,
Boulevards,
K60
Japanese
Steakhouse,
Island
Empanada, Farm to table by Filomena, Maria’s Mexican
and Latin Cuisine, Mama Mia’s, Francesco’s bakery,
Sundried Tomato, Gino’s of Ronkonkoma, Crazy Crepe
Café, Flanagan’s, Miller’s Ale House, Regazzi’s Italian
Kitchen, Windows on the Lake, Popei’s Clam Bar, Lake
Liquor Ronkonkoma,
Panico’s Community Market,
Prestano’s bakery, That Meetball Place, BBQ Stew’s,
Flories Finales, EPI printing and Printables plus for their
Printing donations.
All women are invited to join the St.
Regis Columbiettes on March 22nd
at the Cenacle for the Annual Retreat from 2 pm to 6 pm. Cost is
$45 per person with dinner included. Keynote speaker is Fr. Glenn
Sudano CFR, mass included. If
you are interested, please call Geri
Devenney 631-419-6856 or
631-553-3734.
Paschal Candle Memorials
If you would like to memorialize the Paschal Candle for the upcoming year
please fill out and return this form with your donation of $100 to the Rectory.
Paschal Candle Memorial
Name:
Address:
Telephone:
Parishioner ID#
In Memory Of:
LECTORS WANTED!
To parishioners of Confirmation age or higher:
Outreach Ministry
Are you reasonably comfortable addressing large groups?
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.
Do you speak and read clearly – with confidence, strength,
passion, and certain knowledge of what you speak or say?
Dear Friend:
Do you feel a calling – a vocation – to become God's
instrument in proclaiming His Word to His people?
Do you believe you can truly bring Scripture alive to the
listener; and are you willing to spend a half-hour or more
in practice (before each assignment) to assure a smooth,
effective, and vibrant proclamation?
If your answer to all of the above is "Yes," then your
parish needs you!
On an evening in mid-March, a two-hour Lector Training
session will be held in the rectory.
Interested? Call Greg Walsh at 585-4524.
My name is Alan Shawn Feinstein. For the past 14 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!
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.
Please give whatever you can– I will gladly add some of
my money to yours. Thank you for sharing my heart, and
the hope that-someday-no one will ever go hungry.
Sincerely Yours,
Alan Shawn Feinstein
Outreach Resources
Emergency Resources
Response of Suffolk County
Crisis Hotline
631-751-7620 or 631-751-7500 (hotline 24 hrs./7 days)
Www.responsehotline.org
Victims Information Bureau of Suffolk—VIBS
Domestic/date violence, rape, sexual assault, & elder abuse
631-360-3730 or 631-360-3606 (24 hrs. hotline for domestic
violence and rape)
Www.vibs.org or www.inforatvibs.org
Family Resources/Support Groups
Child Care Council of Suffolk
631-362-0303
Www.childcaresuffolk.org
Family Service League of Suffolk County
631-427-3700
Www.fsl.li.org
Hope House Ministries
631-928-2377
Www.hhm.org
Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence
631-666-8833 (hotline)
Www.sccadv.org
Islip Town Teen Parent Resource Center
631-224-9766
The Retreat
Domestic Violence
631-329-2200 (hotline 24hrs/7 days shelter)
Www.theretreatinc.org
Suffolk County Department of Health Services
Project Hope Mothers’ Group
631-853-3035 (call for locations)
Www.co.suffolk.ny.us/health
Brighter Tomorrows
Domestic Violence
Hotline (631)395-1800
Haven House/Bridges
631-231-3619
Www.tsli-hhb.org
Islip Hotline
Crisis Hotline: 631-277-4700
Alcoholics Anonymous
631-669-1124
Runaway Hotline
631-549-8700, 1-800-621-4000
Gamblers Anonymous
631-586-7171
American Red Cross, Suffolk County Chapter
631-924-6700
Www.redcross.org/ny/suffolk
Narcotics Anonymous
631-689-6262
Child Abuse
1-800-342-3720 (24-Hr.)
HIV and Aids Teen Hotline
1-800-440-TEEN (fri./Sat. 6:30PM to Midnight)
Child Health Plus Information and Referral
1-800-522-5006 (24 Hr.)
St Joseph
Catholic Seniors
Psst! The word is out! St.
Joseph Catholic Seniors
are seeking new members
to join us on the 2nd and
4th Tuesday of each
month. Meetings are held at the St. Regis
Knights of Columbus on Pond Rd. at 11 am.
Stop by and be our guest for a cup of coffee or
tea or call Arlene at 648-3582 if you have any
questions.
Life Center of L.I. - Pregnancy Care
631-243-0066
Birthright of Nassau/Suffolk
516-785-4070
Al-Anon Suffolk County
631-669-2827
[email protected]
St. Joseph Parish Outreach Center
e-mail — [email protected]
Parish Outreach
website — http://outreach.stjoronk.org
Through your generosity we
were able to help more than
132 people throughout the
month of January. In these
tough economic times we
are seeing people of
increasing need. On their
behalf, we thank you for
sharing your own limited
resources with your brothers
and sisters. "Whenever
you did it for the least of
my people, you did it for
me."
Cub Scout Pack 272
Boy Scout Troop 272
Ou
In
uth
o
Y
r
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o
Acti
St. Joseph’s Cub Scout Pack 272 and Boy Scout Troop 272
have fun, exciting, educational, character building programs for boys, age 7 through 17 (first Grade and up).
For more information or to enroll your child,
contact Dr. Louis Scotti at 656-8428
or e-mail [email protected].
Pack, Troop, and Crew 272 have
a YEAR-ROUND scouting program.
CYO Sport Programs
http://stjoecyosports.com
Baseball:
Intramural (Coed, ages 4-16):
Gene 588-1879
Travel * (Boys)
Vinny 543-4100
Basketball:
Girls
Debbie 467-6174
Clinic Division (Coed Grades K-2) Henry 467-6091
Boys Grades 3-12)
Vinny 543-4100
Travel*
Vinny 543-4100
Track:
Boys & Girls, Grades K-8
Jerry
585-4048
Soccer :
Intramural Boys & Girls(ages 3-13 ) Joe 585-0748
Travel (LIJSL):
Rob 721-8831
Softball:
Dennis 467-6174
*Must register for the intramural program as well
PRAY FOR THE SICK
___________________________________
Name of person who is ill
_____________________________
_________________________
Person making this request:
Relationship to ill person
(Friends can be placed on the silent prayer list only)
PRAY FOR OUR TROOPS
__________________________________
Name, Rank and Branch of Service
______________________________
____________________
Person making this request
Relationship to Soldier
(Friends can be placed on the silent prayer list only)
Venturing Events
In Carew Hall after 5:00 PM Mass
Venturing is open to men and women
age 14 through 20 who have graduated
from 8th Grade. This year's crew plan
is jam packed with interesting and fun activities here
at St. Joseph's and "off-campus" as well.
Come down to our meeting and check it out.
Visit our next meeting:
March 1st Tonight
March 8th
e-mail: [email protected]
phone: Advisor Mike Keller (631) 467-6468
What did you do this weekend?
D.O.G.
DEPEND
On
GOD
My salvation and my honor depend on God;
He is my mighty rock, my refuge.
Psalm 62:7
Courtesy Announcements
Charismatic Prayer Meeting - at Our Lady of the Island Shrine the fourth Wednesday of each
month from 7- 9PM. Praise, worship & teaching. Contact the Shrine at 631-325-0661 for info.
Free Food for NY Seniors - The C.S.F.P. funded by USDA NYSDOH, and administered by
Catholic Charities is offering free food for 6 to 12 months post partum women, children from the
age of 5 up to their sixth birthday, and seniors age 60 and over, who are income-eligible. Gross
monthly income for seniors: Single Senior $1,174 or less or Senior Couple $1,579 or less. For
further information, and income guidelines for women & children in Nassau or Suffolk, please
call 631-491-4166 or 631-491-4156.
Professional Therapy - provided by NYS licensed therapists, are available to our parish & 148 other parishes. It is
provided by the Catholic Counseling Center which is independent of & not controlled or supervised by the parish or
diocese. Most insurance policies are honored. For information & appointment, call Dr. Giuliani at 243-2503 or visit our
website at http://thecatholiccouncelingcenter.net
Spiritual Care Companion - Would you like to lean to become a Spiritual Care Companion sharing your time and
presence for hose hospitalized, living in nursing homes, homebound or adults with special needs? Catholic Health Services
of Long Island sponsors this free three-weekend training. Trainings: Saturday, March 14th, 28th and April 11th from 9:15 3:30. (Bring bag lunch). To register, please contact Carol Cella at (631) 465-6307 or Christine Torns at (631) 465-6306 or
Jo-Andrew D’Alessandro Accary at (631) 465-6308.
ARE YOU REGISTERED IN THE PARISH?
Many parishioners support St Joseph’s
in the weekly collection and in other ways
but are not listed in our census. We would
like to serve you better and make sure that
you are given proper credit for your
donations. If you do not receive mail from us,
you are probably not in our census.
Please send us the following information
and we will send you a census card.
SAVE THE DATE!
March 7, 2015
Please join Troop 272 for an evening of fun at our
Annual Chinese Auction/Pasta Dinner. $5 entry
includes dinner/dessert. Doors open at 6pm. Multitier baskets, value bundle tickets. For questions,
call Joanne @ 631-235-8416. Tickets will be
available in the rectory during rectory working
hours.
Name:____________________________________________
Address:__________________________________________
City, State, Zip:____________________________________
Phone:_________________ Cellphone:_________________
E-Mail:___________________________________________
Would you like to receive contribution envelopes? _______
Would you like to contribute weekly or monthly? _______
Can you share your time or talent with our parish? ______
What would you like to do? _________________________
When is the best time to contact you? _________________
Please drop in the collection basket or bring to the office or mail to
St. Joseph R.C. Church, 45 Church St, Ronkonkoma, NY 11779
Society of St. Vincent de
Paul Gives Back
St. Joseph’s Church should
share in the profits.!! For
each car, truck or van, running or not, the Society of
St. Vincent de Paul will give back to our church $50/
$100 per vehicle. Maybe you don’t have a vehicle,
but a family member, friend or neighbor has an old or
neglected vehicle in their driveway that they would
like to dispose of. Call the Society of St. Vincent de
Paul at (718) 491-2525. Thank you for your
participation.